<p>Virat Kohli's century drought remains a cause of concern for ardent Indian cricket fans as well as the team management. The last time Kohli scored an international ton was in late 2019, when Covid-19 pandemic had not come into effect and when he was Team India's all-format skipper.</p>

<p>Since then, the 33-year-old Kohli has struggled to deliver as per his usual standards. Though the former Indian captain has scored runs, especially in the white-ball formats, he has looked a pale shadow of himself of late. Even in IPL 2022, he returned with 341 runs with only two fifty-plus scores and a strike rate of 115.99. His last IPL hundred also came in the 2019 edition.</p>

<p>Thus, many former cricketers have opined on Kohli's indifferent run. In this regard, India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev joined the bandwagon and shared his take on Kohli's prolonged lean patch. "It pains me to see such a big player go through such a long gap (with regards to a century). He is like a hero to us. We never thought we would witness a player whom we could compare to Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, or Virender Sehwag. But then they came, and forced us to compare, and now since he hasn't for the last two years, it is bothering me and all of us," Kapil said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virats-childhood-coach-hails-dravid-confident-of-his-disciple-regaining-form-in-india-legends-presence-490958"><strong>Virat's childhood coach hails Dravid, confident of his disciple regaining form in India legend's presence</strong></a></p>

<p>Kapil further added that he has a right to comment or question a player's performance if it is not upto the mark at the highest level. "I haven't played cricket as much as Virat Kohli. But sometimes you may not have played enough cricket, but you can look to figure things out. Either that, or we just can not criticise such great players. We have played cricket and we understand the game, and after that, they have to improve their thought process, not ours. If you prove us wrong, we will like it. If you don't score runs, we feel there is some fault. We just see one thing, and that's your performance. And if the performance is not there, don't expect people to stay quiet. Your bat and your performance should speak, nothing else," he further mentioned.</p>

<p>Kohli is gearing up for India's fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, which will get underway on July 01. India have a chance of creating history by winning their first-ever red-ball series on English soil since 2007 if they beat Ben Stokes &amp; Co., or even ensure a draw, in the rescheduled Test. The fixture is a part of the five-match Test series between India and England from last year, which was left incomplete after the first four games due to Covid-19 crisis in the visitors' camp. At that time, Inda had an unassailable 2-1 lead over the hosts and, hence, will be eager to go for the kill this time around in the series decider.</p>


Virat Kohli's century drought remains a cause of concern for ardent Indian cricket fans as well as the team management. The last time Kohli scored an international ton was in late 2019, when Covid-19 pandemic had not come into effect and when he was Team India's all-format skipper.

Virat Kohli's century drought remains a cause of concern for ardent Indian cricket fans as well as the team management. The last time Kohli scored an international ton was in late 2019, when Covid-19 pandemic had not come into effect and when he was Team India's all-format skipper. Since then, the 33-year-old Kohli has struggled to deliver as per his usual standards. Though the former Indian captain has scored runs, especially in the white-ball formats, he has looked a pale shadow of himself of late. Even in IPL 2022, he returned with 341 runs with only two fifty-plus scores and a strike rate of 115.99. His last IPL hundred also came in the 2019 edition. Thus, many former cricketers have opined on Kohli's indifferent run. In this regard, India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev joined the bandwagon and shared his take on Kohli's prolonged lean patch. "It pains me to see such a big player go through such a long gap (with regards to a century). He is like a hero to us. We never thought we would witness a player whom we could compare to Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, or Virender Sehwag. But then they came, and forced us to compare, and now since he hasn't for the last two years, it is bothering me and all of us," Kapil said. ALSO READ | Virat's childhood coach hails Dravid, confident of his disciple regaining form in India legend's presence Kapil further added that he has a right to comment or question a player's performance if it is not upto the mark at the highest level. "I haven't played cricket as much as Virat Kohli. But sometimes you may not have played enough cricket, but you can look to figure things out. Either that, or we just can not criticise such great players. We have played cricket and we understand the game, and after that, they have to improve their thought process, not ours. If you prove us wrong, we will like it. If you don't score runs, we feel there is some fault. We just see one thing, and that's your performance. And if the performance is not there, don't expect people to stay quiet. Your bat and your performance should speak, nothing else," he further mentioned. Kohli is gearing up for India's fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, which will get underway on July 01. India have a chance of creating history by winning their first-ever red-ball series on English soil since 2007 if they beat Ben Stokes & Co., or even ensure a draw, in the rescheduled Test. The fixture is a part of the five-match Test series between India and England from last year, which was left incomplete after the first four games due to Covid-19 crisis in the visitors' camp. At that time, Inda had an unassailable 2-1 lead over the hosts and, hence, will be eager to go for the kill this time around in the series decider.

'Pains me to see such a big player.....': Kapil Dev opines on superstar Virat Kohli's century drought

<p>Virat Kohli's form struggles isn't hidden anymore. The 33-year-old has struggled for big knocks since late 2019. In November 2019, Kohli reached his 70th international ton and the wait for his 71st century awaits to date. Since then, he has played some good knocks, especially in white-ball formats, however, he has remained far from his usual best.</p>

<p>In Tests, in 2021, Kohli averaged just over 25 and hasn't struck at a good rate in the last two IPL seasons as well. In fact, the right-hander returned with 341 runs at 115.99&nbsp;with only two fifty-plus scores. Thus, Virat's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma opined on his&nbsp;disciple's form struggles and feels that head coach Rahul Dravid will help in getting the iconic batter out of this rut.</p>

<p>"Virat is working a lot on his basics, putting the hard yards on his batting for a long time. It is a good thing that he is spending time with Rahul Dravid because he was one of the greatest batters of his time."</p>

<p>"The sort of technique he (Dravid) had, it was fantastic and he had a fantastic temperament as well. It is not that Virat Kohli is making a lot of mistakes in his basics but it is required at times that if you are making a small mistake and if you have a coach like Rahul there, he can guide you about how you can improve," Rajkumar told India News.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-happened-because-of-him-ex-pakistan-captain-blames-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohlis-poor-form-490666"><strong>'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form</strong></a></p>

<p>"Virat has been practicing like that only. He has done that (spending time with Dravid) today but he has been working for a long time to regain his batting style and get back into the habit of scoring centuries."</p>

<p>"The way Rahul used to bat in swinging conditions, he got the name 'Wall' because he used to bat very well in conditions other batters used to struggle. So it is a good thing that he is sharing his thoughts with Virat and Virat is learning from him. I have confidence that Virat will definitely gain from this," Rajkumar further opined.</p>

<p>Kohli is currently part of the Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test line-up in England, for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co. on July 01. Prior to that, he will&nbsp;be in action during the four-day warm-up Test against Leicestershire, which is underway at Grace Road, Leicester.</p>


Virat Kohli's form struggles isn't hidden anymore. The 33-year-old has struggled for big knocks since late 2019. In November 2019, Kohli reached his 70th international ton and the wait for his 71st century awaits to date.

Virat Kohli's form struggles isn't hidden anymore. The 33-year-old has struggled for big knocks since late 2019. In November 2019, Kohli reached his 70th international ton and the wait for his 71st century awaits to date. Since then, he has played some good knocks, especially in white-ball formats, however, he has remained far from his usual best. In Tests, in 2021, Kohli averaged just over 25 and hasn't struck at a good rate in the last two IPL seasons as well. In fact, the right-hander returned with 341 runs at 115.99 with only two fifty-plus scores. Thus, Virat's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma opined on his disciple's form struggles and feels that head coach Rahul Dravid will help in getting the iconic batter out of this rut. "Virat is working a lot on his basics, putting the hard yards on his batting for a long time. It is a good thing that he is spending time with Rahul Dravid because he was one of the greatest batters of his time." "The sort of technique he (Dravid) had, it was fantastic and he had a fantastic temperament as well. It is not that Virat Kohli is making a lot of mistakes in his basics but it is required at times that if you are making a small mistake and if you have a coach like Rahul there, he can guide you about how you can improve," Rajkumar told India News. ALSO READ | 'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form "Virat has been practicing like that only. He has done that (spending time with Dravid) today but he has been working for a long time to regain his batting style and get back into the habit of scoring centuries." "The way Rahul used to bat in swinging conditions, he got the name 'Wall' because he used to bat very well in conditions other batters used to struggle. So it is a good thing that he is sharing his thoughts with Virat and Virat is learning from him. I have confidence that Virat will definitely gain from this," Rajkumar further opined. Kohli is currently part of the Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test line-up in England, for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co. on July 01. Prior to that, he will be in action during the four-day warm-up Test against Leicestershire, which is underway at Grace Road, Leicester.

Virat's childhood coach hails Dravid, confident of his disciple regaining form in India legend's presence

<p>Team India's red-ball regulars have arrived in England for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co., set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. India's first batch of Test players had left for England on June 16 whereas the remaining members, along with head coach Rahul Dravid, reached the country a few days back, after the completion of India's home T20Is versus South Africa.</p>

<p>As India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus the hosts England, 'leader' Virat Kohli gave a passionate pep talk in the Team India huddle ahead of the visitors' three-day practice game versus&nbsp;Leicestershire, starting on June 23.</p>

<p>Kohli and head coach Dravid were seen having a chat with the rest of the squad. Here's a video of Kohli's talk:</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Game mode = 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> gives a 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 team talk ahead of a busy day of preparations before <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a>'s Tour Match 🆚 <a href="https://twitter.com/leicsccc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@leicsccc</a>.<br />
<br />
🎟️- <a href="https://t.co/uu0mGLEuym">https://t.co/uu0mGLEuym</a><br />
<br />
🦊 <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://t.co/zDxP53Slxd">pic.twitter.com/zDxP53Slxd</a></p>
— Leicestershire Foxes 🏏 (@leicsccc) <a href="https://twitter.com/leicsccc/status/1539244572865400834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>It has been reported that the 33-year-old Kohli&nbsp;spoke about 'closing in on history', with the Indian team chasing its first Test series win on English soil since 2007. Back then, current head coach Dravid was in-charge of the side which created history by winning a three-match series 1-0.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-spent-a-lot-of-time-with-dhoni-virat-but-has-his-own-brand-of-captaincy-ex-india-stumper-490187"><strong>Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper</strong></a></p>

<p>Talking about Kohli, he was the captain of the Indian team when the five-match Test series between India and England took place last year. Before the final Test, which was set to be held in Manchester, the Indian camp was jolted by the Covid-19 crisis and, hence, the series decider was cancelled with the visitors 2-1 up in the series.</p>

<p>This time around, Kohli remains a vital cog in the Indian Test line-up, who is on the cusp of creating history, but Rohit Sharma has succeeded him as all-format captain. Under Rohit, India will be desperate to go for a win or, at least, ensure a draw to return with a Test series win in England.&nbsp;</p>


Team India's red-ball regulars have arrived in England for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co., set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. India's first batch of Test players had left for England on June 16 whereas the remaining members, along with head coach Rahul Dravid, reached the country a few days back, after the completion of India's home T20Is versus South Africa.

Team India's red-ball regulars have arrived in England for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co., set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. India's first batch of Test players had left for England on June 16 whereas the remaining members, along with head coach Rahul Dravid, reached the country a few days back, after the completion of India's home T20Is versus South Africa. As India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus the hosts England, 'leader' Virat Kohli gave a passionate pep talk in the Team India huddle ahead of the visitors' three-day practice game versus Leicestershire, starting on June 23. Kohli and head coach Dravid were seen having a chat with the rest of the squad. Here's a video of Kohli's talk: Game mode = 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 💪@imVkohli gives a 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 team talk ahead of a busy day of preparations before @BCCI's Tour Match 🆚 @leicsccc. 🎟️- https://t.co/uu0mGLEuym 🦊 #IndiaTourMatch | #LEIvIND pic.twitter.com/zDxP53Slxd — Leicestershire Foxes 🏏 (@leicsccc) June 21, 2022 × It has been reported that the 33-year-old Kohli spoke about 'closing in on history', with the Indian team chasing its first Test series win on English soil since 2007. Back then, current head coach Dravid was in-charge of the side which created history by winning a three-match series 1-0. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper Talking about Kohli, he was the captain of the Indian team when the five-match Test series between India and England took place last year. Before the final Test, which was set to be held in Manchester, the Indian camp was jolted by the Covid-19 crisis and, hence, the series decider was cancelled with the visitors 2-1 up in the series. This time around, Kohli remains a vital cog in the Indian Test line-up, who is on the cusp of creating history, but Rohit Sharma has succeeded him as all-format captain. Under Rohit, India will be desperate to go for a win or, at least, ensure a draw to return with a Test series win in England.

Watch: Virat gives passionate speech in Team India huddle as Rohit & Co. gear up for 5th Test vs England

<p>Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has called star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world at present. Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel where he picked the stand-out performers in international cricket in the past month, Hogg lauded Pandya for his ability to adapt and deliver under pressure for his teams.</p>

<p>Pandya made his comeback into the Indian team in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa after a phenomenal IPL 2022 campaign for his team Gujarat Titans (GT). While he led from the front with the bat for the Titans to finish as their highest run-getter in IPL 2022, Pandya also stepped up with the ball when his team required.</p>

<p>He continued his fine form in the T20I series against the Proteas and scored 117in 4 innings averaging over 58 and striking at an impressive 153.95. He played a brilliant cameo of 31-ball 46 in the 4th T20I against South Africa under pressure to help India win by 82 runs. Lauding Pandya, Hogg said not many can strike the ball from the word go in the death overs like the India all-rounder.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-pacer-hasan-ali-trolled-on-instagram-by-moral-police-after-sharing-pictures-of-his-wife-and-daughter-490622">Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali trolled on Instagram by moral police after sharing pictures of his wife</a></p>

<p>"Players who have really impressed me over the last month, that really love those pressure situations, are Daryl Mitchell from New Zealand, and Hardik Pandya from India," said Hogg in the video.</p>

<p>"He wants those tough moments when his team's back is against the wall, he wants to go out there and deliver, whether it's with bat or ball. He is adaptable: the other night he came into those final overs and was able to find the boundary from ball one. Not many people can do that. And he can go up and do a job at the top of the order if they lose early wickets as well," the former Aussie spinner added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-happened-because-of-him-ex-pakistan-captain-blames-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohlis-poor-form-490666">'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form</a></p>

<p>Pandya was instrumental in leading Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title in their debut season this year. Captaining a side for the first time in his IPL career, Pandya batted at number four for his team and led by example. He also produced a Man-of-the-Match performance in the final against the Rajasthan Royals with a 3-wicket haul and 34 runs in the game.</p>

<p>Hogg hailed Pandya as the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world at present and said he should be ahead of KL Rahul in the pecking order to lead Team India in T20Is in the absence of Rohit Sharma.</p>

<p>"He is the most valuable T20 cricketer going around in world cricket right now. Hardik Pandya should be captain of this T20 team in front of Rahul," said Hogg.</p>


Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has called star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world at present. Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel where he picked the stand-out performers in international cricket in the past month, Hogg lauded Pandya for his ability to adapt and deliver under pressure for his teams.

Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has called star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world at present. Speaking in a video on his YouTube channel where he picked the stand-out performers in international cricket in the past month, Hogg lauded Pandya for his ability to adapt and deliver under pressure for his teams. Pandya made his comeback into the Indian team in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa after a phenomenal IPL 2022 campaign for his team Gujarat Titans (GT). While he led from the front with the bat for the Titans to finish as their highest run-getter in IPL 2022, Pandya also stepped up with the ball when his team required. He continued his fine form in the T20I series against the Proteas and scored 117in 4 innings averaging over 58 and striking at an impressive 153.95. He played a brilliant cameo of 31-ball 46 in the 4th T20I against South Africa under pressure to help India win by 82 runs. Lauding Pandya, Hogg said not many can strike the ball from the word go in the death overs like the India all-rounder. Also Read: Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali trolled on Instagram by moral police after sharing pictures of his wife "Players who have really impressed me over the last month, that really love those pressure situations, are Daryl Mitchell from New Zealand, and Hardik Pandya from India," said Hogg in the video. "He wants those tough moments when his team's back is against the wall, he wants to go out there and deliver, whether it's with bat or ball. He is adaptable: the other night he came into those final overs and was able to find the boundary from ball one. Not many people can do that. And he can go up and do a job at the top of the order if they lose early wickets as well," the former Aussie spinner added. Also Read: 'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form Pandya was instrumental in leading Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title in their debut season this year. Captaining a side for the first time in his IPL career, Pandya batted at number four for his team and led by example. He also produced a Man-of-the-Match performance in the final against the Rajasthan Royals with a 3-wicket haul and 34 runs in the game. Hogg hailed Pandya as the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world at present and said he should be ahead of KL Rahul in the pecking order to lead Team India in T20Is in the absence of Rohit Sharma. "He is the most valuable T20 cricketer going around in world cricket right now. Hardik Pandya should be captain of this T20 team in front of Rahul," said Hogg.

