India have been handed a massive blow ahead of the start of the T20I series against South Africa as captain KL Rahul has been ruled out due to an injury. Along with Rahul, spinner Kuldeep Yadav has also been ruled out of the five-match series owing to an injury. Rahul was supposed to lead the team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma, who has been rested for the series.

However, with an injury ruling him out, Rishabh Pant will now replace him as captain for the five T20Is. This will be the first time Pant will captain the Indian team having led Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the last two seasons. Both Pant and Rahul remain part of India's leadership group under regular captain Rohit.

BCCI confirmed the development on Wednesday and said star all-rounder Hardik Pandya will be the vice-captain for the T20I series against South Africa. Hardik enjoyed a phenomenal campaign for Gujarat Titans (GT) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022 by leading them to their maiden title in their debut season.

BCCI confirmed that Rahul has injured his right groin while Kuldeep will miss out after getting hit on his right hand while batting in the nets on Tuesday (June 07). No replacements have been named yet for the duo.

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NEWS - KL Rahul and Kuldeep Yadav ruled out of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> series owing to injury. 
 
The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant as Captain and Hardik Pandya as vice-captain for the home series against South Africa <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1534518961668116482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-started-crying-didnt-sleep-that-night-ex-teammate-recalls-brutal-prank-on-former-india-captain-486246">Kohli started crying, didn't sleep that night: Ex-teammate recalls brutal prank on former India captain</a>

Rahul and Kuldeep's absence is a big blow for India ahead of the series against the Proteas. While Rahul was expected to open the batting along with Ishan Kishan or Ruturaj Gaikwad in Rohit's absence, Kuldeep was expected to continue his fine form in the series after a great campaign in IPL 2022.

Gaikwad and Kishan are likely to open the batting for India in the first T20I against the Proteas at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Thursday (May 09). The onus will be on the likes of Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Hooda and Hardik in the middle order to provide strength to the batting line-up.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mithali-rajs-career-in-numbers-an-undisputed-legend-of-indian-cricket-486206">Mithali Raj's career in numbers - An undisputed legend of Indian cricket</a>

India will miss a host of superstars in the five-match T20I series. While senior players like Rohit, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami had already been rested, they will be now without the services of the likes of Rahul, Kuldeep, Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Chahar due to respective injuries.

India have been handed a massive blow ahead of the start of the T20I series against South Africa as captain KL Rahul has been ruled out due to an injury. Along with Rahul, spinner Kuldeep Yadav has also been ruled out of the five-match series owing to an injury.

India have been handed a massive blow ahead of the start of the T20I series against South Africa as captain KL Rahul has been ruled out due to an injury. Along with Rahul, spinner Kuldeep Yadav has also been ruled out of the five-match series owing to an injury. Rahul was supposed to lead the team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma, who has been rested for the series. However, with an injury ruling him out, Rishabh Pant will now replace him as captain for the five T20Is. This will be the first time Pant will captain the Indian team having led Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the last two seasons. Both Pant and Rahul remain part of India's leadership group under regular captain Rohit. BCCI confirmed the development on Wednesday and said star all-rounder Hardik Pandya will be the vice-captain for the T20I series against South Africa. Hardik enjoyed a phenomenal campaign for Gujarat Titans (GT) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022 by leading them to their maiden title in their debut season. BCCI confirmed that Rahul has injured his right groin while Kuldeep will miss out after getting hit on his right hand while batting in the nets on Tuesday (June 07). No replacements have been named yet for the duo. NEWS - KL Rahul and Kuldeep Yadav ruled out of #INDvSA series owing to injury. The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant as Captain and Hardik Pandya as vice-captain for the home series against South Africa @Paytm #INDvSA — BCCI (@BCCI) June 8, 2022 × Also Read: Kohli started crying, didn't sleep that night: Ex-teammate recalls brutal prank on former India captain Rahul and Kuldeep's absence is a big blow for India ahead of the series against the Proteas. While Rahul was expected to open the batting along with Ishan Kishan or Ruturaj Gaikwad in Rohit's absence, Kuldeep was expected to continue his fine form in the series after a great campaign in IPL 2022. Gaikwad and Kishan are likely to open the batting for India in the first T20I against the Proteas at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Thursday (May 09). The onus will be on the likes of Pant, Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Hooda and Hardik in the middle order to provide strength to the batting line-up. Also Read: Mithali Raj's career in numbers - An undisputed legend of Indian cricket India will miss a host of superstars in the five-match T20I series. While senior players like Rohit, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami had already been rested, they will be now without the services of the likes of Rahul, Kuldeep, Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Chahar due to respective injuries.

Rishabh Pant to lead India in T20I series vs SA after KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav ruled out due to injury

Umran Malik had made heads turn throughout the IPL 2022 edition. His raw pace, deadly yorkers and some tidy spells changed the complexion of the game in favour of Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) before the one-time winners' group stage exit.

Umran, however, returned with as many as 22 wickets and was the fourth-highest wicket-taker, overall, in the 15th season of the IPL, which ended with Gujarat Titans (GT) being crowned the eventual winners. Further, the Jammu &amp; Kashmir speedster bowled the fastest ball of the match in every game SRH featured in and held the record for bowling the quickest ball of the season (157 kph) before Lockie Ferguson went past him&nbsp;in the final (by clocking 157.3 kph).&nbsp;

After a memorable IPL 2022 season, Umran is now part of India's T20I squad for the home series versus South Africa, which gets underway on June 09 in New Delhi. Before that, the 22-year-old revealed how SRH's bowling coach and legendary SA pacer Steyn had predicted his India call-up before IPL 2022.

"When I got selected for India, Dale sir (Steyn) was with me in the team bus. We were going for the match. Everyone congratulated me and Dale sir said, 'I told you before the IPL that you will get the India call-up after the season'. And that's exactly what happened, by the grace of god. My goal is to give my best for Team India now,” Malik said in the video shared by BCCI.

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💬 💬 "A dream come true moment to get India call up." 
 
Umran Malik speaks about the excitement on being a part of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> squad, Day 1 at the practice session, his idols and goals ahead. 👍 👍 - By <a href="https://twitter.com/28anand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@28anand</a> 
 
Full interview 🎥 🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://t.co/V9ySL4JKDl">pic.twitter.com/V9ySL4JKDl</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1534400456767971328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On joining the Indian camp, Umran said, "I was very happy to meet and talk with Rahul sir. He is such a legend of the game. He just told me to keep continuing what I do. Paras sir was also standing behind me and he was guiding me after every ball. It was giving me a lot of confidence."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-need-to-be-realistic-rahul-dravid-on-umran-maliks-potential-debut-for-india-in-south-africa-t20i-series-486033">'We need to be realistic': Rahul Dravid on Umran Malik's potential debut for India in South Africa T20I series</a>

In regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence, KL Rahul will lead the national side in the forthcoming SA T20Is at home. It will be interesting to see if Umran features in the playing XI for the series opener or is made to wait for his chances.

