Rohit Sharma-led India returned to winning ways in the third T20I, of the five-match series, versus West Indies in the Caribbean island on Tuesday (August 02). After losing the second match by five wickets, India were asked to chase 165 after opting to bowl first at the Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts.

In reply, Men in Blue rode on opener Suryakumar Yadav's 44-ball 76&nbsp;and Rishabh Pant's unbeaten 26-ball 33 to chase down the score in 19 overs with seven wickets to spare. Captain Rohit couldn't do much as he retired hurt for 11 due to back spasm. Despite his short stay in the middle, the 35-year-old surpassed his predecessor Virat Kohli to attain an elite feat as the Indian captain.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suryakumar-yadav-guides-india-to-victory-over-west-indies-to-take-2-1-series-lead-503093">Suryakumar Yadav guides India to victory over West Indies to take 2-1 series lead</a>

Hitman now has most number of sixes as Indian captain in the shortest format. He was tied with Kohli at 59 sixes before taking his tally to 60 prior to his injury forcing him out of the field. Rohit has 60 sixes in 34 innings as captain, with Kohli (59) and MS Dhoni (34) following suit.

Rohit also opined on his injury after the conclusion of the match. "It's okay at the moment. We've got a few days till the next game, hopefully it should be okay (his injury)."

The Indian captain lauded his team for bouncing back swiftly to take a 2-1 lead in the five T20Is. In this regard, he stated, "How we bowled in the middle overs was crucial. I thought we used the conditions well. Used the variations well. Was very clinical how we chased. When you watched from the outside, didn't feel a lot of risk was taken, was a lot of calmness in the middle. Surya batted brilliantly, good partnership there with Iyer. The pitch had something in it for the bowlers, not an easy target. Was important to pick the right shots, right balls on a ground like that."

The fourth and penultimate match will be held in Florida on August 06 (Saturday).

Rohit Sharma-led India returned to winning ways in the third T20I, of the five-match series, versus West Indies in the Caribbean island on Tuesday (August 02). After losing the second match by five wickets, India were asked to chase 165 after opting to bowl first at the Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts.

Rohit Sharma-led India returned to winning ways in the third T20I, of the five-match series, versus West Indies in the Caribbean island on Tuesday (August 02). After losing the second match by five wickets, India were asked to chase 165 after opting to bowl first at the Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts. In reply, Men in Blue rode on opener Suryakumar Yadav's 44-ball 76 and Rishabh Pant's unbeaten 26-ball 33 to chase down the score in 19 overs with seven wickets to spare. Captain Rohit couldn't do much as he retired hurt for 11 due to back spasm. Despite his short stay in the middle, the 35-year-old surpassed his predecessor Virat Kohli to attain an elite feat as the Indian captain. ALSO READ | Suryakumar Yadav guides India to victory over West Indies to take 2-1 series lead Hitman now has most number of sixes as Indian captain in the shortest format. He was tied with Kohli at 59 sixes before taking his tally to 60 prior to his injury forcing him out of the field. Rohit has 60 sixes in 34 innings as captain, with Kohli (59) and MS Dhoni (34) following suit. Rohit also opined on his injury after the conclusion of the match. "It's okay at the moment. We've got a few days till the next game, hopefully it should be okay (his injury)." The Indian captain lauded his team for bouncing back swiftly to take a 2-1 lead in the five T20Is. In this regard, he stated, "How we bowled in the middle overs was crucial. I thought we used the conditions well. Used the variations well. Was very clinical how we chased. When you watched from the outside, didn't feel a lot of risk was taken, was a lot of calmness in the middle. Surya batted brilliantly, good partnership there with Iyer. The pitch had something in it for the bowlers, not an easy target. Was important to pick the right shots, right balls on a ground like that." The fourth and penultimate match will be held in Florida on August 06 (Saturday).

WI vs IND, 3rd T20I: Rohit Sharma goes past Virat Kohli to achieve elite feat as Indian skipper

KL Rahul's recent fitness issues have seen him miss a number of matches for India ahead of the T20 World Cup which is scheduled to be played in Australia later this year. While he has not played for India since the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 earlier this year, Rahul's fitness issues can now reportedly see him miss out on vice-captaincy at the T20 World Cup 2022.

As per a report in Insidesport, Hardik Pandya is all set to pip Rahul to be named India's vice-captain for T20 World Cup in Australia this year. Hardik has been enjoying excellent form with the bat and ball ever since making his comeback for the Indian team post IPL 2022 and the all-rounder has become a vital cog in the limited-overs setup once again.

The report claims that Hardik will be named India's vice-captain when the selectors announce the squad for T20 World Cup 2022. He will serve as deputy to captain Rohit Sharma in the showpiece event. Hardik is already part of India's leadership group and had led the team on their tour of Ireland recently.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-becomes-first-indian-player-to-achieve-rare-double-in-mens-t20is-503259">Hardik Pandya becomes first Indian player to achieve rare double in men's T20Is</a>

He showcased terrific leadership skills in IPL 2022 where he led Gujarat Titans to their maiden title in their debut season before making his comeback for Team India in the South Africa series at home. Hardik was then named India's captain for the Ireland tour where he led the team in the absence of senior players. He is currently India's vice-captain in their ongoing T20I series against West Indies.

“Hardik is a world-class player and it’s great to have him back in the team at full fitness. Whether he will be named vice-captain is up to the selectors. But he is already a leader in the group. As an all-rounder, he understands both situations. He has outstanding leadership skills and we saw that in the IPL. He will surely do well,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by Insidesport.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-suryakumar-yadav-wins-over-fans-with-heartwarming-gesture-after-india-beat-wi-in-3rd-t20i-503229">WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav wins over fans with heartwarming gesture after India beat WI in 3rd T20I</a>

Rahul currently remains India's designated vice-captain in white-ball cricket but his fitness issues and recent absence from one series after another might see Hardik pip him as far as T20Is are concerned. As per the report, Rahul is expected to remain India's vice-captain in ODIs and Tests.

While it remains to be seen if Hardik will officially be announced as India's vice-captain for the T20 World Cup 2022, a clear picture will be projected when the selectors announce India's squad for the Asia Cup 2022 later this month. Both Rahul and Hardik are likely to be part of India's squad for the tournament.

KL Rahul's recent fitness issues have seen him miss a number of matches for India ahead of the T20 World Cup which is scheduled to be played in Australia later this year.

KL Rahul's recent fitness issues have seen him miss a number of matches for India ahead of the T20 World Cup which is scheduled to be played in Australia later this year. While he has not played for India since the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 earlier this year, Rahul's fitness issues can now reportedly see him miss out on vice-captaincy at the T20 World Cup 2022. As per a report in Insidesport, Hardik Pandya is all set to pip Rahul to be named India's vice-captain for T20 World Cup in Australia this year. Hardik has been enjoying excellent form with the bat and ball ever since making his comeback for the Indian team post IPL 2022 and the all-rounder has become a vital cog in the limited-overs setup once again. The report claims that Hardik will be named India's vice-captain when the selectors announce the squad for T20 World Cup 2022. He will serve as deputy to captain Rohit Sharma in the showpiece event. Hardik is already part of India's leadership group and had led the team on their tour of Ireland recently. Also Read: Hardik Pandya becomes first Indian player to achieve rare double in men's T20Is He showcased terrific leadership skills in IPL 2022 where he led Gujarat Titans to their maiden title in their debut season before making his comeback for Team India in the South Africa series at home. Hardik was then named India's captain for the Ireland tour where he led the team in the absence of senior players. He is currently India's vice-captain in their ongoing T20I series against West Indies. “Hardik is a world-class player and it’s great to have him back in the team at full fitness. Whether he will be named vice-captain is up to the selectors. But he is already a leader in the group. As an all-rounder, he understands both situations. He has outstanding leadership skills and we saw that in the IPL. He will surely do well,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by Insidesport. Also Read: WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav wins over fans with heartwarming gesture after India beat WI in 3rd T20I Rahul currently remains India's designated vice-captain in white-ball cricket but his fitness issues and recent absence from one series after another might see Hardik pip him as far as T20Is are concerned. As per the report, Rahul is expected to remain India's vice-captain in ODIs and Tests. While it remains to be seen if Hardik will officially be announced as India's vice-captain for the T20 World Cup 2022, a clear picture will be projected when the selectors announce India's squad for the Asia Cup 2022 later this month. Both Rahul and Hardik are likely to be part of India's squad for the tournament.

Hardik Pandya likely to pip KL Rahul to be named India's vice-captain for T20 World Cup 2022 - Report

Dinesh Karthik made a comeback into the Indian team post his heroics in IPL 2022. Playing the role of a finisher to perfection for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Karthik was recalled in the T20I side for the home series versus South Africa, in early June, and the keeper-batter has won two Player-of-the-Match (POTM) awards since then.&nbsp;

In the ongoing five T20Is between India and West Indies, the 36-year-old Karthik returned with his third POTM performance, overall, courtesy of an impressive 19-ball 41 not out in the series opener in Trinidad, on July 29. DK is making a strong case to be included in Rohit Sharma-led India's T20 World Cup squad, for this year's showpiece event in Australia,&nbsp;where he is expected to replicate MS Dhoni's role as a finisher. Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth, however,&nbsp;feels the veteran is just providing the 'final touches' and isn't a 'finisher'.

"Your definition of a finisher is wrong. Yes, Dinesh has been doing very well. He has been brilliant in the IPL and a few matches here. But that is not a finisher! A guy who can take the match from 8th or 9th over and finish it can be called a finisher. What Dinesh is doing can be called final touches. Take Suryakumar Yadav. We saw that he almost single-handedly won the match in England. That's the finishing role. Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant are finishers... and our captain (Rohit) can open and play till the 17th over in 12th gear is also a finisher," Srikkanth pointed out on&nbsp;FanCode&nbsp;during the India-WI third T20I on Tuesday (August 02), which visitors won by seven wickets.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-suryakumar-yadav-wins-over-fans-with-heartwarming-gesture-after-india-beat-wi-in-3rd-t20i-503229">WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav wins over fans with heartwarming gesture after India beat WI in 3rd T20I</a>

"An actual finisher doesn't play between 16-20 overs. A finisher is a guy who takes the match along from 8th or 9th over and eventually finishes with 60 odd runs. Dinesh's role is defined. He is doing fantastic but he is fine-tuning the finishing role instead of actually being a finisher," he added.

DK will be eager to come up with more match-winning performances in the remaining two T20Is versus West Indies. By playing some key roles especially in run-chases, he will tick&nbsp;a lot of boxes to cement his spot for the mega event in Australia, later this year.

Dinesh Karthik made a comeback into the Indian team post his heroics in IPL 2022. Playing the role of a finisher to perfection for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Karthik was recalled in the T20I side for the home series versus South Africa, in early June, and the keeper-batter has won two Player-of-the-Match (POTM) awards since then.

Dinesh Karthik made a comeback into the Indian team post his heroics in IPL 2022. Playing the role of a finisher to perfection for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Karthik was recalled in the T20I side for the home series versus South Africa, in early June, and the keeper-batter has won two Player-of-the-Match (POTM) awards since then. In the ongoing five T20Is between India and West Indies, the 36-year-old Karthik returned with his third POTM performance, overall, courtesy of an impressive 19-ball 41 not out in the series opener in Trinidad, on July 29. DK is making a strong case to be included in Rohit Sharma-led India's T20 World Cup squad, for this year's showpiece event in Australia, where he is expected to replicate MS Dhoni's role as a finisher. Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth, however, feels the veteran is just providing the 'final touches' and isn't a 'finisher'. "Your definition of a finisher is wrong. Yes, Dinesh has been doing very well. He has been brilliant in the IPL and a few matches here. But that is not a finisher! A guy who can take the match from 8th or 9th over and finish it can be called a finisher. What Dinesh is doing can be called final touches. Take Suryakumar Yadav. We saw that he almost single-handedly won the match in England. That's the finishing role. Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant are finishers... and our captain (Rohit) can open and play till the 17th over in 12th gear is also a finisher," Srikkanth pointed out on FanCode during the India-WI third T20I on Tuesday (August 02), which visitors won by seven wickets. ALSO READ | WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav wins over fans with heartwarming gesture after India beat WI in 3rd T20I "An actual finisher doesn't play between 16-20 overs. A finisher is a guy who takes the match along from 8th or 9th over and eventually finishes with 60 odd runs. Dinesh's role is defined. He is doing fantastic but he is fine-tuning the finishing role instead of actually being a finisher," he added. DK will be eager to come up with more match-winning performances in the remaining two T20Is versus West Indies. By playing some key roles especially in run-chases, he will tick a lot of boxes to cement his spot for the mega event in Australia, later this year.

WI vs IND: Dinesh Karthik is fine-tuning the finishing role than being a finisher, says Kris Srikkanth

Former Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli posted a heartfelt message on social media as he extended wishes to the Indian football team skipper and his good friend Sunil Chhetri on his 38th birthday. The Indian football great turned 38 on Wednesday (August 03). Chhetri and Kohli share a great bond between them and have developed a good friendship over the years.

They are two of the most loved sporting icons in the country and are the leaders in their respective sports. While Kohli is regarded as one of the best batters of all time, Chettri is considered India's greatest footballer and is also the country's highest goalscorer at the international level.

Wishing him on his 38th birthday, Kohli told Chettri he is glad to have the friendship the duo have and lauded the Indian football team skipper for his hard work and compassion.

"An honestly hardworking man full of good values &amp; compassion. A man I can call a true friend. Very grateful for the friendship we have skip. Always wish you the best. As you get a year younger I send you my best wishes &amp; all the positivity your way. Happy birthday @chetrisunil11," Kohli wrote in a tweet.

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An honestly hardworking man full of good values &amp; compassion.A man I can call a true friend. Very grateful for the friendship we have skip.Always wish you the best. As you get a year younger I send you my best wishes &amp; all the positivity your way. Happy birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/chetrisunil11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chetrisunil11</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1554744272955461635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-unacceptable-man-utd-boss-erik-ten-hag-slams-cristiano-ronaldo-for-leaving-game-before-final-whistle-503284">'It's unacceptable': Man Utd boss Erik Ten Hag slams Cristiano Ronaldo for leaving game before final whistle</a>

Chettri was quick to respond to Kohli's tweet and thanked him for his kind words. "Champ, I appreciate the kind words. The feeling about our friendship is mutual, and I too, am very grateful that our paths crossed the way they did," wrote the Indian football captain responding to Kohli's tweet.

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Champ, I appreciate the kind words. The feeling about our friendship is mutual, and I too, am very grateful that our paths crossed the way they did.
— Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) <a href="https://twitter.com/chetrisunil11/status/1554776253495853056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Chettri and Kohli have often exchanged comments on social media in the past and the duo miss no chance to pull each other's leg. Chhetri currently plays for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League and is also India's first-choice striker despite being 38. He is also India's most-capped player along with being the leading goal-scorer for the country.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-becomes-first-indian-player-to-achieve-rare-double-in-mens-t20is-503259">Hardik Pandya becomes first Indian player to achieve rare double in men's T20Is</a>

While Chhetri will be seen in action next when the new season of the Indian Super League kick off later this year, Kohli will make his comeback for the Indian cricket team during the upcoming Asia Cup 2022. The Indian batter has been rested from India's ongoing T20I series against West Indies.

Former Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli posted a heartfelt message on social media as he extended wishes to the Indian football team skipper and his good friend Sunil Chhetri on his 38th birthday.

Former Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli posted a heartfelt message on social media as he extended wishes to the Indian football team skipper and his good friend Sunil Chhetri on his 38th birthday. The Indian football great turned 38 on Wednesday (August 03). Chhetri and Kohli share a great bond between them and have developed a good friendship over the years. They are two of the most loved sporting icons in the country and are the leaders in their respective sports. While Kohli is regarded as one of the best batters of all time, Chettri is considered India's greatest footballer and is also the country's highest goalscorer at the international level. Wishing him on his 38th birthday, Kohli told Chettri he is glad to have the friendship the duo have and lauded the Indian football team skipper for his hard work and compassion. "An honestly hardworking man full of good values & compassion. A man I can call a true friend. Very grateful for the friendship we have skip. Always wish you the best. As you get a year younger I send you my best wishes & all the positivity your way. Happy birthday @chetrisunil11," Kohli wrote in a tweet. An honestly hardworking man full of good values & compassion.A man I can call a true friend. Very grateful for the friendship we have skip.Always wish you the best. As you get a year younger I send you my best wishes & all the positivity your way. Happy birthday @chetrisunil11 — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) August 3, 2022 × Also Read: 'It's unacceptable': Man Utd boss Erik Ten Hag slams Cristiano Ronaldo for leaving game before final whistle Chettri was quick to respond to Kohli's tweet and thanked him for his kind words. "Champ, I appreciate the kind words. The feeling about our friendship is mutual, and I too, am very grateful that our paths crossed the way they did," wrote the Indian football captain responding to Kohli's tweet. Champ, I appreciate the kind words. The feeling about our friendship is mutual, and I too, am very grateful that our paths crossed the way they did. — Sunil Chhetri (@chetrisunil11) August 3, 2022 × Chettri and Kohli have often exchanged comments on social media in the past and the duo miss no chance to pull each other's leg. Chhetri currently plays for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League and is also India's first-choice striker despite being 38. He is also India's most-capped player along with being the leading goal-scorer for the country. Also Read: Hardik Pandya becomes first Indian player to achieve rare double in men's T20Is While Chhetri will be seen in action next when the new season of the Indian Super League kick off later this year, Kohli will make his comeback for the Indian cricket team during the upcoming Asia Cup 2022. The Indian batter has been rested from India's ongoing T20I series against West Indies.

'Grateful for friendship we have skip': Virat Kohli posts heartfelt birthday wish for Sunil Chhetri

Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has become the first Indian to achieve a rare double in men's T20Is. Hardik, who is currently in action for India in their ongoing T20I series against West Indies, has become the first player from the country to score 500 runs and complete 50 wickets in the shortest format of the game.

Hardik achieved the rare double after picking up opener Brandon King's wicket during the third T20I between India and West Indies at Warner Park in St Kitts on Tuesday. The Indian all-rounder cleaned up King on a run-a-ball 20 to complete 50 wickets for India in T20Is and become the first player to achieve the feat of 500 runs and 50 wickets in the shortest format.

