The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more. Talking about Indian men's senior cricket team, the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer performed in bilateral series across formats, played the WTC final and ended the year with some glaring changes in the team management.

Here's looking back at the positives for Team India in the year 2021:

Conquering Aussies Down Under

The year started with a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team stunning Australia in their own backyard to win their second successive Test series on Aussies soil in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Contrary to what many would've thought, the heroes for India were Mohammed Siraj (13 wickets), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Rishabh Pant (with two half-centuries), Shubman Gill (equal number of fifties), etc.

India hammer England across formats

After the Australia Tests, India romped past England in all forms of the game while hosting the Three Lions in early 2021. In Tests, India saw young guns such as Axar Patel (27 wickets), Rishabh Pant (second-highest run-getter for India), Washington Sundar (important fifties and 2&nbsp;wickets) perform. In the limited-overs leg, the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Rohit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar rose to the occasion with some success for Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan.

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What a solid bench strength

India's solid bench strength once again came to the fore during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav (Player-of-the-Series in ODIs), Rahul Chahar (taking seven wickets in the tour), Prithvi Shaw (with some attractive knocks in the ODIs) made heads turn whereas Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar led from the front being the experienced ones among the lot.

IPL 2021

This year's IPL was the first-ever season to be played in two halves, in India and the UAE. Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the superstar duo didn't have a great campaign with the bat for their respective franchises but the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad (Orange Cap holder with 635 runs), Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Prithvi Shaw remained in the top 10 for most runs among batters. In the bowling department, Harshal Patel (32 wickets), Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh were among the top-10 wicket-takers.

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While India's T20 World Cup campaign was a disaster, they returned with an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests versus Joe Root &amp; Co. in the United Kingdom. Bumrah returned with 18 wickets whereas Siraj finished with 15 scalps (second-most among Indians). With the bat, Rohit and KL Rahul led the show with 365 and 318 runs, respectively.&nbsp;

The Dravid-era

The year maybe ending with a controversy in the form of how things folded following the ODI&nbsp;captaincy row, however, Indian cricket fans can hope for things to be stable with an unfazed Rahul Dravid serving as the head coach. Dravid had led India in tumultuous times during the Greg Chappell-era. Hence, he has the calmness and excellent man-management skills to keep things afloat in the Indian camp during testing times as the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in white-ball formats.&nbsp;

In 2022, India will complete their tour of South Africa, which is currently underway, host Sri Lanka, West Indies, Afghanistan along with preparing for the T20 World Cup in Australia under Dravid's guidance. Fasten your seatbelts as India look for more success in 2022.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more. Talking about Indian men's senior cricket team, the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer performed in bilateral series across formats, played the WTC final and ended the year with some glaring changes in the team management. Here's looking back at the positives for Team India in the year 2021: Conquering Aussies Down Under The year started with a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team stunning Australia in their own backyard to win their second successive Test series on Aussies soil in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Contrary to what many would've thought, the heroes for India were Mohammed Siraj (13 wickets), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Rishabh Pant (with two half-centuries), Shubman Gill (equal number of fifties), etc. India hammer England across formats After the Australia Tests, India romped past England in all forms of the game while hosting the Three Lions in early 2021. In Tests, India saw young guns such as Axar Patel (27 wickets), Rishabh Pant (second-highest run-getter for India), Washington Sundar (important fifties and 2 wickets) perform. In the limited-overs leg, the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Rohit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar rose to the occasion with some success for Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan. ALSO READ | Vaughan reacts after Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Englishman amid Joe Root & Co.'s Ashes horrors What a solid bench strength India's solid bench strength once again came to the fore during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav (Player-of-the-Series in ODIs), Rahul Chahar (taking seven wickets in the tour), Prithvi Shaw (with some attractive knocks in the ODIs) made heads turn whereas Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar led from the front being the experienced ones among the lot. IPL 2021 This year's IPL was the first-ever season to be played in two halves, in India and the UAE. Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the superstar duo didn't have a great campaign with the bat for their respective franchises but the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad (Orange Cap holder with 635 runs), Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Prithvi Shaw remained in the top 10 for most runs among batters. In the bowling department, Harshal Patel (32 wickets), Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh were among the top-10 wicket-takers. ALSO READ | No IPL title or ICC silverware, captaincy resignation and BCCI row: Reliving Virat Kohli's eventful 2021 While India's T20 World Cup campaign was a disaster, they returned with an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests versus Joe Root & Co. in the United Kingdom. Bumrah returned with 18 wickets whereas Siraj finished with 15 scalps (second-most among Indians). With the bat, Rohit and KL Rahul led the show with 365 and 318 runs, respectively. The Dravid-era The year maybe ending with a controversy in the form of how things folded following the ODI captaincy row, however, Indian cricket fans can hope for things to be stable with an unfazed Rahul Dravid serving as the head coach. Dravid had led India in tumultuous times during the Greg Chappell-era. Hence, he has the calmness and excellent man-management skills to keep things afloat in the Indian camp during testing times as the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in white-ball formats. In 2022, India will complete their tour of South Africa, which is currently underway, host Sri Lanka, West Indies, Afghanistan along with preparing for the T20 World Cup in Australia under Dravid's guidance. Fasten your seatbelts as India look for more success in 2022.

Solid bench strength, IPL 2021, Test dominance to Rahul Dravid's return: Reliving India's 2021

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has hailed Virat Kohli for his never give up attitude and aggressive approach as a captain. Kohli is a livewire on the field and is known for wearing his heart on his sleeves. The Indian Test skipper never shies away from going after the opposition on the field and is not someone to back away from a fight when instigated.

Harbhajan believes it's Kohli's aggressive approach that makes him stand out as a player and has played a massive role in making him as successful as he is today. The former India spinner pointed out how the team has transformed under Kohli's leadership in Tests and it's not more about saving Test matches in countries like Australia but it is about going there and winning those games.

"It suits perfectly actually and we need players like him in the team to can take the team forward. When the team used to go to Australia, they used to think about how to save the Test match. In Virat's captaincy, team goes to Australia thinking how they can win the Test series," Harbhajan told India Today.

Harbhajan cited the example of Kohli's century in the Adelaide Test between India and Australia in 2014 where the Indian skipper wanted the team to go for the win or lose the game despite a draw being an ideal result. Kohli had told Harbhajan that he wanted his team to win overseas and a drawn game was of no importance to him.

"I remember in one of those series, where he had scored a lot of runs, although India had lost the Test series. India had to chase some 400 runs in that match and Kohli had scored a big century. So when he returned to the pavilion I told him that match could have ended in a draw, but he replied that 'there is no importance of a drawn Test, either you win or you lose and the day we learn to fight, we will learn to win and someday we will'," Harbhajan recalled.

Harbhajan also drew a comparison between former India captain MS Dhoni and Kohli, stating that the current Indian Test skipper would not have scored as many runs in his career had he&nbsp;been 'soft' like Dhoni. One of the greatest captains of all time, and the only Indian to win all three major ICC trophies as captain, Dhoni was known for his calm and collected approach on the field.

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While Dhoni led India to three major ICC trophies and numerous other memorable series wins, Kohli has never won an ICC trophy as captain. However, Harbhajan suggested Kohli would not have scored as many runs if he was calm and composed like Dhoni.

"And that is the change you have noticed in this Indian side. They went to Australia and beat them twice, they played well in England and I hope they beat South Africa in this series. So Kohli has perfectly played his role as a leader. And the aggressive approach, that has made Virat Kohli the player he is today. Had he been soft like MS Dhoni, I don't think he would have scored these many runs," Harbhajan said.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has hailed Virat Kohli for his never give up attitude and aggressive approach as a captain. Kohli is a livewire on the field and is known for wearing his heart on his sleeves.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has hailed Virat Kohli for his never give up attitude and aggressive approach as a captain. Kohli is a livewire on the field and is known for wearing his heart on his sleeves. The Indian Test skipper never shies away from going after the opposition on the field and is not someone to back away from a fight when instigated. Harbhajan believes it's Kohli's aggressive approach that makes him stand out as a player and has played a massive role in making him as successful as he is today. The former India spinner pointed out how the team has transformed under Kohli's leadership in Tests and it's not more about saving Test matches in countries like Australia but it is about going there and winning those games. "It suits perfectly actually and we need players like him in the team to can take the team forward. When the team used to go to Australia, they used to think about how to save the Test match. In Virat's captaincy, team goes to Australia thinking how they can win the Test series," Harbhajan told India Today. Harbhajan cited the example of Kohli's century in the Adelaide Test between India and Australia in 2014 where the Indian skipper wanted the team to go for the win or lose the game despite a draw being an ideal result. Kohli had told Harbhajan that he wanted his team to win overseas and a drawn game was of no importance to him. "I remember in one of those series, where he had scored a lot of runs, although India had lost the Test series. India had to chase some 400 runs in that match and Kohli had scored a big century. So when he returned to the pavilion I told him that match could have ended in a draw, but he replied that 'there is no importance of a drawn Test, either you win or you lose and the day we learn to fight, we will learn to win and someday we will'," Harbhajan recalled. Harbhajan also drew a comparison between former India captain MS Dhoni and Kohli, stating that the current Indian Test skipper would not have scored as many runs in his career had he been 'soft' like Dhoni. One of the greatest captains of all time, and the only Indian to win all three major ICC trophies as captain, Dhoni was known for his calm and collected approach on the field. Also Read: Rahul likely to lead India in ODI series vs South Africa if Rohit Sharma fails to recover in time - Report While Dhoni led India to three major ICC trophies and numerous other memorable series wins, Kohli has never won an ICC trophy as captain. However, Harbhajan suggested Kohli would not have scored as many runs if he was calm and composed like Dhoni. "And that is the change you have noticed in this Indian side. They went to Australia and beat them twice, they played well in England and I hope they beat South Africa in this series. So Kohli has perfectly played his role as a leader. And the aggressive approach, that has made Virat Kohli the player he is today. Had he been soft like MS Dhoni, I don't think he would have scored these many runs," Harbhajan said.

Had Virat Kohli been soft like MS Dhoni, he wouldn't have scored these many runs: Harbhajan Singh

Indian opener KL Rahul looked in sublime touch with the bat on Day 1 of the ongoing first Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. Rahul helped India get off to a terrific start in the Boxing Day Test with a magnificent unbeaten century on the opening day. He slammed 122 not out to help India post 272/3 on the board at stumps on Day 3.

India were off to a good start after winning the toss and opting to bat first in the Boxing Day clash. Openers Rahul and Mayank Agarwal (60) combined to put on a 117-run stand for the first wicket before Cheteshwar Pujara departed cheaply. However, Rahul continued to go strong at one end and combined with skipper Virat Kohli to add 82 runs for the third wicket.

