Team India won the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies in a thrilling contest, held on Friday evening (February 18) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, India posted 186-5 and defended the score by 8 runs despite Nicholas Pooran-Rovman Powell's pyrotechnics.&nbsp;

There were a lot of positives for the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team. One of the biggest shining points was the return of Virat Kohli's form. While Kohli had&nbsp;two fifty-plus scores in the South Africa ODIs, he fell flat versus the Kieron Pollard-led Men in Maroon in the 50-over series. The former Indian captain got a start but fell for 17 in the series opener before turning the tide emphatically with a blistering 41-ball 52 on Friday evening. The 33-year-old Kohli started off aggressively and while he did get a tad bit slow as his innings progressed, he got to his fifty with a six.

On the very next delivery, he was cleaned up by Roston Chase as Kohli walked back for 52. With another half-century in the shortest format, Kohli has joined Rohit at the top with most fifties in T20Is.

Most half-centuries in T20I cricket&nbsp;

1) Virat Kohli/Rohit Sharma - 30&nbsp;

2) Babar Azam- 26&nbsp;

3) David Warner/Martin Guptill- 22&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rishabh-pant-granted-bio-bubble-break-ahead-of-series-finale-vs-wi-duo-to-skip-sl-t20is-454506">Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is</a>

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-pant-and-bhuvneshwar-star-as-india-beat-west-indies-by-8-runs-in-2nd-t20i-clinch-series-454457">Kohli, Pant and Bhuvneshwar star as India beat West Indies by 8 runs in 2nd T20I, clinch series</a>

After his impressive fifty, Kohli told the broadcasters at the half-way stage of the second and penultimate T20I, "I decided to be positive when I went in. Despite losing a few wickets, I wanted to continue in the same way. I was disappointed to get out because the game was set up nicely to go hard in the last few overs, which is my strength. I am happy that I went out with a clear intent today."

At the post-match presentation, Rohit lauded Kohli and said, "It was very important innings from Virat. The way he started off, took the pressure of me as well. We didn't start well in the first two overs, then he came in and started playing those shots which was very pleasing to the eye."

Team India won the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies in a thrilling contest, held on Friday evening (February 18) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, India posted 186-5 and defended the score by 8 runs despite Nicholas Pooran-Rovman Powell's pyrotechnics.

Team India won the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies in a thrilling contest, held on Friday evening (February 18) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, India posted 186-5 and defended the score by 8 runs despite Nicholas Pooran-Rovman Powell's pyrotechnics. There were a lot of positives for the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team. One of the biggest shining points was the return of Virat Kohli's form. While Kohli had two fifty-plus scores in the South Africa ODIs, he fell flat versus the Kieron Pollard-led Men in Maroon in the 50-over series. The former Indian captain got a start but fell for 17 in the series opener before turning the tide emphatically with a blistering 41-ball 52 on Friday evening. The 33-year-old Kohli started off aggressively and while he did get a tad bit slow as his innings progressed, he got to his fifty with a six. On the very next delivery, he was cleaned up by Roston Chase as Kohli walked back for 52. With another half-century in the shortest format, Kohli has joined Rohit at the top with most fifties in T20Is. Most half-centuries in T20I cricket 1) Virat Kohli/Rohit Sharma - 30 2) Babar Azam- 26 3) David Warner/Martin Guptill- 22 ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is × ALSO READ | Kohli, Pant and Bhuvneshwar star as India beat West Indies by 8 runs in 2nd T20I, clinch series After his impressive fifty, Kohli told the broadcasters at the half-way stage of the second and penultimate T20I, "I decided to be positive when I went in. Despite losing a few wickets, I wanted to continue in the same way. I was disappointed to get out because the game was set up nicely to go hard in the last few overs, which is my strength. I am happy that I went out with a clear intent today." At the post-match presentation, Rohit lauded Kohli and said, "It was very important innings from Virat. The way he started off, took the pressure of me as well. We didn't start well in the first two overs, then he came in and started playing those shots which was very pleasing to the eye."

India vs WI: Virat Kohli joins Rohit Sharma at the top in elite list with blistering 52 in 2nd T20I

Team India defeated West Indies by 8 runs in a thrilling second and penultimate T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first as they rode on Virat Kohli's 52, Rishabh Pant's 52* and Venkatesh Iyer's 33 to post 186-5 in 20 overs.&nbsp;

In reply, WI were 59-2 before a century-stand between half-centurions Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran steadied the ship but impressive death-over bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel ensured a series win for India. After the series victory, former Indian skipper Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant have reportedly left for their respective homes after being given a bio-bubble break by the BCCI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-know-captain-will-never-ex-india-player-reacts-to-rohit-sharmas-stance-on-virat-kohlis-form-454406">'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form</a>

According to a report filed by news agency PTI, BCCI have given a ten-day break to Kohli, who will now miss the forthcoming Sri Lanka T20Is and return for the two Tests versus the Islanders. On the other hand, Pant -- who was named Rohit's deputy for the ongoing WI T20Is -- will also miss the white-ball series versus the Sri Lankans.

"Yes, Kohli has left home on Saturday morning as India have already won the series. As it has been decided by BCCI, it will be a policy to give all the regular all format players periodic breaks from the bubble to ensure that their workload management and mental health is taken care of," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

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Both Kohli and Pant were part of the three ODIs and the first two T20Is versus the Men in Maroon. While Kohli regained some form, after a string of low scores in the 50-over series, Pant also contributed well with the bat before being given a break now. Despite the duo's departure, Rohit &amp; Co. have enough options to go for the kill and claim the WI T20Is by a 3-0 margin.

Team India defeated West Indies by 8 runs in a thrilling second and penultimate T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first as they rode on Virat Kohli's 52, Rishabh Pant's 52* and Venkatesh Iyer's 33 to post 186-5 in 20 overs.

Team India defeated West Indies by 8 runs in a thrilling second and penultimate T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first as they rode on Virat Kohli's 52, Rishabh Pant's 52* and Venkatesh Iyer's 33 to post 186-5 in 20 overs. In reply, WI were 59-2 before a century-stand between half-centurions Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran steadied the ship but impressive death-over bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel ensured a series win for India. After the series victory, former Indian skipper Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant have reportedly left for their respective homes after being given a bio-bubble break by the BCCI. ALSO READ | 'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form According to a report filed by news agency PTI, BCCI have given a ten-day break to Kohli, who will now miss the forthcoming Sri Lanka T20Is and return for the two Tests versus the Islanders. On the other hand, Pant -- who was named Rohit's deputy for the ongoing WI T20Is -- will also miss the white-ball series versus the Sri Lankans. "Yes, Kohli has left home on Saturday morning as India have already won the series. As it has been decided by BCCI, it will be a policy to give all the regular all format players periodic breaks from the bubble to ensure that their workload management and mental health is taken care of," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying. × ALSO READ | Kohli, Pant and Bhuvneshwar star as India beat West Indies by 8 runs in 2nd T20I, clinch series Both Kohli and Pant were part of the three ODIs and the first two T20Is versus the Men in Maroon. While Kohli regained some form, after a string of low scores in the 50-over series, Pant also contributed well with the bat before being given a break now. Despite the duo's departure, Rohit & Co. have enough options to go for the kill and claim the WI T20Is by a 3-0 margin.

Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is

The legendary Sunil Gavaskar has backed Chetan Sharma-led national selection panel's decision to appoint Rohit Sharma as the captain of the Indian Test team. Rohit will replace Virat Kohli as the new skipper of the Indian team in the longest format and will take charge for the first time in the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka at home.

Rohit had earlier replaced Kohli as India's captain in T20Is and ODIs last year and has now become the country's leader across all formats of the game. Gavaskar said he is not at all surprised by the selectors' decision as Rohit was the obvious choice for captaincy if his fitness and workload is not an issue going forward.

"The guy who is a certainty in all three formats – when the selection committee sits down and think of who are the certainties, then Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s names will come up. And between them, Kohli is not doing captaincy, so it had to be Rohit Sharma. There was no surprise there," Gavaskar said on Sports Tak.

"The way he has handled the team. The way players are getting clarity. I won’t say there wasn’t clarity earlier. That would be wrong to say as I was not in the dressing room, so I don’t know. But from the way he speaks, it seems like the players know their roles. And they know what the team expects from them and what the captain expects from them," added the batting legend.

While Rohit is the most successful captain in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) having led Mumbai Indians to a record five titles, he has also proven his leadership credentials in international cricket. He has been exceptional for India as captain and has also led the team to some memorable wins.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chief-selector-chetan-sharma-explains-reason-behind-dropping-pujara-rahane-from-indias-test-squad-454610">Chief selector Chetan Sharma explains reason behind dropping Pujara, Rahane from India's Test squad</a>

Gavaskar, who had himself suggested Rishabh Pant's name as a potential replacement for Kohli as the new Test captain of the Indian team, said his statement was keeping Rohit's fitness in mind. However, the former India captain insisted nobody else could have been considered if Rohit can remain totally fit going forward.

"Rishabh Pant’s name had come up because we didn’t know about Rohit Sharma’s fitness. But if he is completely fit, no one else can be the captain for all three formats. It was the correct decision," said Gavaskar.

The legendary Sunil Gavaskar has backed Chetan Sharma-led national selection panel's decision to appoint Rohit Sharma as the captain of the Indian Test team. Rohit will replace Virat Kohli as the new skipper of the Indian team in the longest format and will take charge for the first time in the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka at home.

The legendary Sunil Gavaskar has backed Chetan Sharma-led national selection panel's decision to appoint Rohit Sharma as the captain of the Indian Test team. Rohit will replace Virat Kohli as the new skipper of the Indian team in the longest format and will take charge for the first time in the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka at home. Rohit had earlier replaced Kohli as India's captain in T20Is and ODIs last year and has now become the country's leader across all formats of the game. Gavaskar said he is not at all surprised by the selectors' decision as Rohit was the obvious choice for captaincy if his fitness and workload is not an issue going forward. "The guy who is a certainty in all three formats – when the selection committee sits down and think of who are the certainties, then Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s names will come up. And between them, Kohli is not doing captaincy, so it had to be Rohit Sharma. There was no surprise there," Gavaskar said on Sports Tak. "The way he has handled the team. The way players are getting clarity. I won’t say there wasn’t clarity earlier. That would be wrong to say as I was not in the dressing room, so I don’t know. But from the way he speaks, it seems like the players know their roles. And they know what the team expects from them and what the captain expects from them," added the batting legend. While Rohit is the most successful captain in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) having led Mumbai Indians to a record five titles, he has also proven his leadership credentials in international cricket. He has been exceptional for India as captain and has also led the team to some memorable wins. Also Read: Chief selector Chetan Sharma explains reason behind dropping Pujara, Rahane from India's Test squad Gavaskar, who had himself suggested Rishabh Pant's name as a potential replacement for Kohli as the new Test captain of the Indian team, said his statement was keeping Rohit's fitness in mind. However, the former India captain insisted nobody else could have been considered if Rohit can remain totally fit going forward. "Rishabh Pant’s name had come up because we didn’t know about Rohit Sharma’s fitness. But if he is completely fit, no one else can be the captain for all three formats. It was the correct decision," said Gavaskar.

'No surprise': Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's Test captain

BCCI chairman of selectors Chetan Sharma on Saturday provided an update on star all-rounder Hardik Pandya's potential comeback to the Indian team. The Sharma-led selection panel on Saturday announced India's Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka which gets underway from February 24. India will play three T20Is followed by two Tests against the visitors.

While Ravindra Jadeja was named in both the Test and the T20I squads after making his comeback from injury, Hardik remains unavailable for selection. The all-rounder had opted for a break from cricket post the T20 World Cup 2021, making himself unavailable for selection in the Indian team across formats.

He was not named in either the Test or the T20I squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka on Saturday but is expected to return soon. Providing an update on his return, chief selector Sharma said Pandya will be considered for selection immediately but only when he is 100 per cent fit.

He also said the selection panel cannot take a call on his comeback until they have proper confirmation of his fitness and bowling.&nbsp;

"Definitely, Hardik was a very important part of the Indian team. But now after the injuries, we'll say that until he isn't 100% fit, until we get that information that he's ready to go, is bowling and is match fit... when that comes in front of us then definitely he's an important player and we'll consider him immediately," Sharma said during a virtual press conference on Saturday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chief-selector-chetan-sharma-explains-reason-behind-dropping-pujara-rahane-from-indias-test-squad-454610">Chief selector Chetan Sharma explains reason behind dropping Pujara, Rahane from India's Test squad</a>

In Hardik's absence, the likes of Venkatesh Iyer and Deepak Hood have been used by India in T20Is for the all-rounder's spot. Deepak Chahar has also grown in stature with impressive performances with the bat and has proved to be a useful all-rounder for the team.

Hardik is likely to be seen in action next during the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) which is expected to get underway in the final week of March. He will be leading the Gujarat Titans in the upcoming season of the tournament.

&nbsp;

BCCI chairman of selectors Chetan Sharma on Saturday provided an update on star all-rounder Hardik Pandya's potential comeback to the Indian team. The Sharma-led selection panel on Saturday announced India's Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka which gets underway from February 24.

BCCI chairman of selectors Chetan Sharma on Saturday provided an update on star all-rounder Hardik Pandya's potential comeback to the Indian team. The Sharma-led selection panel on Saturday announced India's Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka which gets underway from February 24. India will play three T20Is followed by two Tests against the visitors. While Ravindra Jadeja was named in both the Test and the T20I squads after making his comeback from injury, Hardik remains unavailable for selection. The all-rounder had opted for a break from cricket post the T20 World Cup 2021, making himself unavailable for selection in the Indian team across formats. He was not named in either the Test or the T20I squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka on Saturday but is expected to return soon. Providing an update on his return, chief selector Sharma said Pandya will be considered for selection immediately but only when he is 100 per cent fit. He also said the selection panel cannot take a call on his comeback until they have proper confirmation of his fitness and bowling. "Definitely, Hardik was a very important part of the Indian team. But now after the injuries, we'll say that until he isn't 100% fit, until we get that information that he's ready to go, is bowling and is match fit... when that comes in front of us then definitely he's an important player and we'll consider him immediately," Sharma said during a virtual press conference on Saturday. Also Read: Chief selector Chetan Sharma explains reason behind dropping Pujara, Rahane from India's Test squad In Hardik's absence, the likes of Venkatesh Iyer and Deepak Hood have been used by India in T20Is for the all-rounder's spot. Deepak Chahar has also grown in stature with impressive performances with the bat and has proved to be a useful all-rounder for the team. Hardik is likely to be seen in action next during the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) which is expected to get underway in the final week of March. He will be leading the Gujarat Titans in the upcoming season of the tournament.

'We'll consider him immediately': Chetan Sharma provides update on Hardik Pandya's return to Indian team

BCCI have announced an&nbsp;18-man squad for Team India's forthcoming three-match T20I series versus Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led All India senior selection committee named the squad in a virtual press conference.

The likes of Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant have been rested for the white-ball assignment versus the Islanders. Following the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies, on Friday evening (February 18), reports came in that the duo were given a bio-bubble break and have left for their respective homes before the series finale versus the Men in Maroon. Thus, they will now also miss the SL T20Is.

