MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. Ever since his international retirement, his ardent fans eagerly wait for the 40-year-old's presence on the 22-yard cricket strip during the IPL. Ahead of the IPL 2022 edition, set to be held in India, Dhoni opened up on his fascination for jersey number 7 and revealed why he sports the same&nbsp;number&nbsp;since his early days in international cricket.

For the unversed, Dhoni sports the No. 7 jersey since he made his debut for Team India. Even in the IPL, the superstar cricketer has donned the same&nbsp;number -- for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS). Thus, the wicketkeeper-batter revealed why he likes to retain&nbsp;the exact&nbsp;jersey number.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/success-is-theirs-failure-is-mine-captain-hardik-pandya-shares-his-philosophy-ahead-of-ipl-2022-463170">Success is theirs, failure is mine: Captain Hardik Pandya shares his philosophy ahead of IPL 2022</a>

Speaking at a CSK&nbsp;event on Wednesday (March 16), the ex-Team India captain Dhoni revealed the "simple reason" behind choosing the specific shirt number.

"A lot of people initially thought that 7 is a lucky number for me and all of that. But I chose the number for a very simple reason. I was born on the 7th of July. So it's the 7th day of the 7th month, that was the reason. Rather than getting to all the different things as to what number is a good number and all, I thought I will use my date of birth as the number," Dhoni said.

"A lot of people said 7 is a neutral number and even if it doesn't work for you, it doesn't really go against you. That also I added to my answer. I am not very superstitious about it, but it's one number that is close to my heart and I have kept it over the years with me," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/morris-one-ball-was-more-expensive-than-aakash-chopra-responds-to-ramiz-rajas-claims-on-ipl-vs-psl-463158">'Morris' one ball was more expensive than....': Aakash Chopra responds to Ramiz Raja's remark on IPL vs PSL</a>

After leading CSK to their fourth title in the IPL 2021 edition, the defending champions Dhoni-led Chennai side will play the IPL 2022 season-opener versus last year's runners-up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 26 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The Yellow Army have revamped and brought back several of their regular members for the forthcoming season and, thus, will aim to retain their title in the 15th edition of the cash-rich league.

Complete squad of CSK for IPL 2022

Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (c &amp; wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Moeen Ali, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Devon Conway, Subhranshu Senapati, Hari Nishaanth, N Jagadeesan, Deepak Chahar, KM Asif, Tushar Deshpande, Maheesh Theekshana, Simarjeet Singh, Adam Milne, Mukesh Choudhary, Dwayne Bravo, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Dwaine Pretorius, Mitchell Santner, Prashant Solanki

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. Ever since his international retirement, his ardent fans eagerly wait for the 40-year-old's presence on the 22-yard cricket strip during the IPL.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. Ever since his international retirement, his ardent fans eagerly wait for the 40-year-old's presence on the 22-yard cricket strip during the IPL. Ahead of the IPL 2022 edition, set to be held in India, Dhoni opened up on his fascination for jersey number 7 and revealed why he sports the same number since his early days in international cricket. For the unversed, Dhoni sports the No. 7 jersey since he made his debut for Team India. Even in the IPL, the superstar cricketer has donned the same number -- for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS). Thus, the wicketkeeper-batter revealed why he likes to retain the exact jersey number. ALSO READ | Success is theirs, failure is mine: Captain Hardik Pandya shares his philosophy ahead of IPL 2022 Speaking at a CSK event on Wednesday (March 16), the ex-Team India captain Dhoni revealed the "simple reason" behind choosing the specific shirt number. "A lot of people initially thought that 7 is a lucky number for me and all of that. But I chose the number for a very simple reason. I was born on the 7th of July. So it's the 7th day of the 7th month, that was the reason. Rather than getting to all the different things as to what number is a good number and all, I thought I will use my date of birth as the number," Dhoni said. "A lot of people said 7 is a neutral number and even if it doesn't work for you, it doesn't really go against you. That also I added to my answer. I am not very superstitious about it, but it's one number that is close to my heart and I have kept it over the years with me," he added. ALSO READ | 'Morris' one ball was more expensive than....': Aakash Chopra responds to Ramiz Raja's remark on IPL vs PSL After leading CSK to their fourth title in the IPL 2021 edition, the defending champions Dhoni-led Chennai side will play the IPL 2022 season-opener versus last year's runners-up Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 26 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The Yellow Army have revamped and brought back several of their regular members for the forthcoming season and, thus, will aim to retain their title in the 15th edition of the cash-rich league. Complete squad of CSK for IPL 2022 Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Moeen Ali, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Devon Conway, Subhranshu Senapati, Hari Nishaanth, N Jagadeesan, Deepak Chahar, KM Asif, Tushar Deshpande, Maheesh Theekshana, Simarjeet Singh, Adam Milne, Mukesh Choudhary, Dwayne Bravo, Shivam Dube, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Dwaine Pretorius, Mitchell Santner, Prashant Solanki

Why does MS Dhoni don No. 7 jersey? CSK veteran answers the big question ahead of IPL 2022

R Ashwin ended the India-Sri Lanka Test series with 12 wickets. With this, the 35-year-old wily-spinner's Test wicket-tally now reads 442, being the eighth-highest overall. Among Indians, he surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) and became the second-highest, only after former captain and coach Anil Kumble.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Kumble's tally is 619. He, thus, has a sizeable lead over Ashwin but Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels the off-spinner has it in him to break Kumble's tally. In a recent interaction, the former Indian opener explained why he feels Ashwin can do the unthinkable and go past Kumble's magical number.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-jasprit-bumrah-breaks-into-top-five-virat-kohli-drops-to-ninth-spot-462883">ICC Test Rankings: Jasprit Bumrah breaks into top five, Virat Kohli drops to ninth spot</a>

"It's still a fair distance to go, we are talking about another 160 wickets. But he is capable of doing that because he just keeps getting better. He doesn't rest on his laurels," Gavaskar told Star Sports.

Gavaskar further also highlighted how speedster Jasprit Bumrah and Ashwin are exactly the same. "Jasprit Bumrah, who got into Test cricket after Ashwin, is exactly like Ashwin in the sense that he is always looking to add to his repertoire. That is what Ashwin does. At a time a year and year-and-half-ago, Ashwin was tyring leg-spin because you can as variety ball bowl that, especially if you have got 500 runs in the bank," he pointed out said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-him-to-come-back-to-academy-virat-kohlis-childhood-coach-urges-indias-batting-star-to-work-on-basics-462795">Want him to come back to academy: Virat Kohli's childhood coach urges India's batting star to work on basics</a>

The 28-year-old Bumrah ended the India-Sri Lanka Tests with ten wickets, including his maiden five-fer. On the other hand, Ashwin remained among wickets and continued to better his stellar record in whites at home. After Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s 2-0 whitewash over the Islanders, the Indian players have now joined their respective IPL franchises ahead of the upcoming 15th edition.

IPL 2022 gets underway on March 26.

R Ashwin ended the India-Sri Lanka Test series with 12 wickets. With this, the 35-year-old wily-spinner's Test wicket-tally now reads 442, being the eighth-highest overall.

R Ashwin ended the India-Sri Lanka Test series with 12 wickets. With this, the 35-year-old wily-spinner's Test wicket-tally now reads 442, being the eighth-highest overall. Among Indians, he surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) and became the second-highest, only after former captain and coach Anil Kumble. For the unversed, Kumble's tally is 619. He, thus, has a sizeable lead over Ashwin but Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels the off-spinner has it in him to break Kumble's tally. In a recent interaction, the former Indian opener explained why he feels Ashwin can do the unthinkable and go past Kumble's magical number. ALSO READ | ICC Test Rankings: Jasprit Bumrah breaks into top five, Virat Kohli drops to ninth spot "It's still a fair distance to go, we are talking about another 160 wickets. But he is capable of doing that because he just keeps getting better. He doesn't rest on his laurels," Gavaskar told Star Sports. Gavaskar further also highlighted how speedster Jasprit Bumrah and Ashwin are exactly the same. "Jasprit Bumrah, who got into Test cricket after Ashwin, is exactly like Ashwin in the sense that he is always looking to add to his repertoire. That is what Ashwin does. At a time a year and year-and-half-ago, Ashwin was tyring leg-spin because you can as variety ball bowl that, especially if you have got 500 runs in the bank," he pointed out said. ALSO READ | Want him to come back to academy: Virat Kohli's childhood coach urges India's batting star to work on basics The 28-year-old Bumrah ended the India-Sri Lanka Tests with ten wickets, including his maiden five-fer. On the other hand, Ashwin remained among wickets and continued to better his stellar record in whites at home. After Rohit Sharma & Co.'s 2-0 whitewash over the Islanders, the Indian players have now joined their respective IPL franchises ahead of the upcoming 15th edition. IPL 2022 gets underway on March 26.

Will R Ashwin go past Anil Kumble's Test wicket-tally? Sunil Gavaskar answers the big question

Mithali Raj-led India have had a topsy-turvy ride so far in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup. The two-time runners-up thrashed Pakistan in their tournament-opener before falling flat against hosts New Zealand. India bounced back in style versus the daunting&nbsp;West Indies line-up before losing to England in their fourth outing in the showpiece event in New Zealand.

On Wednesday (March 16), India faced defending champions England at Bay Oval, Mount&nbsp;Maunganui. Opting to bowl first, England rode on&nbsp;Charlotte Dean's 4 for 23 as the big guns such as Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur, Mithali, Deepti Sharma and the likes fell flat as India were dismissed for 134 in 36.2 overs. In reply, England finished the run-chase with four wickets in hand in 31.2 overs.&nbsp;Natalie Sciver's 45 and skipper Heather Knight's 53 led the charge of England as they finally opened their account after three successive defeats.

After the defeat, India find themselves in a tight spot to enter the semi-finals of the CWC 2022 edition. With three big games left, Mithali &amp; Co. will need to revamp at the earliest to finish at the top four. Here's how they can make it to the semi-finals despite the England drubbing:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wwc-2022-jhulan-goswami-becomes-first-woman-to-enter-250-wicket-club-joins-elite-indian-mens-bowlers-462759">WWC 2022: Jhulan Goswami becomes first woman to enter 250-wicket club, joins elite Indian men's bowlers</a>

For the unversed, a&nbsp;total of 4 wins are deemed enough to qualify for the knockouts. Thus, India need two more wins -- from three games -- to enter the semis. With India to play Australia, Bangladesh and South Africa, respectively, they are still very much in chance to enter the next round even if they lose to the invincibles and so far unbeaten team Australia. As long as the Women in Blue do not lose by a huge margin versus the Aussies, wins against the other two opponents should&nbsp;be just enough&nbsp;to enter the semi-finals. Nonetheless, the face-offs versus the Bangla Tigers and South Africa won't be a cakewalk by any means whatsoever.

Talking about Bangladesh and South Africa, the former has only one win -- having beaten Pakistan -- whereas the Proteas are&nbsp;unbeaten, so far,&nbsp;after three outings. Thus, India have their task cut out to win at least two and not lose any game by a big margin.

Above all, they need to address their inconsistency and pull up their socks to progress ahead and become serious contenders.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-wc-charlotte-dean-heather-knight-shine-as-england-beat-india-by-4-wickets-to-register-first-win-462785">Women's WC: Charlotte Dean, Heather Knight shine as England beat India by 4 wickets to register first win</a>

After the England loss, Mithali said at&nbsp;the post-match presentation, "We definitely didn't have partnerships and it didn't go our way despite getting what we wanted after losing the toss. When you lose you always think you are short on runs. Getting 200 could have had the match go either way. Every game we've done well as a fielding unit. It is a department where we have improved. We need to work very hard with our batting. It is an honour to play alongside Jhulan Goswami. It is difficult for any fast bowler to play at this level consistently."

Remaining fixtures for Women in Blue in CWC 2022:

India vs Australia, March 19

India vs Bangladesh, March 22

India vs South Africa, March 26

Mithali Raj-led India have had a topsy-turvy ride so far in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup. The two-time runners-up thrashed Pakistan in their tournament-opener before falling flat against hosts New Zealand.

Mithali Raj-led India have had a topsy-turvy ride so far in the ongoing ICC Women's World Cup. The two-time runners-up thrashed Pakistan in their tournament-opener before falling flat against hosts New Zealand. India bounced back in style versus the daunting West Indies line-up before losing to England in their fourth outing in the showpiece event in New Zealand. On Wednesday (March 16), India faced defending champions England at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. Opting to bowl first, England rode on Charlotte Dean's 4 for 23 as the big guns such as Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur, Mithali, Deepti Sharma and the likes fell flat as India were dismissed for 134 in 36.2 overs. In reply, England finished the run-chase with four wickets in hand in 31.2 overs. Natalie Sciver's 45 and skipper Heather Knight's 53 led the charge of England as they finally opened their account after three successive defeats. After the defeat, India find themselves in a tight spot to enter the semi-finals of the CWC 2022 edition. With three big games left, Mithali & Co. will need to revamp at the earliest to finish at the top four. Here's how they can make it to the semi-finals despite the England drubbing: ALSO READ | WWC 2022: Jhulan Goswami becomes first woman to enter 250-wicket club, joins elite Indian men's bowlers For the unversed, a total of 4 wins are deemed enough to qualify for the knockouts. Thus, India need two more wins -- from three games -- to enter the semis. With India to play Australia, Bangladesh and South Africa, respectively, they are still very much in chance to enter the next round even if they lose to the invincibles and so far unbeaten team Australia. As long as the Women in Blue do not lose by a huge margin versus the Aussies, wins against the other two opponents should be just enough to enter the semi-finals. Nonetheless, the face-offs versus the Bangla Tigers and South Africa won't be a cakewalk by any means whatsoever. Talking about Bangladesh and South Africa, the former has only one win -- having beaten Pakistan -- whereas the Proteas are unbeaten, so far, after three outings. Thus, India have their task cut out to win at least two and not lose any game by a big margin. Above all, they need to address their inconsistency and pull up their socks to progress ahead and become serious contenders. ALSO READ | Women's WC: Charlotte Dean, Heather Knight shine as England beat India by 4 wickets to register first win After the England loss, Mithali said at the post-match presentation, "We definitely didn't have partnerships and it didn't go our way despite getting what we wanted after losing the toss. When you lose you always think you are short on runs. Getting 200 could have had the match go either way. Every game we've done well as a fielding unit. It is a department where we have improved. We need to work very hard with our batting. It is an honour to play alongside Jhulan Goswami. It is difficult for any fast bowler to play at this level consistently." Remaining fixtures for Women in Blue in CWC 2022: India vs Australia, March 19 India vs Bangladesh, March 22 India vs South Africa, March 26

EXPLAINED! Here's how Mithali Raj's India can make it to CWC 2022 semi-finals after England drubbing

Virat Kohli's indifferent run with the bat continued in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka Test series. In the two-match Test series at home, the 33-year-old former Indian captain managed only 81 runs -- at an average of 27 -- without a single fifty-plus score as his century drought continues at the highest level.&nbsp;

Kohli's last hundred at the international level came in late 2019. Since then, he has scored plenty of fifties but a big score continues to evade him. With another below-par series, the right-hander's ardent fans' wait for his 71st international ton has extended. Amid all this, Kohli's childhoood coach Rajkumar Sharma has a message for his pupil. Raj wants his student to return to his cricket academy, in Delhi, and rework on his basics in order to deliver at his usual best.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-indias-2-0-clean-sweep-over-sri-lanka-462550">Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka</a>

"Virat will need to come back to his basics. I would definitely want him to come back to the academy. I was thinking about this from yesterday and I am going to talk to him. The kind of confidence that he gets batting in the academy, he needs it," said&nbsp;Rajumkar&nbsp;to the&nbsp;Khelneeti&nbsp;podcast.

"He is batting really well but unfortunately, he is batting too cautiously. If starts to bat a bit more freely, like he has his entire career then soon he will be back to his best. On such wickets, you need to take more chances like Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer did," concluded Rajkumar.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-thrash-sri-lanka-by-238-runs-to-register-2-0-clean-sweep-record-15th-striaght-test-series-win-at-home-462203">India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home</a>

At present, Kohli is now shifting focus to the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, to commence on March 26. The superstar cricketer will be desperate to play freely in the upcoming IPL season, with no additional captaincy responsibility this time around, and regain his form by the end of the 15th edition and before he turns up for Team India.

