Pakistan cricket team will not travel to India for the 2026 T20 World Cup. The Men in Green will play their games in Sri Lanka, who are the co-hosts for the mega event. This development comes after the International Cricket Council (ICC) reportedly accepted the hybrid model for the 2025 Champions Trophy (CT 2025) on Friday (Dec 13). The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) denied sending Team India to travel to Pakistan, i.e. the original hosts, for the marquee tournament. Hence, the Rohit Sharma-led team will play their games in Dubai. Following this, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have also been allowed to not travel to India for the next edition of the T20 WC.

HERE ARE SOME KEY DEVELOPMENTS POST THE ICC-PCB-BCCI meeting:

– ICC gave the green signal to the Champions Trophy to be held in a hybrid model, after an agreement with PCB and BCCI. 
– CT 2025 games will be held across three venues in Pakistan with India games in Dubai. 
– BCCI and PCB have agreed in principle that Pakistan will not travel to India for the India-Pakistan match in the 2026 T20 World Cup. Thus, the high-voltage clash will take place in Colombo, Sri Lanka (the co-hosts).&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-icc-approves-hybird-model-after-long-saga-india-to-play-in-dubai-report-783784">Champions Trophy 2025: ICC approves hybrid model after long saga, India to play in Dubai - Report</a>

The PCB has also been given the hosting rights for the ICC Women's tournament after 2027. It will mark the first time for the Asian giants to host a marquee event in women's cricket.&nbsp;

All this after a lengthy saga between ICC, PCB and BCCI regarding the CT 2025 future, which will be held in February-March 2025. While the hybrid model was expected to be the only way out, it has also solved the issue for the next big ICC event in men's cricket, i.e. the T20 World Cup in 2026.&nbsp;

However, there is no word regarding PCB sending their team to India for the 2025 ICC Women's ODI World Cup. A final call is likely to be out in a few months.

Pakistan cricket team will not travel to India for the 2026 T20 World Cup. The Men in Green will play their games in Sri Lanka, who are the co-hosts for the mega event.

Pakistan cricket team will not travel to India for the 2026 T20 World Cup. The Men in Green will play their games in Sri Lanka, who are the co-hosts for the mega event. This development comes after the International Cricket Council (ICC) reportedly accepted the hybrid model for the 2025 Champions Trophy (CT 2025) on Friday (Dec 13). The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) denied sending Team India to travel to Pakistan, i.e. the original hosts, for the marquee tournament. Hence, the Rohit Sharma-led team will play their games in Dubai. Following this, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have also been allowed to not travel to India for the next edition of the T20 WC. HERE ARE SOME KEY DEVELOPMENTS POST THE ICC-PCB-BCCI meeting: – ICC gave the green signal to the Champions Trophy to be held in a hybrid model, after an agreement with PCB and BCCI. – CT 2025 games will be held across three venues in Pakistan with India games in Dubai. – BCCI and PCB have agreed in principle that Pakistan will not travel to India for the India-Pakistan match in the 2026 T20 World Cup. Thus, the high-voltage clash will take place in Colombo, Sri Lanka (the co-hosts). Also read: Champions Trophy 2025: ICC approves hybrid model after long saga, India to play in Dubai - Report The PCB has also been given the hosting rights for the ICC Women's tournament after 2027. It will mark the first time for the Asian giants to host a marquee event in women's cricket. All this after a lengthy saga between ICC, PCB and BCCI regarding the CT 2025 future, which will be held in February-March 2025. While the hybrid model was expected to be the only way out, it has also solved the issue for the next big ICC event in men's cricket, i.e. the T20 World Cup in 2026. However, there is no word regarding PCB sending their team to India for the 2025 ICC Women's ODI World Cup. A final call is likely to be out in a few months.

Pakistan to not travel to India for 2026 T20 World Cup, will play their games in Sri Lanka: Report

Kuldeep Yadav is in top form in 2023. The 28-year-old has already scalped 31 wickets in ODIs this year and is set to play a key role for India in the Asia Cup 2023 final, on Sunday (September 17) in Colombo, and the upcoming ODI World Cup at home, which kicks off early next month. In the ongoing Super Four stage of the Asia Cup, Kuldeep has nine wickets from two games (5 for 25 versus Pakistan and 4 for 43 against Sri Lanka). Thus, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra made a big claim on Kuldeep.

