Virat Kohli has returned to form with his comeback in international cricket since the commencement of the Asia Cup. He ended as the second-highest run-getter in the continental tournament, with 276 runs including a hundred and two half-centuries, and also scored a crucial 63 in India's six-wicket series win over Australia, at home, in the third and final encounter in Hyderabad on September 25 (Sunday).

As Rohit Sharma-led India is trying to fill in all the boxes ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup, in Australia in October-November, the 33-year-old Kohli is on the cusp of achieving a major milestone. Kohli is just 35 runs away from leapfrogging his captain Rohit to become the highest run-getter in the shortest format. In the list of most runs in men's T20Is, Rohit leads the way with&nbsp;3694 runs whereas Virat follows suit with 3660&nbsp;runs. New Zealand opener Martin Guptill sits at the third spot with&nbsp;3497 runs under his belt.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-south-africa-1st-t20i-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-series-opener-at-trivandrum-520480">India vs South Africa, 1st T20I: Will rain play spoilsport in series opener at Trivandrum?</a>

Thus, Rohit-Virat are expected to continue their fight for the top spot in the three T20Is versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas. If Kohli has a memorable series, there is a chance that he might pip Rohit in the list, which was once led by him.

Given that Kohli was struggling for runs prior to the Asia Cup, the Indian team management will be satisfied with his performances of late. He will look to continue in a similar manner in India's last T20I series before boarding the flight to Australia for the World Cup. After playing a crucial hand in India's series win over Australia, Kohli had said during the third T20I's post-match presentation, "&nbsp;I'm happy with my contribution to the team, I took a break, went back to the nets, worked hard on my fitness and think it's coming off well. I want to keep contributing and doing my best for the team."

Virat Kohli has returned to form with his comeback in international cricket since the commencement of the Asia Cup. He ended as the second-highest run-getter in the continental tournament, with 276 runs including a hundred and two half-centuries, and also scored a crucial 63 in India's six-wicket series win over Australia, at home, in the third and final encounter in Hyderabad on September 25 (Sunday).

Virat Kohli has returned to form with his comeback in international cricket since the commencement of the Asia Cup. He ended as the second-highest run-getter in the continental tournament, with 276 runs including a hundred and two half-centuries, and also scored a crucial 63 in India's six-wicket series win over Australia, at home, in the third and final encounter in Hyderabad on September 25 (Sunday). As Rohit Sharma-led India is trying to fill in all the boxes ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup, in Australia in October-November, the 33-year-old Kohli is on the cusp of achieving a major milestone. Kohli is just 35 runs away from leapfrogging his captain Rohit to become the highest run-getter in the shortest format. In the list of most runs in men's T20Is, Rohit leads the way with 3694 runs whereas Virat follows suit with 3660 runs. New Zealand opener Martin Guptill sits at the third spot with 3497 runs under his belt. ALSO READ | India vs South Africa, 1st T20I: Will rain play spoilsport in series opener at Trivandrum? Thus, Rohit-Virat are expected to continue their fight for the top spot in the three T20Is versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas. If Kohli has a memorable series, there is a chance that he might pip Rohit in the list, which was once led by him. Given that Kohli was struggling for runs prior to the Asia Cup, the Indian team management will be satisfied with his performances of late. He will look to continue in a similar manner in India's last T20I series before boarding the flight to Australia for the World Cup. After playing a crucial hand in India's series win over Australia, Kohli had said during the third T20I's post-match presentation, " I'm happy with my contribution to the team, I took a break, went back to the nets, worked hard on my fitness and think it's coming off well. I want to keep contributing and doing my best for the team."

IND vs SA, 1st T20I: Virat Kohli only 35 runs away from leapfrogging Rohit Sharma in elite list

The trio of pacer Umesh Yadav, batter Shreyas Iyer and all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed was on Wednesday added to India's squad for the three-match T20 series against South Africa, starting here.

Senior pacer Mohammad Shami, who had missed the recently-concluded T20 series against Australia after contracting COVID-19 infection, is yet to recover completely and thus won't be a part of the T20 matches against the Proteas.

Deepak Hooda has also been ruled out of the series owing to a back injury. The all-rounder is at the NCA for "further management of his injury".

"The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Umesh Yadav as Shami's replacement and Shreyas Iyer as a replacement for Hooda," a BCCI release stated.

"Shahbaz Ahmed has also been added to the T20I squad," it added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-arshdeep-singh-to-return-indias-predicted-playing-xi-for-1st-t20i-vs-south-africa-520497">Rishabh Pant, Arshdeep Singh to return? India's predicted playing XI for 1st T20I vs South Africa</a>

Umesh was brought in as Shami's replacement in the series against Australia. He has competed in the series-opener but did not play the second and third T20Is.

On the other hand, left-arm spin-all-rounder Shahbaz is still uncapped. He was picked in the Indian ODI squad as Washington Sundar's replacement for the Zimbabwe series in August but did not get a game.

Rookie pacer Arshdeep Singh, who was rested for the series against Australia, has linked up with the squad for the three T20Is.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-south-africa-1st-t20i-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-series-opener-at-trivandrum-520480">India vs South Africa, 1st T20I: Will rain play spoilsport in series opener at Trivandrum?</a>

The series against South Africa will serve as a final dress rehearsal for both side ahead of the marquee event in Australia next month.

All-rounder Hardik Pandya and senior seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who have been rested for the series ahead of the T20 World Cup next month, have also reported to the NCA for "conditioning-related work".

Revised India squad for South Africa T20Is:

Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Shreyas Iyer and Shahbaz Ahmed. 
&nbsp;

The trio of pacer Umesh Yadav, batter Shreyas Iyer and all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed was on Wednesday added to India's squad for the three-match T20 series against South Africa, starting here.

The trio of pacer Umesh Yadav, batter Shreyas Iyer and all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed was on Wednesday added to India's squad for the three-match T20 series against South Africa, starting here. Senior pacer Mohammad Shami, who had missed the recently-concluded T20 series against Australia after contracting COVID-19 infection, is yet to recover completely and thus won't be a part of the T20 matches against the Proteas. Deepak Hooda has also been ruled out of the series owing to a back injury. The all-rounder is at the NCA for "further management of his injury". "The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Umesh Yadav as Shami's replacement and Shreyas Iyer as a replacement for Hooda," a BCCI release stated. "Shahbaz Ahmed has also been added to the T20I squad," it added. Also Read: Rishabh Pant, Arshdeep Singh to return? India's predicted playing XI for 1st T20I vs South Africa Umesh was brought in as Shami's replacement in the series against Australia. He has competed in the series-opener but did not play the second and third T20Is. On the other hand, left-arm spin-all-rounder Shahbaz is still uncapped. He was picked in the Indian ODI squad as Washington Sundar's replacement for the Zimbabwe series in August but did not get a game. Rookie pacer Arshdeep Singh, who was rested for the series against Australia, has linked up with the squad for the three T20Is. Also Read: India vs South Africa, 1st T20I: Will rain play spoilsport in series opener at Trivandrum? The series against South Africa will serve as a final dress rehearsal for both side ahead of the marquee event in Australia next month. All-rounder Hardik Pandya and senior seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who have been rested for the series ahead of the T20 World Cup next month, have also reported to the NCA for "conditioning-related work". Revised India squad for South Africa T20Is: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Shreyas Iyer and Shahbaz Ahmed.

Umesh Yadav, Shreyas Iyer and Shahbaz Ahmed added to India's squad for T20I series against South Africa

India will take on Soth Africa in the series-opener of the three-match T20I series at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on Wednesday (September 28). After a 2-1 win against Australia in their recently-concluded T20I assignment at home, the Men in Blue will be looking to continue their winning run against the Proteas.

The T20I series against South Africa will be India's final assignment in the shortest format ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia next month. The hosts will be looking to make the best use of the series and play their full-strength XI in order to fine-tune their preparations ahead of the World Cup.

However, India face some selection headaches against the Proteas as they will be missing the services of all-rounders Deepak Hooda and Hardik Pandya along with senior fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar. While Bhuvneshwar and Hardik have been rested from the series, Hooda misses out due to a back injury.

India have roped in Shreyas Iyer and Shahbaz Ahmed in the absence of Hardik and Hooda while young pacer Arshdeep Singh will return to take Bhuvneshwar's spot in the squad. Mohammed Shami will continue to remain sidelined as he is yet to recover from COVID-19.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-south-africa-1st-t20i-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-series-opener-at-trivandrum-520480">India vs South Africa, 1st T20I: Will rain play spoilsport in series opener at Trivandrum?</a>

It will be crucial for India to get their selection right against a strong South African side in order to ensure they can continue their winning momentum ahead of the World Cup. In the absence o Hardik, Axar Patel is likely to be the sole all-rounder in the side with Rishabh Pant returning to strengthen the middle-order.

India will miss Hardik's quality in the bowling attack but having Arsdheep back is a huge boost as the left-arm seamer has been impressive in the death overs. Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel will continue to spearhead the pace attack while Yuzvendra Chahal can be the solitary spinner in the team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-dont-have-a-finisher-like-indias-hardik-pandya-says-former-skipper-shahid-afridi-520261">Pakistan don't have a finisher like India's Hardik Pandya, says former skipper Shahid Afridi</a>

India will lack a sixth bowling option in the absence of Hardik but they can make up for it with the bat as they will have incredible depth in the batting line-up with Dinesh Karthik and Axar Patel in the lower-middle order. Deepak Chahar and Shahbaz Ahmed also remain strong contenders for a spot in the playing XI but are unlikely to make the cut in the series opener.

India's predicted playing XI for 1st T20I against South Africa:

Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Harshal Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh

India will take on Soth Africa in the series-opener of the three-match T20I series at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on Wednesday (September 28).

India will take on Soth Africa in the series-opener of the three-match T20I series at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on Wednesday (September 28). After a 2-1 win against Australia in their recently-concluded T20I assignment at home, the Men in Blue will be looking to continue their winning run against the Proteas. The T20I series against South Africa will be India's final assignment in the shortest format ahead of the start of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia next month. The hosts will be looking to make the best use of the series and play their full-strength XI in order to fine-tune their preparations ahead of the World Cup. However, India face some selection headaches against the Proteas as they will be missing the services of all-rounders Deepak Hooda and Hardik Pandya along with senior fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar. While Bhuvneshwar and Hardik have been rested from the series, Hooda misses out due to a back injury. India have roped in Shreyas Iyer and Shahbaz Ahmed in the absence of Hardik and Hooda while young pacer Arshdeep Singh will return to take Bhuvneshwar's spot in the squad. Mohammed Shami will continue to remain sidelined as he is yet to recover from COVID-19. Also Read: India vs South Africa, 1st T20I: Will rain play spoilsport in series opener at Trivandrum? It will be crucial for India to get their selection right against a strong South African side in order to ensure they can continue their winning momentum ahead of the World Cup. In the absence o Hardik, Axar Patel is likely to be the sole all-rounder in the side with Rishabh Pant returning to strengthen the middle-order. India will miss Hardik's quality in the bowling attack but having Arsdheep back is a huge boost as the left-arm seamer has been impressive in the death overs. Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel will continue to spearhead the pace attack while Yuzvendra Chahal can be the solitary spinner in the team. Also Read: Pakistan don't have a finisher like India's Hardik Pandya, says former skipper Shahid Afridi India will lack a sixth bowling option in the absence of Hardik but they can make up for it with the bat as they will have incredible depth in the batting line-up with Dinesh Karthik and Axar Patel in the lower-middle order. Deepak Chahar and Shahbaz Ahmed also remain strong contenders for a spot in the playing XI but are unlikely to make the cut in the series opener. India's predicted playing XI for 1st T20I against South Africa: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Harshal Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh

Rishabh Pant, Arshdeep Singh to return? India's predicted playing XI for 1st T20I vs South Africa

India came from behind to clinch the three-match T20I series versus Australia, at home, on Sunday (September 25). After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, India hosted Aaron Finch-led Australia, the current T20 world champions, and got the better of them in a high-scoring series. There were lots of positives for India but they will now move to their next assignment as they host South Africa in three T20Is, which gets underway on September 28 (Wednesday).

South Africa visited India in early June for a five-match T20I series. Back then, the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas had a 2-0 lead before a second-stringed Indian team, under Rishabh Pant, came from behind to level the series ahead of the decider in Bengaluru. The series finale was, however, abandoned -- with only 21 balls being bowled -- due to persistent rain at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. Will SA attain an important series win over a full-strength India ahead of the T20 World Cup?

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-south-africa-1st-t20i-ist-time-and-streaming-details-520431">Ind vs SA: When and where to watch India vs South Africa 1st T20I - IST time and streaming details</a>

Here's a look at the weather forecast for the 1st T20I between India and South Africa at&nbsp;Trivandrum

There is a 6 percent chance of rain in Trivandrum but there is no rain threat as of now. According to Accuweather, the weather conditions is expected to be warm. Temperatures will be around 27-degree celsius whereas the&nbsp;playing conditions will be humid. The toss will once again play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the match as dew will make its presence felt.

India will look to address their death-bowling woes in the SA series. With the T20 WC to be their next assignment following the series, Rohit &amp; Co. will look to tick off&nbsp;

India came from behind to clinch the three-match T20I series versus Australia, at home, on Sunday (September 25). After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, India hosted Aaron Finch-led Australia, the current T20 world champions, and got the better of them in a high-scoring series.

India came from behind to clinch the three-match T20I series versus Australia, at home, on Sunday (September 25). After a disappointing run in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, India hosted Aaron Finch-led Australia, the current T20 world champions, and got the better of them in a high-scoring series. There were lots of positives for India but they will now move to their next assignment as they host South Africa in three T20Is, which gets underway on September 28 (Wednesday). South Africa visited India in early June for a five-match T20I series. Back then, the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas had a 2-0 lead before a second-stringed Indian team, under Rishabh Pant, came from behind to level the series ahead of the decider in Bengaluru. The series finale was, however, abandoned -- with only 21 balls being bowled -- due to persistent rain at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. Will SA attain an important series win over a full-strength India ahead of the T20 World Cup? ALSO READ | Ind vs SA: When and where to watch India vs South Africa 1st T20I - IST time and streaming details Here's a look at the weather forecast for the 1st T20I between India and South Africa at Trivandrum There is a 6 percent chance of rain in Trivandrum but there is no rain threat as of now. According to Accuweather, the weather conditions is expected to be warm. Temperatures will be around 27-degree celsius whereas the playing conditions will be humid. The toss will once again play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the match as dew will make its presence felt. India will look to address their death-bowling woes in the SA series. With the T20 WC to be their next assignment following the series, Rohit & Co. will look to tick off

India vs South Africa, 1st T20I: Will rain play spoilsport in series opener at Trivandrum?

Mohammed Shami is set to be ruled out of India's upcoming T20I series against South Africa as he is reportedly yet to recover from COVID-19. Shami made his comeback in India's T20 squad for the recently-concluded T20I series against Australia at home but had to miss out after he tested positive for the virus.

As per a report in PTI, he is yet to recover fully and Umesh Yadav will continue to keep his place in the squad in the upcoming three-match series against the Proteas. India will lock horns with Sri Lanka in a three-match rubber starting from Wednesday (September 28) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.

As per the report, all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Deepak Hooda are also set to miss the T20I series against South Africa. While Hooda has been ruled out due to back spasms, Hardik is set to be rested having played continuous cricket since the IPL 2022 earlier this year.

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Hooda will be replaced by middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer while all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed will take Hardik's spot in the squad. Shahbaz had earlier received his maiden India call-up on India's tour of Zimbabwe earlier this year as a replacement for injured Washington Sundar.

"Shami hasn't recovered from his bout of COVID-19. He needs more time, and hence, will be out of the South Africa series. Umesh Yadav will continue as Shami's replacement for the South Africa series," a senior BCCI source was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

"Is there any seam bowling all-rounder, who can replace Hardik? Raj Bawa is too raw and that's why we kept him in India A for exposure. He will need time to blossom. Tell me another name," he explained when asked about Shahbaz replacing Hardik in the squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bhuvneshwar-kumar-looks-tired-australia-legend-wants-india-to-rest-pacer-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-2022-519859">Bhuvneshwar Kumar looks tired: Australia legend wants India to rest pacer ahead of T20 World Cup 2022</a>

India will be looking to field a strong team in the T20I series against the Proteas as they look to continue their preparations for the T20 World Cup 2022 starting next month. In the absence of Hooda and Hardik, the likes of Axar Patel and Rishabh Pant can also expect more opportunities in the South Africa series despite intense competition for spots in the team

(With agency inputs)

Mohammed Shami is set to be ruled out of India's upcoming T20I series against South Africa as he is reportedly yet to recover from COVID-19. Shami made his comeback in India's T20 squad for the recently-concluded T20I series against Australia at home but had to miss out after he tested positive for the virus.