With a T20 World Cup scheduled to be held later this year, Kohli's form is crucial for India's chances in the showpiece event.&nbsp;
</section>

Virat Kohli's indifferent run with the bat continued in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka Test series. In the two-match Test series at home, the 33-year-old former Indian captain managed only 81 runs -- at an average of 27 -- without a single fifty-plus score as his century drought continues at the highest level.

Virat Kohli's indifferent run with the bat continued in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka Test series. In the two-match Test series at home, the 33-year-old former Indian captain managed only 81 runs -- at an average of 27 -- without a single fifty-plus score as his century drought continues at the highest level. Kohli's last hundred at the international level came in late 2019. Since then, he has scored plenty of fifties but a big score continues to evade him. With another below-par series, the right-hander's ardent fans' wait for his 71st international ton has extended. Amid all this, Kohli's childhoood coach Rajkumar Sharma has a message for his pupil. Raj wants his student to return to his cricket academy, in Delhi, and rework on his basics in order to deliver at his usual best. ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka "Virat will need to come back to his basics. I would definitely want him to come back to the academy. I was thinking about this from yesterday and I am going to talk to him. The kind of confidence that he gets batting in the academy, he needs it," said Rajumkar to the Khelneeti podcast. "He is batting really well but unfortunately, he is batting too cautiously. If starts to bat a bit more freely, like he has his entire career then soon he will be back to his best. On such wickets, you need to take more chances like Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer did," concluded Rajkumar. ALSO READ | India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home At present, Kohli is now shifting focus to the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, to commence on March 26. The superstar cricketer will be desperate to play freely in the upcoming IPL season, with no additional captaincy responsibility this time around, and regain his form by the end of the 15th edition and before he turns up for Team India. With a T20 World Cup scheduled to be held later this year, Kohli's form is crucial for India's chances in the showpiece event.

Want him to come back to academy: Virat Kohli's childhood coach urges India's batting star to work on basics

Senior India spinner R Ashwin scripted history during the recently-concluded Test series against Sri Lanka at home as he became the first bowler to reach the milestone of 100 wickets in the World Test Championship (WTC). Ashwin achieved the feat during the second Test of the two-match series between the two sides at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Since the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship in 2019-2021, Ashwin has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers in the competition. The off-spinner has been among the wickets for India consistently at home and overseas and completed the milestone of 100 wickets with a four-wicket haul during the pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru.

Ashwin now has 100 wickets to his name in 21 matches in the World Test Championship at an average of 19.66 including four five-wicket hauls. He is the leading wicket-taker in the tournament followed by Australian pacer Pat Cummins (93) and Stuart Broad (83).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-indias-2-0-clean-sweep-over-sri-lanka-462550">Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka</a>

Highest wicket-takers in World Test Championship:

100 - Ravichandran Ashwin 
93 - Pat Cummins 
83 - Stuart Broad 
80 - Tim Southee 
74 - Jasprit Bumrah/Nathan Lyon

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-is-not-about-politics-pcb-chief-ramiz-raja-to-hold-talks-with-sourav-ganguly-for-4-nation-series-462635">'Cricket is not about politics': PCB chief Ramiz Raja to hold talks with Sourav Ganguly for 4-nation series</a>

During the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali, Ashwin had also surpassed the legendary Kapil Dev to become the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Tests with his 435th scalp in the whites. The off-spinner currently ha 442 wickets to his name in 86 Tests and is placed eighth on the list of highest wicket-takers in Tests overall.

He had moved past former South African pacer Dale Styen (439) to reach the eigth spot on the elite list. He needs 78 wickets to surpass West Indies legend Courtney Walsh to take the seventh spot on the list. Ashwin will be looking to continue his prolific run for India in their upcoming Test assignments.

Senior India spinner R Ashwin scripted history during the recently-concluded Test series against Sri Lanka at home as he became the first bowler to reach the milestone of 100 wickets in the World Test Championship (WTC).

Senior India spinner R Ashwin scripted history during the recently-concluded Test series against Sri Lanka at home as he became the first bowler to reach the milestone of 100 wickets in the World Test Championship (WTC). Ashwin achieved the feat during the second Test of the two-match series between the two sides at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Since the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship in 2019-2021, Ashwin has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers in the competition. The off-spinner has been among the wickets for India consistently at home and overseas and completed the milestone of 100 wickets with a four-wicket haul during the pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru. Ashwin now has 100 wickets to his name in 21 matches in the World Test Championship at an average of 19.66 including four five-wicket hauls. He is the leading wicket-taker in the tournament followed by Australian pacer Pat Cummins (93) and Stuart Broad (83). Also Read: Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka Highest wicket-takers in World Test Championship: 100 - Ravichandran Ashwin 93 - Pat Cummins 83 - Stuart Broad 80 - Tim Southee 74 - Jasprit Bumrah/Nathan Lyon Also Read: 'Cricket is not about politics': PCB chief Ramiz Raja to hold talks with Sourav Ganguly for 4-nation series During the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali, Ashwin had also surpassed the legendary Kapil Dev to become the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Tests with his 435th scalp in the whites. The off-spinner currently ha 442 wickets to his name in 86 Tests and is placed eighth on the list of highest wicket-takers in Tests overall. He had moved past former South African pacer Dale Styen (439) to reach the eigth spot on the elite list. He needs 78 wickets to surpass West Indies legend Courtney Walsh to take the seventh spot on the list. Ashwin will be looking to continue his prolific run for India in their upcoming Test assignments.

R Ashwin scripts history, becomes first bowler to complete 100 wickets in World Test Championship

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja is still hopeful of reviving bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan through a four-nation tournament that he had proposed last year. After the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year, the PCB chief had taken to Twitter to inform that he was going to propose an annual four-nation T20I series involving India, Pakistan, England and Australia to the ICC.

However, when asked about the PCB chief's plan, BCCI secretary Jay Shah had earlier this year had termed it a 'short-term commercial initiative' while hinting that BCCI had no plans to be part of the series. However, Raja has not given up hopes on convincing the BCCI to let India also be part of the tournament and has said he will soon hold talks regarding the same with BCCI president Sourav Ganguly.

India and Pakistan, who share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket, have not played against each other in a bilateral series since 2013 due to the political tensions between the two nations. However, Raja believes politics should be kept aside when it comes to cricket as he gears up to talk to Ganguly during the upcoming Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting in Dubai on March 19.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1007-must-be-entertaining-shoaib-akhtar-takes-a-dig-at-babar-co-as-pakistan-collapse-against-australia-462408">'100/7 must be entertaining': Akhtar takes a dig at Babar &amp; Co. as Pakistan collapse against Australia</a>

Raja also stated that if India does not agree to be part of the tournament, he will propose an annual three-nation event involving Pakistan, England and Australia.

"I will talk to Sourav Ganguly about it when we meet for the ACC meeting in Dubai. Both of us are former captains and players and for us, cricket is not about politics. Even if India does not go with us on this proposal, we will think about launching an annual three-nation event with Australia and England in Pakistan," Raja told reporters in Karachi, as per PTI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/well-see-who-goes-to-play-ipl-over-psl-pcb-chief-ramiz-raja-makes-bold-claim-as-hints-at-changes-in-psl-462443">'We'll see who goes to play IPL': PCB chief Ramiz Raja makes bold claim as hints at changes in PSL</a>

India and Pakistan have met each other only in major ICC events since 2013. The last meeting between the two sides came during the T20 World Cup 2021 last year where Babar Azam-ed Pakistan defeated India by ten wickets to register their first win against their arch-rivals in World Cup history.&nbsp;

Pakistan have also won the hosting rights for the 2022 edition of the Asia Cup and is confident of India visiting Pakistan for the tournament. However, the PCB chief admitted they will have to find some other way if BCCI refuses to send the Indian team to Pakistan.

"I think they will come and if they don't travel to Pakistan we will see what can be done," said Raja.

 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja is still hopeful of reviving bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan through a four-nation tournament that he had proposed last year.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja is still hopeful of reviving bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan through a four-nation tournament that he had proposed last year. After the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year, the PCB chief had taken to Twitter to inform that he was going to propose an annual four-nation T20I series involving India, Pakistan, England and Australia to the ICC. However, when asked about the PCB chief's plan, BCCI secretary Jay Shah had earlier this year had termed it a 'short-term commercial initiative' while hinting that BCCI had no plans to be part of the series. However, Raja has not given up hopes on convincing the BCCI to let India also be part of the tournament and has said he will soon hold talks regarding the same with BCCI president Sourav Ganguly. India and Pakistan, who share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket, have not played against each other in a bilateral series since 2013 due to the political tensions between the two nations. However, Raja believes politics should be kept aside when it comes to cricket as he gears up to talk to Ganguly during the upcoming Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting in Dubai on March 19. Also Read: '100/7 must be entertaining': Akhtar takes a dig at Babar & Co. as Pakistan collapse against Australia Raja also stated that if India does not agree to be part of the tournament, he will propose an annual three-nation event involving Pakistan, England and Australia. "I will talk to Sourav Ganguly about it when we meet for the ACC meeting in Dubai. Both of us are former captains and players and for us, cricket is not about politics. Even if India does not go with us on this proposal, we will think about launching an annual three-nation event with Australia and England in Pakistan," Raja told reporters in Karachi, as per PTI. Also Read: 'We'll see who goes to play IPL': PCB chief Ramiz Raja makes bold claim as hints at changes in PSL India and Pakistan have met each other only in major ICC events since 2013. The last meeting between the two sides came during the T20 World Cup 2021 last year where Babar Azam-ed Pakistan defeated India by ten wickets to register their first win against their arch-rivals in World Cup history. Pakistan have also won the hosting rights for the 2022 edition of the Asia Cup and is confident of India visiting Pakistan for the tournament. However, the PCB chief admitted they will have to find some other way if BCCI refuses to send the Indian team to Pakistan. "I think they will come and if they don't travel to Pakistan we will see what can be done," said Raja.

'Cricket is not about politics': PCB chief Ramiz Raja to hold talks with Sourav Ganguly for 4-nation series

India bagged a record-extending 15th straight Test series win at home as the Rohit Sharma-led side thrashed Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second and final Test of the two-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday (March 14). It was skipper Rohit's first series win in Tests since taking over from Virat Kohli as the new captain of the side.

India dominated the proceedings throughout the pink-ball Test as they rode on Shreyas Iyer's brilliant 92 in the first innings to post a challenging total of 252 runs before Jasprit Bumrah picked up his maiden Test fifer at home to bundle out Sri Lanka for 109 runs in their first innings.

Iyer continued his fine form with the bat in the second innings to notch up another half-century while Rishabh Pant also slammed a quickfire fifty to help India post 303 runs in their second innings. India set up a huge target of 446 runs for Sri Lanka in their second innings and skittled out the visitors for 208 runs to win the pink-ball game comprehensively and clean sweep the series 2-0.

With the 2-0 win, India moved one place to the 4th spot in the current World Test Championship (WTC) points table while Sri Lanka slipped to the fifth spot. Australia, who are currently playing Pakistan in a three-match Test series, continue to remain at the top spot with Pakistan following them on the second spot.

Check out the updated ICC World Test Championship points table:

<img alt="WTC points table" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="822aff2a-8420-42c3-9aed-430aad805dcf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WCT.png" />

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-hails-game-changer-rishabh-pant-says-his-keeping-in-sri-lanka-series-was-best-he-has-seen-462427">Rohit Sharma hails game-changer Pant, says his keeping in Sri Lanka series was best he has seen</a>

There were a number of impressive performers for India in the two-match series against Sri Lanka. While Iyer and Pant dazzled with the willow, Hanuma Vihari also looked solid batting at number 3 in the absence of Cheteshwar Pujara. Bumrah and R Ashwin stole the show with the ball to keep the Sri Lankan batters at the bay throughout the series.

Ashwin, who went past Kapil Dev to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests in the series-opener in Mohali, the off-spinner surpassed former South African pacer Dale Steyn to move to the number 8 spot on the list of highest wicket-takers of all time in Test cricket.

India bagged a record-extending 15th straight Test series win at home as the Rohit Sharma-led side thrashed Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second and final Test of the two-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday (March 14).

India bagged a record-extending 15th straight Test series win at home as the Rohit Sharma-led side thrashed Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second and final Test of the two-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday (March 14). It was skipper Rohit's first series win in Tests since taking over from Virat Kohli as the new captain of the side. India dominated the proceedings throughout the pink-ball Test as they rode on Shreyas Iyer's brilliant 92 in the first innings to post a challenging total of 252 runs before Jasprit Bumrah picked up his maiden Test fifer at home to bundle out Sri Lanka for 109 runs in their first innings. Iyer continued his fine form with the bat in the second innings to notch up another half-century while Rishabh Pant also slammed a quickfire fifty to help India post 303 runs in their second innings. India set up a huge target of 446 runs for Sri Lanka in their second innings and skittled out the visitors for 208 runs to win the pink-ball game comprehensively and clean sweep the series 2-0. With the 2-0 win, India moved one place to the 4th spot in the current World Test Championship (WTC) points table while Sri Lanka slipped to the fifth spot. Australia, who are currently playing Pakistan in a three-match Test series, continue to remain at the top spot with Pakistan following them on the second spot. Check out the updated ICC World Test Championship points table: Also Read: Rohit Sharma hails game-changer Pant, says his keeping in Sri Lanka series was best he has seen There were a number of impressive performers for India in the two-match series against Sri Lanka. While Iyer and Pant dazzled with the willow, Hanuma Vihari also looked solid batting at number 3 in the absence of Cheteshwar Pujara. Bumrah and R Ashwin stole the show with the ball to keep the Sri Lankan batters at the bay throughout the series. Ashwin, who went past Kapil Dev to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests in the series-opener in Mohali, the off-spinner surpassed former South African pacer Dale Steyn to move to the number 8 spot on the list of highest wicket-takers of all time in Test cricket.

Updated World Test Championship points table after India's 2-0 clean sweep over Sri Lanka

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has lavished praise on wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant after his heroics in the recently-concluded Test series against Sri Lanka at home. India thrashed Sri Lanka 2-0 in the two-match series to register their 15th straight Test series win at home. While Pant produced a brilliant show with the bat, he was also exceptional behind the stumps.

Pant had faced intense criticism from all corners after his cheap dismissal against South Africa in the Johannesburg Test earlier this year. Pant had stepped out and played an unwanted shot against pacer Kagiso Rabada at the start of his innings to get caught.&nbsp;

However, the left-hander made a strong comeback&nbsp;with a century in the Cape Town Test and continued his purple patch in the two-match series against Sri Lanka. Pant slammed a brilliant 96-run-knock in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali and followed it up with scores of 39 and 50 runs in the second Test in Bengaluru.

Pant also smashed the fastest fifty by an Indian batter in Tests as he notched up his half-century off just 28 balls in the second Test. He broke the legendary Kapil Dev's 40-year-od record with his dashing knock and also earned praise from many, including Indian skipper Rohit.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-thrash-sri-lanka-by-238-runs-to-register-2-0-clean-sweep-record-15th-striaght-test-series-win-at-home-462203">&nbsp;India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home</a>

While Rohit insisted that he wants Pant to continue playing his natural attacking game, the Indian skipper said Pant has been told that he would have to curtail his natural instincts and play as per the situation whenever the team requires.

"His batting is his batting. We know how he bats and as a team we just want to give him that freedom to bat in the way that he wants to bat. But also keeping in mind certain situations of the game, where the game is going, we have also conveyed that to him, but we want to stick with his game plan as a team. It just seems to get better and get better - his game plans," said Rohit in the press conference post the conclusion of the 2nd Test against Sri Lanka.

"There will be times when you will smash your head and say 'why did he play that shot' but again we need to be ready to accept that with him when he bats. And he is somebody who can change the game in 40 minutes," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-my-personal-opinion-rohit-sharma-on-hailing-ravichandran-ashwin-as-an-all-time-great-462265">'It was my personal opinion': Rohit Sharma on hailing Ravichandran Ashwin as an all-time great</a>

While highlighting his batting heroics, Rohit also heaped praise on Pant's wicket-keeping and said his keeping in the Sri Lanka series was the best he has seen from the left-hander.