He then posted another crucial partnership of unbeaten 73 runs with Ajinkya Rahane (40) to put India in a strong position at stumps on Day 1. With his magnificent ton, Rahul joined former India batsman Wasim Jaffer in an elite list. Rahul became only the second Indian opener to score a Test century in South Africa after Jaffer.

List of Indian openers to score Test centuries in South Africa

Wasim Jaffer- Cape Town (2007)&nbsp;

KL Rahul- Centurion (2021)&nbsp;

It was Rahul's 7th Test ton in his career so far as he also aced the unique record of scoring a Test hundred in every country that he has played in so far. He has scored centuries in England, South Africa,&nbsp;India, Australia, West Indies, and Sri Lanka so far in his career.

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Owing to his heroics, India are in a solid position in the Boxing Day Test and will be looking to breach the 400-run mark on Day 2. While Rahul looked composed throughout his knock, Rahane, who has been under fire for his recent struggles, also displayed remarkable grit and resilience in his 40 not out of 81 deliveries and will be hoping to notch up a big score.

Indian opener KL Rahul looked in sublime touch with the bat on Day 1 of the ongoing first Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park in Centurion.

Indian opener KL Rahul looked in sublime touch with the bat on Day 1 of the ongoing first Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. Rahul helped India get off to a terrific start in the Boxing Day Test with a magnificent unbeaten century on the opening day. He slammed 122 not out to help India post 272/3 on the board at stumps on Day 3. India were off to a good start after winning the toss and opting to bat first in the Boxing Day clash. Openers Rahul and Mayank Agarwal (60) combined to put on a 117-run stand for the first wicket before Cheteshwar Pujara departed cheaply. However, Rahul continued to go strong at one end and combined with skipper Virat Kohli to add 82 runs for the third wicket. He then posted another crucial partnership of unbeaten 73 runs with Ajinkya Rahane (40) to put India in a strong position at stumps on Day 1. With his magnificent ton, Rahul joined former India batsman Wasim Jaffer in an elite list. Rahul became only the second Indian opener to score a Test century in South Africa after Jaffer. List of Indian openers to score Test centuries in South Africa Wasim Jaffer- Cape Town (2007) KL Rahul- Centurion (2021) It was Rahul's 7th Test ton in his career so far as he also aced the unique record of scoring a Test hundred in every country that he has played in so far. He has scored centuries in England, South Africa, India, Australia, West Indies, and Sri Lanka so far in his career. Also Read: KL Rahul slams ton to give India strong start in Boxing Day Test against South Africa in Centurion Owing to his heroics, India are in a solid position in the Boxing Day Test and will be looking to breach the 400-run mark on Day 2. While Rahul looked composed throughout his knock, Rahane, who has been under fire for his recent struggles, also displayed remarkable grit and resilience in his 40 not out of 81 deliveries and will be hoping to notch up a big score.

KL Rahul joins Wasim Jaffer in elite list with brilliant century in Boxing Day Test against South Africa

India started Day 1 of the Centurion Test, versus South Africa, with a bang. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India were off to a flier courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. While Mayank fell for a well-made 60, Rahul continued from one end and took India to 272-3 at stumps on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test in the African nation.&nbsp;

As Rahul continued to score runs across formats, Kohli continued to remain away from his 71st international ton. His century-drought still didn't come to an end despite the 33-year-old Test captain making a good-looking 94-ball 35. Just when he was settled and looking good to stay unbeaten at stumps, the right-hander threw his wicket away by playing a loose shot off Lungi Ngidi.

Thus, Kohli's ardent fans continue to wait for the Indian skipper's 71st ton at the highest level. Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra opined on the Indian star batter's dismissal and while he stated that the manner of his dismissal is a 'concern', Nehra was quick to predict that a masterclass innings from King Kohli isn't far away.

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Nehra told on Cricbuzz, "You expect runs from someone like Kohli. He would be unhappy with his performance. But if you look at the stats, Kohli has scored runs in the previous away series in England conditions. He has the hunger to score hundreds and double hundreds and he would be a bit unhappy with himself today.

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"You expect Kohli to play those 135-150 kmph deliveries on the front foot but when the ball starts moving and gets bounce too, any player would face difficulties. We haven't seen the Kohli whom we saw in 2-3 years but once he gets out of this zone, he will be unstoppable. But Kohli's mentality and understanding of the game will help him score that much-awaited knock. He had scored 74 in the Adelaide Test against Australia this year and another such knock isn't far away," added Nehra.

Talking about the first Test, Day 2 of the series opener got washed out on Monday (December 27) without a ball being bowled due to rain showers. India will resume from 272-3 on the third day's morning session and hope to negate any threat from the Proteas bowlers before accelerating.&nbsp;

Kohli-led India have started really well and will hope their bowlers produce the goods to claim 20 wickets in the rain-marred Centurion Test.

India started Day 1 of the Centurion Test, versus South Africa, with a bang. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India were off to a flier courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal.

India started Day 1 of the Centurion Test, versus South Africa, with a bang. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India were off to a flier courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. While Mayank fell for a well-made 60, Rahul continued from one end and took India to 272-3 at stumps on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test in the African nation. As Rahul continued to score runs across formats, Kohli continued to remain away from his 71st international ton. His century-drought still didn't come to an end despite the 33-year-old Test captain making a good-looking 94-ball 35. Just when he was settled and looking good to stay unbeaten at stumps, the right-hander threw his wicket away by playing a loose shot off Lungi Ngidi. Thus, Kohli's ardent fans continue to wait for the Indian skipper's 71st ton at the highest level. Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra opined on the Indian star batter's dismissal and while he stated that the manner of his dismissal is a 'concern', Nehra was quick to predict that a masterclass innings from King Kohli isn't far away. ALSO READ | He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer Nehra told on Cricbuzz, "You expect runs from someone like Kohli. He would be unhappy with his performance. But if you look at the stats, Kohli has scored runs in the previous away series in England conditions. He has the hunger to score hundreds and double hundreds and he would be a bit unhappy with himself today. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH "You expect Kohli to play those 135-150 kmph deliveries on the front foot but when the ball starts moving and gets bounce too, any player would face difficulties. We haven't seen the Kohli whom we saw in 2-3 years but once he gets out of this zone, he will be unstoppable. But Kohli's mentality and understanding of the game will help him score that much-awaited knock. He had scored 74 in the Adelaide Test against Australia this year and another such knock isn't far away," added Nehra. Talking about the first Test, Day 2 of the series opener got washed out on Monday (December 27) without a ball being bowled due to rain showers. India will resume from 272-3 on the third day's morning session and hope to negate any threat from the Proteas bowlers before accelerating. Kohli-led India have started really well and will hope their bowlers produce the goods to claim 20 wickets in the rain-marred Centurion Test.

Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Ex-India pacer Ashish Nehra predicts a top knock from Virat Kohli 'isn't far away'

Rohit Sharma is unlikely to recover in time to feature in the upcoming ODI series against South Africa. India are currently taking on the hosts in a three-match Test series which will be followed by as many ODIs. Rohit, who was named India's ODI captain ahead of the start of the ongoing tour earlier this month, is not part of the Test squad due to a hamstring injury.

Rohit had suffered a hamstring injury while training in Mumbai and is currently at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru where he is working on his recovery. However, as per Sports Today, India's limited-overs captain might not make it in time for the ODI series as he might take 4-6 weeks to recover fully from the hamstring injury.

Earlier, BCCI had said Rohit might return in three weeks time to lead the team in the ODI series against South Africa. However, as per Sports Today, he is unlikely to return and KL Rahul might lead the Indian team in the Hitman's absence. Rahul is India's designated vice-captain in both ODIs and T20Is.

Rahul has had a remarkable 2021 so far as he once again cemented his spot in the Test team and became a regular for the team in limited-overs. Rahul was elevated to vice-captaincy in T20Is after Kohli stepped down as the captain in the shortest format with Rohit taking over.

The stylish right-hander was later named the vice-captain in ODIs as well after Rohit replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper. Rahul was then named Kohli's deputy for the ongoing South Africa Test series in the absence of Rohit, who was the vice-captain of the series.

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Rahul made a fantastic start to the Test series against South Africa as he slammed an unbeaten hundred while opening the batting for India on Day 1 of the ongoing first Test in Centurion. Rahul remained unbeaten on 122 to help India post a strong 272/3 on the board at stumps on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test.

Rahul became only the second Indian opener after Wasim Jaffer to score a Test ton on South African soil.

&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma is unlikely to recover in time to feature in the upcoming ODI series against South Africa. India are currently taking on the hosts in a three-match Test series which will be followed by as many ODIs.

Rohit Sharma is unlikely to recover in time to feature in the upcoming ODI series against South Africa. India are currently taking on the hosts in a three-match Test series which will be followed by as many ODIs. Rohit, who was named India's ODI captain ahead of the start of the ongoing tour earlier this month, is not part of the Test squad due to a hamstring injury. Rohit had suffered a hamstring injury while training in Mumbai and is currently at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru where he is working on his recovery. However, as per Sports Today, India's limited-overs captain might not make it in time for the ODI series as he might take 4-6 weeks to recover fully from the hamstring injury. Earlier, BCCI had said Rohit might return in three weeks time to lead the team in the ODI series against South Africa. However, as per Sports Today, he is unlikely to return and KL Rahul might lead the Indian team in the Hitman's absence. Rahul is India's designated vice-captain in both ODIs and T20Is. Rahul has had a remarkable 2021 so far as he once again cemented his spot in the Test team and became a regular for the team in limited-overs. Rahul was elevated to vice-captaincy in T20Is after Kohli stepped down as the captain in the shortest format with Rohit taking over. The stylish right-hander was later named the vice-captain in ODIs as well after Rohit replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper. Rahul was then named Kohli's deputy for the ongoing South Africa Test series in the absence of Rohit, who was the vice-captain of the series. Also Read: Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA Rahul made a fantastic start to the Test series against South Africa as he slammed an unbeaten hundred while opening the batting for India on Day 1 of the ongoing first Test in Centurion. Rahul remained unbeaten on 122 to help India post a strong 272/3 on the board at stumps on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test. Rahul became only the second Indian opener after Wasim Jaffer to score a Test ton on South African soil.

KL Rahul likely to lead India in ODI series vs South Africa if Rohit Sharma fails to recover in time - Report

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016. He was touted to become the head coach back then itself but the position went to Anil Kumble. After a year, Shastri got the top post as his tenure officially commenced from mid-2017.

Under Shastri, India achieved sizeable success across all forms of the game. The former Indian all-rounder guided India to success in Sri Lanka, West Indies, two Test series wins in a row in Australia, helped the team take an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the UK early this year, led them to the WTC finals and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In addition, he guided the side to ODI series wins in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and T20I bilateral series triumphs in SENA countries.