'Hardik Pandya is the most valuable T20 cricketer in the world': Former Australia cricketer lauds all-rounder

<p>Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made some sensational remarks against ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, blaming him for the downfall of Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro has been enduring a rough patch with the willow across formats for the past few years now. Kohli is yet to score a century in international cricket since November 2019 and has looked far from his best for the Men in Blue.</p>

<p>While he has struggled to deliver consistently for the Indian team, his rough patch continued in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. While Kohli has been scoring runs in patches and has not been completely out of form, his performances still have been below-par considering the standards set by the batting maestro.</p>

<p>One of the best batters in the world at present, Kohli has failed to notch up a big score for India for over 2.5 years now and will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround soon. Speaking about his poor patch, former Pakistan captain&nbsp;Latif recently blamed Shastri for Kohli's abysmal run and said had the former India all-rounder not been appointed as head coach, Kohli would not have been out of form.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-rest-for-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-duo-likely-to-be-available-for-t20i-series-against-england-report-490582">No rest for Kohli &amp; Rohit, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report</a></p>

<p>"It is because of him (Ravi Shastri) that this has happened. In 2019 (Shastri was appointed as India head coach in 2017), you sidelined a player like Kumble and in came Ravi Shastri. Whether he had the accreditation or not, I have no idea. He was a broadcaster. Had no business in coaching,"&nbsp;Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>"Barring Virat Kohli, I am sure there would have been other people who played a role in getting Shastri in. But that is backfiring now, isn't it? Had he (Shastri) not become the coach, he (Kohli) wouldn’t have gone out (of form)," he added.</p>

<p>Shastri had first worked with the Indian team as a director for two years from 2014 to 2016 before being appointed as the head coach of the team in 2017 following the sacking of Kumble as the head coach. He formed a great relationship with then captain Kohli and the duo enjoyed tremendous success as a coach-captain pair.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-acquisition-of-a-player-former-rcb-owner-vijay-mallya-catches-up-with-universe-boss-chris-gayle-490642">'Best acquisition of a player': Former RCB owner Vijay Mallya catches up with&nbsp;Chris Gayle</a></p>

<p>India became a force to reckon with under Shastri and Kohli and were the number one Test team in the world for a long period. They also became the first Asian team to win a historic Test series in Australia in 2018-19. Shastri's contract was renewed ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup in 2019 and he served as India's head coach till 2021.</p>

<p>While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under him, Shastri and Kohli guided India to some memorable series wins both at home and away from home. India won their second straight Test series under Shastri in Australia in 2020-21 in the absence of Kohli.</p>


Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made some sensational remarks against ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, blaming him for the downfall of Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro has been enduring a rough patch with the willow across formats for the past few years now.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has made some sensational remarks against ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri, blaming him for the downfall of Virat Kohli. The Indian batting maestro has been enduring a rough patch with the willow across formats for the past few years now. Kohli is yet to score a century in international cricket since November 2019 and has looked far from his best for the Men in Blue. While he has struggled to deliver consistently for the Indian team, his rough patch continued in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. While Kohli has been scoring runs in patches and has not been completely out of form, his performances still have been below-par considering the standards set by the batting maestro. One of the best batters in the world at present, Kohli has failed to notch up a big score for India for over 2.5 years now and will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround soon. Speaking about his poor patch, former Pakistan captain Latif recently blamed Shastri for Kohli's abysmal run and said had the former India all-rounder not been appointed as head coach, Kohli would not have been out of form. Also Read: No rest for Kohli & Rohit, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report "It is because of him (Ravi Shastri) that this has happened. In 2019 (Shastri was appointed as India head coach in 2017), you sidelined a player like Kumble and in came Ravi Shastri. Whether he had the accreditation or not, I have no idea. He was a broadcaster. Had no business in coaching," Latif said in a video on his YouTube channel. "Barring Virat Kohli, I am sure there would have been other people who played a role in getting Shastri in. But that is backfiring now, isn't it? Had he (Shastri) not become the coach, he (Kohli) wouldn’t have gone out (of form)," he added. Shastri had first worked with the Indian team as a director for two years from 2014 to 2016 before being appointed as the head coach of the team in 2017 following the sacking of Kumble as the head coach. He formed a great relationship with then captain Kohli and the duo enjoyed tremendous success as a coach-captain pair. Also Read: 'Best acquisition of a player': Former RCB owner Vijay Mallya catches up with Chris Gayle India became a force to reckon with under Shastri and Kohli and were the number one Test team in the world for a long period. They also became the first Asian team to win a historic Test series in Australia in 2018-19. Shastri's contract was renewed ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup in 2019 and he served as India's head coach till 2021. While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under him, Shastri and Kohli guided India to some memorable series wins both at home and away from home. India won their second straight Test series under Shastri in Australia in 2020-21 in the absence of Kohli.

'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. The match is part of the 2021 five-match series when Virat Kohli's India had toured England and had an unassailable 2-1 lead before the final encounter was cancelled in the wake of&nbsp;Covid crisis in the Indian camp.</p>

<p>Ahead of the one-off Test, India are training hard in England as the squad is a well-oiled unit, with experience and young firepower. Cheteshwar Pujara, who was dropped from the Indian squad for the Sri Lanka home series early this year, has been recalled into the line-up post his terrific run in County Championship -- where he returned with&nbsp;720 runs in 8 innings for Sussex, at an average of 120 with&nbsp;two double-tons. Thus, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif lauded Pujara and stressed that his comeback is a lesson for all youngsters.</p>

<p>"You can learn so much from Pujara. If you get dropped, what do you have to do as a batter? You go back to County, you go back to Ranji and you score runs and runs and I mean, score tons and tons of runs. He has done that. He's an example for any young player who has been dropped and how to make a comeback. Probably you should go back to Pujara and watch what he has done in the last couple of months. He has been a fantastic player for India also. And I think he'll play No.3 for India," said Kaif while talking to NDTV during a media interaction.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-was-hit-by-covid-19-post-maldives-trip-more-cases-feared-in-indian-camp-ahead-of-eng-test-report-490539"><strong>Virat was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp ahead of ENG Test: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Test specialist Pujara hasn't scored a century for India since early 2019. His ordinary run during India's three-match series versus hosts South Africa in early 2022 led to his omission, however, the 34-year-old bounced back in a jiffy to regain his spot.</p>

<p>Pujara will be eager to carry his County form forward when he turns up for India in their upcoming Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co. If India beat the hosts or, at least, ensures a draw, they will create history by winning their first-ever Test series on English soil since 2007. Back then, current head coach Rahul Dravid was captain of the side.</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. The match is part of the 2021 five-match series when Virat Kohli's India had toured England and had an unassailable 2-1 lead before the final encounter was cancelled in the wake of Covid crisis in the Indian camp.

Rohit Sharma-led India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. The match is part of the 2021 five-match series when Virat Kohli's India had toured England and had an unassailable 2-1 lead before the final encounter was cancelled in the wake of Covid crisis in the Indian camp. Ahead of the one-off Test, India are training hard in England as the squad is a well-oiled unit, with experience and young firepower. Cheteshwar Pujara, who was dropped from the Indian squad for the Sri Lanka home series early this year, has been recalled into the line-up post his terrific run in County Championship -- where he returned with 720 runs in 8 innings for Sussex, at an average of 120 with two double-tons. Thus, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif lauded Pujara and stressed that his comeback is a lesson for all youngsters. "You can learn so much from Pujara. If you get dropped, what do you have to do as a batter? You go back to County, you go back to Ranji and you score runs and runs and I mean, score tons and tons of runs. He has done that. He's an example for any young player who has been dropped and how to make a comeback. Probably you should go back to Pujara and watch what he has done in the last couple of months. He has been a fantastic player for India also. And I think he'll play No.3 for India," said Kaif while talking to NDTV during a media interaction. ALSO READ | Virat was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp ahead of ENG Test: Report Test specialist Pujara hasn't scored a century for India since early 2019. His ordinary run during India's three-match series versus hosts South Africa in early 2022 led to his omission, however, the 34-year-old bounced back in a jiffy to regain his spot. Pujara will be eager to carry his County form forward when he turns up for India in their upcoming Test versus Ben Stokes & Co. If India beat the hosts or, at least, ensures a draw, they will create history by winning their first-ever Test series on English soil since 2007. Back then, current head coach Rahul Dravid was captain of the side.

He's an example for any young player: Md Kaif heaps praise on Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of England Test

<p>Captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli are likely to be available for selection when India take on England in a three-match T20I series followed by the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston. Both Kohli and Rohit were last seen in action during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 which concluded last month. The star duo had been rested from India's recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home which ended in a 2-2 draw after the 5th game was washed out due to rain.</p>

<p>Kohli, Rohit along with the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja and others were rested from the South Africa series. The duo will return to action when India begin their tour of England with the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston from July 01 followed by three T20Is and as many ODIs.</p>

<p>While the members of the Indian Test squad are already in England ahead of the fifth Test, India will field a second-string squad led by all-rounder Hardik Pandya in the two-match T20I series against Ireland before the England T20Is. India will take on Ireland in two T20Is on June 26 and June 28 where VVS Laxman will coach the team.</p>

<p>While there was a possibility that India could field the same second-string T20I squad for the three-match series against England, the selectors are reportedly keen on having a full-strength team take on the hosts in the three matches. The T20I series against England will begin on July 07, just a day after the Edgbaston Test concludes on July 05.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-t20is-i-would-have-stopped-rishabh-pant-from-becoming-captain-says-former-india-cricketer-490579">I would have stopped Rishabh Pant from becoming captain, says former India cricketer</a></p>

<p>While it will result in intense fatigue for players like Kohli, Rohit and Bumrh among others if they take the field in the first T20I against England after the Edgbaston Test, they are likely t be available for selection despite just a 1-day break in between. As per a report in Insidesport, all senior players, including Rohit and Virat will be available for the three-match T20I series against England and will not be rested.</p>

<p>“All senior players will be available for the England series. Yes, we have to carry a larger squad because of the two warm-up T20s but Rohit &amp; Virat and other first-team players will be available,” a member of the BCCI selection panel told Insidesport.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-was-hit-by-covid-19-post-maldives-trip-more-cases-feared-in-indian-camp-ahead-of-eng-test-report-490539">Virat Kohli was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>In case they feature in the series, it will be Rohit, Kohli and Bumrah's first international T20I assignment following the conclusion of IPL 2022. India have named a second-string squad for Ireland T20Is which features some of the top performers from IPL including the likes of Sanju Samson, Rahul Tripathi, Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh. It remains to be seen which of these youngsters will retain their spot in the squad for the England T20Is and who will be asked to head back home.</p>

<p>“We have a set team. We just need to trim it a little for the England series to accommodate the seniors. Some of the guys will return home after the Ireland series. We will have a selection meeting soon. We will have a larger squad for contingency as the team will not be in a bio-bubble,” the member of the selection panel added.</p>


Captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli are likely to be available for selection when India take on England in a three-match T20I series followed by the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston.

Captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli are likely to be available for selection when India take on England in a three-match T20I series followed by the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston. Both Kohli and Rohit were last seen in action during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 which concluded last month. The star duo had been rested from India's recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home which ended in a 2-2 draw after the 5th game was washed out due to rain. Kohli, Rohit along with the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja and others were rested from the South Africa series. The duo will return to action when India begin their tour of England with the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston from July 01 followed by three T20Is and as many ODIs. While the members of the Indian Test squad are already in England ahead of the fifth Test, India will field a second-string squad led by all-rounder Hardik Pandya in the two-match T20I series against Ireland before the England T20Is. India will take on Ireland in two T20Is on June 26 and June 28 where VVS Laxman will coach the team. While there was a possibility that India could field the same second-string T20I squad for the three-match series against England, the selectors are reportedly keen on having a full-strength team take on the hosts in the three matches. The T20I series against England will begin on July 07, just a day after the Edgbaston Test concludes on July 05. Also Read: I would have stopped Rishabh Pant from becoming captain, says former India cricketer While it will result in intense fatigue for players like Kohli, Rohit and Bumrh among others if they take the field in the first T20I against England after the Edgbaston Test, they are likely t be available for selection despite just a 1-day break in between. As per a report in Insidesport, all senior players, including Rohit and Virat will be available for the three-match T20I series against England and will not be rested. “All senior players will be available for the England series. Yes, we have to carry a larger squad because of the two warm-up T20s but Rohit & Virat and other first-team players will be available,” a member of the BCCI selection panel told Insidesport. Also Read: Virat Kohli was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp In case they feature in the series, it will be Rohit, Kohli and Bumrah's first international T20I assignment following the conclusion of IPL 2022. India have named a second-string squad for Ireland T20Is which features some of the top performers from IPL including the likes of Sanju Samson, Rahul Tripathi, Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh. It remains to be seen which of these youngsters will retain their spot in the squad for the England T20Is and who will be asked to head back home. “We have a set team. We just need to trim it a little for the England series to accommodate the seniors. Some of the guys will return home after the Ireland series. We will have a selection meeting soon. We will have a larger squad for contingency as the team will not be in a bio-bubble,” the member of the selection panel added.

No rest for Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma, duo likely to be available for T20I series against England - Report

<p>The Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test team is in England for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co., which is set to take place in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. With the incomplete five-match series, which was originally set to end during the 2021 English summer, serving as a huge opportunity for the visitors to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil since 2007, Rohit &amp; Co. will leave no stone unturned to return victories as they already have an unassailable 2-1 lead.</p>

<p>While Rohit, Virat Kohli-starrer Team India is gearing up for their three-day practice game, versus&nbsp;Leicestershire, there is reportedly Covid-19 fear looming large in the Indian camp. According to a report in the Times of India, former captain Virat had tested positive for Covid-19 post his holiday in Maldives. He, however, recovered before joining the team. While he has returned negative, a few more players may have also tested positive for the deadly virus.</p>

<p><em>"Yes, Virat too was hit by Covid after returning from holidaying in Maldives, but he's recovered now,"</em>&nbsp;a BCCI source told TOI.</p>

<p><em>"This now means that India's tour game against Leicestershire from June 24 won't be as intense as coach Rahul Dravid wanted it to be, since the medical advice is to not overload the players after they've suffered Covid-19. There could be more Covid cases in the team,"</em>&nbsp;the source added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-gives-passionate-speech-in-team-india-huddle-as-rohit-co-gear-up-for-5th-test-vs-england-490503">Watch: Virat gives passionate speech in Team India huddle as Rohit &amp; Co. gear up for 5th Test vs England</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that the incomplete five Tests between India and England had come to a sudden halt, on the day the series decider was to kick off in Manchester, due to the Covid crisis in the Indian camp. The visitors will not like to endure the same fate this time around. They are already without R Ashwin, who has tested positive and hasn't flown to England with both&nbsp;the batches of Indian Test players.</p>


The Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test team is in England for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co., which is set to take place in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01.