Hardik is the 11th men's player and the 30th player overall to achieve the rare double in T20I cricket with Indian women's team star Dipti Sharma also part of the elite list. Sharma currently has 521 runs and 65 wickets to her name in T20Is for the Women in Blue.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-suryakumar-yadav-wins-over-fans-with-heartwarming-gesture-after-india-beat-wi-in-3rd-t20i-503229">WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav wins over fans with heartwarming gesture after India beat WI in 3rd T20I</a>

Talking about the 3rd T20I, India thrashed West Indies by 7 wickets to go 2-1 up in the five-match series. Batting first, the hosts got off to a good start with openers King and Kyle Mayers putting on a 57-run stand for the first wicket. Mayers played a brilliant knock of 73 runs off 50 balls while Rovman Powell and Shimron Hetmyer slammed quickfire cameos as West Indies went on to post a fighting total of 164 runs on the board.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-3rd-t20i-rohit-sharma-goes-past-virat-kohli-to-achieve-elite-feat-as-indian-skipper-503110">WI vs IND, 3rd T20I: Rohit Sharma goes past Virat Kohli to achieve elite feat as Indian skipper</a>

In reply, India got off to a shaky start as skipper Rohit Sharma was retired hurt but Suryakumar Yadav single-handed took the visitors home with a stunning knock of 76 runs off 44 balls. Yadav's dazzling knock was laced with 8 fours and 4 sixes as he combined with Rishabh Pant (33*) to power India to a comfortable win with an over to spare.

With the victory, India have now gone 2-1 up in the five-match series and will be looking to take an unassailable lead of 3-1 when they lock horns with the hosts in the penultimate fourth T20I on Saturday (August 06).

Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has become the first Indian to achieve a rare double in men's T20Is. Hardik, who is currently in action for India in their ongoing T20I series against West Indies, has become the first player from the country to score 500 runs and complete 50 wickets in the shortest format of the game.

Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has become the first Indian to achieve a rare double in men's T20Is. Hardik, who is currently in action for India in their ongoing T20I series against West Indies, has become the first player from the country to score 500 runs and complete 50 wickets in the shortest format of the game. Hardik achieved the rare double after picking up opener Brandon King's wicket during the third T20I between India and West Indies at Warner Park in St Kitts on Tuesday. The Indian all-rounder cleaned up King on a run-a-ball 20 to complete 50 wickets for India in T20Is and become the first player to achieve the feat of 500 runs and 50 wickets in the shortest format. Hardik is the 11th men's player and the 30th player overall to achieve the rare double in T20I cricket with Indian women's team star Dipti Sharma also part of the elite list. Sharma currently has 521 runs and 65 wickets to her name in T20Is for the Women in Blue. Also Read: WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav wins over fans with heartwarming gesture after India beat WI in 3rd T20I Talking about the 3rd T20I, India thrashed West Indies by 7 wickets to go 2-1 up in the five-match series. Batting first, the hosts got off to a good start with openers King and Kyle Mayers putting on a 57-run stand for the first wicket. Mayers played a brilliant knock of 73 runs off 50 balls while Rovman Powell and Shimron Hetmyer slammed quickfire cameos as West Indies went on to post a fighting total of 164 runs on the board. Also Read: WI vs IND, 3rd T20I: Rohit Sharma goes past Virat Kohli to achieve elite feat as Indian skipper In reply, India got off to a shaky start as skipper Rohit Sharma was retired hurt but Suryakumar Yadav single-handed took the visitors home with a stunning knock of 76 runs off 44 balls. Yadav's dazzling knock was laced with 8 fours and 4 sixes as he combined with Rishabh Pant (33*) to power India to a comfortable win with an over to spare. With the victory, India have now gone 2-1 up in the five-match series and will be looking to take an unassailable lead of 3-1 when they lock horns with the hosts in the penultimate fourth T20I on Saturday (August 06).

Hardik Pandya becomes first Indian player to achieve rare double in men's T20Is

Suryakumar Yadav didn't have the best of starts to the ongoing five-match T20I series between India and West Indies, in the Caribbean island, with back-to-back failures in the opening two games. However, the right-hander came to his own in style in the third T20I and helped India chase down 165 as the visitors now lead the series 2-1.

Talking about the third T20I, held on Tuesday (August 02) at&nbsp;Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts, Rohit &amp; Co. opted to bowl first. Riding on Kyle Mayers' 74 and cameos from&nbsp;Rovman Powell and Shimron Hetymer, WI posted a challenging 164-5. In reply, India lost captain Rohit early -- retired hurt for a 5-ball 11 due to back spasm -- but rode on SKY's entertaining 44-ball 76, Shreyas Iyer's supporting knock and Rishabh Pant's 26-ball 33 not out to go past the finish&nbsp;line.

After the match, SKY won hearts of his fans with a heartfelt gesture, which was shared by BCCI's official Twitter handle. Here's what he did:

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Match-winning knock 👏 
 
Heartwarming gesture ☺️<a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> appreciates the support of the fans after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s win in the third T20I! 👍 👍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/LYj9tNBVJH">pic.twitter.com/LYj9tNBVJH</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1554697912835158016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-new-look-india-are-10-3-hardik-pandya-throws-weight-on-rohit-cos-attacking-approach-in-t20is-503183">'If new-look India are 10-3....' - Hardik Pandya throws weight on Rohit &amp; Co.'s attacking approach in T20Is</a>

Surya's knock included 8 fours and 4 sixes, striking at 172.73, as he stood tall for Team India when it mattered the most post Rohit's exit.&nbsp;

At the post-match presentation, SKY said, "Really happy with the way things went. Was important for someone to bat 15-17 overs after Rohit went back inside. We saw yesterday what happened in the second innings. Was important for someone to bat deep and win the game, that's what I've focussed on. Just backed myself and enjoying it."

The fourth and penultimate T20I will be held in Florida on Saturday (August 06).

Suryakumar Yadav didn't have the best of starts to the ongoing five-match T20I series between India and West Indies, in the Caribbean island, with back-to-back failures in the opening two games.

Suryakumar Yadav didn't have the best of starts to the ongoing five-match T20I series between India and West Indies, in the Caribbean island, with back-to-back failures in the opening two games. However, the right-hander came to his own in style in the third T20I and helped India chase down 165 as the visitors now lead the series 2-1. Talking about the third T20I, held on Tuesday (August 02) at Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts, Rohit & Co. opted to bowl first. Riding on Kyle Mayers' 74 and cameos from Rovman Powell and Shimron Hetymer, WI posted a challenging 164-5. In reply, India lost captain Rohit early -- retired hurt for a 5-ball 11 due to back spasm -- but rode on SKY's entertaining 44-ball 76, Shreyas Iyer's supporting knock and Rishabh Pant's 26-ball 33 not out to go past the finish line. After the match, SKY won hearts of his fans with a heartfelt gesture, which was shared by BCCI's official Twitter handle. Here's what he did: Match-winning knock 👏 Heartwarming gesture ☺️@surya_14kumar appreciates the support of the fans after #TeamIndia's win in the third T20I! 👍 👍#WIvIND pic.twitter.com/LYj9tNBVJH — BCCI (@BCCI) August 3, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'If new-look India are 10-3....' - Hardik Pandya throws weight on Rohit & Co.'s attacking approach in T20Is Surya's knock included 8 fours and 4 sixes, striking at 172.73, as he stood tall for Team India when it mattered the most post Rohit's exit. At the post-match presentation, SKY said, "Really happy with the way things went. Was important for someone to bat 15-17 overs after Rohit went back inside. We saw yesterday what happened in the second innings. Was important for someone to bat deep and win the game, that's what I've focussed on. Just backed myself and enjoying it." The fourth and penultimate T20I will be held in Florida on Saturday (August 06).

WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav wins over fans with heartwarming gesture after India beat WI in 3rd T20I

Team India have adopted a new attacking approach in the shortest format ever since Rohit Sharma took over from Virat Kohli last year. After the debacle in the 2021 T20 World Cup, where many slammed Men in Blue's timid approach, it seems that the one-time winners have learnt from their past mistakes and are willing to play more aggressively without compromising on&nbsp;their new exciting playing style.

All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is also Rohit's deputy in the ongoing five-match T20I series versus West Indies in the Caribbean island, threw more weight on India's new approach and also dwelled on his glittering performances ever since his return to competitive cricket, with IPL 2022, after last year's T20 WC.

"The last World Cup was very different than this one, but the process has remained the same. I have maintained a balance in my life now, where if I am performing I will be happy, even if I am not, I will be happy. With that you won't be overconfident while you perform well and won't be too demotivated when the bad slump comes along. That balance is really important," Hardik said in a chat with journalist Vimal Kumar while describing his sensational run since his comeback.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-3rd-t20i-rohit-sharma-goes-past-virat-kohli-to-achieve-elite-feat-as-indian-skipper-503110">WI vs IND, 3rd T20I: Rohit Sharma goes past Virat Kohli to achieve elite feat as Indian skipper</a>

Speaking on India's new playing style, the 28-year-old Hardik stated, "You gain confidence when you see players performing with a new approach, the way with which pressure is being put on opposition bowlers. They might be thinking that even if new-look India are 10-3, they will be looking to score 190 rather than play out the 20 overs. Because of that attitude, this team is looking more and more dangerous."

Currently, the Hardik-starrer India lead the five T20Is versus West Indies 2-1 after beating the hosts by seven wickets in the third encounter on Tuesday (August 02).

Team India have adopted a new attacking approach in the shortest format ever since Rohit Sharma took over from Virat Kohli last year. After the debacle in the 2021 T20 World Cup, where many slammed Men in Blue's timid approach, it seems that the one-time winners have learnt from their past mistakes and are willing to play more aggressively without compromising on their new exciting playing style.

Team India have adopted a new attacking approach in the shortest format ever since Rohit Sharma took over from Virat Kohli last year. After the debacle in the 2021 T20 World Cup, where many slammed Men in Blue's timid approach, it seems that the one-time winners have learnt from their past mistakes and are willing to play more aggressively without compromising on their new exciting playing style. All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is also Rohit's deputy in the ongoing five-match T20I series versus West Indies in the Caribbean island, threw more weight on India's new approach and also dwelled on his glittering performances ever since his return to competitive cricket, with IPL 2022, after last year's T20 WC. "The last World Cup was very different than this one, but the process has remained the same. I have maintained a balance in my life now, where if I am performing I will be happy, even if I am not, I will be happy. With that you won't be overconfident while you perform well and won't be too demotivated when the bad slump comes along. That balance is really important," Hardik said in a chat with journalist Vimal Kumar while describing his sensational run since his comeback. ALSO READ | WI vs IND, 3rd T20I: Rohit Sharma goes past Virat Kohli to achieve elite feat as Indian skipper Speaking on India's new playing style, the 28-year-old Hardik stated, "You gain confidence when you see players performing with a new approach, the way with which pressure is being put on opposition bowlers. They might be thinking that even if new-look India are 10-3, they will be looking to score 190 rather than play out the 20 overs. Because of that attitude, this team is looking more and more dangerous." Currently, the Hardik-starrer India lead the five T20Is versus West Indies 2-1 after beating the hosts by seven wickets in the third encounter on Tuesday (August 02).

'If new-look India are 10-3....' - Hardik Pandya throws weight on Rohit & Co.'s attacking approach in T20Is

Brandon King`s fiery knock of 68 after Obed McCoy`s six-wicket haul guided West Indies to the five-wicket win over India in the second T20I of the five-match series at the Warner Park, St Kitts on Monday. West Indies maintained a stronghold on the match in the chase with opener Brandon King playing an anchoring role after Obed McCoy`s six-wicket haul helped the hosts bundle out India for 138 runs.

Chasing a target of 139, West Indies got off to a good start as their openers Brandon King and Kyle Mayers started smashing Indian bowlers all around the ground. But their stint of blistering batting was cut short by Hardik Pandya as he dismissed Mayers in the 6.1 over. Mayers`s wicket invited captain Nicholas Pooran to the crease, who could not do much and went back to the pavilion after scoring 14 runs in 11 balls on the delivery of Ravichandran Ashwin. The star batter of West Indies Shimron Hetmyer could not do much and was sent back to the hut by Ravindra Jadeja. In the 15.3 over of the innings, Brandon King was dismissed after scoring 68 runs in 52 balls by Avesh Khan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-will-remain-at-no3-wasim-jaffer-on-ex-india-captains-batting-spot-for-t20-world-cup-2022-502649">Virat Kohli will remain at no.3: Wasim Jaffer on ex-India captain's batting spot for T20 World Cup 2022</a>

At that point of the run chase, King had done his part to take his team closer to winning the second T20I against India. After 17 overs the equation of the chase went down to 27 runs in 18 balls Devon Thomas and Rovman Powell started playing aggressively and smashed Pandya for a six over the long-on. Arshdeep Singh gave India a breakthrough as he dismissed hard-hitting batter Powell in the 19th over of the innings. Powell`s wicket invited Odean Smith to the crease. In the last thrilling over of the innings hosts needed 10 runs in 6 balls. Devon Thomas hammered Avesh Khan for back-to-back one six and one four to guide his team to the victory with five wickets in hands.

Earlier, the hosts were dominant during the Indian innings, dismissing skipper Rohit Sharma was sent off the very first ball after which India struggled to get proceeding.&nbsp; McCoy`s figures of 6/17 were the best by a West Indies bowler in T20Is and India were all out for just 138 runs on a ground that is known to allow batters to hit sixes.

Brief score: India 138 (Ravindra Jadeja 27, Hardik Pandya 31; Obed McCoy 6-17) vs West Indies 141/5 (Brandon King 68, Nicholas Pooran 14; Hardik Pandya 1-11).

Brandon King`s fiery knock of 68 after Obed McCoy`s six-wicket haul guided West Indies to the five-wicket win over India in the second T20I of the five-match series at the Warner Park, St Kitts on Monday.

Brandon King`s fiery knock of 68 after Obed McCoy`s six-wicket haul guided West Indies to the five-wicket win over India in the second T20I of the five-match series at the Warner Park, St Kitts on Monday. West Indies maintained a stronghold on the match in the chase with opener Brandon King playing an anchoring role after Obed McCoy`s six-wicket haul helped the hosts bundle out India for 138 runs. Chasing a target of 139, West Indies got off to a good start as their openers Brandon King and Kyle Mayers started smashing Indian bowlers all around the ground. But their stint of blistering batting was cut short by Hardik Pandya as he dismissed Mayers in the 6.1 over. Mayers`s wicket invited captain Nicholas Pooran to the crease, who could not do much and went back to the pavilion after scoring 14 runs in 11 balls on the delivery of Ravichandran Ashwin. The star batter of West Indies Shimron Hetmyer could not do much and was sent back to the hut by Ravindra Jadeja. In the 15.3 over of the innings, Brandon King was dismissed after scoring 68 runs in 52 balls by Avesh Khan. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli will remain at no.3: Wasim Jaffer on ex-India captain's batting spot for T20 World Cup 2022 At that point of the run chase, King had done his part to take his team closer to winning the second T20I against India. After 17 overs the equation of the chase went down to 27 runs in 18 balls Devon Thomas and Rovman Powell started playing aggressively and smashed Pandya for a six over the long-on. Arshdeep Singh gave India a breakthrough as he dismissed hard-hitting batter Powell in the 19th over of the innings. Powell`s wicket invited Odean Smith to the crease. In the last thrilling over of the innings hosts needed 10 runs in 6 balls. Devon Thomas hammered Avesh Khan for back-to-back one six and one four to guide his team to the victory with five wickets in hands. Earlier, the hosts were dominant during the Indian innings, dismissing skipper Rohit Sharma was sent off the very first ball after which India struggled to get proceeding. McCoy`s figures of 6/17 were the best by a West Indies bowler in T20Is and India were all out for just 138 runs on a ground that is known to allow batters to hit sixes. Brief score: India 138 (Ravindra Jadeja 27, Hardik Pandya 31; Obed McCoy 6-17) vs West Indies 141/5 (Brandon King 68, Nicholas Pooran 14; Hardik Pandya 1-11).

2nd T20I: Brandon King's 68, Obed McCoy's 6 for 17 guide West Indies to 5-wicket win over India

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned the Indian team management's decision to provide frequent breaks to senior batter Virat Kohli. Kohli has been rested from India's ongoing T20I series against West Indies and is currently not in action for the Men in Blue. Kohli has already missed a host of series for India in 2022.

The former India captain had missed the South Africa limited-overs series at home after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 where he had an average campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). He was not part of India's tour of Ireland and has also missed the ODI and T20I series on the team's ongoing tour of the West Indies.

Amid his lean patch for the Indian team, questions have been raised over Kohli's continuous breaks with many believing the senior batter should rather try to play more matches to regain his form. Former India cricketer Manjrekar has echoed similar sentiments and questioned Kohli's frequent breaks for the Indian team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-spoil-suryakumar-yadav-kris-srikanth-slams-rohit-sharma-for-opening-experiment-vs-west-indies-502882">‘Don’t spoil Suryakumar Yadav’: Kris Srikanth slams Rohit Sharma for opening experiment vs West Indies</a>

Manjrekar cited the example of Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who was struggling with his form last year but managed to make a strong comeback by playing more matches and is now a certainty in India's squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 later this year.

“Bhuvneshwar Kumar recently gave an interview, and he is at his peak at the moment. Eighteen months back, we thought he may not have an international career. But, he has bounced back superbly and is a certainty to make the T20 world cup squad. And he said, the more I bowl, the more I got my rhythm," Manjrekar told Sports18.

"I think they should have played Virat Kohli in every International match possible, whatever the format because Virat has had his breaks. People are advocating that he should take some breaks and he's had his breaks,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2022-full-schedule-india-to-take-on-pakistan-in-blockbuster-clash-on-august-28-502902">Asia Cup 2022 full schedule: India to take on Pakistan in blockbuster clash on August 28</a>

The cricketer-turned commentator pointed out how Kohli has not played much international cricket over the last couple of years and said in his personal view, it would have been better for the senior batter had he played more matches for the Indian team.

“If you look at the last two years, he's not played a lot of International cricket. Maybe there's some logic there that we don't know about. Maybe they had a chat with Virat Kohli, but my personal view is the more Virat Kohli would’ve played and especially these matches would've been better for him and Bhuvneshwar Kumar clearly has said like it is with a lot of players when you're going through a rut, the best way to come out of the rut is by playing. So, hopefully, that will happen soon," said Manjrekar.

