<p>England captain Ben Stokes will be playing his 100th Test when his side takes on India in the third Test in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15 (Thursday). Ahead of the commencement of the third Test versus India, England Test vice-captain Ollie Pope lavished huge praise on Stokes and stated that it is an 'unbelievable achievement' to play 100 Tests. Stokes has been one of the greats of the modern-day game and has&nbsp;6,251 runs and 197 wickets in 99 Tests.</p>

<p>Ahead of Stokes' 100th Test, Pope addressed the media in the pre-match press conference and said,&nbsp;"Unbelievable achievement to play 100 Tests. Since he has been the captain there have been so many special moments." The English all-rounder has had a remarkable run in international cricket, especially in the purest format of the game. He has won several games from nowhere with both bat and ball and has changed England's playing style completely ever since he took over as the Test captain in early 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-have-thrown-some-punches-to-push-india-back-feels-former-test-specialist-ahead-of-rajkot-test-689769">England have thrown some punches to push India back, feels former Test specialist ahead of Rajkot Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Stokes has led England in 21 Tests, winning 14 and losing only six. At present, he has a stern task ahead to take England to a series win over India after 12 years. Currently, the India-England Test series is levelled at 1-1 with three more games to go. Stokes-led England have pushed India to the back foot in the opening two Tests and not given anything to them easily, while relying on their Bazball approach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the Test series versus India, Stokes has looked good with the bat but is yet to come up with bigger knocks. He has not bowled yet in the series and Pope indicated that he might bowl in Rajkot. He added, "Not sure if Ben Stokes will be available to bowl in the Rajkot Test, he is working to get his knee right." Stokes is three wickets away from 200 Test scalps and the English captain would love to get to the milestone in his landmark Test.</p>


England captain Ben Stokes will be playing his 100th Test when his side takes on India in the third Test in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15 (Thursday). Ahead of the commencement of the third Test versus India, England Test vice-captain Ollie Pope lavished huge praise on Stokes and stated that it is an 'unbelievable achievement' to play 100 Tests.

England captain Ben Stokes will be playing his 100th Test when his side takes on India in the third Test in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15 (Thursday). Ahead of the commencement of the third Test versus India, England Test vice-captain Ollie Pope lavished huge praise on Stokes and stated that it is an 'unbelievable achievement' to play 100 Tests. Stokes has been one of the greats of the modern-day game and has 6,251 runs and 197 wickets in 99 Tests. Ahead of Stokes' 100th Test, Pope addressed the media in the pre-match press conference and said, "Unbelievable achievement to play 100 Tests. Since he has been the captain there have been so many special moments." The English all-rounder has had a remarkable run in international cricket, especially in the purest format of the game. He has won several games from nowhere with both bat and ball and has changed England's playing style completely ever since he took over as the Test captain in early 2022. Also read: England have thrown some punches to push India back, feels former Test specialist ahead of Rajkot Test Stokes has led England in 21 Tests, winning 14 and losing only six. At present, he has a stern task ahead to take England to a series win over India after 12 years. Currently, the India-England Test series is levelled at 1-1 with three more games to go. Stokes-led England have pushed India to the back foot in the opening two Tests and not given anything to them easily, while relying on their Bazball approach. In the Test series versus India, Stokes has looked good with the bat but is yet to come up with bigger knocks. He has not bowled yet in the series and Pope indicated that he might bowl in Rajkot. He added, "Not sure if Ben Stokes will be available to bowl in the Rajkot Test, he is working to get his knee right." Stokes is three wickets away from 200 Test scalps and the English captain would love to get to the milestone in his landmark Test.

Ind vs Eng | 'Unbelievable achievement': Pope lauds Stokes as England captain gears up for 100th Test

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

<p>Former South African pacer Vernon Philander is in awe of Indian fast bowlers' rise in recent years. While India have been a dominant force at home, relying on their spinners to win Test matches, they have also become fierce competitors abroad due to&nbsp;their pace department. Philander lauded Virat Kohli for the rise of the Indian pace attack and also hailed&nbsp;Jasprit Bumrah&nbsp;in an interview to news agency PTI.</p>

<p>"Every time India comes here (South Africa), they seem to be performing better than the previous tour. In the subcontinent, Indian spinners have been winning the games but It's just good to see the Indian team winning in Australia," said Philander talking to PTI.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/blow-for-india-and-world-cricket-nasser-hussain-on-virat-kohli-likely-to-miss-entire-test-series-vs-england-688168">Blow for India and world cricket: Nasser Hussain on Virat Kohli likely to miss entire Test series vs England</a></strong></p>

<p>He credited former captain Kohli and opined, "That's a very positive sign for India to produce those sort of bowlers... It is also on the back of great leadership. Virat Kohli had been a strong leader who was propelling his bowlers to go and learn and get better."</p>

<p>Under Kohli, India became a lethal force as travellers as well, owing to their pacers such as Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, etc.</p>

<p>Bumrah, the 30-year-old Indian pace spearhead on Wednesday (Feb 8), became the No. 1 bowler in ICC Test rankings after leading India to a series-levelling 106-run win over England in the second Test of the ongoing home series. He also became the first Indian speedster&nbsp;to top the Test bowling charts. In addition, the pacer&nbsp;became the second player after&nbsp;Kohli to reach the summit of the rankings across all formats.</p>

<p>Heaping praise on Bumrah, Philander added, "Bumrah is the (most) complete bowler at the moment. He has got magnificent skills and he has also learnt the trade of holding a line and length and that is the reason behind his success at the Test level. Initially, he wanted to bowl wicket-taking deliveries all the time and leaked runs but now he has learnt consistency."</p>

<p>Bumrah-starrer India is now gearing up for the third Test versus England, which starts on Feb 15 in Rajkot with the series levelled at 1-1.&nbsp;</p>


Former South African pacer Vernon Philander is in awe of Indian fast bowlers' rise in recent years. While India have been a dominant force at home, relying on their spinners to win Test matches, they have also become fierce competitors abroad due to their pace department.

Former South African pacer Vernon Philander is in awe of Indian fast bowlers' rise in recent years. While India have been a dominant force at home, relying on their spinners to win Test matches, they have also become fierce competitors abroad due to their pace department. Philander lauded Virat Kohli for the rise of the Indian pace attack and also hailed Jasprit Bumrah in an interview to news agency PTI. "Every time India comes here (South Africa), they seem to be performing better than the previous tour. In the subcontinent, Indian spinners have been winning the games but It's just good to see the Indian team winning in Australia," said Philander talking to PTI. Also read: Blow for India and world cricket: Nasser Hussain on Virat Kohli likely to miss entire Test series vs England He credited former captain Kohli and opined, "That's a very positive sign for India to produce those sort of bowlers... It is also on the back of great leadership. Virat Kohli had been a strong leader who was propelling his bowlers to go and learn and get better." Under Kohli, India became a lethal force as travellers as well, owing to their pacers such as Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, etc. Bumrah, the 30-year-old Indian pace spearhead on Wednesday (Feb 8), became the No. 1 bowler in ICC Test rankings after leading India to a series-levelling 106-run win over England in the second Test of the ongoing home series. He also became the first Indian speedster to top the Test bowling charts. In addition, the pacer became the second player after Kohli to reach the summit of the rankings across all formats. Heaping praise on Bumrah, Philander added, "Bumrah is the (most) complete bowler at the moment. He has got magnificent skills and he has also learnt the trade of holding a line and length and that is the reason behind his success at the Test level. Initially, he wanted to bowl wicket-taking deliveries all the time and leaked runs but now he has learnt consistency." Bumrah-starrer India is now gearing up for the third Test versus England, which starts on Feb 15 in Rajkot with the series levelled at 1-1.

Kohli propelled them to learn and get better: Philander on rise of Indian pacers

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


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

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

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

<p>Former England captain Michael Vaughan feels Joe Root should play in his usual manner and not need be a 'bazballer' in the ongoing Test series versus hosts India. In the first two Tests, Root failed to create an impact with the bat and only averages 13 with scores of&nbsp;29, 2, 5 and 16. He has been effective with the bat but accounted for four wickets. In the remaining three Tests, the Englishman will be desperate to make it big given the series is interestingly poised at 1-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Regarding Root, many former cricketers and experts feel that he need not follow England's ultra-aggressive approach, known as Bazball. Many believe that he plays at a decent pace without trying too hard. With him going for runs at all costs, as evident during England's unsuccessful 399-run chase in the Visakhapatnam Test, the right-hander is not making the most of his chances. During the Vizag Test's final innings, Root came out to bat at No. 5 and scored a 10-ball 16, at 160, but threw his wicket against the run of play; receiving a lot of criticism. Hence, Vaughan believes Root does not need to be a 'Bazballer'.</p>

<h2><strong>'He has 10,000 Test runs playing like Joe Root'</strong></h2>

<p>In his column for The Telegraph, Vaughan wrote, "The batsmen look like they only have one way to play. They are in fifth gear from ball one. I don't mind some of them playing like that because they are better for it. But Joe Root should forget it. He has 10,000 Test runs playing like Joe Root. He doesn't need to be a Bazballer."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-root-lauds-rohit-and-kohli-says-visitors-eager-to-keep-them-quiet-throughout-the-series-687867">Ind vs Eng: Root lauds Rohit and Kohli, says visitors eager to keep them quiet throughout the series</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "It is time for someone in the management to put an arm around Joe and say, 'Please just be yourself." This is particularly important against spin. Along with Graham Gooch, Root is the best player of spin England has ever produced. To see him bat the way he did in the second innings, that's not Root, and it's not the way England are going to win in India, just gifting wickets away."</p>

<p>With so much noise regarding Root's batting style, it will be interesting to see how the right-hander approaches the remaining three Tests. At present, both sides have plenty of days off before the third Test, in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15.</p>


Former England captain Michael Vaughan feels Joe Root should play in his usual manner and not need be a 'bazballer' in the ongoing Test series versus hosts India.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan feels Joe Root should play in his usual manner and not need be a 'bazballer' in the ongoing Test series versus hosts India. In the first two Tests, Root failed to create an impact with the bat and only averages 13 with scores of 29, 2, 5 and 16. He has been effective with the bat but accounted for four wickets. In the remaining three Tests, the Englishman will be desperate to make it big given the series is interestingly poised at 1-1. Regarding Root, many former cricketers and experts feel that he need not follow England's ultra-aggressive approach, known as Bazball. Many believe that he plays at a decent pace without trying too hard. With him going for runs at all costs, as evident during England's unsuccessful 399-run chase in the Visakhapatnam Test, the right-hander is not making the most of his chances. During the Vizag Test's final innings, Root came out to bat at No. 5 and scored a 10-ball 16, at 160, but threw his wicket against the run of play; receiving a lot of criticism. Hence, Vaughan believes Root does not need to be a 'Bazballer'. 'He has 10,000 Test runs playing like Joe Root' In his column for The Telegraph, Vaughan wrote, "The batsmen look like they only have one way to play. They are in fifth gear from ball one. I don't mind some of them playing like that because they are better for it. But Joe Root should forget it. He has 10,000 Test runs playing like Joe Root. He doesn't need to be a Bazballer." Also read: Ind vs Eng: Root lauds Rohit and Kohli, says visitors eager to keep them quiet throughout the series He added, "It is time for someone in the management to put an arm around Joe and say, 'Please just be yourself." This is particularly important against spin. Along with Graham Gooch, Root is the best player of spin England has ever produced. To see him bat the way he did in the second innings, that's not Root, and it's not the way England are going to win in India, just gifting wickets away." With so much noise regarding Root's batting style, it will be interesting to see how the right-hander approaches the remaining three Tests. At present, both sides have plenty of days off before the third Test, in Rajkot, which gets underway on Feb 15.

Ind vs Eng: 'Root does not need to be a Bazballer' - Vaughan urges England star to play like his original self

<p>Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan lauded India for being aggressive and having the self-belief to level the five-match Test series, versus England,&nbsp;in the second Test in Visakhapatnam. Rohit Sharma-led India, who entered the second Test without the likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, were trailing 0-1 after the loss in Hyderabad. However, they rode on Jasprit Bumrah's nine-wicket match haul, Yashasvi Jaiswal's 209 and Shubman Gill's 104 to win by 106 runs on Day 4 on Monday (Feb 5).</p>

<h2><strong>'Batting is something that they will be talking about'</strong></h2>

<p>After the Test match, Zaheer lauded Rohit &amp; Co. for having the belief to level the series but also cautioned them going ahead, highlighting their areas of concern.&nbsp;Speaking to JioCinema, Zak said, "If you are one down in the series, you need that aggression, fight and belief to make sure that it is 1-1 after the end of the game. And I think Rohit was able to bring out those individual performances from the players. There are a few concerns when you look at the team - batting is something that they will be talking about because under these conditions, on this sort of a surface, we have seen India do better."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-havent-gotten-rid-of-bazball-former-indian-stumper-cautions-rohit-sharma-co-despite-vizag-win-687493">India haven’t gotten rid of Bazball: Former Indian stumper cautions Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. despite Vizag win</a></strong></p>

<p>He further opined, "You look at England's second innings, there is only one half-century and they still managed to get close to 300. That is what collective effort can do. We have seen two brilliant innings - Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, but with the bat, there is a lot of work to be done."</p>

<p>Zak added, "On the bowling front as well, you had the brilliance of Jasprit Bumrah. On this kind of surface, you feel that your spinners were at times under pressure, and because of that they needed the help from the batters. So, to control all these factors - this is where the captain needs to come into play, and Rohit has been superb when it comes to all these factors and situations."</p>

<p>The third Test will kick off on Feb 15 in Rajkot with the series interestingly poised at 1-1. India expect the return of Kohli and Rahul for the remainder of the series whereas Jadeja and Mohammed Shami are likely to miss the entire series due to injury concerns. India's squad for the final three Tests is expected to be out soon.</p>


Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan lauded India for being aggressive and having the self-belief to level the five-match Test series, versus England, in the second Test in Visakhapatnam.

Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan lauded India for being aggressive and having the self-belief to level the five-match Test series, versus England, in the second Test in Visakhapatnam. Rohit Sharma-led India, who entered the second Test without the likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, were trailing 0-1 after the loss in Hyderabad. However, they rode on Jasprit Bumrah's nine-wicket match haul, Yashasvi Jaiswal's 209 and Shubman Gill's 104 to win by 106 runs on Day 4 on Monday (Feb 5). 'Batting is something that they will be talking about' After the Test match, Zaheer lauded Rohit & Co. for having the belief to level the series but also cautioned them going ahead, highlighting their areas of concern. Speaking to JioCinema, Zak said, "If you are one down in the series, you need that aggression, fight and belief to make sure that it is 1-1 after the end of the game. And I think Rohit was able to bring out those individual performances from the players. There are a few concerns when you look at the team - batting is something that they will be talking about because under these conditions, on this sort of a surface, we have seen India do better." Also read: India haven’t gotten rid of Bazball: Former Indian stumper cautions Rohit Sharma & Co. despite Vizag win He further opined, "You look at England's second innings, there is only one half-century and they still managed to get close to 300. That is what collective effort can do. We have seen two brilliant innings - Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, but with the bat, there is a lot of work to be done." Zak added, "On the bowling front as well, you had the brilliance of Jasprit Bumrah. On this kind of surface, you feel that your spinners were at times under pressure, and because of that they needed the help from the batters. So, to control all these factors - this is where the captain needs to come into play, and Rohit has been superb when it comes to all these factors and situations." The third Test will kick off on Feb 15 in Rajkot with the series interestingly poised at 1-1. India expect the return of Kohli and Rahul for the remainder of the series whereas Jadeja and Mohammed Shami are likely to miss the entire series due to injury concerns. India's squad for the final three Tests is expected to be out soon.

Ind vs Eng: ‘There are a few concerns’ - Zaheer Khan shares advice for Team India despite Vizag Test win

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


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

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

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

<p>Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has slammed England batter Joe Root following his low returns in the second Test versus India in Visakhapatnam. Root ended with scores of 5 and 16 in the two innings and was criticised for playing too many shots in England's unsuccessful 399-run chase. Chopra feels England batters did not apply themselves as the target could have been achieved with one more day's play left.</p>

<p>England started the run-chase at the fag end of Day 3 and got dismissed in 69.2 overs right before the tea break on Day 4. Thus, they had more than a day's play left and could have achieved the target with more application and bigger contributions from Root, captain Ben Stokes and the likes. Zak Crawley (73) ended as the top run-getter whereas many others got starts but perished playing too many shots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chopra slammed Root and the likes and said on his YouTube channel, "The English batters need to think about something. The shot Root played, if he hadn't played that bad shot and Stokes hadn't run like that, the runs would have been scored on the last day as well. It wasn't easy to pick up 10 wickets here."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/new-zealand-skipper-kane-williamson-scores-record-twin-hundreds-in-first-test-against-south-africa-687425">New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson scores record twin hundreds in first Test against South Africa</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "Thank you so much, England guys. You did our job or else we wouldn't have been able to get them out that easily. I think Root is selling himself really short. Ben Stokes, firstly, bats too low in the order, which is counterproductive. Secondly, the way he ran, that was lazy in capital letters."</p>

<p>Root has not got going in the series so far. Stokes, who has a 70 and handy 47 under his belt, was found short of his crease in England's run-chase as he fell for a sedate 29-ball 11. The English batters will take note of their dismissals and will be eager to put a heavier price on their wicket in the remaining three Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The five-match Test series is interestingly poised at 1-1.</p>


Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has slammed England batter Joe Root following his low returns in the second Test versus India in Visakhapatnam. Root ended with scores of 5 and 16 in the two innings and was criticised for playing too many shots in England's unsuccessful 399-run chase.

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has slammed England batter Joe Root following his low returns in the second Test versus India in Visakhapatnam. Root ended with scores of 5 and 16 in the two innings and was criticised for playing too many shots in England's unsuccessful 399-run chase. Chopra feels England batters did not apply themselves as the target could have been achieved with one more day's play left. England started the run-chase at the fag end of Day 3 and got dismissed in 69.2 overs right before the tea break on Day 4. Thus, they had more than a day's play left and could have achieved the target with more application and bigger contributions from Root, captain Ben Stokes and the likes. Zak Crawley (73) ended as the top run-getter whereas many others got starts but perished playing too many shots. Chopra slammed Root and the likes and said on his YouTube channel, "The English batters need to think about something. The shot Root played, if he hadn't played that bad shot and Stokes hadn't run like that, the runs would have been scored on the last day as well. It wasn't easy to pick up 10 wickets here." Also read: New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson scores record twin hundreds in first Test against South Africa He added, "Thank you so much, England guys. You did our job or else we wouldn't have been able to get them out that easily. I think Root is selling himself really short. Ben Stokes, firstly, bats too low in the order, which is counterproductive. Secondly, the way he ran, that was lazy in capital letters." Root has not got going in the series so far. Stokes, who has a 70 and handy 47 under his belt, was found short of his crease in England's run-chase as he fell for a sedate 29-ball 11. The English batters will take note of their dismissals and will be eager to put a heavier price on their wicket in the remaining three Tests. The five-match Test series is interestingly poised at 1-1.

Joe Root is selling himself really short: Former Indian opener unimpressed with Englishman after 2nd Test

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


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

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

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

<p>Shubman Gill is struggling in Tests. Since the West Indies Tests, he has been batting at No. 3. However, he has had an unimpressive run so far. The right-hander has scores of 13, 18, 6, 10, 29*, 2, 26, 36, 10, 23, 0 in his last 10 innings. On Day 1 of the second Test between India and England, on Friday (Feb 2),&nbsp;Gill departed for 34 (46) to continue his poor run of form.</p>

<p>Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on Gill's Test struggles prior to&nbsp;the second Test in Vizag. Talking to ESPN Cricinfo, Manjrekar said, "Shubman Gill, how does he react to his failures? He needs to do something about his defence if he wants to be the prolific run-getter in the team at the Test level, both against swing and spin."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-would-be-disappointing-if-england-dont-win-the-series-says-atherton-after-visitors-bright-start-686235">Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win the series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start</a></strong></p>

<p>“That’s a cause for worry and that’s something that won’t be solved easily. These are uncontrollable for the team management, and the selectors,” he further opined.</p>

<p>Manjrekar then shifted focus to Shreyas Iyer, who was also short of runs and fell flat in the first Test versus England in Hyderabad. "Shreyas Iyer seems to want to play the modern way, which is about hitting the way out of trouble, so be it. We saw the English batters take a safer approach to be aggressive."</p>

<p>He added, "He’s got to find one because just lofting balls down the pitch or towards mid-wicket is a lot more risky than playing the reverse sweeps and the switch reverse sweeps."</p>

<p>The Indian team opted to bat first on Day 1 of the Vizag Test on Friday morning. They are eyeing a big score to challenge the English side after losing the first Test in a shocking fashion by 28 runs. While Gill departed early, Iyer will target&nbsp;a big score to shrug off his poor form.</p>


Shubman Gill is struggling in Tests. Since the West Indies Tests, he has been batting at No. 3. However, he has had an unimpressive run so far. The right-hander has scores of 13, 18, 6, 10, 29*, 2, 26, 36, 10, 23, 0 in his last 10 innings.

Shubman Gill is struggling in Tests. Since the West Indies Tests, he has been batting at No. 3. However, he has had an unimpressive run so far. The right-hander has scores of 13, 18, 6, 10, 29*, 2, 26, 36, 10, 23, 0 in his last 10 innings. On Day 1 of the second Test between India and England, on Friday (Feb 2), Gill departed for 34 (46) to continue his poor run of form. Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on Gill's Test struggles prior to the second Test in Vizag. Talking to ESPN Cricinfo, Manjrekar said, "Shubman Gill, how does he react to his failures? He needs to do something about his defence if he wants to be the prolific run-getter in the team at the Test level, both against swing and spin." Also read: Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win the series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start “That’s a cause for worry and that’s something that won’t be solved easily. These are uncontrollable for the team management, and the selectors,” he further opined. Manjrekar then shifted focus to Shreyas Iyer, who was also short of runs and fell flat in the first Test versus England in Hyderabad. "Shreyas Iyer seems to want to play the modern way, which is about hitting the way out of trouble, so be it. We saw the English batters take a safer approach to be aggressive." He added, "He’s got to find one because just lofting balls down the pitch or towards mid-wicket is a lot more risky than playing the reverse sweeps and the switch reverse sweeps." The Indian team opted to bat first on Day 1 of the Vizag Test on Friday morning. They are eyeing a big score to challenge the English side after losing the first Test in a shocking fashion by 28 runs. While Gill departed early, Iyer will target a big score to shrug off his poor form.

Ind vs Eng: Shubman Gill needs to better his defence if he wants to succeed in Tests, says Sanjay Manjrekar

<p>India’s star bowler Mohammed Shami is likely to be ruled out of the ongoing Test series against England as the speedster struggles with an ankle injury. Shami, who has not been in action since the conclusion of the ODI World Cup in India is now likely to return during the Indian Premier League (IPL) season where he represents the Gujarat Titans. Shami’s continued absence will be no relief for India who are already without Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul for the second Test match in Vizag.</p>

<h2><strong>Shami out of Test series?</strong></h2>

<p>According to reports on Thursday (Feb 1), Shami is yet to recover from the ankle injury he suffered after the World Cup which saw him miss the South Africa tour as well. It was expected that the veteran star could be back in the team at some point during the Test series, but now it is reported that he won’t make the squad for the remaining three matches as well. His continued absence will hurt the Indian team as they will miss his experience in the red-ball format.</p>

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<p>The Board of the Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to meet soon to announce the team for the remaining three matches of the England series. It is expected that they will have to do without the services of the speedster.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-mercedes-driver-lewis-hamilton-to-join-ferrari-in-2025-season-reports-685931">Formula One: Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton to join Ferrari in 2025 season - Reports</a></p>

<p>While there is no time limit set for Shami’s return to the side, he will likely be back for the 2022 IPL champions Gujarat. He&nbsp;played a vital role in the side reaching the IPL finals in consecutive seasons.</p>

<p>India’s injury problems have gone from bad to worse in recent times with them already without Rahul and Jadeja for the second Test. Virat is currently on leave for personal reasons while the likes of Deepak Chahar and Ishan Kishan are out of favour and down the pecking order.</p>

<p>The second Test between India and England will start on Friday (Feb 2) as the hosts look to level the series at 1-1. India lost the opening Test by 28 runs despite leading by 190 runs after the first innings.</p>


India’s star bowler Mohammed Shami is likely to be ruled out of the ongoing Test series against England as the speedster struggles with an ankle injury. Shami, who has not been in action since the conclusion of the ODI World Cup in India is now likely to return during the Indian Premier League (IPL) season where he represents the Gujarat Titans.

India’s star bowler Mohammed Shami is likely to be ruled out of the ongoing Test series against England as the speedster struggles with an ankle injury. Shami, who has not been in action since the conclusion of the ODI World Cup in India is now likely to return during the Indian Premier League (IPL) season where he represents the Gujarat Titans. Shami’s continued absence will be no relief for India who are already without Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul for the second Test match in Vizag. Shami out of Test series? According to reports on Thursday (Feb 1), Shami is yet to recover from the ankle injury he suffered after the World Cup which saw him miss the South Africa tour as well. It was expected that the veteran star could be back in the team at some point during the Test series, but now it is reported that he won’t make the squad for the remaining three matches as well. His continued absence will hurt the Indian team as they will miss his experience in the red-ball format. × The Board of the Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to meet soon to announce the team for the remaining three matches of the England series. It is expected that they will have to do without the services of the speedster. ALSO READ | Formula One: Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton to join Ferrari in 2025 season - Reports While there is no time limit set for Shami’s return to the side, he will likely be back for the 2022 IPL champions Gujarat. He played a vital role in the side reaching the IPL finals in consecutive seasons. India’s injury problems have gone from bad to worse in recent times with them already without Rahul and Jadeja for the second Test. Virat is currently on leave for personal reasons while the likes of Deepak Chahar and Ishan Kishan are out of favour and down the pecking order. The second Test between India and England will start on Friday (Feb 2) as the hosts look to level the series at 1-1. India lost the opening Test by 28 runs despite leading by 190 runs after the first innings.

