India on Tuesday suffered a shocking 227-run defeat against England in the first Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The Indian cricket team, who had scripted history in Australia, tasted their first defeat in Chennai since 1999 and the crushing loss brings an end to their 14-match unbeaten streak in home Tests. <o:p></o:p>

After the heavy defeat, Indian skipper Virat Kohli assessed the match as he said the Indian team failed to put pressure with the ball in the first innings while adding that body language of the Indian player needs to improve. <o:p></o:p>

England, after posting a mammoth 578 runs in the first innings, bundled out India for 337 before posting a target of 420 runs for the hosts. However, India, in reply, were skittled out for 192 runs to complete the 227-run defeat. It also brings an end to India’s eight-match winning run in home Tests.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-virat-kohli-creates-new-record-during-fourth-innings-of-chennai-test-362382" hreflang="en">Ind vs Eng: Virat Kohli creates new record during fourth innings of Chennai Test</a>

“I don't think we put enough pressure on them with the ball in the first half. Collectively as a bowling unit, fast bowlers and Ash, were good in the first innings but we also needed to contain a few more runs and create pressure. Having said that, it was a slow wicket and not helping the bowlers which made it easy for the batsmen to rotate strike and get into the game,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation. <o:p></o:p>

“Just looked like not much happening in it on the first two days. But credit to England, they got stuck in and put up a big total on the board. Our body language and intensity was not up to the mark, second innings we were much better. We were better in the second half of the first innings with the bat, not the first four batters. We have to understand the things that we have done decently in this game and the things that we haven't and as a side we are always looking to improve. England were far more professional and consistent throughout the Test match than we were,” the Indian skipper added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-time-in-more-than-100-years-r-ashwin-achieves-unique-feat-in-test-cricket-362103" hreflang="en">First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket</a>

India conceded 578 runs in the first innings with the Shahbaz Nadeem and Washington Sundar struggled to bowl tight line and lengths while conceding heavy runs which allowed England to dominate the proceedings in the first two days of the match. <o:p></o:p>

However, Kohli said that the Indian team knows how to bounce back while vowing a better body language from the hosts. <o:p></o:p>

“That's a fair assessment (the fourth and fifth bowlers not being up to the mark). You need your bowling unit to step up and create pressure on the opposition. We didn't achieve that in this game which is fine, lack of execution is acceptable but to understand our mindset was right is very important for us. I think we did well in the second innings with the ball and put pressure on them. With the bat as well we left a few things to be desired and analysed as batsmen with the kind of decisions we took. We are always learning as a side and evolving as a side and Test cricket is tough. England were ready for that grind and probably better equipped than us. <o:p></o:p>

“(The toss) Ended being crucial I didn't think it would. We don't want to take anything away from England with the way they played. No excuses. We are a side that accepts our failures and faults and learns from them. One thing is for sure that in the next three matches we are going to give a tough fight and not let things slip away like it did in this Test. We have to start off with good body language and put pressure on the opposition. Understand fields, pace of the pitch and what the bowlers are doing, all those kind of things will be crucial. In the end it is the mindset and we are tying to get that back. We know how to bounce back and will give our best effort in the next game,” Kohli, who scored 11 and 72 in the first Test against England, concluded.<o:p></o:p>

India will look to bounce back when they take the field for the second Test which will be played at the same venue from February 13.<o:p></o:p>

India on Tuesday suffered a shocking 227-run defeat against England in the first Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The Indian cricket team, who had scripted history in Australia, tasted their first defeat in Chennai since 1999 and the crushing loss brings an end to their 14-match unbeaten streak in home Tests.

India on Tuesday suffered a shocking 227-run defeat against England in the first Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The Indian cricket team, who had scripted history in Australia, tasted their first defeat in Chennai since 1999 and the crushing loss brings an end to their 14-match unbeaten streak in home Tests. After the heavy defeat, Indian skipper Virat Kohli assessed the match as he said the Indian team failed to put pressure with the ball in the first innings while adding that body language of the Indian player needs to improve. England, after posting a mammoth 578 runs in the first innings, bundled out India for 337 before posting a target of 420 runs for the hosts. However, India, in reply, were skittled out for 192 runs to complete the 227-run defeat. It also brings an end to India’s eight-match winning run in home Tests. ALSO READ: Ind vs Eng: Virat Kohli creates new record during fourth innings of Chennai Test “I don't think we put enough pressure on them with the ball in the first half. Collectively as a bowling unit, fast bowlers and Ash, were good in the first innings but we also needed to contain a few more runs and create pressure. Having said that, it was a slow wicket and not helping the bowlers which made it easy for the batsmen to rotate strike and get into the game,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation. “Just looked like not much happening in it on the first two days. But credit to England, they got stuck in and put up a big total on the board. Our body language and intensity was not up to the mark, second innings we were much better. We were better in the second half of the first innings with the bat, not the first four batters. We have to understand the things that we have done decently in this game and the things that we haven't and as a side we are always looking to improve. England were far more professional and consistent throughout the Test match than we were,” the Indian skipper added. ALSO READ: First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket India conceded 578 runs in the first innings with the Shahbaz Nadeem and Washington Sundar struggled to bowl tight line and lengths while conceding heavy runs which allowed England to dominate the proceedings in the first two days of the match. However, Kohli said that the Indian team knows how to bounce back while vowing a better body language from the hosts. “That's a fair assessment (the fourth and fifth bowlers not being up to the mark). You need your bowling unit to step up and create pressure on the opposition. We didn't achieve that in this game which is fine, lack of execution is acceptable but to understand our mindset was right is very important for us. I think we did well in the second innings with the ball and put pressure on them. With the bat as well we left a few things to be desired and analysed as batsmen with the kind of decisions we took. We are always learning as a side and evolving as a side and Test cricket is tough. England were ready for that grind and probably better equipped than us. “(The toss) Ended being crucial I didn't think it would. We don't want to take anything away from England with the way they played. No excuses. We are a side that accepts our failures and faults and learns from them. One thing is for sure that in the next three matches we are going to give a tough fight and not let things slip away like it did in this Test. We have to start off with good body language and put pressure on the opposition. Understand fields, pace of the pitch and what the bowlers are doing, all those kind of things will be crucial. In the end it is the mindset and we are tying to get that back. We know how to bounce back and will give our best effort in the next game,” Kohli, who scored 11 and 72 in the first Test against England, concluded. India will look to bounce back when they take the field for the second Test which will be played at the same venue from February 13.

'No excuses': Virat Kohli assesses India's horror defeat in Chennai against England

Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday joined an exclusive list of spinners to have picked up a wicket off the first ball of the&nbsp;innings&nbsp;as the veteran Indian spinner dismissed England opener Rory Burns in the first delivery of the second innings, on Day 4&nbsp;of the first&nbsp;Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;

The incident of a spinner getting a wicket off the first ball of an innings happened for the first time in since 1907 with South Africa's Bert Vogler being the last spinner to have achieved the feat&nbsp;against England at the Oval after he dismissed England's Tom Hayward.

The other incident of a spinner scalping a wicket off the first ball of an innings was way back in 1988 when Bobby Peel dismissed Alec Bannerman off the first ball of the second innings in the third Test at the Old Trafford during the Ashes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pants-heartfelt-gesture-after-uttarakhand-glacier-burst-wins-hearts-362086" hreflang="en">Rishabh Pant's heartfelt gesture after Uttarakhand glacier burst wins hearts</a>

Ashwin was handed the new ball in the second innings and the 34-year-old didn't disappoint as he found the edge of Burns’ bat&nbsp;to achieve the unique record and etch his name in the history books.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, England have the edge in the first Test against India in Chennai as the visitors took a resounding first-innings lead of 241 after a poor show with the bat by the Indian team. While stalwarts failed for the hosts, youngsters Rishabh Pant (91) and Washington&nbsp;Sunday (85*) stepped up with the bat and helped India post 337 runs in the first innings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spirit-of-cricket-stuart-broads-cheeky-comment-on-iccs-post-on-virat-kohlis-gesture-towards-joe-root-361972" hreflang="en">'Spirit of cricket?': Stuart Broad's cheeky comment on ICC's post on Virat Kohli's gesture towards Joe Root</a>

England, at Day 4 Lunch, were at 1/1 with a lead of 242. The visitors would be looking to post a good total on board and try and take the game to the Indian team, who haven't lost a Test match on home soil since 2016.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday joined an exclusive list of spinners to have picked up a wicket off the first ball of the innings as the veteran Indian spinner dismissed England opener Rory Burns in the first delivery of the second innings, on Day 4 of the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday joined an exclusive list of spinners to have picked up a wicket off the first ball of the innings as the veteran Indian spinner dismissed England opener Rory Burns in the first delivery of the second innings, on Day 4 of the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The incident of a spinner getting a wicket off the first ball of an innings happened for the first time in since 1907 with South Africa's Bert Vogler being the last spinner to have achieved the feat against England at the Oval after he dismissed England's Tom Hayward. The other incident of a spinner scalping a wicket off the first ball of an innings was way back in 1988 when Bobby Peel dismissed Alec Bannerman off the first ball of the second innings in the third Test at the Old Trafford during the Ashes. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant's heartfelt gesture after Uttarakhand glacier burst wins hearts Ashwin was handed the new ball in the second innings and the 34-year-old didn't disappoint as he found the edge of Burns’ bat to achieve the unique record and etch his name in the history books. Meanwhile, England have the edge in the first Test against India in Chennai as the visitors took a resounding first-innings lead of 241 after a poor show with the bat by the Indian team. While stalwarts failed for the hosts, youngsters Rishabh Pant (91) and Washington Sunday (85*) stepped up with the bat and helped India post 337 runs in the first innings. ALSO READ: 'Spirit of cricket?': Stuart Broad's cheeky comment on ICC's post on Virat Kohli's gesture towards Joe Root England, at Day 4 Lunch, were at 1/1 with a lead of 242. The visitors would be looking to post a good total on board and try and take the game to the Indian team, who haven't lost a Test match on home soil since 2016.

First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket

India on Monday reached 39/1 at day four stumps after spinner Jack Leach bowled Rohit Sharma for 12 on a deteriorating Chennai track. India, chasing 420, will resume their innings on day five with Shubman Gill&nbsp;(15*)&nbsp;and Cheteshwar Pujara&nbsp;(12*)&nbsp;at the crease.&nbsp;

Earlier on the day, Ravichandran Ashwin scalped six wickets to bundle out England for 178 with the visitors setting a target of 420.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

On a spinner-dominant day, Ashwin picked up his 28th&nbsp;five-wicket haul in England's second innings. The veteran spinner had sent Rory Burns back in the first ball of the innings before striking crucial blows including Ben Stokes.&nbsp;

England skipper Joe Root continued his rich run of form as he scored 40 off 32 balls. He hit 218 in the first innings in what is his 100th&nbsp;Test for England.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-time-in-more-than-100-years-r-ashwin-achieves-unique-feat-in-test-cricket-362103" hreflang="en">First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket</a>

Root was trapped&nbsp;lbw&nbsp;by speedster Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;but had done the damage with seven boundaries. Ollie Pope (28) and Dom Bess (25) helped England extend their lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian spinner Shahbaz Nadeem grabbed two wickets while Dan Lawrence was Ishant Sharma's 300th&nbsp;Test wicket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Commenting on the achievement, Ishant said: "It's been quite a roller-coaster life. I've had a lot of experience, a lot of mentors who taught me how to bowl in the subcontinent and how to bowl abroad. I'm a bit sore, after bowling 4-over bursts in domestic cricket, and then bowling 35 overs within a gap of just 3-4 days.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/300-test-wickets-ishant-sharma-joins-elusive-list-as-he-achieves-iconic-landmark-362128" hreflang="en">300 Test wickets! Ishant Sharma joins elusive list as he achieves iconic landmark</a>

"If we get a good start tomorrow, we can chase this down, because we have a batting line-up that is fearless and can chase this down, and it's important to look at 381 runs and not 9 wickets. On the first two days, the pitch was not assisting us and the spinners, it felt like we played on a road, but it started turning later on in Day 4 and it was a lot more responsive then."&nbsp;

India&nbsp;were&nbsp;bundled out for 337 in their first innings – 42 runs short of&nbsp;avoiding&nbsp;the follow on – despite Washington Sundar's stylish unbeaten 85.&nbsp;

England, who scored 578 in the first innings, decided against enforcing the follow-on. India, on day 5, need another&nbsp;381 runs to win.

&nbsp;

India on Monday reached 39/1 at day four stumps after spinner Jack Leach bowled Rohit Sharma for 12 on a deteriorating Chennai track. India, chasing 420, will resume their innings on day five with Shubman Gill (15*) and Cheteshwar Pujara (12*) at the crease.

India on Monday reached 39/1 at day four stumps after spinner Jack Leach bowled Rohit Sharma for 12 on a deteriorating Chennai track. India, chasing 420, will resume their innings on day five with Shubman Gill (15*) and Cheteshwar Pujara (12*) at the crease. Earlier on the day, Ravichandran Ashwin scalped six wickets to bundle out England for 178 with the visitors setting a target of 420. On a spinner-dominant day, Ashwin picked up his 28th five-wicket haul in England's second innings. The veteran spinner had sent Rory Burns back in the first ball of the innings before striking crucial blows including Ben Stokes. England skipper Joe Root continued his rich run of form as he scored 40 off 32 balls. He hit 218 in the first innings in what is his 100th Test for England. ALSO READ: First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket Root was trapped lbw by speedster Jasprit Bumrah but had done the damage with seven boundaries. Ollie Pope (28) and Dom Bess (25) helped England extend their lead. Indian spinner Shahbaz Nadeem grabbed two wickets while Dan Lawrence was Ishant Sharma's 300th Test wicket. Commenting on the achievement, Ishant said: "It's been quite a roller-coaster life. I've had a lot of experience, a lot of mentors who taught me how to bowl in the subcontinent and how to bowl abroad. I'm a bit sore, after bowling 4-over bursts in domestic cricket, and then bowling 35 overs within a gap of just 3-4 days. ALSO READ: 300 Test wickets! Ishant Sharma joins elusive list as he achieves iconic landmark "If we get a good start tomorrow, we can chase this down, because we have a batting line-up that is fearless and can chase this down, and it's important to look at 381 runs and not 9 wickets. On the first two days, the pitch was not assisting us and the spinners, it felt like we played on a road, but it started turning later on in Day 4 and it was a lot more responsive then." India were bundled out for 337 in their first innings – 42 runs short of avoiding the follow on – despite Washington Sundar's stylish unbeaten 85. England, who scored 578 in the first innings, decided against enforcing the follow-on. India, on day 5, need another 381 runs to win.