Mohammed Shami is set to be ruled out of India's upcoming T20I series against South Africa as he is reportedly yet to recover from COVID-19. Shami made his comeback in India's T20 squad for the recently-concluded T20I series against Australia at home but had to miss out after he tested positive for the virus. As per a report in PTI, he is yet to recover fully and Umesh Yadav will continue to keep his place in the squad in the upcoming three-match series against the Proteas. India will lock horns with Sri Lanka in a three-match rubber starting from Wednesday (September 28) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. As per the report, all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Deepak Hooda are also set to miss the T20I series against South Africa. While Hooda has been ruled out due to back spasms, Hardik is set to be rested having played continuous cricket since the IPL 2022 earlier this year. Also Read: Indian cricketer Taniya Bhatia claims she was robbed at team hotel in London, slams ECB for lack of security Hooda will be replaced by middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer while all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed will take Hardik's spot in the squad. Shahbaz had earlier received his maiden India call-up on India's tour of Zimbabwe earlier this year as a replacement for injured Washington Sundar. "Shami hasn't recovered from his bout of COVID-19. He needs more time, and hence, will be out of the South Africa series. Umesh Yadav will continue as Shami's replacement for the South Africa series," a senior BCCI source was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. "Is there any seam bowling all-rounder, who can replace Hardik? Raj Bawa is too raw and that's why we kept him in India A for exposure. He will need time to blossom. Tell me another name," he explained when asked about Shahbaz replacing Hardik in the squad. Also Read: Bhuvneshwar Kumar looks tired: Australia legend wants India to rest pacer ahead of T20 World Cup 2022 India will be looking to field a strong team in the T20I series against the Proteas as they look to continue their preparations for the T20 World Cup 2022 starting next month. In the absence of Hooda and Hardik, the likes of Axar Patel and Rishabh Pant can also expect more opportunities in the South Africa series despite intense competition for spots in the team (With agency inputs)

Mohammed Shami ruled out of T20I series against South Africa, Shreyas Iyer set to replace Deepak Hooda

After beating Australia in a riveting three-match T20I series, Rohit Sharma-led India will now gear up to face South Africa in three T20Is, followed by three ODIs as well, at home. Temba Bavuma-led South Africa were in India in early June for a five-match T20I series. Back then, a second-stringed Rishabh Pant-led Indian team ended the series in a 2-2 stalemate. It will be interesting to see how the series pans out this time around with both teams being at their full-strength.

The T20Is have more prominence given the T20 World Cup is just a few weeks away, in Australia from October 16. The series will be followed by three ODIs as well where, as per reports, India will be without many of their T20 WC-bound players. In their absence, Shikhar Dhawan is expected to take charge of the side once again and lead an inexperienced line-up.&nbsp;

In terms of rankings, India are the No. 1 T20I side with Proteas at the third position. In the ICC ODI rankings, India are placed at the third spot with the visitors at the sixth position. Here's everything you need to know about SA's white-ball tour of India:

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Full Schedule

T20I series

1st T20I at Thiruvananthapuram (September 28)

2nd T20I at Guwahati (October 02)

3rd T20I at Indore (October 04)

ODI series

1st ODI at Lucknow (October 6)

2nd ODI at Ranchi (October 9)

3rd ODI at Delhi (October 11)

Squads

India’s T20I squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah.

South Africa T20I squad:&nbsp;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, Rilee Rossouw, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs.

South Africa ODI squad:&nbsp;Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Janneman Malan, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi.

India's ODI squad: Not announced yet

Telecast and Streaming details

All three T20Is will get underway at 7pm IST whereas the 50-over fixtures will commence at 1:30 PM IST. The live telecast of the white-ball matches will be on Star Sports Network on TV with the live streaming available on the Disney+Hotstar app and website.

After beating Australia in a riveting three-match T20I series, Rohit Sharma-led India will now gear up to face South Africa in three T20Is, followed by three ODIs as well, at home.

After beating Australia in a riveting three-match T20I series, Rohit Sharma-led India will now gear up to face South Africa in three T20Is, followed by three ODIs as well, at home. Temba Bavuma-led South Africa were in India in early June for a five-match T20I series. Back then, a second-stringed Rishabh Pant-led Indian team ended the series in a 2-2 stalemate. It will be interesting to see how the series pans out this time around with both teams being at their full-strength. The T20Is have more prominence given the T20 World Cup is just a few weeks away, in Australia from October 16. The series will be followed by three ODIs as well where, as per reports, India will be without many of their T20 WC-bound players. In their absence, Shikhar Dhawan is expected to take charge of the side once again and lead an inexperienced line-up. In terms of rankings, India are the No. 1 T20I side with Proteas at the third position. In the ICC ODI rankings, India are placed at the third spot with the visitors at the sixth position. Here's everything you need to know about SA's white-ball tour of India: ALSO READ | India strengthen lead at the top in ICC T20I rankings with thrilling series win vs Australia Full Schedule T20I series 1st T20I at Thiruvananthapuram (September 28) 2nd T20I at Guwahati (October 02) 3rd T20I at Indore (October 04) ODI series 1st ODI at Lucknow (October 6) 2nd ODI at Ranchi (October 9) 3rd ODI at Delhi (October 11) Squads India’s T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Ravichandran Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah. South Africa T20I 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, Rilee Rossouw, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs. South Africa ODI squad: Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Janneman Malan, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi. India's ODI squad: Not announced yet Telecast and Streaming details All three T20Is will get underway at 7pm IST whereas the 50-over fixtures will commence at 1:30 PM IST. The live telecast of the white-ball matches will be on Star Sports Network on TV with the live streaming available on the Disney+Hotstar app and website.

South Africa's white-ball tour of India: Fixtures, squads, telecast and streaming details

Team India bowed out of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, eventually won by Sri Lanka, by winning only one game in the Super Four round. With a disappointing performance, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. are under pressure with the T20 World Cup nearing its commencement. Ahead of the showpiece event in Australia, from October-November, India are set to play as many as three bilateral series at home, including two T20Is and a 50-over series.

India will play Australia in three T20Is and then host South Africa in as many T20Is and ODIs. Playing an ODI series right before the T20 WC doesn't make any sense. Thus, Shikhar Dhawan is expected to lead the ODI bunch in the SA home series with all the T20 WC-bound players set to be rested, as per a report in InsideSport. With Dhawan to take charge, VVS Laxman -- current NCA head -- is likely to act as the stand-in coach with Rahul Dravid &amp; Co. flying Down Under.&nbsp;

"Yes, it is not ideal to have an ODI series before the T20 World Cup, but that is how it goes sometimes. Rohit, Virat, and all T20 World Cup-bound players will be rested from the ODI series. They will get a short break before departing for Australia. Shikhar will lead the side," a senior BCCI official told&nbsp;InsideSport.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-harshal-patel-set-to-return-for-indias-t20-world-cup-campaign-report-515227">Jasprit Bumrah, Harshal Patel set to return for India's T20 World Cup campaign: Report</a>

Star players such as Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul and Harshal Patel might feature in the ODIs versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas due to lack of match practice. Both Bumrah and Harshal missed the Asia Cup due to injury concerns but are expected to be a part of the final squad for the T20 WC. Hence, the pace duo might be given a run in the SA ODIs as well, along with white-ball vice-captain Rahul who has returned to international cricket only in mid-August.

It is reported that Indian players are expected to leave for Australia on October 10, six days before their first warm-up game. But head coach Dravid wants his players to get as much competitive practice as possible and, thus, can himself be a part of the Proteas ODIs and then leave with his players on October 12, along with their South African counterparts. Nonetheless, the likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, and Hardik Pandya will still be rested in any case.

"Rahul wants the players to have better competitive practice, but we believe it could be detrimental. However, it will be put to discussion during the selection meeting and we will decide in due course. If Rahul decides to stay with the squad for ODIs, the squad will leave for Australia along with South African players on October 12," the BCCI official added.

Given that India failed in the last edition of the T20 WC and slipped downwards in the Asia Cup, they will be extra cautious in how they move ahead going into the upcoming ICC event&nbsp;(from next month).
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Team India bowed out of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, eventually won by Sri Lanka, by winning only one game in the Super Four round. With a disappointing performance, Rohit Sharma & Co.

Team India bowed out of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, eventually won by Sri Lanka, by winning only one game in the Super Four round. With a disappointing performance, Rohit Sharma & Co. are under pressure with the T20 World Cup nearing its commencement. Ahead of the showpiece event in Australia, from October-November, India are set to play as many as three bilateral series at home, including two T20Is and a 50-over series. India will play Australia in three T20Is and then host South Africa in as many T20Is and ODIs. Playing an ODI series right before the T20 WC doesn't make any sense. Thus, Shikhar Dhawan is expected to lead the ODI bunch in the SA home series with all the T20 WC-bound players set to be rested, as per a report in InsideSport. With Dhawan to take charge, VVS Laxman -- current NCA head -- is likely to act as the stand-in coach with Rahul Dravid & Co. flying Down Under. "Yes, it is not ideal to have an ODI series before the T20 World Cup, but that is how it goes sometimes. Rohit, Virat, and all T20 World Cup-bound players will be rested from the ODI series. They will get a short break before departing for Australia. Shikhar will lead the side," a senior BCCI official told InsideSport. ALSO READ | Jasprit Bumrah, Harshal Patel set to return for India's T20 World Cup campaign: Report Star players such as Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul and Harshal Patel might feature in the ODIs versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas due to lack of match practice. Both Bumrah and Harshal missed the Asia Cup due to injury concerns but are expected to be a part of the final squad for the T20 WC. Hence, the pace duo might be given a run in the SA ODIs as well, along with white-ball vice-captain Rahul who has returned to international cricket only in mid-August. It is reported that Indian players are expected to leave for Australia on October 10, six days before their first warm-up game. But head coach Dravid wants his players to get as much competitive practice as possible and, thus, can himself be a part of the Proteas ODIs and then leave with his players on October 12, along with their South African counterparts. Nonetheless, the likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, and Hardik Pandya will still be rested in any case. "Rahul wants the players to have better competitive practice, but we believe it could be detrimental. However, it will be put to discussion during the selection meeting and we will decide in due course. If Rahul decides to stay with the squad for ODIs, the squad will leave for Australia along with South African players on October 12," the BCCI official added. Given that India failed in the last edition of the T20 WC and slipped downwards in the Asia Cup, they will be extra cautious in how they move ahead going into the upcoming ICC event (from next month).

Shikhar Dhawan to captain India in home ODIs vs SA with T20 WC-bound players to be rested: Report

After a disappointing campaign in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, India will now shift their focus to the twin home series versus Australia and South Africa, respectively. India are set to host Australia in three T20Is before South Africa arrives for three T20Is and ODIs each. Prior to that, the BCCI selection committee, on Monday (September 12), announced two strong squads for Australia, SA series along with also revealing the final 15-member squad for the T20 World Cup, to be held from October-November in Australia.

Talking about the Australia series, India will host the defending champions in three T20Is starting from September 20. The matches will be held on September 20 (Mohali), September 23 (Nagpur) and September 25 (Hyderabad). For this series, pacer Arshdeep Singh -- who was heavily trolled for his dropped catch in the India-Pakistan Super 4 clash at the Asia Cup -- has been rested.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Hardik Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar have been rested for the SA T20Is, which will get underway on September 28. The remaining two T20Is will be held on October 02 (Guwahati) and October 04 (Indore). After this, a Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian team is likely to face the Proteas in a three-match ODI series, from October 06, with all the T20 WC-bound players set to be rested (as per reports).&nbsp;

The biggest takeaway from the 16-man squads for the Australia and SA series is that India have recalled senior pacer Md Shami along with Deepak Chahar. Chahar was a late entry into the main squad of the Asia Cup, with Avesh Khan's illness, but Shami is set to return to the T20I squad for the first time after last year's World Cup. Along with Shami, Jasprit Burmah and Harshal Patel will be eager to return to action in style after lengthy injury layoffs.&nbsp;

With the T20I series versus Australia and SA being the last few games before India leave for Australia for the World Cup, the likes of captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Yuzvendra Chahal, Suryakumar Yadav, etc. have been included in both the squads. However, they are all expected to miss the SA ODIs.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-harshal-patel-return-as-india-announce-15-man-squad-for-t20-world-cup-2022-515422">Jasprit Bumrah, Harshal Patel return as India announce 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022</a>

India Squad for Australia T20Is:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohd. Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah.

India squad for South Africa T20Is:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohd. Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah.

India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022:

Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R&nbsp;Ashwin, Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh

Standby players -&nbsp;Mohammed&nbsp;Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar

After a disappointing campaign in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, India will now shift their focus to the twin home series versus Australia and South Africa, respectively.

After a disappointing campaign in the Asia Cup 2022 edition, India will now shift their focus to the twin home series versus Australia and South Africa, respectively. India are set to host Australia in three T20Is before South Africa arrives for three T20Is and ODIs each. Prior to that, the BCCI selection committee, on Monday (September 12), announced two strong squads for Australia, SA series along with also revealing the final 15-member squad for the T20 World Cup, to be held from October-November in Australia. Talking about the Australia series, India will host the defending champions in three T20Is starting from September 20. The matches will be held on September 20 (Mohali), September 23 (Nagpur) and September 25 (Hyderabad). For this series, pacer Arshdeep Singh -- who was heavily trolled for his dropped catch in the India-Pakistan Super 4 clash at the Asia Cup -- has been rested. On the other hand, Hardik Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar have been rested for the SA T20Is, which will get underway on September 28. The remaining two T20Is will be held on October 02 (Guwahati) and October 04 (Indore). After this, a Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian team is likely to face the Proteas in a three-match ODI series, from October 06, with all the T20 WC-bound players set to be rested (as per reports). The biggest takeaway from the 16-man squads for the Australia and SA series is that India have recalled senior pacer Md Shami along with Deepak Chahar. Chahar was a late entry into the main squad of the Asia Cup, with Avesh Khan's illness, but Shami is set to return to the T20I squad for the first time after last year's World Cup. Along with Shami, Jasprit Burmah and Harshal Patel will be eager to return to action in style after lengthy injury layoffs. With the T20I series versus Australia and SA being the last few games before India leave for Australia for the World Cup, the likes of captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Yuzvendra Chahal, Suryakumar Yadav, etc. have been included in both the squads. However, they are all expected to miss the SA ODIs. ALSO READ | Jasprit Bumrah, Harshal Patel return as India announce 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022 India Squad for Australia T20Is: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya, R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohd. Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah. India squad for South Africa T20Is: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Mohd. Shami, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah. India's final 15-man squad for T20 World Cup 2022: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dinesh Karthik (WK), Hardik Pandya, R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Arshdeep Singh Standby players - Mohammed Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar

Mohammed Shami, Deepak Chahar make the cut in India's T20I squad for Australia, South Africa home series

Indian wrestlers dominated the proceedings on the opening day of their campaign at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 on Friday (August 05) as they managed to win as many as six medals. Out of the six medals won by the Indian wrestlers on Friday, three were gold. Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik and Deepak Punia won gold medals in their respective categories to add to India's tally at the Games.

It is all set to be another busy day for the Indian athletes at the Commonwealth Games 2022 on Saturday (August 06). A host of Indian athletes will be in action across various sporting events. A number of wrestlers will open their campaign on Saturday and will be hoping to add to India's medal tally.

India have so far managed to win 26 medals at the Games, including 9 gold medals. The tally is expected to go up on Saturday as a number of athletes are also assured of a medal but are yet to determine the final colour. While the likes of PV Sindhu and Nikhat Zareen will continue their quest for gold, the Indian men's hockey team will be hoping to secure a berth in the final.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cwg-2022-sakshi-malik-wins-gold-medal-in-womens-freestyle-62kg-category-504133">Commonwealth Games 2022 - Sakshi Malik wins gold medal in women's freestyle 62kg category</a>

The Indian men's hockey team will take on South Africa in their semi-final encounter and will be hoping to continue their fine form in the tournament. On the other hand, Harmanmpreet Kaur-led Indian women's cricket team will be up against England in the semi-final and will be hoping to reach the final.

