<p>India captain Rohit Sharma said he is proud of his playing unit but vows not to overreact to the first-series defeat at home in 12 years against New Zealand. The Kiwis won the second Test in Pune by 113 runs, claiming their fourth Test and maiden series victory in India, ending India’s unbelievable reign at home. He, however, confirmed to be sitting down with ‘certain individuals’, chatting and reflecting on their performances in this series.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Rohit’s form remains a huge worry for him and India, especially knowing what’s following next – the daunting tour of Australia. In the second game, the Indian skipper failed to get going across both innings, getting out on a duck and eight, respectively. Although he struck a fifty (52) in the second innings in the first Test in Bengaluru, which India lost by eight wickets, he got out on just two in the first innings.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/not-a-pitch-where-india-skipper-rohit-blames-batters-for-test-series-loss-vs-new-zealand-770937">'Not a pitch where...,' India skipper Rohit blames batters for Test series loss vs New Zealand</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking to the reporters after the match, Rohit said he would not react differently because India lost one home series in 12 years. Rohit added India has had more good moments than bad ones and that he wishes to keep the negativity out of the dressing room.</p>

<p>"I just said it because of these three sessions, I am not going to react differently. Look at the number of games we have won in India. I was just watching the television, out of the 54 Test matches, we have won 42, which is nearly 80 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There are more good things that have happened than bad things. I don't want to react so much that guys within the team start thinking that something different is happening. I don't want to create that kind of environment where people start doubting themselves,” the Indian captain said after the Pune Test loss.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>‘No excuses, we need to work harder’</h2>

<p>Rohit said he knew the gravity of this loss but insisted on not changing his way of approaching the game or his teammates.</p>

<p>"You don't need to overreact. But you need to have a quiet chat with certain individuals and let them know where they are at and what, as a team, we require from them. I don't think you need to make them sit in a team room on a one-on-one basis, and go through their innings and tell them this is what you should be doing. I don't think this is the right forum to do that.</p>

<p>“Just because we have lost a series, I don't think there is anything that we need to talk differently or do differently. But yeah, we need to find ways to come out of those situations,” Rohit added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai will host the third and final Test starting November 1st.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India captain Rohit Sharma said he is proud of his playing unit but vows not to overreact to the first-series defeat at home in 12 years against New Zealand. The Kiwis won the second Test in Pune by 113 runs, claiming their fourth Test and maiden series victory in India, ending India’s unbelievable reign at home.

India captain Rohit Sharma said he is proud of his playing unit but vows not to overreact to the first-series defeat at home in 12 years against New Zealand. The Kiwis won the second Test in Pune by 113 runs, claiming their fourth Test and maiden series victory in India, ending India’s unbelievable reign at home. He, however, confirmed to be sitting down with ‘certain individuals’, chatting and reflecting on their performances in this series. Meanwhile, Rohit’s form remains a huge worry for him and India, especially knowing what’s following next – the daunting tour of Australia. In the second game, the Indian skipper failed to get going across both innings, getting out on a duck and eight, respectively. Although he struck a fifty (52) in the second innings in the first Test in Bengaluru, which India lost by eight wickets, he got out on just two in the first innings. ALSO READ: 'Not a pitch where...,' India skipper Rohit blames batters for Test series loss vs New Zealand Speaking to the reporters after the match, Rohit said he would not react differently because India lost one home series in 12 years. Rohit added India has had more good moments than bad ones and that he wishes to keep the negativity out of the dressing room. "I just said it because of these three sessions, I am not going to react differently. Look at the number of games we have won in India. I was just watching the television, out of the 54 Test matches, we have won 42, which is nearly 80 per cent. “There are more good things that have happened than bad things. I don't want to react so much that guys within the team start thinking that something different is happening. I don't want to create that kind of environment where people start doubting themselves,” the Indian captain said after the Pune Test loss. ‘No excuses, we need to work harder’ Rohit said he knew the gravity of this loss but insisted on not changing his way of approaching the game or his teammates. "You don't need to overreact. But you need to have a quiet chat with certain individuals and let them know where they are at and what, as a team, we require from them. I don't think you need to make them sit in a team room on a one-on-one basis, and go through their innings and tell them this is what you should be doing. I don't think this is the right forum to do that. “Just because we have lost a series, I don't think there is anything that we need to talk differently or do differently. But yeah, we need to find ways to come out of those situations,” Rohit added. Meanwhile, the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai will host the third and final Test starting November 1st. (With inputs from agencies)

India captain Rohit Sharma vows to have quiet chat with ‘certain individuals’ after New Zealand series loss

<p>Harshit Rana’s inclusion in the India team for the Australia series raised eyebrows, while Mohammed Shami’s absence worried the fans. Late on Friday night (Oct 25), the BCCI announced a jumbo 18-man squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series starting November 22 in Perth. The selectors made shocking calls with the inclusions of white-ball prospects Rana and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy.</p>

<p>Per a PTI report, a source close to the BCCI confirmed that Harshit Rana’s inclusion was head coach Gautam Gambhir’s call, who mentored the pacer at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/abhimanyu-easwaran-included-in-rohit-sharma-led-india-squad-for-australia-tour-vijakumar-in-for-sa-t20-series-770777">Abhimanyu Easwaran included in Rohit Sharma-led India squad for Aussie tour; Vijay Kumar in for SA T20 series</a></strong></p>

<p>“Harshit Rana has been completely Gautam Gambhir's choice. He has been pushing his case for the longest time since the start of the Sri Lanka tour. He was also kept as a reserve bowler. Since he is younger and quicker than both Navdeep Saini and Mukesh Kumar, he has pipped them to the final squad,” a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, speaking on Nitish Reddy’s maiden Test call-up, the source said, “Nitish is a work in progress, but if India are to bring in balance, they need their fourth seamer to be an all-rounder. Hence, Nitish is a desperate choice going by his IPL and Bangladesh series performance.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>India also picked Abhimanyu Easwaran as the backup opener and named Washington Sundar as the spare spin-bowling all-rounder, ahead of Shardul Thakur, who starred the last time Down Under.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah will lead the heavy pace, which includes Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Rana and returning Prasidh Krishna. Despite talks of India including Mayank Yadav for the Australia Tests, the BCCI decided against rushing him into the Test side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides, the fans were left wondering about Mohammed Shami, who failed to make the cut despite confirming that he is 100% pain-free and raring to go for the marquee series. The ace India seamer also posted a video of him bowling at full throttle in the nets.</p>

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— 𝕸𝖔𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖒𝖆𝖉 𝖘𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖎 (@MdShami11) <a href="https://twitter.com/MdShami11/status/1849840848680431908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Per a report in the Indian Express, Shami will play two Ranji Trophy games for Bengal starting November 6 – one against Karnataka and the other against Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although the BCCI named three reserve pacers Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, and Khaleel Ahmed, Shami’s inclusion in the Test side will come down to his fitness, an injury to anyone on that team and the leadership group’s decision.</p>

<h2>Sundar over Ashwin in Australia</h2>

<p>In another turn of event, the PTI report says that Sundar, who picked seven wickets against New Zealand in the first innings in Pune, leads veteran off-spinner and one of India’s heroes the last time, Ravichandran Ashwin, in the pecking order should India decide to play two spinners, with Ravindra Jadeja being the automatic selection.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Here is India’s 18-man squad for Australia Tests –</h3>

<p>Rohit Sharma (captain), Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar</p>

<p><strong>Reserves:</strong> Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Harshit Rana’s inclusion in the India team for the Australia series raised eyebrows, while Mohammed Shami’s absence worried the fans. Late on Friday night (Oct 25), the BCCI announced a jumbo 18-man squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series starting November 22 in Perth.

Harshit Rana’s inclusion in the India team for the Australia series raised eyebrows, while Mohammed Shami’s absence worried the fans. Late on Friday night (Oct 25), the BCCI announced a jumbo 18-man squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series starting November 22 in Perth. The selectors made shocking calls with the inclusions of white-ball prospects Rana and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. Per a PTI report, a source close to the BCCI confirmed that Harshit Rana’s inclusion was head coach Gautam Gambhir’s call, who mentored the pacer at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL. ALSO READ: Abhimanyu Easwaran included in Rohit Sharma-led India squad for Aussie tour; Vijay Kumar in for SA T20 series “Harshit Rana has been completely Gautam Gambhir's choice. He has been pushing his case for the longest time since the start of the Sri Lanka tour. He was also kept as a reserve bowler. Since he is younger and quicker than both Navdeep Saini and Mukesh Kumar, he has pipped them to the final squad,” a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity. Meanwhile, speaking on Nitish Reddy’s maiden Test call-up, the source said, “Nitish is a work in progress, but if India are to bring in balance, they need their fourth seamer to be an all-rounder. Hence, Nitish is a desperate choice going by his IPL and Bangladesh series performance.” India also picked Abhimanyu Easwaran as the backup opener and named Washington Sundar as the spare spin-bowling all-rounder, ahead of Shardul Thakur, who starred the last time Down Under. Ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah will lead the heavy pace, which includes Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Rana and returning Prasidh Krishna. Despite talks of India including Mayank Yadav for the Australia Tests, the BCCI decided against rushing him into the Test side. Besides, the fans were left wondering about Mohammed Shami, who failed to make the cut despite confirming that he is 100% pain-free and raring to go for the marquee series. The ace India seamer also posted a video of him bowling at full throttle in the nets. pic.twitter.com/nNHEPjlcF1 — 𝕸𝖔𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖒𝖆𝖉 𝖘𝖍𝖆𝖒𝖎 (@MdShami11) October 25, 2024 × Per a report in the Indian Express, Shami will play two Ranji Trophy games for Bengal starting November 6 – one against Karnataka and the other against Madhya Pradesh. Although the BCCI named three reserve pacers Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, and Khaleel Ahmed, Shami’s inclusion in the Test side will come down to his fitness, an injury to anyone on that team and the leadership group’s decision. Sundar over Ashwin in Australia In another turn of event, the PTI report says that Sundar, who picked seven wickets against New Zealand in the first innings in Pune, leads veteran off-spinner and one of India’s heroes the last time, Ravichandran Ashwin, in the pecking order should India decide to play two spinners, with Ravindra Jadeja being the automatic selection. Here is India’s 18-man squad for Australia Tests – Rohit Sharma (captain), Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar Reserves: Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed (With inputs from agencies)

‘Harshit Rana's selection for BGT is completely Gambhir’s choice’ – BCCI source ahead of Australia Tests

<p>Cheteshwar Pujara is a Test cricket giant all across, let alone for India. The closest thing to the great Rahul Dravid is him, and ironically, his batting position, technique, temperament, style of play and ability to tire the opposition are similar to that of ‘The Wall'. With the new-look Indian Team ready to roar Down Under, they somewhere, and for some reason, need Pujara back playing at number three ahead of Shubman Gill, a Test star in the making.</p>

<p>Gill hasn’t done anything wrong. A fantastic ODI opener has found his mojo in the shortest format lately but has yet to cement his place in the Test side; more so for his new position, with him replacing Pujara at number three since the WTC Final last year, Gill has been far from the threat he possessed as an opener.</p>

<p>However, with the captain Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal certain to take up the opener’s slot for the marquee Test series, Gill’s only chance of playing each of the five Tests is to bat at number three – a position head coach Gautam Gambhir would fancy him to succeed at, but that’s too big a risk to take knowing the stakes – the spot in the 2025 WTC Final.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-love-davey-but-hes-retired-pat-cummins-shuns-david-warners-comeback-proposal-for-india-tests-770555">‘We love Davey but he’s retired’ - Pat Cummins shuns David Warner’s comeback proposal for India Tests</a></strong></p>

<p>So, how can India avoid finding themselves in a position they haven’t been in on the last two tours? The big comeback of Pujara in the Test squad.</p>

<p>The veteran number three batter for India has found his Midas touch in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, whacking a brilliant 234 for Saurashtra – his 18th first-class double hundred, which is the most by an Indian. Since being dropped from the Indian Test Team last year, Pujara returned to the English County, playing for Sussex, for whom he scored two tons this season.</p>

<h2><strong>Pujara – a monster batter in Australia</strong></h2>

<p>Not many have dominated the Aussie pace attack as Pujara did since his first trip Down Under in 2014. However, his best came four years later, when he scored a brilliant 123 in the first innings in Adelaide, helping India put up a fighting total and eventually win the match. His 521-run tally across seven innings – 201 more than the second-best batter (Rishabh Pant), was a testament to his batting prowess.</p>

<p>With the final Test at the SCG ending in a draw, the game in which Pujara hit 193, his best score Down Under, India created history by beating Australia at their home in Tests for the first time.</p>

<p>Two years later, the spirited Indian Team achieved a similar result, winning the four-match series 2-1, becoming the first Indian Team to beat Australia twice Down Under.</p>

<p>Looking beyond his marathon knocks against the Oz all these years, Pujara’s greatest efforts included his innings in the third Test in Sydney, wherein he scored twin fifties, but that’s not even the best part about it. While Pujara batted 176 balls in the first innings, he eventually broke the camel’s back with his gritty 205-ball 77 in the second innings, batting for endless hours and blocking everything coming his way.</p>

<p>What was the cherry on the top? The blows he took hurt him badly, but the Aussies more, who, for the second time in two series, failed to break Pujara’s concentration and defence.</p>

<p>With the stars aligning for Pujara just in time for the Border-Gavaskar series, we could see him return to the Test side for his last tour Down Under.</p>

<h3><strong>What happens to Shubman Gill then?</strong></h3>

<p>For everything that he has done thus far, which is no short of exceptional on several grounds, India must find a way to fit Gill into the XI for the Perth Test. Outside of the top three, which would belong to Rohit, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Pujara should he be picked, Gill’s best chance is probably at lower order, at five or six. That, however, would also depend on KL Rahul’s form heading into the Australian tour.</p>

<p>In an ideal situation, Gill could fit in at five, just after Kohli and before Sarfaraz Khan or Rishabh Pant, though India is unlikely to play Khan so low at seven, putting his spot in jeopardy.</p>

<p>In another scenario, Gill could play ahead of Jaiswal at the top, his preferred position, and having some experience batting there Down Under, Gill could fancy his chances of doing well; with that, he can even press his case for a permanent top-order spot when Rohit bids farewell to this format.</p>

<p>Considering all variables, Gill might have to fight hard for his spot in the XI if the BCCI selectors decide to bring Pujara for the BGT.</p>

<p>However, for now, all eyes would be on Pujara’s selection, and who knows, with that, India could benefit and do an unthinkable – beat Australia thrice at home.</p>


Cheteshwar Pujara is a Test cricket giant all across, let alone for India. The closest thing to the great Rahul Dravid is him, and ironically, his batting position, technique, temperament, style of play and ability to tire the opposition are similar to that of ‘The Wall'.

Cheteshwar Pujara is a Test cricket giant all across, let alone for India. The closest thing to the great Rahul Dravid is him, and ironically, his batting position, technique, temperament, style of play and ability to tire the opposition are similar to that of ‘The Wall'. With the new-look Indian Team ready to roar Down Under, they somewhere, and for some reason, need Pujara back playing at number three ahead of Shubman Gill, a Test star in the making. Gill hasn’t done anything wrong. A fantastic ODI opener has found his mojo in the shortest format lately but has yet to cement his place in the Test side; more so for his new position, with him replacing Pujara at number three since the WTC Final last year, Gill has been far from the threat he possessed as an opener. However, with the captain Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal certain to take up the opener’s slot for the marquee Test series, Gill’s only chance of playing each of the five Tests is to bat at number three – a position head coach Gautam Gambhir would fancy him to succeed at, but that’s too big a risk to take knowing the stakes – the spot in the 2025 WTC Final. ALSO READ: ‘We love Davey but he’s retired’ - Pat Cummins shuns David Warner’s comeback proposal for India Tests So, how can India avoid finding themselves in a position they haven’t been in on the last two tours? The big comeback of Pujara in the Test squad. The veteran number three batter for India has found his Midas touch in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, whacking a brilliant 234 for Saurashtra – his 18th first-class double hundred, which is the most by an Indian. Since being dropped from the Indian Test Team last year, Pujara returned to the English County, playing for Sussex, for whom he scored two tons this season. Pujara – a monster batter in Australia Not many have dominated the Aussie pace attack as Pujara did since his first trip Down Under in 2014. However, his best came four years later, when he scored a brilliant 123 in the first innings in Adelaide, helping India put up a fighting total and eventually win the match. His 521-run tally across seven innings – 201 more than the second-best batter (Rishabh Pant), was a testament to his batting prowess. With the final Test at the SCG ending in a draw, the game in which Pujara hit 193, his best score Down Under, India created history by beating Australia at their home in Tests for the first time. Two years later, the spirited Indian Team achieved a similar result, winning the four-match series 2-1, becoming the first Indian Team to beat Australia twice Down Under. Looking beyond his marathon knocks against the Oz all these years, Pujara’s greatest efforts included his innings in the third Test in Sydney, wherein he scored twin fifties, but that’s not even the best part about it. While Pujara batted 176 balls in the first innings, he eventually broke the camel’s back with his gritty 205-ball 77 in the second innings, batting for endless hours and blocking everything coming his way. What was the cherry on the top? The blows he took hurt him badly, but the Aussies more, who, for the second time in two series, failed to break Pujara’s concentration and defence. With the stars aligning for Pujara just in time for the Border-Gavaskar series, we could see him return to the Test side for his last tour Down Under. What happens to Shubman Gill then? For everything that he has done thus far, which is no short of exceptional on several grounds, India must find a way to fit Gill into the XI for the Perth Test. Outside of the top three, which would belong to Rohit, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Pujara should he be picked, Gill’s best chance is probably at lower order, at five or six. That, however, would also depend on KL Rahul’s form heading into the Australian tour. In an ideal situation, Gill could fit in at five, just after Kohli and before Sarfaraz Khan or Rishabh Pant, though India is unlikely to play Khan so low at seven, putting his spot in jeopardy. In another scenario, Gill could play ahead of Jaiswal at the top, his preferred position, and having some experience batting there Down Under, Gill could fancy his chances of doing well; with that, he can even press his case for a permanent top-order spot when Rohit bids farewell to this format. Considering all variables, Gill might have to fight hard for his spot in the XI if the BCCI selectors decide to bring Pujara for the BGT. However, for now, all eyes would be on Pujara’s selection, and who knows, with that, India could benefit and do an unthinkable – beat Australia thrice at home.

