The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday (November 12) announced India's squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand. Captain Virat Kohli will miss the first Test and return to lead the team in the second Test. His deputy Ajinkya Rahane will lead the team in Kohli's absence.

Senior opening batter Rohit Sharma, who was recently appointed as the Indian team's skipper in T20Is, will be missing the entire two-match series along with wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant to get a much-needed break after months of regular cricket.&nbsp;

In Rohit's absence, Mayank Agarwal is likely to open the innings with Shubman Gill with KL Rahul at no.3 in Kohli's absence during the first Test. Shreyas Iyer has also made the cut in the Test squad and is likely to feature in the middle-order if he makes his debut in the series.&nbsp;

In the absence of Pant, senior keeper Wriddhiman Saha has been selected in the squad along with young KS Bharat, who has been continuously impressing in the domestic circuit. Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who has been rested from the T20I series against the Kiwis, will return to feature in the Tests.

Senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who has also been rested from the T20Is will continue his break and will not take part in the Test series. In his absence, India have handed a maiden Test call-up to Prasidh Krishna, who will be eager to make his Test debut after impressing in the domestic circuit.

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Mohammed Shami will also miss both the T20I and the Test series against New Zealand. Senior pacer Ishant Sharma will spearhead India's pace attack in the absence of Shami and Bumrah. Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav along with Prasidh are the other pacers in the squad.

Haryana all-rounder Jayant Yadav and Axar Patel have been also included in the squad. India have a total of four spin all-rounders in the team with R Ashwin and Jadeja likely to be the first-choice players. India will play two Tests against New Zealand in Kanpur and Mumbai respectively.

India's squad for New Zealand Test series:

Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna

EXCLUSIVE! Mayank Agarwal heaps praise on coach Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, opines on PBKS journey

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday (November 12) announced India's squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand. Captain Virat Kohli will miss the first Test and return to lead the team in the second Test.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday (November 12) announced India's squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand. Captain Virat Kohli will miss the first Test and return to lead the team in the second Test. His deputy Ajinkya Rahane will lead the team in Kohli's absence. Senior opening batter Rohit Sharma, who was recently appointed as the Indian team's skipper in T20Is, will be missing the entire two-match series along with wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant to get a much-needed break after months of regular cricket. In Rohit's absence, Mayank Agarwal is likely to open the innings with Shubman Gill with KL Rahul at no.3 in Kohli's absence during the first Test. Shreyas Iyer has also made the cut in the Test squad and is likely to feature in the middle-order if he makes his debut in the series. In the absence of Pant, senior keeper Wriddhiman Saha has been selected in the squad along with young KS Bharat, who has been continuously impressing in the domestic circuit. Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who has been rested from the T20I series against the Kiwis, will return to feature in the Tests. Senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who has also been rested from the T20Is will continue his break and will not take part in the Test series. In his absence, India have handed a maiden Test call-up to Prasidh Krishna, who will be eager to make his Test debut after impressing in the domestic circuit. Also Read: Where is Shane Warne now? Gambhir reacts to Warner's 'unsportsmanlike' act in T20 WC semi-final Mohammed Shami will also miss both the T20I and the Test series against New Zealand. Senior pacer Ishant Sharma will spearhead India's pace attack in the absence of Shami and Bumrah. Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav along with Prasidh are the other pacers in the squad. Haryana all-rounder Jayant Yadav and Axar Patel have been also included in the squad. India have a total of four spin all-rounders in the team with R Ashwin and Jadeja likely to be the first-choice players. India will play two Tests against New Zealand in Kanpur and Mumbai respectively. India's squad for New Zealand Test series: Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna EXCLUSIVE! Mayank Agarwal heaps praise on coach Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, opines on PBKS journey ×

No Rohit, Pant as India announce squad for New Zealand Test series; Shreyas Iyer makes the cut

Team India is now entering a new era under Rohit Sharma post their dismal campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. As Virat Kohli had already announced that he will step aside as the T20I captain post the showpiece event, Rohit has officially taken over in the shortest format and will look to take the Men in Blue to greater heights.

In addition, Rahul Dravid has taken over as India's head coach after the Ravi Shastri-era came to an end with the T20 WC campaign. Thus, there is a lot happening in Indian cricket as all eyes are now on the future.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/brilliant-captain-to-excellent-mentor-selfless-rahul-dravid-continues-to-serve-indian-cricket-426721#rahul-dravid---jack-of-all-trades-426688">Brilliant captain to excellent mentor: Selfless Rahul Dravid continues to serve Indian cricket</a>

As per a report in the&nbsp;Times of India, the national selectors are divided over the vice-captaincy position in the Test line-up. After Rohit was given the responsibility to lead in T20Is, and he is already the vice-captain in ODIs, some of the selectors want him to become Kohli's deputy altogether; i.e. even in Tests. On the other hand, some remain in favour of Ajinkya Rahane, who led India to a historic 2-1 series win versus Australia in their own backyard in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

While Rahane has been a regular in whites, Rohit's stocks have also risen in the purest format of the game. The thing which is in favour of Rohit is that Rahane's form continues to remain a matter of concern. His Melbourne Test hundred, in late 2020, has been his only face-saving knock in recent times. Thus, it has now reached a point where his vice-captaincy post is being discussed among selectors and head coach Dravid.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-addresses-indias-fatigue-issue-with-cac-to-work-on-rotation-policy-with-jay-shah-report-428239">Rahul Dravid addresses India's fatigue issue with CAC, to work on rotation policy with Jay Shah: Report</a>

It remains to be seen if a change will be made with respect to Kohli's deputy in Tests or whether Rahane will continue to hold the post. India's next Test series is versus New Zealand, i.e. a two-match Test series starting from late November.

Team India is now entering a new era under Rohit Sharma post their dismal campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. As Virat Kohli had already announced that he will step aside as the T20I captain post the showpiece event, Rohit has officially taken over in the shortest format and will look to take the Men in Blue to greater heights.

Team India is now entering a new era under Rohit Sharma post their dismal campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. As Virat Kohli had already announced that he will step aside as the T20I captain post the showpiece event, Rohit has officially taken over in the shortest format and will look to take the Men in Blue to greater heights. In addition, Rahul Dravid has taken over as India's head coach after the Ravi Shastri-era came to an end with the T20 WC campaign. Thus, there is a lot happening in Indian cricket as all eyes are now on the future. ALSO READ | Brilliant captain to excellent mentor: Selfless Rahul Dravid continues to serve Indian cricket As per a report in the Times of India, the national selectors are divided over the vice-captaincy position in the Test line-up. After Rohit was given the responsibility to lead in T20Is, and he is already the vice-captain in ODIs, some of the selectors want him to become Kohli's deputy altogether; i.e. even in Tests. On the other hand, some remain in favour of Ajinkya Rahane, who led India to a historic 2-1 series win versus Australia in their own backyard in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Rahane has been a regular in whites, Rohit's stocks have also risen in the purest format of the game. The thing which is in favour of Rohit is that Rahane's form continues to remain a matter of concern. His Melbourne Test hundred, in late 2020, has been his only face-saving knock in recent times. Thus, it has now reached a point where his vice-captaincy post is being discussed among selectors and head coach Dravid. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid addresses India's fatigue issue with CAC, to work on rotation policy with Jay Shah: Report It remains to be seen if a change will be made with respect to Kohli's deputy in Tests or whether Rahane will continue to hold the post. India's next Test series is versus New Zealand, i.e. a two-match Test series starting from late November.

Rohit Sharma or Ajinkya Rahane? Selectors divided over vice-captaincy post in Indian Test side: Report

All-rounders in Indian cricket are a rare commodity and the newest entrant to the club, Venkatesh Iyer, knows only too well that he has to keep his focus on both aspects of the game in order to remain relevant.

The 26-year-old Madhya Pradesh man has been rewarded with a maiden call-up for the T20 International home series against New Zealand starting November 17 and knows that going forward, workload management would be an important focus area for him.

"My workload management has been good so far. I am an all-rounder so I have to be equally focussed on both aspects of the game. That's what I have been doing right from my age-group state level days. It's so far not been a very big issue," the suave Kolkata Kight Riders man tod PTI in an exclusive interaction.

For Iyer the endeavour is to display multiple skills across formats.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dream-to-represent-india-has-been-fulfilled-avesh-khan-rejoices-after-selection-for-nz-t20is-428253">Dream to represent India has been fulfilled: Avesh Khan rejoices after selection for NZ T20Is</a>

"I have always worked hard on my red ball game and it has been my conscious effort not be one dimensional.

"If you have to play for India, you have to be consistent across formats and that's why I have put in a lot of work in both departments of the game.

"As much as I have worked on my batting, I have also worked on my bowling," said Iyer, who many like Harbhajan Singh believe can shock batters with extra pace.

His 370 runs in the IPL for KKR, along with steady medium pace that got him three wickets, brought him into national reckoning. He is being seen as a replacement of Hardik Pandya, who is still not fit to bowl and does not quite fit in as a pure batter.

Iyer, who has six half-centuries and seven wickets for Madhya Pradesh in Ranji Trophy, believes that it has been his consistency, not only in IPL but also in first-class cricket, that has helped get this far.

During the IPL in UAE, did he get a feeling that he would make it?

"I must say that it was not just about IPL that gave me belief that I could represent my country.

"When I was playing Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali for my state Madhya Pradesh, I always knew that if I carry on with good performances in domestic cricket, I would play for India one day," he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-addresses-indias-fatigue-issue-with-cac-to-work-on-rotation-policy-with-jay-shah-report-428239">Rahul Dravid addresses India's fatigue issue with CAC, to work on rotation policy with Jay Shah: Report</a>

"I always had that belief."

Having lived in Indore, it was local coach Dinesh Sharma, who first tapped his talent as he made rapid strides while rising through the ranks of age-group cricket, captaining the U-23 state team.

When he touched base in the United Arab Emirates with the KKR team in the last week of August, he wouldn't have imagined that he would make such progress in a matter of months.

Two and half months later, he was sitting in his Delhi hotel room with Madhya Pradesh teammates when fellow national team entrant Avesh Khan broke the news to him.

"We had a match (vs Kerala) and it was Avesh who came to my room and informed that both of us have been selected. Obviously, there couldn't have been a better feeling," Iyer revealed while sitting with his teammates.

He was honest in his admission that while he was working on his dream, he didn't think it would be realised so soon.

"No, I never felt that life will take such a beautiful turn. I don't expect anything but believe in taking things as they come. Yes, I am very happy and excited as this is the dream you live for but frankly speaking, I never expected it to happen so soon," Iyer said.

The lesser known aspect about Iyer is that he once got a job offer in multi-national auditing company Deloitte but decided to pursue cricket with encouragement from his parents.

With an MBA degree in finance, he has cleared the foundation and inter-level exams of Chartered Accountancy. Iyer attributes his cricketing smarts to him being a diligent student.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/your-contribution-will-virat-kohli-pens-down-heartfelt-post-for-team-indias-outgoing-coaching-staff-428160">'Your contribution will...' - Virat Kohli pens down heartfelt post for Team India's outgoing coaching staff</a>

"(Being good at) academics helps your thinking and decision-making ability. It gives you an edge over others may be. Being a good student is something that has come naturally to me.

"It does give me a bit of edge over others," said the lanky man from Indore, who could well be Rohit Sharma's lethal weapon.&nbsp;

All-rounders in Indian cricket are a rare commodity and the newest entrant to the club, Venkatesh Iyer, knows only too well that he has to keep his focus on both aspects of the game in order to remain relevant.

All-rounders in Indian cricket are a rare commodity and the newest entrant to the club, Venkatesh Iyer, knows only too well that he has to keep his focus on both aspects of the game in order to remain relevant. The 26-year-old Madhya Pradesh man has been rewarded with a maiden call-up for the T20 International home series against New Zealand starting November 17 and knows that going forward, workload management would be an important focus area for him. "My workload management has been good so far. I am an all-rounder so I have to be equally focussed on both aspects of the game. That's what I have been doing right from my age-group state level days. It's so far not been a very big issue," the suave Kolkata Kight Riders man tod PTI in an exclusive interaction. For Iyer the endeavour is to display multiple skills across formats. ALSO READ: Dream to represent India has been fulfilled: Avesh Khan rejoices after selection for NZ T20Is "I have always worked hard on my red ball game and it has been my conscious effort not be one dimensional. "If you have to play for India, you have to be consistent across formats and that's why I have put in a lot of work in both departments of the game. "As much as I have worked on my batting, I have also worked on my bowling," said Iyer, who many like Harbhajan Singh believe can shock batters with extra pace. His 370 runs in the IPL for KKR, along with steady medium pace that got him three wickets, brought him into national reckoning. He is being seen as a replacement of Hardik Pandya, who is still not fit to bowl and does not quite fit in as a pure batter. Iyer, who has six half-centuries and seven wickets for Madhya Pradesh in Ranji Trophy, believes that it has been his consistency, not only in IPL but also in first-class cricket, that has helped get this far. During the IPL in UAE, did he get a feeling that he would make it? "I must say that it was not just about IPL that gave me belief that I could represent my country. "When I was playing Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali for my state Madhya Pradesh, I always knew that if I carry on with good performances in domestic cricket, I would play for India one day," he said. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid addresses India's fatigue issue with CAC, to work on rotation policy with Jay Shah: Report "I always had that belief." Having lived in Indore, it was local coach Dinesh Sharma, who first tapped his talent as he made rapid strides while rising through the ranks of age-group cricket, captaining the U-23 state team. When he touched base in the United Arab Emirates with the KKR team in the last week of August, he wouldn't have imagined that he would make such progress in a matter of months. Two and half months later, he was sitting in his Delhi hotel room with Madhya Pradesh teammates when fellow national team entrant Avesh Khan broke the news to him. "We had a match (vs Kerala) and it was Avesh who came to my room and informed that both of us have been selected. Obviously, there couldn't have been a better feeling," Iyer revealed while sitting with his teammates. He was honest in his admission that while he was working on his dream, he didn't think it would be realised so soon. "No, I never felt that life will take such a beautiful turn. I don't expect anything but believe in taking things as they come. Yes, I am very happy and excited as this is the dream you live for but frankly speaking, I never expected it to happen so soon," Iyer said. The lesser known aspect about Iyer is that he once got a job offer in multi-national auditing company Deloitte but decided to pursue cricket with encouragement from his parents. With an MBA degree in finance, he has cleared the foundation and inter-level exams of Chartered Accountancy. Iyer attributes his cricketing smarts to him being a diligent student. ALSO READ | 'Your contribution will...' - Virat Kohli pens down heartfelt post for Team India's outgoing coaching staff "(Being good at) academics helps your thinking and decision-making ability. It gives you an edge over others may be. Being a good student is something that has come naturally to me. "It does give me a bit of edge over others," said the lanky man from Indore, who could well be Rohit Sharma's lethal weapon.

Always had the belief but didn't expect it to happen so soon, says Venkatesh Iyer after selection for NZ T20Is

Indian pacer Avesh Khan belonging to the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh&nbsp;has been called up for the T20 series against New Zealand, said that his dream of representing his country has come true. The 24-year-old is a right-arm fast bowler who plays for Delhi Capitals in the IPL and for Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket.

Avesh, who took 24 wickets in the IPL 2021 for Delhi Capitals, deservedly received a national call-up and learned of it just after MP's Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 encounter against Kerala.&nbsp;

"Every cricketer has a dream that he plays for his country and he works hard to turn this dream into a reality. My dream has been fulfilled now,"&nbsp;Avesh informed PTI. For the unversed, the pacer has 100 first-class wickets from 27 matches.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-addresses-indias-fatigue-issue-with-cac-to-work-on-rotation-policy-with-jay-shah-report-428239">Rahul Dravid addresses India's fatigue issue with CAC, to work on rotation policy with Jay Shah: Report</a>

Avesh stated that his performance in the previous domestic season as well as the Indian Premier League helped him get a national call-up.

Former cricketers like Amay Khurasiya, Chandrakant Pandit, Devendra Bundela, and Abbas Ali spotted his talent and guided him throughout his career, according to the right-arm speedster.