<h2>'Kuldeep is the best spinner in the world at the moment'</h2>

Chopra said on his YouTube channel, "I feel Kuldeep is the best spinner in the world at the moment. If you see Kuldeep Yadav's numbers, you say he is a proper wicket-taker. We are talking about spinners who have taken 150 ODI wickets. Firstly, 150 wickets is a very good number, it is not a small sample size."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-were-bitterly-disappointed-pak-bowling-coach-morne-morkel-reflects-on-babar-cos-big-loss-vs-india-635832">Also Read:&nbsp;Asia Cup: Pak bowling coach Morne Morkel reflects on Babar &amp; Co.'s big loss vs India ahead of must-win SL tie</a>

Chopra further added, "He has taken only 85 innings to pick up 150 wickets. He has a strike rate of 30.1. He is special because he is orthodox. If you talk about Ajantha Mendis and Rashid Khan, they had or have mystery. This guy has no mystery. He bowls normal leg-spin and googly and traps you with that itself."

Talking about Kuldeep's spell versus Sri Lanka, in the Super Four clash on Tuesday (September 12), the wily spinner accounted for four key scalps to dent the Lankans' 213-run chase at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. He also entered the 150-wicket club in just 85 ODI innings.&nbsp;

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">Fastest to 150 ODI wickets among spinners (by matches) 
78 - Saqlain Mushtaq 
80 - Rashid Khan 
84 - Ajantha Mendis 
88 - Kuldeep Yadav 
89 - Imran Tahir

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">Fastest to 150 ODI wickets - by matches taken (India) 
80 - Mohammed Shami 
88 - Kuldeep Yadav 
97 - Ajit Agarkar 
103 - Zaheer Khan 
106 - Anil Kumble 
106 - Irfan Pathan

Kuldeep will be India's go-to bowler in the Asia Cup final. Before the summit clash, India will take on Bangladesh on Friday (September 15), at the same venue in Colombo, in their last Super Four encounter.&nbsp;

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Kuldeep Yadav is in top form in 2023. The 28-year-old has already scalped 31 wickets in ODIs this year and is set to play a key role for India in the Asia Cup 2023 final, on Sunday (September 17) in Colombo, and the upcoming ODI World Cup at home, which kicks off early next month.

Kuldeep Yadav is in top form in 2023. The 28-year-old has already scalped 31 wickets in ODIs this year and is set to play a key role for India in the Asia Cup 2023 final, on Sunday (September 17) in Colombo, and the upcoming ODI World Cup at home, which kicks off early next month. In the ongoing Super Four stage of the Asia Cup, Kuldeep has nine wickets from two games (5 for 25 versus Pakistan and 4 for 43 against Sri Lanka). Thus, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra made a big claim on Kuldeep. 'Kuldeep is the best spinner in the world at the moment' Chopra said on his YouTube channel, "I feel Kuldeep is the best spinner in the world at the moment. If you see Kuldeep Yadav's numbers, you say he is a proper wicket-taker. We are talking about spinners who have taken 150 ODI wickets. Firstly, 150 wickets is a very good number, it is not a small sample size." Also Read: Asia Cup: Pak bowling coach Morne Morkel reflects on Babar & Co.'s big loss vs India ahead of must-win SL tie Chopra further added, "He has taken only 85 innings to pick up 150 wickets. He has a strike rate of 30.1. He is special because he is orthodox. If you talk about Ajantha Mendis and Rashid Khan, they had or have mystery. This guy has no mystery. He bowls normal leg-spin and googly and traps you with that itself." Talking about Kuldeep's spell versus Sri Lanka, in the Super Four clash on Tuesday (September 12), the wily spinner accounted for four key scalps to dent the Lankans' 213-run chase at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. He also entered the 150-wicket club in just 85 ODI innings. Fastest to 150 ODI wickets among spinners (by matches) 78 - Saqlain Mushtaq 80 - Rashid Khan 84 - Ajantha Mendis 88 - Kuldeep Yadav 89 - Imran Tahir Fastest to 150 ODI wickets - by matches taken (India) 80 - Mohammed Shami 88 - Kuldeep Yadav 97 - Ajit Agarkar 103 - Zaheer Khan 106 - Anil Kumble 106 - Irfan Pathan Kuldeep will be India's go-to bowler in the Asia Cup final. Before the summit clash, India will take on Bangladesh on Friday (September 15), at the same venue in Colombo, in their last Super Four encounter. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup 2023: He is the best spinner at the moment - Former India opener lauds Kuldeep Yadav