Shubman Gill is a safe bet at no 3 but India still needs Cheteshwar Pujara in Australia. Here's why

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India lost the first Test to New Zealand by eight wickets on Day 5 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20). Ahead of the second Test, in Pune starting Oct 24, the Indian team management would consider changing the playing XI. In the first Test, the hosts went ahead with three spinners and two pacers, however, Mohammed Siraj didn't look in his elements. He returned with match figures of 2 for 100 and seemed off colour, despite conditions being favourable for pacers. Thus, former Indian stumper Saba Karim feels India can bring in Akash Deep instead of Siraj for the Pune Test, starting on Oct 24.</p>

<p>Talking on Jio Cinema, Karim said, "I reckon that Mohammed Siraj may be under some kind of pressure and I'm sure they will have a discussion before they pick the XI for the next Test match. Because as a front-line seam bowler in a Test match, you are expected to pick wickets with the new ball and also come back and bowl well with the second new ball. To that extent, I don't think that Siraj has delivered."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-2024-new-zealand-win-in-bengaluru-bags-first-test-victory-in-india-in-36-years-769134">IND v NZ 2024: New Zealand win in Bengaluru, bags first Test victory in India in 36 years</a></strong></p>

<p>Karim added, "Akash has got enough experience of bowling on such tracks in Indian conditions because he's been around for a number of years for Bengal. So you would look to have somebody on your side who has the experience of bowling on such tracks, even though the tracks have been lifeless."</p>

<p>Akash made his Test debut early this year, during India's home games versus England. In three Tests, he has accounted for eight scalps and looked in good rhythm, with his pace, action and control. Siraj, on the other hand, has been ordinary in India's home Tests this year. Hence, it will be interesting to see if the Indian team management drops him for the penultimate Test to allow him to rejuvenate and comeback stronger.</p>

<p>India lost the Bengaluru Test despite a solid comeback after being all-out for 46, their lowest-total in home Tests, on Day 1 (after opting to bat first), courtesy of Matt Henry's 5 for 15. In reply, the Kiwis rode on Rachin Ravindra's 134 to take a solid 356-run lead. Later India rode on Sarfaraz Khan's 150 and Rishabh Pant's 99 to go past the 400-run mark in their second essay but eventually got dismissed for 462; setting a paltry 107-run target which the visitors achieved on the final day on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>India squad: </strong>Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Washington Sundar</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India lost the first Test to New Zealand by eight wickets on Day 5 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20). Ahead of the second Test, in Pune starting Oct 24, the Indian team management would consider changing the playing XI.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the first Test to New Zealand by eight wickets on Day 5 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20). Ahead of the second Test, in Pune starting Oct 24, the Indian team management would consider changing the playing XI. In the first Test, the hosts went ahead with three spinners and two pacers, however, Mohammed Siraj didn't look in his elements. He returned with match figures of 2 for 100 and seemed off colour, despite conditions being favourable for pacers. Thus, former Indian stumper Saba Karim feels India can bring in Akash Deep instead of Siraj for the Pune Test, starting on Oct 24. Talking on Jio Cinema, Karim said, "I reckon that Mohammed Siraj may be under some kind of pressure and I'm sure they will have a discussion before they pick the XI for the next Test match. Because as a front-line seam bowler in a Test match, you are expected to pick wickets with the new ball and also come back and bowl well with the second new ball. To that extent, I don't think that Siraj has delivered." Also read: IND v NZ 2024: New Zealand win in Bengaluru, bags first Test victory in India in 36 years Karim added, "Akash has got enough experience of bowling on such tracks in Indian conditions because he's been around for a number of years for Bengal. So you would look to have somebody on your side who has the experience of bowling on such tracks, even though the tracks have been lifeless." Akash made his Test debut early this year, during India's home games versus England. In three Tests, he has accounted for eight scalps and looked in good rhythm, with his pace, action and control. Siraj, on the other hand, has been ordinary in India's home Tests this year. Hence, it will be interesting to see if the Indian team management drops him for the penultimate Test to allow him to rejuvenate and comeback stronger. India lost the Bengaluru Test despite a solid comeback after being all-out for 46, their lowest-total in home Tests, on Day 1 (after opting to bat first), courtesy of Matt Henry's 5 for 15. In reply, the Kiwis rode on Rachin Ravindra's 134 to take a solid 356-run lead. Later India rode on Sarfaraz Khan's 150 and Rishabh Pant's 99 to go past the 400-run mark in their second essay but eventually got dismissed for 462; setting a paltry 107-run target which the visitors achieved on the final day on Sunday. India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Washington Sundar

Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: Should India replace Mohammed Siraj with Akash Deep? Former Indian stumper opines

<p>Ace India seamer Mohammed Shami has confirmed that he is 100% pain-free now and wishes to play for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy to get match-ready for the Australia Tour that begins on November 22.</p>

<p>Out with an ankle injury since the home ODI World Cup last year, Shami bowled full throttle at the M Chinnaswamy in Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20) for the first time since, indicating he is ready to roar back into the Test side for the marquee series Down Under.</p>

<p>"It felt great yesterday because I had been bowling with half a run-up on and off since I can't put too much stress on my body," he said during an event organised by Eugenix Hair Sciences in Gurugram. "Yesterday, we decided that I would bowl properly, and I gave my 100%. It felt great, [and] the results are good. Hopefully, I'll be back on track soon."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hope-he-will-confirm-ms-dhoni-undecided-over-ipl-2025-participation-csks-kasi-viswanathan-769450">‘Hope he will confirm…’ - MS Dhoni undecided over IPL 2025 participation, says CSK's Kasi Viswanathan</a></strong></p>

<p>When asked if he’s pain-free, having gone under the knife earlier in February, Shami said 100%. The right-arm seamer, however, has a whole month to attain match fitness and fight for a spot in the XI for the first Test in Perth.</p>

<p>"The Australia series is still far away. The only thing I want to focus on is how to keep myself fit, and how strong I can be before going there. I know what kind of an attack we want for that Test series, so it's better I spend some more time on the ground before going. If I get fit and I get a gap of eight to 10 days, then it's better I play one or two domestic matches before going to Australia."</p>

<p>"I don't know when I can play next, but the day I feel comfortable about bowling 20-30 overs and I get the nod from the doctors, I'll run to play a match. I want to spend as much time as I can on the ground before going for the Australia series,” he continued.</p>

<h2>Life between fitness and frustration</h2>

<p>Talking about his time off the field, Shami reflected on what good it did to his mindset, helping him become more patient and realise how much fitness matters to a cricketer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Don't get frustrated and focus as much as you can on fitness and game," he said about spending months off the field. "It's very difficult to come back on track after an injury, so patience is the biggest thing. Injuries teach you patience, and that makes your skill purer."</p>

<p>"Fitness is the main thing [you have to focus on in recovery]. You shouldn't doubt your skill and talent when you're away because certain things are built in you. I agree you need something like rhythm, but your skill will never leave you. It's your fitness you have to fight for,” he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ace India seamer Mohammed Shami has confirmed that he is 100% pain-free now and wishes to play for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy to get match-ready for the Australia Tour that begins on November 22.

Ace India seamer Mohammed Shami has confirmed that he is 100% pain-free now and wishes to play for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy to get match-ready for the Australia Tour that begins on November 22. Out with an ankle injury since the home ODI World Cup last year, Shami bowled full throttle at the M Chinnaswamy in Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20) for the first time since, indicating he is ready to roar back into the Test side for the marquee series Down Under. "It felt great yesterday because I had been bowling with half a run-up on and off since I can't put too much stress on my body," he said during an event organised by Eugenix Hair Sciences in Gurugram. "Yesterday, we decided that I would bowl properly, and I gave my 100%. It felt great, [and] the results are good. Hopefully, I'll be back on track soon." ALSO READ: ‘Hope he will confirm…’ - MS Dhoni undecided over IPL 2025 participation, says CSK's Kasi Viswanathan When asked if he’s pain-free, having gone under the knife earlier in February, Shami said 100%. The right-arm seamer, however, has a whole month to attain match fitness and fight for a spot in the XI for the first Test in Perth. "The Australia series is still far away. The only thing I want to focus on is how to keep myself fit, and how strong I can be before going there. I know what kind of an attack we want for that Test series, so it's better I spend some more time on the ground before going. If I get fit and I get a gap of eight to 10 days, then it's better I play one or two domestic matches before going to Australia." "I don't know when I can play next, but the day I feel comfortable about bowling 20-30 overs and I get the nod from the doctors, I'll run to play a match. I want to spend as much time as I can on the ground before going for the Australia series,” he continued. Life between fitness and frustration Talking about his time off the field, Shami reflected on what good it did to his mindset, helping him become more patient and realise how much fitness matters to a cricketer. "Don't get frustrated and focus as much as you can on fitness and game," he said about spending months off the field. "It's very difficult to come back on track after an injury, so patience is the biggest thing. Injuries teach you patience, and that makes your skill purer." "Fitness is the main thing [you have to focus on in recovery]. You shouldn't doubt your skill and talent when you're away because certain things are built in you. I agree you need something like rhythm, but your skill will never leave you. It's your fitness you have to fight for,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Mohammed Shami is 100% pain-free, aims to play Ranji games before Australia tour

<p>Paras Mhambrey, former India bowling coach and the remaining member of Rahul Dravid’s backroom staff when he served as the India coach, has finally got a job. Per the latest reports, Mhambrey is set to join five-time IPL winners Mumbai Indians in a similar capacity ahead of the next season, with the franchise yet to make this decision public.</p>

<p>Since winning the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas earlier in June, the Dravid-led coaching staff saw their contracts expire. Though ‘The Wall’ rejoined his former IPL franchise, Rajasthan Royals, as their new head coach, T Dilip (India’s fielding coach) retained his place under the new management headed by new head coach Gautam Gambhir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, Vikram Rathour, former India batting coach, also joined Dravid at the Royals in a similar capacity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/captain-suryakumar-yadav-lauds-selfless-sanju-samson-after-record-win-over-ban-in-3rd-t20i-767032">Captain Suryakumar Yadav lauds ‘selfless’ Sanju Samson after record win over BAN in 3rd T20I</a></strong></p>

<p>Mhambrey is the latest addition to the league, although he was part of MI’s dressing room as part of the coaching panel before joining the Indian Team.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians reappointed their Global Head of Cricket, Mahela Jayawardene, the new head coach on Sunday (Oct 13), a position he held for five years from 2017 to 2022. With Mhambrey also joining the camp, the MI team is working on getting back on track after a horror last season, where they finished at the bottom.</p>

<p>“My journey within the MI family has always been one of evolution. In 2017, the focus was on bringing together a talented group of individuals to play the best cricket ever, and we did very well.</p>

<p>“Now to return, at the same moment in history, where we look ahead at the future and the opportunity to further strengthen the love of MI, build on the vision of the owners, and continue to add to the history of Mumbai Indians, is an exciting challenge I am looking forward to,” Jayawardene said on his reappointment as MI’s new head coach.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>BCCI looking at Singapore for IPL 2025 auction</h2>

<p>The BCCI is discussing a few options as a venue for the IPL 2025 auction, with Singapore emerging as the potential leader. The Indian Cricket Board, per Cricbuzz, is also considering a city in Saudi Arabia for the mega event scheduled in November 2024.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, all ten participating teams are yet to finalise their list of retentions, whose submission’s last date is October 31.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Paras Mhambrey, former India bowling coach and the remaining member of Rahul Dravid’s backroom staff when he served as the India coach, has finally got a job. Per the latest reports, Mhambrey is set to join five-time IPL winners Mumbai Indians in a similar capacity ahead of the next season, with the franchise yet to make this decision public.

Paras Mhambrey, former India bowling coach and the remaining member of Rahul Dravid’s backroom staff when he served as the India coach, has finally got a job. Per the latest reports, Mhambrey is set to join five-time IPL winners Mumbai Indians in a similar capacity ahead of the next season, with the franchise yet to make this decision public. Since winning the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas earlier in June, the Dravid-led coaching staff saw their contracts expire. Though ‘The Wall’ rejoined his former IPL franchise, Rajasthan Royals, as their new head coach, T Dilip (India’s fielding coach) retained his place under the new management headed by new head coach Gautam Gambhir. On the other hand, Vikram Rathour, former India batting coach, also joined Dravid at the Royals in a similar capacity. ALSO READ: Captain Suryakumar Yadav lauds ‘selfless’ Sanju Samson after record win over BAN in 3rd T20I Mhambrey is the latest addition to the league, although he was part of MI’s dressing room as part of the coaching panel before joining the Indian Team. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians reappointed their Global Head of Cricket, Mahela Jayawardene, the new head coach on Sunday (Oct 13), a position he held for five years from 2017 to 2022. With Mhambrey also joining the camp, the MI team is working on getting back on track after a horror last season, where they finished at the bottom. “My journey within the MI family has always been one of evolution. In 2017, the focus was on bringing together a talented group of individuals to play the best cricket ever, and we did very well. “Now to return, at the same moment in history, where we look ahead at the future and the opportunity to further strengthen the love of MI, build on the vision of the owners, and continue to add to the history of Mumbai Indians, is an exciting challenge I am looking forward to,” Jayawardene said on his reappointment as MI’s new head coach. BCCI looking at Singapore for IPL 2025 auction The BCCI is discussing a few options as a venue for the IPL 2025 auction, with Singapore emerging as the potential leader. The Indian Cricket Board, per Cricbuzz, is also considering a city in Saudi Arabia for the mega event scheduled in November 2024. Meanwhile, all ten participating teams are yet to finalise their list of retentions, whose submission’s last date is October 31. (With inputs from agencies)

Paras Mhambrey, former India bowling coach, set to join Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2025

<p>The Indian Team has been on a winning spree. The Men in Blue were victorious against Bangladesh in the first two T20Is, with the final game scheduled on Saturday (Oct 12) in Hyderabad. Having already pocketed the series, India has only a clean sweep on its mind in the dead rubber. Here is the match preview and result prediction for the final India vs. Bangladesh T20I.</p>

<h2>Match Preview –</h2>

<p>Gautam Gambhir’s tenure has begun with a bang, although the loss to Sri Lanka in away ODIs looked up to as the only dent thus far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The young Indian Team has delivered fearlessly in the shortest format, setting a different template altogether. Despite a handful of top names rested for this series, the hosts haven’t put a foot wrong, with emerging stars making the most of their chances.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-jasprit-bumrah-named-vice-captain-as-team-india-announces-15-man-squad-for-new-zealand-series-766740">IND vs NZ: Jasprit Bumrah named vice-captain as Team India announces 15-man squad for New Zealand series</a></strong></p>

<p>Local boy Nitish Kumar Reddy is one name everyone will look forward to watching in Hyderabad, while Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya will have the onus on them.</p>

<p>Given India has nothing to lose in this game, they can try their bench strength, with Jitesh Sharma and Harshit Rana getting a game. Though India could give Mayank Yadav an extended run, Arshdeep’s seniority in the attack might work against him, and Rana could play ahead of Mayank.</p>

<p>Ravi Bishnoi could also return to the playing XI, with India resting Varun Chakaravarthy for the final T20I.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Bangladesh would like to cap off this bilateral tour with a consolation win, giving a fitting send-off to their veteran Mahmudullah, who will retire after this match.</p>

<p>Although Bangladesh’s batting failed to fire in the two contested matches, the tourists would continue to bank on their heavy top order to put up a fighting show.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed will hold the keys in the bowling department, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz will play a handy role in deciding his team’s fate in Hyderabad.</p>

<h3>Result Prediction –</h3>

<p>Bangladesh might push above their weight in this final game; however, India would enter the match as favourites.</p>

<p><strong>Predicted Playing XIs –</strong></p>

<p><strong>India -</strong> Sanju Samson(wk), Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Nitish Reddy, Hardik Pandya, Riyan Parag, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana</p>

<p><strong>Bangladesh -</strong> Parvez Hossain Emon, Litton Das(wk), Najmul Hossain Shanto(c), Towhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Mustafizur Rahman</p>


The Indian Team has been on a winning spree. The Men in Blue were victorious against Bangladesh in the first two T20Is, with the final game scheduled on Saturday (Oct 12) in Hyderabad.

The Indian Team has been on a winning spree. The Men in Blue were victorious against Bangladesh in the first two T20Is, with the final game scheduled on Saturday (Oct 12) in Hyderabad. Having already pocketed the series, India has only a clean sweep on its mind in the dead rubber. Here is the match preview and result prediction for the final India vs. Bangladesh T20I. Match Preview – Gautam Gambhir’s tenure has begun with a bang, although the loss to Sri Lanka in away ODIs looked up to as the only dent thus far. The young Indian Team has delivered fearlessly in the shortest format, setting a different template altogether. Despite a handful of top names rested for this series, the hosts haven’t put a foot wrong, with emerging stars making the most of their chances. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ: Jasprit Bumrah named vice-captain as Team India announces 15-man squad for New Zealand series Local boy Nitish Kumar Reddy is one name everyone will look forward to watching in Hyderabad, while Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya will have the onus on them. Given India has nothing to lose in this game, they can try their bench strength, with Jitesh Sharma and Harshit Rana getting a game. Though India could give Mayank Yadav an extended run, Arshdeep’s seniority in the attack might work against him, and Rana could play ahead of Mayank. Ravi Bishnoi could also return to the playing XI, with India resting Varun Chakaravarthy for the final T20I. On the other hand, Bangladesh would like to cap off this bilateral tour with a consolation win, giving a fitting send-off to their veteran Mahmudullah, who will retire after this match. Although Bangladesh’s batting failed to fire in the two contested matches, the tourists would continue to bank on their heavy top order to put up a fighting show. Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed will hold the keys in the bowling department, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz will play a handy role in deciding his team’s fate in Hyderabad. Result Prediction – Bangladesh might push above their weight in this final game; however, India would enter the match as favourites. Predicted Playing XIs – India - Sanju Samson(wk), Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Nitish Reddy, Hardik Pandya, Riyan Parag, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana Bangladesh - Parvez Hossain Emon, Litton Das(wk), Najmul Hossain Shanto(c), Towhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Mustafizur Rahman

India vs Bangladesh 2024, 3rd T20I: Match preview and result prediction

<p>India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets on Day 5 of the second and final Test, on Oct 1, to win the recently-held two-match series 2-0. The match displayed Rohit Sharma's excellent captaincy as he inspired his side to push for a win after Day 2 and 3 were completely washed out due to rain and wet outfield. Opting to bowl first, India had reduced the Bangla Tigers to&nbsp;107/3 in a rain-marred opening day and the game resumed on the penultimate day, which saw the visitors folding up for 233 in Kanpur. In reply, India batted with aggression to declare at 285-9, in 33.4 overs, with a lead of 52. Eventually, India folded Bangladesh for 146 in their second essay and easily chased down the 95-run target to inflict a series whitewash.</p>

<p>Following the series win, critics hailed Rohit and head coach Gautam Gambhir for instilling fearlessness among the Indian batters. Many solely credited Gambhir for inspiring India's refreshing change in approach with the bat. However, it hasn't been well received by former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar. Gavaskar feels the sole credit goes to captain Rohit, who has been showing the way to the Indian batters since taking charge of the national side.</p>

<p>Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar, "While one paper called the Indian batting “Bossball” because the captain or “boss” of the team, Rohit, had shown the way, some from the old powers referred to it as “Gamball” after the Indian coach, Gautam Gambhir. While the England batting approach changed completely under the new regime of Ben Stokes and McCullum, we have seen over the last couple of years that Rohit has been batting like this and encouraging his team to do so as well."</p>

<h2><strong>'Attributing this approach to Gambhir is foot-licking of the highest quality'</strong></h2>

<p>"Gambhir has only been coaching for a couple of months, so attributing this approach to him is foot-licking of the highest quality. Gambhir himself hardly ever batted in this fashion like McCullum used to do. If any credit is due, it is solely to Rohit and nobody else,” he further mentioned.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/what-sort-of-cricket-do-you-play-former-cricketer-slams-bangladesh-for-no-show-in-1st-t20i-vs-india-765122">What sort of cricket do you play?: Former cricketer slams Bangladesh for no show in 1st T20I vs India</a></strong></p>

<p>Gavaskar added, "Instead of using the words this-ball or that-ball, I would suggest using the skipper’s first name, Rohit, and term it the “Gohit” approach. Hopefully, brainier people will come up with a trendier name for this rather than the lazy option of calling it after “Bazball”."</p>

<p>At present, Rohit is enjoying his break before the New Zealand home Test series, starting on Oct 16 in Bengaluru. Meanwhile, Gambhir is involved in India's three T20Is versus Bangladesh.&nbsp;</p>


India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets on Day 5 of the second and final Test, on Oct 1, to win the recently-held two-match series 2-0. The match displayed Rohit Sharma's excellent captaincy as he inspired his side to push for a win after Day 2 and 3 were completely washed out due to rain and wet outfield.