"And the most significant factor of his in this series was his keeping. His keeping was best that I have seen. He kept well when England came last year and he seems to get better every time he keeps wickets for India, so that is something that I have been very impressed with," Rohit said.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has lavished praise on wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant after his heroics in the recently-concluded Test series against Sri Lanka at home.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has lavished praise on wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant after his heroics in the recently-concluded Test series against Sri Lanka at home. India thrashed Sri Lanka 2-0 in the two-match series to register their 15th straight Test series win at home. While Pant produced a brilliant show with the bat, he was also exceptional behind the stumps. Pant had faced intense criticism from all corners after his cheap dismissal against South Africa in the Johannesburg Test earlier this year. Pant had stepped out and played an unwanted shot against pacer Kagiso Rabada at the start of his innings to get caught. However, the left-hander made a strong comeback with a century in the Cape Town Test and continued his purple patch in the two-match series against Sri Lanka. Pant slammed a brilliant 96-run-knock in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali and followed it up with scores of 39 and 50 runs in the second Test in Bengaluru. Pant also smashed the fastest fifty by an Indian batter in Tests as he notched up his half-century off just 28 balls in the second Test. He broke the legendary Kapil Dev's 40-year-od record with his dashing knock and also earned praise from many, including Indian skipper Rohit. Also Read: India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home While Rohit insisted that he wants Pant to continue playing his natural attacking game, the Indian skipper said Pant has been told that he would have to curtail his natural instincts and play as per the situation whenever the team requires. "His batting is his batting. We know how he bats and as a team we just want to give him that freedom to bat in the way that he wants to bat. But also keeping in mind certain situations of the game, where the game is going, we have also conveyed that to him, but we want to stick with his game plan as a team. It just seems to get better and get better - his game plans," said Rohit in the press conference post the conclusion of the 2nd Test against Sri Lanka. "There will be times when you will smash your head and say 'why did he play that shot' but again we need to be ready to accept that with him when he bats. And he is somebody who can change the game in 40 minutes," he added. Also Read: 'It was my personal opinion': Rohit Sharma on hailing Ravichandran Ashwin as an all-time great While highlighting his batting heroics, Rohit also heaped praise on Pant's wicket-keeping and said his keeping in the Sri Lanka series was the best he has seen from the left-hander. "And the most significant factor of his in this series was his keeping. His keeping was best that I have seen. He kept well when England came last year and he seems to get better every time he keeps wickets for India, so that is something that I have been very impressed with," Rohit said.

Rohit Sharma hails game-changer Rishabh Pant, says his keeping in Sri Lanka series was best he has seen

India continued their dominant run as they thrashed Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second and final Test of the two-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday (March 14). Jasprit Bumrah and R Ashwin ran through the Sri Lankan batting line-up as the visitors were skittled out for 208 runs while chasing the target of 447 runs in their second innings.

Captain Dimuth Karunaratne slammed a fighting hundred as he notched up 107 runs off 174 deliveries and was well supported by Kusal Mendis, who scored 54 runs as Sri Lanka produced a resilient effort with the bat in their second innings of the pink-ball Test. However, the duo's efforts were not enough to get the visitors over the line in the tricky run-chase.

Bumrah, who had picked up a five-wicket haul in the first innings followed it up with three important wickets during Sri Lanka's second innings. Ashwin bagged a four-wicket haul to run through the visitors' lower order as Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. clean swept the series 2-0 with yet another huge win.

This is India's record-extending 15th successive Test series win at home and Rohit's first as the captain of the side. The Hitman has had a fantastic start to his stint as India's full-time captain across all three formats with series wins against the likes of New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka at home so far.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-will-end-up-being-one-of-the-greats-like-ms-dhoni-for-team-india-says-dinesh-karthik-462195">Rishabh Pant will end up being one of the greats like MS Dhoni for Team India, says Dinesh Karthik</a>

While Bumrah shone with the ball, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant impressed with the bat for India. Iyer slammed a brilliant 92-run knock in the first innings to help India post a fighting total of 252 runs on a difficult pitch for the batters. He followed it up with a quickfire 67 runs in India's second innings.

Pant slammed the fastest fifty by an Indian in Tests as he notched up&nbsp;50 off 31 balls in India's second innings to help the hosts post a total 303/9 (declared). With 303 runs in their second innings, India handed a target of 447 runs to Sri Lanka in their second innings after bundling them out for a paltry 109 runs in their first innings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-love-his-game-legendary-kapil-dev-heaps-praise-on-ravindra-jadeja-after-his-heroics-against-sri-lanka-462182">'I love his game': Legendary Kapil Dev heaps praise on Ravindra Jadeja after his heroics against Sri Lanka</a>

Despite the century from skipper Karunaratne and a fighting fifty from Mendis, Sri Lanka were never in the run-chase but managed to cross the 200-run mark in their second innings. The visitors folded for 208 runs to lose the game by 238 runs as they remained winless in the series.

India continued their dominant run as they thrashed Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second and final Test of the two-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday (March 14).

India continued their dominant run as they thrashed Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second and final Test of the two-match series at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Monday (March 14). Jasprit Bumrah and R Ashwin ran through the Sri Lankan batting line-up as the visitors were skittled out for 208 runs while chasing the target of 447 runs in their second innings. Captain Dimuth Karunaratne slammed a fighting hundred as he notched up 107 runs off 174 deliveries and was well supported by Kusal Mendis, who scored 54 runs as Sri Lanka produced a resilient effort with the bat in their second innings of the pink-ball Test. However, the duo's efforts were not enough to get the visitors over the line in the tricky run-chase. Bumrah, who had picked up a five-wicket haul in the first innings followed it up with three important wickets during Sri Lanka's second innings. Ashwin bagged a four-wicket haul to run through the visitors' lower order as Rohit Sharma & Co. clean swept the series 2-0 with yet another huge win. This is India's record-extending 15th successive Test series win at home and Rohit's first as the captain of the side. The Hitman has had a fantastic start to his stint as India's full-time captain across all three formats with series wins against the likes of New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka at home so far. Also Read: Rishabh Pant will end up being one of the greats like MS Dhoni for Team India, says Dinesh Karthik While Bumrah shone with the ball, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant impressed with the bat for India. Iyer slammed a brilliant 92-run knock in the first innings to help India post a fighting total of 252 runs on a difficult pitch for the batters. He followed it up with a quickfire 67 runs in India's second innings. Pant slammed the fastest fifty by an Indian in Tests as he notched up 50 off 31 balls in India's second innings to help the hosts post a total 303/9 (declared). With 303 runs in their second innings, India handed a target of 447 runs to Sri Lanka in their second innings after bundling them out for a paltry 109 runs in their first innings. Also Read: 'I love his game': Legendary Kapil Dev heaps praise on Ravindra Jadeja after his heroics against Sri Lanka Despite the century from skipper Karunaratne and a fighting fifty from Mendis, Sri Lanka were never in the run-chase but managed to cross the 200-run mark in their second innings. The visitors folded for 208 runs to lose the game by 238 runs as they remained winless in the series.

India thrash Sri Lanka by 238 runs to register 2-0 clean sweep, record 15th straight Test series win at home

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma on Monday insisted that R Ashwin is indeed an all-time great in his eyes. Rohit had hailed Ashwin as one of the greats of the game after the senior spinner surpassed Kapil Dev to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali.

Ashwin has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers for India in the longest format over the years. He is among the best spinners in the world at present and continues to scale new milestones in his career. However, Rohit's comments for Ashwin after the first Test between India and Sri Lanka didn't go down well with many.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif even went on to claim that it might have been a 'slip of the tongue' for Rohit. However, the Indian skipper has put to rest all such claims and clarified that in his personal opinion, Ashwin is an all-time great in Test cricket.&nbsp;

Speaking at the press conference after the conclusion of the second Test between India and Sri Lanka in Bengaluru on Monday, Rohit said - "It was my personal opinion (that he is an all-time great). He puts in match-winning performances whenever we give him the ball. He still has a lot of life left in him. We have a lot of things to look forward to in the coming months. I need to make sure he's in a decent frame of mind."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-surpasses-dale-steyns-tally-becomes-8th-highest-wicket-taker-in-test-cricket-462199">Ravichandran Ashwin surpasses Dale Steyn, becomes 8th highest wicket-taker in Test cricket</a>

Meanwhile, Ashwin continued his terrific run with the ball as India hammered Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second Test in Bengaluru. The senior off-spinner picked up a total of six wickets across the two innings to go past Dale Styen to the 8th spot in the list of highest wicket-takers of all time in Test cricket.

Ashwin has 442 wickets to his name in 86 Test matches at present, including 30 fifers and 7 ten-wicket hauls. The off-spinner is only behind the legendary Anil Kumble in the list of highest wicket-takers for India in Tests. He will be looking to continue his fine form when India take the field in their next Test assignment later this year.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma on Monday insisted that R Ashwin is indeed an all-time great in his eyes. Rohit had hailed Ashwin as one of the greats of the game after the senior spinner surpassed Kapil Dev to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma on Monday insisted that R Ashwin is indeed an all-time great in his eyes. Rohit had hailed Ashwin as one of the greats of the game after the senior spinner surpassed Kapil Dev to become India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Mohali. Ashwin has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers for India in the longest format over the years. He is among the best spinners in the world at present and continues to scale new milestones in his career. However, Rohit's comments for Ashwin after the first Test between India and Sri Lanka didn't go down well with many. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif even went on to claim that it might have been a 'slip of the tongue' for Rohit. However, the Indian skipper has put to rest all such claims and clarified that in his personal opinion, Ashwin is an all-time great in Test cricket. Speaking at the press conference after the conclusion of the second Test between India and Sri Lanka in Bengaluru on Monday, Rohit said - "It was my personal opinion (that he is an all-time great). He puts in match-winning performances whenever we give him the ball. He still has a lot of life left in him. We have a lot of things to look forward to in the coming months. I need to make sure he's in a decent frame of mind." Also Read: Ravichandran Ashwin surpasses Dale Steyn, becomes 8th highest wicket-taker in Test cricket Meanwhile, Ashwin continued his terrific run with the ball as India hammered Sri Lanka by 238 runs in the second Test in Bengaluru. The senior off-spinner picked up a total of six wickets across the two innings to go past Dale Styen to the 8th spot in the list of highest wicket-takers of all time in Test cricket. Ashwin has 442 wickets to his name in 86 Test matches at present, including 30 fifers and 7 ten-wicket hauls. The off-spinner is only behind the legendary Anil Kumble in the list of highest wicket-takers for India in Tests. He will be looking to continue his fine form when India take the field in their next Test assignment later this year.

'It was my personal opinion': Rohit Sharma on hailing Ravichandran Ashwin as an all-time great

India wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant shattered the legendary Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record on Sunday (March 13) as he smashed the fastest fifty by an Indian in Test cricket. Pant notched up his half-century off just 28 balls in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Pant went after the Sri Lankan bowling attack and took them to the cleaners as he slammed seven fours and two sixes in his enthralling knock to help India extend their lead. With the help of the half-century from the wicket-keeper batter and Shreyas Iyer, India managed to pst 303/9 (declared) on the board in their second innings to hand Sri Lanka a huge target of 447 runs.

Pant earned praise from all corners after his destructive knock against Sri Lanka and was also lauded by veteran India wicket-keeper Dinesh Karthik. Karthik said the left-hander was already on his way towards attaining greatness and stated that he might finish as one of India's greatest wicket-keepers along with the legendary MS Dhoni.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-dravid-virat-kohli-win-hearts-with-their-gesture-for-suranga-lakmal-during-pink-ball-test-462092">WATCH: Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli win hearts with their gesture for Suranga Lakmal during pink-ball Test</a>

Former India captain MS Dhoni is regarded as one of the best wicket-keeper batsmen in the history of the game. He also holds the record for most dismissals and most runs by an Indian wicket-keeper in Test cricket.&nbsp;

"You have to say that Rishabh Pant is on his way to greatness. I think if he has a full-fledged wicketkeeping career for India, he will end up being one of the greats along with MS Dhoni. These two will stand out as India's greatest wicketkeepers who have played the game," Karthik said on Cricbuzz.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-love-his-game-legendary-kapil-dev-heaps-praise-on-ravindra-jadeja-after-his-heroics-against-sri-lanka-462182">&nbsp;'I love his game': Legendary Kapil Dev heaps praise on Jadeja after his heroics against Sri Lanka</a>

Karthik further added that Pant also reminded him of someone like Virender Sehwag, who was known for his ability to take down bowling attacks single-handedly across all formats of the game. Karthik said Pant's natural game is about taking risks and he has been extremely good with it so far.

"Rishabh Pant has the game to take risks and consistently be good at it. Also, he reminds me of Virender Sehwag, in the sense that when the field is up, he has the ability to hit boundaries at ease right from the get-go and that makes him a very special Test player. Test cricket in many ways is a boundary-hitting format for him,"&nbsp;Karthik&nbsp;added.

India wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant shattered the legendary Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record on Sunday (March 13) as he smashed the fastest fifty by an Indian in Test cricket.

India wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant shattered the legendary Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record on Sunday (March 13) as he smashed the fastest fifty by an Indian in Test cricket. Pant notched up his half-century off just 28 balls in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Pant went after the Sri Lankan bowling attack and took them to the cleaners as he slammed seven fours and two sixes in his enthralling knock to help India extend their lead. With the help of the half-century from the wicket-keeper batter and Shreyas Iyer, India managed to pst 303/9 (declared) on the board in their second innings to hand Sri Lanka a huge target of 447 runs. Pant earned praise from all corners after his destructive knock against Sri Lanka and was also lauded by veteran India wicket-keeper Dinesh Karthik. Karthik said the left-hander was already on his way towards attaining greatness and stated that he might finish as one of India's greatest wicket-keepers along with the legendary MS Dhoni. Also Read: WATCH: Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli win hearts with their gesture for Suranga Lakmal during pink-ball Test Former India captain MS Dhoni is regarded as one of the best wicket-keeper batsmen in the history of the game. He also holds the record for most dismissals and most runs by an Indian wicket-keeper in Test cricket. "You have to say that Rishabh Pant is on his way to greatness. I think if he has a full-fledged wicketkeeping career for India, he will end up being one of the greats along with MS Dhoni. These two will stand out as India's greatest wicketkeepers who have played the game," Karthik said on Cricbuzz. Also Read: 'I love his game': Legendary Kapil Dev heaps praise on Jadeja after his heroics against Sri Lanka Karthik further added that Pant also reminded him of someone like Virender Sehwag, who was known for his ability to take down bowling attacks single-handedly across all formats of the game. Karthik said Pant's natural game is about taking risks and he has been extremely good with it so far. "Rishabh Pant has the game to take risks and consistently be good at it. Also, he reminds me of Virender Sehwag, in the sense that when the field is up, he has the ability to hit boundaries at ease right from the get-go and that makes him a very special Test player. Test cricket in many ways is a boundary-hitting format for him," Karthik added.

Rishabh Pant will end up being one of the greats like MS Dhoni for Team India, says Dinesh Karthik

Legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev lavished huge praise on star India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja after his recent heroics in the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka at home. Jadeja was the hero of India's emphatic win by an innings and 222 runs in the first Test against the visitors as he produced a brilliant all-round show with the bat and the ball.

Jadeja slammed an unbeaten 175-run knock before picking up nine wickets across Sri Lanka's two innings to emerge as the Man of the Match for India in the series-opener in Mohali. Jadeja broke Kapil Dev's record for the highest individual score by an Indian batter batting at no.7 or below in Test cricket.

Kapil recently spoke about the all-rounder's heroics in the Mohali Test against Sri Lanka and said he loves Jadeja's game. Kapil lauded Jadeja for playing his cricket without pressure which makes his performances stand out.

"I love Ravindra Jadeja’s game among the new cricketers because he plays without pressure. He enjoys cricket. That’s why he is good at bowling as well as batting. He also does a great job in fielding. I believe that nothing can be done properly under pressure. If you take pressure in the field of cricket, then your performance will be bad," Kapil said.