Jasprit Bumrah is set to return to international cricket after a long layoff due to a back injury. He last represented India in September 2022 and went on to miss the T20 World Cup 2022, tour of Bangladesh, home Tests versus Australia, IPL 2023, the WTC final and entire tour of West Indies. Bumrah's return is a huge sigh of relief for Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team ahead of the Asia Cup and ODI World Cup at home, in October-November.&nbsp;

Bumrah's bowling will not only be closely monitored, but the Ireland T20Is also presents him a chance to showcase his leadership skills in the shortest format. It is to be noted that the ace pacer led India in the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, last year (where India lost by seven wickets in defence of 378). While some believe Bumrah should not have been given the added responsibility of leading the side, despite him being the most experienced, in his comeback series, former Indian stumper Saba Karim believes it is the right call.&nbsp;

As quoted by PTI, the former selector said, "The team management and selectors would be more concerned about Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness levels and match fitness. This (series) is a T20 format and it (captaincy) won’t add more burden on him. It will only help him to understand his body better. They (India) are playing three T20 games, he can play at different phases."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yellow-alert-for-rain-in-dublin-could-spoil-bumrahs-comeback-as-india-gear-for-ireland-t20is-626611">Yellow alert for rain in Dublin could spoil Bumrah's comeback as India gear for Ireland T20Is</a>

India will open the three-match T20I series versus Ireland on Friday evening (August 18) in Dublin. The 29-year-old Bumrah will be looking forward to a good run, both as bowler and captain of the side.&nbsp;

India squad for Ireland T20Is: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson(w), Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah(c), Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan, Jitesh Sharma, Prasidh Krishna, Shahbaz Ahmed

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Jasprit Bumrah is set to return to international cricket after a long layoff due to a back injury. He last represented India in September 2022 and went on to miss the T20 World Cup 2022, tour of Bangladesh, home Tests versus Australia, IPL 2023, the WTC final and entire tour of West Indies.

Jasprit Bumrah is set to return to international cricket after a long layoff due to a back injury. He last represented India in September 2022 and went on to miss the T20 World Cup 2022, tour of Bangladesh, home Tests versus Australia, IPL 2023, the WTC final and entire tour of West Indies. Bumrah's return is a huge sigh of relief for Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team ahead of the Asia Cup and ODI World Cup at home, in October-November. Bumrah's bowling will not only be closely monitored, but the Ireland T20Is also presents him a chance to showcase his leadership skills in the shortest format. It is to be noted that the ace pacer led India in the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, last year (where India lost by seven wickets in defence of 378). While some believe Bumrah should not have been given the added responsibility of leading the side, despite him being the most experienced, in his comeback series, former Indian stumper Saba Karim believes it is the right call. As quoted by PTI, the former selector said, "The team management and selectors would be more concerned about Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness levels and match fitness. This (series) is a T20 format and it (captaincy) won’t add more burden on him. It will only help him to understand his body better. They (India) are playing three T20 games, he can play at different phases." Also read: Yellow alert for rain in Dublin could spoil Bumrah's comeback as India gear for Ireland T20Is India will open the three-match T20I series versus Ireland on Friday evening (August 18) in Dublin. The 29-year-old Bumrah will be looking forward to a good run, both as bowler and captain of the side. India squad for Ireland T20Is: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson(w), Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah(c), Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan, Jitesh Sharma, Prasidh Krishna, Shahbaz Ahmed WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IND vs IRE, 1st T20I: Captaincy will only help Bumrah to understand his body better, opines ex-Indian stumper