Ashiq&nbsp;Khan,&nbsp;Khan's&nbsp;father,&nbsp;recalled&nbsp;how&nbsp;he&nbsp;gave&nbsp;Avesh's&nbsp;aspirations&nbsp;wings. "My son first got associated with Indore Colts Cricket Club. Then Amay Khurasiya spotted his talent and took him to his own academy. After that he did not look back," his father remembered.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-named-captain-gaikwad-avesh-harshal-make-the-cut-in-indias-15-man-squad-for-new-zealand-t20is-428049">Rohit named captain; Gaikwad, Avesh, Harshal make the cut in India's 15-man squad for New Zealand T20Is</a>

His&nbsp;father&nbsp;further&nbsp;stated&nbsp;that&nbsp;when&nbsp;Avesh&nbsp;arrived&nbsp;in&nbsp;Indore&nbsp;after&nbsp;three&nbsp;months,&nbsp;they&nbsp;immediately&nbsp;rushed&nbsp;to&nbsp;Khurasiya's&nbsp;house&nbsp;and&nbsp;sought&nbsp;his&nbsp;blessings.

India’s T20I squad for New Zealand series

Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Harshal Patel, Mohammed&nbsp;Siraj

Indian pacer Avesh Khan belonging to the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh has been called up for the T20 series against New Zealand, said that his dream of representing his country has come true.

Indian pacer Avesh Khan belonging to the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh has been called up for the T20 series against New Zealand, said that his dream of representing his country has come true. The 24-year-old is a right-arm fast bowler who plays for Delhi Capitals in the IPL and for Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket. Avesh, who took 24 wickets in the IPL 2021 for Delhi Capitals, deservedly received a national call-up and learned of it just after MP's Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 encounter against Kerala. "Every cricketer has a dream that he plays for his country and he works hard to turn this dream into a reality. My dream has been fulfilled now," Avesh informed PTI. For the unversed, the pacer has 100 first-class wickets from 27 matches. ALSO READ: Rahul Dravid addresses India's fatigue issue with CAC, to work on rotation policy with Jay Shah: Report Avesh stated that his performance in the previous domestic season as well as the Indian Premier League helped him get a national call-up. Former cricketers like Amay Khurasiya, Chandrakant Pandit, Devendra Bundela, and Abbas Ali spotted his talent and guided him throughout his career, according to the right-arm speedster. Ashiq Khan, Khan's father, recalled how he gave Avesh's aspirations wings. "My son first got associated with Indore Colts Cricket Club. Then Amay Khurasiya spotted his talent and took him to his own academy. After that he did not look back," his father remembered. ALSO READ | Rohit named captain; Gaikwad, Avesh, Harshal make the cut in India's 15-man squad for New Zealand T20Is His father further stated that when Avesh arrived in Indore after three months, they immediately rushed to Khurasiya's house and sought his blessings. India’s T20I squad for New Zealand series Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj

Dream to represent India has been fulfilled: Avesh Khan rejoices after selection for NZ T20Is

Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri had both hinted at Rohit Sharma taking over as the new captain of the Indian team in T20Is post the end of the Shastri-Kohli era. While Shastri has stepped down as the head coach of the Indian team, Kohli will not be leading India again in T20Is having relinquished the post of captain in the shortest format after India's final game against Namibia in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Monday.

India endured a disappointing campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 as the Men in Blue bowed out of the tournament from the group stages after three wins and two defeats in their five Super 12 matches. Rohit is reportedly set to be appointed as India's full-time captain in T20Is beginning from the New Zealand series at home later this month after Kohli's decision to leave captaincy.

As per a report in the Times of India, Rohit, who is currently the vice-captain of the Indian team in the limited-overs format, will lead the side in the T20I series against Kane Williamson's men in India. The likes of Kohli, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah are likely to be rested from the T20I series against New Zealand.

As per the report, Kohli will be also taking rest and not playing the first Test match against New Zealand where Rohit will lead the side while vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane will remain his deputy. Kohli will return to lead the side in the second Test against the Kiwis. India are scheduled to play three T20Is and two Tests against New Zealand at home post the conclusion of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021.

BCCI is expected to announce the squad for the T20I series against New Zealand this week along with India's permanent skipper in the T20Is keeping the next T20 World Cup in mind which will be played in Australia in 2022. Rohit, who is the most successful captain in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with five titles to his name, has been backed by many to take over the mantle from Kohli.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-wont-be-another-virat-virender-sehwag-says-wont-be-right-to-question-kohlis-spot-in-t20i-team-427968">'There won't be another Virat': Sehwag says won't be right to question Kohli's spot in T20I team</a>

Meanwhile, Shastri will be replaced by the legendary Rahul Dravid as the head coach of the Indian team. Dravid will take over the reins from Shastri in the New Zealand series and will look to get India off to a winning start in their first white-ball assignment since the T20 World Cup 2021.

Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri had both hinted at Rohit Sharma taking over as the new captain of the Indian team in T20Is post the end of the Shastri-Kohli era.

Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri had both hinted at Rohit Sharma taking over as the new captain of the Indian team in T20Is post the end of the Shastri-Kohli era. While Shastri has stepped down as the head coach of the Indian team, Kohli will not be leading India again in T20Is having relinquished the post of captain in the shortest format after India's final game against Namibia in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Monday. India endured a disappointing campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 as the Men in Blue bowed out of the tournament from the group stages after three wins and two defeats in their five Super 12 matches. Rohit is reportedly set to be appointed as India's full-time captain in T20Is beginning from the New Zealand series at home later this month after Kohli's decision to leave captaincy. As per a report in the Times of India, Rohit, who is currently the vice-captain of the Indian team in the limited-overs format, will lead the side in the T20I series against Kane Williamson's men in India. The likes of Kohli, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah are likely to be rested from the T20I series against New Zealand. As per the report, Kohli will be also taking rest and not playing the first Test match against New Zealand where Rohit will lead the side while vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane will remain his deputy. Kohli will return to lead the side in the second Test against the Kiwis. India are scheduled to play three T20Is and two Tests against New Zealand at home post the conclusion of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. BCCI is expected to announce the squad for the T20I series against New Zealand this week along with India's permanent skipper in the T20Is keeping the next T20 World Cup in mind which will be played in Australia in 2022. Rohit, who is the most successful captain in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with five titles to his name, has been backed by many to take over the mantle from Kohli. Also Read: 'There won't be another Virat': Sehwag says won't be right to question Kohli's spot in T20I team Meanwhile, Shastri will be replaced by the legendary Rahul Dravid as the head coach of the Indian team. Dravid will take over the reins from Shastri in the New Zealand series and will look to get India off to a winning start in their first white-ball assignment since the T20 World Cup 2021.

Rohit Sharma to lead India in New Zealand T20I series; Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami likely to be rested

Experienced spin trio Ajaz Patel, Will Somerville and Mitchell Santner will be supported by rising stars Rachin Ravindra and Glenn Phillips when New Zealand begin their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) defence on Tour of India in November.

The five spin options have been included as part of a 15-strong squad for the two-Test series, to be played in Kanpur from November 25-29, and Mumbai from December 3-7.

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The squad for the team's Test Series against <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> starting later this month is here. Details | <a href="https://t.co/R4PIYBbIqt">https://t.co/R4PIYBbIqt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/lo4vGbNaMm">pic.twitter.com/lo4vGbNaMm</a>
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According to New Zealand Cricket (NZC), Trent Boult and Colin de Grandhomme made themselves unavailable for selection due to the prospect of further time in bio-secure bubbles and Managed Isolation.

New Zealand coach Gary Stead said player welfare remained paramount.

"Trent has already spent the best part of 60 days in hard managed isolation this year, while Colin had been on the road since May until recently returning home from Pakistan," said Stead."

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/t20-world-cup-heres-what-went-wrong-as-india-lost-crucial-match-against-new-zealand-425692#india-vs-new-zealand-|-28th-match-425682">T20 World Cup: Here's what went wrong as India lost crucial match against New Zealand</a>

From talking to both players it was clear the best option for them was to be left out of this Test tour and for them to instead focus on being ready for the New Zealand home summer," he added.

The India tour marks the first time Phillips has been selected in the Test squad since debuting against Australia as a late replacement in 2020 when the New Zealand camp was struck by illness on the eve of the New Year`s Test in Sydney.

Patel and Somerville are set to lead the spin attack and have a particularly impressive record when playing together, combining for 28 wickets in their three Tests as teammates: against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi in 2018, and Sri Lanka in Galle and Colombo in 2019.

The India Test series will be the first without wicket-keeping stalwart BJ Watling since his retirement following the WTC final win in England, with Tom Blundell set to take over the Test gloves.

Stead said they`d very much taken a horses-for-courses approach when picking the tour squad.

"Touring India is one of the greatest experiences in cricket and I know our guys are really looking forward to the challenge," Stead said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-coach-rahul-dravid-suggests-who-should-become-indias-next-white-ball-captain-reports-426706">New coach Rahul Dravid suggests who should become India's next white-ball captain: Reports</a>

"It`s fair to say we`re expecting spin-friendly conditions and it`s great to have a range of options in this department."

The success of our spinners on recent tours to the sub-continent has been encouraging and we hope they can once again feature prominently."It`s really exciting to begin the second installment of the WTC and we know there`ll be an extra incentive for all the teams we play following our win in the inaugural competition," he added.

New Zealand Test squad: Kane Williamson (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Will Somerville, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Will Young, Neil Wagner

The New Zealand-based Test players depart for India on Monday.

The Kiwis will first face India in three T20 Internationals on November 17, 19 and 21 - with the current T20 World Cup squad carrying on for that series.&nbsp;

Experienced spin trio Ajaz Patel, Will Somerville and Mitchell Santner will be supported by rising stars Rachin Ravindra and Glenn Phillips when New Zealand begin their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) defence on Tour of India in November.

Experienced spin trio Ajaz Patel, Will Somerville and Mitchell Santner will be supported by rising stars Rachin Ravindra and Glenn Phillips when New Zealand begin their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) defence on Tour of India in November. The five spin options have been included as part of a 15-strong squad for the two-Test series, to be played in Kanpur from November 25-29, and Mumbai from December 3-7. The squad for the team's Test Series against @BCCI starting later this month is here. Details | https://t.co/R4PIYBbIqt #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/lo4vGbNaMm — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) November 4, 2021 × According to New Zealand Cricket (NZC), Trent Boult and Colin de Grandhomme made themselves unavailable for selection due to the prospect of further time in bio-secure bubbles and Managed Isolation. New Zealand coach Gary Stead said player welfare remained paramount. "Trent has already spent the best part of 60 days in hard managed isolation this year, while Colin had been on the road since May until recently returning home from Pakistan," said Stead." IN PICS: T20 World Cup: Here's what went wrong as India lost crucial match against New Zealand From talking to both players it was clear the best option for them was to be left out of this Test tour and for them to instead focus on being ready for the New Zealand home summer," he added. The India tour marks the first time Phillips has been selected in the Test squad since debuting against Australia as a late replacement in 2020 when the New Zealand camp was struck by illness on the eve of the New Year`s Test in Sydney. Patel and Somerville are set to lead the spin attack and have a particularly impressive record when playing together, combining for 28 wickets in their three Tests as teammates: against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi in 2018, and Sri Lanka in Galle and Colombo in 2019. The India Test series will be the first without wicket-keeping stalwart BJ Watling since his retirement following the WTC final win in England, with Tom Blundell set to take over the Test gloves. Stead said they`d very much taken a horses-for-courses approach when picking the tour squad. "Touring India is one of the greatest experiences in cricket and I know our guys are really looking forward to the challenge," Stead said. ALSO READ: New coach Rahul Dravid suggests who should become India's next white-ball captain: Reports "It`s fair to say we`re expecting spin-friendly conditions and it`s great to have a range of options in this department." The success of our spinners on recent tours to the sub-continent has been encouraging and we hope they can once again feature prominently."It`s really exciting to begin the second installment of the WTC and we know there`ll be an extra incentive for all the teams we play following our win in the inaugural competition," he added. New Zealand Test squad: Kane Williamson (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Will Somerville, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Will Young, Neil Wagner The New Zealand-based Test players depart for India on Monday. The Kiwis will first face India in three T20 Internationals on November 17, 19 and 21 - with the current T20 World Cup squad carrying on for that series.

IND vs NZ: Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme to miss Test series due to bio-bubble fatigue

India played their second game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition against Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After losing their tournament-opener versus arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets, the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback in style and get off the mark in the points table.&nbsp;

However, nothing of that sort happened as Kohli &amp; Co. lost their second game on the trot, by eight wickets versus the Black Caps. Being asked to bat first, India posted a below-par 110-7 in 20 overs. In reply, the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls in hand and pushed the one-time winners are on the brink of an early exit from the mega event.

While nothing has clicked for India in the two games in the T20 WC, many former cricketers and experts of the gentlemen's game has slammed the Kohli-led thinktank for their questionable changes in the playing XI versus New Zealand. Ishan Kishan came in place of injured Suryakumar Yadav and was asked to open as Rohit was demoted to No. 3 whereas Kohli also moved a spot below his usual position. Meanwhile, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was replaced by Shardul Thakur.&nbsp;

Many feel India pressed the panic button after one loss. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir feels mentor MS Dhoni had no role behind the knee-jerk changes made by India in their playing&nbsp;XI versus the Kiwis. Gambhir has, meanwhile,&nbsp;slammed Kohli the strategist behind India's poor decision-making.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharmas-special-praise-for-virat-kohli-says-his-hunger-for-success-is-just-unbelievable-426461">Watch: Rohit Sharma's special praise for Virat Kohli, says 'his hunger for success is just unbelievable'</a>

"Kohli has never impressed me as a strategist. Once again, he was a disappointment on Sunday. For starters, why did he change the team from the one that played against Pakistan? If that was not enough, he also changed the batting order and had Ishan Kishan open in place of Rohit. I have played long enough with MS Dhoni to know that he would have nothing to do with these knee-jerk changes just after one game. And what I also understand is that the other support staff hardly challenge Kohli's calls," Gambhir wrote in his coloumn for TOI.

"But the question is whether Sodhi and other New Zealanders bowled well or India batted below par. I am the first one to acknowledge opposition's supremacy but after seeing Kohli and his men play the way they did on Sunday, I'd say they made Sodhi and Co. looked better than they were. From a distance it seemed there was no clear planning, role allocation and proper assessment of the conditions. Clearly, they were searching for a mountain of a score. Lack of understanding of the pitch meant they were in pursuit of a score around 170-180. As a result, Indian batsmen kept hitting in the air like millionaires and folded for 110," Gambhir added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-cricketer-feels-too-much-confusion-in-team-india-with-mentor-ms-dhoni-and-head-coach-shastri-426458">Former cricketer feels too much 'confusion' in Team India with mentor MS Dhoni and head coach Shastri</a>

India are in a must-win position in their remaining three games in the Super 12 round. In addition, they need other results to favour them in order to progress to the semi-finals of the mega event in the UAE. As of now, Kohli &amp; Co. have their back against the wall and need to produce some scintillating performances to march their way back into the tournament.

India played their second game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition against Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

India played their second game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition against Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After losing their tournament-opener versus arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets, the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback in style and get off the mark in the points table. However, nothing of that sort happened as Kohli & Co. lost their second game on the trot, by eight wickets versus the Black Caps. Being asked to bat first, India posted a below-par 110-7 in 20 overs. In reply, the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls in hand and pushed the one-time winners are on the brink of an early exit from the mega event. While nothing has clicked for India in the two games in the T20 WC, many former cricketers and experts of the gentlemen's game has slammed the Kohli-led thinktank for their questionable changes in the playing XI versus New Zealand. Ishan Kishan came in place of injured Suryakumar Yadav and was asked to open as Rohit was demoted to No. 3 whereas Kohli also moved a spot below his usual position. Meanwhile, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was replaced by Shardul Thakur. Many feel India pressed the panic button after one loss. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir feels mentor MS Dhoni had no role behind the knee-jerk changes made by India in their playing XI versus the Kiwis. Gambhir has, meanwhile, slammed Kohli the strategist behind India's poor decision-making. ALSO READ | Watch: Rohit Sharma's special praise for Virat Kohli, says 'his hunger for success is just unbelievable' "Kohli has never impressed me as a strategist. Once again, he was a disappointment on Sunday. For starters, why did he change the team from the one that played against Pakistan? If that was not enough, he also changed the batting order and had Ishan Kishan open in place of Rohit. I have played long enough with MS Dhoni to know that he would have nothing to do with these knee-jerk changes just after one game. And what I also understand is that the other support staff hardly challenge Kohli's calls," Gambhir wrote in his coloumn for TOI. "But the question is whether Sodhi and other New Zealanders bowled well or India batted below par. I am the first one to acknowledge opposition's supremacy but after seeing Kohli and his men play the way they did on Sunday, I'd say they made Sodhi and Co. looked better than they were. From a distance it seemed there was no clear planning, role allocation and proper assessment of the conditions. Clearly, they were searching for a mountain of a score. Lack of understanding of the pitch meant they were in pursuit of a score around 170-180. As a result, Indian batsmen kept hitting in the air like millionaires and folded for 110," Gambhir added. ALSO READ | Former cricketer feels too much 'confusion' in Team India with mentor MS Dhoni and head coach Shastri India are in a must-win position in their remaining three games in the Super 12 round. In addition, they need other results to favour them in order to progress to the semi-finals of the mega event in the UAE. As of now, Kohli & Co. have their back against the wall and need to produce some scintillating performances to march their way back into the tournament.