IND vs ENG: India’s World Cup hero Mohammed Shami likely to miss entire Test series - Reports

<p>Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has cautioned India against preparing a rank-turner for the second Test versus England, which gets underway on Friday (Feb 2) in Visakhapatnam. Chopra feels a rank-turner can backfire as many of the Indian batters are out of form. The likes of Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer have been without big knocks for quite sometime and, hence, the former cricketer has advised India to not bank on spin-heavy track for a comeback in the series after losing the Hyderabad Test by 28 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra opined, "There is a problem with self-doubt. If we prepare a good pitch, they [England] play better than us. Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer are in poor form. We do not have Rahul. Virat Kohli was already absent. Ravindra Jadeja, the all-rounder is also not there. Suddenly, you are stuck."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/under-virat-kohlis-captaincy-india-would-not-have-lost-hyderabad-test-to-england-vaughans-bold-claim-685433">Under Virat Kohli's captaincy, India would not have lost Hyderabad Test to England - Vaughan's BOLD claim</a></strong></p>

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<p>Chopra added, "I feel they should play on a good pitch. Don't get overexcited and go for a turning pitch. Your batters do not have form. In such a situation, the spinners of both sides become equally effective. They do not have accuracy, but how does it matter? Tom Hartley begins bowling like Bishan Bedi and Joe Root becomes Muttiah Muralitharan."</p>

<p>To add to India's woes, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will be without the likes of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul for the second Test. While Kohli is out of action till the second Test, due to personal reasons, Rahul and Jadeja have been ruled out due to injury concerns for the upcoming Test in Vizag.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the first Test, in Hyderabad, India conceded the game despite a 190-run lead. Pope (196) and debutant spinner Tom Hartley (7 for 62) starred for England in the second innings to stage a remarkable comeback for the visitors.</p>


Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has cautioned India against preparing a rank-turner for the second Test versus England, which gets underway on Friday (Feb 2) in Visakhapatnam.

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has cautioned India against preparing a rank-turner for the second Test versus England, which gets underway on Friday (Feb 2) in Visakhapatnam. Chopra feels a rank-turner can backfire as many of the Indian batters are out of form. The likes of Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer have been without big knocks for quite sometime and, hence, the former cricketer has advised India to not bank on spin-heavy track for a comeback in the series after losing the Hyderabad Test by 28 runs. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra opined, "There is a problem with self-doubt. If we prepare a good pitch, they [England] play better than us. Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer are in poor form. We do not have Rahul. Virat Kohli was already absent. Ravindra Jadeja, the all-rounder is also not there. Suddenly, you are stuck." Also read: Under Virat Kohli's captaincy, India would not have lost Hyderabad Test to England - Vaughan's BOLD claim × × Chopra added, "I feel they should play on a good pitch. Don't get overexcited and go for a turning pitch. Your batters do not have form. In such a situation, the spinners of both sides become equally effective. They do not have accuracy, but how does it matter? Tom Hartley begins bowling like Bishan Bedi and Joe Root becomes Muttiah Muralitharan." To add to India's woes, Rohit Sharma & Co. will be without the likes of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul for the second Test. While Kohli is out of action till the second Test, due to personal reasons, Rahul and Jadeja have been ruled out due to injury concerns for the upcoming Test in Vizag. Talking about the first Test, in Hyderabad, India conceded the game despite a 190-run lead. Pope (196) and debutant spinner Tom Hartley (7 for 62) starred for England in the second innings to stage a remarkable comeback for the visitors.

Root can become Muralitharan: Aakash Chopra urges India to not prepare rank-turner for 2nd Test vs England

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India lost the five-match Test series opener&nbsp;in Hyderabad&nbsp;to England by 28 runs on Sunday (Jan 28). Despite gaining a whopping 190-run lead, the hosts could not emerge on top. They had England reeling at 163 for 5 in their second innings but Ollie Pope's 196 propelled the visitors to 420, setting a 231-run target for the home side. In reply, India were dismissed for 202 with debutant spinner Tom Hartley returning with 7 for 62. Ahead of the second Test, England's former cricketer Geoffrey Boycott has made a bold claim.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India are without their experienced campaigners.&nbsp;Virat Kohli is out of action till the second Test due to personal reasons whereas all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul joined the injury list and will miss the next Test match. Ahead of the second Test, in Visakhapatnam, Boycott predicted that Indian captain Rohit Sharma is well past his prime and India are due a series defeat at home in the purest format. India's last Test series defeat came versus England in 2012/13, when the Alastair Cook-led English side won a four-match series 2-1 over MS Dhoni &amp; Co.</p>

<p>Boycott wrote in his column for The Telegraph, "India badly miss Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja has a hamstring injury and will not play the second Test. Their captain Rohit Sharma is nearly 37 and past his best. He makes pretty cameos but has scored only two Test hundreds at home in four years."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-is-indias-second-highest-run-scorer-harbhajan-singh-on-hosts-inexperienced-squad-for-2nd-test-685139">R Ashwin is India's second highest run-scorer: Harbhajan Singh on hosts' inexperienced squad for 2nd Test</a></strong></p>

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<h2><strong>'Once in a while a team is in the right place at the right time to clinch a big series win and England could...'</strong></h2>

<p>Boycott opined, "Jadeja is a huge blow. He is a great all-rounder, top bowler, brilliant fielder and was their best batsman in the first Test. Kohli is their talisman. He is a magnificent batsman who averages 60 on Indian pitches but he also gives them great energy in the field. He is a big loss and England must make the most of it before he comes back for the third Test."</p>

<p>"Once in a while a team are in the right place at the right time to clinch a big series win and England could be in that position right now in India. India are due a defeat at home, the signs are good as they have lost Kohli, Jadeja, Mohammed Shami and Rishabh Pant and are playing opponents full of confidence after a remarkable win. England must take this rare opportunity," he added.</p>

<p>India have an inexperienced squad for the second Test versus England, which gets underway on Friday (Feb 2) in Vizag. They have their back against the wall to stage a comeback after a shocking defeat in the Hyderabad Test.&nbsp;</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India lost the five-match Test series opener in Hyderabad to England by 28 runs on Sunday (Jan 28). Despite gaining a whopping 190-run lead, the hosts could not emerge on top.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the five-match Test series opener in Hyderabad to England by 28 runs on Sunday (Jan 28). Despite gaining a whopping 190-run lead, the hosts could not emerge on top. They had England reeling at 163 for 5 in their second innings but Ollie Pope's 196 propelled the visitors to 420, setting a 231-run target for the home side. In reply, India were dismissed for 202 with debutant spinner Tom Hartley returning with 7 for 62. Ahead of the second Test, England's former cricketer Geoffrey Boycott has made a bold claim. India are without their experienced campaigners. Virat Kohli is out of action till the second Test due to personal reasons whereas all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul joined the injury list and will miss the next Test match. Ahead of the second Test, in Visakhapatnam, Boycott predicted that Indian captain Rohit Sharma is well past his prime and India are due a series defeat at home in the purest format. India's last Test series defeat came versus England in 2012/13, when the Alastair Cook-led English side won a four-match series 2-1 over MS Dhoni & Co. Boycott wrote in his column for The Telegraph, "India badly miss Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja has a hamstring injury and will not play the second Test. Their captain Rohit Sharma is nearly 37 and past his best. He makes pretty cameos but has scored only two Test hundreds at home in four years." Also read: R Ashwin is India's second highest run-scorer: Harbhajan Singh on hosts' inexperienced squad for 2nd Test × × 'Once in a while a team is in the right place at the right time to clinch a big series win and England could...' Boycott opined, "Jadeja is a huge blow. He is a great all-rounder, top bowler, brilliant fielder and was their best batsman in the first Test. Kohli is their talisman. He is a magnificent batsman who averages 60 on Indian pitches but he also gives them great energy in the field. He is a big loss and England must make the most of it before he comes back for the third Test." "Once in a while a team are in the right place at the right time to clinch a big series win and England could be in that position right now in India. India are due a defeat at home, the signs are good as they have lost Kohli, Jadeja, Mohammed Shami and Rishabh Pant and are playing opponents full of confidence after a remarkable win. England must take this rare opportunity," he added. India have an inexperienced squad for the second Test versus England, which gets underway on Friday (Feb 2) in Vizag. They have their back against the wall to stage a comeback after a shocking defeat in the Hyderabad Test.

Rohit Sharma is past his best, India are due a series defeat at home: England great Geoffrey Boycott

<p>On Monday (Jan 29), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and versatile batter KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second Test versus England, Visakhapatnam, due to injury concerns. Thus, the board named three players as replacements including spinner Sourabh Kumar, batter Sarfaraz Khan and spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar. Thus, India's revamped squad for the Vizag Test is quite an inexperienced one and former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh raised his concerns on the injury-hit unit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan raised concerns on India's inexperience and pointed out that frontline spinner R Ashwin is the second-highest run-getter in India's updated squad for the upcoming Test in Visakhapatnam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The team looks decent, but lacks experience. Yes, there is Rohit Sharma, but the next best run-scorer is Ashwin. In terms of batting, the line-up looks weak. And if they play on a turning track, which I feel they will because they have added Washington Sundar while having Kuldeep Yadav, Ashwin and Axar Patel,” Harbhajan said after the squad announcement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;I<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">nd vs Eng: Foakes' stumping attempt to dismiss Bumrah in Hyderabad Test raises eyebrows on X - Watch</a></strong></p>

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<p>India are without experienced names such as Virat Kohli, Jadeja, Rahul, etc. for the second Test. Having already conceded 1-0 lead in the first Test in Hyderabad, Rohit-led India have their back against the wall to level the series in Vizag with an inexperienced squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the first Test, India conceded the momentum after taking a 190-run lead. England rode on Ollie Pope's 196 in their second essay to setup a tricky 231-run target for the home side. In reply, the hosts got dismissed for 202 to lose by 28 runs as debutant spinner Tom Hartley ended with a seven-fer.</p>

<p><strong>India squad for 2nd Test vs England</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, Sourabh Kumar.</p>


On Monday (Jan 29), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and versatile batter KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second Test versus England, Visakhapatnam, due to injury concerns.

On Monday (Jan 29), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and versatile batter KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second Test versus England, Visakhapatnam, due to injury concerns. Thus, the board named three players as replacements including spinner Sourabh Kumar, batter Sarfaraz Khan and spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar. Thus, India's revamped squad for the Vizag Test is quite an inexperienced one and former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh raised his concerns on the injury-hit unit. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan raised concerns on India's inexperience and pointed out that frontline spinner R Ashwin is the second-highest run-getter in India's updated squad for the upcoming Test in Visakhapatnam. “The team looks decent, but lacks experience. Yes, there is Rohit Sharma, but the next best run-scorer is Ashwin. In terms of batting, the line-up looks weak. And if they play on a turning track, which I feel they will because they have added Washington Sundar while having Kuldeep Yadav, Ashwin and Axar Patel,” Harbhajan said after the squad announcement. Also read: Ind vs Eng: Foakes' stumping attempt to dismiss Bumrah in Hyderabad Test raises eyebrows on X - Watch × × India are without experienced names such as Virat Kohli, Jadeja, Rahul, etc. for the second Test. Having already conceded 1-0 lead in the first Test in Hyderabad, Rohit-led India have their back against the wall to level the series in Vizag with an inexperienced squad. Talking about the first Test, India conceded the momentum after taking a 190-run lead. England rode on Ollie Pope's 196 in their second essay to setup a tricky 231-run target for the home side. In reply, the hosts got dismissed for 202 to lose by 28 runs as debutant spinner Tom Hartley ended with a seven-fer. India squad for 2nd Test vs England Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, Sourabh Kumar.