India's complete schedule at Commonwealth Games 2022 on August 06:

Table Tennis and Para Table Tennis:

Women's Doubles Round of 16: Akula Sreeja/Reeth Tennison- 2pm

Women's Doubles Round of 16: Manika Batra/Diya Parag Chitale- 2pm

Mixed Doubles semifinals: Achanta Sharath Kamal/ Akula Sreeja- 6pm

Men's Singles Classes 3-5: Bronze Medal Match: Raj Aravindan Alagar- 6:15pm

Women's Singles Classes 3-5 Bronze medal match: Sonalben Patel- 12:15am

Women's Singles Classes 3-5 Gold medal match: Bahvina Patel - 1am

Wrestling (starts at 3pm):

Men's Freestyle 57kg quarterfinals: Ravi Kumar

Men's Freestyle 97kg quarterfinals: Deepak Nehra

Women's Freestyle 76kg quarterfinals: Pooja Sihag

Women's Freestyle 53 kg - Nordic System match 3: Vinesh Phogat

Women's Freestyle 50 kg - Nordic System match 3:Pooja Gehlot

Men's Freestyle 74kg 1/8 Final: Naveen

Women's Freestyle 53 kg - Nordic System match 2: Vinesh Phogat

Women's Freestyle 50 kg - Nordic System match 1:Pooja Gehlot -3pm

Women's Freestyle 53 kg - Nordic System match 6: Vinesh Phogat.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cwg-2022-deepak-punia-clinches-gold-in-mens-freestyle-86kg-defeats-pakistans-muhammad-inam-504139">Deepak Punia clinches gold in Men's Freestyle 86kg, defeats Pakistan's Muhammad Inam</a>

Athletics and Para Athletics:

Women's F55-57 Shot Put Final: Poonam Sharma, Sharmilam, Santosh- 2:50pm

Women's 10,000m Race Walk Final: Priyanka, Bhawana Jat- 3pm

Men's 3000m Steeplechase Final: Avinash Sable- 4:20pm

Women's 4x100m Relay Round 1- Heat 1: Hima Das, Dutee Chand, Shrbani Nanda, NS Simi- 4:45pm

Women's Hammer Throw Final: Manju Bala- 11:30pm

Men's 5000m Final: Avinash Sable - 12:40am

Badminton: (starts at 3:30pm)

Women's doubles quarterfinals: Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand

Women's singles quarterfinals: PV Sindhu

Men's singles quarterfinals: Kidambi Srikanth

Boxing:

Women's Minimumweight (45-48kg) semifinal: Nitu - 3pm

Men's Flyweight (48kg-51kg) semifinal: Amit Panghal 3:30pm

Women's Light Flyweight (48kg-50kg) semifinal: Nikhat Zareen 7:15pm

Women's Lightweight (57kg-60kg): Jaismine- 8pm

Men's Welterweight (63.5kg-67kg): Rohit Tokas - 12:45pm

Super heavyweight (over 92kg): Sagar 1:30am

Cricket:

Women's T20 semifinal between India and England- 3:30pm

Hockey:

Indian men's team semifinal against South Africa- 10:30pm

&nbsp;

Indian wrestlers dominated the proceedings on the opening day of their campaign at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 on Friday (August 05) as they managed to win as many as six medals.

Indian wrestlers dominated the proceedings on the opening day of their campaign at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 on Friday (August 05) as they managed to win as many as six medals. Out of the six medals won by the Indian wrestlers on Friday, three were gold. Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik and Deepak Punia won gold medals in their respective categories to add to India's tally at the Games. It is all set to be another busy day for the Indian athletes at the Commonwealth Games 2022 on Saturday (August 06). A host of Indian athletes will be in action across various sporting events. A number of wrestlers will open their campaign on Saturday and will be hoping to add to India's medal tally. India have so far managed to win 26 medals at the Games, including 9 gold medals. The tally is expected to go up on Saturday as a number of athletes are also assured of a medal but are yet to determine the final colour. While the likes of PV Sindhu and Nikhat Zareen will continue their quest for gold, the Indian men's hockey team will be hoping to secure a berth in the final. Also Read: Commonwealth Games 2022 - Sakshi Malik wins gold medal in women's freestyle 62kg category The Indian men's hockey team will take on South Africa in their semi-final encounter and will be hoping to continue their fine form in the tournament. On the other hand, Harmanmpreet Kaur-led Indian women's cricket team will be up against England in the semi-final and will be hoping to reach the final. India's complete schedule at Commonwealth Games 2022 on August 06: Table Tennis and Para Table Tennis: Women's Doubles Round of 16: Akula Sreeja/Reeth Tennison- 2pm Women's Doubles Round of 16: Manika Batra/Diya Parag Chitale- 2pm Mixed Doubles semifinals: Achanta Sharath Kamal/ Akula Sreeja- 6pm Men's Singles Classes 3-5: Bronze Medal Match: Raj Aravindan Alagar- 6:15pm Women's Singles Classes 3-5 Bronze medal match: Sonalben Patel- 12:15am Women's Singles Classes 3-5 Gold medal match: Bahvina Patel - 1am Wrestling (starts at 3pm): Men's Freestyle 57kg quarterfinals: Ravi Kumar Men's Freestyle 97kg quarterfinals: Deepak Nehra Women's Freestyle 76kg quarterfinals: Pooja Sihag Women's Freestyle 53 kg - Nordic System match 3: Vinesh Phogat Women's Freestyle 50 kg - Nordic System match 3:Pooja Gehlot Men's Freestyle 74kg 1/8 Final: Naveen Women's Freestyle 53 kg - Nordic System match 2: Vinesh Phogat Women's Freestyle 50 kg - Nordic System match 1:Pooja Gehlot -3pm Women's Freestyle 53 kg - Nordic System match 6: Vinesh Phogat. Also Read: Deepak Punia clinches gold in Men's Freestyle 86kg, defeats Pakistan's Muhammad Inam Athletics and Para Athletics: Women's F55-57 Shot Put Final: Poonam Sharma, Sharmilam, Santosh- 2:50pm Women's 10,000m Race Walk Final: Priyanka, Bhawana Jat- 3pm Men's 3000m Steeplechase Final: Avinash Sable- 4:20pm Women's 4x100m Relay Round 1- Heat 1: Hima Das, Dutee Chand, Shrbani Nanda, NS Simi- 4:45pm Women's Hammer Throw Final: Manju Bala- 11:30pm Men's 5000m Final: Avinash Sable - 12:40am Badminton: (starts at 3:30pm) Women's doubles quarterfinals: Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand Women's singles quarterfinals: PV Sindhu Men's singles quarterfinals: Kidambi Srikanth Boxing: Women's Minimumweight (45-48kg) semifinal: Nitu - 3pm Men's Flyweight (48kg-51kg) semifinal: Amit Panghal 3:30pm Women's Light Flyweight (48kg-50kg) semifinal: Nikhat Zareen 7:15pm Women's Lightweight (57kg-60kg): Jaismine- 8pm Men's Welterweight (63.5kg-67kg): Rohit Tokas - 12:45pm Super heavyweight (over 92kg): Sagar 1:30am Cricket: Women's T20 semifinal between India and England- 3:30pm Hockey: Indian men's team semifinal against South Africa- 10:30pm

India's schedule at CWG 2022 on August 6: Cricket and hockey teams eye final berth; Sindhu, Nikhat in action

On Tuesday (August 02), India’s famous quadrant&nbsp;of Lovely Choubey, Rupa Rani Tirkey, Pinki and Nayanmoni Saikia competed in the historic&nbsp;women’s fours final with an aim to&nbsp;secure an&nbsp;elusive gold medal. After beating New Zealand in the semi-finals&nbsp;by overcoming a significant lead, India faced South Africa and won the final by a whisker in what was a topsy-turvy ride from the word go.

Indian stars showed nerves of steel and were ahead of the Proteas from the beginning. From a 3-2 lead, India soon made it a 7-2 scoreline and further were ahead by 8-6 before SA slowly and steadily clawed their way back into the contest.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-indias-cyclist-meenakshi-run-over-by-nz-rival-taken-on-stretcher-from-track-watch-502782">CWG 2022: India's cyclist Meenakshi run over by NZ rival, taken on stretcher from track - WATCH</a>

Thus, it looked like Rupali, Pinki, Nayanmoni and Lovely had lost the plot after dominating the first half of the summit clash. After SA went ahead at 10-8, Rupali&nbsp;delivered&nbsp;a decisive ball in End 12 to level the scoreline&nbsp;at 10-10 before India added three more points to their tally to lead 15-10 after End 14. Eventually, the quarter attained the country’s first-ever medal in the Games, which has been part of the mega event since its inaugural edition in 1930, with a 17-10&nbsp;scoreline.

For the unversed, the likes of&nbsp;England (51 medals), Australia (50 medals) and South Africa (44 medals) have been the dominating nations in the history of lawn bowls. India, on the other hand, have&nbsp;competed in the discipline only in 2010, 2014, and 2018 editions, and managed a best of fourth position —&nbsp;in the women's triples event in 2010 and the men's fours event in the following edition — before they&nbsp;created history in women's fours final on Tuesday.

Thus, India continues to rise in the medal-tally with their fourth gold overall in CWG 2022. Recently, Lovely (a constable with Jharkhand Police) told PTI how MS Dhoni also visits them (Rupali is also from Ranchi) when they practice in Ranchi. "Dhoni sir knows our coach in Ranchi and has come to see us at the greens twice over the years. We have a Dewri Mata temple closeby, when he goes there he comes to see us as well. We had a chat about the sport as well. He said whenever he is in Australia he goes to play Lawn Bowls," Lovely told PTI.

On Tuesday (August 02), India’s famous quadrant of Lovely Choubey, Rupa Rani Tirkey, Pinki and Nayanmoni Saikia competed in the historic women’s fours final with an aim to secure an elusive gold medal.

On Tuesday (August 02), India’s famous quadrant of Lovely Choubey, Rupa Rani Tirkey, Pinki and Nayanmoni Saikia competed in the historic women’s fours final with an aim to secure an elusive gold medal. After beating New Zealand in the semi-finals by overcoming a significant lead, India faced South Africa and won the final by a whisker in what was a topsy-turvy ride from the word go. Indian stars showed nerves of steel and were ahead of the Proteas from the beginning. From a 3-2 lead, India soon made it a 7-2 scoreline and further were ahead by 8-6 before SA slowly and steadily clawed their way back into the contest. ALSO READ | CWG 2022: India's cyclist Meenakshi run over by NZ rival, taken on stretcher from track - WATCH Thus, it looked like Rupali, Pinki, Nayanmoni and Lovely had lost the plot after dominating the first half of the summit clash. After SA went ahead at 10-8, Rupali delivered a decisive ball in End 12 to level the scoreline at 10-10 before India added three more points to their tally to lead 15-10 after End 14. Eventually, the quarter attained the country’s first-ever medal in the Games, which has been part of the mega event since its inaugural edition in 1930, with a 17-10 scoreline. For the unversed, the likes of England (51 medals), Australia (50 medals) and South Africa (44 medals) have been the dominating nations in the history of lawn bowls. India, on the other hand, have competed in the discipline only in 2010, 2014, and 2018 editions, and managed a best of fourth position — in the women's triples event in 2010 and the men's fours event in the following edition — before they created history in women's fours final on Tuesday. Thus, India continues to rise in the medal-tally with their fourth gold overall in CWG 2022. Recently, Lovely (a constable with Jharkhand Police) told PTI how MS Dhoni also visits them (Rupali is also from Ranchi) when they practice in Ranchi. "Dhoni sir knows our coach in Ranchi and has come to see us at the greens twice over the years. We have a Dewri Mata temple closeby, when he goes there he comes to see us as well. We had a chat about the sport as well. He said whenever he is in Australia he goes to play Lawn Bowls," Lovely told PTI.

India beat South Africa to claim historic maiden gold medal in lawn bowls in Commonwealth Games

India are set to&nbsp;host South Africa and&nbsp;Australia for three T20Is each before heading to the forthcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly&nbsp;confirmed the development&nbsp;after the board's Apex Council on Thursday (July 21).

Virat Kohli-led India had a disastrous campaign in last year's T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Hence, the board is keen to leave no stone unturned this time around to ensure Men in Blue's success in the upcoming showpiece event Down Under. Hence, two more home series have been confirmed now in the shortest format in the run-up to the marquee tournament.

"We will host SA and Australia for three T20Is each before going for the T20 World Cup. South Africa will come to India after concluding their ongoing England tour (in September). All those venues which didn’t get to stage a game against SA- Ranchi, Nagpur, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Indore, Mohali- will host T20Is against SA and Australia,” Ganguly told the media.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-should-kohli-tackle-off-stump-line-bowling-ex-india-captain-urges-batter-to-learn-from-tendulkar-499750">How should Kohli tackle off-stump line bowling? Ex-India captain urges batter to learn from Tendulkar</a>

The two T20I series will be held in September-October -- after the 2022 Asia Cup (also to be held in the shortest format) in the UAE -- whereas the final dates and venues will be revealed later.&nbsp;

The Indian team had hosted South Africa in five T20Is in early June, soon after the end of IPL 2022. The series ended in a 2-2 stalemate. They will like to beat the Proteas this time around and also get the better of the World T20 champions Australia before leaving the country for the eighth edition of the T20 WC.

India are set to host South Africa and Australia for three T20Is each before heading to the forthcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November.

India are set to host South Africa and Australia for three T20Is each before heading to the forthcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly confirmed the development after the board's Apex Council on Thursday (July 21). Virat Kohli-led India had a disastrous campaign in last year's T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Hence, the board is keen to leave no stone unturned this time around to ensure Men in Blue's success in the upcoming showpiece event Down Under. Hence, two more home series have been confirmed now in the shortest format in the run-up to the marquee tournament. "We will host SA and Australia for three T20Is each before going for the T20 World Cup. South Africa will come to India after concluding their ongoing England tour (in September). All those venues which didn’t get to stage a game against SA- Ranchi, Nagpur, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Indore, Mohali- will host T20Is against SA and Australia,” Ganguly told the media. ALSO READ | How should Kohli tackle off-stump line bowling? Ex-India captain urges batter to learn from Tendulkar The two T20I series will be held in September-October -- after the 2022 Asia Cup (also to be held in the shortest format) in the UAE -- whereas the final dates and venues will be revealed later. The Indian team had hosted South Africa in five T20Is in early June, soon after the end of IPL 2022. The series ended in a 2-2 stalemate. They will like to beat the Proteas this time around and also get the better of the World T20 champions Australia before leaving the country for the eighth edition of the T20 WC.

India to host South Africa, Australia for three T20Is each prior to T20 World Cup, reveals Sourav Ganguly

Rishabh Pant got a chance to lead the Indian team for the first time in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. It was his debut series as captain and Pant got off to a poor start losing the first two matches in a row before helping the team bounce back and draw the five-match series 2-2. The final game of the series was washed out due to rain resulting in a stalemate.

It was in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul that Pant was appointed as India's stand-in skipper for the T20I series against the Proteas. While he managed to impress with his captaincy after helping India bounce back following two back-to-back losses in the first two games, his personal form with the bat was far from the best.

Pant was appointed as stand-in captain for the series in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul. While he managed to score only 58 runs in five games, his captaincy stint was also a bitter-sweet one with two wins and as many losses in the series.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-who-twitter-left-baffled-as-bhuvneshwar-kumar-bowls-201-kmph-delivery-vs-ireland-492168">'Shoaib Akhtar who?': Twitter left baffled as Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowls '201 kmph' delivery vs Ireland</a>

Pant getting a chance to lead the Indian team clearly indicates that he is part of the leadership group in the side and might be one of the future leaders. However, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria believes Pant is not yet mature enough to lead India. Kaneria said the wicket-keeper batter did a horrible job while leading the team against South Africa at home.

"Rishabh Pant is not mature enough to be captain. He got a chance to lead the side in the South Africa series, but did a horrible job. Captaincy also tends to take a toll on his batting. I feel that he shouldn't be the captain anymore," Kaneria said in a video on his YouTube channel.

His comments came ahead of India's all-important one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston starting from July 01. The rescheduled Test match will decide the fate of India's away Test series against England last year where the visitors took a 2-1 lead before the final match was postponed due to COVID-19.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/had-a-chat-with-him-hardik-pandya-explains-why-umran-malik-bowled-only-1-over-in-1st-t20i-vs-ireland-492129">'Had a chat with him': Hardik Pandya explains why Umran Malik bowled only 1 over in 1st T20I vs Ireland</a>

With Indian captain Rohit Sharma testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of the 5th Test, India are likely to name a stand-in skipper for the game in case the Hitman fails to recover fully in time. Pacer Jasprit Bumrah is the favourite to take over the captaincy baton in Rohit's absence but Kaneria believes the fast bowler should not be burdened with the responsibility.

"BCCI has indicated that Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah or Ravichandran Ashwin could be given the captaincy if Rohit Sharma isn't available. Bumrah shouldn't be given the load of captaincy and he should rather concentrate on his bowling. I wouldn't want him to lead the side in the fifth Test," said the former Pakistan spinner.

&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant got a chance to lead the Indian team for the first time in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. It was his debut series as captain and Pant got off to a poor start losing the first two matches in a row before helping the team bounce back and draw the five-match series 2-2.