'Played long enough with him...' - Gambhir feels Dhoni had no role behind India's knee-jerk changes vs NZ

Team India are among the top three sides in ICC T20I rankings. The one-time winners were touted to be one of the contenders at the start of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. However, the Men in Blue have fell flat in both their games in the Super 12 round and are on the brink of an early elimination from the marquee tournament.

India's star-studded line-up comprises KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. However, none of them have made a mark in the two encounters. Moreover, they have a strong support staff, comprising MS Dhoni as team mentor, head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun, batting coach Vikram Rathour and fielding coach R Sridhar. Despite having such big names, India have been unimpressive in the T20 WC.

Ahead of India's fixture versus the Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 2), the former Indian cricketer Maninder Singh feels there is too much confusion within Team India due to the presence of some big names in the team management and the leadership group. He told TOI, "You plan things, you just don't go and start hitting out. You don't change the batting order. Rohit Sharma has got runs at number one, opening position, most of the time and he was sent at No. 3. It showed he was prevented from facing Trent Boult. This is not a very good sign. Kohli, who scored most runs at number 3, came to bat number 4. I just felt that there was a lot of confusion. With Dhoni the mentor and Shastri the coach, there was so much khichdi in the dressing room."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-should-be-gavaskar-unimpressed-with-jasprit-bumrahs-bubble-fatigue-remark-post-nz-loss-426435">'Nobody should be.....': Gavaskar unimpressed with Jasprit Bumrah's bubble-fatigue remark post NZ loss</a>

India need to win their remaining three games, by big margins, and hope for other results to favour them in order to reach the semi-finals of the mega event. Kohli &amp; Co.'s leftover games are against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia. Will they make it to the last four? Only time will tell...

Team India are among the top three sides in ICC T20I rankings. The one-time winners were touted to be one of the contenders at the start of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE.

Team India are among the top three sides in ICC T20I rankings. The one-time winners were touted to be one of the contenders at the start of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. However, the Men in Blue have fell flat in both their games in the Super 12 round and are on the brink of an early elimination from the marquee tournament. India's star-studded line-up comprises KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. However, none of them have made a mark in the two encounters. Moreover, they have a strong support staff, comprising MS Dhoni as team mentor, head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun, batting coach Vikram Rathour and fielding coach R Sridhar. Despite having such big names, India have been unimpressive in the T20 WC. Ahead of India's fixture versus the Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 2), the former Indian cricketer Maninder Singh feels there is too much confusion within Team India due to the presence of some big names in the team management and the leadership group. He told TOI, "You plan things, you just don't go and start hitting out. You don't change the batting order. Rohit Sharma has got runs at number one, opening position, most of the time and he was sent at No. 3. It showed he was prevented from facing Trent Boult. This is not a very good sign. Kohli, who scored most runs at number 3, came to bat number 4. I just felt that there was a lot of confusion. With Dhoni the mentor and Shastri the coach, there was so much khichdi in the dressing room." ALSO READ | 'Nobody should be.....': Gavaskar unimpressed with Jasprit Bumrah's bubble-fatigue remark post NZ loss India need to win their remaining three games, by big margins, and hope for other results to favour them in order to reach the semi-finals of the mega event. Kohli & Co.'s leftover games are against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia. Will they make it to the last four? Only time will tell...

Former cricketer feels too much 'confusion' in Team India with mentor MS Dhoni and head coach Shastri

After India's eight-wicket loss at the hands of Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue are struggling to survive in the T20 World Cup. The one-time winners India still have three games to play in the Super 12 round, however, they need to win all games and also depend upon other results to progress ahead into the last four.

Post India's drubbing versus the Black Caps, speedster Jasprit Bumrah addressed the reporters in the post-match press conference. Replying to a question, Bumrah blamed the bio-bubble fatigue as one of the striking factors behind India's dismal run in the seventh edition of the T20 WC, being held in the UAE.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-set-to-lose-odi-captaincy-as-india-on-verge-of-early-exit-in-t20-world-cup-reports-426160">Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports</a>

Bumrah told reporters, "Absolutely, sometimes you need a break. You miss your family. You've been on the road for six months. So all of that sometimes play on the back of your mind. But when you're on the field, you don't think of all those things .. Obviously staying in a bubble and staying away from your family for such a long period of time does play a role.

"The BCCI also tried their best to make us feel comfortable .. It's a difficult time. There's a pandemic going on, so we try to adapt but sometimes bubble fatigue, mental fatigue also creeps in."

While India have been on the road since last year's tour of Australia, and have moved from one bio-bubble to another, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar isn't impressed with Bumrah's statements.

He told on Sports Today, "Well look, when you are playing for India, everything has got to recede to the background. It's as simple as that. It's an unbelievable privilege and a huge honor to be playing for and representing your country. There are millions who you know, want to get the India cap, the India colors...

“Nobody should be saying that this [bubble fatigue] is there. There should be no real excuse. You should go out there and give it your best. It's as simple as that. And that's all the Indian fans are expecting. We all know that you can't win every game. This is a sport, you are going to lose. Even the greatest of players in individual sports, even the greatest of teams lose. And this is a great team, make no mistake. The way they have played over the years, it's a top team, this Indian team is a top champion team.

“But it's only in the multi-country tournaments where they have not found their feet. So I think that's something they need to do and not talk about anything else," the original Little Master explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-didnt-trust-rohit-sharma-against-trent-boult-sunil-gavaskar-baffled-by-hitmans-demotion-vs-nz-425962">'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ</a>

For the unversed, India toured Australia last year -- shortly after the IPL 2020 edition -- hosted England in all formats early this year, which was followed by the first leg of IPL 2021. Soon after the India leg, the national team headed to the United Kingdom, where they stayed from mid-May to mid-September. After that, the Indian players played the second and final leg of IPL 2021 before shifting their focus on the T20 WC. Thus, things have been tough on the Indian players, even though their dismal performances have left fans disappointed.

India are playing Afghanistan in their third match in the Super 12 round and need to win at all costs. Another defeat will end their campaign in the T20 WC 2021 edition.

After India's eight-wicket loss at the hands of Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue are struggling to survive in the T20 World Cup.

After India's eight-wicket loss at the hands of Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue are struggling to survive in the T20 World Cup. The one-time winners India still have three games to play in the Super 12 round, however, they need to win all games and also depend upon other results to progress ahead into the last four. Post India's drubbing versus the Black Caps, speedster Jasprit Bumrah addressed the reporters in the post-match press conference. Replying to a question, Bumrah blamed the bio-bubble fatigue as one of the striking factors behind India's dismal run in the seventh edition of the T20 WC, being held in the UAE. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports Bumrah told reporters, "Absolutely, sometimes you need a break. You miss your family. You've been on the road for six months. So all of that sometimes play on the back of your mind. But when you're on the field, you don't think of all those things .. Obviously staying in a bubble and staying away from your family for such a long period of time does play a role. "The BCCI also tried their best to make us feel comfortable .. It's a difficult time. There's a pandemic going on, so we try to adapt but sometimes bubble fatigue, mental fatigue also creeps in." While India have been on the road since last year's tour of Australia, and have moved from one bio-bubble to another, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar isn't impressed with Bumrah's statements. He told on Sports Today, "Well look, when you are playing for India, everything has got to recede to the background. It's as simple as that. It's an unbelievable privilege and a huge honor to be playing for and representing your country. There are millions who you know, want to get the India cap, the India colors... “Nobody should be saying that this [bubble fatigue] is there. There should be no real excuse. You should go out there and give it your best. It's as simple as that. And that's all the Indian fans are expecting. We all know that you can't win every game. This is a sport, you are going to lose. Even the greatest of players in individual sports, even the greatest of teams lose. And this is a great team, make no mistake. The way they have played over the years, it's a top team, this Indian team is a top champion team. “But it's only in the multi-country tournaments where they have not found their feet. So I think that's something they need to do and not talk about anything else," the original Little Master explained. ALSO READ | 'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ For the unversed, India toured Australia last year -- shortly after the IPL 2020 edition -- hosted England in all formats early this year, which was followed by the first leg of IPL 2021. Soon after the India leg, the national team headed to the United Kingdom, where they stayed from mid-May to mid-September. After that, the Indian players played the second and final leg of IPL 2021 before shifting their focus on the T20 WC. Thus, things have been tough on the Indian players, even though their dismal performances have left fans disappointed. India are playing Afghanistan in their third match in the Super 12 round and need to win at all costs. Another defeat will end their campaign in the T20 WC 2021 edition.

'Nobody should be.....': Gavaskar unimpressed with Jasprit Bumrah's bubble-fatigue remark post NZ loss

The legendary Kapil Dev has criticised Indian captain Virat Kohli for his 'we were not brave enough remark' after his side's loss against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). After a humiliating ten-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in the opening game, India faced a second successive defeat against New Zealand in their second Super 12 clash in Dubai.

India were restricted on a paltry total of 110 runs, batting first after suffering yet another batting collapse and later failed&nbsp;to defend the target. New Zealand chased down the low-key target without breaking a sweat as they registered an impressive win by eight wickets to open their account in the T20 World Cup 2021.

When asked about his team's poor show in the must-win game, Kohli was brutally honest as he said his teammates were not brave enough while terming the performance 'bizarre'. "Quite bizarre. To be very honest and brutal up front, I don't think we were brave enough with bat or ball," Kohli had said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

Kohli's his team was 'not brave' remark didn't impress World Cup-winning captain Kapil, who said it was a weak statement from the Indian captain and should not have come out from a player of his stature. Kapil said fingers will be pointed at Kohli if he will make such statements after a poor loss.

"For a big player like him, it is a very weak statement. If that is the kind of body language the team has and if that is the kind of thought process the captain has, it is really tough to lift the team. I felt a little strange hearing those words. He isn’t that kind of a player," Kapil said on ABP News.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-takes-a-dig-at-virat-kohli-reacting-to-everything-doesnt-mean-you-are-more-passionate-425844">&nbsp;Gambhir takes a dig at Virat Kohli: Reacting to everything doesn't mean you are more passionate</a>

"He is a fighter. I think he got lost in the moment or something. A captain should not say words like ‘we were not brave enough. You are playing for your country and he has passion. But when you say such words, fingers will definitely be pointed," he added.

India's campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 is on the verge of an early exit after two straight defeats in the first two matches. However, India stand an outside chance of qualifying for the top four if they can win their remaining three matches by big margins and hope some other results go in their favour.

The legendary Kapil Dev has criticised Indian captain Virat Kohli for his 'we were not brave enough remark' after his side's loss against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31).

The legendary Kapil Dev has criticised Indian captain Virat Kohli for his 'we were not brave enough remark' after his side's loss against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). After a humiliating ten-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in the opening game, India faced a second successive defeat against New Zealand in their second Super 12 clash in Dubai. India were restricted on a paltry total of 110 runs, batting first after suffering yet another batting collapse and later failed to defend the target. New Zealand chased down the low-key target without breaking a sweat as they registered an impressive win by eight wickets to open their account in the T20 World Cup 2021. When asked about his team's poor show in the must-win game, Kohli was brutally honest as he said his teammates were not brave enough while terming the performance 'bizarre'. "Quite bizarre. To be very honest and brutal up front, I don't think we were brave enough with bat or ball," Kohli had said at the post-match presentation ceremony. Kohli's his team was 'not brave' remark didn't impress World Cup-winning captain Kapil, who said it was a weak statement from the Indian captain and should not have come out from a player of his stature. Kapil said fingers will be pointed at Kohli if he will make such statements after a poor loss. "For a big player like him, it is a very weak statement. If that is the kind of body language the team has and if that is the kind of thought process the captain has, it is really tough to lift the team. I felt a little strange hearing those words. He isn’t that kind of a player," Kapil said on ABP News. Also Read: Gambhir takes a dig at Virat Kohli: Reacting to everything doesn't mean you are more passionate "He is a fighter. I think he got lost in the moment or something. A captain should not say words like ‘we were not brave enough. You are playing for your country and he has passion. But when you say such words, fingers will definitely be pointed," he added. India's campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 is on the verge of an early exit after two straight defeats in the first two matches. However, India stand an outside chance of qualifying for the top four if they can win their remaining three matches by big margins and hope some other results go in their favour.

'Very weak statement': Kapil Dev on Virat Kohli's 'we were not brave' remark after New Zealand defeat

India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets in their second game in the Super 12 round, in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Playing their second match after a gap of seven days, at the same venue -- i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai -- many believed Virat Kohli-led Team India will manage to beat the Black Caps and get back to winning ways. However, they lost their second game on the trot, after losing to Pakistan by ten wickets in their tournament-opener.

While nothing clicked for India versus the Kiwis, the move to demote Rohit Sharma to the No. 3 position was heavily criticised. Ahead of India's upcoming match versus Afghanistan, batting coach Vikram Rathour has opened up on the move and revealed that vice-captain Rohit was part of the decision-making which demoted him down the order.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-set-to-lose-odi-captaincy-as-india-on-verge-of-early-exit-in-t20-world-cup-reports-426160">Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports</a>

Rathour told the reporters on Tuesday (November 2), "Suryakumar Yadav was having some back spasm. He was not fit enough for the match. The whole management took the call to send Ishan as an opener and, of course, Rohit was part of the decision,” Rathour told reporters.

“Ishan has done well as an opener in the IPL as well as in the practice matches, that’s why he has been sent as an opener,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-to-lead-india-in-t20is-against-new-zealand-hardik-bhuvneshwar-likely-to-be-dropped-report-426155">Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report</a>

Rohit returned for a 14-ball 14 whereas Ishan managed only a mere 4 runs versus the Black Caps at Dubai. As a result, India posted a paltry 110/7 and failed to defend the total as Kane Williamson-led Kiwis won the game by eight wickets, with 33 balls to spare.

Kohli &amp; Co. need to win against Afghanistan to remain alive in the race for the semi-finals. For now, the one-time winners are in contention mathematically but their chances are bleak with back-to-back defeats.

India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets in their second game in the Super 12 round, in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Playing their second match after a gap of seven days, at the same venue -- i.

India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets in their second game in the Super 12 round, in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Playing their second match after a gap of seven days, at the same venue -- i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai -- many believed Virat Kohli-led Team India will manage to beat the Black Caps and get back to winning ways. However, they lost their second game on the trot, after losing to Pakistan by ten wickets in their tournament-opener. While nothing clicked for India versus the Kiwis, the move to demote Rohit Sharma to the No. 3 position was heavily criticised. Ahead of India's upcoming match versus Afghanistan, batting coach Vikram Rathour has opened up on the move and revealed that vice-captain Rohit was part of the decision-making which demoted him down the order. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports Rathour told the reporters on Tuesday (November 2), "Suryakumar Yadav was having some back spasm. He was not fit enough for the match. The whole management took the call to send Ishan as an opener and, of course, Rohit was part of the decision,” Rathour told reporters. “Ishan has done well as an opener in the IPL as well as in the practice matches, that’s why he has been sent as an opener,” he added. ALSO READ | Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report Rohit returned for a 14-ball 14 whereas Ishan managed only a mere 4 runs versus the Black Caps at Dubai. As a result, India posted a paltry 110/7 and failed to defend the total as Kane Williamson-led Kiwis won the game by eight wickets, with 33 balls to spare. Kohli & Co. need to win against Afghanistan to remain alive in the race for the semi-finals. For now, the one-time winners are in contention mathematically but their chances are bleak with back-to-back defeats.