R Ashwin is India's second highest run-scorer: Harbhajan Singh on hosts' inexperienced squad for 2nd Test

<p>England staged a remarkable come-from-behind win in the first Test&nbsp;of the five-match series, versus India in Hyderabad on Day 4 on Sunday (Jan 28). Trailing by 190 runs, England managed to recover from 163 for 5, thanks to Ollie Pope's 196, to be dismissed for 420 and set up a tricky 231-run target for Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. Debutant Tom Hartley's seven-fer starred for Ben Stokes-led England as India got dismissed for 202 to take his side to a 1-0 lead. During the fag end of the match, Ben Foakes' stumping attempt to get rid of Jasprit Bumrah made heads turn.</p>

<p>The incident took place during Bumrah-Mohammed Siraj's last-wicket partnership. Foakes' attempted stumping against Bumrah came after the Indian played and completely missed a ball by Rehan Ahmed. Bumrah could not connect with the ball and jumped soon after, likely in frustration, but Foakes quickly dislodged the stumps and appealed for a stumping. The third umpire ruled that Bumrah was inside the crease and overlooked the appeal. However, Foakes' act evoked the 'Spirit of Cricket' debate on social media as it didn't impress many users on X, formerly Twitter.</p>

<p>Many users cited Australia wicketkeeper Alex Carey's stumping of Jonny Bairstow during the Ashes 2023 series, which led to a massive debate among cricket fans and experts, and criticised Foakes. <strong>Here are some of the reactions on X:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A penny for Jonny Bairstow and Brendon McCullum’s thoughts on trying to win a game with this? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/JaZW9B88eV">pic.twitter.com/JaZW9B88eV</a></p>
— Scott Bailey (@ScottBaileyAAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottBaileyAAP/status/1751573133776376308?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/WG_RumblePants?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WG_RumblePants</a> just wondering what the difference is between Foakes’ attempted stumping and Careys v Bairstow? Bumrah jumped in the air from frustration, there was no attempt for a run <a href="https://t.co/q9uA4TPJaE">pic.twitter.com/q9uA4TPJaE</a></p>
— Lord John Atkin (@Sarasota_Gooner) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sarasota_Gooner/status/1751788267068903733?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2nd-test-former-indian-opener-backs-unorthodox-batter-sarfaraz-khan-to-replace-kl-rahul-685063">Ind vs Eng, 2nd Test: Former Indian opener backs 'unorthodox' batter Sarfaraz Khan to replace KL Rahul</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The English team did spot Bumrah hopping a little and converted it into a stumping ploy. Foakes was slightly late in completing it. It could have caused a controversial end. <a href="https://t.co/FFwINJOPLY">pic.twitter.com/FFwINJOPLY</a></p>
— Omkar Mankame (@Oam_16) <a href="https://twitter.com/Oam_16/status/1751916488087458095?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What do we have to say about Ben Foakes’ attempt to stump Jasprit Bumrah?<br />
<br />
‘Spirit of the Game’?<br />
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If the shoe was on the foot, and had batter got out, we would be having the spirit of the game conversation for sure!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/piersmorgan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@piersmorgan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bhogleharsha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KP24</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vikrantgupta73?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vikrantgupta73</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NikhilNaz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NikhilNaz</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z7h6X8adwF">pic.twitter.com/Z7h6X8adwF</a></p>
— Sidhant Mamtany (@SidhantMamtany) <a href="https://twitter.com/SidhantMamtany/status/1751780771478876252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>During the Test, Bumrah's 'inappropriate physical contact' with centurion Pope also made heads turn. It happened during the 81st over of England's second innings, bowled by the Indian pacer and vice-captain. Bumrah obstructed&nbsp;Pope's path while running between the wickets which led to an avoidable collision. The pacer later admitted to the offence and no formal hearing was required. He, however,&nbsp;received&nbsp;a demerit point for the incident.</p>

<p>The action now moves to the second Test which will get underway on Friday (Feb 2) in Visakhapatnam. Rohit-led India trail the five-match series 0-1 after a shocking loss in Hyderabad, despite acquiring a 190-run lead.&nbsp;</p>


England staged a remarkable come-from-behind win in the first Test of the five-match series, versus India in Hyderabad on Day 4 on Sunday (Jan 28). Trailing by 190 runs, England managed to recover from 163 for 5, thanks to Ollie Pope's 196, to be dismissed for 420 and set up a tricky 231-run target for Rohit Sharma & Co.

England staged a remarkable come-from-behind win in the first Test of the five-match series, versus India in Hyderabad on Day 4 on Sunday (Jan 28). Trailing by 190 runs, England managed to recover from 163 for 5, thanks to Ollie Pope's 196, to be dismissed for 420 and set up a tricky 231-run target for Rohit Sharma & Co. Debutant Tom Hartley's seven-fer starred for Ben Stokes-led England as India got dismissed for 202 to take his side to a 1-0 lead. During the fag end of the match, Ben Foakes' stumping attempt to get rid of Jasprit Bumrah made heads turn. The incident took place during Bumrah-Mohammed Siraj's last-wicket partnership. Foakes' attempted stumping against Bumrah came after the Indian played and completely missed a ball by Rehan Ahmed. Bumrah could not connect with the ball and jumped soon after, likely in frustration, but Foakes quickly dislodged the stumps and appealed for a stumping. The third umpire ruled that Bumrah was inside the crease and overlooked the appeal. However, Foakes' act evoked the 'Spirit of Cricket' debate on social media as it didn't impress many users on X, formerly Twitter. Many users cited Australia wicketkeeper Alex Carey's stumping of Jonny Bairstow during the Ashes 2023 series, which led to a massive debate among cricket fans and experts, and criticised Foakes. Here are some of the reactions on X: A penny for Jonny Bairstow and Brendon McCullum’s thoughts on trying to win a game with this? #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/JaZW9B88eV — Scott Bailey (@ScottBaileyAAP) January 28, 2024 × @WG_RumblePants just wondering what the difference is between Foakes’ attempted stumping and Careys v Bairstow? Bumrah jumped in the air from frustration, there was no attempt for a run pic.twitter.com/q9uA4TPJaE — Lord John Atkin (@Sarasota_Gooner) January 29, 2024 × Also read: Ind vs Eng, 2nd Test: Former Indian opener backs 'unorthodox' batter Sarfaraz Khan to replace KL Rahul × × The English team did spot Bumrah hopping a little and converted it into a stumping ploy. Foakes was slightly late in completing it. It could have caused a controversial end. pic.twitter.com/FFwINJOPLY — Omkar Mankame (@Oam_16) January 29, 2024 × What do we have to say about Ben Foakes’ attempt to stump Jasprit Bumrah? ‘Spirit of the Game’? If the shoe was on the foot, and had batter got out, we would be having the spirit of the game conversation for sure!!! @piersmorgan @bhogleharsha @KP24 @vikrantgupta73 @NikhilNaz pic.twitter.com/Z7h6X8adwF — Sidhant Mamtany (@SidhantMamtany) January 29, 2024 × During the Test, Bumrah's 'inappropriate physical contact' with centurion Pope also made heads turn. It happened during the 81st over of England's second innings, bowled by the Indian pacer and vice-captain. Bumrah obstructed Pope's path while running between the wickets which led to an avoidable collision. The pacer later admitted to the offence and no formal hearing was required. He, however, received a demerit point for the incident. The action now moves to the second Test which will get underway on Friday (Feb 2) in Visakhapatnam. Rohit-led India trail the five-match series 0-1 after a shocking loss in Hyderabad, despite acquiring a 190-run lead.

Ind vs Eng: Foakes' stumping attempt to dismiss Bumrah in Hyderabad Test raises eyebrows on X - Watch

<p>On Monday (Jan 29), India were dealt a huge blow when all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and versatile batter KL Rahul got ruled out of the second Test versus England, in Visakhapatnam, due to injury concerns. Following India's shocking 28-run loss in the first Test in Hyderabad, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have now lost two experienced campaigners for the upcoming Test of the five-match series. Thus, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) named three players as replacements for Rahul and Jadeja and added Sarfaraz Khan.</p>

<p>Sarfaraz, along with&nbsp;spinner Sourabh Kumar and all-rounder Washington Sundar, has been added to India's squad. Ahead of the second Test, which gets underway on Friday (Feb 2), former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Sarfaraz should make his debut in Vizag and replace injured Rahul in the playing XI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "Sarfaraz Khan and Rajat Patidar are available with this team. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Virat Kohli are still not there.They will have to play either Rajat Patidar or Sarfaraz. You can go towards Sarfaraz because he can play in an unorthodox fashion and is a very good player of spin."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-they-need-only-one-pacer-then-having-kuldeep-will-help-kumble-on-indias-xi-for-2nd-test-vs-england-685045">If they need only one pacer, then having Kuldeep will help: Kumble on India's XI for 2nd Test vs England</a></strong></p>

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<p>Sarfaraz's omission has made news in the recent past. Having scored a plethora of runs in the domestic circuit for Mumbai, the attacking right-hander will look to make a mark if given a chance in Vizag.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chopra also opined on Rahul's frequent injuries. He added, "This has been the biggest problem in KL Rahul's career. Injuries or illnesses have come at the wrong time and they have come many a time. The way he played in the first innings, and to be fair, he was batting assuredly in the second innings as well. There are very few people in our team who play the sweep. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul play the sweep, and KL Rahul will now not be there in this game."</p>

<p>Rahul returned with an impressive 86 and 22 in the Hyderabad Test. He will now look to regain full fitness as India already trail the five-match series 0-1 after the Hyderabad encounter.</p>

<p><b>India&nbsp;aquad for the 2nd&nbsp;Test vs England:</b>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, Sourabh Kumar</p>


On Monday (Jan 29), India were dealt a huge blow when all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and versatile batter KL Rahul got ruled out of the second Test versus England, in Visakhapatnam, due to injury concerns.

On Monday (Jan 29), India were dealt a huge blow when all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and versatile batter KL Rahul got ruled out of the second Test versus England, in Visakhapatnam, due to injury concerns. Following India's shocking 28-run loss in the first Test in Hyderabad, Rohit Sharma & Co. have now lost two experienced campaigners for the upcoming Test of the five-match series. Thus, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) named three players as replacements for Rahul and Jadeja and added Sarfaraz Khan. Sarfaraz, along with spinner Sourabh Kumar and all-rounder Washington Sundar, has been added to India's squad. Ahead of the second Test, which gets underway on Friday (Feb 2), former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Sarfaraz should make his debut in Vizag and replace injured Rahul in the playing XI. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "Sarfaraz Khan and Rajat Patidar are available with this team. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Virat Kohli are still not there.They will have to play either Rajat Patidar or Sarfaraz. You can go towards Sarfaraz because he can play in an unorthodox fashion and is a very good player of spin." Also read: If they need only one pacer, then having Kuldeep will help: Kumble on India's XI for 2nd Test vs England × × Sarfaraz's omission has made news in the recent past. Having scored a plethora of runs in the domestic circuit for Mumbai, the attacking right-hander will look to make a mark if given a chance in Vizag. Chopra also opined on Rahul's frequent injuries. He added, "This has been the biggest problem in KL Rahul's career. Injuries or illnesses have come at the wrong time and they have come many a time. The way he played in the first innings, and to be fair, he was batting assuredly in the second innings as well. There are very few people in our team who play the sweep. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul play the sweep, and KL Rahul will now not be there in this game." Rahul returned with an impressive 86 and 22 in the Hyderabad Test. He will now look to regain full fitness as India already trail the five-match series 0-1 after the Hyderabad encounter. India aquad for the 2nd Test vs England: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, Sourabh Kumar

Ind vs Eng, 2nd Test: Former Indian opener backs 'unorthodox' batter Sarfaraz Khan to replace KL Rahul

<p>India lost the first Test&nbsp;of the five-match series&nbsp;to England by 28 runs in Hyderabad on Sunday (Jan 28). After taking a whopping 190-run lead, everything went downhill for the hosts courtesy of Ollie Pope's brilliance (196) and debutant Tom Hartley's seven-fer in India's 231-run chase as Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. were out for 202. After the Test, Indian pacer and vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah was also reprimanded by the International Cricket Council (ICC).</p>

<p>Bumrah was reprimanded due to an 'inappropriate physical contact' with Player-of-the-Match Pope during England's second innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The specific violation by Bumrah pertained to Article 2.12, which says "inappropriate physical contact with a Player, Player Support Personnel, Umpire, Match Referee or any other person (including a spectator) during an International Match." Thus, the 30-year-old also received&nbsp;a demerit point for the incident during the contest.</p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-jadeja-rahul-out-of-vizag-test-with-injury-concerns-sarfaraz-khan-amongst-replacements-684801">Ind vs Eng: Jadeja, Rahul out of Vizag Test with injury concerns, Sarfaraz Khan named among replacements</a></strong></p>

<h2>What does the violation of Article 2.12 mean?</h2>

<p>As per the ICC's Code of Conduct for Players and Support Personnel, the violation of Article 2.12 means,&nbsp;"Any form of inappropriate physical contact is prohibited in cricket. Without limitation, Players will breach this regulation if they deliberately, recklessly and/or negligently walk or run into or shoulder another Player or Umpire. When assessing the seriousness of the breach, the following factors (without limitation) shall be taken into account: (i) the context of the particular situation, including, without limitation, whether the contact was deliberate (i.e. intentional), reckless, negligent, and/or avoidable; (ii) the force of the contact; (iii) any resulting injury to the person with whom contact was made; and (iv) the person with whom contact was made."</p>

<p>The incident took place during the 81st over of England's second innings in Hyderabad.&nbsp; During the over, Bumrah obstructed&nbsp;Pope's path while running between the wickets which led to an avoidable collision. Notably, the pacer has admitted to the offence and no formal hearing is required.</p>

<p>The second India-England Test gets underway in Visakhapatnam on Friday (Feb 2) with the hosts trailing 0-1.</p>


India lost the first Test of the five-match series to England by 28 runs in Hyderabad on Sunday (Jan 28). After taking a whopping 190-run lead, everything went downhill for the hosts courtesy of Ollie Pope's brilliance (196) and debutant Tom Hartley's seven-fer in India's 231-run chase as Rohit Sharma & Co.

India lost the first Test of the five-match series to England by 28 runs in Hyderabad on Sunday (Jan 28). After taking a whopping 190-run lead, everything went downhill for the hosts courtesy of Ollie Pope's brilliance (196) and debutant Tom Hartley's seven-fer in India's 231-run chase as Rohit Sharma & Co. were out for 202. After the Test, Indian pacer and vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah was also reprimanded by the International Cricket Council (ICC). Bumrah was reprimanded due to an 'inappropriate physical contact' with Player-of-the-Match Pope during England's second innings. The specific violation by Bumrah pertained to Article 2.12, which says "inappropriate physical contact with a Player, Player Support Personnel, Umpire, Match Referee or any other person (including a spectator) during an International Match." Thus, the 30-year-old also received a demerit point for the incident during the contest. × Also read: Ind vs Eng: Jadeja, Rahul out of Vizag Test with injury concerns, Sarfaraz Khan named among replacements What does the violation of Article 2.12 mean? As per the ICC's Code of Conduct for Players and Support Personnel, the violation of Article 2.12 means, "Any form of inappropriate physical contact is prohibited in cricket. Without limitation, Players will breach this regulation if they deliberately, recklessly and/or negligently walk or run into or shoulder another Player or Umpire. When assessing the seriousness of the breach, the following factors (without limitation) shall be taken into account: (i) the context of the particular situation, including, without limitation, whether the contact was deliberate (i.e. intentional), reckless, negligent, and/or avoidable; (ii) the force of the contact; (iii) any resulting injury to the person with whom contact was made; and (iv) the person with whom contact was made." The incident took place during the 81st over of England's second innings in Hyderabad. During the over, Bumrah obstructed Pope's path while running between the wickets which led to an avoidable collision. Notably, the pacer has admitted to the offence and no formal hearing is required. The second India-England Test gets underway in Visakhapatnam on Friday (Feb 2) with the hosts trailing 0-1.

