Ahead of the second Test against India, West Indies skipper Jason Holder said pace is the backbone of his team as fast bowlers are doing well.&nbsp;

Despite facing a massive 318 runs defeat at the hands of India in the first Test, Holder hinted the team will stick to the same bowling combination as in a previous game.&nbsp;

He hailed pacers Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel for their performance. While Roach scalped five wickets, Gabriel managed to get hold of four. In the last match, the Windies played with four seamers and one spinner.&nbsp;

"Pace is the backbone of our side. We have done well with our seamers. Roach and Gabriel have been outstanding. I have also been supporting the bowling line up. We have relied heavily on our pacers from the last couple of years. Hopefully, we continue to keep our pacers fine and hope we get 20 wickets in this Test match," Holder told reporters.&nbsp;

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The team was disappointed with the performance in the last match and will hope to do better in the second Test, he said.&nbsp;

"We are disappointed with our performance in the last game and this an opportunity for us to level the series. We have to perform. Hopefully, we can play really good team cricket," Holder added.&nbsp;

Earlier, India white-washed the Windies in the ODI and T20I series. West Indies will face India in the second Test at Sabina Park here later today.&nbsp;

Ahead of the second Test against India, West Indies skipper Jason Holder said pace is the backbone of his team as fast bowlers are doing well. Despite facing a massive 318 runs defeat at the hands of India in the first Test, Holder hinted the team will stick to the same bowling combination as in a previous game.

Ahead of the second Test against India, West Indies skipper Jason Holder said pace is the backbone of his team as fast bowlers are doing well. Despite facing a massive 318 runs defeat at the hands of India in the first Test, Holder hinted the team will stick to the same bowling combination as in a previous game. He hailed pacers Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel for their performance. While Roach scalped five wickets, Gabriel managed to get hold of four. In the last match, the Windies played with four seamers and one spinner. "Pace is the backbone of our side. We have done well with our seamers. Roach and Gabriel have been outstanding. I have also been supporting the bowling line up. We have relied heavily on our pacers from the last couple of years. Hopefully, we continue to keep our pacers fine and hope we get 20 wickets in this Test match," Holder told reporters. Watch the video: × The team was disappointed with the performance in the last match and will hope to do better in the second Test, he said. "We are disappointed with our performance in the last game and this an opportunity for us to level the series. We have to perform. Hopefully, we can play really good team cricket," Holder added. Earlier, India white-washed the Windies in the ODI and T20I series. West Indies will face India in the second Test at Sabina Park here later today.

Pace is our backbone, says West Indies skipper Jason Holder

As India registered a comprehensive 318-run win over West Indies in the first Test of two-match series, skipper Virat Kohli added yet another feather to his cap, becoming the most successful Indian captain in overseas Tests.

Kohli went past former captain Sourav Ganguly to achieve the feat. This was Kohli's 12th overseas Test victory. He broke the record in his 26th match as skipper on foreign soil on Sunday. Ganguly had 11 Test wins from 28 matches.

Kohli, 30, is now tied with MS Dhoni for having the most number of victories in Tests. Both Kohli and Dhoni have 27 wins in the longest format of the game.

On day four of the Test, India resumed their innings at 185/3 and they went on to add 158 runs more to their tally to take the score up to 343 runs and gain a lead of 418 runs.

Kohli failed to add to his overnight score as he was dismissed at 51, but Ajinkya Rahane registered a century.

This ton by Rahane was his first in over two years. Hanuma Vihari was unable to score a century as he was dismissed for 93.

Windies batsmen failed to stay at the crease for long in the second innings and the entire team was bundled out in 27 overs. Jasprit Bumrah scalped five wickets for India in the second innings. India now have a 1-0 lead in the series.

India will take on the Caribbean side in the second Test, beginning August 30 at Jamaica.

As India registered a comprehensive 318-run win over West Indies in the first Test of two-match series, skipper Virat Kohli added yet another feather to his cap, becoming the most successful Indian captain in overseas Tests.

As India registered a comprehensive 318-run win over West Indies in the first Test of two-match series, skipper Virat Kohli added yet another feather to his cap, becoming the most successful Indian captain in overseas Tests. Kohli went past former captain Sourav Ganguly to achieve the feat. This was Kohli's 12th overseas Test victory. He broke the record in his 26th match as skipper on foreign soil on Sunday. Ganguly had 11 Test wins from 28 matches. Kohli, 30, is now tied with MS Dhoni for having the most number of victories in Tests. Both Kohli and Dhoni have 27 wins in the longest format of the game. On day four of the Test, India resumed their innings at 185/3 and they went on to add 158 runs more to their tally to take the score up to 343 runs and gain a lead of 418 runs. Kohli failed to add to his overnight score as he was dismissed at 51, but Ajinkya Rahane registered a century. This ton by Rahane was his first in over two years. Hanuma Vihari was unable to score a century as he was dismissed for 93. Windies batsmen failed to stay at the crease for long in the second innings and the entire team was bundled out in 27 overs. Jasprit Bumrah scalped five wickets for India in the second innings. India now have a 1-0 lead in the series. India will take on the Caribbean side in the second Test, beginning August 30 at Jamaica.

Virat Kohli becomes most successful Indian captain in overseas Tests

Pacer Jasprit Bumrah on Friday became the fastest Indian bowler to scalp 50 Test wickets.

He achieved the feat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishant-sharma-takes-five-wickets-india-on-top-against-west-indies-245225">against West Indies on day two</a> of the ongoing first Test match at Antigua.

Bumrah dismissed Darren Bravo in the 30th over of the Windies innings to register his 50th Test wicket. He had Bravo plum in front and as a result, the left-hander was adjudged leg-before wicket (LBW).&nbsp;

The 25-year-old recorded 50 Test wickets in his 11th match for the team in the longest format of the game.

The pacer has gone past Ventakesh Prasad and Mohammad Shami. Both Prasad and Shami had reached the milestone in 13 Test matches.

On day two of the first Test, India managed to post 297 runs on the board as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja played a knock of 58 runs and was involved in a 60-run stand with Ishant Sharma.

India displayed a clinical performance with the ball in hand as they reduced Windies to 189/8 in the first innings.

Ishant scalped five wickets as he dismissed Kraigg Brathwaite, Roston Chase, Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer and Kemar Roach.

West Indies will resume day three at 189/8, still 108 runs behind India.

Pacer Jasprit Bumrah on Friday became the fastest Indian bowler to scalp 50 Test wickets. He achieved the feat against West Indies on day two of the ongoing first Test match at Antigua.

Pacer Jasprit Bumrah on Friday became the fastest Indian bowler to scalp 50 Test wickets. He achieved the feat against West Indies on day two of the ongoing first Test match at Antigua. Bumrah dismissed Darren Bravo in the 30th over of the Windies innings to register his 50th Test wicket. He had Bravo plum in front and as a result, the left-hander was adjudged leg-before wicket (LBW). The 25-year-old recorded 50 Test wickets in his 11th match for the team in the longest format of the game. The pacer has gone past Ventakesh Prasad and Mohammad Shami. Both Prasad and Shami had reached the milestone in 13 Test matches. On day two of the first Test, India managed to post 297 runs on the board as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja played a knock of 58 runs and was involved in a 60-run stand with Ishant Sharma. India displayed a clinical performance with the ball in hand as they reduced Windies to 189/8 in the first innings. Ishant scalped five wickets as he dismissed Kraigg Brathwaite, Roston Chase, Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer and Kemar Roach. West Indies will resume day three at 189/8, still 108 runs behind India.

Jasprit Bumrah becomes the fastest Indian to scalp 50 Test wickets

The Indian cricket team will be wearing black armbands when they step out on the field on day three of the first Test match against West Indies in Antigua as a mark of respect for former Finance Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-finance-minister-arun-jaitley-passes-away-at-66-245276">Arun Jaitley who passed away</a> earlier today.

"Indian cricket team touring West Indies will be wearing black armbands to condole Arun Jaitley's demise," the BCCI said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/life-and-times-of-arun-jaitley-an-impeccable-strategist-and-bjps-precious-diamond-245285">Jaitley</a>, who also served as the BCCI vice-president and the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) president in the past, passed away on Saturday afternoon at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

Indian skipper Virat Kohli also paid his tribute to the deceased leader.

"Shocked and saddened to hear about the passing away of Shri Arun Jaitley ji. He was genuinely a good person, always willing to help others. He took out his precious time back in 2006 when my father passed away to come to my home &amp; pay his condolences. May his soul rest in peace," Kohli tweeted.

Watch:&nbsp;An orator, protagonist, philathropist; this is what describes Arun Jaitley&nbsp;

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Jaitley first became a Cabinet minister in the government of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2000. He then also went on to serve as the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha from June 2009.

He was appointed the Finance Minister in the first term of Modi government in 2014. He opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing health reasons.

The former Finance Minister was admitted to the AIIMS earlier this month after he complained of restlessness. He was placed under observation at the hospital`s Cardio-Neuro-Centre.

The Indian cricket team will be wearing black armbands when they step out on the field on day three of the first Test match against West Indies in Antigua as a mark of respect for former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley who passed away earlier today.

The Indian cricket team will be wearing black armbands when they step out on the field on day three of the first Test match against West Indies in Antigua as a mark of respect for former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley who passed away earlier today. "Indian cricket team touring West Indies will be wearing black armbands to condole Arun Jaitley's demise," the BCCI said. Jaitley, who also served as the BCCI vice-president and the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) president in the past, passed away on Saturday afternoon at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Indian skipper Virat Kohli also paid his tribute to the deceased leader. "Shocked and saddened to hear about the passing away of Shri Arun Jaitley ji. He was genuinely a good person, always willing to help others. He took out his precious time back in 2006 when my father passed away to come to my home & pay his condolences. May his soul rest in peace," Kohli tweeted. Watch: An orator, protagonist, philathropist; this is what describes Arun Jaitley × Jaitley first became a Cabinet minister in the government of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2000. He then also went on to serve as the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha from June 2009. He was appointed the Finance Minister in the first term of Modi government in 2014. He opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing health reasons. The former Finance Minister was admitted to the AIIMS earlier this month after he complained of restlessness. He was placed under observation at the hospital`s Cardio-Neuro-Centre.

Indian team to sport black armbands to condole Arun Jaitley's demise

The last time Ajinkya Rahane scored a century in international cricket was over two years back but the India Test vice-captain says the drought does not concern him as long as he is contributing for his side.&nbsp;

The middle-order batsman was dismissed after a gritty 81 in the opening Test against West Indies in Antigua on Thursday, the sixth time he had gone past a half-century in the format since scoring 132 against Sri Lanka in Colombo in August, 2017.&nbsp;

Rahane, 31, fell short of the three-figure mark again when he was bowled by paceman Shannon Gabriel, via an inside edge, but not before he had resurrected the world's top-ranked Test side from a precarious 25-3.&nbsp;

"I knew this question will come, I was ready," Rahane told reporters after a brief laugh when he was asked about missing out on a hundred again.&nbsp;

"As long as I am contributing for my team, that's what matters. Yes, I was thinking about my hundred but the situation we were in was tricky. I am not too worried or concerned about my hundred as that will come automatically.&nbsp;

"As long as I am at the crease, I am thinking about my team, I am not a selfish guy. I thought 81 on that wicket was really crucial and we are in a decent position."

Rahane's innings helped India steady the ship with the right-handed batsman adding 68 for the fourth wicket with opener KL Rahul and another 82 for the next with Hanuma Vihari to help the touring side reach 203-6 on the rain-truncated day.

He had missed out from India's World Cup squad and used the time for a stint with English County Championship side Hampshire.

With India playing their first Test in over seven months, the Hampshire stint was helpful, Rahane said.

"That was a good thing for me because I took the decision when I got to know that I was not in the World Cup squad," Rahane said. "I wanted to make use of the two months and I thought the county stint helped me a lot.

"I was focusing on my batting, few areas to work on basically. When you play with Dukes ball in England you got to play close to your body.

"I was batting at No. 3 as well so luckily I got to play the new ball there. Those two months I really used my time well...I thought I was in good nick and it's good that I went there and had some batting practice."

The last time Ajinkya Rahane scored a century in international cricket was over two years back but the India Test vice-captain says the drought does not concern him as long as he is contributing for his side.