T20 WC: Vikram Rathour reveals Rohit Sharma was part of Virat Kohli & Co.'s decision to demote him vs NZ

Legendary Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram has slammed the Indian team for neglecting international cricket and focusing on the Indian Premier League (IPL) as Virat Kohli &amp; Co. continue their horrible run in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. India has had a shambolic start to their campaign in the showpiece event as they find themselves languishing at the fifth spot on the points table after back-to-back losses in their first two matches.

India lost against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets in the opening game before going down against New Zealand by eight wickets in a one-sided second game in Dubai. The Men in Blue have been facing flak from all corners for their terrible show so far and have been criticised for their woeful performance.

Former Pakistan pacer Akram pointed out that India are not taking international cricket seriously while focusing only on IPL. Explaining how the lack of limited-overs cricket in the last few months could have cost the Indian team in the T20 World Cup, Akram said India's senior players were involved in a white-ball series last in March this year.

The former Pakistan pacer has made a valid point as the majority of the players in India's current T20I squad last played a white-ball series against England at home in March this year. India did travel to Sri Lanka for a limited-overs series in July but the squad was full of youngsters and not the senior members, who were busy in the Test series against England at the same time.

"India last played a limited-overs series with all the senior players in March. Now we are in November. So that shows they are not taking those international series seriously. They think playing the IPL is enough. You play as much league cricket in the world that you want. While playing league cricket, you will find one or two good bowlers in the opposition. In international cricket, you will face all five good bowlers," said Akram on Pakistani sports channel A Sports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-set-to-lose-odi-captaincy-as-india-on-verge-of-early-exit-in-t20-world-cup-reports-426160">Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports</a>

Asked to bat first against New Zealand, India's move to promote Ishan Kishan as an opener in place of experienced Rohit Sharma backfired as the young left-hander was dismissed cheaply on 3. The likes of Rohit, KL Rahul and captain Kohli were also sent back cheaply as the team could only manage 110 runs in 20 overs.

New Zealand chased down the target with ease and registered a comprehensive win by eight wickets with as many as 5.3 overs to spare. Akram said it was a one-sided game and that the move to demote Rohit to no.3 in a crucial encounter was a 'big mess-up'.

"It wasn’t a great game. It was a one-sided game. India committed a lot of mistakes. When they lost the toss, I feel they were pushed back a little psychologically. The biggest mess-up was downgrading Rohit Sharma to 3 in a crucial, do-or-die game. The guy has got four centuries in T20Is as opener. They could have made Ishan Kishan bat at 3 too. This was the start when the panic button was pressed," Akram added. 
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Legendary Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram has slammed the Indian team for neglecting international cricket and focusing on the Indian Premier League (IPL) as Virat Kohli & Co.

Legendary Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram has slammed the Indian team for neglecting international cricket and focusing on the Indian Premier League (IPL) as Virat Kohli & Co. continue their horrible run in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. India has had a shambolic start to their campaign in the showpiece event as they find themselves languishing at the fifth spot on the points table after back-to-back losses in their first two matches. India lost against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets in the opening game before going down against New Zealand by eight wickets in a one-sided second game in Dubai. The Men in Blue have been facing flak from all corners for their terrible show so far and have been criticised for their woeful performance. Former Pakistan pacer Akram pointed out that India are not taking international cricket seriously while focusing only on IPL. Explaining how the lack of limited-overs cricket in the last few months could have cost the Indian team in the T20 World Cup, Akram said India's senior players were involved in a white-ball series last in March this year. The former Pakistan pacer has made a valid point as the majority of the players in India's current T20I squad last played a white-ball series against England at home in March this year. India did travel to Sri Lanka for a limited-overs series in July but the squad was full of youngsters and not the senior members, who were busy in the Test series against England at the same time. "India last played a limited-overs series with all the senior players in March. Now we are in November. So that shows they are not taking those international series seriously. They think playing the IPL is enough. You play as much league cricket in the world that you want. While playing league cricket, you will find one or two good bowlers in the opposition. In international cricket, you will face all five good bowlers," said Akram on Pakistani sports channel A Sports. Also Read: Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports Asked to bat first against New Zealand, India's move to promote Ishan Kishan as an opener in place of experienced Rohit Sharma backfired as the young left-hander was dismissed cheaply on 3. The likes of Rohit, KL Rahul and captain Kohli were also sent back cheaply as the team could only manage 110 runs in 20 overs. New Zealand chased down the target with ease and registered a comprehensive win by eight wickets with as many as 5.3 overs to spare. Akram said it was a one-sided game and that the move to demote Rohit to no.3 in a crucial encounter was a 'big mess-up'. "It wasn’t a great game. It was a one-sided game. India committed a lot of mistakes. When they lost the toss, I feel they were pushed back a little psychologically. The biggest mess-up was downgrading Rohit Sharma to 3 in a crucial, do-or-die game. The guy has got four centuries in T20Is as opener. They could have made Ishan Kishan bat at 3 too. This was the start when the panic button was pressed," Akram added.

They think playing IPL is enough: Wasim Akram criticises India for neglecting intl cricket amid T20 WC turmoil

India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets to go down in their second successive game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup, being held in the UAE. After Pakistan stunned India and produced a master class performance to thrash them, India were expected to come hard at the Black Caps, however, they surrendered to the Kiwis by eight wickets to head towards a possible early elimination in the mega event.

While nothing clicked for India, from the coin toss to posting 110/7 and losing by eight wickets, Virat Kohli-led team management were slammed left, right and centre as they demoted vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, in order to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top. It is interesting to note that Ishan was roped in the playing XI for Suryakumar Yadav, who normally bats at No. 3 or 4.

As India shuffled their batting line-up, to only manage 110 for 7 and lose convincingly, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag compared Rohit's demotion to some glaring mistakes committed by Rahul Dravid-led Team India during their forgettable 2007 ODI World Cup campaign.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sending-jasprit-bumrah-wasnt-right-md-azharuddin-feels-ravi-shastri-should-have-come-for-post-match-pc-426136">Sending Jasprit Bumrah wasn't right: Md Azharuddin feels Ravi Shastri should have come for post-match PC</a>

Sehwag said on Cricbuzz, "In the 2007 World Cup, we had made two mistakes. When we were chasing so well - we won 17 consecutive matches while chasing - but when the World Cup arrived, our coach said 'no, we need batting practice'. I said 'let us win 2 matches first and then we will have 6 matches to improve our batting. But he said 'No'.

"The second mistake was that when the opening pair of Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly were performing so well, so why was that broken? Why was it said that if Tendulkar bats in the middle order, you can control it?"

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/never-seen-captaincy-potential-in-virat-kohli-says-danish-kaneria-as-india-near-elimination-in-t20-wc-426089">Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC</a>

"We had already had three players to control - Yuvraj Singh, Rahul Dravid and MS Dhoni. Why did you need a fourth one? Sachin batted at No. 4 and see what happened. When teams change strategy, that is when they play badly. When there is a proven formula, there is no need to change it. That is the best example I can give," he pointed out.

After India's second successive defeat, Kohli &amp; Co. are starring on the brink of early elimination in the T20 WC. They will next face Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan and need to win to remain alive in the competition. The Men in Blue require some big wins in the remaining games and will also have to hope for other results to favour them if they have to progress ahead in the showpiece event.

India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets to go down in their second successive game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup, being held in the UAE. After Pakistan stunned India and produced a master class performance to thrash them, India were expected to come hard at the Black Caps, however, they surrendered to the Kiwis by eight wickets to head towards a possible early elimination in the mega event.

India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets to go down in their second successive game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup, being held in the UAE. After Pakistan stunned India and produced a master class performance to thrash them, India were expected to come hard at the Black Caps, however, they surrendered to the Kiwis by eight wickets to head towards a possible early elimination in the mega event. While nothing clicked for India, from the coin toss to posting 110/7 and losing by eight wickets, Virat Kohli-led team management were slammed left, right and centre as they demoted vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, in order to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top. It is interesting to note that Ishan was roped in the playing XI for Suryakumar Yadav, who normally bats at No. 3 or 4. As India shuffled their batting line-up, to only manage 110 for 7 and lose convincingly, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag compared Rohit's demotion to some glaring mistakes committed by Rahul Dravid-led Team India during their forgettable 2007 ODI World Cup campaign. ALSO READ | Sending Jasprit Bumrah wasn't right: Md Azharuddin feels Ravi Shastri should have come for post-match PC Sehwag said on Cricbuzz, "In the 2007 World Cup, we had made two mistakes. When we were chasing so well - we won 17 consecutive matches while chasing - but when the World Cup arrived, our coach said 'no, we need batting practice'. I said 'let us win 2 matches first and then we will have 6 matches to improve our batting. But he said 'No'. "The second mistake was that when the opening pair of Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly were performing so well, so why was that broken? Why was it said that if Tendulkar bats in the middle order, you can control it?" ALSO READ | Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC "We had already had three players to control - Yuvraj Singh, Rahul Dravid and MS Dhoni. Why did you need a fourth one? Sachin batted at No. 4 and see what happened. When teams change strategy, that is when they play badly. When there is a proven formula, there is no need to change it. That is the best example I can give," he pointed out. After India's second successive defeat, Kohli & Co. are starring on the brink of early elimination in the T20 WC. They will next face Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan and need to win to remain alive in the competition. The Men in Blue require some big wins in the remaining games and will also have to hope for other results to favour them if they have to progress ahead in the showpiece event.

'Sachin batted at No. 4': Virender Sehwag compares Rohit's demotion against NZ to India's mistakes in 2007 WC

Rohit Sharma might lead the Indian team in their upcoming T20I series against New Zealand post the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Current skipper Virat Kohli has already announced that he will be stepping down from captaincy in T20Is and will continue playing as a pure batter in the shortest format. While BCCI has not yet confirmed Kohli's successor, Rohit is expected to become India's full-time T20I skipper keeping the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind.

As per a report in PTI, Rohit will lead India in the T20Is series against Black Caps while current skipper Kohli's future in ODIs remains in doubt as well. Kohli has confirmed leaving the T20I captaincy but will continue to lead the Indian team in ODIs and Tests. However, BCCI might ask him to resign from ODI captaincy as well after India's yet another failure in a major ICC tournament.

India have made a woeful start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 with back-to-back losses in their first two matches and stand on the brink of early elimination from the tournament. Kohli's position as India's captain in ODIs is all set to be discussed when BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, secretary Jay Shah and the national selectors meet in the next few days, as per PTI.

While there were reports that seniors might be rested from the T20I series against New Zealand and KL Rahul might get to lead the side, a senior BCCI official told PTI that Rohit hasn't said he would not want to lead the team and the series against the Black Caps can be his first as India's full-time T20I skipper.

"First things first, the squads for the New Zealand series need to be decided. Rohit hasn't yet said that he doesn't want to lead in the T20 Internationals against New Zealand. And why would he not want to lead? It's his first series as full-time T20 captain," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by PTI.

Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar likely to be dropped from the T20 side

All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has been dealing with long-standing fitness issues and senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar are likely to be dropped from the squad for the T20I series against New Zealand, as per PTI. The selectors will be picking the squad keeping the next T20 World Cup in 2022 in mind.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-makes-shocking-claim-theres-divide-in-indian-team-one-camp-with-virat-kohli-other-against-426048">Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against</a>

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ruturaj Gaikwad, who enjoyed a brilliant campaign for the IPL 2021 champions by bagging the Orange Cap, might make the cut along with the likes of other proven IPL performers like Avesh Khan and senior spinner Yuzvendra Chahal.

Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer can also be selected as an all-rounder after impressing in IPL 2021 along with rising fast bowler Umran Malik, who has garnered limelight with his pace. The squad for the New Zealand T20I series is likely to be announced by the end of this week.

India will play three T20Is followed by two Tests against New Zealand at home in November.

Rohit Sharma might lead the Indian team in their upcoming T20I series against New Zealand post the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Current skipper Virat Kohli has already announced that he will be stepping down from captaincy in T20Is and will continue playing as a pure batter in the shortest format.

Rohit Sharma might lead the Indian team in their upcoming T20I series against New Zealand post the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Current skipper Virat Kohli has already announced that he will be stepping down from captaincy in T20Is and will continue playing as a pure batter in the shortest format. While BCCI has not yet confirmed Kohli's successor, Rohit is expected to become India's full-time T20I skipper keeping the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind. As per a report in PTI, Rohit will lead India in the T20Is series against Black Caps while current skipper Kohli's future in ODIs remains in doubt as well. Kohli has confirmed leaving the T20I captaincy but will continue to lead the Indian team in ODIs and Tests. However, BCCI might ask him to resign from ODI captaincy as well after India's yet another failure in a major ICC tournament. India have made a woeful start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 with back-to-back losses in their first two matches and stand on the brink of early elimination from the tournament. Kohli's position as India's captain in ODIs is all set to be discussed when BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, secretary Jay Shah and the national selectors meet in the next few days, as per PTI. While there were reports that seniors might be rested from the T20I series against New Zealand and KL Rahul might get to lead the side, a senior BCCI official told PTI that Rohit hasn't said he would not want to lead the team and the series against the Black Caps can be his first as India's full-time T20I skipper. "First things first, the squads for the New Zealand series need to be decided. Rohit hasn't yet said that he doesn't want to lead in the T20 Internationals against New Zealand. And why would he not want to lead? It's his first series as full-time T20 captain," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by PTI. Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar likely to be dropped from the T20 side All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has been dealing with long-standing fitness issues and senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar are likely to be dropped from the squad for the T20I series against New Zealand, as per PTI. The selectors will be picking the squad keeping the next T20 World Cup in 2022 in mind. Also Read: Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ruturaj Gaikwad, who enjoyed a brilliant campaign for the IPL 2021 champions by bagging the Orange Cap, might make the cut along with the likes of other proven IPL performers like Avesh Khan and senior spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer can also be selected as an all-rounder after impressing in IPL 2021 along with rising fast bowler Umran Malik, who has garnered limelight with his pace. The squad for the New Zealand T20I series is likely to be announced by the end of this week. India will play three T20Is followed by two Tests against New Zealand at home in November.

Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report

The Indian cricket team has had a disastrous start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 with back-to-back losses in their first two matches. After losing against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets in the opener, India lost against New Zealand by eight wickets in their second encounter as they look close to an early exit from the tournament.

India are set to take on New Zealand in a T20I series post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 and some senior players are likely to be rested keeping their workload in mind. The fatigue due to playing continuous cricket over the last few months has clearly reflected on India's performances at the T20 World Cup and the BCCI is keen on giving required rest to senior players.

In the absence of the senior players, KL Rahul is likely to captain the side in the T20I series against New Zealand. While Virat Kohli has already announced he will be stepping down as India's T20I captain post the ongoing T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma is likely to be rested which makes Rahul a front runner for the job.

As per a report in news agency ANI, the seniors will be provided a breather and Rahul, who is a vital cog in India's T20I setup will be leading the side. "The seniors would need a breather and it is no secret that Rahul is an integral part of the team's T20 structure. He is almost certain to lead," a source was quoted as saying by ANI.

The report also added that fans are likely to return to the stadiums for the T20I series against New Zealand which will be hosted in India.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Yes, we will have fans coming in, but it won't be full capacity. We will work closely with the local authorities and plan the way forward," a BCCI official told ANI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/high-time-bcci-looks-into-scheduling-former-india-captain-comes-in-support-of-underfire-virat-kohli-co-425931">High time BCCI looks into scheduling: Former India captain comes in support of underfire&nbsp;Kohli &amp; Co.</a>

New Zealand will be travelling to India for a three-match T20I series followed by two Tests in November this year. While Rahul might lead the side in the T20Is against the Black Caps, it remains to be seen who will replace Kohli as permanent captain in the shortest format.

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The Indian cricket team has had a disastrous start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 with back-to-back losses in their first two matches. After losing against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets in the opener, India lost against New Zealand by eight wickets in their second encounter as they look close to an early exit from the tournament.