At home, India remained a dominant force under Shastri. However, he couldn't guide the side to an ICC title during his four-year-stint as his tenure came to a disappointing end with India's disastrous run in the T20 WC. Recalling Shastri's near-flawless stint as head coach, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar mentioned the biggest highlight of his ex-teammate's coaching career.

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Gavaskar recalled Shastri's famous words after the defeat in Adelaide to&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;and said, "It obviously has got to be the way India bounced back earlier this year after being dismissed for 36 (in Adelaide Pink Ball Test). Because when something like that happens, the team tends to lose belief in itself, there is a sense of disappointment and there is a sense of giving up.

"And that is where Shastri played a huge role because from what I've read, is that he said that 'you wear this 36 like a badge'. And then Ajinkya Rahane, the way he led the side in the three Tests, and of course everyone stepped up. We played almost like an A team, not even the regular team. But every player who played in that, every replaced player came in and did well. And that is again tells you the kind of influence and input that Ravi Shastri had on the younger players and the fringe players who are waiting for their opportunities," added the Little Master.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/surprised-myself-with-how-calm-i-have-been-kl-rahul-reacts-to-his-truly-special-centurion-ton-vs-sa-440419">Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA</a>

Under Shastri, India were down and out in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy after the 8-wicket drubbing versus Australia in the series opener at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Nonetheless, the Kohli-less Indian side showed great character and fought fire with fire throughout the series to stage a comeback for the ages and eventually win&nbsp;2-1.&nbsp;

Now, Shastri has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach. Dravid-led Indian team is currently involved in the first Test, of the three-match series, versus South Africa in the African nation.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016. He was touted to become the head coach back then itself but the position went to Anil Kumble. After a year, Shastri got the top post as his tenure officially commenced from mid-2017. Under Shastri, India achieved sizeable success across all forms of the game. The former Indian all-rounder guided India to success in Sri Lanka, West Indies, two Test series wins in a row in Australia, helped the team take an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the UK early this year, led them to the WTC finals and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In addition, he guided the side to ODI series wins in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and T20I bilateral series triumphs in SENA countries. At home, India remained a dominant force under Shastri. However, he couldn't guide the side to an ICC title during his four-year-stint as his tenure came to a disappointing end with India's disastrous run in the T20 WC. Recalling Shastri's near-flawless stint as head coach, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar mentioned the biggest highlight of his ex-teammate's coaching career. ALSO READ | He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer Gavaskar recalled Shastri's famous words after the defeat in Adelaide to Star Sports and said, "It obviously has got to be the way India bounced back earlier this year after being dismissed for 36 (in Adelaide Pink Ball Test). Because when something like that happens, the team tends to lose belief in itself, there is a sense of disappointment and there is a sense of giving up. "And that is where Shastri played a huge role because from what I've read, is that he said that 'you wear this 36 like a badge'. And then Ajinkya Rahane, the way he led the side in the three Tests, and of course everyone stepped up. We played almost like an A team, not even the regular team. But every player who played in that, every replaced player came in and did well. And that is again tells you the kind of influence and input that Ravi Shastri had on the younger players and the fringe players who are waiting for their opportunities," added the Little Master. ALSO READ | Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA Under Shastri, India were down and out in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy after the 8-wicket drubbing versus Australia in the series opener at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Nonetheless, the Kohli-less Indian side showed great character and fought fire with fire throughout the series to stage a comeback for the ages and eventually win 2-1. Now, Shastri has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach. Dravid-led Indian team is currently involved in the first Test, of the three-match series, versus South Africa in the African nation.

Gavaskar recalls Shastri's journey as coach, mentions biggest highlight of his 4-year stint with Team India

Indian Test captain Virat Kohli had another disappointing outing in the team's first innings of the ongoing first Test against South Africa in Centurion. The two sides are currently locking horns in the Boxing Day Test which got underway from Sunday (December 26). Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India were off to a brilliant start in their first innings.

Openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal combined to post a 117-run stand for the first wicket to get India off to a flyer in the series-opener. While Agarwal was dismissed on 60, Rahul went on to slam an unbeaten 122 off 248 balls to help the visitors post 272/3 at stumps on Day 1.

Kohli, who came out to bat no.3, looked in decent touch as he played the South African pacers really well while also playing some stunning shots. However, he once again failed to convert his good start into a big score and ended up making a costly mistake against Lungi Ngidi. In the 69th over, Ngidi bowled one way outside off and Kohli ended up going after the ball.

He could have left the ball comfortably but edged one to Wiaan Mulder, who was standing at slips and took a comfortable catch. Kohli departed after scoring 35 runs off 94 balls and disappointment was quite evident on his face as he returned back to the dressing room after his innings was cut short.

Former India pacer Ashish Neha gave his take on Kohli's dismissal and said the Indian skipper must not be happy with the way he got dismissed. Nehra reckoned it was a great chance for the Indian skipper to score big and get close to ending his long-standing century drought in international cricket.

“You expect runs from someone like Kohli. He would be unhappy with his performance. But if you look at the stats, Kohli has scored runs in the previous away series in England conditions. He has the hunger to score hundreds and double hundreds and he would be a bit unhappy with himself today,” Nehra said on Cricbuzz.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-dravid-gives-a-pat-on-pujaras-back-to-uplift-his-spirits-after-golden-duck-watch-440395">Head coach Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH</a>

Nehra feels Kohli's poor form of late is a bit concerning for the Indian team as the skipper has been throwing away his wickets more often than not. Nehra insisted Kohli should have left the delivery on which he was caught at slips against Ngidi during India's first innings.

“Looking at the way he’s been dismissed, it’s a bit of concern. South Africa bowlers made Kohli play a loose shot and this has been a problem lately. Kohli has been giving his wickets to bowlers. Looking at today’s dismissal, we understand how Kohli has been out facing swinging deliveries aimed around the fourth stump. In such cases, you need the batter to leave those deliveries.. we saw that from KL Rahul today,” said the former India pacer.

Indian batters couldn't continue their domination on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test in Centurion as the play was called off without a ball being bowled due to heavy rain. India will resume their first innings from&nbsp;272/3 on Day 3.

Indian Test captain Virat Kohli had another disappointing outing in the team's first innings of the ongoing first Test against South Africa in Centurion. The two sides are currently locking horns in the Boxing Day Test which got underway from Sunday (December 26).

Indian Test captain Virat Kohli had another disappointing outing in the team's first innings of the ongoing first Test against South Africa in Centurion. The two sides are currently locking horns in the Boxing Day Test which got underway from Sunday (December 26). Opting to bat first after winning the toss, India were off to a brilliant start in their first innings. Openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal combined to post a 117-run stand for the first wicket to get India off to a flyer in the series-opener. While Agarwal was dismissed on 60, Rahul went on to slam an unbeaten 122 off 248 balls to help the visitors post 272/3 at stumps on Day 1. Kohli, who came out to bat no.3, looked in decent touch as he played the South African pacers really well while also playing some stunning shots. However, he once again failed to convert his good start into a big score and ended up making a costly mistake against Lungi Ngidi. In the 69th over, Ngidi bowled one way outside off and Kohli ended up going after the ball. He could have left the ball comfortably but edged one to Wiaan Mulder, who was standing at slips and took a comfortable catch. Kohli departed after scoring 35 runs off 94 balls and disappointment was quite evident on his face as he returned back to the dressing room after his innings was cut short. Former India pacer Ashish Neha gave his take on Kohli's dismissal and said the Indian skipper must not be happy with the way he got dismissed. Nehra reckoned it was a great chance for the Indian skipper to score big and get close to ending his long-standing century drought in international cricket. “You expect runs from someone like Kohli. He would be unhappy with his performance. But if you look at the stats, Kohli has scored runs in the previous away series in England conditions. He has the hunger to score hundreds and double hundreds and he would be a bit unhappy with himself today,” Nehra said on Cricbuzz. Also Read: Head coach Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH Nehra feels Kohli's poor form of late is a bit concerning for the Indian team as the skipper has been throwing away his wickets more often than not. Nehra insisted Kohli should have left the delivery on which he was caught at slips against Ngidi during India's first innings. “Looking at the way he’s been dismissed, it’s a bit of concern. South Africa bowlers made Kohli play a loose shot and this has been a problem lately. Kohli has been giving his wickets to bowlers. Looking at today’s dismissal, we understand how Kohli has been out facing swinging deliveries aimed around the fourth stump. In such cases, you need the batter to leave those deliveries.. we saw that from KL Rahul today,” said the former India pacer. Indian batters couldn't continue their domination on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test in Centurion as the play was called off without a ball being bowled due to heavy rain. India will resume their first innings from 272/3 on Day 3.

Virat Kohli would be unhappy: Ashish Nehra on Indian skipper's dismissal in Boxing Day Test against SA

Day 2 of India-South Africa's first Test, in Centurion, was washed out without a ball being bowled. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, India ended the first day's play at 272-3 with opener KL Rahul being unbeaten on 122. While the visitors would have wanted to extend their dominance, rain played spoilsport as the entire day's play was hampered due to relentless rain showers.

Thus, Virat Kohli-led Indian team will have to accelerate after the morning session on Day 3 and hope for their bowlers to produce the goods with the ball to claim 20 wickets in the remainder of the series opener. India have stuck to their 5-bowlers strategy, featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, R Ashwin and Shardul Thakur.

Talking about Siraj, former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra has lauded the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- whom he has seen grow from strength to strength in the recent past. Nehra lauded Siraj for being injury-free so far and hailed his hunger for success.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old Siraj has had staggering success in whites following his debut in the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia last year. The speedster has accounted for 33 scalps in 11 games, being one of the top-performers for the side in away series in Australia and England. Hence, Nehra had words of praise for him after rain played spoilsport on Day 2 of the Centurion Test.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/surprised-myself-with-how-calm-i-have-been-kl-rahul-reacts-to-his-truly-special-centurion-ton-vs-sa-440419">Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA</a>

"He was with me at RCB when I was the coach. He also was in the team when I was at SunRisers Hyderabad. I always knew that he had the skills. Talking about the skillset, it also depends on the player... how he hones his skills and fitness levels.&nbsp;

He had the pace, swing, and an athletic body too. We see many players doing the rounds of the NCA and visiting the physios after struggling with fitness. But Siraj wasn't that sort of a player. He stepped into the IPL after playing Ranji and has never looked back," Nehra said on Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-dravid-gives-a-pat-on-pujaras-back-to-uplift-his-spirits-after-golden-duck-watch-440395">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH</a>

He added, "Siraj has made the most of it. He's mentally strong as well and has that hunger to play. He used to get upset when his name was not there in the XI. When he was at RCB, he would eagerly wait to perform and get better with every match. That speaks volumes about his character."