India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets on Day 5 of the second and final Test, on Oct 1, to win the recently-held two-match series 2-0. The match displayed Rohit Sharma's excellent captaincy as he inspired his side to push for a win after Day 2 and 3 were completely washed out due to rain and wet outfield. Opting to bowl first, India had reduced the Bangla Tigers to 107/3 in a rain-marred opening day and the game resumed on the penultimate day, which saw the visitors folding up for 233 in Kanpur. In reply, India batted with aggression to declare at 285-9, in 33.4 overs, with a lead of 52. Eventually, India folded Bangladesh for 146 in their second essay and easily chased down the 95-run target to inflict a series whitewash. Following the series win, critics hailed Rohit and head coach Gautam Gambhir for instilling fearlessness among the Indian batters. Many solely credited Gambhir for inspiring India's refreshing change in approach with the bat. However, it hasn't been well received by former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar. Gavaskar feels the sole credit goes to captain Rohit, who has been showing the way to the Indian batters since taking charge of the national side. Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar, "While one paper called the Indian batting “Bossball” because the captain or “boss” of the team, Rohit, had shown the way, some from the old powers referred to it as “Gamball” after the Indian coach, Gautam Gambhir. While the England batting approach changed completely under the new regime of Ben Stokes and McCullum, we have seen over the last couple of years that Rohit has been batting like this and encouraging his team to do so as well." 'Attributing this approach to Gambhir is foot-licking of the highest quality' "Gambhir has only been coaching for a couple of months, so attributing this approach to him is foot-licking of the highest quality. Gambhir himself hardly ever batted in this fashion like McCullum used to do. If any credit is due, it is solely to Rohit and nobody else,” he further mentioned. Also read: What sort of cricket do you play?: Former cricketer slams Bangladesh for no show in 1st T20I vs India Gavaskar added, "Instead of using the words this-ball or that-ball, I would suggest using the skipper’s first name, Rohit, and term it the “Gohit” approach. Hopefully, brainier people will come up with a trendier name for this rather than the lazy option of calling it after “Bazball”." At present, Rohit is enjoying his break before the New Zealand home Test series, starting on Oct 16 in Bengaluru. Meanwhile, Gambhir is involved in India's three T20Is versus Bangladesh.

Gambhir hardly...: Gavaskar SLAMS India coach's 'bootlickers', credits Rohit for India's batting revolution

<p>India spinner Varun Chakravarthy featured in the first T20I against Bangladesh in Gwalior on Sunday (Oct 6), returning with a match-winning spell of three for 31 in four overs. Though Arshdeep Singh won the Player-of-the-Match award for picking as many wickets for fewer runs and Hardik Pandya garnered attention for his all-round show, Varun silently played a handy role in helping India win the match by seven wickets, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.</p>

<p>Having last played for the Men in Blue in 2021, Varun waited three years for his Team India comeback, and upon returning, he made an impact.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Varun Chakravarthy finishes with a three-wicket haul in his comeback match! 💪<br />
<br />
Second catch for Hardik Pandya 🙌<br />
<br />
Live - <a href="https://t.co/Q8cyP5jXLe">https://t.co/Q8cyP5jXLe</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvBAN</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/3CxbO56Z4Z">pic.twitter.com/3CxbO56Z4Z</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1842940113107800072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>“After three long years and… it was definitely emotional for me, and it feels nice to be back in the Blues, it feels like a rebirth,” Varun said after the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There have been many [challenges]. Once you are not on the Indian side, people tend to write you off very easily. You need to stay in the highest level; again and again, you need to keep knocking on the door. Thankfully, this time it happened, and hopefully I can keep continuing my good work,” he continued.</p>

<h2>Golden run</h2>

<p>2024 has been a lucky year for Varun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>First, he won his maiden IPL title with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), picking up 21 wickets in 14 matches – the most for the franchise and second-highest for the season, and then won the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) title with Dindigul Dragons, returning with 12 wickets in the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-1st-t20i-new-look-india-dismantle-bangladesh-convincingly-to-go-1-0-in-series-765014">IND vs BAN ,1st T20I: New-look India dismantle Bangladesh convincingly to go 1-0 in series</a></strong></p>

<p>"After IPL, I played a few tournaments, and one of those was the TNPL. It's a very good tournament and high standard [of cricket] also," Varun said.</p>

<p>"That's a place where I worked a lot, with Ash bhai [Ashwin]. We won the competition also, and that gave me the confidence here because it was good preparation for me for this series.</p>

<p>"I just want to stick to the process because that's what I have been following in the IPL also. So I don't want to go over and beyond what's there right now. I just want to stay in the present. That's why I don't want to think too much or express too much."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, during the first T20I, Varun picked Towhid Hridoy on 12 before removing Jaker Ali and Rishad Hossain later in the innings.</p>

<p>Delhi will host the second T20I on Wednesday (Oct 9).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India spinner Varun Chakravarthy featured in the first T20I against Bangladesh in Gwalior on Sunday (Oct 6), returning with a match-winning spell of three for 31 in four overs.

India spinner Varun Chakravarthy featured in the first T20I against Bangladesh in Gwalior on Sunday (Oct 6), returning with a match-winning spell of three for 31 in four overs. Though Arshdeep Singh won the Player-of-the-Match award for picking as many wickets for fewer runs and Hardik Pandya garnered attention for his all-round show, Varun silently played a handy role in helping India win the match by seven wickets, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Having last played for the Men in Blue in 2021, Varun waited three years for his Team India comeback, and upon returning, he made an impact. Varun Chakravarthy finishes with a three-wicket haul in his comeback match! 💪 Second catch for Hardik Pandya 🙌 Live - https://t.co/Q8cyP5jXLe#TeamIndia | #INDvBAN | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/3CxbO56Z4Z — BCCI (@BCCI) October 6, 2024 × “After three long years and… it was definitely emotional for me, and it feels nice to be back in the Blues, it feels like a rebirth,” Varun said after the game. “There have been many [challenges]. Once you are not on the Indian side, people tend to write you off very easily. You need to stay in the highest level; again and again, you need to keep knocking on the door. Thankfully, this time it happened, and hopefully I can keep continuing my good work,” he continued. Golden run 2024 has been a lucky year for Varun. First, he won his maiden IPL title with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), picking up 21 wickets in 14 matches – the most for the franchise and second-highest for the season, and then won the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) title with Dindigul Dragons, returning with 12 wickets in the tournament. ALSO READ: IND vs BAN ,1st T20I: New-look India dismantle Bangladesh convincingly to go 1-0 in series "After IPL, I played a few tournaments, and one of those was the TNPL. It's a very good tournament and high standard [of cricket] also," Varun said. "That's a place where I worked a lot, with Ash bhai [Ashwin]. We won the competition also, and that gave me the confidence here because it was good preparation for me for this series. "I just want to stick to the process because that's what I have been following in the IPL also. So I don't want to go over and beyond what's there right now. I just want to stay in the present. That's why I don't want to think too much or express too much." Meanwhile, during the first T20I, Varun picked Towhid Hridoy on 12 before removing Jaker Ali and Rishad Hossain later in the innings. Delhi will host the second T20I on Wednesday (Oct 9). (With inputs from agencies)

IND v BAN 1st T20I: Varun Chakravarthy on India return after three years - 'It feels like rebirth'

<p>Team India T20I Captain Suryakumar Yadav has hinted at Mayank Yadav’s potential debut against Bangladesh in the first T20I in Gwalior on Sunday (Oct 6). Speaking on the eve of the match, SKY called Mayank an ‘x-factor’, adding his express pace separates him from the rest. Though the skipper admitted he hasn’t faced him in the nets yet, he could see the potential in Mayank since his IPL days early this year.</p>

<p>Mayank emerged onto the scene during IPL 2024 when he bowled over 150kmph in his debut game for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) against RCB. His back-to-back three-wicket hauls in his first two games earned him the Player of the Match award but he got ruled out of the tournament with an abdominal injury soon after.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He definitely has the X factor - it was evident when he played franchise cricket," Suryakumar said of Mayank ahead of the first T20I against Bangladesh in Gwalior.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He has that extra pace. I didn't face him in the nets; our net plan was such that someone else faced him. But I have seen what potential he has and what difference he can make for the team. From that point of view, I feel he is a good addition to the Indian team, and I am hoping he will do well.</p>

<p>"It's important to manage him well because of the amount of cricket being played. Everyone is playing for their state too. There was the Duleep Trophy recently. So it is important to pay proper attention, and the BCCI is doing that,” he continued.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-blow-for-india-as-shivam-dube-gets-ruled-out-of-t20i-series-tilak-varma-roped-in-as-replacement-764825">IND vs BAN: Blow for India as Shivam Dube gets ruled out of T20I series; Tilak Varma roped in as replacement</a></strong></p>

<p>The Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium in Gwalior will host the first of the three matches, and given the stadium is staging its first international match, a surprise element conditions-wise awaits both teams. While Bangladesh captain Towhid Hridoy expects the surface to play ‘slow and low’, Surya thinks the opposite.</p>

<p>The pitch looks good," SKY said. "We practised on the centre wicket, just two pitches away. We didn't find it that low and slow - we practised all three days. So it [the match pitch] should not be much different.</p>

<p>"For T20 cricket, these are good wickets. There will be good competition [between the bat and ball], but at the same time, it looks good [for run-scoring].</p>

<h2>Captain happy with all-rounders</h2>

<p>Since winning the T20 World Cup in the Americas earlier in June, Team India won their two assignments, against Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka since. Rested for the Zimbabwe series, SKY returned for the away SL series as a T20I captain, overseeing budding cricketers trying to make the most of the opportunities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag and Washington Sundar in the side, besides seam-bowling all-rounders Hardik Pandya and uncapped Nitish Kumar Reddy, SKY feels having more options to try from (all-rounders) is a win-win situation for India.</p>

<p>"It's good if your batters can bowl an over or two. I think there is hardly anyone in this squad who doesn't bowl. That gives you more bowling options on the ground. As you saw in Sri Lanka, Riyan [Parag] bowled four overs. If someone says he can bowl in the pressure situation, then why not,” Suryakumar concluded.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the first match will begin at 7:30 PM IST.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Team India T20I Captain Suryakumar Yadav has hinted at Mayank Yadav’s potential debut against Bangladesh in the first T20I in Gwalior on Sunday (Oct 6). Speaking on the eve of the match, SKY called Mayank an ‘x-factor’, adding his express pace separates him from the rest.

Team India T20I Captain Suryakumar Yadav has hinted at Mayank Yadav’s potential debut against Bangladesh in the first T20I in Gwalior on Sunday (Oct 6). Speaking on the eve of the match, SKY called Mayank an ‘x-factor’, adding his express pace separates him from the rest. Though the skipper admitted he hasn’t faced him in the nets yet, he could see the potential in Mayank since his IPL days early this year. Mayank emerged onto the scene during IPL 2024 when he bowled over 150kmph in his debut game for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) against RCB. His back-to-back three-wicket hauls in his first two games earned him the Player of the Match award but he got ruled out of the tournament with an abdominal injury soon after. "He definitely has the X factor - it was evident when he played franchise cricket," Suryakumar said of Mayank ahead of the first T20I against Bangladesh in Gwalior. "He has that extra pace. I didn't face him in the nets; our net plan was such that someone else faced him. But I have seen what potential he has and what difference he can make for the team. From that point of view, I feel he is a good addition to the Indian team, and I am hoping he will do well. "It's important to manage him well because of the amount of cricket being played. Everyone is playing for their state too. There was the Duleep Trophy recently. So it is important to pay proper attention, and the BCCI is doing that,” he continued. ALSO READ: IND vs BAN: Blow for India as Shivam Dube gets ruled out of T20I series; Tilak Varma roped in as replacement The Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium in Gwalior will host the first of the three matches, and given the stadium is staging its first international match, a surprise element conditions-wise awaits both teams. While Bangladesh captain Towhid Hridoy expects the surface to play ‘slow and low’, Surya thinks the opposite. The pitch looks good," SKY said. "We practised on the centre wicket, just two pitches away. We didn't find it that low and slow - we practised all three days. So it [the match pitch] should not be much different. "For T20 cricket, these are good wickets. There will be good competition [between the bat and ball], but at the same time, it looks good [for run-scoring]. Captain happy with all-rounders Since winning the T20 World Cup in the Americas earlier in June, Team India won their two assignments, against Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka since. Rested for the Zimbabwe series, SKY returned for the away SL series as a T20I captain, overseeing budding cricketers trying to make the most of the opportunities. With Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag and Washington Sundar in the side, besides seam-bowling all-rounders Hardik Pandya and uncapped Nitish Kumar Reddy, SKY feels having more options to try from (all-rounders) is a win-win situation for India. "It's good if your batters can bowl an over or two. I think there is hardly anyone in this squad who doesn't bowl. That gives you more bowling options on the ground. As you saw in Sri Lanka, Riyan [Parag] bowled four overs. If someone says he can bowl in the pressure situation, then why not,” Suryakumar concluded. Meanwhile, the first match will begin at 7:30 PM IST. (With inputs from agencies)

IND v BAN 2024 1st T20I, Preview: All eyes on ‘x-factor’ Mayank Yadav as India gear up for Bangladesh T20Is

<p>India continued their merry run in home Tests with a 2-0 series win over Bangladesh. On Day 5 of the second and final Test, on Tuesday (Oct 1), Rohit Sharma-led India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets, in chase of 95, to inflict a series whitewash. With this, India continue to remain unbeaten in home Tests with their last series defeat versus England in 2012/13. Thus, former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja lauded Rohit &amp; Co. and feels that it is a dream for any visiting team to beat India in&nbsp;their own backyard.</p>

<h2><strong>'Bangladesh didn't have the capacity to challenge India'</strong></h2>

<p>Ramiz said on his YouTube channel, "India won the Test match easily against Bangladesh. At this point, India is the strongest team to beat on their home soil... Bangladesh had to do a lot to give a tough time to such a successful team because winning a Test match can only be a dream for any visiting team. Bangladesh didn't have the capacity to challenge India...."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/players-are-only-focused-on-making-money-zaheer-abbas-on-pakistans-downfall-lashes-out-at-pcb-764363">Players are only focused on making money: Zaheer Abbas on Pakistan's downfall, lashes out at PCB</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the second Test, in Kanpur, India opted to bowl first on the opening day, on Sep 27, which ended early due to rain with the Bangla Tigers reeling at 107-3. Play resumed on Day 4, with the previous two days being washed out due to rain and wet outfield, as India dismissed Bangladesh for 233. The hosts batted with an aggressive intent to take a slender 52-run lead, declaring at 285/9 in 33.4 overs (scoring more than eight an over).</p>

<p>In their second essay, Bangladesh were 26-2 when play kicked off on the final day and folded for 146 due to three-fers from Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. Chasing 95, India rode on Yashasvi Jaiswal's 51 to finish off the proceedings in style. India had won the series opener, in Chennai, by 280 runs.</p>

<p>Thus, India remain at the top of the WTC 2023-25 points table, with a win percentage of 74.24. They are well on course&nbsp;to make it to their third WTC final in a row.</p>


India continued their merry run in home Tests with a 2-0 series win over Bangladesh. On Day 5 of the second and final Test, on Tuesday (Oct 1), Rohit Sharma-led India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets, in chase of 95, to inflict a series whitewash.

India continued their merry run in home Tests with a 2-0 series win over Bangladesh. On Day 5 of the second and final Test, on Tuesday (Oct 1), Rohit Sharma-led India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets, in chase of 95, to inflict a series whitewash. With this, India continue to remain unbeaten in home Tests with their last series defeat versus England in 2012/13. Thus, former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja lauded Rohit & Co. and feels that it is a dream for any visiting team to beat India in their own backyard. 'Bangladesh didn't have the capacity to challenge India' Ramiz said on his YouTube channel, "India won the Test match easily against Bangladesh. At this point, India is the strongest team to beat on their home soil... Bangladesh had to do a lot to give a tough time to such a successful team because winning a Test match can only be a dream for any visiting team. Bangladesh didn't have the capacity to challenge India...." Also read: Players are only focused on making money: Zaheer Abbas on Pakistan's downfall, lashes out at PCB Talking about the second Test, in Kanpur, India opted to bowl first on the opening day, on Sep 27, which ended early due to rain with the Bangla Tigers reeling at 107-3. Play resumed on Day 4, with the previous two days being washed out due to rain and wet outfield, as India dismissed Bangladesh for 233. The hosts batted with an aggressive intent to take a slender 52-run lead, declaring at 285/9 in 33.4 overs (scoring more than eight an over). In their second essay, Bangladesh were 26-2 when play kicked off on the final day and folded for 146 due to three-fers from Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. Chasing 95, India rode on Yashasvi Jaiswal's 51 to finish off the proceedings in style. India had won the series opener, in Chennai, by 280 runs. Thus, India remain at the top of the WTC 2023-25 points table, with a win percentage of 74.24. They are well on course to make it to their third WTC final in a row.

India strongest at home, teams can only beat them in dreams: Ramiz Raja lauds Rohit Sharma-led side

<p>Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his gratitude to Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri for revamping his Test career by promoting him as an opener&nbsp;in late 2019. During the Kohli-Shastri era, the former captain and head coach insisted Rohit try his hand as an opener (following his tremendous white-ball success). The move paid dividends as it has revived Hitman's red-ball career. Till 2018, the right-hander played only 27 Tests and amassed&nbsp; 1,585 runs with three hundreds and 10 fifties. He wasn't even a regular in the Test line-up, but it all changed since his elevation at the top. Since becoming a permanent opener, Rohit has added 2,594 runs to his overall tally, including nine centuries and seven half-centuries.</p>

<h2><strong>'It felt like a second birth in Test cricket. I knew I had to grab this opportunity'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking on Jatin Sapru's YouTube channel, Rohit&nbsp;acknowledged the impact of Kohli-Shastri and said, "In the second innings, I was very grateful to Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli for giving me the opportunity to bat up the order. It wasn’t an easy decision to promote me in Tests. They trusted me. They asked me to play one practice match, which I did. I got out on the very first ball, but I realized that I didn’t have any other choice. It felt like a second birth in Test cricket. I knew I had to grab this opportunity, whether it meant opening, batting at No. 5 or 6, or even lower down the order."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/blow-to-india-before-australia-tour-md-shamis-comeback-hit-by-swollen-knee-during-rehab-report-763822">Blow to India before Australia tour! Md Shami's comeback hit by swollen knee during rehab - Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Rohit further opined, "My response to them (Kohli and Shastri) was clear: I’ll play my natural game and won’t take the pressure of trying to survive. I’m going to play freely. If the ball is there, whether it’s the first ball of the Test or not, I’m going to hit it. They gave me the freedom to do what I wanted." He added, "Ravi Bhai was very eager for me to open in Tests for a long time. He told me in 2015 that I should consider it as an option. He wanted me to open, but the decision wasn’t in my hands."</p>

<h2><strong>India whitewash Bangladesh</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday (Oct 1), Rohit-led India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets to win the second and final Test in Kanpur, inflicting a 2-0 whitewash. Rohit was hailed for his aggressive captaincy as he pushed his side to go for a win despite the second and third day's play being washed out due to rain and wet outfield. Put in to bat first, Bangladesh ended a rain-marred opening day at 107-3. Play finally resumed on Day 4 and India bundled out the Bangla Tigers for 233 with a good bowling show.</p>

<p>In reply, Rohit asked his batters to go aggressive and aim for a lead. He himself started his inning with two big sixes. Riding on Yashasvi Jaiswal's 72 and KL Rahul's 68,&nbsp;India declared at 285-9, scoring more than eight runs an over, to lead by 52 and asked Bangladesh to bat again. At stumps on Day 4, the&nbsp;Najmul Shanto-led visitors were reeling at 26-2 and eventually got dismissed for 146 on the final day, on Tuesday, to&nbsp;set up&nbsp;a paltry 95-run target.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit-led India chased down the target soon after lunch on the final day to win the series 2-0. Hitman's proactive and aggressive captaincy earned huge&nbsp;praises.</p>


Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his gratitude to Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri for revamping his Test career by promoting him as an opener in late 2019. During the Kohli-Shastri era, the former captain and head coach insisted Rohit try his hand as an opener (following his tremendous white-ball success).

Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his gratitude to Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri for revamping his Test career by promoting him as an opener in late 2019. During the Kohli-Shastri era, the former captain and head coach insisted Rohit try his hand as an opener (following his tremendous white-ball success). The move paid dividends as it has revived Hitman's red-ball career. Till 2018, the right-hander played only 27 Tests and amassed 1,585 runs with three hundreds and 10 fifties. He wasn't even a regular in the Test line-up, but it all changed since his elevation at the top. Since becoming a permanent opener, Rohit has added 2,594 runs to his overall tally, including nine centuries and seven half-centuries. 'It felt like a second birth in Test cricket. I knew I had to grab this opportunity' Speaking on Jatin Sapru's YouTube channel, Rohit acknowledged the impact of Kohli-Shastri and said, "In the second innings, I was very grateful to Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli for giving me the opportunity to bat up the order. It wasn’t an easy decision to promote me in Tests. They trusted me. They asked me to play one practice match, which I did. I got out on the very first ball, but I realized that I didn’t have any other choice. It felt like a second birth in Test cricket. I knew I had to grab this opportunity, whether it meant opening, batting at No. 5 or 6, or even lower down the order." Also read: Blow to India before Australia tour! Md Shami's comeback hit by swollen knee during rehab - Report Rohit further opined, "My response to them (Kohli and Shastri) was clear: I’ll play my natural game and won’t take the pressure of trying to survive. I’m going to play freely. If the ball is there, whether it’s the first ball of the Test or not, I’m going to hit it. They gave me the freedom to do what I wanted." He added, "Ravi Bhai was very eager for me to open in Tests for a long time. He told me in 2015 that I should consider it as an option. He wanted me to open, but the decision wasn’t in my hands." India whitewash Bangladesh On Tuesday (Oct 1), Rohit-led India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets to win the second and final Test in Kanpur, inflicting a 2-0 whitewash. Rohit was hailed for his aggressive captaincy as he pushed his side to go for a win despite the second and third day's play being washed out due to rain and wet outfield. Put in to bat first, Bangladesh ended a rain-marred opening day at 107-3. Play finally resumed on Day 4 and India bundled out the Bangla Tigers for 233 with a good bowling show. In reply, Rohit asked his batters to go aggressive and aim for a lead. He himself started his inning with two big sixes. Riding on Yashasvi Jaiswal's 72 and KL Rahul's 68, India declared at 285-9, scoring more than eight runs an over, to lead by 52 and asked Bangladesh to bat again. At stumps on Day 4, the Najmul Shanto-led visitors were reeling at 26-2 and eventually got dismissed for 146 on the final day, on Tuesday, to set up a paltry 95-run target. Rohit-led India chased down the target soon after lunch on the final day to win the series 2-0. Hitman's proactive and aggressive captaincy earned huge praises.

Kohli, Shastri ensured my second birth in Tests: Rohit Sharma expresses gratitude for red-ball resurgence

<p>Yuvraj Singh, former Indian all-rounder, had a glorious run in&nbsp;international cricket. He retired with 8,701 ODI and 1,171 T20I runs along with 139 wickets in the two formats. In Tests, he scored 1,900 runs in 40 matches, along with nine wickets,&nbsp;and never was a force to reckon with in whites. He, however, became a household name by playing an integral part in MS Dhoni-led India's 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup triumphs. During his career, Yuvraj's name made the headlines for dating several actresses. Recently, the former cricketer shared an interesting incident where his then girlfriend, who is currently a famous Indian actress, followed him to Canberra&nbsp;during India's 2007/08 tour of Australia.</p>

<p>During the latest episode of Club Prairie Fire podcast, also featuring veterans Adam Gilchrist and Michael Vaughan, Yuvraj revealed, "I was dating an actress, I won't name her; (She is) very good at the moment and very experienced. She was shooting in Adelaide. I told her, listen, let's not meet for a bit because I'm on Australia tour, and need to focus. She followed me to Canberra in the bus. In two Tests, I didn't get many runs. And I was like, 'what are you doing here?' And she was like, ‘I want to spend time with you'."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-dwayne-bravo-leaves-csk-to-succeed-gautam-gambhir-as-kkr-mentor-762456">IPL 2025: Dwayne Bravo leaves CSK to succeed Gautam Gambhir as KKR mentor</a></strong></p>

<p>Yuvi further said, "So, I met her in the night and we began chatting. I told her you need to focus on your career and I need to focus on mine, because I'm on Australia tour and you know what that means. Anyway, we were leaving for Adelaide from Canberra and she packed my suitcase."</p>

<p>"In the morning, I was like ‘where are my shoes'? She said, ‘I packed them'. I asked, ‘How would I go on the bus'? And she said, 'Wear mine'. She had these pink slip-ons. And I was like, 'Oh my god'. I had to wear those pink slip-ons, and I was carrying my bag in front of my shoes to hide them. The guys saw it, and they clapped for me. I had to wear pink slip-ons to the airport until I bought flip-flops there," he added.</p>

<p>At present, Rohit Sharma-led India are hosting Bangladesh in the second and final Test, which got underway on Friday morning (Sep 27) in Kanpur. They aim to finish off the series with a 2-0 scoreline before hosting New Zealand in three Tests. From thereon, India will travel to Australia for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, featuring five Test matches.&nbsp;</p>


Yuvraj Singh, former Indian all-rounder, had a glorious run in international cricket. He retired with 8,701 ODI and 1,171 T20I runs along with 139 wickets in the two formats.

Yuvraj Singh, former Indian all-rounder, had a glorious run in international cricket. He retired with 8,701 ODI and 1,171 T20I runs along with 139 wickets in the two formats. In Tests, he scored 1,900 runs in 40 matches, along with nine wickets, and never was a force to reckon with in whites. He, however, became a household name by playing an integral part in MS Dhoni-led India's 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup triumphs. During his career, Yuvraj's name made the headlines for dating several actresses. Recently, the former cricketer shared an interesting incident where his then girlfriend, who is currently a famous Indian actress, followed him to Canberra during India's 2007/08 tour of Australia. During the latest episode of Club Prairie Fire podcast, also featuring veterans Adam Gilchrist and Michael Vaughan, Yuvraj revealed, "I was dating an actress, I won't name her; (She is) very good at the moment and very experienced. She was shooting in Adelaide. I told her, listen, let's not meet for a bit because I'm on Australia tour, and need to focus. She followed me to Canberra in the bus. In two Tests, I didn't get many runs. And I was like, 'what are you doing here?' And she was like, ‘I want to spend time with you'." Also read: IPL 2025: Dwayne Bravo leaves CSK to succeed Gautam Gambhir as KKR mentor Yuvi further said, "So, I met her in the night and we began chatting. I told her you need to focus on your career and I need to focus on mine, because I'm on Australia tour and you know what that means. Anyway, we were leaving for Adelaide from Canberra and she packed my suitcase." "In the morning, I was like ‘where are my shoes'? She said, ‘I packed them'. I asked, ‘How would I go on the bus'? And she said, 'Wear mine'. She had these pink slip-ons. And I was like, 'Oh my god'. I had to wear those pink slip-ons, and I was carrying my bag in front of my shoes to hide them. The guys saw it, and they clapped for me. I had to wear pink slip-ons to the airport until I bought flip-flops there," he added. At present, Rohit Sharma-led India are hosting Bangladesh in the second and final Test, which got underway on Friday morning (Sep 27) in Kanpur. They aim to finish off the series with a 2-0 scoreline before hosting New Zealand in three Tests. From thereon, India will travel to Australia for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, featuring five Test matches.

Was dating an actress, she followed me to Canberra: Yuvraj Singh recalls hilarious episode from Australia tour

<p>Rishabh Pant is one name that is on everyone’s lips, and why not - he just scored perhaps the best comeback hundred in the game (against Bangladesh in the Chennai Test). Tied with MS Dhoni’s tally of six Test centuries, in fewer Tests than the former India captain, the debate has begun on 'If Pant has surpassed everyone to be India’s greatest keeper-batter. However, the ex-India gloveman, Dinesh Karthik, says hold on, reminding everyone of Dhoni’s credentials in this format.</p>

<p>While MS Dhoni played 90 Tests, retiring in 2014, Pant completed his 34th Test (Chennai game), which India won by 280 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-gears-up-for-shock-test-return-with-bgt-looming-training-video-goes-viral-watch-761256">Hardik Pandya gears up for ‘shock’ Test return with BGT looming, training video goes viral - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>Karthik, who, all his life, was compared to MS Dhoni, knows what it takes to surpass the great man in Tests, a format that wasn’t Dhoni’s favourite in the first place.</p>

<p>Asking fans to hold their horses for now regarding Pant’s status in Test cricket, Karthik said,&nbsp;“It’s very unacceptable to say that he’s played 34 Tests and he’s already India’s greatest wicketkeeper batter. Let’s take time, let’s not jump to conclusions, but definitely, he’s on course for sure, and he will finish as India’s greatest ever wicketkeeper.”</p>

<p>“Don’t discount Dhoni’s credentials as a wicketkeeper as well. He not only kept brilliantly, batted and scored runs when it mattered very, very well for India, but also, he led India to a World Test Championship mace, which is becoming number one. So, you got to give all that weightage as well when you speak about a player all round,” the former India player said in a chat on Cricbuzz.</p>

<h2>Comeback hundred for Pant</h2>

<p>Rishabh Pant was enjoying his cricket and life when a horrifying car crash almost killed him. Though with God’s grace, he came out of it alive, and despite being sidelined for more than a year, he returned to playing competitive cricket, Pant made his chances count since.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He captained Delhi Capitals upon his return, ending up as their highest scorer this season (448 runs in 13 matches), and almost a month later, won his maiden T20 World Cup for India in the Americas.</p>

<p>Picked for the first time in the Test squad since December 2022, Pant got out early in the first innings against Bangladesh but slammed a brilliant hundred in the second.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, unlike MS Dhoni or any other Indian gloveman earlier, Pant already has a Test hundred in Australia, England and South Africa, with Australia being his favourite venue.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rishabh Pant is one name that is on everyone’s lips, and why not - he just scored perhaps the best comeback hundred in the game (against Bangladesh in the Chennai Test).

Rishabh Pant is one name that is on everyone’s lips, and why not - he just scored perhaps the best comeback hundred in the game (against Bangladesh in the Chennai Test). Tied with MS Dhoni’s tally of six Test centuries, in fewer Tests than the former India captain, the debate has begun on 'If Pant has surpassed everyone to be India’s greatest keeper-batter. However, the ex-India gloveman, Dinesh Karthik, says hold on, reminding everyone of Dhoni’s credentials in this format. While MS Dhoni played 90 Tests, retiring in 2014, Pant completed his 34th Test (Chennai game), which India won by 280 runs. ALSO READ: Hardik Pandya gears up for ‘shock’ Test return with BGT looming, training video goes viral - WATCH Karthik, who, all his life, was compared to MS Dhoni, knows what it takes to surpass the great man in Tests, a format that wasn’t Dhoni’s favourite in the first place. Asking fans to hold their horses for now regarding Pant’s status in Test cricket, Karthik said, “It’s very unacceptable to say that he’s played 34 Tests and he’s already India’s greatest wicketkeeper batter. Let’s take time, let’s not jump to conclusions, but definitely, he’s on course for sure, and he will finish as India’s greatest ever wicketkeeper.” “Don’t discount Dhoni’s credentials as a wicketkeeper as well. He not only kept brilliantly, batted and scored runs when it mattered very, very well for India, but also, he led India to a World Test Championship mace, which is becoming number one. So, you got to give all that weightage as well when you speak about a player all round,” the former India player said in a chat on Cricbuzz. Comeback hundred for Pant Rishabh Pant was enjoying his cricket and life when a horrifying car crash almost killed him. Though with God’s grace, he came out of it alive, and despite being sidelined for more than a year, he returned to playing competitive cricket, Pant made his chances count since. He captained Delhi Capitals upon his return, ending up as their highest scorer this season (448 runs in 13 matches), and almost a month later, won his maiden T20 World Cup for India in the Americas. Picked for the first time in the Test squad since December 2022, Pant got out early in the first innings against Bangladesh but slammed a brilliant hundred in the second. Meanwhile, unlike MS Dhoni or any other Indian gloveman earlier, Pant already has a Test hundred in Australia, England and South Africa, with Australia being his favourite venue. (With inputs from agencies)

Is Pant already India’s greatest Test keeper-batter? Dinesh Karthik says hold on, drags MS Dhoni into debate

<p>Ace India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is in line to make a shock return to Test cricket for the first time in six years. Having last appeared in the whites for the country in 2018, Pandya is now gearing up for the five-match Test series Down Under starting November 22.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Per the latest reports, Pandya has put in hard yards under the watchful eyes of Gujarat Titans assistant coach Naeem Amin at the Mighty Willow Cricket Academy in London lately, with his training video doing rounds on social media.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-ban-2024-bangladesh-undecided-over-shakib-al-hasans-availability-for-kanpur-test-761248">IND v BAN 2024: Bangladesh undecided over Shakib Al Hasan’s availability for Kanpur Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Pandya, who in the past claimed to be opting out of playing the longer format, seems to have changed his mind, and going by Amin’s words (on his Instagram post), Pandya has pushed above his weight during the training, showing the willingness to remain available for selection in all formats and not just in ODIs and T20Is.</p>

<p>“What a fantastic experience working with Hardik Pandya over the last few weeks. We worked on several things, and I’m excited to see his progress in the future,” Amin wrote on his Instagram post.</p>

<p>“Working with a player at the highest level can teach you so much. The insights have been invaluable, and it’s also been great fun. As with all of the high-profile players I have worked with, I’m very appreciative that Hardik has trusted me to provide input on his game. Well done, and all the best, brother,” he continued.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH VIDEO -</strong></p>

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<h2>Bangladesh T20Is next in line for Pandya</h2>

<p>Hardik Pandya has had a mixed-match 2023. While his return to his former IPL franchise, Mumbai Indians, this time as a skipper, was no short of a troublesome run for him and the team as they finished last on the points table, the right-hander played a handy role in helping India win the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas in June.</p>

<p>Out of the team since the Sri Lanka T20Is, for personal reasons, Pandya is all set to return to the squad for the Bangladesh T20Is.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja having retired from the shortest format, and the BCCI selectors said to be resting some key players from this series considering workload management, Pandya could be among the few high-profile names to be picked.</p>

<p>India is scheduled to travel to South Africa for four T20Is just before the start of the five-match Test series against Australia and the selectors will consider Pandya’s case for the tour Down Under.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, premium seamer Mohammed Shami will also be fit before the Australian series, per the latest reports, with Team India benefitting from more seam bowlers.</p>


Ace India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is in line to make a shock return to Test cricket for the first time in six years. Having last appeared in the whites for the country in 2018, Pandya is now gearing up for the five-match Test series Down Under starting November 22.

Ace India all-rounder Hardik Pandya is in line to make a shock return to Test cricket for the first time in six years. Having last appeared in the whites for the country in 2018, Pandya is now gearing up for the five-match Test series Down Under starting November 22. Per the latest reports, Pandya has put in hard yards under the watchful eyes of Gujarat Titans assistant coach Naeem Amin at the Mighty Willow Cricket Academy in London lately, with his training video doing rounds on social media. ALSO READ: IND v BAN 2024: Bangladesh undecided over Shakib Al Hasan’s availability for Kanpur Test Pandya, who in the past claimed to be opting out of playing the longer format, seems to have changed his mind, and going by Amin’s words (on his Instagram post), Pandya has pushed above his weight during the training, showing the willingness to remain available for selection in all formats and not just in ODIs and T20Is. “What a fantastic experience working with Hardik Pandya over the last few weeks. We worked on several things, and I’m excited to see his progress in the future,” Amin wrote on his Instagram post. “Working with a player at the highest level can teach you so much. The insights have been invaluable, and it’s also been great fun. As with all of the high-profile players I have worked with, I’m very appreciative that Hardik has trusted me to provide input on his game. Well done, and all the best, brother,” he continued. WATCH VIDEO - View this post on Instagram A post shared by Naeem Amin (@mightywillow) × Bangladesh T20Is next in line for Pandya Hardik Pandya has had a mixed-match 2023. While his return to his former IPL franchise, Mumbai Indians, this time as a skipper, was no short of a troublesome run for him and the team as they finished last on the points table, the right-hander played a handy role in helping India win the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas in June. Out of the team since the Sri Lanka T20Is, for personal reasons, Pandya is all set to return to the squad for the Bangladesh T20Is. With Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja having retired from the shortest format, and the BCCI selectors said to be resting some key players from this series considering workload management, Pandya could be among the few high-profile names to be picked. India is scheduled to travel to South Africa for four T20Is just before the start of the five-match Test series against Australia and the selectors will consider Pandya’s case for the tour Down Under. Meanwhile, premium seamer Mohammed Shami will also be fit before the Australian series, per the latest reports, with Team India benefitting from more seam bowlers.