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test team is in England for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co., which is set to take place in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. With the incomplete five-match series, which was originally set to end during the 2021 English summer, serving as a huge opportunity for the visitors to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil since 2007, Rohit & Co. will leave no stone unturned to return victories as they already have an unassailable 2-1 lead. While Rohit, Virat Kohli-starrer Team India is gearing up for their three-day practice game, versus Leicestershire, there is reportedly Covid-19 fear looming large in the Indian camp. According to a report in the Times of India, former captain Virat had tested positive for Covid-19 post his holiday in Maldives. He, however, recovered before joining the team. While he has returned negative, a few more players may have also tested positive for the deadly virus. "Yes, Virat too was hit by Covid after returning from holidaying in Maldives, but he's recovered now," a BCCI source told TOI. "This now means that India's tour game against Leicestershire from June 24 won't be as intense as coach Rahul Dravid wanted it to be, since the medical advice is to not overload the players after they've suffered Covid-19. There could be more Covid cases in the team," the source added. ALSO READ | Watch: Virat gives passionate speech in Team India huddle as Rohit & Co. gear up for 5th Test vs England It is to be noted that the incomplete five Tests between India and England had come to a sudden halt, on the day the series decider was to kick off in Manchester, due to the Covid crisis in the Indian camp. The visitors will not like to endure the same fate this time around. They are already without R Ashwin, who has tested positive and hasn't flown to England with both the batches of Indian Test players.

Virat was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp ahead of ENG Test: Report

<p>Dinesh Karthik has managed to spark an incredible turnaround in his international career as he has emerged as India's favourite finisher ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022. After missing out on a spot in the T20 World Cup squad last year, Karthik has ensured he has let his bat do the talking this time around with the next edition of the T20 World Cup in Australia just four months away.</p>

<p>Karthik was one of the best finishers in the recently-concluded IPL 2022 as he shone throughout for his side Royal Challengers Bangalore, With 330 runs in 16 matches and some brilliant finishing cameos, Karthik managed to impress the BCCI selectors as he made his comeback in the Indian team after three years.</p>

<p>He continued his sensational run with the willow in the recently-concluded five-match T20I series against South Africa at home to earn praise from all corners. While he didn't get many chances to bat, he slammed a brilliant 55 runs off just 27 balls to help India win the 4th T2OI against South Africa by 82 runs.</p>

<p>Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has lavished praise on the veteran wicket-keeper batter for his incredible comeback and said he looks well set to be part of India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad this time around after missing out last year.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-pakistan-pacer-md-amir-responds-to-rohit-sharmas-he-is-just-a-normal-bowler-comment-from-2016-490253">Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016</a></p>

<p>“When we (him and Dinesh Karthik) went for the World Test Championship we were pretty much having lunch, breakfast, dinner together. And over there he was telling me about his ambition to come back in the India team for the T20 World Cup,” Gavaskar said on Star Sports.</p>

<p>“He wasn't in line for the one in UAE but this time around he looks very well to be part of the flight that takes to Melbourne,” he added.</p>

<p>Gavaskar was part of the commentary team during the World Test Championship final last year when Karthik had decided to enjoy a stint in the commentary box away from the action. Many had thought his career was all but over after his commentary debut but the senior keeper-batter has managed to prove his critics wrong with his current performances.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-or-dinesh-karthik-irfan-pathan-names-his-choice-while-picking-rohit-cos-ideal-t20-wc-xi-489844">Pant or Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit &amp; Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI</a></p>

<p>Gavaskar gave an insight into the hard work put in by Karthik behind the scene which made it possible for him to make his comeback into the Indian team. The batting legend revealed how Karthik had enrolled for a club in England to do some special training after he found that the gym at the hotel was not good enough.</p>

<p>“He was telling me, how he was creating situation in his mind and practicing according to them. So it was not just mindless practice, it was thoughtful practice. It was practice according to what the situation might be when he's out there,” said Gavaskar.</p>

<p>“Because if you're batting at 6 and 7, you're not going to get 20 overs, not 18 overs. You're gonna get 5-6, maybe if the wickets fall nine overs to bat but in those nine, how to go about it is what he was practicing. He was also training so he got out from the hotel gym because it wasn't good enough. He wanted to do some special training. He went and got himself enrolled in a club.</p>

<p>“That tells you about the dedication and keenness to comeback into the Indian team. And the way he's playing now that'll only make you admire. You've put in the hard yards and it's the reward,” he added.</p>


Dinesh Karthik has managed to spark an incredible turnaround in his international career as he has emerged as India's favourite finisher ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022.

Dinesh Karthik has managed to spark an incredible turnaround in his international career as he has emerged as India's favourite finisher ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022. After missing out on a spot in the T20 World Cup squad last year, Karthik has ensured he has let his bat do the talking this time around with the next edition of the T20 World Cup in Australia just four months away. Karthik was one of the best finishers in the recently-concluded IPL 2022 as he shone throughout for his side Royal Challengers Bangalore, With 330 runs in 16 matches and some brilliant finishing cameos, Karthik managed to impress the BCCI selectors as he made his comeback in the Indian team after three years. He continued his sensational run with the willow in the recently-concluded five-match T20I series against South Africa at home to earn praise from all corners. While he didn't get many chances to bat, he slammed a brilliant 55 runs off just 27 balls to help India win the 4th T2OI against South Africa by 82 runs. Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has lavished praise on the veteran wicket-keeper batter for his incredible comeback and said he looks well set to be part of India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad this time around after missing out last year. Also Read: Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016 “When we (him and Dinesh Karthik) went for the World Test Championship we were pretty much having lunch, breakfast, dinner together. And over there he was telling me about his ambition to come back in the India team for the T20 World Cup,” Gavaskar said on Star Sports. “He wasn't in line for the one in UAE but this time around he looks very well to be part of the flight that takes to Melbourne,” he added. Gavaskar was part of the commentary team during the World Test Championship final last year when Karthik had decided to enjoy a stint in the commentary box away from the action. Many had thought his career was all but over after his commentary debut but the senior keeper-batter has managed to prove his critics wrong with his current performances. Also Read: Pant or Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit & Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI Gavaskar gave an insight into the hard work put in by Karthik behind the scene which made it possible for him to make his comeback into the Indian team. The batting legend revealed how Karthik had enrolled for a club in England to do some special training after he found that the gym at the hotel was not good enough. “He was telling me, how he was creating situation in his mind and practicing according to them. So it was not just mindless practice, it was thoughtful practice. It was practice according to what the situation might be when he's out there,” said Gavaskar. “Because if you're batting at 6 and 7, you're not going to get 20 overs, not 18 overs. You're gonna get 5-6, maybe if the wickets fall nine overs to bat but in those nine, how to go about it is what he was practicing. He was also training so he got out from the hotel gym because it wasn't good enough. He wanted to do some special training. He went and got himself enrolled in a club. “That tells you about the dedication and keenness to comeback into the Indian team. And the way he's playing now that'll only make you admire. You've put in the hard yards and it's the reward,” he added.

'It was not mindless practice': Gavaskar reveals how Karthik worked hard behind the scene for India comeback

<p>Ahead of India's tour of England, wily off-spinner R Ashwin has tested positive for Covid-19. Thus, the 35-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder hasn't left for England along with the rest of the squad and will remain in quarantine for the time being.</p>

<p>After completing his medical protocols, Ashwin will travel to England but might miss Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s three-day practice game versus&nbsp;Leicestershire, ahead of the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes' England.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ashwin hasn't travelled with the squad to UK as he has tested positive for Covid-19 before departure," a BCCI source told the news agency&nbsp;<em>PTI</em>.&nbsp; "But we are hopeful that Ashwin will recover well in time before the Test match starts on July 1. However, Ashwin might miss the practice game against Leicestershire,” the source added.</p>

<section>
<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-cheteshwar-pujara-open-against-england-in-kl-rahuls-absence-bccis-post-hints-at-indias-opening-pair-489990"><strong>Will Cheteshwar Pujara open against England in KL Rahul's absence? BCCI's post hints at India's opening pair</strong></a></p>

<p>Ashwin will be eager to recover in time and be a part of India's squad, who have a chance to create history and win their first-ever Test series in England since 2007. In 2021, Virat Kohli-led India had an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match series before the final encounter, in Manchester, was abandoned due to&nbsp;Covid crisis in the Indian camp. Now, Rohit &amp; Co. will be desperate to finish off the incomplete 2021 series in style, by winning the final Test in Edgbaston, which gets underway on July 01.</p>

<p>For the unversed, the first batch of the Indian team had left for England on June 16. They are already in&nbsp;Leicester and practicing under the watchful eyes of bowling coach Paras&nbsp;Mhambrey and batting coach Vikram Rathour. After the initial batch, the likes of Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer and head coach Rahul Dravid left for England on June 20, a day after the completion of the India-South Africa home T20Is (which ended in a 2-2 scoreline).</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ireland-bound Indian T20I team have been given a three-day rest and will leave for Dublin either on June 23 and 24. Hardik Pandya-led Team India will play two T20Is versus Ireland, on June 26 and 28.</p>
</section>


Ahead of India's tour of England, wily off-spinner R Ashwin has tested positive for Covid-19. Thus, the 35-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder hasn't left for England along with the rest of the squad and will remain in quarantine for the time being.

Ahead of India's tour of England, wily off-spinner R Ashwin has tested positive for Covid-19. Thus, the 35-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder hasn't left for England along with the rest of the squad and will remain in quarantine for the time being. After completing his medical protocols, Ashwin will travel to England but might miss Rohit Sharma & Co.'s three-day practice game versus Leicestershire, ahead of the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes' England. "Ashwin hasn't travelled with the squad to UK as he has tested positive for Covid-19 before departure," a BCCI source told the news agency PTI. "But we are hopeful that Ashwin will recover well in time before the Test match starts on July 1. However, Ashwin might miss the practice game against Leicestershire,” the source added. ALSO READ | Will Cheteshwar Pujara open against England in KL Rahul's absence? BCCI's post hints at India's opening pair Ashwin will be eager to recover in time and be a part of India's squad, who have a chance to create history and win their first-ever Test series in England since 2007. In 2021, Virat Kohli-led India had an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match series before the final encounter, in Manchester, was abandoned due to Covid crisis in the Indian camp. Now, Rohit & Co. will be desperate to finish off the incomplete 2021 series in style, by winning the final Test in Edgbaston, which gets underway on July 01. For the unversed, the first batch of the Indian team had left for England on June 16. They are already in Leicester and practicing under the watchful eyes of bowling coach Paras Mhambrey and batting coach Vikram Rathour. After the initial batch, the likes of Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer and head coach Rahul Dravid left for England on June 20, a day after the completion of the India-South Africa home T20Is (which ended in a 2-2 scoreline). Meanwhile, Ireland-bound Indian T20I team have been given a three-day rest and will leave for Dublin either on June 23 and 24. Hardik Pandya-led Team India will play two T20Is versus Ireland, on June 26 and 28.

India spinner R Ashwin tests positive for COVID-19, does not board flight to England: Report

<p>India's T20 specialist Deepak Chahar will take four to five more weeks to completely recover from the hamstring injury, which had kept him out of Indian Premier League (IPL). Pacer Chahar and another centrally-contracted cricketer Washington Sundar, recovering from a hand injury, are currently doing their rehabilitation at NCA along with the likes of T Natarajan.</p>

<p>In another significant development, spin all-rounder Washington is set to fly to England to play for leading county side Lancashire.</p>

<p>"Washington is nearing full fitness and he needs a lot of game time, which he will get only in red-ball cricket. He is going to play for Lancashire and this exposure will do him a world of good," a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity.</p>

<p><strong>West Indies&nbsp;tour or Asia Cup could be Chahar's comeback vehicle</strong></p>

<p>Chahar, who sustained injury during home series against West Indies in Kolkata, looked in good shape during his morning session at the NCA.</p>

<p>"I am bowling four to five overs at one go as per my rehab programme right now. My recovery is going pretty well and I think it will take another four to five weeks for me to get match fit," Chahar told PTI after his rehab session.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-pakistan-pacer-md-amir-responds-to-rohit-sharmas-he-is-just-a-normal-bowler-comment-from-2016-490253">Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016</a></p>

<p>The Rajasthan seamer admitted that it will not be possible for him to get fit by the time India play T20 series against England in the second week of July.</p>

<p>"It's a step-by-step process as far as recovery is concerned. I don't think I will be fit for England T20s. Once I am match fit, I will need to play some club-level games to check my fitness," Chahar said</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/here-for-15th-anniversary-of-this-jaffer-brutally-trolls-vaughan-after-ex-england-captain-takes-a-dig-at-him-490340">Here for 15th anniversary of this: Jaffer brutally trolls Vaughan after ex-England captain takes a dig at him</a></p>

<p>He looked very comfortable when he batted for a considerable amount of time. So, can one expect that he will be fit for tour of West Indies?</p>

<p>"I can't say that but I will definitely try and get fit by then. Let's see," the swing bowler said.</p>

<p>India are scheduled to play three ODIs and five T20Is between July 22 and August 7 in West Indies.&nbsp;</p>


India's T20 specialist Deepak Chahar will take four to five more weeks to completely recover from the hamstring injury, which had kept him out of Indian Premier League (IPL).

India's T20 specialist Deepak Chahar will take four to five more weeks to completely recover from the hamstring injury, which had kept him out of Indian Premier League (IPL). Pacer Chahar and another centrally-contracted cricketer Washington Sundar, recovering from a hand injury, are currently doing their rehabilitation at NCA along with the likes of T Natarajan. In another significant development, spin all-rounder Washington is set to fly to England to play for leading county side Lancashire. "Washington is nearing full fitness and he needs a lot of game time, which he will get only in red-ball cricket. He is going to play for Lancashire and this exposure will do him a world of good," a BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity. West Indies tour or Asia Cup could be Chahar's comeback vehicle Chahar, who sustained injury during home series against West Indies in Kolkata, looked in good shape during his morning session at the NCA. "I am bowling four to five overs at one go as per my rehab programme right now. My recovery is going pretty well and I think it will take another four to five weeks for me to get match fit," Chahar told PTI after his rehab session. Also Read: Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016 The Rajasthan seamer admitted that it will not be possible for him to get fit by the time India play T20 series against England in the second week of July. "It's a step-by-step process as far as recovery is concerned. I don't think I will be fit for England T20s. Once I am match fit, I will need to play some club-level games to check my fitness," Chahar said Also Read: Here for 15th anniversary of this: Jaffer brutally trolls Vaughan after ex-England captain takes a dig at him He looked very comfortable when he batted for a considerable amount of time. So, can one expect that he will be fit for tour of West Indies? "I can't say that but I will definitely try and get fit by then. Let's see," the swing bowler said. India are scheduled to play three ODIs and five T20Is between July 22 and August 7 in West Indies.

Deepak Chahar will take another 5 weeks to get fit, Washington Sundar to play for Lancashire

<p>Michael Vaughan and Wasim Jaffer continue to enjoy some fun banter on social media. Both former cricketers were great competitors on the pitch for their respective countries during their playing days and enjoyed some great duels with each other. Jaffer was interestingly&nbsp;Vaughan's first-ever wicket in Test cricket despite the former England skipper not being a proper bowler in any format of the game.</p>

<p>The duo have continued their rivalry on Twitter post their playing careers and shared some fun banter with each other. On Tuesday (June 21), Vaughan aimed a dig at Jaffer after the former India batter posted a picture of himself enjoying a sunny day at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting to Jaffer's tweet, Vaughan decided to poke fun at the former India batter and asked him if he was there at Lord's to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his dismissal against the former England captain. "Is it the 20th anniversary of my first Test wicket you are here for Wasim?" - Vaughan wrote taking a dig at Jaffer.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-pakistan-pacer-md-amir-responds-to-rohit-sharmas-he-is-just-a-normal-bowler-comment-from-2016-490253">Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016</a></p>

<p>Jaffer was quick to hit back and responded by brutally trolling Vaughan with a throwback picture. Jaffer shared a throwback picture of India's Test series win against England in 2007 and wrote - "Here for the 15th anniversary of this Michael #ENGvIND." India had defeated England 1-0 in a Test series in their own backyard in 2007.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Here for the 15th anniversary of this Michael <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qae4t8IRpf">https://t.co/Qae4t8IRpf</a> <a href="https://t.co/gZC5ShGNwS">pic.twitter.com/gZC5ShGNwS</a></p>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1539174548053975040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whatever-they-will-say-will-happen-shahid-afridi-lauds-india-for-huge-influence-it-has-on-world-cricket-490244">'Whatever they will say will happen' - Shahid Afridi lauds India for huge influence it has on world cricket</a></p>

<p>The banter between the duo is not expected to stop anytime soon as India are currently in England for a one-off Test match against the hosts. The visitors have some unfinished business from their tour of England last year where they were leading 2-1 in the five-match series before the fifth and final Test had to be postponed due to COVID-19.</p>

<p>India and England will now lock horns in the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston starting on July 01. India will have a chance to script history by winning the Test match as it will be their first&nbsp;Test series win in England since 2007.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Michael Vaughan and Wasim Jaffer continue to enjoy some fun banter on social media. Both former cricketers were great competitors on the pitch for their respective countries during their playing days and enjoyed some great duels with each other.