R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have been a highly successful bowling pair for India in the purest format of the game. They have given sleepless nights to every Test team touring India whereas the duo have also enjoyed bowling in the subcontinent and&nbsp;had some success overseas (especially in the Caribbean island). On Day Four of the second and final Test in Port-of-Spain in Trinidad, Ashwin and Jadeja achieved a massive feat by becoming only the second Indian pair to have 500, or more, wickets.&nbsp;

Ashwin and Jadeja got to the feat during the final session on Day Four, on Sunday (July 23), when the former claimed two breakthroughs in West Indies' stiff 365-run chase in the series decider. Thus, Ashwin and Jadeja joined Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh in the 500-wicket club as a pair.&nbsp;

<h3>MOST WICKETS AS PAIR FOR INDIA IN TESTS</h3>

Anil Kumble (281) and Harbhajan Singh (220) - 501 in 54 Tests

R Ashwin (274) and Ravindra Jadeja (226) - 500 in 49 Tests*

Bishan Bedi (184) and BS Chandrasekhar (184) - 368 in 42 Tests

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-he-took-the-initiative-kishan-reveals-kohli-backed-him-to-bat-at-no-4-after-maiden-fifty-618814">WI vs IND: 'He took the initiative...' - Kishan reveals Kohli backed him to bat at No. 4 after maiden fifty</a>

Talking about Ashwin, the 36-year-old wily spinner also attained another feat during the penultimate day's play in Trinidad.&nbsp;

India bowlers with most wickets in international cricket 
956 - Anil Kumble 
712* - Ravichandran Ashwin 
711 - Harbhajan Singh 
687 - Kapil Dev 
610 - Zaheer Khan

Ashwin (489 wickets) and Jadeja (275 scalps) have played an instrumental role in India's success in the red-ball format. The two will be eager to play a dominating role on the final day's play on Monday (July 24) when West Indies will resume their innings at 76 for 2, in pursuit of 365. Talking about Day Four, India rode on Mohammed Siraj's 5 for 60 to dismiss the hosts for 255 after India's 438. In their second essay, India was at their attacking best to declare at 181 for 2 in 24&nbsp;overs to give a challenging target to the home side.

India lead the series 1-0 and will push for a clean sweep on the final day. For that to happen, Ashwin-Jadeja will have to be at their usual best.

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R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have been a highly successful bowling pair for India in the purest format of the game. They have given sleepless nights to every Test team touring India whereas the duo have also enjoyed bowling in the subcontinent and had some success overseas (especially in the Caribbean island).

R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have been a highly successful bowling pair for India in the purest format of the game. They have given sleepless nights to every Test team touring India whereas the duo have also enjoyed bowling in the subcontinent and had some success overseas (especially in the Caribbean island). On Day Four of the second and final Test in Port-of-Spain in Trinidad, Ashwin and Jadeja achieved a massive feat by becoming only the second Indian pair to have 500, or more, wickets. Ashwin and Jadeja got to the feat during the final session on Day Four, on Sunday (July 23), when the former claimed two breakthroughs in West Indies' stiff 365-run chase in the series decider. Thus, Ashwin and Jadeja joined Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh in the 500-wicket club as a pair. MOST WICKETS AS PAIR FOR INDIA IN TESTS Anil Kumble (281) and Harbhajan Singh (220) - 501 in 54 Tests R Ashwin (274) and Ravindra Jadeja (226) - 500 in 49 Tests* Bishan Bedi (184) and BS Chandrasekhar (184) - 368 in 42 Tests Also read: WI vs IND: 'He took the initiative...' - Kishan reveals Kohli backed him to bat at No. 4 after maiden fifty Talking about Ashwin, the 36-year-old wily spinner also attained another feat during the penultimate day's play in Trinidad. India bowlers with most wickets in international cricket 956 - Anil Kumble 712* - Ravichandran Ashwin 711 - Harbhajan Singh 687 - Kapil Dev 610 - Zaheer Khan Ashwin (489 wickets) and Jadeja (275 scalps) have played an instrumental role in India's success in the red-ball format. The two will be eager to play a dominating role on the final day's play on Monday (July 24) when West Indies will resume their innings at 76 for 2, in pursuit of 365. Talking about Day Four, India rode on Mohammed Siraj's 5 for 60 to dismiss the hosts for 255 after India's 438. In their second essay, India was at their attacking best to declare at 181 for 2 in 24 overs to give a challenging target to the home side. India lead the series 1-0 and will push for a clean sweep on the final day. For that to happen, Ashwin-Jadeja will have to be at their usual best. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IND vs WI: R Ashwin-Ravindra Jadeja join Anil Kumble-Harbhajan Singh in ELITE list during series finale