On the other hand, the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja have returned to the T20I setup. Bumrah was rested for the WI limited-overs series whereas Jadeja was out of action due to injury. He had also missed the entire South Africa tour, due to a knee injury which he sustained during the New Zealand home series in late 2021. Bumrah will also be Rohit Sharma's deputy in the white-ball series as regular white-ball vice-captain KL Rahul is out with a hamstring injury (during the WI ODIs).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-named-test-captain-as-bcci-announces-squad-for-sri-lanka-series-pujara-rahane-dropped-454583">Rohit Sharma named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped</a>

The rest of the squad majorly remains the same (compared to the WI series). Shardul Thakur's name is missing (reasons unknown) whereas Sanju Samson has also made a comeback.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The SL series will get underway on February 24 with the series opener to be played in Lucknow. The remainder of the T20Is will be held in Dharamshala before the two Tests follow suit. The red-ball series will be played from March 4-March 16.

India's squad for the Sri Lanka T20I series:

Rohit Sharma (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Bhuvneshwar, Chahar, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Avesh Khan

BCCI have announced an 18-man squad for Team India's forthcoming three-match T20I series versus Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led All India senior selection committee named the squad in a virtual press conference.

BCCI have announced an 18-man squad for Team India's forthcoming three-match T20I series versus Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led All India senior selection committee named the squad in a virtual press conference. The likes of Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant have been rested for the white-ball assignment versus the Islanders. Following the second and penultimate T20I versus West Indies, on Friday evening (February 18), reports came in that the duo were given a bio-bubble break and have left for their respective homes before the series finale versus the Men in Maroon. Thus, they will now also miss the SL T20Is. On the other hand, the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja have returned to the T20I setup. Bumrah was rested for the WI limited-overs series whereas Jadeja was out of action due to injury. He had also missed the entire South Africa tour, due to a knee injury which he sustained during the New Zealand home series in late 2021. Bumrah will also be Rohit Sharma's deputy in the white-ball series as regular white-ball vice-captain KL Rahul is out with a hamstring injury (during the WI ODIs). ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped The rest of the squad majorly remains the same (compared to the WI series). Shardul Thakur's name is missing (reasons unknown) whereas Sanju Samson has also made a comeback. The SL series will get underway on February 24 with the series opener to be played in Lucknow. The remainder of the T20Is will be held in Dharamshala before the two Tests follow suit. The red-ball series will be played from March 4-March 16. India's squad for the Sri Lanka T20I series: Rohit Sharma (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Bhuvneshwar, Chahar, Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Sanju Samson, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Avesh Khan

BCCI announces India squad for SL T20Is: Kohli, Pant rested; Bumrah named Rohit's deputy, Jadeja returns

The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel on Saturday (February 19) announced India's Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. India will play three T20Is followed by a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka at home starting from February 24. While there weren't any surprises in the T20I squad, a number of senior players were dropped from the Test team.

Besides appointing Rohit Sharma as India's permanent skipper in Tests, the national selectors made a bold call by dropping the Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha from the squad. While Pujara and Rahane's poor form had been under the scanner for a while now, Ishant and Saha have had to deal with a lot of fitness issues and have been replaced by youngsters in the side.

Explaining the reason behind dropping Rahane and Pujara, who once used to be integral members of the Indian Test team, Chetan Sharma, the chairman of the selection panel said it was a decision taken after a lot of deliberation. Sharma said the selectors want to give chances to other players while Pujara and Rahane have been asked to perform in the ongoing Ranji Trophy.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-india-squad-for-sl-t20is-kohli-pant-rested-bumrah-named-rohits-deputy-jadeja-returns-454589">BCCI announces India squad for SL T20Is: Kohli, Pant rested; Bumrah named Rohit's deputy, Jadeja returns</a>

"We have deliberated a lot on them. We decided not to consider them for the SL series. We asked them to play Ranji. For these two matches, we decided to give chance to others. They can still make a comeback. Ajinkya got a hundred in the Ranji match. It is a bad phase. It is very important for the selectors to manage them," Sharma said.

While many are expecting this to be the final nail in the coffin for all four senior players as far as their Test careers are concerned, Sharma revealed they can still make a comeback in the side on the basis of their performances in the Ranji Trophy.

"We have informed them that Ishant and Wriddhi will not be considered for the two-match Test series against SL. But the door is not closed to them. We have requested all four to play the Ranji Trophy," said Sharma.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-named-test-captain-as-bcci-announces-squad-for-sri-lanka-series-pujara-rahane-dropped-454583">Rohit named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped</a>

Rahane, Pujara and Ishant are all playing for their respective state teams in the Ranji Trophy while Saha has been dropped from the Bengal team. Rahane recently impressed on his return to domestic cricket as he slammed a century for Mumbai in their Ranji Trophy clash against Saurashtra earlier this week.

It was Rahane's first hundred after 417 days as his last ton came against Australia in the Melbourne Test in 2020. Rahane will be hopeful of regaining his form in the domestic tournament and reclaim his spot in the Indian Test team.

&nbsp;

The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel on Saturday (February 19) announced India's Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. India will play three T20Is followed by a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka at home starting from February 24.

The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel on Saturday (February 19) announced India's Test and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. India will play three T20Is followed by a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka at home starting from February 24. While there weren't any surprises in the T20I squad, a number of senior players were dropped from the Test team. Besides appointing Rohit Sharma as India's permanent skipper in Tests, the national selectors made a bold call by dropping the Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha from the squad. While Pujara and Rahane's poor form had been under the scanner for a while now, Ishant and Saha have had to deal with a lot of fitness issues and have been replaced by youngsters in the side. Explaining the reason behind dropping Rahane and Pujara, who once used to be integral members of the Indian Test team, Chetan Sharma, the chairman of the selection panel said it was a decision taken after a lot of deliberation. Sharma said the selectors want to give chances to other players while Pujara and Rahane have been asked to perform in the ongoing Ranji Trophy. Also Read: BCCI announces India squad for SL T20Is: Kohli, Pant rested; Bumrah named Rohit's deputy, Jadeja returns "We have deliberated a lot on them. We decided not to consider them for the SL series. We asked them to play Ranji. For these two matches, we decided to give chance to others. They can still make a comeback. Ajinkya got a hundred in the Ranji match. It is a bad phase. It is very important for the selectors to manage them," Sharma said. While many are expecting this to be the final nail in the coffin for all four senior players as far as their Test careers are concerned, Sharma revealed they can still make a comeback in the side on the basis of their performances in the Ranji Trophy. "We have informed them that Ishant and Wriddhi will not be considered for the two-match Test series against SL. But the door is not closed to them. We have requested all four to play the Ranji Trophy," said Sharma. Also Read: Rohit named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped Rahane, Pujara and Ishant are all playing for their respective state teams in the Ranji Trophy while Saha has been dropped from the Bengal team. Rahane recently impressed on his return to domestic cricket as he slammed a century for Mumbai in their Ranji Trophy clash against Saurashtra earlier this week. It was Rahane's first hundred after 417 days as his last ton came against Australia in the Melbourne Test in 2020. Rahane will be hopeful of regaining his form in the domestic tournament and reclaim his spot in the Indian Test team.

Chief selector Chetan Sharma explains reason behind dropping Pujara, Rahane from India's Test squad

Rohit Sharma has been appointed as the new captain of the Indian Test team ahead of the start of the upcoming series against Sri Lanka at home. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (February 19) announced India's squad for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. The Chetan Sharma-led national selection panel has decided to hand over the captaincy to Rohit, making him India's captain across all formats of the game.

Virat Kohli had quit as India's Test captain earlier this year post the team's 2-1 loss in the Test series against South Africa. The captaincy spot had since been vacant. However, Rohit will now take charge in the whites as well after being appointed as India's limited-overs captain last year.

Besides confirming Rohit's appointment as Test captain, the selectors have taken some big calls by dropping the likes of Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha from the Test team. The four senior players have been replaced by youngsters in the squad.

Rahane and Pujara's form was under the scanner for quite a while now and the duo's failure to bounce back from their lean patch has resulted in their ouster from the Test team. Ishant has also failed to attain consistency with the ball and his recent fitness issues have seen Mohammed Siraj move up in the pecking order.

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Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja will be making his comeback from injury against Sri Lanka. He is also part of the T20I squad for the three-match series against the visitors. Former skipper Kohli, who will miss the T20Is, will be back for the Test series.

While senior spinner R Ashwin's selection is subject to fitness, left-arm all-rounder Sourabh Kumar has received his maiden Test call up for the Sri Lanka series. Kumar, who represents Uttar Pradesh in the domestic circuit is a left-arm spin all-rounder. In Ashwin's absence, Jadeja will spearhead India's spin attack along with Jayant Yadav.

Jasprit Bumrah named India's&nbsp;vice-captain in Tests:

The selectors have taken another major call by naming Jasprit Bumrah as India's vice-captain in the absence of KL Rahul. The premier pacer was being touted as one of the contenders to replace Kohli as Test captain. However, he will act as Rohit's deputy in the Sri Lanka Test series for now.

India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma has been appointed as the new captain of the Indian Test team ahead of the start of the upcoming series against Sri Lanka at home. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (February 19) announced India's squad for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka.

Rohit Sharma has been appointed as the new captain of the Indian Test team ahead of the start of the upcoming series against Sri Lanka at home. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (February 19) announced India's squad for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. The Chetan Sharma-led national selection panel has decided to hand over the captaincy to Rohit, making him India's captain across all formats of the game. Virat Kohli had quit as India's Test captain earlier this year post the team's 2-1 loss in the Test series against South Africa. The captaincy spot had since been vacant. However, Rohit will now take charge in the whites as well after being appointed as India's limited-overs captain last year. Besides confirming Rohit's appointment as Test captain, the selectors have taken some big calls by dropping the likes of Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha from the Test team. The four senior players have been replaced by youngsters in the squad. Rahane and Pujara's form was under the scanner for quite a while now and the duo's failure to bounce back from their lean patch has resulted in their ouster from the Test team. Ishant has also failed to attain consistency with the ball and his recent fitness issues have seen Mohammed Siraj move up in the pecking order. Also Read: BCCI unlikely to take action against CSK's Rajvardhan Hangargekar despite age fraud allegations - Report Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja will be making his comeback from injury against Sri Lanka. He is also part of the T20I squad for the three-match series against the visitors. Former skipper Kohli, who will miss the T20Is, will be back for the Test series. While senior spinner R Ashwin's selection is subject to fitness, left-arm all-rounder Sourabh Kumar has received his maiden Test call up for the Sri Lanka series. Kumar, who represents Uttar Pradesh in the domestic circuit is a left-arm spin all-rounder. In Ashwin's absence, Jadeja will spearhead India's spin attack along with Jayant Yadav. Jasprit Bumrah named India's vice-captain in Tests: The selectors have taken another major call by naming Jasprit Bumrah as India's vice-captain in the absence of KL Rahul. The premier pacer was being touted as one of the contenders to replace Kohli as Test captain. However, he will act as Rohit's deputy in the Sri Lanka Test series for now. India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Rohit Sharma named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped

India and West Indies played out a humdinger of a clash in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, Rohit-led Indian team posted a challenging 186-5, riding on half-centuries from Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer's quickire 33.

In reply, WI were 59 for 2 but were kept in the run-chase courtesy Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran's century-stand. The two's third-wicket stand kept Indian team on their toes in defence of 187. During the 16th over, when the chase was wide open and the Windies' batters were going hard, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was brought back into the attack in a bid to break the partnership.

Bhuvi used the short ball to good effect, pitching it outside off stump, as a well-set Powell went hard at it. He didn't get the desired timing&nbsp;as the ball went high up&nbsp;in the air. The pacer reacted late to the catch as he thought wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant was going for it. Thus, in the mixup, he dropped it&nbsp;and captain Rohit showed his frustration by kicking the ball. As a result, the two batters sneaked in another run, due to Rohit's kicking, to rub salt on the wounds of the home side.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-virat-kohli-joins-rohit-sharma-at-the-top-in-elite-list-with-blistering-52-in-2nd-t20i-454516">India vs WI: Virat Kohli joins Rohit Sharma at the top in elite list with blistering 52 in 2nd T20I</a>

Here's the video:

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rishabh-pant-granted-bio-bubble-break-ahead-of-series-finale-vs-wi-duo-to-skip-sl-t20is-454506">Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is</a>

Eventually, Bhuvi only dismissed Pooran (62) and bowled a game-changing penultimate over, conceding only 9 runs when the required rate was over 14, as India restricted the Kieron Pollard-led Windies for 178-3.&nbsp;

At the post-match presentation, Bhuvi told, "I was just believing in myself, Rohit told me that if I can give just 9-10 runs it will be difficult for them, so I just backed myself with the yorkers. There was a bit of dew, but I still backed myself and it came out well. He (Powell) was hitting it pretty hard, probably 200kmph (chuckles). It's always tough to bowl yorkers with the dew. When we bowled the slower balls it wasn't gripping and I changed my plan not to bowl slower balls, so it totally depends on the wicket. These guys are very powerful and if you bowl in their zone and it gets difficult. (The body)Feels good and don't want to say anything on that."

The experienced pacer returned with 4-0-29-1 as India took an unassailable lead, with one match to go (on Sunday, February 20).

India and West Indies played out a humdinger of a clash in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, Rohit-led Indian team posted a challenging 186-5, riding on half-centuries from Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer's quickire 33.

India and West Indies played out a humdinger of a clash in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, Rohit-led Indian team posted a challenging 186-5, riding on half-centuries from Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer's quickire 33. In reply, WI were 59 for 2 but were kept in the run-chase courtesy Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran's century-stand. The two's third-wicket stand kept Indian team on their toes in defence of 187. During the 16th over, when the chase was wide open and the Windies' batters were going hard, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was brought back into the attack in a bid to break the partnership. Bhuvi used the short ball to good effect, pitching it outside off stump, as a well-set Powell went hard at it. He didn't get the desired timing as the ball went high up in the air. The pacer reacted late to the catch as he thought wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant was going for it. Thus, in the mixup, he dropped it and captain Rohit showed his frustration by kicking the ball. As a result, the two batters sneaked in another run, due to Rohit's kicking, to rub salt on the wounds of the home side. ALSO READ | India vs WI: Virat Kohli joins Rohit Sharma at the top in elite list with blistering 52 in 2nd T20I Here's the video: pic.twitter.com/JNYZTNxmmd — Addicric (@addicric) February 18, 2022 × ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is Eventually, Bhuvi only dismissed Pooran (62) and bowled a game-changing penultimate over, conceding only 9 runs when the required rate was over 14, as India restricted the Kieron Pollard-led Windies for 178-3. At the post-match presentation, Bhuvi told, "I was just believing in myself, Rohit told me that if I can give just 9-10 runs it will be difficult for them, so I just backed myself with the yorkers. There was a bit of dew, but I still backed myself and it came out well. He (Powell) was hitting it pretty hard, probably 200kmph (chuckles). It's always tough to bowl yorkers with the dew. When we bowled the slower balls it wasn't gripping and I changed my plan not to bowl slower balls, so it totally depends on the wicket. These guys are very powerful and if you bowl in their zone and it gets difficult. (The body)Feels good and don't want to say anything on that." The experienced pacer returned with 4-0-29-1 as India took an unassailable lead, with one match to go (on Sunday, February 20).