Siraj surely has made a mark in his Test career and will like to perform in similar stead in the South Africa series. For the unversed, the No. 1 Test side India have a solid chance to win their maiden Test series in the African nation. Will Siraj-starrer India create history this time around in the rainbow nation?

Day 2 of India-South Africa's first Test, in Centurion, was washed out without a ball being bowled. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, India ended the first day's play at 272-3 with opener KL Rahul being unbeaten on 122.

Day 2 of India-South Africa's first Test, in Centurion, was washed out without a ball being bowled. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, India ended the first day's play at 272-3 with opener KL Rahul being unbeaten on 122. While the visitors would have wanted to extend their dominance, rain played spoilsport as the entire day's play was hampered due to relentless rain showers. Thus, Virat Kohli-led Indian team will have to accelerate after the morning session on Day 3 and hope for their bowlers to produce the goods with the ball to claim 20 wickets in the remainder of the series opener. India have stuck to their 5-bowlers strategy, featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, R Ashwin and Shardul Thakur. Talking about Siraj, former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra has lauded the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- whom he has seen grow from strength to strength in the recent past. Nehra lauded Siraj for being injury-free so far and hailed his hunger for success. The 27-year-old Siraj has had staggering success in whites following his debut in the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia last year. The speedster has accounted for 33 scalps in 11 games, being one of the top-performers for the side in away series in Australia and England. Hence, Nehra had words of praise for him after rain played spoilsport on Day 2 of the Centurion Test. ALSO READ | Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA "He was with me at RCB when I was the coach. He also was in the team when I was at SunRisers Hyderabad. I always knew that he had the skills. Talking about the skillset, it also depends on the player... how he hones his skills and fitness levels. He had the pace, swing, and an athletic body too. We see many players doing the rounds of the NCA and visiting the physios after struggling with fitness. But Siraj wasn't that sort of a player. He stepped into the IPL after playing Ranji and has never looked back," Nehra said on Cricbuzz. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH He added, "Siraj has made the most of it. He's mentally strong as well and has that hunger to play. He used to get upset when his name was not there in the XI. When he was at RCB, he would eagerly wait to perform and get better with every match. That speaks volumes about his character." Siraj surely has made a mark in his Test career and will like to perform in similar stead in the South Africa series. For the unversed, the No. 1 Test side India have a solid chance to win their maiden Test series in the African nation. Will Siraj-starrer India create history this time around in the rainbow nation?

He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, being one of the best limited-overs players for Team India (with staggering success in ODIs, decent contributions in T20Is and IPL) whereas he was also a force to reckon with in Tests.&nbsp;

Dhoni amassed 4,876 runs in the purest format --&nbsp;the most by an Indian keeper and third-most overall -- and accounted for 294 dismissals behind the stumps in 90 Tests. He played some memorable knocks in England, Pakistan, New Zealand and at home before shockingly retiring from the format in late 2014, during India's tour of Australia.&nbsp;

After the third and penultimate Test of the 2014/15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in a draw, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Dhoni called it quits from the Test format in a press conference; shocking many in the cricketing fraternity. Recalling how Dhoni's retirement announced shocked Team India players, the then team director and former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri recently opened up on the whole episode.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/blessing-in-disguise-ravi-shastri-opens-up-on-bccis-decision-to-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-odi-captain-440298">'Blessing in disguise': Ravi Shastri opens up on BCCI's decision to replace Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain</a>

Reliving Dhoni's&nbsp;shocking announcement, former India head coach Shastri shared the dressing room's reaction. Speaking to Star Sports, Shastri, who was the team's director back then, has revealed, "I knew that the moment MS Dhoni finishes, Virat Kohli is the guy to lead the side. He (MS Dhoni) knew who was the next leader in line."

"Well, it came as a surprise. He came to me and said 'I want to say something to the boys'. I said 'sure'. I thought he was going to say something about the draw. He comes out. I just saw the faces around the dressing room. Most of the boys were in a state of shock when MS made the announcement. But that's MS for you," Shastri added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-ms-dhonis-chennai-super-kings-scripted-a-fairytale-comeback-in-ipl-2021-440193">How MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings scripted a fairytale comeback in IPL 2021</a>

Dhoni went onto lead the limited-overs side till 2016 end and gave up captaincy altogether in early 2017. From thereon, he played as a regular wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs and T20Is before featuring in his last international match during the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final between India and New Zealand. He retired from the highest level in mid-August last year.

Dhoni remains an active player in IPL and will lead current champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2022.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, being one of the best limited-overs players for Team India (with staggering success in ODIs, decent contributions in T20Is and IPL) whereas he was also a force to reckon with in Tests.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, being one of the best limited-overs players for Team India (with staggering success in ODIs, decent contributions in T20Is and IPL) whereas he was also a force to reckon with in Tests. Dhoni amassed 4,876 runs in the purest format -- the most by an Indian keeper and third-most overall -- and accounted for 294 dismissals behind the stumps in 90 Tests. He played some memorable knocks in England, Pakistan, New Zealand and at home before shockingly retiring from the format in late 2014, during India's tour of Australia. After the third and penultimate Test of the 2014/15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in a draw, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Dhoni called it quits from the Test format in a press conference; shocking many in the cricketing fraternity. Recalling how Dhoni's retirement announced shocked Team India players, the then team director and former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri recently opened up on the whole episode. ALSO READ | 'Blessing in disguise': Ravi Shastri opens up on BCCI's decision to replace Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain Reliving Dhoni's shocking announcement, former India head coach Shastri shared the dressing room's reaction. Speaking to Star Sports, Shastri, who was the team's director back then, has revealed, "I knew that the moment MS Dhoni finishes, Virat Kohli is the guy to lead the side. He (MS Dhoni) knew who was the next leader in line." "Well, it came as a surprise. He came to me and said 'I want to say something to the boys'. I said 'sure'. I thought he was going to say something about the draw. He comes out. I just saw the faces around the dressing room. Most of the boys were in a state of shock when MS made the announcement. But that's MS for you," Shastri added. ALSO READ | How MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings scripted a fairytale comeback in IPL 2021 Dhoni went onto lead the limited-overs side till 2016 end and gave up captaincy altogether in early 2017. From thereon, he played as a regular wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs and T20Is before featuring in his last international match during the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final between India and New Zealand. He retired from the highest level in mid-August last year. Dhoni remains an active player in IPL and will lead current champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2022.

I want to say something to the boys: Shastri recalls Dhoni's Test retirement and how it shocked Team India

BCCI's decision to remove Virat Kohli and replace him with Rohit Sharma as team India's ODI captain stirred one of the biggest controversies in Indian cricket in recent times. While the decision drew mixed reactions, the manner in which it was announced left many irked.&nbsp;

To make matters worse for the Indian cricket board, Kohli came out in open and denied BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's claims that he had been requested not to leave the T20I captaincy earlier this year. Ganguly had said the selectors wanted one white-ball captain and he had personally requested Kohli to not leave T20I captaincy. However, Kohli refuted his claims in an explosive presser ahead of the South Africa tour.

Kohli also revealed the board or the selectors had made no prior communication before taking the decision, and that he got to know about his sacking only ninety minutes before it was made official. The Indian Test skipper's comments added fuel to the fire as BCCI was once again embroiled in a huge row.

Former head coach Ravi Shastri has now given his take on the matter and said it could prove to be a blessing in disguise for Kohli and Rohit as leading across all three formats in the current bio-bubble environment can take a toll on the player's performance. Kohli himself has been struggling with his consistency for a while now and no captaincy burden might help him bounce back.

"It's the right way to go. This could be a blessing in disguise for Virat and Rohit. For one guy to handle all 3 is not easy at all in this time of living in and out of bio-bubbles because of Covid," former India head coach Shastri said on Star Sports.

"Virat can focus on red-ball cricket and lead for as long as he wants to lead in Tests. It will allow him to sit back and think on his game because he's got a good 5-6 years left in him," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-took-ravi-shastris-comments-on-kuldeep-yadav-in-a-wrong-way-says-former-india-selector-440105">R Ashwin took Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav in a wrong way, says former India selector</a>

Shastri served as India's head coach for over three years from 2017 to 2021 and had closely worked with skipper Kohli in making the team a force to reckon with across formats. While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under Shastri, the team registered some memorable series wins both at home and away from home.

India also won the Asia Cup in 2018, and made it to semi-final and final of the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2021 World Test Championship respectively.

BCCI's decision to remove Virat Kohli and replace him with Rohit Sharma as team India's ODI captain stirred one of the biggest controversies in Indian cricket in recent times.

BCCI's decision to remove Virat Kohli and replace him with Rohit Sharma as team India's ODI captain stirred one of the biggest controversies in Indian cricket in recent times. While the decision drew mixed reactions, the manner in which it was announced left many irked. To make matters worse for the Indian cricket board, Kohli came out in open and denied BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's claims that he had been requested not to leave the T20I captaincy earlier this year. Ganguly had said the selectors wanted one white-ball captain and he had personally requested Kohli to not leave T20I captaincy. However, Kohli refuted his claims in an explosive presser ahead of the South Africa tour. Kohli also revealed the board or the selectors had made no prior communication before taking the decision, and that he got to know about his sacking only ninety minutes before it was made official. The Indian Test skipper's comments added fuel to the fire as BCCI was once again embroiled in a huge row. Former head coach Ravi Shastri has now given his take on the matter and said it could prove to be a blessing in disguise for Kohli and Rohit as leading across all three formats in the current bio-bubble environment can take a toll on the player's performance. Kohli himself has been struggling with his consistency for a while now and no captaincy burden might help him bounce back. "It's the right way to go. This could be a blessing in disguise for Virat and Rohit. For one guy to handle all 3 is not easy at all in this time of living in and out of bio-bubbles because of Covid," former India head coach Shastri said on Star Sports. "Virat can focus on red-ball cricket and lead for as long as he wants to lead in Tests. It will allow him to sit back and think on his game because he's got a good 5-6 years left in him," he added. Also Read: R Ashwin took Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav in a wrong way, says former India selector Shastri served as India's head coach for over three years from 2017 to 2021 and had closely worked with skipper Kohli in making the team a force to reckon with across formats. While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under Shastri, the team registered some memorable series wins both at home and away from home. India also won the Asia Cup in 2018, and made it to semi-final and final of the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2021 World Test Championship respectively.

'Blessing in disguise': Ravi Shastri opens up on BCCI's decision to replace Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain

India are all set to take on South Africa in a three-match Test series starting from Sunday (December 26). The Test series will be followed by three ODIs between the two sides. India are yet to announce their squad for the ODIs and the selectors are likely to sit down to pick the squad for the series in the next 48 hours.