IND vs ENG, Day 4: England on top as India need another 381 runs to win

In a heartfelt effort to help the needy, Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant on Sunday said that he will donate his match-fee for the rescue efforts following a glacier burst in Uttarakhand. The youngster also urged more people to help out after the glacier burst as he expressed grief over the loss of lives in the calamity. Pant is currently playing in the first Test against England in Chennai.&nbsp;

"Deeply pained by the loss of life in Uttarakhand. Would like to donate my match fee for the rescue efforts and would urge more people to help out," Pant tweeted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Deeply pained by the loss of life in Uttarakhand. Would like to donate my match fee for the rescue efforts and would urge more people to help out.
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1358476781141991426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Social media users lavished high praise on Rishabh Pant following his heartfelt gesture to help in the rescue efforts after the glacier burst in Uttarakhand.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-kyle-mayer-smashes-double-ton-on-debut-shatters-several-records-361977" hreflang="en">West Indies' Kyle Mayers smashes double ton on debut; shatters several records</a>

<h2>Here are some of the reactions:</h2>

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Winning hearts on and off the field. Ek hi toh dil hai Pant sahab, kitni baar jeetoge.🙏❤️
— Jayesh (@jayeshvk16) <a href="https://twitter.com/jayeshvk16/status/1358480996169969665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Great Gesture Rishabh Pant ❤️ 
Immense Respect for You 🙌🇮🇳
— ABHI (@DeadlyYorkers) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeadlyYorkers/status/1358485227409084416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Absolute Champion 💎
— R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) <a href="https://twitter.com/LoyalSachinFan/status/1358485572793192448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Pant bhai <a href="https://t.co/0ezoQea9qq">pic.twitter.com/0ezoQea9qq</a>
— Prayag (@theprayagtiwari) <a href="https://twitter.com/theprayagtiwari/status/1358478207842803712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Huge Respect Sir🙏🏻 <a href="https://t.co/Fncl4wty1l">pic.twitter.com/Fncl4wty1l</a>
— Amit🇮🇳 (@dark__horse007) <a href="https://twitter.com/dark__horse007/status/1358477350485172225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Mad respect bro ❤️
— A (@_shortarmjab_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_shortarmjab_/status/1358477634548600833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Pant missed out on his third Test century on Day 3 of the ongoing Test as the southpaw played a blistering knock of 91 runs. The 23-year-old stitched a 119-run partnership with Cheteshwar Pujara (73) for the fifth wicket to help India steady their innings. England had posted a mammoth 578 runs in the first innings, courtesy a fine double century by captain Joe Root.&nbsp;

Fourteen people were confirmed dead on Monday after a chunk of glacier dislodged and unleashed a devastating flash flood in India, officials said.

"A total of 15 people have been rescued and 14 bodies have been recovered from different places so far," the state government of&nbsp;Uttarakhand, in the country's north, said on Twitter a day after the disaster.

ALSO READ&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spirit-of-cricket-stuart-broads-cheeky-comment-on-iccs-post-on-virat-kohlis-gesture-towards-joe-root-361972" hreflang="en">'Spirit of cricket?': Stuart Broad's cheeky comment on ICC's post on Virat Kohli's gesture towards Joe Root</a>

On Sunday, a glacier broke in the&nbsp;Tapovan-Reni area of Chamoli District of Uttarakhand that triggered massive flooding in&nbsp;Dhauliganga&nbsp;and Alaknanda Rivers and damaged housed and the nearby&nbsp;Rishiganga&nbsp;power project.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The rescue operations had to be halted in&nbsp;Dhauliganga&nbsp;due to the rise in the water level of the river.&nbsp;Tapovan&nbsp;Hydro-Electric Power Dam was completely washed off following a glacier burst in Chamoli district.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Furthermore, Uttarakhand Chief Minister announced an ex-gratia of INR 4 lakh each to the kin of those who lost their lives due to the glacier burst.&nbsp;

"We are assuming that around 125 people are missing. The number can be higher," Rawat said. He added that the government has all the needed assistance to handle the situation for now.&nbsp;

(With ANI inputs)&nbsp;

In a heartfelt effort to help the needy, Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant on Sunday said that he will donate his match-fee for the rescue efforts following a glacier burst in Uttarakhand.

In a heartfelt effort to help the needy, Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant on Sunday said that he will donate his match-fee for the rescue efforts following a glacier burst in Uttarakhand. The youngster also urged more people to help out after the glacier burst as he expressed grief over the loss of lives in the calamity. Pant is currently playing in the first Test against England in Chennai. "Deeply pained by the loss of life in Uttarakhand. Would like to donate my match fee for the rescue efforts and would urge more people to help out," Pant tweeted. Deeply pained by the loss of life in Uttarakhand. Would like to donate my match fee for the rescue efforts and would urge more people to help out. — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) February 7, 2021 × Social media users lavished high praise on Rishabh Pant following his heartfelt gesture to help in the rescue efforts after the glacier burst in Uttarakhand. ALSO READ: West Indies' Kyle Mayers smashes double ton on debut; shatters several records Here are some of the reactions: Winning hearts on and off the field. Ek hi toh dil hai Pant sahab, kitni baar jeetoge.🙏❤️ — Jayesh (@jayeshvk16) February 7, 2021 × Great Gesture Rishabh Pant ❤️ Immense Respect for You 🙌🇮🇳 — ABHI (@DeadlyYorkers) February 7, 2021 × Absolute Champion 💎 — R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) February 7, 2021 × Pant bhai pic.twitter.com/0ezoQea9qq — Prayag (@theprayagtiwari) February 7, 2021 × Huge Respect Sir🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/Fncl4wty1l — Amit🇮🇳 (@dark__horse007) February 7, 2021 × Mad respect bro ❤️ — A (@_shortarmjab_) February 7, 2021 × Pant missed out on his third Test century on Day 3 of the ongoing Test as the southpaw played a blistering knock of 91 runs. The 23-year-old stitched a 119-run partnership with Cheteshwar Pujara (73) for the fifth wicket to help India steady their innings. England had posted a mammoth 578 runs in the first innings, courtesy a fine double century by captain Joe Root. Fourteen people were confirmed dead on Monday after a chunk of glacier dislodged and unleashed a devastating flash flood in India, officials said. "A total of 15 people have been rescued and 14 bodies have been recovered from different places so far," the state government of Uttarakhand, in the country's north, said on Twitter a day after the disaster. ALSO READ 'Spirit of cricket?': Stuart Broad's cheeky comment on ICC's post on Virat Kohli's gesture towards Joe Root On Sunday, a glacier broke in the Tapovan-Reni area of Chamoli District of Uttarakhand that triggered massive flooding in Dhauliganga and Alaknanda Rivers and damaged housed and the nearby Rishiganga power project. The rescue operations had to be halted in Dhauliganga due to the rise in the water level of the river. Tapovan Hydro-Electric Power Dam was completely washed off following a glacier burst in Chamoli district. Furthermore, Uttarakhand Chief Minister announced an ex-gratia of INR 4 lakh each to the kin of those who lost their lives due to the glacier burst. "We are assuming that around 125 people are missing. The number can be higher," Rawat said. He added that the government has all the needed assistance to handle the situation for now. (With ANI inputs)

Rishabh Pant's heartfelt gesture after Uttarakhand glacier burst wins hearts

Indian bowler Ishant Sharma on Monday became the third Indian pacer to pick 300 Test wickets after the veteran pacer scalped the wicket of&nbsp;Daniel Lawrence during the second innings of the first Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ishant became the third Indian pacer after Kapil Dev (434) and Zaheer Khan (311) to scalp 300 Test wickets for India and sixth overall Indian bowler. While Ishant is the latest entrant in the elusive list of Indian bowlers to have scalped 300 Test wickets, former Indian captain Anil Kumble leads the list with 619 wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ishant trapped England batsman Dan Lawrence plumb to complete the iconic landmark in the longest format of the game as India continue to try and make a comeback in the second innings after trailing by 241 runs&nbsp;in the first innings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-time-in-more-than-100-years-r-ashwin-achieves-unique-feat-in-test-cricket-362103" hreflang="en">First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{317c162e-a35a-44bb-b463-13c36ec696e4}{221}" paraid="1106525436" >Elusive 300-wicket club for&nbsp;India in Test cricket:&nbsp;</h2>

Anil Kumble: 611 wickets&nbsp;

Kapil Dev:434 wickets&nbsp;

Harbhajan Singh: 417 wickets&nbsp;

Ravichandran Ashwin: 382 wickets*&nbsp;

Ishant Sharma: 300 wickets*&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, England continue to extend their lead in the second innings after taking a big advantage of 241 runs in the first innings. While Ravichandran Ashwin dismissed&nbsp;opener,&nbsp;Rory Burns off the first ball of the second innings, Sibley (16), Lawrence (18)&nbsp;were&nbsp;dismissed cheaply by the Indian bowling unit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India would be looking to continue their unbeaten&nbsp;run on&nbsp;home soil with their last Test defeat dating back to 2016. Whereas England would want to convert the first-innings advantage into a win in Chennai.&nbsp;

Indian bowler Ishant Sharma on Monday became the third Indian pacer to pick 300 Test wickets after the veteran pacer scalped the wicket of Daniel Lawrence during the second innings of the first Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Indian bowler Ishant Sharma on Monday became the third Indian pacer to pick 300 Test wickets after the veteran pacer scalped the wicket of Daniel Lawrence during the second innings of the first Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Ishant became the third Indian pacer after Kapil Dev (434) and Zaheer Khan (311) to scalp 300 Test wickets for India and sixth overall Indian bowler. While Ishant is the latest entrant in the elusive list of Indian bowlers to have scalped 300 Test wickets, former Indian captain Anil Kumble leads the list with 619 wickets. Ishant trapped England batsman Dan Lawrence plumb to complete the iconic landmark in the longest format of the game as India continue to try and make a comeback in the second innings after trailing by 241 runs in the first innings. ALSO READ: First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket Elusive 300-wicket club for India in Test cricket: Anil Kumble: 611 wickets Kapil Dev:434 wickets Harbhajan Singh: 417 wickets Ravichandran Ashwin: 382 wickets* Ishant Sharma: 300 wickets* ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant's heartfelt gesture after Uttarakhand glacier burst wins hearts Meanwhile, England continue to extend their lead in the second innings after taking a big advantage of 241 runs in the first innings. While Ravichandran Ashwin dismissed opener, Rory Burns off the first ball of the second innings, Sibley (16), Lawrence (18) were dismissed cheaply by the Indian bowling unit. India would be looking to continue their unbeaten run on home soil with their last Test defeat dating back to 2016. Whereas England would want to convert the first-innings advantage into a win in Chennai.

300 Test wickets! Ishant Sharma joins elusive list as he achieves iconic landmark

England batsman Zak Crawley has been ruled out of the first two Tests against India with a jarred wrist, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed on Thursday. Crawley, 23, had slipped on a marble floor outside the dressing room during training ahead of the first Test against India in Chennai, starting from Friday.

Crawley, with the slip, sprained the joint which led to local inflammation. The England medical team will continue to assess Crawley's progress over the next few weeks.&nbsp;

"Scan results have confirmed that Crawley has jarred his right wrist, which has sprained the joint and led to local inflammation," the England and Wales Cricket Board said in a statement.

"It's really frustrating and frustrating for Zak in particular," Joe Root, the England captain, told reporters during a virtual press conference on the eve of the first Test in Chennai.

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"It was a freak accident, walking out of the change room and slipped over and landed on his wrist. Hope it's the last one," he said.

However, Root didn't reveal who would replace the Kent batsman, who smashed 267 runs for his maiden Test century against Pakistan at Southampton in August.

When asked whether Root would promote himself up at number three in the batting line-up, the England Test captain said: "There are a different number of things we have got. We have got some brilliant players, different options to choose from. We will look at the balance of the side but we will discuss it over today's course."

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India and England will play four Test matches with the first two scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in world's largest cricket stadium - Sardar Patel Stadium - in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

The Virat Kohli-led outfit will look to continue their domination on home soil. India last lost a Test match in home conditions in the year 2016 and last Test series in 2012.

&nbsp;

England batsman Zak Crawley has been ruled out of the first two Tests against India with a jarred wrist, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed on Thursday.

England batsman Zak Crawley has been ruled out of the first two Tests against India with a jarred wrist, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed on Thursday. Crawley, 23, had slipped on a marble floor outside the dressing room during training ahead of the first Test against India in Chennai, starting from Friday. Crawley, with the slip, sprained the joint which led to local inflammation. The England medical team will continue to assess Crawley's progress over the next few weeks. "Scan results have confirmed that Crawley has jarred his right wrist, which has sprained the joint and led to local inflammation," the England and Wales Cricket Board said in a statement. "It's really frustrating and frustrating for Zak in particular," Joe Root, the England captain, told reporters during a virtual press conference on the eve of the first Test in Chennai. ALSO READ: New Zealand deserve to be in WTC final, India focused on England series: Ajinkya Rahane "It was a freak accident, walking out of the change room and slipped over and landed on his wrist. Hope it's the last one," he said. However, Root didn't reveal who would replace the Kent batsman, who smashed 267 runs for his maiden Test century against Pakistan at Southampton in August. When asked whether Root would promote himself up at number three in the batting line-up, the England Test captain said: "There are a different number of things we have got. We have got some brilliant players, different options to choose from. We will look at the balance of the side but we will discuss it over today's course." ALSO READ: Joe Root eyes illustrious records in Chennai Test against India India and England will play four Test matches with the first two scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in world's largest cricket stadium - Sardar Patel Stadium - in Ahmedabad. The Virat Kohli-led outfit will look to continue their domination on home soil. India last lost a Test match in home conditions in the year 2016 and last Test series in 2012.

England's Zak Crawley ruled out of first two Tests vs India

After conquering Australia, India&nbsp;are&nbsp;set to host England in a four-match Test series starting from Friday. While Indian skipper Virat Kohli has already confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test ahead of Wriddhiman Saha as the specialist wicket-keeper, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has&nbsp;suggested his playing XI for the first Chennai Test.&nbsp;

With India back on their home soil, the playing XI combination changes a lot for the hosts as compared to starting line-up in away conditions. Given the history of Chennai wickets, India&nbsp;are&nbsp;likely to play three spinners and two pacers.&nbsp; Even veteran pacer Ishant Sharma is back in the team but Gambhir has picked Mohammed Siraj to start alongside Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, who will be playing his first home Test.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gambhir,&nbsp;speaking on Star Sports&nbsp;Game Plan, went with the opening duo of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill with Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane to follow. Gambhir picked the spin troika of Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav and&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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With Ravindra Jadeja out of the England Test series with an injury,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel is likely to make his Test debut.&nbsp;Axar's&nbsp;ability with the bat makes him an ideal replacement for Jadeja. However, Washington Sundar, who made a sensational debut against Australia, is also in contention to start in the Chennai Test.&nbsp;

Gautam Gambhir's Indian playing XI for first Test vs England: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-briefly-discussed-it-in-team-meeting-virat-kohli-on-farmers-protest-361339" hreflang="en">We briefly discussed it in team meeting: Virat Kohli on farmers' protest</a>

India will play four Tests against England followed by three ODIs and five T20Is.&nbsp;

After conquering Australia, India are set to host England in a four-match Test series starting from Friday. While Indian skipper Virat Kohli has already confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test ahead of Wriddhiman Saha as the specialist wicket-keeper, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has suggested his playing XI for the first Chennai Test.