Hardik Pandya gears up for ‘shock’ Test return with BGT looming, training video goes viral - WATCH

<p>India has enjoyed being a batting-loving country, but with time, the bowlers have taken the onus and garnered much-needed attention with their sublime outings. Captain Rohit Sharma, who leads perhaps the set of best Test bowlers ever assembled in the country, details how he plans to build a team around bowling. Rohit praised his bowlers for delivering in the first Test against Bangladesh, which India won by 280 runs on Sunday (Sep 22).</p>

<p>Though Ravichandran Ashwin, Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill made headlines for their&nbsp; respective Test tons in the Chennai Test, more so for Pant, who scored a Test century on his return to playing his favourite format, the bowlers still hogged all the limelight, with all-rounder Ashwin returning with six wickets in the second innings.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/indias-ravi-ashwin-becomes-first-spin-all-rounder-to-achieve-this-record-in-tests-760870">Ravi Ashwin becomes first spin all-rounder from India to achieve THIS record in Tests</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the pacers made the right noises in the first innings, with ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah picking up four wickets and Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj returning with two wickets each.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No matter what the conditions are, whether we play in India, whether we play outside, we want to build the team around [bowling]," Rohit said after India’s win in the Chennai Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Whatever the condition has to offer, we got to be ready for it. In the last few years, wherever we have played, we have managed to have that in our armoury, whether it is seam bowling options or spin bowling options. You have to give credit to the guys, whenever there is a responsibility, they never shy away from it, and they want to put their hand up and get the job done for the team,” he added.</p>

<h2>Bowling depth pleases Rohit</h2>

<p>With Team India scheduled to play nine more Tests till January next year, with the next being the second one of this series against Bangladesh in Kanpur (from Sep 27 onwards), the selectors, captain, and coach have plenty of options to pick and choose from, considering the workload management.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though the latest reports suggested that premier fast bowler Mohammed Shami is saved for five Tests Down Under starting November 22, Team India can bank on the newcomers in Akash Deep and uncapped Yash Dayal, retained for the 2nd Test, to play handy roles at some stage during the home season.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not only in the pace department but even in the spin, India has options like Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav to choose from.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Considering that India next faces New Zealand for three Tests, all these players are expected to make it to the playing XI in some games.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India has enjoyed being a batting-loving country, but with time, the bowlers have taken the onus and garnered much-needed attention with their sublime outings. Captain Rohit Sharma, who leads perhaps the set of best Test bowlers ever assembled in the country, details how he plans to build a team around bowling.

India has enjoyed being a batting-loving country, but with time, the bowlers have taken the onus and garnered much-needed attention with their sublime outings. Captain Rohit Sharma, who leads perhaps the set of best Test bowlers ever assembled in the country, details how he plans to build a team around bowling. Rohit praised his bowlers for delivering in the first Test against Bangladesh, which India won by 280 runs on Sunday (Sep 22). Though Ravichandran Ashwin, Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill made headlines for their respective Test tons in the Chennai Test, more so for Pant, who scored a Test century on his return to playing his favourite format, the bowlers still hogged all the limelight, with all-rounder Ashwin returning with six wickets in the second innings. ALSO READ: Ravi Ashwin becomes first spin all-rounder from India to achieve THIS record in Tests However, the pacers made the right noises in the first innings, with ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah picking up four wickets and Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj returning with two wickets each. "No matter what the conditions are, whether we play in India, whether we play outside, we want to build the team around [bowling]," Rohit said after India’s win in the Chennai Test. "Whatever the condition has to offer, we got to be ready for it. In the last few years, wherever we have played, we have managed to have that in our armoury, whether it is seam bowling options or spin bowling options. You have to give credit to the guys, whenever there is a responsibility, they never shy away from it, and they want to put their hand up and get the job done for the team,” he added. Bowling depth pleases Rohit With Team India scheduled to play nine more Tests till January next year, with the next being the second one of this series against Bangladesh in Kanpur (from Sep 27 onwards), the selectors, captain, and coach have plenty of options to pick and choose from, considering the workload management. Though the latest reports suggested that premier fast bowler Mohammed Shami is saved for five Tests Down Under starting November 22, Team India can bank on the newcomers in Akash Deep and uncapped Yash Dayal, retained for the 2nd Test, to play handy roles at some stage during the home season. Not only in the pace department but even in the spin, India has options like Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav to choose from. Considering that India next faces New Zealand for three Tests, all these players are expected to make it to the playing XI in some games. (With inputs from agencies)

IND v BAN: Pressure off batters as India captain Rohit Sharma aims to build team around bowling

<p>Rishabh Pant is back, and back with a bang.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ace India keeper-batter slammed his sixth Test hundred in the second innings of the Chennai Test against Bangladesh, equalling MS Dhoni’s tally of Test tons. Although he marked his return to cricket earlier during IPL 2024, Pant scored his first hundred since the car crash in December 2022 that sent the cricket fraternity into a frenzy.</p>

<p>Pant missed last year’s IPL, the WTC Final, the Asia Cup and the home ODI World Cup but returned to play this year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, which India won by beating South Africa in the final.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-bcci-announces-india-squad-for-second-test-760879">IND vs BAN: BCCI announces India squad for second Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Away and out with multiple injuries, Pant, in early 2023, was even deemed unfit to play cricket again, let alone do wonders on his Test return.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He underwent several surgeries on his knees, back and shoulder, only to attain full fitness in time for the tight cricket schedule earlier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not only did Pant keep wickets for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2024 despite Sourav Ganguly (DC’s Director of Cricket) informing that Pant might play only as a batter ahead of the season, but he also captained the side and topped the runs chart, with 446 runs in 13 contested matches.</p>

<h2>Pant stars on Test return</h2>

<p>Meanwhile, against Bangladesh in the first Test of the home season, Pant got out early in the first innings but completed a remarkable hundred in the second to keep India’s nose in front.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">WELCOME BACK TO TEST CRICKET, RISHABH PANT! 🙌🏻💯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RishabhPant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RishabhPant</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvBAN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IDFCFirstBankTestSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IDFCFirstBankTestSeries</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinemaSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinemaSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/C4gJuv29Y1">pic.twitter.com/C4gJuv29Y1</a></p>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1837389477490172229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Alongside him, number three batter Shubman Gill also hit an unbeaten 119 in the second innings.</p>

<p>“Definitely, it was emotional because coming back, I wanted to score in each and every match, which I couldn't do,” Pant said after the Chennai Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“But coming back to Test cricket, where I belong the most, is great. I enjoyed batting out there and just got a little bit emotional. But at the end of the day, just being on the field gives me more pleasure than doing anything else.</p>

<p>"A lot special (equalling Dhoni’s Test ton record) because I love playing in Chennai, first of all. And secondly, after injury, I think I wanted to play all three formats, and this was my first Test match after coming back. Just loving it every day,” he concluded.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kanpur will host the second Test between India and Bangladesh starting September 27.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rishabh Pant is back, and back with a bang. The ace India keeper-batter slammed his sixth Test hundred in the second innings of the Chennai Test against Bangladesh, equalling MS Dhoni’s tally of Test tons.

Rishabh Pant is back, and back with a bang. The ace India keeper-batter slammed his sixth Test hundred in the second innings of the Chennai Test against Bangladesh, equalling MS Dhoni’s tally of Test tons. Although he marked his return to cricket earlier during IPL 2024, Pant scored his first hundred since the car crash in December 2022 that sent the cricket fraternity into a frenzy. Pant missed last year’s IPL, the WTC Final, the Asia Cup and the home ODI World Cup but returned to play this year’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, which India won by beating South Africa in the final. ALSO READ: IND vs BAN: BCCI announces India squad for second Test Away and out with multiple injuries, Pant, in early 2023, was even deemed unfit to play cricket again, let alone do wonders on his Test return. He underwent several surgeries on his knees, back and shoulder, only to attain full fitness in time for the tight cricket schedule earlier. Not only did Pant keep wickets for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2024 despite Sourav Ganguly (DC’s Director of Cricket) informing that Pant might play only as a batter ahead of the season, but he also captained the side and topped the runs chart, with 446 runs in 13 contested matches. Pant stars on Test return Meanwhile, against Bangladesh in the first Test of the home season, Pant got out early in the first innings but completed a remarkable hundred in the second to keep India’s nose in front. WELCOME BACK TO TEST CRICKET, RISHABH PANT! 🙌🏻💯#RishabhPant #INDvBAN #IDFCFirstBankTestSeries #JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/C4gJuv29Y1 — JioCinema (@JioCinema) September 21, 2024 × Alongside him, number three batter Shubman Gill also hit an unbeaten 119 in the second innings. “Definitely, it was emotional because coming back, I wanted to score in each and every match, which I couldn't do,” Pant said after the Chennai Test. “But coming back to Test cricket, where I belong the most, is great. I enjoyed batting out there and just got a little bit emotional. But at the end of the day, just being on the field gives me more pleasure than doing anything else. "A lot special (equalling Dhoni’s Test ton record) because I love playing in Chennai, first of all. And secondly, after injury, I think I wanted to play all three formats, and this was my first Test match after coming back. Just loving it every day,” he concluded. Meanwhile, Kanpur will host the second Test between India and Bangladesh starting September 27. (With inputs from agencies)

IND v BAN 2024: Rishabh Pant grateful for Chennai hundred, says ‘just loving it every day’ upon Test return

<p>Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as Team India’s new head coach brought plenty of expectations. Though the one he replaced, Rahul Dravid, helped India end the ICC trophy drought after 11 years by winning the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, Gambhir helping KKR win IPL 2024 was seen as a&nbsp;huge&nbsp;milestone.</p>

<p>Two months into his new role, Gambhir oversaw India win the T20I series win against Sri Lanka, but they lost the One-Dayers, with his latest assignment being the ongoing Test series with Bangladesh at home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dravid and Gambhir have played together for several years, and having known GG from closed quarters, Dravid sounded pleased with Gautam’s appointment. Although he admitted every coach would have his share of success and failures, Dravid backed Gambhir to taste success only for what he brings. Rahul said the Indian Team would benefit hugely under GG’s leadership.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-ban-1st-test-ravi-ashwin-pleased-with-6th-test-hundred-says-its-special-to-play-in-chennai-760124">IND v BAN 1st Test: Ravi Ashwin ‘pleased’ with 6th Test hundred, says ‘it’s special to play in Chennai’</a></strong></p>

<p>"He (Gambhir) has got a lot of experience, as a player also he has played a lot, he obviously coached quite a bit. I am sure he will be great," Dravid said during a media interaction at the launch event of 'Roombr,' a 'Digital Classroom' provider.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In any situation, everyone brings his own experience and knowledge to the table. I am sure the team will benefit from everything that Gautam brings to them with his team," the former India head coach added.</p>

<h2><strong>India succeeded under Dravid</strong></h2>

<p>Dravid’s appointment brought wholesome changes to Indian cricket, with Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as all-format captain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under Dravid, like it was during his captaincy days, Team India came close to winning ICC titles but failed in most. They reached three finals and one semi-final of three ICC events during his tutelage, with their only success coming in the last one (T20 WC) against South Africa in June earlier this year.</p>

<p>India also won the Border-Gavaskar series and the five-match Test series under Dravid at home, with winning the 2023 Asia Cup Final against Sri Lanka being the highlight.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>What is next in line for Gautam?</strong></h3>

<p>Team India will play 10 Tests until January next year, with Gambhir’s toughest assignment being the away five-match Test series against Australia starting November 22.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Men in Blue will then partake in the ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled for the February-March window in Pakistan next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as Team India’s new head coach brought plenty of expectations. Though the one he replaced, Rahul Dravid, helped India end the ICC trophy drought after 11 years by winning the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, Gambhir helping KKR win IPL 2024 was seen as a huge milestone.

Gautam Gambhir’s appointment as Team India’s new head coach brought plenty of expectations. Though the one he replaced, Rahul Dravid, helped India end the ICC trophy drought after 11 years by winning the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, Gambhir helping KKR win IPL 2024 was seen as a huge milestone. Two months into his new role, Gambhir oversaw India win the T20I series win against Sri Lanka, but they lost the One-Dayers, with his latest assignment being the ongoing Test series with Bangladesh at home. Dravid and Gambhir have played together for several years, and having known GG from closed quarters, Dravid sounded pleased with Gautam’s appointment. Although he admitted every coach would have his share of success and failures, Dravid backed Gambhir to taste success only for what he brings. Rahul said the Indian Team would benefit hugely under GG’s leadership. ALSO READ: IND v BAN 1st Test: Ravi Ashwin ‘pleased’ with 6th Test hundred, says ‘it’s special to play in Chennai’ "He (Gambhir) has got a lot of experience, as a player also he has played a lot, he obviously coached quite a bit. I am sure he will be great," Dravid said during a media interaction at the launch event of 'Roombr,' a 'Digital Classroom' provider. "In any situation, everyone brings his own experience and knowledge to the table. I am sure the team will benefit from everything that Gautam brings to them with his team," the former India head coach added. India succeeded under Dravid Dravid’s appointment brought wholesome changes to Indian cricket, with Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as all-format captain. Under Dravid, like it was during his captaincy days, Team India came close to winning ICC titles but failed in most. They reached three finals and one semi-final of three ICC events during his tutelage, with their only success coming in the last one (T20 WC) against South Africa in June earlier this year. India also won the Border-Gavaskar series and the five-match Test series under Dravid at home, with winning the 2023 Asia Cup Final against Sri Lanka being the highlight. What is next in line for Gautam? Team India will play 10 Tests until January next year, with Gambhir’s toughest assignment being the away five-match Test series against Australia starting November 22. The Men in Blue will then partake in the ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled for the February-March window in Pakistan next year. (With inputs from agencies)

Dravid backs Gautam Gambhir to succeed in new role, says 'team will benefit from what he brings to the table'

<p>Virat Kohli and India head coach Gautam Gambhir engaged in a freewheeling chat ahead of Rohit Sharma and&nbsp;Co.'s first Test versus Bangladesh, starting on Thursday (Sep 19) in Chennai. During the chat, Kohli and Gambhir touched upon various topics and talked about how brilliantly India climbed up the ladder as a Test side in recent times, especially during the former's captaincy tenure (from 2015-2022). Under Kohli, India were unbeaten at home and won a Test series in Australia, attained an unassailable 2-1 lead over hosts England in 2021 (a series which was halted for a year and eventually ended in a 2-2 stalemate post Kohli's tenure) and won two Tests in South Africa. In addition, India reached the pinnacle of the ICC Test rankings, and held the top spot for long, before also ending as runners-up in the inaugural WTC cycle (2019-21).</p>

<p>Thus, Gambhir lauded Kohli for transforming India's Test side after the departure of legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Zaheer Khan, Harbhajan Singh, etc. Kohli, who was 26 when he succeeded MS Dhoni as Test skipper, revamped the team – which was languishing at the seventh spot back then – by building a solid pace attack, stressing on lower-order runs and focusing on taking 20 wickets every game irrespective of playing at home or away.</p>

<h2><strong>'When I started thinking from the point of view where Indian cricket has, solutions came'</strong></h2>

<p>The chat commenced with Kohli recalling his plans as a Test captain&nbsp;after taking over post the departure of many stalwarts. He said, on BCCI.tv, "The thing that excited me about Test cricket and when I was coming up as captain was the challenge. We were transitioning when you guys had made way for a youngster team and Mahi bhai left Test captaincy. I was 25, so for me it was like 'I am here with a bunch of 24-25 year-old guys. How do we become household names?' We sat down and thought 'I really need to plan this out. This can't happen by chance'."</p>

<p>"When I started thinking from the point of view where Indian cricket has to be in 7 years' time, the solutions came. We need a group of fast bowlers. We need batters who can bat long. We need to give ownership to five batters and a keeper to get us 350-400. We can't have a seventh option. I remember the challenge excited me. I didn't feel like 'Oh my god! I don't want any part in this'. And that's when I was like I am all in," he stated.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-india-is-a-batting-obsessed-nation-but-bumrah-ashwin-changing-trend-says-coach-gautam-gambhir-759787">Ind vs Ban: India is a batting-obsessed nation but Bumrah, Ashwin changing trend, says coach Gautam Gambhir</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'What you did brilliantly was that you had a really strong bowling unit'</strong></h2>

<p>To this, Gambhir joined in and said, "I can understand what you might have gone through. A 24-25 year-old boy taking up Test captaincy and then what you did brilliantly was that you had a really strong bowling unit. Test matches are won by taking 20 wickets. Till the time you don't have a strong bowling line-up, you won't [win]. And that is what made you the most successful Test captain in the country."</p>

<p>"Credit has to go to you because as a batter it is very easy to have a strong 6-7 batters putting runs on the board but the way you identified and more importantly, the attitude which you brought on the field from fast bowlers. Imagine having people like Shami, Bumrah, Ishant, Umesh and then winning overseas. I remember you playing that knock in Adelaide. We were chasing 400; it was your first game as captain, and you still wanted to win that Test match. That is the mindset, that is the culture we want to bring in," he added.</p>

<p>Kohli signed off with 40 wins in 68 Tests, ending as India's most successful Test skipper.</p>

<p>At present, Rohit-led India is commencing a hectic Test season with a two-match home series versus Bangladesh before hosting New Zealand in three Tests. After that, they will travel to Australia for a five-match Test series; i.e. the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.</p>


Virat Kohli and India head coach Gautam Gambhir engaged in a freewheeling chat ahead of Rohit Sharma and Co.'s first Test versus Bangladesh, starting on Thursday (Sep 19) in Chennai.

Virat Kohli and India head coach Gautam Gambhir engaged in a freewheeling chat ahead of Rohit Sharma and Co.'s first Test versus Bangladesh, starting on Thursday (Sep 19) in Chennai. During the chat, Kohli and Gambhir touched upon various topics and talked about how brilliantly India climbed up the ladder as a Test side in recent times, especially during the former's captaincy tenure (from 2015-2022). Under Kohli, India were unbeaten at home and won a Test series in Australia, attained an unassailable 2-1 lead over hosts England in 2021 (a series which was halted for a year and eventually ended in a 2-2 stalemate post Kohli's tenure) and won two Tests in South Africa. In addition, India reached the pinnacle of the ICC Test rankings, and held the top spot for long, before also ending as runners-up in the inaugural WTC cycle (2019-21). Thus, Gambhir lauded Kohli for transforming India's Test side after the departure of legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Zaheer Khan, Harbhajan Singh, etc. Kohli, who was 26 when he succeeded MS Dhoni as Test skipper, revamped the team – which was languishing at the seventh spot back then – by building a solid pace attack, stressing on lower-order runs and focusing on taking 20 wickets every game irrespective of playing at home or away. 'When I started thinking from the point of view where Indian cricket has, solutions came' The chat commenced with Kohli recalling his plans as a Test captain after taking over post the departure of many stalwarts. He said, on BCCI.tv, "The thing that excited me about Test cricket and when I was coming up as captain was the challenge. We were transitioning when you guys had made way for a youngster team and Mahi bhai left Test captaincy. I was 25, so for me it was like 'I am here with a bunch of 24-25 year-old guys. How do we become household names?' We sat down and thought 'I really need to plan this out. This can't happen by chance'." "When I started thinking from the point of view where Indian cricket has to be in 7 years' time, the solutions came. We need a group of fast bowlers. We need batters who can bat long. We need to give ownership to five batters and a keeper to get us 350-400. We can't have a seventh option. I remember the challenge excited me. I didn't feel like 'Oh my god! I don't want any part in this'. And that's when I was like I am all in," he stated. Also read: Ind vs Ban: India is a batting-obsessed nation but Bumrah, Ashwin changing trend, says coach Gautam Gambhir 'What you did brilliantly was that you had a really strong bowling unit' To this, Gambhir joined in and said, "I can understand what you might have gone through. A 24-25 year-old boy taking up Test captaincy and then what you did brilliantly was that you had a really strong bowling unit. Test matches are won by taking 20 wickets. Till the time you don't have a strong bowling line-up, you won't [win]. And that is what made you the most successful Test captain in the country." "Credit has to go to you because as a batter it is very easy to have a strong 6-7 batters putting runs on the board but the way you identified and more importantly, the attitude which you brought on the field from fast bowlers. Imagine having people like Shami, Bumrah, Ishant, Umesh and then winning overseas. I remember you playing that knock in Adelaide. We were chasing 400; it was your first game as captain, and you still wanted to win that Test match. That is the mindset, that is the culture we want to bring in," he added. Kohli signed off with 40 wins in 68 Tests, ending as India's most successful Test skipper. At present, Rohit-led India is commencing a hectic Test season with a two-match home series versus Bangladesh before hosting New Zealand in three Tests. After that, they will travel to Australia for a five-match Test series; i.e. the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

That is what made you...: Gambhir HAILS Virat Kohli for transforming India's Test team after succeeding Dhoni

<p>Former all-rounder Suresh Raina backed Shubman Gill to become India's next T20I captain. Raina was all praise for the young right-hander, who is gearing up for India's first Test versus Bangladesh in Chennai on&nbsp;Thursday&nbsp;(Sep 19), and feels that if Gill can win the IPL as captain, where he leads the Gujarat Titans (GT), it will propel his chances to lead India in the shortest format. Gill was recently appointed as India's vice-captain in white-ball formats, during the Sri Lanka tour, and also led a second-stringed Indian team in five T20Is versus Zimbabwe, in the African nation.</p>

<h2><strong>'Shubman Gill is a superstar, he is the future T20I captain'</strong></h2>

<p>Raina while speaking to news agency PTI said, "Shubman Gill is a superstar. Gill is vice captain. It means someone is thinking about him. If he does well in the IPL and win the trophy, he is the future (captain). He will be the next super star."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-ban-india-is-a-batting-obsessed-nation-but-bumrah-ashwin-changing-trend-says-coach-gautam-gambhir-759787">Ind vs Ban: India is a batting-obsessed nation but Bumrah, Ashwin changing trend, says coach Gautam Gambhir</a></strong></p>

<p>Gill has played 21 T20Is for India, scoring&nbsp;578 runs at a strike-rate of 139.27. He was not part of Rohit Sharma-led India's squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, where the Men in Blue beat South Africa by seven runs in an epic final to win the title. However, he is expected to be a regular in the playing XI following the retirements of Rohit and Virat Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gill is currently gearing up for India's hectic Test season, where they first host Bangladesh (in two Tests) and then New Zealand (three Test matches) before travelling to Australia for a five-match Test series Down Under. The right-hander, with 1,492 and 2,328 runs in Tests and ODIs respectively, will aim for a good and consistent run vital points up for grabs for India in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.</p>


Former all-rounder Suresh Raina backed Shubman Gill to become India's next T20I captain. Raina was all praise for the young right-hander, who is gearing up for India's first Test versus Bangladesh in Chennai on Thursday (Sep 19), and feels that if Gill can win the IPL as captain, where he leads the Gujarat Titans (GT), it will propel his chances to lead India in the shortest format.