Along with Kohli, the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, captain Rohit Sharma, Mohammed Shami and Rishabh Pant had also been rested from the ODI series against West Indies last month. However, Rohit and Pant made their comebacks in the ongoing T20I series. Kohli is also set to miss India's upcoming tour of Zimbabwe and is likely to make his comeback at the Asia Cup 2022 later this month.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned the Indian team management's decision to provide frequent breaks to senior batter Virat Kohli. Kohli has been rested from India's ongoing T20I series against West Indies and is currently not in action for the Men in Blue.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned the Indian team management's decision to provide frequent breaks to senior batter Virat Kohli. Kohli has been rested from India's ongoing T20I series against West Indies and is currently not in action for the Men in Blue. Kohli has already missed a host of series for India in 2022. The former India captain had missed the South Africa limited-overs series at home after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 where he had an average campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). He was not part of India's tour of Ireland and has also missed the ODI and T20I series on the team's ongoing tour of the West Indies. Amid his lean patch for the Indian team, questions have been raised over Kohli's continuous breaks with many believing the senior batter should rather try to play more matches to regain his form. Former India cricketer Manjrekar has echoed similar sentiments and questioned Kohli's frequent breaks for the Indian team. Also Read: ‘Don’t spoil Suryakumar Yadav’: Kris Srikanth slams Rohit Sharma for opening experiment vs West Indies Manjrekar cited the example of Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who was struggling with his form last year but managed to make a strong comeback by playing more matches and is now a certainty in India's squad for the T20 World Cup 2022 later this year. “Bhuvneshwar Kumar recently gave an interview, and he is at his peak at the moment. Eighteen months back, we thought he may not have an international career. But, he has bounced back superbly and is a certainty to make the T20 world cup squad. And he said, the more I bowl, the more I got my rhythm," Manjrekar told Sports18. "I think they should have played Virat Kohli in every International match possible, whatever the format because Virat has had his breaks. People are advocating that he should take some breaks and he's had his breaks,” he added. Also Read: Asia Cup 2022 full schedule: India to take on Pakistan in blockbuster clash on August 28 The cricketer-turned commentator pointed out how Kohli has not played much international cricket over the last couple of years and said in his personal view, it would have been better for the senior batter had he played more matches for the Indian team. “If you look at the last two years, he's not played a lot of International cricket. Maybe there's some logic there that we don't know about. Maybe they had a chat with Virat Kohli, but my personal view is the more Virat Kohli would’ve played and especially these matches would've been better for him and Bhuvneshwar Kumar clearly has said like it is with a lot of players when you're going through a rut, the best way to come out of the rut is by playing. So, hopefully, that will happen soon," said Manjrekar. Along with Kohli, the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, captain Rohit Sharma, Mohammed Shami and Rishabh Pant had also been rested from the ODI series against West Indies last month. However, Rohit and Pant made their comebacks in the ongoing T20I series. Kohli is also set to miss India's upcoming tour of Zimbabwe and is likely to make his comeback at the Asia Cup 2022 later this month.

Virat should have played every match possible: Sanjay Manjrekar questions Kohli's frequent breaks for India

Former India cricketer Kris Srikanth has slammed Indian captain Rohit Sharma and the team management for trying to 'spoil' Suryakumar Yadav with their opening experiment in the ongoing T20I series against West Indies. In the absence of first-choice opener KL Rahul, India have experimented a lot as far as the opening slot is concerned and have tried the likes of Rishabh Pant and Suryakumar Yadav as openers despite having Ishan Kishan in the squad.

The Indian team tried Pant as an opener in a few matches on their tour of England before surprisingly opening the batting with Rohit and Suryakumar in the ongoing T20I series against West Indies. Suryakumar, who is a specialist middle-order batter, hasn’t quite managed to impress as an opener so far in the first two matches.

After scoring 24 runs off 16 balls in the series-opener against West Indies, Suryakumar was dismissed cheaply on 11 off 6 balls in the second T20I between the two sides at the Warner Park in St Kitts on Monday. The experiment at the top order has not worked for India and has seen captain Rohit receive a lot of flak for the same.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-2nd-t20i-why-avesh-khan-arshdeep-singh-over-bhuvneshwar-in-death-overs-rohit-explains-502804">Why Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh preferred over Bhuvneshwar in death overs? Rohit explains</a>

Former India cricketer Kris Srikanth lashed out at Rohit and the Indian team management ahead of the start of the second T20I against West Indies on Monday. Srikanth said Suryakumar is certain to bat at number 4 in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 and he should not be asked to open where he might fail a couple of times and lose his confidence.

“Suryakumar Yadav is a brilliant player at No.4. He should be batting at No.4 in the T20 World Cup. So why do you want to make him open. If you want someone to open, drop Shreyas Iyer and pick Ishan Kishan instead. What I am trying to say is simple...don’t spoil a cricketer like Suryakumar Yadav. Please don’t do that. I will tell you what will, after a couple of failures he will lose his confidence. Cricket is a confidence game,” Srikanth said during a chat on FanCode.

“Whatever it was, I completely failed to understand it. You ought to have used Rishabh Pant today if you were planning to use him as the opener for a couple of games. Give him five chances at least. In addition, Rohit Sharma, the captain, and Rahul Dravid, the coach, support the players for at least 5–6 games,” he added as he blasted Rohit and the Indian team management.

After being asked to bat first in the 2nd T20I in St Kitts on Monday, India got off to a poor start as they lost Rohit on a duck before Suryakumar departed on just 11. Shreyas Iyer, who came out to bat at no. 3 flopped once again as he too was sent back cheaply on 10 off 11 balls leaving the visitors reeling at 40/3.&nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/behave-like-a-human-being-shahid-afridi-on-city-biases-in-pakistan-team-selection-502602">&nbsp;'Behave like a human being' - Shahid Afridi on 'city biases' in Pakistan team selection</a>

With the help of crucial contributions from Rishabh Pant (24), Hardik Pandya (31) and Ravindra Jadeja (27), India managed to post a fighting total of 138 runs on the board but failed to defend it despite excellent spells from the likes of Arshdeep Singh, Jadeja and Hardik Pandya.

West Indies chased down the target of 139 runs in the final over and won the game by five wickets with four balls to spare to level the series 1-1 after their 68-run loss in the series-opener.

Former India cricketer Kris Srikanth has slammed Indian captain Rohit Sharma and the team management for trying to 'spoil' Suryakumar Yadav with their opening experiment in the ongoing T20I series against West Indies.

Former India cricketer Kris Srikanth has slammed Indian captain Rohit Sharma and the team management for trying to 'spoil' Suryakumar Yadav with their opening experiment in the ongoing T20I series against West Indies. In the absence of first-choice opener KL Rahul, India have experimented a lot as far as the opening slot is concerned and have tried the likes of Rishabh Pant and Suryakumar Yadav as openers despite having Ishan Kishan in the squad. The Indian team tried Pant as an opener in a few matches on their tour of England before surprisingly opening the batting with Rohit and Suryakumar in the ongoing T20I series against West Indies. Suryakumar, who is a specialist middle-order batter, hasn’t quite managed to impress as an opener so far in the first two matches. After scoring 24 runs off 16 balls in the series-opener against West Indies, Suryakumar was dismissed cheaply on 11 off 6 balls in the second T20I between the two sides at the Warner Park in St Kitts on Monday. The experiment at the top order has not worked for India and has seen captain Rohit receive a lot of flak for the same. Also Read: Why Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh preferred over Bhuvneshwar in death overs? Rohit explains Former India cricketer Kris Srikanth lashed out at Rohit and the Indian team management ahead of the start of the second T20I against West Indies on Monday. Srikanth said Suryakumar is certain to bat at number 4 in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 and he should not be asked to open where he might fail a couple of times and lose his confidence. “Suryakumar Yadav is a brilliant player at No.4. He should be batting at No.4 in the T20 World Cup. So why do you want to make him open. If you want someone to open, drop Shreyas Iyer and pick Ishan Kishan instead. What I am trying to say is simple...don’t spoil a cricketer like Suryakumar Yadav. Please don’t do that. I will tell you what will, after a couple of failures he will lose his confidence. Cricket is a confidence game,” Srikanth said during a chat on FanCode. “Whatever it was, I completely failed to understand it. You ought to have used Rishabh Pant today if you were planning to use him as the opener for a couple of games. Give him five chances at least. In addition, Rohit Sharma, the captain, and Rahul Dravid, the coach, support the players for at least 5–6 games,” he added as he blasted Rohit and the Indian team management. After being asked to bat first in the 2nd T20I in St Kitts on Monday, India got off to a poor start as they lost Rohit on a duck before Suryakumar departed on just 11. Shreyas Iyer, who came out to bat at no. 3 flopped once again as he too was sent back cheaply on 10 off 11 balls leaving the visitors reeling at 40/3. Also Read: 'Behave like a human being' - Shahid Afridi on 'city biases' in Pakistan team selection With the help of crucial contributions from Rishabh Pant (24), Hardik Pandya (31) and Ravindra Jadeja (27), India managed to post a fighting total of 138 runs on the board but failed to defend it despite excellent spells from the likes of Arshdeep Singh, Jadeja and Hardik Pandya. West Indies chased down the target of 139 runs in the final over and won the game by five wickets with four balls to spare to level the series 1-1 after their 68-run loss in the series-opener.

‘Don’t spoil Suryakumar Yadav’: Kris Srikanth slams Rohit Sharma for opening experiment vs West Indies

Former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha hailed MS Dhoni and mentioned that the ex-Indian captain was one of the main reasons behind Men in Blue's 2011 ODI World Cup triumph at home. Ojha credited Dhoni for creating a group of 25-30 players who were ready for the big occasions at any given point and had enough match experience to not falter during knockout stages.

“I strongly feel that the reason the 2011 World Cup was a success for us was because MS Dhoni was very serious about all the guys who were going to be in the mix, the 25 or 30, needed to play at least 40 games before the World Cup started. You may have scored a lot of runs but if you don’t have the experience of dealing with various situations, you may not feel it during the league matches but the most important games, the knockouts, the semi-finals and the finals …. That is when that experience really helps you," Ojha said on&nbsp;FanCode.

Under Dhoni, India lifted their second ODI WC title by beating Sri Lanka in the final at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on April 2, 2011. Dhoni scored a match-winning 91 not out along with Gautam Gambhir's 97 as India chased down a challenging 274 versus the Islanders. The likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Gambhir, Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, Zaheer Khan, R Ashwin, etc. played a huge role in India's success.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-2nd-t20i-why-avesh-khan-arshdeep-singh-over-bhuvneshwar-in-death-overs-rohit-explains-502804">Why Avesh, Arshdeep were preferred over Bhuvneshwar in death overs against WI? Rohit Sharma explains</a>

Ojha was sharing his views while talking about Rohit Sharma-led India's constant chopping and changing with their limited-overs sides with the T20 World Cup only over&nbsp;two months away. He asserted, "Jab aapke paas itna bada pool rehte hai, toh uska downside bhi agar aap dekhein, toh jabhi bhi aapko mauka milta hai … it will be limited. Agar aapka pool bada nahin hai, toh shayad aapko 10-12 mil sake hain but when you talk about Indian cricket right now, aapko 10 nahin aapko shayad 5 matches milenge ya shayad 3 kyunki pool itna bada hai. Competition has become neck to neck. Players are performing so you have to bring you A game, and if you do not perform and another guy does and some senior play gets back in, then unfortunately you will miss out."

"That is the truth. These players need to realise that they are playing for India and just grab their chances. Look at what Suryakumar Yadav has done … He’s getting hundreds. Deepak Hooda got a hundred. If you are scoring hundreds, in any format and at any level, then people start noticing you. In the Ranji Trophy, the level of competition has gone up. People are not talking about who has scored a hundred, but who has scored double-hundreds and triple-hundreds. When the competition goes so high you have to raise your game too and go higher," Ojha added.

Rohit-led India are currently involved in the five-match T20I series versus hosts West Indies. The series is levelled at 1-1 with three more games to go.

Former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha hailed MS Dhoni and mentioned that the ex-Indian captain was one of the main reasons behind Men in Blue's 2011 ODI World Cup triumph at home.

Former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha hailed MS Dhoni and mentioned that the ex-Indian captain was one of the main reasons behind Men in Blue's 2011 ODI World Cup triumph at home. Ojha credited Dhoni for creating a group of 25-30 players who were ready for the big occasions at any given point and had enough match experience to not falter during knockout stages. “I strongly feel that the reason the 2011 World Cup was a success for us was because MS Dhoni was very serious about all the guys who were going to be in the mix, the 25 or 30, needed to play at least 40 games before the World Cup started. You may have scored a lot of runs but if you don’t have the experience of dealing with various situations, you may not feel it during the league matches but the most important games, the knockouts, the semi-finals and the finals …. That is when that experience really helps you," Ojha said on FanCode. Under Dhoni, India lifted their second ODI WC title by beating Sri Lanka in the final at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on April 2, 2011. Dhoni scored a match-winning 91 not out along with Gautam Gambhir's 97 as India chased down a challenging 274 versus the Islanders. The likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Gambhir, Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, Zaheer Khan, R Ashwin, etc. played a huge role in India's success. ALSO READ | Why Avesh, Arshdeep were preferred over Bhuvneshwar in death overs against WI? Rohit Sharma explains Ojha was sharing his views while talking about Rohit Sharma-led India's constant chopping and changing with their limited-overs sides with the T20 World Cup only over two months away. He asserted, "Jab aapke paas itna bada pool rehte hai, toh uska downside bhi agar aap dekhein, toh jabhi bhi aapko mauka milta hai … it will be limited. Agar aapka pool bada nahin hai, toh shayad aapko 10-12 mil sake hain but when you talk about Indian cricket right now, aapko 10 nahin aapko shayad 5 matches milenge ya shayad 3 kyunki pool itna bada hai. Competition has become neck to neck. Players are performing so you have to bring you A game, and if you do not perform and another guy does and some senior play gets back in, then unfortunately you will miss out." "That is the truth. These players need to realise that they are playing for India and just grab their chances. Look at what Suryakumar Yadav has done … He’s getting hundreds. Deepak Hooda got a hundred. If you are scoring hundreds, in any format and at any level, then people start noticing you. In the Ranji Trophy, the level of competition has gone up. People are not talking about who has scored a hundred, but who has scored double-hundreds and triple-hundreds. When the competition goes so high you have to raise your game too and go higher," Ojha added. Rohit-led India are currently involved in the five-match T20I series versus hosts West Indies. The series is levelled at 1-1 with three more games to go.

'He was very serious...' - Former Indian spinner hails MS Dhoni for Team India's 2011 ODI World Cup triumph

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on Tuesday (August 02) announced the complete schedule of the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 which will be hosted by the UAE this year. The tournament was earlier supposed to be hosted by Sri Lanka but had to be moved to the UAE due to the economic and political crisis in the country.

The tournament which is all set to be played in T20 format this year will get underway on August 27 with Sri Lanka taking on Afghanistan in the opening game. The marquee clash between India and Pakistan will be played next in Dubai on August 28.

It is set to be a blockbuster clash between the two arch-rivals, who have met only in major ICC competitions since 2013. Despite sharing one of the greatest rivalries in cricket history, India and Pakistan have not played bilateral cricket against each other for almost a decade owing to political tension between the two countries.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-spoil-suryakumar-yadav-kris-srikanth-slams-rohit-sharma-for-opening-experiment-vs-west-indies-502882">'Don't spoil Suryakumar Yadav': Kris Srikanth slams Rohit Sharma for opening experiment vs West Indies</a>

The full schedule of the tournament was shared by Asian Cricket Council chief Jay Shah on social media. A total of six teams will be part of the tournament this year with India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka&nbsp;the five confirmed teams.

The&nbsp;remaining spot will be for the team that wins the qualifier round. UAE, Kuwait, Singapore, and Hong Kong will battle it out to be the 6th team to take part in the tournament.

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The wait is finally over as the battle for Asian supremacy commences on 27th August with the all-important final on 11th September. 
 
The 15th edition of the Asia Cup will serve as ideal preparation ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup. <a href="https://t.co/QfTskWX6RD">pic.twitter.com/QfTskWX6RD</a>
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India,&nbsp;Pakistan and the qualifying team are placed in Group A while Group B consists of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Two teams each will qualify for the 'Super 4' round. The final will be played in Dubai on September 11. India are the defending champions in this edition having won the&nbsp;tournament under Rohit Sharma's captaincy in 2018.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-two-players-in-one-australia-legend-glenn-mcgrath-heaps-praise-on-team-india-superstar-502898">'He is two players in one': Australia legend Glenn McGrath heaps praise on Team India superstar</a>

Rohit had led the side in the absence of regular captain Virat Kohli in 2018 but will be the designated captain this time around. Kohli had missed the last edition of the tournament but it will be a crucial one for him this year as the senior India batter hopes to bounce back to form. He is currently not part of India's tour of the West Indies and will also miss the Zimbabwe tour next.

Kohli is expected to make his comeback for the Indian team during Asia Cup 2018 and will be hopeful of regaining his form ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. India are the most successful team in Asia Cup history having won the title 7 times followed by Sri Lanka, who have won the tournament 5 times. Pakistan has won the Asia Cup only twice since its inception in 1984.

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on Tuesday (August 02) announced the complete schedule of the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 which will be hosted by the UAE this year. The tournament was earlier supposed to be hosted by Sri Lanka but had to be moved to the UAE due to the economic and political crisis in the country.

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) on Tuesday (August 02) announced the complete schedule of the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 which will be hosted by the UAE this year. The tournament was earlier supposed to be hosted by Sri Lanka but had to be moved to the UAE due to the economic and political crisis in the country. The tournament which is all set to be played in T20 format this year will get underway on August 27 with Sri Lanka taking on Afghanistan in the opening game. The marquee clash between India and Pakistan will be played next in Dubai on August 28. It is set to be a blockbuster clash between the two arch-rivals, who have met only in major ICC competitions since 2013. Despite sharing one of the greatest rivalries in cricket history, India and Pakistan have not played bilateral cricket against each other for almost a decade owing to political tension between the two countries. Also Read: 'Don't spoil Suryakumar Yadav': Kris Srikanth slams Rohit Sharma for opening experiment vs West Indies The full schedule of the tournament was shared by Asian Cricket Council chief Jay Shah on social media. A total of six teams will be part of the tournament this year with India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka the five confirmed teams. The remaining spot will be for the team that wins the qualifier round. UAE, Kuwait, Singapore, and Hong Kong will battle it out to be the 6th team to take part in the tournament. The wait is finally over as the battle for Asian supremacy commences on 27th August with the all-important final on 11th September. The 15th edition of the Asia Cup will serve as ideal preparation ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup. pic.twitter.com/QfTskWX6RD — Jay Shah (@JayShah) August 2, 2022 × India, Pakistan and the qualifying team are placed in Group A while Group B consists of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Two teams each will qualify for the 'Super 4' round. The final will be played in Dubai on September 11. India are the defending champions in this edition having won the tournament under Rohit Sharma's captaincy in 2018. Also Read: 'He is two players in one': Australia legend Glenn McGrath heaps praise on Team India superstar Rohit had led the side in the absence of regular captain Virat Kohli in 2018 but will be the designated captain this time around. Kohli had missed the last edition of the tournament but it will be a crucial one for him this year as the senior India batter hopes to bounce back to form. He is currently not part of India's tour of the West Indies and will also miss the Zimbabwe tour next. Kohli is expected to make his comeback for the Indian team during Asia Cup 2018 and will be hopeful of regaining his form ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. India are the most successful team in Asia Cup history having won the title 7 times followed by Sri Lanka, who have won the tournament 5 times. Pakistan has won the Asia Cup only twice since its inception in 1984.