Michael Vaughan and Wasim Jaffer continue to enjoy some fun banter on social media. Both former cricketers were great competitors on the pitch for their respective countries during their playing days and enjoyed some great duels with each other. Jaffer was interestingly Vaughan's first-ever wicket in Test cricket despite the former England skipper not being a proper bowler in any format of the game. The duo have continued their rivalry on Twitter post their playing careers and shared some fun banter with each other. On Tuesday (June 21), Vaughan aimed a dig at Jaffer after the former India batter posted a picture of himself enjoying a sunny day at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Twitter. Reacting to Jaffer's tweet, Vaughan decided to poke fun at the former India batter and asked him if he was there at Lord's to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his dismissal against the former England captain. "Is it the 20th anniversary of my first Test wicket you are here for Wasim?" - Vaughan wrote taking a dig at Jaffer. Also Read: Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016 Jaffer was quick to hit back and responded by brutally trolling Vaughan with a throwback picture. Jaffer shared a throwback picture of India's Test series win against England in 2007 and wrote - "Here for the 15th anniversary of this Michael #ENGvIND." India had defeated England 1-0 in a Test series in their own backyard in 2007. Here for the 15th anniversary of this Michael #ENGvIND https://t.co/Qae4t8IRpf pic.twitter.com/gZC5ShGNwS — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) June 21, 2022 × Also Read: 'Whatever they will say will happen' - Shahid Afridi lauds India for huge influence it has on world cricket The banter between the duo is not expected to stop anytime soon as India are currently in England for a one-off Test match against the hosts. The visitors have some unfinished business from their tour of England last year where they were leading 2-1 in the five-match series before the fifth and final Test had to be postponed due to COVID-19. India and England will now lock horns in the one-off fifth Test in Edgbaston starting on July 01. India will have a chance to script history by winning the Test match as it will be their first Test series win in England since 2007.

Here for 15th anniversary of this: Jaffer brutally trolls Vaughan after ex-England captain takes a dig at him

<p>Team India is busy finalising their combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. Before the marquee tournament, India still have to play plenty of series&nbsp;as they can tinker with their team combination in order to finalise their ideal XI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A second-stringed Rishabh Pant-led Indian team recently played South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home, which ended in a 2-2 stalemate with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru on June 19. Despite a disappointing end to the series, India had plenty of positives with the form and performances of Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.</p>

<p>After the series, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar&nbsp;mentioned a star player who could be one of Rohit Sharma's trump cards in the forthcoming T20 World Cup Down Under. Gavaskar hailed Harshal Patel as the fast-bowling all-rounder who impressed bowling in tough situations in the SA series and returned with&nbsp;seven wickets in four innings at&nbsp;12.57 and an economy rate of 7.23. He was, thus, the highest wicket-taker in the series.</p>

<p>Thus, Gavaskar told Star Sports, “He will be one of the trumps cards because you have Bhuvneshwar, Shami and Bumrah as well. Brilliant for a skipper to have someone like him to depend on, He can come in and bowl may be even in the powerplay where people are now going with change of pace. So yes he certainly should be part of the group."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/graeme-smith-names-star-player-as-rohit-sharma-led-indias-x-factor-for-2022-t20-world-cup-490209"><strong>Graeme Smith names star player as Rohit Sharma-led India's 'X-factor' for 2022 T20 World Cup</strong></a></p>

<p>Former SA captain Graeme Smith, who was also part of the same panel, agreed with Gavaskar and added, “He has been excellent. Nobody skills in the death overs with the slower balls...but I feel from game 3 he found his right length and picked up wickets and kept the pressure on the South Africans. He has all the skills as an all-rounder bowler and is a big asset to the team and handles pressure very well and is a clear thinker under pressure."</p>

<p>Harshal will next be seen in action in India's two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.</p>


Team India is busy finalising their combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. Before the marquee tournament, India still have to play plenty of series as they can tinker with their team combination in order to finalise their ideal XI.

Team India is busy finalising their combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. Before the marquee tournament, India still have to play plenty of series as they can tinker with their team combination in order to finalise their ideal XI. A second-stringed Rishabh Pant-led Indian team recently played South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home, which ended in a 2-2 stalemate with the final match being abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru on June 19. Despite a disappointing end to the series, India had plenty of positives with the form and performances of Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. After the series, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar mentioned a star player who could be one of Rohit Sharma's trump cards in the forthcoming T20 World Cup Down Under. Gavaskar hailed Harshal Patel as the fast-bowling all-rounder who impressed bowling in tough situations in the SA series and returned with seven wickets in four innings at 12.57 and an economy rate of 7.23. He was, thus, the highest wicket-taker in the series. Thus, Gavaskar told Star Sports, “He will be one of the trumps cards because you have Bhuvneshwar, Shami and Bumrah as well. Brilliant for a skipper to have someone like him to depend on, He can come in and bowl may be even in the powerplay where people are now going with change of pace. So yes he certainly should be part of the group." ALSO READ | Graeme Smith names star player as Rohit Sharma-led India's 'X-factor' for 2022 T20 World Cup Former SA captain Graeme Smith, who was also part of the same panel, agreed with Gavaskar and added, “He has been excellent. Nobody skills in the death overs with the slower balls...but I feel from game 3 he found his right length and picked up wickets and kept the pressure on the South Africans. He has all the skills as an all-rounder bowler and is a big asset to the team and handles pressure very well and is a clear thinker under pressure." Harshal will next be seen in action in India's two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.

'He'll be one of the trumps cards' - Gavaskar feels India star will be integral to Rohit's T20 WC plans

<p>The Indian cricket team is currently in England ahead of the one-off fifth Test against the hosts in Edgbaston. The Rohit Sharma-led side is training at the Leicestershire county ground and are scheduled to play a four-day warm-up match against the county team which gets underway from June 24. India have travelled to England without senior spinner R Ashwin, who reportedly missed his flight due to COVID-19.</p>

<p>There were question marks over Ashwin's absence in the squad which landed in Leicester last week. However, on Monday reports confirmed that the senior spinner had to miss his flight after he tested positive for COVID-19. The Indian team had departed for England on June 16.</p>

<p>As per a report in Cricbuzz, Ashwin has now fully recovered from the virus and is expected to fly out soon to join the rest of his teammates in Leicester ahead of the start of the practice match. BCCI sources confirmed that arrangements have been made for Ashwin to fly to the UK likely on Wednesday (June 24).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-pakistan-pacer-md-amir-responds-to-rohit-sharmas-he-is-just-a-normal-bowler-comment-from-2016-490253">Mohammad Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016</a></p>

<p>The report also states that spin all-rounder Jayant Yadav was kept on stand-by as a replacement for Ashwin and had been called to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru (NCA) in case the senior spinner failed to recover in time. However, Ashwin will now board his flight to England soon in what comes as a huge boost for India ahead of the one-off Test against England.</p>

<p>Ashwin has been one of India's most successful spinners in Test cricket and is currently the country's second-highest wicket-taker in the longest format with 442 wickets from 86 matches. He is expected to feature in the playing XI for the 5th Test against England in Edgbaston which begins on July 01.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whatever-they-will-say-will-happen-shahid-afridi-lauds-india-for-huge-influence-it-has-on-world-cricket-490244">&nbsp;'Whatever they will say will happen' - Shahid Afridi lauds India for huge influence it has on world cricket</a></p>

<p>The&nbsp;fifth Test between India and England was originally scheduled to be played during India's tour of England last year but the game had to be postponed due to COVID-19 with the visitors leading the series 2-1. India will have a golden chance to win their first Test series in England since 2007 when they lock horns with the visitors in the 5th Test from July 01.</p>


The Indian cricket team is currently in England ahead of the one-off fifth Test against the hosts in Edgbaston. The Rohit Sharma-led side is training at the Leicestershire county ground and are scheduled to play a four-day warm-up match against the county team which gets underway from June 24.

The Indian cricket team is currently in England ahead of the one-off fifth Test against the hosts in Edgbaston. The Rohit Sharma-led side is training at the Leicestershire county ground and are scheduled to play a four-day warm-up match against the county team which gets underway from June 24. India have travelled to England without senior spinner R Ashwin, who reportedly missed his flight due to COVID-19. There were question marks over Ashwin's absence in the squad which landed in Leicester last week. However, on Monday reports confirmed that the senior spinner had to miss his flight after he tested positive for COVID-19. The Indian team had departed for England on June 16. As per a report in Cricbuzz, Ashwin has now fully recovered from the virus and is expected to fly out soon to join the rest of his teammates in Leicester ahead of the start of the practice match. BCCI sources confirmed that arrangements have been made for Ashwin to fly to the UK likely on Wednesday (June 24). Also Read: Mohammad Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016 The report also states that spin all-rounder Jayant Yadav was kept on stand-by as a replacement for Ashwin and had been called to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru (NCA) in case the senior spinner failed to recover in time. However, Ashwin will now board his flight to England soon in what comes as a huge boost for India ahead of the one-off Test against England. Ashwin has been one of India's most successful spinners in Test cricket and is currently the country's second-highest wicket-taker in the longest format with 442 wickets from 86 matches. He is expected to feature in the playing XI for the 5th Test against England in Edgbaston which begins on July 01. Also Read: 'Whatever they will say will happen' - Shahid Afridi lauds India for huge influence it has on world cricket The fifth Test between India and England was originally scheduled to be played during India's tour of England last year but the game had to be postponed due to COVID-19 with the visitors leading the series 2-1. India will have a golden chance to win their first Test series in England since 2007 when they lock horns with the visitors in the 5th Test from July 01.

R Ashwin to join Indian squad in England in next couple of days after missing flight due to COVID-19

<p>Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has responded to current India captain Rohit Sharma's comments for him from 2016. Ahead of the Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan in 2016, Rohit had called Amir 'just a normal bowler' while speaking to the reporters. He had also urged the media to stop creating hype around the left-arm fast bowler stating that he still required consistency in his game and needed to prove himself despite being good.</p>

<p>Back then, Amir was making his comeback to international cricket after serving a five-year ban for his involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal in England. Amir was in red-hot form with the ball during the Asia Cup 2016 and was raring to breathe fire against arch-rivals India.</p>

<p>India were chasing only 85 runs in the game but were in trouble early in their run-chase after Amir dismissed both openers Rohit and Ajinkya Rahane on ducks before also getting rid of Suresh Raina on just 1 run. He bowled an excellent spell of 3/18 in his 4 overs but Pakistan lost the game by 5 wickets as India chased down the total comfortably.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-had-tears-rolling-tim-paine-recalls-md-sirajs-racism-incident-during-india-australia-sydney-test-490147">'He had tears rolling...': Tim Paine recalls Md Siraj's racism incident during India-Australia Sydney Test</a></p>

<p>Speaking to a local Pakistani news channel recently, Amir was asked about Rohit's comments about him back in 2016. The former Pakistan pacer said he didn't take the current Indian captain's comments seriously and said it was impossible that everyone to rate him as a world-class fast bowler.</p>

<p>"I don’t take Rohit Sharma’s statement seriously. Everyone has his own opinion and it is impossible that everyone regards me as a world-class bowler," Amir was quoted as saying ASports.</p>

<p>"There is nothing to be felt bad about it, and as a professional, we should not take such things in a negative way. You cannot be everyone’s favourite," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-spinner-r-ashwin-tests-positive-for-covid-19-does-not-board-flight-to-england-report-490103">India spinner R Ashwin tests positive for COVID-19, does not board flight to England: Report</a></p>

<p>The former Pakistan pacer recalled his duels with Rohit in the past and said the Indian skipper is a world-class batter without any doubt. Despite having dismissed him on several occasions in international cricket and having troubled him with the ball, Amir maintained Rohit is one of the best in the world.</p>

<p>"No doubt he is a world-class batsman. I bowled well every time I faced Rohit and he struggled while facing me, still, I will call him a world-class player," Amir said.</p>


Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has responded to current India captain Rohit Sharma's comments for him from 2016. Ahead of the Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan in 2016, Rohit had called Amir 'just a normal bowler' while speaking to the reporters.

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has responded to current India captain Rohit Sharma's comments for him from 2016. Ahead of the Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan in 2016, Rohit had called Amir 'just a normal bowler' while speaking to the reporters. He had also urged the media to stop creating hype around the left-arm fast bowler stating that he still required consistency in his game and needed to prove himself despite being good. Back then, Amir was making his comeback to international cricket after serving a five-year ban for his involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal in England. Amir was in red-hot form with the ball during the Asia Cup 2016 and was raring to breathe fire against arch-rivals India. India were chasing only 85 runs in the game but were in trouble early in their run-chase after Amir dismissed both openers Rohit and Ajinkya Rahane on ducks before also getting rid of Suresh Raina on just 1 run. He bowled an excellent spell of 3/18 in his 4 overs but Pakistan lost the game by 5 wickets as India chased down the total comfortably. Also Read: 'He had tears rolling...': Tim Paine recalls Md Siraj's racism incident during India-Australia Sydney Test Speaking to a local Pakistani news channel recently, Amir was asked about Rohit's comments about him back in 2016. The former Pakistan pacer said he didn't take the current Indian captain's comments seriously and said it was impossible that everyone to rate him as a world-class fast bowler. "I don’t take Rohit Sharma’s statement seriously. Everyone has his own opinion and it is impossible that everyone regards me as a world-class bowler," Amir was quoted as saying ASports. "There is nothing to be felt bad about it, and as a professional, we should not take such things in a negative way. You cannot be everyone’s favourite," he added. Also Read: India spinner R Ashwin tests positive for COVID-19, does not board flight to England: Report The former Pakistan pacer recalled his duels with Rohit in the past and said the Indian skipper is a world-class batter without any doubt. Despite having dismissed him on several occasions in international cricket and having troubled him with the ball, Amir maintained Rohit is one of the best in the world. "No doubt he is a world-class batsman. I bowled well every time I faced Rohit and he struggled while facing me, still, I will call him a world-class player," Amir said.

Ex-Pakistan pacer Md. Amir responds to Rohit Sharma's 'he is just a normal bowler' comment from 2016

<p>India and South Africa's five-match T20I series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, after the fifth and final encounter was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Despite the series not determining a winner between both sides, there were a lot of positives for the hosts India, who were without many of their white-ball regulars.</p>

<p>The Rishabh Pant-led Indian team saw top performances from Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who returned with the Player-of-the-Match, Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan and Yuzvendra Chahal. After the series, former SA captain Graeme Smith named two players who are now integral to India's T20I squad and named the X-factor for Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>Speaking to&nbsp;<em>cricket.com</em>, batting icon Smith opined that Pandya and Karthik have become somewhat indispensable. In this regard, he opined, "Still a lot of cricket to be played so it is difficult to predict what is going to happen in the next couple of months but you are going to think Hardik and DK are integral to that squad. DK is experienced with that finishing role that he has played Hardik has grown leaps and bounds and is in control of his game."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-spent-a-lot-of-time-with-dhoni-virat-but-has-his-own-brand-of-captaincy-ex-india-stumper-490187"><strong>Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper</strong></a></p>

<section>
<p>On Hardik, Smith added, "Mentally he looks like he has settled. And he is also that all-rounder X Factor that India require to just balance the team with him and Jadeja in the squad which opens up a lot of options. So I can't see that those two not making it to the World Cup squad."</p>

<p>Both Hardik and DK will next be seen in action during India's forthcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.</p>
</section>


India and South Africa's five-match T20I series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, after the fifth and final encounter was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru.

