In 1959, as many as five players (Vinoo Mankad, Hemu Adhikari, Datta Gaekwad, Pankaj Roy and Gulabrai Ramchand) led Team India. In 2022, India have broken the 63-year-old record as Jasprit Bumrah became the sixth player to lead the team&nbsp;in the calendar year.&nbsp;

It has been a unique year for India, with captaincy changes happening at regular intervals due to injury and Covid concerns&nbsp;or with two sides playing parallelly. In this regard, the likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and now Bumrah have led India across formats. Kohli led India in a solitary Test, during the third and final match versus hosts South Africa, before resigning from the post. KL Rahul had led in his place in the second and penultimate Test with Kohli out of action due to injury. Rahul also led in the three ODIs in South Africa before Rohit Sharma resumed captaincy duties in the home white-ball&nbsp;series versus West Indies and Sri Lanka, respectively.&nbsp;

Post IPL 2022, Rishabh Pant led India in the five T20Is versus the Proteas at home, as regulars such as Rohit, Kohli, etc. were rested before the one-off Test against England. Hardik led India in the recently-concluded Ireland T20Is as Rohit &amp; Co. were preparing for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus the Three Lions, which got underway on Friday (July 01). With Rohit being ruled out of the England Test due to Covid concerns, Bumrah became the sixth captain of India in 2022.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-5th-test-milestone-alert-virat-kohli-needs-40-runs-to-join-tendulkar-gavaskar-in-elite-club-493488">ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Milestone alert! Virat Kohli needs 40 runs to join Tendulkar, Gavaskar in elite club</a>

Talking about the final Test, Ben Stokes-led England opted to bowl first versus India. Bumrah said at the toss, "It's a good feeling (to be captain) and is a big privilege. Can't get better than this. Excited and looking forward to this." Ahead of the match, head coach Rahul Dravid told the broadcasters, "I think he (Bumrah) is a very thoughtful individual, understands the game very well. Also he commands the respect of the team, which is very important as a leader. Bowling changes, field changes obviously will only get better with time. It's a new challenge. It's not easy for a fast bowler to captain, he's got to think about his own bowling too. Have had a few conversations with him, and told him that we need him more as a bowler. Captaincy is something that you'll get better at as you do it more."

Bumrah became the second pacer to lead India in the purest format after Kapil Dev. He is officially India's 36th Test captain.

In 1959, as many as five players (Vinoo Mankad, Hemu Adhikari, Datta Gaekwad, Pankaj Roy and Gulabrai Ramchand) led Team India. In 2022, India have broken the 63-year-old record as Jasprit Bumrah became the sixth player to lead the team in the calendar year.

In 1959, as many as five players (Vinoo Mankad, Hemu Adhikari, Datta Gaekwad, Pankaj Roy and Gulabrai Ramchand) led Team India. In 2022, India have broken the 63-year-old record as Jasprit Bumrah became the sixth player to lead the team in the calendar year. It has been a unique year for India, with captaincy changes happening at regular intervals due to injury and Covid concerns or with two sides playing parallelly. In this regard, the likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and now Bumrah have led India across formats. Kohli led India in a solitary Test, during the third and final match versus hosts South Africa, before resigning from the post. KL Rahul had led in his place in the second and penultimate Test with Kohli out of action due to injury. Rahul also led in the three ODIs in South Africa before Rohit Sharma resumed captaincy duties in the home white-ball series versus West Indies and Sri Lanka, respectively. Post IPL 2022, Rishabh Pant led India in the five T20Is versus the Proteas at home, as regulars such as Rohit, Kohli, etc. were rested before the one-off Test against England. Hardik led India in the recently-concluded Ireland T20Is as Rohit & Co. were preparing for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus the Three Lions, which got underway on Friday (July 01). With Rohit being ruled out of the England Test due to Covid concerns, Bumrah became the sixth captain of India in 2022. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Milestone alert! Virat Kohli needs 40 runs to join Tendulkar, Gavaskar in elite club Talking about the final Test, Ben Stokes-led England opted to bowl first versus India. Bumrah said at the toss, "It's a good feeling (to be captain) and is a big privilege. Can't get better than this. Excited and looking forward to this." Ahead of the match, head coach Rahul Dravid told the broadcasters, "I think he (Bumrah) is a very thoughtful individual, understands the game very well. Also he commands the respect of the team, which is very important as a leader. Bowling changes, field changes obviously will only get better with time. It's a new challenge. It's not easy for a fast bowler to captain, he's got to think about his own bowling too. Have had a few conversations with him, and told him that we need him more as a bowler. Captaincy is something that you'll get better at as you do it more." Bumrah became the second pacer to lead India in the purest format after Kapil Dev. He is officially India's 36th Test captain.

ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Jasprit Bumrah becomes India's 6th captain in 2022, shatters 63-year-old record

The last time Virat Kohli played in England,&nbsp;he was India's full-time captain. During the 2021 English summer, Kohli-led India gained an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match series versus hosts England before the fifth and final Test got rescheduled due to Covid concerns in the Indian camp. Since then, Kohli stepped down as the Test and T20I captain and was sacked as ODI skipper. He&nbsp;will now play the series finale versus England under a&nbsp;captain (Jasprit Bumrah) and vice-captain (Rishabh Pant) who made their Test debuts&nbsp;under him.

On Friday (July 01), when&nbsp;Bumrah-led India take on the field versus Ben Stokes' England, the 33-year-old will have a tough job in hand to lead India's charge with the bat with no regular skipper Rohit Sharma as the visitors aim for their first-ever red-ball series triumph in England since 2007. As Kohli gears up for the series finale, the right-hander is just 40 runs away from joining batting icons Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar in an elite&nbsp;list.

If Kohli manages to score 40, or more, runs in the Edgbaston Test, he will join the elusive club of Indian batters to have scored 2000-plus runs versus England in the purest format. Till now, only Tendulkar and Gavaskar have achieved this feat. Kohli has 1,960 runs versus England from 48 innings in 27 Tests, at an average of 43.55. He has five centuries, nine fifties and six ducks versus the Three Lions.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-vs-india-weather-update-will-rain-play-spoilsport-on-opening-day-of-series-decider-in-edgbaston-493481">England vs India, weather update: Will rain play spoilsport on opening day of series decider in Edgbaston?</a>

Talking about Tendulkar, he remains the leading run-scorer for India versus England in Tests. In 53 innings, the Master Blaster ended with&nbsp;2,535 runs, averaging&nbsp;51.73, including&nbsp;seven centuries and 13 half-centuries. For the unversed, he was never dismissed on a duck versus the Poms in whites. Meanwhile, Gavaskar scored&nbsp;2,483 runs against the English Test line-up&nbsp;in 67 innings from 38 matches during his illustrious career.

With no Rohit and KL Rahul, two of India's best batters from the incomplete 2021 five-match series, Kohli has a huge role to play with the willow for India to win the series.&nbsp;

The last time Virat Kohli played in England, he was India's full-time captain. During the 2021 English summer, Kohli-led India gained an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match series versus hosts England before the fifth and final Test got rescheduled due to Covid concerns in the Indian camp.

The last time Virat Kohli played in England, he was India's full-time captain. During the 2021 English summer, Kohli-led India gained an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match series versus hosts England before the fifth and final Test got rescheduled due to Covid concerns in the Indian camp. Since then, Kohli stepped down as the Test and T20I captain and was sacked as ODI skipper. He will now play the series finale versus England under a captain (Jasprit Bumrah) and vice-captain (Rishabh Pant) who made their Test debuts under him. On Friday (July 01), when Bumrah-led India take on the field versus Ben Stokes' England, the 33-year-old will have a tough job in hand to lead India's charge with the bat with no regular skipper Rohit Sharma as the visitors aim for their first-ever red-ball series triumph in England since 2007. As Kohli gears up for the series finale, the right-hander is just 40 runs away from joining batting icons Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar in an elite list. If Kohli manages to score 40, or more, runs in the Edgbaston Test, he will join the elusive club of Indian batters to have scored 2000-plus runs versus England in the purest format. Till now, only Tendulkar and Gavaskar have achieved this feat. Kohli has 1,960 runs versus England from 48 innings in 27 Tests, at an average of 43.55. He has five centuries, nine fifties and six ducks versus the Three Lions. ALSO READ | England vs India, weather update: Will rain play spoilsport on opening day of series decider in Edgbaston? Talking about Tendulkar, he remains the leading run-scorer for India versus England in Tests. In 53 innings, the Master Blaster ended with 2,535 runs, averaging 51.73, including seven centuries and 13 half-centuries. For the unversed, he was never dismissed on a duck versus the Poms in whites. Meanwhile, Gavaskar scored 2,483 runs against the English Test line-up in 67 innings from 38 matches during his illustrious career. With no Rohit and KL Rahul, two of India's best batters from the incomplete 2021 five-match series, Kohli has a huge role to play with the willow for India to win the series.

ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Milestone alert! Virat Kohli needs 40 runs to join Tendulkar, Gavaskar in elite club

India defeated Ireland by 4 runs in a thrilling encounter in the second T20I at The Village in Dublin on Tuesday (June 28). Deepak Hooda and Sanju Samson starred with the bat as the duo played brilliant knocks to help India post a strong total of 225 runs on the board, batting first. While it was expected to be a tricky run-chase for the hosts, they came all guns blazing against the Indian bowlers and almost chased down the target before eventually falling short.

It was a terrific batting performance from India as Samson and Hooda took the Ireland bowlers to the cleaners. While Samson opened the batting with Ishan Kishan in the absence of injured Ruturaj Gaikwad, Hooda came out to bat at number three after playing a match-winning knock as an opener in the series-opener.

Hooda continued his purple patch to notch up his maiden century in T20Is en route to a stunning knock of 104 runs off 57 balls laced with 6 sixes and 9 fours. Samson too looked in splendid touch as he slammed 77 runs off 42 balls with the help of 4 sixes and 9 fours. The duo put on a 176-run stand for the second wicket - the highest partnership for Inda for any wicket in T20Is.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/deepak-hoodas-maiden-century-helps-india-beat-ireland-by-4-runs-in-2nd-t20i-seal-series-2-0-492796">Deepak Hooda's maiden century helps India beat Ireland by 4 runs in 2nd T20I, seal series 2-0</a>

Following the duo's heroics against Ireland, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar lauded both Samson and Hooda for their impressive knocks. The cricketer-turned commentator said the selectors' headache has turned into a migraine after their stellar show in the second T20I.

"And after that Hooda &amp; Samson show. Selectors’ headache has nicely turned into a migraine," Manjrekar tweeted referring to the intense competition for spots in the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022.

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And after that Hooda &amp; Samson show. Selectors’ headache has nicely turned into a migraine.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a>
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India's 2-0 series win over Ireland had a lot of positives as the Men in Blue continue their preparations for the T20 World Cup in Australia this year. The series was always going to be a test of India's benchstrength as a several first-choice players missed the two-match rubber with the Test squad in England simultaneously.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-fans-throw-punches-at-each-other-as-fight-breaks-out-during-headingley-test-between-england-nz-492808">WATCH -&nbsp;Fans throw punches at each other as fight breaks out during Headingley Test</a>&nbsp;

While Hooda turned out to be India's top-perfomer with the bat, Samson too impressed in his solitary appereance in the series. Young pace sensation Umran Malik also made his India&nbsp;debut in the series and played both games. With more series lined up in the future, the selectors will be keen to keep an eye on the players who have been making waves with their performances consistently ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022.

India defeated Ireland by 4 runs in a thrilling encounter in the second T20I at The Village in Dublin on Tuesday (June 28). Deepak Hooda and Sanju Samson starred with the bat as the duo played brilliant knocks to help India post a strong total of 225 runs on the board, batting first.

India defeated Ireland by 4 runs in a thrilling encounter in the second T20I at The Village in Dublin on Tuesday (June 28). Deepak Hooda and Sanju Samson starred with the bat as the duo played brilliant knocks to help India post a strong total of 225 runs on the board, batting first. While it was expected to be a tricky run-chase for the hosts, they came all guns blazing against the Indian bowlers and almost chased down the target before eventually falling short. It was a terrific batting performance from India as Samson and Hooda took the Ireland bowlers to the cleaners. While Samson opened the batting with Ishan Kishan in the absence of injured Ruturaj Gaikwad, Hooda came out to bat at number three after playing a match-winning knock as an opener in the series-opener. Hooda continued his purple patch to notch up his maiden century in T20Is en route to a stunning knock of 104 runs off 57 balls laced with 6 sixes and 9 fours. Samson too looked in splendid touch as he slammed 77 runs off 42 balls with the help of 4 sixes and 9 fours. The duo put on a 176-run stand for the second wicket - the highest partnership for Inda for any wicket in T20Is. Also Read: Deepak Hooda's maiden century helps India beat Ireland by 4 runs in 2nd T20I, seal series 2-0 Following the duo's heroics against Ireland, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar lauded both Samson and Hooda for their impressive knocks. The cricketer-turned commentator said the selectors' headache has turned into a migraine after their stellar show in the second T20I. "And after that Hooda & Samson show. Selectors’ headache has nicely turned into a migraine," Manjrekar tweeted referring to the intense competition for spots in the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022. And after that Hooda & Samson show. Selectors’ headache has nicely turned into a migraine.#T20WorldCup — Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) June 28, 2022 × India's 2-0 series win over Ireland had a lot of positives as the Men in Blue continue their preparations for the T20 World Cup in Australia this year. The series was always going to be a test of India's benchstrength as a several first-choice players missed the two-match rubber with the Test squad in England simultaneously. Also Read: WATCH - Fans throw punches at each other as fight breaks out during Headingley Test While Hooda turned out to be India's top-perfomer with the bat, Samson too impressed in his solitary appereance in the series. Young pace sensation Umran Malik also made his India debut in the series and played both games. With more series lined up in the future, the selectors will be keen to keep an eye on the players who have been making waves with their performances consistently ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022.

'Selectors' headache turned into a migraine': Manjrekar reacts to Hooda, Samson's heroics against Ireland

Ahead of India's fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the visiting side was dealt with a major blow on Sunday (June 26) when regular captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19. Since then, he has isolated himself and is running against time to recover and become fully fit for the series decider, i.e, a spillover of the incomplete 2021 five-match series.

As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, it suggested that Rohit tested positive once again on Wednesday morning (June 29) and will undergo two more rounds of testing, one later in the day and the other on Thursday (June 30), before a final call is taken on his availability. In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah is being considered to lead India. If this happens, the 28-year-old speedster will become only the second pacer to captain India in whites after the legend Kapil Dev.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-to-captain-team-india-in-5th-test-vs-england-if-rohit-sharma-misses-out-report-492965">Jasprit Bumrah to captain Team India in 5th Test vs England if Rohit Sharma misses out: Report</a>

Amid all the uncertainity over Rohit and if Bumrah will lead in Hitman's absence, head coach Rahul Dravid spoke at&nbsp;the traditional press conference&nbsp;on Wednesday to share some vital updates. He spoke on Rohit's chances to play the series finale and if Bumrah will lead in case the former is ruled out.

"So the update on Rohit is that he is being monitored by our medical team, he is not yet been ruled out. Obviously, he needs to get the negative test to be available. We will keep monitoring him, we have still got close to 36 hours to go so he will have a test later tonight and one maybe tomorrow morning as well. We will see, it is really up to the medical team and sports science team to decide on that. We will keep monitoring,” Dravid told reporters ahead of the 5th Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-to-lead-india-in-1st-t20i-vs-england-regulars-rohit-kohli-and-bumrah-to-return-from-2nd-tie-report-493058">Hardik to lead India in 1st T20I vs England; regulars Rohit, Kohli and Bumrah to return from 2nd tie: Report</a>

On Bumrah, Dravid pointed out, "It's not fair for me to say it. You'll have to wait for official communication (through the selectors and the BCCI)."

For the unversed, India have an unassailable 2-1 lead in the incomplete series from last year. Ahead of the final Test, which will set to be held in Manchester in the last English summer, Covid crisis in the then Virat Kohli-led Indian camp led to the series decider being pushed by a year. Thus, India have a good chance to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil. However, it won't be an easy task without Rohit and an&nbsp;already injured KL Rahul (two of their best batters from the incomplete series).&nbsp;
</section>

Ahead of India's fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the visiting side was dealt with a major blow on Sunday (June 26) when regular captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19.