India's T20I squad for South Africa series -&nbsp;KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Umran Malik had made heads turn throughout the IPL 2022 edition. His raw pace, deadly yorkers and some tidy spells changed the complexion of the game in favour of Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) before the one-time winners' group stage exit.

Umran Malik had made heads turn throughout the IPL 2022 edition. His raw pace, deadly yorkers and some tidy spells changed the complexion of the game in favour of Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) before the one-time winners' group stage exit. Umran, however, returned with as many as 22 wickets and was the fourth-highest wicket-taker, overall, in the 15th season of the IPL, which ended with Gujarat Titans (GT) being crowned the eventual winners. Further, the Jammu & Kashmir speedster bowled the fastest ball of the match in every game SRH featured in and held the record for bowling the quickest ball of the season (157 kph) before Lockie Ferguson went past him in the final (by clocking 157.3 kph). After a memorable IPL 2022 season, Umran is now part of India's T20I squad for the home series versus South Africa, which gets underway on June 09 in New Delhi. Before that, the 22-year-old revealed how SRH's bowling coach and legendary SA pacer Steyn had predicted his India call-up before IPL 2022. "When I got selected for India, Dale sir (Steyn) was with me in the team bus. We were going for the match. Everyone congratulated me and Dale sir said, 'I told you before the IPL that you will get the India call-up after the season'. And that's exactly what happened, by the grace of god. My goal is to give my best for Team India now,” Malik said in the video shared by BCCI. 💬 💬 "A dream come true moment to get India call up." Umran Malik speaks about the excitement on being a part of the #TeamIndia squad, Day 1 at the practice session, his idols and goals ahead. 👍 👍 - By @28anand Full interview 🎥 🔽 #INDvSA | @Paytm pic.twitter.com/V9ySL4JKDl — BCCI (@BCCI) June 8, 2022 × On joining the Indian camp, Umran said, "I was very happy to meet and talk with Rahul sir. He is such a legend of the game. He just told me to keep continuing what I do. Paras sir was also standing behind me and he was guiding me after every ball. It was giving me a lot of confidence." ALSO READ | 'We need to be realistic': Rahul Dravid on Umran Malik's potential debut for India in South Africa T20I series In regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence, KL Rahul will lead the national side in the forthcoming SA T20Is at home. It will be interesting to see if Umran features in the playing XI for the series opener or is made to wait for his chances. India's T20I squad for South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Pace sensation Umran Malik reveals how Dale Steyn had predicted his India call-up before IPL 2022

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lavished praise on head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, which gets underway on June 09. Pathan, who has played under Dravid's captaincy, hailed The Wall for his knack for being crystal clear with his players in terms of what he wants from them.

In this regard, Pathan feels Dravid must have given role clarity to a new-looking Indian squad which is gearing up to face Temba Bavuma-led Proteas in the five-match T20I series at home and must have communicated what he wants from KL Rahul the batter and captain (in regular skipper Rohit Sharma's absence).

Speaking on Star Sports, Irfan said, "It is extremely necessary and the clarity would have been given. I have been saying that since Rahul Dravid has come as a coach, I have played under his captaincy, his biggest thing is the clarity of role.

“It is not that the earlier coaches have not done that, Ravi Shastri was there and Virat Kohli was captaining, but he (Dravid) will take it one step ahead. I have full belief the communication would have happened and KL Rahul would have been told that if he is the captain, it means he is the next in line,” he further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-head-coach-rahul-dravid-gives-pep-talk-as-team-india-begin-training-for-south-africa-t20i-series-485649">WATCH: Head coach Rahul Dravid gives pep talk as Team India begin training for South Africa T20I series</a>

The Dravid-Rahul-led Indian team will be eager to get off to a winning start in the five T20Is as they are preparing hard for this year's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in the second half of 2022. For the SA series, Rohit, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested.

India's T20I squad for South Africa series -&nbsp;KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lavished praise on head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, which gets underway on June 09. Pathan, who has played under Dravid's captaincy, hailed The Wall for his knack for being crystal clear with his players in terms of what he wants from them.

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lavished praise on head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, which gets underway on June 09. Pathan, who has played under Dravid's captaincy, hailed The Wall for his knack for being crystal clear with his players in terms of what he wants from them. In this regard, Pathan feels Dravid must have given role clarity to a new-looking Indian squad which is gearing up to face Temba Bavuma-led Proteas in the five-match T20I series at home and must have communicated what he wants from KL Rahul the batter and captain (in regular skipper Rohit Sharma's absence). Speaking on Star Sports, Irfan said, "It is extremely necessary and the clarity would have been given. I have been saying that since Rahul Dravid has come as a coach, I have played under his captaincy, his biggest thing is the clarity of role. “It is not that the earlier coaches have not done that, Ravi Shastri was there and Virat Kohli was captaining, but he (Dravid) will take it one step ahead. I have full belief the communication would have happened and KL Rahul would have been told that if he is the captain, it means he is the next in line,” he further added. ALSO READ | WATCH: Head coach Rahul Dravid gives pep talk as Team India begin training for South Africa T20I series The Dravid-Rahul-led Indian team will be eager to get off to a winning start in the five T20Is as they are preparing hard for this year's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in the second half of 2022. For the SA series, Rohit, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested. India's T20I squad for South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

KL Rahul would've been told he's next-in-line: Irfan Pathan on Rahul Dravid's communication with India captain

India are gearing up to take on South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home starting from Thursday (June 09). The first T20I of the series will be played at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi. The Indian players are back on national duty after the gruelling season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) which concluded on May 29 last month. The players will be hoping to hit the ground running in the opening game on Thursday.

In the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, KL Rahul will be leading the team. While a number of youngsters have made the cut in the squad after an impressive IPL campaign, the likes of Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik are also back.

Star batter Suryakumar Yadav will also miss the series due to an injury and in his absence, the onus will be on Shreyas Iyer to play a key role for the Men in Blue in the top four. Iyer is likely to bat at number three and will be hoping to continue his fine form with the bat in the five-match T20I series.