2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH

Team India were clinical in the first T20I of the three-match series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. Opting to bowl first, the Rohit Sharma-led side restricted Windies for 157/7 and chased down the score with seven balls and 6 wickets to spare on Wednesday (February 16).&nbsp;

India were led by Harshal Patel and debutant spinner Ravi Bishnoi's two wickets apiece to restrict the tall West Indian batting line-up before Rohit &amp; Co. chased down the score in the penultimate over. However, it wasn't an easy ride as the Indian batting line-up were challenged towards the end of the run-chase before Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer's unbeaten fifth-wicket stand completed the formalities.&nbsp;

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During the course of the game, India had some injury concerns. Deepak Chahar got injured while fielding. On the other hand, all-rounder Iyer also incurred a blow on his thumb. While nothing has been confirmed regarding the duo's availability, Shardul Thakur and Avesh Khan or Mohammad Siraj could be drafted into the playing XI in place of Iyer and Chahar, respectively.

India can also bring in Shreyas Iyer or Ruturaj Gaikwad for the KKR opener Venkatesh. However, they might not risk being a bowler short versus a dented WI batting line-up. Hence, Shardul is very likely to replace Iyer if the latter sits out. Rest of the line-up is expected to be unchanged.

The second and penultimate tie will be held at the same venue, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Friday evening (February 18). The final T20I will also be played here.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-1st-t20i-im-saying-it-how-virat-kohli-convinced-skipper-rohit-sharma-to-take-drs-watch-453958">India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch</a>

India's likely playing XI for 2nd T20I:&nbsp;Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Venkatesh Iyer/Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar/Mohammed Siraj/Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal.

Team India were clinical in the first T20I of the three-match series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. Opting to bowl first, the Rohit Sharma-led side restricted Windies for 157/7 and chased down the score with seven balls and 6 wickets to spare on Wednesday (February 16).

Team India were clinical in the first T20I of the three-match series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. Opting to bowl first, the Rohit Sharma-led side restricted Windies for 157/7 and chased down the score with seven balls and 6 wickets to spare on Wednesday (February 16). India were led by Harshal Patel and debutant spinner Ravi Bishnoi's two wickets apiece to restrict the tall West Indian batting line-up before Rohit & Co. chased down the score in the penultimate over. However, it wasn't an easy ride as the Indian batting line-up were challenged towards the end of the run-chase before Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer's unbeaten fifth-wicket stand completed the formalities. ALSO READ | This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift During the course of the game, India had some injury concerns. Deepak Chahar got injured while fielding. On the other hand, all-rounder Iyer also incurred a blow on his thumb. While nothing has been confirmed regarding the duo's availability, Shardul Thakur and Avesh Khan or Mohammad Siraj could be drafted into the playing XI in place of Iyer and Chahar, respectively. India can also bring in Shreyas Iyer or Ruturaj Gaikwad for the KKR opener Venkatesh. However, they might not risk being a bowler short versus a dented WI batting line-up. Hence, Shardul is very likely to replace Iyer if the latter sits out. Rest of the line-up is expected to be unchanged. The second and penultimate tie will be held at the same venue, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Friday evening (February 18). The final T20I will also be played here. ALSO READ | India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch India's likely playing XI for 2nd T20I: Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Venkatesh Iyer/Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar/Mohammed Siraj/Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal.

Will Avesh Khan get a look-in for Deepak Chahar? Predicting India's XI for 2nd T20I vs West Indies

Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant`s quality knocks were backed up by a spirited bowling performance at the death by Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel as India defeated West Indies by eight runs in the second T20I of the three-match series against India here at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday.

With this win, India has gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, and the final match will now be played on Sunday at the same venue.

Chasing 187, West Indies openers Brandon King and Kyle Mayers put on 34 runs for the first wicket, however, this stand was finally broken in the sixth over by Yuzvendra Chahal as he dismissed Mayers (9). Soon after, Ravi Bishnoi struck in his very first over to dismiss King (22) and the visitors were reduced to 59/2, still needing 128 runs to win from 69 balls.

Pooran and Rovman Powell kept West Indies in the chase as the duo mixed caution with aggression and after 15 overs, the Windies` score read 124/2, needing 63 runs to win from 30 balls. Pooran (62) finally departed in the penultimate over on the bowling of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, with the Windies needing 28 runs to win from nine balls.

This wicket brought an end to the 100-run stand for the third wicket. In the second-last over of the game, Bhuvneshwar Kumar conceded just four runs and as a result, the visitors were required to score 25 runs in the final over to win the game.

Harshal Patel managed to hold his nerve and in the end, India registered a win. Earlier, Virat Kohli played a 52-run knock as India posted 186/5 in the allotted twenty overs. Rishabh Pant (52*) and Venkatesh Iyer (33) also contributed with the bat as India posted a score of more than the 180-run mark.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-know-captain-will-never-ex-india-player-reacts-to-rohit-sharmas-stance-on-virat-kohlis-form-454406">&nbsp;'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form</a>

Pant and Iyer had formed a 76-run stand for the fifth wicket. Sent into bat, India got off to a bad start as the hosts lost opening wicket Ishan Kishan (2) in the second over.&nbsp; The left-handed batter was dismissed by Sheldon Cottrell.

Virat Kohli then joined skipper Rohit Sharma in the middle and after the end of powerplay overs, India`s score read 49/1. The 49-run stand for the second wicket between Rohit and Virat was cut short by Roston Chase as the spinner sent Rohit (19) back to the pavilion in the eighth over and this brought Suryakumar Yadav to the middle.

However, the right-handed batter went back to the pavilion after scoring just 8 runs and the hosts were reduced to 72/3 in the 10th over. Kohli brought up his half-century in the 14th over of the innings, however, he was clean bowled in the same over he brought up the milestone.

The right-handed batter was dismissed by Chase. In the final six overs, India managed to add 76 more runs to their total, taking the score past the 180-run mark. Brief Scores: India 186/5 (Rishabh Pant 52*, Virat Kohli 52; Roston Chase 3-25) vs West Indies 178/3 (Rovman Powell 68*, Nicholas Pooran 62; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 1-29).

Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant`s quality knocks were backed up by a spirited bowling performance at the death by Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel as India defeated West Indies by eight runs in the second T20I of the three-match series against India here at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday.

Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant`s quality knocks were backed up by a spirited bowling performance at the death by Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel as India defeated West Indies by eight runs in the second T20I of the three-match series against India here at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday. With this win, India has gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, and the final match will now be played on Sunday at the same venue. Chasing 187, West Indies openers Brandon King and Kyle Mayers put on 34 runs for the first wicket, however, this stand was finally broken in the sixth over by Yuzvendra Chahal as he dismissed Mayers (9). Soon after, Ravi Bishnoi struck in his very first over to dismiss King (22) and the visitors were reduced to 59/2, still needing 128 runs to win from 69 balls. Pooran and Rovman Powell kept West Indies in the chase as the duo mixed caution with aggression and after 15 overs, the Windies` score read 124/2, needing 63 runs to win from 30 balls. Pooran (62) finally departed in the penultimate over on the bowling of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, with the Windies needing 28 runs to win from nine balls. This wicket brought an end to the 100-run stand for the third wicket. In the second-last over of the game, Bhuvneshwar Kumar conceded just four runs and as a result, the visitors were required to score 25 runs in the final over to win the game. Harshal Patel managed to hold his nerve and in the end, India registered a win. Earlier, Virat Kohli played a 52-run knock as India posted 186/5 in the allotted twenty overs. Rishabh Pant (52*) and Venkatesh Iyer (33) also contributed with the bat as India posted a score of more than the 180-run mark. Also Read: 'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form Pant and Iyer had formed a 76-run stand for the fifth wicket. Sent into bat, India got off to a bad start as the hosts lost opening wicket Ishan Kishan (2) in the second over. The left-handed batter was dismissed by Sheldon Cottrell. Virat Kohli then joined skipper Rohit Sharma in the middle and after the end of powerplay overs, India`s score read 49/1. The 49-run stand for the second wicket between Rohit and Virat was cut short by Roston Chase as the spinner sent Rohit (19) back to the pavilion in the eighth over and this brought Suryakumar Yadav to the middle. However, the right-handed batter went back to the pavilion after scoring just 8 runs and the hosts were reduced to 72/3 in the 10th over. Kohli brought up his half-century in the 14th over of the innings, however, he was clean bowled in the same over he brought up the milestone. The right-handed batter was dismissed by Chase. In the final six overs, India managed to add 76 more runs to their total, taking the score past the 180-run mark. Brief Scores: India 186/5 (Rishabh Pant 52*, Virat Kohli 52; Roston Chase 3-25) vs West Indies 178/3 (Rovman Powell 68*, Nicholas Pooran 62; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 1-29).

Kohli, Pant and Bhuvneshwar star as India beat West Indies by 8 runs in 2nd T20I, clinch series

During the first ODI between India and West Indies, former Team India skipper Virat Kohli had convinced his successor Rohit Sharma to take a review which led to&nbsp;Shamarh Brooks' dismissal, in Ahmedabad. A similar such incident took place during the three-match T20I series opener between both sides on Wednesday (February 16), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

Opting to bowl first, Rohit &amp; Co. had started well to claim two wickets in the WI innings. During debutant leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi's maiden over, India went ahead and took a Decision Review System (DRS) in a bid to claim Roston Chase's wicket. It was a googly from the spinner which went down the leg side and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant dislodged the bails. Initially, square leg-umpire&nbsp;Jayaraman Madanagopal signalled a wide amid strong appeal for a caught-behind by the Indian players.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-kishan-shares-dravids-words-of-wisdom-after-mi-star-bagged-whopping-deal-at-ipl-mega-auction-453940">Ind vs WI: Kishan shares Dravid's words of wisdom after MI star bagged whopping deal at IPL mega auction</a>

At first, Rohit was taken aback by the umpire's initial decision but was convinced by Kohli to take the decision upstairs.&nbsp;“Main bol raha hu, tu review le&nbsp;(I’m saying it, you go ahead for the review),” Kohli told Hitman. By the time Rohit took the DRS,&nbsp;leg umpire had already obliged to the appeal made by the home team. For the unversed, nowadays umpires check for caught-behind as well before checking for a stumping call.&nbsp;Watch the video:

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Thus, India’s review remained intact. The UltraEdge confirmed the flat line when the ball had passed Chase's willow. Further, the&nbsp;umpire review also assured that there was a spike when the ball passed the pad and, hence, not bat was involved. As&nbsp;the spin-bowling all-rounder was well within&nbsp;his crease when the bails were dislodged, he resumed his innings. In addition, as there was pad involved, the wide call was overturned by the main umpire.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-been-happening-for-years-sunil-gavaskar-rubbishes-rift-rumours-between-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-451281">This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli</a>

Chase couldn't do much with the bat as he fell for 4, lbw off Bishnoi. Nicholas Pooran's fifty took Windies to 157/7, with Bishnoi and Harshal Patel claiming two wickets apiece. Eventually, Rohit-led India won the clash by 6 wickets and 7 balls to spare to go 1-0 up in the series.

The second and penultimate match will be played at the same venue on Friday (February 18).

During the first ODI between India and West Indies, former Team India skipper Virat Kohli had convinced his successor Rohit Sharma to take a review which led to Shamarh Brooks' dismissal, in Ahmedabad.

During the first ODI between India and West Indies, former Team India skipper Virat Kohli had convinced his successor Rohit Sharma to take a review which led to Shamarh Brooks' dismissal, in Ahmedabad. A similar such incident took place during the three-match T20I series opener between both sides on Wednesday (February 16), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Opting to bowl first, Rohit & Co. had started well to claim two wickets in the WI innings. During debutant leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi's maiden over, India went ahead and took a Decision Review System (DRS) in a bid to claim Roston Chase's wicket. It was a googly from the spinner which went down the leg side and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant dislodged the bails. Initially, square leg-umpire Jayaraman Madanagopal signalled a wide amid strong appeal for a caught-behind by the Indian players. ALSO READ | Ind vs WI: Kishan shares Dravid's words of wisdom after MI star bagged whopping deal at IPL mega auction At first, Rohit was taken aback by the umpire's initial decision but was convinced by Kohli to take the decision upstairs. “Main bol raha hu, tu review le (I’m saying it, you go ahead for the review),” Kohli told Hitman. By the time Rohit took the DRS, leg umpire had already obliged to the appeal made by the home team. For the unversed, nowadays umpires check for caught-behind as well before checking for a stumping call. Watch the video: pic.twitter.com/zUFGUyYiYb — Maqbool (@im_maqbool) February 16, 2022 × Thus, India’s review remained intact. The UltraEdge confirmed the flat line when the ball had passed Chase's willow. Further, the umpire review also assured that there was a spike when the ball passed the pad and, hence, not bat was involved. As the spin-bowling all-rounder was well within his crease when the bails were dislodged, he resumed his innings. In addition, as there was pad involved, the wide call was overturned by the main umpire. pic.twitter.com/PrqBkawOlh — Maqbool (@im_maqbool) February 16, 2022 × ALSO READ | This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli Chase couldn't do much with the bat as he fell for 4, lbw off Bishnoi. Nicholas Pooran's fifty took Windies to 157/7, with Bishnoi and Harshal Patel claiming two wickets apiece. Eventually, Rohit-led India won the clash by 6 wickets and 7 balls to spare to go 1-0 up in the series. The second and penultimate match will be played at the same venue on Friday (February 18).

India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch

Rohit Sharma is reportedly set to take over as the new captain of the Indian Test team ahead of the start of the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. The selectors are expected to announce the squads for the Test and T20I series against Sri Lanka soon. The Islanders will play three T20Is followed by three Tests against the hosts starting from February 24.

Virat Kohli had stepped down as India's Test captain in January this year after the team's 2-1 loss against South Africa away from home. The Test captain's position has been vacant ever since and the BCCI is yet to take the final call on the next leader of the Indian team in the longest format.

While a number of names have been thrown into the mix for Test captaincy after Kohli's departure, as per a report in Cricbuzz, Rohit will be made India's skipper across all three formats, in all likelihood. The Hitman had taken over as the ODI and T20I captain of the national team last year.

Virat Kohli set to miss T20I series against Sri Lanka

Kohli is likely to be rested for the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka amid his ongoing lean patch with the willow in international cricket. The former India skipper has not scored an international century since November 2019 and has struggled for consistency in the last couple of series for the Indian team.

As per Cricbuzz, Kohli might get a break from the Sri Lanka T20Is but will return to take part in the three-match Test series. The first Test between India and Sri Lanka in Mohali could be his 100th Test appearance for India. However, if Kohli decides to miss the first game to take an extended break, he will play his 100th Test in Bengaluru.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-avesh-khan-get-a-look-in-for-deepak-chahar-predicting-indias-xi-for-2nd-t20i-vs-west-indies-454218">Will Avesh Khan get a look-in for Deepak Chahar? Predicting India's XI for 2nd T20I vs West Indies</a>

Ravindra Jadeja set to return&nbsp;

As per Cricbuzz, star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is also set to make his comeback in the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka. Jadeja had sustained an injury and was undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. He has reportedly already reached Lucknow - the venue for the first T20I between India and Sri Lanka and will take part in the series after undergoing COVID-19 tests.&nbsp;

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Rohit Sharma is reportedly set to take over as the new captain of the Indian Test team ahead of the start of the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. The selectors are expected to announce the squads for the Test and T20I series against Sri Lanka soon.