Ahead of India's fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the visiting side was dealt with a major blow on Sunday (June 26) when regular captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19. Since then, he has isolated himself and is running against time to recover and become fully fit for the series decider, i.e, a spillover of the incomplete 2021 five-match series. As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, it suggested that Rohit tested positive once again on Wednesday morning (June 29) and will undergo two more rounds of testing, one later in the day and the other on Thursday (June 30), before a final call is taken on his availability. In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah is being considered to lead India. If this happens, the 28-year-old speedster will become only the second pacer to captain India in whites after the legend Kapil Dev. ALSO READ | Jasprit Bumrah to captain Team India in 5th Test vs England if Rohit Sharma misses out: Report Amid all the uncertainity over Rohit and if Bumrah will lead in Hitman's absence, head coach Rahul Dravid spoke at the traditional press conference on Wednesday to share some vital updates. He spoke on Rohit's chances to play the series finale and if Bumrah will lead in case the former is ruled out. "So the update on Rohit is that he is being monitored by our medical team, he is not yet been ruled out. Obviously, he needs to get the negative test to be available. We will keep monitoring him, we have still got close to 36 hours to go so he will have a test later tonight and one maybe tomorrow morning as well. We will see, it is really up to the medical team and sports science team to decide on that. We will keep monitoring,” Dravid told reporters ahead of the 5th Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham. ALSO READ | Hardik to lead India in 1st T20I vs England; regulars Rohit, Kohli and Bumrah to return from 2nd tie: Report On Bumrah, Dravid pointed out, "It's not fair for me to say it. You'll have to wait for official communication (through the selectors and the BCCI)." For the unversed, India have an unassailable 2-1 lead in the incomplete series from last year. Ahead of the final Test, which will set to be held in Manchester in the last English summer, Covid crisis in the then Virat Kohli-led Indian camp led to the series decider being pushed by a year. Thus, India have a good chance to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil. However, it won't be an easy task without Rohit and an already injured KL Rahul (two of their best batters from the incomplete series).

India vs England, 5th Test: Is Rohit Sharma ruled out? Will Jasprit Bumrah lead visitors? Dravid gives updates

Deepak Hooda hit a master-class maiden century as India survived a mighty scare before defeating Ireland by four runs in a nail-bitting high-scoring second T20 International to sweep the two-match series here on Tuesday. Hooda scored 104 off 57 balls to become only the fourth Indian to hit a T20 International ton, while Sanju Samson contributed 77 off 42 balls to power India to a mammoth 225 for seven after opting to bat.

Ireland took the chase to the last over with skipper Andy Balbirnie (60 off 37), Paul Stirling (40 off 18), Harry Tector (39 off 28) and George Dockrell (34 not out off 16) shinning bright but they eventually fell short as rookie India pacer Umran Malik defended 17 runs in the final over.

Opting to bat, Hooda showed he belonged to the big stage with his scintillating stroke play, both off the front and backfoot. While Hooda was elegant and at ease on the frontfoot, he was equally good on the backfoot, dispatching the ball over the midwicket boundary for a few sixes.

Hooda decorated his knock with nine fours and six hits over the fence. He was ably supported by Sanju Samson, who, opening the batting in place of injured Ruturaj Gaikwad, played second fiddle but grabbed his opportunity with both hands. Both Hooda and Samson's strokeplay down the ground were a treat for the eyes.

Ireland made a rollicking start to their chase, with Stirling and Balbirnie sharing 72 runs for the opening wicket off just 34 balls. Stirling went hammer and tongs from the world go. Stirling took Bhuvneshwar Kumar to task, hitting the bowler for a six and three boundaries to pick up 18 runs from the opening over.

Stirling then clobbered skipper Hardik Pandya for a six. The opening duo continued their attacking display to notch up Ireland's 50 for no loss in just four overs. Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi broke the dangerous-looking 72-run opening stand in the sixth over, cleaning up Stirling.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-ireland-deepak-hooda-sanju-samson-record-highest-partnership-for-any-wicket-for-india-in-t20is-492711">&nbsp;Deepak Hooda, Sanju Samson record highest partnership for any wicket for India in T20Is</a>

In his next over, Bishnoi had Balbirnie stumped by Ishan Kishan but it turned out to be a massive no-ball. Balbirnie utilised the chance and clobbered all the Indian bowlers to all parts of the ground to keep Ireland at par with the asking rate.

He was particularly severe on young pace sensation Malik, dispatching the pacer's short deliveries over the fence as Ireland brought up their 100 in nine overs for the loss of two wickets. Balbirnie notched up his sixth T20 International 50 off 34 balls and continued his onslaught for some time before being caught by Bishnoi off Harshal Patel.

But Tector, Dockrell and Mark Adair (23 not out off 12 balls) kept Ireland in the hunt till the last ball from which the hosts needed a six to win the match and draw the series. Adair, however, could manage just one run as Malik lived up to his captain's call.

Earlier, India did not have the best of starts as they lost Ishan Kishan (3) early. The left-handed opener once again wasted an opportunity, nicking a Mark Adair delivery to Lorcan Tucker behind the stumps in the third over. Hooda and Samson joined hands and the duo batted effortlessly, albeit handing two difficult chances, to share 176 runs off just 85 balls to lay the foundation for India's huge total.

It was a one-way traffic after Kishan's dismissal as Hooda and Samson toyed with the Irish bowlers and did not let them settle down. Except for a difficult chance which Paul Stirling dropped at extra off in the eight over, Hooda played a perfect knock.

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Samson too was handed life in the ninth over when leg-spinner Gareth Delany dropped a difficult caught-and-bowled chance. Samson too played some delightful strokes, particularly off the backfoot during his half-century knock. He, however, was cleaned up by Adair in the 17th over.

Hooda brought up his maiden T20I century off 55 balls with a single to join the likes of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Suresh Raina in the elite club of only four Indian centurions in the format.

Once Hooda departed at the team score of 212, Surya Kumar Yadav (15) and skipper Hardik Pandya (13 not out) tried to accelerate the scoring but failed as India lost three wickets for the addition of just 14 runs in the last two overs. 
&nbsp;

Deepak Hooda hit a master-class maiden century as India survived a mighty scare before defeating Ireland by four runs in a nail-bitting high-scoring second T20 International to sweep the two-match series here on Tuesday.

Deepak Hooda hit a master-class maiden century as India survived a mighty scare before defeating Ireland by four runs in a nail-bitting high-scoring second T20 International to sweep the two-match series here on Tuesday. Hooda scored 104 off 57 balls to become only the fourth Indian to hit a T20 International ton, while Sanju Samson contributed 77 off 42 balls to power India to a mammoth 225 for seven after opting to bat. Ireland took the chase to the last over with skipper Andy Balbirnie (60 off 37), Paul Stirling (40 off 18), Harry Tector (39 off 28) and George Dockrell (34 not out off 16) shinning bright but they eventually fell short as rookie India pacer Umran Malik defended 17 runs in the final over. Opting to bat, Hooda showed he belonged to the big stage with his scintillating stroke play, both off the front and backfoot. While Hooda was elegant and at ease on the frontfoot, he was equally good on the backfoot, dispatching the ball over the midwicket boundary for a few sixes. Hooda decorated his knock with nine fours and six hits over the fence. He was ably supported by Sanju Samson, who, opening the batting in place of injured Ruturaj Gaikwad, played second fiddle but grabbed his opportunity with both hands. Both Hooda and Samson's strokeplay down the ground were a treat for the eyes. Ireland made a rollicking start to their chase, with Stirling and Balbirnie sharing 72 runs for the opening wicket off just 34 balls. Stirling went hammer and tongs from the world go. Stirling took Bhuvneshwar Kumar to task, hitting the bowler for a six and three boundaries to pick up 18 runs from the opening over. Stirling then clobbered skipper Hardik Pandya for a six. The opening duo continued their attacking display to notch up Ireland's 50 for no loss in just four overs. Leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi broke the dangerous-looking 72-run opening stand in the sixth over, cleaning up Stirling. Also Read: Deepak Hooda, Sanju Samson record highest partnership for any wicket for India in T20Is In his next over, Bishnoi had Balbirnie stumped by Ishan Kishan but it turned out to be a massive no-ball. Balbirnie utilised the chance and clobbered all the Indian bowlers to all parts of the ground to keep Ireland at par with the asking rate. He was particularly severe on young pace sensation Malik, dispatching the pacer's short deliveries over the fence as Ireland brought up their 100 in nine overs for the loss of two wickets. Balbirnie notched up his sixth T20 International 50 off 34 balls and continued his onslaught for some time before being caught by Bishnoi off Harshal Patel. But Tector, Dockrell and Mark Adair (23 not out off 12 balls) kept Ireland in the hunt till the last ball from which the hosts needed a six to win the match and draw the series. Adair, however, could manage just one run as Malik lived up to his captain's call. Earlier, India did not have the best of starts as they lost Ishan Kishan (3) early. The left-handed opener once again wasted an opportunity, nicking a Mark Adair delivery to Lorcan Tucker behind the stumps in the third over. Hooda and Samson joined hands and the duo batted effortlessly, albeit handing two difficult chances, to share 176 runs off just 85 balls to lay the foundation for India's huge total. It was a one-way traffic after Kishan's dismissal as Hooda and Samson toyed with the Irish bowlers and did not let them settle down. Except for a difficult chance which Paul Stirling dropped at extra off in the eight over, Hooda played a perfect knock. Also Read: End of an era! England's ODI WC-winning skipper Eoin Morgan confirms international retirement Samson too was handed life in the ninth over when leg-spinner Gareth Delany dropped a difficult caught-and-bowled chance. Samson too played some delightful strokes, particularly off the backfoot during his half-century knock. He, however, was cleaned up by Adair in the 17th over. Hooda brought up his maiden T20I century off 55 balls with a single to join the likes of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Suresh Raina in the elite club of only four Indian centurions in the format. Once Hooda departed at the team score of 212, Surya Kumar Yadav (15) and skipper Hardik Pandya (13 not out) tried to accelerate the scoring but failed as India lost three wickets for the addition of just 14 runs in the last two overs.

Deepak Hooda's maiden century helps India beat Ireland by 4 runs in 2nd T20I, seal series 2-0

Rahul Dravid has operated with several captains ever since he took over as the permanent head coach of Team India last year. Ahead of the fifth and final Test between India and England, which gets underway on July 01 in Edgbaston, it seems that Dravid will have to work and strategise with another new captain in the form of Jasprit Bumrah.

The 28-year-old wily pacer Jasprit is in-line to become India's stand-in captain for the rescheduled fifth Test if regular skipper Rohit Sharma fails to recover on time. For the unversed, Rohit had tested positive for Covid-19 on Sunday (June 26), shortly after India's four-day practice game versus Leicestershire. He&nbsp;again tested positive, as per a report in ESPNCricinfo, on Wednesday morning (June 29) and will take two more tests (later in the day and on Thursday) before the series decider. Thus, it seems highly unlikely that Hitman will recover on time for the final Test, i.e. a spillover&nbsp;from last year's series. In 2021, Virat Kohli-led India had gained an unassailable 2-1 lead over hosts England before the final Test was cancelled in the wake of the Covid crisis in the Indian camp.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-not-much-difference-csk-star-opines-on-captaincy-styles-of-ms-dhoni-and-eoin-morgan-492872">There is not much difference: CSK star opines on captaincy styles of MS Dhoni and Eoin Morgan</a>

As per reports, the Indian team management has already informed Bumrah that he will lead incase Rohit doesn't recover. Earlier, the pacer had served as Rohit's deputy for the India-Sri Lanka home series, prior to IPL 2022. If he comes out as India's captain on Friday, he will become only the second speedster after Kapil Dev to lead the national side in whites.

For Rohit, the 35-year-old is set to undergo few more rounds of Covid-19 tests to know about his availability. In the incomplete five-match series, Rohit remains India's highest run-scorer, with 368 runs including two fifties and a hundred.

India have a solid chance of winning their first-ever Test series on English soil. Thus, Bumrah will have a huge responsibility on his shoulders in case Rohit misses out.

Rahul Dravid has operated with several captains ever since he took over as the permanent head coach of Team India last year. Ahead of the fifth and final Test between India and England, which gets underway on July 01 in Edgbaston, it seems that Dravid will have to work and strategise with another new captain in the form of Jasprit Bumrah.

Rahul Dravid has operated with several captains ever since he took over as the permanent head coach of Team India last year. Ahead of the fifth and final Test between India and England, which gets underway on July 01 in Edgbaston, it seems that Dravid will have to work and strategise with another new captain in the form of Jasprit Bumrah. The 28-year-old wily pacer Jasprit is in-line to become India's stand-in captain for the rescheduled fifth Test if regular skipper Rohit Sharma fails to recover on time. For the unversed, Rohit had tested positive for Covid-19 on Sunday (June 26), shortly after India's four-day practice game versus Leicestershire. He again tested positive, as per a report in ESPNCricinfo, on Wednesday morning (June 29) and will take two more tests (later in the day and on Thursday) before the series decider. Thus, it seems highly unlikely that Hitman will recover on time for the final Test, i.e. a spillover from last year's series. In 2021, Virat Kohli-led India had gained an unassailable 2-1 lead over hosts England before the final Test was cancelled in the wake of the Covid crisis in the Indian camp. ALSO READ | There is not much difference: CSK star opines on captaincy styles of MS Dhoni and Eoin Morgan As per reports, the Indian team management has already informed Bumrah that he will lead incase Rohit doesn't recover. Earlier, the pacer had served as Rohit's deputy for the India-Sri Lanka home series, prior to IPL 2022. If he comes out as India's captain on Friday, he will become only the second speedster after Kapil Dev to lead the national side in whites. For Rohit, the 35-year-old is set to undergo few more rounds of Covid-19 tests to know about his availability. In the incomplete five-match series, Rohit remains India's highest run-scorer, with 368 runs including two fifties and a hundred. India have a solid chance of winning their first-ever Test series on English soil. Thus, Bumrah will have a huge responsibility on his shoulders in case Rohit misses out.

Jasprit Bumrah to captain Team India in 5th Test vs England if Rohit Sharma misses out: Report

Umran Malik finally made his debut for Team India in the just-concluded Ireland T20I series, held at The Village, Dublin. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) pacer, who ended IPL 2022 with 22 scalps, was handed his maiden India cap during the series opener, however, he bowled only a solitary over, conceding 14 runs.

Many were hoping for Umran to retain his place in the playing XI when India locked horns with Ireland in the second and final T20I, on Tuesday evening (June 28), with an unassailable 1-0 lead in their kitty. Much to many's delight, Umran was part of the XI and bowled his full quota of overs, returning with 4-0-42-1 (including two no-balls). However, the 22-year-old speedster, from Jammu &amp; Kashmir, defended 16 runs overs in the final over of the run-fest, to give away 12&nbsp;and take India to a 4-run win in defence of a mammoth 225/7. After the clash, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on whether Umran is fit for international level&nbsp;or he still needs more time.

In a video shared on his Youtube channel, Chopra said, "How ready is Umran is a question. You went with Umran Malik for the last over. Umran Malik has the pace but no one is scared of 140-145 at this level. You still feel that you can scare away people in the IPL but that does not happen here."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-belongs-to-rohit-sharmas-category-ex-india-player-heaps-praise-on-sanju-samson-after-ireland-t20is-492884">He belongs to Rohit Sharma's category: Ex-India player heaps praise on Sanju Samson after Ireland T20Is</a>

"I am very happy for Umran Malik but the truth is that he is work in progress. He was bowling length in the last over, when you do that without pace variation, all those good-length balls are actually bad-length balls. A good batter would have hit fours and sixes. So it will take time," concluded Chopra.

Umran will, thus, be eager to keep working on his skills and fitness. He has made his India debut, however, he is miles away from cementing his place across formats.&nbsp;

Umran Malik finally made his debut for Team India in the just-concluded Ireland T20I series, held at The Village, Dublin. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) pacer, who ended IPL 2022 with 22 scalps, was handed his maiden India cap during the series opener, however, he bowled only a solitary over, conceding 14 runs.

Umran Malik finally made his debut for Team India in the just-concluded Ireland T20I series, held at The Village, Dublin. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) pacer, who ended IPL 2022 with 22 scalps, was handed his maiden India cap during the series opener, however, he bowled only a solitary over, conceding 14 runs. Many were hoping for Umran to retain his place in the playing XI when India locked horns with Ireland in the second and final T20I, on Tuesday evening (June 28), with an unassailable 1-0 lead in their kitty. Much to many's delight, Umran was part of the XI and bowled his full quota of overs, returning with 4-0-42-1 (including two no-balls). However, the 22-year-old speedster, from Jammu & Kashmir, defended 16 runs overs in the final over of the run-fest, to give away 12 and take India to a 4-run win in defence of a mammoth 225/7. After the clash, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on whether Umran is fit for international level or he still needs more time. In a video shared on his Youtube channel, Chopra said, "How ready is Umran is a question. You went with Umran Malik for the last over. Umran Malik has the pace but no one is scared of 140-145 at this level. You still feel that you can scare away people in the IPL but that does not happen here." ALSO READ | He belongs to Rohit Sharma's category: Ex-India player heaps praise on Sanju Samson after Ireland T20Is "I am very happy for Umran Malik but the truth is that he is work in progress. He was bowling length in the last over, when you do that without pace variation, all those good-length balls are actually bad-length balls. A good batter would have hit fours and sixes. So it will take time," concluded Chopra. Umran will, thus, be eager to keep working on his skills and fitness. He has made his India debut, however, he is miles away from cementing his place across formats.

'How ready is Umran Malik?' - Former India opener opines on pacer's preparedness at the top level

Hardik Pandya won her first T20I series as the captain of the Indian team as the Men in Blue defeated Ireland by 4 runs in the final 2nd T20I at The Village in Dublin on Tuesday (June 28). It was a thrilling encounter between the two sides as Ireland came close to chasing down the target of 226 runs but eventually fell short in the end. Umran Malik went on to defend 17 runs in the final over to help India save the game and seal the two-match series 2-0.