Iyer will also be aiming to go past Indian skipper Rohit in an elite list of batters. Iyer is just 191 runs away from completing 1,000 runs in T2OIs for India and can become the 3rd fastest batter to achieve the feat after Virat Kohli (29) and KL Rahul (32). Iyer currently has 809 runs in 36 T20Is at an average of 36.77 and a brilliant strike rate of over 140.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-told-me-i-will-be-in-world-cup-squad-after-3-matches-hardik-panda-recalls-his-team-india-debut-485703">Dhoni told me I will be in World Cup squad after 3 matches: Hardik Pandya recalls his Team India debut</a>

He has a chance to go past Rohit and become the 3rd fastest Indian batter to complete 1,000 runs in T20Is. Rohit had achieved the feat in 47 matches for the Men in Blue.

Fastest Indian batters to 1,000 runs in T20Is:

Virat Kohli - 29 matches

KL Rahul - 32 matches&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma - 47 matches&nbsp;

Iyer is coming off a decent season with the bat for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2022. Leading the side, Iyer scored 401 runs in 14 games at an average of 30.85 and a strike rate of over 134 last season. While it was a decent campaign for him on the personal front, his team struggled and failed to make it to the playoffs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-not-followed-waqar-younis-umran-malik-reveals-his-3-idols-after-comparisons-with-ex-pakistan-pacer-485563">'I have not followed Waqar': Umran Malik reveals his 3 idols after comparisons with ex-Pakistan pacer</a>

Iyer will now return to action for Team India and will hope to make an impact as head coach Rahul Dravid and the team management will be keeping an eye on the performances of each player considering the T20 World Cup 2022 is now just a few months away.

India are gearing up to take on South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home starting from Thursday (June 09). The first T20I of the series will be played at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi.

India are gearing up to take on South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home starting from Thursday (June 09). The first T20I of the series will be played at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi. The Indian players are back on national duty after the gruelling season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) which concluded on May 29 last month. The players will be hoping to hit the ground running in the opening game on Thursday. In the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, KL Rahul will be leading the team. While a number of youngsters have made the cut in the squad after an impressive IPL campaign, the likes of Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik are also back. Star batter Suryakumar Yadav will also miss the series due to an injury and in his absence, the onus will be on Shreyas Iyer to play a key role for the Men in Blue in the top four. Iyer is likely to bat at number three and will be hoping to continue his fine form with the bat in the five-match T20I series. Iyer will also be aiming to go past Indian skipper Rohit in an elite list of batters. Iyer is just 191 runs away from completing 1,000 runs in T2OIs for India and can become the 3rd fastest batter to achieve the feat after Virat Kohli (29) and KL Rahul (32). Iyer currently has 809 runs in 36 T20Is at an average of 36.77 and a brilliant strike rate of over 140. Also Read: Dhoni told me I will be in World Cup squad after 3 matches: Hardik Pandya recalls his Team India debut He has a chance to go past Rohit and become the 3rd fastest Indian batter to complete 1,000 runs in T20Is. Rohit had achieved the feat in 47 matches for the Men in Blue. Fastest Indian batters to 1,000 runs in T20Is: Virat Kohli - 29 matches KL Rahul - 32 matches Rohit Sharma - 47 matches Iyer is coming off a decent season with the bat for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2022. Leading the side, Iyer scored 401 runs in 14 games at an average of 30.85 and a strike rate of over 134 last season. While it was a decent campaign for him on the personal front, his team struggled and failed to make it to the playoffs. Also Read: 'I have not followed Waqar': Umran Malik reveals his 3 idols after comparisons with ex-Pakistan pacer Iyer will now return to action for Team India and will hope to make an impact as head coach Rahul Dravid and the team management will be keeping an eye on the performances of each player considering the T20 World Cup 2022 is now just a few months away.

Shreyas Iyer aims to surpass Rohit Sharma in elite list as India gear up for South Africa T20I series

India have begun their preparations for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. KL Rahul will lead the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma in the five-match series against the Proteas. Several youngsters who impressed in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 have made the cut into the squad and will be eager to perform for the Men in Blue.

The five-match series against South Africa is scheduled to get underway from June 09 at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi. Each member of the Indian squad was in action during IPL 2022 which concluded on May 29 and got a much-deserved break before returning for national duty this month.

Apart from skipper Rohit, senior players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami have also been rested from the squad and will return to action in the one-off Test against England next month. In their absence, it will be a litmus test for Rahul as captain in charge of a young team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-will-go-miles-past-my-record-alastair-cook-lauds-joe-root-after-he-goes-past-10000-runs-in-test-cricket-485600">He will go miles past my record: Cook lauds Joe Root after he goes past 10,000 runs in Test cricket</a>

In a video shared by BCCI on Twitter, India head coach Rahul Dravid was seen giving a pep talk to the players as they stood in a huddle during their training session at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi on Monday. The likes of Rahul, Dinesh Karthik, Arshdeep Singh and others were seen listening with attention.

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Back in Blue - Prep mode <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> begin training in Delhi ahead of the 1st T20I against South Africa.<a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/kOr8jsGJwL">pic.twitter.com/kOr8jsGJwL</a>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-not-followed-waqar-younis-umran-malik-reveals-his-3-idols-after-comparisons-with-ex-pakistan-pacer-485563">'I have not followed Waqar Younis': Umran reveals his 3 idols after comparisons with ex-Pakistan pacer</a>

While the likes of Umran and Arshdeep were selected in the squad after their exploits with the ball in the recently-concluded season, veteran Karthik also managed to make his comeback to the team after a gap of 3 years. Karthik, who last featured for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup, was phenomenal for RCB as a finisher in IPL 2022.

In the absence of Bumrah and Shami, Bhuvneshwar will spearhead India's pace attack and will have support from the likes of Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Umran and Arshdeep. India will be hoping to get off to a winning start in the T20I series and gain some momentum for the rest four games. It remains to be seen if Umran will be handed his debut after a stellar season in IPL 2022.

India have begun their preparations for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. KL Rahul will lead the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma in the five-match series against the Proteas.