On Tuesday (July 4), former India pacer Ajit Agarkar was announced as the new BCCI chief selector. Agarkar succeeds&nbsp;Chetan Sharma after the latter resigned as a result of his revelations in a TV sting operation. Agarkar, who has represented India in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs and four T20Is, was unanimously recommended by BCCI's Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), comprising Sulakshana Naik, Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, for the top position. After his appointment, former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh congratulated him and feels Agarkar is the right man for the job.

Yuvraj took to his official Twitter handle to congratulate his 'buddy' Agarkar for grabbing the top post and feels 'he will play an impactful role in shaping the future of Indian cricket'.

"Congratulations @imAagarkar on your new responsibility as the Chairman of the selection committee! I’m confident that you will play an impactful role in shaping the future of Indian cricket good luck buddy!" Yuvraj tweeted.

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Congratulations <a href="https://twitter.com/imAagarkar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imAagarkar</a> on your new responsibility as the Chairman of the selection committee! I’m confident that you will play an impactful role in shaping the future of Indian cricket 🇮🇳 good luck buddy!
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1676291320367951872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ajit-agarkar-succeeds-chetan-sharma-as-chief-selector-of-indian-mens-team-to-lead-five-member-team-611964">Official: Ajit Agarkar succeeds Chetan Sharma as chief selector of Indian men's team</a>

<h2>BCCI release on Ajit Agarkar's appointment</h2>

In a statement shared by the BCCI, Jay Shah -- the board's Secretary -- said, "The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), consisting of Ms Sulakshana Naik, Mr Ashok Malhotra, and Mr Jatin Paranjape, interviewed applicants for the position of one selector in the Men's Selection Committee. The three-member CAC has unanimously recommended Mr Ajit Agarkar for the said position."

"The former India all-rounder represented the country in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs, and four T20Is, in addition to playing 110 first-class, 270 List A, and 62 T20 matches. As a former fast bowler, he was part of India's victorious squad in the inaugural T20 World Cup held in South Africa in 2007. He still holds the record for the fastest half-century by an Indian batter in ODI, achieved with a 21-ball fifty against Zimbabwe in 2000. He also held the record for being the fastest to reach 50 ODI wickets for nearly a decade, accomplishing the milestone in just 23 matches.

Following his playing career, he was appointed as the Chief Selector for the senior Mumbai Team and undertook coaching responsibilities with the Delhi Capitals. The committee further recommended Mr Agarkar for the role of Chairperson of the Men’s Selection Committee based on seniority (total number of Test matches)," the statement read.

Agarkar's career spanned from 1998-2007. He was part of MS Dhoni-led India's 2007 T20 World Cup winning campaign. To date, the Mumbaikar&nbsp;holds the record for the fastest half-century by an India in ODIs (courtesy of his 21-ball fifty versus Zimbabwe in 2000). Moreover, Agarkar also held the record for being the quickest to 50 ODI scalps&nbsp;for nearly a decade, getting to the feat in mere 23 games.

Men’s Selection Committee:&nbsp;Ajit Agarkar (Chairperson), Shiv Sundar Das, Subroto Banerjee, Salil Ankola, Sridharan Sharath

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On Tuesday (July 4), former India pacer Ajit Agarkar was announced as the new BCCI chief selector. Agarkar succeeds Chetan Sharma after the latter resigned as a result of his revelations in a TV sting operation.