R Ashwin is likely to make his comeback in India's ODI squad for the South Africa series, as per a report in Cricbuzz. Ashwin, who has been a vital cog in India's Test squad, has been sidelined from white-ball cricket for a long time. He was surprisingly included in India's squad for the T20 World Cup 2021 which marked his return to the T20 team after a gap of three years.

The off-spinner had last played an ODI match for India in June 2017 and will now be making his comeback in the ODI squad after a gap of over three years. As per Cricbuzz, the Indian think tank including head coach Rahul Dravid and white-ball captain Rohit Sharma have been left impressed by Ashwin's performances for India in T20Is recently and see him as part of their plans ahead of the 2023 ODI World Cup which will be played in India.

Besides Ashwin, the selectors are also set to include youngsters Venkatesh Iyer and Ruturaj Gaikwad in the squad. Both Iyer and Gaikwad had brilliant IPL 2021 campaigns for their respective sides and have been making waves with their performances in the onging Vijay Hazare Trophy. While Gaikwad is the top-scorer with 603 runs from five matches, Iyer has 379 runs in six matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy so far.

Iyer is being seen as one of the back-ups for all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is currently training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru to work on his fitness before he returns to the Indian team. The selectors are also set to take a call on the future of veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan, who has not played for India since captaining the team on the tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-knows-his-position-could-be-up-for-grabs-if-he-doesnt-score-runs-in-south-africa-monty-panesar-439949">Kohli knows his position could be up for grabs if he doesn't score runs in South Africa: Monty Panesar</a>

Rohit Sharma's fitness report awaited

Captain Rohit Sharma, who will be missing the three-match Test series due to a hamstring injury, is currently recovering at the NCA. The selectors are waiting on his fitness report before taking a call on who can be the stand-in captain in case the Hitman misses the ODI series as well.

The ODI will series between India and South Africa is all set to get underway from January 19.

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India are all set to take on South Africa in a three-match Test series starting from Sunday (December 26). The Test series will be followed by three ODIs between the two sides.

India are all set to take on South Africa in a three-match Test series starting from Sunday (December 26). The Test series will be followed by three ODIs between the two sides. India are yet to announce their squad for the ODIs and the selectors are likely to sit down to pick the squad for the series in the next 48 hours. R Ashwin is likely to make his comeback in India's ODI squad for the South Africa series, as per a report in Cricbuzz. Ashwin, who has been a vital cog in India's Test squad, has been sidelined from white-ball cricket for a long time. He was surprisingly included in India's squad for the T20 World Cup 2021 which marked his return to the T20 team after a gap of three years. The off-spinner had last played an ODI match for India in June 2017 and will now be making his comeback in the ODI squad after a gap of over three years. As per Cricbuzz, the Indian think tank including head coach Rahul Dravid and white-ball captain Rohit Sharma have been left impressed by Ashwin's performances for India in T20Is recently and see him as part of their plans ahead of the 2023 ODI World Cup which will be played in India. Besides Ashwin, the selectors are also set to include youngsters Venkatesh Iyer and Ruturaj Gaikwad in the squad. Both Iyer and Gaikwad had brilliant IPL 2021 campaigns for their respective sides and have been making waves with their performances in the onging Vijay Hazare Trophy. While Gaikwad is the top-scorer with 603 runs from five matches, Iyer has 379 runs in six matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy so far. Iyer is being seen as one of the back-ups for all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is currently training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru to work on his fitness before he returns to the Indian team. The selectors are also set to take a call on the future of veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan, who has not played for India since captaining the team on the tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year. Also Read: Kohli knows his position could be up for grabs if he doesn't score runs in South Africa: Monty Panesar Rohit Sharma's fitness report awaited Captain Rohit Sharma, who will be missing the three-match Test series due to a hamstring injury, is currently recovering at the NCA. The selectors are waiting on his fitness report before taking a call on who can be the stand-in captain in case the Hitman misses the ODI series as well. The ODI will series between India and South Africa is all set to get underway from January 19.

Gaikwad, Iyer in fray; R Ashwin likely to return in India's ODI squad for South Africa series - Report

Senior India batter Cheteshwar Pujara continued his lean patch in the ongoing first Test against South Africa at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on Sunday (December 26). Pujara was dismissed on a golden duck in India's first innings as he went on to bag an unwanted record in the game.&nbsp;

Pujara came out to bat at no.3 for India after Lungi Ngidi broke the opening stand of 117 runs between KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. The fast bowler trapped Agarwal lbw on 60 before getting Pujara caught on the next delivery. Pujara failed to open his account in the game and it was his ninth duck in the longest format.

Pujara now has the unwanted record for most ducks for India while batting at no.3 in Tests. The right-hander overtook Dilip Vengsarkar, who has eight ducks to his name while batting at no.3 for India in Tests.

Most ducks for India at No. 3 in Tests

Pujara - 9 ducks

Vengsarkar - 8 ducks

Rahul Dravid - 7 ducks

Mohinder Amarnath - 6 ducks

Ajit Wadekar - 5 ducks

Pujara's rough patch has put immense pressure on the senior batter to up the ante as his spot in the team is under threat. In the recently-concluded two-match Test series against New Zealand at home, Pujara had managed only 95 runs in four innings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/last-throw-of-dice-aakash-chopra-ajit-agarkar-question-rahanes-selection-over-vihari-iyer-in-1st-test-440151">'Last throw of dice': Aakash Chopra, Ajit Agarkar question Rahane's selection over Vihari, Iyer in 1st Test</a>

India also named under-fire Ajinkya Rahane in the playing XI for the first Test despite the likes of Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari in the squad. Opting to bat first in the game, openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal got the visitors off to a flying start. Both Rahul and Agarwal slammed half-centuries apiece to post a 117-run stand for the first wicket.

After Pujara's dismissal on a duck, Rahul and Kohli combined to put India in a stronger position. While Rahul is inching towards a deserved century, Kohli is closing in on his half-century.

Senior India batter Cheteshwar Pujara continued his lean patch in the ongoing first Test against South Africa at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on Sunday (December 26).

Senior India batter Cheteshwar Pujara continued his lean patch in the ongoing first Test against South Africa at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on Sunday (December 26). Pujara was dismissed on a golden duck in India's first innings as he went on to bag an unwanted record in the game. Pujara came out to bat at no.3 for India after Lungi Ngidi broke the opening stand of 117 runs between KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. The fast bowler trapped Agarwal lbw on 60 before getting Pujara caught on the next delivery. Pujara failed to open his account in the game and it was his ninth duck in the longest format. Pujara now has the unwanted record for most ducks for India while batting at no.3 in Tests. The right-hander overtook Dilip Vengsarkar, who has eight ducks to his name while batting at no.3 for India in Tests. Most ducks for India at No. 3 in Tests Pujara - 9 ducks Vengsarkar - 8 ducks Rahul Dravid - 7 ducks Mohinder Amarnath - 6 ducks Ajit Wadekar - 5 ducks Pujara's rough patch has put immense pressure on the senior batter to up the ante as his spot in the team is under threat. In the recently-concluded two-match Test series against New Zealand at home, Pujara had managed only 95 runs in four innings. Also Read: 'Last throw of dice': Aakash Chopra, Ajit Agarkar question Rahane's selection over Vihari, Iyer in 1st Test India also named under-fire Ajinkya Rahane in the playing XI for the first Test despite the likes of Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari in the squad. Opting to bat first in the game, openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal got the visitors off to a flying start. Both Rahul and Agarwal slammed half-centuries apiece to post a 117-run stand for the first wicket. After Pujara's dismissal on a duck, Rahul and Kohli combined to put India in a stronger position. While Rahul is inching towards a deserved century, Kohli is closing in on his half-century.

Cheteshwar Pujara creates unwanted record after golden duck in Boxing Day Test against South Africa

Many were left surprised as India decided to name struggling senior batter Ajinkya Rahane in the playing XI for the first Test against South Africa that got underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on Sunday (December 26). It was not an easy call from the team management as Rahane has been undergoing a lean patch in the longest format for quite a while now.

India went with a total of five bowlers in the first Test as Shardul Thakur was picked as an all-rounder along with R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. Five bowlers meant, India had to do away with an extra batter in the playing XI as Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari both failed to make the cut for the series-opener.

Former Indian cricketers Aakash Chopra and Ajit Agarkar both were left unhappy with Rahane's selection over Iyer and Vihari as they questioned his spot in the playing XI. Chopra said it could be the last throw of dice from the Indian team management, hoping that Rahane could deliver and spark a turnaround for himself.

"Shreyas Iyer doesn't find a place in the spot and you've gone with Rahane, I think so it's the last throw of dice, hoping that it comes alright. If it doesn't, I think this is going to be a huge Test match for him," Chopra said on Star Sports.

Chopra also questioned India's decision to select five bowlers in the playing XI for the first Test, stating that South Africa's batting line-up isn't too strong at present and has not been setting the world on fire. Chopra said four bowlers would have been enough for India considering there is help for fast bowlers on the greenish track in Centurion.

“We have gone with five bowlers, personally I thought four were enough. I think if there is help in the surface for the faster bowlers, look at the opposition their batting is really not setting the world on fire four should be enough between three fast bowlers and Ashwin," said Chopra.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/horrendous-to-leave-him-out-fans-react-as-hanuma-vihari-excluded-from-playing-xi-for-1st-test-vs-sa-440119">&nbsp;'Horrendous to leave him out': Fans react as Hanuma Vihari excluded from playing XI for 1st Test vs SA</a>

Agarkar also agreed with Chopra's views on India's playing XI and said Rahane should not have been picked over the likes of Iyer and Vihari. While Iyer recently made a fantastic debut in the two-match Test series against New Zealand at home, Vihari slammed three half-centuries for India A on their tour of South Africa.

"Rahane did miss the last Test India played in Mumbai due to a niggle so you can say he's back in because he is an experienced campaigner, has done well before in these conditions. But I'm with Aakash, I would have either picked Vihari or Shreyas Iyer," said Agarkar. 
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Many were left surprised as India decided to name struggling senior batter Ajinkya Rahane in the playing XI for the first Test against South Africa that got underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on Sunday (December 26).