Ind vs Eng, 1st Test: Jasprit Bumrah reprimanded by ICC for inappropriate physical contact with Ollie Pope

<p><strong>IND vs ENG Test series 2024 Full Schedule:</strong> India and England will square off in a five-match Test series starting on Thursday, January 25. After thrashing England by 3-0 in the recent T20I series, India will look forward to continuing the winning spree. The five-match Test series is expected to conclude on March 7 after matches at various locations in India - Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Rajkot, Ranchi, and Dharamsala.</p>

<p>The last time England won a test series in India was in 2012, under the captaincy of Alastair Cook. On the Indian side, it’s been 11 long seasons since it has tasted a series defeat at home in Test cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cummins-reacts-to-maxwells-hospitalisation-after-late-night-party-all-rounder-not-under-ca-investigation-682767">Cummins reacts to Maxwell's hospitalisation after late-night party, all-rounder not under CA investigation</a></p>

<p>Currently, England is placed in eighth position in the ICC World Test Championship points table with a pass percentage of 15 per cent, while India is in second position with a 54.16 pass percentage. The series will be an interesting watch, check all the details here:</p>

<h2><strong>India vs England Test Series 2024: Full Schedule</strong></h2>

<p>Check out the full schedule of the India vs England Test Series 2024 below.</p>

<p><strong>IND vs ENG 1st Test:</strong> Thursday, 25 January at 9:30 am IST</p>

<p><strong>IND vs ENG 2nd Test:</strong> Friday, 02 February 9:30 am IST</p>

<p><strong>IND vs ENG 3rd Test:</strong> Thursday, 15 February 9:30 am IST</p>

<p><strong>IND vs ENG 4th Test: </strong>Friday, 23 February 9:30 am IST</p>

<p><strong>IND vs ENG 5th Test:</strong> Thursday, 7 March 9:30 am IST</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-syria-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-the-afc-asian-cup-match-live-in-india-on-mobile-and-tv-682769">India vs Syria Live Streaming: When and where to watch the AFC Asian Cup match LIVE in India on mobile and TV?</a></p>

<h2><strong>India vs England Test Series 2024: Live-streaming details</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>IND vs ENG Test series 2024: When will the India vs England Test Series 2024 start?</strong></h3>

<p>The India vs England Test Series 2024 will start from 25 January.</p>

<h3><strong>IND vs ENG Test series 2024: When will the India vs England Test Series 2024 end?</strong></h3>

<p>The India vs England Test Series 2024 will end on 7 March.</p>

<h3><strong>IND vs ENG Test Series 2024: How many matches will be played in the India vs England Test Series 2024?</strong></h3>

<p>A total of five matches will be played in the India vs England Test Series 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>IND vs ENG Test series 2024: When and where to watch the Live Streaming of India vs England Test Series 2024?</strong></h2>

<p>The India vs England Test Series 2024 will be live-streamed on the JioCinema app and website.</p>

<h2><strong>IND vs ENG Test series 2024: Where to watch the Live Telecast of India vs England Test Series 2024?</strong></h2>

<p>The India vs England Test Series 2024 will be live telecasted on the Sports 18 channel.</p>

<h2><strong>India vs England Test Series 2024: Venues</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad</strong></h3>

<p>The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, commonly known as Uppal Stadium, is an international cricket stadium in Hyderabad, Telangana. Generally, the wicket here is considered a flat track, which tends to slow down as the game progresses. This means that the spinners would enjoy bowling here more than the pacers.</p>

<h3><strong>Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam</strong></h3>

<p>Dr. Y. S. Rajashekar Reddy ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Historically, it is known for producing belters, where batsmen can play through the line on even-paced wickets. However, in recent times, spinners have made their mark.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2024-world-number-one-novak-djokovic-storms-into-semifinals-with-win-over-taylor-fritz-682808">Australian Open 2024: World number one Novak Djokovic storms into semifinals with win over Taylor Fritz</a></p>

<h3><strong>Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot</strong></h3>

<p>Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, also known as the Khandheri Cricket Stadium, is&nbsp; in Rajkot, India. It is Gujarat's first solar-powered stadium. The pitch here is batting-friendly and the two international matches been played at this venue&nbsp;have been high-scoring encounters.</p>

<h3><strong>JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi</strong></h3>

<p>JSCA International Stadium Complex is an international cricket stadium in Ranchi, Jharkhand and comes under the Jharkhand State Cricket Association. As it is a relatively big stadium, spinners tend to play a part on the ground. The track also offers the spinners grip and turn.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala</strong></h3>

<p>Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium is an international cricket stadium in Dharamshala hill station of Himachal Pradesh. Since the ground is located at a high altitude, the ball travels faster. In addition, the dew becomes a major factor in the evening if you're playing during the September-March period.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India vs England Test Series 2024: Full Squad</strong></h2>

<p><strong>India Test Squad:</strong> Shreyas Iyer, K L Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Srikar Bharat, Avesh Khan, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah.</p>

<p><strong>England Test Squad:</strong> Joe Root, Zak Crawley, Ben Stokes, Shoaib Bashir, Tom Hartley, Ollie Robinson, Rehan Ahmed, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Ollie Pope, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, James Anderson, Jack Leach</p>

<h2><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></h2>


IND vs ENG Test series 2024 Full Schedule: India and England will square off in a five-match Test series starting on Thursday, January 25. After thrashing England by 3-0 in the recent T20I series, India will look forward to continuing the winning spree.

IND vs ENG Test series 2024 Full Schedule: India and England will square off in a five-match Test series starting on Thursday, January 25. After thrashing England by 3-0 in the recent T20I series, India will look forward to continuing the winning spree. The five-match Test series is expected to conclude on March 7 after matches at various locations in India - Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Rajkot, Ranchi, and Dharamsala. The last time England won a test series in India was in 2012, under the captaincy of Alastair Cook. On the Indian side, it’s been 11 long seasons since it has tasted a series defeat at home in Test cricket. Also Read | Cummins reacts to Maxwell's hospitalisation after late-night party, all-rounder not under CA investigation Currently, England is placed in eighth position in the ICC World Test Championship points table with a pass percentage of 15 per cent, while India is in second position with a 54.16 pass percentage. The series will be an interesting watch, check all the details here: India vs England Test Series 2024: Full Schedule Check out the full schedule of the India vs England Test Series 2024 below. IND vs ENG 1st Test: Thursday, 25 January at 9:30 am IST IND vs ENG 2nd Test: Friday, 02 February 9:30 am IST IND vs ENG 3rd Test: Thursday, 15 February 9:30 am IST IND vs ENG 4th Test: Friday, 23 February 9:30 am IST IND vs ENG 5th Test: Thursday, 7 March 9:30 am IST Also Read | India vs Syria Live Streaming: When and where to watch the AFC Asian Cup match LIVE in India on mobile and TV? India vs England Test Series 2024: Live-streaming details IND vs ENG Test series 2024: When will the India vs England Test Series 2024 start? The India vs England Test Series 2024 will start from 25 January. IND vs ENG Test series 2024: When will the India vs England Test Series 2024 end? The India vs England Test Series 2024 will end on 7 March. IND vs ENG Test Series 2024: How many matches will be played in the India vs England Test Series 2024? A total of five matches will be played in the India vs England Test Series 2024. IND vs ENG Test series 2024: When and where to watch the Live Streaming of India vs England Test Series 2024? The India vs England Test Series 2024 will be live-streamed on the JioCinema app and website. IND vs ENG Test series 2024: Where to watch the Live Telecast of India vs England Test Series 2024? The India vs England Test Series 2024 will be live telecasted on the Sports 18 channel. India vs England Test Series 2024: Venues Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, commonly known as Uppal Stadium, is an international cricket stadium in Hyderabad, Telangana. Generally, the wicket here is considered a flat track, which tends to slow down as the game progresses. This means that the spinners would enjoy bowling here more than the pacers. Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam Dr. Y. S. Rajashekar Reddy ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Historically, it is known for producing belters, where batsmen can play through the line on even-paced wickets. However, in recent times, spinners have made their mark. Also Read | Australian Open 2024: World number one Novak Djokovic storms into semifinals with win over Taylor Fritz Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, also known as the Khandheri Cricket Stadium, is in Rajkot, India. It is Gujarat's first solar-powered stadium. The pitch here is batting-friendly and the two international matches been played at this venue have been high-scoring encounters. JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi JSCA International Stadium Complex is an international cricket stadium in Ranchi, Jharkhand and comes under the Jharkhand State Cricket Association. As it is a relatively big stadium, spinners tend to play a part on the ground. The track also offers the spinners grip and turn. Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium is an international cricket stadium in Dharamshala hill station of Himachal Pradesh. Since the ground is located at a high altitude, the ball travels faster. In addition, the dew becomes a major factor in the evening if you're playing during the September-March period. India vs England Test Series 2024: Full Squad India Test Squad: Shreyas Iyer, K L Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Srikar Bharat, Avesh Khan, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah. England Test Squad: Joe Root, Zak Crawley, Ben Stokes, Shoaib Bashir, Tom Hartley, Ollie Robinson, Rehan Ahmed, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Ollie Pope, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, James Anderson, Jack Leach (With inputs from agencies)

IND vs ENG Test Series 2024: Full Schedule, venues, squad, live-streaming details | All you need to know

<p><strong>IND vs ENG 1st Test 2024 Live Streaming:</strong> India and England will square off in a five-match Test series starting on Thursday, January 25. After thrashing England by 3-0 in the recent T20I series, India will look forward to continuing the winning spree. The five-match Test series is expected to conclude on March 7 after matches at various locations in India - Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Rajkot, Ranchi, and Dharamsala.</p>

<p>The last time England won a test series in India was in 2012, under the captaincy of Alastair Cook. On the Indian side, it’s been 11 long seasons since it has tasted a series defeat at home in Test cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here are all the live-streaming details of the upcoming series:</p>

<h2><strong>India vs England Test&nbsp;Live Streaming 2024</strong></h2>

<h2><strong>IND vs ENG Test series 2024: When and where to watch the Live Streaming of India vs England Test Series 2024?</strong></h2>

<p>The India vs England Test Series 2024 will be live-streamed on the JioCinema app and website.</p>

<h2><strong>IND vs ENG Test series 2024: Where to watch the Live Telecast of India vs England Test Series 2024?</strong></h2>

<p>The India vs England Test Series 2024 will be live telecasted on the Sports 18 channel.</p>

<h2><strong>IND vs ENG Test series 2024: When will the India vs England Test Series 2024 start?</strong></h2>

<p>The India vs England Test Series 2024 will start from 25 January.</p>

<h2><strong>IND vs ENG Test series 2024: When will the India vs England Test Series 2024 end?</strong></h2>

<p>The India vs England Test Series 2024 will end on 7 March.</p>

<h2><strong>IND vs ENG Test Series 2024: How many matches will be played in the India vs England Test Series 2024?</strong></h2>

<p>A total of five matches will be played in the India vs England Test Series 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>India vs England Test Series 2024: Full Schedule</strong></h2>

<p>Check out the full schedule of the India vs England Test Series 2024 below.</p>

<p><strong>IND vs ENG 1st Test:</strong> Thursday, 25 January at 9:30 am IST</p>

<p><strong>IND vs ENG 2nd Test:</strong> Friday, 02 February 9:30 am IST</p>

<p><strong>IND vs ENG 3rd Test:</strong> Thursday, 15 February 9:30 am IST</p>

<p><strong>IND vs ENG 4th Test:</strong> Friday, 23 February 9:30 am IST</p>

<p><strong>IND vs ENG 5th Test:</strong> Thursday, 7 March 9:30 am IST</p>

<h2><strong>India vs England Test Series 2024: Full Squad</strong></h2>

<p><strong>India Test Squad: </strong>Shreyas Iyer, K L Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Srikar Bharat, Avesh Khan, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah.</p>

<p><strong>England Test Squad:</strong> Joe Root, Zak Crawley, Ben Stokes, Shoaib Bashir, Tom Hartley, Ollie Robinson, Rehan Ahmed, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Ollie Pope, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, James Anderson, Jack Leach</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


IND vs ENG 1st Test 2024 Live Streaming: India and England will square off in a five-match Test series starting on Thursday, January 25. After thrashing England by 3-0 in the recent T20I series, India will look forward to continuing the winning spree.