India have begun their preparations for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. KL Rahul will lead the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma in the five-match series against the Proteas. Several youngsters who impressed in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 have made the cut into the squad and will be eager to perform for the Men in Blue. The five-match series against South Africa is scheduled to get underway from June 09 at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi. Each member of the Indian squad was in action during IPL 2022 which concluded on May 29 and got a much-deserved break before returning for national duty this month. Apart from skipper Rohit, senior players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami have also been rested from the squad and will return to action in the one-off Test against England next month. In their absence, it will be a litmus test for Rahul as captain in charge of a young team. Also Read: He will go miles past my record: Cook lauds Joe Root after he goes past 10,000 runs in Test cricket In a video shared by BCCI on Twitter, India head coach Rahul Dravid was seen giving a pep talk to the players as they stood in a huddle during their training session at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi on Monday. The likes of Rahul, Dinesh Karthik, Arshdeep Singh and others were seen listening with attention. Back in Blue - Prep mode #TeamIndia begin training in Delhi ahead of the 1st T20I against South Africa.@Paytm #INDvSA pic.twitter.com/kOr8jsGJwL — BCCI (@BCCI) June 6, 2022 × Also Read: 'I have not followed Waqar Younis': Umran reveals his 3 idols after comparisons with ex-Pakistan pacer While the likes of Umran and Arshdeep were selected in the squad after their exploits with the ball in the recently-concluded season, veteran Karthik also managed to make his comeback to the team after a gap of 3 years. Karthik, who last featured for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup, was phenomenal for RCB as a finisher in IPL 2022. In the absence of Bumrah and Shami, Bhuvneshwar will spearhead India's pace attack and will have support from the likes of Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Umran and Arshdeep. India will be hoping to get off to a winning start in the T20I series and gain some momentum for the rest four games. It remains to be seen if Umran will be handed his debut after a stellar season in IPL 2022.

WATCH: Head coach Rahul Dravid gives pep talk as Team India begin training for South Africa T20I series

A 'one in 15 million' event, as described UK's air traffic control provider NATS, caused the air traffic meltdown last week. The chief of NATS cited a flight plan with two identically named markers as reason for the air-traffic chaos.

On August 28, 1500 flights were cancelled as a result of which thousands of passengers were stranded abroad for days. The disturbance came during one of the busiest travel periods of the summer.

"This was a one in 15 million chance," NATS CEO Martin Rolfe told the BBC.

"We've processed 15 million flight plans with this system up until this point and never seen this before."

A few days ago Rolfe said that the problem would not be repeated.

On Wednesday, NATS published a report that said that the flight plan included two identically named but separate waypoint markers outside UK airspace, which forced the system to enter fail-safe mode.

"In these circumstances, the system could not reject the flight plan without a clear understanding of what possible impact it may have had. Nor could it be allowed through and risk presenting air traffic controllers with incorrect safety-critical information," NATS said.

It said that the flight plan was complying with Eurocontrol's flight planning distribution system.

UK's Civil Aviation Regulator (CAA) has said that it will review circumstances surrounding the failure.

"If there is evidence to suggest NATS may have breached its statutory and licensing obligations we will consider whether any further action is necessary," Rob Bishton, Joint-Interim Chief Executive at the UK's CAA, said in a statement.

This may mean that NATS would end up footing some of the bill for the chaos that ensued last week.

According IATA, the global airline group, the episode is likely to cost airlines up to 100 million pounds ($126 million) as travellers whose flights were cancelled would claim back expenses for the hotels or the tickets.

Britain-based airline easyJet said the NATS report left some questions unanswered. It added that though it welcomed the review, it believed a more wide-ranging examination of resources and IT systems was necessary.

"A full independent and wide-ranging review of NATS is needed to ensure it is fit for purpose today and in the future," easyJet said.

(With input from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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A 'one in 15 million' event, as described UK's air traffic control provider NATS, caused the air traffic meltdown last week. The chief of NATS cited a flight plan with two identically named markers as reason for the air-traffic chaos.

A 'one in 15 million' event, as described UK's air traffic control provider NATS, caused the air traffic meltdown last week. The chief of NATS cited a flight plan with two identically named markers as reason for the air-traffic chaos. On August 28, 1500 flights were cancelled as a result of which thousands of passengers were stranded abroad for days. The disturbance came during one of the busiest travel periods of the summer. "This was a one in 15 million chance," NATS CEO Martin Rolfe told the BBC. "We've processed 15 million flight plans with this system up until this point and never seen this before." A few days ago Rolfe said that the problem would not be repeated. On Wednesday, NATS published a report that said that the flight plan included two identically named but separate waypoint markers outside UK airspace, which forced the system to enter fail-safe mode. "In these circumstances, the system could not reject the flight plan without a clear understanding of what possible impact it may have had. Nor could it be allowed through and risk presenting air traffic controllers with incorrect safety-critical information," NATS said. It said that the flight plan was complying with Eurocontrol's flight planning distribution system. UK's Civil Aviation Regulator (CAA) has said that it will review circumstances surrounding the failure. "If there is evidence to suggest NATS may have breached its statutory and licensing obligations we will consider whether any further action is necessary," Rob Bishton, Joint-Interim Chief Executive at the UK's CAA, said in a statement. This may mean that NATS would end up footing some of the bill for the chaos that ensued last week. According IATA, the global airline group, the episode is likely to cost airlines up to 100 million pounds ($126 million) as travellers whose flights were cancelled would claim back expenses for the hotels or the tickets. Britain-based airline easyJet said the NATS report left some questions unanswered. It added that though it welcomed the review, it believed a more wide-ranging examination of resources and IT systems was necessary. "A full independent and wide-ranging review of NATS is needed to ensure it is fit for purpose today and in the future," easyJet said. (With input from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India vs SA, T20Is: 'He'll do very well' - Suresh Raina makes bold prediction for star Indian batter

Hardik Pandya has been the talk of the town ever since he led the Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden title in the IPL 2022 final. Beating Rajasthan Royals (RR) by seven wickets in the summit clash, on Sunday evening (May 29) at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, Gujarat franchise have won hearts whereas Hardik's all-round abilities and leadership qualities have been hailed by many.

Now, Hardik is set for a return in Team India jersey as the white-ball side is set to host Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in a five-match T20I series, starting on June 09 in New Delhi. For the unversed, the series will mark the 28-year-old Hardik's return as he last played for the national side during the 2021 T20 World Cup. Ahead of his return, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar heaped praise on Hardik, post IPL 2022 final, and suggested his batting slot for Team India for the SA T20Is.

Speaking to&nbsp;Star Sports, batting legend said,&nbsp;"I think he'll probably be slotted at five or six. Just imagine, if India has a Hardik Pandya and a Rishabh Pant at five or six. They can probably swap around a little bit -- that is going to be some explosive combination from the 14th to the 20th over. In six overs, you can probably expect even maybe 100-120 runs. They are capable of doing that. So, that's going to be an exciting aspect. That's something I'm really looking forward to -- Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya batting at five or six."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-south-africa-t20i-series-kl-rahul-led-india-set-to-reach-delhi-on-june-5-3-days-after-visitors-483771">India vs South Africa, T20I series: KL Rahul-led India set to reach Delhi on June 5; 3 days after visitors</a>

Hardik will be eager to make a mark in his return to India's white-ball side. With the 2022 T20 World Cup scheduled to be held later this year, in Australia, the IPL-winning captain will be desperate to be right on the money in blue jersey and continue to make heads turn.