The Indian cricket team has had a disastrous start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 with back-to-back losses in their first two matches. After losing against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets in the opener, India lost against New Zealand by eight wickets in their second encounter as they look close to an early exit from the tournament. India are set to take on New Zealand in a T20I series post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 and some senior players are likely to be rested keeping their workload in mind. The fatigue due to playing continuous cricket over the last few months has clearly reflected on India's performances at the T20 World Cup and the BCCI is keen on giving required rest to senior players. In the absence of the senior players, KL Rahul is likely to captain the side in the T20I series against New Zealand. While Virat Kohli has already announced he will be stepping down as India's T20I captain post the ongoing T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma is likely to be rested which makes Rahul a front runner for the job. As per a report in news agency ANI, the seniors will be provided a breather and Rahul, who is a vital cog in India's T20I setup will be leading the side. "The seniors would need a breather and it is no secret that Rahul is an integral part of the team's T20 structure. He is almost certain to lead," a source was quoted as saying by ANI. The report also added that fans are likely to return to the stadiums for the T20I series against New Zealand which will be hosted in India. "Yes, we will have fans coming in, but it won't be full capacity. We will work closely with the local authorities and plan the way forward," a BCCI official told ANI. Also Read: High time BCCI looks into scheduling: Former India captain comes in support of underfire Kohli & Co. New Zealand will be travelling to India for a three-match T20I series followed by two Tests in November this year. While Rahul might lead the side in the T20Is against the Black Caps, it remains to be seen who will replace Kohli as permanent captain in the shortest format.

KL Rahul likely to captain India in T20I series against NZ post T20 WC, seniors to be rested - Report

India's eight-wicket loss against New Zealand in their second Super 12 clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 has pushed them on the verge of an early exit from the tournament, sending shock waves across the cricket fraternity. Former cricketers and experts have expressed their disappointment and criticised India's woeful show against the Kiwis at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday (October 31).

India's batting line-up once again failed to deliver as yet another top-order collapse saw the Virat Kohli-led side manage to post a paltry 110 runs on the board against New Zealand in 20 overs. It was a shambolic batting performance from Team India as none of the batters managed to step up and play a big knock under pressure.

New Zealand had a walk in the park during the run-chase as the Kiwis rode on Daryl Mitchell's 49 off 35 balls and captain Kane Williamson's unbeaten 33 to chase down the low-key target of 111 runs with 5.3 overs to spare and earn their first win in the tournament to keep their top-four hopes secure.

Former India batter Virender Sehwag took to Twitter to express his disappointment after India's shambolic defeat and said it was time for introspection for Kohli and his team. Sehwag also pointed out the body language of the Indian players was not great nither was the shot selection from the batters, who failed to accelerate in time to help the team post a big total on the board.

"Very disappointing from India. NZ were amazing. India’s body language wasn’t great, poor shot selection &amp; like few times in the past, New Zealand have virtually ensured we won’t make it to the next stage. This one will hurt India &amp; time for some serious introspection," Sehwag wrote in a tweet.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Very disappointing from India. NZ were amazing. India’s body language wasn’t great, poor shot selection &amp; like few times in the past, New Zealand have virtually ensured we won’t make it to the next stage. This one will hurt India &amp; time for some serious introspection <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsNZ</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1454859973003862022?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-as-virat-kohli-is-optimistic-heres-how-india-can-still-reach-the-semi-finals-425681">As Virat Kohli is optimistic, here's how India can still reach the semi-finals</a>

While the batters dished out another poor show, the bowlers too were far from impressive as only pacer Jasprit Bumrh managed to trouble the Kiwi batters and picked up 2 wickets while conceding 19 runs in his four overs while all other bowlers went wicket-less yet again.

India's hopes of making it to the semi-final have been dashed after back-to-back defeats in their first two matches and the Men in Blue will have to win their remaining three matches by a huge margin to even stand a chance of making it to the knockout stage.

India's eight-wicket loss against New Zealand in their second Super 12 clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 has pushed them on the verge of an early exit from the tournament, sending shock waves across the cricket fraternity.

India's eight-wicket loss against New Zealand in their second Super 12 clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 has pushed them on the verge of an early exit from the tournament, sending shock waves across the cricket fraternity. Former cricketers and experts have expressed their disappointment and criticised India's woeful show against the Kiwis at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Sunday (October 31). India's batting line-up once again failed to deliver as yet another top-order collapse saw the Virat Kohli-led side manage to post a paltry 110 runs on the board against New Zealand in 20 overs. It was a shambolic batting performance from Team India as none of the batters managed to step up and play a big knock under pressure. New Zealand had a walk in the park during the run-chase as the Kiwis rode on Daryl Mitchell's 49 off 35 balls and captain Kane Williamson's unbeaten 33 to chase down the low-key target of 111 runs with 5.3 overs to spare and earn their first win in the tournament to keep their top-four hopes secure. Former India batter Virender Sehwag took to Twitter to express his disappointment after India's shambolic defeat and said it was time for introspection for Kohli and his team. Sehwag also pointed out the body language of the Indian players was not great nither was the shot selection from the batters, who failed to accelerate in time to help the team post a big total on the board. "Very disappointing from India. NZ were amazing. India’s body language wasn’t great, poor shot selection & like few times in the past, New Zealand have virtually ensured we won’t make it to the next stage. This one will hurt India & time for some serious introspection," Sehwag wrote in a tweet. Very disappointing from India. NZ were amazing. India’s body language wasn’t great, poor shot selection & like few times in the past, New Zealand have virtually ensured we won’t make it to the next stage. This one will hurt India & time for some serious introspection #IndvsNZ — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) October 31, 2021 × Also Read: As Virat Kohli is optimistic, here's how India can still reach the semi-finals While the batters dished out another poor show, the bowlers too were far from impressive as only pacer Jasprit Bumrh managed to trouble the Kiwi batters and picked up 2 wickets while conceding 19 runs in his four overs while all other bowlers went wicket-less yet again. India's hopes of making it to the semi-final have been dashed after back-to-back defeats in their first two matches and the Men in Blue will have to win their remaining three matches by a huge margin to even stand a chance of making it to the knockout stage.

Time for serious introspection: Virender Sehwag disappointed as NZ virtually knock India out of T20 WC 2021

The Virat Kohli-led Team India lost the crucial T20 World Cup match against New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.&nbsp;

Daryl Mitchell top-scored with 49 as New Zealand hammered India to register their first win of the Super 12 stage. Pace bowler Trent Boult and leg-spinner Ish Sodhi shared five wickets between them to restrict India to 110 for seven after the Kiwis decided to bowl first in Dubai.

Mitchell and skipper Kane Williamson, 33 not out, put on 72 runs for the second wicket as New Zealand romped home in 14.3 overs and hand India their second loss of the tournament in as many games.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-ridiculous-virat-kohli-says-too-long-a-break-as-india-take-on-nz-after-seven-days-in-t20-wc-2021-425628">'It's ridiculous': Virat Kohli says 'too long a break' as India take on NZ after seven days in T20 WC 2021</a>

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A sparkling performance from New Zealand ✨<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j">https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j</a> <a href="https://t.co/OO7D1fSreV">pic.twitter.com/OO7D1fSreV</a>
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Daryl Mitchell is gone after a brilliant knock of 49. 
 
Bumrah gets the wicket. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j">https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j</a> <a href="https://t.co/vHBvB3mvgg">pic.twitter.com/vHBvB3mvgg</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-shami-gets-rousing-welcome-by-crowd-during-india-vs-new-zealand-t20-world-cup-match-425661">Watch: Mohammed Shami gets rousing welcome by crowd during India vs New Zealand T20 World Cup match</a>

Virat Kohli lost the toss and they were&nbsp;put in to bat, India's rejigged top-order wilted in no time and the 2007 champions crawled to 110-7 in 20 overs in the Super 12 match. Boult (3-20) and Sodhi (2-17) starred in New Zealand's disciplined bowling display.&nbsp;

India's batting order was thrashed as they slumped to 48-4 in the 11th over.&nbsp;Boult dismissed Kishan for four, and nearly bounced out Rohit with the next ball too but Adam Milne floored the catch at long leg.&nbsp;

Sodhi dealt a body blow in the 11th over when he induced a skier from Kohli which Boult pouched at long-on to send groans across the stands populated mostly by India fans.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-wasim-jaffers-halloween-inspired-jibe-at-umpire-richard-kettleborough-425651">India vs New Zealand: Wasim Jaffer's Halloween-inspired jibe at umpire Richard Kettleborough</a>

Hardik Pandya made 23 and Ravindra Jadeja contributed 26 not out as India laboured past the 100-mark after what looked like a catching practice in the deep for the New Zealand fielders.

During the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "We obviously didn't have much to play with the ball. We were just not brave enough in our body language when we entered the field and NZ had better intensity, body language. Every time we took a chance, we lost a wicket. It's most often a result of hesitation of whether you should go for a shot or not."

For New Zealand, Mitchell and Williamson remained not out on 33 as New Zealand triumphed with 33 balls to spare to bounce back from the defeat by Pakistan in their tournament opener.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Virat Kohli-led Team India lost the crucial T20 World Cup match against New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

The Virat Kohli-led Team India lost the crucial T20 World Cup match against New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Daryl Mitchell top-scored with 49 as New Zealand hammered India to register their first win of the Super 12 stage. Pace bowler Trent Boult and leg-spinner Ish Sodhi shared five wickets between them to restrict India to 110 for seven after the Kiwis decided to bowl first in Dubai. Mitchell and skipper Kane Williamson, 33 not out, put on 72 runs for the second wicket as New Zealand romped home in 14.3 overs and hand India their second loss of the tournament in as many games. ALSO READ | 'It's ridiculous': Virat Kohli says 'too long a break' as India take on NZ after seven days in T20 WC 2021 A sparkling performance from New Zealand ✨#T20WorldCup | #INDvNZ | https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j pic.twitter.com/OO7D1fSreV — T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) October 31, 2021 × Daryl Mitchell is gone after a brilliant knock of 49. Bumrah gets the wicket. #T20WorldCup | #INDvNZ | https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j pic.twitter.com/vHBvB3mvgg — T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) October 31, 2021 × ALSO READ | Watch: Mohammed Shami gets rousing welcome by crowd during India vs New Zealand T20 World Cup match Virat Kohli lost the toss and they were put in to bat, India's rejigged top-order wilted in no time and the 2007 champions crawled to 110-7 in 20 overs in the Super 12 match. Boult (3-20) and Sodhi (2-17) starred in New Zealand's disciplined bowling display. India's batting order was thrashed as they slumped to 48-4 in the 11th over. Boult dismissed Kishan for four, and nearly bounced out Rohit with the next ball too but Adam Milne floored the catch at long leg. Sodhi dealt a body blow in the 11th over when he induced a skier from Kohli which Boult pouched at long-on to send groans across the stands populated mostly by India fans. ALSO READ | India vs New Zealand: Wasim Jaffer's Halloween-inspired jibe at umpire Richard Kettleborough Hardik Pandya made 23 and Ravindra Jadeja contributed 26 not out as India laboured past the 100-mark after what looked like a catching practice in the deep for the New Zealand fielders. During the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "We obviously didn't have much to play with the ball. We were just not brave enough in our body language when we entered the field and NZ had better intensity, body language. Every time we took a chance, we lost a wicket. It's most often a result of hesitation of whether you should go for a shot or not." For New Zealand, Mitchell and Williamson remained not out on 33 as New Zealand triumphed with 33 balls to spare to bounce back from the defeat by Pakistan in their tournament opener. (With inputs from agencies)

T20 World Cup: India's semifinals hopes jolted as New Zealand hammer Virat Kohli & Co. by 8 wickets

Team India squared off with New Zealand in their second Super 12 encounter in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After losing to Babar Azam-led Pakistan by ten wickets, the pressure was on Virat Kohli &amp; Co. to bounce back and keep themselves alive in the semi-finals race.

However, the one-time winners India fell flat in their face-off versus Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday evening (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Being asked to bat first, the Men in Blue were restricted to 110/7, courtesy Trent Boult's 3-fer and Ish Sodhi's 2 for 17. In reply, the Black Caps completed the run-chase with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare.

With another heavy defeat, India are on the brink of elimination. While nothing has clicked for India in the main draw of the competition so far, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has lashed out at Kohli &amp; Co. for demoting vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/your-biggest-match-winner-aakash-chopra-slams-virat-kohli-led-india-for-rohit-sharmas-demotion-425944">'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion</a>

Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar&nbsp;said, "Ishan Kishan is a hit-or-miss player and it is better if a batsman like him walks in No.4 or No.5. He could then play according to the situation of the game. Now what has happened is that Rohit Sharma has been told that we don't trust you to face the left-arm fast bowling of Trent Boult."&nbsp;

"If you do that to a player who has been playing at a position for so many years, he himself will think that maybe he doesn't have the ability. If Ishan Kishan had made 70-odd runs we would have applauded. But when the ploy doesn't work, you are going to be criticised," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/high-time-bcci-looks-into-scheduling-former-india-captain-comes-in-support-of-underfire-virat-kohli-co-425931">High time BCCI looks into scheduling: Former India captain comes in support of underfire Virat Kohli &amp; Co.</a>

"I don't know if it is a fear of failure but I know that whatever changes they made to the batting order today did not work. Rohit Sharma is such a great batsman and he has been sent in at No.3. Kohli himself, who has made so many runs at No.3 demotes himself to No.4. A young player like Ishan Kishan has been given the responsibility of opening the batting," Gavaskar signed off.

India's big guns with both the bat and ball haven't clicked in the tournament so far. They will face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 3) and have to win to remain alive in the semi-finals race by a whisker. As of now, India already are on the cusp of an early exit.

Team India squared off with New Zealand in their second Super 12 encounter in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After losing to Babar Azam-led Pakistan by ten wickets, the pressure was on Virat Kohli & Co.

Team India squared off with New Zealand in their second Super 12 encounter in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After losing to Babar Azam-led Pakistan by ten wickets, the pressure was on Virat Kohli & Co. to bounce back and keep themselves alive in the semi-finals race. However, the one-time winners India fell flat in their face-off versus Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday evening (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Being asked to bat first, the Men in Blue were restricted to 110/7, courtesy Trent Boult's 3-fer and Ish Sodhi's 2 for 17. In reply, the Black Caps completed the run-chase with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. With another heavy defeat, India are on the brink of elimination. While nothing has clicked for India in the main draw of the competition so far, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has lashed out at Kohli & Co. for demoting vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top. ALSO READ | 'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "Ishan Kishan is a hit-or-miss player and it is better if a batsman like him walks in No.4 or No.5. He could then play according to the situation of the game. Now what has happened is that Rohit Sharma has been told that we don't trust you to face the left-arm fast bowling of Trent Boult." "If you do that to a player who has been playing at a position for so many years, he himself will think that maybe he doesn't have the ability. If Ishan Kishan had made 70-odd runs we would have applauded. But when the ploy doesn't work, you are going to be criticised," he added. ALSO READ | High time BCCI looks into scheduling: Former India captain comes in support of underfire Virat Kohli & Co. "I don't know if it is a fear of failure but I know that whatever changes they made to the batting order today did not work. Rohit Sharma is such a great batsman and he has been sent in at No.3. Kohli himself, who has made so many runs at No.3 demotes himself to No.4. A young player like Ishan Kishan has been given the responsibility of opening the batting," Gavaskar signed off. India's big guns with both the bat and ball haven't clicked in the tournament so far. They will face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 3) and have to win to remain alive in the semi-finals race by a whisker. As of now, India already are on the cusp of an early exit.

'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). Playing their second game, at the same venue i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Men in Blue fell like nine pins as they managed only a paltry 110/7 in 20 overs -- being asked to bat first -- before the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls to spare.

While nothing clicked for Team India, the move to demote their biggest match-opener Rohit Sharma, at No. 3, and accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top raised quite a few eyebrows. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has slammed Virat Kohli &amp; Co. to shift Hitman to the No. 3 position after the drubbing versus the Black Caps.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-looked-jaded-dilip-vengsarkar-slams-kohli-co-feels-r-ashwins-snub-is-a-matter-of-investigation-425929">India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli &amp; Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation'</a>

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra opined, "You played Ishan Kishan because Suryakumar Yadav was not fit and made him open. In order to play the left-right combination, you made your biggest match-winner come down in the order. You changed your set batting order (1,2,3) after just one loss and that is fundamentally wrong. I don’t think that can be justified."