India and South Africa's five-match T20I series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, after the fifth and final encounter was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Despite the series not determining a winner between both sides, there were a lot of positives for the hosts India, who were without many of their white-ball regulars. The Rishabh Pant-led Indian team saw top performances from Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who returned with the Player-of-the-Match, Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan and Yuzvendra Chahal. After the series, former SA captain Graeme Smith named two players who are now integral to India's T20I squad and named the X-factor for Rohit Sharma & Co. heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup. Speaking to cricket.com, batting icon Smith opined that Pandya and Karthik have become somewhat indispensable. In this regard, he opined, "Still a lot of cricket to be played so it is difficult to predict what is going to happen in the next couple of months but you are going to think Hardik and DK are integral to that squad. DK is experienced with that finishing role that he has played Hardik has grown leaps and bounds and is in control of his game." ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper On Hardik, Smith added, "Mentally he looks like he has settled. And he is also that all-rounder X Factor that India require to just balance the team with him and Jadeja in the squad which opens up a lot of options. So I can't see that those two not making it to the World Cup squad." Both Hardik and DK will next be seen in action during India's forthcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.

Graeme Smith names star player as Rohit Sharma-led India's 'X-factor' for 2022 T20 World Cup

<p>Hardik Pandya remains the talk of the town. He made a sensational comeback in competitive cricket, after the 2021 T20 World Cup, after having missed a plethora of series for Team India due to his fitness issues. In his break, he worked on his fitness and has returned in style, not only fulfilling the role of an all-rounder, but the 28-year-old has also shown his flair as a leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During IPL 2022, Hardik led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) and took them to their maiden championship. His leadership style was hailed by many -- being calm and composed, positive, leading by the front and backing his core players -- as he also had a good run in the recently-concluded India-South Africa T20Is at home. India are now set to play Ireland in two T20Is, where Hardik will lead a second-stringed side. Ahead of his captaincy debut for India, former Indian stumper and&nbsp;selector Saba Karim lauded the all-rounder and stated that the youngster is still a different leader than MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, despite being groomed by them since his debut.</p>

<p>Speaking on TOI's podcast '<em>Sportscast</em>', Karim said, "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."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhonis-international-career-got-over-but-aakash-chopra-lauds-dinesh-karthik-after-sa-t20is-489877"><strong>'MS Dhoni's international career got over but....' - Aakash Chopra lauds Dinesh Karthik after SA T20Is</strong></a></p>

<p>Karim was part of the selection committee when Hardik made his debut for India, in early 2016 during a white-ball tour of Australia. Recalling the time, Karim opined that Hardik has impressed with his maturity, change in lifestyle, etc. to bring desired results as a cricketer.</p>

<p>"If I remember correctly, he made his debut in 2015-16 (January 2016 in a T20I vs Australia in Adelaide), when I was part of the selection committee and since then he has grown not only as a person but also as a cricketer and it seemed like it had come to a stage where he really had to reinvent his lifestyle to become a more mature cricketer and that's what was seen in this season's IPL. And that is remarkable - it's not easy for athletes to do that at that level," he further added.</p>


Hardik Pandya remains the talk of the town. He made a sensational comeback in competitive cricket, after the 2021 T20 World Cup, after having missed a plethora of series for Team India due to his fitness issues.

Hardik Pandya remains the talk of the town. He made a sensational comeback in competitive cricket, after the 2021 T20 World Cup, after having missed a plethora of series for Team India due to his fitness issues. In his break, he worked on his fitness and has returned in style, not only fulfilling the role of an all-rounder, but the 28-year-old has also shown his flair as a leader. During IPL 2022, Hardik led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) and took them to their maiden championship. His leadership style was hailed by many -- being calm and composed, positive, leading by the front and backing his core players -- as he also had a good run in the recently-concluded India-South Africa T20Is at home. India are now set to play Ireland in two T20Is, where Hardik will lead a second-stringed side. Ahead of his captaincy debut for India, former Indian stumper and selector Saba Karim lauded the all-rounder and stated that the youngster is still a different leader than MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, despite being groomed by them since his debut. Speaking on TOI's podcast 'Sportscast', Karim said, "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." ALSO READ | 'MS Dhoni's international career got over but....' - Aakash Chopra lauds Dinesh Karthik after SA T20Is Karim was part of the selection committee when Hardik made his debut for India, in early 2016 during a white-ball tour of Australia. Recalling the time, Karim opined that Hardik has impressed with his maturity, change in lifestyle, etc. to bring desired results as a cricketer. "If I remember correctly, he made his debut in 2015-16 (January 2016 in a T20I vs Australia in Adelaide), when I was part of the selection committee and since then he has grown not only as a person but also as a cricketer and it seemed like it had come to a stage where he really had to reinvent his lifestyle to become a more mature cricketer and that's what was seen in this season's IPL. And that is remarkable - it's not easy for athletes to do that at that level," he further added.

Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper

<p>India and South Africa locked horns in the fifth and final T20I at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday evening (June 19). Much to the dismay of the fans at the stadium, only 3.3 overs of play was possible -- with hosts 21 for 2 -- as the entire proceedings led to a no-result due to persistent rain.</p>

<p>Before the start of play, when rain was out of the picture, Rishabh Pant-led India had lost the coin toss -- for the fifth time in a row -- and were asked to bat first. Just when the players came out for the start of the match, rain made its presence felt and both camps went back to their respective dressing rooms. Just then, a video of Ruturaj Gaikwad's interaction with a groundsman went viral.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, the groundsman was in the Indian dressing room and asked&nbsp;Ruturaj&nbsp;for a quick selfie. To this, the 25-year-old Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) and India opener asked him to maintain distance and, instead, interacted with his follow teammates. While many have slammed Ruturaj for his inappropriate behaviour, some have also supported the batter as outsiders and cellphones are prohibited in&nbsp;dugouts. <strong>Here are some reactions as netizens on Twitter are divided over Ruturaj's behaviour with the groundsman:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this 😔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RuturajGaikwad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RuturajGaikwad</a> <a href="https://t.co/jIXWvUdqIX">pic.twitter.com/jIXWvUdqIX</a></p>
— Arnav (@imarnav_904) <a href="https://twitter.com/imarnav_904/status/1538549132482076673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/5th-t20i-between-india-and-south-africa-called-off-due-to-rain-series-shared-489760"><strong>5th T20I between India and South Africa called off due to rain, series shared</strong></a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ruturaj Gaikwad showing attitude while taking selfie with 'groundsman' not anyone can treat everyone equal like Rohit Sharma ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsSa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsSa</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y2IEDsJShj">pic.twitter.com/Y2IEDsJShj</a></p>
— 𓃵 Ctrl C + Ctrl Memes 45 (@Ctrlmemes_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ctrlmemes_/status/1538522583804522497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this👎 <a href="https://t.co/Qj6YoXIPUa">pic.twitter.com/Qj6YoXIPUa</a></p>
— akshat (@ReignOfVirat) <a href="https://twitter.com/ReignOfVirat/status/1538521237584060418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Nah... Nothing wrong. You are not allowed in the dug out first of all. And last IPL, one bookie was caught masquerading as a groundsman at Kotla <a href="https://t.co/5f0j5lkuOv">https://t.co/5f0j5lkuOv</a></p>
— Prithvi (@Puneite_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Puneite_/status/1538536797315399680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Definitely! Already he got affected with covid twice so nothing wrong.</p>
— Sooraj Ayyappan (@Sooraj_Ayyappan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sooraj_Ayyappan/status/1538543218249170952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasnt-the-plan-rahul-dravid-opens-up-on-working-with-6-different-captains-as-india-head-coach-489747">'Wasn't the plan': Rahul Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the India-SA T20I series, the two sides had to share the trophy after the final match was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Speaking about Ruturaj, he returned with a solitary fifty in five outings and will like to make the most of his opportunities in India's upcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland.</p>


India and South Africa locked horns in the fifth and final T20I at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday evening (June 19). Much to the dismay of the fans at the stadium, only 3.

India and South Africa locked horns in the fifth and final T20I at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday evening (June 19). Much to the dismay of the fans at the stadium, only 3.3 overs of play was possible -- with hosts 21 for 2 -- as the entire proceedings led to a no-result due to persistent rain. Before the start of play, when rain was out of the picture, Rishabh Pant-led India had lost the coin toss -- for the fifth time in a row -- and were asked to bat first. Just when the players came out for the start of the match, rain made its presence felt and both camps went back to their respective dressing rooms. Just then, a video of Ruturaj Gaikwad's interaction with a groundsman went viral. In the video, the groundsman was in the Indian dressing room and asked Ruturaj for a quick selfie. To this, the 25-year-old Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) and India opener asked him to maintain distance and, instead, interacted with his follow teammates. While many have slammed Ruturaj for his inappropriate behaviour, some have also supported the batter as outsiders and cellphones are prohibited in dugouts. Here are some reactions as netizens on Twitter are divided over Ruturaj's behaviour with the groundsman: Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this 😔#RuturajGaikwad pic.twitter.com/jIXWvUdqIX — Arnav (@imarnav_904) June 19, 2022 × ALSO READ | 5th T20I between India and South Africa called off due to rain, series shared Ruturaj Gaikwad showing attitude while taking selfie with 'groundsman' not anyone can treat everyone equal like Rohit Sharma ❤️#INDvSA #IndvsSa pic.twitter.com/Y2IEDsJShj — 𓃵 Ctrl C + Ctrl Memes 45 (@Ctrlmemes_) June 19, 2022 × Very bad and disrespectful gesture by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Sad to see these groundsmen getting treated like this👎 pic.twitter.com/Qj6YoXIPUa — akshat (@ReignOfVirat) June 19, 2022 × Nah... Nothing wrong. You are not allowed in the dug out first of all. And last IPL, one bookie was caught masquerading as a groundsman at Kotla https://t.co/5f0j5lkuOv — Prithvi (@Puneite_) June 19, 2022 × Definitely! Already he got affected with covid twice so nothing wrong. — Sooraj Ayyappan (@Sooraj_Ayyappan) June 19, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Wasn't the plan': Rahul Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach Talking about the India-SA T20I series, the two sides had to share the trophy after the final match was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Speaking about Ruturaj, he returned with a solitary fifty in five outings and will like to make the most of his opportunities in India's upcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland.

WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I

<p>Rahul Tewatia had recently reacted with a cryptic tweet after getting snubbed from India's T20I squad for the upcoming series against Ireland. India recently announced a 17-member squad for the two-match series against the hosts which begins on the 26th of June. In the absence of a number of senior players, who have been rested for the series, a number of youngsters made the cut into the squad.</p>

<p>However, all-rounder Tewatia, who had a fabulous campaign with the bat for champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022, was not named in the squad. Dejected by the snub, Tewatia had taken to Twitter and wrote - 'expectations hurts' just minutes after the squad was announced by the BCCI.</p>

<p>While his snub came as a surprise to many considering he was in great form in IPL 2022 and played some good finishing cameos for the Titans to help them lift their maiden title in their debut season, some felt he was not in the fay as he was also not part of the T20I series against South Africa at home which concluded on Sunday (June 19).</p>

<p>When asked about Tewatia expressing his frustration over missing out on a spot in the Indian squad for the T20I series against Ireland, South Africa legend Graeme Smith shared a piece of advice for the all-rounder and asked him to focus on improving his performances rather than venting out on Twitter to ensure he is not snubbed by the selectors in the future.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-cheteshwar-pujara-open-against-england-in-kl-rahuls-absence-bccis-post-hints-at-indias-opening-pair-489990">Will&nbsp;Pujara open against England in KL Rahul's absence? BCCI's post hints at India's opening pair</a></p>

<p>“It’s very difficult in India as you guys have so much talent. And coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma must have had picked their majority of guys anticipating the conditions in Australia. I would say instead of Twitter, focus, perform and next time your time comes make sure no one can leave you out,” Smith told <em>Star Sports</em>.</p>

<p>Tewatia was roped in by Gujarat Titans at the IPL mega auction earlier this year for a huge sum of Rs 9 crore (INR 90 million) and lived up to his hefty price tag by delivering consistently with the willow. He scored 217 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of 147.61 and played some valuable knocks in the lower-middle order.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-stamp-that-says-rishabh-pant-will-surely-play-in-t20-wc-2022-ex-india-pacer-makes-big-statement-489920">No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement</a></p>

<p>While Smith suggested he work hard to get a chance in the Indian squad in the future, India legend Sunil Gavaskar said the all-rounder deserved to be in the squad for the Ireland series after his heroics in IPL 2022. Lauding his finishing abilities, Gavaskar said his hard work should have been recognised.</p>

<p>“Rahul Tewatia should have been in team for Ireland. The one man who should have been in the team was Iceman Rahul Tewatia. He was superb in IPL. He batted cleverly throughout the tournament. Someone who shows that kind of temperament should have been in the team at least as 16th member of the team. At least his hard work should have been recognized,” said Gavaskar.</p>


Rahul Tewatia had recently reacted with a cryptic tweet after getting snubbed from India's T20I squad for the upcoming series against Ireland. India recently announced a 17-member squad for the two-match series against the hosts which begins on the 26th of June.

Rahul Tewatia had recently reacted with a cryptic tweet after getting snubbed from India's T20I squad for the upcoming series against Ireland. India recently announced a 17-member squad for the two-match series against the hosts which begins on the 26th of June. In the absence of a number of senior players, who have been rested for the series, a number of youngsters made the cut into the squad. However, all-rounder Tewatia, who had a fabulous campaign with the bat for champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022, was not named in the squad. Dejected by the snub, Tewatia had taken to Twitter and wrote - 'expectations hurts' just minutes after the squad was announced by the BCCI. While his snub came as a surprise to many considering he was in great form in IPL 2022 and played some good finishing cameos for the Titans to help them lift their maiden title in their debut season, some felt he was not in the fay as he was also not part of the T20I series against South Africa at home which concluded on Sunday (June 19). When asked about Tewatia expressing his frustration over missing out on a spot in the Indian squad for the T20I series against Ireland, South Africa legend Graeme Smith shared a piece of advice for the all-rounder and asked him to focus on improving his performances rather than venting out on Twitter to ensure he is not snubbed by the selectors in the future. Also Read: Will Pujara open against England in KL Rahul's absence? BCCI's post hints at India's opening pair “It’s very difficult in India as you guys have so much talent. And coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma must have had picked their majority of guys anticipating the conditions in Australia. I would say instead of Twitter, focus, perform and next time your time comes make sure no one can leave you out,” Smith told Star Sports. Tewatia was roped in by Gujarat Titans at the IPL mega auction earlier this year for a huge sum of Rs 9 crore (INR 90 million) and lived up to his hefty price tag by delivering consistently with the willow. He scored 217 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of 147.61 and played some valuable knocks in the lower-middle order. Also Read: No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement While Smith suggested he work hard to get a chance in the Indian squad in the future, India legend Sunil Gavaskar said the all-rounder deserved to be in the squad for the Ireland series after his heroics in IPL 2022. Lauding his finishing abilities, Gavaskar said his hard work should have been recognised. “Rahul Tewatia should have been in team for Ireland. The one man who should have been in the team was Iceman Rahul Tewatia. He was superb in IPL. He batted cleverly throughout the tournament. Someone who shows that kind of temperament should have been in the team at least as 16th member of the team. At least his hard work should have been recognized,” said Gavaskar.