India squad for SA T20Is:&nbsp;KL Rahul (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain, wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik.

Hardik Pandya has been the talk of the town ever since he led the Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden title in the IPL 2022 final. Beating Rajasthan Royals (RR) by seven wickets in the summit clash, on Sunday evening (May 29) at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, Gujarat franchise have won hearts whereas Hardik's all-round abilities and leadership qualities have been hailed by many.

Hardik Pandya has been the talk of the town ever since he led the Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden title in the IPL 2022 final. Beating Rajasthan Royals (RR) by seven wickets in the summit clash, on Sunday evening (May 29) at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, Gujarat franchise have won hearts whereas Hardik's all-round abilities and leadership qualities have been hailed by many. Now, Hardik is set for a return in Team India jersey as the white-ball side is set to host Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in a five-match T20I series, starting on June 09 in New Delhi. For the unversed, the series will mark the 28-year-old Hardik's return as he last played for the national side during the 2021 T20 World Cup. Ahead of his return, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar heaped praise on Hardik, post IPL 2022 final, and suggested his batting slot for Team India for the SA T20Is. Speaking to Star Sports, batting legend said, "I think he'll probably be slotted at five or six. Just imagine, if India has a Hardik Pandya and a Rishabh Pant at five or six. They can probably swap around a little bit -- that is going to be some explosive combination from the 14th to the 20th over. In six overs, you can probably expect even maybe 100-120 runs. They are capable of doing that. So, that's going to be an exciting aspect. That's something I'm really looking forward to -- Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya batting at five or six." ALSO READ | India vs South Africa, T20I series: KL Rahul-led India set to reach Delhi on June 5; 3 days after visitors Hardik will be eager to make a mark in his return to India's white-ball side. With the 2022 T20 World Cup scheduled to be held later this year, in Australia, the IPL-winning captain will be desperate to be right on the money in blue jersey and continue to make heads turn. India squad for SA T20Is: KL Rahul (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain, wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik.

India vs SA T20Is: Sunil Gavaskar suggests best batting slot for Hardik Pandya ahead of series vs Proteas

After the end of IPL 2022, cricketing action at the highest level resumes for Team India as they are set to host a five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa starting on June 09. KL Rahul-led India will be eager to settle scores with the Proteas after being whitewashed in the three ODIs early this year, in the African nation.

According to a report in&nbsp;Cricbuzz, it has been learned that Rahul &amp; Co. will assemble in New Delhi on June 5. On the other hand, the&nbsp;South Africans will touch down in the national capital prior to the hosts, i.e. on June 2.&nbsp;

India and South Africa will play the series opener at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on June 09. The action will then move to Cuttack for the second T20I (on June 12), Visakhapatnam&nbsp;(on June 14), and Rajkot (on June 17) with the series finale on June 19 in Bengaluru. The entire series will not have any bio-bubble, as confirmed by the BCCI Secretary recently.

For the unversed, India's Test squad will leave for England on June 16 whereas the members of the white-ball side will&nbsp;depart on June 23-24 for a two-match T20I series versus hosts&nbsp;Ireland. In the absence of head coach Dravid for the Ireland series, National Cricket Academy (NCA) chief VVS Laxman is set to take charge of the white-ball side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-t20is-bcci-secretary-jay-shah-confirms-no-bio-bubble-for-home-series-vs-proteas-483285">India vs SA, T20Is: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah confirms no bio-bubble for home series vs Proteas</a>

India squad: KL Rahul (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain, wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik.

South Africa squad: Temba Bavuma (C), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen and Marco Jansen.

After the end of IPL 2022, cricketing action at the highest level resumes for Team India as they are set to host a five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa starting on June 09.

After the end of IPL 2022, cricketing action at the highest level resumes for Team India as they are set to host a five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa starting on June 09. KL Rahul-led India will be eager to settle scores with the Proteas after being whitewashed in the three ODIs early this year, in the African nation. According to a report in Cricbuzz, it has been learned that Rahul & Co. will assemble in New Delhi on June 5. On the other hand, the South Africans will touch down in the national capital prior to the hosts, i.e. on June 2. India and South Africa will play the series opener at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on June 09. The action will then move to Cuttack for the second T20I (on June 12), Visakhapatnam (on June 14), and Rajkot (on June 17) with the series finale on June 19 in Bengaluru. The entire series will not have any bio-bubble, as confirmed by the BCCI Secretary recently. For the unversed, India's Test squad will leave for England on June 16 whereas the members of the white-ball side will depart on June 23-24 for a two-match T20I series versus hosts Ireland. In the absence of head coach Dravid for the Ireland series, National Cricket Academy (NCA) chief VVS Laxman is set to take charge of the white-ball side. ALSO READ | India vs SA, T20Is: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah confirms no bio-bubble for home series vs Proteas India squad: KL Rahul (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain, wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik. South Africa squad: Temba Bavuma (C), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen and Marco Jansen.

India vs South Africa, T20I series: KL Rahul-led India set to reach Delhi on June 5; 3 days after visitors

Ahead of IPL 2022, many had their eyes on Hardik Pandya as the 28-year-old had been out of action since Team India's 2021 T20 World Cup campaign, in the UAE. He had missed quite a few bilateral series for India as the star all-rounder was preparing for his comeback in IPL 2022.&nbsp;

Dealing with a back issue, for the past few years, Hardik's comeback was keenly awaited as a great season would've ensured his return in Team India setup. Hardik not only rose to the occasion with the bat (487 runs overall) and bowled some tidy overs to also claim eight scalps, he led the new franchise Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden title in the just-concluded 15th season of the IPL.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-gt-mentor-gary-kirsten-heaps-praise-on-hardik-pandya-reveals-his-uniqueness-as-a-captain-483539">IPL 2022: GT mentor Gary Kirsten heaps praise on Hardik Pandya, reveals his uniqueness as a captain</a>

Thus, Hardik has also shown his leadership credentials and is being widely praised for his calm and composed style of captaincy.&nbsp;However, things weren't at its best for the all-rounder ahead of the 2019 ODI World Cup, when KL Rahul and he got involved in a huge controversy for their sexist and racist remarks on a television show, i.e. the Koffee With Karan. Since then, he has made rapid strides in his international career.

Recently, Hardik's childhood coach recalled his ward's words after his tv show appearance.&nbsp;Speaking to Indian Express, Jitender Singh, his childhood coach recalled how tense Hardik was post the infamous episode and how he promised to move&nbsp;up the ladder once again.