The last time Ajinkya Rahane scored a century in international cricket was over two years back but the India Test vice-captain says the drought does not concern him as long as he is contributing for his side. The middle-order batsman was dismissed after a gritty 81 in the opening Test against West Indies in Antigua on Thursday, the sixth time he had gone past a half-century in the format since scoring 132 against Sri Lanka in Colombo in August, 2017. Rahane, 31, fell short of the three-figure mark again when he was bowled by paceman Shannon Gabriel, via an inside edge, but not before he had resurrected the world's top-ranked Test side from a precarious 25-3. "I knew this question will come, I was ready," Rahane told reporters after a brief laugh when he was asked about missing out on a hundred again. "As long as I am contributing for my team, that's what matters. Yes, I was thinking about my hundred but the situation we were in was tricky. I am not too worried or concerned about my hundred as that will come automatically. "As long as I am at the crease, I am thinking about my team, I am not a selfish guy. I thought 81 on that wicket was really crucial and we are in a decent position." Rahane's innings helped India steady the ship with the right-handed batsman adding 68 for the fourth wicket with opener KL Rahul and another 82 for the next with Hanuma Vihari to help the touring side reach 203-6 on the rain-truncated day. He had missed out from India's World Cup squad and used the time for a stint with English County Championship side Hampshire. With India playing their first Test in over seven months, the Hampshire stint was helpful, Rahane said. "That was a good thing for me because I took the decision when I got to know that I was not in the World Cup squad," Rahane said. "I wanted to make use of the two months and I thought the county stint helped me a lot. "I was focusing on my batting, few areas to work on basically. When you play with Dukes ball in England you got to play close to your body. "I was batting at No. 3 as well so luckily I got to play the new ball there. Those two months I really used my time well...I thought I was in good nick and it's good that I went there and had some batting practice."

'Not a selfish guy': Ajinkya Rahane not concerned about century drought

After playing a match-winning knock of 120 runs against West Indies in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-windies-second-odi-kohli-iyer-and-bhuvneshwar-star-to-put-india-1-0-ahead-242314">second ODI of the three-match series</a>, Indian skipper Virat Kohli told teammate Yuzvendra Chahal about the toll the innings took on him, saying he felt tired after reaching 65.

In a video posted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Kohli is seen having a candid conversation with Chahal.

As a result of this knock of 120 runs, Kohli became the highest run-getter against West Indies in the ODI format. He also became the second-highest run-getter for the Men in Blue in the 50-over format.

"It was important for me to stay at the crease. As a side, we try that one of our top three batsmen goes on to play a big knock. Shikhar and Rohit have done that for us in the past, and today I was able to do it. Honestly, I was tired when I reached the score of 65, but the situation demanded me to work hard for every run," Kohli told Chahal after the second ODI.

When Kohli revealed that he was tired once he reached 65, Chahal remarked "Breaking News: Even our skipper gets tired".

Watch the video:

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MUST WATCH: Chahal TV returns with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KingKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KingKohli</a> 😄😎 
 
From <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>'s record 42 ton to his dance moves 🕺🕺, <a href="https://twitter.com/yuzi_chahal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yuzi_chahal</a> makes a smashing debut in the Caribbean. By <a href="https://twitter.com/28anand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@28anand</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIvIND</a> 
 
Full video here 📽️📽️ <a href="https://t.co/Cql7RCoaw1">https://t.co/Cql7RCoaw1</a> <a href="https://t.co/CCQu6dDRJA">pic.twitter.com/CCQu6dDRJA</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1160807327643009025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India defeated West Indies by 59 runs, owing to Duckworth-Lewis in the second ODI.

If his exploits with the bat were not enough, Kohli also took a spectacular catch to dismiss Evin Lewis. The Indian skipper said he always strives to put his best foot forward and looks to give his 100 per cent.

"It was a challenging day. My mindset is to just keep on working hard for the team. If you do not give your 100 per cent to the team, then I do not think you are doing justice to the team," Kohli said.

Kohli was seen in a cheerful mood during the first ODI as he danced with former Royal Challengers Bangalore teammate Chris Gayle.

The 30-year-old said that he is in a good headspace so he can enjoy these type of moments in the match.

"I just enjoy myself on the field. I am in a good headspace so whenever I hear music, I feel like dancing," Kohli said.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar starred with the ball as he scalped four wickets to hand India a comfortable 59-run victory.

India next takes on West Indies in the final ODI of the three-match series on Wednesday, August 14 in Trinidad and Tobago.&nbsp;

After playing a match-winning knock of 120 runs against West Indies in the second ODI of the three-match series, Indian skipper Virat Kohli told teammate Yuzvendra Chahal about the toll the innings took on him, saying he felt tired after reaching 65.

After playing a match-winning knock of 120 runs against West Indies in the second ODI of the three-match series, Indian skipper Virat Kohli told teammate Yuzvendra Chahal about the toll the innings took on him, saying he felt tired after reaching 65. In a video posted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Kohli is seen having a candid conversation with Chahal. As a result of this knock of 120 runs, Kohli became the highest run-getter against West Indies in the ODI format. He also became the second-highest run-getter for the Men in Blue in the 50-over format. "It was important for me to stay at the crease. As a side, we try that one of our top three batsmen goes on to play a big knock. Shikhar and Rohit have done that for us in the past, and today I was able to do it. Honestly, I was tired when I reached the score of 65, but the situation demanded me to work hard for every run," Kohli told Chahal after the second ODI. When Kohli revealed that he was tired once he reached 65, Chahal remarked "Breaking News: Even our skipper gets tired". Watch the video: MUST WATCH: Chahal TV returns with #KingKohli 😄😎 From @imVkohli's record 42 ton to his dance moves 🕺🕺, @yuzi_chahal makes a smashing debut in the Caribbean. By @28anand #TeamIndia #WIvIND Full video here 📽️📽️ https://t.co/Cql7RCoaw1 pic.twitter.com/CCQu6dDRJA — BCCI (@BCCI) August 12, 2019 × India defeated West Indies by 59 runs, owing to Duckworth-Lewis in the second ODI. If his exploits with the bat were not enough, Kohli also took a spectacular catch to dismiss Evin Lewis. The Indian skipper said he always strives to put his best foot forward and looks to give his 100 per cent. "It was a challenging day. My mindset is to just keep on working hard for the team. If you do not give your 100 per cent to the team, then I do not think you are doing justice to the team," Kohli said. Kohli was seen in a cheerful mood during the first ODI as he danced with former Royal Challengers Bangalore teammate Chris Gayle. The 30-year-old said that he is in a good headspace so he can enjoy these type of moments in the match. "I just enjoy myself on the field. I am in a good headspace so whenever I hear music, I feel like dancing," Kohli said. Bhuvneshwar Kumar starred with the ball as he scalped four wickets to hand India a comfortable 59-run victory. India next takes on West Indies in the final ODI of the three-match series on Wednesday, August 14 in Trinidad and Tobago.

Was tired when I reached score of 65: Virat Kohli tells Chahal

As India and West Indies get ready to lock horns in the second ODI of the three-match series, skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=virat+kohli">Virat Kohli</a> would look to break Pakistan's Javed Miandad's 26-year-old record.

Kohli is just 19 runs away from becoming the leading run-scorer against West Indies in ODIs and breaking Miandad's record.

Miandad has 1930 runs against Windies from 64 innings whereas Kohli has 1912 runs from 33 innings.

The first ODI of the three-match series between India and West Indies was abandoned due to rain on Thursday, August 8.

Under Kohli's leadership, the team defeated Windies 3-0 in the three-match T20I series.

The 30-year-old Kohli managed to score 106 runs in the T20I series against Windies and he played a crucial 59 run knock in the final T20I.

Kohli has been surrounded by the controversy of late as there were various media reports suggesting the right between him and vice-captain Rohit Sharma.

However, Kohli dismissed these reports at the pre-departure conference ahead of the West Indies series saying, "If I do not like a person or if I am insecure of a person, you will see that on my face or in my behaviour towards that person and that is how simple it is. I have always praised Rohit whenever I have had an opportunity because I believe he is that good. We have had no issues."

"If the team environment is not good, then the kind of game we are playing for the last two-three years, it would have not been possible. I know how important the dressing room atmosphere, the trust factor is to succeed in international cricket. Our journey from number seven to number one and such consistent performance in the ODI cricket, it cannot happen without camaraderie, respect, and understanding," he had said.

India and West Indies lock horns in the second ODI later today.&nbsp;

As India and West Indies get ready to lock horns in the second ODI of the three-match series, skipper Virat Kohli would look to break Pakistan's Javed Miandad's 26-year-old record.

As India and West Indies get ready to lock horns in the second ODI of the three-match series, skipper Virat Kohli would look to break Pakistan's Javed Miandad's 26-year-old record. Kohli is just 19 runs away from becoming the leading run-scorer against West Indies in ODIs and breaking Miandad's record. Miandad has 1930 runs against Windies from 64 innings whereas Kohli has 1912 runs from 33 innings. The first ODI of the three-match series between India and West Indies was abandoned due to rain on Thursday, August 8. Under Kohli's leadership, the team defeated Windies 3-0 in the three-match T20I series. The 30-year-old Kohli managed to score 106 runs in the T20I series against Windies and he played a crucial 59 run knock in the final T20I. Kohli has been surrounded by the controversy of late as there were various media reports suggesting the right between him and vice-captain Rohit Sharma. However, Kohli dismissed these reports at the pre-departure conference ahead of the West Indies series saying, "If I do not like a person or if I am insecure of a person, you will see that on my face or in my behaviour towards that person and that is how simple it is. I have always praised Rohit whenever I have had an opportunity because I believe he is that good. We have had no issues." "If the team environment is not good, then the kind of game we are playing for the last two-three years, it would have not been possible. I know how important the dressing room atmosphere, the trust factor is to succeed in international cricket. Our journey from number seven to number one and such consistent performance in the ODI cricket, it cannot happen without camaraderie, respect, and understanding," he had said. India and West Indies lock horns in the second ODI later today.

Virat Kohli just 19 runs away from breaking Javed Miandad's record

India skipper Virat Kohli on Sunday became the most run-scorer against West Indies in the ODIs at Queen's Park Oval.

As Kohli scored his 19th run in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-2nd-odi-virat-kohli-wins-toss-opts-to-bat-first-242260">second ODI against Windies</a>, he broke the record of Pakistan's Javed Miandad and became the leading run-scorer against West Indies in ODIs.

Miandad has 1,930 runs against Windies from 64 innings whereas Kohli surpassed his record in 34 innings.

He stepped in the field after the early dismissal of opener Shikhar Dhawan in the first over.

The first ODI of the three-match series between India and West Indies was abandoned due to rain on August 8.

Under Kohli's leadership, the team defeated Windies 3-0 in the three-match T20I series.

The 30-year-old Kohli managed to score 106 runs in the T20I series against Windies and he played a crucial 59 run knock in the final T20I.

Kohli has been surrounded by the controversy of late as there were various media reports suggesting the rift between him and vice-captain Rohit Sharma.

However, Kohli dismissed these reports at the pre-departure conference ahead of the West Indies series saying, "If I do not like a person or if I am insecure of a person, you will see that on my face or in my behaviour towards that person and that is how simple it is. I have always praised Rohit whenever I have had an opportunity because I believe he is that good. We have had no issues."

"If the team environment is not good, then the kind of game we are playing for the last two-three years, it would have not been possible. I know how important the dressing room atmosphere, the trust factor is to succeed in international cricket. Our journey from number seven to number one and such consistent performance in the ODI cricket, it cannot happen without camaraderie, respect, and understanding," he had said.

India skipper Virat Kohli on Sunday became the most run-scorer against West Indies in the ODIs at Queen's Park Oval. As Kohli scored his 19th run in the second ODI against Windies, he broke the record of Pakistan's Javed Miandad and became the leading run-scorer against West Indies in ODIs.

India skipper Virat Kohli on Sunday became the most run-scorer against West Indies in the ODIs at Queen's Park Oval. As Kohli scored his 19th run in the second ODI against Windies, he broke the record of Pakistan's Javed Miandad and became the leading run-scorer against West Indies in ODIs. Miandad has 1,930 runs against Windies from 64 innings whereas Kohli surpassed his record in 34 innings. He stepped in the field after the early dismissal of opener Shikhar Dhawan in the first over. The first ODI of the three-match series between India and West Indies was abandoned due to rain on August 8. Under Kohli's leadership, the team defeated Windies 3-0 in the three-match T20I series. The 30-year-old Kohli managed to score 106 runs in the T20I series against Windies and he played a crucial 59 run knock in the final T20I. Kohli has been surrounded by the controversy of late as there were various media reports suggesting the rift between him and vice-captain Rohit Sharma. However, Kohli dismissed these reports at the pre-departure conference ahead of the West Indies series saying, "If I do not like a person or if I am insecure of a person, you will see that on my face or in my behaviour towards that person and that is how simple it is. I have always praised Rohit whenever I have had an opportunity because I believe he is that good. We have had no issues." "If the team environment is not good, then the kind of game we are playing for the last two-three years, it would have not been possible. I know how important the dressing room atmosphere, the trust factor is to succeed in international cricket. Our journey from number seven to number one and such consistent performance in the ODI cricket, it cannot happen without camaraderie, respect, and understanding," he had said.