"This thing (opening with Kishan) in turn exposed the selection procedure. The team you had picked had only one extra batsman. The team had several spinners but only one extra batter and that too an opener. If a middle-order batter gets unfit, you are left with no option but to play that opener. That throws the batting line-up out of order. The team already had three openers (Rohit, KL Rahul, Kishan). Even Sky could have opened but there were no middle-order batters as back-up. This was a two-way problem and just dismantling the opening combination was not the right thing to do. India's hands were tied in the end," he stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youll-have-to-face-the-nation-md-azharuddin-slams-virat-kohli-for-skipping-presser-after-nz-loss-425910">You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss</a>

After the loss against the NZ, India are on the brink of elimination. They need to win versus the Afghanistan cricket team, on Wednesday (November 3), to stay alive in the semi-finals race. Another defeat will end their campaign versus the Men in Blue.&nbsp;

So far, nothing has clicked for Team India. Their mainstays with the bat have struggled for runs, the bowlers haven't looked daunting (although they didn't have much to defend versus the Kiwis) whereas the team selection and tactics have also been questionable.

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31).

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). Playing their second game, at the same venue i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Men in Blue fell like nine pins as they managed only a paltry 110/7 in 20 overs -- being asked to bat first -- before the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls to spare. While nothing clicked for Team India, the move to demote their biggest match-opener Rohit Sharma, at No. 3, and accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top raised quite a few eyebrows. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has slammed Virat Kohli & Co. to shift Hitman to the No. 3 position after the drubbing versus the Black Caps. ALSO READ | India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli & Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation' Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra opined, "You played Ishan Kishan because Suryakumar Yadav was not fit and made him open. In order to play the left-right combination, you made your biggest match-winner come down in the order. You changed your set batting order (1,2,3) after just one loss and that is fundamentally wrong. I don’t think that can be justified." "This thing (opening with Kishan) in turn exposed the selection procedure. The team you had picked had only one extra batsman. The team had several spinners but only one extra batter and that too an opener. If a middle-order batter gets unfit, you are left with no option but to play that opener. That throws the batting line-up out of order. The team already had three openers (Rohit, KL Rahul, Kishan). Even Sky could have opened but there were no middle-order batters as back-up. This was a two-way problem and just dismantling the opening combination was not the right thing to do. India's hands were tied in the end," he stated. ALSO READ | You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss After the loss against the NZ, India are on the brink of elimination. They need to win versus the Afghanistan cricket team, on Wednesday (November 3), to stay alive in the semi-finals race. Another defeat will end their campaign versus the Men in Blue. So far, nothing has clicked for Team India. Their mainstays with the bat have struggled for runs, the bowlers haven't looked daunting (although they didn't have much to defend versus the Kiwis) whereas the team selection and tactics have also been questionable.

'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion

Former England cricketer Nick Compton has again targeted Indian skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-werent-brave-enough-virat-kohli-demands-more-from-teammates-as-new-zealand-thrash-india-425668">Virat Kohli</a> for not including spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the Playing XI. This time, Compton took a dig at Kohli after his side's eight-wicket <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-indias-semifinals-hopes-jolted-as-new-zealand-hammer-virat-kohli-co-by-8-wickets-425659">loss to New Zealand</a> in the T20 World Cup, which is underway in UAE and Oman.&nbsp;

India were tournament favourites but their semi-final hopes have suffered a jolt after their second successive defeat in the Super 12 stage. They already have faced a humiliating 10-wicket defeat against their arch-rivals Pakistan.&nbsp;

Previously, Compton pointed out Ashwin's non-inclusion in the Playing XI in the fourth Test of India's recent tour to England for a five-match series. Compton had said that Ashwin was not selected due to personal issues with Kohli. "Please can someone explain how Kohli obvious personal issues with Ashwin are allowed to cloud an obvious selection issue?" wrote Compton.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-shami-gets-rousing-welcome-by-crowd-during-india-vs-new-zealand-t20-world-cup-match-425661">Watch: Mohammed Shami gets rousing welcome by crowd during India vs New Zealand T20 World Cup match</a>

Now, taking to his official Twitter, he has raised the same issue again as he questioned that should captains should be allowed such autonomy as he mentioned "Kohli’s prickly relationship with Ashwin".&nbsp;

"I just don't understand how Kohli’s prickly relationship with Ashwin is allowed to keep him out of Indian teams? Do you think Captains should be allowed such autonomy?" wrote Compton on his Twitter handle during India vs New Zealand T20 World Cup contest.&nbsp;

India were put in to bat after Kohli lost the toss, he made two changes as Ishan Kishan replaced Suryakumar Yadav and Shardul Thakur came in for Bhuvneshwar Kumar. However, cricket pundits were speculating the inclusion of another spin-bowling option.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-wasim-jaffers-halloween-inspired-jibe-at-umpire-richard-kettleborough-425651">India vs New Zealand: Wasim Jaffer's Halloween-inspired jibe at umpire Richard Kettleborough</a>

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I just don’t understand how Kohli’s prickly relationship with Ashwin is allowed to keep him out of Indian teams? Do you think Captains should be allowed such autonomy?
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For Kohli’s last game in charge I predict a resounding victory against Namibia on the 8th November… <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCT20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCT20WorldCup</a>
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During the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "We obviously didn't have much to play with the ball. We were just not brave enough in our body language when we entered the field and NZ had better intensity, body language. Every time we took a chance, we lost a wicket. It's most often a result of hesitation of whether you should go for a shot or not."&nbsp;

Put in to bat, India's rejigged top-order and were off to a poor start as they&nbsp;crawled to 110-7 in 20 overs in the Super 12 match. Trent Boult took 3-20 and Ish Sodhi returned 2-17 in New Zealand's disciplined bowling display.&nbsp;

Daryl Mitchell made a fluent 49 and skipper Kane Williamson remained not out on 33 as New Zealand triumphed with 33 balls to spare to bounce back from the defeat by Pakistan in their tournament opener.&nbsp;

Former England cricketer Nick Compton has again targeted Indian skipper Virat Kohli for not including spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the Playing XI. This time, Compton took a dig at Kohli after his side's eight-wicket loss to New Zealand in the T20 World Cup, which is underway in UAE and Oman.

Former England cricketer Nick Compton has again targeted Indian skipper Virat Kohli for not including spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the Playing XI. This time, Compton took a dig at Kohli after his side's eight-wicket loss to New Zealand in the T20 World Cup, which is underway in UAE and Oman. India were tournament favourites but their semi-final hopes have suffered a jolt after their second successive defeat in the Super 12 stage. They already have faced a humiliating 10-wicket defeat against their arch-rivals Pakistan. Previously, Compton pointed out Ashwin's non-inclusion in the Playing XI in the fourth Test of India's recent tour to England for a five-match series. Compton had said that Ashwin was not selected due to personal issues with Kohli. "Please can someone explain how Kohli obvious personal issues with Ashwin are allowed to cloud an obvious selection issue?" wrote Compton. ALSO READ | Watch: Mohammed Shami gets rousing welcome by crowd during India vs New Zealand T20 World Cup match Now, taking to his official Twitter, he has raised the same issue again as he questioned that should captains should be allowed such autonomy as he mentioned "Kohli’s prickly relationship with Ashwin". "I just don't understand how Kohli’s prickly relationship with Ashwin is allowed to keep him out of Indian teams? Do you think Captains should be allowed such autonomy?" wrote Compton on his Twitter handle during India vs New Zealand T20 World Cup contest. India were put in to bat after Kohli lost the toss, he made two changes as Ishan Kishan replaced Suryakumar Yadav and Shardul Thakur came in for Bhuvneshwar Kumar. However, cricket pundits were speculating the inclusion of another spin-bowling option. ALSO READ | India vs New Zealand: Wasim Jaffer's Halloween-inspired jibe at umpire Richard Kettleborough I just don’t understand how Kohli’s prickly relationship with Ashwin is allowed to keep him out of Indian teams? Do you think Captains should be allowed such autonomy? — Nick Compton (@thecompdog) October 31, 2021 × For Kohli’s last game in charge I predict a resounding victory against Namibia on the 8th November… #ICCT20WorldCup — Nick Compton (@thecompdog) October 31, 2021 × During the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "We obviously didn't have much to play with the ball. We were just not brave enough in our body language when we entered the field and NZ had better intensity, body language. Every time we took a chance, we lost a wicket. It's most often a result of hesitation of whether you should go for a shot or not." Put in to bat, India's rejigged top-order and were off to a poor start as they crawled to 110-7 in 20 overs in the Super 12 match. Trent Boult took 3-20 and Ish Sodhi returned 2-17 in New Zealand's disciplined bowling display. Daryl Mitchell made a fluent 49 and skipper Kane Williamson remained not out on 33 as New Zealand triumphed with 33 balls to spare to bounce back from the defeat by Pakistan in their tournament opener.

'Captains should be allowed such autonomy?': Nick Compton's staunch criticism for Virat Kohli over Ashwin

T20 World Cup: Here's what went wrong as India lost crucial match against New Zealand

India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in their second game of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31). After losing to Pakistan in their opening fixture in the main draw of the showpiece event, many expected Virat Kohli &amp; Co. to script a remarkable comeback, however, they lost to the Black Caps by 8 wickets as they remain way behind NZ in head-to-head record in ICC events.

Being asked to bat first, Kohli-led Indian team produced a forgettable batting performance as they were reduced to 110/7, courtesy Trent Boult and Tim Southee's match-winning spells. In reply, Kane Williamson &amp; Co. won the contest by 8 wickets with 33 balls to spare to remain alive in the semi-finals race. India, meanwhile, will have to win all their remaining games by huge margins and hope for few other results to fall in their favour to enter the top four.

After losing the clash, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai,&nbsp;Indian captain Virat Kohli was expected to come and answer the press in the post-match conference, however, he didn't turn up as speedster Jasprit Bumrah came in the captain's place. This has not impressed India's former skipper Mohammad Azharuddin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-be-a-miracle-to-see-them-qualify-shahid-afridi-predicts-indias-fortunes-after-nz-loss-in-t20-wc-425850">Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC</a>

"There is no shame in losing. But you need to come and speak up. That is the right thing to do. People will listen to you and at least get to know the reason behind the loss. There is a difference between Bumrah speaking or a coach/captain speaking. It is important to face the public. You will have to face the nation and come and speak. If you don’t come, what will people think? Needless rumours are going to be spread," Azharuddin said on ABP News.

"If you are the captain, you should take responsibility. When you become the representative of the team, this will happen. If you come attend conference after winning in good times but not after losing in bad times, that isn’t the right approach. I don’t know the reason why he didn’t come, but he should have," Azharuddin pointed out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-takes-a-dig-at-virat-kohli-reacting-to-everything-doesnt-mean-you-are-more-passionate-425844">Gautam Gambhir takes a dig at Virat Kohli: Reacting to everything doesn't mean you are more passionate</a>

India have a herculean task to remain alive in the T20 WC, being held in the UAE. With back-to-back defeats, the 2007 winners will now gear up for their upcoming game, versus Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 3). Another defeat will end their campaign in the mega event.

India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in their second game of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31). After losing to Pakistan in their opening fixture in the main draw of the showpiece event, many expected Virat Kohli & Co.

India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in their second game of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31). After losing to Pakistan in their opening fixture in the main draw of the showpiece event, many expected Virat Kohli & Co. to script a remarkable comeback, however, they lost to the Black Caps by 8 wickets as they remain way behind NZ in head-to-head record in ICC events. Being asked to bat first, Kohli-led Indian team produced a forgettable batting performance as they were reduced to 110/7, courtesy Trent Boult and Tim Southee's match-winning spells. In reply, Kane Williamson & Co. won the contest by 8 wickets with 33 balls to spare to remain alive in the semi-finals race. India, meanwhile, will have to win all their remaining games by huge margins and hope for few other results to fall in their favour to enter the top four. After losing the clash, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, Indian captain Virat Kohli was expected to come and answer the press in the post-match conference, however, he didn't turn up as speedster Jasprit Bumrah came in the captain's place. This has not impressed India's former skipper Mohammad Azharuddin. ALSO READ | Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC "There is no shame in losing. But you need to come and speak up. That is the right thing to do. People will listen to you and at least get to know the reason behind the loss. There is a difference between Bumrah speaking or a coach/captain speaking. It is important to face the public. You will have to face the nation and come and speak. If you don’t come, what will people think? Needless rumours are going to be spread," Azharuddin said on ABP News. "If you are the captain, you should take responsibility. When you become the representative of the team, this will happen. If you come attend conference after winning in good times but not after losing in bad times, that isn’t the right approach. I don’t know the reason why he didn’t come, but he should have," Azharuddin pointed out. ALSO READ | Gautam Gambhir takes a dig at Virat Kohli: Reacting to everything doesn't mean you are more passionate India have a herculean task to remain alive in the T20 WC, being held in the UAE. With back-to-back defeats, the 2007 winners will now gear up for their upcoming game, versus Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 3). Another defeat will end their campaign in the mega event.

You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss

Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary cricketer, has addressed the critical&nbsp;point where Team India went wrong against New Zealand on Sunday in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. New Zealand won by eight wickets against India in their second match in Super-12 stage, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Tendulkar in his Facebook video said, "From the ball one, the bowling changes of Williamson were top notch. The planning was good and in the first six overs we were 35/2 and from those 35 runs the 20 came in five overs."

"After six overs till 10th over we only scored 13 runs, so according to me that was a critical point where we missed out on capitalising. Those easy singles were not available and that forced our batters to play the big shot," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/still-believe-india-is-best-team-pakistan-pacer-shares-heartwarming-post-for-kohli-co-after-nz-defeat-425824">'Still believe India is best team': Pakistan pacer shares heartwarming post for Kohli &amp; Co. after NZ defeat</a>

Both India and New Zealand had lost their first Super 12s game against Pakistan, and they came into this one knowing that a loss would leave their prospects of reaching the semi-finals hanging by a thread.

New Zealand, on the other hand, got off to a flying start, picking up early wickets to put India on the back foot. At 48 for four, India were&nbsp;in big trouble, and while Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya consolidated, it came at the price of India's scoring rate, as the team faced 71 balls without scoring a boundary.

"When Pant came into bat, immediately spinners end was changed by Williamson. Again a smart move. All in all, I felt India was playing a catching of game because how New Zealand dominated the game it was a tough time for India batsmen which forced them to play the big shot," said the former Indian batsman.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-kevin-pietersen-harbhajan-singh-ask-fans-to-support-team-india-after-loss-against-new-zealand-425819">T20 WC: Kevin Pietersen, Harbhajan Singh ask fans to support Team India after loss against New Zealand</a>

Tendulkar also lauded Williamson, calling him a "rock" who has shielded the Kiwis. "Then Daryl Mitchell and Williamson stitched an important stand. Williamson is like a rock for the New Zealand team if he is on a wicket he controls the game well. Mitchell played some decent shots and rotated the strikes," stated&nbsp;Tendulkar.

Meanwhile, India is now reliant on other outcomes to get to the semi-finals. The Men in Blue's next&nbsp;match is against Afghanistan, scheduled for Wednesday in Abu Dhabi.

Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary cricketer, has addressed the critical point where Team India went wrong against New Zealand on Sunday in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition.

Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary cricketer, has addressed the critical point where Team India went wrong against New Zealand on Sunday in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. New Zealand won by eight wickets against India in their second match in Super-12 stage, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Tendulkar in his Facebook video said, "From the ball one, the bowling changes of Williamson were top notch. The planning was good and in the first six overs we were 35/2 and from those 35 runs the 20 came in five overs." "After six overs till 10th over we only scored 13 runs, so according to me that was a critical point where we missed out on capitalising. Those easy singles were not available and that forced our batters to play the big shot," he added. ALSO READ: 'Still believe India is best team': Pakistan pacer shares heartwarming post for Kohli & Co. after NZ defeat Both India and New Zealand had lost their first Super 12s game against Pakistan, and they came into this one knowing that a loss would leave their prospects of reaching the semi-finals hanging by a thread. New Zealand, on the other hand, got off to a flying start, picking up early wickets to put India on the back foot. At 48 for four, India were in big trouble, and while Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya consolidated, it came at the price of India's scoring rate, as the team faced 71 balls without scoring a boundary. "When Pant came into bat, immediately spinners end was changed by Williamson. Again a smart move. All in all, I felt India was playing a catching of game because how New Zealand dominated the game it was a tough time for India batsmen which forced them to play the big shot," said the former Indian batsman. ALSO READ: T20 WC: Kevin Pietersen, Harbhajan Singh ask fans to support Team India after loss against New Zealand Tendulkar also lauded Williamson, calling him a "rock" who has shielded the Kiwis. "Then Daryl Mitchell and Williamson stitched an important stand. Williamson is like a rock for the New Zealand team if he is on a wicket he controls the game well. Mitchell played some decent shots and rotated the strikes," stated Tendulkar. Meanwhile, India is now reliant on other outcomes to get to the semi-finals. The Men in Blue's next match is against Afghanistan, scheduled for Wednesday in Abu Dhabi.

T20 World Cup: Kane Williamson is NZ's rock, says Sachin Tendulkar after Kiwis' win vs India

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in match 28 of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31). Both sides were in a tough spot after losing their respective Super 12 opening fixtures and had to win to progress ahead. In the marquee face-off, Virat Kohli-led Team India were thrashed by the Kiwis as the Black Caps maintained their ICC dominance versus the Men in Blue.

While the one-time winners India aren't out of contention for the semi-finals spot, they surely have their back against the wall at the moment with two successive losses. After Trent Boult's 3-fer and Ish Sodhi's 2 for 17 restricted India to 110/7, the Kiwis chased down the score with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. Courtesy this win, New Zealand have once again shown that they have the knack of beating big teams in ICC events despite not being termed as one of the strongest contenders in showpiece events.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-be-a-miracle-to-see-them-qualify-shahid-afridi-predicts-indias-fortunes-after-nz-loss-in-t20-wc-425850">Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC</a>

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lavished praise on the underrated Kiwis. After the India clash, Vaughan wrote on Twitter, "No one will admit it including themselves as they are so humble but #NZ are pound for pound the best all format Cricket team in the World at the moment …"

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No one will admit it including themselves as they are so humble but <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZ</a> are pound for pound the best all format Cricket team in the World at the moment … <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fact?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fact</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1454856694304059393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sometimes-you-need-a-break-jasprit-bumrah-feels-bubble-fatigue-behind-team-indias-t20-wc-struggles-425804">'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles</a>

For the unversed, New Zealand are the No. 1 ranked side in Tests and ODIs and occupy the fourth spot in ICC T20I rankings. They have appeared in the ODI World Cup final on successive editions, in 2015 and 2019, won the inaugural edition of the ICC Test Championship whereas were also the semi-finalists in the 2016 T20 WC.&nbsp;

How far will the Black Caps go this time around? Only time will tell...

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in match 28 of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31). Both sides were in a tough spot after losing their respective Super 12 opening fixtures and had to win to progress ahead.

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in match 28 of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, on Sunday (October 31). Both sides were in a tough spot after losing their respective Super 12 opening fixtures and had to win to progress ahead. In the marquee face-off, Virat Kohli-led Team India were thrashed by the Kiwis as the Black Caps maintained their ICC dominance versus the Men in Blue. While the one-time winners India aren't out of contention for the semi-finals spot, they surely have their back against the wall at the moment with two successive losses. After Trent Boult's 3-fer and Ish Sodhi's 2 for 17 restricted India to 110/7, the Kiwis chased down the score with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. Courtesy this win, New Zealand have once again shown that they have the knack of beating big teams in ICC events despite not being termed as one of the strongest contenders in showpiece events. ALSO READ | Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC Former England captain Michael Vaughan has lavished praise on the underrated Kiwis. After the India clash, Vaughan wrote on Twitter, "No one will admit it including themselves as they are so humble but #NZ are pound for pound the best all format Cricket team in the World at the moment …" No one will admit it including themselves as they are so humble but #NZ are pound for pound the best all format Cricket team in the World at the moment … #Fact #T20WorldCup — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) October 31, 2021 × ALSO READ | 'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles For the unversed, New Zealand are the No. 1 ranked side in Tests and ODIs and occupy the fourth spot in ICC T20I rankings. They have appeared in the ODI World Cup final on successive editions, in 2015 and 2019, won the inaugural edition of the ICC Test Championship whereas were also the semi-finalists in the 2016 T20 WC. How far will the Black Caps go this time around? Only time will tell...

'Best all-format team' - Michael Vaughan lavishes huge praise on New Zealand after India win in T20 WC

After India shockingly lost to Pakistan in their Super 12 opening fixture in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback hard against New Zealand, their second opposition in the marquee event.

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other on Sunday evening (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai as many expected the one-time winners to move past the Black Caps. However, India do not have a good record versus the Kiwis in ICC events and it once again got exposed as Kohli &amp; Co. lost to Kane Williamson-led Black Caps by 8 wickets at Dubai.

Being asked to bat first, India managed a below-par 110/7 as none of their batters got going whereas Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi starred for Kiwis with the ball. In reply, New Zealand ended the match with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. With this, India have&nbsp;only a solitary victory over the New Zealanders in ICC events, which came during&nbsp;the 2003 ODI World Cup, in South Africa.

After the match, former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi has made a bold claim on India's chances going ahead. He tweeted saying, "India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. @T20WorldCup."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sometimes-you-need-a-break-jasprit-bumrah-feels-bubble-fatigue-behind-team-indias-t20-wc-struggles-425804">'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles</a>

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India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@T20WorldCup</a>
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial/status/1454858664075046914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-sl-t20-world-cup-2021-prediction-who-will-win-todays-match-between-england-and-sri-lanka-425830">ENG vs SL, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between England and Sri Lanka?</a>

At the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "To be brutal upfront, I don't think we were brave enough with bat/ball. We obviously didn't have much to play with the ball. We were just not brave enough in our body language when we entered the field and NZ had better intensity, body language. Every time we took a chance, we lost a wicket. It's most often a result of hesitation of whether you should go for a shot or not. When you play for India, there are loads of expectations. We are watched, people come to the stadium and everyone who plays for India needs to embrace that and cope with it. We haven't done that in these two games, and that's why we haven't won."

India need to win their next game, versus Afghanistan (November 3), at Abu Dhabi as another defeat will lead to their early exit from the marquee tournament.

After India shockingly lost to Pakistan in their Super 12 opening fixture in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback hard against New Zealand, their second opposition in the marquee event.

After India shockingly lost to Pakistan in their Super 12 opening fixture in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback hard against New Zealand, their second opposition in the marquee event. India and New Zealand locked horns with each other on Sunday evening (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai as many expected the one-time winners to move past the Black Caps. However, India do not have a good record versus the Kiwis in ICC events and it once again got exposed as Kohli & Co. lost to Kane Williamson-led Black Caps by 8 wickets at Dubai. Being asked to bat first, India managed a below-par 110/7 as none of their batters got going whereas Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi starred for Kiwis with the ball. In reply, New Zealand ended the match with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. With this, India have only a solitary victory over the New Zealanders in ICC events, which came during the 2003 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. After the match, former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi has made a bold claim on India's chances going ahead. He tweeted saying, "India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. @T20WorldCup." ALSO READ | 'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. @T20WorldCup — Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) October 31, 2021 × ALSO READ | ENG vs SL, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between England and Sri Lanka? At the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "To be brutal upfront, I don't think we were brave enough with bat/ball. We obviously didn't have much to play with the ball. We were just not brave enough in our body language when we entered the field and NZ had better intensity, body language. Every time we took a chance, we lost a wicket. It's most often a result of hesitation of whether you should go for a shot or not. When you play for India, there are loads of expectations. We are watched, people come to the stadium and everyone who plays for India needs to embrace that and cope with it. We haven't done that in these two games, and that's why we haven't won." India need to win their next game, versus Afghanistan (November 3), at Abu Dhabi as another defeat will lead to their early exit from the marquee tournament.

Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC

Virat Kohli's leadership is once again under the scanner after India's back-to-back defeats in their first two matches of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. India lost their opening clash against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets before succumbing to another shambolic eight-wicket defeat against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday (October 31).

Kohli has already announced his decision to step down as the T20I captain of Team India post the T20 World Cup 2021. In what is going to be his final T20 tournament as the captain of the team, India have had a disastrous campaign so far and are on the brink of facing an early exit from the tournament after two losses in a row.

Former Indian opener has taken a dig at Kohli's captaincy and said showing emotions on the field, and reacting to everything doesn't mean someone is more passionate than others. Gambhir took a dig at Kohli's aggressive approach on the field and said sometimes calmness can be equally effective in a pressure situation.

"New Zealand was exactly in the same position as India today. So they had an equal amount of pressure. I mean, it starts with the leader as well. [For New Zealand] it starts with Kane, the calmness," Gambhir said on ESPNCricinfo.

"You don't have to be on the face all the time. You don't have to show your emotions [always], sometimes just your positivity and calmness can be equally positive [for] the group as well. Just by reacting to everything doesn't mean that you are more passionate than someone else," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/54-dot-balls-71-deliveries-without-a-boundary-shocking-stats-numbers-from-indias-flop-show-against-nz-425787">54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats &amp; numbers from India's loss vs NZ</a>

Asked to bat first in the all-important encounter against New Zealand, Indian batting line-up crumbled under pressure after a stuttering start. The move to let Ishan Kishan open the batting with KL Rahul and demote Rohit Sharma to number three backfired as Kishan was dismissed after scoring just 3 runs off 8 balls.

Rahul (18) and Rohit (14) too departed in quick succession while captain Kohli (9) struggled once again. It was crucial cameos from Hardik Pandya (23) and Ravindra Jadeja (26) that somehow helped India cross the 100-run mark and post 110 runs on the board in 20 overs.

New Zealand chased down the target of 111 runs with ease riding on&nbsp;Daryl Mitchell's 49 and captain Kane Willaimson's unbeaten 33. India have three games remaining in the Super 12 and have very bleak chance of making it to the top four after two consecutive losses.

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Virat Kohli's leadership is once again under the scanner after India's back-to-back defeats in their first two matches of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. India lost their opening clash against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets before succumbing to another shambolic eight-wicket defeat against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday (October 31).

Virat Kohli's leadership is once again under the scanner after India's back-to-back defeats in their first two matches of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. India lost their opening clash against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets before succumbing to another shambolic eight-wicket defeat against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday (October 31). Kohli has already announced his decision to step down as the T20I captain of Team India post the T20 World Cup 2021. In what is going to be his final T20 tournament as the captain of the team, India have had a disastrous campaign so far and are on the brink of facing an early exit from the tournament after two losses in a row. Former Indian opener has taken a dig at Kohli's captaincy and said showing emotions on the field, and reacting to everything doesn't mean someone is more passionate than others. Gambhir took a dig at Kohli's aggressive approach on the field and said sometimes calmness can be equally effective in a pressure situation. "New Zealand was exactly in the same position as India today. So they had an equal amount of pressure. I mean, it starts with the leader as well. [For New Zealand] it starts with Kane, the calmness," Gambhir said on ESPNCricinfo. "You don't have to be on the face all the time. You don't have to show your emotions [always], sometimes just your positivity and calmness can be equally positive [for] the group as well. Just by reacting to everything doesn't mean that you are more passionate than someone else," he added. Also Read: 54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats & numbers from India's loss vs NZ Asked to bat first in the all-important encounter against New Zealand, Indian batting line-up crumbled under pressure after a stuttering start. The move to let Ishan Kishan open the batting with KL Rahul and demote Rohit Sharma to number three backfired as Kishan was dismissed after scoring just 3 runs off 8 balls. Rahul (18) and Rohit (14) too departed in quick succession while captain Kohli (9) struggled once again. It was crucial cameos from Hardik Pandya (23) and Ravindra Jadeja (26) that somehow helped India cross the 100-run mark and post 110 runs on the board in 20 overs. New Zealand chased down the target of 111 runs with ease riding on Daryl Mitchell's 49 and captain Kane Willaimson's unbeaten 33. India have three games remaining in the Super 12 and have very bleak chance of making it to the top four after two consecutive losses.

Gautam Gambhir takes a dig at Virat Kohli: Reacting to everything doesn't mean you are more passionate

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen urged the public on Monday to support the team even if they lose a game. Pietersen's remark came after the Indian cricket team was trolled on social media following their ICC Men's T20 World Cup loss to New Zealand. Virat Kohli has also come under scrutiny for his leadership during the match against New Zealand.

"There is a winner and a loser in the game. No player goes out to lose. It is the greatest honour to represent your country. Please realize that the people in the game are not robots and they need support at all times," tweeted Pietersen in Hindi.

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खेल में एक विजेता और एक हारने वाला होता है। कोई भी खिलाड़ी हारने के लिए बाहर नहीं जाता है। अपने देश का प्रतिनिधित्व करना सबसे बड़ा सम्मान है। कृपया महसूस करें कि खेल के लोग रोबोट नहीं हैं और उन्हें हर समय समर्थन की आवश्यकता है।
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1455066555994230789?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/54-dot-balls-71-deliveries-without-a-boundary-shocking-stats-numbers-from-indias-flop-show-against-nz-425787">54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats &amp; numbers from India's flop show against NZ</a>

Harbhajan Singh, an Indian spinner, urged fans not to be too harsh on the players because they are the ones who suffer the most after a loss.

"Let's not be harsh on our players. Yes, we know them for better cricket. Sabse jyada players ko hurt hota hai after such results. but well done to @BLACKCAPS NZ for winning the match. they were fantastic in all departments," tweeted Harbhajan.

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Let’s not be harsh on our players.yes we know them for better cricket.Sabse jyada players ko hurt hota hai after such results.but well done to <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BLACKCAPS</a> NZ for winning th match.they were fantastic in all departments <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1454864130683277317?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi impressed with the ball, and Daryl Mitchell hit 49 off 35 balls to help New Zealand thrash India by eight wickets on Sunday. In the allotted twenty overs, India was held to only 110/7 by New Zealand.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-did-rohit-bat-at-3-shoaib-akhtar-questions-indias-game-plan-says-it-was-a-lost-squad-against-nz-425758">'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ</a>

No batter was able to stay at the crease for a longer duration, resulting in a dismal display. Kohli and Team India will face Afghanistan at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.

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Former England captain Kevin Pietersen urged the public on Monday to support the team even if they lose a game. Pietersen's remark came after the Indian cricket team was trolled on social media following their ICC Men's T20 World Cup loss to New Zealand.

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen urged the public on Monday to support the team even if they lose a game. Pietersen's remark came after the Indian cricket team was trolled on social media following their ICC Men's T20 World Cup loss to New Zealand. Virat Kohli has also come under scrutiny for his leadership during the match against New Zealand. "There is a winner and a loser in the game. No player goes out to lose. It is the greatest honour to represent your country. Please realize that the people in the game are not robots and they need support at all times," tweeted Pietersen in Hindi. खेल में एक विजेता और एक हारने वाला होता है। कोई भी खिलाड़ी हारने के लिए बाहर नहीं जाता है। अपने देश का प्रतिनिधित्व करना सबसे बड़ा सम्मान है। कृपया महसूस करें कि खेल के लोग रोबोट नहीं हैं और उन्हें हर समय समर्थन की आवश्यकता है। — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) November 1, 2021 × ALSO READ | 54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats & numbers from India's flop show against NZ Harbhajan Singh, an Indian spinner, urged fans not to be too harsh on the players because they are the ones who suffer the most after a loss. "Let's not be harsh on our players. Yes, we know them for better cricket. Sabse jyada players ko hurt hota hai after such results. but well done to @BLACKCAPS NZ for winning the match. they were fantastic in all departments," tweeted Harbhajan. Let’s not be harsh on our players.yes we know them for better cricket.Sabse jyada players ko hurt hota hai after such results.but well done to @BLACKCAPS NZ for winning th match.they were fantastic in all departments @BCCI @T20WorldCup @ICC @StarSportsIndia — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) October 31, 2021 × Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi impressed with the ball, and Daryl Mitchell hit 49 off 35 balls to help New Zealand thrash India by eight wickets on Sunday. In the allotted twenty overs, India was held to only 110/7 by New Zealand. ALSO READ | 'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ No batter was able to stay at the crease for a longer duration, resulting in a dismal display. Kohli and Team India will face Afghanistan at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.