"He hadn’t slept the whole night, na?,” the coach asked another person in the room (in Hardik's residence). "Tension nahin lena hai (Don’t take tension). You will get back to playing for India very soon. Jo ho gaya, voh ho gaya (what’s done is done), no use worrying about it. Come tomorrow to Reliance stadium. Now, smile," the coach revealed.

“I had booked a badminton court for us to play. Just to get the competitive juices and the joy of sport back in him. I wanted him to sweat out. It freed himself, usko ehsaas hua (he realised) that he is a sportsman and this is what he is born to do. Not chat shows," he further asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-hardik-pandya-does-an-ms-dhoni-hands-over-trophy-to-gt-youngsters-after-ipl-2022-win-483511">WATCH: Hardik Pandya does an MS Dhoni, hands over trophy to GT youngsters after IPL 2022 win</a>

Jitender further recalled Hardik's words&nbsp;post the big controversy. “Coach, you will not hear any negative thing about me after this," Jitender recalled Hardik's words. “He has held that word, his father would have been so proud today," he added.

Hardik will now shift his focus to India's forthcoming home T20I series versus South Africa, which will be his comeback in the blue jersey since the last year's&nbsp;ICC event. The series gets underway on June 9 in New Delhi.

Ahead of IPL 2022, many had their eyes on Hardik Pandya as the 28-year-old had been out of action since Team India's 2021 T20 World Cup campaign, in the UAE. He had missed quite a few bilateral series for India as the star all-rounder was preparing for his comeback in IPL 2022.

Ahead of IPL 2022, many had their eyes on Hardik Pandya as the 28-year-old had been out of action since Team India's 2021 T20 World Cup campaign, in the UAE. He had missed quite a few bilateral series for India as the star all-rounder was preparing for his comeback in IPL 2022. Dealing with a back issue, for the past few years, Hardik's comeback was keenly awaited as a great season would've ensured his return in Team India setup. Hardik not only rose to the occasion with the bat (487 runs overall) and bowled some tidy overs to also claim eight scalps, he led the new franchise Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden title in the just-concluded 15th season of the IPL. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: GT mentor Gary Kirsten heaps praise on Hardik Pandya, reveals his uniqueness as a captain Thus, Hardik has also shown his leadership credentials and is being widely praised for his calm and composed style of captaincy. However, things weren't at its best for the all-rounder ahead of the 2019 ODI World Cup, when KL Rahul and he got involved in a huge controversy for their sexist and racist remarks on a television show, i.e. the Koffee With Karan. Since then, he has made rapid strides in his international career. Recently, Hardik's childhood coach recalled his ward's words after his tv show appearance. Speaking to Indian Express, Jitender Singh, his childhood coach recalled how tense Hardik was post the infamous episode and how he promised to move up the ladder once again. "He hadn’t slept the whole night, na?,” the coach asked another person in the room (in Hardik's residence). "Tension nahin lena hai (Don’t take tension). You will get back to playing for India very soon. Jo ho gaya, voh ho gaya (what’s done is done), no use worrying about it. Come tomorrow to Reliance stadium. Now, smile," the coach revealed. “I had booked a badminton court for us to play. Just to get the competitive juices and the joy of sport back in him. I wanted him to sweat out. It freed himself, usko ehsaas hua (he realised) that he is a sportsman and this is what he is born to do. Not chat shows," he further asserted. ALSO READ | WATCH: Hardik Pandya does an MS Dhoni, hands over trophy to GT youngsters after IPL 2022 win Jitender further recalled Hardik's words post the big controversy. “Coach, you will not hear any negative thing about me after this," Jitender recalled Hardik's words. “He has held that word, his father would have been so proud today," he added. Hardik will now shift his focus to India's forthcoming home T20I series versus South Africa, which will be his comeback in the blue jersey since the last year's ICC event. The series gets underway on June 9 in New Delhi.

'You will hear...' - Hardik Pandya's coach reveals how all-rounder got past infamous tv show appearance

Post the IPL 2022 edition, which is set to end on Sunday (May 29), the cricketing action will continue for the Indian players as a second-stringed Indian team will shift their focus to hosting South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home, starting on June 09.

Ahead of the series, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has confirmed that there will be no bio-bubble for the forthcoming T20Is. However, the players will continue to undergo Covid tests. “If I’m not wrong, the bio-bubble for IPL-2022 was the last. For the India-SA series onwards, players will be tested (for covid), but will not be any bio-bubble,” Shah told Times of India in an interaction.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-to-replace-rohit-shoaib-akhtar-feels-gt-skipper-is-knocking-on-the-door-for-india-captaincy-483243">Hardik to replace Rohit? Shoaib Akhtar feels GT skipper is knocking on the door for India captaincy</a>

Shah further pointed out&nbsp;that BCCI created bio-bubbles for the 15th season of the IPL which allowed family members to be with players and helped in creating an environment that players enjoyed. “Yes, it’s tough for the players. However, they got a family-like atmosphere inside the hotel bio-bubble. In the case of the IPL, we had hotels dedicated to each team. The whole tournament was held at one place."

“All the teams had their lounges, and recreational centres (to relax and unwind). So, they also enjoyed it,” added the senior BCCI official.

For the unversed, the regular captain Rohit Sharma, former skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Jasprit Bumrah will miss the SA series as the trio have been rested. In Rohit's absence, KL Rahul will lead the side and will rely on the&nbsp;experience of Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rishabh Pant, who is KL's deputy.&nbsp;Many recent white-ball players&nbsp;and a few uncapped players will also be part of the series.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-secretary-jay-shah-confirms-vvs-laxman-to-be-in-charge-of-indias-t20i-side-for-ireland-series-482148">BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms VVS Laxman to be in charge of India's T20I side for Ireland series</a>

India's T20I squad for South Africa series -&nbsp;KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik
</section>

Post the IPL 2022 edition, which is set to end on Sunday (May 29), the cricketing action will continue for the Indian players as a second-stringed Indian team will shift their focus to hosting South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home, starting on June 09.