On Tuesday (July 4), former India pacer Ajit Agarkar was announced as the new BCCI chief selector. Agarkar succeeds Chetan Sharma after the latter resigned as a result of his revelations in a TV sting operation. Agarkar, who has represented India in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs and four T20Is, was unanimously recommended by BCCI's Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), comprising Sulakshana Naik, Ashok Malhotra and Jatin Paranjape, for the top position. After his appointment, former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh congratulated him and feels Agarkar is the right man for the job. Yuvraj took to his official Twitter handle to congratulate his 'buddy' Agarkar for grabbing the top post and feels 'he will play an impactful role in shaping the future of Indian cricket'. "Congratulations @imAagarkar on your new responsibility as the Chairman of the selection committee! I’m confident that you will play an impactful role in shaping the future of Indian cricket good luck buddy!" Yuvraj tweeted. Congratulations @imAagarkar on your new responsibility as the Chairman of the selection committee! I’m confident that you will play an impactful role in shaping the future of Indian cricket 🇮🇳 good luck buddy! — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) July 4, 2023 × Also Read: Official: Ajit Agarkar succeeds Chetan Sharma as chief selector of Indian men's team BCCI release on Ajit Agarkar's appointment In a statement shared by the BCCI, Jay Shah -- the board's Secretary -- said, "The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), consisting of Ms Sulakshana Naik, Mr Ashok Malhotra, and Mr Jatin Paranjape, interviewed applicants for the position of one selector in the Men's Selection Committee. The three-member CAC has unanimously recommended Mr Ajit Agarkar for the said position." "The former India all-rounder represented the country in 26 Tests, 191 ODIs, and four T20Is, in addition to playing 110 first-class, 270 List A, and 62 T20 matches. As a former fast bowler, he was part of India's victorious squad in the inaugural T20 World Cup held in South Africa in 2007. He still holds the record for the fastest half-century by an Indian batter in ODI, achieved with a 21-ball fifty against Zimbabwe in 2000. He also held the record for being the fastest to reach 50 ODI wickets for nearly a decade, accomplishing the milestone in just 23 matches. Following his playing career, he was appointed as the Chief Selector for the senior Mumbai Team and undertook coaching responsibilities with the Delhi Capitals. The committee further recommended Mr Agarkar for the role of Chairperson of the Men’s Selection Committee based on seniority (total number of Test matches)," the statement read. Agarkar's career spanned from 1998-2007. He was part of MS Dhoni-led India's 2007 T20 World Cup winning campaign. To date, the Mumbaikar holds the record for the fastest half-century by an India in ODIs (courtesy of his 21-ball fifty versus Zimbabwe in 2000). Moreover, Agarkar also held the record for being the quickest to 50 ODI scalps for nearly a decade, getting to the feat in mere 23 games. Men’s Selection Committee: Ajit Agarkar (Chairperson), Shiv Sundar Das, Subroto Banerjee, Salil Ankola, Sridharan Sharath WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Yuvraj Singh reacts as Ajit Agarkar becomes BCCI chief selector, backs him to shape Indian cricket's future

India's 2007 T20 World Cup hero Joginder Sharma on Friday announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket at the age of 39. Sharma, who now serves as Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Haryana Police is still remembered by the cricket fraternity as the one who bowled the final over in Johannesburg, fifteen summers ago and helped India lift its first and only T20 World Cup trophy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Today, with immense gratitude &amp; humility, I announce my retirement from all forms of international cricket. My journey from 2002-2017 has been the most wonderful years of my life for it was an honour representing India at the highest level of sport," wrote Sharma in a letter.

Sharma&nbsp;thanked the BCCI, Haryana Cricket Association, the Haryana government and his IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings for providing the opportunities, over the years.&nbsp; &nbsp;

"To all cricket fans that have supported me through the ups &amp; downs of international sport, I will forever cherish the moments I spent with you all and your support has always be a source of motivation for me."

