<p>India are set to kick off their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle with the two-match Test series versus West Indies. The home side will host Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. in the first Test, at Windsor Park, Roseau, Dominica, on July 12 as India look set to start a new era in red-ball format with the additions of many youngsters in the line-up. When the Test squad for the WI series was announced, Cheteshwar Pujara's name was missing as many believe he has been made the scapegoat for India's WTC final loss versus Australia, at The Oval, London, last month.</p>

<p>Pujara averaged 32 in the 2021-23 WTC cycle and has only scored one ton since early 2019. The right-hander's numbers have been dismal, to say the least, but the likes of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane have also not performed as per expectations for quite some time. Thus, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh opined on Pujara's omission and feels he has been India's 'unsung hero' for a long time and deserves more respect.</p>

<h2><strong>Pujara has been doing the dirty work of hanging in there'</strong></h2>

<p>"I have a lot of respect for Chesteshwar Pujara for what he has achieved. He has been an unsung hero of the Indian team for many years now. He has been one of those pillars of strength for India, doing the dirty work of hanging in there, making sure other batters got their comfort," Harbhajan told news agency&nbsp;<i>PTI.</i></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-can-be-an-option-for-test-captaincy-if-india-look-beyond-rohit-sharma-former-chief-selector-613947">Virat Kohli can be an option for Test captaincy if India look beyond Rohit Sharma: Former chief selector</a></strong></p>

<p>Bhajji asserted, "I believe he needs to be given a bit more respect than what he has been given and the way he was chucked out of the team was a surprise for me. Because he isn't the only one not scoring runs. There are others as well who play in that same team who are scoring runs at same average."</p>

<p>Harbhajan also pointed out that a lot of talk has been around Pujara's strike-rate in Tests, but he feels he has also held up one end firmly with his defensive approach. "In case of Pujara, we keep hearing about his strike-rate of scoring runs in Tests but because of that strike-rate, the wickets remain intact and that's a huge contribution. So you have to see which guy is contributing what. You need to see how much the team needs him. In my opinion, the team still needs him. When you go abroad (SENA countries), you need one such batter as you can't have everyone playing strokes all the time. You need someone who plays normal Test cricket, just like Chesteshwar Pujara," he added.</p>

<p>Pujara recently scored a ton in the 2023 Duleep Trophy semi-final for West Zone. He has been replaced by the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad for the WI series, however, if he scores a bulk of runs in the domestic circuit, he might still make a comeback in the Indian team.</p>

<p>In 103 Tests, Pujara has&nbsp;7195 runs along with 19 tons and 35 half-centuries at an average of&nbsp;43.60, including a best of 206.</p>

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India are set to kick off their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle with the two-match Test series versus West Indies. The home side will host Rohit Sharma & Co.

India are set to kick off their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle with the two-match Test series versus West Indies. The home side will host Rohit Sharma & Co. in the first Test, at Windsor Park, Roseau, Dominica, on July 12 as India look set to start a new era in red-ball format with the additions of many youngsters in the line-up. When the Test squad for the WI series was announced, Cheteshwar Pujara's name was missing as many believe he has been made the scapegoat for India's WTC final loss versus Australia, at The Oval, London, last month. Pujara averaged 32 in the 2021-23 WTC cycle and has only scored one ton since early 2019. The right-hander's numbers have been dismal, to say the least, but the likes of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane have also not performed as per expectations for quite some time. Thus, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh opined on Pujara's omission and feels he has been India's 'unsung hero' for a long time and deserves more respect. Pujara has been doing the dirty work of hanging in there' "I have a lot of respect for Chesteshwar Pujara for what he has achieved. He has been an unsung hero of the Indian team for many years now. He has been one of those pillars of strength for India, doing the dirty work of hanging in there, making sure other batters got their comfort," Harbhajan told news agency PTI. Also Read: Virat Kohli can be an option for Test captaincy if India look beyond Rohit Sharma: Former chief selector Bhajji asserted, "I believe he needs to be given a bit more respect than what he has been given and the way he was chucked out of the team was a surprise for me. Because he isn't the only one not scoring runs. There are others as well who play in that same team who are scoring runs at same average." Harbhajan also pointed out that a lot of talk has been around Pujara's strike-rate in Tests, but he feels he has also held up one end firmly with his defensive approach. "In case of Pujara, we keep hearing about his strike-rate of scoring runs in Tests but because of that strike-rate, the wickets remain intact and that's a huge contribution. So you have to see which guy is contributing what. You need to see how much the team needs him. In my opinion, the team still needs him. When you go abroad (SENA countries), you need one such batter as you can't have everyone playing strokes all the time. You need someone who plays normal Test cricket, just like Chesteshwar Pujara," he added. Pujara recently scored a ton in the 2023 Duleep Trophy semi-final for West Zone. He has been replaced by the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad for the WI series, however, if he scores a bulk of runs in the domestic circuit, he might still make a comeback in the Indian team. In 103 Tests, Pujara has 7195 runs along with 19 tons and 35 half-centuries at an average of 43.60, including a best of 206. 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.

'He has been Team India's unsung hero': Harbhajan praises senior batter ahead of West Indies Tests

<p><strong>IND vs WI:&nbsp;</strong>India Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane recently made a comeback in red-ball cricket after a blistering IPL 2023. The right-hand batter proved his selection right and made a gutsy 89 in his return during India's loss in WTC 2023 final against Australia. The batter, however, turned 35 last month. While many think Rahane is approaching the twilight of his career, the batsman disagrees.</p>

<p>"What do you mean by at this age? I'm still young. There's still a lot of cricket left in me," said Rahane while replying to a question about his age during a press conference ahead of India's first Test against West Indies. India currently are in West Indies for a full tour comprising of two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. The first Test of the two-match series starts July 12.</p>

<p>"I had a good IPL, I scored runs in domestic cricket too. Batting-wise, I got a lot of confidence. I have worked a lot on my fitness in the last 1 and a half years. Right now, I'm enjoying the kind of cricket I'm playing and not thinking too far ahead. Each and every match is important personally as well as for the team," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>IND vs WI: India's new No. 3</strong></h2>

<p>With Cheteshwar Pujara dropped, India will have a new number in the first Test. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who received their maiden India Test call up, are in contention for the slot. Speaking on the opportunity for the youngsters, Rahane said, "Great opportunity for the individual who will be playing in place of Pujara. I'm not sure who will play. All the players are experienced, I'm sure it'll be a great opportunity for whoever plays."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-chairman-zaka-ashraf-to-push-for-pakistan-to-play-odi-wc-games-at-neutral-venues-during-icc-meeting-614005">PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf to push for Pakistan to play ODI WC games at neutral venues during ICC meeting</a></p>

<p>The Indian vice-captain also said he's 'very happy' for his fellow Mumbaikar Jaiswal, who is the frontrunner to make his debut in the first WI Test ahead of Gaikwad.</p>

<p>"Firstly, I'm really happy for Jaiswal. Did well for Mumbai, and in the IPL. He scored a lot of runs in the Duleep Trophy. His numbers are really good. He should bat the way he has been batting and not think too much about international cricket. It's all about going out there and expressing yourself," Rahane said.</p>

<h2><strong>India wary of West Indies</strong></h2>

<p>The two-time ICC ODI World Cup champions (1975 and '79) are out of the upcoming edition of the quadrennial event scheduled to be held in India from October 5. India, however, are not taking West Indies lightly.</p>

<p>"We are not taking West Indies lightly at all. We don't know too much about the outside noise. Their performance at home in Test cricket has been pretty good. Our focus will be to back our strengths and play good cricket," Rahane said.</p>

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IND vs WI: India Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane recently made a comeback in red-ball cricket after a blistering IPL 2023. The right-hand batter proved his selection right and made a gutsy 89 in his return during India's loss in WTC 2023 final against Australia.

IND vs WI: India Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane recently made a comeback in red-ball cricket after a blistering IPL 2023. The right-hand batter proved his selection right and made a gutsy 89 in his return during India's loss in WTC 2023 final against Australia. The batter, however, turned 35 last month. While many think Rahane is approaching the twilight of his career, the batsman disagrees. "What do you mean by at this age? I'm still young. There's still a lot of cricket left in me," said Rahane while replying to a question about his age during a press conference ahead of India's first Test against West Indies. India currently are in West Indies for a full tour comprising of two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. The first Test of the two-match series starts July 12. "I had a good IPL, I scored runs in domestic cricket too. Batting-wise, I got a lot of confidence. I have worked a lot on my fitness in the last 1 and a half years. Right now, I'm enjoying the kind of cricket I'm playing and not thinking too far ahead. Each and every match is important personally as well as for the team," he added. IND vs WI: India's new No. 3 With Cheteshwar Pujara dropped, India will have a new number in the first Test. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who received their maiden India Test call up, are in contention for the slot. Speaking on the opportunity for the youngsters, Rahane said, "Great opportunity for the individual who will be playing in place of Pujara. I'm not sure who will play. All the players are experienced, I'm sure it'll be a great opportunity for whoever plays." Also Read: PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf to push for Pakistan to play ODI WC games at neutral venues during ICC meeting The Indian vice-captain also said he's 'very happy' for his fellow Mumbaikar Jaiswal, who is the frontrunner to make his debut in the first WI Test ahead of Gaikwad. "Firstly, I'm really happy for Jaiswal. Did well for Mumbai, and in the IPL. He scored a lot of runs in the Duleep Trophy. His numbers are really good. He should bat the way he has been batting and not think too much about international cricket. It's all about going out there and expressing yourself," Rahane said. India wary of West Indies The two-time ICC ODI World Cup champions (1975 and '79) are out of the upcoming edition of the quadrennial event scheduled to be held in India from October 5. India, however, are not taking West Indies lightly. "We are not taking West Indies lightly at all. We don't know too much about the outside noise. Their performance at home in Test cricket has been pretty good. Our focus will be to back our strengths and play good cricket," Rahane said. 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: 35-year-old Ajinkya Rahane brushes aside age question, says he's 'still young'

<p>India are set to kick off their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle on Wednesday (July 12) when they take on hosts West Indies in the two-match series opener in Dominica. After a loss in the WTC final last month, India have inducted some young players in the line-up, with the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, etc making it to the squad.&nbsp;While many were happy with India's Test squad for the Windies tour, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar wasn't impressed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gavaskar feels India should have added more youngsters in the mix and could have given rest to their main players against the eighth-ranked West Indies line-up. Thus, ahead of the series opener, the Little Master has taken an indirect dig at 'main guys' captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and the likes. The Indian legend feels the Windies series was an ideal time for India to test its bench strength but&nbsp;since they have persisted with their regulars, they won't gain anything significant and it will also hamper their transition process.</p>

<h2><strong>'The truth is the main guys do not want to go early'</strong></h2>

<p>Gavaskar, who turned 74&nbsp;on Monday (July 10), told the Indian Express, "What kind of preparation are we talking about? Now they have gone to the West Indies. You have the example of the World Test Championship before you. Are you playing any matches? So what is this talk about 20-25 days? When you talk about preparation, be genuine about it. Go 15 days before, play two warm-up matches. The main guys can rest, but the fringe players might be actually challenging those who are not doing well. He does not get an opportunity to show that he is good enough."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-theyve-to-play-him-nasser-hussain-explains-why-australia-need-david-warner-in-manchester-test-614207">Ashes 2023: 'They've to play him' - Nasser Hussain explains why Australia need David Warner in Manchester Test</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "The truth is the main guys do not want to go early. Because they know that come what may, they will get selected. And when you go early, they will talk about the workload. You call yourself the fittest team in the world or fitter than the early generations then how do you break down so soon? How do you have a workload issue when you play a 20-over game?"</p>

<p>India's tour of West Indies comprises two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. Rohit and Kohli will be part of the ODI squad as well but the duo will continue to remain out of the T20I squad for the Windies tour as well.&nbsp;</p>

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India are set to kick off their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle on Wednesday (July 12) when they take on hosts West Indies in the two-match series opener in Dominica.

India are set to kick off their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle on Wednesday (July 12) when they take on hosts West Indies in the two-match series opener in Dominica. After a loss in the WTC final last month, India have inducted some young players in the line-up, with the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, etc making it to the squad. While many were happy with India's Test squad for the Windies tour, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar wasn't impressed. Gavaskar feels India should have added more youngsters in the mix and could have given rest to their main players against the eighth-ranked West Indies line-up. Thus, ahead of the series opener, the Little Master has taken an indirect dig at 'main guys' captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane and the likes. The Indian legend feels the Windies series was an ideal time for India to test its bench strength but since they have persisted with their regulars, they won't gain anything significant and it will also hamper their transition process. 'The truth is the main guys do not want to go early' Gavaskar, who turned 74 on Monday (July 10), told the Indian Express, "What kind of preparation are we talking about? Now they have gone to the West Indies. You have the example of the World Test Championship before you. Are you playing any matches? So what is this talk about 20-25 days? When you talk about preparation, be genuine about it. Go 15 days before, play two warm-up matches. The main guys can rest, but the fringe players might be actually challenging those who are not doing well. He does not get an opportunity to show that he is good enough." Also Read: Ashes 2023: 'They've to play him' - Nasser Hussain explains why Australia need David Warner in Manchester Test He added, "The truth is the main guys do not want to go early. Because they know that come what may, they will get selected. And when you go early, they will talk about the workload. You call yourself the fittest team in the world or fitter than the early generations then how do you break down so soon? How do you have a workload issue when you play a 20-over game?" India's tour of West Indies comprises two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. Rohit and Kohli will be part of the ODI squad as well but the duo will continue to remain out of the T20I squad for the Windies tour as well. 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.

'Main guys know they'll get selected...': Gavaskar takes an indirect dig at Rohit, Kohli ahead of WI Tests

<p>Ahead of India's upcoming two-match Test series versus West Indies&nbsp;in the Caribbean island, former BCCI chief selector MSK Prasad feels Virat Kohli can be a Test captaincy option if the selectors are thinking to move beyond Rohit Sharma. After Kohli resigned as the red-ball captain in early 2022, Rohit became the full-time skipper.</p>

<p>Since Rohit took over, India whitewashed Sri Lanka at home and won the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy&nbsp;2-1&nbsp;versus Australia at home before the Baggy Greens&nbsp;defeated them in the WTC final last month at The Oval, London. After the WTC summit clash, many raised fingers at Rohit's captaincy in the format. Ahead of the WI tour, there were talks of Rohit being removed as the Test captain. However, he retained the post whereas Ajinkya Rahane - who made a comeback in the WTC finale after more than a year -&nbsp;regained the vice-captaincy post.</p>

<p>Thus, Prasad feels if the selectors are not convinced with Rohit as the Test captain, they can ask Kohli to take over once again. It is to be noted that Kohli is India's most successful Test skipper, with 40 wins in 68 games. The ex-chief selector cited Rahane's example and stated that if the Mumbaikar can come back and be reappointed as the vice-captain, why can't Kohli lead India as well?</p>

<h2><strong>'When Ajinkya Rahane can&nbsp;become the vice-captain, then why not Virat Kohli?'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to Khel Now, Prasad said, "Why not Virat Kohli? When Ajinkya Rahane can come back and become the vice-captain, then why not Virat Kohli? I don’t know what the mindset of Virat is on captaincy. In case selectors are thinking beyond Rohit, I don’t know whether they are thinking but if they are thinking beyond Rohit, then I think Virat can also be an option."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/people-are-going-overboard-harbhajan-singh-backs-under-fire-captain-rohit-sharma-ahead-of-wi-tour-613905">People are going overboard: Harbhajan Singh backs under-fire captain Rohit Sharma ahead of WI tour</a></strong></p>

<p>Prasad also spoke about the other prospects who can take over from Rohit. Among the younger lot, Rishabh Pant is a potential candidate but he is out of action following his horrific car accident in December 2022. Speaking about Pant, Prasad pointed out that while he can be an option, the keeper-batter first needs to return and resume from where he left off before being given additional responsibilities.</p>

<p>Prasad added, "Let him come back. See what Rishabh Pant has done no other wicketkeeper-batsman in the history of Indian Cricket has done. Because no wicketkeeper has got runs and centuries in Australia South Africa and England in the Indian Cricket history. Let him come back, let him start getting back on the field."</p>

<p>Pant has&nbsp;2,271 runs in 33 Tests, along with five centuries, along with 133 dismissals.&nbsp;</p>

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Ahead of India's upcoming two-match Test series versus West Indies in the Caribbean island, former BCCI chief selector MSK Prasad feels Virat Kohli can be a Test captaincy option if the selectors are thinking to move beyond Rohit Sharma.

Ahead of India's upcoming two-match Test series versus West Indies in the Caribbean island, former BCCI chief selector MSK Prasad feels Virat Kohli can be a Test captaincy option if the selectors are thinking to move beyond Rohit Sharma. After Kohli resigned as the red-ball captain in early 2022, Rohit became the full-time skipper. Since Rohit took over, India whitewashed Sri Lanka at home and won the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1 versus Australia at home before the Baggy Greens defeated them in the WTC final last month at The Oval, London. After the WTC summit clash, many raised fingers at Rohit's captaincy in the format. Ahead of the WI tour, there were talks of Rohit being removed as the Test captain. However, he retained the post whereas Ajinkya Rahane - who made a comeback in the WTC finale after more than a year - regained the vice-captaincy post. Thus, Prasad feels if the selectors are not convinced with Rohit as the Test captain, they can ask Kohli to take over once again. It is to be noted that Kohli is India's most successful Test skipper, with 40 wins in 68 games. The ex-chief selector cited Rahane's example and stated that if the Mumbaikar can come back and be reappointed as the vice-captain, why can't Kohli lead India as well? 'When Ajinkya Rahane can become the vice-captain, then why not Virat Kohli?' Speaking to Khel Now, Prasad said, "Why not Virat Kohli? When Ajinkya Rahane can come back and become the vice-captain, then why not Virat Kohli? I don’t know what the mindset of Virat is on captaincy. In case selectors are thinking beyond Rohit, I don’t know whether they are thinking but if they are thinking beyond Rohit, then I think Virat can also be an option." Also Read: People are going overboard: Harbhajan Singh backs under-fire captain Rohit Sharma ahead of WI tour Prasad also spoke about the other prospects who can take over from Rohit. Among the younger lot, Rishabh Pant is a potential candidate but he is out of action following his horrific car accident in December 2022. Speaking about Pant, Prasad pointed out that while he can be an option, the keeper-batter first needs to return and resume from where he left off before being given additional responsibilities. Prasad added, "Let him come back. See what Rishabh Pant has done no other wicketkeeper-batsman in the history of Indian Cricket has done. Because no wicketkeeper has got runs and centuries in Australia South Africa and England in the Indian Cricket history. Let him come back, let him start getting back on the field." Pant has 2,271 runs in 33 Tests, along with five centuries, along with 133 dismissals. 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.