Post the IPL 2022 edition, which is set to end on Sunday (May 29), the cricketing action will continue for the Indian players as a second-stringed Indian team will shift their focus to hosting South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home, starting on June 09. Ahead of the series, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has confirmed that there will be no bio-bubble for the forthcoming T20Is. However, the players will continue to undergo Covid tests. “If I’m not wrong, the bio-bubble for IPL-2022 was the last. For the India-SA series onwards, players will be tested (for covid), but will not be any bio-bubble,” Shah told Times of India in an interaction. ALSO READ | Hardik to replace Rohit? Shoaib Akhtar feels GT skipper is knocking on the door for India captaincy Shah further pointed out that BCCI created bio-bubbles for the 15th season of the IPL which allowed family members to be with players and helped in creating an environment that players enjoyed. “Yes, it’s tough for the players. However, they got a family-like atmosphere inside the hotel bio-bubble. In the case of the IPL, we had hotels dedicated to each team. The whole tournament was held at one place." “All the teams had their lounges, and recreational centres (to relax and unwind). So, they also enjoyed it,” added the senior BCCI official. For the unversed, the regular captain Rohit Sharma, former skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Jasprit Bumrah will miss the SA series as the trio have been rested. In Rohit's absence, KL Rahul will lead the side and will rely on the experience of Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rishabh Pant, who is KL's deputy. Many recent white-ball players and a few uncapped players will also be part of the series. ALSO READ | BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms VVS Laxman to be in charge of India's T20I side for Ireland series India's T20I squad for South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

India vs SA, T20Is: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah confirms no bio-bubble for home series vs Proteas

The BCCI selection committee announced an 18-member Team India T20I squad for the forthcoming five-match series versus South Africa at home. In the KL Rahul-led Indian team, many regulars such as all-format skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested whereas some seniors have missed out while other key players such as Suryakumar Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja are injured.

Shikhar Dhawan was one notable omission in the young squad. While the senior player has been out of the T20I side since being dropped from the squad for the last year's World Cup, many thought a comeback was on the cards for him after amassing 460 runs for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 14 league stage matches. Nonetheless, the selectors preferred youngsters in place of Dhawan as Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, etc. made the cut. As per a report in InsideSport, Dhawan was informed about his non-selection before the team was announced by head coach Rahul Dravid.

“Shikhar has been a great servant of Indian cricket for over a decade. But in T20s, you have to give chances to youngsters who have been doing well. Rahul had to make the tough call and we all agreed. Shikhar was informed by Rahul before the team was announced on Sunday,” a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by InsideSport.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandyas-stocks-go-up-as-captain-star-player-could-lead-team-india-in-ireland-t20is-report-482360">Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks on the rise, star player could lead Team India in Ireland T20Is: Report</a>

After the SA home T20Is, India will play Ireland in two matches in the latter's own backyard. As KL Rahul will join the Rohit-led Indian Test squad at that time, for the one-off Test versus England on July 01, Dhawan might get a look-in for the Ireland series.&nbsp;

India have a lot of T20Is lined up in the run-up to the 2022 T20 World Cup. Thus, doors aren't completely shut for Dhawan but it looks like juniors will be preferred over him.
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The BCCI selection committee announced an 18-member Team India T20I squad for the forthcoming five-match series versus South Africa at home. In the KL Rahul-led Indian team, many regulars such as all-format skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested whereas some seniors have missed out while other key players such as Suryakumar Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja are injured.

The BCCI selection committee announced an 18-member Team India T20I squad for the forthcoming five-match series versus South Africa at home. In the KL Rahul-led Indian team, many regulars such as all-format skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested whereas some seniors have missed out while other key players such as Suryakumar Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja are injured. Shikhar Dhawan was one notable omission in the young squad. While the senior player has been out of the T20I side since being dropped from the squad for the last year's World Cup, many thought a comeback was on the cards for him after amassing 460 runs for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 14 league stage matches. Nonetheless, the selectors preferred youngsters in place of Dhawan as Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, etc. made the cut. As per a report in InsideSport, Dhawan was informed about his non-selection before the team was announced by head coach Rahul Dravid. “Shikhar has been a great servant of Indian cricket for over a decade. But in T20s, you have to give chances to youngsters who have been doing well. Rahul had to make the tough call and we all agreed. Shikhar was informed by Rahul before the team was announced on Sunday,” a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by InsideSport. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks on the rise, star player could lead Team India in Ireland T20Is: Report After the SA home T20Is, India will play Ireland in two matches in the latter's own backyard. As KL Rahul will join the Rohit-led Indian Test squad at that time, for the one-off Test versus England on July 01, Dhawan might get a look-in for the Ireland series. India have a lot of T20Is lined up in the run-up to the 2022 T20 World Cup. Thus, doors aren't completely shut for Dhawan but it looks like juniors will be preferred over him.

India vs SA T20Is: Shikhar Dhawan was informed about his omission by coach Rahul Dravid - Report

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday announced Team India's squad for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. India will take on South Africa in a five-match T20I series starting on June 09 after the conclusion of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

While senior players like Virat Kohli, captain Rohit Sharma and fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah were rested from the T20I series, several youngsters also made the cut in the squad owing to their impressive performances in IPL 2022. Young pacers Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh were handed their maiden call ups for the T20I series.

Among the biggest talking points from the squad announcement was the return of Dinesh Karthik to the Indian squad after a gap of three years. Karthik last featured for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and has managed to make his comeback to&nbsp;the team owing to his finishing exploits for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022.

Besides Karthik, star all-rounder Hardik Pandya also made his comeback after a long layoff while the likes of Ishan Kishan and Venkatesh Iyer were selected despite average performances from the duo this season. The likes of Sanju Samson, Rahul Tripathi and Shikhar Dhawan were among the notable exclusions from the squad.

Former India batter Suresh Raina questioned Dhawan's absence from the squad despite the veteran batter's prolific run in the ongoing season. Dhawan finished as the highest run-getter for Punjab Kings this season amassing 460 runs in 14 games at an average of&nbsp;&nbsp;38.33 and a strike rate of over 122.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-umran-malik-make-his-india-debut-against-south-africa-former-head-coach-ravi-shastri-gives-his-take-481473">Can Umran Malik make his India debut against South Africa?&nbsp;Ravi Shastri gives his take</a>

Raina believes Dhawan also deserved a spot in India's T20I squad if Karthik was picked after his performances this season. The former India batter said Dhawan must be sad over his non-selection as he has been scoring runs consistently for the last few seasons.

"Obviously, Shikhar would have been disappointed. Every captain wants a player like him in the team. He is fun loving person who brightens up the environment. And he has always scored runs - be it domestic, international or T20," Raina said on Star Sports.