'Instead of Twitter, focus on performing': South Africa legend tells Rahul Tewatia after Team India snub

<p>India were handed a huge blow ahead of the all-important one-off 5th Test against England in Edgbaston, Birmingham after KL Rahul was ruled out due to an injury. The opening batter had earlier missed the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home after suffering a groin injury and is set to remain on the sidelines ahead of the Test match against England.</p>

<p>Rahul was named captain of the Indian team in the absence of Rohit Sharma for the five T20Is against South Africa. However, he was ruled out of the series ahead of the opening game and will not return to the team for the upcoming Ireland and England tours. While India have not named his replacement for the England Test, there were speculations about Cheteshwar Pujara being promoted as an opener in his absence.</p>

<p>However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently took to social media to post footage from India's training sessions at Leicestershire and hinted at India's opening pair for the Test match. With captain Rohit Sharma confirmed to open the innings, there was a tussle between Pujara and Shubman Gill for the second spot.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/11-years-of-virat-kohli-in-test-cricket-former-india-captain-shares-special-video-to-relive-memorable-journey-489963">11 years of Kohli in Test cricket: Former India captain shares special video to relive memorable journey</a></p>

<p>However, BCCI's post has now hinted that Rohit will open the batting with Gill in the upcoming four-day warm-up match in Leicestershire followed by the 5th Test against England. "#TeamIndia openers captain @rohitsharma45 and @shubmangill are getting into the groove on Day 1 of our nets session," BCCI captioned their post with pictures of Gill and Rohit batting in the nets.</p>

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<p>The 5th Test was originally scheduled to be played in Manchester last year during India's tour of England. However, it was postponed due to COVID-19 and will now be completed in Edgbaston in July. It will be the final game of the five-match series between the two teams which is currently locked at 2-1 in India's favour.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-stamp-that-says-rishabh-pant-will-surely-play-in-t20-wc-2022-ex-india-pacer-makes-big-statement-489920">No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement</a></p>

<p>Rahul's absence is a huge blow for the Indian team considering he was one of the top performers for the visitors during their tour of England last year. Rahul was enjoying a prolific run with the willow and amassed 315 runs in 4 matches as an opener to help India take a 2-1 lead in the series.</p>

<p>If India manage&nbsp;to win or draw the Test match, it will be a historic series win for the visitors. India have never won a Test series in England since 2007 and this will be their first triumph on English soil in the whites since 2007.</p>


India were handed a huge blow ahead of the all-important one-off 5th Test against England in Edgbaston, Birmingham after KL Rahul was ruled out due to an injury.

India were handed a huge blow ahead of the all-important one-off 5th Test against England in Edgbaston, Birmingham after KL Rahul was ruled out due to an injury. The opening batter had earlier missed the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home after suffering a groin injury and is set to remain on the sidelines ahead of the Test match against England. Rahul was named captain of the Indian team in the absence of Rohit Sharma for the five T20Is against South Africa. However, he was ruled out of the series ahead of the opening game and will not return to the team for the upcoming Ireland and England tours. While India have not named his replacement for the England Test, there were speculations about Cheteshwar Pujara being promoted as an opener in his absence. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently took to social media to post footage from India's training sessions at Leicestershire and hinted at India's opening pair for the Test match. With captain Rohit Sharma confirmed to open the innings, there was a tussle between Pujara and Shubman Gill for the second spot. Also Read: 11 years of Kohli in Test cricket: Former India captain shares special video to relive memorable journey However, BCCI's post has now hinted that Rohit will open the batting with Gill in the upcoming four-day warm-up match in Leicestershire followed by the 5th Test against England. "#TeamIndia openers captain @rohitsharma45 and @shubmangill are getting into the groove on Day 1 of our nets session," BCCI captioned their post with pictures of Gill and Rohit batting in the nets. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Team India (@indiancricketteam) × The 5th Test was originally scheduled to be played in Manchester last year during India's tour of England. However, it was postponed due to COVID-19 and will now be completed in Edgbaston in July. It will be the final game of the five-match series between the two teams which is currently locked at 2-1 in India's favour. Also Read: No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement Rahul's absence is a huge blow for the Indian team considering he was one of the top performers for the visitors during their tour of England last year. Rahul was enjoying a prolific run with the willow and amassed 315 runs in 4 matches as an opener to help India take a 2-1 lead in the series. If India manage to win or draw the Test match, it will be a historic series win for the visitors. India have never won a Test series in England since 2007 and this will be their first triumph on English soil in the whites since 2007.

Will Cheteshwar Pujara open against England in KL Rahul's absence? BCCI's post hints at India's opening pair

<p>India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series, which came to a disappointing end on Sunday evening (June 19). After the hosts Rishabh Pant-led Indian team had levelled the series, 2-2, by winning the fourth and penultimate T20I, there was all to play for both teams in the series decider before persistent rain in Bengaluru saw only 3.3 overs possible as it led to a no-result and the series being shared.</p>

<p>For India, they still had a lot of positives as they came back from being 0-2 down. The likes of Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel and Bhuvneshwar Kumar did well. Bhuvi returned with the Player-of-the-Series award, claiming six wickets in four innings.</p>

<p>Thus, the 32-year-old Bhuvi claimed a new record, by winning the most Player-of-the-Series awards by an Indian fast-bowler. He, thus, surpassed Zaheer Khan and Ishant Sharma. The two&nbsp;have won it thrice when compared to Bhuvi (4). Earlier, the swing bowler had picked up the player of the series awards during the 2013 Celkon Cup tri-series in West Indies(ODIs), 2014 tour of England and 2018 tour of South Africa (in Tests and T20Is, respectively).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-netizens-divided-over-ruturaj-gaikwads-behaviour-with-groundsman-in-bengaluru-t20i-489830"><strong>WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I</strong></a></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bhuvi told, "Really proud. Body feels good, but I don't want to talk much about it. Just want to focus on getting back stronger physically and with my bowling. Most of the times I bowl two at the top and two at the end. Being a senior, I also think about how to help the youngsters. I have been lucky that the captain gave me the free hand to do whatever I wanted. Pretty blessed in that way."</p>

<p>Bhuvi will next be seen in action in India's two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28. He will be the vice-captain with Hardik Pandya set to lead the Men in Blue.</p>


India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series, which came to a disappointing end on Sunday evening (June 19). After the hosts Rishabh Pant-led Indian team had levelled the series, 2-2, by winning the fourth and penultimate T20I, there was all to play for both teams in the series decider before persistent rain in Bengaluru saw only 3.

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series, which came to a disappointing end on Sunday evening (June 19). After the hosts Rishabh Pant-led Indian team had levelled the series, 2-2, by winning the fourth and penultimate T20I, there was all to play for both teams in the series decider before persistent rain in Bengaluru saw only 3.3 overs possible as it led to a no-result and the series being shared. For India, they still had a lot of positives as they came back from being 0-2 down. The likes of Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harshal Patel and Bhuvneshwar Kumar did well. Bhuvi returned with the Player-of-the-Series award, claiming six wickets in four innings. Thus, the 32-year-old Bhuvi claimed a new record, by winning the most Player-of-the-Series awards by an Indian fast-bowler. He, thus, surpassed Zaheer Khan and Ishant Sharma. The two have won it thrice when compared to Bhuvi (4). Earlier, the swing bowler had picked up the player of the series awards during the 2013 Celkon Cup tri-series in West Indies(ODIs), 2014 tour of England and 2018 tour of South Africa (in Tests and T20Is, respectively). ALSO READ | WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I At the post-match presentation, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bhuvi told, "Really proud. Body feels good, but I don't want to talk much about it. Just want to focus on getting back stronger physically and with my bowling. Most of the times I bowl two at the top and two at the end. Being a senior, I also think about how to help the youngsters. I have been lucky that the captain gave me the free hand to do whatever I wanted. Pretty blessed in that way." Bhuvi will next be seen in action in India's two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28. He will be the vice-captain with Hardik Pandya set to lead the Men in Blue.

Ind vs SA, T20Is: Bhuvneshwar Kumar creates new record for Team India after memorable series vs Proteas

<p>Virat Kohli completed 11 years in Test cricket for the Indian cricket team on Monday (June 20). One of the greatest batters of all time, Kohli earned his maiden Test cap for India on this day eleven years ago. He played his first Test match for the country against West Indies at the Sabina Park in Jamaica. It has since been a memorable journey for the run machine in the whites for Team India.</p>

<p>Kohli didn't have the ideal start in his debut Test match as he could only manage scores of 4 and 15 runs across two innings against West Indies. However, there has been no looking back ever since as he went on to establish his credentials as one of the best in the world.</p>

<p>He has come a long way since his debut in Jamaica and has already played over 100 Test matches for India. He has amassed 8043 runs in 101 matches at averaging a brilliant 49.95 with 27 hundreds and 28 fifties to his name. He has been instrumental in helping India dominate in Test cricket over the last few years and has had a phenomenal journey so far.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wasim-akram-sends-cricket-fans-on-nostalgia-trip-as-he-cleans-up-michael-atherton-in-charity-game-489943">WATCH - Wasim Akram sends fans on nostalgia trip as he cleans up Michael Atherton in charity game</a></p>

<p>Kohli took to social media on Monday to share a special video reliving his memorable journey in the longest format after completing 11 years in whites for the Indian team. "Time flies," Kohli captioned the post.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Time flies <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/20June?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#20June</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TestDebut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TestDebut</a> <a href="https://t.co/eIktcGLg6i">pic.twitter.com/eIktcGLg6i</a></p>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1538794594044809216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Apart from being a prolific run-getter with the bat, Kohli also went on to become India's most successful Test captain of all time after taking over the reins from MS Dhoni. He was appointed as India's full-time Test skipper in 2015 and led the team in a total of 68 matches before stepping down in January 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-stamp-that-says-rishabh-pant-will-surely-play-in-t20-wc-2022-ex-india-pacer-makes-big-statement-489920">No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement</a></p>

<p>He led India to 40 wins in 68 games - the most by any captain in the history of Indian cricket. He surpassed Dhoni to become the most successful Test captain the country has ever produced and also became the most successful Test captain in Asia.</p>

<p>Kohli led India to some memorable wins both at home and away from home, including a historic Test series win in Australia Down Under. Under Kohli's captaincy, India had won their maiden Test series on Australian soil in 2019. He also led India to the final of the World Test Championship last year.</p>


Virat Kohli completed 11 years in Test cricket for the Indian cricket team on Monday (June 20). One of the greatest batters of all time, Kohli earned his maiden Test cap for India on this day eleven years ago.

Virat Kohli completed 11 years in Test cricket for the Indian cricket team on Monday (June 20). One of the greatest batters of all time, Kohli earned his maiden Test cap for India on this day eleven years ago. He played his first Test match for the country against West Indies at the Sabina Park in Jamaica. It has since been a memorable journey for the run machine in the whites for Team India. Kohli didn't have the ideal start in his debut Test match as he could only manage scores of 4 and 15 runs across two innings against West Indies. However, there has been no looking back ever since as he went on to establish his credentials as one of the best in the world. He has come a long way since his debut in Jamaica and has already played over 100 Test matches for India. He has amassed 8043 runs in 101 matches at averaging a brilliant 49.95 with 27 hundreds and 28 fifties to his name. He has been instrumental in helping India dominate in Test cricket over the last few years and has had a phenomenal journey so far. Also Read: WATCH - Wasim Akram sends fans on nostalgia trip as he cleans up Michael Atherton in charity game Kohli took to social media on Monday to share a special video reliving his memorable journey in the longest format after completing 11 years in whites for the Indian team. "Time flies," Kohli captioned the post. Time flies #20June #TestDebut pic.twitter.com/eIktcGLg6i — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) June 20, 2022 × Apart from being a prolific run-getter with the bat, Kohli also went on to become India's most successful Test captain of all time after taking over the reins from MS Dhoni. He was appointed as India's full-time Test skipper in 2015 and led the team in a total of 68 matches before stepping down in January 2022. Also Read: No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement He led India to 40 wins in 68 games - the most by any captain in the history of Indian cricket. He surpassed Dhoni to become the most successful Test captain the country has ever produced and also became the most successful Test captain in Asia. Kohli led India to some memorable wins both at home and away from home, including a historic Test series win in Australia Down Under. Under Kohli's captaincy, India had won their maiden Test series on Australian soil in 2019. He also led India to the final of the World Test Championship last year.

11 years of Virat Kohli in Test cricket: Former India captain shares special video to relive memorable journey

<p>India played an intense five-match T20I series versus South Africa at home, which concluded on Sunday evening (June 19). With the series levelled at 2-2, both sides had all to play for before the final encounter, at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, which ended in no-result with only 3.3 overs of play possible due to persistent rain.</p>

<p>Despite the series being shared, India had quite a few positives with the form and performances of Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. as they continue to fix their final combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. While a lot of players are still fighting hard to cement a spot in the final squad, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar was asked about veteran Shikhar Dhawan's chances.</p>

<p>"No. I don't see his name popping up. If it had to pop up, it would have been in this squad. A lot of guys have gone to England and he could have been in this squad. If he is not in this squad, I don't see him ending in the mix (for T20 World Cup)," Gavaskar said in an interaction on&nbsp;<i>Star Sports&nbsp;</i>during the Bengaluru T20I.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-t20is-bhuvneshwar-kumar-creates-new-record-for-team-india-after-memorable-series-vs-proteas-489914"><strong>Ind vs SA, T20Is: Bhuvneshwar Kumar creates new record for Team India after memorable series vs Proteas</strong></a></p>

<p>For the unversed, Dhawan has played 68 T20Is for India, scoring&nbsp;1,759 runs at 126.36. While he has had seven consecutive IPL seasons with over 400-plus runs, his strike rate was deemed to be an issue for the Men in Blue. Even though Dhawan improved his strike rate in IPL, does well for India in&nbsp;ICC events and has has a lot of experience overall, he has fallen behind in the pecking order with the emergence of some young and dashing openers.&nbsp;Thus, he missed being a part of India's squad in the 2021 edition and is likely to remain out of favour for this year's showpiece event as well, which will take place Down Under.</p>


India played an intense five-match T20I series versus South Africa at home, which concluded on Sunday evening (June 19). With the series levelled at 2-2, both sides had all to play for before the final encounter, at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, which ended in no-result with only 3.

India played an intense five-match T20I series versus South Africa at home, which concluded on Sunday evening (June 19). With the series levelled at 2-2, both sides had all to play for before the final encounter, at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, which ended in no-result with only 3.3 overs of play possible due to persistent rain. Despite the series being shared, India had quite a few positives with the form and performances of Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. as they continue to fix their final combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. While a lot of players are still fighting hard to cement a spot in the final squad, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar was asked about veteran Shikhar Dhawan's chances. "No. I don't see his name popping up. If it had to pop up, it would have been in this squad. A lot of guys have gone to England and he could have been in this squad. If he is not in this squad, I don't see him ending in the mix (for T20 World Cup)," Gavaskar said in an interaction on Star Sports during the Bengaluru T20I. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, T20Is: Bhuvneshwar Kumar creates new record for Team India after memorable series vs Proteas For the unversed, Dhawan has played 68 T20Is for India, scoring 1,759 runs at 126.36. While he has had seven consecutive IPL seasons with over 400-plus runs, his strike rate was deemed to be an issue for the Men in Blue. Even though Dhawan improved his strike rate in IPL, does well for India in ICC events and has has a lot of experience overall, he has fallen behind in the pecking order with the emergence of some young and dashing openers. Thus, he missed being a part of India's squad in the 2021 edition and is likely to remain out of favour for this year's showpiece event as well, which will take place Down Under.