Virat Kohli can be an option for Test captaincy if India look beyond Rohit Sharma: Former chief selector

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India is set to lock horns with West Indies in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which commences on July 12. The series will kick off India's campaign in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle. After finishing second in the previous two cycles, India will be desperate to get hold of the coveted Test mace and for that, they require a great start in the Caribbean.</p>

<p>Rohit has been serving as India's full-time captain since early 2022. Under him, India reached the semi-finals of the 2022 T20 World Cup but were thrashed by eventual winners England by ten wickets. In the 2021-23 WTC cycle, India played the final where Australia beat them by 209 runs, last month, at The Oval, London. Thus, the 2023-25 cycle is vital for Rohit as India will require a good start under him. Moreover, the ODI World Cup is set to take place later this year, at home, and Rohit &amp; Co. are one of the favourites.</p>

<p>Overall, a lot is riding on Rohit's shoulders at present. After India's WTC final defeat, many raised fingers at Rohit's leadership, including former cricketers such as Sunil Gavaskar. He was also trolled after India's T20 World Cup and Asia Cup debacle last year. However, he has found the backing of former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh.</p>

<h2><strong>'It is unfair to criticise Rohit alone'</strong></h2>

<p>"I find that people are going a bit overboard... the way Rohit has been criticised. Cricket is a team sport and one individual cannot take you from one place to another," Harbhajan told PTI ahead of India's Test series versus West Indies. He further opined, "Team India didn't do well in the WTC final, and yes, you talk about that performance and move on from there. But it is unfair to criticise Rohit alone, that he is not scoring runs, putting on weight, not captaining well. I think he is a brilliant leader."</p>

<p>"I have played with him (Rohit) and watched him closely. He commands a lot of respect not only in the MI dressing room but also in the Indian dressing room. So I think it's unfair to judge him on the basis of recent results. He will come good and we need to show faith in him and we need to support him rather than pinpointing that you are not doing this or that," Bhajji asserted.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-expected-more-sunil-gavaskar-on-rohit-sharmas-captaincy-performance-stst-613812">Sunil Gavaskar, disappointed with Rohit Sharma's captaincy, says he expected more</a></strong></p>

<p>In the past, Indian captains have enjoyed relentless support from&nbsp;the BCCI and its most powerful administrator. For instance, Sourav Ganguly relied on&nbsp;Jagmohan Dalmiya's support whereas MS Dhoni had the strong backing of N Srinivasan. In addition, Virat Kohli -- Rohit's predecessor -- took several decisions which were supported by&nbsp;Vinod Rai, the former CAG and Committee of Administrators (CoA) head.&nbsp;Thus,&nbsp;Harbhajan -- also known as the Turbanator -- hopes that Rohit receives the same level of support from the BCCI.</p>

<p>In this regard, Bhajji added, "If you have the support from BCCI, you can work freely. Not just MS Dhoni or Virat Kohli, if you go back a little further, a lot of captains have got support from BCCI presidents of that time.</p>

<p>"Rohit must be getting support from BCCI. I don't know how much support he must be getting (though). Having that kind of support will help him take right kind of decision at the right time. He will get that liberty if he has that support. Support must be there for Rohit like BCCI has given it to all its captains."</p>

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Rohit Sharma-led India is set to lock horns with West Indies in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which commences on July 12. The series will kick off India's campaign in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle.

Rohit Sharma-led India is set to lock horns with West Indies in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which commences on July 12. The series will kick off India's campaign in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle. After finishing second in the previous two cycles, India will be desperate to get hold of the coveted Test mace and for that, they require a great start in the Caribbean. Rohit has been serving as India's full-time captain since early 2022. Under him, India reached the semi-finals of the 2022 T20 World Cup but were thrashed by eventual winners England by ten wickets. In the 2021-23 WTC cycle, India played the final where Australia beat them by 209 runs, last month, at The Oval, London. Thus, the 2023-25 cycle is vital for Rohit as India will require a good start under him. Moreover, the ODI World Cup is set to take place later this year, at home, and Rohit & Co. are one of the favourites. Overall, a lot is riding on Rohit's shoulders at present. After India's WTC final defeat, many raised fingers at Rohit's leadership, including former cricketers such as Sunil Gavaskar. He was also trolled after India's T20 World Cup and Asia Cup debacle last year. However, he has found the backing of former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh. 'It is unfair to criticise Rohit alone' "I find that people are going a bit overboard... the way Rohit has been criticised. Cricket is a team sport and one individual cannot take you from one place to another," Harbhajan told PTI ahead of India's Test series versus West Indies. He further opined, "Team India didn't do well in the WTC final, and yes, you talk about that performance and move on from there. But it is unfair to criticise Rohit alone, that he is not scoring runs, putting on weight, not captaining well. I think he is a brilliant leader." "I have played with him (Rohit) and watched him closely. He commands a lot of respect not only in the MI dressing room but also in the Indian dressing room. So I think it's unfair to judge him on the basis of recent results. He will come good and we need to show faith in him and we need to support him rather than pinpointing that you are not doing this or that," Bhajji asserted. Also Read: Sunil Gavaskar, disappointed with Rohit Sharma's captaincy, says he expected more In the past, Indian captains have enjoyed relentless support from the BCCI and its most powerful administrator. For instance, Sourav Ganguly relied on Jagmohan Dalmiya's support whereas MS Dhoni had the strong backing of N Srinivasan. In addition, Virat Kohli -- Rohit's predecessor -- took several decisions which were supported by Vinod Rai, the former CAG and Committee of Administrators (CoA) head. Thus, Harbhajan -- also known as the Turbanator -- hopes that Rohit receives the same level of support from the BCCI. In this regard, Bhajji added, "If you have the support from BCCI, you can work freely. Not just MS Dhoni or Virat Kohli, if you go back a little further, a lot of captains have got support from BCCI presidents of that time. "Rohit must be getting support from BCCI. I don't know how much support he must be getting (though). Having that kind of support will help him take right kind of decision at the right time. He will get that liberty if he has that support. Support must be there for Rohit like BCCI has given it to all its captains." 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.

People are going overboard: Harbhajan Singh backs under-fire captain Rohit Sharma ahead of WI tour

<p>Indian cricket team had to face a heart-breaking 2019 World Cup exit in the semi-final against New Zealand on this day. Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni, during the run chase, stitched a solid partnership of 116 to keep Team India alive in the contest. Chasing a target of 240, Virat Kohli’s men fell short by 18 runs. After Jadeja’s dismissal in the 48th over, Indian cricket fans pinned their hopes on Dhoni. One of the finest finishers in the history of cricket, Dhoni seemed poised to take Team India over the line having scored a half-century. But Dhoni’s knock came to an end in the penultimate over after he was run out by a stunning direct hit from Martin Guptill. In an otherwise miserable outing with the bat, it was Jadeja who turned out to be Team India’s solitary ray of hope against the Kiwis. But the star all-rounder’s blistering knock of 59-ball 77 went in vain eventually. A video of Jadeja’s stellar semi-final knock has now gone viral on social media.</p>

<h2>How did Twitter react?</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ravindra Jadeja played one of the greatest knocks On This Day in 2019, India 92/6 in the Semi-final &amp; he scored 77 runs from just 59 balls under huge pressure.<br />
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This fight-back will be remembered forever!<a href="https://t.co/H0H5z3yZNv">pic.twitter.com/H0H5z3yZNv</a></p>
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1678228401516335104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Coming down to bat at 92/6 in the 31st over, Ravindra Jadeja came up with a remarkable knock of 77 runs off 59 balls. His resilient innings comprised four boundaries and as many sixes. Lavishing huge praise on Jadeja, one Twitter user wrote, “The only man we had faith in, that day.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-over-the-moon-ben-stokes-hails-trio-of-woods-woakes-and-moeen-after-critical-win-at-headingley-613724">Ashes 2023: 'Over the moon' Ben Stokes hails trio of Woods, Woakes and Moeen after critical win at Headingley</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The only man we had faith on that day</p>
— 82 Carnage🇮🇳 (@82carnage) <a href="https://twitter.com/82carnage/status/1678228875351040001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>This person still could not get over India’s 2019 World Cup defeat at the hands of New Zealand.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">4 years on. It's still heartbreaking to think about this day. I'm not sure why people keep posting about this match. For me, it's the saddest day as a cricket fan.</p>
— Saankhya Mondal (@saankhyaCFC8) <a href="https://twitter.com/saankhyaCFC8/status/1678255278402469889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>One social media user termed Ravindra Jadeja’s courageous knock as “one of the greatest” ones of all time.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This really has to be one of thegreatest innings of all time. India were in immense pressure and this man kept us alive. Take a bow Jadeja🙇🏻‍♂️</p>
— Sarthak Sengupta (@cricssg7) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricssg7/status/1678235140328177665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“Ravindra Jadeja is one of the best ODI cricketers in the world, especially in last six or seven years or so,” wrote another person.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ravindra Jadeja is one of the best ODI cricketers in the world, especially since the last 6 or 7 years or so.</p>
— AK 7-4 (@Anshuma12603770) <a href="https://twitter.com/Anshuma12603770/status/1678255889818451969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Here are some other reactions.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Still hurts</p>
— Rahul Sahni 🇮🇳 (@RahulSahni0903) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulSahni0903/status/1678242500564205570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jadeja and DHONI both the wickets 💔</p>
— Nikhil Raj 🌶️ (@nikhilraj515) <a href="https://twitter.com/nikhilraj515/status/1678255715281178625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Still hurts</p>
— Dineshdk27 (@Dk27criccini) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dk27criccini/status/1678231300384124929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Still hurts to this day!</p>
— Ram (@ramdhaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/ramdhaw/status/1678261348839440384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-leeds-win-tops-my-list-to-do-it-on-my-home-ground-was-very-good-says-local-boy-harry-brook-613672">Ashes 2023: 'Leeds win tops my list, to do it on my home ground was very good,' says local boy Harry Brook</a></strong></p>

<h2>Team India’s collapse</h2>

<p>Batting first, New Zealand posted 239 runs in 50 overs. Ross Taylor emerged as his side’s highest scorer in that fixture with a fine knock of 74. Bhuvneshwar Kumar displayed a sublime performance picking up four wickets in the semi-final. Team India’s run chase suffered a big jolt having lost their opening batters in first four overs. New Zealand pacer Matt Henry ran through the Indian top-order to gain an upper hand for his side. Half of the Indian team went back to the dressing room scoring just 71 runs. Henry scalped three wickets in the match to bowl out India for 221.</p>

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>


Indian cricket team had to face a heart-breaking 2019 World Cup exit in the semi-final against New Zealand on this day. Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni, during the run chase, stitched a solid partnership of 116 to keep Team India alive in the contest.

Indian cricket team had to face a heart-breaking 2019 World Cup exit in the semi-final against New Zealand on this day. Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni, during the run chase, stitched a solid partnership of 116 to keep Team India alive in the contest. Chasing a target of 240, Virat Kohli’s men fell short by 18 runs. After Jadeja’s dismissal in the 48th over, Indian cricket fans pinned their hopes on Dhoni. One of the finest finishers in the history of cricket, Dhoni seemed poised to take Team India over the line having scored a half-century. But Dhoni’s knock came to an end in the penultimate over after he was run out by a stunning direct hit from Martin Guptill. In an otherwise miserable outing with the bat, it was Jadeja who turned out to be Team India’s solitary ray of hope against the Kiwis. But the star all-rounder’s blistering knock of 59-ball 77 went in vain eventually. A video of Jadeja’s stellar semi-final knock has now gone viral on social media. How did Twitter react? Ravindra Jadeja played one of the greatest knocks On This Day in 2019, India 92/6 in the Semi-final & he scored 77 runs from just 59 balls under huge pressure. This fight-back will be remembered forever!pic.twitter.com/H0H5z3yZNv — Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) July 10, 2023 × Coming down to bat at 92/6 in the 31st over, Ravindra Jadeja came up with a remarkable knock of 77 runs off 59 balls. His resilient innings comprised four boundaries and as many sixes. Lavishing huge praise on Jadeja, one Twitter user wrote, “The only man we had faith in, that day.” Also read: Ashes 2023: 'Over the moon' Ben Stokes hails trio of Woods, Woakes and Moeen after critical win at Headingley The only man we had faith on that day — 82 Carnage🇮🇳 (@82carnage) July 10, 2023 × This person still could not get over India’s 2019 World Cup defeat at the hands of New Zealand. 4 years on. It's still heartbreaking to think about this day. I'm not sure why people keep posting about this match. For me, it's the saddest day as a cricket fan. — Saankhya Mondal (@saankhyaCFC8) July 10, 2023 × One social media user termed Ravindra Jadeja’s courageous knock as “one of the greatest” ones of all time. This really has to be one of thegreatest innings of all time. India were in immense pressure and this man kept us alive. Take a bow Jadeja🙇🏻‍♂️ — Sarthak Sengupta (@cricssg7) July 10, 2023 × “Ravindra Jadeja is one of the best ODI cricketers in the world, especially in last six or seven years or so,” wrote another person. Ravindra Jadeja is one of the best ODI cricketers in the world, especially since the last 6 or 7 years or so. — AK 7-4 (@Anshuma12603770) July 10, 2023 × Here are some other reactions. Still hurts — Rahul Sahni 🇮🇳 (@RahulSahni0903) July 10, 2023 × Jadeja and DHONI both the wickets 💔 — Nikhil Raj 🌶️ (@nikhilraj515) July 10, 2023 × Still hurts — Dineshdk27 (@Dk27criccini) July 10, 2023 × Still hurts to this day! — Ram (@ramdhaw) July 10, 2023 × Also read: Ashes 2023: 'Leeds win tops my list, to do it on my home ground was very good,' says local boy Harry Brook Team India’s collapse Batting first, New Zealand posted 239 runs in 50 overs. Ross Taylor emerged as his side’s highest scorer in that fixture with a fine knock of 74. Bhuvneshwar Kumar displayed a sublime performance picking up four wickets in the semi-final. Team India’s run chase suffered a big jolt having lost their opening batters in first four overs. New Zealand pacer Matt Henry ran through the Indian top-order to gain an upper hand for his side. Half of the Indian team went back to the dressing room scoring just 71 runs. Henry scalped three wickets in the match to bowl out India for 221.

On this day: Ravindra Jadeja’s brilliance goes in vain against New Zealand in 2019 World Cup semi-final

<p>Former Indian cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar has criticised Rohit Sharama’s captaincy and said that he was expecting more from one of the two most successful captains of the Indian Premier League.<br />
Speaking at The Indian Express Idea Exchange, the legendary batsman said, “I expected more from him (Rohit). In India, it is different, but when you do well overseas that is the test. That is where he has been a little disappointing. Even in the T20 format, with all the experience of the IPL.”</p>

<p>Gavaskar said that both Rohit Sharma and the Indian head coach Rahul Dravid should be taking more responsibility for the losses and why there was no change of tactics after continuous high-profile losses. He also talked about how current Indian batters are struggling with the same problems for a long time and asked questions about what the coaching staff was doing about it. He criticised Rohit’s comments about ‘lack of preparation time’ after the loss to Australia in the World Test Championship Finals 2023.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/brad-pitt-respects-f1-and-thrills-drivers-at-silverstone-613740">Brad Pitt respects F1 and thrills drivers at Silverstone</a></strong></p>

<p>Former Indian batsmen said, “You have the example of the World Test Championship before you. Are you playing any matches?” Gavaskar pointed out the lack of practice matches in India. The former right-handed batsman opined the Indian team should have played at least two warm-up matches for the players to get more time on the field and back into their rhythm.</p>

<p>Rohit Sharma took over captaincy from Virat Kohli in all formats last year, and people have huge expectations of him. India has not been able to win major tournaments while constantly reaching the knockout stages. The last time India won any major ICC tournament was back in 2013 under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, lifting the ICC Champions Trophy. Under Rohit’s captaincy, India first lost to England in the T20I World Cup 2022 and failed to reach the final. Then, in the WTC Finals 2023, India lost to Australia.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-this-day-ravindra-jadeja-brilliant-knock-goes-in-vain-against-new-zealand-in-2019-world-cup-semi-final-stst-613743"> On this day: Ravindra Jadeja’s brilliance goes in vain against in 2019 World Cup semi-final</a></strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma will be leading India in this year’s World Cup and is under immense pressure to prove everyone wrong and lead the side to victory and regain the Cup after more than 12 years.</p>


Former Indian cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar has criticised Rohit Sharama’s captaincy and said that he was expecting more from one of the two most successful captains of the Indian Premier League.

Former Indian cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar has criticised Rohit Sharama’s captaincy and said that he was expecting more from one of the two most successful captains of the Indian Premier League. Speaking at The Indian Express Idea Exchange, the legendary batsman said, “I expected more from him (Rohit). In India, it is different, but when you do well overseas that is the test. That is where he has been a little disappointing. Even in the T20 format, with all the experience of the IPL.” Gavaskar said that both Rohit Sharma and the Indian head coach Rahul Dravid should be taking more responsibility for the losses and why there was no change of tactics after continuous high-profile losses. He also talked about how current Indian batters are struggling with the same problems for a long time and asked questions about what the coaching staff was doing about it. He criticised Rohit’s comments about ‘lack of preparation time’ after the loss to Australia in the World Test Championship Finals 2023. Also read: Brad Pitt respects F1 and thrills drivers at Silverstone Former Indian batsmen said, “You have the example of the World Test Championship before you. Are you playing any matches?” Gavaskar pointed out the lack of practice matches in India. The former right-handed batsman opined the Indian team should have played at least two warm-up matches for the players to get more time on the field and back into their rhythm. Rohit Sharma took over captaincy from Virat Kohli in all formats last year, and people have huge expectations of him. India has not been able to win major tournaments while constantly reaching the knockout stages. The last time India won any major ICC tournament was back in 2013 under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, lifting the ICC Champions Trophy. Under Rohit’s captaincy, India first lost to England in the T20I World Cup 2022 and failed to reach the final. Then, in the WTC Finals 2023, India lost to Australia. Also read: On this day: Ravindra Jadeja’s brilliance goes in vain against in 2019 World Cup semi-final Rohit Sharma will be leading India in this year’s World Cup and is under immense pressure to prove everyone wrong and lead the side to victory and regain the Cup after more than 12 years.