The 1983 World Cup-winning captain is regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders the game has seen. He held the record for the highest individual score by an Indian at no.7 or below in Tests for 36 years before Jadeja broke it against Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-becomes-first-indian-to-achieve-rare-feat-with-twin-half-centuries-in-pink-ball-test-vs-sri-lanka-462102">Shreyas Iyer becomes first Indian to achieve rare feat with twin half-centuries in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka</a>

After thrashing Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the series-opener, India are edging closer to another comprehensive win in the ongoing second Test between the two sides at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. India have handed Sri Lanka a huge target of 447 runs in their second innings and have already reduced the visitors to 180/6 on Day 3 of the pink-ball game.

Legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev lavished huge praise on star India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja after his recent heroics in the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka at home.

Legendary all-rounder Kapil Dev lavished huge praise on star India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja after his recent heroics in the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka at home. Jadeja was the hero of India's emphatic win by an innings and 222 runs in the first Test against the visitors as he produced a brilliant all-round show with the bat and the ball. Jadeja slammed an unbeaten 175-run knock before picking up nine wickets across Sri Lanka's two innings to emerge as the Man of the Match for India in the series-opener in Mohali. Jadeja broke Kapil Dev's record for the highest individual score by an Indian batter batting at no.7 or below in Test cricket. Kapil recently spoke about the all-rounder's heroics in the Mohali Test against Sri Lanka and said he loves Jadeja's game. Kapil lauded Jadeja for playing his cricket without pressure which makes his performances stand out. "I love Ravindra Jadeja’s game among the new cricketers because he plays without pressure. He enjoys cricket. That’s why he is good at bowling as well as batting. He also does a great job in fielding. I believe that nothing can be done properly under pressure. If you take pressure in the field of cricket, then your performance will be bad," Kapil said. The 1983 World Cup-winning captain is regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders the game has seen. He held the record for the highest individual score by an Indian at no.7 or below in Tests for 36 years before Jadeja broke it against Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali. Also Read: Shreyas Iyer becomes first Indian to achieve rare feat with twin half-centuries in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka After thrashing Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the series-opener, India are edging closer to another comprehensive win in the ongoing second Test between the two sides at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. India have handed Sri Lanka a huge target of 447 runs in their second innings and have already reduced the visitors to 180/6 on Day 3 of the pink-ball game.

'I love his game': Legendary Kapil Dev heaps praise on Ravindra Jadeja after his heroics against Sri Lanka

Star batter Shreyas Iyer continued his magnificent run in India's second innings of the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday. Iyer slammed back-to-back half-centuries in both innings of the Test match to become the first Indian to achieve a rare feat in a pink-ball game.

After slamming a brilliant knock of 92 runs in India's first innings, Iyer followed it up with another half-century in their second innings on Day 2 of the Test match. The in-form batter scored a quickfire 67 off 87 deliveries as he helped India post a total of 303/9 (declared) in their second innings to&nbsp;hand Sri Lanka a target of 447 runs.

With his twin half-centuries in the two innings, Iyer achieved a rare feat as he became the first Indian batter to score a half-century in both innings of a pink-ball Test match. He also became only the fourth player in the world after the likes of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne to achieve the rare feat.

Players with two half-centuries in a pink-ball Test:

Darren Bravo v Pakistan, Dubai, 2016 
Steve Smith v Pakistan, Brisbane, 2016 
M Labuschagne v New Zealand, Perth, 2019 
M Labuschagne v England, Adelaide, 2021 
Shreyas Iyer v Sri Lanka, Bengaluru, 2022

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After bundling out Sri Lanka for a platry 109 runs in their first innings to amass a healthy lead of 143 runs, Indian batters produced an improved show in their second innings. While skipper Rohit Sharma (46) and Hanuma Vihari (35) contributed with vital knocks, Pant and Iyer slammed half-centuries apiece.

India declared their second innings on 303/9 before inviting Sri Lanka to chase 447 runs in their second innings. The hosts are in a strong position in the Test match and need just nine wickets with three days to play to win the game and register a 2-0 clean sweep.

Star batter Shreyas Iyer continued his magnificent run in India's second innings of the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday.

Star batter Shreyas Iyer continued his magnificent run in India's second innings of the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday. Iyer slammed back-to-back half-centuries in both innings of the Test match to become the first Indian to achieve a rare feat in a pink-ball game. After slamming a brilliant knock of 92 runs in India's first innings, Iyer followed it up with another half-century in their second innings on Day 2 of the Test match. The in-form batter scored a quickfire 67 off 87 deliveries as he helped India post a total of 303/9 (declared) in their second innings to hand Sri Lanka a target of 447 runs. With his twin half-centuries in the two innings, Iyer achieved a rare feat as he became the first Indian batter to score a half-century in both innings of a pink-ball Test match. He also became only the fourth player in the world after the likes of Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne to achieve the rare feat. Players with two half-centuries in a pink-ball Test: Darren Bravo v Pakistan, Dubai, 2016 Steve Smith v Pakistan, Brisbane, 2016 M Labuschagne v New Zealand, Perth, 2019 M Labuschagne v England, Adelaide, 2021 Shreyas Iyer v Sri Lanka, Bengaluru, 2022 Also Read: WATCH: Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli win hearts with their gesture for Suranga Lakmal during pink-ball Test After bundling out Sri Lanka for a platry 109 runs in their first innings to amass a healthy lead of 143 runs, Indian batters produced an improved show in their second innings. While skipper Rohit Sharma (46) and Hanuma Vihari (35) contributed with vital knocks, Pant and Iyer slammed half-centuries apiece. India declared their second innings on 303/9 before inviting Sri Lanka to chase 447 runs in their second innings. The hosts are in a strong position in the Test match and need just nine wickets with three days to play to win the game and register a 2-0 clean sweep.

Shreyas Iyer becomes first Indian to achieve rare feat with twin half-centuries in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has drawn comparisons between Indin skipper Rohit Sharma and the legendary MS Dhoni as he hailed Hitman for being 'cool as cucumber' as a leader. Rohit, who was recently appointed as India's captain across all three formats, has had a fantastic start to his stint as the skipper of the side.

Rohit has led India to back-to-back three T20I series wins against New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka while also winning his first ODI series as full-time captain 3-0 against West Indies. The ongoing two-match Test series between India and Sri Lanka is Rohit's first as the Test captain of the side and India are leading the two-match rubber 1-0 after an emphatic win in the first Test in Mohali.

Lauding Rohit, Pathan said the current Indian skipper has undergone a massive transformation since being snubbed from the Indian team for the 2011 ODI World Cup. Rohit had made his India debut much before the 2011 World Cup but had failed to establish his credentials to make the cut into the World Cup squad.

“Every player goes through that phase in his career when he isn’t able to perform and only left with disappointment. The current team has two such players: Jadeja and Rohit. Jadeja hasn’t looked back since the 2017 Champions Trophy final… and Rohit has changed a lot since the 2011 World Cup snub. There used to be a lot of talk about his talent. But he himself would say that he was much more than just talent," Pathan told Star Sports while speaking about the rise of both Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja.

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Ever since the 2011 World Cup snub, Rohit has gone on to become one of the best batters in the world when it comes to white-ball cricket. He is currently one of India's most consistent performers across formats and has also been terrific as a captain.

Pathan compared Rohit with Dhoni, who is known as captain cool for his ability to stay calm under the most pressure situations. Dhoni is the only captain with all three major ICC limited-overs trophies to his name. The former captain led India to memorable triumphs at the 2011 ODI World Cup in 2011, T20 World Cup in 2007 and the Champions Trophy in 2013.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-breaks-kapil-devs-40-year-old-record-with-sensational-fifty-in-pin-ball-test-against-sri-lanka-461919">Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test vs&nbsp;Sri Lanka</a>

“He worked hard on his skill-set and the best opportunity came in the 2013 Champions Trophy. He was given the role of opening the innings and that took Rohit’s career to another level. His performance was a notch above and that improved his consistency as well. We talk about Dhoni being Mr Cool but Rohit is cool as a cucumber,” Pathan added.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has drawn comparisons between Indin skipper Rohit Sharma and the legendary MS Dhoni as he hailed Hitman for being 'cool as cucumber' as a leader.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has drawn comparisons between Indin skipper Rohit Sharma and the legendary MS Dhoni as he hailed Hitman for being 'cool as cucumber' as a leader. Rohit, who was recently appointed as India's captain across all three formats, has had a fantastic start to his stint as the skipper of the side. Rohit has led India to back-to-back three T20I series wins against New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka while also winning his first ODI series as full-time captain 3-0 against West Indies. The ongoing two-match Test series between India and Sri Lanka is Rohit's first as the Test captain of the side and India are leading the two-match rubber 1-0 after an emphatic win in the first Test in Mohali. Lauding Rohit, Pathan said the current Indian skipper has undergone a massive transformation since being snubbed from the Indian team for the 2011 ODI World Cup. Rohit had made his India debut much before the 2011 World Cup but had failed to establish his credentials to make the cut into the World Cup squad. “Every player goes through that phase in his career when he isn’t able to perform and only left with disappointment. The current team has two such players: Jadeja and Rohit. Jadeja hasn’t looked back since the 2017 Champions Trophy final… and Rohit has changed a lot since the 2011 World Cup snub. There used to be a lot of talk about his talent. But he himself would say that he was much more than just talent," Pathan told Star Sports while speaking about the rise of both Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja. Also Read: Virat Kohli's Test average slips below 50 for the first time since 2017 after poor show against Sri Lanka Ever since the 2011 World Cup snub, Rohit has gone on to become one of the best batters in the world when it comes to white-ball cricket. He is currently one of India's most consistent performers across formats and has also been terrific as a captain. Pathan compared Rohit with Dhoni, who is known as captain cool for his ability to stay calm under the most pressure situations. Dhoni is the only captain with all three major ICC limited-overs trophies to his name. The former captain led India to memorable triumphs at the 2011 ODI World Cup in 2011, T20 World Cup in 2007 and the Champions Trophy in 2013. Also Read: Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka “He worked hard on his skill-set and the best opportunity came in the 2013 Champions Trophy. He was given the role of opening the innings and that took Rohit’s career to another level. His performance was a notch above and that improved his consistency as well. We talk about Dhoni being Mr Cool but Rohit is cool as a cucumber,” Pathan added.

'We talk about MS Dhoni being Mr Cool but..': Irfan Pathan compares Rohit Sharma with former India captain

Virat Kohli's average in Test cricket dropped below fifty for the first time in five years after he was dismissed cheaply once again in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Kohli was dismissed on 13 off 16 balls by left-arm spinner Praveen Jayawickrama on Day 2 of the second Test between the two sides.

It was once again a delivery that kept low which got the better of Kohli as the Bengaluru crowd went silent after the batting maestro's dismissal. While the&nbsp;wait for his 71st international century got extended yet again, Kohli's poor show meant he is no more the only batter in the world to average over fifty across all three formats of the game.

On a pitch that has uneven bounce and has assisted the bowlers, Kohli made a cautious start in India's second innings on Sunday. However, a lowly delivery from Jayawickrama sent him back. Kohli scored 23 and 13 in the two innings respectively as his average in the longest format dropped to 49.95.

The former India skipper needed at least 43 runs across two innings in the second Test to ensure his average remained above 50. However, he failed to do so much to the disappointment of the crowd in Bengaluru. Kohli at present has&nbsp;8043 runs in 101 Tests at an average of 49.95 for India.

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Kohli has been enduring a lean patch in Test cricket over the last couple of years. He has averaged only 28.03 in 17 Test matches from the start of 2020. His last hundred in the longest format came against Bangladesh in the pink-ball Test in Kolkata in November 2019.

Despite Kohli's underwhelming show with the bat, India are in a strong position in the Test match as they rode on half-centuries from Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer to post 303/9 (declared) on the board. India have handed Sri Lanka a target of 447 runs and are favourites to win the game.

Virat Kohli's average in Test cricket dropped below fifty for the first time in five years after he was dismissed cheaply once again in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli's average in Test cricket dropped below fifty for the first time in five years after he was dismissed cheaply once again in the ongoing pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Kohli was dismissed on 13 off 16 balls by left-arm spinner Praveen Jayawickrama on Day 2 of the second Test between the two sides. It was once again a delivery that kept low which got the better of Kohli as the Bengaluru crowd went silent after the batting maestro's dismissal. While the wait for his 71st international century got extended yet again, Kohli's poor show meant he is no more the only batter in the world to average over fifty across all three formats of the game. On a pitch that has uneven bounce and has assisted the bowlers, Kohli made a cautious start in India's second innings on Sunday. However, a lowly delivery from Jayawickrama sent him back. Kohli scored 23 and 13 in the two innings respectively as his average in the longest format dropped to 49.95. The former India skipper needed at least 43 runs across two innings in the second Test to ensure his average remained above 50. However, he failed to do so much to the disappointment of the crowd in Bengaluru. Kohli at present has 8043 runs in 101 Tests at an average of 49.95 for India. Also Read: Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka Kohli has been enduring a lean patch in Test cricket over the last couple of years. He has averaged only 28.03 in 17 Test matches from the start of 2020. His last hundred in the longest format came against Bangladesh in the pink-ball Test in Kolkata in November 2019. Despite Kohli's underwhelming show with the bat, India are in a strong position in the Test match as they rode on half-centuries from Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer to post 303/9 (declared) on the board. India have handed Sri Lanka a target of 447 runs and are favourites to win the game.

Virat Kohli's Test average slips below 50 for first time since 2017 after poor show against Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka ended day two on 28-1 in their second innings after India set them a mammoth target of 447 for victory in the second and final test on Sunday.

Jasprit Bumrah struck in the first over to trap opener Lahiru Thirimanne lbw for a duck but skipper Dimuth Karunaratne (10) and Kusal Mendis (16) saw out the final few overs of the day, with the tourists still 419 runs behind.

Having bowled out Sri Lanka for 109 in the first session, India batted 69 overs before declaring on 303-9 with Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant notching up half-centuries while other Indian batsmen failed to go on from solid starts.

Skipper Rohit Sharma, playing his 400th international match, holed out in the deep to fall four runs short of his fifty while Hanuma Vihari (35) was bowled by spinner Praveen Jayawickrama as he tried to sweep.

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Jayawickrama struck again to surprise Virat Kohli (13) with a delivery that turned sharply and kept low, trapping him lbw in identical fashion to his dismissal in the first innings.

Kohli gave a wry smile as silence descended on the M Chinnaswamy Stadium with a near-capacity crowd hoping to see the former captain and star of the IPL franchise end his century drought.

But Pant took the game away from the Lankans by going after the bowling as soon as he walked to the crease, bringing up his fifty with seven fours and two sixes.

Made from 28 balls, his half-century was the fastest by an Indian batsman, breaking the record set by Kapil Dev 40 years ago, before he skied a delivery from Jayawickrama who took the catch himself.

Iyer helped guide India to a lead beyond 400 with his second half-century of the match to add to his fine knock of 92 on a turning track in the first innings.

With nine boundaries, Iyer looked comfortable at the crease before he was outfoxed by a Lasith Embuldeniya delivery that rapped him on the pads and sent him back to the pavilion for 67.

"It was quite challenging. A kind of wicket where any ball could get you out. It will be challenging for Sri Lanka tomorrow as well," Vihari said.

"I don't think we planned on bowling this evening. But because we lost wickets, we thought we could have a crack at them for 35-40 minutes."

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Fast bowler Suranga Lakmal, playing in his final match before retirement, went wicketless in the second innings but he led the tourists off the field, with India coach Rahul Dravid also shaking his hand.

Earlier, Sri Lanka had resumed day two on 86-6 but their resistance lasted only 27 minutes as Bumrah (5-24) and Ravichandran Ashwin (2-30) cleaned up the tail.

Bumrah claimed his eighth five-wicket haul and his first on home soil on a pitch heavily favouring spinners.