Virat Kohli becomes highest ODI run-getter against West Indies

Chris Gayle became the first West Indies&nbsp;cricketer to play 300 One-Day International (ODI) matches and hailed the landmark&nbsp;as "a great achievement" of&nbsp;his career.&nbsp;

Heading into his milestone game against India in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-2nd-odi-virat-kohli-wins-toss-opts-to-bat-first-242260">second ODI</a> of a three-match series, Gayle said, "When I look back, I say, could I make 300th ODI and I am very thankful that I am playing this 300th match. I enjoy playing this format without a doubt."&nbsp;

India are coming off from winning the T20I series and playing the second ODI of a three-match series at&nbsp;Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad on Sunday (August 11). The first match was abandoned due to rain.&nbsp;

Having made his ODI debut in 1999, Gayle has scored 10397 runs in the format at an average of 37.80.&nbsp;

He has also played 103 Tests and 58 T20Is.&nbsp;

Before the match started, Gayle talked about the future of West Indies team, he said, "The guys like Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer and Nicholas Pooran those guys will carry West Indies forward."&nbsp;

"When John Campbell gets his chance, he will have something to showcase," Gayle added.&nbsp;

"I am there to guide them as much as possible and try to help West Indies cricket as much as possible," said Gayle.&nbsp;

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The Universe Boss <a href="https://twitter.com/henrygayle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@henrygayle</a> had this to say ahead of his 300th ODI match for the West Indies!🌴🏏🔽<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MenInMaroon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MenInMaroon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChrisGayle?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChrisGayle</a> <a href="https://t.co/nxKNgpBO0r">pic.twitter.com/nxKNgpBO0r</a>
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During the toss, Windies skipper Jason Holder congratulated gayle, he said, "It is a big match for Chris Gayle, I would like to congratulate Gayle for an outstanding career so far. We want to win this game for him."&nbsp;

Chris Gayle became the first West Indies cricketer to play 300 One-Day International (ODI) matches and hailed the landmark as "a great achievement" of his career.

Chris Gayle became the first West Indies cricketer to play 300 One-Day International (ODI) matches and hailed the landmark as "a great achievement" of his career. Heading into his milestone game against India in the second ODI of a three-match series, Gayle said, "When I look back, I say, could I make 300th ODI and I am very thankful that I am playing this 300th match. I enjoy playing this format without a doubt." India are coming off from winning the T20I series and playing the second ODI of a three-match series at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad on Sunday (August 11). The first match was abandoned due to rain. Having made his ODI debut in 1999, Gayle has scored 10397 runs in the format at an average of 37.80. He has also played 103 Tests and 58 T20Is. Before the match started, Gayle talked about the future of West Indies team, he said, "The guys like Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer and Nicholas Pooran those guys will carry West Indies forward." "When John Campbell gets his chance, he will have something to showcase," Gayle added. "I am there to guide them as much as possible and try to help West Indies cricket as much as possible," said Gayle. The Universe Boss @henrygayle had this to say ahead of his 300th ODI match for the West Indies!🌴🏏🔽#MenInMaroon #ChrisGayle pic.twitter.com/nxKNgpBO0r — Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) August 11, 2019 × During the toss, Windies skipper Jason Holder congratulated gayle, he said, "It is a big match for Chris Gayle, I would like to congratulate Gayle for an outstanding career so far. We want to win this game for him."

Chris Gayle becomes first West Indies cricketer to play 300 ODI matches

Indian skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat first against the Jason Holder-led West Indies team in the second ODI of a three-match series on Sunday at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad.&nbsp;

"I think, spinners will come into play in the second half of the day. The nature of the pitch makes us bat first," said Kohli at the time of toss.&nbsp;

"We want to execute our skills in the middle. It doesn't matter for us whether it is a two-match series or a three-match series. We are unchanged," Kohli added.&nbsp;

"We are backing Rishabh to still bat at four and Shreyas Iyer will bat at five," said Kohli.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, West Indies were forced to make one change with left-arm spinner Fabian Allen unwell and his place taken by fast bowler Oshane Thomas.&nbsp;

Veteran opening batsman Chris Gayle is playing his 300th ODI – the first West Indian to reach that landmark – and also needs just nine more runs to surpass the tally of 10,405 by Brian Lara as the most by a West Indian in the 50 overs-per-side format.&nbsp;

Playing XI:

West Indies: Chris Gayle, Evin Lewis, Shai Hope(w), Nicholas Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase, Jason Holder(c), Carlos Brathwaite, Kemar Roach, Sheldon Cottrell, Oshane Thomas&nbsp;

India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(w), Kedar Jadhav, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, K Khaleel Ahmed

Indian skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat first against the Jason Holder-led West Indies team in the second ODI of a three-match series on Sunday at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat first against the Jason Holder-led West Indies team in the second ODI of a three-match series on Sunday at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad. "I think, spinners will come into play in the second half of the day. The nature of the pitch makes us bat first," said Kohli at the time of toss. "We want to execute our skills in the middle. It doesn't matter for us whether it is a two-match series or a three-match series. We are unchanged," Kohli added. "We are backing Rishabh to still bat at four and Shreyas Iyer will bat at five," said Kohli. Meanwhile, West Indies were forced to make one change with left-arm spinner Fabian Allen unwell and his place taken by fast bowler Oshane Thomas. Veteran opening batsman Chris Gayle is playing his 300th ODI – the first West Indian to reach that landmark – and also needs just nine more runs to surpass the tally of 10,405 by Brian Lara as the most by a West Indian in the 50 overs-per-side format. Playing XI: West Indies: Chris Gayle, Evin Lewis, Shai Hope(w), Nicholas Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, Roston Chase, Jason Holder(c), Carlos Brathwaite, Kemar Roach, Sheldon Cottrell, Oshane Thomas India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(w), Kedar Jadhav, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, K Khaleel Ahmed

India vs West Indies, 2nd ODI: Virat Kohli wins toss, opts to bat first

The first One-day International match between India and West Indies was abandoned due to inclement weather on Thursday at Guyana's Providence Stadium.&nbsp;

Earlier due to rain, the match was curtailed to 43-over per side as it was delayed due to bad weather.&nbsp;

After 5.4 overs, the rain came again and the game was further reduced to 40 overs per side.&nbsp;

After inspection, the umpires, who were not happy with the wet outfield, delayed the match against and curtailed it further to 34-over&nbsp;per side.&nbsp;

When Windies were at 54/1 in 13 overs, the rain came down again and the match had to stop and eventually called off.&nbsp;

After India won the toss and decided to bowl first, Bhuvneshwar Kumar launched the bowling attack and Evin Lewis and Chris Gayle opened the West Indies' innings.&nbsp;

"It's probably the worst part of cricket, a stop-start is never a good feeling. Either it should rain out or play the full game," said Indian skipper Virat Kohli after the match was abandoned.&nbsp;

"The more stops you have, the more you want to be careful to ensure that the players don't injure themselves," Kohli further added.&nbsp;

Windies's skipper Jason Holder looked unhappy after the match was called off, he said, "Obviously a disappointing day with the weather. Our openers assessed it really well, some balls were stopping and coming on a tacky pitch."

"Hopefully, the weather stays good and we get to play some cricket. But we need to stay consistent and if we can get that, it can bring in good habits for people," Holder added.&nbsp;

India had defeated West Indies 3-0 in the three-match T20I series.&nbsp;The second ODI of the three-match series is on Sunday, August 11 in Trinidad.&nbsp;

The first One-day International match between India and West Indies was abandoned due to inclement weather on Thursday at Guyana's Providence Stadium. Earlier due to rain, the match was curtailed to 43-over per side as it was delayed due to bad weather.

The first One-day International match between India and West Indies was abandoned due to inclement weather on Thursday at Guyana's Providence Stadium. Earlier due to rain, the match was curtailed to 43-over per side as it was delayed due to bad weather. After 5.4 overs, the rain came again and the game was further reduced to 40 overs per side. After inspection, the umpires, who were not happy with the wet outfield, delayed the match against and curtailed it further to 34-over per side. When Windies were at 54/1 in 13 overs, the rain came down again and the match had to stop and eventually called off. After India won the toss and decided to bowl first, Bhuvneshwar Kumar launched the bowling attack and Evin Lewis and Chris Gayle opened the West Indies' innings. "It's probably the worst part of cricket, a stop-start is never a good feeling. Either it should rain out or play the full game," said Indian skipper Virat Kohli after the match was abandoned. "The more stops you have, the more you want to be careful to ensure that the players don't injure themselves," Kohli further added. Windies's skipper Jason Holder looked unhappy after the match was called off, he said, "Obviously a disappointing day with the weather. Our openers assessed it really well, some balls were stopping and coming on a tacky pitch." "Hopefully, the weather stays good and we get to play some cricket. But we need to stay consistent and if we can get that, it can bring in good habits for people," Holder added. India had defeated West Indies 3-0 in the three-match T20I series. The second ODI of the three-match series is on Sunday, August 11 in Trinidad.

'Probably worst part of cricket,' says Kohli after 1st India vs West Indies ODI match called off

Indian pacer Navdeep Saini received an official warning for breaching Level One of the ICC Code of Conduct in his debut match against West Indies in Florida.&nbsp;

In his debut match, Saini made an immediate impact claiming three for 17 off his four overs and earned man of the match award.&nbsp;

Saini achieved the rarity of a maiden in that final over but it was his earlier double-strike which gave the 26-year-old fast bowler the sort of dream start he would have wished for

During the match, Saini found guilty of breaching Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel and has been handed one demerit point.&nbsp;

The Article relates to using actions or gestures which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon their dismissal.&nbsp;

The incident happened during the 4th over of the West Indies' innings when Saini took the wicket of Nicholas Pooran.&nbsp;

Saini admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by the match referee.&nbsp;

Indian pacer Navdeep Saini received an official warning for breaching Level One of the ICC Code of Conduct in his debut match against West Indies in Florida. In his debut match, Saini made an immediate impact claiming three for 17 off his four overs and earned man of the match award.

Indian pacer Navdeep Saini received an official warning for breaching Level One of the ICC Code of Conduct in his debut match against West Indies in Florida. In his debut match, Saini made an immediate impact claiming three for 17 off his four overs and earned man of the match award. Saini achieved the rarity of a maiden in that final over but it was his earlier double-strike which gave the 26-year-old fast bowler the sort of dream start he would have wished for During the match, Saini found guilty of breaching Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel and has been handed one demerit point. The Article relates to using actions or gestures which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon their dismissal. The incident happened during the 4th over of the West Indies' innings when Saini took the wicket of Nicholas Pooran. Saini admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by the match referee.

India's Navdeep Saini found guilty of breaching ICC code of conduct

Rohit Sharma led from the front as India defeated the West Indies in a rain-affected second fixture of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-2nd-t20i-india-opt-to-bat-first-240652">three-match T20 International series</a> at the Central Broward Stadium in Florida on Sunday.

Opening batsman Sharma blazed 67 off 51 balls, with three sixes and six fours embellishing his entertaining innings, in pacing India to 167 for five after captain Virat Kohli chose to bat first.

Despite a bludgeoning 54 from Rovman Powell, West Indies were kept in check at 98 for four off 15.3 overs when the inclement weather intervened.

Torrential showers prevented any further play and India were declared winners by 22 runs on the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method as West Indies needed to be at 121 to be ahead on run-rate when play was halted.

Having won the low-scoring first match of the series by four wickets at the same venue a day earlier, India will now be pursuing a clean sweep of the series when the final match is played at the Providence Stadium in Guyana on Tuesday.

Sharma dominated an opening stand of 67 with Shikhar Dhawan and looked on course for a hundred when a miscued swing at Oshane Thomas resulted in a comfortable catch for Shimron Hetmyer at extra-cover.&nbsp;

Thomas also removed Rishabh Pant cheaply and the West Indies did a better containing job in the second half of the innings except for the final over when three sixes were hoisted off Keemo Paul.

Paul dismissed Dhawan for 23 and left-arm fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell claimed the prized wicket of Kohli (28) and doubled his wicket tally in removing Manish Pandey to a wicketkeeper’s catch.

After going almost four overs without finding the boundary ropes Krunal Pandya heaved two sixes and Ravindra Jadeja added another in Paul's expensive finale to the innings.