It was a memorable debut series for Pandya as captain of the Indian team with the Men in Blue clean sweeping Ireland 2-0. However, Pandya found himself in the middle of another controversy after a video went viral on social media from the 2nd T20I where the Indian skipper can be seen abusing his teammates after a failed review.

The incident happened during the 11th over of Ireland's run-chase when Harshal Patel bowled a slower delivery to Lorcan Tucker which hit him on the pads. There was a clear run-out chance after Tucker tried stealing a single but Indian wicket-keeper Ishan Kishan missed the opportunity before he and Harshal convinced Pandya to take a review for LBW. However, the replays showed the impact was outside off as Tucker survived.

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India had earlier lost their first review in the game and Pandya was left frustrated after losing their second one as he was heard using a cuss word for his teammates Kishan and Patel after the unsuccessful DRS call. The video of the incident went viral with many criticising Pandya for his choice of words.

Watch video:&nbsp;

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And People Want This Guy to Become India's Permanent T20 Captain ..<a href="https://t.co/tuW0Oqodkk">pic.twitter.com/tuW0Oqodkk</a>
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Talking about the game, Deepak Hood continued his purple patch as an opener and notched up his maiden T20I century enroute to a brilliant knock of 104 runs while Sanju Samson smashed 74 runs off 42 balls to help India post a strong total of 225 runs against Ireland.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-fans-throw-punches-at-each-other-as-fight-breaks-out-during-headingley-test-between-england-nz-492808">WATCH -&nbsp;Fans throw punches at each other as fight breaks out during Headingley</a>

Captain Andrew Balbirnie led the charge for Ireland during the run-chase as he slammed a quickfire 37-ball 60 while the likes of Pau Stirling (40), Harry Tector (39) and George Dockrell (34) played crucial knocks to take the hosts close to the finishing line. However, India held there nerves to defend the total and bag their second win on the trot to secure a 2-0 win.

&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya won her first T20I series as the captain of the Indian team as the Men in Blue defeated Ireland by 4 runs in the final 2nd T20I at The Village in Dublin on Tuesday (June 28).

Hardik Pandya won her first T20I series as the captain of the Indian team as the Men in Blue defeated Ireland by 4 runs in the final 2nd T20I at The Village in Dublin on Tuesday (June 28). It was a thrilling encounter between the two sides as Ireland came close to chasing down the target of 226 runs but eventually fell short in the end. Umran Malik went on to defend 17 runs in the final over to help India save the game and seal the two-match series 2-0. It was a memorable debut series for Pandya as captain of the Indian team with the Men in Blue clean sweeping Ireland 2-0. However, Pandya found himself in the middle of another controversy after a video went viral on social media from the 2nd T20I where the Indian skipper can be seen abusing his teammates after a failed review. The incident happened during the 11th over of Ireland's run-chase when Harshal Patel bowled a slower delivery to Lorcan Tucker which hit him on the pads. There was a clear run-out chance after Tucker tried stealing a single but Indian wicket-keeper Ishan Kishan missed the opportunity before he and Harshal convinced Pandya to take a review for LBW. However, the replays showed the impact was outside off as Tucker survived. Also Read: 'Selectors' headache turned into a migraine': Manjrekar reacts to Hooda, Samson's heroics against Ireland India had earlier lost their first review in the game and Pandya was left frustrated after losing their second one as he was heard using a cuss word for his teammates Kishan and Patel after the unsuccessful DRS call. The video of the incident went viral with many criticising Pandya for his choice of words. Watch video: And People Want This Guy to Become India's Permanent T20 Captain ..pic.twitter.com/tuW0Oqodkk — Peivi Shoe Popa (@rudra13_) June 28, 2022 × Talking about the game, Deepak Hood continued his purple patch as an opener and notched up his maiden T20I century enroute to a brilliant knock of 104 runs while Sanju Samson smashed 74 runs off 42 balls to help India post a strong total of 225 runs against Ireland. Also Read: WATCH - Fans throw punches at each other as fight breaks out during Headingley Captain Andrew Balbirnie led the charge for Ireland during the run-chase as he slammed a quickfire 37-ball 60 while the likes of Pau Stirling (40), Harry Tector (39) and George Dockrell (34) played crucial knocks to take the hosts close to the finishing line. However, India held there nerves to defend the total and bag their second win on the trot to secure a 2-0 win.

WATCH: Captain Hardik Pandya abuses teammates after India waste a review during 2nd T20I vs Ireland

Hardik Pandya-led India locked horns with Ireland in the second and final T20I on Tuesday evening (June 28), at The Village, Dublin. With an unassailable lead, India aimed for a whitewash and opted to bat first. On a batting-friendly track, Deepak Hooda's 104 and Sanju Samson's 42-ball 77 propelled India to a mammoth 225/7 before the visitors defended the total by four runs to win the series 2-0, despite Andrew Balbirnie &amp; Co.'s spirited fight.

During the Indian innings, Samson and Hooda got together at 13/1 and their 176-run second-wicket stand, highest partnership for India for any wicket in the shortest format, made heads turn. Both batters entertained the crowd with their strokeplay as Hooda slammed his maiden ton whereas Samson scored his first-ever fifty for India. Thus, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra heaped praise on Samson while reviewing the second and final encounter and termed him in Rohit Sharma's category.

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "Sanju got an opportunity and he shone. When he bats, he plays very well. That's the thing with Sanju Samson - I have never seen him bat ugly. He is a player who belongs to Rohit Sharma's category, who whenever he plays, plays extremely beautifully, scores runs in a free-flowing manner and controls the match very well."

"Sanju's fans are there in Malahide as well because as soon as Hardik Pandya said at the toss that Sanju is playing, it erupted, it was an extremely beautiful moment for Sanju Samson as well, he got an opportunity to play as an opener," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-ireland-deepak-hooda-sanju-samson-record-highest-partnership-for-any-wicket-for-india-in-t20is-492711">India vs Ireland: Deepak Hooda, Sanju Samson record highest partnership for any wicket for India in T20Is</a>

"He has also put his name in the list, another wicketkeeper-batter. I think it's going to be a huge huge headache. Well done Sanju, when you see Sanju you observe the talent but performance is more important than potential. Converting potential to performance is the tough art and he showed it by doing it," he concluded.

Samson remains in India's scheme of things ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later this year. It will be tough for him to earn a spot, however, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper has made a mark courtesy of his splendid knock versus Ireland.

Hardik Pandya-led India locked horns with Ireland in the second and final T20I on Tuesday evening (June 28), at The Village, Dublin. With an unassailable lead, India aimed for a whitewash and opted to bat first.

Hardik Pandya-led India locked horns with Ireland in the second and final T20I on Tuesday evening (June 28), at The Village, Dublin. With an unassailable lead, India aimed for a whitewash and opted to bat first. On a batting-friendly track, Deepak Hooda's 104 and Sanju Samson's 42-ball 77 propelled India to a mammoth 225/7 before the visitors defended the total by four runs to win the series 2-0, despite Andrew Balbirnie & Co.'s spirited fight. During the Indian innings, Samson and Hooda got together at 13/1 and their 176-run second-wicket stand, highest partnership for India for any wicket in the shortest format, made heads turn. Both batters entertained the crowd with their strokeplay as Hooda slammed his maiden ton whereas Samson scored his first-ever fifty for India. Thus, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra heaped praise on Samson while reviewing the second and final encounter and termed him in Rohit Sharma's category. In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "Sanju got an opportunity and he shone. When he bats, he plays very well. That's the thing with Sanju Samson - I have never seen him bat ugly. He is a player who belongs to Rohit Sharma's category, who whenever he plays, plays extremely beautifully, scores runs in a free-flowing manner and controls the match very well." "Sanju's fans are there in Malahide as well because as soon as Hardik Pandya said at the toss that Sanju is playing, it erupted, it was an extremely beautiful moment for Sanju Samson as well, he got an opportunity to play as an opener," he added. ALSO READ | India vs Ireland: Deepak Hooda, Sanju Samson record highest partnership for any wicket for India in T20Is "He has also put his name in the list, another wicketkeeper-batter. I think it's going to be a huge huge headache. Well done Sanju, when you see Sanju you observe the talent but performance is more important than potential. Converting potential to performance is the tough art and he showed it by doing it," he concluded. Samson remains in India's scheme of things ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later this year. It will be tough for him to earn a spot, however, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper has made a mark courtesy of his splendid knock versus Ireland.

He belongs to Rohit Sharma's category: Ex-India player heaps praise on Sanju Samson after Ireland T20Is

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly not happy after Indian skipper Rohit Sharma tested positive for COVID-19 in England just days ahead of the rescheduled fifth Test between India and England. Rohit tested positive for the virus on Sunday (June 26) and is currently in isolation facing a race against time to fully recover for the fifth Test against the hosts in Edgbaston.

BCCI is not happy with the Indian players roaming around on the streets in England freely and meeting fans despite being asked to take all possible precautions against COVID-19. Several Indian players, including Rohit and Virat Kohli, had been pictured posing with fans on the streets of Leicester ahead of their 4-day practice match against Leicestershire which concluded recently.

The BCCI was not impressed with the action of the payers and has now issued a warning to them ahead of the fifth Test against England. BCCI has reportedly scolded some players over their habit of hanging out in public and has asked them to take precautions on the tour.

"The board has scolded some players over their habit of hanging out in public. It also seems some players went in public and clicked pictures with fans, which could be dangerous. We had told them to stay careful but they still often roamed around in the city which is not required, so we asked them again to take precautions," a source from BCCI told news agency ANI.

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Rohit's positive COVID-19 test means he faces the risk of missing the fifth Test against England which gets underway on July 01. While BCCI has already added Mayank Agarwal to the Indian Test squad as a cover for Rohit as an opener, it remains to be seen who will lead the team if he fails to make the cut.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-can-be-relieved-of-t20i-captaincy-for-team-india-to-manage-workload-virender-sehwag-492259">Rohit Sharma can be relieved of T20I captaincy for Team India to manage workload: Virender Sehwag</a>

Virat Kohli, who led India in the first four matches in the Test series against England last year, remains the favourite to captain the team. However, the likes of R Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah might also be considered as Rohit's replacement if he fails to recover in time.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly not happy after Indian skipper Rohit Sharma tested positive for COVID-19 in England just days ahead of the rescheduled fifth Test between India and England.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly not happy after Indian skipper Rohit Sharma tested positive for COVID-19 in England just days ahead of the rescheduled fifth Test between India and England. Rohit tested positive for the virus on Sunday (June 26) and is currently in isolation facing a race against time to fully recover for the fifth Test against the hosts in Edgbaston. BCCI is not happy with the Indian players roaming around on the streets in England freely and meeting fans despite being asked to take all possible precautions against COVID-19. Several Indian players, including Rohit and Virat Kohli, had been pictured posing with fans on the streets of Leicester ahead of their 4-day practice match against Leicestershire which concluded recently. The BCCI was not impressed with the action of the payers and has now issued a warning to them ahead of the fifth Test against England. BCCI has reportedly scolded some players over their habit of hanging out in public and has asked them to take precautions on the tour. "The board has scolded some players over their habit of hanging out in public. It also seems some players went in public and clicked pictures with fans, which could be dangerous. We had told them to stay careful but they still often roamed around in the city which is not required, so we asked them again to take precautions," a source from BCCI told news agency ANI. Also Read: Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Ben Stokes' England whitewash New Zealand Rohit's positive COVID-19 test means he faces the risk of missing the fifth Test against England which gets underway on July 01. While BCCI has already added Mayank Agarwal to the Indian Test squad as a cover for Rohit as an opener, it remains to be seen who will lead the team if he fails to make the cut. Also Read: Rohit Sharma can be relieved of T20I captaincy for Team India to manage workload: Virender Sehwag Virat Kohli, who led India in the first four matches in the Test series against England last year, remains the favourite to captain the team. However, the likes of R Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah might also be considered as Rohit's replacement if he fails to recover in time.

BCCI not happy with Indian players hanging out in public, issues warning after Rohit Sharma's positive case

Hardik Pandya-led Team India is involved in the second and final T20I versus Andrew Balbirnie-led Ireland at the picturesque The Village, Dublin on Tuesday evening (June 28). After winning the series opener by seven wickets, India have been on a roll in the series decider courtesy of centurion Deepak Hooda and Sanju Samson.&nbsp;

Opener Samson, who is playing his first game of the tour, was joined by in-form No. 3 batter&nbsp;Hooda in the middle with India 13 for 1, after opting to bat first. Both took on the Irish bowlers and made heads turn with their strokeplay as runs kept coming from both ends for the visitors. As a result, the duo attained a record for India, stitching the highest partnership for any wicket for the Men in Blue in the shortest format of the game. Thus, the pair have gone past some renowned batting pairs for India in the format to register an elite feat:

Highest partnership for any wicket for India in T20Is 
176 Samson - Hooda 2nd wkt vs&nbsp;Ire Dublin 2022 
165 Rohit - Rahul 1st wkt vs SL Indore 2017 
160 Rohit - Shikhar 1st wkt vs Ire Dublin 2018 
158 Rohit - Shikhar 1st wkt vs NZ Delhi 2017 
 
In addition, this is the second-wicket partnership in all T20Is by any side as the pair surpassed the unbroken 167-run stand&nbsp;between England's Jos Buttler and Dawid Malan against South Africa (in Cape Town, in 2020).

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The partnership came to an end in the 17th over when&nbsp;Mark Adair cleaned up Samson's stumps, who returned with a well-made 42-ball 77 laced with 9 fours and 4 sixes. While Samson missed out on a hundred, he slammed his maiden fifty for India. Hooda completed his hundred to become only the fourth Indian with a T20I century before falling for a staggering 57-ball 104, striking at 182.46. His knock included 9 fours and half a dozen sixes.

Courtesy of the pair, India posted 227/7 in their full quota of overs&nbsp;and are favourites to inflict a whitewash over the hapless Irish side.

Hardik Pandya-led Team India is involved in the second and final T20I versus Andrew Balbirnie-led Ireland at the picturesque The Village, Dublin on Tuesday evening (June 28).

Hardik Pandya-led Team India is involved in the second and final T20I versus Andrew Balbirnie-led Ireland at the picturesque The Village, Dublin on Tuesday evening (June 28). After winning the series opener by seven wickets, India have been on a roll in the series decider courtesy of centurion Deepak Hooda and Sanju Samson. Opener Samson, who is playing his first game of the tour, was joined by in-form No. 3 batter Hooda in the middle with India 13 for 1, after opting to bat first. Both took on the Irish bowlers and made heads turn with their strokeplay as runs kept coming from both ends for the visitors. As a result, the duo attained a record for India, stitching the highest partnership for any wicket for the Men in Blue in the shortest format of the game. Thus, the pair have gone past some renowned batting pairs for India in the format to register an elite feat: Highest partnership for any wicket for India in T20Is 176 Samson - Hooda 2nd wkt vs Ire Dublin 2022 165 Rohit - Rahul 1st wkt vs SL Indore 2017 160 Rohit - Shikhar 1st wkt vs Ire Dublin 2018 158 Rohit - Shikhar 1st wkt vs NZ Delhi 2017 In addition, this is the second-wicket partnership in all T20Is by any side as the pair surpassed the unbroken 167-run stand between England's Jos Buttler and Dawid Malan against South Africa (in Cape Town, in 2020). ALSO READ | End of an era! England's ODI WC-winning skipper Eoin Morgan confirms international retirement The partnership came to an end in the 17th over when Mark Adair cleaned up Samson's stumps, who returned with a well-made 42-ball 77 laced with 9 fours and 4 sixes. While Samson missed out on a hundred, he slammed his maiden fifty for India. Hooda completed his hundred to become only the fourth Indian with a T20I century before falling for a staggering 57-ball 104, striking at 182.46. His knock included 9 fours and half a dozen sixes. Courtesy of the pair, India posted 227/7 in their full quota of overs and are favourites to inflict a whitewash over the hapless Irish side.

India vs Ireland: Deepak Hooda, Sanju Samson record highest partnership for any wicket for India in T20Is

Hardik Pandya-led India will take the field on June 28 to lock horns with hosts Ireland in the second and final T20I. With an unassailable lead, Team India will definitely go for the kill whereas Andrew Balbirnie-led Irish camp will want to learn from their mistakes and put up a spirited show to end the series on a 1-1 stalemate.&nbsp;

Talking about the rain-affected series opener, held on Sunday (June 26), Hardik &amp; Co. opted to bowl first at The Village, Dublin. After getting some early breakthroughs, Indian bowlers were smacked to all parts of the ground as&nbsp;Harry Tector's 33-ball 64 not out propelled them to a fighting total, i.e. 108-4 in a 12-over aside contest. Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 3-1-16-1 and Yuzvendra Chahal's 3-0-11-1 were the stand-out performers for the visitors with the ball.

In reply, Ishan Kishan's 26, off 11 deliveries, Deepak Hooda's 47 not out and captain Hardik's 12-ball 24 led India to a comfortable seven-wicket win to take a 1-0 lead. Will Ireland bounce back to level the series and avoid a clean sweep?

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is India vs Ireland 2nd T20I&nbsp;taking place?

The India vs Ireland 2nd T20I match will&nbsp;take place on June 28, 2022 (Tuesday evening).&nbsp;

Where is India vs Ireland 2nd T20I match taking place?