After conquering Australia, India are set to host England in a four-match Test series starting from Friday. While Indian skipper Virat Kohli has already confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test ahead of Wriddhiman Saha as the specialist wicket-keeper, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has suggested his playing XI for the first Chennai Test. With India back on their home soil, the playing XI combination changes a lot for the hosts as compared to starting line-up in away conditions. Given the history of Chennai wickets, India are likely to play three spinners and two pacers. Even veteran pacer Ishant Sharma is back in the team but Gambhir has picked Mohammed Siraj to start alongside Jasprit Bumrah, who will be playing his first home Test. Gambhir, speaking on Star Sports Game Plan, went with the opening duo of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill with Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane to follow. Gambhir picked the spin troika of Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel. ALSO READ: Indian skipper Virat Kohli reveals the greatest moment of his life With Ravindra Jadeja out of the England Test series with an injury, Axar Patel is likely to make his Test debut. Axar's ability with the bat makes him an ideal replacement for Jadeja. However, Washington Sundar, who made a sensational debut against Australia, is also in contention to start in the Chennai Test. Gautam Gambhir's Indian playing XI for first Test vs England: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Axar Patel, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj. ALSO READ: We briefly discussed it in team meeting: Virat Kohli on farmers' protest India will play four Tests against England followed by three ODIs and five T20Is.

India vs England: Gautam Gambhir reveals his playing XI for 1st Test

India captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said the ongoing farmers' protest against new agriculture laws has come up for discussion in his team meeting where everyone has "expressed what they had to".

Kohli, speaking online to the media ahead of the first Test against England here, did not divulge the details of the "brief" conversation on the matter. "Like any issue present in the country, we do talk about it and everyone had expressed what they had to," Kohli said when asked about the agitation that has been going on for over two months.

"That's about it. We briefly spoke about it in the team meeting and we carried on discussing the team and game plans," he added.

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On Wednesday, Kohli was among a host of Indian cricket stars, including the iconic Sachin Tendulkar who urged for unity in the country after some international celebrities like US pop star Rihanna called attention to the plight of the agitating farmers on social media.

"Let us all stay united in this hour of disagreements. Farmers are an integral part of our country and I'm sure an amicable solution will be found between all parties to bring about peace and move forward together," he had tweeted. India and England will lock horns in a four-match Test series starting Friday.

Thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been camping at Delhi's borders for over two months demanding that the three new farm laws be repealed. Farmer groups have alleged that these laws, which allow farmers to sell their produce directly to a buyer, will end the traditional mandi system and the guarantee of a Minimum Support Price for their crops. The government has rejected these apprehensions as misplaced.

India captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said the ongoing farmers' protest against new agriculture laws has come up for discussion in his team meeting where everyone has "expressed what they had to".

India captain Virat Kohli on Thursday said the ongoing farmers' protest against new agriculture laws has come up for discussion in his team meeting where everyone has "expressed what they had to". Kohli, speaking online to the media ahead of the first Test against England here, did not divulge the details of the "brief" conversation on the matter. "Like any issue present in the country, we do talk about it and everyone had expressed what they had to," Kohli said when asked about the agitation that has been going on for over two months. "That's about it. We briefly spoke about it in the team meeting and we carried on discussing the team and game plans," he added. ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli On Wednesday, Kohli was among a host of Indian cricket stars, including the iconic Sachin Tendulkar who urged for unity in the country after some international celebrities like US pop star Rihanna called attention to the plight of the agitating farmers on social media. "Let us all stay united in this hour of disagreements. Farmers are an integral part of our country and I'm sure an amicable solution will be found between all parties to bring about peace and move forward together," he had tweeted. India and England will lock horns in a four-match Test series starting Friday. Thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, have been camping at Delhi's borders for over two months demanding that the three new farm laws be repealed. Farmer groups have alleged that these laws, which allow farmers to sell their produce directly to a buyer, will end the traditional mandi system and the guarantee of a Minimum Support Price for their crops. The government has rejected these apprehensions as misplaced.

We briefly discussed it in team meeting: Virat Kohli on farmers' protest

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side.&nbsp;India&nbsp;have&nbsp;over the past couple of&nbsp;home&nbsp;seasons have preferred&nbsp;Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper&nbsp;due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves.&nbsp;

However,&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;recent exploits and heroic knocks against Australia&nbsp;have helped the southpaw regain his place in the playing XI when it comes to home Test matches. Interestingly,&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;last home Test was back in 2018, against the West Indies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kohli, lauding&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;impact against Australia, said that the 23-year-old is in a good headspace and they want to continue with him. The Indian skipper added that the entire&nbsp;Indian team is happy to see Pant flourish.&nbsp;

Pant was India's highest run-scorer in the recently concluded series against Australia despite missing the Adelaide Test. The southpaw accumulated 274 runs in five innings at an average of&nbsp;68.50.&nbsp;

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"Yes, Rishabh (Pant) will start tomorrow. He had a massive impact in Australia and is in a good headspace and we want to continue with him. He's come along nicely after the IPL and he's worked hard in his fitness and his game. We were very happy to see him flourish,” said Kohli in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the first Test against India in Chennai.&nbsp;

Kohli will be back leading the team after missing the last three Tests against Australia to be with his wife on the birth of their first child. Ajinkya Rahane, in Kohli's absence, led the Indian team impeccably well&nbsp;as India won the series 2-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rahane has always lauded Kohli for his leadership qualities and on&nbsp;Wednesday, said that he is happy taking a back seat as Kohli is back leading the team. Praising Rahane for his splendid leadership qualities which he showed in the series against Australia, Kohli said that&nbsp;everyone in the team only wants India to win.&nbsp;

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"The fact that Jinks (Rahane) mentioned what he did because the relationship between us and the whole team is one of trust: we only want India to win. He fulfilled his role with flying&nbsp;colours&nbsp;in Australia," Kohli said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Indian team will have an optional practice session before the match starts on Friday in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India last lost a home Test series back in 2012 – against England – and will look to continue their domination on home soil.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side. India have over the past couple of home seasons have preferred Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side. India have over the past couple of home seasons have preferred Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves. However, Pant's recent exploits and heroic knocks against Australia have helped the southpaw regain his place in the playing XI when it comes to home Test matches. Interestingly, Pant's last home Test was back in 2018, against the West Indies. Kohli, lauding Pant's impact against Australia, said that the 23-year-old is in a good headspace and they want to continue with him. The Indian skipper added that the entire Indian team is happy to see Pant flourish. Pant was India's highest run-scorer in the recently concluded series against Australia despite missing the Adelaide Test. The southpaw accumulated 274 runs in five innings at an average of 68.50. ALSO READ: 3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test "Yes, Rishabh (Pant) will start tomorrow. He had a massive impact in Australia and is in a good headspace and we want to continue with him. He's come along nicely after the IPL and he's worked hard in his fitness and his game. We were very happy to see him flourish,” said Kohli in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the first Test against India in Chennai. Kohli will be back leading the team after missing the last three Tests against Australia to be with his wife on the birth of their first child. Ajinkya Rahane, in Kohli's absence, led the Indian team impeccably well as India won the series 2-1. Rahane has always lauded Kohli for his leadership qualities and on Wednesday, said that he is happy taking a back seat as Kohli is back leading the team. Praising Rahane for his splendid leadership qualities which he showed in the series against Australia, Kohli said that everyone in the team only wants India to win. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year "The fact that Jinks (Rahane) mentioned what he did because the relationship between us and the whole team is one of trust: we only want India to win. He fulfilled his role with flying colours in Australia," Kohli said. Meanwhile, the Indian team will have an optional practice session before the match starts on Friday in Chennai. India last lost a home Test series back in 2012 – against England – and will look to continue their domination on home soil.

Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli

India and England are set to kick-start the four-Test series with the opener scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from Friday. Both India and England are&nbsp;heading into the series on the back of a series wins against Australia and Sri Lanka respectively. While the series promises to be a cracking contest with both England and India boasting some world-class players, fans are eagerly waiting to witness the clash of giants.&nbsp;

India have almost a fully-fit squad with a couple of players missing the Test series due to injuries suffered in the tour of Australia. The likes of Hanuma Vihari, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami are missing but the hosts still boast a strong squad which might&nbsp;lead to selection headaches in the Indian camp.&nbsp;

While the batting order looks almost set with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, all eyes will be on the bowling combination of the Indian attack as the match will be played in Chennai, which has assisted spinners&nbsp;over the years.&nbsp;

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However, with two back-to-back Test matches scheduled and a debutant curator V Ramesh Kumar taking charge of the proceedings, the MA Chidambaram Stadium could&nbsp;play equal field for both pacers and spinners early on. But India&nbsp;are&nbsp;likely to go with three spinners given England's recent struggle against spin bowling.&nbsp;

India last lost a home Test series back in the year 2012 – against England – and has since lost only one Test match, in 2016, on home soil. Given India's sheer domination at home, the Virat Kohli-led outfit starts as heavy&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to not only win the first Test but also to win the series.&nbsp;

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India predicted playing XI:&nbsp;Rohit&nbsp;Sharma,&nbsp;Shubman&nbsp;Gill, Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara, Virat&nbsp;Kohli,&nbsp;Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar/Axar&nbsp;Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Ishant Sharma&nbsp;

India and England are set to kick-start the four-Test series with the opener scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from Friday. Both India and England are heading into the series on the back of a series wins against Australia and Sri Lanka respectively.

India and England are set to kick-start the four-Test series with the opener scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from Friday. Both India and England are heading into the series on the back of a series wins against Australia and Sri Lanka respectively. While the series promises to be a cracking contest with both England and India boasting some world-class players, fans are eagerly waiting to witness the clash of giants. India have almost a fully-fit squad with a couple of players missing the Test series due to injuries suffered in the tour of Australia. The likes of Hanuma Vihari, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami are missing but the hosts still boast a strong squad which might lead to selection headaches in the Indian camp. While the batting order looks almost set with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, all eyes will be on the bowling combination of the Indian attack as the match will be played in Chennai, which has assisted spinners over the years. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year However, with two back-to-back Test matches scheduled and a debutant curator V Ramesh Kumar taking charge of the proceedings, the MA Chidambaram Stadium could play equal field for both pacers and spinners early on. But India are likely to go with three spinners given England's recent struggle against spin bowling. India last lost a home Test series back in the year 2012 – against England – and has since lost only one Test match, in 2016, on home soil. Given India's sheer domination at home, the Virat Kohli-led outfit starts as heavy favourites to not only win the first Test but also to win the series. ALSO READ: England's Zak Crawley ruled out of first two Tests vs India India predicted playing XI: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Ravichandran Ashwin, Washington Sundar/Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma

3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test

Paceman Jofra Archer said Tuesday that "body management" will be crucial during a busy year of cricket for England as he returns after a break for the Test clash in India.

England, who have at least 17 Tests including the Ashes scheduled in 2021, begin their four-match India series in Chennai on Friday.

The 25-year-old Archer, along with Ben Stokes, was rested for the Sri Lanka tour as Joe Root's England swept the two-Test series 2-0 last month.

"It's going to be a long long year," Archer told reporters after a training session in Chennai.

"We've got a few series coming up. I think body management is going to be essential if I want to play everything, almost everything."

The Barbados-born bowler joined his teammates including coach Chris Silverwood and Jos Buttler in lauding the England and Wales Cricket board for their rest-and-rotate policy during the coronavirus pandemic.

"Anyone that's criticising it never spent time in the bubble. One golfer left after four days. We have been in here for almost a year now," he said.

"At the end of the day humans are social people and sometimes it gets hard, especially if you've not had a great game or if you are not feeling good but then in cricket there is no escape."

He added: "I think the ECB has made it really great to give people (time off), myself I had six weeks away.

"I think Jos (Buttler) is done after this game and for a little bit Sam's (Curran) gone. So they are making a priority, everyone gets time away, so that we can come back refreshed and ready to go."

Archer, who has become a key part of England's pace attack since making his debut in 2019, said he is ready to be in the team bubble for a few months ahead.&nbsp;

"I don't mind to be honest because I know that I would get time away so I'm just going to follow the job at hand now," said Archer.

"And if it gets too overbearing then there is no shame in saying that. But I think right now I am good to go until at least July."

Archer has claimed 38 wickets in 11 Tests and 37 scalps in 24 limited-overs matches for the national team.

Paceman Jofra Archer said Tuesday that "body management" will be crucial during a busy year of cricket for England as he returns after a break for the Test clash in India.

Paceman Jofra Archer said Tuesday that "body management" will be crucial during a busy year of cricket for England as he returns after a break for the Test clash in India. England, who have at least 17 Tests including the Ashes scheduled in 2021, begin their four-match India series in Chennai on Friday. The 25-year-old Archer, along with Ben Stokes, was rested for the Sri Lanka tour as Joe Root's England swept the two-Test series 2-0 last month. "It's going to be a long long year," Archer told reporters after a training session in Chennai. "We've got a few series coming up. I think body management is going to be essential if I want to play everything, almost everything." The Barbados-born bowler joined his teammates including coach Chris Silverwood and Jos Buttler in lauding the England and Wales Cricket board for their rest-and-rotate policy during the coronavirus pandemic. "Anyone that's criticising it never spent time in the bubble. One golfer left after four days. We have been in here for almost a year now," he said. "At the end of the day humans are social people and sometimes it gets hard, especially if you've not had a great game or if you are not feeling good but then in cricket there is no escape." He added: "I think the ECB has made it really great to give people (time off), myself I had six weeks away. "I think Jos (Buttler) is done after this game and for a little bit Sam's (Curran) gone. So they are making a priority, everyone gets time away, so that we can come back refreshed and ready to go." Archer, who has become a key part of England's pace attack since making his debut in 2019, said he is ready to be in the team bubble for a few months ahead. "I don't mind to be honest because I know that I would get time away so I'm just going to follow the job at hand now," said Archer. "And if it gets too overbearing then there is no shame in saying that. But I think right now I am good to go until at least July." Archer has claimed 38 wickets in 11 Tests and 37 scalps in 24 limited-overs matches for the national team.

Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calender

Team India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday congratulated New Zealand for becoming the first team to qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, to be held on June 18-22 in England. Rahane while lauding New Zealand asserted that India shouldn't get complacent thinking about the&nbsp;WTC final and added that focus of the Indian team remains on the impending England series.&nbsp;

“It&nbsp;(WTC final)&nbsp;is still four months away. We are focused on the England series,” Rahane said at a virtual media interaction&nbsp;on Wednesday ahead of India's first Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After the postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia, New Zealand became the first team to qualify for the&nbsp;inaugural&nbsp;edition of the ICC World Test Championship. While Australia and England are still in contention to feature in the summit clash, India's domination at home means the Virat Kohli-led outfit stands&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;to&nbsp;qualify&nbsp;for the final.&nbsp;

“New Zealand has been doing well and deserve to be there [in the final]. We know every&nbsp;series,&nbsp;every game is important in this WTC.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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“The series win in Australia was special but that's in the past. We are taking it one match at a time. We respect the England team. They did well in Sri Lanka, so we have to back our strengths and play good cricket as a unit."&nbsp;

Rahane's captaincy was one of the biggest talking points from India's historic success against Australia as the 32-year-old led the Indian side to perfection. However, Virat Kohli is now back with the squad and has taken over the charge as the leader&nbsp;of the ship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"He (Kohli) had to return home from Australia for personal reasons. That's why I became the skipper. I am really happy that he is back with us," Rahane said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“My job is to help Virat. A captain has too many things on his mind. As vice-captain, you have to&nbsp;visualise&nbsp;a situation, think about what can happen in the game, and if the captain asks you for suggestions, you should be ready. My job is quite easy. I take a backseat as vice-captain."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-test-series-in-india-bigger-than-ashes-opines-matt-prior-361030" hreflang="en">Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior</a>

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💬 My job becomes easy when <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> is around: <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a> 
 
🗣️🗣️ Vice-captain Rahane on his camaraderie with Captain Virat Kohli &amp; driving <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> forward 🤜🏻🤛🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/AW2cNYJ7RP">pic.twitter.com/AW2cNYJ7RP</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1356967219666640896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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When asked about team combination for the Chennai Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Rahane said they will take a call after the practice session on the eve of the match.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“We will take a call on the Playing XI after our practice session tomorrow.”&nbsp;

Team India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday congratulated New Zealand for becoming the first team to qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, to be held on June 18-22 in England.

Team India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday congratulated New Zealand for becoming the first team to qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, to be held on June 18-22 in England. Rahane while lauding New Zealand asserted that India shouldn't get complacent thinking about the WTC final and added that focus of the Indian team remains on the impending England series. “It (WTC final) is still four months away. We are focused on the England series,” Rahane said at a virtual media interaction on Wednesday ahead of India's first Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. After the postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia, New Zealand became the first team to qualify for the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship. While Australia and England are still in contention to feature in the summit clash, India's domination at home means the Virat Kohli-led outfit stands favourite to qualify for the final. “New Zealand has been doing well and deserve to be there [in the final]. We know every series, every game is important in this WTC. ALSO READ: Joe Root eyes illustrious records in Chennai Test against India “The series win in Australia was special but that's in the past. We are taking it one match at a time. We respect the England team. They did well in Sri Lanka, so we have to back our strengths and play good cricket as a unit." Rahane's captaincy was one of the biggest talking points from India's historic success against Australia as the 32-year-old led the Indian side to perfection. However, Virat Kohli is now back with the squad and has taken over the charge as the leader of the ship. "He (Kohli) had to return home from Australia for personal reasons. That's why I became the skipper. I am really happy that he is back with us," Rahane said. “My job is to help Virat. A captain has too many things on his mind. As vice-captain, you have to visualise a situation, think about what can happen in the game, and if the captain asks you for suggestions, you should be ready. My job is quite easy. I take a backseat as vice-captain." ALSO READ: Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior 💬 My job becomes easy when @imVkohli is around: @ajinkyarahane88 🗣️🗣️ Vice-captain Rahane on his camaraderie with Captain Virat Kohli & driving #TeamIndia forward 🤜🏻🤛🏻 #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/AW2cNYJ7RP — BCCI (@BCCI) February 3, 2021 × When asked about team combination for the Chennai Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Rahane said they will take a call after the practice session on the eve of the match. “We will take a call on the Playing XI after our practice session tomorrow.”

New Zealand deserve to be in WTC final, India focused on England series: Ajinkya Rahane

England Test captain Joe Root will be eyeing two illustrious records when he takes the field against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5.&nbsp;Root was in splendid form during England's recent 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka where the English skipper amassed 426 runs in 2 Tests.&nbsp;

Root is all set to play his 100th&nbsp;Test match, which will put him in an elite list of England cricketers with over 100 Test appearances.&nbsp;And Root's 100th&nbsp;Test will also provide an opportunity for him to surpass his former captain Alastair Cook for a unique batting record against India.&nbsp;

Root, thus far, has 49 Test half-centuries under his belt, putting him second on the list of most half-centuries scored by an English batsman in the longest format of the game. Cook leads the chart with as many as 57 Test fifties.&nbsp;Hence, a single fifty by Root in the Chennai Test against India will&nbsp;make him only the second English batsman to post 50 half-centuries in Test cricket.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-worry-for-the-game-michael-vaughan-expresses-concerns-over-sa-vs-aus-series-postponement-361056" hreflang="en">'Huge worry for the game': Michael Vaughan expresses concerns over SA vs AUS series postponement</a>

The 30-year-old is eyeing another landmark in Test cricket as the England captain is just one fifty away from scoring most half-centuries against India in the impending series. If Root scores a half-century in the Chennai Test, he will overtake Cook's record of scoring most half-centuries by an English batsman against India. Both Root and Cook are tied at nine half-centuries against India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-test-series-in-india-bigger-than-ashes-opines-matt-prior-361030" hreflang="en">Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior</a>

Meanwhile,&nbsp;batsman Ollie Pope has been added to the England Test squad for the tour of India.&nbsp;Pope has fully recovered from a left shoulder injury sustained in August 2020 against Pakistan. The England medical team are satisfied that he is available for selection.&nbsp;The 23-year-old has&nbsp;practised&nbsp;with the full squad over the past two days.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England Test captain Joe Root will be eyeing two illustrious records when he takes the field against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5.

England Test captain Joe Root will be eyeing two illustrious records when he takes the field against India in the first Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 5. Root was in splendid form during England's recent 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka where the English skipper amassed 426 runs in 2 Tests. Root is all set to play his 100th Test match, which will put him in an elite list of England cricketers with over 100 Test appearances. And Root's 100th Test will also provide an opportunity for him to surpass his former captain Alastair Cook for a unique batting record against India. Root, thus far, has 49 Test half-centuries under his belt, putting him second on the list of most half-centuries scored by an English batsman in the longest format of the game. Cook leads the chart with as many as 57 Test fifties. Hence, a single fifty by Root in the Chennai Test against India will make him only the second English batsman to post 50 half-centuries in Test cricket. ALSO READ: 'Huge worry for the game': Michael Vaughan expresses concerns over SA vs AUS series postponement The 30-year-old is eyeing another landmark in Test cricket as the England captain is just one fifty away from scoring most half-centuries against India in the impending series. If Root scores a half-century in the Chennai Test, he will overtake Cook's record of scoring most half-centuries by an English batsman against India. Both Root and Cook are tied at nine half-centuries against India. ALSO READ: Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior Meanwhile, batsman Ollie Pope has been added to the England Test squad for the tour of India. Pope has fully recovered from a left shoulder injury sustained in August 2020 against Pakistan. The England medical team are satisfied that he is available for selection. The 23-year-old has practised with the full squad over the past two days.

Joe Root eyes illustrious records in Chennai Test against India

After a recent dip in form, India's&nbsp;chinaman&nbsp;bowler Kuldeep Yadav has failed to start matches for India on a consistent basis with the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja taking the charge of the spin attack. Kuldeep, who was in the Indian squad&nbsp;in the recently concluded Test series against Australia, failed to bag a game in the longest format of the game. Kuldeep has now revealed what he learned from the like of Ashwin and Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon during India's recent&nbsp;tour of Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 26-year-old got the opportunity to pick the brains of Lyon and Ashwin – two of the best spinners in the world. Kuldeep opened up about his interactions with the spin duo&nbsp;as he said that while Lyon talked more about following simple drills, Ashwin was more technical and focused on what tweaks he can make in his bowling. Kuldeep, who is in strong contention to be back in the Indian Test XI against England, also revealed how Ashwin helped him laying out plans for England skipper Joe Root – who was in sensational form in their&nbsp;series against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

"I did speak quite a lot to Nathan Lyon. I asked him about his routines. He told me he maintains simple drills, what his skills are, how he runs the fingers over the ball while spinning, which is his strength. He asked me to follow my routines, find the spot where I should be pitching and enjoy my bowling with a smile.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-test-series-in-india-bigger-than-ashes-opines-matt-prior-361030" hreflang="en">Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior</a>

"He (Ashwin) has given me quite a few ideas. He said at times I should quicken my rhythm, try bowling straighter, make slight tactical changes. He has a lot of knowledge not just about bowling but also game plans. During the Australia tour we spoke about plans for the England series - if Joe Root is batting, which fielders should be close, what areas to bowl. When he did not play in&nbsp;Brisbane&nbsp;I had good discussions with him," Kuldeep Yadav told&nbsp;ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;

Kuldeep also said that he should have played more matches in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and the&nbsp;chinaman&nbsp;bowler added that he was bowling well and was in a good&nbsp;rhythm.&nbsp;

"Personally&nbsp;I felt the 2020 IPL did not go well for me. I should have played more matches. I felt I was in pretty good rhythm, I was bowling well, but just that I did not get many overs. So, perhaps, if I got more opportunities then it would have been good. I am not saying that was the lowest, to be honest.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/archer-says-body-management-key-in-busy-england-calender-361017" hreflang="en">Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calender</a>

"Even in 2019, I did not have a good IPL. Until you fail, you can't handle the pressure. Now I feel I understand things better - I have seen failure in my life now, so even if I don't perform, it will not be new. In cricket, you can't perform at all times, but if you carry on doing the hard work, you create better chances to become successful," Kuldeep Yadav said.&nbsp;

Kuldeep last played Test for India in the year 2019 - against Australia in Sydney - where he ended up with five wickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After a recent dip in form, India's chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav has failed to start matches for India on a consistent basis with the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja taking the charge of the spin attack.

After a recent dip in form, India's chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav has failed to start matches for India on a consistent basis with the likes of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja taking the charge of the spin attack. Kuldeep, who was in the Indian squad in the recently concluded Test series against Australia, failed to bag a game in the longest format of the game. Kuldeep has now revealed what he learned from the like of Ashwin and Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon during India's recent tour of Australia. The 26-year-old got the opportunity to pick the brains of Lyon and Ashwin – two of the best spinners in the world. Kuldeep opened up about his interactions with the spin duo as he said that while Lyon talked more about following simple drills, Ashwin was more technical and focused on what tweaks he can make in his bowling. Kuldeep, who is in strong contention to be back in the Indian Test XI against England, also revealed how Ashwin helped him laying out plans for England skipper Joe Root – who was in sensational form in their series against Sri Lanka. "I did speak quite a lot to Nathan Lyon. I asked him about his routines. He told me he maintains simple drills, what his skills are, how he runs the fingers over the ball while spinning, which is his strength. He asked me to follow my routines, find the spot where I should be pitching and enjoy my bowling with a smile. ALSO READ: Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior "He (Ashwin) has given me quite a few ideas. He said at times I should quicken my rhythm, try bowling straighter, make slight tactical changes. He has a lot of knowledge not just about bowling but also game plans. During the Australia tour we spoke about plans for the England series - if Joe Root is batting, which fielders should be close, what areas to bowl. When he did not play in Brisbane I had good discussions with him," Kuldeep Yadav told ESPNcricinfo. Kuldeep also said that he should have played more matches in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and the chinaman bowler added that he was bowling well and was in a good rhythm. "Personally I felt the 2020 IPL did not go well for me. I should have played more matches. I felt I was in pretty good rhythm, I was bowling well, but just that I did not get many overs. So, perhaps, if I got more opportunities then it would have been good. I am not saying that was the lowest, to be honest. ALSO READ: Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calender "Even in 2019, I did not have a good IPL. Until you fail, you can't handle the pressure. Now I feel I understand things better - I have seen failure in my life now, so even if I don't perform, it will not be new. In cricket, you can't perform at all times, but if you carry on doing the hard work, you create better chances to become successful," Kuldeep Yadav said. Kuldeep last played Test for India in the year 2019 - against Australia in Sydney - where he ended up with five wickets.

Kuldeep Yadav reveals lessons from Ashwin and Nathan Lyon

Former England wicket-keeper batsman Matt Prior has said that winning a Test series in India is a "bigger and tougher" task than winning the Ashes&nbsp;on Australian soil. The Ashes is arguably the greatest cricket rivalry – between England and Australia – but with India cementing their place as one of the&nbsp;greatest teams on home soil, there is a momentum shift in the cricketing world.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's certainly right up there. The Ashes gets all the publicity and everything that goes with it but India is an equally tough - if not tougher - place to go and win a series. It might even pip it for me: we won in Australia [in 2010-11] for the first time in 25 years but we won in India for the first time in 28,” Prior told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.&nbsp;

Prior has played a few Test matches against India and was part of the historic England squad that scripted history in 2012 by defeating India in the Test series&nbsp;– a feat achieved by the English team after a staggering 28 years.&nbsp;It remains India's last home Test series defeat.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prior recalled playing Test matches on Indian soil as he said that getting a result in India is mentally and physically draining and being successful there is a "very proud moment" in his career.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/archer-says-body-management-key-in-busy-england-calender-361017" hreflang="en">Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calendar</a>

"I remember coming in, taking my kit off, and before I knew it, I was asleep. I was just so drained from the whole experience. That's why you do it, and that's what made it such a good victory (in 2012). It is so mentally and physically draining to get a result out there (in India). To go there and be successful is a real privilege [so] it was a very proud moment in all of our careers,” he added.&nbsp;

Prior, regarded as one of the finest English&nbsp;glovesman&nbsp;to have played the game, touched upon the technical challenges that come while playing in India. The 38-year-old said that on&nbsp;Indian conditions, batsmen, bowlers, wicket-keepers and even fielders have to change their game-pan in a bid to challenge the dominating Indian side.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stance-taken-by-ca-is-regrettable-cricket-south-africa-reacts-to-australia-series-postponement-360897" hreflang="en">'Stance taken by CA is regrettable...': Cricket South Africa reacts to Australia series postponement</a>

"Playing Test cricket in India is about attrition. From a wicket-keeping perspective, in the first over of the day, with Jimmy Anderson bowling in the high-80s [mph/140kph], I was standing literally four yards back.&nbsp;

“For players who have grown up in England, you're used to the ball swinging and seaming, and leaving on length and in the channel, but your whole game-plan has to change, whether that's for batsmen, bowlers, wicketkeepers, or even fielders,” he explained.&nbsp;

India's four-Test series against England commences from February 5 and will be followed by five T20Is and three ODIs.&nbsp;

Former England wicket-keeper batsman Matt Prior has said that winning a Test series in India is a "bigger and tougher" task than winning the Ashes on Australian soil.