Former all-rounder Suresh Raina backed Shubman Gill to become India's next T20I captain. Raina was all praise for the young right-hander, who is gearing up for India's first Test versus Bangladesh in Chennai on Thursday (Sep 19), and feels that if Gill can win the IPL as captain, where he leads the Gujarat Titans (GT), it will propel his chances to lead India in the shortest format. Gill was recently appointed as India's vice-captain in white-ball formats, during the Sri Lanka tour, and also led a second-stringed Indian team in five T20Is versus Zimbabwe, in the African nation. 'Shubman Gill is a superstar, he is the future T20I captain' Raina while speaking to news agency PTI said, "Shubman Gill is a superstar. Gill is vice captain. It means someone is thinking about him. If he does well in the IPL and win the trophy, he is the future (captain). He will be the next super star." Also read: Ind vs Ban: India is a batting-obsessed nation but Bumrah, Ashwin changing trend, says coach Gautam Gambhir Gill has played 21 T20Is for India, scoring 578 runs at a strike-rate of 139.27. He was not part of Rohit Sharma-led India's squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, where the Men in Blue beat South Africa by seven runs in an epic final to win the title. However, he is expected to be a regular in the playing XI following the retirements of Rohit and Virat Kohli. Gill is currently gearing up for India's hectic Test season, where they first host Bangladesh (in two Tests) and then New Zealand (three Test matches) before travelling to Australia for a five-match Test series Down Under. The right-hander, with 1,492 and 2,328 runs in Tests and ODIs respectively, will aim for a good and consistent run vital points up for grabs for India in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

Former all-rounder Suresh Raina names THIS player as future India T20I captain

<p>India head coach Gautam Gambhir lavished huge praise on bowlers such as&nbsp;R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for shifting the nation's focus from its long-standing obsession with batting. Ahead of the Bangladesh Test series, at home, Gambhir feels Bumrah, Ashwin, and Jadeja are&nbsp;Mohammed Shamin turning the country into a bowling-obsessed one with their performances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a pre-series press conference, Gambhir said, "You've got to give credit to (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammed) Shami, (Mohammed) Siraj, (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja. They're turning this nation into a bowling-obsessed one. Bumrah is the best bowler in the world. It's not just his performance. It's his hunger as well. And the best part is that he wants to play as much Test cricket as he can. It is not even a luxury. He can make a difference at any stage of the game. So yes, hopefully, he can do the same in this series and going forward as well."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/will-we-see-him-again-yash-dayal-recalls-feeling-bad-for-dismissing-ms-dhoni-in-rcb-vs-csk-ipl-2024-tie-759749">Will we see him again? Yash Dayal recalls 'feeling bad' for dismissing MS Dhoni in RCB vs CSK IPL 2024 tie</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir opined, "They can pick up wickets on any day, whether it's Day 1 or Day 5 of a match. They offer both attacking and defensive options. We have an attack that can take 20 wickets consistently, and those two guys will create a massive impact, especially on Indian pitches. He added, "We may not have a pace-bowling all-rounder like Kapil Dev, but we have quality spin all-rounders in Ashwin and Jadeja. India's first-class structure is strong, and we may see one emerge soon. But for now, we shouldn't be too obsessed with it."</p>

<p>The trio of Ashwin, Jadeja and Bumrah are part of India's squad for the first Test versus Bangladesh, which gets underway on September&nbsp;19 (Thursday) in Chennai. Meanwhile, Shami – who was last seen on the cricket field during the 2023 ODI World Cup where he ended with most wickets (24) – is on the road to recovery following his ankle injury.</p>

<p><strong>India&nbsp;Squad:</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.</p>

<p>India will host Bangladesh in two Tests before hosting New Zealand in a three-match Test series. After that, India will travel to Australia for a five-match Test series, starting on November 22.</p>


India head coach Gautam Gambhir lavished huge praise on bowlers such as R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for shifting the nation's focus from its long-standing obsession with batting.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir lavished huge praise on bowlers such as R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja for shifting the nation's focus from its long-standing obsession with batting. Ahead of the Bangladesh Test series, at home, Gambhir feels Bumrah, Ashwin, and Jadeja are Mohammed Shamin turning the country into a bowling-obsessed one with their performances. In a pre-series press conference, Gambhir said, "You've got to give credit to (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammed) Shami, (Mohammed) Siraj, (Ravichandran) Ashwin and (Ravindra) Jadeja. They're turning this nation into a bowling-obsessed one. Bumrah is the best bowler in the world. It's not just his performance. It's his hunger as well. And the best part is that he wants to play as much Test cricket as he can. It is not even a luxury. He can make a difference at any stage of the game. So yes, hopefully, he can do the same in this series and going forward as well." Also read: Will we see him again? Yash Dayal recalls 'feeling bad' for dismissing MS Dhoni in RCB vs CSK IPL 2024 tie Gambhir opined, "They can pick up wickets on any day, whether it's Day 1 or Day 5 of a match. They offer both attacking and defensive options. We have an attack that can take 20 wickets consistently, and those two guys will create a massive impact, especially on Indian pitches. He added, "We may not have a pace-bowling all-rounder like Kapil Dev, but we have quality spin all-rounders in Ashwin and Jadeja. India's first-class structure is strong, and we may see one emerge soon. But for now, we shouldn't be too obsessed with it." The trio of Ashwin, Jadeja and Bumrah are part of India's squad for the first Test versus Bangladesh, which gets underway on September 19 (Thursday) in Chennai. Meanwhile, Shami – who was last seen on the cricket field during the 2023 ODI World Cup where he ended with most wickets (24) – is on the road to recovery following his ankle injury. India Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal. India will host Bangladesh in two Tests before hosting New Zealand in a three-match Test series. After that, India will travel to Australia for a five-match Test series, starting on November 22.

Ind vs Ban: India is a batting-obsessed nation but Bumrah, Ashwin changing trend, says coach Gautam Gambhir

<p>India will host Bangladesh in a two-match Test series, starting Thursday (Sep 19). The first Test will be held at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, before the action moves to Green Park, Kanpur. Rohit Sharma-led India are firm favourites, having not lost a Test series at home since 2012, but the Bangla Tigers cannot be taken lightly.&nbsp;The visitors are coming into the&nbsp;Test series with confidence after a 2-0 whitewash over Pakistan in Pakistan. Despite Bangladesh being ranked ninth, the No. 2 ranked Indian team won't take them lightly. Ahead of the series, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has issued a stern warning to Rohit &amp; Co.</p>

<p>In his column for Mid-day, Gavaskar wrote, "By beating Pakistan in both the Test matches played in Pakistan, the Bangladesh team have shown that they are a force to reckon with. Even a couple of years back, when India toured Bangladesh, they were given a good fight by the Bangladeshis. Now with the series win against Pakistan under their belt, they are primed to take on India too."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/what-can-i-say-wasim-admits-being-surprised-by-babar-azams-reappointment-as-pakistan-captain-for-t20-wc-759076">What can I say: Wasim admits being 'surprised' by Babar Azam’s reappointment as Pakistan captain for T20 WC</a></strong></p>

<h2>'Now no team playing Bangladesh can't put their guard down'</h2>

<p>He further wrote, "They have some fine players in their ranks and some new promising players who no longer have the awe of the opposition that seemed to characterise their early forays into the international game. Now, every team that play them know they can't put their guard down as they could be knocked down as the Pakistanis found out. It will certainly be a series to look forward to."</p>

<p>The two-match Test series holds a lot of significance for both the sides with an eye to add to their points in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings for the 2023-25 cycle.</p>

<p>After the two Tests, India will also host Bangladesh for three T20Is early next month.&nbsp;</p>


India will host Bangladesh in a two-match Test series, starting Thursday (Sep 19). The first Test will be held at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, before the action moves to Green Park, Kanpur.

India will host Bangladesh in a two-match Test series, starting Thursday (Sep 19). The first Test will be held at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, before the action moves to Green Park, Kanpur. Rohit Sharma-led India are firm favourites, having not lost a Test series at home since 2012, but the Bangla Tigers cannot be taken lightly. The visitors are coming into the Test series with confidence after a 2-0 whitewash over Pakistan in Pakistan. Despite Bangladesh being ranked ninth, the No. 2 ranked Indian team won't take them lightly. Ahead of the series, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has issued a stern warning to Rohit & Co. In his column for Mid-day, Gavaskar wrote, "By beating Pakistan in both the Test matches played in Pakistan, the Bangladesh team have shown that they are a force to reckon with. Even a couple of years back, when India toured Bangladesh, they were given a good fight by the Bangladeshis. Now with the series win against Pakistan under their belt, they are primed to take on India too." Also read: What can I say: Wasim admits being 'surprised' by Babar Azam’s reappointment as Pakistan captain for T20 WC 'Now no team playing Bangladesh can't put their guard down' He further wrote, "They have some fine players in their ranks and some new promising players who no longer have the awe of the opposition that seemed to characterise their early forays into the international game. Now, every team that play them know they can't put their guard down as they could be knocked down as the Pakistanis found out. It will certainly be a series to look forward to." The two-match Test series holds a lot of significance for both the sides with an eye to add to their points in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings for the 2023-25 cycle. After the two Tests, India will also host Bangladesh for three T20Is early next month.

Can't put...: Sunil Gavaskar issues stern warning to Rohit Sharma-led India ahead of Bangladesh Tests

<p>Indian cricket has thrived on superstars emerging from ground zero, with batting mainstays like Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar, among others, being the pioneers. Though a few all-rounders and a handful of bowlers have attained legendary status, batters hold the highest value in this batsman-dominant country.</p>

<p>However, with India touring Australia for five Tests in the upcoming winters, all eyes will be on the young guns. The Indian Test batting line-up is undergoing transition, with veterans like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane out of the setup and youngsters vying to fill up their spots.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Upon being asked the Australian cricketers about their thoughts on who could headline Team India’s batting in times to come, several players picked openers Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal as their top choices.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gauti-what-are-you-doing-aakash-chopra-shares-anecdote-when-gambhir-grabbed-truck-drivers-collar-759051">‘Gauti, what are you doing?’ – Aakash Chopra shares anecdote when Gambhir grabbed truck driver’s collar</a></strong></p>

<p>Though the rookie left-hander Jaiswal won the most votes, those who played against Gill in the previous series Down Under picked him, knowing his mettle. The right-handed batter plays at number three in Tests, with Jaiswal rocking at the top order alongside Captain Rohit Sharma.</p>

<p>Gill made his Test debut during India’s last tour of Australia in 2020-21, which they won, and Jaiswal emerged in the Test arena during the home series against England earlier this year. The attacking opener impressed one and all with his exploits throughout, registering a mammoth 712 runs in five Tests, including two tons, with Gill scoring as many.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in a video uploaded by Star Sports Tamil on its social media handles, the following Aussie stars picked the Indian players to look out for in the future.</p>

<ul>
	<li>Steve Smith – Yashasvi Jaiswal</li>
	<li>Mitchell Starc - Yashasvi Jaiswal</li>
	<li>Cameron Green – Shubman Gill</li>
	<li>Alex Carey - Yashasvi Jaiswal&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Josh Hazelwood - Yashasvi Jaiswal&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Nathan Lyon - Yashasvi Jaiswal</li>
	<li>Marnus Labuschagne - Jaiswal &amp; Gill</li>
	<li>Travis Head – Shubman Gill</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>WATCH VIDEO –</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jaiswal &amp; Gill தான் <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>-வின் அடுத்த Super Stars - Australian Players👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BorderGavaskarTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BorderGavaskarTrophy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ToughestRivalry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ToughestRivalry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BGTOnStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BGTOnStar</a> <a href="https://t.co/o4I7FoES3M">pic.twitter.com/o4I7FoES3M</a></p>
— Star Sports Tamil (@StarSportsTamil) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsTamil/status/1835234603235525109?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>More players incoming</h2>

<p>India’s talent pool and bench strength are enormous; going by how countless players are coming through the ranks, the Indian Team will be not short of future superstars.</p>

<p>While the top order is stacked with several options, Sarfaraz Khan and keeper batter Dhruv Jurel are making the right noises in the middle order.&nbsp;Even in the bowling attack, Akash Deep Singh is an upcoming name, while Washington Sundar remains in the scheme of things for an all-rounder.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Team India is currently preparing for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh starting September 19 in Chennai. Kanpur will host the second Test from September 27 onwards.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian cricket has thrived on superstars emerging from ground zero, with batting mainstays like Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar, among others, being the pioneers.

Indian cricket has thrived on superstars emerging from ground zero, with batting mainstays like Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar, among others, being the pioneers. Though a few all-rounders and a handful of bowlers have attained legendary status, batters hold the highest value in this batsman-dominant country. However, with India touring Australia for five Tests in the upcoming winters, all eyes will be on the young guns. The Indian Test batting line-up is undergoing transition, with veterans like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane out of the setup and youngsters vying to fill up their spots. Upon being asked the Australian cricketers about their thoughts on who could headline Team India’s batting in times to come, several players picked openers Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal as their top choices. ALSO READ: ‘Gauti, what are you doing?’ – Aakash Chopra shares anecdote when Gambhir grabbed truck driver’s collar Though the rookie left-hander Jaiswal won the most votes, those who played against Gill in the previous series Down Under picked him, knowing his mettle. The right-handed batter plays at number three in Tests, with Jaiswal rocking at the top order alongside Captain Rohit Sharma. Gill made his Test debut during India’s last tour of Australia in 2020-21, which they won, and Jaiswal emerged in the Test arena during the home series against England earlier this year. The attacking opener impressed one and all with his exploits throughout, registering a mammoth 712 runs in five Tests, including two tons, with Gill scoring as many. Meanwhile, in a video uploaded by Star Sports Tamil on its social media handles, the following Aussie stars picked the Indian players to look out for in the future. Steve Smith – Yashasvi Jaiswal Mitchell Starc - Yashasvi Jaiswal Cameron Green – Shubman Gill Alex Carey - Yashasvi Jaiswal Josh Hazelwood - Yashasvi Jaiswal Nathan Lyon - Yashasvi Jaiswal Marnus Labuschagne - Jaiswal & Gill Travis Head – Shubman Gill WATCH VIDEO – Jaiswal & Gill தான் #TeamIndia-வின் அடுத்த Super Stars - Australian Players👏 #BorderGavaskarTrophy #ToughestRivalry #BGTOnStar pic.twitter.com/o4I7FoES3M — Star Sports Tamil (@StarSportsTamil) September 15, 2024 × More players incoming India’s talent pool and bench strength are enormous; going by how countless players are coming through the ranks, the Indian Team will be not short of future superstars. While the top order is stacked with several options, Sarfaraz Khan and keeper batter Dhruv Jurel are making the right noises in the middle order. Even in the bowling attack, Akash Deep Singh is an upcoming name, while Washington Sundar remains in the scheme of things for an all-rounder. Meanwhile, Team India is currently preparing for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh starting September 19 in Chennai. Kanpur will host the second Test from September 27 onwards. (With inputs from agencies)

Who will headline Team India's batting in coming years? Australian stars name their picks

<p>Newly-appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is known for wearing his heart on his sleeves. Besides his accolades as a top-order batter, where he won two World Cups (T20 and ODI), Gambhir was also famous for his well-documented on-field altercations.</p>

<p>However, his former Delhi teammate and now a well-renowned commentator, Aakash Chopra, revealed an instance when Gambhir got into an altercation with a truck driver early into his career, leading to Gambhir climbing up the truck and grabbing his collar.</p>

<p>In a recent podcast with YouTuber Raj Shamani, Aakash recalled this one intriguing anecdote where Gambhir took matters into his own hands and went after a truck driver after he abused him.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/warne-is-the-greatest-ever-to-play-under-his-shadow-is-privilege-says-veteran-spinner-nathan-lyon-759021">‘Warne is the greatest ever, to play under his shadow is privilege’, says veteran spinner Nathan Lyon</a></strong></p>

<p>Starting by calling him passionate about what he does, Aakash soon jumped onto revealing what happened on the Delhi roads one day when Gambhir lost his cool.</p>

<p>"Passionate guy. Very hardworking when it comes to his craft. A bit serious but scored a lot of runs. He always wore his heart on the sleeve. Temperament-wise, he can be very short-fused. But everyone has a different character.</p>

<p>"Gautam is someone who once fought with a truck driver in Delhi. He got out of his car and climbed the truck to grab the collar of the driver because he made a wrong turn and was abusing. I was like, ‘Gauti, what are you doing?’ So that's made him Gautam," Chopra said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>When Virat and Gautam fought on field</h2>

<p>The two best Indian batters since 2000, Gautam and Virat, belong to Delhi and, surprisingly, have a history of getting involved in verbal volleys on the ground.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the first recorded instance came during the 2013 IPL edition, when Kohli (playing for RCB) and Gambhir (KKR’s captain) had a go at each other, only for others to interfere and separate them immediately, the second came most recently during the 2022 edition, when both got into a heated argument.</p>

<p>Although both have maintained peace with that since Gambhir recently replaced Rahul Dravid as India’s new head coach. He began his three-and-a-half-year stint with the away Sri Lanka series, where India won the T20Is but lost the ODIs for the first time since 1997.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Gautam is overseeing the Indian Test squad, assembled in Chennai, the venue for the first Test against Bangladesh starting September 19. Kanpur will cap off the two-match Test series with the second Test beginning September 27.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli and Gambhir were snapped having discussions in the training.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Newly-appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is known for wearing his heart on his sleeves. Besides his accolades as a top-order batter, where he won two World Cups (T20 and ODI), Gambhir was also famous for his well-documented on-field altercations.