India vs Ireland 2nd T20I&nbsp;will be held&nbsp;at the picturesque The Village, Dublin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-sanju-samson-replace-ruturaj-gaikwad-indias-predicted-playing-xi-for-2nd-t20i-against-ireland-492552">Will Sanju Samson replace Ruturaj Gaikwad? India's predicted playing XI for 2nd T20I against Ireland</a>

At what time is India vs Ireland 2nd T20I match taking place?

India vs Ireland 2nd T20I&nbsp;match will commence&nbsp;at 9:00 pm IST.

How to watch India vs Ireland 2nd T20I match live on TV?

India vs Ireland 2nd T20I will be aired live on Sony Sports Network in India.

How to watch India vs Ireland 2nd T20I match live streaming?

India vs Ireland 2nd T20I will be available on the SonyLiv app as well as on the website.

Hardik Pandya-led India will take the field on June 28 to lock horns with hosts Ireland in the second and final T20I. With an unassailable lead, Team India will definitely go for the kill whereas Andrew Balbirnie-led Irish camp will want to learn from their mistakes and put up a spirited show to end the series on a 1-1 stalemate.

Hardik Pandya-led India will take the field on June 28 to lock horns with hosts Ireland in the second and final T20I. With an unassailable lead, Team India will definitely go for the kill whereas Andrew Balbirnie-led Irish camp will want to learn from their mistakes and put up a spirited show to end the series on a 1-1 stalemate. Talking about the rain-affected series opener, held on Sunday (June 26), Hardik & Co. opted to bowl first at The Village, Dublin. After getting some early breakthroughs, Indian bowlers were smacked to all parts of the ground as Harry Tector's 33-ball 64 not out propelled them to a fighting total, i.e. 108-4 in a 12-over aside contest. Bhuvneshwar Kumar's 3-1-16-1 and Yuzvendra Chahal's 3-0-11-1 were the stand-out performers for the visitors with the ball. In reply, Ishan Kishan's 26, off 11 deliveries, Deepak Hooda's 47 not out and captain Hardik's 12-ball 24 led India to a comfortable seven-wicket win to take a 1-0 lead. Will Ireland bounce back to level the series and avoid a clean sweep? Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is India vs Ireland 2nd T20I taking place? The India vs Ireland 2nd T20I match will take place on June 28, 2022 (Tuesday evening). Where is India vs Ireland 2nd T20I match taking place? India vs Ireland 2nd T20I will be held at the picturesque The Village, Dublin. ALSO READ | Will Sanju Samson replace Ruturaj Gaikwad? India's predicted playing XI for 2nd T20I against Ireland At what time is India vs Ireland 2nd T20I match taking place? India vs Ireland 2nd T20I match will commence at 9:00 pm IST. How to watch India vs Ireland 2nd T20I match live on TV? India vs Ireland 2nd T20I will be aired live on Sony Sports Network in India. How to watch India vs Ireland 2nd T20I match live streaming? India vs Ireland 2nd T20I will be available on the SonyLiv app as well as on the website.

IND vs Ire: When and where to watch India vs Ireland 2nd T20I - IST time and streaming details

India were handed a huge blow ahead of the all-important one-off fifth Test against England as captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday (June 25). Rohit tested positive amid India's four-day warm-up match against Leicestershire where he had batted in the team's first innings before contracting the virus. The Indian skipper didn't come out to bat in the second innings and pacer Jasprit Bumrah led the side in his absence on Day 4 of the game.

Rohit currently faces a race with time to recover fully ahead of the crucial fifth Test against England which is scheduled to get underway from July 01. Amid uncertainty over his return, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have decided to call up opening batter Mayank Agarwal to the UK as Rohit's cover for the one-off Test against England.

Agarwal will not be required to undergo quarantine after landing in Birmingham and can take the field in the fifth Test against England if Rohit fails to recover in time. Agarwal was originally not part of the Indian squad with India opting for Rohit and Shubman Gill as the opening pair for the one-off Test match.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-can-match-kapil-devs-feat-as-india-captaincy-beckons-after-rohit-sharmas-positive-covid-test-491888">Bumrah can match Kapil Dev's feat as India captaincy beckons after Rohit Sharma's positive covid test</a>

However, Rohit's positive COVID test has forced the board and the team management to alter their plans with Agarwal now set to link up with the rest of the squad. If Rohit is not available for the Test match, Agarwal is likely to open the innings with Gill in the Birmingham encounter.

India are already missing opening batter and vice-captain KL Rahul for the Test match as he is currently sidelined due to a groin injury. Rohit and Rahul had performed exceptionally well for the visitors during their tour of England last year helping India gain a lead of 2-1 in the five-match series.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/deepak-hood-hardik-pandya-guide-india-to-7-wicket-win-over-ireland-in-rain-affected-1st-t20i-492111">Deepak Hooda, Hardik Pandya guide India to 7-wicket win over Ireland in rain-affected 1st T20I</a>

The fifth Test of the series had to be postponed due to COVID-19 last year with the series at 2-1 and will now be played next month in Birmingham. India will be hoping to win the rescheduled Test and clinch the series to register their first Test series win on English soil since 2007.

India were handed a huge blow ahead of the all-important one-off fifth Test against England as captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday (June 25).

India were handed a huge blow ahead of the all-important one-off fifth Test against England as captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday (June 25). Rohit tested positive amid India's four-day warm-up match against Leicestershire where he had batted in the team's first innings before contracting the virus. The Indian skipper didn't come out to bat in the second innings and pacer Jasprit Bumrah led the side in his absence on Day 4 of the game. Rohit currently faces a race with time to recover fully ahead of the crucial fifth Test against England which is scheduled to get underway from July 01. Amid uncertainty over his return, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have decided to call up opening batter Mayank Agarwal to the UK as Rohit's cover for the one-off Test against England. Agarwal will not be required to undergo quarantine after landing in Birmingham and can take the field in the fifth Test against England if Rohit fails to recover in time. Agarwal was originally not part of the Indian squad with India opting for Rohit and Shubman Gill as the opening pair for the one-off Test match. Also Read: Bumrah can match Kapil Dev's feat as India captaincy beckons after Rohit Sharma's positive covid test However, Rohit's positive COVID test has forced the board and the team management to alter their plans with Agarwal now set to link up with the rest of the squad. If Rohit is not available for the Test match, Agarwal is likely to open the innings with Gill in the Birmingham encounter. India are already missing opening batter and vice-captain KL Rahul for the Test match as he is currently sidelined due to a groin injury. Rohit and Rahul had performed exceptionally well for the visitors during their tour of England last year helping India gain a lead of 2-1 in the five-match series. Also Read: Deepak Hooda, Hardik Pandya guide India to 7-wicket win over Ireland in rain-affected 1st T20I The fifth Test of the series had to be postponed due to COVID-19 last year with the series at 2-1 and will now be played next month in Birmingham. India will be hoping to win the rescheduled Test and clinch the series to register their first Test series win on English soil since 2007.

Mayank Agarwal called up as cover for Rohit Sharma ahead of India's rescheduled 5th Test against England

Ireland put up a spirted fight but India proved too strong for the home team to win the rain-hit opening T20I by seven wickets here on Sunday. Harry Tector's counter-attacking 64 not out off 33 balls took Ireland to 108 for four after the rain reduced the game to 12 overs a side.

India were always ahead of the run rate in the chase and with contributions from Ishan Kishan (26 off 11), Deepak Hooda (47 not out off 29) and skipper Hardik Pandya (24 off 12), cruised to victory in 9.2 overs.

Kishan continued his good form to get India off to a quick start. The first over of the innings went for 15 runs as Kishan collected couple of fours and a six off Joshua Little.

In a rather surprising move, Deepak Hooda came to open alongside Kishan in place of Ruturaj Gaikwad. He found his rhythm after a scratchy start and put up a match-winning 64-run stand with Hardik.

Just when it seemed Indian were running away with the contest, Craig Young got rid of Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav (0) in successive deliveries to raise hopes for his team.

Kishan's stumps were rattled in another attempt to get a full ball out of the park. Returning to the side after an injury break, Suryakumar got a beauty first up that seamed back to trap him in front of the stumps.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-not-a-friend-former-pak-batter-salman-butt-opens-up-on-controversial-bus-fight-with-shahid-afridi-492026">'He was not a friend': Former Pak batter Salman Butt opens up on controversial 'bus fight' with Shahid Afridi</a>

However, Hardik and Hooda kept going for their strokes and a 21-run over from Andy Mcbrine put India back in control. While Hardik departed after hitting three sixes, Hooda stayed till the end to hit the winning four. His innings comprised two sixes and half a dozen boundaries.

Earlier, India opted to bowl in overcast conditions but soon after the rain arrived, delaying the start of play by more than two hours and 20 minutes. The conditions were ripe for Bhuvneshwar Kumar to make the ball talk and he did just that in the opening over of the match.

The wily operator got the ball to swing both ways before an inswinger breached the defence of Ireland skipper Andrew Balbirnie. Skipper Hardik Pandya got himself into the attack in the second over and took two balls to dismiss the dangerous Paul Stirling.

After hitting the first ball over cover, Stirling went for the same shot but mistimed to be caught at mid off. Avesh Khan then had Gareth Delany caught behind in his first over to leave Ireland at 22 for three.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alex-ferguson-of-ranji-trophy-dinesh-karthik-hails-head-coach-chandrakant-pandit-as-mp-claim-maiden-title-491994">'Alex Ferguson of Ranji Trophy': Karthik hails head coach Chandrakant Pandit as MP claim maiden title</a>

India were expected to run through the opposition but Ireland staged a spirited recovery through Tector, who went for the offensive against the Indian pacers, including debutant Umran Malik. All eyes were on the Indian pace sensation but he had a rather nervous start to his international career.

He dragged his third ball down the leg side and it raced to the boundary off Lorcan Tucker's (18 off 16) pads. Two balls later, Tector played a beautiful straight drive off a full delivery. Malik dragged the next one short but Hector was ready to pull it for a six.

Tucker smashed two successive sixes off Hardik to give further impetus to the innings. The last over of the innings yielded 17 runs and pushed the total past 100 with Tector collecting a boundary from a reverse hit off Avesh before smashing a full toss for six over deep cover.

Ireland put up a spirted fight but India proved too strong for the home team to win the rain-hit opening T20I by seven wickets here on Sunday. Harry Tector's counter-attacking 64 not out off 33 balls took Ireland to 108 for four after the rain reduced the game to 12 overs a side.

Ireland put up a spirted fight but India proved too strong for the home team to win the rain-hit opening T20I by seven wickets here on Sunday. Harry Tector's counter-attacking 64 not out off 33 balls took Ireland to 108 for four after the rain reduced the game to 12 overs a side. India were always ahead of the run rate in the chase and with contributions from Ishan Kishan (26 off 11), Deepak Hooda (47 not out off 29) and skipper Hardik Pandya (24 off 12), cruised to victory in 9.2 overs. Kishan continued his good form to get India off to a quick start. The first over of the innings went for 15 runs as Kishan collected couple of fours and a six off Joshua Little. In a rather surprising move, Deepak Hooda came to open alongside Kishan in place of Ruturaj Gaikwad. He found his rhythm after a scratchy start and put up a match-winning 64-run stand with Hardik. Just when it seemed Indian were running away with the contest, Craig Young got rid of Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav (0) in successive deliveries to raise hopes for his team. Kishan's stumps were rattled in another attempt to get a full ball out of the park. Returning to the side after an injury break, Suryakumar got a beauty first up that seamed back to trap him in front of the stumps. Also Read: 'He was not a friend': Former Pak batter Salman Butt opens up on controversial 'bus fight' with Shahid Afridi However, Hardik and Hooda kept going for their strokes and a 21-run over from Andy Mcbrine put India back in control. While Hardik departed after hitting three sixes, Hooda stayed till the end to hit the winning four. His innings comprised two sixes and half a dozen boundaries. Earlier, India opted to bowl in overcast conditions but soon after the rain arrived, delaying the start of play by more than two hours and 20 minutes. The conditions were ripe for Bhuvneshwar Kumar to make the ball talk and he did just that in the opening over of the match. The wily operator got the ball to swing both ways before an inswinger breached the defence of Ireland skipper Andrew Balbirnie. Skipper Hardik Pandya got himself into the attack in the second over and took two balls to dismiss the dangerous Paul Stirling. After hitting the first ball over cover, Stirling went for the same shot but mistimed to be caught at mid off. Avesh Khan then had Gareth Delany caught behind in his first over to leave Ireland at 22 for three. Also Read: 'Alex Ferguson of Ranji Trophy': Karthik hails head coach Chandrakant Pandit as MP claim maiden title India were expected to run through the opposition but Ireland staged a spirited recovery through Tector, who went for the offensive against the Indian pacers, including debutant Umran Malik. All eyes were on the Indian pace sensation but he had a rather nervous start to his international career. He dragged his third ball down the leg side and it raced to the boundary off Lorcan Tucker's (18 off 16) pads. Two balls later, Tector played a beautiful straight drive off a full delivery. Malik dragged the next one short but Hector was ready to pull it for a six. Tucker smashed two successive sixes off Hardik to give further impetus to the innings. The last over of the innings yielded 17 runs and pushed the total past 100 with Tector collecting a boundary from a reverse hit off Avesh before smashing a full toss for six over deep cover.

Deepak Hooda, Hardik Pandya guide India to 7-wicket win over Ireland in rain-affected 1st T20I

Not many had kept Gujarat Titans, one of the two debutant franchises, in their top 4 prior to the commencement of IPL 2022. Along with Gujarat, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) also debuted in IPL's&nbsp;15th&nbsp;and were led by KL Rahul. Gujarat named local boy Hardik Pandya, not retained by Mumbai Indians (MI), as their captain. The 28-year-old was not only making his comeback at a competitive level post the 2021 T20 World Cup, but the star all-rounder also had a lot to prove.

Hardik entered IPL 15, battling (back) injury concerns. All eyes were on him as the Indian cricket loyalists were glued to the television sets to find out if Hardik the all-rounder will make a return. To many's delights, Hardik did roll his arms in the initial few weeks only to take caution as the tournament progressed ahead. Eventually, he ended with his best tally with the bat, 487 runs, and eight scalps (out of which three came in the finale). Thus, Hardik surely arrived and announced his comeback as an all-rounder. Nonetheless, what came out of the syllabus was Hardik the captain.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-ireland-hardik-pandya-attains-unique-feat-becomes-first-indian-captain-to-claim-a-t20i-scalp-492191">India vs Ireland: Hardik Pandya attains unique feat, becomes first Indian captain to claim a T20I scalp</a>

CAPTAIN HARDIK

Hardik led from the front. He took the responsibility to come up&nbsp;the order and take the crucial No. 4 spot. He played the perfect anchor, bridging the gap between the top and lower-middle order. The young all-rounder picked his bowlers wisely and was content in taking the game deeper by holding one end. Barring a few outbursts, with Md Shami and David Miller, Hardik was at ease even during crucial moments of several games. He spoke with utmost maturity at press conferences or pre and post-match presentations and dealt with things sporting a poker face.

Shubman Gill was given a long rope throughout, despite his numbers going down after the initial few games. Rahul Tewatia and Miller had proper role clarity. Shami was given charge of the pace battery whereas Rashid Khan took care of the spin department. Several unknown names, such as Sai Kishore, Sai Sudharsan, Sai Sudharsan, etc., got chances although the core group&nbsp;was never shuffled or unsettled.&nbsp;

Head coach Ashish Nehra-Hardik ensured a healthy and family-like atmosphere, which reflected on the 22-yard cricket strip as Gujarat kept on winning games from precarious situations. On debut, Gujarat rode on confident and instilled a Chennai Super Kings' (CSK)-like environment. Thus, Hardik's maturity was hailed by many.

On the field, he made swift changes when required. He didn't follow a set template in terms of using his bowlers. Hardik attacked and, at times, relentlessly attacked with his tactics. Above all, he carried himself in a calm and composed manner. Have we seen such a captaincy style before? Of course, we have. No prizes for guessing that Hardik has learned and been inspired&nbsp;from the best in business, i.e. MS Dhoni.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/had-a-chat-with-him-hardik-pandya-explains-why-umran-malik-bowled-only-1-over-in-1st-t20i-vs-ireland-492129">'Had a chat with him': Hardik Pandya explains why Umran Malik bowled only 1 over in 1st T20I vs Ireland</a>

Growing as a player in Dhoni's shadow, before the keeper-batter's retirement, Hardik is surely making heads turn both as a cricketer and captain. He is a utility player and has immense self-belief. Hardik is also a faster learner and has started his captaincy stint with a lot of promise, conducting himself like a young Dhoni who was given captaincy from nowhere. However, he is not going overboard by trying too hard to be the next Captain Cool.

Saba Karim (on TOI's podcast)&nbsp;-"I think Hardik Pandya, although he spent a lot of time with MS Dhoni, spent a lot of time with Virat Kohli, he has his own brand of captaincy and the way he plays his cricket is so different from what Virat does or what MS Dhoni does. So you learn from so many great individuals who have been part of the side, but eventually, you bring your own leadership style onto the field and I think that's what he did."

Fasten your seat belts, by the time Rohit Sharma steps aside as Team India skipper, Hardik might pip others and become the next contender if he continues to follow his own ways and bring into use some of the tricks from Dhoni's bag.