Faced with a daunting target, and mindful of the potential threat of rain, West Indies suffered two early setbacks with Evin Lewis and Sunil Narine both falling cheaply.&nbsp;

Narine was promoted to open the batting for this match with John Campbell dropped to accommodate an additional spinning option for the Caribbean side in left-armer Khary Pierre.

Powell and Nicholas Pooran tried to get their team back on course with a 76-run third-wicket partnership.&nbsp;

But they failed to score quickly enough to put their opponents under any real pressure. Pooran was the main stumbling block as his 19 runs came off 34 deliveries while Powell raced to 54 off the same number of balls.

He lost Pooran to a well-judged catch by Manish Pandey on the long-on boundary before falling as well leg-before to the same bowler, Krunal Pandya. His entertaining innings included three sixes and six fours.

There was no time for Kieron Pollard and Shimron Hetmyer to get into stride as the forecasted thundershowers closed in to wash away any prospect of the remaining overs being bowled.

Rohit Sharma led from the front as India defeated the West Indies in a rain-affected second fixture of the three-match T20 International series at the Central Broward Stadium in Florida on Sunday.

Rohit Sharma led from the front as India defeated the West Indies in a rain-affected second fixture of the three-match T20 International series at the Central Broward Stadium in Florida on Sunday. Opening batsman Sharma blazed 67 off 51 balls, with three sixes and six fours embellishing his entertaining innings, in pacing India to 167 for five after captain Virat Kohli chose to bat first. Despite a bludgeoning 54 from Rovman Powell, West Indies were kept in check at 98 for four off 15.3 overs when the inclement weather intervened. Torrential showers prevented any further play and India were declared winners by 22 runs on the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method as West Indies needed to be at 121 to be ahead on run-rate when play was halted. Having won the low-scoring first match of the series by four wickets at the same venue a day earlier, India will now be pursuing a clean sweep of the series when the final match is played at the Providence Stadium in Guyana on Tuesday. Sharma dominated an opening stand of 67 with Shikhar Dhawan and looked on course for a hundred when a miscued swing at Oshane Thomas resulted in a comfortable catch for Shimron Hetmyer at extra-cover. Thomas also removed Rishabh Pant cheaply and the West Indies did a better containing job in the second half of the innings except for the final over when three sixes were hoisted off Keemo Paul. Paul dismissed Dhawan for 23 and left-arm fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell claimed the prized wicket of Kohli (28) and doubled his wicket tally in removing Manish Pandey to a wicketkeeper’s catch. After going almost four overs without finding the boundary ropes Krunal Pandya heaved two sixes and Ravindra Jadeja added another in Paul's expensive finale to the innings. Faced with a daunting target, and mindful of the potential threat of rain, West Indies suffered two early setbacks with Evin Lewis and Sunil Narine both falling cheaply. Narine was promoted to open the batting for this match with John Campbell dropped to accommodate an additional spinning option for the Caribbean side in left-armer Khary Pierre. Powell and Nicholas Pooran tried to get their team back on course with a 76-run third-wicket partnership. But they failed to score quickly enough to put their opponents under any real pressure. Pooran was the main stumbling block as his 19 runs came off 34 deliveries while Powell raced to 54 off the same number of balls. He lost Pooran to a well-judged catch by Manish Pandey on the long-on boundary before falling as well leg-before to the same bowler, Krunal Pandya. His entertaining innings included three sixes and six fours. There was no time for Kieron Pollard and Shimron Hetmyer to get into stride as the forecasted thundershowers closed in to wash away any prospect of the remaining overs being bowled.

Rohit Sharma stars as India beat Windies in rain-hit Florida T20

Indian skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat first against West Indies in the second T20 International of a three-match series at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill on Sunday.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bat first against West Indies in the second T20 International of a three-match series at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill on Sunday. West Indies made one change in their team as they brought in Khary Pierre in place of John Campbell meanwhile the Virat-led team is the same. India, who were knocked out from recently concluded Cricket World Cup in England and Wales in the semi-finals, have taken a 1-0 lead in the series. In the first match, pacer Navdeep Saini starred in team's winning cause in his debut match. Saini took three important wickets as India limited the West Indies to 95 for nine and chased down the target in the 18th over. "Moisture from yesterday morning is gone. Think the pitch will get slower and slower," commented Kohli on pitch condition at the time of toss. "First six overs ball's going to come on nicely. Important to assess pitch once ball gets older. Have to think on the feet on such a pitch. Same team," Kohli added. West Indies skipper Carlos Brathwaite backed the boys to come out on top, he said, "Message has been to keep that positive intent, just make smarter decisions. John Campbell is out so Narine opens the batting. Pierre is in." Playing XI: West Indies: Evin Lewis, Sunil Narine, Nicholas Pooran(w), Kieron Pollard, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Carlos Brathwaite(c), Keemo Paul, Khary Pierre, Sheldon Cottrell, Oshane Thomas ﻿India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Manish Pandey, Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Navdeep Saini, K Khaleel Ahmed

India vs West Indies, 2nd T20I: India opt to bat first

Long-serving wicketkeeper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ms-dhoni-sets-out-to-discharge-his-duties-as-lieutenant-colonel-in-territorial-army-239647">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a>'s absence from India's tour of West Indies has handed young Rishabh Pant the perfect opportunity to gain experience and unleash his potential, captain Virat Kohli has said.

Dhoni is sitting out India's tour, which begins with the first Twenty20 against West Indies in Florida later on Saturday, to discharge his responsibilities as an honorary colonel in the army.

The 38-year-old is part of the Territorial Army, a reservist force that draws on civilians who can do short stints to assist the military, and started patrol duties in conflict-torn Jammu and Kashmir from Wednesday.

Pant, 21, has been long earmarked as the successor to Dhoni, who is a veteran of 350 one-dayers and quit playing Tests at the end of 2014.

"It's a great opportunity for someone like Rishabh Pant to really play a lot of international cricket, show his credentials, really unleash his potential at this stage," Kohli told reporters in Fort Lauderdale.

"We know how much ability he has and we all want him to become a consistent performer for the Indian cricket team.

"MS's experience is always going to be a very, very crucial factor but having said that some of these younger guys have a great opportunity ahead of them and they should just look forward to it."

Dhoni, 38, has been the subject of intense speculation on his retirement from international cricket since India's semi-final exit from the World Cup.

Questions have been raised by former cricketers, pundits and local media if it was the right time for him to step away and help India groom his successor.

Dhoni has not provided even a hint of his plans but he enjoys unwavering support from Kohli, who has publicly backed him on numerous occasions.

With regular all-rounder Hardik Pandya also rested for the trip to the Caribbean, where India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two Tests, the touring side will miss their regular 'finishers' in the limited-overs formats.

Kohli said it was a chance for the fringe players to make their case ahead of next year's World T20 in Australia.

"It's a great opportunity for the guys stepping in, to deliver what we need from them as a team and really cement their spots," Kohli said.

"Not having the two finishers, Hardik and MS, around is different to what we are used to. But it also presents an opportunity for the guys coming in to show what they have.

"Looking forward to the World T20 next year I think it's a great position to be in for all these guys coming in."

Long-serving wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's absence from India's tour of West Indies has handed young Rishabh Pant the perfect opportunity to gain experience and unleash his potential, captain Virat Kohli has said.

Long-serving wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni's absence from India's tour of West Indies has handed young Rishabh Pant the perfect opportunity to gain experience and unleash his potential, captain Virat Kohli has said. Dhoni is sitting out India's tour, which begins with the first Twenty20 against West Indies in Florida later on Saturday, to discharge his responsibilities as an honorary colonel in the army. The 38-year-old is part of the Territorial Army, a reservist force that draws on civilians who can do short stints to assist the military, and started patrol duties in conflict-torn Jammu and Kashmir from Wednesday. Pant, 21, has been long earmarked as the successor to Dhoni, who is a veteran of 350 one-dayers and quit playing Tests at the end of 2014. "It's a great opportunity for someone like Rishabh Pant to really play a lot of international cricket, show his credentials, really unleash his potential at this stage," Kohli told reporters in Fort Lauderdale. "We know how much ability he has and we all want him to become a consistent performer for the Indian cricket team. "MS's experience is always going to be a very, very crucial factor but having said that some of these younger guys have a great opportunity ahead of them and they should just look forward to it." Dhoni, 38, has been the subject of intense speculation on his retirement from international cricket since India's semi-final exit from the World Cup. Questions have been raised by former cricketers, pundits and local media if it was the right time for him to step away and help India groom his successor. Dhoni has not provided even a hint of his plans but he enjoys unwavering support from Kohli, who has publicly backed him on numerous occasions. With regular all-rounder Hardik Pandya also rested for the trip to the Caribbean, where India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two Tests, the touring side will miss their regular 'finishers' in the limited-overs formats. Kohli said it was a chance for the fringe players to make their case ahead of next year's World T20 in Australia. "It's a great opportunity for the guys stepping in, to deliver what we need from them as a team and really cement their spots," Kohli said. "Not having the two finishers, Hardik and MS, around is different to what we are used to. But it also presents an opportunity for the guys coming in to show what they have. "Looking forward to the World T20 next year I think it's a great position to be in for all these guys coming in."

Virat Kohli eggs on Rishabh Pant to unleash potential in MS Dhoni's absence

Virat Kohli-led team India on Saturday crushed West Indies in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-1st-t20-virat-kohli-wins-toss-and-opts-to-bowl-first-240474">first T20 ODI</a> by registering a win by 4 wickets.

India won the toss and opted to bowl first against West Indies in the T20 series opener at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Florida on Saturday.

Navdeep Saini starred on his senior international debut with three important wickets as India limited the West Indies to 95 for nine batting first in the opening fixture of a three-match T20 international series.

Having already enjoyed success with the Indian "A" team currently on tour of the Caribbean, Saini made an immediate impact wearing his country’s colours at the highest level in claiming three for 17 off his four overs, including top-scorer Kieron Pollard who fell in the final over of the innings for 49.

He achieved the rarity of a maiden in the final over but it was his earlier double-strike which gave the 26-year-old fast bowler the sort of dream start he would have wished for after captain Virat Kohli chose to bowl first after winning the toss.

Opening bowlers Washington Sundar and Bhuvneshwar Kumar had already set the West Indies on the back foot by removing openers John Campbell and Evin Lewis and Saini added to the Caribbean side's woes by dismissing attacking left-handers Nicholas Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer off successive deliveries.

Pooran's score of 20 was the only other double-figure innings apart from Pollard in what was a generally indisciplined effort from the West Indies.

Kumar supported Saini's effort with two wickets and indeed all India's bowlers played key roles in depriving the West Indies' big-hitters of opportunities to clear the boundary ropes.

West Indies, who are preparing for the defence of the World T20 title in Australia in 14 months’ time, welcomed back Pollard and spinner Sunil Narine in their line-up.&nbsp;

However injury-prone all-rounder Andre Russell was a late withdrawal from the squad and has been replaced by Jason Mohammed, who did not make the final 11 for the first of the back-to-back matches this weekend.

India's inclusion of Saini is with an eye as well on the tournament next year.

Saini’s opportunity comes in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who will only feature in the Test leg of this tour while the absence of Hardik Pandya, who is rested from the entire campaign, gave Sundar a chance to impress in this opening match.

Virat Kohli-led team India on Saturday crushed West Indies in the first T20 ODI by registering a win by 4 wickets. India won the toss and opted to bowl first against West Indies in the T20 series opener at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Florida on Saturday.

Virat Kohli-led team India on Saturday crushed West Indies in the first T20 ODI by registering a win by 4 wickets. India won the toss and opted to bowl first against West Indies in the T20 series opener at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Florida on Saturday. Navdeep Saini starred on his senior international debut with three important wickets as India limited the West Indies to 95 for nine batting first in the opening fixture of a three-match T20 international series. Having already enjoyed success with the Indian "A" team currently on tour of the Caribbean, Saini made an immediate impact wearing his country’s colours at the highest level in claiming three for 17 off his four overs, including top-scorer Kieron Pollard who fell in the final over of the innings for 49. He achieved the rarity of a maiden in the final over but it was his earlier double-strike which gave the 26-year-old fast bowler the sort of dream start he would have wished for after captain Virat Kohli chose to bowl first after winning the toss. Opening bowlers Washington Sundar and Bhuvneshwar Kumar had already set the West Indies on the back foot by removing openers John Campbell and Evin Lewis and Saini added to the Caribbean side's woes by dismissing attacking left-handers Nicholas Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer off successive deliveries. Pooran's score of 20 was the only other double-figure innings apart from Pollard in what was a generally indisciplined effort from the West Indies. Kumar supported Saini's effort with two wickets and indeed all India's bowlers played key roles in depriving the West Indies' big-hitters of opportunities to clear the boundary ropes. West Indies, who are preparing for the defence of the World T20 title in Australia in 14 months’ time, welcomed back Pollard and spinner Sunil Narine in their line-up. However injury-prone all-rounder Andre Russell was a late withdrawal from the squad and has been replaced by Jason Mohammed, who did not make the final 11 for the first of the back-to-back matches this weekend. India's inclusion of Saini is with an eye as well on the tournament next year. Saini’s opportunity comes in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who will only feature in the Test leg of this tour while the absence of Hardik Pandya, who is rested from the entire campaign, gave Sundar a chance to impress in this opening match.