Sri Lanka ended day two on 28-1 in their second innings after India set them a mammoth target of 447 for victory in the second and final test on Sunday. Jasprit Bumrah struck in the first over to trap opener Lahiru Thirimanne lbw for a duck but skipper Dimuth Karunaratne (10) and Kusal Mendis (16) saw out the final few overs of the day, with the tourists still 419 runs behind.

Sri Lanka ended day two on 28-1 in their second innings after India set them a mammoth target of 447 for victory in the second and final test on Sunday. Jasprit Bumrah struck in the first over to trap opener Lahiru Thirimanne lbw for a duck but skipper Dimuth Karunaratne (10) and Kusal Mendis (16) saw out the final few overs of the day, with the tourists still 419 runs behind. Having bowled out Sri Lanka for 109 in the first session, India batted 69 overs before declaring on 303-9 with Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant notching up half-centuries while other Indian batsmen failed to go on from solid starts. Skipper Rohit Sharma, playing his 400th international match, holed out in the deep to fall four runs short of his fifty while Hanuma Vihari (35) was bowled by spinner Praveen Jayawickrama as he tried to sweep. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli's Test average slips below 50 for first time since 2017 after poor show against Sri Lanka Jayawickrama struck again to surprise Virat Kohli (13) with a delivery that turned sharply and kept low, trapping him lbw in identical fashion to his dismissal in the first innings. Kohli gave a wry smile as silence descended on the M Chinnaswamy Stadium with a near-capacity crowd hoping to see the former captain and star of the IPL franchise end his century drought. But Pant took the game away from the Lankans by going after the bowling as soon as he walked to the crease, bringing up his fifty with seven fours and two sixes. Made from 28 balls, his half-century was the fastest by an Indian batsman, breaking the record set by Kapil Dev 40 years ago, before he skied a delivery from Jayawickrama who took the catch himself. Iyer helped guide India to a lead beyond 400 with his second half-century of the match to add to his fine knock of 92 on a turning track in the first innings. With nine boundaries, Iyer looked comfortable at the crease before he was outfoxed by a Lasith Embuldeniya delivery that rapped him on the pads and sent him back to the pavilion for 67. "It was quite challenging. A kind of wicket where any ball could get you out. It will be challenging for Sri Lanka tomorrow as well," Vihari said. "I don't think we planned on bowling this evening. But because we lost wickets, we thought we could have a crack at them for 35-40 minutes." ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka Fast bowler Suranga Lakmal, playing in his final match before retirement, went wicketless in the second innings but he led the tourists off the field, with India coach Rahul Dravid also shaking his hand. Earlier, Sri Lanka had resumed day two on 86-6 but their resistance lasted only 27 minutes as Bumrah (5-24) and Ravichandran Ashwin (2-30) cleaned up the tail. Bumrah claimed his eighth five-wicket haul and his first on home soil on a pitch heavily favouring spinners.

Half centuries from Iyer, Pant put India in driver's seat as SL ends day 2 on 28-1 chasing 447

Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant slammed the fastest fifty by an Indian batter in Test cricket as he notched up his half-century of just 28 balls on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Pant broke the legendary Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with his quickfire fifty.

Known for his attacking style of play irrespective of the format, Pant continued his natural stroke play against Sri Lanka during India's second innings as he went after the visitors' bowling attack. Showing no mercy against the spinners, Pant smashed seven fours and two sixes to race to his fifty in just 28 deliveries.

Pant broke the 40-year-old record held by the legendary Kapil Dev of the fastest fifty by an Indian in Tests. The 1983 World Cup-winning captain had slammed a half-century in just 30 balls in the Karachi Test against Pakistan in 1982. Shardul Thakur is on the third spot in the list of fastest fifties by Indians in Tests as he had scored a 31-ball fifty against England at the Oval last year.

Fastest fifties by Indians in Tests:

Rishabh Pant - 28 balls

Kapil Dev - 30 balls

Shardul Thakur - 31 balls

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Overall, Pant is ninth on the list of players with the fastest fifties in Test cricket. Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq holds the record for scoring the fastest fifty in the longest format having taken just 21 balls for his half-century against Australia in a Test match in Abu Dhabi in 2014.&nbsp;

Pant has also broken the legendary MS Dhoni's record for the fastest fifty by a wicket-keeper in Test cricket. Dhoni and former Australia keeper Ian Smith held the record for the fastest fifty by a wicket-keeper in Tests having achieved the feat in 34 balls. However, Pant has now better the duo with his sensational knock.

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Pant's fifty helped India extend their 143-run first innings lead over the 300-run mark as he went all out against the Sri Lankan bowlers. Pant also became only the fourth Indian batter after Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer to score a fifty for India in a pink-ball Test match.

Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant slammed the fastest fifty by an Indian batter in Test cricket as he notched up his half-century of just 28 balls on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant slammed the fastest fifty by an Indian batter in Test cricket as he notched up his half-century of just 28 balls on Day 2 of the ongoing pink-ball Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Pant broke the legendary Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with his quickfire fifty. Known for his attacking style of play irrespective of the format, Pant continued his natural stroke play against Sri Lanka during India's second innings as he went after the visitors' bowling attack. Showing no mercy against the spinners, Pant smashed seven fours and two sixes to race to his fifty in just 28 deliveries. Pant broke the 40-year-old record held by the legendary Kapil Dev of the fastest fifty by an Indian in Tests. The 1983 World Cup-winning captain had slammed a half-century in just 30 balls in the Karachi Test against Pakistan in 1982. Shardul Thakur is on the third spot in the list of fastest fifties by Indians in Tests as he had scored a 31-ball fifty against England at the Oval last year. Fastest fifties by Indians in Tests: Rishabh Pant - 28 balls Kapil Dev - 30 balls Shardul Thakur - 31 balls Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah bags maiden Test fifer at home, records best figures by an Indian against Sri Lanka Overall, Pant is ninth on the list of players with the fastest fifties in Test cricket. Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq holds the record for scoring the fastest fifty in the longest format having taken just 21 balls for his half-century against Australia in a Test match in Abu Dhabi in 2014. Pant has also broken the legendary MS Dhoni's record for the fastest fifty by a wicket-keeper in Test cricket. Dhoni and former Australia keeper Ian Smith held the record for the fastest fifty by a wicket-keeper in Tests having achieved the feat in 34 balls. However, Pant has now better the duo with his sensational knock. Also Read: Felt like a century, says Shreyas Iyer on raising his bat after half-century in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka Pant's fifty helped India extend their 143-run first innings lead over the 300-run mark as he went all out against the Sri Lankan bowlers. Pant also became only the fourth Indian batter after Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer to score a fifty for India in a pink-ball Test match.

Rishabh Pant breaks Kapil Dev's 40-year-old record with sensational fifty in pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka

Shreyas Iyer who played a pivotal role in taking India's total to 252 in the first innings of the second Test revealed how much the half-century on Day 1 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium against Sri Lanka meant to him.

Iyer scored 92 off 98 balls hitting 10 fours and four sixes on Saturday.

"I personally felt that fifty was like a century. That's why I celebrated like that. It was like a century feeling for me," Shreyas Iyer said in the press conference after the end of the day's play.

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"You saw the players who defended the ball, there was a lot of chance of nicking, and there was variable bounce on that wicket. You can't just play very negatively on that wicket and just keep defending the ball. You've got to have that positive intent when you step out on the field. The wicket is not that great. It`s obviously bowler-friendly," he added.

Iyer further pointed out that he has no regrets after missing on Test ton, saying: "It is disappointing to miss out on a hundred, but by the end of it the team had got to a fighting total. So, I have no regrets. I play for the team."

Sixteen wickets fell on an extraordinary opening day in Bengaluru as India took control of the Second Test against Sri Lanka.

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Shreyas Iyer top-scored with an attacking 92 as India raced to 252 all-out inside the first two sessions of the day-night match.

And India's quick bowlers did the damage with the ball, tearing through the Sri Lankan top order as Jasprit Bumrah took 3/15 and Mohammad Shami 2/18. The visitors will resume on 86/6, still trailing by 166 runs.

Shreyas Iyer who played a pivotal role in taking India's total to 252 in the first innings of the second Test revealed how much the half-century on Day 1 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium against Sri Lanka meant to him.

Shreyas Iyer who played a pivotal role in taking India's total to 252 in the first innings of the second Test revealed how much the half-century on Day 1 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium against Sri Lanka meant to him. Iyer scored 92 off 98 balls hitting 10 fours and four sixes on Saturday. "I personally felt that fifty was like a century. That's why I celebrated like that. It was like a century feeling for me," Shreyas Iyer said in the press conference after the end of the day's play. ALSO READ: Would they have done it against India? Brathwaite slams England for 'disrespectful' tactics vs West Indies "You saw the players who defended the ball, there was a lot of chance of nicking, and there was variable bounce on that wicket. You can't just play very negatively on that wicket and just keep defending the ball. You've got to have that positive intent when you step out on the field. The wicket is not that great. It`s obviously bowler-friendly," he added. Iyer further pointed out that he has no regrets after missing on Test ton, saying: "It is disappointing to miss out on a hundred, but by the end of it the team had got to a fighting total. So, I have no regrets. I play for the team." Sixteen wickets fell on an extraordinary opening day in Bengaluru as India took control of the Second Test against Sri Lanka. ALSO READ: Women's World Cup: Clinical Australia outclass arch-rivals New Zealand by 141 runs Shreyas Iyer top-scored with an attacking 92 as India raced to 252 all-out inside the first two sessions of the day-night match. And India's quick bowlers did the damage with the ball, tearing through the Sri Lankan top order as Jasprit Bumrah took 3/15 and Mohammad Shami 2/18. The visitors will resume on 86/6, still trailing by 166 runs.

Felt like a century, says Shreyas Iyer on raising his bat after half-century in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah bagged his maiden five-wicket haul in Tests at home during Day 2's play between India and Sri Lanka in the ongoing pink-ball encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Bumrah wreaked havoc on the Sri Lankan batting line-up with the pink ball as the visitors were bundled out on a paltry 109 in response to India's first-innings total of 252 runs.

Bumrah struck early during Sri Lanka's first innings on Day 2 to draw the first blood for India by dismissing opener Kusal Mendis before getting rid of no.3 Lahiru Thirimanne cheaply on 8 off 6 balls. He then went on to complete his five-wicket haul by picking up the wickets of Angelo Mathews, Niroshan Dickwella and Lasith Embuldeniya.

<h2>Best figures by an Indian bowler against Sri Lanka in Tests</h2>

Bumrah finished with figures of 5/24 during Sri Lanka's first innings, recording the best figures by an Indian bowler against the visitors in the longest format of the game. He bettered Ishant Sharma's 5/54 against Sri Lanka at the SSC Ground in Colombo in 2015.

Indian bowlers with best figures against Sri Lanka in Tests:

5/24-Jasprit Bumrah Bengaluru 2022 
5/54- Ishant Sharma SSC Colombo 2015 
5/72- Venkatesh Prasad Kandy 2001 
5/72 Zaheer Khan CCI Mumbai 2009

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-joins-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-in-elite-list-with-92-run-knock-in-pink-ball-test-vs-sri-lanka-461821">Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in elite list with 92-run knock in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka</a>

Bumrah also became only the fourth Indian bowler to pick up a five-wicket haul in a pink-ball Test match. He is the fourth pacer overall to achieve the feat as he joined the likes of Ishant, Umesh Yadav and Axar Patel in the elite list of bowlers with a fifer in a day-night Test match.

Indians with five-wicket hauls in pink-ball Tests:

Jasprit Bumrah- 5/24 vs Sri Lanka- 2022 (Bengaluru) 
Axar Patel- 6/38 vs England- 2021 (Ahmedabad) 
Axar Patel- 5/32 vs England - 2021 (Ahmedabad) 
Ishant Sharma - 5/22 vs Bangladesh - 2019 (Kolkata) 
Umesh Yadav - 5/53 vs Bangladesh- 2019 (Kolkata)

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/would-they-have-done-it-against-india-brathwaite-slams-england-for-disrespectful-tactics-vs-west-indies-461856">Would they have done it against India? Brathwaite slams England for 'disrespectful' tactics vs West Indies</a>

India amassed a healthy lead of 143 runs after bundling out Sri Lanka for just 109 runs and are currently in a strong position in the second Test as the hosts aim for a 2-0 clean sweep. India had hammered Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the first Test to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah bagged his maiden five-wicket haul in Tests at home during Day 2's play between India and Sri Lanka in the ongoing pink-ball encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah bagged his maiden five-wicket haul in Tests at home during Day 2's play between India and Sri Lanka in the ongoing pink-ball encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Bumrah wreaked havoc on the Sri Lankan batting line-up with the pink ball as the visitors were bundled out on a paltry 109 in response to India's first-innings total of 252 runs. Bumrah struck early during Sri Lanka's first innings on Day 2 to draw the first blood for India by dismissing opener Kusal Mendis before getting rid of no.3 Lahiru Thirimanne cheaply on 8 off 6 balls. He then went on to complete his five-wicket haul by picking up the wickets of Angelo Mathews, Niroshan Dickwella and Lasith Embuldeniya. Best figures by an Indian bowler against Sri Lanka in Tests Bumrah finished with figures of 5/24 during Sri Lanka's first innings, recording the best figures by an Indian bowler against the visitors in the longest format of the game. He bettered Ishant Sharma's 5/54 against Sri Lanka at the SSC Ground in Colombo in 2015. Indian bowlers with best figures against Sri Lanka in Tests: 5/24-Jasprit Bumrah Bengaluru 2022 5/54- Ishant Sharma SSC Colombo 2015 5/72- Venkatesh Prasad Kandy 2001 5/72 Zaheer Khan CCI Mumbai 2009 Also Read: Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in elite list with 92-run knock in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka Bumrah also became only the fourth Indian bowler to pick up a five-wicket haul in a pink-ball Test match. He is the fourth pacer overall to achieve the feat as he joined the likes of Ishant, Umesh Yadav and Axar Patel in the elite list of bowlers with a fifer in a day-night Test match. Indians with five-wicket hauls in pink-ball Tests: Jasprit Bumrah- 5/24 vs Sri Lanka- 2022 (Bengaluru) Axar Patel- 6/38 vs England- 2021 (Ahmedabad) Axar Patel- 5/32 vs England - 2021 (Ahmedabad) Ishant Sharma - 5/22 vs Bangladesh - 2019 (Kolkata) Umesh Yadav - 5/53 vs Bangladesh- 2019 (Kolkata) Also Read: Would they have done it against India? Brathwaite slams England for 'disrespectful' tactics vs West Indies India amassed a healthy lead of 143 runs after bundling out Sri Lanka for just 109 runs and are currently in a strong position in the second Test as the hosts aim for a 2-0 clean sweep. India had hammered Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs in the first Test to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

Jasprit Bumrah bags maiden Test fifer at home, records best figures by an Indian against Sri Lanka

Virat Kohli's wait for his 71st international century extended yet again on Saturday (March 12) after the Indian batter was dismissed on 23 runs on Day 1 of the ongoing second Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Kohli was once again dismissed by a spinner as his struggles against spin continued in the second Test.

India and Sri Lanka locked horns in the second and final Test of the two-match series in Bengaluru on Saturday. India won the toss and opted to bat first in the pink-ball game and the hosts got off to a poor start as they lost their openers Mayank Agarwal (4) and Rohit Sharma (15) cheaply.&nbsp;

Kohli, who came out to bat at number 4, posted a 47-run stand for the third wicket with Hanuma Vihari (31) before the latter was dismissed in the 27th over to leave India reeling on 76/3. Kohli was cautious in his approach and was looking to play a big knock but ended up getting trapped lbw by De Silva on 23 off 48 balls.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virats-bad-patch-has-gone-for-too-long-ex-pakistan-captain-backs-kohli-to-end-his-century-drought-soon-461571">'Virat's bad patch has gone for too long': Ex-Pakistan captain backs Kohli to end his century drought soon</a>

The former Indian skipper had no answer to De Silva's excellent delivery which was almost unplayable as it kept low after hitting the ground. Kohli was left in disbelief after being stunned by the spinner and his reaction soon went viral on social media.