Newly-appointed Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is known for wearing his heart on his sleeves. Besides his accolades as a top-order batter, where he won two World Cups (T20 and ODI), Gambhir was also famous for his well-documented on-field altercations. However, his former Delhi teammate and now a well-renowned commentator, Aakash Chopra, revealed an instance when Gambhir got into an altercation with a truck driver early into his career, leading to Gambhir climbing up the truck and grabbing his collar. In a recent podcast with YouTuber Raj Shamani, Aakash recalled this one intriguing anecdote where Gambhir took matters into his own hands and went after a truck driver after he abused him. ALSO READ: ‘Warne is the greatest ever, to play under his shadow is privilege’, says veteran spinner Nathan Lyon Starting by calling him passionate about what he does, Aakash soon jumped onto revealing what happened on the Delhi roads one day when Gambhir lost his cool. "Passionate guy. Very hardworking when it comes to his craft. A bit serious but scored a lot of runs. He always wore his heart on the sleeve. Temperament-wise, he can be very short-fused. But everyone has a different character. "Gautam is someone who once fought with a truck driver in Delhi. He got out of his car and climbed the truck to grab the collar of the driver because he made a wrong turn and was abusing. I was like, ‘Gauti, what are you doing?’ So that's made him Gautam," Chopra said. When Virat and Gautam fought on field The two best Indian batters since 2000, Gautam and Virat, belong to Delhi and, surprisingly, have a history of getting involved in verbal volleys on the ground. While the first recorded instance came during the 2013 IPL edition, when Kohli (playing for RCB) and Gambhir (KKR’s captain) had a go at each other, only for others to interfere and separate them immediately, the second came most recently during the 2022 edition, when both got into a heated argument. Although both have maintained peace with that since Gambhir recently replaced Rahul Dravid as India’s new head coach. He began his three-and-a-half-year stint with the away Sri Lanka series, where India won the T20Is but lost the ODIs for the first time since 1997. Meanwhile, Gautam is overseeing the Indian Test squad, assembled in Chennai, the venue for the first Test against Bangladesh starting September 19. Kanpur will cap off the two-match Test series with the second Test beginning September 27. Kohli and Gambhir were snapped having discussions in the training. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Gauti, what are you doing?’ – Aakash Chopra shares anecdote when Gambhir grabbed truck driver’s collar

<p>Ace spinner Ravi Ashwin has labelled India’s premier bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, the ‘most valuable Indian cricketer’ right now. Ashwin said Bumrah deserves all the praise and that the fans should celebrate him more. Chennai-born Ashwin also reflected on how the city loves treating bowlers, with Bumrah receiving a mighty ‘Rajni style’ welcome during an event he attended here recently.</p>

<p>“We Chennai people appreciate bowlers a lot. He was here for an event as a chief guest 4-5 days ago. We gave him a Rajni treatment. We (Chennai people) treat bowlers very nicely. He should be treated as a champion. I don’t want to name, but Jasprit Bumrah is the most valuable Indian cricketer right now," Ashwin said while speaking with Vimal Kumar on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/its-easier-to-odi-world-cup-and-wtc-final-2023-hero-travis-head-on-playing-against-india-758890">'It's easier to...,' ODI World Cup and WTC Final 2023 hero Travis Head on playing against India</a></strong></p>

<p>Bumrah broke onto the international scene in 2016 and has been on a steep rise since. The opening bowler made a name for himself for bowling ‘pinpoint Yorkers’, but soon after, he showed the world that he’s more than that. More so for his unplayable spells with both the new and the old ball, Bumrah is a threat even for the best batters around.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Bumrah was instrumental in helping India taste success across formats since his debut and played a handy role in ending India’s trophy drought with his maiden ICC title (T20 World Cup in the Americas in June this year).&nbsp;</p>

<p>He won the Player of the Tournament award for his 15 wickets in eight games, including picking two crucial ones against South Africa in the final.</p>

<h2>‘It will never change’</h2>

<p>Known to put up an honest yet brave face in the media, Ashwin said India will continue to remain a batsman-dominated country, but he is happy for Bumrah, who garnered as much attention and importance as batters in the Indian Team.</p>

<p>Calling Bumrah a ‘once-in-a-generation’ bowler, Ashwin said, “India has always been the country that is a batsman-dominated country, and it’s never going to change. But I am so glad and happy that we are celebrating Jasprit Bumrah. Jasprit Bumrah is a once-in-a-generation bowler. We should celebrate him even more.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, both Ashwin and Bumrah are part of Team India’s squad for the first Test against Bangladesh starting September 19 in Chennai. The two-match Test series will conclude with the second game in Kanpur on September 27.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and Bangladesh will face off in three T20Is beginning October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ace spinner Ravi Ashwin has labelled India’s premier bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, the ‘most valuable Indian cricketer’ right now. Ashwin said Bumrah deserves all the praise and that the fans should celebrate him more.

Ace spinner Ravi Ashwin has labelled India’s premier bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, the ‘most valuable Indian cricketer’ right now. Ashwin said Bumrah deserves all the praise and that the fans should celebrate him more. Chennai-born Ashwin also reflected on how the city loves treating bowlers, with Bumrah receiving a mighty ‘Rajni style’ welcome during an event he attended here recently. “We Chennai people appreciate bowlers a lot. He was here for an event as a chief guest 4-5 days ago. We gave him a Rajni treatment. We (Chennai people) treat bowlers very nicely. He should be treated as a champion. I don’t want to name, but Jasprit Bumrah is the most valuable Indian cricketer right now," Ashwin said while speaking with Vimal Kumar on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ: 'It's easier to...,' ODI World Cup and WTC Final 2023 hero Travis Head on playing against India Bumrah broke onto the international scene in 2016 and has been on a steep rise since. The opening bowler made a name for himself for bowling ‘pinpoint Yorkers’, but soon after, he showed the world that he’s more than that. More so for his unplayable spells with both the new and the old ball, Bumrah is a threat even for the best batters around. Meanwhile, Bumrah was instrumental in helping India taste success across formats since his debut and played a handy role in ending India’s trophy drought with his maiden ICC title (T20 World Cup in the Americas in June this year). He won the Player of the Tournament award for his 15 wickets in eight games, including picking two crucial ones against South Africa in the final. ‘It will never change’ Known to put up an honest yet brave face in the media, Ashwin said India will continue to remain a batsman-dominated country, but he is happy for Bumrah, who garnered as much attention and importance as batters in the Indian Team. Calling Bumrah a ‘once-in-a-generation’ bowler, Ashwin said, “India has always been the country that is a batsman-dominated country, and it’s never going to change. But I am so glad and happy that we are celebrating Jasprit Bumrah. Jasprit Bumrah is a once-in-a-generation bowler. We should celebrate him even more.” Meanwhile, both Ashwin and Bumrah are part of Team India’s squad for the first Test against Bangladesh starting September 19 in Chennai. The two-match Test series will conclude with the second game in Kanpur on September 27. India and Bangladesh will face off in three T20Is beginning October 7. (With inputs from agencies)

Ravi Ashwin labels Jasprit Bumrah ‘most valuable Indian cricketer’, says 'he should be celebrated more'

<p>Former South Africa great Jonty Rhodes broke his silence at missing out on Team India’s fielding coach role despite having Gautam Gambhir’s backing. Rhodes, regarded as the best fielder ever, has a long association with India and Indian cricket, having played handy leadership roles with several IPL franchises before. Moreover, he even named his daughter India.</p>

<p>Rhodes worked with Gambhir at Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) before Gautam returned to his former franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, ahead of the last season, which they won.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-v-aus-2024-2nd-t20i-liam-livingstone-stars-in-englands-series-leveling-win-in-cardiff-758591">ENG v AUS 2024, 2nd T20I: Liam Livingstone stars in England’s series-leveling win in Cardiff</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, before accepting Team India’s head coach role, Gambhir reportedly put out a few conditions, which included having the backroom staff of his choice. Though the BCCI accepted most of his conditions, with Gambhir bringing in Morne Morkel (bowling coach), Abhishek Nayar and Ryan Ten Doeschate as assistant coaches, they retained T Dilip as the bowling coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>T Dilip was India’s fielding coach under Rahul Dravid, with BCCI preferring to retain an Indian coach for the said position.</p>

<p>However, Rhodes, who now resides in Goa, detailed how he felt about missing out on the coveted job.</p>

<p>“Yeah! Can you believe it? I mean, they didn't want an international coach, and I'm so local. I mean, mera naam Jonty Rhodes! (I'm Jonty Rhodes) Come on. I'm based in Goa. Maybe because I'm based in Goa. Maybe I need to be in a metro (city),” the South African said during a podcast on Aleena Dissects YouTube channel.</p>

<h2>Rhodes on Team India’s fielding standards</h2>

<p>Rhodes has been following Indian cricket closely for the longest time, and upon being asked what he thinks of the team’s fielding standards, he said under two captains – MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, the Men in Blue have maintained fitness and fielding standards, something he’s proud of.</p>

<p>“I've taken my hats off to the last two Indian fielding coaches. And it comes from captaincy. Under Dhoni… he had a lot of senior guys, and he just showed his physical ability, he still does at the end of his IPL career. Running between the wickets.... amazing, and he's 40. It's incredible. He certainly showed, just through his example, the importance of fitness and strength,” said Rhodes.</p>

<p>“Then Virat Kohli took over, and it was a part of the selection criteria. If you don't pass the fitness standards, it doesn't matter how good you are. Everybody was treated equally, and it took India to becoming a good fielding team,” he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Gautam Gambhir, with his new-look backroom staff and the Test Team, assembled in Chennai on Friday (Sep 13), beginning the preparations for the Bangladesh Tests starting September 19 in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kanpur will host the second Test&nbsp;September 27 onwards.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former South Africa great Jonty Rhodes broke his silence at missing out on Team India’s fielding coach role despite having Gautam Gambhir’s backing. Rhodes, regarded as the best fielder ever, has a long association with India and Indian cricket, having played handy leadership roles with several IPL franchises before.

Former South Africa great Jonty Rhodes broke his silence at missing out on Team India’s fielding coach role despite having Gautam Gambhir’s backing. Rhodes, regarded as the best fielder ever, has a long association with India and Indian cricket, having played handy leadership roles with several IPL franchises before. Moreover, he even named his daughter India. Rhodes worked with Gambhir at Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) before Gautam returned to his former franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, ahead of the last season, which they won. ALSO READ: ENG v AUS 2024, 2nd T20I: Liam Livingstone stars in England’s series-leveling win in Cardiff Meanwhile, before accepting Team India’s head coach role, Gambhir reportedly put out a few conditions, which included having the backroom staff of his choice. Though the BCCI accepted most of his conditions, with Gambhir bringing in Morne Morkel (bowling coach), Abhishek Nayar and Ryan Ten Doeschate as assistant coaches, they retained T Dilip as the bowling coach. T Dilip was India’s fielding coach under Rahul Dravid, with BCCI preferring to retain an Indian coach for the said position. However, Rhodes, who now resides in Goa, detailed how he felt about missing out on the coveted job. “Yeah! Can you believe it? I mean, they didn't want an international coach, and I'm so local. I mean, mera naam Jonty Rhodes! (I'm Jonty Rhodes) Come on. I'm based in Goa. Maybe because I'm based in Goa. Maybe I need to be in a metro (city),” the South African said during a podcast on Aleena Dissects YouTube channel. Rhodes on Team India’s fielding standards Rhodes has been following Indian cricket closely for the longest time, and upon being asked what he thinks of the team’s fielding standards, he said under two captains – MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, the Men in Blue have maintained fitness and fielding standards, something he’s proud of. “I've taken my hats off to the last two Indian fielding coaches. And it comes from captaincy. Under Dhoni… he had a lot of senior guys, and he just showed his physical ability, he still does at the end of his IPL career. Running between the wickets.... amazing, and he's 40. It's incredible. He certainly showed, just through his example, the importance of fitness and strength,” said Rhodes. “Then Virat Kohli took over, and it was a part of the selection criteria. If you don't pass the fitness standards, it doesn't matter how good you are. Everybody was treated equally, and it took India to becoming a good fielding team,” he added. Meanwhile, Gautam Gambhir, with his new-look backroom staff and the Test Team, assembled in Chennai on Friday (Sep 13), beginning the preparations for the Bangladesh Tests starting September 19 in Chennai. Kanpur will host the second Test September 27 onwards. (With inputs from agencies)

Jonty Rhodes ‘surprised’ for being overlooked for India’s fielding coach role despite Gambhir’s backing

<p>Ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah knows a thing or two about impressing anyone with his skillset, and new Team India bowling coach Morne Morkel is the latest to applaud him. Probably already a fan of Bumrah for his on-field antics, especially for his signature ‘Yorker’ delivery, Morkel admitted the Indian pace attack blew him away with their professionalism during his first training session with Team India in Chennai on Friday (Sep 13).</p>

<p>The BCCI appointed Morkel as the new bowling coach, with the former South African joining the camp ahead of the Bangladesh Tests starting September 19 in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jonty-rhodes-surprised-for-being-overlooked-for-indias-fielding-coach-role-despite-gambhirs-backing-758606">Jonty Rhodes ‘surprised’ for being overlooked for India’s fielding coach role despite Gambhir’s backing</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking on BCCI.TV for the first time since joining Gautam Gambhir in India’s backroom staff, Morkel reflected on the first day with the Indian Team.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH VIDEO -</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⏪ Feeling after being named Bowling Coach<br />
🏏 Goals for an exciting home season<br />
🍲 Savouring Indian Food 😃<br />
<br />
𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%F0%9D%97%A7%F0%9D%97%B2%F0%9D%97%AE%F0%9D%97%BA%F0%9D%97%9C%F0%9D%97%BB%F0%9D%97%B1%F0%9D%97%B6%F0%9D%97%AE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗮</a> 𝗕𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵 - 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗹 🙌 - By <a href="https://twitter.com/RajalArora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajalArora</a><br />
<br />
WATCH 🎥🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvBAN</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mornemorkel65?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mornemorkel65</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1834804568628052291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Clicked attending the pep talk by new head coach Gambhir, Morkel said he aims to build healthy relationships within the team.</p>

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— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1834597893677645913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Having played and worked (in different capacities) with most Test-bound players, Morkel wishes to build on the camaraderie with the players to ensure a smooth and better working environment, eventually leading to success across formats.</p>

<p>“For me, it's just important to connect well with the guys. I've played with and against some of these players, and watched them in the IPL. To be in a camp and form relationships with them is very important. Today was just about that - to get an understanding about the guys, find out their strengths and weaknesses, and setting goals for the upcoming series,” Morkel said while speaking on BCCI.TV.</p>

<h2>‘Building on the momentum’</h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the BCCI just announced the squad for the first Test, with the board picking eight bowlers, including four seamers and as many spinners. Besides regulars like Bumrah and Siraj in the pace attack, Akash Deep and Yash Dayal also got picked.</p>

<p>Although Mohammed Shami, who continues to recover from his ankle injury, has yet to join the Indian Team, Morkel is amazed by the skillset of the available pacers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Morkel adds that he wishes to build on the momentum and work towards achieving success at all levels.</p>

<p>“I was blown away by how they went about their things and how professional they were. So, that's a good sign, and hopefully we can build on that,” Morkel continued.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Team India began preparations for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh. While Chennai will host the first Test on Sep 19, Kanpur will stage the second match starting Sep 27.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah knows a thing or two about impressing anyone with his skillset, and new Team India bowling coach Morne Morkel is the latest to applaud him.

Ace Indian seamer Jasprit Bumrah knows a thing or two about impressing anyone with his skillset, and new Team India bowling coach Morne Morkel is the latest to applaud him. Probably already a fan of Bumrah for his on-field antics, especially for his signature ‘Yorker’ delivery, Morkel admitted the Indian pace attack blew him away with their professionalism during his first training session with Team India in Chennai on Friday (Sep 13). The BCCI appointed Morkel as the new bowling coach, with the former South African joining the camp ahead of the Bangladesh Tests starting September 19 in Chennai. ALSO READ: Jonty Rhodes ‘surprised’ for being overlooked for India’s fielding coach role despite Gambhir’s backing Speaking on BCCI.TV for the first time since joining Gautam Gambhir in India’s backroom staff, Morkel reflected on the first day with the Indian Team. WATCH VIDEO - ⏪ Feeling after being named Bowling Coach 🏏 Goals for an exciting home season 🍲 Savouring Indian Food 😃 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 #𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗕𝗼𝘄𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵 - 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗹 🙌 - By @RajalArora WATCH 🎥🔽 #INDvBAN | @mornemorkel65 | @IDFCFIRSTBank — BCCI (@BCCI) September 14, 2024 × Clicked attending the pep talk by new head coach Gambhir, Morkel said he aims to build healthy relationships within the team. #INDvBAN pic.twitter.com/mANaHvfLfN — BCCI (@BCCI) September 13, 2024 × Having played and worked (in different capacities) with most Test-bound players, Morkel wishes to build on the camaraderie with the players to ensure a smooth and better working environment, eventually leading to success across formats. “For me, it's just important to connect well with the guys. I've played with and against some of these players, and watched them in the IPL. To be in a camp and form relationships with them is very important. Today was just about that - to get an understanding about the guys, find out their strengths and weaknesses, and setting goals for the upcoming series,” Morkel said while speaking on BCCI.TV. ‘Building on the momentum’ Meanwhile, the BCCI just announced the squad for the first Test, with the board picking eight bowlers, including four seamers and as many spinners. Besides regulars like Bumrah and Siraj in the pace attack, Akash Deep and Yash Dayal also got picked. Although Mohammed Shami, who continues to recover from his ankle injury, has yet to join the Indian Team, Morkel is amazed by the skillset of the available pacers. Morkel adds that he wishes to build on the momentum and work towards achieving success at all levels. “I was blown away by how they went about their things and how professional they were. So, that's a good sign, and hopefully we can build on that,” Morkel continued. Meanwhile, Team India began preparations for the two-match Test series against Bangladesh. While Chennai will host the first Test on Sep 19, Kanpur will stage the second match starting Sep 27. (With inputs from agencies)

Jasprit Bumrah-led India pace attack impresses new bowling coach Morne Morkel in training - WATCH

<p>Team India has begun preparations for the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh starting September 19 in Chennai. Rohit Sharma-led Test squad assembled at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday (Sep 13), with head coach Gautam Gambhir overseeing the first training session ahead of the home season. Newly-appointed bowling coach Morne Morkel, alongside ace players Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah, hogged all the limelight.</p>

<p>The BCCI shared some snaps of the team gelling ahead of the Bangladesh series on their social media handles, with lanky South African Morkel seen in Team India’s training gear for the first time. Abhishek Nayar, one of Gambhir’s backroom staff, was also present at the training session.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The countdown starts as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> begin their preps for an exciting home season.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvBAN</a> <a href="https://t.co/VlIvau5AfD">pic.twitter.com/VlIvau5AfD</a></p>
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<p>Per the latest reports, the team had an indoor session, with the onlookers claiming that Virat batted for a good 45 minutes, while Bumrah didn’t leave a stone unturned in preparing for his first outing since winning the T20 World Cup in the Americas in June.</p>

<p>"Virat was there for 45 minutes, and Bumrah also bowled full throttle," a local source informed news agency PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-frustrated-nzs-gary-stead-laments-lost-opportunity-with-abandoned-one-off-test-vs-afghanistan-758384">‘We are frustrated’ – NZ's Gary Stead laments ‘lost opportunity’ with abandoned one-off Test vs Afghanistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Virat flew in from London and landed in Chennai in the wee hours on Friday. Captain Rohit Sharma, alongside other team members like KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Bumrah, reached the city on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan will link up with the Indian Team after the second round of the ongoing Duleep Trophy.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Team India, Gambhir look for winning start</strong></h2>

<p>Right after the T20 WC, India won the five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe and the three-match Sri Lanka T20Is that followed but lost the ODI series to them for the first time since 1997.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Against Bangladesh in the upcoming Test series, the hosts will aim to begin the home season on a high. Bangladesh, however, will enter this series on the back of a majestic yet maiden Test series win over Pakistan in Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Team India leading the World Test Championship (WTC) rankings with their PCT reading 62.50, they have higher chances of reaching their third straight final next year at Lord’s. On the other hand, Bangladesh, oozing with confidence, is fourth with a PCT of 45.83.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second Test begins in Kanpur on September 27.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will next host New Zealand for three Tests at home before flying Down Under to face Australia in the away leg of the Border-Gavaskar series.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Team India has begun preparations for the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh starting September 19 in Chennai. Rohit Sharma-led Test squad assembled at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday (Sep 13), with head coach Gautam Gambhir overseeing the first training session ahead of the home season.