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Announced retirement from cricket Thanks to each and everyone for your love and support 🙏❤️👍👍 <a href="https://t.co/A2G9JJd515">pic.twitter.com/A2G9JJd515</a>
— Joginder Sharma 🇮🇳 (@MJoginderSharma) <a href="https://twitter.com/MJoginderSharma/status/1621410349332467712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Talking about his life after retirement, Sharma added that he was excited and looking to explore the business side of cricket.&nbsp;

"I am excited to announce that I will be exploring new opportunities in the world of cricket &amp; the business side of it, where I will also continue to participate in the sport that I love and challenge myself in new and different environment. I believe that this is the next step in my journey as a cricketer and I look forward to this new chapter in my life."

Joginder Sharma and the fairytale

After Pakistan were tottering at 77/6 in the final, chasing a relatively steep target of 158, it was Misbah-ul-Haq that stepped to the plate and took the game to the final over.&nbsp;

However, going against conventional logic and&nbsp;what most pundits would have advised, skipper MS Dhoni handed the responsibility of the final over in the hands of Sharma, instead of veteran Harbhajan Singh, who still had an over up his sleeve.&nbsp;

With ball in Sharma's hand and Misabh on strike, the former had to defend 13 runs. When quizzed years later about what Dhoni said to him while handing the ball, Sharma revealed:&nbsp;

"Don’t think about the runs that they need, think about your bowling. If you get hit, don’t over-think, just concentrate on the next ball. Whatever is the result, be confident you have my support."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-did-ms-dhoni-tell-joginder-sharma-before-the-riveting-last-over-in-t20-world-cup-final-vs-pakistan-former-pacer-reveals-415506">Read more:&nbsp;What did MS Dhoni tell Joginder Sharma before the riveting last over in T20 World Cup final vs Pakistan? Former pacer reveals</a>

And as it turned out, Sharma defended the over and gifted Indian fans one of the most iconic montages of all time.&nbsp;

Despite making only eight international appearances, Sharma remains one of the widely-known cricketing names&nbsp;across Indian households.

He is one of those cult heroes that generations after generations remember for their one heroic act. And that is Sharma's legacy, which he would gladly take.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;&nbsp;<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

India's 2007 T20 World Cup hero Joginder Sharma on Friday announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket at the age of 39. Sharma, who now serves as Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Haryana Police is still remembered by the cricket fraternity as the one who bowled the final over in Johannesburg, fifteen summers ago and helped India lift its first and only T20 World Cup trophy.

India's 2007 T20 World Cup hero Joginder Sharma on Friday announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket at the age of 39. Sharma, who now serves as Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Haryana Police is still remembered by the cricket fraternity as the one who bowled the final over in Johannesburg, fifteen summers ago and helped India lift its first and only T20 World Cup trophy. "Today, with immense gratitude & humility, I announce my retirement from all forms of international cricket. My journey from 2002-2017 has been the most wonderful years of my life for it was an honour representing India at the highest level of sport," wrote Sharma in a letter. Sharma thanked the BCCI, Haryana Cricket Association, the Haryana government and his IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings for providing the opportunities, over the years. "To all cricket fans that have supported me through the ups & downs of international sport, I will forever cherish the moments I spent with you all and your support has always be a source of motivation for me." Announced retirement from cricket Thanks to each and everyone for your love and support 🙏❤️👍👍 pic.twitter.com/A2G9JJd515 — Joginder Sharma 🇮🇳 (@MJoginderSharma) February 3, 2023 × Talking about his life after retirement, Sharma added that he was excited and looking to explore the business side of cricket. "I am excited to announce that I will be exploring new opportunities in the world of cricket & the business side of it, where I will also continue to participate in the sport that I love and challenge myself in new and different environment. I believe that this is the next step in my journey as a cricketer and I look forward to this new chapter in my life." Joginder Sharma and the fairytale After Pakistan were tottering at 77/6 in the final, chasing a relatively steep target of 158, it was Misbah-ul-Haq that stepped to the plate and took the game to the final over. However, going against conventional logic and what most pundits would have advised, skipper MS Dhoni handed the responsibility of the final over in the hands of Sharma, instead of veteran Harbhajan Singh, who still had an over up his sleeve. With ball in Sharma's hand and Misabh on strike, the former had to defend 13 runs. When quizzed years later about what Dhoni said to him while handing the ball, Sharma revealed: "Don’t think about the runs that they need, think about your bowling. If you get hit, don’t over-think, just concentrate on the next ball. Whatever is the result, be confident you have my support." Read more: What did MS Dhoni tell Joginder Sharma before the riveting last over in T20 World Cup final vs Pakistan? Former pacer reveals And as it turned out, Sharma defended the over and gifted Indian fans one of the most iconic montages of all time. Despite making only eight international appearances, Sharma remains one of the widely-known cricketing names across Indian households. He is one of those cult heroes that generations after generations remember for their one heroic act. And that is Sharma's legacy, which he would gladly take. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Joginder Sharma, India's 2007 World Cup hero retires from international cricket