Rishabh Pant got a chance to lead the Indian team for the first time in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. It was his debut series as captain and Pant got off to a poor start losing the first two matches in a row before helping the team bounce back and draw the five-match series 2-2. The final game of the series was washed out due to rain resulting in a stalemate. It was in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul that Pant was appointed as India's stand-in skipper for the T20I series against the Proteas. While he managed to impress with his captaincy after helping India bounce back following two back-to-back losses in the first two games, his personal form with the bat was far from the best. Pant was appointed as stand-in captain for the series in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul. While he managed to score only 58 runs in five games, his captaincy stint was also a bitter-sweet one with two wins and as many losses in the series. Also Read: 'Shoaib Akhtar who?': Twitter left baffled as Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowls '201 kmph' delivery vs Ireland Pant getting a chance to lead the Indian team clearly indicates that he is part of the leadership group in the side and might be one of the future leaders. However, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria believes Pant is not yet mature enough to lead India. Kaneria said the wicket-keeper batter did a horrible job while leading the team against South Africa at home. "Rishabh Pant is not mature enough to be captain. He got a chance to lead the side in the South Africa series, but did a horrible job. Captaincy also tends to take a toll on his batting. I feel that he shouldn't be the captain anymore," Kaneria said in a video on his YouTube channel. His comments came ahead of India's all-important one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston starting from July 01. The rescheduled Test match will decide the fate of India's away Test series against England last year where the visitors took a 2-1 lead before the final match was postponed due to COVID-19. Also Read: 'Had a chat with him': Hardik Pandya explains why Umran Malik bowled only 1 over in 1st T20I vs Ireland With Indian captain Rohit Sharma testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of the 5th Test, India are likely to name a stand-in skipper for the game in case the Hitman fails to recover fully in time. Pacer Jasprit Bumrah is the favourite to take over the captaincy baton in Rohit's absence but Kaneria believes the fast bowler should not be burdened with the responsibility. "BCCI has indicated that Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah or Ravichandran Ashwin could be given the captaincy if Rohit Sharma isn't available. Bumrah shouldn't be given the load of captaincy and he should rather concentrate on his bowling. I wouldn't want him to lead the side in the fifth Test," said the former Pakistan spinner.

He did a horrible job in SA series: Ex-Pakistan cricketer feels Rishabh Pant not mature enough to lead India

India were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa at home. Under Rishabh Pant, India had a plethora of T20 World Cup contenders in their line-up, who competed well against a strong South African XI before the series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru.

Though India couldn't win the series, they had plenty of takeaways and would be proud of their fighting spirit to bounce back from 0-2 down. Talking about Pant, he didn't start well as captain -- due to some poor bowling changes -- but improved as the series went by. Despite that, former World Cup-winning member Madan Lal feels the 24-year-old youngster shouldn't have been named captain for the series.

"I would have stopped him from becoming captain. Wouldn't have allowed it. Because such a player needs to be given this responsibility later. Becoming an India captain is a big deal. He is a youngster. He isn't going anywhere anytime soon. The longer he plays, he will gain more maturity," Lal said on Sports Tak.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hell-be-one-of-the-trumps-cards-gavaskar-feels-india-star-will-be-integral-to-rohits-t20-wc-plans-490324">'He'll be one of the trumps cards' - Gavaskar feels India star will be integral to Rohit's T20 WC plans</a>

"Over the next two years, if he can take his game to the next level, then he can be a good captain, can deal with things maturely. This is a player of a different nature. MS Dhoni was a quiet and cool captain, which suited him as captain. Virat Kohli is a brilliant batter. I’m not saying Pant shouldn't be swinging his bat but if he can play with a little more maturity, it would be great," Lal explained further.

As a batter, Pant didn't have a great run as he only managed 58 runs at a woeful strike rate of 105.45. The left-hander will next be seen in India's rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, on July 01.

India were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa at home. Under Rishabh Pant, India had a plethora of T20 World Cup contenders in their line-up, who competed well against a strong South African XI before the series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru.

India were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa at home. Under Rishabh Pant, India had a plethora of T20 World Cup contenders in their line-up, who competed well against a strong South African XI before the series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Though India couldn't win the series, they had plenty of takeaways and would be proud of their fighting spirit to bounce back from 0-2 down. Talking about Pant, he didn't start well as captain -- due to some poor bowling changes -- but improved as the series went by. Despite that, former World Cup-winning member Madan Lal feels the 24-year-old youngster shouldn't have been named captain for the series. "I would have stopped him from becoming captain. Wouldn't have allowed it. Because such a player needs to be given this responsibility later. Becoming an India captain is a big deal. He is a youngster. He isn't going anywhere anytime soon. The longer he plays, he will gain more maturity," Lal said on Sports Tak. ALSO READ | 'He'll be one of the trumps cards' - Gavaskar feels India star will be integral to Rohit's T20 WC plans "Over the next two years, if he can take his game to the next level, then he can be a good captain, can deal with things maturely. This is a player of a different nature. MS Dhoni was a quiet and cool captain, which suited him as captain. Virat Kohli is a brilliant batter. I’m not saying Pant shouldn't be swinging his bat but if he can play with a little more maturity, it would be great," Lal explained further. As a batter, Pant didn't have a great run as he only managed 58 runs at a woeful strike rate of 105.45. The left-hander will next be seen in India's rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, on July 01.

Ind vs SA, T20Is: I would have stopped Rishabh Pant from becoming captain, says former India cricketer

India and South Africa locked horns in the fifth and final T20I at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday evening (June 19). Much to the dismay of the fans at the stadium, only 3.3 overs of play was possible -- with hosts 21 for 2 -- as the entire proceedings led to a no-result due to persistent rain.

Before the start of play, when rain was out of the picture, Rishabh Pant-led India had lost the coin toss -- for the fifth time in a row -- and were asked to bat first. Just when the players came out for the start of the match, rain made its presence felt and both camps went back to their respective dressing rooms. Just then, a video of Ruturaj Gaikwad's interaction with a groundsman went viral.&nbsp;

In the video, the groundsman was in the Indian dressing room and asked&nbsp;Ruturaj&nbsp;for a quick selfie. To this, the 25-year-old Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) and India opener asked him to maintain distance and, instead, interacted with his follow teammates. While many have slammed Ruturaj for his inappropriate behaviour, some have also supported the batter as outsiders and cellphones are prohibited in&nbsp;dugouts. Here are some reactions as netizens on Twitter are divided over Ruturaj's behaviour with the groundsman:&nbsp;

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Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this 😔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RuturajGaikwad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RuturajGaikwad</a> <a href="https://t.co/jIXWvUdqIX">pic.twitter.com/jIXWvUdqIX</a>
— Arnav (@imarnav_904) <a href="https://twitter.com/imarnav_904/status/1538549132482076673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/5th-t20i-between-india-and-south-africa-called-off-due-to-rain-series-shared-489760">5th T20I between India and South Africa called off due to rain, series shared</a>

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Ruturaj Gaikwad showing attitude while taking selfie with 'groundsman' not anyone can treat everyone equal like Rohit Sharma ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsSa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsSa</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y2IEDsJShj">pic.twitter.com/Y2IEDsJShj</a>
— 𓃵 Ctrl C + Ctrl Memes 45 (@Ctrlmemes_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ctrlmemes_/status/1538522583804522497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this👎 <a href="https://t.co/Qj6YoXIPUa">pic.twitter.com/Qj6YoXIPUa</a>
— akshat (@ReignOfVirat) <a href="https://twitter.com/ReignOfVirat/status/1538521237584060418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Nah... Nothing wrong. You are not allowed in the dug out first of all. And last IPL, one bookie was caught masquerading as a groundsman at Kotla <a href="https://t.co/5f0j5lkuOv">https://t.co/5f0j5lkuOv</a>
— Prithvi (@Puneite_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Puneite_/status/1538536797315399680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Definitely! Already he got affected with covid twice so nothing wrong.
— Sooraj Ayyappan (@Sooraj_Ayyappan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sooraj_Ayyappan/status/1538543218249170952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasnt-the-plan-rahul-dravid-opens-up-on-working-with-6-different-captains-as-india-head-coach-489747">'Wasn't the plan': Rahul Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach</a>

Talking about the India-SA T20I series, the two sides had to share the trophy after the final match was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Speaking about Ruturaj, he returned with a solitary fifty in five outings and will like to make the most of his opportunities in India's upcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland.

India and South Africa locked horns in the fifth and final T20I at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday evening (June 19). Much to the dismay of the fans at the stadium, only 3.

India and South Africa locked horns in the fifth and final T20I at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday evening (June 19). Much to the dismay of the fans at the stadium, only 3.3 overs of play was possible -- with hosts 21 for 2 -- as the entire proceedings led to a no-result due to persistent rain. Before the start of play, when rain was out of the picture, Rishabh Pant-led India had lost the coin toss -- for the fifth time in a row -- and were asked to bat first. Just when the players came out for the start of the match, rain made its presence felt and both camps went back to their respective dressing rooms. Just then, a video of Ruturaj Gaikwad's interaction with a groundsman went viral. In the video, the groundsman was in the Indian dressing room and asked Ruturaj for a quick selfie. To this, the 25-year-old Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) and India opener asked him to maintain distance and, instead, interacted with his follow teammates. While many have slammed Ruturaj for his inappropriate behaviour, some have also supported the batter as outsiders and cellphones are prohibited in dugouts. Here are some reactions as netizens on Twitter are divided over Ruturaj's behaviour with the groundsman: Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this 😔#RuturajGaikwad pic.twitter.com/jIXWvUdqIX — Arnav (@imarnav_904) June 19, 2022 × ALSO READ | 5th T20I between India and South Africa called off due to rain, series shared Ruturaj Gaikwad showing attitude while taking selfie with 'groundsman' not anyone can treat everyone equal like Rohit Sharma ❤️#INDvSA #IndvsSa pic.twitter.com/Y2IEDsJShj — 𓃵 Ctrl C + Ctrl Memes 45 (@Ctrlmemes_) June 19, 2022 × Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this👎 pic.twitter.com/Qj6YoXIPUa — akshat (@ReignOfVirat) June 19, 2022 × Nah... Nothing wrong. You are not allowed in the dug out first of all. And last IPL, one bookie was caught masquerading as a groundsman at Kotla https://t.co/5f0j5lkuOv — Prithvi (@Puneite_) June 19, 2022 × Definitely! Already he got affected with covid twice so nothing wrong. — Sooraj Ayyappan (@Sooraj_Ayyappan) June 19, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Wasn't the plan': Rahul Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach Talking about the India-SA T20I series, the two sides had to share the trophy after the final match was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Speaking about Ruturaj, he returned with a solitary fifty in five outings and will like to make the most of his opportunities in India's upcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland.

WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series, which came to a disappointing end on Sunday evening (June 19). After the hosts Rishabh Pant-led Indian team had levelled the series, 2-2, by winning the fourth and penultimate T20I, there was all to play for both teams in the series decider before persistent rain in Bengaluru saw only 3.3 overs possible as it led to a no-result and the series being shared.

For India, they still had a lot of positives as they came back from being 0-2 down. The likes of Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel and Bhuvneshwar Kumar did well. Bhuvi returned with the Player-of-the-Series award, claiming six wickets in four innings.

Thus, the 32-year-old Bhuvi claimed a new record, by winning the most Player-of-the-Series awards by an Indian fast-bowler. He, thus, surpassed Zaheer Khan and Ishant Sharma. The two&nbsp;have won it thrice when compared to Bhuvi (4). Earlier, the swing bowler had picked up the player of the series awards during the 2013 Celkon Cup tri-series in West Indies(ODIs), 2014 tour of England and 2018 tour of South Africa (in Tests and T20Is, respectively).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-netizens-divided-over-ruturaj-gaikwads-behaviour-with-groundsman-in-bengaluru-t20i-489830">WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I</a>

At the post-match presentation, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bhuvi told, "Really proud. Body feels good, but I don't want to talk much about it. Just want to focus on getting back stronger physically and with my bowling. Most of the times I bowl two at the top and two at the end. Being a senior, I also think about how to help the youngsters. I have been lucky that the captain gave me the free hand to do whatever I wanted. Pretty blessed in that way."

Bhuvi will next be seen in action in India's two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28. He will be the vice-captain with Hardik Pandya set to lead the Men in Blue.

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series, which came to a disappointing end on Sunday evening (June 19). After the hosts Rishabh Pant-led Indian team had levelled the series, 2-2, by winning the fourth and penultimate T20I, there was all to play for both teams in the series decider before persistent rain in Bengaluru saw only 3.

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series, which came to a disappointing end on Sunday evening (June 19). After the hosts Rishabh Pant-led Indian team had levelled the series, 2-2, by winning the fourth and penultimate T20I, there was all to play for both teams in the series decider before persistent rain in Bengaluru saw only 3.3 overs possible as it led to a no-result and the series being shared. For India, they still had a lot of positives as they came back from being 0-2 down. The likes of Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel and Bhuvneshwar Kumar did well. Bhuvi returned with the Player-of-the-Series award, claiming six wickets in four innings. Thus, the 32-year-old Bhuvi claimed a new record, by winning the most Player-of-the-Series awards by an Indian fast-bowler. He, thus, surpassed Zaheer Khan and Ishant Sharma. The two have won it thrice when compared to Bhuvi (4). Earlier, the swing bowler had picked up the player of the series awards during the 2013 Celkon Cup tri-series in West Indies(ODIs), 2014 tour of England and 2018 tour of South Africa (in Tests and T20Is, respectively). ALSO READ | WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I At the post-match presentation, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bhuvi told, "Really proud. Body feels good, but I don't want to talk much about it. Just want to focus on getting back stronger physically and with my bowling. Most of the times I bowl two at the top and two at the end. Being a senior, I also think about how to help the youngsters. I have been lucky that the captain gave me the free hand to do whatever I wanted. Pretty blessed in that way." Bhuvi will next be seen in action in India's two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28. He will be the vice-captain with Hardik Pandya set to lead the Men in Blue.

Ind vs SA, T20Is: Bhuvneshwar Kumar creates new record for Team India after memorable series vs Proteas

India missed out on a chance to register an elusive T20I series win over South Africa at home after the 5th and final T20I between the two sides was washed out due to rain on Sunday. With the game in Bengaluru getting called off due to persistent rain, the series ended in a 2-2 draw. India, who had lost the first two matches of the series, won the next two games on the trot to level the series 2-2 as the five-match rubber ended in a stalemate.

India headed into the fifth and final looking for their third win on the bounce with the series on the line. However, rain made it impossible to have even a reduced contest leaving the two sides and the fans disappointed. While the Men in Blue failed to clinch the series, they scripted a historic feat in T20Is by remaining unbeaten in the series.

India extended their unbeaten record at home in T20Is to break Australia's impressive record in the shortest format. India have now gone unbeaten in nine straight T20I series at home surpassing Australia, who had managed to remain unbeaten in 8 T20I series from 2006 to 2010.

India's unbeaten streak started back in 2019 with a 1-1 draw against South Africa in a three-match series following which the Men in Blue have recorded wins over the likes of West Indies, England, New Zealand and Sri Lanka at home. India were without a host of key players in the recently-concluded South Africa series at home but managed to keep their unbeaten record intact.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhonis-international-career-got-over-but-aakash-chopra-lauds-dinesh-karthik-after-sa-t20is-489877">'MS Dhoni's international career got over but....' - Aakash Chopra lauds Dinesh Karthik after SA T20Is</a>

Rishabh Pant led the hosts in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, who was rested from the series and KL Rahul, who was supposed to lead the side in Rohit's absence but had to miss out due to an injury ahead of the opening game. The likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan turned out to be the impressive performers for the hosts in the series.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-netizens-divided-over-ruturaj-gaikwads-behaviour-with-groundsman-in-bengaluru-t20i-489830">WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I</a>

India will now head to Ireland for their next T20I assignment where they are scheduled to play two T20I against the hosts. Hardik will be leading the side with no Rohit in the squad and Rahul out due to an injury. India will be hoping to continue their impressive run in the series as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022.

India missed out on a chance to register an elusive T20I series win over South Africa at home after the 5th and final T20I between the two sides was washed out due to rain on Sunday.

India missed out on a chance to register an elusive T20I series win over South Africa at home after the 5th and final T20I between the two sides was washed out due to rain on Sunday. With the game in Bengaluru getting called off due to persistent rain, the series ended in a 2-2 draw. India, who had lost the first two matches of the series, won the next two games on the trot to level the series 2-2 as the five-match rubber ended in a stalemate. India headed into the fifth and final looking for their third win on the bounce with the series on the line. However, rain made it impossible to have even a reduced contest leaving the two sides and the fans disappointed. While the Men in Blue failed to clinch the series, they scripted a historic feat in T20Is by remaining unbeaten in the series. India extended their unbeaten record at home in T20Is to break Australia's impressive record in the shortest format. India have now gone unbeaten in nine straight T20I series at home surpassing Australia, who had managed to remain unbeaten in 8 T20I series from 2006 to 2010. India's unbeaten streak started back in 2019 with a 1-1 draw against South Africa in a three-match series following which the Men in Blue have recorded wins over the likes of West Indies, England, New Zealand and Sri Lanka at home. India were without a host of key players in the recently-concluded South Africa series at home but managed to keep their unbeaten record intact. Also Read: 'MS Dhoni's international career got over but....' - Aakash Chopra lauds Dinesh Karthik after SA T20Is Rishabh Pant led the hosts in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, who was rested from the series and KL Rahul, who was supposed to lead the side in Rohit's absence but had to miss out due to an injury ahead of the opening game. The likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan turned out to be the impressive performers for the hosts in the series. Also Read: WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I India will now head to Ireland for their next T20I assignment where they are scheduled to play two T20I against the hosts. Hardik will be leading the side with no Rohit in the squad and Rahul out due to an injury. India will be hoping to continue their impressive run in the series as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022.