Former England wicket-keeper batsman Matt Prior has said that winning a Test series in India is a "bigger and tougher" task than winning the Ashes on Australian soil. The Ashes is arguably the greatest cricket rivalry – between England and Australia – but with India cementing their place as one of the greatest teams on home soil, there is a momentum shift in the cricketing world. "It's certainly right up there. The Ashes gets all the publicity and everything that goes with it but India is an equally tough - if not tougher - place to go and win a series. It might even pip it for me: we won in Australia [in 2010-11] for the first time in 25 years but we won in India for the first time in 28,” Prior told ESPNCricinfo. Prior has played a few Test matches against India and was part of the historic England squad that scripted history in 2012 by defeating India in the Test series – a feat achieved by the English team after a staggering 28 years. It remains India's last home Test series defeat. Prior recalled playing Test matches on Indian soil as he said that getting a result in India is mentally and physically draining and being successful there is a "very proud moment" in his career. ALSO READ: Archer says 'body management' key in busy England calendar "I remember coming in, taking my kit off, and before I knew it, I was asleep. I was just so drained from the whole experience. That's why you do it, and that's what made it such a good victory (in 2012). It is so mentally and physically draining to get a result out there (in India). To go there and be successful is a real privilege [so] it was a very proud moment in all of our careers,” he added. Prior, regarded as one of the finest English glovesman to have played the game, touched upon the technical challenges that come while playing in India. The 38-year-old said that on Indian conditions, batsmen, bowlers, wicket-keepers and even fielders have to change their game-pan in a bid to challenge the dominating Indian side. ALSO READ: 'Stance taken by CA is regrettable...': Cricket South Africa reacts to Australia series postponement "Playing Test cricket in India is about attrition. From a wicket-keeping perspective, in the first over of the day, with Jimmy Anderson bowling in the high-80s [mph/140kph], I was standing literally four yards back. “For players who have grown up in England, you're used to the ball swinging and seaming, and leaving on length and in the channel, but your whole game-plan has to change, whether that's for batsmen, bowlers, wicketkeepers, or even fielders,” he explained. India's four-Test series against England commences from February 5 and will be followed by five T20Is and three ODIs.

Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) have decided to allow crowds at 50 per cent capacity in the second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;

According to a report in PTI, the issue was discussed again by the TNCA members after fresh COVID-19 guidelines on entry of spectators inside sporting venues were issued. The move was given a green signal after a meeting between BCCI and TNCA officials.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We discussed the issue of allowing spectators for second India vs England Test following fresh COVID-19 guidelines by the Central government permitting crowds at sporting venues and also the state government's SOPs given on Sunday," the TNCA official told PTI.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-in-touch-with-government-to-get-indian-cricketers-vaccinated-report-360701" hreflang="en">BCCI in touch with government to get Indian cricketers vaccinated: Report</a>

"It has been decided by the BCCI and TNCA to allow 50 per cent spectators for the second Test by following all safety protocols."&nbsp;

The MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai has a crowd capacity of 50,000. The first Test commences on Friday and will be played behind closed doors. Notably, crowds have already been allowed for the third and fourth Test in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

The official further said that media would also be allowed to cover both the Tests from the press box at the stadium.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-gautam-gambhir-predicts-scoreline-of-test-series-360669" hreflang="en">India vs England: Gautam Gambhir predicts scoreline of Test series</a>

Earlier, the BCCI and TNCA had decided that the first two matches in Chennai would be held behind closed doors but the decision was revised after home ministry's guidelines on easing of&nbsp;restrictions on public movement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The official said there was little time to allow entry of spectators for the opening Test.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"There is little time to make arrangements for&nbsp;spectators&nbsp;entry for the first Test so the crowd cannot be allowed. Though the gap between the two Tests is only three days, we are confident that arrangements can be made for (50 per cent) fans in the second Test keeping the safety norms in mind," the official added.&nbsp;

(From PTI inputs)

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) have decided to allow crowds at 50 per cent capacity in the second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) have decided to allow crowds at 50 per cent capacity in the second Test between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. According to a report in PTI, the issue was discussed again by the TNCA members after fresh COVID-19 guidelines on entry of spectators inside sporting venues were issued. The move was given a green signal after a meeting between BCCI and TNCA officials. "We discussed the issue of allowing spectators for second India vs England Test following fresh COVID-19 guidelines by the Central government permitting crowds at sporting venues and also the state government's SOPs given on Sunday," the TNCA official told PTI. ALSO READ: BCCI in touch with government to get Indian cricketers vaccinated: Report "It has been decided by the BCCI and TNCA to allow 50 per cent spectators for the second Test by following all safety protocols." The MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai has a crowd capacity of 50,000. The first Test commences on Friday and will be played behind closed doors. Notably, crowds have already been allowed for the third and fourth Test in Ahmedabad. The official further said that media would also be allowed to cover both the Tests from the press box at the stadium. ALSO READ: India vs England: Gautam Gambhir predicts scoreline of Test series Earlier, the BCCI and TNCA had decided that the first two matches in Chennai would be held behind closed doors but the decision was revised after home ministry's guidelines on easing of restrictions on public movement. The official said there was little time to allow entry of spectators for the opening Test. "There is little time to make arrangements for spectators entry for the first Test so the crowd cannot be allowed. Though the gap between the two Tests is only three days, we are confident that arrangements can be made for (50 per cent) fans in the second Test keeping the safety norms in mind," the official added. (From PTI inputs)

Crowd allowed at 50 per cent capacity for India vs England 2nd Test

The four-match Test series between India and England is all set to commence from February 5 with two matches scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in Ahmedabad. While India haven't lost a Test series since 2012, England remain the last team to defeat&nbsp;India at home in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;

However, ahead of the much-awaited four-Test series between India and England, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has said that he doesn't see the Joe Root-led side winning any of the Test matches in the impending series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gambhir while giving a slight advantage to England for the pink-ball Test said England don't have quality spinners who can&nbsp;utilise&nbsp;the Indian conditions to perfection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-team-to-start-full-group-training-from-tuesday-as-all-covid-19-tests-return-negative-360640" hreflang="en">England team to start full-group training from Tuesday as all COVID-19 tests return negative</a>

“It has to be 3-0 India or probably 3-1. I’m only going to give a Pink Ball Test match, probably 50-50 to England just from the conditions point of view. I don’t see England winning any of the Test matches with the kind of spin attack they’ve got,” Gambhir&nbsp;said on Star Sports show Game Plan.&nbsp;

England head into the four-Test series versus India on the back of&nbsp;2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka. Gambhir has said facing the likes of Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;or Ravichandran Ashwin would be a different game altogether for the visitors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-virat-kohli-on-verge-of-shattering-twin-records-against-england-360627" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England</a>

“This is going to be a completely different challenge for someone like Joe Root. Yes, he has played really well in Sri Lanka, but when you have to face people like Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;on any wicket, or for that matter, Ravichandran Ashwin, when his confidence is sky-high after what he has done in Australia, I am sure it is going to be a completely different beast and a completely different ball game,” he added.&nbsp;

India will also welcome their skipper Virat Kohli back in the squad. Kohli had left Australia after the Adelaide Test to attend the birth of his first child.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50a41408-c45d-42d0-b2ec-9a0abb7a4137}{10}" paraid="768632653" role="heading" >England Tour of India: Full Schedule&nbsp;</h2>

Tests&nbsp;

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

T20Is&nbsp;

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

ODIs&nbsp;

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India&nbsp;

The four-match Test series between India and England is all set to commence from February 5 with two matches scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in Ahmedabad.

The four-match Test series between India and England is all set to commence from February 5 with two matches scheduled to be played in Chennai and the remaining two in Ahmedabad. While India haven't lost a Test series since 2012, England remain the last team to defeat India at home in the longest format of the game. However, ahead of the much-awaited four-Test series between India and England, former Indian batsman Gautam Gambhir has said that he doesn't see the Joe Root-led side winning any of the Test matches in the impending series. Gambhir while giving a slight advantage to England for the pink-ball Test said England don't have quality spinners who can utilise the Indian conditions to perfection. ALSO READ: England team to start full-group training from Tuesday as all COVID-19 tests return negative “It has to be 3-0 India or probably 3-1. I’m only going to give a Pink Ball Test match, probably 50-50 to England just from the conditions point of view. I don’t see England winning any of the Test matches with the kind of spin attack they’ve got,” Gambhir said on Star Sports show Game Plan. England head into the four-Test series versus India on the back of 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka. Gambhir has said facing the likes of Jasprit Bumrah or Ravichandran Ashwin would be a different game altogether for the visitors. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England “This is going to be a completely different challenge for someone like Joe Root. Yes, he has played really well in Sri Lanka, but when you have to face people like Jasprit Bumrah on any wicket, or for that matter, Ravichandran Ashwin, when his confidence is sky-high after what he has done in Australia, I am sure it is going to be a completely different beast and a completely different ball game,” he added. India will also welcome their skipper Virat Kohli back in the squad. Kohli had left Australia after the Adelaide Test to attend the birth of his first child. England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

India vs England: Gautam Gambhir predicts scoreline of Test series

England cricket team is all set to commence training as a full group on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium after all PCR tests returned negative ahead of the four-Test series starting from&nbsp;February 5. Thus far, only the troika of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and Rory burns were practising as they had reached India days before their team-mates and completed their quarantine period before the rest of the squad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Stokes, Archer and Burns will now gear up to welcome the rest of the team&nbsp;with England set to commence final preparations ahead of the first Test in Chennai, scheduled to kick-start from February 5.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, England team will take the field at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for the first time as a full group since landing in India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-virat-kohli-on-verge-of-shattering-twin-records-against-england-360627" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England</a>

England are coming at the back of a fantastic 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka as the Joe Root-led side dominated the proceedings in both the matches. Whereas India will be high on confidence after their historic 2-1&nbsp;triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With both England and India in form, the four-match Test series promises to be a great spectacle.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, England's Jos Buttler welcomed the challenges of keeping wickets in India as he said that the turning tracks&nbsp;can sometimes be a tricky ask for a&nbsp;glovesman.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/definitely-want-to-be-part-of-pujara-confident-of-playing-in-ipl-360384" hreflang="en">'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL</a>

"There's some big challenges keeping wicket, the way the pitch will change and deteriorate over the five days," Buttler told a video conference on Saturday.&nbsp;

"There's less carry for the seam bowlers than we're used to in England or Australia and South Africa.&nbsp;So&nbsp;you're standing quite close and a lot of the chances are very quick reactive chances.&nbsp;And then obviously the challenge of standing up to the spinners when the ball starts to turn..."

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50a41408-c45d-42d0-b2ec-9a0abb7a4137}{10}" paraid="768632653" role="heading" >England Tour of India: Full Schedule&nbsp;</h2>

Tests&nbsp;

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

T20Is&nbsp;

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

ODIs&nbsp;

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India&nbsp;

England cricket team is all set to commence training as a full group on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium after all PCR tests returned negative ahead of the four-Test series starting from February 5.

England cricket team is all set to commence training as a full group on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium after all PCR tests returned negative ahead of the four-Test series starting from February 5. Thus far, only the troika of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and Rory burns were practising as they had reached India days before their team-mates and completed their quarantine period before the rest of the squad. Stokes, Archer and Burns will now gear up to welcome the rest of the team with England set to commence final preparations ahead of the first Test in Chennai, scheduled to kick-start from February 5. On Tuesday, England team will take the field at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for the first time as a full group since landing in India. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli on verge of shattering twin records against England England are coming at the back of a fantastic 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka as the Joe Root-led side dominated the proceedings in both the matches. Whereas India will be high on confidence after their historic 2-1 triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With both England and India in form, the four-match Test series promises to be a great spectacle. Meanwhile, England's Jos Buttler welcomed the challenges of keeping wickets in India as he said that the turning tracks can sometimes be a tricky ask for a glovesman. ALSO READ: 'Definitely want to be part of': Pujara confident of playing in IPL "There's some big challenges keeping wicket, the way the pitch will change and deteriorate over the five days," Buttler told a video conference on Saturday. "There's less carry for the seam bowlers than we're used to in England or Australia and South Africa. So you're standing quite close and a lot of the chances are very quick reactive chances. And then obviously the challenge of standing up to the spinners when the ball starts to turn..." England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

England team to start full-group training from Tuesday as all COVID-19 tests return negative

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Lee reckons that Indian cricketers look a bit "scared" under the leadership of Virat Kohli while adding he would have Ajinkya Rahane as the captain of the Indian Test team.&nbsp;

Rahane took over the charge in Kohli’s absence in the last three Test against Australia and led the visitors to a historic 2-1 series win Down Under. Kohli had missed the last three Tests versus Australia due to paternity leave.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rahane led a bruised and battered Indian outfit, lacking experience, to wins in Melbourne and Brisbane as he became the second Indian captain after Kohli to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/union-budget-2021-nirmala-sitharaman-recalls-team-indias-historic-gabba-win-in-australia-360577" hreflang="en">Union Budget 2021: Nirmala Sitharaman recalls Team India's historic Gabba win in Australia</a>

Kohli had left the Indian team after the series opener in Adelaide to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma. However, the Indian skipper will be back in the upcoming four-Test series against England starting February 5.&nbsp;

"Look, I think for the team he is and I would have him as captain. Kohli is one of the greatest batsmen of all time. But I just feel that he is almost revered by the players within the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"They're almost scared to put a foot out of line. He demanded absolute professionalism from the Indian team. The players had to be fit, they had to great in field and good catching, but they almost appear a bit scared. I just see a really relaxed team under Rahane," Lee, the older brother of Brett Lee, said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-jos-buttler-ready-for-wicket-keeping-challenge-on-indias-pitches-360298" hreflang="en">England's Jos Buttler ready for wicket keeping 'challenge' on India's pitches</a>

"Will Kohli give up the captaincy? I doubt it. If I was an Indian selector, and I'm not, but if I was, I would have Rahane captain the team and instead let Kohli go and do all his batting. And I think the team would function a lot better. But time would tell," Lee, who played 45 ODIs for Australia, added.&nbsp;

India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. India and England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODIs.&nbsp;

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Lee reckons that Indian cricketers look a bit "scared" under the leadership of Virat Kohli while adding he would have Ajinkya Rahane as the captain of the Indian Test team.