Not many had kept Gujarat Titans, one of the two debutant franchises, in their top 4 prior to the commencement of IPL 2022. Along with Gujarat, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) also debuted in IPL's 15th and were led by KL Rahul.

Not many had kept Gujarat Titans, one of the two debutant franchises, in their top 4 prior to the commencement of IPL 2022. Along with Gujarat, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) also debuted in IPL's 15th and were led by KL Rahul. Gujarat named local boy Hardik Pandya, not retained by Mumbai Indians (MI), as their captain. The 28-year-old was not only making his comeback at a competitive level post the 2021 T20 World Cup, but the star all-rounder also had a lot to prove. Hardik entered IPL 15, battling (back) injury concerns. All eyes were on him as the Indian cricket loyalists were glued to the television sets to find out if Hardik the all-rounder will make a return. To many's delights, Hardik did roll his arms in the initial few weeks only to take caution as the tournament progressed ahead. Eventually, he ended with his best tally with the bat, 487 runs, and eight scalps (out of which three came in the finale). Thus, Hardik surely arrived and announced his comeback as an all-rounder. Nonetheless, what came out of the syllabus was Hardik the captain. ALSO READ | India vs Ireland: Hardik Pandya attains unique feat, becomes first Indian captain to claim a T20I scalp CAPTAIN HARDIK Hardik led from the front. He took the responsibility to come up the order and take the crucial No. 4 spot. He played the perfect anchor, bridging the gap between the top and lower-middle order. The young all-rounder picked his bowlers wisely and was content in taking the game deeper by holding one end. Barring a few outbursts, with Md Shami and David Miller, Hardik was at ease even during crucial moments of several games. He spoke with utmost maturity at press conferences or pre and post-match presentations and dealt with things sporting a poker face. Shubman Gill was given a long rope throughout, despite his numbers going down after the initial few games. Rahul Tewatia and Miller had proper role clarity. Shami was given charge of the pace battery whereas Rashid Khan took care of the spin department. Several unknown names, such as Sai Kishore, Sai Sudharsan, Sai Sudharsan, etc., got chances although the core group was never shuffled or unsettled. Head coach Ashish Nehra-Hardik ensured a healthy and family-like atmosphere, which reflected on the 22-yard cricket strip as Gujarat kept on winning games from precarious situations. On debut, Gujarat rode on confident and instilled a Chennai Super Kings' (CSK)-like environment. Thus, Hardik's maturity was hailed by many. On the field, he made swift changes when required. He didn't follow a set template in terms of using his bowlers. Hardik attacked and, at times, relentlessly attacked with his tactics. Above all, he carried himself in a calm and composed manner. Have we seen such a captaincy style before? Of course, we have. No prizes for guessing that Hardik has learned and been inspired from the best in business, i.e. MS Dhoni. ALSO READ | 'Had a chat with him': Hardik Pandya explains why Umran Malik bowled only 1 over in 1st T20I vs Ireland Growing as a player in Dhoni's shadow, before the keeper-batter's retirement, Hardik is surely making heads turn both as a cricketer and captain. He is a utility player and has immense self-belief. Hardik is also a faster learner and has started his captaincy stint with a lot of promise, conducting himself like a young Dhoni who was given captaincy from nowhere. However, he is not going overboard by trying too hard to be the next Captain Cool. Saba Karim (on TOI's podcast) -"I think Hardik Pandya, although he spent a lot of time with MS Dhoni, spent a lot of time with Virat Kohli, he has his own brand of captaincy and the way he plays his cricket is so different from what Virat does or what MS Dhoni does. So you learn from so many great individuals who have been part of the side, but eventually, you bring your own leadership style onto the field and I think that's what he did." Fasten your seat belts, by the time Rohit Sharma steps aside as Team India skipper, Hardik might pip others and become the next contender if he continues to follow his own ways and bring into use some of the tricks from Dhoni's bag.

Hardik Pandya rising up the ranks with learnings from MS Dhoni

Hardik Pandya-led India were off to a winning start in the first T20I versus Ireland at The Village, Dublin on Sunday evening (June 26). After opting to bowl first, Hardik &amp; Co. got early scalps but were asked to chase 109 in a rain-curtailed 12-over contest, which they won by seven wickets courtesy of Deepak Hooda's 47 and captain Hardik's blitz.

During the Ireland innings, Dinesh Karthik was the No. 1 wicketkeeping choice despite the squad comprising Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson. Thus with DK keeping wickets, in Rishabh Pant's absence, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has made a big statement. He feels DK keeping wickets is a big statement made by Team India ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later this year.&nbsp;

"Dinesh Karthik is keeping, which means no Ishan Kishan, and Sanju Samson didn't get an opportunity also. What does it mean, that he is now your primary keeping option if Pant is unavailable, that's a big statement, that's a big endorsement," Chopra said on his YouTube channel. In addition, the ex-Indian player&nbsp;heaped praise on opener Kishan who played&nbsp;a crucial cameo, 11-ball 26, in the series opener to set the tone for Pandya-led India in a tough run-chase.

<section>
"Ishan Kishan played a short knock but a knock which showed that he is cut above the rest. He has the ability to sight the ball early, the might to play the big shots and if you want to search for a disruptive opener, he is the guy, he is putting his hand up all the time," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-found-former-cricketer-all-praise-for-star-india-player-after-ireland-t20i-series-opener-492267">'He has found....': Former cricketer all praise for star India player after Ireland T20I series opener</a>

For the unversed, Ishan returned&nbsp;with most runs (206) at 41.20, including&nbsp;two fifties, in the India-South Africa T20Is at home. Thus, he has carried his form in the Ireland series and will aim for a big score in the series finale, which will take place at the same venue on Tuesday evening (June 27).
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Hardik Pandya-led India were off to a winning start in the first T20I versus Ireland at The Village, Dublin on Sunday evening (June 26). After opting to bowl first, Hardik & Co.

Hardik Pandya-led India were off to a winning start in the first T20I versus Ireland at The Village, Dublin on Sunday evening (June 26). After opting to bowl first, Hardik & Co. got early scalps but were asked to chase 109 in a rain-curtailed 12-over contest, which they won by seven wickets courtesy of Deepak Hooda's 47 and captain Hardik's blitz. During the Ireland innings, Dinesh Karthik was the No. 1 wicketkeeping choice despite the squad comprising Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson. Thus with DK keeping wickets, in Rishabh Pant's absence, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has made a big statement. He feels DK keeping wickets is a big statement made by Team India ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later this year. "Dinesh Karthik is keeping, which means no Ishan Kishan, and Sanju Samson didn't get an opportunity also. What does it mean, that he is now your primary keeping option if Pant is unavailable, that's a big statement, that's a big endorsement," Chopra said on his YouTube channel. In addition, the ex-Indian player heaped praise on opener Kishan who played a crucial cameo, 11-ball 26, in the series opener to set the tone for Pandya-led India in a tough run-chase. "Ishan Kishan played a short knock but a knock which showed that he is cut above the rest. He has the ability to sight the ball early, the might to play the big shots and if you want to search for a disruptive opener, he is the guy, he is putting his hand up all the time," he added. ALSO READ | 'He has found....': Former cricketer all praise for star India player after Ireland T20I series opener For the unversed, Ishan returned with most runs (206) at 41.20, including two fifties, in the India-South Africa T20Is at home. Thus, he has carried his form in the Ireland series and will aim for a big score in the series finale, which will take place at the same venue on Tuesday evening (June 27).

'He's your primary keeping option if Pant is unavailable' - Aakash Chopra makes big claim on Dinesh Karthik

Hardik Pandya-led India kicked off their two-match T20I series versus Ireland at The Village, Dublin on Sunday evening (June 26). In a rain-affected 12-over aside contest, Hardik &amp; Co. defeated a spirited Ireland by seven wickets to take an unassailable lead in the process.&nbsp;

Vice-captain Bhuvneshwar Kumar set the tone for Team India after the visitors opted to bowl first. Bhuvi removed Ireland captain Andy Balbirnie for nought, with some early movement, and took India off to a flier. While&nbsp;Harry Tector's 33-ball 64 propelled Ireland to 108/4, in a dozen overs, Bhuvi remained economical (going at 5.30) and ended with 3-1-16-1. In reply, Deepak Hooda's unbeaten 47 and Hardik's 12-ball 24 took India to a comfortable win with 16 balls to spare.

While reviewing the&nbsp;India-Ireland T20I series opener in a video shared on his YouTube channel, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra pointed out the recent success that Bhuvi has achieved&nbsp;is his second coming. For the unversed, he was the Player-of-the-Series in the India-South Africa T20Is at home. In the Ireland series opener, the 32-year-old pacer attained another feat, becoming the leading wicket-taker in powerplays in T20Is (34). Thus, he went&nbsp;past West Indies spinner Samuel Badree and New Zealand seamer Tim Southee (both with 33 scalps each).&nbsp;

"Let's talk about Bhuvi because he has found a second wind. If you had asked me six to eight months back, I would have said that Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been a very good bowler, but he is not in my T20 scheme of things because there was no pace in the deliveries."

"There was swing in the hand, but let's be honest, the swing that was always there had also reduced, the pace was slightly going down, and suddenly you are asking that an important component of the bowling is missing, without which it will not work because there are a lot of other bowlers," opined Chopra.

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Chopra further added, "But this is his second wind. You will give him a lot of credit for how well he has bowled. You will also credit the team management for sticking with him continuously, I felt they would not stay with him after the World Cup. But he is continuously improving. The way the ball is swinging from his hand, it's been a revelation of sorts about how well you can get your rhythm back. The speed gun is still showing the same speed but the swing is back. That means Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back. I am really, really happy for him."

Bhuvi-starrer India will take on Ireland in the second and final T20I on June 28 (Tuesday) at the same venue.

Hardik Pandya-led India kicked off their two-match T20I series versus Ireland at The Village, Dublin on Sunday evening (June 26). In a rain-affected 12-over aside contest, Hardik & Co.

Hardik Pandya-led India kicked off their two-match T20I series versus Ireland at The Village, Dublin on Sunday evening (June 26). In a rain-affected 12-over aside contest, Hardik & Co. defeated a spirited Ireland by seven wickets to take an unassailable lead in the process. Vice-captain Bhuvneshwar Kumar set the tone for Team India after the visitors opted to bowl first. Bhuvi removed Ireland captain Andy Balbirnie for nought, with some early movement, and took India off to a flier. While Harry Tector's 33-ball 64 propelled Ireland to 108/4, in a dozen overs, Bhuvi remained economical (going at 5.30) and ended with 3-1-16-1. In reply, Deepak Hooda's unbeaten 47 and Hardik's 12-ball 24 took India to a comfortable win with 16 balls to spare. While reviewing the India-Ireland T20I series opener in a video shared on his YouTube channel, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra pointed out the recent success that Bhuvi has achieved is his second coming. For the unversed, he was the Player-of-the-Series in the India-South Africa T20Is at home. In the Ireland series opener, the 32-year-old pacer attained another feat, becoming the leading wicket-taker in powerplays in T20Is (34). Thus, he went past West Indies spinner Samuel Badree and New Zealand seamer Tim Southee (both with 33 scalps each). "Let's talk about Bhuvi because he has found a second wind. If you had asked me six to eight months back, I would have said that Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been a very good bowler, but he is not in my T20 scheme of things because there was no pace in the deliveries." "There was swing in the hand, but let's be honest, the swing that was always there had also reduced, the pace was slightly going down, and suddenly you are asking that an important component of the bowling is missing, without which it will not work because there are a lot of other bowlers," opined Chopra. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya, rising up the ranks with MS Dhoni's learnings Chopra further added, "But this is his second wind. You will give him a lot of credit for how well he has bowled. You will also credit the team management for sticking with him continuously, I felt they would not stay with him after the World Cup. But he is continuously improving. The way the ball is swinging from his hand, it's been a revelation of sorts about how well you can get your rhythm back. The speed gun is still showing the same speed but the swing is back. That means Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back. I am really, really happy for him." Bhuvi-starrer India will take on Ireland in the second and final T20I on June 28 (Tuesday) at the same venue.

'He has found....': Former cricketer all praise for star India player after Ireland T20I series opener

Former India batter Virender Sehwag believes Rohit Sharma should be relieved of India's T20I captaincy to manage his workload in a better manner. Rohit is currently India's captain across all three formats after taking over the baton from Virat Kohli. The 35-year-old star batter is also one of the senior-most members of the side and is a vital cog in the Indian batting line-up.

Sehwag feels the Indian team management and selectors should ensure Rohit's workload is managed in a better way and he is not overburdened with captaincy responsibilities. There have been concerns over his fitness over the last few years as he has missed several series due to injuries.

Earlier this year, he had to miss the tour of South Africa due to an injury before making his comeback in the IPL 2022. He was rested for the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home and is scheduled to lead India in the rescheduled fifth Test against England next month but has tested positive for COVID-19.

Sehwag believes the selectors and the Indian team management should not waste much time and relive Rohit of T20I captaincy if they have a possible replacement in mind. Sehwag believes leaving the T20 captaincy will allow Rohit to manage his workload and take a break when required to rejuvenate himself.

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“If the Indian team management has someone else in mind as captain in the T20 format, then I think, Rohit (Sharma) could be relieved and the following can be taken into consideration going forward,” Sehwag told PTI in an interview.

“One, that would allow Rohit to manage his workload and mental fatigue, given his age. Two, once someone new is appointed as captain in T20s, it would also allow Rohit to take breaks and rejuvenate himself to lead India in both Tests and ODIs," he added.

However, the former India batter insisted Rohit was the best man to lead India in all three formats if the Indian team management is looking to continue with the same policy of having one captain across all three formats of the game.

“If the Indian think-tank still wants to pursue the same policy, which is, to let one man leading India in all the three formats, then I still believe Rohit Sharma is the best man for it.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-did-a-horrible-job-in-sa-series-ex-pakistan-cricketer-feels-rishabh-pant-not-mature-enough-to-lead-india-492203">He did a horrible job in SA series: Ex-Pakistan cricketer feels&nbsp;Pant not mature enough to lead India</a>

Rohit currently faces races against time to recover fully from COVID-19 ahead of the crucial one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston. Mayank Agarwal has been added to India's squad as a backup opener in case if he fails to make the cut. India will take on England in the rescheduled fifth Test starting from July 01.

Former India batter Virender Sehwag believes Rohit Sharma should be relieved of India's T20I captaincy to manage his workload in a better manner. Rohit is currently India's captain across all three formats after taking over the baton from Virat Kohli.

Former India batter Virender Sehwag believes Rohit Sharma should be relieved of India's T20I captaincy to manage his workload in a better manner. Rohit is currently India's captain across all three formats after taking over the baton from Virat Kohli. The 35-year-old star batter is also one of the senior-most members of the side and is a vital cog in the Indian batting line-up. Sehwag feels the Indian team management and selectors should ensure Rohit's workload is managed in a better way and he is not overburdened with captaincy responsibilities. There have been concerns over his fitness over the last few years as he has missed several series due to injuries. Earlier this year, he had to miss the tour of South Africa due to an injury before making his comeback in the IPL 2022. He was rested for the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home and is scheduled to lead India in the rescheduled fifth Test against England next month but has tested positive for COVID-19. Sehwag believes the selectors and the Indian team management should not waste much time and relive Rohit of T20I captaincy if they have a possible replacement in mind. Sehwag believes leaving the T20 captaincy will allow Rohit to manage his workload and take a break when required to rejuvenate himself. Also Read: Hardik Pandya, rising up the ranks with MS Dhoni's learnings “If the Indian team management has someone else in mind as captain in the T20 format, then I think, Rohit (Sharma) could be relieved and the following can be taken into consideration going forward,” Sehwag told PTI in an interview. “One, that would allow Rohit to manage his workload and mental fatigue, given his age. Two, once someone new is appointed as captain in T20s, it would also allow Rohit to take breaks and rejuvenate himself to lead India in both Tests and ODIs," he added. However, the former India batter insisted Rohit was the best man to lead India in all three formats if the Indian team management is looking to continue with the same policy of having one captain across all three formats of the game. “If the Indian think-tank still wants to pursue the same policy, which is, to let one man leading India in all the three formats, then I still believe Rohit Sharma is the best man for it.” Also Read: He did a horrible job in SA series: Ex-Pakistan cricketer feels Pant not mature enough to lead India Rohit currently faces races against time to recover fully from COVID-19 ahead of the crucial one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston. Mayank Agarwal has been added to India's squad as a backup opener in case if he fails to make the cut. India will take on England in the rescheduled fifth Test starting from July 01.

Rohit Sharma can be relieved of T20I captaincy for Team India to manage workload: Virender Sehwag

Rishabh Pant got a chance to lead the Indian team for the first time in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. It was his debut series as captain and Pant got off to a poor start losing the first two matches in a row before helping the team bounce back and draw the five-match series 2-2. The final game of the series was washed out due to rain resulting in a stalemate.

It was in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul that Pant was appointed as India's stand-in skipper for the T20I series against the Proteas. While he managed to impress with his captaincy after helping India bounce back following two back-to-back losses in the first two games, his personal form with the bat was far from the best.