Many were left surprised as India decided to name struggling senior batter Ajinkya Rahane in the playing XI for the first Test against South Africa that got underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on Sunday (December 26). It was not an easy call from the team management as Rahane has been undergoing a lean patch in the longest format for quite a while now. India went with a total of five bowlers in the first Test as Shardul Thakur was picked as an all-rounder along with R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. Five bowlers meant, India had to do away with an extra batter in the playing XI as Shreyas Iyer and Hanuma Vihari both failed to make the cut for the series-opener. Former Indian cricketers Aakash Chopra and Ajit Agarkar both were left unhappy with Rahane's selection over Iyer and Vihari as they questioned his spot in the playing XI. Chopra said it could be the last throw of dice from the Indian team management, hoping that Rahane could deliver and spark a turnaround for himself. "Shreyas Iyer doesn't find a place in the spot and you've gone with Rahane, I think so it's the last throw of dice, hoping that it comes alright. If it doesn't, I think this is going to be a huge Test match for him," Chopra said on Star Sports. Chopra also questioned India's decision to select five bowlers in the playing XI for the first Test, stating that South Africa's batting line-up isn't too strong at present and has not been setting the world on fire. Chopra said four bowlers would have been enough for India considering there is help for fast bowlers on the greenish track in Centurion. “We have gone with five bowlers, personally I thought four were enough. I think if there is help in the surface for the faster bowlers, look at the opposition their batting is really not setting the world on fire four should be enough between three fast bowlers and Ashwin," said Chopra. Also Read: 'Horrendous to leave him out': Fans react as Hanuma Vihari excluded from playing XI for 1st Test vs SA Agarkar also agreed with Chopra's views on India's playing XI and said Rahane should not have been picked over the likes of Iyer and Vihari. While Iyer recently made a fantastic debut in the two-match Test series against New Zealand at home, Vihari slammed three half-centuries for India A on their tour of South Africa. "Rahane did miss the last Test India played in Mumbai due to a niggle so you can say he's back in because he is an experienced campaigner, has done well before in these conditions. But I'm with Aakash, I would have either picked Vihari or Shreyas Iyer," said Agarkar.

'Last throw of dice': Aakash Chopra, Ajit Agarkar question Rahane's selection over Vihari, Iyer in 1st Test

Indian spinner R Ashwin had recently recalled former India head coach Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav during the team's tour of Australia in 2018-19 and revealed he was 'crushed'. Shastri had back then labeled Kuldeep as India's no.1 spinner overseas after he had bagged a five-wicket haul in the Sydney Test against the Aussies. Ashwin was also part of the Indian squad for the Test series and was pipped by Kuldeep in the playing XI before Shastri's comments.

Opening up on the episode Down Under, Ashwin revealed he felt 'crushed' and didn't feel supported. The off-spinner said he wanted to enjoy his teammate's success in the game but Shastri's comments made him feel like he didn't 'belong' in the team's celebration after the game.&nbsp;

"I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. And I understand we all can say things and then retract them. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed," Ashwin had told ESPNCricinfo. Reacting to his comments, Shastri said it was good that Ashwin felt that way as it helped him bounce back stronger while adding that his job as the head coach of the Indian team was not to butter everyone's toast.

Former Indian selector Sarandeep Singh, who was part of the selection panel during India's tour of Australia in 2018-19, said Ashwin took Shastri's comments on the tour in a wrong way. Singh said Shastri was right in what he said.

"Ashwin took the comment in a wrong way. I was also there on the tour with Team India about which Shastri is talking. He meant to say that Kuldeep is a better bowler for us on overseas tour because his bowling style is different and Ashwin took this in another way and yes Shastri is right, his job is not to butter everyone toast," the former selector told ANI.

"Ashwin is a great bowler who has produced good bowling style in the African conditions. Also, he can be a game-changer for us. I don't think this will be his last tour as he has got a lot to perform," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-recalls-battle-with-pain-in-sydney-test-i-was-tearing-up-my-daughter-had-to-pull-up-my-shorts-440059">R Ashwin recalls battle with pain in Sydney Test: I was tearing up, my daughter had to pull up my shorts</a>

While Kuldeep is no more in the reckoning for a spot in the Indian Test side at present, Ashwin continues to be a vital cog of the team in the longest format. Ashwin has been a regular in Tests for India and has been delivering consistently. He is currently in action for the team in the first Test of the ongoing three-match series&nbsp;against South Africa in Centurion.

Indian spinner R Ashwin had recently recalled former India head coach Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav during the team's tour of Australia in 2018-19 and revealed he was 'crushed'.

Indian spinner R Ashwin had recently recalled former India head coach Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav during the team's tour of Australia in 2018-19 and revealed he was 'crushed'. Shastri had back then labeled Kuldeep as India's no.1 spinner overseas after he had bagged a five-wicket haul in the Sydney Test against the Aussies. Ashwin was also part of the Indian squad for the Test series and was pipped by Kuldeep in the playing XI before Shastri's comments. Opening up on the episode Down Under, Ashwin revealed he felt 'crushed' and didn't feel supported. The off-spinner said he wanted to enjoy his teammate's success in the game but Shastri's comments made him feel like he didn't 'belong' in the team's celebration after the game. "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. And I understand we all can say things and then retract them. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed," Ashwin had told ESPNCricinfo. Reacting to his comments, Shastri said it was good that Ashwin felt that way as it helped him bounce back stronger while adding that his job as the head coach of the Indian team was not to butter everyone's toast. Former Indian selector Sarandeep Singh, who was part of the selection panel during India's tour of Australia in 2018-19, said Ashwin took Shastri's comments on the tour in a wrong way. Singh said Shastri was right in what he said. "Ashwin took the comment in a wrong way. I was also there on the tour with Team India about which Shastri is talking. He meant to say that Kuldeep is a better bowler for us on overseas tour because his bowling style is different and Ashwin took this in another way and yes Shastri is right, his job is not to butter everyone toast," the former selector told ANI. "Ashwin is a great bowler who has produced good bowling style in the African conditions. Also, he can be a game-changer for us. I don't think this will be his last tour as he has got a lot to perform," he added. Also Read: R Ashwin recalls battle with pain in Sydney Test: I was tearing up, my daughter had to pull up my shorts While Kuldeep is no more in the reckoning for a spot in the Indian Test side at present, Ashwin continues to be a vital cog of the team in the longest format. Ashwin has been a regular in Tests for India and has been delivering consistently. He is currently in action for the team in the first Test of the ongoing three-match series against South Africa in Centurion.

R Ashwin took Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav in a wrong way, says former India selector

One of India's greatest spinners of all time, Harbhajan Singh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket earlier this week. Harbhajan drew curtains on a career that lasted over 23 years as he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker of all time for India across formats. The off-spinner had last played for India in 2016 and was since plying his trade only in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after being sidelined from the national team.

Harbhajan recently opened up on the highs and lows of his career and said he could have finished with 500 or more wickets in Tests for India, had he recieved support from the board and the team management. Harbhajan claimed he didn't need much support during his early days in international cricket in the early 2000s, however, he reckoned he required some support in 2012 when he was dropped from the team.

Harbhajan was part of India's 2011 World Cup-winning squad, however, his career went downhill after the team's triumph as he found himself on the sidelines. Harbhajan believes he could have ended up with over 500 Test wickets had he played 3-4 years more with the support of the team management.

"As long as there is support, it feels great. I would say that if the support had come at the right time, I would have taken 500-550 wickets long ago, because when I was 31 years old I had taken 400 wickets and if I had played for three-four more years I would have taken 500-550 wickets," Harbhajan said in an interview with Dainik Jagran.

"But, all that did not happen. There are so many reasons for that, if we go into that, we will dig up a lot of things, which I don't want to do," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/harbhajan-singh-retires-a-look-at-veteran-spinners-top-five-records-for-team-india-439590">Harbhajan Singh retires: A look at veteran spinner's top five records for Team India</a>

The former India spinner pointed out taking 400 wickets in Test cricket was no mean feat but he was not treated with respect by those in charge. Harbhajan said he tried to get in charge with a lot of people over his ouster from the Indian team but didn't get the answers he wanted. The veteran spinner called it the 'sad story of Indian cricket' to not treat players with respect once they are not required in the team.

"400 wickets are not obtained by bowling poorly. When someone takes 400 wickets, after that he does not get a chance to play and is not even told why he has been dropped. So many big questions were there in my mind, which no one answered. I tried to get in touch with many people, from the selectors to everyone, but then no one told me why I was dropped," said Harbhajan.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-recalls-battle-with-pain-in-sydney-test-i-was-tearing-up-my-daughter-had-to-pull-up-my-shorts-440059">R Ashwin recalls battle with pain in Sydney Test: I was tearing up, my daughter had to pull up my shorts</a>

"I asked them have I suddenly lost my appearance or my bowling has deteriorated or what has happened that you are not choosing me at all. There was no answer to this. And if this can happen to the 400 wicket-taker, then no one will ask the 40 wicket-taker. This is a sad story of Indian cricket where the one who has achieved something, isn't even talked to properly after he is not needed," he explained.

Harbhajan played 103 Tests, 236 ODIs and 28 T20Is in his international career, picking up 417, 269 and 25 wickets in the three formats respectively. He is only behind the legendary Anil Kumble in the list of Indian bowlers with the most wickets across all formats.

One of India's greatest spinners of all time, Harbhajan Singh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket earlier this week. Harbhajan drew curtains on a career that lasted over 23 years as he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker of all time for India across formats.

One of India's greatest spinners of all time, Harbhajan Singh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket earlier this week. Harbhajan drew curtains on a career that lasted over 23 years as he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker of all time for India across formats. The off-spinner had last played for India in 2016 and was since plying his trade only in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after being sidelined from the national team. Harbhajan recently opened up on the highs and lows of his career and said he could have finished with 500 or more wickets in Tests for India, had he recieved support from the board and the team management. Harbhajan claimed he didn't need much support during his early days in international cricket in the early 2000s, however, he reckoned he required some support in 2012 when he was dropped from the team. Harbhajan was part of India's 2011 World Cup-winning squad, however, his career went downhill after the team's triumph as he found himself on the sidelines. Harbhajan believes he could have ended up with over 500 Test wickets had he played 3-4 years more with the support of the team management. "As long as there is support, it feels great. I would say that if the support had come at the right time, I would have taken 500-550 wickets long ago, because when I was 31 years old I had taken 400 wickets and if I had played for three-four more years I would have taken 500-550 wickets," Harbhajan said in an interview with Dainik Jagran. "But, all that did not happen. There are so many reasons for that, if we go into that, we will dig up a lot of things, which I don't want to do," he added. Also Read: Harbhajan Singh retires: A look at veteran spinner's top five records for Team India The former India spinner pointed out taking 400 wickets in Test cricket was no mean feat but he was not treated with respect by those in charge. Harbhajan said he tried to get in charge with a lot of people over his ouster from the Indian team but didn't get the answers he wanted. The veteran spinner called it the 'sad story of Indian cricket' to not treat players with respect once they are not required in the team. "400 wickets are not obtained by bowling poorly. When someone takes 400 wickets, after that he does not get a chance to play and is not even told why he has been dropped. So many big questions were there in my mind, which no one answered. I tried to get in touch with many people, from the selectors to everyone, but then no one told me why I was dropped," said Harbhajan. Also Read: R Ashwin recalls battle with pain in Sydney Test: I was tearing up, my daughter had to pull up my shorts "I asked them have I suddenly lost my appearance or my bowling has deteriorated or what has happened that you are not choosing me at all. There was no answer to this. And if this can happen to the 400 wicket-taker, then no one will ask the 40 wicket-taker. This is a sad story of Indian cricket where the one who has achieved something, isn't even talked to properly after he is not needed," he explained. Harbhajan played 103 Tests, 236 ODIs and 28 T20Is in his international career, picking up 417, 269 and 25 wickets in the three formats respectively. He is only behind the legendary Anil Kumble in the list of Indian bowlers with the most wickets across all formats.