Sunil Gavaskar, disappointed with Rohit Sharma's captaincy, says he expected more

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidHsrc1a2GrPzn" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Delhi &amp; District Cricket Association (DDCA) committee, headed by directors Shyam Sharma and Harish Singla, recently visited the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, where they also met Rishabh Pant. As per Shyam Sharma, Pant, who is undergoing rehabilitation for injuries he sustained in a car accident late last year, is said to be doing well and recovering at a good pace.</p>

<p>The attacking keeper-batter underwent a knee surgery early this year; as a result, he got ruled out for an indefinite period.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Pant keeps informing his fans and well-wishers about his gradual recovery through social media.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Reunion is always fun with the gang 💕💕😊 <a href="https://t.co/brHKH8Lnvi">pic.twitter.com/brHKH8Lnvi</a></p>
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1673328891853717505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>However, going by the recent photos he posted, the Delhi boy looks to be in better shape, but the timeline of his return to the field remains uncertain.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Not bad yaar Rishabh ❤️❤️😂. Simple things can be difficult sometimes 😇 <a href="https://t.co/XcF9rZXurG">pic.twitter.com/XcF9rZXurG</a></p>
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1668948503677276162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-moeen-ali-rues-englands-repetitive-batting-failure-feels-home-team-in-winning-position-after-day-2-613366">Ashes: Moeen Ali rues England's repetitive batting failure, feels home team in 'winning position' after day 2</a></p>

<p>"He is doing well in his recovery, and now he is a lot better. There is a big question about his comeback as it takes time, but I hope he will be back on the field as soon as possible," Shyam said, as quoted by the Times of India.</p>

<h2>Accident and beyond</h2>

<p>During the wee hours on December 30 last year, Pant, driving back to his home in Dehradun from Delhi, met with a car accident. As per the onlookers, Pant’s car rammed into the roadside dividers and rolled over a couple of times, causing it to catch fire.</p>

<p>Pant was saved by those nearby and was taken immediately to a nearby hospital before being shifted to Max Hospital in Dehradun.</p>

<p>After spending more than a week in Dehradun, Pant was airlifted to Mumbai for further treatment, where he underwent knee surgery.</p>

<p>After going under the knife and consulting doctors and experts, Pant was suggested complete rest, resulting in him missing all the upcoming action, including the home series against Sri Lanka, New Zealand, Border-Gavaskar series against Australia, IPL 2023 for Delhi Capitals and the World Test Championship Final.</p>

<p>As things stand, the left-handed batter is said to remain on the sidelines for the remaining part of the year, missing the home World Cup in October-November.</p>

<h3>India ready to fill shoes</h3>

<p>With the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in sight, the Indian Cricket Team is trying to fill Pant’s void in the team, with KL Rahul as the frontrunner as his replacement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As backups, the team is preparing double centurion Ishan Kishan in the background, while Sanju Samson’s selection for the West Indies ODIs and T20Is also comes as a positive sign.</p>

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Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) committee, headed by directors Shyam Sharma and Harish Singla, recently visited the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, where they also met Rishabh Pant.

Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) committee, headed by directors Shyam Sharma and Harish Singla, recently visited the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, where they also met Rishabh Pant. As per Shyam Sharma, Pant, who is undergoing rehabilitation for injuries he sustained in a car accident late last year, is said to be doing well and recovering at a good pace. The attacking keeper-batter underwent a knee surgery early this year; as a result, he got ruled out for an indefinite period. Meanwhile, Pant keeps informing his fans and well-wishers about his gradual recovery through social media. Reunion is always fun with the gang 💕💕😊 pic.twitter.com/brHKH8Lnvi — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) June 26, 2023 × However, going by the recent photos he posted, the Delhi boy looks to be in better shape, but the timeline of his return to the field remains uncertain. Not bad yaar Rishabh ❤️❤️😂. Simple things can be difficult sometimes 😇 pic.twitter.com/XcF9rZXurG — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) June 14, 2023 × ALSO READ: Ashes: Moeen Ali rues England's repetitive batting failure, feels home team in 'winning position' after day 2 "He is doing well in his recovery, and now he is a lot better. There is a big question about his comeback as it takes time, but I hope he will be back on the field as soon as possible," Shyam said, as quoted by the Times of India. Accident and beyond During the wee hours on December 30 last year, Pant, driving back to his home in Dehradun from Delhi, met with a car accident. As per the onlookers, Pant’s car rammed into the roadside dividers and rolled over a couple of times, causing it to catch fire. Pant was saved by those nearby and was taken immediately to a nearby hospital before being shifted to Max Hospital in Dehradun. After spending more than a week in Dehradun, Pant was airlifted to Mumbai for further treatment, where he underwent knee surgery. After going under the knife and consulting doctors and experts, Pant was suggested complete rest, resulting in him missing all the upcoming action, including the home series against Sri Lanka, New Zealand, Border-Gavaskar series against Australia, IPL 2023 for Delhi Capitals and the World Test Championship Final. As things stand, the left-handed batter is said to remain on the sidelines for the remaining part of the year, missing the home World Cup in October-November. India ready to fill shoes With the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in sight, the Indian Cricket Team is trying to fill Pant’s void in the team, with KL Rahul as the frontrunner as his replacement. As backups, the team is preparing double centurion Ishan Kishan in the background, while Sanju Samson’s selection for the West Indies ODIs and T20Is also comes as a positive sign. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

DDCA director Shyam Sharma provides latest update on Rishabh Pant's recovery

<p>Team India are gearing up for the West Indies tour, which starts on July 12. India will be playing 2 Tests, 3 ODIs and 5 T20Is in West Indies. This series comes after a break of a month-long break for India. Now, BCCI posted a video of Indian players meeting fans and clicking pictures with the local players.</p>

<h2><strong>Indian Cricketers show great gestures</strong></h2>

<p>The video shows Mohammad Siraj giving his bat and shoes as a note of thanks to a young fan while clicking pictures with them. Siraj said in the video that these players have helped the team a lot in practice and he just wanted to thank them by this gesture. Indian keeper Ishan Kishan can also be seen in the video advising the younger players.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Changes for the West Indies tour</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian side has picked up youngsters and has rewarded them for their performances in domestic leagues as well as the Indian Premiere League. Players, like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad, have been roped in to the Test squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In T20Is, Hardik Pandya will lead the side as there is no return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Tilak Varma have both received their maiden T20I call-up after their wonderful performance in the IPL. Yashasvi was the 5th highest run-getter for Rajasthan Royal with 625 runs and Varma was an integral part of MI’s middle order and helped them reach the playoffs. Axar Patel and Avesh Khan have also returned to the team after missing the New Zealand T20Is.</p>

<p>India’s T20I squad: Ishan Kishan (wk), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Surya Kumar Yadav (VC), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (C), Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar.</p>


BCCI posted a video of Indian players clicking pictures and giving advice to young players who are helping them practice in the nets. Siraj can be seen giving away his bat and shoes.

Team India are gearing up for the West Indies tour, which starts on July 12. India will be playing 2 Tests, 3 ODIs and 5 T20Is in West Indies. This series comes after a break of a month-long break for India. Now, BCCI posted a video of Indian players meeting fans and clicking pictures with the local players. Indian Cricketers show great gestures The video shows Mohammad Siraj giving his bat and shoes as a note of thanks to a young fan while clicking pictures with them. Siraj said in the video that these players have helped the team a lot in practice and he just wanted to thank them by this gesture. Indian keeper Ishan Kishan can also be seen in the video advising the younger players. Changes for the West Indies tour The Indian side has picked up youngsters and has rewarded them for their performances in domestic leagues as well as the Indian Premiere League. Players, like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad, have been roped in to the Test squad. In T20Is, Hardik Pandya will lead the side as there is no return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Tilak Varma have both received their maiden T20I call-up after their wonderful performance in the IPL. Yashasvi was the 5th highest run-getter for Rajasthan Royal with 625 runs and Varma was an integral part of MI’s middle order and helped them reach the playoffs. Axar Patel and Avesh Khan have also returned to the team after missing the New Zealand T20Is. India’s T20I squad: Ishan Kishan (wk), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Surya Kumar Yadav (VC), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (C), Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar.

Mohammed Siraj’s heartwarming gesture is a super show

<p>The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 qualifiers have lived up to expectations. After a lot of twists and turns, Sri Lanka and the Netherlands have made it to the next round. The two sides are set to lock horns in the summit clash but irrespective of the result, both will now travel to India for this year's ODI World Cup which will get underway on October 05.</p>

<p>Defending champions England will face New Zealand in the tournament-opener in Ahmedabad on October 05. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma-led India will open their campaign versus Australia, the five-time winners, in Chennai on October 08. They will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in Ahmedabad on October 15 and also have some tough battles ahead versus England, the Black Caps, etc.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-day-in-2019-rohit-sharma-became-first-ever-to-slam-five-centuries-in-an-odi-world-cup-612649">OTD, in 2019: Rohit Sharma became first-ever batter to slam five tons in single edition of ODI World Cup</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Here's India's full schedule at the CWC'23 after SL, NED qualify</strong></h2>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td><strong>Dates</strong></td>
			<td><strong>Fixtures</strong></td>
			<td><strong>Venues</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>08/10/2023</td>
			<td>India vs Australia (D/N)</td>
			<td>Chennai</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>11/10/2023</td>
			<td>India vs Afghanistan (D/N)</td>
			<td>Delhi</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>15/10/2023</td>
			<td>India vs Pakistan (D/N)</td>
			<td>Ahmedabad</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>19/10/2023</td>
			<td>India vs Bangladesh (D/N)</td>
			<td>Pune</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>22/10/2023</td>
			<td>India vs New Zealand (D/N)</td>
			<td>Dharamshala</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>29/10/2023</td>
			<td>India vs England (D/N)</td>
			<td>Lucknow</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>02/11/2023</td>
			<td>India vs Sri Lanka (D/N)</td>
			<td>Mumbai</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>05/11/2023</td>
			<td>India vs South Africa (D/N)</td>
			<td>Kolkata</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>11/11/2023</td>
			<td>India vs Netherlands</td>
			<td>Bengaluru</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p>India is the only team who will be playing in as many as nine venues, a different one for each game. Thus, the home side will have their task cut-out to meet the expectations of their ardent fans and go the distance in the tournament amid regular travel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit &amp; Co., who occupy the third spot in ICC ODI Rankings, will not play any day game. Thus, they will also have to take into consideration the dew factor at some venues. Overall, the Men in Blue are set to face a stern test in the league stage in order to enter the top four and go for their third title in the showpiece event.</p>

<p>The last time India hosted the ODI World Cup was back in 2011, when MS Dhoni-led co-hosts won the tournament. Indian fans will be desperate to see the national team replicate their 2011 success this time around as well. Given India's last ICC title win came in 2013, the pressure will be on Rohit &amp; Co.</p>

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The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 qualifiers have lived up to expectations. After a lot of twists and turns, Sri Lanka and the Netherlands have made it to the next round.

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 qualifiers have lived up to expectations. After a lot of twists and turns, Sri Lanka and the Netherlands have made it to the next round. The two sides are set to lock horns in the summit clash but irrespective of the result, both will now travel to India for this year's ODI World Cup which will get underway on October 05. Defending champions England will face New Zealand in the tournament-opener in Ahmedabad on October 05. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma-led India will open their campaign versus Australia, the five-time winners, in Chennai on October 08. They will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in Ahmedabad on October 15 and also have some tough battles ahead versus England, the Black Caps, etc. Also Read: OTD, in 2019: Rohit Sharma became first-ever batter to slam five tons in single edition of ODI World Cup Here's India's full schedule at the CWC'23 after SL, NED qualify Dates Fixtures Venues 08/10/2023 India vs Australia (D/N) Chennai 11/10/2023 India vs Afghanistan (D/N) Delhi 15/10/2023 India vs Pakistan (D/N) Ahmedabad 19/10/2023 India vs Bangladesh (D/N) Pune 22/10/2023 India vs New Zealand (D/N) Dharamshala 29/10/2023 India vs England (D/N) Lucknow 02/11/2023 India vs Sri Lanka (D/N) Mumbai 05/11/2023 India vs South Africa (D/N) Kolkata 11/11/2023 India vs Netherlands Bengaluru India is the only team who will be playing in as many as nine venues, a different one for each game. Thus, the home side will have their task cut-out to meet the expectations of their ardent fans and go the distance in the tournament amid regular travel. Rohit & Co., who occupy the third spot in ICC ODI Rankings, will not play any day game. Thus, they will also have to take into consideration the dew factor at some venues. Overall, the Men in Blue are set to face a stern test in the league stage in order to enter the top four and go for their third title in the showpiece event. The last time India hosted the ODI World Cup was back in 2011, when MS Dhoni-led co-hosts won the tournament. Indian fans will be desperate to see the national team replicate their 2011 success this time around as well. Given India's last ICC title win came in 2013, the pressure will be on Rohit & Co. 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.

CWC'23: India's full schedule at 2023 ODI World Cup after Sri Lanka, Netherlands enter main draw

<p>Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the captain of the 2011 World Cup winning team, celebrates his 42nd birthday on Friday, July 7. Dubbed the greatest white-ball leader ever, let alone in Indian cricket history, MS Dhoni tasted success in global events like none other.</p>

<p>He, to date, remains the only skipper in cricketer history to win all major white-ball events - including T20 World Cup (2007), 50-over World Cup (2011) and Champions Trophy (2013).</p>

<p>Under his leadership and a star-studded squad at the helm, India ended the 50-over World Cup drought, winning the final against Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Wankhede Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chasing 275 against a potent Sri Lankan attack, India lost two wickets inside the Powerplay. While Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir steadied the innings with an 83-run stand for the third wicket, it was a match-winning partnership of 109 runs that saw India cross the winning line.</p>

<p>Though Gambhir ended with the highest score of 97 runs, it was an unbeaten 91 from the captain Cool, which sealed the deal for India.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-mcc-brings-in-stricter-pavilion-rules-following-long-room-drama-during-lords-test-613118">Ashes: MCC brings in stricter pavilion rules following Long Room drama during Lord's Test</a></p>

<p>Now, after 12 years, when India is again hosting the World Cup, the chips are high, and so is the expectation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, several team members of the 2011 World Cup-winning team took to social media to send birthday greetings to their captain MS Dhoni on his 42nd birthday.</p>

<p>From openers Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag to MS Dhoni's partner Yuvraj Singh, from Dhoni's go-to-man Suresh Raina to match winners Harbhajan Singh and Munaf Patel, most of the 15-member squad wished MS Dhoni.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">May you always fly high like your helicopter shots.<br />
Happy birthday, MS! <a href="https://t.co/f9aqiY6HV0">pic.twitter.com/f9aqiY6HV0</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1677222937211056128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Sun God has 7 horses to pull his heavenly chariot.<br />
In the Rigveda there are 7 parts of the world, 7 seasons &amp; 7 fortresses<br />
7 basic musical notes<br />
7 pheras in a marriage<br />
7 wonders of the world<br />
And on<br />
7th day of 7th month- Birthday of a top man <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> , <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayDhoni</a> . <a href="https://t.co/ZZwXBT5mLV">pic.twitter.com/ZZwXBT5mLV</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1677192633113006080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> 🎂 here’s to some epic memories on the field! Hope you have a blessed year ahead 🎉 <a href="https://t.co/jVzJ8PAAii">pic.twitter.com/jVzJ8PAAii</a></p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1677228477542715392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy birthday to my big brother <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> ! 🎉 From sharing the pitch to sharing our dreams, the bond that we've created is unbreakable. Your strength, both as a leader and as a friend, has been my guiding light. May the year ahead bring you joy, success, and good health. Keep… <a href="https://t.co/0RJXCKEz7B">pic.twitter.com/0RJXCKEz7B</a></p>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1677030049760034817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday Bahubali 💪 <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> .. May you continue to Inspire .. Have a great day Ahead <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/msdbirthday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#msdbirthday</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DhoniBirthday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DhoniBirthday</a> <a href="https://t.co/MzY3gF3He8">pic.twitter.com/MzY3gF3He8</a></p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1677215365607325696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wishing a very happy birthday to The Legend <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayMSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayMSDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GOAT%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GOAT𓃵</a> <a href="https://t.co/BoPLfOSKL8">pic.twitter.com/BoPLfOSKL8</a></p>
— Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) <a href="https://twitter.com/munafpa99881129/status/1677172819535486976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the captain of the 2011 World Cup winning team, celebrates his 42nd birthday on Friday, July 7. Dubbed the greatest white-ball leader ever, let alone in Indian cricket history, MS Dhoni tasted success in global events like none other.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the captain of the 2011 World Cup winning team, celebrates his 42nd birthday on Friday, July 7. Dubbed the greatest white-ball leader ever, let alone in Indian cricket history, MS Dhoni tasted success in global events like none other. He, to date, remains the only skipper in cricketer history to win all major white-ball events - including T20 World Cup (2007), 50-over World Cup (2011) and Champions Trophy (2013). Under his leadership and a star-studded squad at the helm, India ended the 50-over World Cup drought, winning the final against Sri Lanka by six wickets at the Wankhede Stadium. Chasing 275 against a potent Sri Lankan attack, India lost two wickets inside the Powerplay. While Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir steadied the innings with an 83-run stand for the third wicket, it was a match-winning partnership of 109 runs that saw India cross the winning line. Though Gambhir ended with the highest score of 97 runs, it was an unbeaten 91 from the captain Cool, which sealed the deal for India. ALSO READ: Ashes: MCC brings in stricter pavilion rules following Long Room drama during Lord's Test Now, after 12 years, when India is again hosting the World Cup, the chips are high, and so is the expectation. Meanwhile, several team members of the 2011 World Cup-winning team took to social media to send birthday greetings to their captain MS Dhoni on his 42nd birthday. From openers Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag to MS Dhoni's partner Yuvraj Singh, from Dhoni's go-to-man Suresh Raina to match winners Harbhajan Singh and Munaf Patel, most of the 15-member squad wished MS Dhoni. May you always fly high like your helicopter shots. Happy birthday, MS! pic.twitter.com/f9aqiY6HV0 — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) July 7, 2023 × The Sun God has 7 horses to pull his heavenly chariot. In the Rigveda there are 7 parts of the world, 7 seasons & 7 fortresses 7 basic musical notes 7 pheras in a marriage 7 wonders of the world And on 7th day of 7th month- Birthday of a top man @msdhoni , #HappyBirthdayDhoni . pic.twitter.com/ZZwXBT5mLV — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) July 7, 2023 × Happy Birthday @msdhoni 🎂 here’s to some epic memories on the field! Hope you have a blessed year ahead 🎉 pic.twitter.com/jVzJ8PAAii — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) July 7, 2023 × Happy birthday to my big brother @msdhoni ! 🎉 From sharing the pitch to sharing our dreams, the bond that we've created is unbreakable. Your strength, both as a leader and as a friend, has been my guiding light. May the year ahead bring you joy, success, and good health. Keep… pic.twitter.com/0RJXCKEz7B — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) July 6, 2023 × Happy Birthday Bahubali 💪 @msdhoni .. May you continue to Inspire .. Have a great day Ahead #msdbirthday #DhoniBirthday pic.twitter.com/MzY3gF3He8 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) July 7, 2023 × Wishing a very happy birthday to The Legend @msdhoni #HappyBirthdayMSDhoni #GOAT𓃵 pic.twitter.com/BoPLfOSKL8 — Munaf Patel (@munafpa99881129) July 7, 2023 × WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Here's how Class of 2011 World Cup-winning team wished captain MS Dhoni on his 42nd birthday