IND vs ENG 1st Test 2024 Live Streaming: India and England will square off in a five-match Test series starting on Thursday, January 25. After thrashing England by 3-0 in the recent T20I series, India will look forward to continuing the winning spree. The five-match Test series is expected to conclude on March 7 after matches at various locations in India - Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Rajkot, Ranchi, and Dharamsala. The last time England won a test series in India was in 2012, under the captaincy of Alastair Cook. On the Indian side, it’s been 11 long seasons since it has tasted a series defeat at home in Test cricket. Here are all the live-streaming details of the upcoming series: India vs England Test Live Streaming 2024 IND vs ENG Test series 2024: When and where to watch the Live Streaming of India vs England Test Series 2024? The India vs England Test Series 2024 will be live-streamed on the JioCinema app and website. IND vs ENG Test series 2024: Where to watch the Live Telecast of India vs England Test Series 2024? The India vs England Test Series 2024 will be live telecasted on the Sports 18 channel. IND vs ENG Test series 2024: When will the India vs England Test Series 2024 start? The India vs England Test Series 2024 will start from 25 January. IND vs ENG Test series 2024: When will the India vs England Test Series 2024 end? The India vs England Test Series 2024 will end on 7 March. IND vs ENG Test Series 2024: How many matches will be played in the India vs England Test Series 2024? A total of five matches will be played in the India vs England Test Series 2024. India vs England Test Series 2024: Full Schedule Check out the full schedule of the India vs England Test Series 2024 below. IND vs ENG 1st Test: Thursday, 25 January at 9:30 am IST IND vs ENG 2nd Test: Friday, 02 February 9:30 am IST IND vs ENG 3rd Test: Thursday, 15 February 9:30 am IST IND vs ENG 4th Test: Friday, 23 February 9:30 am IST IND vs ENG 5th Test: Thursday, 7 March 9:30 am IST India vs England Test Series 2024: Full Squad India Test Squad: Shreyas Iyer, K L Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Srikar Bharat, Avesh Khan, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah. England Test Squad: Joe Root, Zak Crawley, Ben Stokes, Shoaib Bashir, Tom Hartley, Ollie Robinson, Rehan Ahmed, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Ollie Pope, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, James Anderson, Jack Leach (With inputs from agencies)

IND vs ENG Live Streaming, 1st Test: When and where to watch India vs England Test series live Mobile Online

<p>England's uncapped spinner Shoaib&nbsp;Bashir&nbsp;has been effectively ruled out of the first Test against India&nbsp;after being asked to return home&nbsp;to&nbsp;resolve the visa issues. Surrey-born Bashir made the cut in Ben Stokes-led England's spin-heavy squad for the much-anticipated India series. However, his dream of wearing the English Test cap has been delayed because of his Pakistani roots.</p>

<p>The 20-year-old Bashir, a Muslim of Pakistani heritage, was part of the English squad during their preparations for the India series in Abu Dhabi. However, he could not join&nbsp;the rest of the squad flying to India following a delay with his visa application. While the&nbsp;England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) hoped to&nbsp;count on assistance from&nbsp;the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in resolving the issue prior to the series opener, this has not been the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, the travelling British media in India reported, on Tuesday (Jan 24), that&nbsp;Bashir&nbsp;had been asked to return to London with his passport to get the correct paperwork at the Indian High Commission. It remains to be seen when will he be able to get the green signal to fly to India.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-virat-kohlis-rcb-teammate-rajat-patidar-replaces-him-for-first-two-tests-683022">India vs England: Virat Kohli's RCB teammate Rajat Patidar replaces him for first two Tests</a></strong></p>

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<p>A dejected captain Ben Stokes recently opined on the whole matter and said, "I didn't want this type of situation to be his first experience of what it's like to be in the England Test team. Especially for a young lad, I'm devastated for him."</p>

<p>"As captain I find it particularly frustrating. We announced the squad in mid-December and now Bash finds himself without a visa to get here...It's unfortunate and I'm very frustrated for him. With Bash unfortunately not able to be here, it rules him out of this game."</p>

<p>England will now rely on the likes of Rehan Ahmad, Jack Leach and uncapped Tom Hartley to compete with India's famed spin department in the series opener in Hyderabad.&nbsp;</p>


England's uncapped spinner Shoaib Bashir has been effectively ruled out of the first Test against India after being asked to return home to resolve the visa issues.

England's uncapped spinner Shoaib Bashir has been effectively ruled out of the first Test against India after being asked to return home to resolve the visa issues. Surrey-born Bashir made the cut in Ben Stokes-led England's spin-heavy squad for the much-anticipated India series. However, his dream of wearing the English Test cap has been delayed because of his Pakistani roots. The 20-year-old Bashir, a Muslim of Pakistani heritage, was part of the English squad during their preparations for the India series in Abu Dhabi. However, he could not join the rest of the squad flying to India following a delay with his visa application. While the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) hoped to count on assistance from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in resolving the issue prior to the series opener, this has not been the case. Thus, the travelling British media in India reported, on Tuesday (Jan 24), that Bashir had been asked to return to London with his passport to get the correct paperwork at the Indian High Commission. It remains to be seen when will he be able to get the green signal to fly to India. Also read: India vs England: Virat Kohli's RCB teammate Rajat Patidar replaces him for first two Tests × A dejected captain Ben Stokes recently opined on the whole matter and said, "I didn't want this type of situation to be his first experience of what it's like to be in the England Test team. Especially for a young lad, I'm devastated for him." "As captain I find it particularly frustrating. We announced the squad in mid-December and now Bash finds himself without a visa to get here...It's unfortunate and I'm very frustrated for him. With Bash unfortunately not able to be here, it rules him out of this game." England will now rely on the likes of Rehan Ahmad, Jack Leach and uncapped Tom Hartley to compete with India's famed spin department in the series opener in Hyderabad.

Ind vs Eng: England spinner Shoaib Bashir returns home due to visa row, ruled out of series opener

<p>On Monday (Jan 22), Virat Kohli withdrew from the first two Tests between India and England, which gets underway on Jan 25 (Thursday). The former Indian captain opted out due to personal reasons and will supposedly be back in the Indian squad for the final three games. Now, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has named Rajat Patidar, Kohli's IPL teammate, as the star batter's replacement.</p>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p>Patidar, who plays for Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), has been in sublime&nbsp;form of late. He scored&nbsp;151 in the unofficial Test against England Lions, in Ahmedabad, last week and&nbsp;also ended with an impressive 111 in the two-day warm-up fixture versus the Lions. During India's tour of South Africa in December 2023, he made his ODI debut as well. While he opened the innings on his ODI debut, he will bat in the middle-order if he gets a chance in the England Tests.</p>
</section>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-odi-team-of-the-year-revealed-6-indians-make-the-cut-despite-world-cup-loss-682882">ICC ODI Team of the Year revealed: 6 Indians make the cut despite World Cup loss</a></strong></p>

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<p>Patidar's selection further solidifies the fact that the BCCI selection committee has moved past senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. Meanwhile, Sarfaraz Khan's wait to make it to the national team continues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first Test between India and England will kick off on Thursday at the iconic Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Ben Stokes-led England have a herculean task to stop the Rohit Sharma-led hosts, who have not lost a home Test series since their 2-1 loss to the English side in 2012/13.&nbsp;</p>


On Monday (Jan 22), Virat Kohli withdrew from the first two Tests between India and England, which gets underway on Jan 25 (Thursday). The former Indian captain opted out due to personal reasons and will supposedly be back in the Indian squad for the final three games.

On Monday (Jan 22), Virat Kohli withdrew from the first two Tests between India and England, which gets underway on Jan 25 (Thursday). The former Indian captain opted out due to personal reasons and will supposedly be back in the Indian squad for the final three games. Now, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has named Rajat Patidar, Kohli's IPL teammate, as the star batter's replacement. Patidar, who plays for Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), has been in sublime form of late. He scored 151 in the unofficial Test against England Lions, in Ahmedabad, last week and also ended with an impressive 111 in the two-day warm-up fixture versus the Lions. During India's tour of South Africa in December 2023, he made his ODI debut as well. While he opened the innings on his ODI debut, he will bat in the middle-order if he gets a chance in the England Tests. Also read: ICC ODI Team of the Year revealed: 6 Indians make the cut despite World Cup loss × Patidar's selection further solidifies the fact that the BCCI selection committee has moved past senior pros Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. Meanwhile, Sarfaraz Khan's wait to make it to the national team continues. The first Test between India and England will kick off on Thursday at the iconic Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Ben Stokes-led England have a herculean task to stop the Rohit Sharma-led hosts, who have not lost a home Test series since their 2-1 loss to the English side in 2012/13.

India vs England: Virat Kohli's RCB teammate Rajat Patidar replaces him for first two Tests

<p>On Tuesday (Jan 24), England's uncapped spinner Shoaib Bashir was asked to return home, from UAE, following which the 20-year-old will&nbsp;miss the series opener of the India-England Tests in India. The five-match Test series gets underway on Jan 25 (Thursday) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. However, Bashir failed to make the playing XI, with Ben Stokes-led England announcing their line-up on Wednesday afternoon (Jan 24), after returning to the United Kingdom.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that Bashir was part of the England squad, which was named last year in December, for the India tour and part of their preparations in Abu Dhabi. Nonetheless, he could not fly to India with his teammates and now has been sent back home due to visa issues.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why has Shoaib Bashir returned&nbsp;to London?</strong></h2>

<p>Bashir's dream of wearing the English Test cap has been delayed&nbsp;for his Pakistani roots. He is a Muslim of Pakistani heritage, hence, acquiring visa for the India tour became&nbsp; complicated. The travelling British media in India reported that the uncapped Surrey-born spinner was asked to return to London with his passport to get the correct paperwork at the Indian High Commission.</p>

<h2><strong>Is this the first time?</strong></h2>

<p>One might wonder if this is the first time that a visiting player has had issues in acquiring an India visa ahead of his national side's tour. Well, it is not the first such instance. Ahead of Australia's tour of India in 2023, opener Usman Khawaja had to stay back Down Under&nbsp;for delay in getting his Indian visa. He had experienced such delays before as well, while touring India in 2013, 2017 and even in 2011 for the now-defunct Champions League T20. Back then, the matter was resolved after intervention from the government authorities, according to ESPNCricinfo.</p>

<p>Notably, the visa process for entry to India asks applicants whether they or their parents are of Pakistani origin. Khawaja, who was born in Pakistani capital&nbsp;Islamadad, has often faced issues in coming to India. Even during the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) complained of delays in their squad's visas. In addition, the same was the case for Pakistani journalists in what appeared to be another example of the tense diplomatic stand-off between the two countries (which has only increased on both sides due to&nbsp;their strained political relations since 2008).</p>

<h2><strong>CAPTAINS SYMPATHISE WITH BASHIR</strong></h2>

<p>Ahead of the first Test in Hyderabad, Indian captain Rohit Sharma sympathised with&nbsp;Bashir. In the pre-match presser, he said, on Wednesday, "I feel for him honestly, he's probably coming for the first time with the England set-up. And obviously not easy for anyone, there could be one of our guys coming to England has been denied or not available to get the visa..."</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, I don't sit in the visa office to give you more details. But I hope he can make it here quickly and enjoy our country and play some cricket as well," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-shoaib-bashir-england-cricketer-ruled-out-of-first-ind-vs-eng-test-in-india-over-visa-issue-683125">Who is Shoaib Bashir, England cricketer ruled out of first IND vs ENG Test over visa issue</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, England captain Stokes stated, "When I first found the news out in Abu Dhabi, I did say we shouldn't fly until Bash gets his visa but that was a little bit tongue in cheek." Stokes added, "I know it's a way bigger thing, doing that. That was probably just (my) emotions around the whole thing. There was never a chance that we were not going to travel around this but Bash knows he's had our full support."</p>

<p>"I'm pretty devastated that Bash has had to go through this. As a leader, as a captain, when one of your team-mates is affected by something like that you do get a bit emotional. I know he's back in London and a lot of people are jumping through hoops to try and get this through quicker. Hopefully, we're going to see him here over the weekend," he further said.</p>

<h2><strong>MORE ABOUT&nbsp;BASHIR</strong></h2>

<p>Bashir is a right-handed batter&nbsp;and a right-arm off-break bowler. He was born in 2003 in Surrey and represents the&nbsp;Somerset County Cricket Club. &nbsp;He made his first-class debut for Somerset in June 2023, against Essex. He made his T20 Blast debut&nbsp;against Hampshire, also during the same month.</p>

<p>The uncapped player's uncle was a wicket-keeper batsman for Guildford City Cricket Club, who encouraged Bashir to become a professional cricketer.&nbsp;Bashir featured for the England Lions cricket team for the first time in Oct 2023.&nbsp;Speaking of his first-class record, he has 10 wickets in six games with a best haul of 6 for 55.</p>

<p>Rob Key -- England men's managing director -- heaped praise on Bashir while speaking to Sky Sports last year. "We saw him last summer and you catch a glimpse of a few balls where you think there is something different there," Key said speaking to Sky Sports.</p>

<p>"Bashir is very raw and he's going for experience as much as anything else. We won't be afraid to play him. Hopefully we'll see a world-class spinner in the future."</p>

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<h2><strong>ENGLAND NAME BASHIR-LESS PLAYING XI FOR 1st TEST</strong></h2>

<p>Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (C), Ben Foakes, Rehan Ahmed, Tom Hartley, Mark Wood, Jack Leach.</p>

<p>With no Bashir, England have went ahead with three spinners for the Hyderabad Test. Given he was named in the initial squad, there were high chances of his inclusion for the series opener. He will hope to make it to the English squad for the second Test, which starts on Feb 2 in Visakhapatnam.</p>


On Tuesday (Jan 24), England's uncapped spinner Shoaib Bashir was asked to return home, from UAE, following which the 20-year-old will miss the series opener of the India-England Tests in India.