Team India has begun preparations for the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh starting September 19 in Chennai. Rohit Sharma-led Test squad assembled at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Friday (Sep 13), with head coach Gautam Gambhir overseeing the first training session ahead of the home season. Newly-appointed bowling coach Morne Morkel, alongside ace players Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah, hogged all the limelight. The BCCI shared some snaps of the team gelling ahead of the Bangladesh series on their social media handles, with lanky South African Morkel seen in Team India’s training gear for the first time. Abhishek Nayar, one of Gambhir’s backroom staff, was also present at the training session. The countdown starts as #TeamIndia begin their preps for an exciting home season.#INDvBAN pic.twitter.com/VlIvau5AfD — BCCI (@BCCI) September 13, 2024 × Per the latest reports, the team had an indoor session, with the onlookers claiming that Virat batted for a good 45 minutes, while Bumrah didn’t leave a stone unturned in preparing for his first outing since winning the T20 World Cup in the Americas in June. "Virat was there for 45 minutes, and Bumrah also bowled full throttle," a local source informed news agency PTI. ALSO READ: ‘We are frustrated’ – NZ's Gary Stead laments ‘lost opportunity’ with abandoned one-off Test vs Afghanistan Virat flew in from London and landed in Chennai in the wee hours on Friday. Captain Rohit Sharma, alongside other team members like KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Bumrah, reached the city on Thursday. Middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan will link up with the Indian Team after the second round of the ongoing Duleep Trophy. Team India, Gambhir look for winning start Right after the T20 WC, India won the five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe and the three-match Sri Lanka T20Is that followed but lost the ODI series to them for the first time since 1997. Against Bangladesh in the upcoming Test series, the hosts will aim to begin the home season on a high. Bangladesh, however, will enter this series on the back of a majestic yet maiden Test series win over Pakistan in Pakistan. With Team India leading the World Test Championship (WTC) rankings with their PCT reading 62.50, they have higher chances of reaching their third straight final next year at Lord’s. On the other hand, Bangladesh, oozing with confidence, is fourth with a PCT of 45.83. The second Test begins in Kanpur on September 27. India will next host New Zealand for three Tests at home before flying Down Under to face Australia in the away leg of the Border-Gavaskar series. (With inputs from agencies)

Team India begins preparation for Bangladesh Tests in Chennai; Kohli, Bumrah, Morkel hog limelight

<p>Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting lavished huge praise on Virat Kohli for revolutionising Test cricket in India during his captaincy stint. Ponting believes Kohli's start of Test captaincy played a huge role in the turnaround of Indian cricket in Tests. Notably, Kohli led India in whites from 2015-2022. He ended with 40 wins in 68 Tests; becoming the most successful Indian captain in whites. His tenure included a Test series win in Australia, first-ever by an Asian side, and some more memorable wins in England and South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ponting, while talking to Sky Sports, stated that under Kohli India became a dominant and fearless force while playing overseas Tests and their fast-bowling flourished as well.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'THE INFLUENCE OF SOMEONE LIKE KOHLI...'</strong></h2>

<p>Punter, a veteran of 168 Tests, 375 ODIs and 17 T20Is, said, "Their fast-bowling depth is great. The leadership in the last 6-7 years has been strong. Going back to Kohli's start of captaincy, played a big role in turning the cricket around and Dravid has continued the same in the recent four years. The influence of someone like that [Kohli] around a team would be great and they've got star players."</p>

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India will commence their hectic Test season with two Tests versus Bangladesh, starting Sep 19, which will be followed by three Tests versus New Zealand at home before travelling to Australia for a five-match series. During India's last Test tour of Australia, Kohli was their captain but he left after the first Test loss, in Adelaide, due to paternity leave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the absence of Kohli, India, under Ajinkya Rahane, stunned one and all by staging a remarkable comeback and winning the four-match Test series 2-1. The last Test was held at The Gabba, Brisbane- Australia's fortress for 32 years - but Rahane &amp; Co. beat Australia by three wickets in pursuit of 324.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/4-4-6-6-6-4-travis-head-smashes-sam-curran-for-30-runs-in-an-over-during-eng-vs-aus-1st-t20i-watch-757977">4, 4, 6, 6, 6, 4! Travis Head smashes Sam Curran for 30 runs in an over during Eng vs Aus 1st T20I - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>Recalling India's famous Gabba win, Ponting pointed out the change in mindset and the fearless approach of the Indian team.</p>

<p>"They won a game at the Gabba, which just doesn't happen. I think their batters adapt to overseas batting conditions very well. I don't think they're as daunted by the Gabba or the Optus Oval, as they maybe once were. Maybe it is a selection thing, or they just don't fear the big stage anymore," he said.</p>

<p>In addition, Ponting stated that IPL played a huge role in making the Indian players fearless and ready for the big stage.</p>

<p>"For the last 10 years being around the IPL, I've noticed that a lot of the young guys [don't fear the big stage anymore] as the IPL is high-pressure, it is like a World Cup for them. Their batsmen are all very aggressive stroke-making players. They are not scared of failing," he added.</p>


Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting lavished huge praise on Virat Kohli for revolutionising Test cricket in India during his captaincy stint. Ponting believes Kohli's start of Test captaincy played a huge role in the turnaround of Indian cricket in Tests.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting lavished huge praise on Virat Kohli for revolutionising Test cricket in India during his captaincy stint. Ponting believes Kohli's start of Test captaincy played a huge role in the turnaround of Indian cricket in Tests. Notably, Kohli led India in whites from 2015-2022. He ended with 40 wins in 68 Tests; becoming the most successful Indian captain in whites. His tenure included a Test series win in Australia, first-ever by an Asian side, and some more memorable wins in England and South Africa. Ponting, while talking to Sky Sports, stated that under Kohli India became a dominant and fearless force while playing overseas Tests and their fast-bowling flourished as well. 'THE INFLUENCE OF SOMEONE LIKE KOHLI...' Punter, a veteran of 168 Tests, 375 ODIs and 17 T20Is, said, "Their fast-bowling depth is great. The leadership in the last 6-7 years has been strong. Going back to Kohli's start of captaincy, played a big role in turning the cricket around and Dravid has continued the same in the recent four years. The influence of someone like that [Kohli] around a team would be great and they've got star players." Rohit Sharma-led India will commence their hectic Test season with two Tests versus Bangladesh, starting Sep 19, which will be followed by three Tests versus New Zealand at home before travelling to Australia for a five-match series. During India's last Test tour of Australia, Kohli was their captain but he left after the first Test loss, in Adelaide, due to paternity leave. Despite the absence of Kohli, India, under Ajinkya Rahane, stunned one and all by staging a remarkable comeback and winning the four-match Test series 2-1. The last Test was held at The Gabba, Brisbane- Australia's fortress for 32 years - but Rahane & Co. beat Australia by three wickets in pursuit of 324. Also read: 4, 4, 6, 6, 6, 4! Travis Head smashes Sam Curran for 30 runs in an over during Eng vs Aus 1st T20I - Watch Recalling India's famous Gabba win, Ponting pointed out the change in mindset and the fearless approach of the Indian team. "They won a game at the Gabba, which just doesn't happen. I think their batters adapt to overseas batting conditions very well. I don't think they're as daunted by the Gabba or the Optus Oval, as they maybe once were. Maybe it is a selection thing, or they just don't fear the big stage anymore," he said. In addition, Ponting stated that IPL played a huge role in making the Indian players fearless and ready for the big stage. "For the last 10 years being around the IPL, I've noticed that a lot of the young guys [don't fear the big stage anymore] as the IPL is high-pressure, it is like a World Cup for them. Their batsmen are all very aggressive stroke-making players. They are not scared of failing," he added.

Virat Kohli's Test captaincy played a big role in Indian cricket's turnaround: Ricky Ponting LAUDS star player

<p>The Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel made a quick U-turn on Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management. From initial reports suggesting that the board was willing to rest the ace seamer for the first series of the upcoming home season, the BCCI picking Bumrah for the first Test against Bangladesh raised some eyebrows. So, what prompted the selectors to name him in the Test squad?</p>

<p>India is scheduled to play ten Tests until January next year, including two against Bangladesh, three against New Zealand, both at home and five against Australia Down Under. Though India had enough options to choose from (from a pool of fast bowlers) for the Bangladesh series, even in Mohammed Shami’s absence, they still picked Bumrah to have a psychological edge over Bangladesh.</p>

<p><strong>Here’s Team India squad for the first Test vs Bangladesh -</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah and&nbsp;Yash Dayal.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the BCCI named a 16-man squad for the first Test starting on September 19 in Chennai, with Rishabh Pant’s return and Yash Dayal’s maiden India call-up made headlines. The board picked four seamers in Bumrah, Dayal, Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep, alongside four spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-kkr-mulls-replacing-gautam-gambhir-with-jacques-kallis-as-team-mentor-reports-757046">IPL: KKR mulls replacing Gautam Gambhir with Jacques Kallis as team mentor – Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>Considering the Chepauk pitch historically assists spinners, the hosts could play as many as three in the first match, with Siraj set to be among the two pacers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though Akash Deep is leading the race to play second seamer following his impressive Duleep Trophy first-round showing, wherein he picked nine wickets for India A, Bumrah’s selection could force the captain Rohit Sharma and newly-appointed Team India coach Gautam Gambhir to play him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The only understandable reason behind this could be India’s hunger for the win, as during the previous white-ball series against Sri Lanka, the pacers lacked the zeal, as India lost the ODIs (0-2) for the first time since 1997.</p>

<h2>India leads WTC rankings</h2>

<p>The Indian Team is on the top of the current WTC cycle, with Australia following them in second place. Though India is unlikely to slip from that position, given their latest performances and rapid rise in this format since the past decade, Gautam and Rohit would not want any stone left unturned in their quest to stay on the top and eventually win an ICC trophy.</p>

<p>However, on August 15, a BCCI source detailed plans for managing Bumrah’s workload, saying, "In the case of Bumrah, he knows his body the best, and it will be up to him if he wants to play in the Tests against Bangladesh. The team management and selectors are very clear that India needs a 120 per cent fit Jasprit Bumrah for all five Tests against Australia Down Under. Before that, there is New Zealand in India, where he will probably play and get ready for the sterner tests."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s mighty Test series win over Pakistan in Pakistan might have also pushed the BCCI to bring back Bumrah for the first Test.&nbsp;</p>


The Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel made a quick U-turn on Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management. From initial reports suggesting that the board was willing to rest the ace seamer for the first series of the upcoming home season, the BCCI picking Bumrah for the first Test against Bangladesh raised some eyebrows.

The Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel made a quick U-turn on Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management. From initial reports suggesting that the board was willing to rest the ace seamer for the first series of the upcoming home season, the BCCI picking Bumrah for the first Test against Bangladesh raised some eyebrows. So, what prompted the selectors to name him in the Test squad? India is scheduled to play ten Tests until January next year, including two against Bangladesh, three against New Zealand, both at home and five against Australia Down Under. Though India had enough options to choose from (from a pool of fast bowlers) for the Bangladesh series, even in Mohammed Shami’s absence, they still picked Bumrah to have a psychological edge over Bangladesh. Here’s Team India squad for the first Test vs Bangladesh - Rohit Sharma (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah and Yash Dayal. Meanwhile, the BCCI named a 16-man squad for the first Test starting on September 19 in Chennai, with Rishabh Pant’s return and Yash Dayal’s maiden India call-up made headlines. The board picked four seamers in Bumrah, Dayal, Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep, alongside four spinners in Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. ALSO READ: IPL: KKR mulls replacing Gautam Gambhir with Jacques Kallis as team mentor – Reports Considering the Chepauk pitch historically assists spinners, the hosts could play as many as three in the first match, with Siraj set to be among the two pacers. Though Akash Deep is leading the race to play second seamer following his impressive Duleep Trophy first-round showing, wherein he picked nine wickets for India A, Bumrah’s selection could force the captain Rohit Sharma and newly-appointed Team India coach Gautam Gambhir to play him. The only understandable reason behind this could be India’s hunger for the win, as during the previous white-ball series against Sri Lanka, the pacers lacked the zeal, as India lost the ODIs (0-2) for the first time since 1997. India leads WTC rankings The Indian Team is on the top of the current WTC cycle, with Australia following them in second place. Though India is unlikely to slip from that position, given their latest performances and rapid rise in this format since the past decade, Gautam and Rohit would not want any stone left unturned in their quest to stay on the top and eventually win an ICC trophy. However, on August 15, a BCCI source detailed plans for managing Bumrah’s workload, saying, "In the case of Bumrah, he knows his body the best, and it will be up to him if he wants to play in the Tests against Bangladesh. The team management and selectors are very clear that India needs a 120 per cent fit Jasprit Bumrah for all five Tests against Australia Down Under. Before that, there is New Zealand in India, where he will probably play and get ready for the sterner tests." Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s mighty Test series win over Pakistan in Pakistan might have also pushed the BCCI to bring back Bumrah for the first Test.

Here’s why selectors went from resting Bumrah to ‘surprisingly’ picking him for 1st Test vs Bangladesh

<p>With each passing day, cricket fans are nearing the start of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled in Pakistan during the February-March window next year. Though plenty has happened behind the scenes in the past month, including Jay Shah's appointment as the new ICC chair, which could eventually decide CT venue fate, the PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is confident that Pakistan will retain the hosting rights, with the PCB constantly in touch with the BCCI secretary.</p>

<p>During the latest media interaction, Naqvi sounded optimistic about BCCI and the Indian Government allowing the Indian Team to travel to Pakistan for the first time since 2008 for the multi-team tournament. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan, we are in touch with the BCCI Secretary,” PCB chairman Naqvi said during a media interaction, as quoted by The Indian Express. “[We are] also in contact with the boards of the teams participating in the Champions Trophy.”</p>

<p>Even last year, when Pakistan was supposed to host the 2023 Asia Cup, the BCCI decided against sending the team, with the Asian Cricket Council, headed by Jay Shah, deciding to add Sri Lanka as the co-host, with all India games rescheduled in the Island Nation, including the final.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/proud-moeen-ali-announces-international-retirement-says-its-time-for-next-generation-756812">‘Proud’ Moeen Ali announces international retirement, says ‘it’s time for next generation’</a></strong></p>

<p>Besides, the PCB began preparations for the eight-team tournament, with construction resuming at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The remaining two venues finalised for the Champions Trophy are the National Stadium in Karachi and Pindi Stadium in Rawalpindi.</p>

<p>“The basement of Gaddafi Stadium will be constructed by September 30. Each floor will be completed in a three-week period. The front building would consist of a steel structure. The main building of Gaddafi Stadium will be completed by December 31.</p>

<p>“Pindi Stadium will have to be completely demolished and rebuilt; the seats will be installed in the stadium before the Champions Trophy. The renovation at Karachi’s [National Stadium] will also be completed before the Champions Trophy,” Naqvi concluded.</p>

<h2>BCCI has yet to take final call</h2>

<p>Despite being approached several times, the BCCI officials have kept mum over their stance of not sending the Indian Team across the border.</p>

<p>Neither the BCCI President Roger Binny nor Shah has given any verdict, with everything surrounding this ICC event remaining in the air.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


With each passing day, cricket fans are nearing the start of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled in Pakistan during the February-March window next year. Though plenty has happened behind the scenes in the past month, including Jay Shah's appointment as the new ICC chair, which could eventually decide CT venue fate, the PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is confident that Pakistan will retain the hosting rights, with the PCB constantly in touch with the BCCI secretary.

With each passing day, cricket fans are nearing the start of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled in Pakistan during the February-March window next year. Though plenty has happened behind the scenes in the past month, including Jay Shah's appointment as the new ICC chair, which could eventually decide CT venue fate, the PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is confident that Pakistan will retain the hosting rights, with the PCB constantly in touch with the BCCI secretary. During the latest media interaction, Naqvi sounded optimistic about BCCI and the Indian Government allowing the Indian Team to travel to Pakistan for the first time since 2008 for the multi-team tournament. “Champions Trophy will be held in Pakistan, we are in touch with the BCCI Secretary,” PCB chairman Naqvi said during a media interaction, as quoted by The Indian Express. “[We are] also in contact with the boards of the teams participating in the Champions Trophy.” Even last year, when Pakistan was supposed to host the 2023 Asia Cup, the BCCI decided against sending the team, with the Asian Cricket Council, headed by Jay Shah, deciding to add Sri Lanka as the co-host, with all India games rescheduled in the Island Nation, including the final. ALSO READ: ‘Proud’ Moeen Ali announces international retirement, says ‘it’s time for next generation’ Besides, the PCB began preparations for the eight-team tournament, with construction resuming at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The remaining two venues finalised for the Champions Trophy are the National Stadium in Karachi and Pindi Stadium in Rawalpindi. “The basement of Gaddafi Stadium will be constructed by September 30. Each floor will be completed in a three-week period. The front building would consist of a steel structure. The main building of Gaddafi Stadium will be completed by December 31. “Pindi Stadium will have to be completely demolished and rebuilt; the seats will be installed in the stadium before the Champions Trophy. The renovation at Karachi’s [National Stadium] will also be completed before the Champions Trophy,” Naqvi concluded. BCCI has yet to take final call Despite being approached several times, the BCCI officials have kept mum over their stance of not sending the Indian Team across the border. Neither the BCCI President Roger Binny nor Shah has given any verdict, with everything surrounding this ICC event remaining in the air. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Pakistan will host Champions Trophy, we are in touch with BCCI secretary’, says PCB chair Mohsin Naqvi