Rohit Sharma is reportedly set to take over as the new captain of the Indian Test team ahead of the start of the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. The selectors are expected to announce the squads for the Test and T20I series against Sri Lanka soon. The Islanders will play three T20Is followed by three Tests against the hosts starting from February 24. Virat Kohli had stepped down as India's Test captain in January this year after the team's 2-1 loss against South Africa away from home. The Test captain's position has been vacant ever since and the BCCI is yet to take the final call on the next leader of the Indian team in the longest format. While a number of names have been thrown into the mix for Test captaincy after Kohli's departure, as per a report in Cricbuzz, Rohit will be made India's skipper across all three formats, in all likelihood. The Hitman had taken over as the ODI and T20I captain of the national team last year. Virat Kohli set to miss T20I series against Sri Lanka Kohli is likely to be rested for the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka amid his ongoing lean patch with the willow in international cricket. The former India skipper has not scored an international century since November 2019 and has struggled for consistency in the last couple of series for the Indian team. As per Cricbuzz, Kohli might get a break from the Sri Lanka T20Is but will return to take part in the three-match Test series. The first Test between India and Sri Lanka in Mohali could be his 100th Test appearance for India. However, if Kohli decides to miss the first game to take an extended break, he will play his 100th Test in Bengaluru. Also Read: Will Avesh Khan get a look-in for Deepak Chahar? Predicting India's XI for 2nd T20I vs West Indies Ravindra Jadeja set to return As per Cricbuzz, star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is also set to make his comeback in the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka. Jadeja had sustained an injury and was undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. He has reportedly already reached Lucknow - the venue for the first T20I between India and Sri Lanka and will take part in the series after undergoing COVID-19 tests.

Rohit Sharma set to take over as India's Test captain, Virat Kohli to miss T20Is against Sri Lanka - Report

The IPL 2022 mega auction was a successful two-day event, held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. After the end of the mega auction, Ishan Kishan finished as the most expensive player; being bought back by the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise for a whopping INR 152.5 million (INR 15.25 crore).

Ishan wasn't retained by the Rohit Sharma-led MI franchise ahead of the mega auction. However,&nbsp;his rise in stature and wide range of shots ensured that he was re-acquired by the five-time champions MI in the mega auction. Ahead of the India-West Indies T20I series, on Wednesday (February 16), the 23-year-old Ishan revealed the advice he got from head coach Rahul Dravid post the auction proceedings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/debutant-ravi-bishnoi-skipper-rohit-sharma-star-as-india-beat-west-indies-by-6-wickets-in-1st-t20i-453860">Debutant Ravi Bishnoi, skipper Rohit Sharma star as India beat West Indies by 6 wickets in 1st T20I</a>

“It’s [auction] done. Had a good chat with Rahul sir also. [He]&nbsp;asked us to just focus on what we are doing right now. Obviously, IPL is a big platform for everyone, and people get happy when they go to good teams. But the focus is on this series,” Kishan told the host broadcaster before the T20I encounter on Wednesday.

“I’m the happiest when I open the innings, but looking at the situation and what the team asks me to do, I’m okay with my role and comfortable batting anywhere. It’s a big six-hitting ground (Eden Gardens, Kolkata) but that’s my strength, I can clear any ground on any day. I have to go there and watch the ball, be clear about what my role is and what the team needs me to do," the 23-year old further highlighted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2022-top-5-players-who-failed-to-draw-a-single-bid-and-went-unsold-at-mega-auction-453287">IPL 2022 Unsold Players' List: Top 5 stars who failed to draw a single bid at mega auction</a>

Talking about Ishan's performance in the first T20I, the swashbuckling left-hander wasn't at his fluent best and managed a 42-ball 35 in India's chase of 158. Being asked to bat first, Kieron Pollard-led WI managed 157/7 -- with debutant Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel taking two scalps each -- before India chased down the total with 7 balls and 6 wickets to spare. Rohit's 19-ball 40 and Suryakumar Yadav-Venkatesh Iyer's finishing skills enabled a 1-0 lead for the hosts.

The second and penultimate T20I will be played at the same venue on Friday (February 18).

The IPL 2022 mega auction was a successful two-day event, held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. After the end of the mega auction, Ishan Kishan finished as the most expensive player; being bought back by the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise for a whopping INR 152.

The IPL 2022 mega auction was a successful two-day event, held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. After the end of the mega auction, Ishan Kishan finished as the most expensive player; being bought back by the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise for a whopping INR 152.5 million (INR 15.25 crore). Ishan wasn't retained by the Rohit Sharma-led MI franchise ahead of the mega auction. However, his rise in stature and wide range of shots ensured that he was re-acquired by the five-time champions MI in the mega auction. Ahead of the India-West Indies T20I series, on Wednesday (February 16), the 23-year-old Ishan revealed the advice he got from head coach Rahul Dravid post the auction proceedings. ALSO READ | Debutant Ravi Bishnoi, skipper Rohit Sharma star as India beat West Indies by 6 wickets in 1st T20I “It’s [auction] done. Had a good chat with Rahul sir also. [He] asked us to just focus on what we are doing right now. Obviously, IPL is a big platform for everyone, and people get happy when they go to good teams. But the focus is on this series,” Kishan told the host broadcaster before the T20I encounter on Wednesday. “I’m the happiest when I open the innings, but looking at the situation and what the team asks me to do, I’m okay with my role and comfortable batting anywhere. It’s a big six-hitting ground (Eden Gardens, Kolkata) but that’s my strength, I can clear any ground on any day. I have to go there and watch the ball, be clear about what my role is and what the team needs me to do," the 23-year old further highlighted. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 Unsold Players' List: Top 5 stars who failed to draw a single bid at mega auction Talking about Ishan's performance in the first T20I, the swashbuckling left-hander wasn't at his fluent best and managed a 42-ball 35 in India's chase of 158. Being asked to bat first, Kieron Pollard-led WI managed 157/7 -- with debutant Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel taking two scalps each -- before India chased down the total with 7 balls and 6 wickets to spare. Rohit's 19-ball 40 and Suryakumar Yadav-Venkatesh Iyer's finishing skills enabled a 1-0 lead for the hosts. The second and penultimate T20I will be played at the same venue on Friday (February 18).

Ind vs WI: Kishan shares Dravid's words of wisdom after MI star bagged whopping deal at IPL mega auction

Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter opines on Ranji Trophy's resumption, Rishabh Pant's captaincy and keeping skills, Virat Kohli's indifferent form and Mithali Raj & Co.'s chances in upcoming Women's ODI World Cup.

EXCLUSIVE | Former player opines on Rishabh Pant, Virat Kohli's form, names India women's X-factor for ODI World Cup

Sachin Tendulkar remains a big name in world cricket. Having represented Team India for 24 years, the Master Blaster signed off as the most successful batsman at the international level, with 100 centuries and being a part of the MS Dhoni-led Indian team's victorious run in the 2011 ODI World Cup.

During his last international game -- i.e. a Test match versus West Indies at his home ground Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai -- Tendulkar received a special gift from Virat Kohli. On the occasion of Tendulkar's retirement, Kohli gifted the iconic batter a prized asset that he possessed. It was a sacred thread given to Kohli by his late father, Prem Kohli.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-deserves-every-penny-earned-at-ipl-mega-auction-sunil-gavaskar-lavishes-huge-praise-on-indian-star-454010">He deserves every penny earned at IPL mega auction: Sunil Gavaskar lavishes huge praise on Indian star</a>

Recalling the occasion of his final match as an international cricketer, Tendulkar revealed the whole story and shared why he returned Kohli's retirement gift. He said: “I was sitting in one corner alone with a towel on my head and wiping tears and I was really emotional. And at that time, Virat had come to me and Virat gave me the sacred thread that his father had given him…

“And I kept that for a while and then returned that to him again. I said, ‘This is priceless and this has to stay with you and no one else. This is your property. And you should have it till your last breath.’ And I gave it back to him. So that was an emotional moment, something which will be always there in my memory, forever. “

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-1st-t20i-im-saying-it-how-virat-kohli-convinced-skipper-rohit-sharma-to-take-drs-watch-453958">India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch</a>

During the conversation, Master Blaster also revealed that he was unaware of his earnings as an India cricketer. “It was more about the number of runs that I scored, not how big my bank account was - didn't matter. For me, when I started at that time in 1989 till the end of my career, I did not know how much I was getting paid to play for India, because I never looked at it that way,” he pointed out.

Tendulkar retired from the highest level with over 34,000 runs and 100 centuries under his belt. He remains an all-time great courtesy his 24-year-long career, spanning from 1989-2013.

Sachin Tendulkar remains a big name in world cricket. Having represented Team India for 24 years, the Master Blaster signed off as the most successful batsman at the international level, with 100 centuries and being a part of the MS Dhoni-led Indian team's victorious run in the 2011 ODI World Cup.

Sachin Tendulkar remains a big name in world cricket. Having represented Team India for 24 years, the Master Blaster signed off as the most successful batsman at the international level, with 100 centuries and being a part of the MS Dhoni-led Indian team's victorious run in the 2011 ODI World Cup. During his last international game -- i.e. a Test match versus West Indies at his home ground Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai -- Tendulkar received a special gift from Virat Kohli. On the occasion of Tendulkar's retirement, Kohli gifted the iconic batter a prized asset that he possessed. It was a sacred thread given to Kohli by his late father, Prem Kohli. ALSO READ | He deserves every penny earned at IPL mega auction: Sunil Gavaskar lavishes huge praise on Indian star Recalling the occasion of his final match as an international cricketer, Tendulkar revealed the whole story and shared why he returned Kohli's retirement gift. He said: “I was sitting in one corner alone with a towel on my head and wiping tears and I was really emotional. And at that time, Virat had come to me and Virat gave me the sacred thread that his father had given him… “And I kept that for a while and then returned that to him again. I said, ‘This is priceless and this has to stay with you and no one else. This is your property. And you should have it till your last breath.’ And I gave it back to him. So that was an emotional moment, something which will be always there in my memory, forever. “ ALSO READ | India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch During the conversation, Master Blaster also revealed that he was unaware of his earnings as an India cricketer. “It was more about the number of runs that I scored, not how big my bank account was - didn't matter. For me, when I started at that time in 1989 till the end of my career, I did not know how much I was getting paid to play for India, because I never looked at it that way,” he pointed out. Tendulkar retired from the highest level with over 34,000 runs and 100 centuries under his belt. He remains an all-time great courtesy his 24-year-long career, spanning from 1989-2013.

This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies by six wickets in the three-match T20I series opener, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Wednesday evening (February 16). Bowling first, India rode on debutant Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel's two wickets apiece to restrict the former world champions for 157/7.

In reply, India completed the run-chase in the penultimate over, with seven balls to spare, as Rohit's 19-ball 40 and finishing knocks from Suryakumar Yadav-Venkatesh&nbsp;Iyer propelled the team to a 1-0 lead. While India were made to sweat hard at the end of their run-chase, it was a clinical performance from the home side.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, former skipper Virat Kohli once again failed to make a big score (being out for 17) after settling in as his string of low scores continue in the home series versus the Windies. In the three ODIs, he had amassed only 26 runs to end a forgettable series in the 50-over format.

A lot has been said and written about Kohli's form of late. While the 33-year-old hasn't scored a ton since late 2019, he has done reasonably well with regular fifty-plus scores in white-ball formats, however, his current run versus the West Indies team is below par.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-1st-t20i-im-saying-it-how-virat-kohli-convinced-skipper-rohit-sharma-to-take-drs-watch-453958">India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch</a>

Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra reacted to Kohli's string of low scores after the first T20I.&nbsp;

"Virat Kohli did not score runs again and the way he is getting out, that's very unlike him. We are doing very little conversation about Virat Kohli, which is never a good thing. We are not even talking about him, that is hurting me, that must be hurting him," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

"A good player's recognizance is that his name is written with prominence in any report card, it is his story even on the day when he fails because 40 for Kohli is a failure, 40 for Aakash is a success."

Having analysed&nbsp;his work over the years, Chopra believes&nbsp;that it was 'discipline' that made Kohli the best batter in the world. However, the manner in which the right-hander is planning his innings isn't synonymous with the way Kohli used to play in the past.

"The way Kohli got out, discipline was making him the greatest batter on the planet, what would have happened if that shot had gone for a six? Nothing would have happened, you wouldn't have won the match because of that six. But when you get out, the team is also stuck slightly. Virat Kohli never used to do like this earlier, that if a six is not required, he never used to hit it and scored through singles or fours. He was risk-averse, that he will not play the risky shots at all. That is what Virat was all about but now he is not playing like that and that is a bit of a concern," Chopra further explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-kishan-shares-dravids-words-of-wisdom-after-mi-star-bagged-whopping-deal-at-ipl-mega-auction-453940">Ind vs WI: Kishan shares Dravid's words of wisdom after MI star bagged whopping deal at IPL mega auction</a>

The second and penultimate T20I between India and West Indies will be held at the same venue on Friday (February 18). While Rohit-led Men in Blue will be eager to take an unassailable lead versus the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies, Kohli will be desperate to score big in the upcoming encounter.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies by six wickets in the three-match T20I series opener, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Wednesday evening (February 16). Bowling first, India rode on debutant Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel's two wickets apiece to restrict the former world champions for 157/7.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies by six wickets in the three-match T20I series opener, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Wednesday evening (February 16). Bowling first, India rode on debutant Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel's two wickets apiece to restrict the former world champions for 157/7. In reply, India completed the run-chase in the penultimate over, with seven balls to spare, as Rohit's 19-ball 40 and finishing knocks from Suryakumar Yadav-Venkatesh Iyer propelled the team to a 1-0 lead. While India were made to sweat hard at the end of their run-chase, it was a clinical performance from the home side. Nonetheless, former skipper Virat Kohli once again failed to make a big score (being out for 17) after settling in as his string of low scores continue in the home series versus the Windies. In the three ODIs, he had amassed only 26 runs to end a forgettable series in the 50-over format. A lot has been said and written about Kohli's form of late. While the 33-year-old hasn't scored a ton since late 2019, he has done reasonably well with regular fifty-plus scores in white-ball formats, however, his current run versus the West Indies team is below par. ALSO READ | India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra reacted to Kohli's string of low scores after the first T20I. "Virat Kohli did not score runs again and the way he is getting out, that's very unlike him. We are doing very little conversation about Virat Kohli, which is never a good thing. We are not even talking about him, that is hurting me, that must be hurting him," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. "A good player's recognizance is that his name is written with prominence in any report card, it is his story even on the day when he fails because 40 for Kohli is a failure, 40 for Aakash is a success." Having analysed his work over the years, Chopra believes that it was 'discipline' that made Kohli the best batter in the world. However, the manner in which the right-hander is planning his innings isn't synonymous with the way Kohli used to play in the past. "The way Kohli got out, discipline was making him the greatest batter on the planet, what would have happened if that shot had gone for a six? Nothing would have happened, you wouldn't have won the match because of that six. But when you get out, the team is also stuck slightly. Virat Kohli never used to do like this earlier, that if a six is not required, he never used to hit it and scored through singles or fours. He was risk-averse, that he will not play the risky shots at all. That is what Virat was all about but now he is not playing like that and that is a bit of a concern," Chopra further explained. ALSO READ | Ind vs WI: Kishan shares Dravid's words of wisdom after MI star bagged whopping deal at IPL mega auction The second and penultimate T20I between India and West Indies will be held at the same venue on Friday (February 18). While Rohit-led Men in Blue will be eager to take an unassailable lead versus the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies, Kohli will be desperate to score big in the upcoming encounter.