<p>A future superstar in the making, Tilak Varma received his maiden India call-up for the five-match T20Is against West Indies. Playing for South Zone in the ongoing Duleep Trophy, Varma revealed receiving advice from stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli and how he dreams about playing for India and bailing them out of trouble in crunch games.</p>

<p>India captain Rohit Sharma, who also leads Mumbai Indians, a franchise Tilak Varma plays for, showered praises on the 20-year-old last year, predicting him to burst onto the international scene sooner than expected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Having such a calm head is never easy, and in my opinion, I feel he's going to be an all-format player for India pretty soon," Rohit said about Varma in May 2022.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tamims-retirement-call-was-unexpected-bcb-boss-urges-veteran-batter-to-reconsider-decision-as-cwc-approaches-613010">Tamim's retirement call was unexpected, BCB boss urges veteran batter to reconsider decision as CWC approaches</a></p>

<p>One year later, the prediction came true as Varma, alongside young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal got their maiden call-ups to the Indian team.</p>

<p>Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Duleep Trophy semis against North Zone in Bengaluru, Tilak revealed the India call-up wasn't on his mind currently, and when he received the information of&nbsp;his selection (from his childhood friend), and informed his parents, they turned emotional and shed happy tears while being on a video call with him.</p>

<p>"I was not thinking about the national side," Varma said. "My mom and dad were crying on video call yesterday; they were very emotional. My childhood friend called me [saying] you have got selected. That was the time — around 8 o'clock [pm] — that I knew I was selected."</p>

<p>Thanks to the platform that IPL is, Tilak, quite early in his career, was able to rub shoulders with the legends, including Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit and Virat. Opening up on receiving advice from them, Tilak said,&nbsp;"I have heard a lot from Rohit bhai and Sachin sir, and also from Virat [Kohli] bhai. They always say that when you are in good form, your subconscious mind is in the right place," Varma said. "They also tell me to play close to the body… they always tell that [preparing] off the field is very important."</p>

<h2>IPL treasure set to begin international journey</h2>

<p>In IPL 2023, the young swashbuckler scored 343 runs at an impressive strike rate of 164, the third-best among Indian batters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although he is yet to begin his international journey, Tilak revealed he already dreams about playing crunch knocks for India in World Cup.</p>

<p>"I visualise every night how I can bat: if in a World Cup match, we are four or five down for 40 or 50, from there on, how can I take the team forward? It helps in making it easy for me," Varma added.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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A future superstar in the making, Tilak Varma received his maiden India call-up for the five-match T20Is against West Indies. Playing for South Zone in the ongoing Duleep Trophy, Varma revealed receiving advice from stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli and how he dreams about playing for India and bailing them out of trouble in crunch games.

A future superstar in the making, Tilak Varma received his maiden India call-up for the five-match T20Is against West Indies. Playing for South Zone in the ongoing Duleep Trophy, Varma revealed receiving advice from stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli and how he dreams about playing for India and bailing them out of trouble in crunch games. India captain Rohit Sharma, who also leads Mumbai Indians, a franchise Tilak Varma plays for, showered praises on the 20-year-old last year, predicting him to burst onto the international scene sooner than expected. "Having such a calm head is never easy, and in my opinion, I feel he's going to be an all-format player for India pretty soon," Rohit said about Varma in May 2022. ALSO READ: Tamim's retirement call was unexpected, BCB boss urges veteran batter to reconsider decision as CWC approaches One year later, the prediction came true as Varma, alongside young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal got their maiden call-ups to the Indian team. Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Duleep Trophy semis against North Zone in Bengaluru, Tilak revealed the India call-up wasn't on his mind currently, and when he received the information of his selection (from his childhood friend), and informed his parents, they turned emotional and shed happy tears while being on a video call with him. "I was not thinking about the national side," Varma said. "My mom and dad were crying on video call yesterday; they were very emotional. My childhood friend called me [saying] you have got selected. That was the time — around 8 o'clock [pm] — that I knew I was selected." Thanks to the platform that IPL is, Tilak, quite early in his career, was able to rub shoulders with the legends, including Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit and Virat. Opening up on receiving advice from them, Tilak said, "I have heard a lot from Rohit bhai and Sachin sir, and also from Virat [Kohli] bhai. They always say that when you are in good form, your subconscious mind is in the right place," Varma said. "They also tell me to play close to the body… they always tell that [preparing] off the field is very important." IPL treasure set to begin international journey In IPL 2023, the young swashbuckler scored 343 runs at an impressive strike rate of 164, the third-best among Indian batters. Although he is yet to begin his international journey, Tilak revealed he already dreams about playing crunch knocks for India in World Cup. "I visualise every night how I can bat: if in a World Cup match, we are four or five down for 40 or 50, from there on, how can I take the team forward? It helps in making it easy for me," Varma added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Superstar-in-making Tilak Varma opens up on receiving advice from Rohit, Kohli ahead of West Indies tour

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidOXQIrpCHGgBC" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Central Zone captain Shivam Mavi’s six for 44 haul against star-studded West Zone in the first innings of the ongoing Duleep Trophy semis made headlines, and the seam-bowling all-rounder now wants to build up on this performance to fight for a spot in India’s Test XI. Having emerged on the international scene this year against Sri Lanka in the home T20Is, Mavi showed promise, and with his recent sparkling show at the KSCA Cricket Ground in Alur, the right-handed pacer speaks his heart out about taking the leap in his career.</p>

<p>Picking Prithvi Shaw, Cheteshwar Pujara and Suryakumar Yadav, all on low&nbsp;scores, Mavi tore into West Zone’s batting line-up after being asked to bowl first. He also got their highest scorer, Atit Sheth, on 74 and then picked two wickets later on to end with figures of six for 44 in the first innings.</p>

<p>“I have been performing well with the red ball in the last three or four years. Hopefully, I will get to play in Test matches. It is not like I want to play only in one format, and I am working hard to be ready for all three formats,” Mavi said, as quoted by the Indian Express.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-day-in-2019-rohit-sharma-became-first-ever-to-slam-five-centuries-in-an-odi-world-cup-612649">OTD, in 2019: Rohit Sharma became first-ever batter to slam five tons in single edition of ODI World Cup</a></p>

<p>Hailing from Madhya Pradesh, Mavi is touted to be next in line for the Test debut after selectors threw their weight behind him by handing him the Central Zone captaincy ahead of the busy domestic calendar.</p>

<p>Talking about shouldering the burden, Mavi said it’s not easy bowling in India, given the conditions, but admitted cherished bowling in Bengaluru, where conditions are closer to that in England that benefited him in the semis.</p>

<p>“I feel very happy about it. The selectors have given me such a big responsibility. It (captaincy) is difficult for fast bowlers in India because fast bowlers get tired here because of the conditions.”</p>

<p>“But here (Bengaluru), the conditions are fine, and we don’t get tired that much. I have played in England, and the weather is quite similar here. We get time to think as a captain,” the right-arm seamer added.</p>

<h2>The batter doesn’t matter to me: Mavi</h2>

<p>As the cricket saying goes, ‘sticking to basics will help reap rewards’ Mavi tends to stick with the same mantra that brought him success, adding the batter doesn’t matter to him as he prefers going ahead with his plans instead.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, after appearing in six games for India earlier this year, Mavi had to wait for another three months to get a match during IPL 2023 for Gujarat Titans.</p>

<p>“Getting selected for a match depends on the coach and captain. But I was using that time at&nbsp;net sessions. I was bowling long spells at nets. I was in a good space.”</p>

<p>“I was bowling 7 to 8 overs at nets. I kept myself motivated thinking that I will get a chance sooner, and I was focusing on improving my skills,” Mavi added.</p>

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Central Zone captain Shivam Mavi’s six for 44 haul against star-studded West Zone in the first innings of the ongoing Duleep Trophy semis made headlines, and the seam-bowling all-rounder now wants to build up on this performance to fight for a spot in India’s Test XI.

Central Zone captain Shivam Mavi’s six for 44 haul against star-studded West Zone in the first innings of the ongoing Duleep Trophy semis made headlines, and the seam-bowling all-rounder now wants to build up on this performance to fight for a spot in India’s Test XI. Having emerged on the international scene this year against Sri Lanka in the home T20Is, Mavi showed promise, and with his recent sparkling show at the KSCA Cricket Ground in Alur, the right-handed pacer speaks his heart out about taking the leap in his career. Picking Prithvi Shaw, Cheteshwar Pujara and Suryakumar Yadav, all on low scores, Mavi tore into West Zone’s batting line-up after being asked to bowl first. He also got their highest scorer, Atit Sheth, on 74 and then picked two wickets later on to end with figures of six for 44 in the first innings. “I have been performing well with the red ball in the last three or four years. Hopefully, I will get to play in Test matches. It is not like I want to play only in one format, and I am working hard to be ready for all three formats,” Mavi said, as quoted by the Indian Express. ALSO READ: OTD, in 2019: Rohit Sharma became first-ever batter to slam five tons in single edition of ODI World Cup Hailing from Madhya Pradesh, Mavi is touted to be next in line for the Test debut after selectors threw their weight behind him by handing him the Central Zone captaincy ahead of the busy domestic calendar. Talking about shouldering the burden, Mavi said it’s not easy bowling in India, given the conditions, but admitted cherished bowling in Bengaluru, where conditions are closer to that in England that benefited him in the semis. “I feel very happy about it. The selectors have given me such a big responsibility. It (captaincy) is difficult for fast bowlers in India because fast bowlers get tired here because of the conditions.” “But here (Bengaluru), the conditions are fine, and we don’t get tired that much. I have played in England, and the weather is quite similar here. We get time to think as a captain,” the right-arm seamer added. The batter doesn’t matter to me: Mavi As the cricket saying goes, ‘sticking to basics will help reap rewards’ Mavi tends to stick with the same mantra that brought him success, adding the batter doesn’t matter to him as he prefers going ahead with his plans instead. Meanwhile, after appearing in six games for India earlier this year, Mavi had to wait for another three months to get a match during IPL 2023 for Gujarat Titans. “Getting selected for a match depends on the coach and captain. But I was using that time at net sessions. I was bowling long spells at nets. I was in a good space.” “I was bowling 7 to 8 overs at nets. I kept myself motivated thinking that I will get a chance sooner, and I was focusing on improving my skills,” Mavi added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Duleep Trophy semis: Shivam Mavi eyes Test call-up after stellar show vs Central Zone with six-for

<p>On July 06, 2019, Rohit Sharma created history as he became the first-ever batter to slam as many as five centuries in a single edition of the ICC ODI World Cup. The current Indian captain was in exceptional form in the previous edition of the 50-over showpiece event and entered the record books with his fifth ton, becoming the first-ever batsman to attain the feat. He also equalled Sachin Tendulkar with the most hundreds in ODI World Cup history (six) following his knock versus the Sri Lankans.</p>

<p>Four years back, India faced Sri Lanka in the 2019 ODI World Cup on July 06. Opting to bat first, Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka were struggling at 55 for 4 before former skipper Angelo Mathews slammed 113 and helped Lanka post&nbsp;264 for 7 in 50 overs. In reply, India rode on openers Rohit and KL Rahul's 189-run opening stand. Rohit returned with a fine 94-ball 103 whereas Rahul top-scored with a sublime 113. Thus, India won the game by eight wickets without dropping much sweat, achieving&nbsp;the target with 39 balls to spare.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stop-concentrating-on-india-vs-pakistan-shaheen-afridi-says-winning-cwc23-is-babar-cos-main-aim-612604">Stop concentrating on India vs Pakistan: Shaheen Afridi says winning CWC'23 is Babar &amp; Co.'s main aim</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about Rohit's knock, his inning was laced with 14 fours and two sixes, resulting&nbsp;in a strike rate of 109.57. Throughout the 2019 ODI WC, the Hitman was in unbelievable form. The then vice-captain started his campaign with a hundred versus South Africa and followed it up with a match-winning 140 versus Pakistan before scoring three centuries on the trot -- against England, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. With the ton versus Lanka, Rohit surpassed Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara to hit five centuries in an ODI World Cup&nbsp;edition.</p>

<p>In the 2015 WC, Sangakkara had slammed four centuries&nbsp;before Rohit went a step ahead in the following edition. The right-hander ended the 2019 ODI WC with 648 runs -- second-most in a single edition -- and ended as the top run-getter. He will look to replicate the same form in the upcoming 2023 ODI World Cup at home. Rohit-led India will kick off their campaign versus Australia on October 08 in Chennai.</p>

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On July 06, 2019, Rohit Sharma created history as he became the first-ever batter to slam as many as five centuries in a single edition of the ICC ODI World Cup.

On July 06, 2019, Rohit Sharma created history as he became the first-ever batter to slam as many as five centuries in a single edition of the ICC ODI World Cup. The current Indian captain was in exceptional form in the previous edition of the 50-over showpiece event and entered the record books with his fifth ton, becoming the first-ever batsman to attain the feat. He also equalled Sachin Tendulkar with the most hundreds in ODI World Cup history (six) following his knock versus the Sri Lankans. Four years back, India faced Sri Lanka in the 2019 ODI World Cup on July 06. Opting to bat first, Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka were struggling at 55 for 4 before former skipper Angelo Mathews slammed 113 and helped Lanka post 264 for 7 in 50 overs. In reply, India rode on openers Rohit and KL Rahul's 189-run opening stand. Rohit returned with a fine 94-ball 103 whereas Rahul top-scored with a sublime 113. Thus, India won the game by eight wickets without dropping much sweat, achieving the target with 39 balls to spare. Also Read: Stop concentrating on India vs Pakistan: Shaheen Afridi says winning CWC'23 is Babar & Co.'s main aim Talking about Rohit's knock, his inning was laced with 14 fours and two sixes, resulting in a strike rate of 109.57. Throughout the 2019 ODI WC, the Hitman was in unbelievable form. The then vice-captain started his campaign with a hundred versus South Africa and followed it up with a match-winning 140 versus Pakistan before scoring three centuries on the trot -- against England, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. With the ton versus Lanka, Rohit surpassed Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara to hit five centuries in an ODI World Cup edition. In the 2015 WC, Sangakkara had slammed four centuries before Rohit went a step ahead in the following edition. The right-hander ended the 2019 ODI WC with 648 runs -- second-most in a single edition -- and ended as the top run-getter. He will look to replicate the same form in the upcoming 2023 ODI World Cup at home. Rohit-led India will kick off their campaign versus Australia on October 08 in Chennai. 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.

OTD, in 2019: Rohit Sharma became first-ever batter to slam five tons in single edition of ODI World Cup

<p>On Wednesday (July 05), the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee picked a 15-man squad for India's five-match T20I series versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island. The five T20Is will get underway on August 03 as Hardik Pandya will lead a young side. The squad features several young talents who rose to the occasion in IPL 2023 as the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Verma, and Mukesh Kumar were inducted, whereas the likes of Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel and Sanju Samson have returned.</p>

<p>Although many have raised concerns over the omission of Rinku Singh and Rahul Tripathi, the likes of Washington Sundar, Shivam Mavi, Prithvi Shaw and Jitesh Sharma also could not find a place. Moreover, senior pros such as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have continued to remain absent from the T20I squad as it seems certain that selectors have entrusted Hardik Pandya to lead the side in the shortest format for the future. Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra reviewed the squad on his YouTube channel and feels that Hardik is being considered to lead India in next year's T20 World Cup in West Indies and the USA.</p>

<p>"Hardik Pandya, who had been given the captaincy after the T20 World Cup - it seems like that's now the final fixture, that Hardik Pandya will lead the Indian T20 team for times to come, which means until the upcoming World Cup," Aakash Chopra said in a video shared on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yashasvi-jaiswal-tilak-varma-get-maiden-t20i-call-as-india-announce-squad-for-west-indies-tour-612400">Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma get maiden T20I call as India announce squad for West Indies tour</a></strong></p>

<p>"I feel they had already moved in that direction and it is still the same, nothing has changed. None of the seniors have been picked. KL Rahul is unavailable but now it is extended that you have not played Rohit and Kohli since the World Cup," Chopra added.</p>

<p>India's five-match T20I series versus the two-time champions West Indies will kick off on August 03 and conclude on August 13. Soon after, Hardik &amp; Co. will also feature in three T20Is versus Ireland, in Dublin, before the focus shifts entirely to the 2023 ODI World Cup at home.</p>

<p><strong>India's T20I squad for WI series:</strong>&nbsp;Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Surya Kumar Yadav (vice-captain), Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya (captain), Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik, Avesh Khan, and Mukesh Kumar.</p>


On Wednesday (July 05), the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee picked a 15-man squad for India's five-match T20I series versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island.