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Lee reckons that Indian cricketers look a bit "scared" under the leadership of Virat Kohli while adding he would have Ajinkya Rahane as the captain of the Indian Test team. Rahane took over the charge in Kohli’s absence in the last three Test against Australia and led the visitors to a historic 2-1 series win Down Under. Kohli had missed the last three Tests versus Australia due to paternity leave. Rahane led a bruised and battered Indian outfit, lacking experience, to wins in Melbourne and Brisbane as he became the second Indian captain after Kohli to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. ALSO READ: Union Budget 2021: Nirmala Sitharaman recalls Team India's historic Gabba win in Australia Kohli had left the Indian team after the series opener in Adelaide to be with his pregnant wife Anushka Sharma. However, the Indian skipper will be back in the upcoming four-Test series against England starting February 5. "Look, I think for the team he is and I would have him as captain. Kohli is one of the greatest batsmen of all time. But I just feel that he is almost revered by the players within the team. "They're almost scared to put a foot out of line. He demanded absolute professionalism from the Indian team. The players had to be fit, they had to great in field and good catching, but they almost appear a bit scared. I just see a really relaxed team under Rahane," Lee, the older brother of Brett Lee, said. ALSO READ: England's Jos Buttler ready for wicket keeping 'challenge' on India's pitches "Will Kohli give up the captaincy? I doubt it. If I was an Indian selector, and I'm not, but if I was, I would have Rahane captain the team and instead let Kohli go and do all his batting. And I think the team would function a lot better. But time would tell," Lee, who played 45 ODIs for Australia, added. India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. India and England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODIs.

Indian players look 'bit scared' under Virat Kohli, opines Lee

Members of the England cricket team including captain Joe Root on Wednesday landed in Chennai, India for the impending four-Test series with the first two matches scheduled to be played in the capital of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;The England team flew in from Sri Lanka at around 10:30 am and headed to the hotel where the members of the two teams will be staying as part of the bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;

The England team are heading into the highly-anticipated series after an incredible 2-0 win over Sri Lanka where skipper Root slammed two massive tons. Star all-rounder Ben Stokes and pacer Jofra Archer had already arrived in Chennai on Sunday and are already in quarantine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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📍 Chennai, India<a href="https://twitter.com/root66?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@root66</a> and the team have arrived in India ahead of our four-match Test series 🇮🇳🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 <a href="https://t.co/GT06p9Ru4u">pic.twitter.com/GT06p9Ru4u</a>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1354332131103825923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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While a few Indian players including the likes of Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma arrived in the southern city on Tuesday, others such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;and Rishabh Pant reached Chennai on Wednesday morning. Indian skipper Virat Kohli is set to arrive in the city later on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-confirms-indian-players-racially-abused-at-the-scg-359597" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG</a>

Both India and England will be staying at the Hotel Leela Palace in a bio-secure bubble as part of the quarantine protocols and will undergo testing for COVID-19. The players will be in quarantine for six days and are scheduled to start&nbsp;practising&nbsp;from February 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Tamil Nadu: England Cricket team and staff arrive at Chennai Airport. The first Test of the four-match series between India and England will begin on 5th February at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/NpWLJPIcnn">pic.twitter.com/NpWLJPIcnn</a>
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The first Test is due to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium from February 5 with the second scheduled from February 14.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-introduces-player-of-the-month-awards-siraj-ashwin-root-in-contention-among-others-359603" hreflang="en">ICC introduces Player of the Month awards; Siraj, Ashwin, Root in contention among others</a>

It will be a homecoming of Test matches in Chennai after the city last hosted the longest format of the game in December 2016 against England. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the first two matches of the Test series will be played behind closed doors and call&nbsp;over crowds&nbsp;on remaining matches&nbsp;will be taken at a later stage by the BCCI.&nbsp;

Members of the England cricket team including captain Joe Root on Wednesday landed in Chennai, India for the impending four-Test series with the first two matches scheduled to be played in the capital of Tamil Nadu.

Members of the England cricket team including captain Joe Root on Wednesday landed in Chennai, India for the impending four-Test series with the first two matches scheduled to be played in the capital of Tamil Nadu. The England team flew in from Sri Lanka at around 10:30 am and headed to the hotel where the members of the two teams will be staying as part of the bio-secure bubble. The England team are heading into the highly-anticipated series after an incredible 2-0 win over Sri Lanka where skipper Root slammed two massive tons. Star all-rounder Ben Stokes and pacer Jofra Archer had already arrived in Chennai on Sunday and are already in quarantine. 📍 Chennai, India@root66 and the team have arrived in India ahead of our four-match Test series 🇮🇳🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 pic.twitter.com/GT06p9Ru4u — England Cricket (@englandcricket) January 27, 2021 × While a few Indian players including the likes of Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma arrived in the southern city on Tuesday, others such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant reached Chennai on Wednesday morning. Indian skipper Virat Kohli is set to arrive in the city later on Wednesday. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia confirms Indian players racially abused at the SCG Both India and England will be staying at the Hotel Leela Palace in a bio-secure bubble as part of the quarantine protocols and will undergo testing for COVID-19. The players will be in quarantine for six days and are scheduled to start practising from February 2. Tamil Nadu: England Cricket team and staff arrive at Chennai Airport. The first Test of the four-match series between India and England will begin on 5th February at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/NpWLJPIcnn — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2021 × The first Test is due to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium from February 5 with the second scheduled from February 14. ALSO READ: ICC introduces Player of the Month awards; Siraj, Ashwin, Root in contention among others It will be a homecoming of Test matches in Chennai after the city last hosted the longest format of the game in December 2016 against England. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the first two matches of the Test series will be played behind closed doors and call over crowds on remaining matches will be taken at a later stage by the BCCI.

IND vs ENG: England cricket team arrives in Chennai for Test series versus India

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that&nbsp;Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required.&nbsp;

Rahane, who led the Indian team in the final three Tests against Australia, will be back being the deputy to Kohli during India's four-match Test series against England, starting on February 5.&nbsp;

"Nothing changes. Virat was and will always be the captain of the Test team and I am his deputy. When he was absent it was my duty to lead the side and my responsibility to give my best for Team India's success," Rahane, who was on his way to Chennai, told PTI in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;

For the Indian Test vice-captain, the priority is to have the ability to perform the captaincy role to perfection when needed.

"It's&nbsp;not the matter of merely being a captain. How you perform the&nbsp;captain's&nbsp;role is&nbsp;what's&nbsp;more important. So&nbsp;far,&nbsp;I have been successful. Hopefully, in future also, I will try to give&nbsp;these kinds of results&nbsp;for my team," said the man, who has led his country to four wins in five Tests.&nbsp;

Rahane, while reflecting on his relationship with Kohli, said they have always shared a good bonding with each other as he said their relationship has been based on transparency and mutual respect.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-can-break-sachin-tendulkars-all-time-record-feels-geoffrey-boycott-359452" hreflang="en">Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott</a>

"Virat and I have always shared a good bonding with each other. He has time and again praised my batting. Both of us played memorable knocks for our team in India and overseas conditions. It only helped that Virat comes at No.4 and myself at No.5. We have had a lot of partnerships," the 32-year-old said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We have always backed each&nbsp;other's&nbsp;game. When we are at the crease, we discuss threadbare about&nbsp;opposition's&nbsp;bowling. We caution each other whenever one of us plays a rash shot."&nbsp;

And how does&nbsp;Rahane&nbsp;find Kohli as a captain?&nbsp;

"Virat is a sharp captain. He takes good on-field decisions. Whenever the spinners are in operation, he is banking on me and he believes that taking those catches at slips off (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja is one of my core competence areas.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-start-of-afghanistan-vs-ireland-3rd-odi-delayed-due-to-highway-closure-359433" hreflang="en">Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure</a>

"Virat expects a lot from me and I try and ensure not to let him down," said Rahane, who is 13&nbsp;short&nbsp;of a milestone of 100 catches in Test matches as an outfielder.&nbsp;

While fans and pundits heaped praise on Rahane – the leader – the elegant middle-order batsman downplayed his role by saying that he believes a captain is as good as his team. He further said that the complete credit of India's victory Down Under goes to the players.&nbsp;

"With regards to leadership, I can only say that it varies from person to person. A captain is as good as his team. When you win a match or a series,&nbsp;it's&nbsp;always a collective effort and not because of singular&nbsp;man's&nbsp;contribution.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's&nbsp;your teammates only, who make you a good leader. The complete credit of this series win belongs to my team," concluded the reticent cricketer.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)&nbsp;

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required.

Ajinkya Rahane has been lauded for his leadership abilities following India's historic triumph against Australia but the Indian middle-order batsman made it clear that Virat Kohli is the undisputed leader of the Indian team while adding he is happy to fill in when required. Rahane, who led the Indian team in the final three Tests against Australia, will be back being the deputy to Kohli during India's four-match Test series against England, starting on February 5. "Nothing changes. Virat was and will always be the captain of the Test team and I am his deputy. When he was absent it was my duty to lead the side and my responsibility to give my best for Team India's success," Rahane, who was on his way to Chennai, told PTI in an exclusive interview. For the Indian Test vice-captain, the priority is to have the ability to perform the captaincy role to perfection when needed. "It's not the matter of merely being a captain. How you perform the captain's role is what's more important. So far, I have been successful. Hopefully, in future also, I will try to give these kinds of results for my team," said the man, who has led his country to four wins in five Tests. Rahane, while reflecting on his relationship with Kohli, said they have always shared a good bonding with each other as he said their relationship has been based on transparency and mutual respect. ALSO READ:Joe Root can break Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record, feels Geoffrey Boycott "Virat and I have always shared a good bonding with each other. He has time and again praised my batting. Both of us played memorable knocks for our team in India and overseas conditions. It only helped that Virat comes at No.4 and myself at No.5. We have had a lot of partnerships," the 32-year-old said. "We have always backed each other's game. When we are at the crease, we discuss threadbare about opposition's bowling. We caution each other whenever one of us plays a rash shot." And how does Rahane find Kohli as a captain? "Virat is a sharp captain. He takes good on-field decisions. Whenever the spinners are in operation, he is banking on me and he believes that taking those catches at slips off (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja is one of my core competence areas. ALSO READ: Bizarre! Start of Afghanistan vs Ireland 3rd ODI delayed due to highway closure "Virat expects a lot from me and I try and ensure not to let him down," said Rahane, who is 13 short of a milestone of 100 catches in Test matches as an outfielder. While fans and pundits heaped praise on Rahane – the leader – the elegant middle-order batsman downplayed his role by saying that he believes a captain is as good as his team. He further said that the complete credit of India's victory Down Under goes to the players. "With regards to leadership, I can only say that it varies from person to person. A captain is as good as his team. When you win a match or a series, it's always a collective effort and not because of singular man's contribution. "It's your teammates only, who make you a good leader. The complete credit of this series win belongs to my team," concluded the reticent cricketer. (With PTI inputs)

Ajinkya Rahane reacts to captaincy debate ahead of England series

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the second Test to win the series 2-0. However, a bigger challenge awaits the Joe Root-led England with their next immediate series being against India starting from February 5.&nbsp;Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela&nbsp;Jayawardene&nbsp;has now given his take on England's chances in the upcoming four-Test series against India.&nbsp;

India have not lost a home Test series since 2012 and the Virat Kohli-led outfit would be looking to continue its winning run following India's&nbsp;historic triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21.&nbsp;

Jayawardene&nbsp;has opined that England are "very well prepared" to take on India as he said that having the likes of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and spin duo of Dom Bess and Jack Leach will&nbsp;help England pose a challenge against India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-postponed-new-dates-revealed-359240" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed!</a>

However, England will be missing Jonny Bairstow and Sam Curran in the first two Tests due to rotation policy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked what are England’s chances of beating India, former Sri Lanka captain&nbsp;Jayawardene&nbsp;told Sky Sports:&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I think that’s going to be a very exciting series and a very good challenge for this group of players. That’s what cricket is all about. You need to go away and win Test series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Getting Ben Stokes back will be a massive advantage for England because he will bring that experience and be another left-handed batsman in their top-order which can be crucial. ‘It will be a challenge for Rory Burns if he opens. He hasn’t played much cricket lately. I’m disappointed Bairstow is leaving the squad given his experience and the way he batted in this series. He should be in that tour party.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-sri-lanka-by-six-wickets-in-galle-win-series-2-0-359231" hreflang="en">England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0</a>

"Jofra Archer will bring something to the table with his pace, especially on slower wickets. So I think overall they [England] are very well prepared.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The two spinners [Dom Bess and Jack Leech] will have learnt a lot here but it will be a bigger challenge in India."&nbsp;

England Test captain Root was named the Player of the Series after scoring a double century and 186 in the two Tests respectively. Even the likes of Bess and Leach impressed while veterans Broad and Anderson continued their good run of form. Notably, England were the last team to defeat India in a series back in 2012.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the second Test to win the series 2-0. However, a bigger challenge awaits the Joe Root-led England with their next immediate series being against India starting from February 5.

England on Monday defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the second Test to win the series 2-0. However, a bigger challenge awaits the Joe Root-led England with their next immediate series being against India starting from February 5. Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene has now given his take on England's chances in the upcoming four-Test series against India. India have not lost a home Test series since 2012 and the Virat Kohli-led outfit would be looking to continue its winning run following India's historic triumph against Australia in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21. Jayawardene has opined that England are "very well prepared" to take on India as he said that having the likes of Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and spin duo of Dom Bess and Jack Leach will help England pose a challenge against India. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed! However, England will be missing Jonny Bairstow and Sam Curran in the first two Tests due to rotation policy. When asked what are England’s chances of beating India, former Sri Lanka captain Jayawardene told Sky Sports: "I think that’s going to be a very exciting series and a very good challenge for this group of players. That’s what cricket is all about. You need to go away and win Test series. "Getting Ben Stokes back will be a massive advantage for England because he will bring that experience and be another left-handed batsman in their top-order which can be crucial. ‘It will be a challenge for Rory Burns if he opens. He hasn’t played much cricket lately. I’m disappointed Bairstow is leaving the squad given his experience and the way he batted in this series. He should be in that tour party. ALSO READ: England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0 "Jofra Archer will bring something to the table with his pace, especially on slower wickets. So I think overall they [England] are very well prepared. "The two spinners [Dom Bess and Jack Leech] will have learnt a lot here but it will be a bigger challenge in India." England Test captain Root was named the Player of the Series after scoring a double century and 186 in the two Tests respectively. Even the likes of Bess and Leach impressed while veterans Broad and Anderson continued their good run of form. Notably, England were the last team to defeat India in a series back in 2012.