Pant was appointed as stand-in captain for the series in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul. While he managed to score only 58 runs in five games, his captaincy stint was also a bitter-sweet one with two wins and as many losses in the series.

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Pant getting a chance to lead the Indian team clearly indicates that he is part of the leadership group in the side and might be one of the future leaders. However, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria believes Pant is not yet mature enough to lead India. Kaneria said the wicket-keeper batter did a horrible job while leading the team against South Africa at home.

"Rishabh Pant is not mature enough to be captain. He got a chance to lead the side in the South Africa series, but did a horrible job. Captaincy also tends to take a toll on his batting. I feel that he shouldn't be the captain anymore," Kaneria said in a video on his YouTube channel.

His comments came ahead of India's all-important one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston starting from July 01. The rescheduled Test match will decide the fate of India's away Test series against England last year where the visitors took a 2-1 lead before the final match was postponed due to COVID-19.

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With Indian captain Rohit Sharma testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of the 5th Test, India are likely to name a stand-in skipper for the game in case the Hitman fails to recover fully in time. Pacer Jasprit Bumrah is the favourite to take over the captaincy baton in Rohit's absence but Kaneria believes the fast bowler should not be burdened with the responsibility.

"BCCI has indicated that Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah or Ravichandran Ashwin could be given the captaincy if Rohit Sharma isn't available. Bumrah shouldn't be given the load of captaincy and he should rather concentrate on his bowling. I wouldn't want him to lead the side in the fifth Test," said the former Pakistan spinner.

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Rishabh Pant got a chance to lead the Indian team for the first time in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. It was his debut series as captain and Pant got off to a poor start losing the first two matches in a row before helping the team bounce back and draw the five-match series 2-2.

Rishabh Pant got a chance to lead the Indian team for the first time in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. It was his debut series as captain and Pant got off to a poor start losing the first two matches in a row before helping the team bounce back and draw the five-match series 2-2. The final game of the series was washed out due to rain resulting in a stalemate. It was in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul that Pant was appointed as India's stand-in skipper for the T20I series against the Proteas. While he managed to impress with his captaincy after helping India bounce back following two back-to-back losses in the first two games, his personal form with the bat was far from the best. Pant was appointed as stand-in captain for the series in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul. While he managed to score only 58 runs in five games, his captaincy stint was also a bitter-sweet one with two wins and as many losses in the series. Also Read: 'Shoaib Akhtar who?': Twitter left baffled as Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowls '201 kmph' delivery vs Ireland Pant getting a chance to lead the Indian team clearly indicates that he is part of the leadership group in the side and might be one of the future leaders. However, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria believes Pant is not yet mature enough to lead India. Kaneria said the wicket-keeper batter did a horrible job while leading the team against South Africa at home. "Rishabh Pant is not mature enough to be captain. He got a chance to lead the side in the South Africa series, but did a horrible job. Captaincy also tends to take a toll on his batting. I feel that he shouldn't be the captain anymore," Kaneria said in a video on his YouTube channel. His comments came ahead of India's all-important one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston starting from July 01. The rescheduled Test match will decide the fate of India's away Test series against England last year where the visitors took a 2-1 lead before the final match was postponed due to COVID-19. Also Read: 'Had a chat with him': Hardik Pandya explains why Umran Malik bowled only 1 over in 1st T20I vs Ireland With Indian captain Rohit Sharma testing positive for COVID-19 ahead of the 5th Test, India are likely to name a stand-in skipper for the game in case the Hitman fails to recover fully in time. Pacer Jasprit Bumrah is the favourite to take over the captaincy baton in Rohit's absence but Kaneria believes the fast bowler should not be burdened with the responsibility. "BCCI has indicated that Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah or Ravichandran Ashwin could be given the captaincy if Rohit Sharma isn't available. Bumrah shouldn't be given the load of captaincy and he should rather concentrate on his bowling. I wouldn't want him to lead the side in the fifth Test," said the former Pakistan spinner.

He did a horrible job in SA series: Ex-Pakistan cricketer feels Rishabh Pant not mature enough to lead India

Hardik Pandya-led India commenced their short tour of Ireland on Sunday evening (June 26). Taking on the Irish side, India had to wait to take on the field as rain delayed proceedings after Hardik &amp; Co. won the toss and opted to bowl first, at The Village, Dublin.&nbsp;

After the late start, the match was reduced to 12 overs aside where India beat a spirited Andy Balbirnie-led Ireland line-up by seven wickets in pursuit of a tough 109-run target. With the win, Hardik not only made a fitting start on debut as&nbsp;Team India captain, but the 28-year-old all-rounder also achieved a unique feat during the contest.&nbsp;

Captain Hardik came onto bowl in the second over, following swing master and vice-captain Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The captain made a mark in his first over itself, removing the danger man Paul Stirling for cheap (4). By getting the better of the Irish opener, who is the hosts' main batter, Hardik scripted history. Among the nine players who have captained India in the shortest format, Hardik&nbsp;became the first-ever&nbsp;to claim a T20I scalp. Before him, the likes of Virender Sehwag, MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina, Ajinkya Rahane, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan and Rishabh Pant have led Men in Blue in T20Is.&nbsp;

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Hardik returned with 2-0-26-1 and played a handy knock during India's run-chase. He came in at No. 4, with India losing back-to-back wickets and being reduced to 30 for 2, to stitch a match-winning 64-run third-wicket stand before perishing for a 12-ball 24, striking at a whopping 200. Yuzvendra Chahal, 3-0-11-1, and Deepak Hooda's 47 not out led India to a comfortable seven-wicket win in the first and penultimate T20I versus the Irish camp.

The final T20I will be held at the same venue on Tuesday evening (June 28).&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya-led India commenced their short tour of Ireland on Sunday evening (June 26). Taking on the Irish side, India had to wait to take on the field as rain delayed proceedings after Hardik & Co.

Hardik Pandya-led India commenced their short tour of Ireland on Sunday evening (June 26). Taking on the Irish side, India had to wait to take on the field as rain delayed proceedings after Hardik & Co. won the toss and opted to bowl first, at The Village, Dublin. After the late start, the match was reduced to 12 overs aside where India beat a spirited Andy Balbirnie-led Ireland line-up by seven wickets in pursuit of a tough 109-run target. With the win, Hardik not only made a fitting start on debut as Team India captain, but the 28-year-old all-rounder also achieved a unique feat during the contest. Captain Hardik came onto bowl in the second over, following swing master and vice-captain Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The captain made a mark in his first over itself, removing the danger man Paul Stirling for cheap (4). By getting the better of the Irish opener, who is the hosts' main batter, Hardik scripted history. Among the nine players who have captained India in the shortest format, Hardik became the first-ever to claim a T20I scalp. Before him, the likes of Virender Sehwag, MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina, Ajinkya Rahane, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan and Rishabh Pant have led Men in Blue in T20Is. ALSO READ | 'Had a chat with him': Hardik Pandya explains why Umran Malik bowled only 1 over in 1st T20I vs Ireland Hardik returned with 2-0-26-1 and played a handy knock during India's run-chase. He came in at No. 4, with India losing back-to-back wickets and being reduced to 30 for 2, to stitch a match-winning 64-run third-wicket stand before perishing for a 12-ball 24, striking at a whopping 200. Yuzvendra Chahal, 3-0-11-1, and Deepak Hooda's 47 not out led India to a comfortable seven-wicket win in the first and penultimate T20I versus the Irish camp. The final T20I will be held at the same venue on Tuesday evening (June 28).

India vs Ireland: Hardik Pandya attains unique feat, becomes first Indian captain to claim a T20I scalp

India were dealt with a huge blow on Sunday (June 26) as captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the team's rescheduled fifth Test against England in Edgbaston. The one-off fifth Test between the two sides is scheduled to get underway on July 01 and Rohit might not be able to recover fully in time for the crucial encounter leaving India with a massive headache to choose his replacement as captain of the side.

Rohit tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday after a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) amid the ongoing 4-day warm-up match between India and Leicestershire. He had come out to bat in India's first innings of the practice match and scored 25 runs off 47 balls and didn't turn up to bat in the second innings.

He will no longer feature on Day 4 of the warm-up match between the two sides and now faces a race with time in order to recover fully for the 5th Test against England. If he fails to make the cut, India will have to look for a captaincy replacement within their current squad.

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While KL Rahul, India's designated vice-captain is not a part of the tour due to an injury, former captain Virat Kohli remains one of the favourites to lead the team in Rohit's absence. In fact, it was under Kohli's captaincy that India had taken a 2-1 lead in the five-match series against England last year before the final game was postponed due to COVID-19.

However, if Kohli refuses to lead the team, ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be handed over the captaincy baton for the all-important match. Bumrah is India's vice-captain for the England Test in Rahul's absence and might be asked to lead the team against the hosts.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-confronts-fan-for-making-fun-of-young-kamlesh-nagarkoti-during-indias-warm-up-match-491741">WATCH - Kohli confronts fan for making fun of young Kamlesh Nagarkoti during India's warm-up match</a>

Will Jasprit Bumrah match Kapil Dev's feat?

If Bumrah gets to lead the Indian team in the one-off Test against England on the ongoing tour, he will become only the first fast bowler since the legendary Kapil Dev to captain the side. No fast bowler has captained India across any format of the game since Kapil, who last led India in March 1987.

Bumrah was earlier India's vice-captain for the three-match ODI series between India and South Africa earlier this year where Rahul had led the team. The premier fast bowler is already a part of India's leadership group and might get a chance to lead the team against England this time around.

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India were dealt with a huge blow on Sunday (June 26) as captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the team's rescheduled fifth Test against England in Edgbaston.

India were dealt with a huge blow on Sunday (June 26) as captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the team's rescheduled fifth Test against England in Edgbaston. The one-off fifth Test between the two sides is scheduled to get underway on July 01 and Rohit might not be able to recover fully in time for the crucial encounter leaving India with a massive headache to choose his replacement as captain of the side. Rohit tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday after a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) amid the ongoing 4-day warm-up match between India and Leicestershire. He had come out to bat in India's first innings of the practice match and scored 25 runs off 47 balls and didn't turn up to bat in the second innings. He will no longer feature on Day 4 of the warm-up match between the two sides and now faces a race with time in order to recover fully for the 5th Test against England. If he fails to make the cut, India will have to look for a captaincy replacement within their current squad. Also Read: Indian cricket skipper Rohit Sharma tests positive for COVID-19 in England While KL Rahul, India's designated vice-captain is not a part of the tour due to an injury, former captain Virat Kohli remains one of the favourites to lead the team in Rohit's absence. In fact, it was under Kohli's captaincy that India had taken a 2-1 lead in the five-match series against England last year before the final game was postponed due to COVID-19. However, if Kohli refuses to lead the team, ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be handed over the captaincy baton for the all-important match. Bumrah is India's vice-captain for the England Test in Rahul's absence and might be asked to lead the team against the hosts. Also Read: WATCH - Kohli confronts fan for making fun of young Kamlesh Nagarkoti during India's warm-up match Will Jasprit Bumrah match Kapil Dev's feat? If Bumrah gets to lead the Indian team in the one-off Test against England on the ongoing tour, he will become only the first fast bowler since the legendary Kapil Dev to captain the side. No fast bowler has captained India across any format of the game since Kapil, who last led India in March 1987. Bumrah was earlier India's vice-captain for the three-match ODI series between India and South Africa earlier this year where Rahul had led the team. The premier fast bowler is already a part of India's leadership group and might get a chance to lead the team against England this time around.

Jasprit Bumrah can match Kapil Dev's feat as India captaincy beckons after Rohit Sharma's positive covid test

Hardik Pandya will be leading Team India for the first time in his career when they take on Ireland in the first T20I of the two-match series at The Village in Dublin on Sunday (June 26). India's Test squad is currently playing a warm-up game against Leicestershire ahead of the rescheduled fifth Test against England while the Hardik-led second-string Indian T20I side will be in action against Ireland at the same time.

Though it is not a full-strength team, India still have the likes of Surykaumar Yadav, Hardik, Ishan Kishan and Bhuvneshwar Kumar among others at their disposal as the preparations for T20 World Cup 2022 continue. Hardik, who is coming off a brilliant IPL 2022 for Gujarat Titans followed by an impressive outing against South Africa at home, will be keen to get off to a winning start as captain.

Hardik led his team Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden IPL title in their debut season this year and was elevated to captaincy for the Ireland T20Is in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul. Despite missing a number of key players, India have fielded a strong squad for the two-match rubber.

Suryakumar will be making his comeback from injury after missing the home series against South Africa earlier this month while Sanju Samson and Rahul Tripathi are also part of the squad to bolster the batting line-up. Ishan Kishan and Ruturak Gaikwad are expected to open the batting and Deepak Hood might get a chance in the top four.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-very-deserving-of-coming-close-to-a-test-squad-sanjay-manjrekar-lauds-sarfaraz-khan-after-dream-run-491914">He is very deserving of coming close to a Test squad:&nbsp;Manjrekar lauds Sarfaraz Khan after dream run</a>

India also have a strong bowling line-up which will be spearheaded by the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The Men in Bue might hand young pace sensation Umran Malik his India debut in the series-opener or play pacer Arshdeep Singh, who has shown a lot of promise in the IPL over the last few seasons.&nbsp;

Dinesh Karthik is certain to continue in the lower-middle order as the designated finisher in the side while Yuzvendra Chahal will lead the spin pack with Axar Patel to support him. India will be hopeful of making a winning start to the series.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-can-match-kapil-devs-feat-as-india-captaincy-beckons-after-rohit-sharmas-positive-covid-test-491888">Bumrah can match Kapil Dev's feat as India captaincy beckons after Rohit Sharma's positive covid test</a>

India's predicted playing XI for 1st T20I against Ireland:

Ishan Kishan (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson. Hardik Pandya (c), Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan/Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal

Hardik Pandya will be leading Team India for the first time in his career when they take on Ireland in the first T20I of the two-match series at The Village in Dublin on Sunday (June 26).

Hardik Pandya will be leading Team India for the first time in his career when they take on Ireland in the first T20I of the two-match series at The Village in Dublin on Sunday (June 26). India's Test squad is currently playing a warm-up game against Leicestershire ahead of the rescheduled fifth Test against England while the Hardik-led second-string Indian T20I side will be in action against Ireland at the same time. Though it is not a full-strength team, India still have the likes of Surykaumar Yadav, Hardik, Ishan Kishan and Bhuvneshwar Kumar among others at their disposal as the preparations for T20 World Cup 2022 continue. Hardik, who is coming off a brilliant IPL 2022 for Gujarat Titans followed by an impressive outing against South Africa at home, will be keen to get off to a winning start as captain. Hardik led his team Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden IPL title in their debut season this year and was elevated to captaincy for the Ireland T20Is in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul. Despite missing a number of key players, India have fielded a strong squad for the two-match rubber. Suryakumar will be making his comeback from injury after missing the home series against South Africa earlier this month while Sanju Samson and Rahul Tripathi are also part of the squad to bolster the batting line-up. Ishan Kishan and Ruturak Gaikwad are expected to open the batting and Deepak Hood might get a chance in the top four. Also Read: He is very deserving of coming close to a Test squad: Manjrekar lauds Sarfaraz Khan after dream run India also have a strong bowling line-up which will be spearheaded by the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The Men in Bue might hand young pace sensation Umran Malik his India debut in the series-opener or play pacer Arshdeep Singh, who has shown a lot of promise in the IPL over the last few seasons. Dinesh Karthik is certain to continue in the lower-middle order as the designated finisher in the side while Yuzvendra Chahal will lead the spin pack with Axar Patel to support him. India will be hopeful of making a winning start to the series. Also Read: Bumrah can match Kapil Dev's feat as India captaincy beckons after Rohit Sharma's positive covid test India's predicted playing XI for 1st T20I against Ireland: Ishan Kishan (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson. Hardik Pandya (c), Dinesh Karthik, Axar Patel, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan/Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal

Suryakumar Yadav, Arshdeep Singh to feature? India's predicted playing XI for 1st T20I against Ireland

Sarfaraz Khan has been piling on runs at an incredible consistency in the Ranji Trophy over the last couple of seasons. He has been one of the best batters in the tournament in the last two seasons and has been knocking on the selectors'&nbsp;door for a maiden Test call-up. The Mumbai batter slammed a brilliant century in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2021-22 final against Mumbai and followed it up with a quickfire 45 in the second innings.

He is the highest run-getter in the Ranji Trophy this season with a staggering 982 runs in six matches at an average of over 122 and a strike rate of 69.54, including four centuries and two fifties for Mumbai. He has once again stirred a selection debate as fat as India's Test squad is concerned with his stunning performances.

With Ajinkya Rahane out of the Test squad and Shreyas Iyer yet to cement his spot in the middle-order in the longest format, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes India can try Sarfaraz in the middle-order in their Test team. The cricketer-turned-commentator&nbsp;pointed out how Sarfaraz's batting style doesn't inspire much confidence in him being Test quality but his records over the last two seasons speak for themselves.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-can-match-kapil-devs-feat-as-india-captaincy-beckons-after-rohit-sharmas-positive-covid-test-491888">Bumrah can match Kapil Dev's feat as India captaincy beckons after Rohit Sharma's positive covid test</a>

"Because of the way he bats, you sort of wonder whether he's a Test potential kind of a player. But the amount of runs he's got in the last two seasons - and he doesn't get 103, 104, he gets big scores and it comes very quickly as well at a great strike rate," Manjrekar said during a press conference organised by Sony Sports Network.