On Wednesday (July 05), the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee picked a 15-man squad for India's five-match T20I series versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island. The five T20Is will get underway on August 03 as Hardik Pandya will lead a young side. The squad features several young talents who rose to the occasion in IPL 2023 as the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Verma, and Mukesh Kumar were inducted, whereas the likes of Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel and Sanju Samson have returned. Although many have raised concerns over the omission of Rinku Singh and Rahul Tripathi, the likes of Washington Sundar, Shivam Mavi, Prithvi Shaw and Jitesh Sharma also could not find a place. Moreover, senior pros such as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have continued to remain absent from the T20I squad as it seems certain that selectors have entrusted Hardik Pandya to lead the side in the shortest format for the future. Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra reviewed the squad on his YouTube channel and feels that Hardik is being considered to lead India in next year's T20 World Cup in West Indies and the USA. "Hardik Pandya, who had been given the captaincy after the T20 World Cup - it seems like that's now the final fixture, that Hardik Pandya will lead the Indian T20 team for times to come, which means until the upcoming World Cup," Aakash Chopra said in a video shared on his YouTube channel. Also Read: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma get maiden T20I call as India announce squad for West Indies tour "I feel they had already moved in that direction and it is still the same, nothing has changed. None of the seniors have been picked. KL Rahul is unavailable but now it is extended that you have not played Rohit and Kohli since the World Cup," Chopra added. India's five-match T20I series versus the two-time champions West Indies will kick off on August 03 and conclude on August 13. Soon after, Hardik & Co. will also feature in three T20Is versus Ireland, in Dublin, before the focus shifts entirely to the 2023 ODI World Cup at home. India's T20I squad for WI series: Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Surya Kumar Yadav (vice-captain), Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya (captain), Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik, Avesh Khan, and Mukesh Kumar.

Feels like Hardik Pandya will lead Team India in 2024 T20 World Cup as well, says former Indian opener

<p>Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has advised the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team management to keep an eye on leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal for the ODI World Cup 2023. Chahal was part of Team India for the T20 World Cup held in Australia last year but did not get to play a single match. India were eliminated from the ICC tournament after losing to England in the semi-finals. Ganguly said that while India have good wrist spinners like Kuldeep Yadav and Ravi Bishnoi, Chahal could play the key role for the Rohit Sharma-led side in the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023.</p>

<h2>Sourav Ganguly on the importance of wrist spinners</h2>

<p>“Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav are good spinners, but somehow Yuzvendra Chahal misses out on playing in a big tournament. He has been a consistent performer in the shorter formats of cricket, be it 20 overs or 50 overs. It is important to keep an eye on him,” Ganguly said during an interview.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-stuart-broad-questions-australias-cultural-change-after-lords-test-controversy-611632">Ashes 2023: Stuart Broad questions Australia's 'cultural change' after Lord's Test controversy</a></strong></p>

<p>The former BCCI president also said that SENA countries — South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia — find it difficult to face wrist spinners. Especially, when the match is in Indian conditions, it becomes more difficult for them. So, Chahal being a part of the playing XI will be important.</p>

<h2>Piyush Chawla was the X-Factor in 2011, says Sourav Ganguly</h2>

<p>“When you go out to play against Australia, England or South Africa, a wrist spinner can make a difference in these conditions, as Piyush Chawla did in the 2011 ODI World Cup. He bowled really well,” Sourav Ganguly said. The former India captain also emphasised that whenever spinners have taken wickets in a World Cup, India has done well in the tournament.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-top-seed-iga-swiatek-thrashes-chinas-zhu-lin-to-launch-wimbledon-title-quest-611535">Tennis: Top seed Iga Swiatek thrashes China's Zhu Lin to launch Wimbledon title quest</a></strong></p>

<p>Sourav Ganguly added that when India went to South Africa to play the T20 World Cup in 2007, it was the wrist spinners, who bowled well in tandem with fast bowlers. “Harbhajan Singh was in the playing eleven and I think in Indian conditions, retaining the wrist spinner will be crucial,” said Ganguly.</p>

<p>India will begin their World Cup campaign against Australia in Chennai on October 8. India and Pakistan will clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on October 15.</p>


Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has advised the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team management to keep an eye on leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal for the ODI World Cup 2023.

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has advised the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team management to keep an eye on leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal for the ODI World Cup 2023. Chahal was part of Team India for the T20 World Cup held in Australia last year but did not get to play a single match. India were eliminated from the ICC tournament after losing to England in the semi-finals. Ganguly said that while India have good wrist spinners like Kuldeep Yadav and Ravi Bishnoi, Chahal could play the key role for the Rohit Sharma-led side in the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023. Sourav Ganguly on the importance of wrist spinners “Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav are good spinners, but somehow Yuzvendra Chahal misses out on playing in a big tournament. He has been a consistent performer in the shorter formats of cricket, be it 20 overs or 50 overs. It is important to keep an eye on him,” Ganguly said during an interview. Also read: Ashes 2023: Stuart Broad questions Australia's 'cultural change' after Lord's Test controversy The former BCCI president also said that SENA countries — South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia — find it difficult to face wrist spinners. Especially, when the match is in Indian conditions, it becomes more difficult for them. So, Chahal being a part of the playing XI will be important. Piyush Chawla was the X-Factor in 2011, says Sourav Ganguly “When you go out to play against Australia, England or South Africa, a wrist spinner can make a difference in these conditions, as Piyush Chawla did in the 2011 ODI World Cup. He bowled really well,” Sourav Ganguly said. The former India captain also emphasised that whenever spinners have taken wickets in a World Cup, India has done well in the tournament. Also read: Tennis: Top seed Iga Swiatek thrashes China's Zhu Lin to launch Wimbledon title quest Sourav Ganguly added that when India went to South Africa to play the T20 World Cup in 2007, it was the wrist spinners, who bowled well in tandem with fast bowlers. “Harbhajan Singh was in the playing eleven and I think in Indian conditions, retaining the wrist spinner will be crucial,” said Ganguly. India will begin their World Cup campaign against Australia in Chennai on October 8. India and Pakistan will clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on October 15.

Sourav Ganguly says Yuzvendra Chahal could play key role in World Cup

<p>MS Dhoni remains the only international captain to have won all three ICC titles. During his captaincy, India became mentally strong&nbsp;in tough situations in multi-nation events, believed in taking&nbsp;the game deep, backed multi-dimensional players and emphasised on fielding. Dhoni took several memorable decisions as captain, which changed the course of Indian cricket, but some of his calls raised eyebrows.</p>

<p>During India's tour of Australia in 2011/12, they were whitewashed in the four Tests and had a poor run in the tri-series, also involving Sri Lanka, in early 2012. Back then, Dhoni introduced a rotational policy where he did not play&nbsp;India's top three -- Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir -- together before their&nbsp;must-win game versus the Lankans in Hobart.</p>

<p>As a result, India were not consistent and won only three out of eight matches. It is believed that Dhoni resorted to the rotational policy to accommodate Rohit Sharma in the line-up, keeping the 2015 ODI World Cup in mind (also held in Australia), along with having better fielders in the playing XI.&nbsp;Back in 2019, Gambhir recalled Dhoni's rotational policy and slammed it, calling it 'absolute crap'.</p>

<h2><strong>'It was absolute crap. If you make a decision, then back it'</strong></h2>

<p>Four years back, in an interview with Lallantop, Gambhir pointed out, "As far as the rotation policy goes, it was absolute crap and I’ve always maintained it. I have always believed that players are supposed to follow their captain’s decision but if you ask me, it was complete crap. If he believed in the rotation policy so much, then he should have stuck to it. He started with the rotation policy but played all three in the must-win games. If you make a decision, then back it."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-cut-2-frames-so-that-big-claim-ajmal-recalls-lbw-appeal-vs-tendulkar-in-cwc11-semi-final-611374">'They cut 2 frames so that...': BIG CLAIM! Ajmal recalls lbw appeal vs Tendulkar in CWC'11 semi-final</a></strong></p>

<p>“If you were preparing for the 2015 World Cup, then you shouldn’t have thought if you’re going to win this CV series or the one after this. It shouldn’t be like this. You began the policy but after four matches, when the results didn’t come, when questions began to be asked, then you start playing all three. That’s why I believe it was a complete waste of time If you play for your country, you should play your best team," the former batter added.</p>

<p>India's last game in the tri-series was against Sri Lanka, a must-win for them. Chasing a daunting 321, the Men in Blue had to pull off the run-chase in less than 40 overs to have any chance of qualifying for the finals. They rode on Sehwag-Sachin's blistering start, Gambhir's 64-ball 63, Virat Kohli's majestic 133&nbsp;not out and Suresh Raina's unbeaten 24-ball 40 to win by seven wickets. However,&nbsp;they still could not feature in the best of three finals.</p>

<p>Australia defeated Sri Lanka, 2-1, in a best-of-three final to win the tournament Down Under.</p>

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MS Dhoni remains the only international captain to have won all three ICC titles. During his captaincy, India became mentally strong in tough situations in multi-nation events, believed in taking the game deep, backed multi-dimensional players and emphasised on fielding.

MS Dhoni remains the only international captain to have won all three ICC titles. During his captaincy, India became mentally strong in tough situations in multi-nation events, believed in taking the game deep, backed multi-dimensional players and emphasised on fielding. Dhoni took several memorable decisions as captain, which changed the course of Indian cricket, but some of his calls raised eyebrows. During India's tour of Australia in 2011/12, they were whitewashed in the four Tests and had a poor run in the tri-series, also involving Sri Lanka, in early 2012. Back then, Dhoni introduced a rotational policy where he did not play India's top three -- Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir -- together before their must-win game versus the Lankans in Hobart. As a result, India were not consistent and won only three out of eight matches. It is believed that Dhoni resorted to the rotational policy to accommodate Rohit Sharma in the line-up, keeping the 2015 ODI World Cup in mind (also held in Australia), along with having better fielders in the playing XI. Back in 2019, Gambhir recalled Dhoni's rotational policy and slammed it, calling it 'absolute crap'. 'It was absolute crap. If you make a decision, then back it' Four years back, in an interview with Lallantop, Gambhir pointed out, "As far as the rotation policy goes, it was absolute crap and I’ve always maintained it. I have always believed that players are supposed to follow their captain’s decision but if you ask me, it was complete crap. If he believed in the rotation policy so much, then he should have stuck to it. He started with the rotation policy but played all three in the must-win games. If you make a decision, then back it." Also Read: 'They cut 2 frames so that...': BIG CLAIM! Ajmal recalls lbw appeal vs Tendulkar in CWC'11 semi-final “If you were preparing for the 2015 World Cup, then you shouldn’t have thought if you’re going to win this CV series or the one after this. It shouldn’t be like this. You began the policy but after four matches, when the results didn’t come, when questions began to be asked, then you start playing all three. That’s why I believe it was a complete waste of time If you play for your country, you should play your best team," the former batter added. India's last game in the tri-series was against Sri Lanka, a must-win for them. Chasing a daunting 321, the Men in Blue had to pull off the run-chase in less than 40 overs to have any chance of qualifying for the finals. They rode on Sehwag-Sachin's blistering start, Gambhir's 64-ball 63, Virat Kohli's majestic 133 not out and Suresh Raina's unbeaten 24-ball 40 to win by seven wickets. However, they still could not feature in the best of three finals. Australia defeated Sri Lanka, 2-1, in a best-of-three final to win the tournament Down Under. 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.

THROWBACK | I told Dhoni it was crap: When Gambhir rejected his former skipper's rotational policy

<p>Yashasvi Jaiswal emerged as Rajasthan Royals’ highest scorer in the Indian Premier League (IPL) this year. Jaiswal’s excellence with the bat paid off as he earned a maiden India call-up for the Test series against West Indies. He was also a part of India’s reserves for the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. Apart from his sensational batting prowess, Jaiswal had made headlines for his aggressive behaviour during last season’s Duleep Trophy. He was even sent off by his West Zone skipper Ajinkya Rahane for sledging opponent player Ravi Teja during a game against South Zone. Jaiswal has now talked about sledging in IPL. When asked about verbal confrontation with the opposition side, the 21-year-old said, “Who says that, it happens to everyone. No one really comes to know about it. It depends upon who is saying what. Bhai mereko koi mere maa behen ke baare me bolega, thodi sununga (If someone says things about my mother or my sister, I won't tolerate it),” while speaking to The Lallantop.</p>

<h2>Yashasvi Jaiswal's performance in IPL 2023</h2>

<p>With 625 runs to his name, Yashasvi Jaiswal emerged as Rajasthan Royals’ highest scorer in IPL 2023 season. The southpaw registered an impressive strike rate of 163.61 in the 16th edition of the competition. Jaiswal also managed to score his maiden IPL century in the latest edition of the tournament. Jaiswal capped off his IPL 2023 campaign with five centuries under his belt.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/geoffrey-boycott-lashes-out-at-england-batting-in-the-second-ashes-test-stst-610756">Ashes 2023: Geoffrey Boycott criticises England’s performance in second Test</a></strong></p>

<h2>Ruturaj Gaikwad, Mukesh Kumar in India's Test squad against West Indies</h2>

<p>Apart from Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Mukesh Kumar have also been named in India’s Test squad for the tour of West Indies. Having suffered a defeat at the hands of Australia in last edition’s final, Team India will now be determined to kick off the new cycle of the WTC on a promising note. In their first outing of the new WTC cycle, Rohit Sharma’s men will be up against West Indies. The two-match Test series between India and West Indies is scheduled to start from July 12. After the Tests, the two teams will be involved in three ODIs and five T20Is.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-welcomes-dream11-as-lead-sponsor-for-indian-cricket-team-on-three-year-deal-board-president-610773">BCCI welcomes Dream11 as lead sponsor for Indian Cricket Team on three-year deal: Board President</a></strong></p>

<h2>India's Test Squad</h2>

<p><strong>India Test squad:</strong> Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (vc), KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Navdeep Saini.</p>


Yashasvi Jaiswal emerged as Rajasthan Royals’ highest scorer in the Indian Premier League (IPL) this year. Jaiswal’s excellence with the bat paid off as he earned a maiden India call-up for the Test series against West Indies.

Yashasvi Jaiswal emerged as Rajasthan Royals’ highest scorer in the Indian Premier League (IPL) this year. Jaiswal’s excellence with the bat paid off as he earned a maiden India call-up for the Test series against West Indies. He was also a part of India’s reserves for the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. Apart from his sensational batting prowess, Jaiswal had made headlines for his aggressive behaviour during last season’s Duleep Trophy. He was even sent off by his West Zone skipper Ajinkya Rahane for sledging opponent player Ravi Teja during a game against South Zone. Jaiswal has now talked about sledging in IPL. When asked about verbal confrontation with the opposition side, the 21-year-old said, “Who says that, it happens to everyone. No one really comes to know about it. It depends upon who is saying what. Bhai mereko koi mere maa behen ke baare me bolega, thodi sununga (If someone says things about my mother or my sister, I won't tolerate it),” while speaking to The Lallantop. Yashasvi Jaiswal's performance in IPL 2023 With 625 runs to his name, Yashasvi Jaiswal emerged as Rajasthan Royals’ highest scorer in IPL 2023 season. The southpaw registered an impressive strike rate of 163.61 in the 16th edition of the competition. Jaiswal also managed to score his maiden IPL century in the latest edition of the tournament. Jaiswal capped off his IPL 2023 campaign with five centuries under his belt. Also read: Ashes 2023: Geoffrey Boycott criticises England’s performance in second Test Ruturaj Gaikwad, Mukesh Kumar in India's Test squad against West Indies Apart from Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Mukesh Kumar have also been named in India’s Test squad for the tour of West Indies. Having suffered a defeat at the hands of Australia in last edition’s final, Team India will now be determined to kick off the new cycle of the WTC on a promising note. In their first outing of the new WTC cycle, Rohit Sharma’s men will be up against West Indies. The two-match Test series between India and West Indies is scheduled to start from July 12. After the Tests, the two teams will be involved in three ODIs and five T20Is. Also read: BCCI welcomes Dream11 as lead sponsor for Indian Cricket Team on three-year deal: Board President India's Test Squad India Test squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (vc), KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Navdeep Saini.

Yashasvi Jaiswal clears his stand on sledging ahead of West Indies Test

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<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a three-year deal with fantasy gaming platform Dream11 as the lead sponsor of the Indian Cricket Team on Saturday, June 1. Dream11 has replaced Byju’s as the lead sponsor after the latter’s contract expired with the conclusion of the Australia series in March this year.</p>

<p>Dream11 will now be mentioned on Team India’s jerseys from the upcoming West Indies tour onwards,&nbsp;the team’s first assignment in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 NEWS 🚨: BCCI announces Dream11 as the new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Lead Sponsor.<br />
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<p>Dream11 extended its partnership with the richest cricket board, having associated with them as the official sponsor earlier. Speaking on the same, BCCI president Roger Binny welcomed the move, saying this collaboration is a direct testament to the trust, value and growth that Indian cricket has to offer.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-officials-asking-ollie-pope-to-field-despite-shoulder-injury-leaves-everyone-angry-bewildered-610765">Ashes 2023: Officials asking Ollie Pope to field despite shoulder injury leaves everyone 'angry &amp; bewildered'</a></p>

<p>“I congratulate Dream11 and welcome them on board again. From being BCCI’s official sponsor to now being the lead sponsor, the BCCI-Dream11 partnership has grown from strength to strength. It is a direct testament to the trust, value, potential and growth that Indian Cricket offers,” BCCI President Roger Binny was quoted as saying in a media release.</p>

<p>“As we prepare to host the ICC World Cup later this year, enhancing fan experience is among our top priorities, and I am confident that this partnership will help us elevate the fan engagement experience,” he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Harsh Jain, Co-Founder &amp; CEO of Dream Sports, also shared his views, expressing delight over joining hands with the BCCI with a promise to share their love for the game with billion fans in the country for the next three years.</p>

<p>“As a long-standing partner of BCCI and Team India, Dream11 is thrilled to take our partnership to the next level. At Dream11, we share our love for cricket with a billion Indian cricket fans, and it is a matter of pride and our privilege to become the lead sponsor for the National team. We look forward to continue supporting the Indian sports ecosystem,” Jain said.</p>

<h2>India set to tour West Indies</h2>

<p>With the schedule and squads (for Tests and ODIs, so far) already out, the Indian team is set to fly to the Island nation for the 10-match series, including two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. The series begins with the first Test in Dominica on July 12.</p>

<h3>Here are India’s Test and ODI squads for the West Indies series –</h3>

<p><strong>India’s Test squad:&nbsp;</strong>Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Navdeep Saini</p>

<p><strong>India’s ODI squad:&nbsp;</strong>Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Surya Kumar Yadav, Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya (vice-captain), Shardul Thakur, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Mohd. Siraj, Umran Malik, Mukesh Kumar</p>