T20 WC: Kevin Pietersen, Harbhajan Singh ask fans to support Team India after loss against New Zealand

The Indian cricket team is facing criticism and bashing from all corners after facing a shambolic eight-wicket defeat at the hands of New Zealand in their second Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). While players are being trolled on social media, questions have been raised about the team's intent and body language in what was a disappointing outing for the Men in Blue against the Kiwis.

Asked to bat first in the must-win game, India got off to a stuttering start as they lost opener Ishan Kishan (3) cheaply before KL Rahul (18) and Rohit Sharma (14) also departed in quick succession. Captain Kohli too had an off day as he could only manage 9 runs off 17 balls before being sent back.

Hardik Pandya (23) and Ravindra Jadeja (26) then combined to take India to 110/7 in 20 overs. However, the low-key total proved a cakewalk for New Zealand as they chased it down within 14.3 overs to register a comprehensive win by eight wickets and push India on the brink of an early elimination from the tournament.

The Indian players have been facing intense criticism and are also being trolled for their poor show. Some have yet again crossed the limits on social media and have resorted to abusing the players and their families, blaming them for the team's loss.

Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has shared a heartwarming post for the Indian team, extending his support to the Indian players in a time of crisis. Amir said India still is one of the best teams and it is a matter of time while condemning the attack on players and their families.

"I still believe India is a best team its just a matter&nbsp;of having good time or bad time but abusing player's and their family is such a shame don't forget end of the day it's just a game of cricket," Amir said in a tweet.

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I still believe India is a best team its just a matter of having good time or bad time but abusing player's and their family is such a shame don't forget end of the day it's just a game of cricket.
— Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamamirofficial/status/1455039529350541312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/54-dot-balls-71-deliveries-without-a-boundary-shocking-stats-numbers-from-indias-flop-show-against-nz-425787">&nbsp;54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats &amp; numbers from India's flop show against NZ</a>

India's chances of making it to the top four have gone for a toss after back-to-back defeats against Pakistan and New Zealand in their first two matches respectively. The Kohli-led side will be determined to bounce back and win their next three matches by big margins to stand an outside chance of qualifying while their fate depends on the results of other teams as well. 
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The Indian cricket team is facing criticism and bashing from all corners after facing a shambolic eight-wicket defeat at the hands of New Zealand in their second Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31).

The Indian cricket team is facing criticism and bashing from all corners after facing a shambolic eight-wicket defeat at the hands of New Zealand in their second Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). While players are being trolled on social media, questions have been raised about the team's intent and body language in what was a disappointing outing for the Men in Blue against the Kiwis. Asked to bat first in the must-win game, India got off to a stuttering start as they lost opener Ishan Kishan (3) cheaply before KL Rahul (18) and Rohit Sharma (14) also departed in quick succession. Captain Kohli too had an off day as he could only manage 9 runs off 17 balls before being sent back. Hardik Pandya (23) and Ravindra Jadeja (26) then combined to take India to 110/7 in 20 overs. However, the low-key total proved a cakewalk for New Zealand as they chased it down within 14.3 overs to register a comprehensive win by eight wickets and push India on the brink of an early elimination from the tournament. The Indian players have been facing intense criticism and are also being trolled for their poor show. Some have yet again crossed the limits on social media and have resorted to abusing the players and their families, blaming them for the team's loss. Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has shared a heartwarming post for the Indian team, extending his support to the Indian players in a time of crisis. Amir said India still is one of the best teams and it is a matter of time while condemning the attack on players and their families. "I still believe India is a best team its just a matter of having good time or bad time but abusing player's and their family is such a shame don't forget end of the day it's just a game of cricket," Amir said in a tweet. I still believe India is a best team its just a matter of having good time or bad time but abusing player's and their family is such a shame don't forget end of the day it's just a game of cricket. — Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) November 1, 2021 × Also Read: 54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats & numbers from India's flop show against NZ India's chances of making it to the top four have gone for a toss after back-to-back defeats against Pakistan and New Zealand in their first two matches respectively. The Kohli-led side will be determined to bounce back and win their next three matches by big margins to stand an outside chance of qualifying while their fate depends on the results of other teams as well.

'Still believe India is best team': Pakistan pacer shares heartwarming post for Kohli & Co. after NZ defeat

Virat Kohli-led India's chances of making it to the top four look bleak in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 after their eight-wicket defeat against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday (October 31). India have now lost their first two matches in the Super 12 in a row and are yet to open their win account at the showpiece event.

The Men in Blue suffered a crushing ten-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in their opening game before going down against the Kiwis in the next encounter. The defeat against New Zealand has pushed India to the brink of elimination from the tournament.

In the aftermath of Kohli-led India's defeat, an old tweet of the Indian captain is going viral on social media. The tweet dates back to January 2011 where Kohli had expressed his disappointment over a loss and said he was going home. The tweet has been doing the rounds on social media ever since India's 8-wicket loss against New Zealand on Sunday.

&nbsp;“Sad for the loss&nbsp;going home now," Kohli had tweeted.

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Sad for the loss :( going home now
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/29224697400922112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2011</a></blockquote>
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Asked to bat first, Indis got off to a shaky start against New Zealand as Ishan Kishan replaced Rohit Sharma to open the innings with KL Rahul. The move didn't work for India as Kishan was dismissed after scoring only 4 runs off 8 balls.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/54-dot-balls-71-deliveries-without-a-boundary-shocking-stats-numbers-from-indias-flop-show-against-nz-425787">54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats &amp; numbers from India's flop show vs NZ</a>

Rohit then came out to bat at no.3 and was dropped on the very first ball. The Hitman too couldn't make an impact and was sent back cheaply after scoring 14 off 14 balls. The likes of KL Rahul (18) and skipper Kohli (9) were also dismissed cheaply as India could only manage to post 110 runs on the board in 20 overs.

New Zealand chased down the paltry target of 111 runs inside 14.3 overs to register a comfortable victory by eight wickets and grab their first win in the tournament. India, on the other hand, are winless after their first two games and will need a miracle to qualify for the semi-finals.

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Virat Kohli-led India's chances of making it to the top four look bleak in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 after their eight-wicket defeat against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday (October 31).

Virat Kohli-led India's chances of making it to the top four look bleak in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 after their eight-wicket defeat against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday (October 31). India have now lost their first two matches in the Super 12 in a row and are yet to open their win account at the showpiece event. The Men in Blue suffered a crushing ten-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in their opening game before going down against the Kiwis in the next encounter. The defeat against New Zealand has pushed India to the brink of elimination from the tournament. In the aftermath of Kohli-led India's defeat, an old tweet of the Indian captain is going viral on social media. The tweet dates back to January 2011 where Kohli had expressed his disappointment over a loss and said he was going home. The tweet has been doing the rounds on social media ever since India's 8-wicket loss against New Zealand on Sunday. “Sad for the loss going home now," Kohli had tweeted. Sad for the loss :( going home now — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 23, 2011 × Asked to bat first, Indis got off to a shaky start against New Zealand as Ishan Kishan replaced Rohit Sharma to open the innings with KL Rahul. The move didn't work for India as Kishan was dismissed after scoring only 4 runs off 8 balls. Also Read: 54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats & numbers from India's flop show vs NZ Rohit then came out to bat at no.3 and was dropped on the very first ball. The Hitman too couldn't make an impact and was sent back cheaply after scoring 14 off 14 balls. The likes of KL Rahul (18) and skipper Kohli (9) were also dismissed cheaply as India could only manage to post 110 runs on the board in 20 overs. New Zealand chased down the paltry target of 111 runs inside 14.3 overs to register a comfortable victory by eight wickets and grab their first win in the tournament. India, on the other hand, are winless after their first two games and will need a miracle to qualify for the semi-finals.

'Going home now’ – Virat Kohli’s old tweet goes viral after NZ thrash India in T20 World Cup 2021

After being thrashed by Pakistan in their T20 World Cup 2021 opener, Virat Kohli-led Team India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in their second game in Super 12.

Being asked to bat first, nothing clicked for India as they managed a below-par 110/7 in 20 overs. In reply, New Zealand sailed past the Men in Blue by 8 wickets courtesy vital knocks from Daryl Mitchell and Captain Williamson. With another defeat, the one-time winners India are almost on the verge of being eliminated from the marquee tournament.&nbsp;

With several experts and former cricketers questioning India's poor run and their tactics, Jasprit Bumrah pointed out that the bubble-life has taken a toll on the Indian cricketers. In their defence, Team India have been on the road since mid-May, 2021 and have played regular cricket since then. To move from one bio-bubble to the other isn't easy by any means and it has started to affect the players.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/54-dot-balls-71-deliveries-without-a-boundary-shocking-stats-numbers-from-indias-flop-show-against-nz-425787">54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats &amp; numbers from India's flop show against NZ</a>

Bumrah told reporters post India's thrashing versus New Zealand, "Absolutely, sometimes you need a break. You miss your family. You've been on the road for six months. So all of that sometimes play on the back of your mind. But when you're on the field, you don't think of all those things .. Obviously staying in a bubble and staying away from your family for such a long period of time does play a role.

"The BCCI also tried their best to make us feel comfortable .. It's a difficult time. There's a pandemic going on, so we try to adapt but sometimes bubble fatigue, mental fatigue also creeps in."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-did-rohit-bat-at-3-shoaib-akhtar-questions-indias-game-plan-says-it-was-a-lost-squad-against-nz-425758">'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ</a>

India need a miracle now to progress to the semi-finals from Pool B. At present, Pakistan look certain to top the group whereas the fight for the second spot is between the Black Caps and Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan.

After being thrashed by Pakistan in their T20 World Cup 2021 opener, Virat Kohli-led Team India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in their second game in Super 12.

After being thrashed by Pakistan in their T20 World Cup 2021 opener, Virat Kohli-led Team India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in their second game in Super 12. Being asked to bat first, nothing clicked for India as they managed a below-par 110/7 in 20 overs. In reply, New Zealand sailed past the Men in Blue by 8 wickets courtesy vital knocks from Daryl Mitchell and Captain Williamson. With another defeat, the one-time winners India are almost on the verge of being eliminated from the marquee tournament. With several experts and former cricketers questioning India's poor run and their tactics, Jasprit Bumrah pointed out that the bubble-life has taken a toll on the Indian cricketers. In their defence, Team India have been on the road since mid-May, 2021 and have played regular cricket since then. To move from one bio-bubble to the other isn't easy by any means and it has started to affect the players. ALSO READ | 54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats & numbers from India's flop show against NZ Bumrah told reporters post India's thrashing versus New Zealand, "Absolutely, sometimes you need a break. You miss your family. You've been on the road for six months. So all of that sometimes play on the back of your mind. But when you're on the field, you don't think of all those things .. Obviously staying in a bubble and staying away from your family for such a long period of time does play a role. "The BCCI also tried their best to make us feel comfortable .. It's a difficult time. There's a pandemic going on, so we try to adapt but sometimes bubble fatigue, mental fatigue also creeps in." ALSO READ | 'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ India need a miracle now to progress to the semi-finals from Pool B. At present, Pakistan look certain to top the group whereas the fight for the second spot is between the Black Caps and Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan.

'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles

India endured yet another woeful defeat as they went down by eight wickets against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). A lot was expected from the Virat Kohli-led side after their crushing ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in the opener. However, Kohli &amp; Co. once again failed to turn up in a high-octane clash and were completely outclassed by the Kiwis at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai.

In what was another disappointing night for the Indian batsmen, a top-order collapse saw the Kohli-led side get restricted cheaply for a paltry 110 runs. New Zealand chased down the target comfortably inside 14.3 overs with eight wickets to spare to register their first win in the tournament and push India on the brink of an early elimination from the T20 World Cup 2021.

It was a shambolic performance by the Indian batters as none of them managed to take on the Kiwi bowling attack and step up under pressure for the team. The Indians failed to accelerate throughout the innings and kept losing wickets at regular intervals to let New Zealand bowlers dominate the proceedings in Dubai.

India played a staggering 54 dot balls which are equivalent to as many as nine overs in the game. The Men in Blue also went without a boundary for 71 balls during their innings. There were some more shocking stats and numbers that came out of the Indian innings and are a reflection of the shambolic batting performance.

<h2>Shocking stats and numbers from India's loss against New Zealand:</h2>

1) India played a staggering 54 dot balls equivalent to as many as nine overs during their innings against New Zealand in Dubai&nbsp;

2) India went without a boundary for 71 balls during their innings. Their last boundary had come on the first ball of the sixth over before Hardik Pandya brought an end to the boundary draught on the final ball of the 17th over

3) India's total of 110/7 was their lowest-ever batting first in a T20 World Cup match with their previous lowest being 130/4 against Sri Lanka in the 2014 T20 World Cup final.

4)&nbsp;India failed to attack New Zealand spinners at all. Ish Sodhi and Mitchell Santner bowled 8 overs combined without conceding a single boundary.

5)&nbsp;India managed to score only 35/2 in the Powerplay, which is the third-highest score in the Powerplay in this year's T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

6) India&nbsp;managed only eight fours and two sixes throughout their innings.

7) Only two Indian batters - Ravindra Jadeja (26) and Hardik Pandya (23) managed to cross the 20-run mark during their innings.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-did-rohit-bat-at-3-shoaib-akhtar-questions-indias-game-plan-says-it-was-a-lost-squad-against-nz-425758">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-did-rohit-bat-at-3-shoaib-akhtar-questions-indias-game-plan-says-it-was-a-lost-squad-against-nz-425758">'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ</a>

India are now all but out of the race for the top four but still, stand an outside chance of making it to the next round if they can win their remaining three matches by big margins. The Kohli-led side will also need the results of other teams to go in their favour to make it to the top four. India will take on Afghanistan next in their 3rd Super 12 game on Wednesday (November 03).

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India endured yet another woeful defeat as they went down by eight wickets against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). A lot was expected from the Virat Kohli-led side after their crushing ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in the opener.

India endured yet another woeful defeat as they went down by eight wickets against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). A lot was expected from the Virat Kohli-led side after their crushing ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in the opener. However, Kohli & Co. once again failed to turn up in a high-octane clash and were completely outclassed by the Kiwis at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai. In what was another disappointing night for the Indian batsmen, a top-order collapse saw the Kohli-led side get restricted cheaply for a paltry 110 runs. New Zealand chased down the target comfortably inside 14.3 overs with eight wickets to spare to register their first win in the tournament and push India on the brink of an early elimination from the T20 World Cup 2021. It was a shambolic performance by the Indian batters as none of them managed to take on the Kiwi bowling attack and step up under pressure for the team. The Indians failed to accelerate throughout the innings and kept losing wickets at regular intervals to let New Zealand bowlers dominate the proceedings in Dubai. India played a staggering 54 dot balls which are equivalent to as many as nine overs in the game. The Men in Blue also went without a boundary for 71 balls during their innings. There were some more shocking stats and numbers that came out of the Indian innings and are a reflection of the shambolic batting performance. Shocking stats and numbers from India's loss against New Zealand: 1) India played a staggering 54 dot balls equivalent to as many as nine overs during their innings against New Zealand in Dubai 2) India went without a boundary for 71 balls during their innings. Their last boundary had come on the first ball of the sixth over before Hardik Pandya brought an end to the boundary draught on the final ball of the 17th over 3) India's total of 110/7 was their lowest-ever batting first in a T20 World Cup match with their previous lowest being 130/4 against Sri Lanka in the 2014 T20 World Cup final. 4) India failed to attack New Zealand spinners at all. Ish Sodhi and Mitchell Santner bowled 8 overs combined without conceding a single boundary. 5) India managed to score only 35/2 in the Powerplay, which is the third-highest score in the Powerplay in this year's T20 World Cup. 6) India managed only eight fours and two sixes throughout their innings. 7) Only two Indian batters - Ravindra Jadeja (26) and Hardik Pandya (23) managed to cross the 20-run mark during their innings. Also Read: 'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ India are now all but out of the race for the top four but still, stand an outside chance of making it to the next round if they can win their remaining three matches by big margins. The Kohli-led side will also need the results of other teams to go in their favour to make it to the top four. India will take on Afghanistan next in their 3rd Super 12 game on Wednesday (November 03).

54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats & numbers from India's flop show against NZ