India script history, break Australia's impressive T20I record after South Africa series ends in 2-2 draw

India and South Africa shared honours in the five-match T20I series after the last game here on Sunday was called off due to rain with only 3.3 overs of play possible. India and South Africa were on level terms at 2-2 after four matches.

After being put into bat, a steady downpour delayed the game by 50 minutes. It started raining just when the game was about to start.

The curtailed match did start at 7:50 PM but was called off after only 16 minutes of play in which India managed 28 runs for the loss of two wickets.

Lungi Ngidi got both the wickets of Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad with a couple of slower deliveries.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasnt-the-plan-rahul-dravid-opens-up-on-working-with-6-different-captains-as-india-head-coach-489747">'Wasn't the plan': Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach</a>

Kishan hit two sixes off Keshav Maharaj's opening over but was undone by a loopy slower delivery from Ngidi as he committed to the shot early and played all over it.

Gaikwad also failed to pick up a slower delivery and was holed out at mid-on before the heavens opened up again to stop the series decider.&nbsp;

India and South Africa shared honours in the five-match T20I series after the last game here on Sunday was called off due to rain with only 3.3 overs of play possible.

India and South Africa shared honours in the five-match T20I series after the last game here on Sunday was called off due to rain with only 3.3 overs of play possible. India and South Africa were on level terms at 2-2 after four matches. After being put into bat, a steady downpour delayed the game by 50 minutes. It started raining just when the game was about to start. The curtailed match did start at 7:50 PM but was called off after only 16 minutes of play in which India managed 28 runs for the loss of two wickets. Lungi Ngidi got both the wickets of Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad with a couple of slower deliveries. Also Read: 'Wasn't the plan': Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach Kishan hit two sixes off Keshav Maharaj's opening over but was undone by a loopy slower delivery from Ngidi as he committed to the shot early and played all over it. Gaikwad also failed to pick up a slower delivery and was holed out at mid-on before the heavens opened up again to stop the series decider.

5th T20I between India and South Africa called off due to rain, series shared

India will lock horns with South Africa in the series-deciding fifth and final T20I of the ongoing five-match series at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19). The series is currently locked at 2-2 after India won the last two games on the trot following defeats in the first two matches. India thrashed the visitors by 82 runs in the penultimate 4th T20I which was played in Rajkot on Friday. Rishabh Pant &amp; Co. will be hoping to continue their winning run against the Proteas on Sunday.

India didn't get off to an ideal start in the T20I series against South Africa with Pant leading the side in the absence of both Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul. The hosts lost the first two games on the trot before bouncing back to level the series and take it to the decider on Sunday.

While India's top-order failed to deliver yet again in the last encounter between the two sides, both Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik continued their fabulous run with the bat. Karthik played a sensational knock of 27-ball 55 while Pandya scored a crucial 46 off 31 balls to help India post a fighting total of 169 runs on the board.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-is-overweight-danish-kaneria-raises-questions-over-indian-skippers-fitness-489557">'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness</a>

However, it turned out to be a one-sided affair after Avesh Khan ran riot with the ball during South Africa's run-chase. The Indian pacer picked up a four-wicket haul to bundle out the Proteas for a paltry 87 and secure a comfortable 82-run victory for the hosts.

India have not made any changes in their line-up throughout the series and are expected to field the same playing XI in the series decider in Bengaluru on Sunday. However, the batters will have to step up and give the hosts a good start at the top to ensure they can make the most of the batting-friendly track at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-vs-dinesh-karthik-dale-steyn-picks-indias-wicket-keeper-batter-for-t20-world-cup-2022-489411">Rishabh Pant vs Dinesh Karthik? Dale Steyn picks India's wicket-keeper batter for T20 World Cup 2022</a>

The spotlight will be on the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer, who have all been far from consistent in the ongoing series. Meanwhile, Yuzvenda Chahal would also be hoping to produce a better show with the ball after his lacklustre performances so far in the series.

India vs South Africa 5th T20I prediction:

India have found the winning momentum with back-to-back victories in the last two games and will be hoping to make it three wins in a row on Sunday. Pant &amp; Co. have a settled bowling attack and will hope for the batters to step up in the decider to help them clinch the series. India are likely to trounce South Africa and clinch the series on Sunday.

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India will lock horns with South Africa in the series-deciding fifth and final T20I of the ongoing five-match series at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19).

India will lock horns with South Africa in the series-deciding fifth and final T20I of the ongoing five-match series at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19). The series is currently locked at 2-2 after India won the last two games on the trot following defeats in the first two matches. India thrashed the visitors by 82 runs in the penultimate 4th T20I which was played in Rajkot on Friday. Rishabh Pant & Co. will be hoping to continue their winning run against the Proteas on Sunday. India didn't get off to an ideal start in the T20I series against South Africa with Pant leading the side in the absence of both Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul. The hosts lost the first two games on the trot before bouncing back to level the series and take it to the decider on Sunday. While India's top-order failed to deliver yet again in the last encounter between the two sides, both Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik continued their fabulous run with the bat. Karthik played a sensational knock of 27-ball 55 while Pandya scored a crucial 46 off 31 balls to help India post a fighting total of 169 runs on the board. Also Read: 'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness However, it turned out to be a one-sided affair after Avesh Khan ran riot with the ball during South Africa's run-chase. The Indian pacer picked up a four-wicket haul to bundle out the Proteas for a paltry 87 and secure a comfortable 82-run victory for the hosts. India have not made any changes in their line-up throughout the series and are expected to field the same playing XI in the series decider in Bengaluru on Sunday. However, the batters will have to step up and give the hosts a good start at the top to ensure they can make the most of the batting-friendly track at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Also Read: Rishabh Pant vs Dinesh Karthik? Dale Steyn picks India's wicket-keeper batter for T20 World Cup 2022 The spotlight will be on the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer, who have all been far from consistent in the ongoing series. Meanwhile, Yuzvenda Chahal would also be hoping to produce a better show with the ball after his lacklustre performances so far in the series. India vs South Africa 5th T20I prediction: India have found the winning momentum with back-to-back victories in the last two games and will be hoping to make it three wins in a row on Sunday. Pant & Co. have a settled bowling attack and will hope for the batters to step up in the decider to help them clinch the series. India are likely to trounce South Africa and clinch the series on Sunday.

IND vs SA prediction: Who will win series-deciding 5th T20I between India and South Africa in Bengaluru?

Rishabh Pant has not enjoyed the best of time with the bat in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home. The stand-in skipper of the Indian team has been lauded by many for his captaincy but his form with the bat has been a major concern for the hosts with T20 World Cup 2022 just four months away. Pant has so far managed to score only 57 runs in the ongoing five-match series against the Proteas.

The series is currently tied at 2-2 after India defeated South Africa comprehensively by 82 runs in the 4th T20I on Friday. The series-decided will be played at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19). Ahead of the decider, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria made a bizarre statement raising questions over Pant's fitness amid his poor form.

Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel, Kaneria pointed out at the shortcomings as far as Pant's wicket-keeping is concerned. The former Pakistan cricketer said he has noticed that Pant doesn't squat lower or sit on his toes when keeping to pacers and that it seems like he is 'overweight'.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-kept-on-sexually-molesting-me-pakistan-cricket-board-suspends-coach-after-shocking-allegations-489437">'He kept on sexually molesting me': Pakistan cricket Board suspends coach after shocking allegations</a>

“I want to talk about Pant's wicketkeeping. I've noticed one thing – he doesn't squat lower and sit on his toes when a fast bowler is bowling. Seems like he is overweight and being bulky doesn't give him that much time to come up quickly. It raises concern over his fitness," said Kaneria.

"Is he 100 per cent fit? But when it comes to his captain, bowlers and batters including Hardik and Karthik have supported him well. Pant also has a chance to become the first captain to win a T20 series against South Africa,” added the former Pakistan spinner.

India rode on Dinesh Karthik's heroic knock of 27-ball 55 and Hardik Pandya's 46 off 31 balls to post 169 runs on the board in the 4th T20I against the Proteas on Friday. Avesh Khan then bowled an exceptional spell to pick up a four-wicket haul and run through the South African batting line-up.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-hasnt-learned-sunil-gavaskar-slams-rishabh-pant-after-yet-another-disappointing-show-vs-south-africa-489317">'He hasn't learned': Gavaskar slams Rishabh Pant after yet another disappointing show vs South Africa</a>

India bundled out the Proteas for a paltry 87 runs to win the game by 82 runs and level the series 2-2. The spotlight will be on Pant when India lock&nbsp;horns with South Africa in the series-decided in Bengaluru on Sunday. The Indian skipper will be hoping to prove his critics wrong with the bat in the final game of the series.

 
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Rishabh Pant has not enjoyed the best of time with the bat in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home. The stand-in skipper of the Indian team has been lauded by many for his captaincy but his form with the bat has been a major concern for the hosts with T20 World Cup 2022 just four months away.

Rishabh Pant has not enjoyed the best of time with the bat in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home. The stand-in skipper of the Indian team has been lauded by many for his captaincy but his form with the bat has been a major concern for the hosts with T20 World Cup 2022 just four months away. Pant has so far managed to score only 57 runs in the ongoing five-match series against the Proteas. The series is currently tied at 2-2 after India defeated South Africa comprehensively by 82 runs in the 4th T20I on Friday. The series-decided will be played at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19). Ahead of the decider, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria made a bizarre statement raising questions over Pant's fitness amid his poor form. Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel, Kaneria pointed out at the shortcomings as far as Pant's wicket-keeping is concerned. The former Pakistan cricketer said he has noticed that Pant doesn't squat lower or sit on his toes when keeping to pacers and that it seems like he is 'overweight'. Also Read: 'He kept on sexually molesting me': Pakistan cricket Board suspends coach after shocking allegations “I want to talk about Pant's wicketkeeping. I've noticed one thing – he doesn't squat lower and sit on his toes when a fast bowler is bowling. Seems like he is overweight and being bulky doesn't give him that much time to come up quickly. It raises concern over his fitness," said Kaneria. "Is he 100 per cent fit? But when it comes to his captain, bowlers and batters including Hardik and Karthik have supported him well. Pant also has a chance to become the first captain to win a T20 series against South Africa,” added the former Pakistan spinner. India rode on Dinesh Karthik's heroic knock of 27-ball 55 and Hardik Pandya's 46 off 31 balls to post 169 runs on the board in the 4th T20I against the Proteas on Friday. Avesh Khan then bowled an exceptional spell to pick up a four-wicket haul and run through the South African batting line-up. Also Read: 'He hasn't learned': Gavaskar slams Rishabh Pant after yet another disappointing show vs South Africa India bundled out the Proteas for a paltry 87 runs to win the game by 82 runs and level the series 2-2. The spotlight will be on Pant when India lock horns with South Africa in the series-decided in Bengaluru on Sunday. The Indian skipper will be hoping to prove his critics wrong with the bat in the final game of the series.

'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness

Dinesh Karthik continues to strengthen his chances of nailing down a spot in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 with his stellar performances with the bat. After a brilliant IPL 2022, the veteran wicket-keeper batter has continued his fine form in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home. Karthik slammed a match-winning half-century to help India register a comfortable 82-run win in the 4th T20I against the Proteas on Friday (June 17).

Karthik made his return to the Indian team after a gap of three years in the ongoing South Africa series as he had last played for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup. He has been roped in as a finisher in the side and has been terrific so far batting in the lower middle-order for the Men in Blue.

Apart from Karthik, a number of other players have been presenting a strong case for selection in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 which is just four months away. The likes of Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan and Avesh Khan among others have made the most of the opportunities coming their way and are set to give the national selectors a tough time in finalising the squad for the showpiece event in Australia later this year.

While Karthik and a few others have impressed in their respective roles, there are concerns over the forms of some of the regular players. Rishabh Pant, who is leading the Indian team against South Africa in the absence of KL Rahul, has seen his performance dip and is struggling to score runs consistently.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-the-finisher-who-is-far-from-finished-489375">Dinesh Karthik: The finisher who is far from finished</a>

Pant has so far scored only 57 runs in 4 matches against South Africa in the ongoing series and is behind Karthik in the pecking order for selection in India's squad for T20 World Cup 2022, as per former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn. Steyn believes Karthik is ahead of Pant and should be one of the first names on paper when India's squad is selected.

"Pant has had four opportunities now in this series and he seems to be making the same mistake. You could say that good players learn from their mistakes, but he hasn't. And DK has come up just every single time and shown what a class player he is. I think if you want to win World Cups, you pick a guy who is in form," Steyn said on ESPNCricinfo post India's win over South Africa on Friday.

That guy is going to win you the World Cup. If he is in a purple patch and is red hot, you pick that guy. Teams will pick on reputation, but DK is in such fantastic form, and if he continues, he will be one of the first names written down on the plane when India tours for the World Cup," he added.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-hasnt-learned-sunil-gavaskar-slams-rishabh-pant-after-yet-another-disappointing-show-vs-south-africa-489317">&nbsp;'He hasn't learned': Gavaskar slams Rishabh Pant after yet another disappointing show vs South Africa</a>

Steyn believes Karthiks getting better and better at finishing games with time and he is also an experienced wicket-keeper which keeps him ahead of Pant in the race for a spot in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad.

"DK has been in phenomenal form and looks like he is getting better and better. He has that great wicket-keeping mentality and reads the game very well. He knows and understands what bowlers are going to do, and he backs it up really well with good skill," said the former South Africa pacer.

Dinesh Karthik continues to strengthen his chances of nailing down a spot in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 with his stellar performances with the bat.

Dinesh Karthik continues to strengthen his chances of nailing down a spot in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 with his stellar performances with the bat. After a brilliant IPL 2022, the veteran wicket-keeper batter has continued his fine form in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home. Karthik slammed a match-winning half-century to help India register a comfortable 82-run win in the 4th T20I against the Proteas on Friday (June 17). Karthik made his return to the Indian team after a gap of three years in the ongoing South Africa series as he had last played for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup. He has been roped in as a finisher in the side and has been terrific so far batting in the lower middle-order for the Men in Blue. Apart from Karthik, a number of other players have been presenting a strong case for selection in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 which is just four months away. The likes of Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan and Avesh Khan among others have made the most of the opportunities coming their way and are set to give the national selectors a tough time in finalising the squad for the showpiece event in Australia later this year. While Karthik and a few others have impressed in their respective roles, there are concerns over the forms of some of the regular players. Rishabh Pant, who is leading the Indian team against South Africa in the absence of KL Rahul, has seen his performance dip and is struggling to score runs consistently. Also Read: Dinesh Karthik: The finisher who is far from finished Pant has so far scored only 57 runs in 4 matches against South Africa in the ongoing series and is behind Karthik in the pecking order for selection in India's squad for T20 World Cup 2022, as per former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn. Steyn believes Karthik is ahead of Pant and should be one of the first names on paper when India's squad is selected. "Pant has had four opportunities now in this series and he seems to be making the same mistake. You could say that good players learn from their mistakes, but he hasn't. And DK has come up just every single time and shown what a class player he is. I think if you want to win World Cups, you pick a guy who is in form," Steyn said on ESPNCricinfo post India's win over South Africa on Friday. That guy is going to win you the World Cup. If he is in a purple patch and is red hot, you pick that guy. Teams will pick on reputation, but DK is in such fantastic form, and if he continues, he will be one of the first names written down on the plane when India tours for the World Cup," he added. Also Read: 'He hasn't learned': Gavaskar slams Rishabh Pant after yet another disappointing show vs South Africa Steyn believes Karthiks getting better and better at finishing games with time and he is also an experienced wicket-keeper which keeps him ahead of Pant in the race for a spot in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad. "DK has been in phenomenal form and looks like he is getting better and better. He has that great wicket-keeping mentality and reads the game very well. He knows and understands what bowlers are going to do, and he backs it up really well with good skill," said the former South Africa pacer.

Rishabh Pant vs Dinesh Karthik? Dale Steyn picks India's wicket-keeper batter for T20 World Cup 2022

On the back of a glittering IPL 2022 season, the 37-year-old Dinesh Karthik made a comeback -- for the nth time -- in the Team India set up ahead of&nbsp;the ongoing South Africa home T20Is. Being made a scapegoat for India's 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final loss, Karthik waited for almost three years for a comeback. Needless to say, his return has been a blessing for the national side.