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have decided to hold the remaining two matches of the India versus South Africa ODI series behind closed doors. Complying to the advisory issued by the Health Ministry, the BCCI has decided to avoid mass gatherings and will conduct remaining two ODI matches with no spectators in the stadium.&nbsp;

The BCCI's decision came after the Sports Ministry's advisory to all national sports federations to follow the Health Ministry's advisory and avoid large gatherings in sports events.

“The BCCI is in receipt of the sports ministry’s advisory. Obviously, if we are advised to avoid large gatherings, we will have to abide by it,” a BCCI source told PTI.&nbsp;

The next two ODIs between India and South Africa are scheduled to be held in Lucknow and Kolkata on March 15 and 18 respectively. Meanwhile, the first ODI which was to be hosted in Dharamsala without a ball being bowled due to rain.&nbsp;

Earlier, Union Sports Secretary Radhey Shyam Julaniya clarified that if a sports event is unavoidable then it should be conducted without any public gathering.&nbsp;

“All national federations, including the BCCI, have been told to adhere to the guidelines and advisory issued by the ministry of health and public welfare. We have also told them to avoid any public gathering and if a sporting event has to be organised, it should be done without gathering of people.

“It is the state government who has to manage the crowd and who has the power under the epidemic diseases act (Epidemic Act of 1897). If it is unavoidable and it has to be organised, then they should do it without collecting the crowd,” he pointed.

While ongoing India versus South Africa, three-match ODI series may not fall under the 'unavoidable' category, the same can't be said about the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 which is scheduled to kickstart from March 29. While postponement or cancellation of IPL 2020 is seen as a far-stretched idea, it is highly likely that the matches could be played behind closed doors.

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have decided to hold the remaining two matches of the India versus South Africa ODI series behind closed doors.

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have decided to hold the remaining two matches of the India versus South Africa ODI series behind closed doors. Complying to the advisory issued by the Health Ministry, the BCCI has decided to avoid mass gatherings and will conduct remaining two ODI matches with no spectators in the stadium. The BCCI's decision came after the Sports Ministry's advisory to all national sports federations to follow the Health Ministry's advisory and avoid large gatherings in sports events. “The BCCI is in receipt of the sports ministry’s advisory. Obviously, if we are advised to avoid large gatherings, we will have to abide by it,” a BCCI source told PTI. The next two ODIs between India and South Africa are scheduled to be held in Lucknow and Kolkata on March 15 and 18 respectively. Meanwhile, the first ODI which was to be hosted in Dharamsala without a ball being bowled due to rain. Earlier, Union Sports Secretary Radhey Shyam Julaniya clarified that if a sports event is unavoidable then it should be conducted without any public gathering. “All national federations, including the BCCI, have been told to adhere to the guidelines and advisory issued by the ministry of health and public welfare. We have also told them to avoid any public gathering and if a sporting event has to be organised, it should be done without gathering of people. “It is the state government who has to manage the crowd and who has the power under the epidemic diseases act (Epidemic Act of 1897). If it is unavoidable and it has to be organised, then they should do it without collecting the crowd,” he pointed. While ongoing India versus South Africa, three-match ODI series may not fall under the 'unavoidable' category, the same can't be said about the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 which is scheduled to kickstart from March 29. While postponement or cancellation of IPL 2020 is seen as a far-stretched idea, it is highly likely that the matches could be played behind closed doors.

Remaining 2 ODIs of India vs South Africa series to be played behind closed doors amid coronavirus pandemic