'We're not even talking about him'- Chopra reacts to string of low scores from Kohli after 1st T20I vs WI

Ravi Bishnoi`s two-wicket haul was backed up by quality knocks by Rohit Sharma (40) and Suryakumar Yadav (34*) as India defeated West Indies by six wickets in the first T20I of the three-match series here at the Eden Gardens on Wednesday.

With this win, India has gained a 1-0 lead in the three-match series and the second T20I will now be played on Friday at the same venue. Chasing 158, India got off to a quickfire start as openers Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan put on 58 runs inside the first six overs.

The 64-run opening stand finally came to an end in the eighth over as Roston Chase got the better of Rohit (40). Chase got his second wicket in the 12th over as he dismissed Kishan (35) and India was reduced to 93/2, still needing 65 runs for the win.

In the next over, India was given a body blow as Fabien Allen had Virat Kohli (17) caught at the hands of skipper Kieron Pollard at long-off and this meant there were two new batters at the crease -- Rishabh Pant and Suryakumar Yadav.

Pant (8) failed with the bat as he was dismissed by Sheldon Cottrell and India was reduced to 114/4 in the 15th over. In the end, Suryakumar (34*) and Venkatesh Iyer (24*) ensured that India register a six-wicket win with seven balls to spare.

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Earlier, Nicholas Pooran starred with the bat as he played a knock of 61 runs to help West Indies post 157/7. Sent into bat, West Indies got off to a bad start as the visitors lost Brandon King (4) on the fifth ball of the innings. Kyle Mayers and Nicholas Pooran then scored briskly and after the end of powerplay overs, West Indies` score read 44/1.

The 47-run stand for the second wicket was cut short by Yuzvendra Chahal as he had Mayers (31) adjudged leg-before wicket in the seventh over.

Ravi Bishnoi got his maiden T20I wicket in the 11th over of the innings as he had Roston Chase (4) adjudged leg-before wicket. In the very same over, Bishnoi dismissed Rovman Powell (2) and the visitors were reduced to 74/4.

Nicholas Pooran kept on holding one end up and the visitors were looking for a big finish in the final overs.In the final four overs, West Indies managed to add 49 more runs to the total, and in the end, the team from the Caribbean posted a score of more than the 150-run mark.

Pooran was dismissed by Harshal Patel but it was not before the left-hander played a knock of 61. Kieron Pollard (24*) remained unbeaten for the visitors.Brief Scores: West Indies 157/7 (Nicholas Pooran 61, Kyle Mayers 31; Ravi Bishnoi 2-17) vs India 162/4 (Rohit Sharma 40, Ishan Kishan 35; Roston Chase 2-14)

Ravi Bishnoi`s two-wicket haul was backed up by quality knocks by Rohit Sharma (40) and Suryakumar Yadav (34*) as India defeated West Indies by six wickets in the first T20I of the three-match series here at the Eden Gardens on Wednesday.

Ravi Bishnoi`s two-wicket haul was backed up by quality knocks by Rohit Sharma (40) and Suryakumar Yadav (34*) as India defeated West Indies by six wickets in the first T20I of the three-match series here at the Eden Gardens on Wednesday. With this win, India has gained a 1-0 lead in the three-match series and the second T20I will now be played on Friday at the same venue. Chasing 158, India got off to a quickfire start as openers Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan put on 58 runs inside the first six overs. The 64-run opening stand finally came to an end in the eighth over as Roston Chase got the better of Rohit (40). Chase got his second wicket in the 12th over as he dismissed Kishan (35) and India was reduced to 93/2, still needing 65 runs for the win. In the next over, India was given a body blow as Fabien Allen had Virat Kohli (17) caught at the hands of skipper Kieron Pollard at long-off and this meant there were two new batters at the crease -- Rishabh Pant and Suryakumar Yadav. Pant (8) failed with the bat as he was dismissed by Sheldon Cottrell and India was reduced to 114/4 in the 15th over. In the end, Suryakumar (34*) and Venkatesh Iyer (24*) ensured that India register a six-wicket win with seven balls to spare. Also Read: Deepak Chahar to Liam Livingstone: 5 players who earned biggest pay rise at IPL mega auction Earlier, Nicholas Pooran starred with the bat as he played a knock of 61 runs to help West Indies post 157/7. Sent into bat, West Indies got off to a bad start as the visitors lost Brandon King (4) on the fifth ball of the innings. Kyle Mayers and Nicholas Pooran then scored briskly and after the end of powerplay overs, West Indies` score read 44/1. The 47-run stand for the second wicket was cut short by Yuzvendra Chahal as he had Mayers (31) adjudged leg-before wicket in the seventh over. Ravi Bishnoi got his maiden T20I wicket in the 11th over of the innings as he had Roston Chase (4) adjudged leg-before wicket. In the very same over, Bishnoi dismissed Rovman Powell (2) and the visitors were reduced to 74/4. Nicholas Pooran kept on holding one end up and the visitors were looking for a big finish in the final overs.In the final four overs, West Indies managed to add 49 more runs to the total, and in the end, the team from the Caribbean posted a score of more than the 150-run mark. Pooran was dismissed by Harshal Patel but it was not before the left-hander played a knock of 61. Kieron Pollard (24*) remained unbeaten for the visitors.Brief Scores: West Indies 157/7 (Nicholas Pooran 61, Kyle Mayers 31; Ravi Bishnoi 2-17) vs India 162/4 (Rohit Sharma 40, Ishan Kishan 35; Roston Chase 2-14)

Debutant Ravi Bishnoi, skipper Rohit Sharma star as India beat West Indies by 6 wickets in 1st T20I

From Cristiano Ronaldo to Virat Kohli: Top 5 sporting stars with STAGGERING number of Instagram followers

Team India put on a clinical display in the three-match ODI series versus West Indies, at home, to inflict a whitewash. Ahead of the three T20Is, starting on February 16, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have been dealt with injury concerns with limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel being ruled out.

In Rahul's absence, who suffered a&nbsp;hamstring injury and wasn't part of the third and final ODI, BCCI have named a new vice-captain for the T20I leg. Rishabh Pant has been promoted as Rohit's deputy for the T20I series. This is the first time that Pant has been named as Team India's vice-captain for a series as the left-hander continues to grow in stature.&nbsp;

Pant is being looked upon as a future leader for Team India, especially after the rapid changes that have taken place in the senior men's team post the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. For the unversed, the 24-year-old is also a contender to become the Test captain (or vice-captain) with Virat Kohli's resignation early this year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/avesh-khan-reveals-rishabh-pants-reaction-when-he-was-sold-to-lucknow-super-giants-during-ipl-2022-auction-453303">Avesh Khan reveals Rishabh Pant's reaction when he was sold to Lucknow Super Giants during IPL 2022 auction</a>

The announcement came as BCCI confirmed Kuldeep Yadav to have replaced an injured Sundar for the upcoming T20Is. On the other hand, Deepak Hooda and Ruturaj Gaikwad are now also a part of the squad, with Rahul and Axar being ruled out.

After Pant's elevation as vice-captain, his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals (DC) also congratulated him. He will be leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) once again during the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition. Here's what DC's official Twitter handle wrote:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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You're looking at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s T20I vice-captain for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> series 🤩 
 
Proud of you, <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://t.co/iPZZZZEtDC">pic.twitter.com/iPZZZZEtDC</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1493272115457687552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-mentions-why-team-india-struggled-in-2021-t20-wc-and-tasted-success-between-2007-13-453238">Suresh Raina explains why India struggled in 2021 T20 WC, opines on team's success between 2007-13</a>

India’s T20I squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain) (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda, Kuldeep Yadav

Team India put on a clinical display in the three-match ODI series versus West Indies, at home, to inflict a whitewash. Ahead of the three T20Is, starting on February 16, Rohit Sharma & Co.

Team India put on a clinical display in the three-match ODI series versus West Indies, at home, to inflict a whitewash. Ahead of the three T20Is, starting on February 16, Rohit Sharma & Co. have been dealt with injury concerns with limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel being ruled out. In Rahul's absence, who suffered a hamstring injury and wasn't part of the third and final ODI, BCCI have named a new vice-captain for the T20I leg. Rishabh Pant has been promoted as Rohit's deputy for the T20I series. This is the first time that Pant has been named as Team India's vice-captain for a series as the left-hander continues to grow in stature. Pant is being looked upon as a future leader for Team India, especially after the rapid changes that have taken place in the senior men's team post the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. For the unversed, the 24-year-old is also a contender to become the Test captain (or vice-captain) with Virat Kohli's resignation early this year. ALSO READ | Avesh Khan reveals Rishabh Pant's reaction when he was sold to Lucknow Super Giants during IPL 2022 auction The announcement came as BCCI confirmed Kuldeep Yadav to have replaced an injured Sundar for the upcoming T20Is. On the other hand, Deepak Hooda and Ruturaj Gaikwad are now also a part of the squad, with Rahul and Axar being ruled out. After Pant's elevation as vice-captain, his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals (DC) also congratulated him. He will be leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) once again during the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition. Here's what DC's official Twitter handle wrote: You're looking at #TeamIndia's T20I vice-captain for the #INDvWI series 🤩 Proud of you, @RishabhPant17 💙#YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/iPZZZZEtDC — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) February 14, 2022 × ALSO READ | Suresh Raina explains why India struggled in 2021 T20 WC, opines on team's success between 2007-13 India’s T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain) (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda, Kuldeep Yadav

India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence

Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli will be aiming to break Martin Guptill's record of most runs in T20Is when he takes the field against West Indies in the upcoming three-match series between the two sides. Kohli is currently the second-highest run-getter of all time in T20Is and is just 73 runs away from surpassing Guptill on the elite list of highest run-getters in T20Is.

After beating West Indies 3-0 in the recently-concluded ODI series, India will lock horns with the visitors in a three-match T20I series beginning from Wednesday (February 15). The three T20Is will be played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. All eyes will be on Kohli, who will be hoping to bounce back to form after a woeful performance in the ODIs.

Kohli had managed only 26 runs in three ODIs against West Indies in what was his worst ODI series as a batsman in nine years. The former India skipper will be looking to shut down his critics and get back among the runs in T20Is. Kohli presently has 3227 runs in T20is while Guptill is on the top of the list of highest run-getters in T20is with 3299 runs in the shortest format.

India captain Rohit Sharma is not too far behind from the duo as he has so far amassed 3197 runs in T20Is and needs 103 runs to overtake Guptill and become the highest run-getter in the shortest format. Rohit is followed by Australian skipper Aaron Finch and Ireland's Paul Stirling at the 4th and 5th spot respectively.

Most runs in T20Is:

1) Martin Guptill- 3299&nbsp;

2) Virat Kohli - 3227&nbsp;

3) Rohit Sharma - 3197&nbsp;

4) Aaron Finch- 2676

5) Paul Stirling- 2660&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-you-guys-can-keep-quiet-rohit-sharma-tells-reporters-when-asked-about-virat-kohlis-lean-patch-453442">'If you guys can keep quiet..': Rohit Sharma tells reporters when asked about Virat Kohli's lean patch</a>

On Tuesday, Indian skipper Rohit came out in staunch defense of Kohli amidst his poor form with the bat and urged the media to leave the ex-India captain alone. Rohit said Kohli is an experienced cricketer and knows how to deal with pressure situations.

"If you guys can keep quiet for a while, I think he'll be alright," Rohit told the reporters at the press conference ahead of the 1st T20I.

"He (Kohli) is in a great mental space. He has been a part of this team for more than a decade. Such a player knows how to handle the environment and pressure. If you guys can keep it quiet for a bit, everything will fall in place," he added.

&nbsp;

Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli will be aiming to break Martin Guptill's record of most runs in T20Is when he takes the field against West Indies in the upcoming three-match series between the two sides.

Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli will be aiming to break Martin Guptill's record of most runs in T20Is when he takes the field against West Indies in the upcoming three-match series between the two sides. Kohli is currently the second-highest run-getter of all time in T20Is and is just 73 runs away from surpassing Guptill on the elite list of highest run-getters in T20Is. After beating West Indies 3-0 in the recently-concluded ODI series, India will lock horns with the visitors in a three-match T20I series beginning from Wednesday (February 15). The three T20Is will be played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. All eyes will be on Kohli, who will be hoping to bounce back to form after a woeful performance in the ODIs. Kohli had managed only 26 runs in three ODIs against West Indies in what was his worst ODI series as a batsman in nine years. The former India skipper will be looking to shut down his critics and get back among the runs in T20Is. Kohli presently has 3227 runs in T20is while Guptill is on the top of the list of highest run-getters in T20is with 3299 runs in the shortest format. India captain Rohit Sharma is not too far behind from the duo as he has so far amassed 3197 runs in T20Is and needs 103 runs to overtake Guptill and become the highest run-getter in the shortest format. Rohit is followed by Australian skipper Aaron Finch and Ireland's Paul Stirling at the 4th and 5th spot respectively. Most runs in T20Is: 1) Martin Guptill- 3299 2) Virat Kohli - 3227 3) Rohit Sharma - 3197 4) Aaron Finch- 2676 5) Paul Stirling- 2660 Also Read: 'If you guys can keep quiet..': Rohit Sharma tells reporters when asked about Virat Kohli's lean patch On Tuesday, Indian skipper Rohit came out in staunch defense of Kohli amidst his poor form with the bat and urged the media to leave the ex-India captain alone. Rohit said Kohli is an experienced cricketer and knows how to deal with pressure situations. "If you guys can keep quiet for a while, I think he'll be alright," Rohit told the reporters at the press conference ahead of the 1st T20I. "He (Kohli) is in a great mental space. He has been a part of this team for more than a decade. Such a player knows how to handle the environment and pressure. If you guys can keep it quiet for a bit, everything will fall in place," he added.

India vs West Indies: Virat Kohli stands 73 runs away from breaking Martin Guptill's world record in T20Is

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh wants the Indian team to promote young Ishan Kishan as an opener alongside Rohit Sharma in T20Is. While Rohit has been India's permanent opener in limited-overs cricket for several years now, KL Rahul has managed to topple Shikhar Dhawan from the top spot and make the second opening slot his own in the last few years.