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a three-year deal with fantasy gaming platform Dream11 as the lead sponsor of the Indian Cricket Team on Saturday, June 1.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a three-year deal with fantasy gaming platform Dream11 as the lead sponsor of the Indian Cricket Team on Saturday, June 1. Dream11 has replaced Byju’s as the lead sponsor after the latter’s contract expired with the conclusion of the Australia series in March this year. Dream11 will now be mentioned on Team India’s jerseys from the upcoming West Indies tour onwards, the team’s first assignment in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle. 🚨 NEWS 🚨: BCCI announces Dream11 as the new #TeamIndia Lead Sponsor. More Details 🔽https://t.co/fsKM7sf5C8 — BCCI (@BCCI) July 1, 2023 × Dream11 extended its partnership with the richest cricket board, having associated with them as the official sponsor earlier. Speaking on the same, BCCI president Roger Binny welcomed the move, saying this collaboration is a direct testament to the trust, value and growth that Indian cricket has to offer. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023: Officials asking Ollie Pope to field despite shoulder injury leaves everyone 'angry & bewildered' “I congratulate Dream11 and welcome them on board again. From being BCCI’s official sponsor to now being the lead sponsor, the BCCI-Dream11 partnership has grown from strength to strength. It is a direct testament to the trust, value, potential and growth that Indian Cricket offers,” BCCI President Roger Binny was quoted as saying in a media release. “As we prepare to host the ICC World Cup later this year, enhancing fan experience is among our top priorities, and I am confident that this partnership will help us elevate the fan engagement experience,” he added. Meanwhile, Harsh Jain, Co-Founder & CEO of Dream Sports, also shared his views, expressing delight over joining hands with the BCCI with a promise to share their love for the game with billion fans in the country for the next three years. “As a long-standing partner of BCCI and Team India, Dream11 is thrilled to take our partnership to the next level. At Dream11, we share our love for cricket with a billion Indian cricket fans, and it is a matter of pride and our privilege to become the lead sponsor for the National team. We look forward to continue supporting the Indian sports ecosystem,” Jain said. India set to tour West Indies With the schedule and squads (for Tests and ODIs, so far) already out, the Indian team is set to fly to the Island nation for the 10-match series, including two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. The series begins with the first Test in Dominica on July 12. Here are India’s Test and ODI squads for the West Indies series – India’s Test squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Navdeep Saini India’s ODI squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Surya Kumar Yadav, Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Hardik Pandya (vice-captain), Shardul Thakur, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Mohd. Siraj, Umran Malik, Mukesh Kumar WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

BCCI welcomes Dream11 as lead sponsor for Indian Cricket Team on three-year deal: Board President

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<p>Former India cricketer and coach Lalchand Rajput has backed BCCI’s call to drop seasoned campaigner Cheteshwar Pujara from Test squad for the West Indies series starting July 12.</p>

<p>Following the squads announcement, social media went into a frenzy regarding a few decisions, including the call to overlook India’s number three batter. Instead, the board picked new faces like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad as backups, something Rajput feels is a positive sign.</p>

<p>This decision came on the back of a lacklustre show from Pujara during the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia - the marquee clash that India lost by 209 runs. Though Pujara had spent most of the summer playing in English County for Sussex, the batter with 100-plus Tests experience couldn’t deliver on the big stage.</p>

<p>In a chat with ANI, Lalchand Rajput said this is a positive sign as youngsters need to get drafted in slowly. He added it takes time for youngsters to grow into superstars in today’s fast-paced cricket, and that's why bringing in younger legs is the&nbsp;right move.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-2023-pakistan-to-send-security-delegation-to-india-to-inspect-venues-prior-to-granting-approval-610835">CWC 2023: Pakistan to send security delegation to India to inspect venues prior to granting approval</a></p>

<p>"It is a positive move. We have to prepare for the next WTC cycle. You have to bring in youngsters slowly. You have to groom them, ease them into the rigours of international cricket. Hopefully, more young players will be given chances to represent the country. Ruturaj and Jaiswal have made a lot of runs. It (Giving them Test caps) will boost your bench strength," said Rajput in an interview with ANI.</p>

<p>Lalchand also expressed his views on the domestic giant Sarfaraz Khan, who, despite scoring mountain of runs from past three Ranji seasons, averaging nearly 80, didn’t get a nod for the West Indies series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While earlier, a BCCI source close to the information said reason for not selecting Sarfaraz has less to do with his performance and more with his off-field issues, Lalchand preferred to remain mum on this.</p>

<p>"If he has been making runs but still not getting chances after three years, there must be some reason. I do not know what the reason is, but he should have been given a chance,” Lalchand added.</p>

<h2>Bumrah’s presence will boost India’s chances in WC</h2>

<p>Speaking on India’s chances of winning the home World Cup later this year, he said if Bumrah can attain fitness and remain available for all matches, the probability of India winning will increase. And given the home advantage, they will be hot favourites for the trophy.</p>

<p>"India has the advantage of playing at home. We hope India wins. Our bowling will be better if Bumrah recovers. We will miss him sorely if he is ruled out through injury. He gives you overs early in the game, in the middle and at death and can get you wickets in any phase of the match," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the World Cup 2023 begins on October 5 and will end on November 19.</p>

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Former India cricketer and coach Lalchand Rajput has backed BCCI’s call to drop seasoned campaigner Cheteshwar Pujara from Test squad for the West Indies series starting July 12.

Former India cricketer and coach Lalchand Rajput has backed BCCI’s call to drop seasoned campaigner Cheteshwar Pujara from Test squad for the West Indies series starting July 12. Following the squads announcement, social media went into a frenzy regarding a few decisions, including the call to overlook India’s number three batter. Instead, the board picked new faces like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad as backups, something Rajput feels is a positive sign. This decision came on the back of a lacklustre show from Pujara during the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia - the marquee clash that India lost by 209 runs. Though Pujara had spent most of the summer playing in English County for Sussex, the batter with 100-plus Tests experience couldn’t deliver on the big stage. In a chat with ANI, Lalchand Rajput said this is a positive sign as youngsters need to get drafted in slowly. He added it takes time for youngsters to grow into superstars in today’s fast-paced cricket, and that's why bringing in younger legs is the right move. ALSO READ: CWC 2023: Pakistan to send security delegation to India to inspect venues prior to granting approval "It is a positive move. We have to prepare for the next WTC cycle. You have to bring in youngsters slowly. You have to groom them, ease them into the rigours of international cricket. Hopefully, more young players will be given chances to represent the country. Ruturaj and Jaiswal have made a lot of runs. It (Giving them Test caps) will boost your bench strength," said Rajput in an interview with ANI. Lalchand also expressed his views on the domestic giant Sarfaraz Khan, who, despite scoring mountain of runs from past three Ranji seasons, averaging nearly 80, didn’t get a nod for the West Indies series. While earlier, a BCCI source close to the information said reason for not selecting Sarfaraz has less to do with his performance and more with his off-field issues, Lalchand preferred to remain mum on this. "If he has been making runs but still not getting chances after three years, there must be some reason. I do not know what the reason is, but he should have been given a chance,” Lalchand added. Bumrah’s presence will boost India’s chances in WC Speaking on India’s chances of winning the home World Cup later this year, he said if Bumrah can attain fitness and remain available for all matches, the probability of India winning will increase. And given the home advantage, they will be hot favourites for the trophy. "India has the advantage of playing at home. We hope India wins. Our bowling will be better if Bumrah recovers. We will miss him sorely if he is ruled out through injury. He gives you overs early in the game, in the middle and at death and can get you wickets in any phase of the match," he added. Meanwhile, the World Cup 2023 begins on October 5 and will end on November 19. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WI vs IND 2023: Ex-coach backs BCCI's call to drop Cheteshwar Pujara from Test squad, calls it 'positive move'

<p>On June 23, the BCCI selectors named a 16-man squad for Team India's upcoming two-match Test series versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island, which commences on July 12. After Rohit Sharma-led India's humiliating loss in the WTC final to Australia, some tough decisions were expected to be taken as the axe was certainly going to fall on some senior players.</p>

<p>Thus, Cheteshwar Pujara was dropped as the selectors chose to&nbsp;include&nbsp;plenty of youngsters, such as Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, etc. Recently, former Indian player WV Raman opened up on Pujara's omission and feels he wasn't treated properly by the BCCI selection committee.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking to former Indian opener Aakash Chopra on his Youtube channel, Raman said, "The problem is that they have picked four possible openers, and they have dropped Pujara, which is another bone of contention. A cricketer like Pujara has done a lot for Indian cricket, and he has been instrumental for India winning both at home and abroad on quite a few occasions."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-india-underprepared-for-wtc-final-after-ipl-2023-sourav-ganguly-disagrees-with-the-theory-610581">Was India underprepared for WTC final after IPL 2023? Sourav Ganguly disagrees with the 'theory'</a></strong></p>

<p>Raman -- the former Indian women's team coach -- further opined, "He is a gritty customer. He was even elevated to vice-captaincy quite recently but a failure in the WTC final, he finds that he is left out in the cold. I think this is one decision that has not gone down well with many people, and I, personally, as well, I am not for it."</p>

<p>"He deserves to be treated properly. In the event, if they think it's the end of Pujara, he could have been given a better exit, but that's how things happen sometimes, and this is not the first case again. There are a lot of precedences as far as this kind of treatment is concerned," Raman added.</p>

<p>Pujara, a veteran of 103 Tests, has 7,195&nbsp;runs in the red-ball format. The right-hander has not been at his best in the recently-concluded 2021-23 WTC cycle and his poor returns in the WTC final, where he managed 14 and 27, led to his ouster, with youngsters such as Ruturaj, Ishan Kishan, Jaiswal breathing down his neck.&nbsp;It will be interesting to see if Pujara manages to make a comeback to India's Test line-up.</p>

<p><strong>India's squad for WI Tests:</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (Capt), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (VC), KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin,&nbsp;R Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Navdeep Saini.</p>

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On June 23, the BCCI selectors named a 16-man squad for Team India's upcoming two-match Test series versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island, which commences on July 12.

On June 23, the BCCI selectors named a 16-man squad for Team India's upcoming two-match Test series versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island, which commences on July 12. After Rohit Sharma-led India's humiliating loss in the WTC final to Australia, some tough decisions were expected to be taken as the axe was certainly going to fall on some senior players. Thus, Cheteshwar Pujara was dropped as the selectors chose to include plenty of youngsters, such as Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, etc. Recently, former Indian player WV Raman opened up on Pujara's omission and feels he wasn't treated properly by the BCCI selection committee. Talking to former Indian opener Aakash Chopra on his Youtube channel, Raman said, "The problem is that they have picked four possible openers, and they have dropped Pujara, which is another bone of contention. A cricketer like Pujara has done a lot for Indian cricket, and he has been instrumental for India winning both at home and abroad on quite a few occasions." Also Read: Was India underprepared for WTC final after IPL 2023? Sourav Ganguly disagrees with the 'theory' Raman -- the former Indian women's team coach -- further opined, "He is a gritty customer. He was even elevated to vice-captaincy quite recently but a failure in the WTC final, he finds that he is left out in the cold. I think this is one decision that has not gone down well with many people, and I, personally, as well, I am not for it." "He deserves to be treated properly. In the event, if they think it's the end of Pujara, he could have been given a better exit, but that's how things happen sometimes, and this is not the first case again. There are a lot of precedences as far as this kind of treatment is concerned," Raman added. Pujara, a veteran of 103 Tests, has 7,195 runs in the red-ball format. The right-hander has not been at his best in the recently-concluded 2021-23 WTC cycle and his poor returns in the WTC final, where he managed 14 and 27, led to his ouster, with youngsters such as Ruturaj, Ishan Kishan, Jaiswal breathing down his neck. It will be interesting to see if Pujara manages to make a comeback to India's Test line-up. India's squad for WI Tests: Rohit Sharma (Capt), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (VC), KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Navdeep Saini. 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. ×

'If BCCI selectors think it's the end of him...': Former India player on Pujara's omission from WI Tests

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<p>The wait for the men's chief selector seems to be over as BCCI is likely to appoint former India seamer Ajit Agarkar as the new head of the selection committee, the announcement for which will be made public in July, per the latest reports. After Chetan Sharma’s unceremonious exit from the post in February following a sting operation on him, ex-opener Shiv Sundar Das was leading the panel on an interim basis.</p>

<p>Reports suggest the last date of application for the post of BCCI’s men’s chief selector is June 30, and the interviews for the same will be conducted the following day on 1 July, with Agarkar leading the race to take up the job.</p>

<p>“The CAC has the mandate to pick a selector who can stand up to the high-profile team management in case there are differences,” a BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-lords-test-bruised-david-warner-admits-finding-rhythm-following-handy-knock-on-day-one-609923">Ashes 2023, Lord's Test: 'Bruised' David Warner admits finding rhythm following handy knock on day one</a></p>

<p>Having appointed lesser-known names for the post of the men’s chief selector in the previous two terms, the board is keen on bringing an experienced and well-known face this time. Following India’s exit from the knockout stage in the World T20 edition and with an aim to pick the right squad for the home World Cup later this year, BCCI wants someone with vast experience on his back to handle all of this.</p>

<p>While the former India seamer had earlier interviewed for the post in the past, he never got picked, and this time, with him likely to leave the Delhi Capitals coaching staff following another shallow season in IPL, Agarkar looks like the right man for the job.</p>

<h2>Announcement of women’s team coach on June 30</h2>

<p>Not only will the BCCI interview candidates for the post of men’s chief selector, but the board also sit across the table with applicants for selecting the coach of the women’s team, the announcement of which is likely on Friday, June 30. As per reports, the frontrunners include Amol Muzumdar and Tushar Arothe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Arothe had coached the Indian Team previously, Muzumdar, who had a short stint with Rajasthan Royals in the coaching department lately, will also be present for the interview despite reports of him becoming Baroda’s head coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In December last year, former India spinner Ramesh Powar was removed as the women’s team coach for the second time, and since then Harmanpreet Kaur-led team has been without a permanent coach. Meanwhile, batting coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar, was asked to fill the shoes on a temporary basis during the T20 World Cup earlier.</p>

<p>“The interviews will be conducted on Friday,” a BCCI official told PTI.</p>

<p>While the Indian women’s cricket team is set to tour Bangladesh next month, the men’s team is slated to travel to the Island nation for two Tests, three ODIs and five ODIs, starting July 12.</p>

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The wait for the men's chief selector seems to be over as BCCI is likely to appoint former India seamer Ajit Agarkar as the new head of the selection committee, the announcement for which will be made public in July, per the latest reports.

The wait for the men's chief selector seems to be over as BCCI is likely to appoint former India seamer Ajit Agarkar as the new head of the selection committee, the announcement for which will be made public in July, per the latest reports. After Chetan Sharma’s unceremonious exit from the post in February following a sting operation on him, ex-opener Shiv Sundar Das was leading the panel on an interim basis. Reports suggest the last date of application for the post of BCCI’s men’s chief selector is June 30, and the interviews for the same will be conducted the following day on 1 July, with Agarkar leading the race to take up the job. “The CAC has the mandate to pick a selector who can stand up to the high-profile team management in case there are differences,” a BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity. ALSO READ: Ashes 2023, Lord's Test: 'Bruised' David Warner admits finding rhythm following handy knock on day one Having appointed lesser-known names for the post of the men’s chief selector in the previous two terms, the board is keen on bringing an experienced and well-known face this time. Following India’s exit from the knockout stage in the World T20 edition and with an aim to pick the right squad for the home World Cup later this year, BCCI wants someone with vast experience on his back to handle all of this. While the former India seamer had earlier interviewed for the post in the past, he never got picked, and this time, with him likely to leave the Delhi Capitals coaching staff following another shallow season in IPL, Agarkar looks like the right man for the job. Announcement of women’s team coach on June 30 Not only will the BCCI interview candidates for the post of men’s chief selector, but the board also sit across the table with applicants for selecting the coach of the women’s team, the announcement of which is likely on Friday, June 30. As per reports, the frontrunners include Amol Muzumdar and Tushar Arothe. While Arothe had coached the Indian Team previously, Muzumdar, who had a short stint with Rajasthan Royals in the coaching department lately, will also be present for the interview despite reports of him becoming Baroda’s head coach. In December last year, former India spinner Ramesh Powar was removed as the women’s team coach for the second time, and since then Harmanpreet Kaur-led team has been without a permanent coach. Meanwhile, batting coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar, was asked to fill the shoes on a temporary basis during the T20 World Cup earlier. “The interviews will be conducted on Friday,” a BCCI official told PTI. While the Indian women’s cricket team is set to tour Bangladesh next month, the men’s team is slated to travel to the Island nation for two Tests, three ODIs and five ODIs, starting July 12. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

BCCI likely to appoint Ajit Agarkar as new chief selector, women's team coach announcement June 30

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<p>While form, performances and fitness are among the few factors considered for selection in Indian cricket, parameters like a breach of the code of conduct in several cases are taken into account too. However, this latter point is believed to have played a role in deciding the future of a few players for the upcoming T20I series against West Indies.</p>

<p>Per the latest reports, a ‘few’ of the IPL-bound players breached the BCCI’s code of conduct, some on disciplinary grounds on more than one occasion during IPL 2023. According to reliable sources, four players from North-based franchises were reported to the board for crossing the line, something BCCI is happy to take note of.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-cwc23-from-inr-40000-to-1-lakhnight-surge-in-hotel-prices-on-match-day-in-ahmedabad-610016">India vs Pakistan, CWC'23: From INR 40,000 to 1 lakh/night, surge in hotel prices on match day in Ahmedabad</a></p>

<p>The decision-makers on the board acknowledge that these breaches didn’t go unnoticed. Meanwhile, it’s worth noting that outside of India’s premier T20 league, these four players represent North and West Zones in the domestic circuit.</p>

<p>As first reported by Cricbuzz, the owner of one of these franchises admitted to knowing about some team players breaching the IPL player code during the recently-concluded IPL 2023 and subsequently reported the same to the Indian board. The unnamed person here also disclosed that those players violated the conduct on at least four counts.</p>

<p>As per further reports, these players are young and have achieved high scores in the domestic structure.</p>

<p>"When I became aware of the situation, I was deeply upset and immediately reported the matter to the BCCI. The Integrity Officer also took the breach very seriously and fulfilled his obligations," the owner of the team shared with Cricbuzz.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The owner, however, further confirmed that appropriate measures were taken against these players at the franchise level.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the report also states the breaches involved disciplinary issues and curfew violations rather than corruption-related matters. Also, it is to be noted some of the players reported to the board are in contention for a place in India’s T20 squad for the West Indies series.</p>

<h2>India to begin new WTC cycle with WI series</h2>

<p>After losing the WTC Final for the second straight occasion, this time to Australia by 209 runs in England, the Rohit Sharma-led team will now travel to the Island nation for a ten-match series, including two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the squads for the Tests and ODIs were announced, BCCI is yet to finalise the team for T20Is.&nbsp;</p>

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While form, performances and fitness are among the few factors considered for selection in Indian cricket, parameters like a breach of the code of conduct in several cases are taken into account too.