Can England upset Team India in Test series? Mahela Jayawardene opines

England are set to tour India for a full-fledged series starting from February 4. India and England will lock horns in four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what promises to be enthralling series of cricket.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England will visit India after the completion of their ongoing two-match Test series in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While England have had a confidence booster after comfortably beating Sri Lanka in the first Test in Galle, India&nbsp;are&nbsp;on a high after their historic Test series triumph against Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The Test series will also witness the pink-ball Test (third Test) in the newly-built Sardar Patel Stadium as the venue in Ahmedabad gears up to host its maiden international fixture.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;gruelling&nbsp;tour will start with four Test matches, followed by five T20Is before ending it with a three-match ODI series.&nbsp;The squads for the first two Tests have been announced by both England and India.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beating-india-in-india-is-a-far-higher-thing-to-strive-former-england-spinner-graeme-swann-358551" hreflang="en">'Beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive': Former England spinner Graeme Swann</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3b9c69a1-6ce8-49e3-b23f-3b32663a57b2}{156}" paraid="1512110052" >India vs England: Squads&nbsp;</h2>

Team India squad for first two Tests: India squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Wriddhiman Saha (wicketkeeper), R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel, Washington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur&nbsp;

England squad for first two Tests: Joe Root (C), Jofra Archer, Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris&nbsp;Woakes.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1d7dbb78-3ba2-4b05-9024-3619d0734c3e}{45}" paraid="1583728904" >India vs England: Telecast and Live Streaming Details</h2>

The India-England series will be live on various channels of Star Sports. The live streaming of matches will be available on Hotstar.

<h2 aria-level="2" lang="EN-US" paraeid="{50a41408-c45d-42d0-b2ec-9a0abb7a4137}{10}" paraid="768632653" role="heading" >England Tour of India: Full Schedule&nbsp;</h2>

Tests&nbsp;

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai&nbsp;

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

T20Is&nbsp;

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad&nbsp;

ODIs&nbsp;

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune&nbsp;

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India&nbsp;

&nbsp;

England are set to tour India for a full-fledged series starting from February 4. India and England will lock horns in four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what promises to be enthralling series of cricket.

England are set to tour India for a full-fledged series starting from February 4. India and England will lock horns in four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what promises to be enthralling series of cricket. England will visit India after the completion of their ongoing two-match Test series in Sri Lanka. While England have had a confidence booster after comfortably beating Sri Lanka in the first Test in Galle, India are on a high after their historic Test series triumph against Australia. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 auction likely on February 18: BCCI official The Test series will also witness the pink-ball Test (third Test) in the newly-built Sardar Patel Stadium as the venue in Ahmedabad gears up to host its maiden international fixture. The gruelling tour will start with four Test matches, followed by five T20Is before ending it with a three-match ODI series. The squads for the first two Tests have been announced by both England and India. ALSO READ: 'Beating India in India is a far higher thing to strive': Former England spinner Graeme Swann India vs England: Squads Team India squad for first two Tests: India squad: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (Vice-captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Wriddhiman Saha (wicketkeeper), R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur England squad for first two Tests: Joe Root (C), Jofra Archer, Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Dom Bess, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes. India vs England: Telecast and Live Streaming Details The India-England series will be live on various channels of Star Sports. The live streaming of matches will be available on Hotstar. England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

India vs England: Full schedule, squads, telecast - All you need to know

The England National Selectors on Thursday named a 16-member squad and six travelling reserves for the first and second Test matches against India starting on Friday February 5&nbsp;at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

England will be playing four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what will be a gruelling tour of India. The likes of Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer return to the squad after being rested for their tour to Sri Lanka.

England Men’s Test Squad:

Joe Root&nbsp;(Yorkshire) (captain),&nbsp;Jofra Archer&nbsp;(Sussex),&nbsp;Moeen Ali&nbsp;(Worcestershire),&nbsp;James Anderson&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Dom Bess&nbsp;(Yorkshire),&nbsp;Stuart Broad&nbsp;(Nottinghamshire),&nbsp;Rory Burns&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Jos Buttler&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Zak Crawley&nbsp;(Kent),&nbsp;Ben Foakes&nbsp;(Surrey),&nbsp;Dan Lawrence&nbsp;(Essex),&nbsp;Jack Leach&nbsp;(Somerset),&nbsp;Dom Sibley&nbsp;(Warwickshire),&nbsp;Ben Stokes&nbsp;(Durham),&nbsp;Olly Stone&nbsp;(Warwickshire),&nbsp;Chris Woakes&nbsp;(Warwickshire).

Reserves:

James Bracey&nbsp;(Gloucestershire),&nbsp;Mason Crane&nbsp;(Hampshire),&nbsp;Saqib Mahmood&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Matthew Parkinson&nbsp;(Lancashire),&nbsp;Ollie Robinson&nbsp;(Sussex),&nbsp;Amar Virdi&nbsp;(Surrey).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jofra-archer-ben-stokes-to-give-england-huge-boost-vs-india-england-captain-joe-root-358320" hreflang="en">Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes to give England 'huge boost' vs India: England captain Joe Root</a>

Jofra Archer, Rory Burns and Ben Stokes return to the squad. Archer and Stokes were rested for the Sri Lanka series and Burns was at home for the birth of his first child.

Surrey’s Ollie Pope will travel to India and will be added to the squad when passed fit. Pope is recovering from a shoulder injury sustained in September during the Test series against Pakistan.

The National Selectors have provided a block of rest for Jonathan Bairstow, Sam Curran and Mark Wood. The three players, who are currently in Sri Lanka, will miss the first and second Tests in India.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/inside-team-room-wear-that-36-all-out-like-a-badge-r-sridhar-recalls-raviship-and-more-358337" hreflang="en">Inside Team Room: Wear that 36 all out like a badge, R Sridhar recalls 'Raviship' and more</a>

This is consistent with the selection policy of finding a block of rest for all multi-format players at some point during post-Christmas winter schedule.

With Archer and Stokes returning, and subject to fitness of the rest of the squad, Somerset’s Craig Overton will return home after the Sri Lanka series.

<h2 data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">England Tour of India: Full Schedule</h2>

Tests

Friday 5-9 February:&nbsp;1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Saturday 13-17 February:&nbsp;2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai

Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd&nbsp;Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Thursday 4-8 March: 4th&nbsp;Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

T20Is

Friday 12 March:&nbsp;1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Sunday 14 March:&nbsp;2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Tuesday 16 March:&nbsp;3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Thursday 18 March:&nbsp;4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

Saturday 20 March:&nbsp;5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad

ODIs

Tuesday 23 March:&nbsp;1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune

Friday 26 March:&nbsp;2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune

Sunday 28 March:&nbsp;3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune

Monday 29 March:&nbsp;Touring party departs India

The England National Selectors on Thursday named a 16-member squad and six travelling reserves for the first and second Test matches against India starting on Friday February 5 at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

The England National Selectors on Thursday named a 16-member squad and six travelling reserves for the first and second Test matches against India starting on Friday February 5 at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. England will be playing four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs in what will be a gruelling tour of India. The likes of Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer return to the squad after being rested for their tour to Sri Lanka. England Men’s Test Squad: Joe Root (Yorkshire) (captain), Jofra Archer (Sussex), Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), James Anderson (Lancashire), Dom Bess (Yorkshire), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Rory Burns (Surrey), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Ben Foakes (Surrey), Dan Lawrence (Essex), Jack Leach (Somerset), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Ben Stokes (Durham), Olly Stone (Warwickshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire). Reserves: James Bracey (Gloucestershire), Mason Crane (Hampshire), Saqib Mahmood (Lancashire), Matthew Parkinson (Lancashire), Ollie Robinson (Sussex), Amar Virdi (Surrey). ALSO READ: Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes to give England 'huge boost' vs India: England captain Joe Root Jofra Archer, Rory Burns and Ben Stokes return to the squad. Archer and Stokes were rested for the Sri Lanka series and Burns was at home for the birth of his first child. Surrey’s Ollie Pope will travel to India and will be added to the squad when passed fit. Pope is recovering from a shoulder injury sustained in September during the Test series against Pakistan. The National Selectors have provided a block of rest for Jonathan Bairstow, Sam Curran and Mark Wood. The three players, who are currently in Sri Lanka, will miss the first and second Tests in India. ALSO READ: Inside Team Room: Wear that 36 all out like a badge, R Sridhar recalls 'Raviship' and more This is consistent with the selection policy of finding a block of rest for all multi-format players at some point during post-Christmas winter schedule. With Archer and Stokes returning, and subject to fitness of the rest of the squad, Somerset’s Craig Overton will return home after the Sri Lanka series. England Tour of India: Full Schedule Tests Friday 5-9 February: 1st Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Saturday 13-17 February: 2nd Test – India v England, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Wednesday 24-28 February: 3rd Test - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 4-8 March: 4th Test – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad T20Is Friday 12 March: 1st T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Sunday 14 March: 2nd T20I – India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Tuesday 16 March: 3rd T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Thursday 18 March: 4th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad Saturday 20 March: 5th T20I - India v England, Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad ODIs Tuesday 23 March: 1st ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Friday 26 March: 2nd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Sunday 28 March: 3rd ODI - India v England, MCA Stadium, Pune Monday 29 March: Touring party departs India

England announce squad for first 2 Tests vs India as Archer, Stokes return

England's red-ball captain Joe Root on Thursday confirmed that Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will return to the squad for their Test series against India, starting from February 5, as he said that the duo will give the visitors a&nbsp;"major boost”.&nbsp;

Both Stokes and Archer are the missing names from England's ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka due to rotation during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

England, despite missing two of their biggest stars, defeated Sri Lanka in the first Test comprehensively and lead the two-match series 1-0. After the completion of Sri Lanka tour, England will head straight to India, who&nbsp;have been boosted by their historic Test&nbsp;series&nbsp;win&nbsp;against Australia this week, to lock horns in a full-fledged series including four Test matches.&nbsp;

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"I expect India to be full of confidence and in their own conditions, they are a very good team. They play some very good cricket,"&nbsp;Root&nbsp;told reporters.&nbsp;

"We have to be at our absolute best. But that's an exciting prospect for us, a great opportunity for us, it's a great way to aid our development as a side.&nbsp;

"And we will be going there fully expecting to try and win that series. But we have got a lot of hard work to do before we get there. We got a big Test match here."&nbsp;

&nbsp;Root slammed an incredible 228 to help England win the opening Test by seven wickets in Galle. The visitors also announced that James Anderson will be replacing Stuart Broad in the playing XI for the second Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-ravindra-jadeja-ruled-out-of-england-test-series-358289" hreflang="en">India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series</a>

"You speak to any side in the world, those two guys coming back into it would give the squad a huge boost and it's certainly the case for us," said Root.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We (will be) excited to see them back in and around the squad. Hopefully, they are full of energy and ready to go when they get here."&nbsp;&nbsp;

England&nbsp;are set to&nbsp;travel to India from Sri Lanka with the first Test scheduled in Chennai on February 5. The visitors&nbsp;will also play five T20I&nbsp;matches and three&nbsp;ODIs.&nbsp;

England's red-ball captain Joe Root on Thursday confirmed that Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will return to the squad for their Test series against India, starting from February 5, as he said that the duo will give the visitors a "major boost”.

England's red-ball captain Joe Root on Thursday confirmed that Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer will return to the squad for their Test series against India, starting from February 5, as he said that the duo will give the visitors a "major boost”. Both Stokes and Archer are the missing names from England's ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka due to rotation during the COVID-19 pandemic. England, despite missing two of their biggest stars, defeated Sri Lanka in the first Test comprehensively and lead the two-match series 1-0. After the completion of Sri Lanka tour, England will head straight to India, who have been boosted by their historic Test series win against Australia this week, to lock horns in a full-fledged series including four Test matches. ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari reveals Rahul Dravid's message after Sydney heroics "I expect India to be full of confidence and in their own conditions, they are a very good team. They play some very good cricket," Root told reporters. "We have to be at our absolute best. But that's an exciting prospect for us, a great opportunity for us, it's a great way to aid our development as a side. "And we will be going there fully expecting to try and win that series. But we have got a lot of hard work to do before we get there. We got a big Test match here." Root slammed an incredible 228 to help England win the opening Test by seven wickets in Galle. The visitors also announced that James Anderson will be replacing Stuart Broad in the playing XI for the second Test. ALSO READ: India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series "You speak to any side in the world, those two guys coming back into it would give the squad a huge boost and it's certainly the case for us," said Root. "We (will be) excited to see them back in and around the squad. Hopefully, they are full of energy and ready to go when they get here." England are set to travel to India from Sri Lanka with the first Test scheduled in Chennai on February 5. The visitors will also play five T20I matches and three ODIs.

Jofra Archer, Ben Stokes to give England 'huge boost' vs India: England captain Joe Root

Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the four-match home Test series against England, scheduled to start from February 5. Jadeja had dislocated his left thumb during the Sydney Test against Australia and underwent a surgery Down&nbsp;Under. However, the swashbuckling all-rounder would need six weeks to recover, ruling him out of the much-awaited Test series against England.&nbsp;

The BCCI selectors will take a call on Jadeja's availability for the shorter formats later. India&nbsp;are&nbsp;scheduled to play four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs against England with the first two Tests set to be hosted by Chennai while remaining two will be hosted by Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“He is out of Test series and he will take more than six weeks to recover completely. The selectors will take a call later, whether to include him in the team for the shorter formats,” a BCCI official told The Indian Express.&nbsp;

Jadeja will further travel to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for rehabilitation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-play-for-so-long-you-get-used-to-getting-hit-cheteshwar-pujara-talks-about-the-gabba-experience-358232" hreflang="en">'You play for so long, you get used to getting hit': Cheteshwar Pujara talks about the Gabba experience</a>

The Indian Test players will have to undergo three days of quarantine after reaching Chennai on January 27. They will be allowed to train and use the gym after completing hard quarantine.&nbsp;

The BCCI has even requested the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association to check with the authorities on whether 50 per cent crowd capacity will be allowed at the&nbsp;Chepauk&nbsp;Stadium for the Test matches against England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-from-steve-smith-glenn-maxwell-to-lasith-malinga-list-of-released-players-ahead-of-mini-auction-357972" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: From Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell to Lasith Malinga - List of released players ahead of mini-auction</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{fdcf2abe-d0a2-4e94-a611-159f4ba1551e}{148}" paraid="215096431" >England tour of India – Full Schedule:&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{101}" paraid="398681622" >India vs England, 1st Test: February 5-9 in Chennai&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{119}" paraid="355640834" >India vs England, 2nd Test: February 13-17 in Chennai&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{137}" paraid="1818389654" >India vs England, 3rd Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{155}" paraid="566029164" >India vs England, 4th Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{173}" paraid="1965680686" >India vs England, 1st T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{191}" paraid="644229623" >India vs England, 2nd T20I: March 14 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{209}" paraid="604005136" >India vs England, 3rd T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{227}" paraid="2052419394" >India vs England, 4th T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{95f32626-ad8f-4410-831b-816a6a58f839}{245}" paraid="1571783911" >India vs England, 5th T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{461be3ab-5830-4603-9eb9-9aba826aacb1}{8}" paraid="2046867545" >India vs England, 1st ODI: March 2 in Pune&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{461be3ab-5830-4603-9eb9-9aba826aacb1}{26}" paraid="1382482373" >India vs England, 2nd ODI: March 26 in Pune&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li lang="EN-US" paraeid="{461be3ab-5830-4603-9eb9-9aba826aacb1}{44}" paraid="738692707" >India vs England, 3rd ODI: March 28 in Pune&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the four-match home Test series against England, scheduled to start from February 5. Jadeja had dislocated his left thumb during the Sydney Test against Australia and underwent a surgery Down Under.

Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the four-match home Test series against England, scheduled to start from February 5. Jadeja had dislocated his left thumb during the Sydney Test against Australia and underwent a surgery Down Under. However, the swashbuckling all-rounder would need six weeks to recover, ruling him out of the much-awaited Test series against England. The BCCI selectors will take a call on Jadeja's availability for the shorter formats later. India are scheduled to play four Tests, five T20Is and three ODIs against England with the first two Tests set to be hosted by Chennai while remaining two will be hosted by Ahmedabad. “He is out of Test series and he will take more than six weeks to recover completely. The selectors will take a call later, whether to include him in the team for the shorter formats,” a BCCI official told The Indian Express. Jadeja will further travel to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for rehabilitation. ALSO READ: 'You play for so long, you get used to getting hit': Cheteshwar Pujara talks about the Gabba experience The Indian Test players will have to undergo three days of quarantine after reaching Chennai on January 27. They will be allowed to train and use the gym after completing hard quarantine. The BCCI has even requested the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association to check with the authorities on whether 50 per cent crowd capacity will be allowed at the Chepauk Stadium for the Test matches against England. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: From Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell to Lasith Malinga - List of released players ahead of mini-auction England tour of India – Full Schedule: India vs England, 1st Test: February 5-9 in Chennai India vs England, 2nd Test: February 13-17 in Chennai India vs England, 3rd Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 2nd T20I: March 14 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 3rd T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 5th T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st ODI: March 2 in Pune India vs England, 2nd ODI: March 26 in Pune India vs England, 3rd ODI: March 28 in Pune

India's Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of England Test series

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. Pietersen took to social media platform Twitter to&nbsp;post in Hindi language as he said that India must celebrate after historic series win against Australia but warned the Virat Kohli-led side that the real challenge will start when England lands in India for the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The former England player tweeted: “India – yeh&nbsp;aitihaasik&nbsp;jeet ka&nbsp;jashn&nbsp;manaye&nbsp;kyuki&nbsp;yeh&nbsp;sabhi&nbsp;baadhao&nbsp;ke&nbsp;khilaap&nbsp;hasil&nbsp;hui&nbsp;hai&nbsp;. LEKIN, ASLI TEAM&nbsp;toh&nbsp;kuch&nbsp;hafto&nbsp;baad&nbsp;a&nbsp;rahi&nbsp;hai&nbsp;jisse&nbsp;aapko&nbsp;harana&nbsp;hoga&nbsp;apne&nbsp;ghar&nbsp;mein&nbsp;.&nbsp;Satark&nbsp;rahe, 2&nbsp;saptaah&nbsp;mein&nbsp;bahut&nbsp;adhik&nbsp;jashn&nbsp;manaane&nbsp;se&nbsp;saavadhaan&nbsp;rahen&nbsp;(This is a historic win and you must celebrate as it has been achieved despite all obstacles. However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks as England are touring, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-rishabh-pant-joe-root-touch-new-high-after-epic-shows-357905" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows</a>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai 
 
LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . 
 
Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1351501549013504001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India, despite injuries to key players, defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series while also ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba after splendid show by&nbsp;Shubman&nbsp;Gill,&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara and Rishabh Pant in the second innings of the match.&nbsp;

While Indian fans are in a celebratory mood, England pose a threat in what will be their&nbsp;full-fledged tour of India starting from February.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODI starting from February 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a76e159a-5fce-4c16-8799-e80ec05df82e}{198}" paraid="346901802" >England tour of India – Full Schedule:&nbsp;</h2>

India vs England, 1st&nbsp;Test:&nbsp;February&nbsp;5-9 in Chennai&nbsp;

India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;Test: February 13-17 in Chennai&nbsp;

India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 4th&nbsp;Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 1st&nbsp;T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;T20I: March 14 in&nbsp;Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 4th&nbsp;T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 5th&nbsp;T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;

India vs England, 1st&nbsp;ODI: March 2 in Pune&nbsp;

India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;ODI: March 26 in Pune&nbsp;

India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;ODI: March 28 in Pune&nbsp;

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. Pietersen took to social media platform Twitter to post in Hindi language as he said that India must celebrate after historic series win against Australia but warned the Virat Kohli-led side that the real challenge will start when England lands in India for the series. The former England player tweeted: “India – yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai . LEKIN, ASLI TEAM toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . Satark rahe, 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen (This is a historic win and you must celebrate as it has been achieved despite all obstacles. However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks as England are touring, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks.” ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 19, 2021 × India, despite injuries to key players, defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series while also ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba after splendid show by Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant in the second innings of the match. While Indian fans are in a celebratory mood, England pose a threat in what will be their full-fledged tour of India starting from February. England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODI starting from February 5. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' England tour of India – Full Schedule: India vs England, 1st Test: February 5-9 in Chennai India vs England, 2nd Test: February 13-17 in Chennai India vs England, 3rd Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 2nd T20I: March 14 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 3rd T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 5th T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st ODI: March 2 in Pune India vs England, 2nd ODI: March 26 in Pune India vs England, 3rd ODI: March 28 in Pune

Kevin Pietersen warns Team India ahead of England series

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the squad for the first two Test against England starting from February 5. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma returned to the Test squad, the likes of Washington Sundar and Mohammed Siraj were rewarded for their splendid performance against Australia in the just-concluded series.<o:p></o:p>

Notably, the BCCI has named nine standbys for the England series with five batsmen and four&nbsp;bowlers waiting in the ranks. <o:p></o:p>

The Indian squad for the first two Tests was finalised by the newly assembled Indian selection committee led by the former Indian pacer Chetan Sharma.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-at-the-gabba-india-defeat-australia-by-3-wickets-seal-series-2-1-357669" hreflang="en">History at the Gabba! India defeat Australia by 3 wickets, seal series 2-1</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India squad for first two Tests vs England:<o:p></o:p></h2>

Openers: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal<o:p></o:p>

Middle-order: Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (captain), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul (subject to fitness after first Test)<o:p></o:p>

Fast bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur<o:p></o:p>

Spinners: R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel<o:p></o:p>

Standbys: Priyank Panchal, KS Bharat (wicketkeeper), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar<o:p></o:p>

Net bowlers: Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, K Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the squad for the first two Test against England starting from February 5. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma returned to the Test squad, the likes of Washington Sundar and Mohammed Siraj were rewarded for their splendid performance against Australia in the just-concluded series.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday announced the squad for the first two Test against England starting from February 5. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ishant Sharma returned to the Test squad, the likes of Washington Sundar and Mohammed Siraj were rewarded for their splendid performance against Australia in the just-concluded series. Notably, the BCCI has named nine standbys for the England series with five batsmen and four bowlers waiting in the ranks. The Indian squad for the first two Tests was finalised by the newly assembled Indian selection committee led by the former Indian pacer Chetan Sharma. ALSO READ: History at the Gabba! India defeat Australia by 3 wickets, seal series 2-1 India squad for first two Tests vs England: Openers: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal Middle-order: Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (captain), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul (subject to fitness after first Test) Fast bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur Spinners: R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel Standbys: Priyank Panchal, KS Bharat (wicketkeeper), Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shahbaz Nadeem, Rahul Chahar Net bowlers: Ankit Rajpoot, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Warrier, K Gowtham, Saurabh Kumar

Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya return as India announce squad for first two Tests vs England

Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the first 2 Tests against England due to his dislocated right thumb after a short ball from Mitchell Starc hit him on the gloves, requiring immediate medical attention.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-test-australia-remain-on-top-after-day-4-as-india-needs-big-innings-to-seal-victory-355753" hreflang="en">Australia remain on top after Day 4 as India needs big innings to seal victory</a>

However, Jadeja might take a painkiller injection and come out to bat on the final day of the game at SCG if Team India gets into trouble chasing the mammoth score.&nbsp;

“Ravindra Jadeja is out of first two Tests against England. He will need 4-6 weeks minimum to recuperate and complete rehab which rules him out of first 2 tests,” a BCCI source told PTI.

“He might bat if needed with injection to save the Test,” the source added.

Jadeja has played a vital role in the ongoing Tour to Australia. The all-rounder has produced excellent figures with both the bat and ball.&nbsp;

India will host England for four Tests, two in Chennai and two in Ahmedabad followed by five T20Is all at Ahmedabad and three ODIs in Pune.

Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the first 2 Tests against England due to his dislocated right thumb after a short ball from Mitchell Starc hit him on the gloves, requiring immediate medical attention.

Ravindra Jadeja has been ruled out of the first 2 Tests against England due to his dislocated right thumb after a short ball from Mitchell Starc hit him on the gloves, requiring immediate medical attention. ALSO READ: Australia remain on top after Day 4 as India needs big innings to seal victory However, Jadeja might take a painkiller injection and come out to bat on the final day of the game at SCG if Team India gets into trouble chasing the mammoth score. “Ravindra Jadeja is out of first two Tests against England. He will need 4-6 weeks minimum to recuperate and complete rehab which rules him out of first 2 tests,” a BCCI source told PTI. “He might bat if needed with injection to save the Test,” the source added. Jadeja has played a vital role in the ongoing Tour to Australia. The all-rounder has produced excellent figures with both the bat and ball. India will host England for four Tests, two in Chennai and two in Ahmedabad followed by five T20Is all at Ahmedabad and three ODIs in Pune.

Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of first two Tests against England: BCCI

India will host England for four Tests in early 2021 in what could become the key clashes in deciding who reaches the world Test championship final.

Sourav Ganguly, president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, announced the series, planned for February-March, late Tuesday, but warned the coronavirus pandemic could still cause problems.

Australia lead the nine-nation inaugural world Test championship league with India second and England third. The top two will go into the final next year at Lord's.

India host England shortly after their four-Test series in Australia and both showdowns will be key in deciding the final. England had originally been scheduled to play five Tests in India.

England will play four Tests, three one-day internationals and five T20s, Ganguly said, although he said the BCCI would "have to keep assessing the situation" because of the coronavirus pandemic.

"A lot of people are talking about the second Covid wave," he said. "We're already hearing of cases being on the rise again in Mumbai and Delhi, so we have to be careful and make sure everything is in order."

Ganguly revealed that he has undergone 22 Covid-19 Tests in the past four-and-a-half months because of his travel schedule. All had been negative, he said.

The coronavirus has claimed more than 100,000 lives in India, which is the second worst hit nation after the United States.

England's original limited-overs tour to India in September-October and the Twenty20 World Cup in October-November were both casualties of the pandemic.

India will host England for four Tests in early 2021 in what could become the key clashes in deciding who reaches the world Test championship final. Sourav Ganguly, president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, announced the series, planned for February-March, late Tuesday, but warned the coronavirus pandemic could still cause problems.

India will host England for four Tests in early 2021 in what could become the key clashes in deciding who reaches the world Test championship final. Sourav Ganguly, president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, announced the series, planned for February-March, late Tuesday, but warned the coronavirus pandemic could still cause problems. Australia lead the nine-nation inaugural world Test championship league with India second and England third. The top two will go into the final next year at Lord's. India host England shortly after their four-Test series in Australia and both showdowns will be key in deciding the final. England had originally been scheduled to play five Tests in India. England will play four Tests, three one-day internationals and five T20s, Ganguly said, although he said the BCCI would "have to keep assessing the situation" because of the coronavirus pandemic. "A lot of people are talking about the second Covid wave," he said. "We're already hearing of cases being on the rise again in Mumbai and Delhi, so we have to be careful and make sure everything is in order." Ganguly revealed that he has undergone 22 Covid-19 Tests in the past four-and-a-half months because of his travel schedule. All had been negative, he said. The coronavirus has claimed more than 100,000 lives in India, which is the second worst hit nation after the United States. England's original limited-overs tour to India in September-October and the Twenty20 World Cup in October-November were both casualties of the pandemic.

England to play four Tests in India: Ganguly

The home series against England and Indian domestic season 2020-21 will be on the top of the agenda when the members of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will assemble for the Apex Council meeting, which will be held virtually on October 17.

Apart from the home series against England and postponed Indian domestic season, the schedule of the upcoming tour of Australia will also be discussed in the BCCI Apex Council meeting.

The BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had earlier said that the board will do its best to host the full-fledged home series against England in India amid the COVID-19 concerns. The domestic season, including Ranji Trophy and other tournaments, are also a concern and the Indian board will look to find a possible solution in the BCCI ACM.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-mid-season-transfer-window-players-list-eligibility-criteria-rules-and-more-333959" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 mid-season transfer window: Players list, eligibility criteria, rules and more</a>

The situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic forced the BCCI to shift the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE and there were reports that the series against England could be moved to the UAE.

Meanwhile, England are scheduled to tour India in 2021 in January-March to play 5 Tests, 3 ODIs and as many T20Is.

However, the BCCI are still looking to stage the series in India and create bio-secure bubbles in three venues – Wankhede Stadium, DY Patil Stadium and Cricket Club of India. The Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad is also been looked into.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-warner-and-bairstow-have-a-night-out-they-are-very-difficult-to-stop-michael-vaughan-333948" hreflang="en">When Warner and Bairstow have a night out, they are very difficult to stop: Michael Vaughan</a>

The BCCI Apex Council meeting is also set to touch upon domestic tournaments such as Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy given that the tournaments are bread and butter for many cricketers in India.

The home series against England and Indian domestic season 2020-21 will be on the top of the agenda when the members of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will assemble for the Apex Council meeting, which will be held virtually on October 17.

The home series against England and Indian domestic season 2020-21 will be on the top of the agenda when the members of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will assemble for the Apex Council meeting, which will be held virtually on October 17. Apart from the home series against England and postponed Indian domestic season, the schedule of the upcoming tour of Australia will also be discussed in the BCCI Apex Council meeting. The BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had earlier said that the board will do its best to host the full-fledged home series against England in India amid the COVID-19 concerns. The domestic season, including Ranji Trophy and other tournaments, are also a concern and the Indian board will look to find a possible solution in the BCCI ACM. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 mid-season transfer window: Players list, eligibility criteria, rules and more The situation surrounding COVID-19 pandemic forced the BCCI to shift the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE and there were reports that the series against England could be moved to the UAE. Meanwhile, England are scheduled to tour India in 2021 in January-March to play 5 Tests, 3 ODIs and as many T20Is. However, the BCCI are still looking to stage the series in India and create bio-secure bubbles in three venues – Wankhede Stadium, DY Patil Stadium and Cricket Club of India. The Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad is also been looked into. ALSO READ: When Warner and Bairstow have a night out, they are very difficult to stop: Michael Vaughan The BCCI Apex Council meeting is also set to touch upon domestic tournaments such as Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy given that the tournaments are bread and butter for many cricketers in India.

BCCI Apex Council meeting on October 17: Domestic season, home series against England on agenda

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