Asia Cup 2022 full schedule: India to take on Pakistan in blockbuster clash on August 28

Legendary Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath has heaped praise on Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya insisting that he has the abilities of two players in one. Hardik is currently one of the finest all-rounders in the world and is&nbsp;India's first-choice all-rounder in white-ball cricket. He has been excellent ever since making his comeback for the Indian team in the South Africa series at home earlier this year.

Hardik had opted for a break from international cricket post India's disappointing exit at the T20 World Cup 2021 last year to recover fully from his back injury. He made a roaring comeback in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 where he led Gujarat Titans to their maiden title triumph in their debut season before regaining his spot in the Indian team.

Hardik has been unstoppable with both the bat and the ball ever since making his return for the Indian team and was one of the stand-out players during the team's tour of England where he was among the runs in both ODIs and T20Is while also picking up 11 wickets across the two formats.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-2nd-t20i-why-avesh-khan-arshdeep-singh-over-bhuvneshwar-in-death-overs-rohit-explains-502804">Why Avesh, Arshdeep were preferred over Bhuvneshwar in death overs against WI? Rohit Sharma explains</a>

Hardik is currently in action for the Indian team in their ongoing T20I series against West Indies where he has continued his purple patch. Lauding him for his all-round abilities, McGrath said Hardik is a luxury to have for any team and if he stays confident he can be an asset with both the bat and the ball.

"Cricket is very much a confidence sport. Hardik is very much a confidence player. If he is bowling well, it has a positive impact on his batting. He is two players in one. He is a luxury. He is a good, intelligent bowler and powerful hitter. He has got a good game plan," McGrath told reporters during an interaction.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-spoil-suryakumar-yadav-kris-srikanth-slams-rohit-sharma-for-opening-experiment-vs-west-indies-502882">'Don't spoil Suryakumar Yadav': Kris Srikanth slams Rohit Sharma for opening experiment vs West Indies</a>

McGrath also shared his views on the recent debate over the downfall of ODI cricket and said the format will remain interesting as long as runs are being scored. However, the former Australian pacer insisted changes should be brought in to make the format more interesting going forward.

"I am very much a traditionalist. I liked Tests, I liked my ODIs. Test cricket is still the ultimate to me. I hope that it is protected and still held in high regard. As for the ODIs, it is still exciting as long as they are scoring runs. Interesting to see the future (of ODIs) and see where it goes. They have got to keep making it (ODIs) exciting. They have got a few challenges," said McGrath.

Legendary Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath has heaped praise on Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya insisting that he has the abilities of two players in one.

Legendary Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath has heaped praise on Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya insisting that he has the abilities of two players in one. Hardik is currently one of the finest all-rounders in the world and is India's first-choice all-rounder in white-ball cricket. He has been excellent ever since making his comeback for the Indian team in the South Africa series at home earlier this year. Hardik had opted for a break from international cricket post India's disappointing exit at the T20 World Cup 2021 last year to recover fully from his back injury. He made a roaring comeback in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 where he led Gujarat Titans to their maiden title triumph in their debut season before regaining his spot in the Indian team. Hardik has been unstoppable with both the bat and the ball ever since making his return for the Indian team and was one of the stand-out players during the team's tour of England where he was among the runs in both ODIs and T20Is while also picking up 11 wickets across the two formats. Also Read: Why Avesh, Arshdeep were preferred over Bhuvneshwar in death overs against WI? Rohit Sharma explains Hardik is currently in action for the Indian team in their ongoing T20I series against West Indies where he has continued his purple patch. Lauding him for his all-round abilities, McGrath said Hardik is a luxury to have for any team and if he stays confident he can be an asset with both the bat and the ball. "Cricket is very much a confidence sport. Hardik is very much a confidence player. If he is bowling well, it has a positive impact on his batting. He is two players in one. He is a luxury. He is a good, intelligent bowler and powerful hitter. He has got a good game plan," McGrath told reporters during an interaction. Also Read: 'Don't spoil Suryakumar Yadav': Kris Srikanth slams Rohit Sharma for opening experiment vs West Indies McGrath also shared his views on the recent debate over the downfall of ODI cricket and said the format will remain interesting as long as runs are being scored. However, the former Australian pacer insisted changes should be brought in to make the format more interesting going forward. "I am very much a traditionalist. I liked Tests, I liked my ODIs. Test cricket is still the ultimate to me. I hope that it is protected and still held in high regard. As for the ODIs, it is still exciting as long as they are scoring runs. Interesting to see the future (of ODIs) and see where it goes. They have got to keep making it (ODIs) exciting. They have got a few challenges," said McGrath.

'He is two players in one': Australia legend Glenn McGrath heaps praise on Team India superstar

India-West Indies' second T20I saw a delayed start by three hours, due to the late luggage arrival. Thus, this saw some Indian players being forced to&nbsp;wearing&nbsp;the same jersey. Thus, the Cricket West Indies (CWI) have confirmed that the third T20I of the five-match series between both sides will also see a delayed start, by one and a half hours. The third match is set to be held on Tuesday (August 02) with no rest day in between.

Talking about the second T20I, India produced a dismal show with the bat after being asked to bat first. Riding on starts from Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, India were 138 all-out in 19.4 overs before losing the contest in the last over as the Nicholas Pooran-led Windies chased down the moderate score with five wickets in hand.

Brandan King's 68 and Obed McCoy's 6 for 17 guided the hosts to a series-levelling win as Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will aim to bounce back to winning ways in the third encounter.

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When will the West Indies&nbsp;vs India 3rd T20I take place?

West Indies&nbsp;vs India 3rd T20I&nbsp;will be played&nbsp;on August 2, 2022 (Tuesday).&nbsp;

Where will the West Indies&nbsp;vs India 3rd T20I be played?

West Indies&nbsp;vs India 3rd T20I&nbsp;will be held&nbsp;at the same venue where the previous tie was played, i.e. at Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-2nd-t20i-why-avesh-khan-arshdeep-singh-over-bhuvneshwar-in-death-overs-rohit-explains-502804">WI vs IND, 2nd T20I: Why Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh over Bhuvneshwar in death overs? Rohit explains</a>

At what time is the West Indies&nbsp;vs India 3rd T20I taking place?

West Indies&nbsp;vs India 3rd T20I&nbsp;will start at 4:00&nbsp;PM&nbsp;GMT (12&nbsp;PM&nbsp;local time). The IST time is 9:30 pm.

How to watch West Indies&nbsp;vs India 3rd T20I live on TV?

The West Indies&nbsp;vs India 3rd T20I's broadcast will be available&nbsp;on DD Sports.

How to watch West Indies&nbsp;vs India 3 rdT20I&nbsp;live streaming?

The West Indies&nbsp;vs India 3rd T20I's live streaming will be on&nbsp;FanCode.

India-West Indies' second T20I saw a delayed start by three hours, due to the late luggage arrival. Thus, this saw some Indian players being forced to wearing the same jersey.

India-West Indies' second T20I saw a delayed start by three hours, due to the late luggage arrival. Thus, this saw some Indian players being forced to wearing the same jersey. Thus, the Cricket West Indies (CWI) have confirmed that the third T20I of the five-match series between both sides will also see a delayed start, by one and a half hours. The third match is set to be held on Tuesday (August 02) with no rest day in between. Talking about the second T20I, India produced a dismal show with the bat after being asked to bat first. Riding on starts from Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, India were 138 all-out in 19.4 overs before losing the contest in the last over as the Nicholas Pooran-led Windies chased down the moderate score with five wickets in hand. Brandan King's 68 and Obed McCoy's 6 for 17 guided the hosts to a series-levelling win as Rohit Sharma & Co. will aim to bounce back to winning ways in the third encounter. Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When will the West Indies vs India 3rd T20I take place? West Indies vs India 3rd T20I will be played on August 2, 2022 (Tuesday). Where will the West Indies vs India 3rd T20I be played? West Indies vs India 3rd T20I will be held at the same venue where the previous tie was played, i.e. at Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts. ALSO READ | WI vs IND, 2nd T20I: Why Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh over Bhuvneshwar in death overs? Rohit explains At what time is the West Indies vs India 3rd T20I taking place? West Indies vs India 3rd T20I will start at 4:00 PM GMT (12 PM local time). The IST time is 9:30 pm. How to watch West Indies vs India 3rd T20I live on TV? The West Indies vs India 3rd T20I's broadcast will be available on DD Sports. How to watch West Indies vs India 3 rdT20I live streaming? The West Indies vs India 3rd T20I's live streaming will be on FanCode.

WI vs IND: When and where to watch West Indies vs India 3rd T20I - IST time and streaming details

Rohit Sharma-led Team India have been on a roll in white-ball formats. After dominating their home series versus West Indies and Sri Lanka early this year, India beat England in their own den in both T20Is and ODIs, whitewashed the Windies in three ODIs with a second-stringed team at their disposal and have started the ongoing five T20Is with a bang, winning the series opener by 68 runs.

Ahead of the second T20I, in St Kitts, Rohit &amp; Co. are on the verge of matching&nbsp;their arch-rivals Pakistan in a unique record.&nbsp;Another win over the hapless Windies&nbsp;in the T20I series will not only ensure the visitors a handy 2-0 lead, but Men in Blue will also be on level terms with traditional rivals Pakistan with most wins over the two-time champions in the shortest format. In this way,&nbsp;India is just a&nbsp;win away from completing 15 victories over&nbsp;West Indies.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-when-and-where-to-watch-west-indies-vs-india-2nd-t20i-ist-time-and-streaming-details-502463">WI vs IND: When and where to watch West Indies vs India 2nd T20I - IST time and streaming details</a>

Pakistan, to date, have been very dominant versus the Men in Maroon, beating them on 15 occasions in the format (most by any side versus the Windes). Hence, it seems like India will join them and eventually surpass the 2009 champions by the end of the ongoing five-match series.

India&nbsp;have been at their dominant best versus West Indies. As a result, they have&nbsp;lost only a solitary T20I match against thm&nbsp;in its last 13 meetings since 2017.

Will India equal Pakistan's win-tally in the second T20I? Well, they will certainly start as favourites after an all-round display in the series opener in Trinidad, on Friday (July 29).

Rohit Sharma-led Team India have been on a roll in white-ball formats. After dominating their home series versus West Indies and Sri Lanka early this year, India beat England in their own den in both T20Is and ODIs, whitewashed the Windies in three ODIs with a second-stringed team at their disposal and have started the ongoing five T20Is with a bang, winning the series opener by 68 runs.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India have been on a roll in white-ball formats. After dominating their home series versus West Indies and Sri Lanka early this year, India beat England in their own den in both T20Is and ODIs, whitewashed the Windies in three ODIs with a second-stringed team at their disposal and have started the ongoing five T20Is with a bang, winning the series opener by 68 runs. Ahead of the second T20I, in St Kitts, Rohit & Co. are on the verge of matching their arch-rivals Pakistan in a unique record. Another win over the hapless Windies in the T20I series will not only ensure the visitors a handy 2-0 lead, but Men in Blue will also be on level terms with traditional rivals Pakistan with most wins over the two-time champions in the shortest format. In this way, India is just a win away from completing 15 victories over West Indies. ALSO READ | WI vs IND: When and where to watch West Indies vs India 2nd T20I - IST time and streaming details Pakistan, to date, have been very dominant versus the Men in Maroon, beating them on 15 occasions in the format (most by any side versus the Windes). Hence, it seems like India will join them and eventually surpass the 2009 champions by the end of the ongoing five-match series. India have been at their dominant best versus West Indies. As a result, they have lost only a solitary T20I match against thm in its last 13 meetings since 2017. Will India equal Pakistan's win-tally in the second T20I? Well, they will certainly start as favourites after an all-round display in the series opener in Trinidad, on Friday (July 29).

WI vs Ind: Team India eye Babar Azam-led Pakistan's unique feat vs West Indies in 2nd T20I in St Kitts

Amid calls for Virat Kohli to be dropped from India's T20I squad over his ongoing lean patch, former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer has backed the senior batter to retain his no.3 spot in the batting lineup at the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Jaffer believes Kohli will keep his original no.3 spot despite poor form in international cricket at present.

Kohli has been enduring a lean patch across all formats for the Indian team for a while now and has been far from consistent with the willow. He has also struggled to notch up big scores for the team and his last international century for India came in November 2019.&nbsp;

The senior Indian batter's form came under the scanner during India's tour of England earlier this year where he flopped in all three formats before being rested from India's onging tour of West Indies. Kohli will miss India's upcoming tour of Zimbabwe and is expected to make his comeback for the Asia Cup 2022 next month.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/behave-like-a-human-being-shahid-afridi-on-city-biases-in-pakistan-team-selection-502602">'Behave like a human being' - Shahid Afridi on 'city biases' in Pakistan team selection</a>

Despite his woeful form, Jaffer has backed Kohli to be India's no.3 at the T20 World Cup Down Under. The former India cricketer also feels captain Rohit Sharma will open the batting with KL Rahul in the tournament and believes the likes of Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson can play key roles for the team.

“Virat will remain in his original No. 3 place in the team. KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma should open, and other players like Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, and Ishan Kishan can contribute significantly to the squad. I feel that the aggressive approach that India has undertaken is very nice to witness. India’s chances of winning (T20 World Cup) are bright," Jaffer said on the ‘CricChat Powered by Parimatch’ podcast on the Sharechat app.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/luckily-dinesh-karthik-was-born-in-india-former-pakistan-captain-aims-brutal-dig-at-pcb-502298">'Luckily, Dinesh Karthik was born in India': Former Pakistan captain aims brutal dig at PCB</a>

Kohli is currently enjoying his break with his family and will be eager to regain his form when he makes his comeback for Team India in the upcoming Asia Cup. Kohli was rested from the last edition of the Asia Cup in 2018 where Rohit Sharma led India to victory. The former captain will be hoping for redemption in the tournament this year.

Amid calls for Virat Kohli to be dropped from India's T20I squad over his ongoing lean patch, former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer has backed the senior batter to retain his no.

Amid calls for Virat Kohli to be dropped from India's T20I squad over his ongoing lean patch, former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer has backed the senior batter to retain his no.3 spot in the batting lineup at the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Jaffer believes Kohli will keep his original no.3 spot despite poor form in international cricket at present. Kohli has been enduring a lean patch across all formats for the Indian team for a while now and has been far from consistent with the willow. He has also struggled to notch up big scores for the team and his last international century for India came in November 2019. The senior Indian batter's form came under the scanner during India's tour of England earlier this year where he flopped in all three formats before being rested from India's onging tour of West Indies. Kohli will miss India's upcoming tour of Zimbabwe and is expected to make his comeback for the Asia Cup 2022 next month. Also Read: 'Behave like a human being' - Shahid Afridi on 'city biases' in Pakistan team selection Despite his woeful form, Jaffer has backed Kohli to be India's no.3 at the T20 World Cup Down Under. The former India cricketer also feels captain Rohit Sharma will open the batting with KL Rahul in the tournament and believes the likes of Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson can play key roles for the team. “Virat will remain in his original No. 3 place in the team. KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma should open, and other players like Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, and Ishan Kishan can contribute significantly to the squad. I feel that the aggressive approach that India has undertaken is very nice to witness. India’s chances of winning (T20 World Cup) are bright," Jaffer said on the ‘CricChat Powered by Parimatch’ podcast on the Sharechat app. Also Read: 'Luckily, Dinesh Karthik was born in India': Former Pakistan captain aims brutal dig at PCB Kohli is currently enjoying his break with his family and will be eager to regain his form when he makes his comeback for Team India in the upcoming Asia Cup. Kohli was rested from the last edition of the Asia Cup in 2018 where Rohit Sharma led India to victory. The former captain will be hoping for redemption in the tournament this year.

Virat Kohli will remain at no.3: Wasim Jaffer on ex-India captain's batting spot for T20 World Cup 2022

Arshdeep Singh is raising his stature slowly and steadily. His ability to bowl at the death and also in the powerplay overs prompted the Punjab Kings (PBKS) management to retain him only with Mayank Agarwal before IPL 2022 mega auction.

Back then, Arshdeep wasn't even a capped Indian player. He continued his impressive run in the Punjab jersey in IPL 15 and now is in the scheme of things for Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team management for this year's T20 World Cup, in Australia, from October-November. Arshdeep's ability to remain calm and bowl the tough overs, with his variations, has stood out and he has even impressed in his two outings for the national side in the shortest format, one against England and the other during the ongoing India-West Indies T20I series opener, in Trinidad, on Friday (July 29). The 23-year-old has returned with 2/18 and 2/24 in his two T20Is and, thus, has impressed his senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-team-india-eye-babar-azam-led-pakistans-unique-feat-vs-west-indies-in-2nd-t20i-in-st-kitts-502473">WI vs Ind: Team India eye Babar Azam-led Pakistan's unique feat vs West Indies in 2nd T20I in St Kitts</a>

"The best thing about him is that he knows exactly what is required," Bhuvneshwar told reporters ahead of the second T20I on Monday (August 01) in St Kitts. "What kind of field setting is needed, how to bowl to each batsman - very few newcomers display that kind of maturity.

"Usually you learn these things as you play but he seems to have arrived with that kind of maturity. Even in the IPL in the last couple of years, he has performed consistently. He knows exactly what he wants to do, he thinks a lot about his game," Bhuvi added.

Talking about Rohit-led India, they will meet the Nicholas Pooran-led West Indies in the second T20I on Monday evening. The visitors will rely on Bhuvi-Arshdeep-led bowling attack to shine once again and take a 2-0 lead in the series after hammering the hosts by 68 runs in the first T20I.

Arshdeep Singh is raising his stature slowly and steadily. His ability to bowl at the death and also in the powerplay overs prompted the Punjab Kings (PBKS) management to retain him only with Mayank Agarwal before IPL 2022 mega auction.