Rahul and Rohit have been opening for India in both ODIs and T20Is for a while now and have enjoyed tremendous success as a pair. However, Harbhajan believes having someone like Kishan as an opener will give India's batting line-up another dimension and the team can expect explosive starts in the shortest format.

Kishan, who made his ODI and T20I debut for India last year, has seen his stocks rise in the last couple of years owing to his batting exploits in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and domestic cricket. Kishan turned out to be the most expensive buy at the recently-concluded IPL 2022 meg auction where he was roped in by Mumbai Indians for a whopping Rs 15.25 crore (INR 152.5 million).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-charu-sharma-makes-big-goof-up-sells-khaleel-ahmed-to-dc-on-same-bid-as-mi-at-ipl-mega-auction-453486">WATCH: Charu Sharma makes big goof-up, sells Khaleel Ahmed to DC for same bid as MI at IPL&nbsp;auction</a>

Kishan opened the batting with Rohit in the first ODI of the recently-concluded three-match ODI series against West Indies in the absence of Rahul. He now looks set to once again open the batting with Rohit in the upcoming three-match T20I series against West Indies which gets underway from Wednesday (February 15). Rahul is not a part of the series due to an injury.

Harbhajan recently explained why Kishan should be India's first-choice opener in T20Is while suggesting that Rahul can be slotted in the middle-order which will also give India flexibility in the batting line-up.

"In my opinion, you don't have to prepare Ishan Kishan, he is a ready player. You have to play him, you have to think how you can get him in. If you can bat KL Rahul at No. 5 in ODIs, why not in this format?," Harbhajan said on Star Sports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-you-guys-can-keep-quiet-rohit-sharma-tells-reporters-when-asked-about-virat-kohlis-lean-patch-453442">'If you guys can keep quiet..': Rohit Sharma tells reporters when asked about Virat Kohli's lean patch</a>

"We understand that when he [Rahul] comes down the order in ODIs, he is capable of playing the big shots. So if he bats at No. 5 in T20Is, I feel it will not be a bad thing because you will get a strong middle order and along with that if you want to score 40-60 runs in the first six, you need a fearless player like Ishan Kishan up the order," he added.

India also have young Ruturaj Gaikwad, who was added to the T20I squad as Rahul's replacement. Gaikwad has been a revelation for Chennai Super Kings as an opener in the IPL and can be used as an opener by the Indian team for the West Indies T20Is.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh wants the Indian team to promote young Ishan Kishan as an opener alongside Rohit Sharma in T20Is. While Rohit has been India's permanent opener in limited-overs cricket for several years now, KL Rahul has managed to topple Shikhar Dhawan from the top spot and make the second opening slot his own in the last few years.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh wants the Indian team to promote young Ishan Kishan as an opener alongside Rohit Sharma in T20Is. While Rohit has been India's permanent opener in limited-overs cricket for several years now, KL Rahul has managed to topple Shikhar Dhawan from the top spot and make the second opening slot his own in the last few years. Rahul and Rohit have been opening for India in both ODIs and T20Is for a while now and have enjoyed tremendous success as a pair. However, Harbhajan believes having someone like Kishan as an opener will give India's batting line-up another dimension and the team can expect explosive starts in the shortest format. Kishan, who made his ODI and T20I debut for India last year, has seen his stocks rise in the last couple of years owing to his batting exploits in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and domestic cricket. Kishan turned out to be the most expensive buy at the recently-concluded IPL 2022 meg auction where he was roped in by Mumbai Indians for a whopping Rs 15.25 crore (INR 152.5 million). Also Read: WATCH: Charu Sharma makes big goof-up, sells Khaleel Ahmed to DC for same bid as MI at IPL auction Kishan opened the batting with Rohit in the first ODI of the recently-concluded three-match ODI series against West Indies in the absence of Rahul. He now looks set to once again open the batting with Rohit in the upcoming three-match T20I series against West Indies which gets underway from Wednesday (February 15). Rahul is not a part of the series due to an injury. Harbhajan recently explained why Kishan should be India's first-choice opener in T20Is while suggesting that Rahul can be slotted in the middle-order which will also give India flexibility in the batting line-up. "In my opinion, you don't have to prepare Ishan Kishan, he is a ready player. You have to play him, you have to think how you can get him in. If you can bat KL Rahul at No. 5 in ODIs, why not in this format?," Harbhajan said on Star Sports. Also Read: 'If you guys can keep quiet..': Rohit Sharma tells reporters when asked about Virat Kohli's lean patch "We understand that when he [Rahul] comes down the order in ODIs, he is capable of playing the big shots. So if he bats at No. 5 in T20Is, I feel it will not be a bad thing because you will get a strong middle order and along with that if you want to score 40-60 runs in the first six, you need a fearless player like Ishan Kishan up the order," he added. India also have young Ruturaj Gaikwad, who was added to the T20I squad as Rahul's replacement. Gaikwad has been a revelation for Chennai Super Kings as an opener in the IPL and can be used as an opener by the Indian team for the West Indies T20Is.

Not KL Rahul! Harbhajan Singh picks young batter who should open with Rohit Sharma for India in T20Is

Hardik Pandya has not been part of Team India's white-ball setup post the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Pandya had already lost his Test spot after not being able to fulfill the all-rounder's duty and is out of the white-ball setup as well&nbsp;in&nbsp;order to regain full fitness.

Ahead of India's three-match T20I series versus West Indies, on Wednesday (February 16), Team India limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opened up on Hardik's possible return and categorially denied having any word with the national selectors on the all-rounder's comeback into the national side. As of now, Hardik hasn't been considered for India's home season, also including Sri Lanka, as he is regaining full fitness to bat and ball in the IPL 2022 edition. Depending on his fitness and performance, he is likely to be considered for national recall post this year's IPL season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-you-guys-can-keep-quiet-rohit-sharma-tells-reporters-when-asked-about-virat-kohlis-lean-patch-453442">'If you guys can keep quiet..': Rohit Sharma tells reporters when asked about Virat Kohli's lean patch</a>

"Hardik is an important player. He has brings three skills into the team. We have not had any discussion over him playing as a pure batter,"&nbsp;Rohit told reporters on Tuesday (February 15).&nbsp;"It's important for us to have all players available. Since the world cup, we have had many injuries. It is important for us to have all players available first, then we can think about the second step which is analysing opponents, conditions,&nbsp;and players of what skillset would suit."

"Doors are open for everyone. We have not fixated on anyone. In&nbsp;Australia, we'll play in very different conditions. We'll need players of different skillset. We need to prepare players accordingly, be it spin all-rounder, fast all-rounders or lower-order batters.&nbsp; We need to see the bowling options too, new ball, death overs, spinners in powerplays, etc. Right now, we are dealing with the options we have," he further explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-t20is-bcci-name-rishabh-pant-as-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-kl-rahuls-absence-453395">India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence</a>

Hardik will next be seen in action in IPL 2022 edition, to be held in India, where he will lead the new franchise Gujarat Titans (GT). He is expected to bat as well as bowl and not just feature as a pure batter, which had led to his omission from the Test setup and has also put his limited-overs spot in danger.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya has not been part of Team India's white-ball setup post the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Pandya had already lost his Test spot after not being able to fulfill the all-rounder's duty and is out of the white-ball setup as well in order to regain full fitness.

Hardik Pandya has not been part of Team India's white-ball setup post the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Pandya had already lost his Test spot after not being able to fulfill the all-rounder's duty and is out of the white-ball setup as well in order to regain full fitness. Ahead of India's three-match T20I series versus West Indies, on Wednesday (February 16), Team India limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opened up on Hardik's possible return and categorially denied having any word with the national selectors on the all-rounder's comeback into the national side. As of now, Hardik hasn't been considered for India's home season, also including Sri Lanka, as he is regaining full fitness to bat and ball in the IPL 2022 edition. Depending on his fitness and performance, he is likely to be considered for national recall post this year's IPL season. ALSO READ | 'If you guys can keep quiet..': Rohit Sharma tells reporters when asked about Virat Kohli's lean patch "Hardik is an important player. He has brings three skills into the team. We have not had any discussion over him playing as a pure batter," Rohit told reporters on Tuesday (February 15). "It's important for us to have all players available. Since the world cup, we have had many injuries. It is important for us to have all players available first, then we can think about the second step which is analysing opponents, conditions, and players of what skillset would suit." "Doors are open for everyone. We have not fixated on anyone. In Australia, we'll play in very different conditions. We'll need players of different skillset. We need to prepare players accordingly, be it spin all-rounder, fast all-rounders or lower-order batters. We need to see the bowling options too, new ball, death overs, spinners in powerplays, etc. Right now, we are dealing with the options we have," he further explained. ALSO READ | India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence Hardik will next be seen in action in IPL 2022 edition, to be held in India, where he will lead the new franchise Gujarat Titans (GT). He is expected to bat as well as bowl and not just feature as a pure batter, which had led to his omission from the Test setup and has also put his limited-overs spot in danger.

Doors are open for everyone: Rohit Sharma opens up on Team India star Hardik Pandya's possible return

Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar feels ex-skipper Virat Kohli's form is crucial for the side as whenever the batter has scored runs, the team has ended up winning the game.

Kohli has not scored a century in two years with his last ton in international cricket coming way back in 2019 against Bangladesh. In the ODI series against West Indies, Kohli recorded scores of 8, 18, and 0.

Ahead of the India-West Indies T20I series, Agarkar spoke about Kohli returning after a break from T20Is without the captaincy.

"I don't think it will be any different to the batsmen, I think one of the top things about Virat Kohli, when he was captain was, that he didn't let his form falter. His runs didn't dry up with the extra pressure that can happen sometimes - that didn't happen with him which was his greatness as a captain as well," Agarkar said on Star Sports Show Game Plan.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/453455">Doors are open for everyone: Rohit Sharma opens up on Team India star Hardik Pandya's possible return</a>

"So, now that the captaincy pressure is off there might still be a role for him whether that's to play a bit more aggressively or still bat the whole innings and the other guys bat around him and bat more aggressively."

"I think that's for the team management to decide, but Virat Kohli's runs are so crucial for India - every time he scores runs India invariably end up winning. So, his form is crucial to India's success as well," he added.

India and West Indies will lock horns in three T20Is, beginning Wednesday at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

Agarkar also compared Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav pointed out who will be a better pick for the T20I series against West Indies.

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"Both are very good players, both good strikers of the ball. I just feel Suryakumar Yadav is more versatile if you need him to bat a little bit higher or even if it`s at 5 or 6, he seems to have a bit more to his game or more all-around ability to his batting than Shreyas Iyer," said Agarkar.

"Shreyas Iyer is a terrific player who can strike the ball well but at this point, If I had to pick one out of the two - it'll have to be Suryakumar Yadav because he just seems in better form, seems to have a lot more all-round game and more suited to the number 5 or 6 at this point," he added.

Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar feels ex-skipper Virat Kohli's form is crucial for the side as whenever the batter has scored runs, the team has ended up winning the game.

Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar feels ex-skipper Virat Kohli's form is crucial for the side as whenever the batter has scored runs, the team has ended up winning the game. Kohli has not scored a century in two years with his last ton in international cricket coming way back in 2019 against Bangladesh. In the ODI series against West Indies, Kohli recorded scores of 8, 18, and 0. Ahead of the India-West Indies T20I series, Agarkar spoke about Kohli returning after a break from T20Is without the captaincy. "I don't think it will be any different to the batsmen, I think one of the top things about Virat Kohli, when he was captain was, that he didn't let his form falter. His runs didn't dry up with the extra pressure that can happen sometimes - that didn't happen with him which was his greatness as a captain as well," Agarkar said on Star Sports Show Game Plan. ALSO READ: Doors are open for everyone: Rohit Sharma opens up on Team India star Hardik Pandya's possible return "So, now that the captaincy pressure is off there might still be a role for him whether that's to play a bit more aggressively or still bat the whole innings and the other guys bat around him and bat more aggressively." "I think that's for the team management to decide, but Virat Kohli's runs are so crucial for India - every time he scores runs India invariably end up winning. So, his form is crucial to India's success as well," he added. India and West Indies will lock horns in three T20Is, beginning Wednesday at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Agarkar also compared Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav pointed out who will be a better pick for the T20I series against West Indies. ALSO READ: Focus on colour 'blue': Rohit Sharma tells Team India to get over with IPL auctions ahead of WI T20Is "Both are very good players, both good strikers of the ball. I just feel Suryakumar Yadav is more versatile if you need him to bat a little bit higher or even if it`s at 5 or 6, he seems to have a bit more to his game or more all-around ability to his batting than Shreyas Iyer," said Agarkar. "Shreyas Iyer is a terrific player who can strike the ball well but at this point, If I had to pick one out of the two - it'll have to be Suryakumar Yadav because he just seems in better form, seems to have a lot more all-round game and more suited to the number 5 or 6 at this point," he added.

'Virat Kohli's form crucial to India's success': Former India pacer Ajit Agarkar on star batter's poor run

Indian captain Rohit Sharma responded to Virat Kohli's critics in a firm fashion during the press conference ahead of the upcoming T20I series between India and West Indies. The two teams will lock horns in the first T20I of the three-match rubber on Wednesday (February 16). After completing a 3-0 whitewash in the ODIs, India will be looking to get off to a winning start in the T20Is.

Ahead of the first T20I between India and West Indies, captain Rohit Sharma addressed questions from reporters surrounding Kohli's ongoing lean patch for the Indian team across formats. Kohli had a below-par campaign in the ODI series against West Indies as he managed to score only 26 runs in three matches. The former India captain, who has not scored an international century since November 2019, has seen pressure mounting on him to bounce back to form.

When asked about Kohli's poor form, Rohit snapped back at the reporters and took a dig at the media urging the journalists to 'keep quiet for a while'. The Hitman said Kohli is in a great mental space and said he knows how to handle pressure having played international cricket for over a decade now.

"If you guys can keep quiet for a while, I think he'll be alright,"&nbsp;Rohit told the reporters at the presser.

"He is in a great mental space. He has been a part of this team for more than a decade. Such a player knows how to handle the environment and pressure. If you guys can keep it quiet for a bit, everything will fall in place," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-t20is-bcci-name-rishabh-pant-as-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-kl-rahuls-absence-453395">India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence</a>

Ahead of the start of the T20I series against West Indies, BCCI on Tuesday confirmed the appointment of wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant as the vice-captain of the Indian team in the absence of KL Rahul. Rahul will miss the series due to an injury and in his absence, Pant will act as Rohit's deputy in the three-match series.