"So even if you don't have a spot readily available - you want to try out the incumbents first, because Shreyas Iyer has grabbed the opportunity as a Test batter by getting runs - there is absolutely no harm in getting Sarfaraz Khan in closer to the Indian Test squad," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rajat-patidar-slams-brilliant-century-in-ranji-trophy-final-against-mumbai-achieves-unique-double-491725">Rajat Patidar slams brilliant century in Ranji Trophy final against Mumbai, achieves unique double</a>

Manjrekar further went on to back Sarfaraz to at least get a spot in the Indian Test squad if not make the cut into the playing XI. He also urged the BCCI to deservingly recognise the top performers in Ranji Trophy to elevate the importance of India's premier domestic competition.

"Because when someone performs this heavily at the Ranji Trophy level, it's also to a message that we care about Ranji Trophy. We care about our First-Class cricket. And when you recognise performances of your Ranji Trophy cricket and reward the players with recognition at the Test level, then you also elevate the importance of Ranji Trophy level. He is very deserving of coming close to a Test squad selection even if not in the playing XI," Manjrekar said.

Sarfaraz Khan has been piling on runs at an incredible consistency in the Ranji Trophy over the last couple of seasons. He has been one of the best batters in the tournament in the last two seasons and has been knocking on the selectors' door for a maiden Test call-up.

Sarfaraz Khan has been piling on runs at an incredible consistency in the Ranji Trophy over the last couple of seasons. He has been one of the best batters in the tournament in the last two seasons and has been knocking on the selectors' door for a maiden Test call-up. The Mumbai batter slammed a brilliant century in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2021-22 final against Mumbai and followed it up with a quickfire 45 in the second innings. He is the highest run-getter in the Ranji Trophy this season with a staggering 982 runs in six matches at an average of over 122 and a strike rate of 69.54, including four centuries and two fifties for Mumbai. He has once again stirred a selection debate as fat as India's Test squad is concerned with his stunning performances. With Ajinkya Rahane out of the Test squad and Shreyas Iyer yet to cement his spot in the middle-order in the longest format, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes India can try Sarfaraz in the middle-order in their Test team. The cricketer-turned-commentator pointed out how Sarfaraz's batting style doesn't inspire much confidence in him being Test quality but his records over the last two seasons speak for themselves. Also Read: Bumrah can match Kapil Dev's feat as India captaincy beckons after Rohit Sharma's positive covid test "Because of the way he bats, you sort of wonder whether he's a Test potential kind of a player. But the amount of runs he's got in the last two seasons - and he doesn't get 103, 104, he gets big scores and it comes very quickly as well at a great strike rate," Manjrekar said during a press conference organised by Sony Sports Network. "So even if you don't have a spot readily available - you want to try out the incumbents first, because Shreyas Iyer has grabbed the opportunity as a Test batter by getting runs - there is absolutely no harm in getting Sarfaraz Khan in closer to the Indian Test squad," he added. Also Read: Rajat Patidar slams brilliant century in Ranji Trophy final against Mumbai, achieves unique double Manjrekar further went on to back Sarfaraz to at least get a spot in the Indian Test squad if not make the cut into the playing XI. He also urged the BCCI to deservingly recognise the top performers in Ranji Trophy to elevate the importance of India's premier domestic competition. "Because when someone performs this heavily at the Ranji Trophy level, it's also to a message that we care about Ranji Trophy. We care about our First-Class cricket. And when you recognise performances of your Ranji Trophy cricket and reward the players with recognition at the Test level, then you also elevate the importance of Ranji Trophy level. He is very deserving of coming close to a Test squad selection even if not in the playing XI," Manjrekar said.

He is very deserving of coming close to a Test squad: Sanjay Manjrekar lauds Sarfaraz Khan after dream run

Virat Kohli was left miffed and was seen confronting a fan for making fun of young Indian pacer Kamlesh Nagarkoti during India's ongoing practice match against English county side Leicestershire at the Uptonsteel Cricket Ground. The incident happened on Day 2 of the warm-up game when Nagarkoti was fielding near the boundary line. A group of Indian fans at the stadium were seen giving a hard time to the young pacer when Kohli came to his rescue.

In a video which has now gone viral on social media, Kohli can be seen confronting the fan for troubling Nagarkoti on Day 2 of the warm-up match. The fan can be heard telling Kohli he was trying to get a picture with the young pacer to which the former India captain responds&nbsp;by saying that Nagarkoti was there to play the game and not take pictures.

"I've been continuously asking for a photo. I came here after taking the day off from my office. So, I've been calling Nagarkoti to click a photo with me at least," the fan can be heard telling Kohli in Hindi.&nbsp;"Match khelne aaya hai ya photo khichwane aaya hai (Translation: He is here to play the match, and not to click photos)," Kohli responds.

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Virat Teaching a lesson to a guy in crowd who was making fun of Kamlesh Nagarkoti who was standing near the Boundary line while fielding in the practise match 
'aRrOgAnT' uno <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/1urDq3jRyq">pic.twitter.com/1urDq3jRyq</a>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rajat-patidar-slams-brilliant-century-in-ranji-trophy-final-against-mumbai-achieves-unique-double-491725">Rajat Patidar slams brilliant century in Ranji Trophy final against Mumbai, achieves unique double</a>

Nagarkoti is not part of India's Test squad for the upcoming one-off fith Test against England in Edgbaston but has travelled with the team as a net bowler on the tour. Talking about the warm-up match, India declared their second innings on 246 runs on Day 3 of the practice game on Saturday after posting 178 runs on the board in their first innings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pants-fitness-not-up-to-the-mark-rohit-sharma-too-isnt-very-fit-says-former-pakistan-spinner-491670">Rishabh Pant's fitness not up to the mark, Rohit Sharma too isn't very fit, says former Pakistan spinner</a>

Srikar Bharat was once agin the top-scorer for India with a sublime knock of 70 runs against Leicestershire in the second innings. Kohli also looked in good touch for his 33 runs before being trapped lbw by Roman Walker, who picked up a five-wicket haul.

Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna, who is playing for Leicestershire in the game, picked up the wicket of Shreyas Iyer during India's second innings. India amassed a lead of 180 runs in their second innings and will be looking to defend it aginst the county side.

Virat Kohli was left miffed and was seen confronting a fan for making fun of young Indian pacer Kamlesh Nagarkoti during India's ongoing practice match against English county side Leicestershire at the Uptonsteel Cricket Ground.

Virat Kohli was left miffed and was seen confronting a fan for making fun of young Indian pacer Kamlesh Nagarkoti during India's ongoing practice match against English county side Leicestershire at the Uptonsteel Cricket Ground. The incident happened on Day 2 of the warm-up game when Nagarkoti was fielding near the boundary line. A group of Indian fans at the stadium were seen giving a hard time to the young pacer when Kohli came to his rescue. In a video which has now gone viral on social media, Kohli can be seen confronting the fan for troubling Nagarkoti on Day 2 of the warm-up match. The fan can be heard telling Kohli he was trying to get a picture with the young pacer to which the former India captain responds by saying that Nagarkoti was there to play the game and not take pictures. "I've been continuously asking for a photo. I came here after taking the day off from my office. So, I've been calling Nagarkoti to click a photo with me at least," the fan can be heard telling Kohli in Hindi. "Match khelne aaya hai ya photo khichwane aaya hai (Translation: He is here to play the match, and not to click photos)," Kohli responds. Virat Teaching a lesson to a guy in crowd who was making fun of Kamlesh Nagarkoti who was standing near the Boundary line while fielding in the practise match 'aRrOgAnT' uno @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/1urDq3jRyq — Priyanshu Bhattacharya (@im_Priyanshu_B7) June 25, 2022 × Also Read: Rajat Patidar slams brilliant century in Ranji Trophy final against Mumbai, achieves unique double Nagarkoti is not part of India's Test squad for the upcoming one-off fith Test against England in Edgbaston but has travelled with the team as a net bowler on the tour. Talking about the warm-up match, India declared their second innings on 246 runs on Day 3 of the practice game on Saturday after posting 178 runs on the board in their first innings. Also Read: Rishabh Pant's fitness not up to the mark, Rohit Sharma too isn't very fit, says former Pakistan spinner Srikar Bharat was once agin the top-scorer for India with a sublime knock of 70 runs against Leicestershire in the second innings. Kohli also looked in good touch for his 33 runs before being trapped lbw by Roman Walker, who picked up a five-wicket haul. Indian pacer Prasidh Krishna, who is playing for Leicestershire in the game, picked up the wicket of Shreyas Iyer during India's second innings. India amassed a lead of 180 runs in their second innings and will be looking to defend it aginst the county side.

WATCH: Virat Kohli confronts fan for making fun of young Kamlesh Nagarkoti during India's warm-up match

On this day in 1983, India lifted their maiden cricket World Cup title after defeating West Indies in a thrilling final at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground in London. It was a historic victory for India, who were the underdogs heading into the tournament and staged a massive upset against the mighty West Indies. The Kapil Dev-led Indian team successfully defended a total of 183 runs in the summit clash to clinch the country's first-ever World Cup crown.

On the 39th anniversary of the historic triumph, the legendary Sachin Tendulkar recalled watching the final and revealed it sparked a desire in him to win the trophy for India someday. Tendulkar revealed it was one of the moments which inspired him to take up the sport and fulfil his dream.

“Some moments in life inspire you &amp; make you dream. On this day in 1983, we won the World Cup for the first time. I knew right then, that’s what I wanted to do too," Sachin wrote in a tweet.

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Some moments in life inspire you &amp; make you dream. On this day in 1983, we won the World Cup for the first time. I knew right then, that’s what I wanted to do too! <a href="https://t.co/hp305PHepU">pic.twitter.com/hp305PHepU</a>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1540556781885308928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Talking about the final, India lost the toss and were asked to bat first in the match. The Kapil Dev-led side got off to a shaky start and lost opener Sunil Gavaskar cheaply on 2 off just 12 balls. Kris Srikanth then combined with Mohinder Amarnath to steady the ship for India.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/selectors-need-to-have-hard-conversations-with-rohit-kohli-rahul-over-their-strike-rate-ex-india-cricketer-491633">Selectors need to have hard conversations with Rohit, Kohli &amp; Rahul over their strike-rate: Ex-India cricketer</a>

The duo put on a 57-run stand for the second wicket before Sandeep Patil (27) and skipper Kapil Dev (15) played crucial cameos to take the team to a fighting total of 183 runs. Andy Roberts was the pick of the bowlers for West Indies with three wickets to his name.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pants-fitness-not-up-to-the-mark-rohit-sharma-too-isnt-very-fit-says-former-pakistan-spinner-491670">Rishabh Pant's fitness not up to the mark, Rohit Sharma too isn't very fit, says former Pakistan spinner</a>

In reply, West Indies too got off to a poor start losing opener Gordon Greenidge on just one before Viv Richards went after the Indian bowlers. However, the batting legend was sent back on 33 off 28 balls by Madal Lal, who wreaked havoc with the ball picking up three wickets. Mohinder Amarnath produced a brilliant all-round performance as he picked up three wickets after scoring 26 runs with the bat to bag the Man of the Match award in the final.

&nbsp;

On this day in 1983, India lifted their maiden cricket World Cup title after defeating West Indies in a thrilling final at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground in London.

On this day in 1983, India lifted their maiden cricket World Cup title after defeating West Indies in a thrilling final at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground in London. It was a historic victory for India, who were the underdogs heading into the tournament and staged a massive upset against the mighty West Indies. The Kapil Dev-led Indian team successfully defended a total of 183 runs in the summit clash to clinch the country's first-ever World Cup crown. On the 39th anniversary of the historic triumph, the legendary Sachin Tendulkar recalled watching the final and revealed it sparked a desire in him to win the trophy for India someday. Tendulkar revealed it was one of the moments which inspired him to take up the sport and fulfil his dream. “Some moments in life inspire you & make you dream. On this day in 1983, we won the World Cup for the first time. I knew right then, that’s what I wanted to do too," Sachin wrote in a tweet. Some moments in life inspire you & make you dream. On this day in 1983, we won the World Cup for the first time. I knew right then, that’s what I wanted to do too! pic.twitter.com/hp305PHepU — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) June 25, 2022 × Talking about the final, India lost the toss and were asked to bat first in the match. The Kapil Dev-led side got off to a shaky start and lost opener Sunil Gavaskar cheaply on 2 off just 12 balls. Kris Srikanth then combined with Mohinder Amarnath to steady the ship for India. Also Read: Selectors need to have hard conversations with Rohit, Kohli & Rahul over their strike-rate: Ex-India cricketer The duo put on a 57-run stand for the second wicket before Sandeep Patil (27) and skipper Kapil Dev (15) played crucial cameos to take the team to a fighting total of 183 runs. Andy Roberts was the pick of the bowlers for West Indies with three wickets to his name. Also Read: Rishabh Pant's fitness not up to the mark, Rohit Sharma too isn't very fit, says former Pakistan spinner In reply, West Indies too got off to a poor start losing opener Gordon Greenidge on just one before Viv Richards went after the Indian bowlers. However, the batting legend was sent back on 33 off 28 balls by Madal Lal, who wreaked havoc with the ball picking up three wickets. Mohinder Amarnath produced a brilliant all-round performance as he picked up three wickets after scoring 26 runs with the bat to bag the Man of the Match award in the final.

Sachin Tendulkar recalls India's memorable 1983 WC triumph: 'Knew right then, that’s what I wanted to do too'

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has once again raised questions over Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant's fitness amid criticism over his inconsistent performances with the bat. Pant led the Indian team in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul. However, he failed to impress with his performance and was widely targeted by critics.

Kaneria, who has previously slammed Pant over his fitness, has once again questioned him and said he is lagging behind when compared to his other teammates. The Indian team had adopted a new strict fitness regime when Virat Kohli had taken over as captain, however, Kaneria believes Pant's fitness is mediocre at present.

"Rishabh Pant's fitness is not up to the mark and is very low. I would say it's rather mediocre. There was a massive change in terms of the team's fitness standards when Kohli took over the captaincy. But Pant is lagging behind when compared to others," the former Pakistan spinner said in a video on his YouTube channel.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/selectors-need-to-have-hard-conversations-with-rohit-kohli-rahul-over-their-strike-rate-ex-india-cricketer-491633">&nbsp;Selectors need to have hard conversations with Rohit, Kohli &amp; Rahul over their strike-rate: Ex-India cricketer</a>

Kaneria even went on to raise concerns over the fitness of Rohit Sharma and said India's current captain doesn't look too fit either. However, the former Pakistan spinner insisted fitness won't come in Rohit's way, who is a pure batter but asserted that Pant needs to manage his weight issues as it will affect his flexibility and will also limit his batting abilities.

"Although Rohit Sharma too isn't very fit, he is a batter, and it is fine for him. But Pant has to improve his fitness as he is a wicketkeeper. Even at this young age, we've seen how he hasn't been able to catch properly while keeping in recent games. This is due to his weight issues. It has an effect on his flexibility too. He plays with an approach of hitting the bowlers right from the onset. Mental toughness and maturity will also only come with fitness," Kaneria said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-generally-the-enemy-glenn-maxwell-left-in-awe-after-special-gesture-from-sri-lankan-fans-in-colombo-491623">'We are generally the enemy': Maxwell left in awe after special gesture from Sri Lankan fans in Colombo</a>

After veteran wicket-keeper batter Dinesh Karthik's comeback to the Indian side, Kaneria believes Pant will have to fight for his spot in India's T20I team. Comparing in-form Karthik and Pant's fitness levels, Kaneria said the 37-year-old is super fit even at his age.&nbsp;

"When you see Dinesh Karthik, he is super fit even at this age. We've seen that in his batting as well as wicketkeeping. Pant may have scored 70-odd in the warmup game, but he hasn't been consistent and his graph is going down. He will have to fight for his place in the team as there are other options like Dinesh Karthik, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson," he said.

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has once again raised questions over Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant's fitness amid criticism over his inconsistent performances with the bat.

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has once again raised questions over Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant's fitness amid criticism over his inconsistent performances with the bat. Pant led the Indian team in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul. However, he failed to impress with his performance and was widely targeted by critics. Kaneria, who has previously slammed Pant over his fitness, has once again questioned him and said he is lagging behind when compared to his other teammates. The Indian team had adopted a new strict fitness regime when Virat Kohli had taken over as captain, however, Kaneria believes Pant's fitness is mediocre at present. "Rishabh Pant's fitness is not up to the mark and is very low. I would say it's rather mediocre. There was a massive change in terms of the team's fitness standards when Kohli took over the captaincy. But Pant is lagging behind when compared to others," the former Pakistan spinner said in a video on his YouTube channel. Also Read: Selectors need to have hard conversations with Rohit, Kohli & Rahul over their strike-rate: Ex-India cricketer Kaneria even went on to raise concerns over the fitness of Rohit Sharma and said India's current captain doesn't look too fit either. However, the former Pakistan spinner insisted fitness won't come in Rohit's way, who is a pure batter but asserted that Pant needs to manage his weight issues as it will affect his flexibility and will also limit his batting abilities. "Although Rohit Sharma too isn't very fit, he is a batter, and it is fine for him. But Pant has to improve his fitness as he is a wicketkeeper. Even at this young age, we've seen how he hasn't been able to catch properly while keeping in recent games. This is due to his weight issues. It has an effect on his flexibility too. He plays with an approach of hitting the bowlers right from the onset. Mental toughness and maturity will also only come with fitness," Kaneria said. Also Read: 'We are generally the enemy': Maxwell left in awe after special gesture from Sri Lankan fans in Colombo After veteran wicket-keeper batter Dinesh Karthik's comeback to the Indian side, Kaneria believes Pant will have to fight for his spot in India's T20I team. Comparing in-form Karthik and Pant's fitness levels, Kaneria said the 37-year-old is super fit even at his age. "When you see Dinesh Karthik, he is super fit even at this age. We've seen that in his batting as well as wicketkeeping. Pant may have scored 70-odd in the warmup game, but he hasn't been consistent and his graph is going down. He will have to fight for his place in the team as there are other options like Dinesh Karthik, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson," he said.