From IPL 15 to date, the entire country is chanting "DK, DK" as Karthik remains the talk of the town. This&nbsp;success has been long overdue. Debuting for India in 2004, Karthik's&nbsp;career span is longer than MS Dhoni (under whose gigantic shadow he remained glued to a corner for years) and many yesteryear stars such as VVS Laxman, current head coach Rahul Dravid, Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar, etc. In fact, he&nbsp;just needs to stick around for six more years to equal the great Sachin Tendulkar.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, DK's success ratio is much smaller than the above-mentioned stalwarts of Indian cricket. Despite that, his hunger for success, appetite for playing for the country, willingness to adapt to varied roles, and childlike enthusiasm remain&nbsp;second to none.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-breaks-ms-dhonis-record-with-sensational-half-century-in-4th-t20i-against-south-africa-489296">Dinesh Karthik breaks MS Dhoni's record with sensational half-century in 4th T20I against South Africa</a>

For someone who has been around as a&nbsp;second-choice keeper-batter for years, is still behind Rishabh Pant in the reckoning, has even donned the opener's hat in India's historic Test series win in England in 2007, been part of&nbsp;two ICC title-wins for the Men in Blue (in 2007 and 2013), bloomed in 2018-19 only to disappear once again, Karthik has come a long long way. He has failed more than he has succeeded, hence, he is adamant about not being done yet. Just like the finale in every cricket match rests on a finisher's shoulders and the end is always decided by him, or her, DK seems hell bent&nbsp;to pen&nbsp;the concluding chapter&nbsp;of his inspiring career on&nbsp;his own and in his own way. He doesn't want it to be left to fate.

Thus, Karthik isn't just&nbsp;India's finisher&nbsp;-- strengthening his chances to feature in this year's T20 World cup with each game -- he is also making a statement loud and clear, i.e. "I am a finisher, who is yet again far from&nbsp;finished. I will finish it off in my own way."

After becoming India's oldest half-centurion in T20Is and guiding Pant &amp; Co. to a series-levelling win versus South Africa, in Rajkot, Karthik told all-rounder Hardik Pandya in a special interaction on BCCI.tv, "Look, I was very bull-headed that I want to play this World Cup. It is very important in my life, I have been around for so long. I know what it feels like to be dropped. I also know how valuable it is to play for Team India. I wanted to do something special. Luckily, RCB gave me that platform and the role I really enjoyed doing at the backend. I practiced for it. Now that I am here, I want to be that guy who can help India win those tough games. I know how tough it is to be part of this team. The vibe is very different," said Karthik.

During the same conversation, Hardik echoed the voice of every Indian cricket fan and athlete by lauding DK's journey. He said, "I need to tell you this, Genuinely I want to tell you this, you have given a lot of inspiration to many guys in their life. I remember the conversation you were having when you were not in the scheme of things, a lot of people counted you out."

"I remember those conversations. You told me then that my goal is to play for India again and the goal is to play this World Cup, I am going to give it my everything, and seeing you achieve that is very inspirational. A lot of people are going to learn new things. Well done my brother, very proud of you," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-avesh-khan-help-india-crush-south-africa-to-level-t20-series-489206">Dinesh&nbsp;Karthik, Avesh Khan help India crush South Africa to level T20 series</a>

DK is the finisher, on and off the field. He will not finish until he is part of India's flight enroute Australia for the T20 World Cup (or maybe even dream of being part of the&nbsp;2023 ODI World Cup). He won't take his guard off until he sees India home in many upcoming tense chases. Similarly, he won't finish off by virtue of being dropped anymore. He is writing his own script. DK will finish off in style. Until then, sit back and enjoy the show by a child who, time and again, fights with destiny to stay relevant.

On the back of a glittering IPL 2022 season, the 37-year-old Dinesh Karthik made a comeback -- for the nth time -- in the Team India set up ahead of the ongoing South Africa home T20Is.

On the back of a glittering IPL 2022 season, the 37-year-old Dinesh Karthik made a comeback -- for the nth time -- in the Team India set up ahead of the ongoing South Africa home T20Is. Being made a scapegoat for India's 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final loss, Karthik waited for almost three years for a comeback. Needless to say, his return has been a blessing for the national side. From IPL 15 to date, the entire country is chanting "DK, DK" as Karthik remains the talk of the town. This success has been long overdue. Debuting for India in 2004, Karthik's career span is longer than MS Dhoni (under whose gigantic shadow he remained glued to a corner for years) and many yesteryear stars such as VVS Laxman, current head coach Rahul Dravid, Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar, etc. In fact, he just needs to stick around for six more years to equal the great Sachin Tendulkar. Nonetheless, DK's success ratio is much smaller than the above-mentioned stalwarts of Indian cricket. Despite that, his hunger for success, appetite for playing for the country, willingness to adapt to varied roles, and childlike enthusiasm remain second to none. ALSO READ | Dinesh Karthik breaks MS Dhoni's record with sensational half-century in 4th T20I against South Africa For someone who has been around as a second-choice keeper-batter for years, is still behind Rishabh Pant in the reckoning, has even donned the opener's hat in India's historic Test series win in England in 2007, been part of two ICC title-wins for the Men in Blue (in 2007 and 2013), bloomed in 2018-19 only to disappear once again, Karthik has come a long long way. He has failed more than he has succeeded, hence, he is adamant about not being done yet. Just like the finale in every cricket match rests on a finisher's shoulders and the end is always decided by him, or her, DK seems hell bent to pen the concluding chapter of his inspiring career on his own and in his own way. He doesn't want it to be left to fate. Thus, Karthik isn't just India's finisher -- strengthening his chances to feature in this year's T20 World cup with each game -- he is also making a statement loud and clear, i.e. "I am a finisher, who is yet again far from finished. I will finish it off in my own way." After becoming India's oldest half-centurion in T20Is and guiding Pant & Co. to a series-levelling win versus South Africa, in Rajkot, Karthik told all-rounder Hardik Pandya in a special interaction on BCCI.tv, "Look, I was very bull-headed that I want to play this World Cup. It is very important in my life, I have been around for so long. I know what it feels like to be dropped. I also know how valuable it is to play for Team India. I wanted to do something special. Luckily, RCB gave me that platform and the role I really enjoyed doing at the backend. I practiced for it. Now that I am here, I want to be that guy who can help India win those tough games. I know how tough it is to be part of this team. The vibe is very different," said Karthik. During the same conversation, Hardik echoed the voice of every Indian cricket fan and athlete by lauding DK's journey. He said, "I need to tell you this, Genuinely I want to tell you this, you have given a lot of inspiration to many guys in their life. I remember the conversation you were having when you were not in the scheme of things, a lot of people counted you out." "I remember those conversations. You told me then that my goal is to play for India again and the goal is to play this World Cup, I am going to give it my everything, and seeing you achieve that is very inspirational. A lot of people are going to learn new things. Well done my brother, very proud of you," he added. ALSO READ | Dinesh Karthik, Avesh Khan help India crush South Africa to level T20 series DK is the finisher, on and off the field. He will not finish until he is part of India's flight enroute Australia for the T20 World Cup (or maybe even dream of being part of the 2023 ODI World Cup). He won't take his guard off until he sees India home in many upcoming tense chases. Similarly, he won't finish off by virtue of being dropped anymore. He is writing his own script. DK will finish off in style. Until then, sit back and enjoy the show by a child who, time and again, fights with destiny to stay relevant.

Dinesh Karthik: The finisher who is far from finished

Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar slammed Rishabh Pant after yet another disappointing outing for India's stand-in captain in the 4th T20I against South Africa on Friday (June 17). India defeated South Africa comprehensively by 82 runs to level the five-match series 2-2 but Pant failed to impress once again as he was dismissed on 17 off 23 balls.

Batting first, India were in deep trouble after losing their top three inside the first seven overs. Pant, who arrived at the crease at number four was expected to steady the ship and build a strong partnership with Hardik Pandya, who was at the other end. However, the Indian skipper could only manage 17 off 23 balls.

He got out trying to play a rash shot on an outside off delivery bowled by Dwaine Pretorious as he was caught by Keshav Maharaj. However, Dinesh Karthik's sensational 55 off 27 balls and Hardik's 46 helped India post a fighting total of 169 runs on the board before Avesh Khan picked up a four-wicket haul to run through the Proteas batting line-up and bundle them out for 87 runs.

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Nonetheless, Pant's poor show with the bat continued in the series amid concerns over his consistency. Gavaskar pointed out how Pant has been dismissed in a similar fashion in the last few games against South Africa in the ongoing T20I series and has not learnt from his mistakes in the past.

“He hasn’t learned. He hasn’t learned from his previous three dismissals. They throw wide, and he keeps going for it. He can’t throw enough muscle on that. He has got to stop looking to go aerial that far outside the off-stump,” Gavaskar said on Star Sports as he slammed Pant for getting out once again after playing a rash shot.

“There is no way he’s going to get enough on it. It has gone to short-third! They all plan it, South African bowlers and Temba Bavuma just bowl wide outside the off-stump and you will get him,” the former India captain added.

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Gavaskar further claimed Pant has been dismissed as many as ten times in a similar way this year and has not yet realised that he will not be able to generate enough power for such a shot as the ball is bowled too far away from him by the pacers.

“10 times, he has been dismissed wide outside off-stump (in T20s in 2022). Some of them would’ve been called wide if he hadn’t made contact with it. Because he’s so far away, he has to reach out for it. He will never get enough power on it. To keep getting out in the same series in the same manner, for a captain of the Indian team, that’s not a good sign,” said Gavaskar.

Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar slammed Rishabh Pant after yet another disappointing outing for India's stand-in captain in the 4th T20I against South Africa on Friday (June 17).

Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar slammed Rishabh Pant after yet another disappointing outing for India's stand-in captain in the 4th T20I against South Africa on Friday (June 17). India defeated South Africa comprehensively by 82 runs to level the five-match series 2-2 but Pant failed to impress once again as he was dismissed on 17 off 23 balls. Batting first, India were in deep trouble after losing their top three inside the first seven overs. Pant, who arrived at the crease at number four was expected to steady the ship and build a strong partnership with Hardik Pandya, who was at the other end. However, the Indian skipper could only manage 17 off 23 balls. He got out trying to play a rash shot on an outside off delivery bowled by Dwaine Pretorious as he was caught by Keshav Maharaj. However, Dinesh Karthik's sensational 55 off 27 balls and Hardik's 46 helped India post a fighting total of 169 runs on the board before Avesh Khan picked up a four-wicket haul to run through the Proteas batting line-up and bundle them out for 87 runs. Also Read: 'Best white-ball cricketer in the world': Morgan lauds Buttler as England register highest-ever ODI score Nonetheless, Pant's poor show with the bat continued in the series amid concerns over his consistency. Gavaskar pointed out how Pant has been dismissed in a similar fashion in the last few games against South Africa in the ongoing T20I series and has not learnt from his mistakes in the past. “He hasn’t learned. He hasn’t learned from his previous three dismissals. They throw wide, and he keeps going for it. He can’t throw enough muscle on that. He has got to stop looking to go aerial that far outside the off-stump,” Gavaskar said on Star Sports as he slammed Pant for getting out once again after playing a rash shot. “There is no way he’s going to get enough on it. It has gone to short-third! They all plan it, South African bowlers and Temba Bavuma just bowl wide outside the off-stump and you will get him,” the former India captain added. Also Read: Dinesh Karthik breaks MS Dhoni's record with sensational half-century in 4th T20I against South Africa Gavaskar further claimed Pant has been dismissed as many as ten times in a similar way this year and has not yet realised that he will not be able to generate enough power for such a shot as the ball is bowled too far away from him by the pacers. “10 times, he has been dismissed wide outside off-stump (in T20s in 2022). Some of them would’ve been called wide if he hadn’t made contact with it. Because he’s so far away, he has to reach out for it. He will never get enough power on it. To keep getting out in the same series in the same manner, for a captain of the Indian team, that’s not a good sign,” said Gavaskar.

'He hasn't learned': Sunil Gavaskar slams Rishabh Pant after yet another disappointing show vs South Africa

Dinesh Karthik turned out to be the hero for India once again as the hosts defeated South Africa by 82 runs in the penultimate 4th T20I to level the five-match series 2-2. Riding on Karthik's sensational fifty, India went on to post a fighting total of 169 runs on the board at the Saurashtra Cricket Stadium in Rajkot before bundling out the visitors for a paltry 87 to win the game comprehensively.

Asked to bat first in the game, India were in trouble after losing their top three - Ruturaj Gaikwad (5), Ishan Kishan (27) and Shreyas Iyer (4) cheaply inside the first seven overs. Captain Rishabh Pant then combined with Hardik Pandya to steady the ship and add 41 runs for the 4th wicket.

However, he too departed cheaply on 17 off 23 balls before Karthik arrived at the crease. The veteran batter continued his purple patch with the willow and slammed a brilliant knock of 55 runs off just 27 balls. His quickfire knock was laced with 9 fours and 2 sixes as Karthik added a 65-run stand for the fifth wicket with Hardik (46).

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It was a sensational knock from the in-form Karthik, who took 13 runs off the 17th over bowled by Keshav Maharaj before smashing a six and back-to-back fours in the 18th over bowled by Dwaine Pretorious to get 16 runs off it. With his match-winning fifty, Karthik broke MS Dhoni's record in T20Is.

Karthik has now become the oldest Indian batter to have scored a half-century in T20Is. Karthik at 37 years and 16 days is the oldest to achieve the feat leaving behind Dhoni, who previously held the record for his fifty in a T20I against South Africa in 2018.

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Karthik has so far scored 92 runs in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home and has been strengthening his case for selection in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad with his finishing cameos in the lower-middle order.

After a phenomenal IPL 2022 as a finisher for the Royal Challengers Bangalore, Karthik has carried on from where he left in the ongoing South Africa series and has justified the faith shown in him by the selectors. The veteran batter will be hopeful of finishing the series on a high when India take on South Africa in the series-deciding 5th T20I on Sunday.

Dinesh Karthik turned out to be the hero for India once again as the hosts defeated South Africa by 82 runs in the penultimate 4th T20I to level the five-match series 2-2.

Dinesh Karthik turned out to be the hero for India once again as the hosts defeated South Africa by 82 runs in the penultimate 4th T20I to level the five-match series 2-2. Riding on Karthik's sensational fifty, India went on to post a fighting total of 169 runs on the board at the Saurashtra Cricket Stadium in Rajkot before bundling out the visitors for a paltry 87 to win the game comprehensively. Asked to bat first in the game, India were in trouble after losing their top three - Ruturaj Gaikwad (5), Ishan Kishan (27) and Shreyas Iyer (4) cheaply inside the first seven overs. Captain Rishabh Pant then combined with Hardik Pandya to steady the ship and add 41 runs for the 4th wicket. However, he too departed cheaply on 17 off 23 balls before Karthik arrived at the crease. The veteran batter continued his purple patch with the willow and slammed a brilliant knock of 55 runs off just 27 balls. His quickfire knock was laced with 9 fours and 2 sixes as Karthik added a 65-run stand for the fifth wicket with Hardik (46). Also Read: Dinesh Karthik, Avesh Khan help India crush South Africa to level T20 series It was a sensational knock from the in-form Karthik, who took 13 runs off the 17th over bowled by Keshav Maharaj before smashing a six and back-to-back fours in the 18th over bowled by Dwaine Pretorious to get 16 runs off it. With his match-winning fifty, Karthik broke MS Dhoni's record in T20Is. Karthik has now become the oldest Indian batter to have scored a half-century in T20Is. Karthik at 37 years and 16 days is the oldest to achieve the feat leaving behind Dhoni, who previously held the record for his fifty in a T20I against South Africa in 2018. Also Read: UNBELIEVABLE! ODI champions England score 498/4 vs Netherlands, register highest total in format Karthik has so far scored 92 runs in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home and has been strengthening his case for selection in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad with his finishing cameos in the lower-middle order. After a phenomenal IPL 2022 as a finisher for the Royal Challengers Bangalore, Karthik has carried on from where he left in the ongoing South Africa series and has justified the faith shown in him by the selectors. The veteran batter will be hopeful of finishing the series on a high when India take on South Africa in the series-deciding 5th T20I on Sunday.