India vs West Indies - 1st T20I: Virat Kohli-led team crush Windies by 4 wickets

India's Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bowl&nbsp;first against West Indies in the T20 series opener at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Florida on Saturday.

India are giving a senior international debut to fast-medium bowler Navdeep Saini as they seek to mould their squad with an eye as well on the World T20 tournament.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;injury-prone <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andre-russell-really-wanted-to-play-and-show-off-skills-says-carlos-brathwaite-240473">all-rounder Andre Russell</a> was a late withdrawal and has been replaced in the squad by Jason Mohammed.&nbsp;

India's star opener Shikhar Dhawan, who was forced out of the World Cup in England six weeks ago with a fractured thumb, makes his return.&nbsp;

"The priority will always be winning, but in that process you need to try out combinations and trust your players and expect them to perform under pressure, that's what international cricket is all about," said Kohli at the time of toss.&nbsp;

"Walk into the team, cement your place, grab the opportunity with both hands, all of us have done that at some stage," he added.&nbsp;

Playing XI:&nbsp;

West Indies: John Campbell, Evin Lewis, Nicholas Pooran(w), Shimron Hetmyer, Kieron Pollard, Rovman Powell, Carlos Brathwaite(c), Sunil Narine, Keemo Paul, Sheldon Cottrell, Oshane Thomas&nbsp;

India: Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli(c), Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant(w), Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Washington Sundar, Navdeep Saini, K Khaleel Ahmed

India's Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bowl first against West Indies in the T20 series opener at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Florida on Saturday.

India's Virat Kohli won the toss and opted to bowl first against West Indies in the T20 series opener at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Florida on Saturday. India are giving a senior international debut to fast-medium bowler Navdeep Saini as they seek to mould their squad with an eye as well on the World T20 tournament. Meanwhile, injury-prone all-rounder Andre Russell was a late withdrawal and has been replaced in the squad by Jason Mohammed. India's star opener Shikhar Dhawan, who was forced out of the World Cup in England six weeks ago with a fractured thumb, makes his return. "The priority will always be winning, but in that process you need to try out combinations and trust your players and expect them to perform under pressure, that's what international cricket is all about," said Kohli at the time of toss. "Walk into the team, cement your place, grab the opportunity with both hands, all of us have done that at some stage," he added. Playing XI: West Indies: John Campbell, Evin Lewis, Nicholas Pooran(w), Shimron Hetmyer, Kieron Pollard, Rovman Powell, Carlos Brathwaite(c), Sunil Narine, Keemo Paul, Sheldon Cottrell, Oshane Thomas India: Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli(c), Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant(w), Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Washington Sundar, Navdeep Saini, K Khaleel Ahmed

India vs West Indies - 1st T20I: Virat Kohli wins toss and opts to bowl first

West Indies cricketer Carlos Brathwaite said that teammate Andre Russell "really wanted to show off his skills" after the later made himself unavailable for the first two T20Is of the three-match series against India.&nbsp;

Russell opted out of the first two matches owing to the discomfort he experienced in his surgically-repaired knee at the Global T20 Canada.&nbsp;

Jason Mohammed will be replacing Russell in the first T20I clashes.

"He really wanted to play, he really wanted to come and show off his skills and show off what he does in franchise cricket for the West Indies," ICC quoted Brathwaite as saying.&nbsp;

"Unfortunately, he took another knock and he doesn't think that if he comes here, he'd be doing justice to other people who could be here and are 100%. Obviously, he's a big loss, not only on the field but off the field," Brathwaite added.&nbsp;

"In the dressing room, in and around the team, he's a big character, very jovial, and in my eyes, a leader in the dressing room as well. But, obviously, if we need to get him ready for the Twenty20 World Cup, we have to do without him for a couple of series, I prefer that than pushing him in this series and making a long term injury," he further said.&nbsp;

India's tour of West Indies will open with the T20Is in Florida, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3.&nbsp;

West Indies cricketer Carlos Brathwaite said that teammate Andre Russell "really wanted to show off his skills" after the later made himself unavailable for the first two T20Is of the three-match series against India.

West Indies cricketer Carlos Brathwaite said that teammate Andre Russell "really wanted to show off his skills" after the later made himself unavailable for the first two T20Is of the three-match series against India. Russell opted out of the first two matches owing to the discomfort he experienced in his surgically-repaired knee at the Global T20 Canada. Jason Mohammed will be replacing Russell in the first T20I clashes. "He really wanted to play, he really wanted to come and show off his skills and show off what he does in franchise cricket for the West Indies," ICC quoted Brathwaite as saying. "Unfortunately, he took another knock and he doesn't think that if he comes here, he'd be doing justice to other people who could be here and are 100%. Obviously, he's a big loss, not only on the field but off the field," Brathwaite added. "In the dressing room, in and around the team, he's a big character, very jovial, and in my eyes, a leader in the dressing room as well. But, obviously, if we need to get him ready for the Twenty20 World Cup, we have to do without him for a couple of series, I prefer that than pushing him in this series and making a long term injury," he further said. India's tour of West Indies will open with the T20Is in Florida, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3.

Andre Russell really wanted to play and show off skills, says Carlos Brathwaite

A day before India's first T20 International match against West Indies, Indian skipper Virat Kohli has shared a picture with teammates&nbsp;captioning "squad". Although, the fans are not happy as they are wondering where is Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;

The photo, shared&nbsp;by Kohli on Instagram and Twitter,&nbsp;featured KL Rahul, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ravindra Jadeja, Krunal Pandya, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed, and Shreyas Iyer.&nbsp;

As soon as the photo was posted, fans started asking about India's World Cup-hero Rohit.&nbsp;

Lately, rumours of cracks within the Indian team were reported by local media after Kohli's team bowed out of the World Cup following their semi-final loss to New Zealand earlier this month.&nbsp;

Sharma —&nbsp;the vice-captain of the one-day and Twenty20 international side —&nbsp;recently unfollowed Kohli and the captain's Bollywood wife Anushka Sharma on Instagram, adding fuel to the suggestions the two senior players were not on good terms.&nbsp;

But&nbsp;Kohli said that talk of a rift with star batsman Rohit&nbsp;was "ridiculous" and "baffling" and insisted all was well in the team camp.&nbsp;

Kohli, however, had dismissed the speculation ahead of the team's departure for the tour of West Indies.&nbsp;

"In my opinion, it's baffling to be honest. Ridiculous to read some stuff that comes out," the Virat had&nbsp;told reporters.&nbsp;

Here are some reactions on Virat's post:

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Oye <a href="https://t.co/Jooha2HMfz">pic.twitter.com/Jooha2HMfz</a>
— Chota Don (@choga_don) <a href="https://twitter.com/choga_don/status/1157131805620752385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> if everything is alright with in your team and dressing room, why every time you post a pic with team members <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> always go missing?? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a>
— Gaurav Varmani 🇮🇳 (@gauravvarmani) <a href="https://twitter.com/gauravvarmani/status/1157128461074522112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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where is <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> Y u r doing politics <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> after Graig chapel virat ND shashtri will be responsible for poor performance of Indian cricket
— silent (@jiteshkumar114) <a href="https://twitter.com/jiteshkumar114/status/1157121465646370816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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No squad is complete without this two cricketing beast Rohit and Shikhar <a href="https://twitter.com/SDhawan25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SDhawan25</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> 
The more you hide your feelings, the more they show. The more deny your feeling, the more they grow. 
 
Please try to include them from next click Virat sir..
— Sanjay Yadav (@iamsanjaydv) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsanjaydv/status/1157166942932701188?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Where is our world cup hero <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> ? 
Please step down from captaincy just for country. And Give A chance to Rohit Sharma To Lead This Team. 
Dont Angry with me I Sorry to Say That Practically You Really Don't know How To Make A Good Team. 
You kiked off <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a>
— Abhishek Pratap singh UPSSSC (@JayAbhishekHind) <a href="https://twitter.com/JayAbhishekHind/status/1157135291091582976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India's tour of West Indies will open with the T20Is in Florida, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3.&nbsp;

A day before India's first T20 International match against West Indies, Indian skipper Virat Kohli has shared a picture with teammates captioning "squad". Although, the fans are not happy as they are wondering where is Rohit Sharma.

A day before India's first T20 International match against West Indies, Indian skipper Virat Kohli has shared a picture with teammates captioning "squad". Although, the fans are not happy as they are wondering where is Rohit Sharma. The photo, shared by Kohli on Instagram and Twitter, featured KL Rahul, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ravindra Jadeja, Krunal Pandya, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed, and Shreyas Iyer. As soon as the photo was posted, fans started asking about India's World Cup-hero Rohit. Lately, rumours of cracks within the Indian team were reported by local media after Kohli's team bowed out of the World Cup following their semi-final loss to New Zealand earlier this month. Sharma — the vice-captain of the one-day and Twenty20 international side — recently unfollowed Kohli and the captain's Bollywood wife Anushka Sharma on Instagram, adding fuel to the suggestions the two senior players were not on good terms. But Kohli said that talk of a rift with star batsman Rohit was "ridiculous" and "baffling" and insisted all was well in the team camp. Kohli, however, had dismissed the speculation ahead of the team's departure for the tour of West Indies. "In my opinion, it's baffling to be honest. Ridiculous to read some stuff that comes out," the Virat had told reporters. Here are some reactions on Virat's post: Oye pic.twitter.com/Jooha2HMfz — Chota Don (@choga_don) August 2, 2019 × Hey @imVkohli if everything is alright with in your team and dressing room, why every time you post a pic with team members @ImRo45 always go missing?? #RohitSharma #ViratKohli — Gaurav Varmani 🇮🇳 (@gauravvarmani) August 2, 2019 × where is @ImRo45 Y u r doing politics @BCCI after Graig chapel virat ND shashtri will be responsible for poor performance of Indian cricket — silent (@jiteshkumar114) August 2, 2019 × No squad is complete without this two cricketing beast Rohit and Shikhar @SDhawan25 @ImRo45 The more you hide your feelings, the more they show. The more deny your feeling, the more they grow. Please try to include them from next click Virat sir.. — Sanjay Yadav (@iamsanjaydv) August 2, 2019 × Where is our world cup hero @ImRo45 ? Please step down from captaincy just for country. And Give A chance to Rohit Sharma To Lead This Team. Dont Angry with me I Sorry to Say That Practically You Really Don't know How To Make A Good Team. You kiked off @ajinkyarahane88 — Abhishek Pratap singh UPSSSC (@JayAbhishekHind) August 2, 2019 × India's tour of West Indies will open with the T20Is in Florida, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3.

'Where is Rohit Sharma?': Fans unhappy over Virat Kohli's latest post

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that Indian skipper Virat Kohli will&nbsp;address the media ahead of team's West Indies tour, which is scheduled to start from August 3 in USA and&nbsp;West Indies.&nbsp;

This will be&nbsp;India's first assignment after the recently concluded Cricket World Cup in England and Wales, where India were knocked out of the tournament after losing to New Zealand in the semi-final.&nbsp;

The T20Is will open the tour in Florida, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3.&nbsp;

Earlier, BCCI source had told ANI that there will be no pre-departure press conference.

"There will be no pre-departure press conference by the Indian team leaving for the West Indies. There is no window for a press conference ahead of the departure. We tried but it was not possible," a BCCI source had told ANI.

Here's all the squads:

India's squad for 3 ODIs against WI:&nbsp;Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kedar Jadhav, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Navdeep Saini

India's squad for 3 T20Is against WI:&nbsp;Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (WK), Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Rahul Chahar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini

India's squad for 2 Tests against WI:&nbsp;Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (VC), Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, C Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant (WK) Wriddhiman Saha (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav

Virat-led team will be leaving on Monday for the series.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that Indian skipper Virat Kohli will address the media ahead of team's West Indies tour, which is scheduled to start from August 3 in USA and West Indies.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that Indian skipper Virat Kohli will address the media ahead of team's West Indies tour, which is scheduled to start from August 3 in USA and West Indies. This will be India's first assignment after the recently concluded Cricket World Cup in England and Wales, where India were knocked out of the tournament after losing to New Zealand in the semi-final. The T20Is will open the tour in Florida, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3. Earlier, BCCI source had told ANI that there will be no pre-departure press conference. "There will be no pre-departure press conference by the Indian team leaving for the West Indies. There is no window for a press conference ahead of the departure. We tried but it was not possible," a BCCI source had told ANI. Here's all the squads: India's squad for 3 ODIs against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kedar Jadhav, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Navdeep Saini India's squad for 3 T20Is against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (WK), Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Rahul Chahar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini India's squad for 2 Tests against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (VC), Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, C Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant (WK) Wriddhiman Saha (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav Virat-led team will be leaving on Monday for the series.