Arshdeep Singh is raising his stature slowly and steadily. His ability to bowl at the death and also in the powerplay overs prompted the Punjab Kings (PBKS) management to retain him only with Mayank Agarwal before IPL 2022 mega auction. Back then, Arshdeep wasn't even a capped Indian player. He continued his impressive run in the Punjab jersey in IPL 15 and now is in the scheme of things for Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team management for this year's T20 World Cup, in Australia, from October-November. Arshdeep's ability to remain calm and bowl the tough overs, with his variations, has stood out and he has even impressed in his two outings for the national side in the shortest format, one against England and the other during the ongoing India-West Indies T20I series opener, in Trinidad, on Friday (July 29). The 23-year-old has returned with 2/18 and 2/24 in his two T20Is and, thus, has impressed his senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar. ALSO READ | WI vs Ind: Team India eye Babar Azam-led Pakistan's unique feat vs West Indies in 2nd T20I in St Kitts "The best thing about him is that he knows exactly what is required," Bhuvneshwar told reporters ahead of the second T20I on Monday (August 01) in St Kitts. "What kind of field setting is needed, how to bowl to each batsman - very few newcomers display that kind of maturity. "Usually you learn these things as you play but he seems to have arrived with that kind of maturity. Even in the IPL in the last couple of years, he has performed consistently. He knows exactly what he wants to do, he thinks a lot about his game," Bhuvi added. Talking about Rohit-led India, they will meet the Nicholas Pooran-led West Indies in the second T20I on Monday evening. The visitors will rely on Bhuvi-Arshdeep-led bowling attack to shine once again and take a 2-0 lead in the series after hammering the hosts by 68 runs in the first T20I.

WI vs IND: 'Best thing about him is.....' - Bhuvneshwar Kumar on young pacer Arshdeep Singh

India thrashed West Indies by 68 runs in the series-opener of the ongoing five-match T20I rubber to go 1-0 up and will be looking to make it two wins on the trot when they lock horns with the hosts in the 2nd T20I on Monday (August 01). The Rohit Sharma-led side produced a brilliant all-round effort in the first T20I to register a comprehensive win and get off to a solid start in the series.

Asked to bat first, India raised some eyebrows when Suryakumar Yadav came out to open the batting with captain Rohit Sharma. However, the duo got the Men in Blue off to a good start with a quickfire 44-run stand for the first wicket. While Suryakumar was sent back on 24 off 16 balls, Rohit went on to notch up a brilliant half-century.

The captain led from the front with a stellar knock of 64 runs off 44 balls laced with 7 fours and 2 sixes to set the stage for a big total for India. However, the visitors lost the plot in the middle before Dinesh Karthik played another sublime knock as a finisher to help the team post 190 runs on the board.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-team-india-eye-babar-azam-led-pakistans-unique-feat-vs-west-indies-in-2nd-t20i-in-st-kitts-502473">WI vs Ind: Team India eye Babar Azam-led Pakistan's unique feat vs West Indies in 2nd T20I in St Kitts</a>

Karthik came out to bat at number 7 and slammed an unbeaten 41 off 19 balls with the help of 4 fours and a couple of sixes to take India to a strong total. The Indian spinners then ran through the West Indies batting line-up to set up an easy win for India as the hosts were restricted to a paltry 122/8 in 20 overs.

Ravi Bishnoi and senior spinner R Ashwin were impressive with the ball as the duo picked up four wickets between them. They will be hoping to continue their fine show when India take on West Indies in the 2nd ODI at Warner Park in St Kitts. The visitors are not expected to tinker with their playing XI for the second game after making a winning start.

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Bhuvneshwar Kumar will lead the pace attack with Arshdeep Singh certain to get another chance to impress after his excellent show in the series-opener where the left-arm pacer conceded only 24 runs off his 4 overs and returned with two wickets.

India vs West Indies 2nd ODI prediction: India will be overwhelming favourites once again in the second encounter between the two sides after the visitors dominated the proceedings in the series-opener.&nbsp;

India thrashed West Indies by 68 runs in the series-opener of the ongoing five-match T20I rubber to go 1-0 up and will be looking to make it two wins on the trot when they lock horns with the hosts in the 2nd T20I on Monday (August 01).

India thrashed West Indies by 68 runs in the series-opener of the ongoing five-match T20I rubber to go 1-0 up and will be looking to make it two wins on the trot when they lock horns with the hosts in the 2nd T20I on Monday (August 01). The Rohit Sharma-led side produced a brilliant all-round effort in the first T20I to register a comprehensive win and get off to a solid start in the series. Asked to bat first, India raised some eyebrows when Suryakumar Yadav came out to open the batting with captain Rohit Sharma. However, the duo got the Men in Blue off to a good start with a quickfire 44-run stand for the first wicket. While Suryakumar was sent back on 24 off 16 balls, Rohit went on to notch up a brilliant half-century. The captain led from the front with a stellar knock of 64 runs off 44 balls laced with 7 fours and 2 sixes to set the stage for a big total for India. However, the visitors lost the plot in the middle before Dinesh Karthik played another sublime knock as a finisher to help the team post 190 runs on the board. Also Read: WI vs Ind: Team India eye Babar Azam-led Pakistan's unique feat vs West Indies in 2nd T20I in St Kitts Karthik came out to bat at number 7 and slammed an unbeaten 41 off 19 balls with the help of 4 fours and a couple of sixes to take India to a strong total. The Indian spinners then ran through the West Indies batting line-up to set up an easy win for India as the hosts were restricted to a paltry 122/8 in 20 overs. Ravi Bishnoi and senior spinner R Ashwin were impressive with the ball as the duo picked up four wickets between them. They will be hoping to continue their fine show when India take on West Indies in the 2nd ODI at Warner Park in St Kitts. The visitors are not expected to tinker with their playing XI for the second game after making a winning start. Also Read: India secure first-ever medal in lawn bowls in Commonwealth Games history Bhuvneshwar Kumar will lead the pace attack with Arshdeep Singh certain to get another chance to impress after his excellent show in the series-opener where the left-arm pacer conceded only 24 runs off his 4 overs and returned with two wickets. India vs West Indies 2nd ODI prediction: India will be overwhelming favourites once again in the second encounter between the two sides after the visitors dominated the proceedings in the series-opener.

India vs West Indies 2nd T20I prediction: Can Rohit Sharma & Co. continue their winning run against hosts?

Senior opener KL Rahul has been left out of the India squad which will travel to Zimbabwe for an ODI series next month after aggravating his hamstring injury, a development which could potentially jeopardise his T20 World Cup chances.

It is understood that Rahul hasn’t yet recovered despite undergoing a successful sports hernia surgery for lower abdominal injury. His hamstring also remains sore. India will play 3 ODIs in Zimbabwe on August 18, 20 and 22.

“I wanted to clarify a couple of things about my health and fitness. My surgery in June was successful and I had begun my training with hope of returning to national duty for the tour of West Indies. Unfortunately as I was returning to full fitness, I tested positive for Covid-19,” he tweeted.

He expressed hope of coming back for Asia Cup in UAE. “This naturally pushes things back by a couple of weeks but I aim to recover as quickly as possible and be available for selection as quickly as I can,” he further wrote. 
 
“To represent the country is highest honour and I cannot wait to get out there back in blue.”

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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-can-stop-him-now-bcci-selector-on-dinesh-karthiks-chances-of-making-it-to-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-501989">'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Dinesh Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad</a>

Off-spinner Washington Sundar, who has made a stellar start to his English county career with Lancashire is back in the squad along with seamer Deepak Chahar after successful completion of his rehabilitation following hamstring and back injuries.

Chahar has not played competitive cricket for five months now and also missed the 2022 IPL season. “KL Rahul has recovered from Covid-19 but his hamstring injury seems to have resurfaced. He was supposed to be picked for Zimbabwe but now one can’t put a date on his comeback,” a senior BCCI source privy to the development told PTI on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli, skipper Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya have all been rested from the tour as ODIs aren’t top priority for the side with less than three months left for the World T20.

“Virat had spoken to selectors that he would be available from the Asia Cup onwards. The first team players will hardly get rest from Asia Cup till end of World T20. Hence this is a two-week window after Windies tour when they can rest,” the source said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dont-need-dravids-thinking-kris-srikanth-criticises-india-for-picking-iyer-over-hooda-in-1st-t20i-502006">'We don't need Dravid's thinking': Kris Srikanth criticises India for picking Iyer over Hooda in 1st T20I</a>

Washington’s comeback was on expected lines as he has had a rough last one year due to a hand injury and contracting Covid-19. He has had a successful rehabilitation at NCA and in the three games that he has played for Lancashire, he has already picked up a five-wicket haul.

“In case of Washington it was never about how but when would he comeback as he has been India’s No. 1 finger spinner. He needed game time which he got,” the source added.

As usual Shikhar Dhawan will lead the side in Rohit, Rahul and Pant’s absence. Most of the players who had been part of set-up have been picked with rookie Rahul Tripathi, after being part of squad in Ireland T20Is, getting maiden call up to the ODI side.

India’s squad for 3 ODIs: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Deepak Chahar. 
&nbsp;

Senior opener KL Rahul has been left out of the India squad which will travel to Zimbabwe for an ODI series next month after aggravating his hamstring injury, a development which could potentially jeopardise his T20 World Cup chances.

Senior opener KL Rahul has been left out of the India squad which will travel to Zimbabwe for an ODI series next month after aggravating his hamstring injury, a development which could potentially jeopardise his T20 World Cup chances. It is understood that Rahul hasn’t yet recovered despite undergoing a successful sports hernia surgery for lower abdominal injury. His hamstring also remains sore. India will play 3 ODIs in Zimbabwe on August 18, 20 and 22. “I wanted to clarify a couple of things about my health and fitness. My surgery in June was successful and I had begun my training with hope of returning to national duty for the tour of West Indies. Unfortunately as I was returning to full fitness, I tested positive for Covid-19,” he tweeted. He expressed hope of coming back for Asia Cup in UAE. “This naturally pushes things back by a couple of weeks but I aim to recover as quickly as possible and be available for selection as quickly as I can,” he further wrote. “To represent the country is highest honour and I cannot wait to get out there back in blue.” pic.twitter.com/2ULENT5Puk — K L Rahul (@klrahul) July 30, 2022 × Also Read: 'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Dinesh Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad Off-spinner Washington Sundar, who has made a stellar start to his English county career with Lancashire is back in the squad along with seamer Deepak Chahar after successful completion of his rehabilitation following hamstring and back injuries. Chahar has not played competitive cricket for five months now and also missed the 2022 IPL season. “KL Rahul has recovered from Covid-19 but his hamstring injury seems to have resurfaced. He was supposed to be picked for Zimbabwe but now one can’t put a date on his comeback,” a senior BCCI source privy to the development told PTI on Saturday. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli, skipper Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya have all been rested from the tour as ODIs aren’t top priority for the side with less than three months left for the World T20. “Virat had spoken to selectors that he would be available from the Asia Cup onwards. The first team players will hardly get rest from Asia Cup till end of World T20. Hence this is a two-week window after Windies tour when they can rest,” the source said. Also Read: 'We don't need Dravid's thinking': Kris Srikanth criticises India for picking Iyer over Hooda in 1st T20I Washington’s comeback was on expected lines as he has had a rough last one year due to a hand injury and contracting Covid-19. He has had a successful rehabilitation at NCA and in the three games that he has played for Lancashire, he has already picked up a five-wicket haul. “In case of Washington it was never about how but when would he comeback as he has been India’s No. 1 finger spinner. He needed game time which he got,” the source added. As usual Shikhar Dhawan will lead the side in Rohit, Rahul and Pant’s absence. Most of the players who had been part of set-up have been picked with rookie Rahul Tripathi, after being part of squad in Ireland T20Is, getting maiden call up to the ODI side. India’s squad for 3 ODIs: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Deepak Chahar.

KL Rahul to miss Zimbabwe tour due to delayed recovery; Sundar, Chahar return to ODI squad

Dinesh Karthik has been unstoppable for Team India as a finisher ever since making his comeback in international cricket earlier this year. The veteran wicket-keeper batter had a phenomenal season for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and was deservingly allowed to make his comeback for the Indian team.

The 37-year-old has continued his purple patch in international cricket and already seems to have cemented his spot as a finisher for India in T20Is. Karthik played a brilliant knock of unbeaten 41 runs off 19 balls in the 1st T20I between India and West Indies at the Brian Lara Park in Trinidad on Friday.

He helped India post a strong total of 190 runs on the board in 20 overs with his quickfire finishing cameo as the Men in Blue registered a comprehensive 68-run win against the hosts. Karthik's international career seemed all but over as he had last played for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup before making his comeback earlier this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-can-stop-him-now-bcci-selector-on-dinesh-karthiks-chances-of-making-it-to-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-501989">'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad</a>

However, he put in the hard yards and mastered the art of finishing to regain a spot in the T20 team and now looks set to be part of India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Speaking about Karthik's dream comeback, former Pakistan batter Salman Butt the veteran wicket-keeper batter is lucky he was born in India.

Taking a dig at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Pakistan team management, Butt said Karthik wouldn't have managed to play even domestic cricket in Pakistan at his age.&nbsp;“Luckily, Dinesh Karthik is born in India. At his age, he can’t even play domestic cricket in Pakistan,” Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel.

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The former Pakistan batter also went on to praise the BCCI for building a strong bench for Team India keeping the future in the mind. He praised the youngsters like Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer and Arshdeep Singh while also lauding Karthik for his finishing heroics.

“Youngsters are playing very well for India. They are damn serious about their bench strength for years to come. They have constructed an amazing team. Shubman Gill was quite impressive [in ODIs]; Dinesh Karthik is playing as a finisher [in T20Is]. The batsmen in between like Suryakumar Yadav improving day by day, Shreyas Iyer is available. Arshdeep Singh is bowling well. Overall, there is plenty of talent,” said the former Pakistan cricketer.

Dinesh Karthik has been unstoppable for Team India as a finisher ever since making his comeback in international cricket earlier this year. The veteran wicket-keeper batter had a phenomenal season for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and was deservingly allowed to make his comeback for the Indian team.

Dinesh Karthik has been unstoppable for Team India as a finisher ever since making his comeback in international cricket earlier this year. The veteran wicket-keeper batter had a phenomenal season for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and was deservingly allowed to make his comeback for the Indian team. The 37-year-old has continued his purple patch in international cricket and already seems to have cemented his spot as a finisher for India in T20Is. Karthik played a brilliant knock of unbeaten 41 runs off 19 balls in the 1st T20I between India and West Indies at the Brian Lara Park in Trinidad on Friday. He helped India post a strong total of 190 runs on the board in 20 overs with his quickfire finishing cameo as the Men in Blue registered a comprehensive 68-run win against the hosts. Karthik's international career seemed all but over as he had last played for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup before making his comeback earlier this year. Also Read: 'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad However, he put in the hard yards and mastered the art of finishing to regain a spot in the T20 team and now looks set to be part of India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia later this year. Speaking about Karthik's dream comeback, former Pakistan batter Salman Butt the veteran wicket-keeper batter is lucky he was born in India. Taking a dig at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Pakistan team management, Butt said Karthik wouldn't have managed to play even domestic cricket in Pakistan at his age. “Luckily, Dinesh Karthik is born in India. At his age, he can’t even play domestic cricket in Pakistan,” Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel. Also Read: IPL owners open to offer 12-month contracts to best T20 players in the world The former Pakistan batter also went on to praise the BCCI for building a strong bench for Team India keeping the future in the mind. He praised the youngsters like Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer and Arshdeep Singh while also lauding Karthik for his finishing heroics. “Youngsters are playing very well for India. They are damn serious about their bench strength for years to come. They have constructed an amazing team. Shubman Gill was quite impressive [in ODIs]; Dinesh Karthik is playing as a finisher [in T20Is]. The batsmen in between like Suryakumar Yadav improving day by day, Shreyas Iyer is available. Arshdeep Singh is bowling well. Overall, there is plenty of talent,” said the former Pakistan cricketer.

'Luckily, Dinesh Karthik was born in India': Former Pakistan captain aims brutal dig at PCB

Team India has attained a unique record this year with as many as seven players captaining the Men in Blue, due to different reasons, since early 2022. The likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Shikhar Dhawan have led India across formats.&nbsp;

In the ongoing white-ball tour of the West Indies, Dhawan got a chance to lead India once again — after last year's Sri Lanka tour — in the absence of many regulars such as full-time captain Rohit, Rahul, etc. While Rohit has taken charge for the ongoing five T20Is versus Nicholas Pooran-led Men in Maroon, he has now been assigned a new vice-captain in Rahul’s absence (who is Rohit’s deputy across formats).&nbsp;

Though Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja are present in the playing XI for the series opener, in Trinidad, it is Hardik Pandya who has been named the vice-captain for the T20I series. The all-rounder, who led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to victory in IPL 2022, recently captained India during the two-match Ireland T20Is in late June.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/right-up-there-with-rohit-rahul-dhawan-former-nz-all-rounder-all-praise-for-indias-star-batter-501799">‘Right up there with Rohit, Rahul, Dhawan’: Former NZ all-rounder all praise for India's star batter</a>

Ever since Rohit has been appointed as India’s all-format captain, there have been many changes in leadership due to frequent rest, injury or Covid concerns to Rohit-KL. Thus, in this way, the Indian team management is also getting a chance to groom young leaders in the presence of Hitman.

At the coin toss of the first T20I between India and WI, Rohit-led visitors were asked to bat first at the&nbsp;Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad. The one-time winners are still without regulars such as Virat and Bumrah as the duo have been rested for the tour.&nbsp;

India will like to maintain their winning run in the format ahead of this year’s T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in the latter half.

Team India has attained a unique record this year with as many as seven players captaining the Men in Blue, due to different reasons, since early 2022. The likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Shikhar Dhawan have led India across formats.

Team India has attained a unique record this year with as many as seven players captaining the Men in Blue, due to different reasons, since early 2022. The likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Shikhar Dhawan have led India across formats. In the ongoing white-ball tour of the West Indies, Dhawan got a chance to lead India once again — after last year's Sri Lanka tour — in the absence of many regulars such as full-time captain Rohit, Rahul, etc. While Rohit has taken charge for the ongoing five T20Is versus Nicholas Pooran-led Men in Maroon, he has now been assigned a new vice-captain in Rahul’s absence (who is Rohit’s deputy across formats). Though Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja are present in the playing XI for the series opener, in Trinidad, it is Hardik Pandya who has been named the vice-captain for the T20I series. The all-rounder, who led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to victory in IPL 2022, recently captained India during the two-match Ireland T20Is in late June. ALSO READ | ‘Right up there with Rohit, Rahul, Dhawan’: Former NZ all-rounder all praise for India's star batter Ever since Rohit has been appointed as India’s all-format captain, there have been many changes in leadership due to frequent rest, injury or Covid concerns to Rohit-KL. Thus, in this way, the Indian team management is also getting a chance to groom young leaders in the presence of Hitman. At the coin toss of the first T20I between India and WI, Rohit-led visitors were asked to bat first at the Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad. The one-time winners are still without regulars such as Virat and Bumrah as the duo have been rested for the tour. India will like to maintain their winning run in the format ahead of this year’s T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in the latter half.