Rishabh Pant's fitness not up to the mark, Rohit Sharma too isn't very fit, says former Pakistan spinner

India's top three looks pretty much settled heading into the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year. While skipper Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul are likely to open the batting, Virat Kohli will continue batting at number three for the Men in Blue. The trio has been consistent at the top over the years now but their recent form and struggles over improving their strike rate don't inspire much confidence.

While Rahul had a brilliant campaign in IPL 2022, amassing over 600 runs yet again this season, his inability to accelerate in the Power play and during crucial phases of the game cost his team Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) a couple of games. On the other hand, both Kohli and Rohit had below-par seasons with the bat by their own standards.

With intense competition for spots in the batting line-up and the emergence of the likes of Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad among others as openers, the strike rate of Rohit, Rahul and Kohli remains a concern for the Indian team. Speaking about the same, former India cricketer Saba Karim said the trio needs to find solutions for the issues soon.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-generally-the-enemy-glenn-maxwell-left-in-awe-after-special-gesture-from-sri-lankan-fans-in-colombo-491623">'We are generally the enemy': Maxwell left in awe after special gesture from Sri Lankan fans in Colombo</a>

While he insisted all three of Rohit, Rahul and Kohli will walk into the XI, Karim suggested the selectors to have hard conversations with the trio if their strike rate doesn't improve in the build-up to the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia.

"A tough call for the selectors. At this stage, I'm sure all three of them (Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul) will walk into the XI," Karim said in an interaction arranged by Sony Sports Network.

"If such criticism (over strike-rate) is being levelled at them, it is up to them to find a solution so that they emerge in a much better manner. And if it's not happening then the team management or selectors need to have hard conversations with the individuals involved because there is stiff competition coming through. The players whom you have named enough experience to make the required changes in their batting so that it is beneficial for the national side. I'm sure they understand the needs of modern T20 batting," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-challenge-it-pcb-chairman-ramiz-raja-breaks-silence-on-ipls-two-and-a-half-month-window-491440">'Will challenge it....' - PCB chairman Ramiz Raja breaks silence on IPL's two-and-a-half month window</a>

India are certain to head into the T20 World Cup 2022 with Rohit, Rahul and Kohli as their top three. They are also the senior-most batters in the side and will have to shoulder more responsibility than others in the difficult conditions Down Under. While Rahul is currently out with an injury, Rohit and Kohli are expected to feature in the T20I series against England next month.

 
&nbsp;

India's top three looks pretty much settled heading into the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year. While skipper Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul are likely to open the batting, Virat Kohli will continue batting at number three for the Men in Blue.

India's top three looks pretty much settled heading into the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year. While skipper Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul are likely to open the batting, Virat Kohli will continue batting at number three for the Men in Blue. The trio has been consistent at the top over the years now but their recent form and struggles over improving their strike rate don't inspire much confidence. While Rahul had a brilliant campaign in IPL 2022, amassing over 600 runs yet again this season, his inability to accelerate in the Power play and during crucial phases of the game cost his team Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) a couple of games. On the other hand, both Kohli and Rohit had below-par seasons with the bat by their own standards. With intense competition for spots in the batting line-up and the emergence of the likes of Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad among others as openers, the strike rate of Rohit, Rahul and Kohli remains a concern for the Indian team. Speaking about the same, former India cricketer Saba Karim said the trio needs to find solutions for the issues soon. Also Read: 'We are generally the enemy': Maxwell left in awe after special gesture from Sri Lankan fans in Colombo While he insisted all three of Rohit, Rahul and Kohli will walk into the XI, Karim suggested the selectors to have hard conversations with the trio if their strike rate doesn't improve in the build-up to the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. "A tough call for the selectors. At this stage, I'm sure all three of them (Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul) will walk into the XI," Karim said in an interaction arranged by Sony Sports Network. "If such criticism (over strike-rate) is being levelled at them, it is up to them to find a solution so that they emerge in a much better manner. And if it's not happening then the team management or selectors need to have hard conversations with the individuals involved because there is stiff competition coming through. The players whom you have named enough experience to make the required changes in their batting so that it is beneficial for the national side. I'm sure they understand the needs of modern T20 batting," he added. Also Read: 'Will challenge it....' - PCB chairman Ramiz Raja breaks silence on IPL's two-and-a-half month window India are certain to head into the T20 World Cup 2022 with Rohit, Rahul and Kohli as their top three. They are also the senior-most batters in the side and will have to shoulder more responsibility than others in the difficult conditions Down Under. While Rahul is currently out with an injury, Rohit and Kohli are expected to feature in the T20I series against England next month.

Selectors need to have hard conversations with Rohit, Kohli & Rahul over their strike-rate: Ex-India cricketer

From Sachin Tendulkar fielding for Pakistan to Rahul Dravid playing for Scotland, there have been rare instances when Indian cricket team players have taken the field for another team.

Four times Indian cricket team players fielded for another side

Ahead of their one-off Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the Rohit Sharma-led Team India players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire at the&nbsp;Grace Road, Leicester. After India resumed the second day's play and declared their first innings at 246-8, thanks to wicketkeeper KS Bharat's unbeaten 70, Mohammed Shami has done wonders for India with the ball in hand.

Shami has been in top form and removed Leicestershire skipper&nbsp;Samuel Evans for 1 before he got rid of India's Test specialist Cheteshwar Pujara for a 6-ball duck. The right-hander, who was recalled into India's Test squad following a memorable run for Sussex in the County Championship, chopped the ball onto the stumps as Shami celebrated in style. Dismissing his Test teammate, Shami ran towards Pujara and&nbsp;gave him a warm embrace. Here's the video of the dismissal and Shami jumping on Pujara from behind:

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☝️ | 𝐏𝐮𝐣𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐛 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐢. 
 
A second wicket for Shami. He dismisses his <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> teammate, as Pujara drags on. 
 
Evison joins Kimber (28*). 
 
🦊 LEI 34/2 
 
𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐌: <a href="https://t.co/APL4n65NFa">https://t.co/APL4n65NFa</a> 👈 
 
🦊 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaTourMatch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaTourMatch</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LEIvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LEIvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/ANf2NfhUAy">pic.twitter.com/ANf2NfhUAy</a>
— Leicestershire Foxes 🏏 (@leicsccc) <a href="https://twitter.com/leicsccc/status/1540278964459028482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-leicestershire-rohit-sharma-cops-a-nasty-blow-on-the-box-off-jasprit-bumrah-watch-491025">India vs Leicestershire: Rohit Sharma cops a nasty blow on the box off Jasprit Bumrah - WATCH</a>

For the unversed, the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team allowed four of their players, such as Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Prasidh Krishna, to play for Leicestershire as per the pre-game agreement. The opening day saw Indian batters struggle in the conditions as the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli got starts but perished soon before Bharat's 70 not out took them to a respectable total.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Following the practice game, India will face England in the rescheduled fifth and final Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. It is part of the incomplete 2021 five-match series between both sides. The series came to a sudden halt last year due to Covid crisis in the then Kohli-led Indian camp. At that time, visitors had already taken an unassailable 2-1 lead. Thus, India have a chance to win their first-ever Test series on English soil since 2007.

Ahead of their one-off Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the Rohit Sharma-led Team India players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire at the Grace Road, Leicester.

Ahead of their one-off Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the Rohit Sharma-led Team India players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire at the Grace Road, Leicester. After India resumed the second day's play and declared their first innings at 246-8, thanks to wicketkeeper KS Bharat's unbeaten 70, Mohammed Shami has done wonders for India with the ball in hand. Shami has been in top form and removed Leicestershire skipper Samuel Evans for 1 before he got rid of India's Test specialist Cheteshwar Pujara for a 6-ball duck. The right-hander, who was recalled into India's Test squad following a memorable run for Sussex in the County Championship, chopped the ball onto the stumps as Shami celebrated in style. Dismissing his Test teammate, Shami ran towards Pujara and gave him a warm embrace. Here's the video of the dismissal and Shami jumping on Pujara from behind: ☝️ | 𝐏𝐮𝐣𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐛 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐢. A second wicket for Shami. He dismisses his @BCCI teammate, as Pujara drags on. Evison joins Kimber (28*). 🦊 LEI 34/2 𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐌: https://t.co/APL4n65NFa 👈 🦊 #IndiaTourMatch | #LEIvIND | #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/ANf2NfhUAy — Leicestershire Foxes 🏏 (@leicsccc) June 24, 2022 × ALSO READ | India vs Leicestershire: Rohit Sharma cops a nasty blow on the box off Jasprit Bumrah - WATCH For the unversed, the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team allowed four of their players, such as Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Prasidh Krishna, to play for Leicestershire as per the pre-game agreement. The opening day saw Indian batters struggle in the conditions as the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli got starts but perished soon before Bharat's 70 not out took them to a respectable total. Following the practice game, India will face England in the rescheduled fifth and final Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. It is part of the incomplete 2021 five-match series between both sides. The series came to a sudden halt last year due to Covid crisis in the then Kohli-led Indian camp. At that time, visitors had already taken an unassailable 2-1 lead. Thus, India have a chance to win their first-ever Test series on English soil since 2007.

WATCH: Mohammed Shami hugs Cheteshwar Pujara after dismissing him for a duck in practice game

Among the cricket fans, all&nbsp;eyes are on the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022, which will be held in Sri Lanka, followed by the T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in October-November. The two big marquee events will also give fans plenty to cheer for as India and Pakistan will square off against each other in both the tournaments.&nbsp;

Last year, the senior men's teams locked horns against each other in the&nbsp;T20 World Cup (T20 WC), held in the UAE. Contrary to expectations, the Babar Azam-led Men in Green demolished India by ten wickets to achieve their maiden win over their Asian neighbours in any World Cup (ODIs or T20Is). Thus, this time around, fans will see more of both sides against each other in the Asia Cup as well as the eighth edition of the T20 WC. Ahead of the rivalry getting resumed on the 22-yard cricket strip, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made a big statement claiming that Babar &amp; Co. are a better side than Rohit Sharma-led India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"India is no doubt a good team, but there’s no example of the way Pakistan is currently playing cricket," the former Pakistan cricketer was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Cricket Pakistan. "Pakistan has players like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan who are currently named as the best players by the ICC," he opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-has-almost-overtaken-his-next-door-neighbour-virat-kohli-feels-former-wi-pacer-488693">Babar Azam has 'almost overtaken' his next-door neighbour Virat Kohli, feels former WI pacer</a>

Further, the ex-Pakistan captain and keeper feels it will be India vs Pakistan in the Asia Cup, to be held in the Island nation in August-September, in the T20I format. "I am hopeful for Pakistan to win the Asia Cup in 2022. The victory against India in the recent T20 World Cup 2021 has increased hopes for Pakistan," Latif stated. "No doubt other teams are also competitive, but the main competition in Asia Cup 2022 will be between India and Pakistan," Latif mentioned.

Among the cricket fans, all eyes are on the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022, which will be held in Sri Lanka, followed by the T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in October-November.

Among the cricket fans, all eyes are on the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022, which will be held in Sri Lanka, followed by the T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in October-November. The two big marquee events will also give fans plenty to cheer for as India and Pakistan will square off against each other in both the tournaments. Last year, the senior men's teams locked horns against each other in the T20 World Cup (T20 WC), held in the UAE. Contrary to expectations, the Babar Azam-led Men in Green demolished India by ten wickets to achieve their maiden win over their Asian neighbours in any World Cup (ODIs or T20Is). Thus, this time around, fans will see more of both sides against each other in the Asia Cup as well as the eighth edition of the T20 WC. Ahead of the rivalry getting resumed on the 22-yard cricket strip, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made a big statement claiming that Babar & Co. are a better side than Rohit Sharma-led India. "India is no doubt a good team, but there’s no example of the way Pakistan is currently playing cricket," the former Pakistan cricketer was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan. "Pakistan has players like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan who are currently named as the best players by the ICC," he opined. ALSO READ | Babar Azam has 'almost overtaken' his next-door neighbour Virat Kohli, feels former WI pacer Further, the ex-Pakistan captain and keeper feels it will be India vs Pakistan in the Asia Cup, to be held in the Island nation in August-September, in the T20I format. "I am hopeful for Pakistan to win the Asia Cup in 2022. The victory against India in the recent T20 World Cup 2021 has increased hopes for Pakistan," Latif stated. "No doubt other teams are also competitive, but the main competition in Asia Cup 2022 will be between India and Pakistan," Latif mentioned.

'India is a good team, but....' - Rashid Latif makes big statement on Men in Blue's rivalry with Pakistan

Ahead of their rescheduled one-off Test versus England, starting on July 01, Rohit Sharma-led Indian players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus&nbsp;Leicestershire,&nbsp;at the Grace Road County Ground in Leicester. As per the pre-game agreement, the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian side allowed four players, such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Prasidh Krishna, to be part of the opposition camp against India.&nbsp;

After winning the toss, Rohit-led India opted to bat first on Thursday (June 23). The Indian skipper, however, couldn't do much and returned for a 47-ball 25, falling to&nbsp;Roman Walker. This also became the first time that Bumrah and Rohit are playing against each other and the latter experienced what many batters go through, regularly, while facing the Indian speedster. Hitman, who completed 15 years in international cricket, copped a nasty blow on the box off Bumrah. It was a fierce delivery from the pacer as it hit Rohit in the groin region and he looked in discomfort. Soon, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and his opening partner Shubman Gill came to check on him before the physio arrived in the middle.&nbsp;

Here's a video of the nasty delivery from Bumrah to Rohit:

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— ParthJindalClub (@ClubJindal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClubJindal/status/1539912783810424832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pains-me-to-see-such-a-big-player-kapil-dev-opines-on-superstar-virat-kohlis-century-drought-491013">'Pains me to see such a big player.....': Kapil Dev opines on superstar Virat Kohli's century drought</a>

After Rohit and Gill's departure (21), India were reduced to 81-5 at the end of the first session of the day's play. Virat Kohli and KS Bharat provided some stability in the second session, with a 57-run sixth-wicket stand, but the Indian batters have struggled in the tough batting conditions.&nbsp;

After the four-day practice Test, India will take on England in the one-off match, in Edgbaston, with an aim to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil since 2007. At the time the five-match series between both sides came to a sudden halt last year, due to Covid crisis in the Indian camp, the then Kohli-led Indian side had already attained an unassailable 2-1 lead over the hosts.

Ahead of their rescheduled one-off Test versus England, starting on July 01, Rohit Sharma-led Indian players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire, at the Grace Road County Ground in Leicester.

Ahead of their rescheduled one-off Test versus England, starting on July 01, Rohit Sharma-led Indian players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire, at the Grace Road County Ground in Leicester. As per the pre-game agreement, the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian side allowed four players, such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Prasidh Krishna, to be part of the opposition camp against India. After winning the toss, Rohit-led India opted to bat first on Thursday (June 23). The Indian skipper, however, couldn't do much and returned for a 47-ball 25, falling to Roman Walker. This also became the first time that Bumrah and Rohit are playing against each other and the latter experienced what many batters go through, regularly, while facing the Indian speedster. Hitman, who completed 15 years in international cricket, copped a nasty blow on the box off Bumrah. It was a fierce delivery from the pacer as it hit Rohit in the groin region and he looked in discomfort. Soon, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and his opening partner Shubman Gill came to check on him before the physio arrived in the middle. Here's a video of the nasty delivery from Bumrah to Rohit: pic.twitter.com/AISzUeL2q5 — ParthJindalClub (@ClubJindal) June 23, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Pains me to see such a big player.....': Kapil Dev opines on superstar Virat Kohli's century drought After Rohit and Gill's departure (21), India were reduced to 81-5 at the end of the first session of the day's play. Virat Kohli and KS Bharat provided some stability in the second session, with a 57-run sixth-wicket stand, but the Indian batters have struggled in the tough batting conditions. After the four-day practice Test, India will take on England in the one-off match, in Edgbaston, with an aim to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil since 2007. At the time the five-match series between both sides came to a sudden halt last year, due to Covid crisis in the Indian camp, the then Kohli-led Indian side had already attained an unassailable 2-1 lead over the hosts.

India vs Leicestershire: Rohit Sharma cops a nasty blow on the box off Jasprit Bumrah  - WATCH