Dinesh Karthik breaks MS Dhoni's record with sensational half-century in 4th T20I against South Africa

Dinesh&nbsp;Karthik's blazing half-century and four wickets by Avesh Khan led India to a series-levelling 82-run victory over South Africa in the fourth Twenty20 international on Friday.&nbsp;

Karthik smashed 55 off 27 deliveries to guide India to 169-6, a total their bowlers defended by dismissing South Africa for 87 and level the five-match series at 2-2 in Rajkot.&nbsp;

The Proteas slipped to their lowest ever T20 total, two lower than their 89 all-out against Australia at Johannesburg in 2020.&nbsp;

Avesh returned his T20 best figures of 4-18 as the hosts in Rajkot defended their total with ease for the second time in a row with the series decider on Sunday in Bangalore.&nbsp;

The in-form Karthik set up the crushing victory with his maiden T20 fifty to lift India from a precarious 81-4 in the 13th over to take the attack to the opposition.&nbsp;

He put on a crucial 65-run stand with Hardik Pandya, who hit 46 off 31 deliveries, as the pair hammered the opposition bowlers to all parts of the ground.&nbsp;

The 37-year-old Karthik, who is enjoying his second coming with the national team, smashed nine fours and two sixes as he surpassed his previous best of 48 to make India plunder 73 runs from the final five overs.&nbsp;

Returning fast bowler Lungi Ngidi took two wickets.&nbsp;

In reply, the visitors were never in the chase after skipper Temba Bavuma retired hurt on eight with an injured elbow and the team soon lost two wickets.&nbsp;

Wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock was run out for 14 and Dwaine Pretorius out to Avesh in the fifth over.&nbsp;

Wickets kept tumbling and Harshal Patel raised the pitch at the nearly packed house after he bowled the dangerous David Miller for nine.&nbsp;

Avesh returned to take three wickets including Rassie van der Dussen for 20 in the 14th over to flatten South Africa on a seemingly tough pitch to bat.&nbsp;

Spinner Axar Patel got the ninth wicket to end South Africa's innings in 16.5 overs as Bavuma, who sat in the dugout with an ice pack on his elbow, did not come out back to bat.&nbsp;

Dinesh Karthik's blazing half-century and four wickets by Avesh Khan led India to a series-levelling 82-run victory over South Africa in the fourth Twenty20 international on Friday.

Dinesh Karthik's blazing half-century and four wickets by Avesh Khan led India to a series-levelling 82-run victory over South Africa in the fourth Twenty20 international on Friday. Karthik smashed 55 off 27 deliveries to guide India to 169-6, a total their bowlers defended by dismissing South Africa for 87 and level the five-match series at 2-2 in Rajkot. The Proteas slipped to their lowest ever T20 total, two lower than their 89 all-out against Australia at Johannesburg in 2020. Avesh returned his T20 best figures of 4-18 as the hosts in Rajkot defended their total with ease for the second time in a row with the series decider on Sunday in Bangalore. The in-form Karthik set up the crushing victory with his maiden T20 fifty to lift India from a precarious 81-4 in the 13th over to take the attack to the opposition. He put on a crucial 65-run stand with Hardik Pandya, who hit 46 off 31 deliveries, as the pair hammered the opposition bowlers to all parts of the ground. The 37-year-old Karthik, who is enjoying his second coming with the national team, smashed nine fours and two sixes as he surpassed his previous best of 48 to make India plunder 73 runs from the final five overs. Returning fast bowler Lungi Ngidi took two wickets. In reply, the visitors were never in the chase after skipper Temba Bavuma retired hurt on eight with an injured elbow and the team soon lost two wickets. Wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock was run out for 14 and Dwaine Pretorius out to Avesh in the fifth over. Wickets kept tumbling and Harshal Patel raised the pitch at the nearly packed house after he bowled the dangerous David Miller for nine. Avesh returned to take three wickets including Rassie van der Dussen for 20 in the 14th over to flatten South Africa on a seemingly tough pitch to bat. Spinner Axar Patel got the ninth wicket to end South Africa's innings in 16.5 overs as Bavuma, who sat in the dugout with an ice pack on his elbow, did not come out back to bat.

Dinesh Karthik, Avesh Khan help India crush South Africa to level T20 series

India kept the five-match T20I series alive with a convincing 48-run win over visitors Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday (June 14). On Friday evening (June 17), both sides will square off against each other once again in the fourth and penultimate match of the series at the Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot.&nbsp;

Talking about the third match, Rishabh Pant-led India once again lost the coin toss and were asked to bat first. Riding on half-centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan, India were on course for a total beyond the 200-run mark before South African bowlers bounced back. Hardik Pandya's unbeaten 31 propelled India to 179-5. In reply, Yuzvendra Chahal's 3 for 20 and Harshal Patel's four-fer dismissed SA for 131 all-out.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Will rain play spoilsport in the fourth and penultimate tie?

Ahead of the fourth T20I, there are chances that rain might play spoilsport in Rajkot. The chances of rain are just 5 percent during the day, it can increase to 25 percent during the night. In addition, there are six percent chances of thunderstorms in the city during the night. The match is expected to go on but there can be some delays.&nbsp;

Match prediction for the fourth T20I: The venue has seen big as well as moderate totals being chased or defended. Hence, there is something for both batters and bowlers. Expect a high-scoring affair with India likely to remain unchanged whereas SA can include Quinton de Kock, if fit, for Reeze Hendricks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India kept the five-match T20I series alive with a convincing 48-run win over visitors Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday (June 14). On Friday evening (June 17), both sides will square off against each other once again in the fourth and penultimate match of the series at the Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot.

India kept the five-match T20I series alive with a convincing 48-run win over visitors Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday (June 14). On Friday evening (June 17), both sides will square off against each other once again in the fourth and penultimate match of the series at the Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot. Talking about the third match, Rishabh Pant-led India once again lost the coin toss and were asked to bat first. Riding on half-centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan, India were on course for a total beyond the 200-run mark before South African bowlers bounced back. Hardik Pandya's unbeaten 31 propelled India to 179-5. In reply, Yuzvendra Chahal's 3 for 20 and Harshal Patel's four-fer dismissed SA for 131 all-out. ALSO READ | 'He's my next captain in-line after Rohit Sharma in white-ball formats': Wasim Jaffer on star India player Will rain play spoilsport in the fourth and penultimate tie? Ahead of the fourth T20I, there are chances that rain might play spoilsport in Rajkot. The chances of rain are just 5 percent during the day, it can increase to 25 percent during the night. In addition, there are six percent chances of thunderstorms in the city during the night. The match is expected to go on but there can be some delays. Match prediction for the fourth T20I: The venue has seen big as well as moderate totals being chased or defended. Hence, there is something for both batters and bowlers. Expect a high-scoring affair with India likely to remain unchanged whereas SA can include Quinton de Kock, if fit, for Reeze Hendricks.

IND vs SA prediction: Who'll win 4th T20I between India and South Africa in Rajkot?

India ticked all the boxes when it mattered the most and crushed South Africa by 48 runs in the must-win third T20 International to stay alive in the five-match series here on Tuesday.

Yuzvendra Chahal (3/20) and Harshal Patel (4/25) led the way with the ball after sizzling half-centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad (57) and Ishan Kishan (54) powered India to 179 for five.

The bowlers came good after opener Gaikwad turned things around with a scintillating knock and Ishan scored his second fifty of the series.

Under the scanner for his patchy form of late, Gaikwad hit two maximums and seven fours in his 35-ball knock, and Ishan too scored his runs in 35 balls after being asked to take first strike.

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Defending the total, skipper Rishabh Pant introduced the spinners early and Axar Patel produced the first breakthrough with a fuller delivery as Temba Bavuma (8) holed out to Avesh Khan in the 4th over.

Chahal was rewarded for bowling quick as he got extra bounce from the wicket to get the better of Rassie van der Dussen (1), Dwaine Pretorius (20) and Heinrich Klassen (29).

Harshal mixed his deliveries well to first remove Reeza Hendricks (23) and David Miller (3) and then returned to finish things off with the wickets of Kagiso Rabada (9) and Tabraiz Shamsi (0) as South Africa were bundled out for 131.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/21) too bowled with a lot of heart.

Earlier, Gaikwad and Ishan hit two sixes each and shared 12 boundaries to set the platform but South Africa tightened the screws in the second half to keep India inside 180.

It was Gaikwad, who turned aggressor after a watchful start and exploded in the fifth over, slamming five successive boundaries off Anrich Nortje.

If the first one was cut with aplomb, he danced down the track for the second four. The third boundary was a lucky one as the ball hit his grill while Gaikwad tried to move away from a nasty bouncer.

Gaikwad then punished Nortje for bowling a half volley and the fifth ball was sent across the third man. 
The Maharashtra batter also deposited Dwaine Pretorius over deep backward square for his second six as India posted 57 for no loss in six overs, their best powerplay in the series.

Ishan, who was playing second fiddle, got into the act in the ninth over, smacking Shamsi's overpitched ball for a maximum before sweeping him for another four as 13 runs came from the over.

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Gaikwad completed his fifty in 30 balls and then welcomed Keshav Maharaj with an inside out lift for a four, but the spinner had him caught off his own bowling with India on 97 for one at the halfway stage. 
Ishan then gave a special treatment to Maharaj, picking up two fours and a six en route a 31-ball fifty, his second of the series.

New-man Shreyas Iyer looked in good touch as he blasted a six each off Nortje and Shamsi, but the spinner dismissed him with Nortje timing his jump to perfection for a nice catch.

Pretorius pegged India further back by getting rid off Ishan, who was caught by Hendricks. 
It could have been five down but David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen dropped two sitters to give a lives to Hardik Pandya (29) and Rishabh Pant (6).

Temba Bavuma finally caught one off Pretorius to remove Pant as South Africa slowed things down. 
The hosts managed just 20 runs while losing two wickets from over 13 to 17 before Hardik Pandya took them close to 180 with some lusty blows in the final stages.

India ticked all the boxes when it mattered the most and crushed South Africa by 48 runs in the must-win third T20 International to stay alive in the five-match series here on Tuesday.

India ticked all the boxes when it mattered the most and crushed South Africa by 48 runs in the must-win third T20 International to stay alive in the five-match series here on Tuesday. Yuzvendra Chahal (3/20) and Harshal Patel (4/25) led the way with the ball after sizzling half-centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad (57) and Ishan Kishan (54) powered India to 179 for five. The bowlers came good after opener Gaikwad turned things around with a scintillating knock and Ishan scored his second fifty of the series. Under the scanner for his patchy form of late, Gaikwad hit two maximums and seven fours in his 35-ball knock, and Ishan too scored his runs in 35 balls after being asked to take first strike. Also read | IPL media rights auction: Disney Star, Viacom18 among winners as BCCI earns UNIMAGINABLE amount Defending the total, skipper Rishabh Pant introduced the spinners early and Axar Patel produced the first breakthrough with a fuller delivery as Temba Bavuma (8) holed out to Avesh Khan in the 4th over. Chahal was rewarded for bowling quick as he got extra bounce from the wicket to get the better of Rassie van der Dussen (1), Dwaine Pretorius (20) and Heinrich Klassen (29). Harshal mixed his deliveries well to first remove Reeza Hendricks (23) and David Miller (3) and then returned to finish things off with the wickets of Kagiso Rabada (9) and Tabraiz Shamsi (0) as South Africa were bundled out for 131. Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/21) too bowled with a lot of heart. Earlier, Gaikwad and Ishan hit two sixes each and shared 12 boundaries to set the platform but South Africa tightened the screws in the second half to keep India inside 180. It was Gaikwad, who turned aggressor after a watchful start and exploded in the fifth over, slamming five successive boundaries off Anrich Nortje. If the first one was cut with aplomb, he danced down the track for the second four. The third boundary was a lucky one as the ball hit his grill while Gaikwad tried to move away from a nasty bouncer. Gaikwad then punished Nortje for bowling a half volley and the fifth ball was sent across the third man. The Maharashtra batter also deposited Dwaine Pretorius over deep backward square for his second six as India posted 57 for no loss in six overs, their best powerplay in the series. Ishan, who was playing second fiddle, got into the act in the ninth over, smacking Shamsi's overpitched ball for a maximum before sweeping him for another four as 13 runs came from the over. Also read | Zee releases official statement after IPL media rights auction Gaikwad completed his fifty in 30 balls and then welcomed Keshav Maharaj with an inside out lift for a four, but the spinner had him caught off his own bowling with India on 97 for one at the halfway stage. Ishan then gave a special treatment to Maharaj, picking up two fours and a six en route a 31-ball fifty, his second of the series. New-man Shreyas Iyer looked in good touch as he blasted a six each off Nortje and Shamsi, but the spinner dismissed him with Nortje timing his jump to perfection for a nice catch. Pretorius pegged India further back by getting rid off Ishan, who was caught by Hendricks. It could have been five down but David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen dropped two sitters to give a lives to Hardik Pandya (29) and Rishabh Pant (6). Temba Bavuma finally caught one off Pretorius to remove Pant as South Africa slowed things down. The hosts managed just 20 runs while losing two wickets from over 13 to 17 before Hardik Pandya took them close to 180 with some lusty blows in the final stages.

Clinical India keep series alive with 48-run win over South Africa

Indian batter Ishan Kishan has entered the top 10, achieving the seventh spot in the ICC Men`s T20I Batter Rankings. Kishan has scores of 76, 34 and 54 from the opening three matches and that has seen the left-hander jump a massive 68 spots and inside the top 10 to seventh overall. The latest T20I rankings also pose good reading for Pakistan, with the Asian nation now holding the top two players on the latest rankings for batters. Veteran batter Mohammad Rizwan rises one spot to second, with South Africa`s Aiden Markram dropping a place to third following his absence from the ongoing T20I series against India due to COVID-19.

Pakistan captain Babar remains out in front of the T20I rankings for batters, while the biggest mover is India opener Ishan Kishan after his impressive start to the series against the Proteas. Australia seamer Josh Hazlewood has continued his recent rise as a dominant white-ball bowler by claiming the No.1 ranking on the latest ICC Men`s T20I Bowler rankings. Hazlewood finished as the leading wicket-taker with six scalps during Australia`s recent T20 series against Sri Lanka and that helped the right-armer catapult past South Africa`s Tabraiz Shamsi and England`s Adil Rashid into top spot on the rankings for bowlers. It continues a meteoric rise for the experienced 31-year-old, who did not play any 20-over cricket for Australia for more than four years between 2016 and 2020 and only recently found his groove in the shortest format of the game.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuzvendra-chahal-reveals-technical-changes-he-made-for-better-returns-after-indias-3rd-t20i-win-vs-sa-488379">Yuzvendra Chahal reveals technical changes he made for better returns after India's 3rd T20I win vs SA</a>

Before Hazlewood, the last Australian bowler to take the No.1 T20I spot was Nathan Bracken in 2008. Hazlewood shone during Australia`s successful ICC T20 World Cup campaign in Dubai last year and has improved even further during the first five and a half months of 2022. Hazlewood`s teammate Ashton Agar jumped three spots and was inside the top 10 at ninth, while Sri Lanka spinner Maheesh Theekshana is the big mover as he rises 16 places to eighth overall.

India quick Bhuvneshwar Kumar is on the cusp of the top 10 in 11th place after his form during the opening three matches of the series against South Africa saw him rise to a career-best rating of 635 rating points.On the rankings for all-rounders, Australia`s Glenn Maxwell is the biggest mover inside the top 10 as he jumps two places to fourth.

Indian batter Ishan Kishan has entered the top 10, achieving the seventh spot in the ICC Men`s T20I Batter Rankings. Kishan has scores of 76, 34 and 54 from the opening three matches and that has seen the left-hander jump a massive 68 spots and inside the top 10 to seventh overall.

Indian batter Ishan Kishan has entered the top 10, achieving the seventh spot in the ICC Men`s T20I Batter Rankings. Kishan has scores of 76, 34 and 54 from the opening three matches and that has seen the left-hander jump a massive 68 spots and inside the top 10 to seventh overall. The latest T20I rankings also pose good reading for Pakistan, with the Asian nation now holding the top two players on the latest rankings for batters. Veteran batter Mohammad Rizwan rises one spot to second, with South Africa`s Aiden Markram dropping a place to third following his absence from the ongoing T20I series against India due to COVID-19. Pakistan captain Babar remains out in front of the T20I rankings for batters, while the biggest mover is India opener Ishan Kishan after his impressive start to the series against the Proteas. Australia seamer Josh Hazlewood has continued his recent rise as a dominant white-ball bowler by claiming the No.1 ranking on the latest ICC Men`s T20I Bowler rankings. Hazlewood finished as the leading wicket-taker with six scalps during Australia`s recent T20 series against Sri Lanka and that helped the right-armer catapult past South Africa`s Tabraiz Shamsi and England`s Adil Rashid into top spot on the rankings for bowlers. It continues a meteoric rise for the experienced 31-year-old, who did not play any 20-over cricket for Australia for more than four years between 2016 and 2020 and only recently found his groove in the shortest format of the game. ALSO READ | Yuzvendra Chahal reveals technical changes he made for better returns after India's 3rd T20I win vs SA Before Hazlewood, the last Australian bowler to take the No.1 T20I spot was Nathan Bracken in 2008. Hazlewood shone during Australia`s successful ICC T20 World Cup campaign in Dubai last year and has improved even further during the first five and a half months of 2022. Hazlewood`s teammate Ashton Agar jumped three spots and was inside the top 10 at ninth, while Sri Lanka spinner Maheesh Theekshana is the big mover as he rises 16 places to eighth overall. India quick Bhuvneshwar Kumar is on the cusp of the top 10 in 11th place after his form during the opening three matches of the series against South Africa saw him rise to a career-best rating of 635 rating points.On the rankings for all-rounders, Australia`s Glenn Maxwell is the biggest mover inside the top 10 as he jumps two places to fourth.