Virat Kohli to do pre-departure press conference ahead of West Indies tour

India's tour of West Indies is set to start from August 3 but Virat Kohli-led team will not address any pre-departure press conference reported news agency ANI quoting a BCCI source. &nbsp;

The T20Is will open the tour in Florida, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3.&nbsp;

"There will be no pre-departure press conference by the Indian team leaving for the West Indies,"&nbsp;a BCCI source told ANI.&nbsp;

The source further added, "There is no window for a press conference ahead of the departure. We tried but it was not possible."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-intervenes-after-us-embassy-rejects-mohammad-shamis-visa-238803">BCCI intervenes after US embassy rejects Mohammad Shami's visa application</a>

This is India's first assignment after the recently concluded Cricket World Cup in England and Wales, where India were knocked out of the tournament after losing to New Zealand in the semi-final.&nbsp;

The current coaching staff, including head coach Ravi Shastri, was given a contract extension for the upcoming West Indies tour and India's home series against South Africa.&nbsp;

Here's all the squads:

India's squad for 3 ODIs against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kedar Jadhav, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Navdeep Saini

India's squad for 3 T20Is against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (WK), Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Rahul Chahar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini

India's squad for 2 Tests against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (VC), Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, C Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant (WK) Wriddhiman Saha (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav

India's tour of West Indies is set to start from August 3 but Virat Kohli-led team will not address any pre-departure press conference reported news agency ANI quoting a BCCI source.

India's tour of West Indies is set to start from August 3 but Virat Kohli-led team will not address any pre-departure press conference reported news agency ANI quoting a BCCI source. The T20Is will open the tour in Florida, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3. "There will be no pre-departure press conference by the Indian team leaving for the West Indies," a BCCI source told ANI. The source further added, "There is no window for a press conference ahead of the departure. We tried but it was not possible." Also Read: BCCI intervenes after US embassy rejects Mohammad Shami's visa application This is India's first assignment after the recently concluded Cricket World Cup in England and Wales, where India were knocked out of the tournament after losing to New Zealand in the semi-final. The current coaching staff, including head coach Ravi Shastri, was given a contract extension for the upcoming West Indies tour and India's home series against South Africa. Here's all the squads: India's squad for 3 ODIs against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kedar Jadhav, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Navdeep Saini India's squad for 3 T20Is against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (WK), Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Rahul Chahar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini India's squad for 2 Tests against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (VC), Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, C Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant (WK) Wriddhiman Saha (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav

No pre-departure press conference by Indian team ahead of West Indies tour

Chris Gayle changed his mind about international retirement and the West Indies selectors on Friday gave the 'Universe Boss' a place in the one-day squad to face India in a three-match series.

Gayle said in March that he planned to retire following the Cricket World Cup but changed his mind during the tournament.

Gayle was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-recall-sunil-narine-and-kieron-pollard-for-t20s-against-india-chris-gayle-opts-out-237928">not selected for the T20 squad</a> announced on Tuesday for the three matches that open the Indian tour.&nbsp;

Gayle is playing for the Vancouver Knights in the Global T20 competition being held in Brampton, Canada, though the ODI schedule means he would have to miss the semifinals and final if the Knights get that far. &nbsp;

"Chris is a very valuable player and he brings a lot of experience, a lot of knowledge, he lends a lot to any dressing room and it is great to have him in the squad," interim West Indies head coach Floyd Reifer said in a Cricket West Indies statement.

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Look who was included in West Indies' squad for their ODI series against India 👀 <a href="https://t.co/QHcW4C8aOP">https://t.co/QHcW4C8aOP</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1154769342241939456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The ODI series gives Gayle the chance to break Brian Lara's records for most ODI runs for the West Indies (10,348) and by a West Indian (10,405). Gayle trails by 10 in the first category and, including a tsunami relief match and two games for an ICC World XI against Australia, by 12 in the second.

The West Indies dropped batsmen Sunil Ambris and Darren Bravo, off-spinner Ashley Nurse and fast bowler Shannon Gabriel from the squad that finished ninth in the 10-team first-round group at the World Cup.&nbsp;

Andre Russell, who was forced out of the World Cup with a knee injury, has been omitted for the ODIs after being included in the T20 squad.

Three players who failed to make the World Cup squad, left-handed opener John Campbell, batsman Roston Chase and all-rounder Keemo Paul, are recalled for the games on August 8 at the Guyana National Stadium, and on August 11 and 14 at the Queen's Park Oval in Trinidad.

West Indies: Jason Holder(capt), Fabian Allen, Carlos Brathwaite, John Campbell, Roston Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Chris Gayle, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai Hope (wk), Evin Lewis, Keemo Paul, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Kemar Roach, Oshane Thomas

Chris Gayle changed his mind about international retirement and the West Indies selectors on Friday gave the 'Universe Boss' a place in the one-day squad to face India in a three-match series.

Chris Gayle changed his mind about international retirement and the West Indies selectors on Friday gave the 'Universe Boss' a place in the one-day squad to face India in a three-match series. Gayle said in March that he planned to retire following the Cricket World Cup but changed his mind during the tournament. Gayle was not selected for the T20 squad announced on Tuesday for the three matches that open the Indian tour. Gayle is playing for the Vancouver Knights in the Global T20 competition being held in Brampton, Canada, though the ODI schedule means he would have to miss the semifinals and final if the Knights get that far. "Chris is a very valuable player and he brings a lot of experience, a lot of knowledge, he lends a lot to any dressing room and it is great to have him in the squad," interim West Indies head coach Floyd Reifer said in a Cricket West Indies statement. Look who was included in West Indies' squad for their ODI series against India 👀 https://t.co/QHcW4C8aOP — ICC (@ICC) July 26, 2019 × The ODI series gives Gayle the chance to break Brian Lara's records for most ODI runs for the West Indies (10,348) and by a West Indian (10,405). Gayle trails by 10 in the first category and, including a tsunami relief match and two games for an ICC World XI against Australia, by 12 in the second. The West Indies dropped batsmen Sunil Ambris and Darren Bravo, off-spinner Ashley Nurse and fast bowler Shannon Gabriel from the squad that finished ninth in the 10-team first-round group at the World Cup. Andre Russell, who was forced out of the World Cup with a knee injury, has been omitted for the ODIs after being included in the T20 squad. Three players who failed to make the World Cup squad, left-handed opener John Campbell, batsman Roston Chase and all-rounder Keemo Paul, are recalled for the games on August 8 at the Guyana National Stadium, and on August 11 and 14 at the Queen's Park Oval in Trinidad. West Indies: Jason Holder(capt), Fabian Allen, Carlos Brathwaite, John Campbell, Roston Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Chris Gayle, Shimron Hetmyer, Shai Hope (wk), Evin Lewis, Keemo Paul, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Kemar Roach, Oshane Thomas

West Indies include Chris Gayle in squad for ODIs against India

West Indies have turned to experience with the recall on Tuesday of veteran duo Sunil Narine and Kieron Pollard for the first two T20s against India next month.

Explosive hitter Pollard was left out of the West Indies team for the recent 50-over World Cup and played his last T20 in India last November.

Spinner Narine's last appearance in a T20I for West Indies came against England almost two years ago at Chester-le-Street. He opted out of the 50-over World Cup because of a finger injury.

"We felt that players like Narine and Pollard, who have played well in T20 leagues around the world, once they are fit and mentally ready to play, we must give them the opportunity to represent the West Indies again," said interim chairman of selectors, Robert Haynes.

Wicketkeeper/batsman Anthony Bramble, who will understudy Nicholas Pooran, is the only newcomer in the 14-member squad which is captained by Carlos Brathwaite.

Andre Russell, who is still recovering from a knee injury that saw him leave the World Cup early, also returns.

"This squad is an excellent balance of experience and youth," said Haynes.

"It’s not just about the present -– the India tour of the West Indies –- but we are also looking at the T20 World Cup coming up next year and it is important that we find the right combination of players and the right formula for defending our title."

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Sunil Narine ✔️ 
Kieron Pollard ✔️ 
Chris Gayle ❌ 
Andre Russell ❓ 
 
West Indies have announced their 14-man squad for the first two T20Is against India 👇 <a href="https://t.co/ipfVWj66Wp">https://t.co/ipfVWj66Wp</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1153567926269743104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Veteran opening batsman Chris Gayle has chosen to play in the Canada GT20 instead, his place at the top of the order going to left-hander John Campbell.

The first two T20s against India will take place on August 3 and 4 at the Broward County Stadium in Lauderhill, Florida, with the third to be held in Guyana.

The two sides will also contest three ODIs and two Tests.

West Indies: Carlos Brathwaite (capt), Anthony Bramble (wk), John Campbell, Sheldon Cottrell, Shimron Hetmyer, Evin Lewis, Sunil Narine, Keemo Paul, Khary Pierre, Kieron Pollard, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Rovman Powell, Andre Russell, Oshane Thomas

West Indies have turned to experience with the recall on Tuesday of veteran duo Sunil Narine and Kieron Pollard for the first two T20s against India next month. Explosive hitter Pollard was left out of the West Indies team for the recent 50-over World Cup and played his last T20 in India last November.

West Indies have turned to experience with the recall on Tuesday of veteran duo Sunil Narine and Kieron Pollard for the first two T20s against India next month. Explosive hitter Pollard was left out of the West Indies team for the recent 50-over World Cup and played his last T20 in India last November. Spinner Narine's last appearance in a T20I for West Indies came against England almost two years ago at Chester-le-Street. He opted out of the 50-over World Cup because of a finger injury. "We felt that players like Narine and Pollard, who have played well in T20 leagues around the world, once they are fit and mentally ready to play, we must give them the opportunity to represent the West Indies again," said interim chairman of selectors, Robert Haynes. Wicketkeeper/batsman Anthony Bramble, who will understudy Nicholas Pooran, is the only newcomer in the 14-member squad which is captained by Carlos Brathwaite. Andre Russell, who is still recovering from a knee injury that saw him leave the World Cup early, also returns. "This squad is an excellent balance of experience and youth," said Haynes. "It’s not just about the present -– the India tour of the West Indies –- but we are also looking at the T20 World Cup coming up next year and it is important that we find the right combination of players and the right formula for defending our title." Sunil Narine ✔️ Kieron Pollard ✔️ Chris Gayle ❌ Andre Russell ❓ West Indies have announced their 14-man squad for the first two T20Is against India 👇 https://t.co/ipfVWj66Wp — ICC (@ICC) July 23, 2019 × Veteran opening batsman Chris Gayle has chosen to play in the Canada GT20 instead, his place at the top of the order going to left-hander John Campbell. The first two T20s against India will take place on August 3 and 4 at the Broward County Stadium in Lauderhill, Florida, with the third to be held in Guyana. The two sides will also contest three ODIs and two Tests. West Indies: Carlos Brathwaite (capt), Anthony Bramble (wk), John Campbell, Sheldon Cottrell, Shimron Hetmyer, Evin Lewis, Sunil Narine, Keemo Paul, Khary Pierre, Kieron Pollard, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Rovman Powell, Andre Russell, Oshane Thomas

West Indies recall Sunil Narine and Kieron Pollard for T20s against India, Chris Gayle opts out

With speculation rife about Mahendra Singh Dhoni's retirement, India's chief selector MSK Prasad added to the debate on Sunday by saying that former captain of the Indian cricket team knows when to retire.&nbsp;

Prasad was addressing media while unveiling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-squads-for-upcoming-tour-to-west-indies-announced-237433">India's squads for the upcoming West Indies tour</a>, which is scheduled to kick-off from August 3.&nbsp;

Dhoni has been the subject of intense speculation&nbsp;on his retirement after India's semi-final exit from the recently concluded Cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

"Retirement is purely individual. A legendary cricketer like MS Dhoni, knows when to retire but what is the future course of action, what is the roadmap that we have to create is in the hands of the selection committee," said Prasad during a press conference.&nbsp;

Dhoni, who quit playing Tests at the end of 2014, has made himself unavailable for the Windies tour where India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two Tests. It has been reported that he will be spending two months with his paramilitary regiment.&nbsp;

Dhoni is an honorary lieutenant colonel in India's territorial army and has pulled out of the tour to serve his regiment for the given period of time.&nbsp;

In the absence of Dhoni, young Rishabh Pant has been selected in the squad as the wicket-keeper across formats.&nbsp;

Prasad said that the selection committee has laid down plans to give more opportunities to young Pant in order to groom him further.&nbsp;

"We've laid down a few more plans and thought of giving as many opportunities to Pant and to see he is groomed. This is our plan right now," said Prasad while announcing the squad.&nbsp;

Pant will be India's lone wicketkeeper in the limited-overs formats but he will be joined by Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series.&nbsp;

With speculation rife about Mahendra Singh Dhoni's retirement, India's chief selector MSK Prasad added to the debate on Sunday by saying that former captain of the Indian cricket team knows when to retire.