On Tuesday (Jan 24), England's uncapped spinner Shoaib Bashir was asked to return home, from UAE, following which the 20-year-old will miss the series opener of the India-England Tests in India. The five-match Test series gets underway on Jan 25 (Thursday) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. However, Bashir failed to make the playing XI, with Ben Stokes-led England announcing their line-up on Wednesday afternoon (Jan 24), after returning to the United Kingdom. It is to be noted that Bashir was part of the England squad, which was named last year in December, for the India tour and part of their preparations in Abu Dhabi. Nonetheless, he could not fly to India with his teammates and now has been sent back home due to visa issues. Why has Shoaib Bashir returned to London? Bashir's dream of wearing the English Test cap has been delayed for his Pakistani roots. He is a Muslim of Pakistani heritage, hence, acquiring visa for the India tour became complicated. The travelling British media in India reported that the uncapped Surrey-born spinner was asked to return to London with his passport to get the correct paperwork at the Indian High Commission. Is this the first time? One might wonder if this is the first time that a visiting player has had issues in acquiring an India visa ahead of his national side's tour. Well, it is not the first such instance. Ahead of Australia's tour of India in 2023, opener Usman Khawaja had to stay back Down Under for delay in getting his Indian visa. He had experienced such delays before as well, while touring India in 2013, 2017 and even in 2011 for the now-defunct Champions League T20. Back then, the matter was resolved after intervention from the government authorities, according to ESPNCricinfo. Notably, the visa process for entry to India asks applicants whether they or their parents are of Pakistani origin. Khawaja, who was born in Pakistani capital Islamadad, has often faced issues in coming to India. Even during the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) complained of delays in their squad's visas. In addition, the same was the case for Pakistani journalists in what appeared to be another example of the tense diplomatic stand-off between the two countries (which has only increased on both sides due to their strained political relations since 2008). CAPTAINS SYMPATHISE WITH BASHIR Ahead of the first Test in Hyderabad, Indian captain Rohit Sharma sympathised with Bashir. In the pre-match presser, he said, on Wednesday, "I feel for him honestly, he's probably coming for the first time with the England set-up. And obviously not easy for anyone, there could be one of our guys coming to England has been denied or not available to get the visa..." "Unfortunately, I don't sit in the visa office to give you more details. But I hope he can make it here quickly and enjoy our country and play some cricket as well," he added. Also read: Who is Shoaib Bashir, England cricketer ruled out of first IND vs ENG Test over visa issue Meanwhile, England captain Stokes stated, "When I first found the news out in Abu Dhabi, I did say we shouldn't fly until Bash gets his visa but that was a little bit tongue in cheek." Stokes added, "I know it's a way bigger thing, doing that. That was probably just (my) emotions around the whole thing. There was never a chance that we were not going to travel around this but Bash knows he's had our full support." "I'm pretty devastated that Bash has had to go through this. As a leader, as a captain, when one of your team-mates is affected by something like that you do get a bit emotional. I know he's back in London and a lot of people are jumping through hoops to try and get this through quicker. Hopefully, we're going to see him here over the weekend," he further said. MORE ABOUT BASHIR Bashir is a right-handed batter and a right-arm off-break bowler. He was born in 2003 in Surrey and represents the Somerset County Cricket Club. He made his first-class debut for Somerset in June 2023, against Essex. He made his T20 Blast debut against Hampshire, also during the same month. The uncapped player's uncle was a wicket-keeper batsman for Guildford City Cricket Club, who encouraged Bashir to become a professional cricketer. Bashir featured for the England Lions cricket team for the first time in Oct 2023. Speaking of his first-class record, he has 10 wickets in six games with a best haul of 6 for 55. Rob Key -- England men's managing director -- heaped praise on Bashir while speaking to Sky Sports last year. "We saw him last summer and you catch a glimpse of a few balls where you think there is something different there," Key said speaking to Sky Sports. "Bashir is very raw and he's going for experience as much as anything else. We won't be afraid to play him. Hopefully we'll see a world-class spinner in the future." × ENGLAND NAME BASHIR-LESS PLAYING XI FOR 1st TEST Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (C), Ben Foakes, Rehan Ahmed, Tom Hartley, Mark Wood, Jack Leach. With no Bashir, England have went ahead with three spinners for the Hyderabad Test. Given he was named in the initial squad, there were high chances of his inclusion for the series opener. He will hope to make it to the English squad for the second Test, which starts on Feb 2 in Visakhapatnam.

Explained | Why England’ spinner Shoaib Bashir returned home ahead of 1st Test vs India

<p>Virat Kohli, on Monday (Jan 22), opted out of the first two Tests versus England due to personal reasons. The series opener kicks off in Hyderabad on Jan 25 (Thursday). A statement from the BCCI read, "The BCCI respects his decision and the Board and team management has extended its support to the star batter and is confident in the abilities of the remaining squad members to step up and deliver commendable performances in the Test series. The BCCI requests the media and fans to respect Virat Kohli's privacy during this time and refrain from speculating on the nature of his personal reasons. The focus should remain on supporting the Indian cricket team as they embark on the upcoming challenges in the Test series."</p>

<p>Kohli's absence is a huge blow to India, who remain unbeaten in home Tests since 2012/13. Following the announcement, former England captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain reacted to the news and said that Kohli's non-participation gives a 'glimmer of hope' to Ben Stokes-led England in the first two Tests.</p>

<p>Speaking to the Daily Mail, Hussain said, "My first thought is that we wish Virat well. Like Brook, he's taken a step back for personal reasons, and everyone in the game should respect that. Some things are more important than cricket. But there's no doubt that India, and the series, will miss him."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-we-want-to-be-the-bravest-says-england-coach-brendon-mccullum-ahead-of-india-tests-682696">Ind vs Eng: We want to be the bravest, says England coach Brendon McCullum ahead of India Tests</a></strong></p>

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<h2><strong>'Any team would suffer when a player of Kohli's class drops out'</strong></h2>

<p>He added, "He's also been in great form, and his absence from Thursday's first Test at Hyderabad and next week's second at Visakhapatnam deprives fans all over the world from watching a genius at work. That said, any team would suffer when a player of Kohli's class drops out, and it gives England a glimmer of hope in the first two Tests of a series in which they begin as clear underdogs."</p>

<p>Kohli averages a healthy&nbsp;60.05 in home Tests. Against England, he has scored 1,015 runs on home soil with a best of 235 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Thus, his absence will be felt by the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team. His replacement has not been named so far by Team India.</p>

<p>Despite no Kohli, India will start as favourites having a solid record at home. Their last series loss was in 2012/13, which came against England.</p>


Virat Kohli, on Monday (Jan 22), opted out of the first two Tests versus England due to personal reasons. The series opener kicks off in Hyderabad on Jan 25 (Thursday).

Virat Kohli, on Monday (Jan 22), opted out of the first two Tests versus England due to personal reasons. The series opener kicks off in Hyderabad on Jan 25 (Thursday). A statement from the BCCI read, "The BCCI respects his decision and the Board and team management has extended its support to the star batter and is confident in the abilities of the remaining squad members to step up and deliver commendable performances in the Test series. The BCCI requests the media and fans to respect Virat Kohli's privacy during this time and refrain from speculating on the nature of his personal reasons. The focus should remain on supporting the Indian cricket team as they embark on the upcoming challenges in the Test series." Kohli's absence is a huge blow to India, who remain unbeaten in home Tests since 2012/13. Following the announcement, former England captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain reacted to the news and said that Kohli's non-participation gives a 'glimmer of hope' to Ben Stokes-led England in the first two Tests. Speaking to the Daily Mail, Hussain said, "My first thought is that we wish Virat well. Like Brook, he's taken a step back for personal reasons, and everyone in the game should respect that. Some things are more important than cricket. But there's no doubt that India, and the series, will miss him." Also read: Ind vs Eng: We want to be the bravest, says England coach Brendon McCullum ahead of India Tests × 'Any team would suffer when a player of Kohli's class drops out' He added, "He's also been in great form, and his absence from Thursday's first Test at Hyderabad and next week's second at Visakhapatnam deprives fans all over the world from watching a genius at work. That said, any team would suffer when a player of Kohli's class drops out, and it gives England a glimmer of hope in the first two Tests of a series in which they begin as clear underdogs." Kohli averages a healthy 60.05 in home Tests. Against England, he has scored 1,015 runs on home soil with a best of 235 at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Thus, his absence will be felt by the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team. His replacement has not been named so far by Team India. Despite no Kohli, India will start as favourites having a solid record at home. Their last series loss was in 2012/13, which came against England.

Ind vs Eng | 'It gives England a glimmer of hope': Hussain on Virat Kohli's absence from first two Tests

<p>Team India is set to assemble in Hyderabad on Jan 20 to&nbsp;undergo a four-day practice session before the five-match Test series opener versus England, which kicks off on Jan 25 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. The series holds a lot of significance with regard to the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. At present, Rohit Sharma-led India occupy the second spot whereas England is in the eighth position.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per Cricbuzz, Virat Kohli is expected to take a day off after his net session on Jan 21. He has been given the nod by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to attend the Ram Temple Consecration in Ayodhya on Jan 22.&nbsp;Currently, the Rohit-led Indian team is involved in the three T20Is versus Afghanistan at home. They have locked horns with the Afghans in the third and inconsequential tie at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru with the series in their pocket after an unassailable 2-0 lead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Ben Stokes-England team will arrive in Hyderabad on Jan 21 following their preparations in Abu Dhabi. Their late arrival hasn't been well received back home, with former pacer Steve Harmison not mincing his words.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-say-no-to-t20-world-cup-shami-hopeful-of-being-part-of-mega-event-with-good-run-in-ipl-2024-680874">'Who will say no to T20 World Cup?': Shami hopeful of being part of mega event with good run in IPL 2024</a></strong></p>

<h2>'You'd never go to Australia three days before the Gabba. Why go three days before (to) Hyderabad?'</h2>

<p>Talking on radio station talkSport's Following On podcast, Harmison recently said,&nbsp;"I'm an old man and that's what they're going to say, the times have changed. But preparation hasn't changed. You cannot go into India underprepared, you cannot go into India over-prepared. You could be in India six weeks before and still not be prepared for that first Test and the emotion of that."</p>

<p>"I love the new approach with Ben Stokes, Brendon McCullum and Rob Key, and everything the ECB has done. But I'm sorry, you'd never go to an Ashes series three days before. You'd never go to Australia three days before the Gabba. Why go three days before (to) Hyderabad? We've got five Test matches in India, you've got to prepare in the right way with overs under your belt, balls faced, and acclimatising," he added.</p>

<p>England's last Test series win in India came in 2012/13. Back then, the visitors reached India&nbsp;almost two weeks in advance. Meanwhile, the last Test series between both sides ended in a 2-2 stalemate, held in the United Kingdom from 2021-22.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Early this month, BCCI announced India's squad for the first two Tests.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India’s squad for the first two Tests vs England:</strong> Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Avesh Khan</p>


Team India is set to assemble in Hyderabad on Jan 20 to undergo a four-day practice session before the five-match Test series opener versus England, which kicks off on Jan 25 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

Team India is set to assemble in Hyderabad on Jan 20 to undergo a four-day practice session before the five-match Test series opener versus England, which kicks off on Jan 25 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. The series holds a lot of significance with regard to the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. At present, Rohit Sharma-led India occupy the second spot whereas England is in the eighth position. As per Cricbuzz, Virat Kohli is expected to take a day off after his net session on Jan 21. He has been given the nod by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to attend the Ram Temple Consecration in Ayodhya on Jan 22. Currently, the Rohit-led Indian team is involved in the three T20Is versus Afghanistan at home. They have locked horns with the Afghans in the third and inconsequential tie at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru with the series in their pocket after an unassailable 2-0 lead. Meanwhile, the Ben Stokes-England team will arrive in Hyderabad on Jan 21 following their preparations in Abu Dhabi. Their late arrival hasn't been well received back home, with former pacer Steve Harmison not mincing his words. Also read: 'Who will say no to T20 World Cup?': Shami hopeful of being part of mega event with good run in IPL 2024 'You'd never go to Australia three days before the Gabba. Why go three days before (to) Hyderabad?' Talking on radio station talkSport's Following On podcast, Harmison recently said, "I'm an old man and that's what they're going to say, the times have changed. But preparation hasn't changed. You cannot go into India underprepared, you cannot go into India over-prepared. You could be in India six weeks before and still not be prepared for that first Test and the emotion of that." "I love the new approach with Ben Stokes, Brendon McCullum and Rob Key, and everything the ECB has done. But I'm sorry, you'd never go to an Ashes series three days before. You'd never go to Australia three days before the Gabba. Why go three days before (to) Hyderabad? We've got five Test matches in India, you've got to prepare in the right way with overs under your belt, balls faced, and acclimatising," he added. England's last Test series win in India came in 2012/13. Back then, the visitors reached India almost two weeks in advance. Meanwhile, the last Test series between both sides ended in a 2-2 stalemate, held in the United Kingdom from 2021-22. Early this month, BCCI announced India's squad for the first two Tests. India’s squad for the first two Tests vs England: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Avesh Khan