Not Rishabh nor Jadeja! Rohit Sharma assigned a new vice-captain in KL Rahul's absence for WI T20I

Rohit Sharma's elegant half-century and Dinesh Karthik's blazing finish were backed up by a solid bowling performance as India made short work of West Indies with an easy 68-run victory in the first T20I on Friday, here at the Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad.&nbsp;

For coach Rahul Dravid, almost all the strategic changes in the playing XI seemed to work. The Indian team went with three spinners compared to the lone spinner opted for by the hosts while the new opening combination seemingly did its job.&nbsp;

West Indies won the toss and decided to bowl first. For the umpteenth time this year, India had a totally different opening pair as Suryakumar Yadav walked alongside the Indian skipper.

While Rohit set up the platform with a 44-ball-64, it was Karthik's calculated assault, an unbeaten 41 off 19 balls that took India to 190 for six after being put into bat. The last three overs of the Indian innings yielded 45 runs, which became the turning point as Dinesh Karthik once again showed his finish prowess.&nbsp;

On a track where there was spongy bounce with a bit of turn and grip, Indian spinners Ravichandran Ashwin (2/22 in 4 overs), Ravindra Jadeja (1/26 in 4 overs) and Ravi Bishnoi (2/26 in 4 overs) got wickets at regular intervals to restrict the hosts at 122 for eight in 20 overs.

Arshdeep Singh (2/24 in 4 overs) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/11 in 2 overs), despite some initial pasting, got their share of breakthroughs. Hence, a below-par show by top-order, save Rohit, didn't have telling consequences on India.

Suryakumar Yadav (24 off 16 balls) provided an interesting option as an opener while the manner in which Arshdeep deceived a rampaging Kyle Mayers with a short delivery spoke volumes about his temperament.

Ashwin and Bishnoi, both non-regulars in the playing XI, were brilliant as the former showed his variations and the latter was happy bowling a bunch of googlies which the opposition batters failed to read on most occasions.

Skipper Rohit turns back the clock

However, if one has to speak about the set-up, then it was skipper Rohit, who gave a glimpse of his vintage self with some breathtaking shots en route his 27th half-century.

The Indian captain who endured a barren spell in the shortest format since the IPL has changed his game from the England T20 series. In the process, he reclaimed his position as the highest run-getter (3443 runs) in T20Is from Martin Guptill (3399 runs). 
His innings had seven fours and two sixes, a lofted shot dancing down the track off Jason Holder and a short-arm pull off Alazarri Joseph.

There were some delectable boundaries too, a back-cut, a cover drive and a deliberate glide over the short third-man to enthral a sizeable Indian crowd present at the Brian Lara Stadium.

After being put into bat, Suryakumar Yadav's elevation at the top of the order showed that coach Rahul Dravid is still looking at other options as Rohit's opening partner, despite Rishabh Pant looking comfortable as an opener.

To be fair, Surya didn't do all that bad and he showed intent during his 16-ball 24, which included a breathtaking six -- a swivel of hips to send a rising delivery behind the square -- besides three boundaries.

But, while trying to whip left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein through mid-wicket, all Surya managed was a thick outside edge to short third man. A lot of credit should go to Hosein, who was brought well inside the powerplay and did a brilliant job with figures of 1 for 14, including 14 dot balls.

It was Hosein, who didn't let Rohit tee off during that phase while Shreyas Iyer (0), Pant (14 off 12 balls) and Hardik Pandya (1) didn't get too many at the other end.

Karthik, the team's designated finisher, justified his billing as 52 runs came off the last four overs in a seventh-wicket stand with Ashwin (13 not out). It was left to Karthik, the eternal '20-ball man', who smashed four fours and two sixes in a 360-degree display of shot-making.

Rohit Sharma's elegant half-century and Dinesh Karthik's blazing finish were backed up by a solid bowling performance as India made short work of West Indies with an easy 68-run victory in the first T20I on Friday, here at the Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad.

Rohit Sharma's elegant half-century and Dinesh Karthik's blazing finish were backed up by a solid bowling performance as India made short work of West Indies with an easy 68-run victory in the first T20I on Friday, here at the Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad. For coach Rahul Dravid, almost all the strategic changes in the playing XI seemed to work. The Indian team went with three spinners compared to the lone spinner opted for by the hosts while the new opening combination seemingly did its job. West Indies won the toss and decided to bowl first. For the umpteenth time this year, India had a totally different opening pair as Suryakumar Yadav walked alongside the Indian skipper. While Rohit set up the platform with a 44-ball-64, it was Karthik's calculated assault, an unbeaten 41 off 19 balls that took India to 190 for six after being put into bat. The last three overs of the Indian innings yielded 45 runs, which became the turning point as Dinesh Karthik once again showed his finish prowess. On a track where there was spongy bounce with a bit of turn and grip, Indian spinners Ravichandran Ashwin (2/22 in 4 overs), Ravindra Jadeja (1/26 in 4 overs) and Ravi Bishnoi (2/26 in 4 overs) got wickets at regular intervals to restrict the hosts at 122 for eight in 20 overs. Arshdeep Singh (2/24 in 4 overs) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/11 in 2 overs), despite some initial pasting, got their share of breakthroughs. Hence, a below-par show by top-order, save Rohit, didn't have telling consequences on India. Suryakumar Yadav (24 off 16 balls) provided an interesting option as an opener while the manner in which Arshdeep deceived a rampaging Kyle Mayers with a short delivery spoke volumes about his temperament. Ashwin and Bishnoi, both non-regulars in the playing XI, were brilliant as the former showed his variations and the latter was happy bowling a bunch of googlies which the opposition batters failed to read on most occasions. Skipper Rohit turns back the clock However, if one has to speak about the set-up, then it was skipper Rohit, who gave a glimpse of his vintage self with some breathtaking shots en route his 27th half-century. The Indian captain who endured a barren spell in the shortest format since the IPL has changed his game from the England T20 series. In the process, he reclaimed his position as the highest run-getter (3443 runs) in T20Is from Martin Guptill (3399 runs). His innings had seven fours and two sixes, a lofted shot dancing down the track off Jason Holder and a short-arm pull off Alazarri Joseph. There were some delectable boundaries too, a back-cut, a cover drive and a deliberate glide over the short third-man to enthral a sizeable Indian crowd present at the Brian Lara Stadium. After being put into bat, Suryakumar Yadav's elevation at the top of the order showed that coach Rahul Dravid is still looking at other options as Rohit's opening partner, despite Rishabh Pant looking comfortable as an opener. To be fair, Surya didn't do all that bad and he showed intent during his 16-ball 24, which included a breathtaking six -- a swivel of hips to send a rising delivery behind the square -- besides three boundaries. But, while trying to whip left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein through mid-wicket, all Surya managed was a thick outside edge to short third man. A lot of credit should go to Hosein, who was brought well inside the powerplay and did a brilliant job with figures of 1 for 14, including 14 dot balls. It was Hosein, who didn't let Rohit tee off during that phase while Shreyas Iyer (0), Pant (14 off 12 balls) and Hardik Pandya (1) didn't get too many at the other end. Karthik, the team's designated finisher, justified his billing as 52 runs came off the last four overs in a seventh-wicket stand with Ashwin (13 not out). It was left to Karthik, the eternal '20-ball man', who smashed four fours and two sixes in a 360-degree display of shot-making.

India vs West Indies, 1st T20I; Rohit Sharma and Dinesh Karthik set up a convincing 68-runs victory

Former India cricketer and ex-chairman of selectors Krish Srikanth has slammed the Indian team management for picking Shreyas Iyer over in-form Deepak Hooda in the first T20I against West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday. Iyer was dismissed on a 4-ball duck in the game as the debate over his inclusion further intensified.

Hooda, who had recently become only the fifth Indian batter to score a century in T20Is, was surprisingly snubbed from the playing XI for the series-opener against West Indies on Friday leaving many baffled. Questions were raised further on his absence after Iyer's flop show in the game.

Iyer came out to bat at number three for India and was dismissed on a duck after facing just four deliveries. He was caught by Akeal Hosein off the bowling of pacer Obed McCoy. Former India cricketer Srikanth questioned head coach Rahul Dravid and the team management for picking Iyer despite Hooda being in the squad.

“Where is Hooda? He did well in T20Is, He did well in ODIs as well. He is the guy who should be there. In T20 cricket you need to understand, that you need all-rounders. Batting all-rounders, bowling all-rounders, so more the all-rounders better for you," Srikanth said on FanCode.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-can-stop-him-now-bcci-selector-on-dinesh-karthiks-chances-of-making-it-to-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-501989">'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad</a>

Srikanth's comments during a panel discussion of which former India spinner Pragyan Ojha was also a part. While Srikanth slammed Dravid over Hooda's absence from the playing XI, Ojha defended the Indian head coach. “Rahul bhai believes that if a player performed for you first then play him and back him. Then you go ahead with the other options,” Ojha said defending Dravid.

However, Srikanth was furious with India's decision to bench Hooda for Iyer and said the team doesn't need Dravid's thinking. He interrupted Ojha in the middle of the debate and said - "Rahul Dravid ka soch humko nehi chaiye. Aapka soch chaiye. Abhi chaiye. Abhi do. (We don't need Rahul Dravid's thinking, we need your views, give your views."

"Hooda toh hona chaiye. Obviously Hooda. (Hooda should have been there. Obviously Hooda)," said Ojha before Srikanth concluded by saying - "Bas, Khatam (That's it)."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-didnt-understand-it-mohammad-kaif-slams-team-india-for-not-bacing-rishabh-pant-as-opener-in-t20is-501977">'I didn't understand it': Mohammad Kaif slams Team India for not backing Rishabh Pant as opener in T20Is</a>

Batting first during the 1st T20I, captain Rohit Sharma opened the innings with Surykumar Yadav and the duo added 44 runs for the first wicket. Iyer then departed cheaply before Rohit added 43 runs for the second wicket with Rishabh Pant (14). Rohit played a fantastic knock of 44-ball 64 laced with 7 fours and 2 sixes.

India were propelled to a strong total of 190 runs with the help of Dinesh Karthik's finishing cameo of unbeaten 19-ball 41. India went on to win the game comprehensively by 68 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series after restricting West Indies cheaply on 122/8 in 20 overs.

Former India cricketer and ex-chairman of selectors Krish Srikanth has slammed the Indian team management for picking Shreyas Iyer over in-form Deepak Hooda in the first T20I against West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday.

Former India cricketer and ex-chairman of selectors Krish Srikanth has slammed the Indian team management for picking Shreyas Iyer over in-form Deepak Hooda in the first T20I against West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday. Iyer was dismissed on a 4-ball duck in the game as the debate over his inclusion further intensified. Hooda, who had recently become only the fifth Indian batter to score a century in T20Is, was surprisingly snubbed from the playing XI for the series-opener against West Indies on Friday leaving many baffled. Questions were raised further on his absence after Iyer's flop show in the game. Iyer came out to bat at number three for India and was dismissed on a duck after facing just four deliveries. He was caught by Akeal Hosein off the bowling of pacer Obed McCoy. Former India cricketer Srikanth questioned head coach Rahul Dravid and the team management for picking Iyer despite Hooda being in the squad. “Where is Hooda? He did well in T20Is, He did well in ODIs as well. He is the guy who should be there. In T20 cricket you need to understand, that you need all-rounders. Batting all-rounders, bowling all-rounders, so more the all-rounders better for you," Srikanth said on FanCode. Also Read: 'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad Srikanth's comments during a panel discussion of which former India spinner Pragyan Ojha was also a part. While Srikanth slammed Dravid over Hooda's absence from the playing XI, Ojha defended the Indian head coach. “Rahul bhai believes that if a player performed for you first then play him and back him. Then you go ahead with the other options,” Ojha said defending Dravid. However, Srikanth was furious with India's decision to bench Hooda for Iyer and said the team doesn't need Dravid's thinking. He interrupted Ojha in the middle of the debate and said - "Rahul Dravid ka soch humko nehi chaiye. Aapka soch chaiye. Abhi chaiye. Abhi do. (We don't need Rahul Dravid's thinking, we need your views, give your views." "Hooda toh hona chaiye. Obviously Hooda. (Hooda should have been there. Obviously Hooda)," said Ojha before Srikanth concluded by saying - "Bas, Khatam (That's it)." Also Read: 'I didn't understand it': Mohammad Kaif slams Team India for not backing Rishabh Pant as opener in T20Is Batting first during the 1st T20I, captain Rohit Sharma opened the innings with Surykumar Yadav and the duo added 44 runs for the first wicket. Iyer then departed cheaply before Rohit added 43 runs for the second wicket with Rishabh Pant (14). Rohit played a fantastic knock of 44-ball 64 laced with 7 fours and 2 sixes. India were propelled to a strong total of 190 runs with the help of Dinesh Karthik's finishing cameo of unbeaten 19-ball 41. India went on to win the game comprehensively by 68 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series after restricting West Indies cheaply on 122/8 in 20 overs.

'We don't need Dravid's thinking': Kris Srikanth criticises India for picking Iyer over Hooda in 1st T20I

Dinesh Karthik seems all but certain to make the cut in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 as he continues to enjoy a stellar run with the willow. Karthik had a phenomenal season as a finisher for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 earlier this year and has been unstoppable ever since.

At one stage it looked like Karthik's international career was done and dusted but the veteran wicket-keeper batter has managed to spark a sensational turnaround this year. From not being in the reckoning for the Indian team, Karthik seems to have cemented his spot as a finisher in the Indian T20I team ahead of the World Cup.

Karthik continued his purple patch in the 1st T20I between India and West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday. The 37-year-old once again proved why he is currently India's best finisher as far as the shortest format is concerned with a terrific knock of unbeaten 41 off just 19 balls.

Karthik came out to bat at number 7 and went berserk from the word go. His quickfire 41 was laced with 4 fours and 2 sixes helping India post a strong total of 190 runs on the board in 20 overs. After his impressive knock, a member of the Indian selection panel opened up on Karthik's chances of making it to the T20 World Cup 2022 squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-didnt-understand-it-mohammad-kaif-slams-team-india-for-not-bacing-rishabh-pant-as-opener-in-t20is-501977">'I didn't understand it': Md.&nbsp;Kaif slams Team India for not backing Rishabh Pant as opener in T20Is</a>

The Indian selector said Karthik is now a certainty in India's squad for the T20 World Cup in Australia this year after his recent batting exploits while insisting that his experience will be a huge asset for the Indian team at the showpiece event Down Under.

"Who can stop Dinesh Karthik now? He is certainty now for T20 World Cup in Australia. He is consistent in his approach and most importantly consistently delivering via his approach. His experience will now be a big asset," the member of the Indian selection panel was quoted as saying by InsideSport.

"No formal talk has happened on the subject. Informally when we speak, all are very impressed with him and his attitude," he added.

Karthik has been consistent in the lower-middle order and has mastered the art of finishing for Team India. The 37-year-old has played some brilliant knocks for India over the last few months and has already cemented his spot in the T20 World Cup 2022 squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-1st-t20i-rohit-sharma-and-dinesh-karthiks-set-up-a-convincing-68-runs-victory-501945">India vs West Indies, 1st T20I; Rohit Sharma and Dinesh Karthik set up a convincing 68-runs victory</a>

Thanks to Karthik's finishing cameo and captain Rohit&nbsp;Sharma's brilliant 64-run knock, India thrashed West Indies by 68 runs in the first T20I on Friday to go 1-0 up in the five-match series. Speaking about his performance post the game, Karthik said the ultimate aim remains to do well in the T20 World Cup for India this year.

“I think it’s a very very different team. I must admit that I am really enjoying myself in this setup. The kind of calmness that seems to be around, a lot of credit should go to the coach and captain. These are all small tick-boxes that we need to have at this stage of the game. But obviously, the ultimate goal is to do well in the World Cup,” said Karthik.

Dinesh Karthik seems all but certain to make the cut in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 as he continues to enjoy a stellar run with the willow.

Dinesh Karthik seems all but certain to make the cut in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 as he continues to enjoy a stellar run with the willow. Karthik had a phenomenal season as a finisher for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 earlier this year and has been unstoppable ever since. At one stage it looked like Karthik's international career was done and dusted but the veteran wicket-keeper batter has managed to spark a sensational turnaround this year. From not being in the reckoning for the Indian team, Karthik seems to have cemented his spot as a finisher in the Indian T20I team ahead of the World Cup. Karthik continued his purple patch in the 1st T20I between India and West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday. The 37-year-old once again proved why he is currently India's best finisher as far as the shortest format is concerned with a terrific knock of unbeaten 41 off just 19 balls. Karthik came out to bat at number 7 and went berserk from the word go. His quickfire 41 was laced with 4 fours and 2 sixes helping India post a strong total of 190 runs on the board in 20 overs. After his impressive knock, a member of the Indian selection panel opened up on Karthik's chances of making it to the T20 World Cup 2022 squad. Also Read: 'I didn't understand it': Md. Kaif slams Team India for not backing Rishabh Pant as opener in T20Is The Indian selector said Karthik is now a certainty in India's squad for the T20 World Cup in Australia this year after his recent batting exploits while insisting that his experience will be a huge asset for the Indian team at the showpiece event Down Under. "Who can stop Dinesh Karthik now? He is certainty now for T20 World Cup in Australia. He is consistent in his approach and most importantly consistently delivering via his approach. His experience will now be a big asset," the member of the Indian selection panel was quoted as saying by InsideSport. "No formal talk has happened on the subject. Informally when we speak, all are very impressed with him and his attitude," he added. Karthik has been consistent in the lower-middle order and has mastered the art of finishing for Team India. The 37-year-old has played some brilliant knocks for India over the last few months and has already cemented his spot in the T20 World Cup 2022 squad. Also Read: India vs West Indies, 1st T20I; Rohit Sharma and Dinesh Karthik set up a convincing 68-runs victory Thanks to Karthik's finishing cameo and captain Rohit Sharma's brilliant 64-run knock, India thrashed West Indies by 68 runs in the first T20I on Friday to go 1-0 up in the five-match series. Speaking about his performance post the game, Karthik said the ultimate aim remains to do well in the T20 World Cup for India this year. “I think it’s a very very different team. I must admit that I am really enjoying myself in this setup. The kind of calmness that seems to be around, a lot of credit should go to the coach and captain. These are all small tick-boxes that we need to have at this stage of the game. But obviously, the ultimate goal is to do well in the World Cup,” said Karthik.