Watch video:

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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/are-you-in-jail-indian-fans-troll-pcb-as-marnus-labuschagne-shares-pic-of-his-daal-and-roti-meal-461639">'Are you in jail?': Indian fans troll PCB as Marnus Labuschagne shares pic of his 'daal and roti' meal</a>

India's top-order crumbled on Day 1 as the spin assisted spinners. Shreyas Iyer was the lone fighter for India as he notched up his half-century to take the team's total beyond the 250-run mark after the likes of Kohli (23), Rohit (15), Agarwal (4) and Rishabh Pant (39) failed to make an impact.

Iyer missed out on a deserved hundred by just 8 runs as he notched up a brilliant knock of 92 runs to help India post 252 runs on the board in their first innings. The onus will now be on the Indian bowlers to bundle out Sri Lanka cheaply in their first innings to keep the hosts in the game.

Virat Kohli's wait for his 71st international century extended yet again on Saturday (March 12) after the Indian batter was dismissed on 23 runs on Day 1 of the ongoing second Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli's wait for his 71st international century extended yet again on Saturday (March 12) after the Indian batter was dismissed on 23 runs on Day 1 of the ongoing second Test between India and Sri Lanka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Kohli was once again dismissed by a spinner as his struggles against spin continued in the second Test. India and Sri Lanka locked horns in the second and final Test of the two-match series in Bengaluru on Saturday. India won the toss and opted to bat first in the pink-ball game and the hosts got off to a poor start as they lost their openers Mayank Agarwal (4) and Rohit Sharma (15) cheaply. Kohli, who came out to bat at number 4, posted a 47-run stand for the third wicket with Hanuma Vihari (31) before the latter was dismissed in the 27th over to leave India reeling on 76/3. Kohli was cautious in his approach and was looking to play a big knock but ended up getting trapped lbw by De Silva on 23 off 48 balls. Also Read: 'Virat's bad patch has gone for too long': Ex-Pakistan captain backs Kohli to end his century drought soon The former Indian skipper had no answer to De Silva's excellent delivery which was almost unplayable as it kept low after hitting the ground. Kohli was left in disbelief after being stunned by the spinner and his reaction soon went viral on social media. Watch video: pic.twitter.com/KGdnKaijZx — Rishobpuant (@rishobpuant) March 12, 2022 × Also Read: 'Are you in jail?': Indian fans troll PCB as Marnus Labuschagne shares pic of his 'daal and roti' meal India's top-order crumbled on Day 1 as the spin assisted spinners. Shreyas Iyer was the lone fighter for India as he notched up his half-century to take the team's total beyond the 250-run mark after the likes of Kohli (23), Rohit (15), Agarwal (4) and Rishabh Pant (39) failed to make an impact. Iyer missed out on a deserved hundred by just 8 runs as he notched up a brilliant knock of 92 runs to help India post 252 runs on the board in their first innings. The onus will now be on the Indian bowlers to bundle out Sri Lanka cheaply in their first innings to keep the hosts in the game.

WATCH: Virat Kohli in disbelief as Dhananjaya de Silva stuns Indian star with unplayable delivery in 2nd Test

Shreyas Iyer was the stand out performer for India in an otherwise disappointing performance from the hosts in their first innings on Day 1 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. On a track that was assisting the bowlers, Iyer emerged as the top scorer for India with a brilliant knock of 92 runs off just 98 balls.

After opting to bat first in the second Test against Sri Lanka, India's top order struggled against the pink ball as the uneven bounce on the pitch made it trickier for them. The likes of skipper Rohit Sharma (15), Mayank Agarwal (4), Virat Kohli (23) and Hanuma Vihari (31) all failed to make an impact.

India were left reeling at 86/4 in the 28th over when Iyer arrived in the middle and went on to play a gritty knock battling the tough conditions. He missed out on his century by just 8 runs but managed to help India post a fighting total of 252 runs on the board in their first innings.

With the help of his 92-run-knock, Iyer also joined the likes of Kohli and Rohit in an elite list as he became only the third Indian player to score a half-century in a pink-ball Test match for India. Kohli remains the only player with a century in a pink-ball game with Iyer now India's second-highest scorer in a day-night Test behind the former skipper.

Highest score by Indian players in pink-ball Tests:

136 - Virat Kohli vs Bangladesh 2019 
92 - Shreyas Iyer vs Sri Lanka 2022 
74 - Virat Kohli vs Australia 2020 
66 -&nbsp;Rohit Sharma vs England 2021

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sri-lanka-2nd-test-dn-bowlers-put-hosts-in-strong-position-as-visitors-tumble-at-866-on-day-1-461738">India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd Test: Bowlers put hosts in strong position as visitors tumble at 86/6 on Day 1</a>

Kohli's last century in international cricket was in the pink-ball Test against Bangladesh in November 2019. The former India skipper has since struggled to reach the three-figure mark across formats. On Saturday, Kohli was dismissed by Sri Lankan spinner&nbsp;Dhananjaya de Silva on 23 in India's first innings of the pink-ball Test.

Riding on Iyer's 92 and Rishabh Pant's crucial knock of 39 runs off just 26 balls, India managed to cross the 250-run mark in their first innings on Saturday before the hosts wreaked havoc with the ball against Sri Lanka in their first innings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-in-disbelief-as-dhananjaya-de-silva-stuns-indian-star-with-unplayable-delivery-in-2nd-test-461675">WATCH: Kohli in disbelief as Dhananjaya de Silva stuns Indian star with unplayable delivery in 2nd Test</a>

The visitors lost wickets at regular intervals in their first innings as they were reduced to 86/6 at stumps on Day 2, trailing India's first-innings total by 166 runs.

Shreyas Iyer was the stand out performer for India in an otherwise disappointing performance from the hosts in their first innings on Day 1 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Shreyas Iyer was the stand out performer for India in an otherwise disappointing performance from the hosts in their first innings on Day 1 of the ongoing pink-ball Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. On a track that was assisting the bowlers, Iyer emerged as the top scorer for India with a brilliant knock of 92 runs off just 98 balls. After opting to bat first in the second Test against Sri Lanka, India's top order struggled against the pink ball as the uneven bounce on the pitch made it trickier for them. The likes of skipper Rohit Sharma (15), Mayank Agarwal (4), Virat Kohli (23) and Hanuma Vihari (31) all failed to make an impact. India were left reeling at 86/4 in the 28th over when Iyer arrived in the middle and went on to play a gritty knock battling the tough conditions. He missed out on his century by just 8 runs but managed to help India post a fighting total of 252 runs on the board in their first innings. With the help of his 92-run-knock, Iyer also joined the likes of Kohli and Rohit in an elite list as he became only the third Indian player to score a half-century in a pink-ball Test match for India. Kohli remains the only player with a century in a pink-ball game with Iyer now India's second-highest scorer in a day-night Test behind the former skipper. Highest score by Indian players in pink-ball Tests: 136 - Virat Kohli vs Bangladesh 2019 92 - Shreyas Iyer vs Sri Lanka 2022 74 - Virat Kohli vs Australia 2020 66 - Rohit Sharma vs England 2021 Also Read: India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd Test: Bowlers put hosts in strong position as visitors tumble at 86/6 on Day 1 Kohli's last century in international cricket was in the pink-ball Test against Bangladesh in November 2019. The former India skipper has since struggled to reach the three-figure mark across formats. On Saturday, Kohli was dismissed by Sri Lankan spinner Dhananjaya de Silva on 23 in India's first innings of the pink-ball Test. Riding on Iyer's 92 and Rishabh Pant's crucial knock of 39 runs off just 26 balls, India managed to cross the 250-run mark in their first innings on Saturday before the hosts wreaked havoc with the ball against Sri Lanka in their first innings. Also Read: WATCH: Kohli in disbelief as Dhananjaya de Silva stuns Indian star with unplayable delivery in 2nd Test The visitors lost wickets at regular intervals in their first innings as they were reduced to 86/6 at stumps on Day 2, trailing India's first-innings total by 166 runs.

Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in elite list with 92-run knock in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels Virat Kohli's rough patch with the willow has extended for too long and that now it's time for him to score big runs for India. Kohli has not enjoyed the best of form in international cricket over the last couple of years as the&nbsp;wait for his 71st international century has extended over two years.

Kohli scored his last international ton in November 2019 and has since failed to reach the triple-figure mark across formats despite having gotten great starts on several occasions. In his last outing which was also Kohli's 100th Test, the batting maestro looked in fine touch as he got off to a good start. However, Kohli once again failed to get a big knock.

Kohli was dismissed on 45 in his 100th Test as he was cleaned up by Sri Lankan spinner Lasith Embuldeniya. As his century drought continues to extend, Latif has backed Kohli to score a century soon. Latif also spoke about Kohli's struggles and said he needs to get back among the runs soon.

“It is time for him to score runs. The bad patch has gone for too long. He has got a great chance here. People are very concerned over his century, but I think he will be slamming a hundred either in this Test or in the next two-three games,” Latif said in a video on his official YouTube channel.

“He had internal problems and lost his captaincy, went out of form. The opposition also works on his weakness and they are bowling him according to the plan," added the former Pakistan skipper.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-can-touch-virat-ex-india-batting-coach-backs-kohli-to-equal-sachin-tendulkars-world-record-461005">'Nobody can touch Virat': Ex-India batting coach backs Kohli to equal Sachin Tendulkar's world record</a>

Further decoding Kohli's struggles with the willow over the last couple of years, Latif said the former India skipper plays with an open stance and has the tendency of going after deliveries outside off which has worked against him. Latif advised Kohli to take help of data analytics to work on his weakness.

“Some players don't believe in data when they're in a good patch. It is time for him to go data analysts. The problem is he has an open stance and chasing deliveries outside off. The opposition has worked on this weakness,” said Latif.

“He has to lessen the number of dot balls he plays. He has to be more aggressive. He has to fasten his initial movement. He is farther from the ball with his open stance. Being late is fine, being very late is dangerous," he added.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels Virat Kohli's rough patch with the willow has extended for too long and that now it's time for him to score big runs for India.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif feels Virat Kohli's rough patch with the willow has extended for too long and that now it's time for him to score big runs for India. Kohli has not enjoyed the best of form in international cricket over the last couple of years as the wait for his 71st international century has extended over two years. Kohli scored his last international ton in November 2019 and has since failed to reach the triple-figure mark across formats despite having gotten great starts on several occasions. In his last outing which was also Kohli's 100th Test, the batting maestro looked in fine touch as he got off to a good start. However, Kohli once again failed to get a big knock. Kohli was dismissed on 45 in his 100th Test as he was cleaned up by Sri Lankan spinner Lasith Embuldeniya. As his century drought continues to extend, Latif has backed Kohli to score a century soon. Latif also spoke about Kohli's struggles and said he needs to get back among the runs soon. “It is time for him to score runs. The bad patch has gone for too long. He has got a great chance here. People are very concerned over his century, but I think he will be slamming a hundred either in this Test or in the next two-three games,” Latif said in a video on his official YouTube channel. “He had internal problems and lost his captaincy, went out of form. The opposition also works on his weakness and they are bowling him according to the plan," added the former Pakistan skipper. Also Read: 'Nobody can touch Virat': Ex-India batting coach backs Kohli to equal Sachin Tendulkar's world record Further decoding Kohli's struggles with the willow over the last couple of years, Latif said the former India skipper plays with an open stance and has the tendency of going after deliveries outside off which has worked against him. Latif advised Kohli to take help of data analytics to work on his weakness. “Some players don't believe in data when they're in a good patch. It is time for him to go data analysts. The problem is he has an open stance and chasing deliveries outside off. The opposition has worked on this weakness,” said Latif. “He has to lessen the number of dot balls he plays. He has to be more aggressive. He has to fasten his initial movement. He is farther from the ball with his open stance. Being late is fine, being very late is dangerous," he added.

'Virat's bad patch has gone for too long': Ex-Pakistan captain backs Kohli to end his century drought soon

MS Dhoni remains a big name in international cricket. Despite his retirement from the highest level, on August 15 2020, the 40-year-old remains an extremely popular for his overall contribution to Indian cricket. Dhoni signed off from international cricket, with 17,266 runs, 108 fifties, 16 centuries, 634 catches, 195 stumpings, 359 sixes and also leading India to all major ICC titles.

Dhoni became a household name soon after he broke into the scene at the highest level in 2004. In his early years, he was a fearless striker of the ball who also played some audacious and unorthodox shots from time to time. During the 2006 Champions Trophy, Dhoni made a vital 23-ball 28 in Rahul Dravid &amp; Co.'s face-off versus Ricky Ponting's Australia, in Mohali, but made heads turn with a stunning reverse sweep off Nathan Bracken in India's final over.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-to-hardik-pandya-top-5-cricketing-superstars-with-most-instagram-followers-460635">From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 cricketing superstars with most Instagram followers</a>

With wickets tumbling and&nbsp;India&nbsp;aiming for over a 260-run score, Dhoni was on strike in the final over and&nbsp;targetted some big shots. While he fell on the last ball of the Indian innings, with the score 249-8, he played a eye-catching reverse sweep (or pulled off an AB de Villiers). Here's the video:

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ABD who? Hold Dhoni's Beer <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketTwitter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketTwitter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qbz7Cy6nOK">pic.twitter.com/Qbz7Cy6nOK</a>
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While it can be termed as an AB de Villiers-esque stroke in the current era, back then the South African had just announced his arrival in international circuit. He hadn't even scored an ODI century when Dhoni pulled off a miraculous stroke against Bracken.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-have-to-be-special-maybe-i-would-have-never-played-for-india-if-i-was-an-indian-ab-de-villiers-451562">You have to be special, maybe I would have never played for India if I was an Indian: AB de Villiers</a>

Talking about the India-Aus face-off, Dravid-led side's 249/8 was not much of a challenge for the Aussies as the Men in Yellow chased down the score with six wickets and 26 balls to spare. Australia later faced West Indies in the summit clash and won the title without dropping much sweat in the finale (by 8 wickets).

MS Dhoni remains a big name in international cricket. Despite his retirement from the highest level, on August 15 2020, the 40-year-old remains an extremely popular for his overall contribution to Indian cricket.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in international cricket. Despite his retirement from the highest level, on August 15 2020, the 40-year-old remains an extremely popular for his overall contribution to Indian cricket. Dhoni signed off from international cricket, with 17,266 runs, 108 fifties, 16 centuries, 634 catches, 195 stumpings, 359 sixes and also leading India to all major ICC titles. Dhoni became a household name soon after he broke into the scene at the highest level in 2004. In his early years, he was a fearless striker of the ball who also played some audacious and unorthodox shots from time to time. During the 2006 Champions Trophy, Dhoni made a vital 23-ball 28 in Rahul Dravid & Co.'s face-off versus Ricky Ponting's Australia, in Mohali, but made heads turn with a stunning reverse sweep off Nathan Bracken in India's final over. ALSO READ | From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 cricketing superstars with most Instagram followers With wickets tumbling and India aiming for over a 260-run score, Dhoni was on strike in the final over and targetted some big shots. While he fell on the last ball of the Indian innings, with the score 249-8, he played a eye-catching reverse sweep (or pulled off an AB de Villiers). Here's the video: ABD who? Hold Dhoni's Beer #CricketTwitter #IPL2022 pic.twitter.com/Qbz7Cy6nOK — SHIVAM (@SMUDGE4549) March 10, 2022 × While it can be termed as an AB de Villiers-esque stroke in the current era, back then the South African had just announced his arrival in international circuit. He hadn't even scored an ODI century when Dhoni pulled off a miraculous stroke against Bracken. ALSO READ | You have to be special, maybe I would have never played for India if I was an Indian: AB de Villiers Talking about the India-Aus face-off, Dravid-led side's 249/8 was not much of a challenge for the Aussies as the Men in Yellow chased down the score with six wickets and 26 balls to spare. Australia later faced West Indies in the summit clash and won the title without dropping much sweat in the finale (by 8 wickets).

WATCH: When Dhoni pulled off an AB de Villiers-esque reverse sweep during India's 2006 CT tie vs AUS

When India's Test squad was announced for the ongoing home series versus Sri Lanka, a lot of changes came into place with many senior players being shown the door. The likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha were dropped as the BCCI selectors stressed on focusing on younger breed of players for grooming them in the purest format.