"If you've brought Dinesh Karthik back in the team, Shikhar Dhawan deserved a place too. He has performed runs the last 3-4 years and has scored runs non-stop. Somewhere deep down, he must be sad," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-only-seen-zaheer-nehra-do-that-during-my-time-virender-sehwag-lavishes-praise-on-punjab-pacer-481437">'I've only seen Zaheer, Nehra do that during my time' - Virender Sehwag lavishes praise on Punjab pacer</a>

Dhawan had lost his opening slot to KL Rahul in both ODIs and T20Is before the emergence of the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan ensured he didn't get a chance to make his comeback in the team despite his purple patch in the IPL. Kishan, Rahul and Gaikwad are the three openers India have selected for the T20I series against South Africa.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday announced Team India's squad for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. India will take on South Africa in a five-match T20I series starting on June 09 after the conclusion of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday announced Team India's squad for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. India will take on South Africa in a five-match T20I series starting on June 09 after the conclusion of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. While senior players like Virat Kohli, captain Rohit Sharma and fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah were rested from the T20I series, several youngsters also made the cut in the squad owing to their impressive performances in IPL 2022. Young pacers Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh were handed their maiden call ups for the T20I series. Among the biggest talking points from the squad announcement was the return of Dinesh Karthik to the Indian squad after a gap of three years. Karthik last featured for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and has managed to make his comeback to the team owing to his finishing exploits for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022. Besides Karthik, star all-rounder Hardik Pandya also made his comeback after a long layoff while the likes of Ishan Kishan and Venkatesh Iyer were selected despite average performances from the duo this season. The likes of Sanju Samson, Rahul Tripathi and Shikhar Dhawan were among the notable exclusions from the squad. Former India batter Suresh Raina questioned Dhawan's absence from the squad despite the veteran batter's prolific run in the ongoing season. Dhawan finished as the highest run-getter for Punjab Kings this season amassing 460 runs in 14 games at an average of 38.33 and a strike rate of over 122. Also Read: Can Umran Malik make his India debut against South Africa? Ravi Shastri gives his take Raina believes Dhawan also deserved a spot in India's T20I squad if Karthik was picked after his performances this season. The former India batter said Dhawan must be sad over his non-selection as he has been scoring runs consistently for the last few seasons. "Obviously, Shikhar would have been disappointed. Every captain wants a player like him in the team. He is fun loving person who brightens up the environment. And he has always scored runs - be it domestic, international or T20," Raina said on Star Sports. "If you've brought Dinesh Karthik back in the team, Shikhar Dhawan deserved a place too. He has performed runs the last 3-4 years and has scored runs non-stop. Somewhere deep down, he must be sad," he added. Also Read: 'I've only seen Zaheer, Nehra do that during my time' - Virender Sehwag lavishes praise on Punjab pacer Dhawan had lost his opening slot to KL Rahul in both ODIs and T20Is before the emergence of the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan ensured he didn't get a chance to make his comeback in the team despite his purple patch in the IPL. Kishan, Rahul and Gaikwad are the three openers India have selected for the T20I series against South Africa.

'If you've brought Karthik in..': Suresh Raina questions veteran batter's exclusion from India's T20I squad

Virat Kohli is likely to be rested from India's upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home following the conclusion of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Kohli has been enduring a rough patch for his side Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL this season and has been struggling to score runs consistently.

He has had a disappointing tournament so far with the bat having managed only one half-century in 12 matches for RCB. Kohli has bagged three golden ducks already this season and has only 216 runs to his name at a poor average of 19.64 and a strike rate of just over 111.

As per PTI, Kohli is set to be rested as he has been playing cricket for a long time now, the BCCI will also adopt a periodic resting policy for the senior players in the team. The senior players will be given adequate breaks to ensure they can manage their workload better in times of playing cricket in bio-bubbles due to COVID-19.

“Virat Kohli in all probability will be rested for the South Africa series. He has been playing a lot of cricket and has been in the bubble for a long time. It has been a policy decision regarding Kohli and other senior players that they will be given periodic breaks from time to time," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by PTI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-realized-what-it-feels-like-to-be-helpless-virat-kohli-opens-up-on-his-poor-run-of-form-in-ipl-2022-478096">I realized what it feels like to be helpless: Virat Kohli opens up on his poor run of form in IPL 2022</a>

Earlier during the ongoing IPL season, former India head coach Ravi Shastri had said Kohli is 'overcooked' and is in desperate need of a break amid his poor form in the league. The batting maestro, who is the leading run-getter of all time in IPL history, has failed to get going with the bat and has looked far from his best so far this season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-full-authority-virat-kohli-opens-up-on-his-equation-with-faf-du-plessis-after-leaving-rcb-captaincy-478130">'He has full authority': Kohli opens up on his equation with Faf du Plessis after leaving RCB captaincy</a>

Kohli has already left Team India's captaincy with Rohit Sharma now in charge. It remains to be seen if Kohli will be the only player to be rested for the T20I series. India will host the Proteas in five T20Is starting from&nbsp;June 12. The first T20I will be played in Delhi followed by the next four matches in&nbsp;Cuttack, Visakhapatnam, Rajkot and Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli is likely to be rested from India's upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home following the conclusion of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

Virat Kohli is likely to be rested from India's upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home following the conclusion of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Kohli has been enduring a rough patch for his side Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL this season and has been struggling to score runs consistently. He has had a disappointing tournament so far with the bat having managed only one half-century in 12 matches for RCB. Kohli has bagged three golden ducks already this season and has only 216 runs to his name at a poor average of 19.64 and a strike rate of just over 111. As per PTI, Kohli is set to be rested as he has been playing cricket for a long time now, the BCCI will also adopt a periodic resting policy for the senior players in the team. The senior players will be given adequate breaks to ensure they can manage their workload better in times of playing cricket in bio-bubbles due to COVID-19. “Virat Kohli in all probability will be rested for the South Africa series. He has been playing a lot of cricket and has been in the bubble for a long time. It has been a policy decision regarding Kohli and other senior players that they will be given periodic breaks from time to time," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by PTI. Also Read: I realized what it feels like to be helpless: Virat Kohli opens up on his poor run of form in IPL 2022 Earlier during the ongoing IPL season, former India head coach Ravi Shastri had said Kohli is 'overcooked' and is in desperate need of a break amid his poor form in the league. The batting maestro, who is the leading run-getter of all time in IPL history, has failed to get going with the bat and has looked far from his best so far this season. Also Read: 'He has full authority': Kohli opens up on his equation with Faf du Plessis after leaving RCB captaincy Kohli has already left Team India's captaincy with Rohit Sharma now in charge. It remains to be seen if Kohli will be the only player to be rested for the T20I series. India will host the Proteas in five T20Is starting from June 12. The first T20I will be played in Delhi followed by the next four matches in Cuttack, Visakhapatnam, Rajkot and Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli to be rested for T20I series against South Africa, senior players to get periodic breaks - Report

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