'No one told me why I was dropped': Harbhajan Singh opens up on 'sad story of Indian cricket' post retirement

Indian spinner R Ashwin has had a memorable 2021 as he looks set to finish the year as the highest wicket-taker in Tests. While he was among the wicket, Ashwin also made his comeback in India's T20I side after a gap of over three years as he found a spot in the squad for T20 World Cup 2021. The senior spinner was also part of several memorable wins for the Indian team throughout the year.

He played an instrumental role in some of India's top wins this year but one of his best performances came during the Sydney Test against Australia which had ended in a draw. Ashwin battled immense pain as he was struggling with a severe back spasm, to deliver a performance for the ages and set an example for others.

Ashwin had combined with Hanuma Vihari to script a stunning draw for India in the Test match. The duo stitched an unbeaten stand of 62 runs for the seventh wicket and played a staggering 289 deliveries between them to deny Australia a victory in the game.

Not many know, Ashwin was dealing with a severe back injury and was in terrible pain while batting during India's second innings to save the Test match. The spinner revealed he was&nbsp;wincing in lower-back pain after an injury during practice but bowled 14 overs at a stretch on Day 4 before producing a gritty batting display on Day 5.

"It [back spasm] was very freakish. I was wincing in lower-back pain after I had hurt myself during practice. Nitin [the physio] gave my heavy painkillers on Day 4 and I kept bowling," Ashwin said on the show - Backstage with Boria.

"I bowled two overs at Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, which took me to cross the pain barrier – I got used to the pain. I told Ajinkya Rahane [India’s stand-in captain] and Rohit Sharma that if you stop me, I won’t be able to bowl again. So, I went on [to bowl at a stretch] for 14 overs," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gaikwad-iyer-in-fray-r-ashwin-likely-to-return-in-indias-odi-squad-for-south-africa-series-report-440037">Gaikwad, Iyer in fray; R Ashwin likely to return in India's ODI squad for South Africa series - Report</a>

<h2>It was the worst night of my life: R Ashwin</h2>

On the night after bowling despite dealing with severe back pain, Ashwin said he endured the worst night of his life. The spinner revealed he couldn't put his back down when he tried to lie down after dinner and was not able to get up the next morning.

The spinner said his daughter held his shorts and pulled up his shorts for him while he was tearing up in pain to get ready to bat on Day 5 of the Test match. Nonetheless, he went on to bat and scored an unbeaten 39 off 128 balls to save the Test match for India.

“Australia declared later and I went back, but little did I know that I would have the worst night of my life. When I went after dinner to lie down, my back did not go down.

"I put a towel underneath my back, held my hip up and went to sleep. The next morning when I woke up, my mind was telling me to get up but I couldn’t. I was shouting and yelling; the children helped me get up, but I couldn’t," Ashwin recalled.

"I crawled outside the door and kept yelling for the physio. I went into a hot shower, so that’s when my back started warming up. I don’t know how I went to the game. My daughter held my shorts – she just pushed the shorts up, and as she pushed up my shorts, I was tearing up. My wife asked, ‘You are going to play a game?’. I said: ‘I have to’," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rishabh-pant-former-head-coach-ravi-shastri-names-2-players-who-can-captain-team-india-in-future-439901">Former head coach Ravi Shastri names 2 players who can captain Team India in future</a>

India went on to pull off a draw in the Sydney Test to head into the decider at the Gabba with series at 1-1. India ended Australia's dominance at their fortress Gabba with a 3-wicket win. The Ajinkya Rahane-led side became the first team to beat Australia at The Gabba in 32 years as India clinched the series 2-1.

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Indian spinner R Ashwin has had a memorable 2021 as he looks set to finish the year as the highest wicket-taker in Tests. While he was among the wicket, Ashwin also made his comeback in India's T20I side after a gap of over three years as he found a spot in the squad for T20 World Cup 2021.

Indian spinner R Ashwin has had a memorable 2021 as he looks set to finish the year as the highest wicket-taker in Tests. While he was among the wicket, Ashwin also made his comeback in India's T20I side after a gap of over three years as he found a spot in the squad for T20 World Cup 2021. The senior spinner was also part of several memorable wins for the Indian team throughout the year. He played an instrumental role in some of India's top wins this year but one of his best performances came during the Sydney Test against Australia which had ended in a draw. Ashwin battled immense pain as he was struggling with a severe back spasm, to deliver a performance for the ages and set an example for others. Ashwin had combined with Hanuma Vihari to script a stunning draw for India in the Test match. The duo stitched an unbeaten stand of 62 runs for the seventh wicket and played a staggering 289 deliveries between them to deny Australia a victory in the game. Not many know, Ashwin was dealing with a severe back injury and was in terrible pain while batting during India's second innings to save the Test match. The spinner revealed he was wincing in lower-back pain after an injury during practice but bowled 14 overs at a stretch on Day 4 before producing a gritty batting display on Day 5. "It [back spasm] was very freakish. I was wincing in lower-back pain after I had hurt myself during practice. Nitin [the physio] gave my heavy painkillers on Day 4 and I kept bowling," Ashwin said on the show - Backstage with Boria. "I bowled two overs at Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, which took me to cross the pain barrier – I got used to the pain. I told Ajinkya Rahane [India’s stand-in captain] and Rohit Sharma that if you stop me, I won’t be able to bowl again. So, I went on [to bowl at a stretch] for 14 overs," he added. Also Read: Gaikwad, Iyer in fray; R Ashwin likely to return in India's ODI squad for South Africa series - Report It was the worst night of my life: R Ashwin On the night after bowling despite dealing with severe back pain, Ashwin said he endured the worst night of his life. The spinner revealed he couldn't put his back down when he tried to lie down after dinner and was not able to get up the next morning. The spinner said his daughter held his shorts and pulled up his shorts for him while he was tearing up in pain to get ready to bat on Day 5 of the Test match. Nonetheless, he went on to bat and scored an unbeaten 39 off 128 balls to save the Test match for India. “Australia declared later and I went back, but little did I know that I would have the worst night of my life. When I went after dinner to lie down, my back did not go down. "I put a towel underneath my back, held my hip up and went to sleep. The next morning when I woke up, my mind was telling me to get up but I couldn’t. I was shouting and yelling; the children helped me get up, but I couldn’t," Ashwin recalled. "I crawled outside the door and kept yelling for the physio. I went into a hot shower, so that’s when my back started warming up. I don’t know how I went to the game. My daughter held my shorts – she just pushed the shorts up, and as she pushed up my shorts, I was tearing up. My wife asked, ‘You are going to play a game?’. I said: ‘I have to’," he added. Also Read: Former head coach Ravi Shastri names 2 players who can captain Team India in future India went on to pull off a draw in the Sydney Test to head into the decider at the Gabba with series at 1-1. India ended Australia's dominance at their fortress Gabba with a 3-wicket win. The Ajinkya Rahane-led side became the first team to beat Australia at The Gabba in 32 years as India clinched the series 2-1.

R Ashwin recalls battle with pain in Sydney Test: I was tearing up, my daughter had to pull up my shorts

Virat Kohli-led India will take on South Africa in a three-match Test series with the first encounter getting underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion from Sunday (December 26). India will be aiming to script history by registering their first-ever Test series win in South Africa this time around as the visitors have never won a series in the longest format of the game, against the Proteas in their own backyard.

India are a stronger unit compared to Dean Elgar-led South Africa with a great mix of youth and experience in their squad. The likes of Mayank Agarwal, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul have been in brilliant form in Tests while the bowlers have been delivering consistently for India. They have been backed by many to get the better of South Africa in the upcoming series.

While India will have their eyes set on the series, captain Kohli, who recently lost the ODI captaincy of the team to Rohit Sharma, will be looking to silence some of his critics with the bat. Kohli will also be chasing some personal milestones in the three-match rubber. Here is a look at four milestones he can achieve during the Test series against South Africa -

1) 71st century&nbsp;

Indian Test skipper Virat Kohli will be hoping to bring an end to his century drought in the upcoming Test series against South Africa. He last scored a hundred in the day-night Test against Bangladesh in August 2019 and has since been chasing the triple-figure mark across formats. He currently has 70 centuries under his belt in international cricket and is just one short of joining Ricky Ponting at the second spot in the list of most centuries in international cricket. Ponting retired with a total of 71 hundreds in international cricket. Kohli can overtake him and go second if he manages to score two centuries in the South Africa Test series.

2)&nbsp;8000 runs in Tests

Virat Kohli is on the cusp of becoming the sixth Indian batter to breach the 8000-run mark in Test cricket. One of the most prolific run-getters in the longest format over the last few years, Kohli currently has 7801 runs to his name in 97 Test matches at an average of over 50. He needs just 199 runs in the Test series against South Africa to complete the milestone of 8,000 runs in Tests.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gaikwad-iyer-in-fray-r-ashwin-likely-to-return-in-indias-odi-squad-for-south-africa-series-report-440037">Gaikwad, Iyer in fray; R Ashwin likely to return in India's ODI squad for South Africa series - Report</a>

3) 100 Tests for India&nbsp;

Virat Kohli can also join an elite list of Indian players to have played 100 Test matches for the country during the ongoing tour of South Africa. Kohli has so far played 97 Test matches for India in his career and needs to be in the playing XI for all three Tests in the South Africa series to get to the milestone of 100 Test matches. Ishant Sharma was the last player to complete 100 Tests for India. If he manages to avoid injuries, Kohli will complete 100 Tests on the ongoing tour of South Africa.

4) 100 catches in Tests

Virat Kohli is also on the verge of completing 100 catches in Test cricket. He currently has 98 catches to his name in the longest format and needs just two more to reach the milestone of a century of catches in the longest format of the game. 
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Virat Kohli-led India will take on South Africa in a three-match Test series with the first encounter getting underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion from Sunday (December 26).