ICC T20I Rankings: Ishan Kishan in top 10 after consistent performances in home series vs SA

Rishabh Pant-led India beat South Africa by 48 runs in the third T20I to keep the five-match series alive after losing the opening two games. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant-led India was asked to bat first and rode on half-centuries from openers Ruturaj Gaikwad-Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya's 31 not out to post 179-5 in 20 overs in Visakhapatnam.

In reply, Indian bowlers combined to apply the brakes on Temba Bavuma-led South Africa's run-scoring as the visitors were dismissed for&nbsp;131 in 19.1 overs&nbsp;in their full quota of overs, to lose by a convincing margin. Yuzvendra Chahal's 3 for 20 and Harshal Patel's four-fer derailed SA's progress with the bat. Talking about Chahal, the Player-of-the-Match from the third T20I was under pressure after he returned with a solitary wicket in the first two games, where he conceded a total of 75 runs in 6.1 overs.

Thus, Chahal revealed the reason for his success as the wily wrist-spinner stated that he varied his lengths after bowling either too full or too short in the earlier games. In addition, the 31-year-old resorted to his main strength, i.e. bowling the classic leg-spin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/clinical-india-keep-series-alive-with-48-run-win-over-south-africa-488228">Clinical India keep series alive with 48-run win over South Africa</a>

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Chahal said, "I was bowling too many quick ones and quick sliders in the last game. I spoke to Paras sir and coaches about it. So I tried to bowl quick leg breaks, but with a different seam position today. I want to turn and dip the ball, I couldn't do it the last time so they were able to hit through the line."

"I tried to get some turn and change the line of the ball. I was trying to bowl to my strengths today. When you get middle-order batsmen out in the middle overs, the pressure is on them. Batsmen try a lot of sweeps and reverse sweeps these days so we have to be prepared for that too, as bowlers. In the last game too there was some help for spinners but I didn't bowl that well. The ground is big, thankfully in Rajkot,” Chahal said with a chuckle.

<section>After the win, India will shift their focus to the fourth and penultimate match, in Rajkot, on Friday evening (June 17). Meanwhile, Bavuma &amp; Co. continue to lead the series 2-1 and will push for an unassailable lead in the next tie.</section>

Rishabh Pant-led India beat South Africa by 48 runs in the third T20I to keep the five-match series alive after losing the opening two games. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant-led India was asked to bat first and rode on half-centuries from openers Ruturaj Gaikwad-Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya's 31 not out to post 179-5 in 20 overs in Visakhapatnam.

Rishabh Pant-led India beat South Africa by 48 runs in the third T20I to keep the five-match series alive after losing the opening two games. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant-led India was asked to bat first and rode on half-centuries from openers Ruturaj Gaikwad-Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya's 31 not out to post 179-5 in 20 overs in Visakhapatnam. In reply, Indian bowlers combined to apply the brakes on Temba Bavuma-led South Africa's run-scoring as the visitors were dismissed for 131 in 19.1 overs in their full quota of overs, to lose by a convincing margin. Yuzvendra Chahal's 3 for 20 and Harshal Patel's four-fer derailed SA's progress with the bat. Talking about Chahal, the Player-of-the-Match from the third T20I was under pressure after he returned with a solitary wicket in the first two games, where he conceded a total of 75 runs in 6.1 overs. Thus, Chahal revealed the reason for his success as the wily wrist-spinner stated that he varied his lengths after bowling either too full or too short in the earlier games. In addition, the 31-year-old resorted to his main strength, i.e. bowling the classic leg-spin. ALSO READ | Clinical India keep series alive with 48-run win over South Africa Speaking at the post-match presentation, Chahal said, "I was bowling too many quick ones and quick sliders in the last game. I spoke to Paras sir and coaches about it. So I tried to bowl quick leg breaks, but with a different seam position today. I want to turn and dip the ball, I couldn't do it the last time so they were able to hit through the line." "I tried to get some turn and change the line of the ball. I was trying to bowl to my strengths today. When you get middle-order batsmen out in the middle overs, the pressure is on them. Batsmen try a lot of sweeps and reverse sweeps these days so we have to be prepared for that too, as bowlers. In the last game too there was some help for spinners but I didn't bowl that well. The ground is big, thankfully in Rajkot,” Chahal said with a chuckle. After the win, India will shift their focus to the fourth and penultimate match, in Rajkot, on Friday evening (June 17). Meanwhile, Bavuma & Co. continue to lead the series 2-1 and will push for an unassailable lead in the next tie.

Yuzvendra Chahal reveals technical changes he made for better returns after India's 3rd T20I win vs SA

Dinesh Karthik has been hailed by many and labelled as the comeback man after he was named in India's T20I squad for the home series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa. Karthik played his first-ever game for Team India -- after the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals -- when he stepped onto the 22-yard cricket strip for Rishabh Pant &amp; Co. during the series opener in New Delhi.

While he didn't face a lot of balls in the first T20I, Karthik returned with an impressive 21-ball 30 not out in the second match of the series, in Cuttack on Sunday evening (June 12). Thus, former Indian captain, Kapil Dev has heaped praise on DK for his impressive run in IPL 2022 -- where he ended with 330 runs at 183.33 for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- and lauded him for keeping his motivation levels high despite not representing India for a long time.

"This time he has performed so well (in IPL 15) that he has forced the selectors to think that 'look, you can't ignore me'. Rishabh Pant is a youngster, he has plenty of cricket. Dinesh Karthik has experience and performance, which is why I would say, that no praise is enough for him," said Kapil on Youtube channel Uncut.

The 1983 World Cup-winning captain&nbsp;added, "He has been playing cricket even before MS Dhoni. It’s been 2 years since Dhoni retired but even now, Karthik has kept his motivation level high and to love the game with the same passion and heart after so many years is not easy. If you talk about consistency, then Dinesh Karthik is ahead of them all. Irrespective of how many balls he faces – 20, 10, or 15, he always delivers, like we saw in the IPL."

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-wouldnt-have-him-in-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-gautam-gambhirs-take-on-star-players-chances-488094">'I wouldn't have him in India's T20 World Cup squad' - Gautam Gambhir's take on star player's chances</a>

Karthik has surely kept his dreams alive of representing India in the 2022 T20 World Cup. Nonetheless, he would still need to perform on a consistent level to hold onto his spot, especially after regulars such as captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain KL Rahul, former skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, etc. return back into the playing XI.&nbsp;

Karthik-starrer India are facing South Africa in the third T20I in Visakhapatnam, on Tuesday evening (June 14), in a bid to keep the five-match series alive.
</section>

Dinesh Karthik has been hailed by many and labelled as the comeback man after he was named in India's T20I squad for the home series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa.

Dinesh Karthik has been hailed by many and labelled as the comeback man after he was named in India's T20I squad for the home series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa. Karthik played his first-ever game for Team India -- after the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals -- when he stepped onto the 22-yard cricket strip for Rishabh Pant & Co. during the series opener in New Delhi. While he didn't face a lot of balls in the first T20I, Karthik returned with an impressive 21-ball 30 not out in the second match of the series, in Cuttack on Sunday evening (June 12). Thus, former Indian captain, Kapil Dev has heaped praise on DK for his impressive run in IPL 2022 -- where he ended with 330 runs at 183.33 for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- and lauded him for keeping his motivation levels high despite not representing India for a long time. "This time he has performed so well (in IPL 15) that he has forced the selectors to think that 'look, you can't ignore me'. Rishabh Pant is a youngster, he has plenty of cricket. Dinesh Karthik has experience and performance, which is why I would say, that no praise is enough for him," said Kapil on Youtube channel Uncut. The 1983 World Cup-winning captain added, "He has been playing cricket even before MS Dhoni. It’s been 2 years since Dhoni retired but even now, Karthik has kept his motivation level high and to love the game with the same passion and heart after so many years is not easy. If you talk about consistency, then Dinesh Karthik is ahead of them all. Irrespective of how many balls he faces – 20, 10, or 15, he always delivers, like we saw in the IPL." ALSO READ | 'I wouldn't have him in India's T20 World Cup squad' - Gautam Gambhir's take on star player's chances Karthik has surely kept his dreams alive of representing India in the 2022 T20 World Cup. Nonetheless, he would still need to perform on a consistent level to hold onto his spot, especially after regulars such as captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain KL Rahul, former skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, etc. return back into the playing XI. Karthik-starrer India are facing South Africa in the third T20I in Visakhapatnam, on Tuesday evening (June 14), in a bid to keep the five-match series alive.

He forced selectors to think that 'look, you can't ignore me': Kapil Dev heaps praise on Dinesh Karthik

Dinesh Karthik has made a remarkable comeback into the Indian team after the 2019 ODI World Cup. Many had written him off but the veteran keeper-batter produced a sensational performance with the bat for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022 and, hence, earned a recall into the Indian T20I line-up.

Karthik, at 37, is part of the Rishabh Pant-led Indian squad for the ongoing South Africa home T20Is. While he faced only two balls and was unbeaten on 1 in the series opener, Karthik produced another gem of an innings as a finisher when he returned with a 21-ball 30* in the second T20I versus the Proteas in Cuttack on Sunday evening (June 12). Thus, he is now also performing for Team India as he remains in contention to feature in the national side's 2022 T20 World Cup squad.

However, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir feels Karthik will find it tough to retain his place once regulars such as KL Rahul, captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and others return.

Speaking on Star Sports' Match Point, Gambhir lauded DK's 2nd T20I heroics and said, "It was very valuable (the knock), he has been doing that for the last 2-3 months for RCB. But, I was a bit amazed that Axar came ahead of Dinesh Karthik. I would've been more happy if he had come ahead of Axar."

<section>
"Too early to say. T20 World Cup is far ahead. He needs to consistently perform till then but if he wants to bat only in the last three overs, things could get tough. India will definitely be looking at someone in the top 7 who can bowl and if Axar is batting at 7, the team would be a batter short," he opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-prediction-who-will-win-3rd-t20i-between-india-and-south-africa-in-visakhapatnam-488033">IND vs SA prediction: Who will win 3rd T20I between India and South Africa in Visakhapatnam</a>

"In such a case I would not have him (Karthik) in the World Cup Squad. I would definitely have people like Rishabh Pant, and Deepak Hooda (in the team). We have got KL Rahul, we've got Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma. Once they come back, it's going to be tough for Dinesh Karthik to find a place in the playing XI. If he doesn't have a place in the playing XI, there's no point giving him a place in the squad," Gambhir mentioned.

"Once KL, Rohit, Surya and Virat are back, I don't see him in the playing XI. This will be your top 4 and then you'll have someone like Hooda, Pant, Hardik, Jadeja. I will have a younger guy (in place of Karthik) who is a better fielder on those grounds and can probably chip in with a couple of overs as well. Karthik, unfortunately, will have to miss out unless and until the selectors make a huge call and drop one of the top four," the cricketer-turned-politician added.

Karthik, however, would want to continue performing for Team India in the remainder of the SA series to keep his World Cup dreams alive. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant &amp; Co. will take on Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the third T20I to keep the series alive after conceding a 2-0 lead.
</section>

Dinesh Karthik has made a remarkable comeback into the Indian team after the 2019 ODI World Cup. Many had written him off but the veteran keeper-batter produced a sensational performance with the bat for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022 and, hence, earned a recall into the Indian T20I line-up.

Dinesh Karthik has made a remarkable comeback into the Indian team after the 2019 ODI World Cup. Many had written him off but the veteran keeper-batter produced a sensational performance with the bat for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022 and, hence, earned a recall into the Indian T20I line-up. Karthik, at 37, is part of the Rishabh Pant-led Indian squad for the ongoing South Africa home T20Is. While he faced only two balls and was unbeaten on 1 in the series opener, Karthik produced another gem of an innings as a finisher when he returned with a 21-ball 30* in the second T20I versus the Proteas in Cuttack on Sunday evening (June 12). Thus, he is now also performing for Team India as he remains in contention to feature in the national side's 2022 T20 World Cup squad. However, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir feels Karthik will find it tough to retain his place once regulars such as KL Rahul, captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and others return. Speaking on Star Sports' Match Point, Gambhir lauded DK's 2nd T20I heroics and said, "It was very valuable (the knock), he has been doing that for the last 2-3 months for RCB. But, I was a bit amazed that Axar came ahead of Dinesh Karthik. I would've been more happy if he had come ahead of Axar." "Too early to say. T20 World Cup is far ahead. He needs to consistently perform till then but if he wants to bat only in the last three overs, things could get tough. India will definitely be looking at someone in the top 7 who can bowl and if Axar is batting at 7, the team would be a batter short," he opined. ALSO READ | IND vs SA prediction: Who will win 3rd T20I between India and South Africa in Visakhapatnam "In such a case I would not have him (Karthik) in the World Cup Squad. I would definitely have people like Rishabh Pant, and Deepak Hooda (in the team). We have got KL Rahul, we've got Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma. Once they come back, it's going to be tough for Dinesh Karthik to find a place in the playing XI. If he doesn't have a place in the playing XI, there's no point giving him a place in the squad," Gambhir mentioned. "Once KL, Rohit, Surya and Virat are back, I don't see him in the playing XI. This will be your top 4 and then you'll have someone like Hooda, Pant, Hardik, Jadeja. I will have a younger guy (in place of Karthik) who is a better fielder on those grounds and can probably chip in with a couple of overs as well. Karthik, unfortunately, will have to miss out unless and until the selectors make a huge call and drop one of the top four," the cricketer-turned-politician added. Karthik, however, would want to continue performing for Team India in the remainder of the SA series to keep his World Cup dreams alive. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant & Co. will take on Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the third T20I to keep the series alive after conceding a 2-0 lead.

'I wouldn't have him in India's T20 World Cup squad' - Gautam Gambhir's take on star player's chances

Rishabh Pant-led India will square off with Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the third T20I of the five-match series on Tuesday evening (June 14) at the&nbsp;Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam.&nbsp;

After two defeats on the trot, the Indian team is on the back foot. They are yet to beat the Proteas in any format in the ongoing calendar year and have lost seven back-to-back games versus the African team (after their Centurion Test win in late 2020). Thus, the pressure will be on a young and inexperienced Pant-led side, who have not clicked as a unit in the series so far.

In both the games played so far, Pant &amp; Co. have failed to get wickets in the middle overs whereas the rotation of bowlers could've been better. Moreover, Indian batters struggled to read the pace of the wicket in the Cuttack T20I, falling 12-15 runs short of a challenging score. Talking about the Proteas, they have a well-balanced side at their disposal and are much more confident in all departments. Thus, they will like to close the series with an unassailable lead in the third T20I.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-match-gets-tight-ex-indian-opener-on-rishabh-pants-captaincy-after-india-go-2-0-down-vs-sa-487749">'When match gets tight...' - Ex-Indian opener on Rishabh Pant's captaincy after India go 2-0 down vs SA</a>

Match prediction for the third T20I between India and SA:&nbsp;Expect another two-paced wicket on offer for the decisive match. Pant &amp; Co. would hope to win the coin toss else they have some inexperience in their line-up, contrary to SA's strong bowling line-up, and can falter again. Both teams would fancy batting second, even if the wicket slows down a bit as the match progresses ahead, as dew can be a factor in Vizag. From what has been seen in the opening two games, SA should seal the series but the Indian fans would hope for their side to remain alive after Tuesday's encounter. Another 145-150-plus affair on cards?

Rishabh Pant-led India will square off with Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the third T20I of the five-match series on Tuesday evening (June 14) at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam.

Rishabh Pant-led India will square off with Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the third T20I of the five-match series on Tuesday evening (June 14) at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam. After two defeats on the trot, the Indian team is on the back foot. They are yet to beat the Proteas in any format in the ongoing calendar year and have lost seven back-to-back games versus the African team (after their Centurion Test win in late 2020). Thus, the pressure will be on a young and inexperienced Pant-led side, who have not clicked as a unit in the series so far. In both the games played so far, Pant & Co. have failed to get wickets in the middle overs whereas the rotation of bowlers could've been better. Moreover, Indian batters struggled to read the pace of the wicket in the Cuttack T20I, falling 12-15 runs short of a challenging score. Talking about the Proteas, they have a well-balanced side at their disposal and are much more confident in all departments. Thus, they will like to close the series with an unassailable lead in the third T20I. ALSO READ | 'When match gets tight...' - Ex-Indian opener on Rishabh Pant's captaincy after India go 2-0 down vs SA Match prediction for the third T20I between India and SA: Expect another two-paced wicket on offer for the decisive match. Pant & Co. would hope to win the coin toss else they have some inexperience in their line-up, contrary to SA's strong bowling line-up, and can falter again. Both teams would fancy batting second, even if the wicket slows down a bit as the match progresses ahead, as dew can be a factor in Vizag. From what has been seen in the opening two games, SA should seal the series but the Indian fans would hope for their side to remain alive after Tuesday's encounter. Another 145-150-plus affair on cards?

IND vs SA prediction: Who will win 3rd T20I between India and South Africa in Visakhapatnam

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