With speculation rife about Mahendra Singh Dhoni's retirement, India's chief selector MSK Prasad added to the debate on Sunday by saying that former captain of the Indian cricket team knows when to retire. Prasad was addressing media while unveiling India's squads for the upcoming West Indies tour, which is scheduled to kick-off from August 3. Dhoni has been the subject of intense speculation on his retirement after India's semi-final exit from the recently concluded Cricket World Cup. "Retirement is purely individual. A legendary cricketer like MS Dhoni, knows when to retire but what is the future course of action, what is the roadmap that we have to create is in the hands of the selection committee," said Prasad during a press conference. Dhoni, who quit playing Tests at the end of 2014, has made himself unavailable for the Windies tour where India will play three T20s, three ODIs and two Tests. It has been reported that he will be spending two months with his paramilitary regiment. Dhoni is an honorary lieutenant colonel in India's territorial army and has pulled out of the tour to serve his regiment for the given period of time. In the absence of Dhoni, young Rishabh Pant has been selected in the squad as the wicket-keeper across formats. Prasad said that the selection committee has laid down plans to give more opportunities to young Pant in order to groom him further. "We've laid down a few more plans and thought of giving as many opportunities to Pant and to see he is groomed. This is our plan right now," said Prasad while announcing the squad. Pant will be India's lone wicketkeeper in the limited-overs formats but he will be joined by Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series.

'Legendary cricketer like MS Dhoni, knows when to retire,' says MSK Prasad

The MSK Prasad-led selection panel of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-squads-for-upcoming-tour-to-west-indies-announced-237433">announced the squad</a> for India's upcoming tour to West Indies which comprises of three T20 Internationals, three ODIs followed by two Test matches.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant has been selected in the squad as the first-choice wicket-keeper across formats and Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been rested.&nbsp;

Prasad insisted that the&nbsp;selection committee has planned to give more opportunities to young Pant in order to groom him further.&nbsp;

"We've laid down a few more plans and thought of giving as many opportunities to Pant and to see he is groomed. This is our plan right now," said&nbsp;Prasad while announcing the squad.&nbsp;

Pant will be&nbsp;India's lone wicketkeeper in the limited-overs formats but he will be joined by&nbsp;Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series.&nbsp;

"Rishabh Pant will be playing all the three formats so we will have to look about his workload management. Saha and KS Bharat will come into the picture at some point," said Prasad.&nbsp;

"In the longer format, KS Bharat was very, very close to get selected. We have an unwritten norm when a senior cricketer is injured, he should get a comeback opportunity. That's what we have given to Saha," said Prasad.&nbsp;

Reflecting on Dhoni's unavailability, Prasad said, "He (Dhoni) is unavailable for this series but we had certain roadmaps and plans till World Cup."&nbsp;

Prasad also spoke about Dhoni's much-anticipated retirement from the limited over format. He said, "retirement is totally individual..legend like Dhoni knows when to retire."

It has been reported that Dhoni has made himself unavailable for the tour of West Indies as he will be spending two months with his paramilitary regiment.&nbsp;

The T20Is will open the tour from August 3, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3.&nbsp;

India's squad for 3 ODIs against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kedar Jadhav, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Navdeep Saini

India's squad for 3 T20Is against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (WK), Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Rahul Chahar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini&nbsp;

The MSK Prasad-led selection panel of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the squad for India's upcoming tour to West Indies which comprises of three T20 Internationals, three ODIs followed by two Test matches.

The MSK Prasad-led selection panel of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the squad for India's upcoming tour to West Indies which comprises of three T20 Internationals, three ODIs followed by two Test matches. Rishabh Pant has been selected in the squad as the first-choice wicket-keeper across formats and Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been rested. Prasad insisted that the selection committee has planned to give more opportunities to young Pant in order to groom him further. "We've laid down a few more plans and thought of giving as many opportunities to Pant and to see he is groomed. This is our plan right now," said Prasad while announcing the squad. Pant will be India's lone wicketkeeper in the limited-overs formats but he will be joined by Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series. "Rishabh Pant will be playing all the three formats so we will have to look about his workload management. Saha and KS Bharat will come into the picture at some point," said Prasad. "In the longer format, KS Bharat was very, very close to get selected. We have an unwritten norm when a senior cricketer is injured, he should get a comeback opportunity. That's what we have given to Saha," said Prasad. Reflecting on Dhoni's unavailability, Prasad said, "He (Dhoni) is unavailable for this series but we had certain roadmaps and plans till World Cup." Prasad also spoke about Dhoni's much-anticipated retirement from the limited over format. He said, "retirement is totally individual..legend like Dhoni knows when to retire." It has been reported that Dhoni has made himself unavailable for the tour of West Indies as he will be spending two months with his paramilitary regiment. The T20Is will open the tour from August 3, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3. India's squad for 3 ODIs against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kedar Jadhav, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Navdeep Saini India's squad for 3 T20Is against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (WK), Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Rahul Chahar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini

Plan is to groom Rishabh Pant by giving him more opportunities: MSK Prasad

India's&nbsp;chief selector MSK Prasad on Sunday announced the&nbsp;squad for the&nbsp;upcoming West Indies tour, which is scheduled to kick-off from&nbsp;August 3. Virat Kohli will lead the team in all three formats after he made himself available for the full tour.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, India's regular wicket-keeper in the limited-overs format, has been snubbed and young Rishabh Pant has been selected in the squad as the first-choice wicket-keeper across formats for the Windies tour.

"Dhoni has made himself unavailable for the tour of West Indies as he will be spending two months with his paramilitary regiment," Reuters had&nbsp;reported on Saturday quoting&nbsp;an unidentified Indian cricket board (BCCI) source.&nbsp;

Dhoni is an honorary lieutenant colonel in India's territorial army and has pulled out of the tour to serve his regiment for the given period of time.&nbsp;

The chief selector&nbsp;also spoke about Dhoni's much-anticipated retirement from T20 and ODI. He said, "retirement is totally individual..legend like Dhoni knows when to retire."&nbsp;

In the one-day-international, some fresh faces will feature in the pace department with the likes of Khaleel Ahmed, Navdeep Saini along with&nbsp;Bhuvneshwar Kumar.&nbsp;Mohammed Shami has been included in the ODI format but the selectors decided to rest him for the T20Is.&nbsp;

In the&nbsp;T20I, in the presence of Shikhar Dhawan, the top order remains the same but&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer and Manish Pandey have been brought back in the middle-order. Spinner Rahul Chahar, who earned praises for his performance in the Indian Premier League 2019, has been called-up.&nbsp;Khaleel Ahmed, Deepak Chahar and Navdeep Saini will accompany Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the pace unit.&nbsp;

For the Test Championship, Rohit Sharma has been brought back in the squad. Bumrah has been included along with pacers Umesh Yadav, Ishant Sharma, and Mohammed Shami while Bhuvneshwar has missed out.&nbsp;Wriddhiman Saha has been included in the Test squad and he is set to will rejoin the side after a gap of more than a year. The spin unit is comprised of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav.

India's tour of West Indies comprised of&nbsp;three T20 Internationals, three ODIs followed by two Test matches.&nbsp;

The T20Is will open the tour from August 3, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3.&nbsp;

This will be India's first assignment after the recently concluded Cricket World Cup, where India were knocked out of the tournament in the semi-final.&nbsp;

The current coaching staff, including head coach Ravi Shastri, was given a contract extension for the upcoming West Indies tour and India's home series against South Africa.&nbsp;

Here's is all the squads:

India's squad for 3 ODIs against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kedar Jadhav, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Navdeep Saini

India's squad for 3 T20Is against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (WK), Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Rahul Chahar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini

India's squad for 2 Tests against WI:&nbsp;Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (VC), Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, C Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant (WK) Wriddhiman Saha (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav

India's chief selector MSK Prasad on Sunday announced the squad for the upcoming West Indies tour, which is scheduled to kick-off from August 3. Virat Kohli will lead the team in all three formats after he made himself available for the full tour.

India's chief selector MSK Prasad on Sunday announced the squad for the upcoming West Indies tour, which is scheduled to kick-off from August 3. Virat Kohli will lead the team in all three formats after he made himself available for the full tour. Mahendra Singh Dhoni, India's regular wicket-keeper in the limited-overs format, has been snubbed and young Rishabh Pant has been selected in the squad as the first-choice wicket-keeper across formats for the Windies tour. "Dhoni has made himself unavailable for the tour of West Indies as he will be spending two months with his paramilitary regiment," Reuters had reported on Saturday quoting an unidentified Indian cricket board (BCCI) source. Dhoni is an honorary lieutenant colonel in India's territorial army and has pulled out of the tour to serve his regiment for the given period of time. The chief selector also spoke about Dhoni's much-anticipated retirement from T20 and ODI. He said, "retirement is totally individual..legend like Dhoni knows when to retire." In the one-day-international, some fresh faces will feature in the pace department with the likes of Khaleel Ahmed, Navdeep Saini along with Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Mohammed Shami has been included in the ODI format but the selectors decided to rest him for the T20Is. In the T20I, in the presence of Shikhar Dhawan, the top order remains the same but Shreyas Iyer and Manish Pandey have been brought back in the middle-order. Spinner Rahul Chahar, who earned praises for his performance in the Indian Premier League 2019, has been called-up. Khaleel Ahmed, Deepak Chahar and Navdeep Saini will accompany Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the pace unit. For the Test Championship, Rohit Sharma has been brought back in the squad. Bumrah has been included along with pacers Umesh Yadav, Ishant Sharma, and Mohammed Shami while Bhuvneshwar has missed out. Wriddhiman Saha has been included in the Test squad and he is set to will rejoin the side after a gap of more than a year. The spin unit is comprised of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav. India's tour of West Indies comprised of three T20 Internationals, three ODIs followed by two Test matches. The T20Is will open the tour from August 3, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3. This will be India's first assignment after the recently concluded Cricket World Cup, where India were knocked out of the tournament in the semi-final. The current coaching staff, including head coach Ravi Shastri, was given a contract extension for the upcoming West Indies tour and India's home series against South Africa. Here's is all the squads: India's squad for 3 ODIs against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kedar Jadhav, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Navdeep Saini India's squad for 3 T20Is against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Rohit Sharma (VC), Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (WK), Krunal Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Rahul Chahar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Deepak Chahar, Navdeep Saini India's squad for 2 Tests against WI: Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (VC), Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, C Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant (WK) Wriddhiman Saha (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav

India's squads for upcoming tour to West Indies announced

The selection meeting for India's squad for the upcoming West Indies tour will be held on July 21 announced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Earlier, it was expected that the squad will be unveiled on Friday but now BCCI stated that the team for the upcoming tour of West Indies will be announced on Sunday.

India's tour of West Indies comprises three T20 Internationals, three ODIs followed by a couple of Test matches.

The T20Is will open the tour from August 3, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3.

It was reported that Indian skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Jasprit Bumrah will most likely be rested for the ODI and T20 series against West Indies.

Kohli-led India was knocked out of the Cricket World Cup 2019 after losing to New Zealand in the semi-finals.

The selection meeting for India's squad for the upcoming West Indies tour will be held on July 21 announced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Earlier, it was expected that the squad will be unveiled on Friday but now BCCI stated that the team for the upcoming tour of West Indies will be announced on Sunday.

The selection meeting for India's squad for the upcoming West Indies tour will be held on July 21 announced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Earlier, it was expected that the squad will be unveiled on Friday but now BCCI stated that the team for the upcoming tour of West Indies will be announced on Sunday. India's tour of West Indies comprises three T20 Internationals, three ODIs followed by a couple of Test matches. The T20Is will open the tour from August 3, the ODIs are lined up from August 8 and the Tests will take place from August 22 to September 3. It was reported that Indian skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Jasprit Bumrah will most likely be rested for the ODI and T20 series against West Indies. Kohli-led India was knocked out of the Cricket World Cup 2019 after losing to New Zealand in the semi-finals.