Ind vs Eng: Team India to assemble in Hyderabad on Jan 20, five days ahead of Test series opener

<p>Ahead of Ben Stokes-led England's five Tests versus India, in India, former English spinner Graeme Swann recalled his side's historic red-ball series triumph in India in 2012-13. Back then, Alastair Cook-led England won their maiden Test series on Indian soil after 28 years, beating MS Dhoni-led India 2-1 in four Tests. During the tour, England spinners&nbsp;Swann (20 scalps -- joint-most) and&nbsp;Monty Panesar (17 wickets) were the top performers along with Cook (562 runs) and Kevin Pietersen (338 runs)</p>

<p>Swann recalled England's historic Test series win. He has urged the current crop of English cricketers to not take on Virat Kohli, who revels in on-field battle, while recalling an interesting episode from the 2012-13 series. In addition, he&nbsp;named the Indian batter against whom he didn't enjoy bowling.</p>

<p>Swann said in a Sky Sports Cricket podcast, "We had been told beforehand to not say anything to this bloke (Virat Kohli) because he absolutely revels in a battle in the field and he loves chasing down totals. We knew what he could do in the white-ball format but back then he hadn't really done anything in Test cricket."</p>

<p>"Steven Finn got driven for a couple of incredible fours and he lost the plot and had a go at him and realised his mistake straight away. Virat roared up like a tiger and Finn just doubled down and got smashed everywhere."</p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-rohit-kohli-have-ordinary-ipl-gavaskar-on-indias-possible-t20-wc-squad-makes-bold-suggestion-678940">‘If Rohit, Kohli have ordinary IPL…’: Gavaskar on India's possible T20 WC squad, makes BOLD suggestion</a></strong></p>

<p>During the 2012-13 series, Kohli took time to get going in the first three Tests but slammed an impressive 103 in the fourth and final Test in Nagpur, also stitching a vital 198-run stand with then skipper MS Dhoni (99). The Test ended in a draw as England won the series with a 2-1 lead already in their grasp.</p>

<p>Swann added, "I got him (Kohli) out in the first Test but often you had to bowl the perfect ball to dismiss him. The one batter I didn't like bowling to was (Cheteshwar) Pujara because was very nimble on his feet.</p>

<p>"It's strange when I look back at the team they had -- VVS Laxman, Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli -- and the one that I didn't like bowling to was Pujara."</p>

<p>This time around, England have their task cut-out to replicate their side's past success against Rohit Sharma-led Indian team. India have not lost a Test series at home since their 2012-13 defeat to England.</p>

<p>The first of the five-match Test series kicks off in Hyderabad on Jan 25.&nbsp;</p>


Ahead of Ben Stokes-led England's five Tests versus India, in India, former English spinner Graeme Swann recalled his side's historic red-ball series triumph in India in 2012-13.

Ahead of Ben Stokes-led England's five Tests versus India, in India, former English spinner Graeme Swann recalled his side's historic red-ball series triumph in India in 2012-13. Back then, Alastair Cook-led England won their maiden Test series on Indian soil after 28 years, beating MS Dhoni-led India 2-1 in four Tests. During the tour, England spinners Swann (20 scalps -- joint-most) and Monty Panesar (17 wickets) were the top performers along with Cook (562 runs) and Kevin Pietersen (338 runs) Swann recalled England's historic Test series win. He has urged the current crop of English cricketers to not take on Virat Kohli, who revels in on-field battle, while recalling an interesting episode from the 2012-13 series. In addition, he named the Indian batter against whom he didn't enjoy bowling. Swann said in a Sky Sports Cricket podcast, "We had been told beforehand to not say anything to this bloke (Virat Kohli) because he absolutely revels in a battle in the field and he loves chasing down totals. We knew what he could do in the white-ball format but back then he hadn't really done anything in Test cricket." "Steven Finn got driven for a couple of incredible fours and he lost the plot and had a go at him and realised his mistake straight away. Virat roared up like a tiger and Finn just doubled down and got smashed everywhere." × Also read: ‘If Rohit, Kohli have ordinary IPL…’: Gavaskar on India's possible T20 WC squad, makes BOLD suggestion During the 2012-13 series, Kohli took time to get going in the first three Tests but slammed an impressive 103 in the fourth and final Test in Nagpur, also stitching a vital 198-run stand with then skipper MS Dhoni (99). The Test ended in a draw as England won the series with a 2-1 lead already in their grasp. Swann added, "I got him (Kohli) out in the first Test but often you had to bowl the perfect ball to dismiss him. The one batter I didn't like bowling to was (Cheteshwar) Pujara because was very nimble on his feet. "It's strange when I look back at the team they had -- VVS Laxman, Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli -- and the one that I didn't like bowling to was Pujara." This time around, England have their task cut-out to replicate their side's past success against Rohit Sharma-led Indian team. India have not lost a Test series at home since their 2012-13 defeat to England. The first of the five-match Test series kicks off in Hyderabad on Jan 25.

Kohli enjoys on-field battle, didn't like bowling to Pujara: Swann recalls ENG's 2012 Test series win in India

<p>England's former spinner Monty Panesar hailed R Ashwin as a 'brilliant' spinner ahead of both sides' five Tests in the Indian subcontinent, starting on Jan 25 in Hyderabad. Panesar feels Ashwin has adapted to different conditions brilliantly, over the years,&nbsp;to deliver the goods for India in the purest format of the game. It is to be noted that the wily Indian off-spinner is just 10 wickets away from claiming 500 wickets in red-ball cricket. Thus, he has a high chance to join the elite 500-wicket club during the home series versus Ben Stokes-led England.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'R Ashwin is like an app, he keeps updating every six months'</strong></h2>

<p>Ahead of the first Test, in Hyderabad, Panesar spoke to Hindustan Times and heaped praise on Ashwin. He said, "He has had the mindset to keep adapting and bowling different deliveries. He kept getting better. It's not easy all the time to take a lot of wickets on turning pitches. He's been given turners at home, but you can see the way he adapts all the time. He's like an app, he keeps updating every six months! That's what he has done throughout his career."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-pacer-mohammed-shami-marks-upcoming-home-test-series-against-england-for-comeback-678221">India pacer Mohammed Shami marks upcoming home Test series against England for comeback</a></strong></p>

<p>The ex-English spinner, who played a major role in his side's historic Test series win in India in 2012/13,&nbsp;added, "I always find that I am a student when it comes to Ashwin's bowling. I feel I am continually learning something new about his bowling. That's the asset Ashwin is. He is a brilliant bowler."</p>

<p>Ashwin has 490 wickets in 95 Tests at an average of&nbsp;23.69. At home, he has churned out 337 wickets at&nbsp;20.87. He will look to add to his wicket column in the forthcoming Tests versus England, challenging their aggressive style of batting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first Test gets underway on Jan 25 at the iconic Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad.</p>


England's former spinner Monty Panesar hailed R Ashwin as a 'brilliant' spinner ahead of both sides' five Tests in the Indian subcontinent, starting on Jan 25 in Hyderabad.

England's former spinner Monty Panesar hailed R Ashwin as a 'brilliant' spinner ahead of both sides' five Tests in the Indian subcontinent, starting on Jan 25 in Hyderabad. Panesar feels Ashwin has adapted to different conditions brilliantly, over the years, to deliver the goods for India in the purest format of the game. It is to be noted that the wily Indian off-spinner is just 10 wickets away from claiming 500 wickets in red-ball cricket. Thus, he has a high chance to join the elite 500-wicket club during the home series versus Ben Stokes-led England. 'R Ashwin is like an app, he keeps updating every six months' Ahead of the first Test, in Hyderabad, Panesar spoke to Hindustan Times and heaped praise on Ashwin. He said, "He has had the mindset to keep adapting and bowling different deliveries. He kept getting better. It's not easy all the time to take a lot of wickets on turning pitches. He's been given turners at home, but you can see the way he adapts all the time. He's like an app, he keeps updating every six months! That's what he has done throughout his career." Also read: India pacer Mohammed Shami marks upcoming home Test series against England for comeback The ex-English spinner, who played a major role in his side's historic Test series win in India in 2012/13, added, "I always find that I am a student when it comes to Ashwin's bowling. I feel I am continually learning something new about his bowling. That's the asset Ashwin is. He is a brilliant bowler." Ashwin has 490 wickets in 95 Tests at an average of 23.69. At home, he has churned out 337 wickets at 20.87. He will look to add to his wicket column in the forthcoming Tests versus England, challenging their aggressive style of batting. The first Test gets underway on Jan 25 at the iconic Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad.

Ind vs Eng: R Ashwin is like an app, keeps updating - Former spinner Monty Panesar hails Indian star

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India will face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on June 07. At present, the Indian cricketers are involved in the IPL 2023 edition and the WTC final-bound players will be eager to remain fit to take part in the WTC finale. Rohit, who has had quite a few injury concerns in the past, will be desperate to lead the charge and take India to their first-ever ICC title since 2013 with a memorable win over Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, former India head coach Ravi Shastri stated that if Rohit misses the WTC final due to unforeseen circumstances, Virat Kohli -- Rohit's predecessor -- can lead the side. In addition, he believes Kohli should have led India in the one-off Test versus England, in Birmingham, after Rohit had to sit out for testing positive for Covid-19.</p>

<p>“If it’s for a major game like that (upcoming WTC final), then yes (for&nbsp;Kohli to be the stand-in captain in case Rohit misses out). I mean, you want Rohit to be fit as he is the captain of the side. In case of unforeseen circumstances, definitely, I will look in that direction,” Shastri was quoted as saying on ESPNcricinfo.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-vs-nz-historic-feat-pakistan-join-india-australia-in-elite-list-after-1st-odi-win-over-black-caps-586957">Pak vs NZ: HISTORIC FEAT! Pakistan join India, Australia in elite list after 1st ODI win over Black Caps</a></strong></p>

<p>The former Indian all-rounder further opined, "Once Rohit was injured (talking about the India-England Birmingham Test 2022), I thought he would be asked. If I was still there, I would have asked. I’m not sure Rahul (Dravid) would have done the same thing, I haven’t spoken to him. I would have recommended to the board as it’s only fair if he leads because he is part of the team that is leading 2-1 in the series."</p>

<p>With Rohit ruled out due to Covid-19, Jasprit Bumrah led India in the Birmingham Test, which was the fifth and final Test of the India-England 2021 series. The fifth Test was postponed in the 2021 English summer due to the Covid crisis in the Indian camp. Back then, Kohli was the Indian captain when the visitors earned an unassailable 2-1 lead prior to the fifth Test's postponement.</p>

<p>The rescheduled fifth and final Test saw India fail to defend a 378-run target and lose to Ben Stokes-led England by seven wickets.</p>

<p><strong>INDIA SQUAD FOR WTC FINAL</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, K L Rahul, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India will face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on June 07. At present, the Indian cricketers are involved in the IPL 2023 edition and the WTC final-bound players will be eager to remain fit to take part in the WTC finale.

Rohit Sharma-led India will face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London on June 07. At present, the Indian cricketers are involved in the IPL 2023 edition and the WTC final-bound players will be eager to remain fit to take part in the WTC finale. Rohit, who has had quite a few injury concerns in the past, will be desperate to lead the charge and take India to their first-ever ICC title since 2013 with a memorable win over Australia. Recently, former India head coach Ravi Shastri stated that if Rohit misses the WTC final due to unforeseen circumstances, Virat Kohli -- Rohit's predecessor -- can lead the side. In addition, he believes Kohli should have led India in the one-off Test versus England, in Birmingham, after Rohit had to sit out for testing positive for Covid-19. “If it’s for a major game like that (upcoming WTC final), then yes (for Kohli to be the stand-in captain in case Rohit misses out). I mean, you want Rohit to be fit as he is the captain of the side. In case of unforeseen circumstances, definitely, I will look in that direction,” Shastri was quoted as saying on ESPNcricinfo. Also read: Pak vs NZ: HISTORIC FEAT! Pakistan join India, Australia in elite list after 1st ODI win over Black Caps The former Indian all-rounder further opined, "Once Rohit was injured (talking about the India-England Birmingham Test 2022), I thought he would be asked. If I was still there, I would have asked. I’m not sure Rahul (Dravid) would have done the same thing, I haven’t spoken to him. I would have recommended to the board as it’s only fair if he leads because he is part of the team that is leading 2-1 in the series." With Rohit ruled out due to Covid-19, Jasprit Bumrah led India in the Birmingham Test, which was the fifth and final Test of the India-England 2021 series. The fifth Test was postponed in the 2021 English summer due to the Covid crisis in the Indian camp. Back then, Kohli was the Indian captain when the visitors earned an unassailable 2-1 lead prior to the fifth Test's postponement. The rescheduled fifth and final Test saw India fail to defend a 378-run target and lose to Ben Stokes-led England by seven wickets. INDIA SQUAD FOR WTC FINAL Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, K L Rahul, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.

Expected Virat Kohli to lead Team India in 2022 Birmingham Test in Rohit Sharma's absence: Ravi Shastri