Despite being dropped, the doors have not been shut for Pujara and Rahane as per chief selector Chetan Sharma's statement. However, the duo have been demoted to Grade B, from Grade A, category in BCCI's central contracts list. On the other hand, Ishant and Saha are out-of-favour and it seems the two won't be in the scheme of things for Team India going forward. While Saha has been told that Rishabh Pant and KS Bharat will be preferred for the keeper's slot in whites, Ishant's future also looks gloomy.

Even though Ishant-Saha are out of contention, at least for now, they feature in BCCI contracts list. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra explained why the pair have a central contract.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-top-earners-to-players-with-big-pay-cuts-bccis-new-central-contracts-list-for-2021-22-459987">From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22</a>

"Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha's names are also there in BCCI's central contracts. In fact, Ishant Sharma is at 3 crores. Are you wondering why? Why was Saha given a central contract when you have told him that you are not going to select him at all?" said the cricketer-turned-commentator on his&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;channel.

"It seems Ishant Sharma also has an extremely limited role left in Test cricket, so why is he in the 3-crores contract and not 1 crore? These are things that you wonder?&nbsp; These are the contracts from October 2021 to the upcoming September. That is why Saha has the right. He was India's player in this contract period. He scored runs for India in December, that is why his name is there in this list, same goes for Ishant Sharma, he was playing regularly," he opined.

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Chopra further added, "This could possibly be the last contract for Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha. Will you see them playing after October - I am not 100% certain. They have already told Saha and it looks 50-50 for Ishant Sharma as well. I love him to bits but it seems the time has come for his exit."

For the unversed, BCCI's&nbsp;has four categories -- A+ which has annual remuneration of INR 7 crore (INR 70 million) while A, B and C categories are valued at INR 5 crore (INR 50 million), INR 3 crore (30 million) and INR 1 crore (10 crore) respectively. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah remain the highest earners whereas the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Md Siraj and Axar Patel have been promoted. In addition, Suryakumar Yadav is the only new entrant in the central contracts.

When India's Test squad was announced for the ongoing home series versus Sri Lanka, a lot of changes came into place with many senior players being shown the door.

When India's Test squad was announced for the ongoing home series versus Sri Lanka, a lot of changes came into place with many senior players being shown the door. The likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha were dropped as the BCCI selectors stressed on focusing on younger breed of players for grooming them in the purest format. Despite being dropped, the doors have not been shut for Pujara and Rahane as per chief selector Chetan Sharma's statement. However, the duo have been demoted to Grade B, from Grade A, category in BCCI's central contracts list. On the other hand, Ishant and Saha are out-of-favour and it seems the two won't be in the scheme of things for Team India going forward. While Saha has been told that Rishabh Pant and KS Bharat will be preferred for the keeper's slot in whites, Ishant's future also looks gloomy. Even though Ishant-Saha are out of contention, at least for now, they feature in BCCI contracts list. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra explained why the pair have a central contract. ALSO READ | From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22 "Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha's names are also there in BCCI's central contracts. In fact, Ishant Sharma is at 3 crores. Are you wondering why? Why was Saha given a central contract when you have told him that you are not going to select him at all?" said the cricketer-turned-commentator on his YouTube channel. "It seems Ishant Sharma also has an extremely limited role left in Test cricket, so why is he in the 3-crores contract and not 1 crore? These are things that you wonder? These are the contracts from October 2021 to the upcoming September. That is why Saha has the right. He was India's player in this contract period. He scored runs for India in December, that is why his name is there in this list, same goes for Ishant Sharma, he was playing regularly," he opined. ALSO READ | From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 cricketing superstars with most Instagram followers Chopra further added, "This could possibly be the last contract for Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha. Will you see them playing after October - I am not 100% certain. They have already told Saha and it looks 50-50 for Ishant Sharma as well. I love him to bits but it seems the time has come for his exit." For the unversed, BCCI's has four categories -- A+ which has annual remuneration of INR 7 crore (INR 70 million) while A, B and C categories are valued at INR 5 crore (INR 50 million), INR 3 crore (30 million) and INR 1 crore (10 crore) respectively. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah remain the highest earners whereas the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Md Siraj and Axar Patel have been promoted. In addition, Suryakumar Yadav is the only new entrant in the central contracts.

Aakash Chopra explains why Saha, Ishant fall in Grade C in BCCI contracts despite being dropped

R Ashwin created history during India's massive win over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali. During the course of the game, Ashwin surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) to become the country's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, now only behind Anil Kumble (619).

With 436 wickets in 85 Tests, the 35-year-old Ashwin has played a huge role in India's dominance in whites, especially at home. Ahead of the second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, which will be a day-night encounter at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, the wily offie shared the role of former Indian batter and women's team coach WV Raman in his growth as a cricketer.

In 2006, Ashwin made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu. Back then, Raman was the coach and the World Cup-winner recently spilled the beans on the former's role in his career in an interview posted by the BCCI.&nbsp;

“When I made my debut, I had walked into the Chepauk stadium and Raman was the coach. (He was) a hard taskmaster and a lot of people feared having conversations with him. So, we were going through this practice session one day and he was giving these fielding sessions. But the amount of pressure he used to inflict on people who were throwing the ball on the top of the stumps was incredible,” Ashwin recalled.

“If you didn't throw the ball at the top of the stumps, he would just have a go at you. This kept happening for 10 days, 12 days, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, and we got a little comfortable. He used to prod me at the net, I used to question him and I didn't really have fear speaking in the team meeting," he further opined.

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"One day, he just took me to the side and said, 'Ashwin, you've just come into the side. I appreciate you speaking in the team meetings, but you also need to understand why we say certain things. We say it with the intent to make sure that once you go to the Indian team, you are not found wanting with your basics'. And that really opened the floodgates for me and Raman forever. Because I knew this man had the best intent in place for anybody who walked into the ground inside this team,” added Ashwin.

Ashwin is currently gearing up for India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, starting on Saturday (March 12). The veteran will hope to continue his merry run in whites and lead India to a 2-0 series whitewash over the Asian neighbours.

R Ashwin created history during India's massive win over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali. During the course of the game, Ashwin surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) to become the country's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, now only behind Anil Kumble (619).

R Ashwin created history during India's massive win over Sri Lanka in the first Test in Mohali. During the course of the game, Ashwin surpassed Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) to become the country's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, now only behind Anil Kumble (619). With 436 wickets in 85 Tests, the 35-year-old Ashwin has played a huge role in India's dominance in whites, especially at home. Ahead of the second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, which will be a day-night encounter at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, the wily offie shared the role of former Indian batter and women's team coach WV Raman in his growth as a cricketer. In 2006, Ashwin made his first-class debut for Tamil Nadu. Back then, Raman was the coach and the World Cup-winner recently spilled the beans on the former's role in his career in an interview posted by the BCCI. “When I made my debut, I had walked into the Chepauk stadium and Raman was the coach. (He was) a hard taskmaster and a lot of people feared having conversations with him. So, we were going through this practice session one day and he was giving these fielding sessions. But the amount of pressure he used to inflict on people who were throwing the ball on the top of the stumps was incredible,” Ashwin recalled. “If you didn't throw the ball at the top of the stumps, he would just have a go at you. This kept happening for 10 days, 12 days, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, and we got a little comfortable. He used to prod me at the net, I used to question him and I didn't really have fear speaking in the team meeting," he further opined. ALSO READ | INDvsSL: When and where to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test match - IST time and streaming details "One day, he just took me to the side and said, 'Ashwin, you've just come into the side. I appreciate you speaking in the team meetings, but you also need to understand why we say certain things. We say it with the intent to make sure that once you go to the Indian team, you are not found wanting with your basics'. And that really opened the floodgates for me and Raman forever. Because I knew this man had the best intent in place for anybody who walked into the ground inside this team,” added Ashwin. Ashwin is currently gearing up for India's second and final Test versus Sri Lanka, starting on Saturday (March 12). The veteran will hope to continue his merry run in whites and lead India to a 2-0 series whitewash over the Asian neighbours.

'He was a hard taskmaster, a lot of people feared....' - R Ashwin on ex-India batter's role in his growth

India will be looking to continue their winning run and clean sweep the two-match Test series 2-0 when they lock horns with Sri Lanka in the second and final Test at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The second Test, which will be a pink-ball game, is all set to get underway from Saturday (March 12).

India produced a dominant display in the series-opener in Mohali to outclass the visitors by an innings and 222 runs. Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja was the hero of India's thumping win as he slammed an unbeaten 175 and picked up a total of nine wickets across Sri Lanka's two innings.

The likes of Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin and Hanuma Vihari also impressed as India went 1-0 up in the two-match rubber. India have included fit-again all-rounder Axar Patel in their squad ahead of the second Test in the place of Kuldeep Yadav. Axar is likely to walk into the XI and might replace Jayant Yadav, who had an average outing in the first Test.

While India will count on their spinners, the hosts also possess a deadly pace attack consisting of the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj among others. Siraj, who had missed out on a spot in the XI for the first Test, might return to the team for the pink-ball game at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

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After a fabulous outing in Mohali, Jadeja will be hoping to continue his exceptional run in the second Test. However, the all-rounder didn't fully take part in India's training session on Thursday indicating some discomfort on his right quadricep. In case he is not fit to take the field, Axar might take Jadeja's spot in the XI, allowing India to play three pacers.

There is unlikely to be any changes in India's batting order with Hanuma Vihari and Shreyas Iyer both keeping their spots in the absence of the likes of Ajinkya Rahane and Ravindra Jadeja.

India's predicted playing XI for pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka:

Rohit Sharma (c), Mayank Agarwal, Hanuma Vihari, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel/Jayant Yadav/Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami

&nbsp;

India will be looking to continue their winning run and clean sweep the two-match Test series 2-0 when they lock horns with Sri Lanka in the second and final Test at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

India will be looking to continue their winning run and clean sweep the two-match Test series 2-0 when they lock horns with Sri Lanka in the second and final Test at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The second Test, which will be a pink-ball game, is all set to get underway from Saturday (March 12). India produced a dominant display in the series-opener in Mohali to outclass the visitors by an innings and 222 runs. Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja was the hero of India's thumping win as he slammed an unbeaten 175 and picked up a total of nine wickets across Sri Lanka's two innings. The likes of Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin and Hanuma Vihari also impressed as India went 1-0 up in the two-match rubber. India have included fit-again all-rounder Axar Patel in their squad ahead of the second Test in the place of Kuldeep Yadav. Axar is likely to walk into the XI and might replace Jayant Yadav, who had an average outing in the first Test. While India will count on their spinners, the hosts also possess a deadly pace attack consisting of the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj among others. Siraj, who had missed out on a spot in the XI for the first Test, might return to the team for the pink-ball game at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Also Read: Rohit Sharma's Team India look to seal series in pink-ball Test against injury-hit Sri Lanka After a fabulous outing in Mohali, Jadeja will be hoping to continue his exceptional run in the second Test. However, the all-rounder didn't fully take part in India's training session on Thursday indicating some discomfort on his right quadricep. In case he is not fit to take the field, Axar might take Jadeja's spot in the XI, allowing India to play three pacers. There is unlikely to be any changes in India's batting order with Hanuma Vihari and Shreyas Iyer both keeping their spots in the absence of the likes of Ajinkya Rahane and Ravindra Jadeja. India's predicted playing XI for pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka: Rohit Sharma (c), Mayank Agarwal, Hanuma Vihari, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel/Jayant Yadav/Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami

Axar Patel to replace Jayant Yadav? India's predicted playing XI for pink-ball Test against Sri Lanka

Injury-hit Sri Lanka will need nothing less than a miracle to deny hosts India a 2-0 sweep in the test series when the two sides meet in the second and final test in Bengaluru, which will be played under the lights from Saturday.

India have not lost a series at home in the longest format since their 2-1 defeat by England in 2012 and won their 14th consecutive series at home when they beat inaugural World Test Champions New Zealand at the end of last year.

Led by new test captain Rohit Sharma, the side blanked Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs inside three days in the opening match against Mohali.

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Sharma's side will be firm favourites to extend their unbeaten streak, having never lost a test match to Sri Lanka at home and their last defeat against the southern neighbours coming way back in 2015 in the longest format.

To make matters worse for the touring side, Pathum Nissanka, who scored an unbeaten 61 in the first innings at Mohali, has been ruled out of the pink-ball test with a back injury.

Fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera, who missed the first match with an injury, was also unavailable, while fellow paceman Lahiru Kumara injured his hamstring on the opening day at Mohali.

"Injuries have been a huge concern for us," Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne told reporters on Friday.

"We have few bowlers and to win a test we need 20 wickets. So it's very hard to win against a team like India."

The hosts, in contrast, have welcomed back fit-again Axar Patel for the Bengaluru test and the left-arm spinner is expected to replace Jayant Yadav in the side if India decide to continue with three tweakers.

It will be the third day-night test in India and the hosts have won both their previous pink-ball contests - against England and Bangladesh.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-batting-is-phenomenal-but-how-well-he-kept-dinesh-karthik-heaps-praise-on-ever-improving-rishabh-pant-461064">His batting is phenomenal but how well he kept: Dinesh Karthik heaps praise on ever-improving Rishabh Pant</a>

India vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah felt playing a test match under lights, with a pink ball, required a lot of mental adjustment.

"We are still very new in this format," the hosts'&nbsp;fast bowling spearhead said, adding that India were yet to decide on their combination for the match.

"As children growing up we've not played a lot with pink ball. We're not used to catching the pink ball, bowling with the pink ball, as batters playing against the pink ball.

"So it`s a mental adjustment."

Injury-hit Sri Lanka will need nothing less than a miracle to deny hosts India a 2-0 sweep in the test series when the two sides meet in the second and final test in Bengaluru, which will be played under the lights from Saturday.

Injury-hit Sri Lanka will need nothing less than a miracle to deny hosts India a 2-0 sweep in the test series when the two sides meet in the second and final test in Bengaluru, which will be played under the lights from Saturday. India have not lost a series at home in the longest format since their 2-1 defeat by England in 2012 and won their 14th consecutive series at home when they beat inaugural World Test Champions New Zealand at the end of last year. Led by new test captain Rohit Sharma, the side blanked Sri Lanka by an innings and 222 runs inside three days in the opening match against Mohali. ALSO READ: Why not Ravindra Jadeja? Former India cricketer questions BCCI over not awarding A+ contract to all-rounder Sharma's side will be firm favourites to extend their unbeaten streak, having never lost a test match to Sri Lanka at home and their last defeat against the southern neighbours coming way back in 2015 in the longest format. To make matters worse for the touring side, Pathum Nissanka, who scored an unbeaten 61 in the first innings at Mohali, has been ruled out of the pink-ball test with a back injury. Fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera, who missed the first match with an injury, was also unavailable, while fellow paceman Lahiru Kumara injured his hamstring on the opening day at Mohali. "Injuries have been a huge concern for us," Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne told reporters on Friday. "We have few bowlers and to win a test we need 20 wickets. So it's very hard to win against a team like India." The hosts, in contrast, have welcomed back fit-again Axar Patel for the Bengaluru test and the left-arm spinner is expected to replace Jayant Yadav in the side if India decide to continue with three tweakers. It will be the third day-night test in India and the hosts have won both their previous pink-ball contests - against England and Bangladesh. ALSO READ: His batting is phenomenal but how well he kept: Dinesh Karthik heaps praise on ever-improving Rishabh Pant India vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah felt playing a test match under lights, with a pink ball, required a lot of mental adjustment. "We are still very new in this format," the hosts' fast bowling spearhead said, adding that India were yet to decide on their combination for the match. "As children growing up we've not played a lot with pink ball. We're not used to catching the pink ball, bowling with the pink ball, as batters playing against the pink ball. "So it`s a mental adjustment."