Earlier, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Deepak Hood had been included in the Indian T20I squad as replacements for injured KL Rahul and Axar Patel for the upcoming series against West Indies.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma responded to Virat Kohli's critics in a firm fashion during the press conference ahead of the upcoming T20I series between India and West Indies.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma responded to Virat Kohli's critics in a firm fashion during the press conference ahead of the upcoming T20I series between India and West Indies. The two teams will lock horns in the first T20I of the three-match rubber on Wednesday (February 16). After completing a 3-0 whitewash in the ODIs, India will be looking to get off to a winning start in the T20Is. Ahead of the first T20I between India and West Indies, captain Rohit Sharma addressed questions from reporters surrounding Kohli's ongoing lean patch for the Indian team across formats. Kohli had a below-par campaign in the ODI series against West Indies as he managed to score only 26 runs in three matches. The former India captain, who has not scored an international century since November 2019, has seen pressure mounting on him to bounce back to form. When asked about Kohli's poor form, Rohit snapped back at the reporters and took a dig at the media urging the journalists to 'keep quiet for a while'. The Hitman said Kohli is in a great mental space and said he knows how to handle pressure having played international cricket for over a decade now. "If you guys can keep quiet for a while, I think he'll be alright," Rohit told the reporters at the presser. "He is in a great mental space. He has been a part of this team for more than a decade. Such a player knows how to handle the environment and pressure. If you guys can keep it quiet for a bit, everything will fall in place," he added. Also Read: India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence Ahead of the start of the T20I series against West Indies, BCCI on Tuesday confirmed the appointment of wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant as the vice-captain of the Indian team in the absence of KL Rahul. Rahul will miss the series due to an injury and in his absence, Pant will act as Rohit's deputy in the three-match series. Earlier, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Deepak Hood had been included in the Indian T20I squad as replacements for injured KL Rahul and Axar Patel for the upcoming series against West Indies.

'If you guys can keep quiet..': Rohit Sharma tells reporters when asked about Virat Kohli's lean patch

Team India had a forgettable run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Under Virat Kohli, India endured a disastrous campaign, being eliminated in the Super 12 round. India have failed to end their ICC-title drought since 2013, when they lifted the Champions Trophy under former captain MS Dhoni.

During 2007-2013, India had a lot of success in ICC tournaments, winning the inaugural T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy, nine years back. Since then, the Men in Blue have done well in many ICC tournaments -- sans the last edition of the T20 WC -- but failed to lift the coveted title.&nbsp;

Suresh Raina, who went unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, recently opened up on India's struggles to win a major trophy and explained why the national side did so well between 2007-13. He cited&nbsp;the availability of multiple players, who could bat and as well roll their arms, as one of the main reasons for team's past success whereas feels the lack of more bowling options is now hurting the Men in Blue.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-ms-dhoni-showed-his-simplicity-by-travelling-with-jharkhand-players-in-train-see-pic-453218">THROWBACK: When MS Dhoni showed his simplicity by travelling with Jharkhand players in train - See pic</a>

"I think this is why we won the 2007 World T20, the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. When I started in Ranji, I remember our coach Gyanu bhai (Gyanendra Pandey) would always tell us, ‘you should bowl.’ It gives a captain the ability to get in eight-ten overs if he has a sixth or seventh bowling option, when he is playing only five bowlers. That is good planning," Raina told&nbsp;The Indian Express&nbsp;at&nbsp;Idea Exchange.

“So you see Viru paa (Sehwag), Yuvraj Singh, Yusuf Pathan and me, including in the 2011 World Cup, all would bowl,” said the veteran cricketer. He added, "When we lost in the Champions Trophy (2017), or even recently in Dubai (in the T20 World Cup), we did not have a sixth bowling option. Now Shreyas Iyer is working on his bowling, I think he should keep working hard. Rohit will have a good option then.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-hes-going-through-a-lean-phase-vikram-rathour-expects-virat-kohli-to-regain-form-in-wi-t20is-453207">Don't think he's going through a lean phase: Vikram Rathour expects Virat Kohli to regain form in WI T20Is</a>

He further asseerted, “In the South Africa series, recently, Aiden Markram was bowling six-eight overs upfront, and the main bowlers were coming in later. This is a big factor for the Indian team. Suryakumar Yadav can bowl as well. Even Rohit would bowl before his injury. So someone will have to step in, and bowl at least six-eight overs regularly in nets."&nbsp;

“Batsmen should definitely work on their batting but they need to come in early or stay back for half an hour for the nation (to bowl a bit in the nets). They will have to like that process. Once you start liking it, you will not go away without bowling five-six overs,” added the ex-Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter.

Raina, who had a base price of INR 20 million, went unsold at IPL auction this year. He remains one of the most successful batters in IPL history, being the fourth-highest run-getter (5,528), and was a vital all-rounder for Team India from 2005-2020.

He was a part of India's title win in 2011 ODI WC and Champions Trophy success in 2013.

Team India had a forgettable run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Under Virat Kohli, India endured a disastrous campaign, being eliminated in the Super 12 round.

Team India had a forgettable run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Under Virat Kohli, India endured a disastrous campaign, being eliminated in the Super 12 round. India have failed to end their ICC-title drought since 2013, when they lifted the Champions Trophy under former captain MS Dhoni. During 2007-2013, India had a lot of success in ICC tournaments, winning the inaugural T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy, nine years back. Since then, the Men in Blue have done well in many ICC tournaments -- sans the last edition of the T20 WC -- but failed to lift the coveted title. Suresh Raina, who went unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, recently opened up on India's struggles to win a major trophy and explained why the national side did so well between 2007-13. He cited the availability of multiple players, who could bat and as well roll their arms, as one of the main reasons for team's past success whereas feels the lack of more bowling options is now hurting the Men in Blue. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When MS Dhoni showed his simplicity by travelling with Jharkhand players in train - See pic "I think this is why we won the 2007 World T20, the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. When I started in Ranji, I remember our coach Gyanu bhai (Gyanendra Pandey) would always tell us, ‘you should bowl.’ It gives a captain the ability to get in eight-ten overs if he has a sixth or seventh bowling option, when he is playing only five bowlers. That is good planning," Raina told The Indian Express at Idea Exchange. “So you see Viru paa (Sehwag), Yuvraj Singh, Yusuf Pathan and me, including in the 2011 World Cup, all would bowl,” said the veteran cricketer. He added, "When we lost in the Champions Trophy (2017), or even recently in Dubai (in the T20 World Cup), we did not have a sixth bowling option. Now Shreyas Iyer is working on his bowling, I think he should keep working hard. Rohit will have a good option then.” ALSO READ | Don't think he's going through a lean phase: Vikram Rathour expects Virat Kohli to regain form in WI T20Is He further asseerted, “In the South Africa series, recently, Aiden Markram was bowling six-eight overs upfront, and the main bowlers were coming in later. This is a big factor for the Indian team. Suryakumar Yadav can bowl as well. Even Rohit would bowl before his injury. So someone will have to step in, and bowl at least six-eight overs regularly in nets." “Batsmen should definitely work on their batting but they need to come in early or stay back for half an hour for the nation (to bowl a bit in the nets). They will have to like that process. Once you start liking it, you will not go away without bowling five-six overs,” added the ex-Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter. Raina, who had a base price of INR 20 million, went unsold at IPL auction this year. He remains one of the most successful batters in IPL history, being the fourth-highest run-getter (5,528), and was a vital all-rounder for Team India from 2005-2020. He was a part of India's title win in 2011 ODI WC and Champions Trophy success in 2013.

Suresh Raina explains why India struggled in 2021 T20 WC, opines on team's success between 2007-13

Virat Kohli's batting form has been a topic of discussion of late. While it is well-known by now that the 33-year-old's last international ton came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, the former Indian skipper has been among runs -- especially in the white-ball formats -- but had a forgettable three-match ODI series versus West Indies.&nbsp;

Kohli, who has been succeeded by Rohit Sharma as Team India's white-ball captain, ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus the Men in Maroon, crossing the double-digit mark only once. Ahead of the three-match T20I series between both the teams, in India, batting coach Vikram Rathour played down Kohli's form struggles.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/royal-challengers-bangalore-complete-squad-for-ipl-2022-faf-du-plessis-to-captain-pace-heavy-line-up-453152">Royal Challengers Bangalore complete squad for IPL 2022: Faf du Plessis to captain pace-heavy line-up?</a>

"I don't think he's going through a lean phase. I understand he had a poor series against the West Indies (in ODIs) but no conversation as such," Rathour said in a media interaction ahead of the 1st T20I between India and the West Indies.

"He's batting really well in the nets and the kind of preparation he's putting in. We are waiting for... I'm certain that in one of these innings he will be back among runs," batting coach Rathour added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-needs-confidence-rohit-sharma-reacts-to-questions-over-kohlis-continued-lean-patch-452522">'Virat needs confidence?' Rohit Sharma reacts to questions over Kohli's continued lean patch</a>

For the unversed, Kohli endured his worst ODI&nbsp;series in 9 years, during Rohit-led India's 3-0 whitewash over West Indies. Thus, he will be eager to turn the tide in the forthcoming three T20Is. He has been in good form in the shortest format, with five fifty-plus scores in last ten innings, and will be desperate to get a big score under his belt.

The three T20Is commence on February 16, in Kolkata.

Virat Kohli's batting form has been a topic of discussion of late. While it is well-known by now that the 33-year-old's last international ton came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, the former Indian skipper has been among runs -- especially in the white-ball formats -- but had a forgettable three-match ODI series versus West Indies.

Virat Kohli's batting form has been a topic of discussion of late. While it is well-known by now that the 33-year-old's last international ton came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, the former Indian skipper has been among runs -- especially in the white-ball formats -- but had a forgettable three-match ODI series versus West Indies. Kohli, who has been succeeded by Rohit Sharma as Team India's white-ball captain, ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus the Men in Maroon, crossing the double-digit mark only once. Ahead of the three-match T20I series between both the teams, in India, batting coach Vikram Rathour played down Kohli's form struggles. ALSO READ | Royal Challengers Bangalore complete squad for IPL 2022: Faf du Plessis to captain pace-heavy line-up? "I don't think he's going through a lean phase. I understand he had a poor series against the West Indies (in ODIs) but no conversation as such," Rathour said in a media interaction ahead of the 1st T20I between India and the West Indies. "He's batting really well in the nets and the kind of preparation he's putting in. We are waiting for... I'm certain that in one of these innings he will be back among runs," batting coach Rathour added. ALSO READ | 'Virat needs confidence?' Rohit Sharma reacts to questions over Kohli's continued lean patch For the unversed, Kohli endured his worst ODI series in 9 years, during Rohit-led India's 3-0 whitewash over West Indies. Thus, he will be eager to turn the tide in the forthcoming three T20Is. He has been in good form in the shortest format, with five fifty-plus scores in last ten innings, and will be desperate to get a big score under his belt. The three T20Is commence on February 16, in Kolkata.

Don't think he's going through a lean phase: Vikram Rathour expects Virat Kohli to regain form in WI T20Is

The opening day of the IPL 2022 mega auction made heads turn as a lot of action and drama took place during the auction proceedings, being held in Bengaluru. A lot of marquee players were sold for a whopping price, such as Ishan Kishan, Jason Holder, Deepak Chahar, Shreyas Iyer, etc., whereas some popular players failed to draw a single bid.

After the end of Day 1 of the mega auction, Suresh Raina, Adil Rashid, Mohammad Nabi, Umesh Yadav, etc. made the list of unsold players. Thus, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh felt strange to see someone like Umesh, a&nbsp;regular member of India's side (in Tests), go unsold.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/complete-list-of-players-sold-on-day-1-of-ipl-2022-mega-auction-kishan-chahar-emerge-as-costliest-buys-452791">Complete list of players sold on Day 1 of IPL 2022 mega auction: Kishan, Chahar emerge as costliest buys</a>

Speaking to India Today after the end of Day 1 of the auction, Harbhajan opined, "It is very strange sort of thing for me to see someone like Umesh Yadav, who has been playing cricket for so many years and been a consistent member of the Indian cricket team. It's sad that someone did not pick their name at the auction."

"For me, it was a sad sort of moment of the auction. But I feel he will have a chance tomorrow. Some team will go for him. But not too sure for Raina as he hardly plays any cricket.&nbsp;Of course, he has been a very consistent member of the Chennai Super Kings and known as Mr. IPL. It is so sad when you see Umesh and Raina not getting a bid. Maybe CSK might buy him tomorrow but it will not be the same thing as you want to get picked in the first round itself. It was a sad sight of the IPL. This is how you reflect on time,” he further added.&nbsp;

Umesh has represented the likes of Delhi Capitals (DC) -- then known as Delhi Daredevils (DD), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and has accounted for 119 scalps.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-avesh-khan-becomes-highest-ever-uncapped-pick-sold-for-rs-10-crore-452779">IPL 2022 mega auction: Avesh Khan becomes highest-ever uncapped pick, sold for Rs 10 crore</a>

Ishan Kishan was the costliest player after the end of Day 1 of the two-day mega auction in Bengaluru. He was bought back by the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) for a whopping INR 152.5 million (INR 15.25 crore) whereas Wanindu Hasaranga was the most expensive foreign player; being resigned by the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for INR 107.5 million (INR 10.75 crore). On Day 2, Liam Livingstone has surpassed Hasaranga's price tag -- among overseas players -- to be sold to Punjab Kings (PBKS) for INR 115 million (INR 11.5 crore).

The opening day of the IPL 2022 mega auction made heads turn as a lot of action and drama took place during the auction proceedings, being held in Bengaluru. A lot of marquee players were sold for a whopping price, such as Ishan Kishan, Jason Holder, Deepak Chahar, Shreyas Iyer, etc.

The opening day of the IPL 2022 mega auction made heads turn as a lot of action and drama took place during the auction proceedings, being held in Bengaluru. A lot of marquee players were sold for a whopping price, such as Ishan Kishan, Jason Holder, Deepak Chahar, Shreyas Iyer, etc., whereas some popular players failed to draw a single bid. After the end of Day 1 of the mega auction, Suresh Raina, Adil Rashid, Mohammad Nabi, Umesh Yadav, etc. made the list of unsold players. Thus, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh felt strange to see someone like Umesh, a regular member of India's side (in Tests), go unsold. ALSO READ | Complete list of players sold on Day 1 of IPL 2022 mega auction: Kishan, Chahar emerge as costliest buys Speaking to India Today after the end of Day 1 of the auction, Harbhajan opined, "It is very strange sort of thing for me to see someone like Umesh Yadav, who has been playing cricket for so many years and been a consistent member of the Indian cricket team. It's sad that someone did not pick their name at the auction." "For me, it was a sad sort of moment of the auction. But I feel he will have a chance tomorrow. Some team will go for him. But not too sure for Raina as he hardly plays any cricket. Of course, he has been a very consistent member of the Chennai Super Kings and known as Mr. IPL. It is so sad when you see Umesh and Raina not getting a bid. Maybe CSK might buy him tomorrow but it will not be the same thing as you want to get picked in the first round itself. It was a sad sight of the IPL. This is how you reflect on time,” he further added. Umesh has represented the likes of Delhi Capitals (DC) -- then known as Delhi Daredevils (DD), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and has accounted for 119 scalps. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction: Avesh Khan becomes highest-ever uncapped pick, sold for Rs 10 crore Ishan Kishan was the costliest player after the end of Day 1 of the two-day mega auction in Bengaluru. He was bought back by the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) for a whopping INR 152.5 million (INR 15.25 crore) whereas Wanindu Hasaranga was the most expensive foreign player; being resigned by the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for INR 107.5 million (INR 10.75 crore). On Day 2, Liam Livingstone has surpassed Hasaranga's price tag -- among overseas players -- to be sold to Punjab Kings (PBKS) for INR 115 million (INR 11.5 crore).