'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Dinesh Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has slammed the Indian team management for not backing Rishabh Pant as an opener in T20Is. Like many, Kaif was left surprised when Suryakumar Yadav walked in to open the batting with captain Rohit Sharma in the 1t T20I of the ongoing five-match series against West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday (July 29).

Despite having Ishan Kishan in the squad, India have been experimenting continuously in T20Is as far as the opening slots are considered. While Rohit's position as an opener remains unchallenged, a number of other batters have been tried in the second opening slot, including Pant.

Pant had opened for India in the T20I series against England earlier this month and had impressed with his swashbuckling batting display. Kaif believes India should have persisted with the left-hand wicket-keeper batter at the top and played Suryakumar, who is a middle-order batter in his actual position.

Kaif said he couldn't quite understand India's strategy behind opening the batting with Suryakumar while criticising the team management for not giving Pant enough opportunities on top of the order. He also pointed out how Suryakumar will be the best fit for India at 4 and it makes no sense to open the batting with him.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-1st-t20i-rohit-sharma-and-dinesh-karthiks-set-up-a-convincing-68-runs-victory-501945">India vs West Indies, 1st T20I; Rohit Sharma and Dinesh Karthik set up a convincing 68-runs victory</a>

"Whatever that was, I did not understand it at all. If you were trying Rishabh Pant as the opener for 2-3 matches, then you should have gone with him today as well. Give him at least five chances. And this strategy of captain Rohit Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid, they back the players at least 5-6 matches,” Kaif said on FanCode.

“But this did not happen with Pant. And Suryakumar has the role of controlling the innings in the middle and adding those finishing touches. In fact, his role will remain as the No. 4 batter when Kohli and Rahul return. But Pant should have been tried. Clearly, I did not understand what happened. Ishan Kishan is also waiting," he added.

Talking about the first T20I, India got off to a winning start in the five-match series with a comprehensive victory by 68 runs in the series-opener at the Brian Lara Stadium. Captain Rohit led from the front with the bat with a brilliant knock of 64 runs while finisher Dinesh Karthik impressed again with an unbeaten 41 off just 19 balls to help India post a strong 190 runs on the board in 20 overs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/right-up-there-with-rohit-rahul-dhawan-former-nz-all-rounder-all-praise-for-indias-star-batter-501799">‘Right up there with Rohit, Rahul, Dhawan’: Former NZ all-rounder all praise for India's star batter</a>

In reply, West Indies were skittled out cheaply off just 122 runs after their batting line-up suffered a terrible collapse. Spinners R Ashwin and Ravi Bishnoi ran riot against the hosts' batting line-up picking up two wickets apiece while Arshdeep Singh also managed to pick two wickets while conceding only 24 runs off his 4 overs.

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has slammed the Indian team management for not backing Rishabh Pant as an opener in T20Is. Like many, Kaif was left surprised when Suryakumar Yadav walked in to open the batting with captain Rohit Sharma in the 1t T20I of the ongoing five-match series against West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday (July 29).

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has slammed the Indian team management for not backing Rishabh Pant as an opener in T20Is. Like many, Kaif was left surprised when Suryakumar Yadav walked in to open the batting with captain Rohit Sharma in the 1t T20I of the ongoing five-match series against West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday (July 29). Despite having Ishan Kishan in the squad, India have been experimenting continuously in T20Is as far as the opening slots are considered. While Rohit's position as an opener remains unchallenged, a number of other batters have been tried in the second opening slot, including Pant. Pant had opened for India in the T20I series against England earlier this month and had impressed with his swashbuckling batting display. Kaif believes India should have persisted with the left-hand wicket-keeper batter at the top and played Suryakumar, who is a middle-order batter in his actual position. Kaif said he couldn't quite understand India's strategy behind opening the batting with Suryakumar while criticising the team management for not giving Pant enough opportunities on top of the order. He also pointed out how Suryakumar will be the best fit for India at 4 and it makes no sense to open the batting with him. Also Read: India vs West Indies, 1st T20I; Rohit Sharma and Dinesh Karthik set up a convincing 68-runs victory "Whatever that was, I did not understand it at all. If you were trying Rishabh Pant as the opener for 2-3 matches, then you should have gone with him today as well. Give him at least five chances. And this strategy of captain Rohit Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid, they back the players at least 5-6 matches,” Kaif said on FanCode. “But this did not happen with Pant. And Suryakumar has the role of controlling the innings in the middle and adding those finishing touches. In fact, his role will remain as the No. 4 batter when Kohli and Rahul return. But Pant should have been tried. Clearly, I did not understand what happened. Ishan Kishan is also waiting," he added. Talking about the first T20I, India got off to a winning start in the five-match series with a comprehensive victory by 68 runs in the series-opener at the Brian Lara Stadium. Captain Rohit led from the front with the bat with a brilliant knock of 64 runs while finisher Dinesh Karthik impressed again with an unbeaten 41 off just 19 balls to help India post a strong 190 runs on the board in 20 overs. Also Read: ‘Right up there with Rohit, Rahul, Dhawan’: Former NZ all-rounder all praise for India's star batter In reply, West Indies were skittled out cheaply off just 122 runs after their batting line-up suffered a terrible collapse. Spinners R Ashwin and Ravi Bishnoi ran riot against the hosts' batting line-up picking up two wickets apiece while Arshdeep Singh also managed to pick two wickets while conceding only 24 runs off his 4 overs.

'I didn't understand it': Mohammad Kaif slams Team India for not backing Rishabh Pant as opener in T20Is

Shubman Gill was on a roll with the bat in the recently-concluded India-West Indies ODI series, in the Caribbean island. Since his international debut, Gill has been in India's scheme of things in the purest format, however, he had not got a lot of chances in the white-ball formats.&nbsp;

In the absence of regulars such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, etc., Gill got a chance to open the innings in the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian team for the WI ODIs. The youngster took the golden opportunity with both hands and ended with 205 runs in three outings (at a strike rate of 102.50), including two half-centuries and a career-best ODI score of 98 not out in the final match.

Thus, Gill ended as the Player-of-the-Series for his consistency batting at the top. Seeing this, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris lavished huge praise on the Gujarat Titans' (GT) opener.

"I still think there are holes in his game. I think there are holes in his technique that the opposition will look to exploit, but he's got all the skills and the other component. What makes a World class player is their mental thought process and their maturity and leadership. And I think he has that as well. And for that reason, yes you're quite right you can keep him up there with the Rohits, KL Rahuls and Shikhars in terms of openers,” Styris said Sports18’s show ‘Sports Over The Top’.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-pandya-pant-or-rahul-former-nz-all-rounder-backs-indias-star-player-as-future-captaincy-candidate-499438">Not Pandya, Pant or Rahul! Former NZ all-rounder backs India's star player as future captaincy candidate</a>

Former India stumper and selector Saba Karim also opined on Gill and stated that the 22-year-old can lead an IPL franchise sooner than later if he continues to grow in the coming years. "I think it's good to get some kind of experience. And I feel one year, two year around the line we may see Shubman elevated to lead one of these on the India T20 league. And I think once he gets that kind of experience, in addition, he can manage to lead Punjab in the domestic level that will really board well for him. So, he will gain experience and as you rightly said, he has shown some leadership skills. So that will really do well for Shubman Gill in future,”&nbsp;Karim stated.

“I look at him as a versatile player because at this stage, one has seen him bat so well for India as an opener. But given the opportunity, I'm sure he can do well at number three, number four and I think mostly in the T20 format, you look at players who can bat number one, number two and number three. So, I think in that kind of a mould, Shubman Gill can fit in quite easily,” he added.

Shubman Gill was on a roll with the bat in the recently-concluded India-West Indies ODI series, in the Caribbean island. Since his international debut, Gill has been in India's scheme of things in the purest format, however, he had not got a lot of chances in the white-ball formats.

Shubman Gill was on a roll with the bat in the recently-concluded India-West Indies ODI series, in the Caribbean island. Since his international debut, Gill has been in India's scheme of things in the purest format, however, he had not got a lot of chances in the white-ball formats. In the absence of regulars such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, etc., Gill got a chance to open the innings in the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian team for the WI ODIs. The youngster took the golden opportunity with both hands and ended with 205 runs in three outings (at a strike rate of 102.50), including two half-centuries and a career-best ODI score of 98 not out in the final match. Thus, Gill ended as the Player-of-the-Series for his consistency batting at the top. Seeing this, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris lavished huge praise on the Gujarat Titans' (GT) opener. "I still think there are holes in his game. I think there are holes in his technique that the opposition will look to exploit, but he's got all the skills and the other component. What makes a World class player is their mental thought process and their maturity and leadership. And I think he has that as well. And for that reason, yes you're quite right you can keep him up there with the Rohits, KL Rahuls and Shikhars in terms of openers,” Styris said Sports18’s show ‘Sports Over The Top’. ALSO READ | Not Pandya, Pant or Rahul! Former NZ all-rounder backs India's star player as future captaincy candidate Former India stumper and selector Saba Karim also opined on Gill and stated that the 22-year-old can lead an IPL franchise sooner than later if he continues to grow in the coming years. "I think it's good to get some kind of experience. And I feel one year, two year around the line we may see Shubman elevated to lead one of these on the India T20 league. And I think once he gets that kind of experience, in addition, he can manage to lead Punjab in the domestic level that will really board well for him. So, he will gain experience and as you rightly said, he has shown some leadership skills. So that will really do well for Shubman Gill in future,” Karim stated. “I look at him as a versatile player because at this stage, one has seen him bat so well for India as an opener. But given the opportunity, I'm sure he can do well at number three, number four and I think mostly in the T20 format, you look at players who can bat number one, number two and number three. So, I think in that kind of a mould, Shubman Gill can fit in quite easily,” he added.

‘Right up there with Rohit, Rahul, Dhawan’: Former NZ all-rounder all praise for India's star batter

The much-awaited Commonwealth Games 2022 edition has kicked off in Birmingham on Friday (July 29). The showpiece event started with an eye-catching opening ceremony in Birmingham where PV Sindhu and men's hockey captain Manpreet Singh were India's flagbearers.

The Indian contingent comprises several star athletes such as Sindhu, Manpreet Singh-led Indian men's hockey team, Bajrang Punia, Mirabai Chanu, etc. The mega event is a special one for the cricket fans as well as the sport makes its return at the event&nbsp;this time around. For the unversed, cricket was part of the 1998 Games in Kuala Lumpur. Back then, India failed to even enter the semi-finals -- under Ajay Jadeja -- as South Africa, Australia and New Zealand clinched gold, silver and bronze, respectively. This is the first edition where the women's cricket is part of&nbsp;the&nbsp;Quadrennial Games.

Thus, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar hailed the comeback of cricket at the marquee tournament. He wrote on Twitter, "Wonderful to see cricket back in the Commonwealth Games. Hope this takes our beautiful game to newer audiences. Best wishes to@BCCIWomen’s team for their #CWG22 campaign."

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Wonderful to see cricket back in the Commonwealth Games. 
Hope this takes our beautiful game to newer audiences. Best wishes to <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCIWomen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCIWomen</a>’s team for their <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWG22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWG22</a> campaign.
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1552921149792669697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-manika-batra-leads-womens-tt-team-to-convincing-win-vs-south-africa-501759">CWG 2022: Manika Batra leads women's TT team to convincing win vs South Africa</a>

Talking about the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian eves, they have a stiff challenge to return with a medal as they face Australia, Pakistan and Barbados. In their opening tie versus Meg Lanning-led Aussies, on Friday (July 29),&nbsp; India women lost by three wickets as they failed to defend 154/8 at Edgbaston, Birmingham.

The much-awaited Commonwealth Games 2022 edition has kicked off in Birmingham on Friday (July 29). The showpiece event started with an eye-catching opening ceremony in Birmingham where PV Sindhu and men's hockey captain Manpreet Singh were India's flagbearers.

The much-awaited Commonwealth Games 2022 edition has kicked off in Birmingham on Friday (July 29). The showpiece event started with an eye-catching opening ceremony in Birmingham where PV Sindhu and men's hockey captain Manpreet Singh were India's flagbearers. The Indian contingent comprises several star athletes such as Sindhu, Manpreet Singh-led Indian men's hockey team, Bajrang Punia, Mirabai Chanu, etc. The mega event is a special one for the cricket fans as well as the sport makes its return at the event this time around. For the unversed, cricket was part of the 1998 Games in Kuala Lumpur. Back then, India failed to even enter the semi-finals -- under Ajay Jadeja -- as South Africa, Australia and New Zealand clinched gold, silver and bronze, respectively. This is the first edition where the women's cricket is part of the Quadrennial Games. Thus, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar hailed the comeback of cricket at the marquee tournament. He wrote on Twitter, "Wonderful to see cricket back in the Commonwealth Games. Hope this takes our beautiful game to newer audiences. Best wishes to@BCCIWomen’s team for their #CWG22 campaign." Wonderful to see cricket back in the Commonwealth Games. Hope this takes our beautiful game to newer audiences. Best wishes to @BCCIWomen’s team for their #CWG22 campaign. — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) July 29, 2022 × ALSO READ | CWG 2022: Manika Batra leads women's TT team to convincing win vs South Africa Talking about the Harmanpreet Kaur-led Indian eves, they have a stiff challenge to return with a medal as they face Australia, Pakistan and Barbados. In their opening tie versus Meg Lanning-led Aussies, on Friday (July 29), India women lost by three wickets as they failed to defend 154/8 at Edgbaston, Birmingham.

CWG 2022: 'Hope this takes.....' - Sachin Tendulkar reacts as cricket returns in showpiece event

India and West Indies were involved in a closely-fought three-match ODI series, in the Caribbean island, in which a second-stringed Indian team -- under Shikhar Dhawan -- won 3-0. While the first two ODIs were a thriller, India won the rain-interrupted third and final match by 119 runs (DLS method).&nbsp;

Now, the action moves to the T20Is as both sides will now shift focus back to the shortest format with the 2022 T20 World Cup set to be held in Australia, from October-November. The five-match series opener will be held on Friday (July 29) at the&nbsp;Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad. Even the ODIs were held in Trinidad, at the Queen's Park Oval,&nbsp;Port-of-Spain. Hence, will rain once again make its presence felt and interrupt the proceedings?

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-when-and-where-to-watch-west-indies-vs-india-1st-t20i-match-ist-time-and-streaming-details-501688">WI vs IND: When and where to watch West Indies vs India 1st T20I match - IST time and streaming details</a>

For the unversed, the weather forecast&nbsp;in Tarouba, Trinidad for Friday is far better than what it was a couple of days back, i.e. on Wednesday (July 27). However, there still remains a 25 percent chance of precipitation during&nbsp;the daytime. As the proceedings will kick off&nbsp;at 10:30 am local time, there is expected to be a cloud cover of 31 percent. However,&nbsp;no humidity indicates a pleasant day on the Caribbean island.

<img alt="Weather forecast in Trinidad for 1st T20I" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5d3de86-e6c1-4c03-bbb1-1b3106375eb3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Trinidad%20weather%2C%20July%2029_0.jpg" />

The temperatures will&nbsp;hover around a high of 32 degrees with&nbsp;a low of 26 degrees.&nbsp;Thus,&nbsp;it is going to be a hot day largely&nbsp;with some passing showers leading to few interruptions. Overall, a full game is on the cards.

After losing the ODIs, Nicholas Pooran-led West Indies will certainly look to settle scores with India and claim the five T20Is. For that, they will be eager to start off nicely against the visitors, who recently beat England (2-1) in their own backyard.

India and West Indies were involved in a closely-fought three-match ODI series, in the Caribbean island, in which a second-stringed Indian team -- under Shikhar Dhawan -- won 3-0.

India and West Indies were involved in a closely-fought three-match ODI series, in the Caribbean island, in which a second-stringed Indian team -- under Shikhar Dhawan -- won 3-0. While the first two ODIs were a thriller, India won the rain-interrupted third and final match by 119 runs (DLS method). Now, the action moves to the T20Is as both sides will now shift focus back to the shortest format with the 2022 T20 World Cup set to be held in Australia, from October-November. The five-match series opener will be held on Friday (July 29) at the Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad. Even the ODIs were held in Trinidad, at the Queen's Park Oval, Port-of-Spain. Hence, will rain once again make its presence felt and interrupt the proceedings? ALSO READ | WI vs IND: When and where to watch West Indies vs India 1st T20I match - IST time and streaming details For the unversed, the weather forecast in Tarouba, Trinidad for Friday is far better than what it was a couple of days back, i.e. on Wednesday (July 27). However, there still remains a 25 percent chance of precipitation during the daytime. As the proceedings will kick off at 10:30 am local time, there is expected to be a cloud cover of 31 percent. However, no humidity indicates a pleasant day on the Caribbean island. The temperatures will hover around a high of 32 degrees with a low of 26 degrees. Thus, it is going to be a hot day largely with some passing showers leading to few interruptions. Overall, a full game is on the cards. After losing the ODIs, Nicholas Pooran-led West Indies will certainly look to settle scores with India and claim the five T20Is. For that, they will be eager to start off nicely against the visitors, who recently beat England (2-1) in their own backyard.

West Indies vs India, 1st T20I: How will the weather hold up for series opener at Trinidad?

Rohit Sharma is back in-charge of India ahead of the West Indies T20Is, which gets underway on July 29 (Friday). Rohit was not part of the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian team that whitewashed the Nicholas Poora-led Windies, in the Caribbean island, but will now take over and expect the T20I line-up to continue their winning momentum.

Ahead of the series opener in Trinidad, Rohit defended India's new-found T20I approach, where the Men in Blue have now become more fearless and there is a sense of urgency with the bat post the drubbing in the last edition of the T20 World Cup (in the UAE in 2021). Rohit defended the approach and stated that even though the team might not be successful at all times with such a high-risk approach, they won't be a bad team with some defeats and stressed they are learning with each game.

"That is why I repeat, the people outside the scene should keep calm and maintain silence. The brand of cricket which we are currently playing, there will be failures at times, the results may not go in favour, but that is completely fine, no problem with it, because we are trying to learn something with it."

<section>
"We are trying to do something different, so there may be instances where we make mistakes, but it does not mean that the players or the team are bad," the skipper said while addressing a reporter ahead of the first T20I vs WI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-would-he-care-shahid-afridi-gives-savage-response-on-being-asked-about-virat-kohlis-form-501666">'Why would he care.....?' Shahid Afridi gives savage response on being asked about Virat Kohli's form</a>

Rohit further highlighted that even though the Men in Blue have not won a World Cup but they were not a bad team, and shunned claims of being conservative in their approach. In this regard, the 35-year-old Hitman said, "We have not won any World Cups, but that does not mean we have been performing poorly in the last few years. I do not agree that we were playing conservative cricket. You lose a couple of matches in the World Cup and suddenly there is talk of the team trying something else."