Rohit Sharma's Team India look to seal series in pink-ball Test against injury-hit Sri Lanka

Rohit Sharma-led Team India was clinical in the Test series opener versus Sri Lanka, in Mohali, to register a massive win, by an innings and 222 runs. With this, India gained an unassailable 1-0 lead in the two-match series and will now go for the kill in the final Test, which gets underway on March 12 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

Ahead of the second and final Test, which will be a pink-ball contest, Rohit Sharma and off-spinner R Ashwin have a few milestones in sight. For the unversed, former skipper Virat Kohli is India's leading run-getter in day-night encounters in whites. Kohli has 241 runs in 3 Tests, including a ton (which remains his last triple-figure knock at the highest level), whereas his predecessor Rohit is at the second spot. Hitman is 129 runs behind (112) and, thus, will hope for a big score to surpass Kohli, unless the latter also manages a daddy hundred.

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Coming to Ashwin, the 35-year-old offie scripted history by surpassing Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) during the Mohali Test. He is now India's second-highest wicket-taker (436) and is on the verge of going past Dale Steyn's tally (439) in the overall list to take the eighth spot. Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (708), and Anil Kumble (619) occupy&nbsp;the top-three spots.

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In addition, Ashwin is eyeing to surpass Kumble's elusive record at home. Among Indians, Kumble has registered most&nbsp;five-fers at home (25)&nbsp;whereas Ashwin has&nbsp;24 fifers and one&nbsp;away from equalling&nbsp;the former spinner.&nbsp;

India will also hope for another flawless performance to keep up with other top contenders in the race for the WTC final spot in the ongoing second cycle.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India was clinical in the Test series opener versus Sri Lanka, in Mohali, to register a massive win, by an innings and 222 runs. With this, India gained an unassailable 1-0 lead in the two-match series and will now go for the kill in the final Test, which gets underway on March 12 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India was clinical in the Test series opener versus Sri Lanka, in Mohali, to register a massive win, by an innings and 222 runs. With this, India gained an unassailable 1-0 lead in the two-match series and will now go for the kill in the final Test, which gets underway on March 12 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. Ahead of the second and final Test, which will be a pink-ball contest, Rohit Sharma and off-spinner R Ashwin have a few milestones in sight. For the unversed, former skipper Virat Kohli is India's leading run-getter in day-night encounters in whites. Kohli has 241 runs in 3 Tests, including a ton (which remains his last triple-figure knock at the highest level), whereas his predecessor Rohit is at the second spot. Hitman is 129 runs behind (112) and, thus, will hope for a big score to surpass Kohli, unless the latter also manages a daddy hundred. ALSO READ | From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22 Coming to Ashwin, the 35-year-old offie scripted history by surpassing Kapil Dev's wicket-tally (434) during the Mohali Test. He is now India's second-highest wicket-taker (436) and is on the verge of going past Dale Steyn's tally (439) in the overall list to take the eighth spot. Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (708), and Anil Kumble (619) occupy the top-three spots. ALSO READ | R Ashwin surpasses Kapil Dev: A look at India's highest wicket-takers in Tests In addition, Ashwin is eyeing to surpass Kumble's elusive record at home. Among Indians, Kumble has registered most five-fers at home (25) whereas Ashwin has 24 fifers and one away from equalling the former spinner. India will also hope for another flawless performance to keep up with other top contenders in the race for the WTC final spot in the ongoing second cycle.

Ind vs SL, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma eyes Virat Kohli's record, R Ashwin on cusp of achieving big feats

Indian team's vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah has backed the team management's decision to include all-rounder Axar Patel in the Test squad ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru. The second and final Test of the two-match series between the two sides will be a pink-ball game which will be played at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru starting from Saturday (March 12).

Axar was included in the Test squad in place of Kuldeep, who was released ahead of the second and final Test. Backing the move, Bumrah said Axar brings a 'lot of value' to the squad which makes him a certain selection whenever he is fit. While he lauded the left-arm all-rounder for his recent impressive performances, Bumrah didn't comment on his chances of featuring in the playing XI for the pink-ball Test.

"See, Axar was part of the squad in the previous series as well and he's added a lot of value whenever we've played. In India, he's contributed a lot... He offers a lot with the bat, ball, and in the field... so he's been added. He was injured so whenever he's fit he straightaway jumps back into the squad. There'll be a discussion about what role we want [for him to play] and what combination we want to go with. But obviously, he's an important player for our team and brings a lot of value," said Bumrah in the pre-match press conference on Friday.

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Axar, who had missed the South Africa tour of India last year due to a shin injury, also didn't feature in the home Tests against West Indies. The all-rounder had contracted COVID-19 and was sent to the NCA for rehab. He was recently cleared by the BCCI medical team to make his comeback for the Indian team.

He has been brought in place of Kuldeep, who has been enduring a rough patch in his international career for a while now and has been struggling to get regular opportunities in both Tests and limited-overs formats. In the first Test against Sri Lanka, Jayant Yadav was preferred over Kuldeep, who was left on the bench.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-not-ravindra-jadeja-former-india-cricketer-questions-bcci-over-not-awarding-a-contract-to-all-rounder-461202">Why not Jadeja? Former India cricketer questions BCCI over not awarding A+ contract to all-rounder</a>

While many believe Kuldeep has been dropped from the Test side, Bumrah explained the Chinaman spinner has not been dropped but rested. Bumrah said the break will Kuldeep spend some time with his family ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as living in a bio-bubble can take a toll on a player's mental health.

"See, he hasn't been removed from the team per se. He's been in the bubble for a long time, hasn't been home as well. So when his chances of playing were a bit less, he'll get the chance to spend some time with his family before the IPL. He's been sent home and rested from that aspect. It's not that he's been dropped." 
Bumrah said.

"Players' well-being is also very important because it's not very easy to stay in the bubble. Obviously, every player wants to play every game but the mental aspect is also important. Whenever he'll get the opportunity, he'll try and do well but in this scenario, [we wanted him] to get some time at home because then he'll once again get two months of the bubble in the IPL and won't be able to meet his family," he added. 
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Indian team's vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah has backed the team management's decision to include all-rounder Axar Patel in the Test squad ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru.

Indian team's vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah has backed the team management's decision to include all-rounder Axar Patel in the Test squad ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru. The second and final Test of the two-match series between the two sides will be a pink-ball game which will be played at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru starting from Saturday (March 12). Axar was included in the Test squad in place of Kuldeep, who was released ahead of the second and final Test. Backing the move, Bumrah said Axar brings a 'lot of value' to the squad which makes him a certain selection whenever he is fit. While he lauded the left-arm all-rounder for his recent impressive performances, Bumrah didn't comment on his chances of featuring in the playing XI for the pink-ball Test. "See, Axar was part of the squad in the previous series as well and he's added a lot of value whenever we've played. In India, he's contributed a lot... He offers a lot with the bat, ball, and in the field... so he's been added. He was injured so whenever he's fit he straightaway jumps back into the squad. There'll be a discussion about what role we want [for him to play] and what combination we want to go with. But obviously, he's an important player for our team and brings a lot of value," said Bumrah in the pre-match press conference on Friday. Also Read: 'Nobody can touch Virat': Ex-India batting coach backs Kohli to equal Sachin Tendulkar's world record Axar, who had missed the South Africa tour of India last year due to a shin injury, also didn't feature in the home Tests against West Indies. The all-rounder had contracted COVID-19 and was sent to the NCA for rehab. He was recently cleared by the BCCI medical team to make his comeback for the Indian team. He has been brought in place of Kuldeep, who has been enduring a rough patch in his international career for a while now and has been struggling to get regular opportunities in both Tests and limited-overs formats. In the first Test against Sri Lanka, Jayant Yadav was preferred over Kuldeep, who was left on the bench. Also Read: Why not Jadeja? Former India cricketer questions BCCI over not awarding A+ contract to all-rounder While many believe Kuldeep has been dropped from the Test side, Bumrah explained the Chinaman spinner has not been dropped but rested. Bumrah said the break will Kuldeep spend some time with his family ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 as living in a bio-bubble can take a toll on a player's mental health. "See, he hasn't been removed from the team per se. He's been in the bubble for a long time, hasn't been home as well. So when his chances of playing were a bit less, he'll get the chance to spend some time with his family before the IPL. He's been sent home and rested from that aspect. It's not that he's been dropped." Bumrah said. "Players' well-being is also very important because it's not very easy to stay in the bubble. Obviously, every player wants to play every game but the mental aspect is also important. Whenever he'll get the opportunity, he'll try and do well but in this scenario, [we wanted him] to get some time at home because then he'll once again get two months of the bubble in the IPL and won't be able to meet his family," he added.

'He hasn't been dropped': Jasprit Bumrah on Kuldeep Yadav getting replaced by Axar Patel in Test squad

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced the annual contracts for its players for the upcoming season. BCCI awards the contracts based on the performances of the players across formats in the previous cycle. While some are promoted to upper categories, some are demoted based on their performances.

As the details of the BCCI annual contracts for the 2022-23 season emerged, a number of major changes were witnessed. Senior players like Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane and Ishant Sharma were demoted to the Grade B category while the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj and Axar Patel were promoted from Grade C to B.

However, there was no change in the A+ category - which is the highest bracket. BCCI retained only three players in the top category with captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and pacer Jasprit Bumrah making the cut. The players in the A+ category are paid Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) annually while those in the A, B and C category earn Rs 5 crore, Rs 3 crore and Rs 1 crore&nbsp;respectively.

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has questioned the absence of star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja from the A+ category. Jadeja, who has been an integral member of India's squad across formats, has been kept in the A category. Chopra said the left-arm all-rounder's name should be in the top category considering his recent performances for the country.

"Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah will get 7 crores rupees. There is no change in that category. And I feel why not Sir Jadeja? Sir Jadeja's name should also be there in this list," said Chopra in a video on his YouTube channel.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-top-earners-to-players-with-big-pay-cuts-bccis-new-central-contracts-list-for-2021-22-459987">From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22</a>

While he backed Jadeja to be promoted to the A+ category, Chopra also said the likes of KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant will also head to the top bracket soon considering their importance to the Indian side. While Pant is India's first-choice wicket-keeper across formats, Rahul has also been a crucial cog in the batting line-up across formats.

"I feel Ravindra Jadeja's name will go in the A+ category when the next contract renewal happens because his performance has been so good. His name is in Grade A currently. I feel Jadeja and KL Rahul's name will start going to A+ next time," said the former India cricketer.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-can-touch-virat-ex-india-batting-coach-backs-kohli-to-equal-sachin-tendulkars-world-record-461005">&nbsp;'Nobody can touch Virat': Ex-India batting coach backs Kohli to equal Sachin Tendulkar's world record</a>

"Rishabh Pant is going to be a massive contender, you have made him the team's vice-captain but have placed him below. The same is for KL Rahul, move them up, get them to the 7 crores group, that's what I feel," he added.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced the annual contracts for its players for the upcoming season. BCCI awards the contracts based on the performances of the players across formats in the previous cycle.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced the annual contracts for its players for the upcoming season. BCCI awards the contracts based on the performances of the players across formats in the previous cycle. While some are promoted to upper categories, some are demoted based on their performances. As the details of the BCCI annual contracts for the 2022-23 season emerged, a number of major changes were witnessed. Senior players like Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane and Ishant Sharma were demoted to the Grade B category while the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj and Axar Patel were promoted from Grade C to B. However, there was no change in the A+ category - which is the highest bracket. BCCI retained only three players in the top category with captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and pacer Jasprit Bumrah making the cut. The players in the A+ category are paid Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) annually while those in the A, B and C category earn Rs 5 crore, Rs 3 crore and Rs 1 crore respectively. Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has questioned the absence of star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja from the A+ category. Jadeja, who has been an integral member of India's squad across formats, has been kept in the A category. Chopra said the left-arm all-rounder's name should be in the top category considering his recent performances for the country. "Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah will get 7 crores rupees. There is no change in that category. And I feel why not Sir Jadeja? Sir Jadeja's name should also be there in this list," said Chopra in a video on his YouTube channel. Also Read: From top earners to players with big pay cuts: BCCI's new central contracts list for 2021-22 While he backed Jadeja to be promoted to the A+ category, Chopra also said the likes of KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant will also head to the top bracket soon considering their importance to the Indian side. While Pant is India's first-choice wicket-keeper across formats, Rahul has also been a crucial cog in the batting line-up across formats. "I feel Ravindra Jadeja's name will go in the A+ category when the next contract renewal happens because his performance has been so good. His name is in Grade A currently. I feel Jadeja and KL Rahul's name will start going to A+ next time," said the former India cricketer. Also Read: 'Nobody can touch Virat': Ex-India batting coach backs Kohli to equal Sachin Tendulkar's world record "Rishabh Pant is going to be a massive contender, you have made him the team's vice-captain but have placed him below. The same is for KL Rahul, move them up, get them to the 7 crores group, that's what I feel," he added.

Why not Ravindra Jadeja? Former India cricketer questions BCCI over not awarding A+ contract to all-rounder

Rohit Sharma-led Team India produced an emphatic and flawless performance in the first Test versus Sri Lanka in Mohali. Right from the word go, everything clicked for Rohit &amp; Co. as they emerged on top courtesy a massive win, by an innings and 222 runs.

Opting to bat first, India posted 574-8 decl. and dismissed the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lankans for a paltry 174 and 178 with R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami chipping in with majority of wickets. While Jadeja returned with 175 not out and a nine-wicket haul in the match, Rishabh Pant also continued to grow in stature in whites with an attacking 96 and three vital dismissals behind the stumps. Thus, veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has heaped praise on Pant ahead of the second and final Test between both sides,&nbsp;at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-to-join-virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-in-elite-list-in-indias-pink-ball-test-vs-sri-lanka-460955">Rohit Sharma to join Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni in elite list in India's pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka</a>

“His batting is phenomenal and we can speak a lot about that. But I think the hallmark of this Test personally for him would be how well he kept,” said Karthik on Cricbuzz.&nbsp;

“Pathum Nissanka's catch was brilliant. Whenever an offspinner bowls into the rough a little bit and the ball is turning in, it is a hard one to take because you never know which one is going to straighten and which one will turn. On top of that if it deviates off the bat it becomes that much harder and that is where I like Pant. His hands were at the right place,” he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-cusp-of-surpassing-mark-waugh-gary-sobers-in-elite-list-as-india-take-on-sri-lanka-in-2nd-test-460878">Virat Kohli on cusp of surpassing Mark Waugh, Gary Sobers in elite list as India take on Sri Lanka in 2nd Test</a>

Pant will like to make the most of his form in the series decider, which will be a pink-ball contest. With Indian players set to shift their focus on the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition and then on the T20 World Cup, the 23-year-old will be desperate for another rollicking performance in the red-ball format.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India produced an emphatic and flawless performance in the first Test versus Sri Lanka in Mohali. Right from the word go, everything clicked for Rohit & Co.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India produced an emphatic and flawless performance in the first Test versus Sri Lanka in Mohali. Right from the word go, everything clicked for Rohit & Co. as they emerged on top courtesy a massive win, by an innings and 222 runs. Opting to bat first, India posted 574-8 decl. and dismissed the Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lankans for a paltry 174 and 178 with R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami chipping in with majority of wickets. While Jadeja returned with 175 not out and a nine-wicket haul in the match, Rishabh Pant also continued to grow in stature in whites with an attacking 96 and three vital dismissals behind the stumps. Thus, veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has heaped praise on Pant ahead of the second and final Test between both sides, at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma to join Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni in elite list in India's pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka “His batting is phenomenal and we can speak a lot about that. But I think the hallmark of this Test personally for him would be how well he kept,” said Karthik on Cricbuzz. “Pathum Nissanka's catch was brilliant. Whenever an offspinner bowls into the rough a little bit and the ball is turning in, it is a hard one to take because you never know which one is going to straighten and which one will turn. On top of that if it deviates off the bat it becomes that much harder and that is where I like Pant. His hands were at the right place,” he said. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli on cusp of surpassing Mark Waugh, Gary Sobers in elite list as India take on Sri Lanka in 2nd Test Pant will like to make the most of his form in the series decider, which will be a pink-ball contest. With Indian players set to shift their focus on the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition and then on the T20 World Cup, the 23-year-old will be desperate for another rollicking performance in the red-ball format.

His batting is phenomenal but how well he kept: Dinesh Karthik heaps praise on ever-improving Rishabh Pant