India's squad for West Indies tour will be out on this date

Virat Kohli vs Rohit Sharma in West Indies: Who has the better record?

The Indian squad for the upcoming tour of West Indies is likely to be announced on July 19 or 20, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-invites-applications-for-mens-head-coach-to-replace-ravi-shastri-236389">BCCI </a>source confirmed on Wednesday.

There have been speculations regarding MS Dhoni's availability for the tour and clearing the air, the BCCI source said that there has been no meeting with the wicket-keeper batsman yet.

The source added that a meeting will be held with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-umpiring-error-haunts-india-as-ms-dhoni-lost-his-wicket-on-no-ball-234892">Dhoni </a>before deciding the future course of action.

"No meeting has taken place with Dhoni yet regarding the West Indies tour. There will be a meeting with Dhoni first and after that things will become clear regarding his availability. The team selection is either on July 19th or 20th," a BCCI source told ANI.

Dhoni had received a lot of criticism for his slow strike rate during the recently concluded Cricket World Cup.

The 38-year-old scored 273 runs in the tournament, but he was regularly criticised for slow strike-rate.

Dhoni faced criticism for, what critics said, his baffling approach during the team's run-chase against England.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-failed-to-deliver-when-it-mattered-says-rohit-sharma-after-world-cup-semi-final-loss-235219">In the semi-final</a>, he scored 50 runs but as soon as he was run-out, India's hopes of reaching the finals dashed.

Earlier, it was reported that Indian skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Jasprit Bumrah will most likely be rested for the ODI and T20 series against West Indies, starting from August 3.

A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source had told ANI that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/forty-five-minutes-of-bad-cricket-put-us-out-says-kohli-after-indias-shock-exit-234767">Kohli </a>and Bumrah are likely to be on rest for the ODI and T20 series against West Indies.

Both the players will be joining the team prior to the Test series.

India will play their first Test match from August 22 to 27.

India will start their Windies tour from August 3 and play three T20's, three ODI's and two Test matches.

The Indian squad for the upcoming tour of West Indies is likely to be announced on July 19 or 20, a BCCI source confirmed on Wednesday. There have been speculations regarding MS Dhoni's availability for the tour and clearing the air, the BCCI source said that there has been no meeting with the wicket-keeper batsman yet.

The Indian squad for the upcoming tour of West Indies is likely to be announced on July 19 or 20, a BCCI source confirmed on Wednesday. There have been speculations regarding MS Dhoni's availability for the tour and clearing the air, the BCCI source said that there has been no meeting with the wicket-keeper batsman yet. The source added that a meeting will be held with Dhoni before deciding the future course of action. "No meeting has taken place with Dhoni yet regarding the West Indies tour. There will be a meeting with Dhoni first and after that things will become clear regarding his availability. The team selection is either on July 19th or 20th," a BCCI source told ANI. Dhoni had received a lot of criticism for his slow strike rate during the recently concluded Cricket World Cup. The 38-year-old scored 273 runs in the tournament, but he was regularly criticised for slow strike-rate. Dhoni faced criticism for, what critics said, his baffling approach during the team's run-chase against England. In the semi-final, he scored 50 runs but as soon as he was run-out, India's hopes of reaching the finals dashed. Earlier, it was reported that Indian skipper Virat Kohli and pacer Jasprit Bumrah will most likely be rested for the ODI and T20 series against West Indies, starting from August 3. A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source had told ANI that Kohli and Bumrah are likely to be on rest for the ODI and T20 series against West Indies. Both the players will be joining the team prior to the Test series. India will play their first Test match from August 22 to 27. India will start their Windies tour from August 3 and play three T20's, three ODI's and two Test matches.

MS Dhoni's fate hangs in balance ahead India's squad announcement for West Indies

KL Rahul is "disappointed" at not being able to convert his starts but not at all "worried" as he believes that he is doing a lot of things right.

Rahul had scores of 26, 11 not out, 57, 30 and 48 in five completed games and barring the one against Australia where he came in at the fag end of the innings, he has got out after getting set.

"It's a bit disappointing," the talented Karnataka batsman said, accepting that he should have gone on to score a few more runs.&nbsp;

"I am doing the hard work in getting through the first 10 or 15 overs, or as an opening batsman, scoring the first 25, 30 runs, which is the hardest. (But then getting out) when the time comes to accelerate and may take the game deeper, so a bit disappointed that I have not been able to do that," Rahul lamented.

He will certainly assess and do the course correction but he does not want to brood over what has already done.

"But again I can sit, I will sit and assess, but it won't worry me that much because there are a lot of things I'm doing right, and I know that the mistakes I've made I can learn from them and get better," Rahul said at the post-match press conference after India beat the West Indies by 125 runs on Thursday.

He got out playing a reverse sweep to off-spinner Mohammed Nabi against Afganistan and versus West Indies, it was a pitched up delivery from Jason Holder that brought about his downfall.

"Against Afghanistan, I would not say it (reverse sweep) was a bad shot. It was a shot I play all the time. And more often than not I hit it for four, so I get it away. But unfortunately, I did not execute it," Rahul said.

"But the planning and the timing of that shot may be was questionable because I needed to stitch up a partnership with Virat," he admitted.

"And today (vs WI), as a batsman, it disappoints you but then again you know bowlers are allowed to bowl good balls. And you do make mistakes. And I can't sit back and break my head about it. I just go on and try to start fresh in Birmingham and try to get a big one."&nbsp;

He was always "ready" to juggle up and down the order, and Shikhar Dhawan's untimely injury did not change much for him.

"I know that Shikhar getting injured was unfortunate. And I had to go to the top of the order. But not that I never prepared for opening the batting. In my head, the last one or two years I have been preparing for whatever might be my role," the 27-year-old right-handed batsman said.

In fact, he is more comfortable opening the batting as that has been his natural slot in all forms of cricket.

"I had to prepare hard for number four because that's not where I batted all my life. I did that. And now to come back to opening the batting again, it's just a bit more comfortable and easier for me because I've batted it all my life," Rahul said. On India's not so impressive batting show in the past two games, Rahul said that both wickets weren't easy for scoring runs.

In fact, he revealed that when he and Rohit were batting, they had sent a message to the dressing room that the wicket was two paced and 260 was a par-score.

Ask about Virat Kohli once again looking like a different player compared to all others who struggled, Rahul said it's his special ability to get runs irrespective of the conditions.

"I don't think he's doing anything different. He has been doing the same thing for how long I can remember since the time he started playing cricket, this is what he has been doing, performing consistently," he observed.

"And no matter what condition, what wicket condition, who the bowlers are, he always finds a way to get runs, always finds a way to put the bowlers under pressure."&nbsp;

KL Rahul is "disappointed" at not being able to convert his starts but not at all "worried" as he believes that he is doing a lot of things right. Rahul had scores of 26, 11 not out, 57, 30 and 48 in five completed games and barring the one against Australia where he came in at the fag end of the innings, he has got out after getting set.

KL Rahul is "disappointed" at not being able to convert his starts but not at all "worried" as he believes that he is doing a lot of things right. Rahul had scores of 26, 11 not out, 57, 30 and 48 in five completed games and barring the one against Australia where he came in at the fag end of the innings, he has got out after getting set. "It's a bit disappointing," the talented Karnataka batsman said, accepting that he should have gone on to score a few more runs. "I am doing the hard work in getting through the first 10 or 15 overs, or as an opening batsman, scoring the first 25, 30 runs, which is the hardest. (But then getting out) when the time comes to accelerate and may take the game deeper, so a bit disappointed that I have not been able to do that," Rahul lamented. He will certainly assess and do the course correction but he does not want to brood over what has already done. "But again I can sit, I will sit and assess, but it won't worry me that much because there are a lot of things I'm doing right, and I know that the mistakes I've made I can learn from them and get better," Rahul said at the post-match press conference after India beat the West Indies by 125 runs on Thursday. He got out playing a reverse sweep to off-spinner Mohammed Nabi against Afganistan and versus West Indies, it was a pitched up delivery from Jason Holder that brought about his downfall. "Against Afghanistan, I would not say it (reverse sweep) was a bad shot. It was a shot I play all the time. And more often than not I hit it for four, so I get it away. But unfortunately, I did not execute it," Rahul said. "But the planning and the timing of that shot may be was questionable because I needed to stitch up a partnership with Virat," he admitted. "And today (vs WI), as a batsman, it disappoints you but then again you know bowlers are allowed to bowl good balls. And you do make mistakes. And I can't sit back and break my head about it. I just go on and try to start fresh in Birmingham and try to get a big one." He was always "ready" to juggle up and down the order, and Shikhar Dhawan's untimely injury did not change much for him. "I know that Shikhar getting injured was unfortunate. And I had to go to the top of the order. But not that I never prepared for opening the batting. In my head, the last one or two years I have been preparing for whatever might be my role," the 27-year-old right-handed batsman said. In fact, he is more comfortable opening the batting as that has been his natural slot in all forms of cricket. "I had to prepare hard for number four because that's not where I batted all my life. I did that. And now to come back to opening the batting again, it's just a bit more comfortable and easier for me because I've batted it all my life," Rahul said. On India's not so impressive batting show in the past two games, Rahul said that both wickets weren't easy for scoring runs. In fact, he revealed that when he and Rohit were batting, they had sent a message to the dressing room that the wicket was two paced and 260 was a par-score. Ask about Virat Kohli once again looking like a different player compared to all others who struggled, Rahul said it's his special ability to get runs irrespective of the conditions. "I don't think he's doing anything different. He has been doing the same thing for how long I can remember since the time he started playing cricket, this is what he has been doing, performing consistently," he observed. "And no matter what condition, what wicket condition, who the bowlers are, he always finds a way to get runs, always finds a way to put the bowlers under pressure."

'I will sit and assess,' says India's KL Rahul on his slow conversion rate

India opener Rohit Sharma Friday took to the social media to express his disappointment over his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-rohit-sharmas-controversial-dismissal-divides-fans-and-spectators-230883">controversial dismissal against the West Indies</a>&nbsp;on Thursday.&nbsp;

Rohit, who was ruled out on 18 off 23 balls, posted a close-up picture of his dismissal on his official Twitter page, suggesting that there was a significant gap between the bat and ball.&nbsp;

The picture posted by Rohit indicates that the ball clipped his right pad instead of the bat.

Rohit was visibly disappointed after being given out caught behind by wicketkeeper Shai Hope of the bowling of Kemar Roach in the match on Thursday.&nbsp;

The right-hander was deceived by an in-swinging delivery from Roach in the final ball of the sixth over and the West Indies team went up in appeal for caught behind, suggesting Rohit had got an inside-edge onto the wicketkeeper.

On-field umpire Richard Illingworth ruled it not-out but West Indies captain Jason Holder went for the review and third umpire Michael Gough overturned the call in the Caribbean side's favour.&nbsp;

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🤦‍♂️👀 <a href="https://t.co/0RH6VeU6YB">pic.twitter.com/0RH6VeU6YB</a>
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The third umpire seemed to have gone by the snicko after repeated replays showed there was a gap between the bat and ball.

India opener Rohit Sharma Friday took to the social media to express his disappointment over his controversial dismissal against the West Indies on Thursday. Rohit, who was ruled out on 18 off 23 balls, posted a close-up picture of his dismissal on his official Twitter page, suggesting that there was a significant gap between the bat and ball.

India opener Rohit Sharma Friday took to the social media to express his disappointment over his controversial dismissal against the West Indies on Thursday. Rohit, who was ruled out on 18 off 23 balls, posted a close-up picture of his dismissal on his official Twitter page, suggesting that there was a significant gap between the bat and ball. The picture posted by Rohit indicates that the ball clipped his right pad instead of the bat. Rohit was visibly disappointed after being given out caught behind by wicketkeeper Shai Hope of the bowling of Kemar Roach in the match on Thursday. The right-hander was deceived by an in-swinging delivery from Roach in the final ball of the sixth over and the West Indies team went up in appeal for caught behind, suggesting Rohit had got an inside-edge onto the wicketkeeper. On-field umpire Richard Illingworth ruled it not-out but West Indies captain Jason Holder went for the review and third umpire Michael Gough overturned the call in the Caribbean side's favour. 🤦‍♂️👀 pic.twitter.com/0RH6VeU6YB — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) June 28, 2019 × The third umpire seemed to have gone by the snicko after repeated replays showed there was a gap between the bat and ball.

World Cup: Rohit Sharma takes to Twitter to suggest he was not out against West Indies

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