IPL 2022 mega auction: Harbhajan feels it was 'sad sight of IPL' when regular Indian pacer went unsold

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes Virat Kohli is not out of form but luck has evaded him in the ongoing ODI series against West Indies at home. Kohli's form is under the scanner after his poor outings in the first two ODIs of the three-match series against Kieron Pollard's men.&nbsp;

Kohli, who has not enjoyed the best of form in the past couple of years and is yet to bring an end to his century drought since 2019, had a forgetful tour of South Africa recently. Kohli's struggles have continued in the ongoing ODIs against West Indies as he looks to get back among the runs.

Amid questions over his form, Gavaskar has lent support to Kohli and has backed him to bounce back. The batting legend believes every batter needs a bit of luck to score big runs and Kohli seems to have run out of luck at the moment.

"Luck (What is Kohli missing?). Every batter needs a bit of luck. Every batter needs a situation where he plays and misses an edge. Every batter needs a situation where he edges the ball and the catch is dropped or the ball falls short of the fielder," Gavaskar said on Star Sports ahead of the third and final ODI of the series between India and West Indies.

Kohli was dismissed after scoring just 8 runs off 3 balls in the first ODI against West Indies before managing a 30-ball 18 in the second ODI on Wednesday. The former India captain will be eager to bounce back and get a big knock under his belt in the third ODI on Friday (February 11).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-says-someone-else-took-the-credit-for-crucial-decisions-he-made-in-australia-452210">Ajinkya Rahane says 'someone else took the credit' for crucial decisions he made in Australia</a>

Reacting to Kohli's criticism after his poor show against West Indies, Gavaskar said people should not forget that he had scored fifties in India's recently-concluded tour of South Africa. "He hasn't quite had the best of luck in the last so many matches. Don't forget, he got fifties in South Africa," Gavaskar added

With back-to-back wins in the first two ODIs, India have already clinched the three-match series against West Indies and will be aiming for a clean sweep when they lock horns with the visitors on Friday.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes Virat Kohli is not out of form but luck has evaded him in the ongoing ODI series against West Indies at home. Kohli's form is under the scanner after his poor outings in the first two ODIs of the three-match series against Kieron Pollard's men.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes Virat Kohli is not out of form but luck has evaded him in the ongoing ODI series against West Indies at home. Kohli's form is under the scanner after his poor outings in the first two ODIs of the three-match series against Kieron Pollard's men. Kohli, who has not enjoyed the best of form in the past couple of years and is yet to bring an end to his century drought since 2019, had a forgetful tour of South Africa recently. Kohli's struggles have continued in the ongoing ODIs against West Indies as he looks to get back among the runs. Amid questions over his form, Gavaskar has lent support to Kohli and has backed him to bounce back. The batting legend believes every batter needs a bit of luck to score big runs and Kohli seems to have run out of luck at the moment. "Luck (What is Kohli missing?). Every batter needs a bit of luck. Every batter needs a situation where he plays and misses an edge. Every batter needs a situation where he edges the ball and the catch is dropped or the ball falls short of the fielder," Gavaskar said on Star Sports ahead of the third and final ODI of the series between India and West Indies. Kohli was dismissed after scoring just 8 runs off 3 balls in the first ODI against West Indies before managing a 30-ball 18 in the second ODI on Wednesday. The former India captain will be eager to bounce back and get a big knock under his belt in the third ODI on Friday (February 11). Also Read: Ajinkya Rahane says 'someone else took the credit' for crucial decisions he made in Australia Reacting to Kohli's criticism after his poor show against West Indies, Gavaskar said people should not forget that he had scored fifties in India's recently-concluded tour of South Africa. "He hasn't quite had the best of luck in the last so many matches. Don't forget, he got fifties in South Africa," Gavaskar added With back-to-back wins in the first two ODIs, India have already clinched the three-match series against West Indies and will be aiming for a clean sweep when they lock horns with the visitors on Friday.

'Every batter needs a bit of luck': Sunil Gavaskar decodes Virat Kohli's struggles amid lean patch for India

India's vice-captain KL Rahul and all-rounder Axar Patel have been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. While Rahul will miss the three-match rubber after suffering a hamstring injury while fielding during the second ODI against West Indies on Wednesday, Axar is yet to recover fully from his shin injury and had also tested positive for COVID-19 recently.

The duo will be replaced by opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounder Deepak Hooda in India's T20 squad for the West Indies series. While Gaikwad has already made his T20I debut for the Indian team, Hooda is yet to earn his maiden cap in the shortest format of the game. Hooda had recently impressed on his ODI debut for the Men in Blue against Kieron Pollard's men.

"Rahul sustained an upper left hamstring strain during fielding in the 2nd ODI on 9th February 2022 while Axar has resumed the final stage of his rehabilitation after recently recovering from Covid-19. They will now head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further management of their injury," said the BCCI in a statement on Friday.

"The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Ruturaj Gaikwad and Deepak Hooda as replacements," it added.&nbsp;

Both Gaikwad and Hooda are already part of India's ODI squad for the ongoing three-match series against West Indies and will stay with the squad for the T20Is. In the absence of Rahul, Gaikwad will be hoping to get more opportunities at the top after not getting even a single game in the ODI series.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-endures-worst-odi-series-in-9-years-as-he-bags-2-ball-duck-in-3rd-odi-against-west-indies-452428">Virat Kohli endures worst ODI series in 9 years as he bags 2-ball duck in 3rd ODI against West Indies</a>

Hooda can also be used as a finisher in the lower middle-order in the absence of the likes of Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, who are both not part of the squad. Venkatesh Iyer will be Hooda's only competitor for the all-rounder's spot in the playing XI.

India's updated T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda.

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India's vice-captain KL Rahul and all-rounder Axar Patel have been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. While Rahul will miss the three-match rubber after suffering a hamstring injury while fielding during the second ODI against West Indies on Wednesday, Axar is yet to recover fully from his shin injury and had also tested positive for COVID-19 recently.

India's vice-captain KL Rahul and all-rounder Axar Patel have been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against West Indies. While Rahul will miss the three-match rubber after suffering a hamstring injury while fielding during the second ODI against West Indies on Wednesday, Axar is yet to recover fully from his shin injury and had also tested positive for COVID-19 recently. The duo will be replaced by opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounder Deepak Hooda in India's T20 squad for the West Indies series. While Gaikwad has already made his T20I debut for the Indian team, Hooda is yet to earn his maiden cap in the shortest format of the game. Hooda had recently impressed on his ODI debut for the Men in Blue against Kieron Pollard's men. "Rahul sustained an upper left hamstring strain during fielding in the 2nd ODI on 9th February 2022 while Axar has resumed the final stage of his rehabilitation after recently recovering from Covid-19. They will now head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further management of their injury," said the BCCI in a statement on Friday. "The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named Ruturaj Gaikwad and Deepak Hooda as replacements," it added. Both Gaikwad and Hooda are already part of India's ODI squad for the ongoing three-match series against West Indies and will stay with the squad for the T20Is. In the absence of Rahul, Gaikwad will be hoping to get more opportunities at the top after not getting even a single game in the ODI series. Also Read: Virat Kohli endures worst ODI series in 9 years as he bags 2-ball duck in 3rd ODI against West Indies Hooda can also be used as a finisher in the lower middle-order in the absence of the likes of Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, who are both not part of the squad. Venkatesh Iyer will be Hooda's only competitor for the all-rounder's spot in the playing XI. India's updated T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda.

KL Rahul, Axar Patel ruled out of T20I series against West Indies, replacements announced

Virat Kohli's poor form with the bat continued in the third and final ODI between India and West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday (February 11). Kohli was dismissed for a two-ball duck as he once again failed to get going in the three-match series.

The former India captain edged one from fast bowler Alzarri Joseph to get caught by Shai Hope as his short stay in the middle came to an end without Kohli managing to even open his account. With his duck, Kohli completed one of the worst ODI series of his career.

Kohli, who had scores of 8 and 18 in the last two matches, completed the three-match ODI series against West Indies with a tally of only 26 runs. This is the worst performance by the former India captain in a three-match ODI series since 2013 when he had managed only 31 runs in three matches against South Africa in 2013.

This is also Kohli's second-worst performance in a three-match ODI series at home since his tally of just 13 runs in the home series against Pakistan in 2013. Kohli, who has not scored an international century since November 2019, saw the drought getting extended once again as he failed to get going in the ODIs against West Indies.

Virat Kohli's worst performances&nbsp;in a 3-match ODI Series

13 runs vs PAK (2013)

26 runs vs WI (2022)

31 runs vs SA (2013)

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/should-virat-kohli-be-asked-to-rest-aakash-chopra-gives-his-take-on-former-india-skippers-poor-form-452366">Should Virat Kohli be asked to rest? Aakash Chopra gives his take on former India skipper's poor form</a>

The duck in the third ODI is also Kohli's 15th overall in ODIs and he has now gone past the likes of Virendra Sehwag and Suresh Raina in the list of most ducks by an Indian batter (no.1 to no.7). He is now only six short of overtaking Sachin Tendulkar (20) to become the Indian batter with most ducks in ODIs.

Amid his lean patch in white-ball cricket, there have been questions over Kohli's mindset and his spot in the team. However, the former India skipper is likely to have the backing of the team management and will be looking to bounce back strongly soon.

Virat Kohli's poor form with the bat continued in the third and final ODI between India and West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday (February 11).

Virat Kohli's poor form with the bat continued in the third and final ODI between India and West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday (February 11). Kohli was dismissed for a two-ball duck as he once again failed to get going in the three-match series. The former India captain edged one from fast bowler Alzarri Joseph to get caught by Shai Hope as his short stay in the middle came to an end without Kohli managing to even open his account. With his duck, Kohli completed one of the worst ODI series of his career. Kohli, who had scores of 8 and 18 in the last two matches, completed the three-match ODI series against West Indies with a tally of only 26 runs. This is the worst performance by the former India captain in a three-match ODI series since 2013 when he had managed only 31 runs in three matches against South Africa in 2013. This is also Kohli's second-worst performance in a three-match ODI series at home since his tally of just 13 runs in the home series against Pakistan in 2013. Kohli, who has not scored an international century since November 2019, saw the drought getting extended once again as he failed to get going in the ODIs against West Indies. Virat Kohli's worst performances in a 3-match ODI Series 13 runs vs PAK (2013) 26 runs vs WI (2022) 31 runs vs SA (2013) Also Read: Should Virat Kohli be asked to rest? Aakash Chopra gives his take on former India skipper's poor form The duck in the third ODI is also Kohli's 15th overall in ODIs and he has now gone past the likes of Virendra Sehwag and Suresh Raina in the list of most ducks by an Indian batter (no.1 to no.7). He is now only six short of overtaking Sachin Tendulkar (20) to become the Indian batter with most ducks in ODIs. Amid his lean patch in white-ball cricket, there have been questions over Kohli's mindset and his spot in the team. However, the former India skipper is likely to have the backing of the team management and will be looking to bounce back strongly soon.

Virat Kohli endures worst ODI series in 9 years as he bags 2-ball duck in 3rd ODI against West Indies

Indian fast bowler Prasidh Krishna bowled an exceptional spell in the second ODI of the ongoing three-match series against West Indies on Wednesday. Krishna was the pick of the bowlers for India as he bagged a four-wicket haul to help the hosts defend the total of 237 runs and clinch a comfortable win by 44 runs.

It was an excellent display of fast bowling from the young pacer, who maintained great line and length while bowling at a good pace to wreak havoc on the West Indies batting line-up. Krishna finished with stunning figures of 4/12 in his 9 overs as the visitors were bundled out for 193 runs in the 238-run chase.

His brilliant spell in the second ODI earned Krishna comparisons with England pacer Jofra Archer, who is counted among the best fast bowlers in the world at present. While many fans seemed to agree with the comparisons, a troll posted an abusive tweet targeting Archer.&nbsp;

“Please don't compare hard working, honest Prasidh Krishna with that fraud,unfit, traitor, race card player Jofra archer,” the Twitter user wrote while reacting to comparisons between Krishna and Archer. Responding to the troll, Archer came up with a classy reply and wrote - "I hope you heal”.

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I hope you heal <a href="https://t.co/TUVoa9hdnh">https://t.co/TUVoa9hdnh</a>
— Jofra Archer (@JofraArcher) <a href="https://twitter.com/JofraArcher/status/1492040445727285250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/should-virat-kohli-be-asked-to-rest-aakash-chopra-gives-his-take-on-former-india-skippers-poor-form-452366">Should Virat Kohli be asked to rest? Aakash Chopra gives his take on former India skipper's poor form</a>

Krishna produced a brilliant spell in the second ODI as he ran through the West Indies top-order during the visitors' run-chase. He drew the first blood for India in the form of Brandon King before dismissing Darren Bravo in quick succession. He then removed West Indies' stand-in skipper Nicholas Pooran followed by the wicket of Kemar Roach to complete his sensational spell.

Krishna will be looking to continue his fine form with the ball in the third and final ODI of the series on Friday. India have already clinched the three-match series 2-0 and will be going for a clean sweep in the final ODI.

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Indian fast bowler Prasidh Krishna bowled an exceptional spell in the second ODI of the ongoing three-match series against West Indies on Wednesday. Krishna was the pick of the bowlers for India as he bagged a four-wicket haul to help the hosts defend the total of 237 runs and clinch a comfortable win by 44 runs.

Indian fast bowler Prasidh Krishna bowled an exceptional spell in the second ODI of the ongoing three-match series against West Indies on Wednesday. Krishna was the pick of the bowlers for India as he bagged a four-wicket haul to help the hosts defend the total of 237 runs and clinch a comfortable win by 44 runs. It was an excellent display of fast bowling from the young pacer, who maintained great line and length while bowling at a good pace to wreak havoc on the West Indies batting line-up. Krishna finished with stunning figures of 4/12 in his 9 overs as the visitors were bundled out for 193 runs in the 238-run chase. His brilliant spell in the second ODI earned Krishna comparisons with England pacer Jofra Archer, who is counted among the best fast bowlers in the world at present. While many fans seemed to agree with the comparisons, a troll posted an abusive tweet targeting Archer. “Please don't compare hard working, honest Prasidh Krishna with that fraud,unfit, traitor, race card player Jofra archer,” the Twitter user wrote while reacting to comparisons between Krishna and Archer. Responding to the troll, Archer came up with a classy reply and wrote - "I hope you heal”. I hope you heal https://t.co/TUVoa9hdnh — Jofra Archer (@JofraArcher) February 11, 2022 × Also Read: Should Virat Kohli be asked to rest? Aakash Chopra gives his take on former India skipper's poor form Krishna produced a brilliant spell in the second ODI as he ran through the West Indies top-order during the visitors' run-chase. He drew the first blood for India in the form of Brandon King before dismissing Darren Bravo in quick succession. He then removed West Indies' stand-in skipper Nicholas Pooran followed by the wicket of Kemar Roach to complete his sensational spell. Krishna will be looking to continue his fine form with the ball in the third and final ODI of the series on Friday. India have already clinched the three-match series 2-0 and will be going for a clean sweep in the final ODI.

Troll calls Jofra Archer 'fraud, traitor, unfit' over Prasidh Krishna comparisons, England pacer responds