"If you look at the overall games that we have played, leading into the WC, we have won around 80 percent of our games.&nbsp;You need to change with time, we are trying to change as well, so the people outside also need to change their thinking. We still have to fill some spots in the team before the T20 World Cup, we also know what needs to be done to fill those spots. So, we are trying, with all these matches that are being played to address those things," Rohit added.
</section>

Rohit Sharma is back in-charge of India ahead of the West Indies T20Is, which gets underway on July 29 (Friday). Rohit was not part of the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian team that whitewashed the Nicholas Poora-led Windies, in the Caribbean island, but will now take over and expect the T20I line-up to continue their winning momentum.

Rohit Sharma is back in-charge of India ahead of the West Indies T20Is, which gets underway on July 29 (Friday). Rohit was not part of the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian team that whitewashed the Nicholas Poora-led Windies, in the Caribbean island, but will now take over and expect the T20I line-up to continue their winning momentum. Ahead of the series opener in Trinidad, Rohit defended India's new-found T20I approach, where the Men in Blue have now become more fearless and there is a sense of urgency with the bat post the drubbing in the last edition of the T20 World Cup (in the UAE in 2021). Rohit defended the approach and stated that even though the team might not be successful at all times with such a high-risk approach, they won't be a bad team with some defeats and stressed they are learning with each game. "That is why I repeat, the people outside the scene should keep calm and maintain silence. The brand of cricket which we are currently playing, there will be failures at times, the results may not go in favour, but that is completely fine, no problem with it, because we are trying to learn something with it." "We are trying to do something different, so there may be instances where we make mistakes, but it does not mean that the players or the team are bad," the skipper said while addressing a reporter ahead of the first T20I vs WI. ALSO READ | 'Why would he care.....?' Shahid Afridi gives savage response on being asked about Virat Kohli's form Rohit further highlighted that even though the Men in Blue have not won a World Cup but they were not a bad team, and shunned claims of being conservative in their approach. In this regard, the 35-year-old Hitman said, "We have not won any World Cups, but that does not mean we have been performing poorly in the last few years. I do not agree that we were playing conservative cricket. You lose a couple of matches in the World Cup and suddenly there is talk of the team trying something else." "If you look at the overall games that we have played, leading into the WC, we have won around 80 percent of our games. You need to change with time, we are trying to change as well, so the people outside also need to change their thinking. We still have to fill some spots in the team before the T20 World Cup, we also know what needs to be done to fill those spots. So, we are trying, with all these matches that are being played to address those things," Rohit added.

'People outside should....': Rohit Sharma gives sharp response defending India's new T20I approach

Virat Kohli's form continues to be a cause of concern for Team India and its ardent fans. While Kohli is out of action at present and isn't part of Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s white-ball tour of the West Indies, the 33-year-old continues to make headlines as many former cricketers and experts share their views and give advises to the star batter on how to regain his form.

Many former players have commented on Kohli's recent rut. In the recent England tour, he returned without a single half-century across format whereas his last international ton came in late 2019. His dismissals are of similar pattern, poking at deliveries outside the off-stump, hence, many have opined on his lack of runs. Recently, when a journalist asked former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi to comment on Kohli's struggles, the legendary cricketer gave a befitting reply.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-odis-i-will-when-virat-kohli-made-bold-claim-of-emulating-sachin-tendulkars-50-over-heroics-501505">'In ODIs, I will....' - When Virat Kohli made bold claim of emulating Sachin Tendulkar's 50-over heroics</a>

"Usne mere mashware ko kya dekhna hai (Why would he care about my advice?). He has to perform because the expectations from him are so high. And for a very long time, there has been no performance from him according to the standards that he has set for himself," Afridi was seen replying to reporters' questions in&nbsp;a video which was shared&nbsp;by Sports Paktv.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-the-best-modern-day-player-in-last-10-years-former-pakistan-batter-praises-under-fire-virat-kohli-501465">He is the best modern-day player in last 10 years: Former Pakistan batter praises under-fire Virat Kohli</a>

Afridi also opined on India-Pakistan's upcoming clash in the 2022 Asia Cup, which will be held in the shortest format, in the UAE. Both sides are expected to meet more than once before also locking horns in the forthcoming 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia, from October-November.

"As far as the Pakistan team is concerned, it is a balanced side. I hope that not only in the Asia Cup but even in the World Cup, our performances will be good. I hope the players are fit, because I don't see much strength on the bench. But the 11-12 first-team players that we have, they are very strong and I hope they will bring in good results,"&nbsp;the former captain added.

Virat Kohli's form continues to be a cause of concern for Team India and its ardent fans. While Kohli is out of action at present and isn't part of Rohit Sharma & Co.

Virat Kohli's form continues to be a cause of concern for Team India and its ardent fans. While Kohli is out of action at present and isn't part of Rohit Sharma & Co.'s white-ball tour of the West Indies, the 33-year-old continues to make headlines as many former cricketers and experts share their views and give advises to the star batter on how to regain his form. Many former players have commented on Kohli's recent rut. In the recent England tour, he returned without a single half-century across format whereas his last international ton came in late 2019. His dismissals are of similar pattern, poking at deliveries outside the off-stump, hence, many have opined on his lack of runs. Recently, when a journalist asked former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi to comment on Kohli's struggles, the legendary cricketer gave a befitting reply. ALSO READ | 'In ODIs, I will....' - When Virat Kohli made bold claim of emulating Sachin Tendulkar's 50-over heroics "Usne mere mashware ko kya dekhna hai (Why would he care about my advice?). He has to perform because the expectations from him are so high. And for a very long time, there has been no performance from him according to the standards that he has set for himself," Afridi was seen replying to reporters' questions in a video which was shared by Sports Paktv. ALSO READ | He is the best modern-day player in last 10 years: Former Pakistan batter praises under-fire Virat Kohli Afridi also opined on India-Pakistan's upcoming clash in the 2022 Asia Cup, which will be held in the shortest format, in the UAE. Both sides are expected to meet more than once before also locking horns in the forthcoming 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia, from October-November. "As far as the Pakistan team is concerned, it is a balanced side. I hope that not only in the Asia Cup but even in the World Cup, our performances will be good. I hope the players are fit, because I don't see much strength on the bench. But the 11-12 first-team players that we have, they are very strong and I hope they will bring in good results," the former captain added.

'Why would he care.....?' Shahid Afridi gives savage response on being asked about Virat Kohli's form

Top bowling spells from spinner Yuzvendra Chahal and pacers Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur helped India crush West Indies by 119 runs in the rain-hit third and final ODI of the series here at Queen`s Park Oval on Thursday. India has completed a clean sweep of 3-0 over the hosts. India can walk away with a lot of positives after this match as their batting was great, lead from the front by openers Shikhar Dhawan (58) and Shubman Gill (98*).

Setting a target of 257 in 35 overs after the match was hit by rain, Windies batters never looked as if they were in the game as Indian bowlers feasted on them. The hosts fell prey to a world-class bowling attack with their careless shot selection. Chahal (4/17), Siraj (2/14) and Thakur (2/17) were extremely economic with the ball and delivered timely blows to their opponent.

Chasing 257, West Indies got off a nightmarish start, losing opener Kyle Mayers and Shamarh Brooks in the second over to pacer Mohammed Siraj. Following this, opener Shai Hope and Brandon King resumed the chase for the hosts. They both maintained solid running between the wickets. King was the aggressor during the partnership. Hope-King added 47 runs to their stand before the former was stumped by wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson for 22 off 33 balls on a delivery by spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. At the end of 10 overs, West Indies was 48/3, with King (24*) and Pooran (1*). Captain Nicholas Pooran was next up on crease. The 12th over was bowled by pacer Prasidh Krishna and it turned out to be expensive, with Pooran-King smashing four boundaries in it collectively. It was spinner Axar Patel who gave India their fourth wicket, removing King, who was looking threatening. He had scored 42 off 37 balls before he was trapped leg before wicket by the bowler.

Keacy Carty was next up on the crease. Pooran`s game became more attacking, smashing Deepak Hooda for a four and a six and Axar for a four as well. The duo took the hosts to the 100-run mark at end of 18 overs, with Pooran being the aggressor. Shardul Thakur broke the 29-run stand between the duo, bowling out Carty for just five runs off 17 balls. At this point, half of Windies line up was back in the hut at 103. Jason Holder was the next batter to arrive on the crease. The all-rounder was making his return to white-ball cricket after a while and had a task in hand to build a solid stand with his skipper. Prasidh finally got his first wicket of the day, dismissing the danger man Pooran for 42 off 32 balls after being caught by Dhawan at mid-on. Thakur gave another jolt to the hosts, sending back Akael Hosein for just one run after skipper Dhawan took another great catch.

There was not much batting left with the Windies except for Holder, who needed to pull off something really great to guide his team to a consolation win. Things continued to go downhill for Windies, with Paul dismissed for a duck by Chahal after he was caught by Thakur at point while attempting to reverse sweep. Holder was running out of partners at this point, now joined by Hayden Walsh. Walsh was the ninth wicket down at a score of 137 after being caught by Dhawan at slips. Jayden Seales was the last player dismissed, sent back to pavilion by Chahal. Windies were bundled out for 137. They had lost the match by 119 runs and India had completed a 3-0 clean sweep in the series. Chahal finished as the leading bowler for India with 4/17. Siraj and Thakur also took two wickets. Krishna and Axar got one scalp each.

Earlier, a 113-run stand between Shubman Gill and Shikhar Dhawan powered India to 225/3 in 36 overs during the rain-hit third and final ODI against West Indies here at Queens Park Oval on Wednesday. As per Duckworth-Lewis Method, West Indies were set a target of 257 runs in 35 overs. The innings face disruption due to rain. But despite this disruption, India managed to put up a solid total on the board. Dhawan (58) and Gill (98*) continued their fine batting form and Windies bowlers were not able to do much. Shreyas Iyer also contributed a fine 44.

Electing to bat first, India was cautious for the first ten overs, mostly rotating the strike and hitting big occasionally. This cautious approach bore fruit as openers Shikhar Dhawan and Shubman Gill were able to get through the mandatory powerplay with a score of 45/0, with the duo standing unbeaten at 22 each. After reaching their 50-run stand in 67 balls, the duo accelerated their run-making. Skipper Dhawan brought up his 37th fifty in ODIs. Dhawan-Gill brought up their 100-run stand in 118 balls.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-3rd-odi-explained-why-ravindra-jadeja-didnt-make-the-cut-in-indias-playing-xi-501206">WI vs IND, 3rd ODI: EXPLAINED! Why Ravindra Jadeja didn't make the cut in India's playing XI</a>

Gill was also looking really classy with the bat at the other end and brought up his second ODI fifty, continuing his good run in the series. The 113-run stand between the duo was broken in 23rd over. It was spinner Hayden Walsh who gave Windies a breakthrough by dismissing Dhawan for 58 off 74 balls, with skipper Nicholas Pooran taking the catch at mid-wicket. Shreyas Iyer was next up on crease. Rain interrupted play at this point, with India at 115/1 in 24 overs, with Gill (51*) and Iyer (2*). The match resumed as a 40-over-a-side contest. After this, Gill-Iyer started showing more attacking intent with the willow, smashing boundaries and sixes.

The very first over after rain went for 18 runs. The duo raced to their 50-run partnership in just 30 balls. West Indies bowlers were shocked by the sudden change in gears and it was reflected in some sloppy fielding by them.

The duo kept the scoreboard moving and added 86 runs before Shreyas Iyer was dismissed for a solid 44 off 34 balls by spinner Akeal Hosein after being caught by Keemo Paul at long-on. Suryakumar Yadav was the next man on the crease for India. However, his poor run of scores continued as he was dismissed by Walsh after being caught for just eight runs at backward point by Shamarh Brooks.

Sanju Samson, the wicketkeeper-batter was next up on the crease. Gill-Samson carried on for a while before rain interrupted play once again. India`s innings came to an end at 225/3 in 36 overs due to rain, with Gill (98*) and Samson (6*) unbeaten.

Brief Scores: India: 225/3 in 36 overs (Shubman Gill 98, Shikhar Dhawan 58, Hayden Walsh 2/57) win against West Indies: 137 in 26 overs (Brandon King 42, Nicholas Pooran 42, Yuzvendra Chahal 4/17) by 119 runs.

Top bowling spells from spinner Yuzvendra Chahal and pacers Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur helped India crush West Indies by 119 runs in the rain-hit third and final ODI of the series here at Queen`s Park Oval on Thursday.

Top bowling spells from spinner Yuzvendra Chahal and pacers Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur helped India crush West Indies by 119 runs in the rain-hit third and final ODI of the series here at Queen`s Park Oval on Thursday. India has completed a clean sweep of 3-0 over the hosts. India can walk away with a lot of positives after this match as their batting was great, lead from the front by openers Shikhar Dhawan (58) and Shubman Gill (98*). Setting a target of 257 in 35 overs after the match was hit by rain, Windies batters never looked as if they were in the game as Indian bowlers feasted on them. The hosts fell prey to a world-class bowling attack with their careless shot selection. Chahal (4/17), Siraj (2/14) and Thakur (2/17) were extremely economic with the ball and delivered timely blows to their opponent. Chasing 257, West Indies got off a nightmarish start, losing opener Kyle Mayers and Shamarh Brooks in the second over to pacer Mohammed Siraj. Following this, opener Shai Hope and Brandon King resumed the chase for the hosts. They both maintained solid running between the wickets. King was the aggressor during the partnership. Hope-King added 47 runs to their stand before the former was stumped by wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson for 22 off 33 balls on a delivery by spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. At the end of 10 overs, West Indies was 48/3, with King (24*) and Pooran (1*). Captain Nicholas Pooran was next up on crease. The 12th over was bowled by pacer Prasidh Krishna and it turned out to be expensive, with Pooran-King smashing four boundaries in it collectively. It was spinner Axar Patel who gave India their fourth wicket, removing King, who was looking threatening. He had scored 42 off 37 balls before he was trapped leg before wicket by the bowler. Keacy Carty was next up on the crease. Pooran`s game became more attacking, smashing Deepak Hooda for a four and a six and Axar for a four as well. The duo took the hosts to the 100-run mark at end of 18 overs, with Pooran being the aggressor. Shardul Thakur broke the 29-run stand between the duo, bowling out Carty for just five runs off 17 balls. At this point, half of Windies line up was back in the hut at 103. Jason Holder was the next batter to arrive on the crease. The all-rounder was making his return to white-ball cricket after a while and had a task in hand to build a solid stand with his skipper. Prasidh finally got his first wicket of the day, dismissing the danger man Pooran for 42 off 32 balls after being caught by Dhawan at mid-on. Thakur gave another jolt to the hosts, sending back Akael Hosein for just one run after skipper Dhawan took another great catch. There was not much batting left with the Windies except for Holder, who needed to pull off something really great to guide his team to a consolation win. Things continued to go downhill for Windies, with Paul dismissed for a duck by Chahal after he was caught by Thakur at point while attempting to reverse sweep. Holder was running out of partners at this point, now joined by Hayden Walsh. Walsh was the ninth wicket down at a score of 137 after being caught by Dhawan at slips. Jayden Seales was the last player dismissed, sent back to pavilion by Chahal. Windies were bundled out for 137. They had lost the match by 119 runs and India had completed a 3-0 clean sweep in the series. Chahal finished as the leading bowler for India with 4/17. Siraj and Thakur also took two wickets. Krishna and Axar got one scalp each. Earlier, a 113-run stand between Shubman Gill and Shikhar Dhawan powered India to 225/3 in 36 overs during the rain-hit third and final ODI against West Indies here at Queens Park Oval on Wednesday. As per Duckworth-Lewis Method, West Indies were set a target of 257 runs in 35 overs. The innings face disruption due to rain. But despite this disruption, India managed to put up a solid total on the board. Dhawan (58) and Gill (98*) continued their fine batting form and Windies bowlers were not able to do much. Shreyas Iyer also contributed a fine 44. Electing to bat first, India was cautious for the first ten overs, mostly rotating the strike and hitting big occasionally. This cautious approach bore fruit as openers Shikhar Dhawan and Shubman Gill were able to get through the mandatory powerplay with a score of 45/0, with the duo standing unbeaten at 22 each. After reaching their 50-run stand in 67 balls, the duo accelerated their run-making. Skipper Dhawan brought up his 37th fifty in ODIs. Dhawan-Gill brought up their 100-run stand in 118 balls. ALSO READ | WI vs IND, 3rd ODI: EXPLAINED! Why Ravindra Jadeja didn't make the cut in India's playing XI Gill was also looking really classy with the bat at the other end and brought up his second ODI fifty, continuing his good run in the series. The 113-run stand between the duo was broken in 23rd over. It was spinner Hayden Walsh who gave Windies a breakthrough by dismissing Dhawan for 58 off 74 balls, with skipper Nicholas Pooran taking the catch at mid-wicket. Shreyas Iyer was next up on crease. Rain interrupted play at this point, with India at 115/1 in 24 overs, with Gill (51*) and Iyer (2*). The match resumed as a 40-over-a-side contest. After this, Gill-Iyer started showing more attacking intent with the willow, smashing boundaries and sixes. The very first over after rain went for 18 runs. The duo raced to their 50-run partnership in just 30 balls. West Indies bowlers were shocked by the sudden change in gears and it was reflected in some sloppy fielding by them. The duo kept the scoreboard moving and added 86 runs before Shreyas Iyer was dismissed for a solid 44 off 34 balls by spinner Akeal Hosein after being caught by Keemo Paul at long-on. Suryakumar Yadav was the next man on the crease for India. However, his poor run of scores continued as he was dismissed by Walsh after being caught for just eight runs at backward point by Shamarh Brooks. Sanju Samson, the wicketkeeper-batter was next up on the crease. Gill-Samson carried on for a while before rain interrupted play once again. India`s innings came to an end at 225/3 in 36 overs due to rain, with Gill (98*) and Samson (6*) unbeaten. Brief Scores: India: 225/3 in 36 overs (Shubman Gill 98, Shikhar Dhawan 58, Hayden Walsh 2/57) win against West Indies: 137 in 26 overs (Brandon King 42, Nicholas Pooran 42, Yuzvendra Chahal 4/17) by 119 runs.

3rd ODI: India hammer West Indies by 119 runs to register clean sweep in Trinidad