While form, performances and fitness are among the few factors considered for selection in Indian cricket, parameters like a breach of the code of conduct in several cases are taken into account too. However, this latter point is believed to have played a role in deciding the future of a few players for the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. Per the latest reports, a ‘few’ of the IPL-bound players breached the BCCI’s code of conduct, some on disciplinary grounds on more than one occasion during IPL 2023. According to reliable sources, four players from North-based franchises were reported to the board for crossing the line, something BCCI is happy to take note of. ALSO READ: India vs Pakistan, CWC'23: From INR 40,000 to 1 lakh/night, surge in hotel prices on match day in Ahmedabad The decision-makers on the board acknowledge that these breaches didn’t go unnoticed. Meanwhile, it’s worth noting that outside of India’s premier T20 league, these four players represent North and West Zones in the domestic circuit. As first reported by Cricbuzz, the owner of one of these franchises admitted to knowing about some team players breaching the IPL player code during the recently-concluded IPL 2023 and subsequently reported the same to the Indian board. The unnamed person here also disclosed that those players violated the conduct on at least four counts. As per further reports, these players are young and have achieved high scores in the domestic structure. "When I became aware of the situation, I was deeply upset and immediately reported the matter to the BCCI. The Integrity Officer also took the breach very seriously and fulfilled his obligations," the owner of the team shared with Cricbuzz. The owner, however, further confirmed that appropriate measures were taken against these players at the franchise level. Meanwhile, the report also states the breaches involved disciplinary issues and curfew violations rather than corruption-related matters. Also, it is to be noted some of the players reported to the board are in contention for a place in India’s T20 squad for the West Indies series. India to begin new WTC cycle with WI series After losing the WTC Final for the second straight occasion, this time to Australia by 209 runs in England, the Rohit Sharma-led team will now travel to the Island nation for a ten-match series, including two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. While the squads for the Tests and ODIs were announced, BCCI is yet to finalise the team for T20Is. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Improve code of conduct or face axe, BCCI's stance on 'few' IPL-bound players over disciplinary complaints

<p>Jasprit Bumrah has been out of cricketing action since September 2022. He was part of India's home T20Is versus Australia, before the T20 World Cup, where his back injury recurred and, hence, he missed the remainder of 2022. Bumrah has missed all the cricketing series in 2023 as well and is now racing against time to recover ahead of Team India's ODI World Cup campaign, to be held in October-November this year on home soil.</p>

<p>As per a report in news agency PTI, Bumrah is recovering slowly and steadily and is now bowling seven overs per day at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Earlier, it was reported that Bumrah is eyeing to make his international comeback during India's three T20Is versus Ireland, in Dublin, in August before the Asia Cup. Nonetheless,&nbsp;nothing is known regarding the exact timeline for his comeback.</p>

<h2><strong>Bumrah is bowling seven overs per day at NCA</strong></h2>

<p>A source tracking Bumrah's development told PTI, "For an injury of this nature, it is not wise to set any timeline as constant monitoring is necessary. But it can be said that Bumrah is recovering well and he has bowled seven overs at NCA nets. It is a steady increase in his workload from the light workouts and bowling sessions of the initial period. He will play a few practice matches (at NCA) next month, and there will be a close assessment of his fitness then."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-it-be-curtains-for-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-after-2023-odi-world-cup-sourav-ganguly-shares-his-take-609569">Will it be curtains for Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma after 2023 ODI World Cup? Sourav Ganguly shares his take</a></strong></p>

<p>"He should not be hurried. Playing practice matches at the NCA is a good step as it will help tune his body to the demands of a match. But he should be made to play in some actual (domestic) matches before bringing him to top level cricket. The demands of international cricket are different and the body should be absolutely ready to take that amount of workload. Recovering from stress fracture is a delicate exercise and Bumrah should be allowed maximum recovery time," he told the news agency.</p>

<p>At present, Rohit Sharma-led India have been dented with injury concerns. The likes of Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul are recovering from their respective injuries. India open their campaign in the forthcoming ODI World Cup on October 08 versus Australia, in Chennai, whereas defending champions England will lock horns with New Zealand in the tournament opener in Ahmedabad on October 05.</p>

<p>India face Pakistan on October 15 in Ahmedabad whereas Mumbai and Kolkata will host the two semi-finals, respectively. Ahmedabad will host the final on November 19.</p>

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Jasprit Bumrah has been out of cricketing action since September 2022. He was part of India's home T20Is versus Australia, before the T20 World Cup, where his back injury recurred and, hence, he missed the remainder of 2022.

Jasprit Bumrah has been out of cricketing action since September 2022. He was part of India's home T20Is versus Australia, before the T20 World Cup, where his back injury recurred and, hence, he missed the remainder of 2022. Bumrah has missed all the cricketing series in 2023 as well and is now racing against time to recover ahead of Team India's ODI World Cup campaign, to be held in October-November this year on home soil. As per a report in news agency PTI, Bumrah is recovering slowly and steadily and is now bowling seven overs per day at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Earlier, it was reported that Bumrah is eyeing to make his international comeback during India's three T20Is versus Ireland, in Dublin, in August before the Asia Cup. Nonetheless, nothing is known regarding the exact timeline for his comeback. Bumrah is bowling seven overs per day at NCA A source tracking Bumrah's development told PTI, "For an injury of this nature, it is not wise to set any timeline as constant monitoring is necessary. But it can be said that Bumrah is recovering well and he has bowled seven overs at NCA nets. It is a steady increase in his workload from the light workouts and bowling sessions of the initial period. He will play a few practice matches (at NCA) next month, and there will be a close assessment of his fitness then." Also Read: Will it be curtains for Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma after 2023 ODI World Cup? Sourav Ganguly shares his take "He should not be hurried. Playing practice matches at the NCA is a good step as it will help tune his body to the demands of a match. But he should be made to play in some actual (domestic) matches before bringing him to top level cricket. The demands of international cricket are different and the body should be absolutely ready to take that amount of workload. Recovering from stress fracture is a delicate exercise and Bumrah should be allowed maximum recovery time," he told the news agency. At present, Rohit Sharma-led India have been dented with injury concerns. The likes of Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul are recovering from their respective injuries. India open their campaign in the forthcoming ODI World Cup on October 08 versus Australia, in Chennai, whereas defending champions England will lock horns with New Zealand in the tournament opener in Ahmedabad on October 05. India face Pakistan on October 15 in Ahmedabad whereas Mumbai and Kolkata will host the two semi-finals, respectively. Ahmedabad will host the final on November 19. 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. ×

Jasprit Bumrah starts bowling as Team India pacer eyes return ahead of ODI World Cup: Report

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Tuesday (June 27), released the full schedule of the upcoming ODI World Cup, to be held in India later this year. As soon as the schedule got revealed, former cricketers and experts shared their take on it, predicted the top four, etc. Talking about Team India, the home side will kick off their campaign versus Australia, in Chennai, on October 08 with the tournament opener to be held on October 05, in Ahmedabad, between defending champions England and New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, India have plenty of their star cricketers recovering from injuries -- such as Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer. Nonetheless, India still have a lot of firepower in their line-up with stars including captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, etc. The two-time winners will hope to get off to a fine start in the ten-team tournament and go the distance with an aim to win the ODI World Cup after 2011, when MS Dhoni-led India won the championship on home soil.</p>

<p>Rohit, at 36, and Kohli -- who is 34 -- are in the twilight of their respective careers and, thus, the 2023 ODI WC is expected to be their last in the showpiece event or overall. In this regard, it is expected that the rest of the team will gear up to give their all for the superstar duo Rohit and Kohli. Sourav Ganguly, India's former captain and BCCI President, shared his take on Rohit and Kohli's future after the schedule announcement.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-he-was-playing-wouldve-said-india-are-real-favourites-for-odi-wc-former-indian-opener-on-star-player-609533">If he was playing, would've said India are real favourites for ODI WC: Former Indian opener on star player</a></strong></p>

<p>"I don't believe too much in last time, first time. I believe in performances. I think they are 34-35, I don't know what's going to happen in the next World Cup. There are world tournaments every year - T20 cricket, 50-over cricket. It's not like as in the past when we started - one every four years and then the Champions Trophy came in. So it's about performances and I am sure Rohit as captain and Virat will be wanting to make it a big one not from a personal point of view but from winning it. I think that's the biggest," Ganguly told&nbsp;<i>Star Sports.</i></p>

<p>Rohit and Kohli have been the backbone of Team India's batting order across formats for over a decade. The two will be desperate to lead the charge once again and take India to the title later this year in the ODI WC.&nbsp;</p>

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The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Tuesday (June 27), released the full schedule of the upcoming ODI World Cup, to be held in India later this year. As soon as the schedule got revealed, former cricketers and experts shared their take on it, predicted the top four, etc.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Tuesday (June 27), released the full schedule of the upcoming ODI World Cup, to be held in India later this year. As soon as the schedule got revealed, former cricketers and experts shared their take on it, predicted the top four, etc. Talking about Team India, the home side will kick off their campaign versus Australia, in Chennai, on October 08 with the tournament opener to be held on October 05, in Ahmedabad, between defending champions England and New Zealand. At present, India have plenty of their star cricketers recovering from injuries -- such as Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer. Nonetheless, India still have a lot of firepower in their line-up with stars including captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, etc. The two-time winners will hope to get off to a fine start in the ten-team tournament and go the distance with an aim to win the ODI World Cup after 2011, when MS Dhoni-led India won the championship on home soil. Rohit, at 36, and Kohli -- who is 34 -- are in the twilight of their respective careers and, thus, the 2023 ODI WC is expected to be their last in the showpiece event or overall. In this regard, it is expected that the rest of the team will gear up to give their all for the superstar duo Rohit and Kohli. Sourav Ganguly, India's former captain and BCCI President, shared his take on Rohit and Kohli's future after the schedule announcement. Also Read: If he was playing, would've said India are real favourites for ODI WC: Former Indian opener on star player "I don't believe too much in last time, first time. I believe in performances. I think they are 34-35, I don't know what's going to happen in the next World Cup. There are world tournaments every year - T20 cricket, 50-over cricket. It's not like as in the past when we started - one every four years and then the Champions Trophy came in. So it's about performances and I am sure Rohit as captain and Virat will be wanting to make it a big one not from a personal point of view but from winning it. I think that's the biggest," Ganguly told Star Sports. Rohit and Kohli have been the backbone of Team India's batting order across formats for over a decade. The two will be desperate to lead the charge once again and take India to the title later this year in the ODI WC. 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. ×

Will it be curtains for Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma after 2023 ODI World Cup? Sourav Ganguly shares his take

<p>On Tuesday (June 27), the International Cricket Council (ICC) released the much-awaited full schedule of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition, to be held in India in October-November. Defending champions England will open their campaign versus New Zealand whereas hosts India will face Australia, in Chennai, on October 08 in their opening encounter. After the schedule was out, former cricketers and experts opined on every team's chances and Kris Srikkanth, part of Kapil Dev-led India's 1983 ODI World Cup win, made a big statement.</p>

<p>Srikkanth believes India will miss Rishabh Pant's services, who is unlikely to regain full fitness after a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. "We don't know the real truth about Rishabh Pant. Because Rishabh Pant, if he was playing, I would have straightaway said that India are the real favourites for the World Cup. But I think obviously, Rishabh Pant's fitness is questionable. Nobody knows how fit will he be before the World Cup. I doubt it. Many people doubt if he will play the 2023 World Cup. Otherwise, the Rishabh Pant factor would have been very crucial," said Srikkanth while speaking to India Today.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nothing-bigger-than-odi-world-cup-it-is-the-olympics-of-cricket-says-former-indian-opener-virender-sehwag-609316">Nothing bigger than ODI World Cup, it is the Olympics of cricket, says former Indian opener Virender Sehwag</a></strong></p>

<p>However, Srikkanth was quick to add that Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue have enough firepower to go the distance in the showpiece event in India. "So I believe guys like KL Rahul (who is recovering from a thigh injury) should be back in the middle order. KL Rahul has been fantastic. We have Rohit Sharma opening with Shubman Gill. Then we have Virat Kohli, who has been fantastic in this format and he has been in form. I believe India has got the capabilities of winning the World Cup," said Srikkanth.</p>

<p>At present, Indian players such as Pant, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer and Jasprit Bumrah are recovering from their respective injuries. While Pant is very much out of contention, as India would certainly not risk playing him soon even if he recovers fully, Rahul, Iyer and Bumrah are expected to regain fitness just before the ODI WC. In such a scenario, India will be in a tough spot as the trio won't be having enough game time heading into the World Cup.</p>

<p>India will open their campaign versus Australia, face Pakistan on October 15 in Ahmedabad, New Zealand on October 22 in Dharamshala, England on October 29 in Lucknow and South Africa on November 05 in Kolkata apart from also facing Afghanistan, Bangladesh and the other two teams from the qualifiers.</p>

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On Tuesday (June 27), the International Cricket Council (ICC) released the much-awaited full schedule of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition, to be held in India in October-November.

On Tuesday (June 27), the International Cricket Council (ICC) released the much-awaited full schedule of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition, to be held in India in October-November. Defending champions England will open their campaign versus New Zealand whereas hosts India will face Australia, in Chennai, on October 08 in their opening encounter. After the schedule was out, former cricketers and experts opined on every team's chances and Kris Srikkanth, part of Kapil Dev-led India's 1983 ODI World Cup win, made a big statement. Srikkanth believes India will miss Rishabh Pant's services, who is unlikely to regain full fitness after a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. "We don't know the real truth about Rishabh Pant. Because Rishabh Pant, if he was playing, I would have straightaway said that India are the real favourites for the World Cup. But I think obviously, Rishabh Pant's fitness is questionable. Nobody knows how fit will he be before the World Cup. I doubt it. Many people doubt if he will play the 2023 World Cup. Otherwise, the Rishabh Pant factor would have been very crucial," said Srikkanth while speaking to India Today. Also Read: Nothing bigger than ODI World Cup, it is the Olympics of cricket, says former Indian opener Virender Sehwag However, Srikkanth was quick to add that Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue have enough firepower to go the distance in the showpiece event in India. "So I believe guys like KL Rahul (who is recovering from a thigh injury) should be back in the middle order. KL Rahul has been fantastic. We have Rohit Sharma opening with Shubman Gill. Then we have Virat Kohli, who has been fantastic in this format and he has been in form. I believe India has got the capabilities of winning the World Cup," said Srikkanth. At present, Indian players such as Pant, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer and Jasprit Bumrah are recovering from their respective injuries. While Pant is very much out of contention, as India would certainly not risk playing him soon even if he recovers fully, Rahul, Iyer and Bumrah are expected to regain fitness just before the ODI WC. In such a scenario, India will be in a tough spot as the trio won't be having enough game time heading into the World Cup. India will open their campaign versus Australia, face Pakistan on October 15 in Ahmedabad, New Zealand on October 22 in Dharamshala, England on October 29 in Lucknow and South Africa on November 05 in Kolkata apart from also facing Afghanistan, Bangladesh and the other two teams from the qualifiers. 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. ×

If he was playing, would've said India are real favourites for ODI WC: Former Indian opener on star player

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Tuesday (June 27), released the full schedule of the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 edition, to be held in India in October-November. Defending champions England will kick off the ten-team showpiece event by facing New Zealand in the tournament opener on October 05 in Ahmedabad, whereas hosts India will clash with Australia in their tournament opener on October 08 in Chennai. Meanwhile, India and Pakistan will lock horns at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on October 15.</p>

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India will be looking to end their ten-year-long ICC title drought with a win in the ODI World Cup. They have a herculean task as India will play all their games at nine different venues. Speaking at the launch event on Tuesday, Virender Sehwag -- former Indian opener and 2011 ODI World Cup winner -- spoke at length about the 50-over mega event and called it the 'Olympics of cricket'.</p>

<h2><strong>'Nothing bigger than the World Cup'</strong></h2>

<p>Sehwag said, "For me, the World Cup is the best moment. I have reached the final once, won it once and crashed out without qualifying. So the journey has been up and down."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-india-vs-pakistan-muttiah-muralitharan-names-the-match-he-is-looking-forward-to-in-odi-world-cup-609271">Not India vs Pakistan! Muttiah Muralitharan names the match he is looking forward to in ODI World Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>"The best were certainly 2003 and 2011, which we won. Everyone was telling us, you have to win and we were like the host nation had never won it. If you score 500-600 runs in a bilateral series, no one will remember it. But if you contribute 300 odd runs in the World Cup or pick up 10 wickets and you win the crown, that will be remembered throughout your lifetime. Dhoni's six, Kapil Dev's 175, still gives us goosebumps. There is nothing bigger than the World Cup, it is the Olympics of Cricket," he opined.</p>

<p>"Because representing India in the Olympics is a big thing, but if you win a medal there, it is widely celebrated in the country. No one might know the athlete before they go to the Olympics, but once they come back after winning, the whole country applauds them. So when we won the World Cup, the fans were on the roads celebrating," Sehwag added.</p>

<p>Sehwag was part of MS Dhoni-led India's historic triumph in the 2011 ODI WC. Back then, India defeated the likes of Australia, Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh, Netherlands, Ireland and Sri Lanka -- in the final -- to lift the coveted title. The former Indian opener returned with 380 runs, including a best of 175.</p>

<p>India will be eager to replicate their 2011 ODI WC success this time around as well. The semi-finals will take place in Mumbai and Kolkata whereas Ahmedabad will host the final on November 19.&nbsp;</p>