Don't see his name popping up: Sunil Gavaskar dismisses India star's chances of making it to T20 WC squad

<p>Rishabh Pant got a golden opportunity to captain the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. While Rohit was rested from the series, Rahul, who was supposed to lead the team in his absence suffered an injury ahead of the opening game making way for Pant to take over as captain.</p>

<p>While Pant enjoyed a great time as captain and helped India draw the series 2-2 after facing back-to-back defeats in the first two matches, his personal form with the bat was far from best. Pant had a poor outing with the willow against the Proteas managing scores of 29, 5, 6 and 17 in the first four games before the fifth T20I was called off due to rain.</p>

<p>Amid his poor show with the bat, questions have been raised over Pant's spot in the Indian T20I side with many debating if the wicket-keeper batter deserves a spot in the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. With the World Cup in Australia just 4 months away, Pant's poor form can cost him a place in the side amid the sensational return of Dinesh Karthik and Ishan Kishan also firing at the top.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-script-history-break-australias-impressive-t20i-record-after-south-africa-series-ends-in-2-2-draw-489907">India script history, break Australia's impressive T20I record after South Africa series ends in 2-2 draw</a></p>

<p>Speaking about Pant's chances of making it to India's squad for T20 World Cup 2022, former India pacer Ashish Nehra said his spot is not guaranteed in the side. The former pacer pointed out how Pant has been popular amongst all right from his initial days in international cricket due to his explosive batting but asserted that there is no stamp that India can't play the World Cup without him in Australia this year.</p>

<p>“Right from day one, we knew he(Pant) is going to be popular. He came the first day and then got dropped as he flopped initially. Then he came back and made a name for himself. I am very sure he will be disappointed with the kind of T20 numbers he had," Nehra said on Cricbuzz after the conclusion of India's T20I series against South Africa.</p>

<p>"The question this person asked was ‘can Team India play T20 cricket without Pant? Yes, Why Not. T20 World Cup is very far away. There is no stamp that says Pant will surely play the T20 World Cup. He can also get injured. But there are a lot of games in between. We will have ten T20Is and then the Asia Cup," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-or-dinesh-karthik-irfan-pathan-names-his-choice-while-picking-rohit-cos-ideal-t20-wc-xi-489844">Pant or Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit &amp; Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI</a></p>

<p>Pant has been one of the regulars for India in the shortest format over the last few years but has failed to impress much despite having been given a long run. He has so far managed 741 runs in 48 T20Is at an average of 23.15 and a strike rate of over 123.</p>

<p>He has certainly not done justice to his talent and skills in the shortest format and will be hoping to spark a turnaround in the upcoming matches for the Men in Blue. He has been rested from India's upcoming T20I series against Ireland and will be seen in action during the one-off 5th Test against England next.</p>


Rishabh Pant got a golden opportunity to captain the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home.

Rishabh Pant got a golden opportunity to captain the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and vice-captain KL Rahul in the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home. While Rohit was rested from the series, Rahul, who was supposed to lead the team in his absence suffered an injury ahead of the opening game making way for Pant to take over as captain. While Pant enjoyed a great time as captain and helped India draw the series 2-2 after facing back-to-back defeats in the first two matches, his personal form with the bat was far from best. Pant had a poor outing with the willow against the Proteas managing scores of 29, 5, 6 and 17 in the first four games before the fifth T20I was called off due to rain. Amid his poor show with the bat, questions have been raised over Pant's spot in the Indian T20I side with many debating if the wicket-keeper batter deserves a spot in the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022. With the World Cup in Australia just 4 months away, Pant's poor form can cost him a place in the side amid the sensational return of Dinesh Karthik and Ishan Kishan also firing at the top. Also Read: India script history, break Australia's impressive T20I record after South Africa series ends in 2-2 draw Speaking about Pant's chances of making it to India's squad for T20 World Cup 2022, former India pacer Ashish Nehra said his spot is not guaranteed in the side. The former pacer pointed out how Pant has been popular amongst all right from his initial days in international cricket due to his explosive batting but asserted that there is no stamp that India can't play the World Cup without him in Australia this year. “Right from day one, we knew he(Pant) is going to be popular. He came the first day and then got dropped as he flopped initially. Then he came back and made a name for himself. I am very sure he will be disappointed with the kind of T20 numbers he had," Nehra said on Cricbuzz after the conclusion of India's T20I series against South Africa. "The question this person asked was ‘can Team India play T20 cricket without Pant? Yes, Why Not. T20 World Cup is very far away. There is no stamp that says Pant will surely play the T20 World Cup. He can also get injured. But there are a lot of games in between. We will have ten T20Is and then the Asia Cup," he added. Also Read: Pant or Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit & Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI Pant has been one of the regulars for India in the shortest format over the last few years but has failed to impress much despite having been given a long run. He has so far managed 741 runs in 48 T20Is at an average of 23.15 and a strike rate of over 123. He has certainly not done justice to his talent and skills in the shortest format and will be hoping to spark a turnaround in the upcoming matches for the Men in Blue. He has been rested from India's upcoming T20I series against Ireland and will be seen in action during the one-off 5th Test against England next.

No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement

<p>India missed out on a chance to register an elusive T20I series win over South Africa at home after the 5th and final T20I between the two sides was washed out due to rain on Sunday. With the game in Bengaluru getting called off due to persistent rain, the series ended in a 2-2 draw. India, who had lost the first two matches of the series, won the next two games on the trot to level the series 2-2 as the five-match rubber ended in a stalemate.</p>

<p>India headed into the fifth and final looking for their third win on the bounce with the series on the line. However, rain made it impossible to have even a reduced contest leaving the two sides and the fans disappointed. While the Men in Blue failed to clinch the series, they scripted a historic feat in T20Is by remaining unbeaten in the series.</p>

<p>India extended their unbeaten record at home in T20Is to break Australia's impressive record in the shortest format. India have now gone unbeaten in nine straight T20I series at home surpassing Australia, who had managed to remain unbeaten in 8 T20I series from 2006 to 2010.</p>

<p>India's unbeaten streak started back in 2019 with a 1-1 draw against South Africa in a three-match series following which the Men in Blue have recorded wins over the likes of West Indies, England, New Zealand and Sri Lanka at home. India were without a host of key players in the recently-concluded South Africa series at home but managed to keep their unbeaten record intact.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhonis-international-career-got-over-but-aakash-chopra-lauds-dinesh-karthik-after-sa-t20is-489877">'MS Dhoni's international career got over but....' - Aakash Chopra lauds Dinesh Karthik after SA T20Is</a></p>

<p>Rishabh Pant led the hosts in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, who was rested from the series and KL Rahul, who was supposed to lead the side in Rohit's absence but had to miss out due to an injury ahead of the opening game. The likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan turned out to be the impressive performers for the hosts in the series.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-netizens-divided-over-ruturaj-gaikwads-behaviour-with-groundsman-in-bengaluru-t20i-489830">WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I</a></p>

<p>India will now head to Ireland for their next T20I assignment where they are scheduled to play two T20I against the hosts. Hardik will be leading the side with no Rohit in the squad and Rahul out due to an injury. India will be hoping to continue their impressive run in the series as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022.</p>


India missed out on a chance to register an elusive T20I series win over South Africa at home after the 5th and final T20I between the two sides was washed out due to rain on Sunday.

India missed out on a chance to register an elusive T20I series win over South Africa at home after the 5th and final T20I between the two sides was washed out due to rain on Sunday. With the game in Bengaluru getting called off due to persistent rain, the series ended in a 2-2 draw. India, who had lost the first two matches of the series, won the next two games on the trot to level the series 2-2 as the five-match rubber ended in a stalemate. India headed into the fifth and final looking for their third win on the bounce with the series on the line. However, rain made it impossible to have even a reduced contest leaving the two sides and the fans disappointed. While the Men in Blue failed to clinch the series, they scripted a historic feat in T20Is by remaining unbeaten in the series. India extended their unbeaten record at home in T20Is to break Australia's impressive record in the shortest format. India have now gone unbeaten in nine straight T20I series at home surpassing Australia, who had managed to remain unbeaten in 8 T20I series from 2006 to 2010. India's unbeaten streak started back in 2019 with a 1-1 draw against South Africa in a three-match series following which the Men in Blue have recorded wins over the likes of West Indies, England, New Zealand and Sri Lanka at home. India were without a host of key players in the recently-concluded South Africa series at home but managed to keep their unbeaten record intact. Also Read: 'MS Dhoni's international career got over but....' - Aakash Chopra lauds Dinesh Karthik after SA T20Is Rishabh Pant led the hosts in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, who was rested from the series and KL Rahul, who was supposed to lead the side in Rohit's absence but had to miss out due to an injury ahead of the opening game. The likes of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan turned out to be the impressive performers for the hosts in the series. Also Read: WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I India will now head to Ireland for their next T20I assignment where they are scheduled to play two T20I against the hosts. Hardik will be leading the side with no Rohit in the squad and Rahul out due to an injury. India will be hoping to continue their impressive run in the series as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022.

India script history, break Australia's impressive T20I record after South Africa series ends in 2-2 draw

<p>Comeback man Dinesh Karthik returned to the Team India setup after a three-year hiatus during the recently-concluded India-South Africa home T20Is. In the five-match series, DK performed well -- with a 21-ball 30 not out and 55 in the second and fourth match respectively -- to strengthen his case to feature in Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad.</p>

<p>After the end of the five-match series, which ended in a 2-2 scoreline after the series finale was abandoned due to rain in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19), former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked DK&nbsp;as one of the star performers (along with Player-of-the-Series Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Ishan Kishan) for the host nation. He also lauded DK for his longevity, stating that he has even outlived&nbsp;MS Dhoni's career span.</p>

<p>"At No. 3, I have kept Karthik. Batting is very difficult at the number he bats. The way he has played, he has been brilliant. It has been a very long career (debuting in 2004), Dhoni's entire international career got over in between but DK is still there," Chopra said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The hunger is coming to the fore, the game plan, just the clarity about how he is going to play. He plays slightly in an unorthodox fashion but that is what is required to be done in the death overs. A specialist death batter is a very difficult role, there is no other role more difficult than this in the world," Chopra added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-or-dinesh-karthik-irfan-pathan-names-his-choice-while-picking-rohit-cos-ideal-t20-wc-xi-489844"><strong>Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit &amp; Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI</strong></a></p>

<p>For the majority of his career, DK was in the shadow of Dhoni, who excelled as India's finisher, astute captain, and wise keeper. After Dhoni's retirement, Rishabh Pant has broken into the scene, however, the swashbuckling left-hander hasn't been that successful in white-ball formats, so far, as compared to Tests. Hence, DK is still giving tough competition to the 24-year-old and is focused on representing India in the 2022 T20 WC, to be held Down Under.</p>

<p>The 37-year-old Karthik will now shift his focus to the two-match T20I series between India and Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.</p>


Comeback man Dinesh Karthik returned to the Team India setup after a three-year hiatus during the recently-concluded India-South Africa home T20Is. In the five-match series, DK performed well -- with a 21-ball 30 not out and 55 in the second and fourth match respectively -- to strengthen his case to feature in Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad.

Comeback man Dinesh Karthik returned to the Team India setup after a three-year hiatus during the recently-concluded India-South Africa home T20Is. In the five-match series, DK performed well -- with a 21-ball 30 not out and 55 in the second and fourth match respectively -- to strengthen his case to feature in Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad. After the end of the five-match series, which ended in a 2-2 scoreline after the series finale was abandoned due to rain in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19), former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked DK as one of the star performers (along with Player-of-the-Series Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Ishan Kishan) for the host nation. He also lauded DK for his longevity, stating that he has even outlived MS Dhoni's career span. "At No. 3, I have kept Karthik. Batting is very difficult at the number he bats. The way he has played, he has been brilliant. It has been a very long career (debuting in 2004), Dhoni's entire international career got over in between but DK is still there," Chopra said. "The hunger is coming to the fore, the game plan, just the clarity about how he is going to play. He plays slightly in an unorthodox fashion but that is what is required to be done in the death overs. A specialist death batter is a very difficult role, there is no other role more difficult than this in the world," Chopra added. ALSO READ | Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit & Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI For the majority of his career, DK was in the shadow of Dhoni, who excelled as India's finisher, astute captain, and wise keeper. After Dhoni's retirement, Rishabh Pant has broken into the scene, however, the swashbuckling left-hander hasn't been that successful in white-ball formats, so far, as compared to Tests. Hence, DK is still giving tough competition to the 24-year-old and is focused on representing India in the 2022 T20 WC, to be held Down Under. The 37-year-old Karthik will now shift his focus to the two-match T20I series between India and Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.

'MS Dhoni's international career got over but....' - Aakash Chopra lauds Dinesh Karthik after SA T20Is

<p>India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series in the former's own backyard, which ended tamely with the fifth and final encounter being abandoned on Sunday (June 19). Due to persistent rain in Bengaluru, the final match of the series led to a no-result, however, Rishabh Pant-led Men in Blue had a lot of takeaways from the series.</p>

<p>The return and form of Dinesh Karthik, who made a comeback in the Team India setup after almost three years, made heads turn. DK returned with a tough 21-ball 30* in the second T20I and was the Player-of-the-Match in the fourth and final encounter, in Rajkot, which helped India level the series 2-2 before the final game resulted in no winner. Thus, calls have intensified for him to be a part of Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad.</p>

<p>DK had a splendid IPL 2022 season as well, returning with 330 runs at a strike rate of 183.33. Thus, he carried his form for India whereas Rishabh Pant fell flat with the bat in the SA series, ending with scores of&nbsp;29, 5, 6, 17 and 1*. He&nbsp;had a decent IPL 15, scoring 340 runs at 151.78 but hardly&nbsp;made match-winning contributions, unlike DK.</p>

<p>Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious 2007 T20 World Cup squad and ended as the Player-of-the-Match in the finale -- picked his ideal XI for Rohit &amp; Co., naming DK over Pant.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-netizens-divided-over-ruturaj-gaikwads-behaviour-with-groundsman-in-bengaluru-t20i-489830"><strong>WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking to&nbsp;<em>Star Sports,</em>&nbsp;Pathan picked star batters KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the top 3 of his World Cup playing XI. “In Australia, you need powerful starts because the ball swings and seams a lot. So you need a player who has a lot of experience,” Pathan said. "Kohli may not have performed well so far but in Australia, he has scored a lot of runs,” he added.</p>

<p>Further, after picking the likes of Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, Irfan chose DK over Pant and mentioned his all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel (who can bat a bit) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar before ending his XI with&nbsp;Yuzvendra Chahal and Jasprit Bumrah.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-the-finisher-who-is-far-from-finished-489375">Dinesh Karthik: The finisher who is far from finished</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Irfan Pathan's India XI for 2022 T20 World Cup:</strong>&nbsp;KL Rahul, (C) Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.</p>


India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series in the former's own backyard, which ended tamely with the fifth and final encounter being abandoned on Sunday (June 19).

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series in the former's own backyard, which ended tamely with the fifth and final encounter being abandoned on Sunday (June 19). Due to persistent rain in Bengaluru, the final match of the series led to a no-result, however, Rishabh Pant-led Men in Blue had a lot of takeaways from the series. The return and form of Dinesh Karthik, who made a comeback in the Team India setup after almost three years, made heads turn. DK returned with a tough 21-ball 30* in the second T20I and was the Player-of-the-Match in the fourth and final encounter, in Rajkot, which helped India level the series 2-2 before the final game resulted in no winner. Thus, calls have intensified for him to be a part of Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad. DK had a splendid IPL 2022 season as well, returning with 330 runs at a strike rate of 183.33. Thus, he carried his form for India whereas Rishabh Pant fell flat with the bat in the SA series, ending with scores of 29, 5, 6, 17 and 1*. He had a decent IPL 15, scoring 340 runs at 151.78 but hardly made match-winning contributions, unlike DK. Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious 2007 T20 World Cup squad and ended as the Player-of-the-Match in the finale -- picked his ideal XI for Rohit & Co., naming DK over Pant. ALSO READ | WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan picked star batters KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the top 3 of his World Cup playing XI. “In Australia, you need powerful starts because the ball swings and seams a lot. So you need a player who has a lot of experience,” Pathan said. "Kohli may not have performed well so far but in Australia, he has scored a lot of runs,” he added. Further, after picking the likes of Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, Irfan chose DK over Pant and mentioned his all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel (who can bat a bit) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar before ending his XI with Yuzvendra Chahal and Jasprit Bumrah. ALSO READ | Dinesh Karthik: The finisher who is far from finished Irfan Pathan's India XI for 2022 T20 World Cup: KL Rahul, (C) Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.

Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit & Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI

<p>India and South Africa shared honours in the five-match T20I series after the last game here on Sunday was called off due to rain with only 3.3 overs of play possible. India and South Africa were on level terms at 2-2 after four matches.</p>

<p>After being put into bat, a steady downpour delayed the game by 50 minutes. It started raining just when the game was about to start.</p>

<p>The curtailed match did start at 7:50 PM but was called off after only 16 minutes of play in which India managed 28 runs for the loss of two wickets.</p>

<p>Lungi Ngidi got both the wickets of Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad with a couple of slower deliveries.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasnt-the-plan-rahul-dravid-opens-up-on-working-with-6-different-captains-as-india-head-coach-489747">'Wasn't the plan': Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach</a></p>

<p>Kishan hit two sixes off Keshav Maharaj's opening over but was undone by a loopy slower delivery from Ngidi as he committed to the shot early and played all over it.</p>

<p>Gaikwad also failed to pick up a slower delivery and was holed out at mid-on before the heavens opened up again to stop the series decider.&nbsp;</p>


India and South Africa shared honours in the five-match T20I series after the last game here on Sunday was called off due to rain with only 3.3 overs of play possible.

India and South Africa shared honours in the five-match T20I series after the last game here on Sunday was called off due to rain with only 3.3 overs of play possible. India and South Africa were on level terms at 2-2 after four matches. After being put into bat, a steady downpour delayed the game by 50 minutes. It started raining just when the game was about to start. The curtailed match did start at 7:50 PM but was called off after only 16 minutes of play in which India managed 28 runs for the loss of two wickets. Lungi Ngidi got both the wickets of Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad with a couple of slower deliveries. Also Read: 'Wasn't the plan': Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach Kishan hit two sixes off Keshav Maharaj's opening over but was undone by a loopy slower delivery from Ngidi as he committed to the shot early and played all over it. Gaikwad also failed to pick up a slower delivery and was holed out at mid-on before the heavens opened up again to stop the series decider.

5th T20I between India and South Africa called off due to rain, series shared

<p>India legend Rahul Dravid has had to work with a number of different captains since taking over as the head coach of the Indian cricket team last year. Dravid was appointed as the coach of the Men in Blue after former head coach Ravi Shastri's contract expired following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. Dravid has seen overseen a huge transition in Indian cricket.</p>

<p>After Shastri's departure, Virat Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Indian T20I team before he was also asked to let go of Test and ODI captaincy paving way for Rohit Sharma to take over as India's captain across all three formats. However, with injuries and COVID-19 still wreaking havoc, Dravid has had to work with not just Kohli and Rohit but many other players leading the side.</p>

<p>Opening up about the regular changes in the leadership of the Indian team, head coach Dravid said it is not something that the team management had planned for but it has been due to COVID, injuries and workload management that a number of captains have had to be installed over the last few months.</p>

<p>"Probably been 6 captains in the last 8 months that I have had to work it. Which wasn't the plan when I first started. But it is the nature of COVID, the nature of the number of games we play, it is about managing the workload of the squad," Dravid said on Star Sports ahead of the start of India's 5th T20I against South Africa in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19)</p>

<p>"Few changes in captaincy means I have had to work with quite a few people over the last few months which in itself has been challenging but great fun too. It's good a lot of guys have got to lead the team and given us the opportunity to create leaders in the group," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-already-booked-his-place-in-t20-wc-2022-squad-ashish-nehra-makes-bold-claim-about-india-star-489726">He has already booked his place in T20 WC 2022 squad: Nehra makes bold claim about Dinesh Karthik</a></p>

<p>While Rishabh Pant is leading the side in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa after Rohit was rested and KL Rahul got injured ahead of the series-opener, Dravid had worked with Kohli during the South Africa Test series before Rahul led the side in his absence.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ajinkya Rahane also led the team in a Test match against New Zealand last year in the absence of both Kohli and Rohit while Dravid had also worked with Shikhar Dhawan during India's tour of Sri Lanka last year before being appointed as India's head coach permanently.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-still-have-some-cricket-left-rohit-sharmas-old-chat-with-dinesh-karthik-goes-viral-after-his-comeback-489664">'You still have some cricket left': Rohit's old chat with Dinesh Karthik goes viral after his comeback</a></p>

<p>India are currently taking on South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home which is locked at 1-1 after the hosts defeated the Proteas in back-to-back matches following two losses on the trot in the first two games. India will be hoping to clinch the series by winning their third game on the bounce when they take on South Africa in the 5th T20I on Sunday.</p>


India legend Rahul Dravid has had to work with a number of different captains since taking over as the head coach of the Indian cricket team last year. Dravid was appointed as the coach of the Men in Blue after former head coach Ravi Shastri's contract expired following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year.

India legend Rahul Dravid has had to work with a number of different captains since taking over as the head coach of the Indian cricket team last year. Dravid was appointed as the coach of the Men in Blue after former head coach Ravi Shastri's contract expired following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. Dravid has seen overseen a huge transition in Indian cricket. After Shastri's departure, Virat Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Indian T20I team before he was also asked to let go of Test and ODI captaincy paving way for Rohit Sharma to take over as India's captain across all three formats. However, with injuries and COVID-19 still wreaking havoc, Dravid has had to work with not just Kohli and Rohit but many other players leading the side. Opening up about the regular changes in the leadership of the Indian team, head coach Dravid said it is not something that the team management had planned for but it has been due to COVID, injuries and workload management that a number of captains have had to be installed over the last few months. "Probably been 6 captains in the last 8 months that I have had to work it. Which wasn't the plan when I first started. But it is the nature of COVID, the nature of the number of games we play, it is about managing the workload of the squad," Dravid said on Star Sports ahead of the start of India's 5th T20I against South Africa in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19) "Few changes in captaincy means I have had to work with quite a few people over the last few months which in itself has been challenging but great fun too. It's good a lot of guys have got to lead the team and given us the opportunity to create leaders in the group," he added. Also Read: He has already booked his place in T20 WC 2022 squad: Nehra makes bold claim about Dinesh Karthik While Rishabh Pant is leading the side in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa after Rohit was rested and KL Rahul got injured ahead of the series-opener, Dravid had worked with Kohli during the South Africa Test series before Rahul led the side in his absence. Meanwhile, Ajinkya Rahane also led the team in a Test match against New Zealand last year in the absence of both Kohli and Rohit while Dravid had also worked with Shikhar Dhawan during India's tour of Sri Lanka last year before being appointed as India's head coach permanently. Also Read: 'You still have some cricket left': Rohit's old chat with Dinesh Karthik goes viral after his comeback India are currently taking on South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home which is locked at 1-1 after the hosts defeated the Proteas in back-to-back matches following two losses on the trot in the first two games. India will be hoping to clinch the series by winning their third game on the bounce when they take on South Africa in the 5th T20I on Sunday.

'Wasn't the plan': Rahul Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach

<p>Dinesh Karthik has made a sensational comeback to the Indian cricket team after a brilliant campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. He emerged as one of the best finishers in the tournament and produced some memorable knocks for RCB batting in the lower-middle order to earn a recall in the Indian team after a gap of three years.</p>

<p>Karthik had last played for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup and had failed to make his comeback to the team across any format. He even enjoyed a commentary stint during India's tour of England last year with many writing him off. However, the veteran wicket-keeper batter has had an incredible redemption this year.</p>

<p>He has continued his finishing heroics for the Indian team in their ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home after an exceptional IPL campaign. Karthik played a brilliant knock of 56 runs off just 27 balls in the 4th T20I against South Africa on Friday to help India win the game by 82 runs and reaffirm his credentials as one of the best finishers in the Indian team at present.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-still-have-some-cricket-left-rohit-sharmas-old-chat-with-dinesh-karthik-goes-viral-after-his-comeback-489664">Rohit Sharma's old chat with Dinesh Karthik goes viral after his comeback</a></p>

<p>Lauding him after his terrific knock against the Proteas in the 4th T20I in Rajkot, former India pacer Ashish Nehra said India needs experienced players like Karthik in the lower middle-order for the T20 World Cup in Australia this year. Nehra said players like Karthik can help India chase down targets of 200 in Australia.</p>

<p>"Today he batted at No.6, which I liked, and that fact that he scored a half-century...his innings was longer and he got to bat earlier in the game...so these are the expectation you have from your most experienced player whom you have recalled to the team," Nehra said on <em>Cricbuzz</em>.</p>

<p>"Yes he does score runs in the last 3-4 overs but experience means that he knows a lot many other things as well. Selectors, team management should all be happy. The knock surely will give him confidence as well and going forward, in this entire talk about impact at that batting position...you have Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja and then the experience of Karthik. He is the kind of player who can help you chase down even targets of 200 in Australia,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-is-overweight-danish-kaneria-raises-questions-over-indian-skippers-fitness-489557">'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness</a></p>

<p>Karthik has so far scored 84 runs in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa striking at an impressive 158.6 out of which 84 runs have come in the slog overs at a strike rate of over 186. He has truly been in the form of his life and Nehra believes the veteran keeper batter has already sealed his spot in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad.</p>

<p>“He has already booked his place in the T20 World Cup squad. He scored 55 at a strike rate of 200," said the former India pacer following Karthik's 56-run knock against the Proteas on Friday.</p>


Dinesh Karthik has made a sensational comeback to the Indian cricket team after a brilliant campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022.

Dinesh Karthik has made a sensational comeback to the Indian cricket team after a brilliant campaign for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. He emerged as one of the best finishers in the tournament and produced some memorable knocks for RCB batting in the lower-middle order to earn a recall in the Indian team after a gap of three years. Karthik had last played for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup and had failed to make his comeback to the team across any format. He even enjoyed a commentary stint during India's tour of England last year with many writing him off. However, the veteran wicket-keeper batter has had an incredible redemption this year. He has continued his finishing heroics for the Indian team in their ongoing T20I series against South Africa at home after an exceptional IPL campaign. Karthik played a brilliant knock of 56 runs off just 27 balls in the 4th T20I against South Africa on Friday to help India win the game by 82 runs and reaffirm his credentials as one of the best finishers in the Indian team at present. Also Read: Rohit Sharma's old chat with Dinesh Karthik goes viral after his comeback Lauding him after his terrific knock against the Proteas in the 4th T20I in Rajkot, former India pacer Ashish Nehra said India needs experienced players like Karthik in the lower middle-order for the T20 World Cup in Australia this year. Nehra said players like Karthik can help India chase down targets of 200 in Australia. "Today he batted at No.6, which I liked, and that fact that he scored a half-century...his innings was longer and he got to bat earlier in the game...so these are the expectation you have from your most experienced player whom you have recalled to the team," Nehra said on Cricbuzz. "Yes he does score runs in the last 3-4 overs but experience means that he knows a lot many other things as well. Selectors, team management should all be happy. The knock surely will give him confidence as well and going forward, in this entire talk about impact at that batting position...you have Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja and then the experience of Karthik. He is the kind of player who can help you chase down even targets of 200 in Australia,” he added. Also Read: 'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness Karthik has so far scored 84 runs in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa striking at an impressive 158.6 out of which 84 runs have come in the slog overs at a strike rate of over 186. He has truly been in the form of his life and Nehra believes the veteran keeper batter has already sealed his spot in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad. “He has already booked his place in the T20 World Cup squad. He scored 55 at a strike rate of 200," said the former India pacer following Karthik's 56-run knock against the Proteas on Friday.

He has already booked his place in T20 WC 2022 squad: Ashish Nehra makes bold claim about Dinesh Karthik

<p>Dinesh Karthik has scripted a fairytale redemption tale with his batting exploits for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Indian cricket team. Karthik emerged as a brilliant finisher for RCB in the recently-concluded IPL 2022 where he impressed many with his sensational performances in the lower-middle order.</p>

<p>With the help of his finishing heroics, the veteran wicket-keeper managed to earn a spot in the Indian T20I squad for the ongoing series against South Africa at home and has managed to live up to his finisher's tag. Karthik has continued his red-hot form with the bat in the ongoing five-match T20I series against the Proteas and is presenting a strong case for selection in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad.</p>

<p>He has been in the form of his life and has been enjoying his batting. The 37-year-old slammed a fabulous knock of 55 runs off 27 balls to produce yet another sensational finish and emerge as India's hero with the willow in the 4th T20I against South Africa on Friday. India won the game comfortably by 82 runs after successfully defending the total of 169 runs in Rajkot to level the series 2-2.</p>

<p>After his finishing heroics in the game, Karthik's old chat with Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma on his Instagram post has gone viral. Not too long ago, Karthik had joined the commentary team for India's Test series in England last year with many speculating his international career was all but over.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-vs-dinesh-karthik-dale-steyn-picks-indias-wicket-keeper-batter-for-t20-world-cup-2022-489411">Pant vs&nbsp;Karthik? Dale Steyn picks India's wicket-keeper batter for T20 World Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>However, the wicket-keeper batter has since been on a redemption journey and continues to prove his critics wrong with the bat. Karthik had shared a picture of himself on Instagram from his commentary stint during India's tour of England last year. Reacting to his post, India's current skipper Rohit had reminded the wicket-keeper that he still has a lot of cricket left in him.</p>

<p>“You still have some cricket left. FYI!,” Rohit wrote on Karthik's post. “Don’t ever doubt that sham,” Karthik had responded with a wink emoticon. The chat between the duo has now gone viral after Karthik's incredible comeback in Team India.</p>

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<img alt="Rohit DK chat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="45d73949-e021-4374-a4d8-221982721a49" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Rohit%20DK.png" /></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-is-overweight-danish-kaneria-raises-questions-over-indian-skippers-fitness-489557">'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness</a></p>

<p>It has been an incredible turnaround for Karthik since that chat with Rohit last year as he has now all but cemented his spot in India's lower-middle order in the shortest format as the designated finisher of the team. He has been excellent with the bat in the absence of Rohit in the onging T20I series against South Africa and will hope to continue his fine form in the upcoming tournaments.</p>

<p>Karthik will once again be under the spotlight when India lock horns with South Africa in the series-deciding final fifth T20I at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19).</p>


Dinesh Karthik has scripted a fairytale redemption tale with his batting exploits for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Indian cricket team.

Dinesh Karthik has scripted a fairytale redemption tale with his batting exploits for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Indian cricket team. Karthik emerged as a brilliant finisher for RCB in the recently-concluded IPL 2022 where he impressed many with his sensational performances in the lower-middle order. With the help of his finishing heroics, the veteran wicket-keeper managed to earn a spot in the Indian T20I squad for the ongoing series against South Africa at home and has managed to live up to his finisher's tag. Karthik has continued his red-hot form with the bat in the ongoing five-match T20I series against the Proteas and is presenting a strong case for selection in India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad. He has been in the form of his life and has been enjoying his batting. The 37-year-old slammed a fabulous knock of 55 runs off 27 balls to produce yet another sensational finish and emerge as India's hero with the willow in the 4th T20I against South Africa on Friday. India won the game comfortably by 82 runs after successfully defending the total of 169 runs in Rajkot to level the series 2-2. After his finishing heroics in the game, Karthik's old chat with Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma on his Instagram post has gone viral. Not too long ago, Karthik had joined the commentary team for India's Test series in England last year with many speculating his international career was all but over. Also Read: Pant vs Karthik? Dale Steyn picks India's wicket-keeper batter for T20 World Cup 2022 However, the wicket-keeper batter has since been on a redemption journey and continues to prove his critics wrong with the bat. Karthik had shared a picture of himself on Instagram from his commentary stint during India's tour of England last year. Reacting to his post, India's current skipper Rohit had reminded the wicket-keeper that he still has a lot of cricket left in him. “You still have some cricket left. FYI!,” Rohit wrote on Karthik's post. “Don’t ever doubt that sham,” Karthik had responded with a wink emoticon. The chat between the duo has now gone viral after Karthik's incredible comeback in Team India. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dinesh Karthik (@dk00019) × Also Read: 'Rishabh Pant is overweight': Danish Kaneria raises questions over Indian skipper's fitness It has been an incredible turnaround for Karthik since that chat with Rohit last year as he has now all but cemented his spot in India's lower-middle order in the shortest format as the designated finisher of the team. He has been excellent with the bat in the absence of Rohit in the onging T20I series against South Africa and will hope to continue his fine form in the upcoming tournaments. Karthik will once again be under the spotlight when India lock horns with South Africa in the series-deciding final fifth T20I at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19).

'You still have some cricket left': Rohit Sharma's old chat with Dinesh Karthik goes viral after his comeback