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The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Tuesday (June 27), released the full schedule of the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 edition, to be held in India in October-November.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Tuesday (June 27), released the full schedule of the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 edition, to be held in India in October-November. Defending champions England will kick off the ten-team showpiece event by facing New Zealand in the tournament opener on October 05 in Ahmedabad, whereas hosts India will clash with Australia in their tournament opener on October 08 in Chennai. Meanwhile, India and Pakistan will lock horns at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on October 15. Rohit Sharma-led India will be looking to end their ten-year-long ICC title drought with a win in the ODI World Cup. They have a herculean task as India will play all their games at nine different venues. Speaking at the launch event on Tuesday, Virender Sehwag -- former Indian opener and 2011 ODI World Cup winner -- spoke at length about the 50-over mega event and called it the 'Olympics of cricket'. 'Nothing bigger than the World Cup' Sehwag said, "For me, the World Cup is the best moment. I have reached the final once, won it once and crashed out without qualifying. So the journey has been up and down." Also Read: Not India vs Pakistan! Muttiah Muralitharan names the match he is looking forward to in ODI World Cup "The best were certainly 2003 and 2011, which we won. Everyone was telling us, you have to win and we were like the host nation had never won it. If you score 500-600 runs in a bilateral series, no one will remember it. But if you contribute 300 odd runs in the World Cup or pick up 10 wickets and you win the crown, that will be remembered throughout your lifetime. Dhoni's six, Kapil Dev's 175, still gives us goosebumps. There is nothing bigger than the World Cup, it is the Olympics of Cricket," he opined. "Because representing India in the Olympics is a big thing, but if you win a medal there, it is widely celebrated in the country. No one might know the athlete before they go to the Olympics, but once they come back after winning, the whole country applauds them. So when we won the World Cup, the fans were on the roads celebrating," Sehwag added. Sehwag was part of MS Dhoni-led India's historic triumph in the 2011 ODI WC. Back then, India defeated the likes of Australia, Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh, Netherlands, Ireland and Sri Lanka -- in the final -- to lift the coveted title. The former Indian opener returned with 380 runs, including a best of 175. India will be eager to replicate their 2011 ODI WC success this time around as well. The semi-finals will take place in Mumbai and Kolkata whereas Ahmedabad will host the final on November 19. 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. ×

Nothing bigger than ODI World Cup, it is the Olympics of cricket, says former Indian opener Virender Sehwag

<p>The International Cricket Council, on Tuesday (June 27), announced the full schedule of the ODI World Cup 2023 edition, which will be held in India in October-November. After a long delay, the schedule was revealed and it has created a huge stir on social media platforms and in the cricketing fraternity. Defending champions England will take on the last edition's runners-up New Zealand in Ahmedabad on October 05, whereas India will open their campaign versus Australia in Chennai on October 08.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will take on arch-rivals Pakistan on October 15 at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium&nbsp;in Ahmedabad. By all means, it will be the biggest clash of the World Cup. Apart from the Indo-Pak face-off, the cricketing fraternity will also await the battle between England-Australia, New Zealand-Australia, Australia-South Africa, Pakistan-Bangladesh, etc. For Muttiah Muralitharan, he is looking forward to India's face-off versus England in Lucknow on October 29.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I am looking forward to India vs England. India are one of the favourites because they are playing at home and they know how to win in India. This is going to be a very interesting match and I want to watch it,” Muralitharan was quoted as saying to Star Sports.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-would-want-to-win-2023-odi-world-cup-for-virat-kohli-says-virender-sehwag-as-icc-shares-full-schedule-609226">India would want to win 2023 ODI World Cup for Virat Kohli, says Virender Sehwag as ICC shares full schedule</a></strong></p>

<p>In the 2019 ODI World Cup, India and England locked horns at&nbsp;Edgbaston, Birmingham where Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. beat Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue by 31 runs in a high-scoring contest. The last time India co-hosted the World Cup in 2011, both sides met in a memorable game which ended in a tie. It will be interesting to see which side ends on top this time around in the upcoming edition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will open their campaign versus England in their first warm-up game on September 30 whereas they will play Qualifier 2 in their second and last warm-up game, on October 03. The two-time winners will open their campaign in the main draw versus Australia in Chennai on October 08 and then play Afghanistan on October 11 (in New Delhi), Pakistan on October 15 (in Ahmedabad), Bangladesh in Pune on October 19, New Zealand on October 22 in Dharamshala, England on October 29 in Lucknow, Qualifier 2 on November 02 in Mumbai, South Africa on November 05 and Qualifier 1 in Bengaluru.</p>

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The International Cricket Council, on Tuesday (June 27), announced the full schedule of the ODI World Cup 2023 edition, which will be held in India in October-November.

The International Cricket Council, on Tuesday (June 27), announced the full schedule of the ODI World Cup 2023 edition, which will be held in India in October-November. After a long delay, the schedule was revealed and it has created a huge stir on social media platforms and in the cricketing fraternity. Defending champions England will take on the last edition's runners-up New Zealand in Ahmedabad on October 05, whereas India will open their campaign versus Australia in Chennai on October 08. India will take on arch-rivals Pakistan on October 15 at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. By all means, it will be the biggest clash of the World Cup. Apart from the Indo-Pak face-off, the cricketing fraternity will also await the battle between England-Australia, New Zealand-Australia, Australia-South Africa, Pakistan-Bangladesh, etc. For Muttiah Muralitharan, he is looking forward to India's face-off versus England in Lucknow on October 29. “I am looking forward to India vs England. India are one of the favourites because they are playing at home and they know how to win in India. This is going to be a very interesting match and I want to watch it,” Muralitharan was quoted as saying to Star Sports. Also Read: India would want to win 2023 ODI World Cup for Virat Kohli, says Virender Sehwag as ICC shares full schedule In the 2019 ODI World Cup, India and England locked horns at Edgbaston, Birmingham where Eoin Morgan & Co. beat Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue by 31 runs in a high-scoring contest. The last time India co-hosted the World Cup in 2011, both sides met in a memorable game which ended in a tie. It will be interesting to see which side ends on top this time around in the upcoming edition. India will open their campaign versus England in their first warm-up game on September 30 whereas they will play Qualifier 2 in their second and last warm-up game, on October 03. The two-time winners will open their campaign in the main draw versus Australia in Chennai on October 08 and then play Afghanistan on October 11 (in New Delhi), Pakistan on October 15 (in Ahmedabad), Bangladesh in Pune on October 19, New Zealand on October 22 in Dharamshala, England on October 29 in Lucknow, Qualifier 2 on November 02 in Mumbai, South Africa on November 05 and Qualifier 1 in Bengaluru. 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. ×

Not India vs Pakistan! Muttiah Muralitharan names the match he is looking forward to in ODI World Cup

<p>On Tuesday (June 27), the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the much-awaited full schedule of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition, set to be held in India in October-November. India, under Rohit Sharma, will open their campaign versus Australia on October 08&nbsp;and aim to go the distance in the mega event and end their ten-year-long ICC title drought. After the schedule was announced, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag said that Team India will be eager to win it for Virat Kohli, who is in the twilight of his illustrious career.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India won the 2011 ODI World Cup, co-hosted by India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, under MS Dhoni. Back then, the players were motivated to give a fitting farewell to Sachin Tendulkar, who was playing his last 50-over World Cup. As the forthcoming World Cup is expected to be the last for Kohli, Sehwag feels India will be motivated to replicate the same for King Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Everybody will look to win the World Cup for Virat Kohli'</strong></h2>

<p>"We played that World Cup for Tendulkar. We won the World Cup for Sachin paaji. Virat Kohli is the same now. Everybody will look to win the World Cup for him. He always gives more than 100 per cent," Sehwag told Star Sports.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-announces-odi-wc-schedule-england-to-face-nz-in-opener-india-pakistan-in-ahmedabad-on-october-15-609132">ICC announces ODI WC schedule, England to face NZ in opener; India-Pakistan in Ahmedabad on October 15</a></strong></p>

<p>"I think Virat Kohli is also looking to this World Cup. 100,000 people will watch you at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Virat knows how the pitches will behave. I am sure he will score a lot of runs and he will do his best to win the World Cup for India," the former Indian opener added.</p>

<p>Sehwag was part of Dhoni-led India's winning run in the 2011 edition&nbsp;where the Men in Blue beat Sri Lanka by six wickets in the tournament finale to win the trophy for the second time in the country's history.</p>

<p>India will lock horns with Australia in Chennai on October 08 in their tournament opener. They will play Pakistan on October 15, in Ahmedabad, whereas the tournament opener will take place between the last edition's finalists England and New Zealand on October 05&nbsp;at the same venue. The semi-finals will be hosted by Mumbai and Kolkata, respectively, whereas Ahmedabad will host the summit clash on November 19.&nbsp;</p>

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On Tuesday (June 27), the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the much-awaited full schedule of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition, set to be held in India in October-November.

On Tuesday (June 27), the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the much-awaited full schedule of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition, set to be held in India in October-November. India, under Rohit Sharma, will open their campaign versus Australia on October 08 and aim to go the distance in the mega event and end their ten-year-long ICC title drought. After the schedule was announced, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag said that Team India will be eager to win it for Virat Kohli, who is in the twilight of his illustrious career. India won the 2011 ODI World Cup, co-hosted by India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, under MS Dhoni. Back then, the players were motivated to give a fitting farewell to Sachin Tendulkar, who was playing his last 50-over World Cup. As the forthcoming World Cup is expected to be the last for Kohli, Sehwag feels India will be motivated to replicate the same for King Kohli. 'Everybody will look to win the World Cup for Virat Kohli' "We played that World Cup for Tendulkar. We won the World Cup for Sachin paaji. Virat Kohli is the same now. Everybody will look to win the World Cup for him. He always gives more than 100 per cent," Sehwag told Star Sports. Also Read: ICC announces ODI WC schedule, England to face NZ in opener; India-Pakistan in Ahmedabad on October 15 "I think Virat Kohli is also looking to this World Cup. 100,000 people will watch you at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Virat knows how the pitches will behave. I am sure he will score a lot of runs and he will do his best to win the World Cup for India," the former Indian opener added. Sehwag was part of Dhoni-led India's winning run in the 2011 edition where the Men in Blue beat Sri Lanka by six wickets in the tournament finale to win the trophy for the second time in the country's history. India will lock horns with Australia in Chennai on October 08 in their tournament opener. They will play Pakistan on October 15, in Ahmedabad, whereas the tournament opener will take place between the last edition's finalists England and New Zealand on October 05 at the same venue. The semi-finals will be hosted by Mumbai and Kolkata, respectively, whereas Ahmedabad will host the summit clash on November 19. 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. ×

India would want to win 2023 ODI World Cup for Virat Kohli, says Virender Sehwag as ICC shares full schedule

<p>On Friday (June 23), the BCCI selection committee named India's squads&nbsp;for their two-match Test series and three ODIs versus West Indies as the tour commences next month in the Caribbean. Rohit Sharma retained captaincy of the 16-man Test squad, despite criticism after India's WTC final loss, whereas Ajinkya Rahane regained the vice-captaincy post.</p>

<p>Rahane served as Virat Kohli's deputy in whites for a long time and even led the team with aplomb in his absence before losing the post in late 2021. Soon, he even lost his spot before making his comeback during the WTC finale versus Australia early this month, where he returned with a sublime 89 and 46. With injuries to Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, Rahane once again got the vice-captaincy back and Little Master Sunil Gavaskar reacted to the same.</p>

<p>Gavaskar said there is 'nothing wrong' in Rahane regaining vice-captaincy but feels there was an opportunity lost to name a youngster as Rohit's deputy for the Windies tour. Talking to Sports Today, he said, "There is nothing wrong in having him [Ajinkya Rahane] as the vice-captain, but a missed opportunity to groom a young player. At least, tell a young player that we are looking at you as a future captain. So, he starts to think as a future leader."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-james-anderson-nathan-lyon-throw-ceremonial-pitches-during-mlb-london-game-watch-608671">Ashes 2023: James Anderson, Nathan Lyon throw ceremonial pitches during MLB London game - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'One is Shubman Gill and the other is....'</strong></h2>

<p>Further, Gavaskar named three youngsters who can lead India in whites going forward. "One is Shubman Gill and the other is Axar Patel [as future captains] because Axar comes in leaps and bounds, he just gets better every match. Giving him the responsibility as vice-captain will make them think. So, these are the two candidates in my view. If there are others, somebody like Ishan Kishan, once he cements his place in the team. He can come in the reckoning as well," the veteran added.</p>

<p>India's tour of West Indies kicks off on July 12, comprising two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is.</p>

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On Friday (June 23), the BCCI selection committee named India's squads for their two-match Test series and three ODIs versus West Indies as the tour commences next month in the Caribbean.

On Friday (June 23), the BCCI selection committee named India's squads for their two-match Test series and three ODIs versus West Indies as the tour commences next month in the Caribbean. Rohit Sharma retained captaincy of the 16-man Test squad, despite criticism after India's WTC final loss, whereas Ajinkya Rahane regained the vice-captaincy post. Rahane served as Virat Kohli's deputy in whites for a long time and even led the team with aplomb in his absence before losing the post in late 2021. Soon, he even lost his spot before making his comeback during the WTC finale versus Australia early this month, where he returned with a sublime 89 and 46. With injuries to Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, Rahane once again got the vice-captaincy back and Little Master Sunil Gavaskar reacted to the same. Gavaskar said there is 'nothing wrong' in Rahane regaining vice-captaincy but feels there was an opportunity lost to name a youngster as Rohit's deputy for the Windies tour. Talking to Sports Today, he said, "There is nothing wrong in having him [Ajinkya Rahane] as the vice-captain, but a missed opportunity to groom a young player. At least, tell a young player that we are looking at you as a future captain. So, he starts to think as a future leader." Also Read: Ashes 2023: James Anderson, Nathan Lyon throw ceremonial pitches during MLB London game - WATCH 'One is Shubman Gill and the other is....' Further, Gavaskar named three youngsters who can lead India in whites going forward. "One is Shubman Gill and the other is Axar Patel [as future captains] because Axar comes in leaps and bounds, he just gets better every match. Giving him the responsibility as vice-captain will make them think. So, these are the two candidates in my view. If there are others, somebody like Ishan Kishan, once he cements his place in the team. He can come in the reckoning as well," the veteran added. India's tour of West Indies kicks off on July 12, comprising two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. 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. ×

Gavaskar opines on Rahane regaining vice-captaincy, suggests three names as India's next Test skipper

<p>With World Cup 2023 set to begin in around three months, the absence of star players continues to haunt Team India. Shreyas Iyer’s back pain is said to be troubling him again as the middle-order batter is unlikely to get fit in time for the Asia Cup 2023, scheduled from August 31 to September 17.</p>

<p>Having last played a competitive game back in March during the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar series in Ahmedabad, Iyer missed all the action since, including the ODI series against Australia, the IPL 2023 for Kolkata Knight Riders and the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval.</p>

<p>Although Ajinkya Rahane filled his shoes in the one-off Test, scoring 89 and 46 in two innings, Iyer’s absence was felt as India failed to win the Test title for the second straight time.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Iyer underwent back surgery in London and continues to undergo physiotherapy at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. As per the source close to the information, Iyer is still dealing with back pain, while his chances of getting fit in time for the multi-team tournament, co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka this time, look bleak.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-getting-ignored-because-of-cricketing-reasons-bcci-officials-on-sarfarazs-absence-from-wi-tour-608593">'He is not getting ignored because of cricketing reasons..': BCCI official on Sarfaraz Khan's non-selection</a></p>

<p>“Iyer recently took an injection for his back pain at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy. His back is still giving him trouble,” a source told the Times of India (TOI).</p>

<h2>Road ahead looks rough for Iyer</h2>

<p>After a brilliant 2022 with the bat in ODIs, wherein he scored 724 runs from 15 innings, Iyer shined in the away two-match Test series against Bangladesh later last year; but again missed the home New Zealand series due to a reoccurrence of pain in his back. Though he missed the first Test against Australia in Nagpur for the same reason, Iyer returned for the remaining three Tests. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Even for forthcoming India’s tour of the West Indies, which begins with the first of the two Tests on July 12 in Dominica, Ajinkya Rahane has retained his place, while Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal are picked as backups.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As selectors continue to ignore Sarfaraz Khan for the middle-order spot in Tests despite his gigantic numbers in the past three years in Ranji Trophy, it looks like a blessing in disguise for Iyer – on whom the selection committee is banking.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in the white-ball circuit, India tried Suryakumar Yadav during the Aussies, but he failed miserably, getting out on a first-ball duck in three straight matches. With Iyer not in the scheme of things for now, India will either continue with SKY in the middle overs or rope in a new face, someone like Sanju Samson, ahead of the home World Cup in October-November.</p>

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With World Cup 2023 set to begin in around three months, the absence of star players continues to haunt Team India. Shreyas Iyer’s back pain is said to be troubling him again as the middle-order batter is unlikely to get fit in time for the Asia Cup 2023, scheduled from August 31 to September 17.

With World Cup 2023 set to begin in around three months, the absence of star players continues to haunt Team India. Shreyas Iyer’s back pain is said to be troubling him again as the middle-order batter is unlikely to get fit in time for the Asia Cup 2023, scheduled from August 31 to September 17. Having last played a competitive game back in March during the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar series in Ahmedabad, Iyer missed all the action since, including the ODI series against Australia, the IPL 2023 for Kolkata Knight Riders and the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval. Although Ajinkya Rahane filled his shoes in the one-off Test, scoring 89 and 46 in two innings, Iyer’s absence was felt as India failed to win the Test title for the second straight time. Meanwhile, Iyer underwent back surgery in London and continues to undergo physiotherapy at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. As per the source close to the information, Iyer is still dealing with back pain, while his chances of getting fit in time for the multi-team tournament, co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka this time, look bleak. ALSO READ: 'He is not getting ignored because of cricketing reasons..': BCCI official on Sarfaraz Khan's non-selection “Iyer recently took an injection for his back pain at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy. His back is still giving him trouble,” a source told the Times of India (TOI). Road ahead looks rough for Iyer After a brilliant 2022 with the bat in ODIs, wherein he scored 724 runs from 15 innings, Iyer shined in the away two-match Test series against Bangladesh later last year; but again missed the home New Zealand series due to a reoccurrence of pain in his back. Though he missed the first Test against Australia in Nagpur for the same reason, Iyer returned for the remaining three Tests. Even for forthcoming India’s tour of the West Indies, which begins with the first of the two Tests on July 12 in Dominica, Ajinkya Rahane has retained his place, while Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal are picked as backups. As selectors continue to ignore Sarfaraz Khan for the middle-order spot in Tests despite his gigantic numbers in the past three years in Ranji Trophy, it looks like a blessing in disguise for Iyer – on whom the selection committee is banking. Meanwhile, in the white-ball circuit, India tried Suryakumar Yadav during the Aussies, but he failed miserably, getting out on a first-ball duck in three straight matches. With Iyer not in the scheme of things for now, India will either continue with SKY in the middle overs or rope in a new face, someone like Sanju Samson, ahead of the home World Cup in October-November. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Shreyas Iyer remains doubtful for Asia Cup 2023 as back pain continues to trouble him