Virat Kohli-led India will take on South Africa in a three-match Test series with the first encounter getting underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion from Sunday (December 26). India will be aiming to script history by registering their first-ever Test series win in South Africa this time around as the visitors have never won a series in the longest format of the game, against the Proteas in their own backyard. India are a stronger unit compared to Dean Elgar-led South Africa with a great mix of youth and experience in their squad. The likes of Mayank Agarwal, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul have been in brilliant form in Tests while the bowlers have been delivering consistently for India. They have been backed by many to get the better of South Africa in the upcoming series. While India will have their eyes set on the series, captain Kohli, who recently lost the ODI captaincy of the team to Rohit Sharma, will be looking to silence some of his critics with the bat. Kohli will also be chasing some personal milestones in the three-match rubber. Here is a look at four milestones he can achieve during the Test series against South Africa - 1) 71st century Indian Test skipper Virat Kohli will be hoping to bring an end to his century drought in the upcoming Test series against South Africa. He last scored a hundred in the day-night Test against Bangladesh in August 2019 and has since been chasing the triple-figure mark across formats. He currently has 70 centuries under his belt in international cricket and is just one short of joining Ricky Ponting at the second spot in the list of most centuries in international cricket. Ponting retired with a total of 71 hundreds in international cricket. Kohli can overtake him and go second if he manages to score two centuries in the South Africa Test series. 2) 8000 runs in Tests Virat Kohli is on the cusp of becoming the sixth Indian batter to breach the 8000-run mark in Test cricket. One of the most prolific run-getters in the longest format over the last few years, Kohli currently has 7801 runs to his name in 97 Test matches at an average of over 50. He needs just 199 runs in the Test series against South Africa to complete the milestone of 8,000 runs in Tests. Also Read: Gaikwad, Iyer in fray; R Ashwin likely to return in India's ODI squad for South Africa series - Report 3) 100 Tests for India Virat Kohli can also join an elite list of Indian players to have played 100 Test matches for the country during the ongoing tour of South Africa. Kohli has so far played 97 Test matches for India in his career and needs to be in the playing XI for all three Tests in the South Africa series to get to the milestone of 100 Test matches. Ishant Sharma was the last player to complete 100 Tests for India. If he manages to avoid injuries, Kohli will complete 100 Tests on the ongoing tour of South Africa. 4) 100 catches in Tests Virat Kohli is also on the verge of completing 100 catches in Test cricket. He currently has 98 catches to his name in the longest format and needs just two more to reach the milestone of a century of catches in the longest format of the game.

4 major milestones Indian skipper Virat Kohli can achieve in Test series against South Africa

Veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Friday (December 24) as he drew curtains on an illustrious career spanning over 23 years. One of the best spinners to have played for India, Harbhajan is the second-highest wicket-taker for India across formats behind only legendary Anil Kumble.

Harbhajan, who made his international debut for India in March 1998, last played for India in 2015. He was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup-winning squads under MS Dhoni. He also played an instrumental role in India's several memorable wins both at home and away from home.

Harbhajan played under several great captains during his playing days for India but rates Ganguly the highest. He recently opened up on comparisons between Dhoni and Ganguly as captains and called the latter the leader who made him the cricketer that he is today.

Opening up on the comparison between two of the greatest Indian captains of all time, Harbhajan picked Ganguly as his favourite for the way he fought for him at the start of his career and groomed him into a match-winner. The veteran spinner said he was a 'no one' when Ganguly handled him but had become someone by the time Dhoni became captain of the Indian team.

"It’s a simple answer for me. Sourav Ganguly had held me at that juncture of my career when I was a ‘No One’. But when Dhoni became the captain, I was a “Someone”. So you need to understand the big difference,"&nbsp;Harbhajan told PTI, comparing Ganguly and Dhoni.

"Dada knew I had skills but didn’t know whether I will deliver. In case of Dhoni, he knew that I have been there and done that. He knew that I have won matches before him and will win a few for him also."

"In life and in profession, you need that one person, who will guide you at the proper moment and Sourav was that man for me. If Sourav wouldn’t have fought for me and got me in the team, who knows, today you might not be taking this interview of mine. Sourav is the leader who made me what I am," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/those-who-say-cricket-is-a-batsmans-game-gambhirs-tweet-for-harbhajan-on-retirement-wins-hearts-439625">'Those who say cricket is a batsman's game...': Gambhir's tweet for Harbhajan on retirement wins hearts</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/those-who-say-cricket-is-a-batsmans-game-gambhirs-tweet-for-harbhajan-on-retirement-wins-hearts-439625">T</a>hough, Habhajan picked Ganguly over Dhoni, he insisted the 2007 and 2011 World Cup-winning captain was also a great leader, who carried Ganguly's legacy forward and inspired India to memorable triumphs under his captaincy. Dhoni remains the only captain to have won all three major limited-overs trophies.

“But yes, Dhoni certainly was a very good captain and he carried the legacy of Sourav and with Dhoni, together we fought some great battles that I will certainly cherish," said Harbhajan. 
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Veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Friday (December 24) as he drew curtains on an illustrious career spanning over 23 years.

Veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Friday (December 24) as he drew curtains on an illustrious career spanning over 23 years. One of the best spinners to have played for India, Harbhajan is the second-highest wicket-taker for India across formats behind only legendary Anil Kumble. Harbhajan, who made his international debut for India in March 1998, last played for India in 2015. He was part of India's 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup-winning squads under MS Dhoni. He also played an instrumental role in India's several memorable wins both at home and away from home. Harbhajan played under several great captains during his playing days for India but rates Ganguly the highest. He recently opened up on comparisons between Dhoni and Ganguly as captains and called the latter the leader who made him the cricketer that he is today. Opening up on the comparison between two of the greatest Indian captains of all time, Harbhajan picked Ganguly as his favourite for the way he fought for him at the start of his career and groomed him into a match-winner. The veteran spinner said he was a 'no one' when Ganguly handled him but had become someone by the time Dhoni became captain of the Indian team. "It’s a simple answer for me. Sourav Ganguly had held me at that juncture of my career when I was a ‘No One’. But when Dhoni became the captain, I was a “Someone”. So you need to understand the big difference," Harbhajan told PTI, comparing Ganguly and Dhoni. "Dada knew I had skills but didn’t know whether I will deliver. In case of Dhoni, he knew that I have been there and done that. He knew that I have won matches before him and will win a few for him also." "In life and in profession, you need that one person, who will guide you at the proper moment and Sourav was that man for me. If Sourav wouldn’t have fought for me and got me in the team, who knows, today you might not be taking this interview of mine. Sourav is the leader who made me what I am," he added. Also Read: 'Those who say cricket is a batsman's game...': Gambhir's tweet for Harbhajan on retirement wins hearts Though, Habhajan picked Ganguly over Dhoni, he insisted the 2007 and 2011 World Cup-winning captain was also a great leader, who carried Ganguly's legacy forward and inspired India to memorable triumphs under his captaincy. Dhoni remains the only captain to have won all three major limited-overs trophies. “But yes, Dhoni certainly was a very good captain and he carried the legacy of Sourav and with Dhoni, together we fought some great battles that I will certainly cherish," said Harbhajan.

Sourav Ganguly held me when I was 'no one', I was 'someone' when Dhoni became captain: Harbhajan Singh

Former England spinner Monty Panesar believes Virat Kohli's position could be up for grabs in the Indian Test tea if he fails to score runs in the upcoming Test series against South Africa. India will lock horns in the first Test against the Proteas at the SuperSport Park in Centurion starting from Sunday (December 26).&nbsp;

Kohli has been under fire ever since India's exit from the T20 World Cup 2021 where the Men in Blue failed to qualify for the semi-finals. While he stepped down as the T20I captain of the side post the T20 World Cup, Kohli was sacked as ODI captain earlier this month and replaced by Rohit Sharma.

Panesar pointed out Kohli will be under immense pressure to perform having been sacked from ODI captaincy. However, he insisted India winning the series will help Kohli's cause even if he fails to perform with the bat.

"I think he will be very motivated because he knows that if he does not score a lot of runs in Test cricket then that position could be up for grabs as well,"&nbsp;Panesar told ANI.

"So, he is under pressure to perform but he needs to do well and actually get some wins and even India are winning and he does not score the runs that still is a positive for Virat Kohli because he knows how to get the best out of an individual," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thats-the-role-of-selectors-rahul-dravid-reacts-to-odi-captaincy-row-between-virat-kohli-and-bcci-439930">'That's the role of selectors': Rahul Dravid reacts to ODI captaincy row between Virat Kohli and BCCI</a>

The former England spinner backed India to script history and win their maiden Test series in South Africa this time around. India have never managed to win a Test series against the Proteas in their own backyard and have so far clinched only three Test wins in the Rainbow nation.

"I think India have got a great chance. They seem like a favourite to win that series. They know how to win now away from India and that is to do with Ravi Shastri's coaching philosophy," said Panesar.

"He really instilled that belief, the motivation to say guys any situation we are going to fight and if you are in a dominant position then we are going to keep our foot on the throat.

"So, I think it is still there within this Indian team and this will be historic for Indian cricket for them to win their first series in South Africa and this is their best chance. They have got a stronger team. Their team is much stronger than the South Africans. I think India are firm favourites to win the series," he added.

India are heading into the series on the back of a 1-0 win in the recently-concluded two-match Test series against New Zealand at home and will be riding high on confidence against a Proteas side, which is missing some of the big names this time around.

Former England spinner Monty Panesar believes Virat Kohli's position could be up for grabs in the Indian Test tea if he fails to score runs in the upcoming Test series against South Africa.

Former England spinner Monty Panesar believes Virat Kohli's position could be up for grabs in the Indian Test tea if he fails to score runs in the upcoming Test series against South Africa. India will lock horns in the first Test against the Proteas at the SuperSport Park in Centurion starting from Sunday (December 26). Kohli has been under fire ever since India's exit from the T20 World Cup 2021 where the Men in Blue failed to qualify for the semi-finals. While he stepped down as the T20I captain of the side post the T20 World Cup, Kohli was sacked as ODI captain earlier this month and replaced by Rohit Sharma. Panesar pointed out Kohli will be under immense pressure to perform having been sacked from ODI captaincy. However, he insisted India winning the series will help Kohli's cause even if he fails to perform with the bat. "I think he will be very motivated because he knows that if he does not score a lot of runs in Test cricket then that position could be up for grabs as well," Panesar told ANI. "So, he is under pressure to perform but he needs to do well and actually get some wins and even India are winning and he does not score the runs that still is a positive for Virat Kohli because he knows how to get the best out of an individual," he added. Also Read: 'That's the role of selectors': Rahul Dravid reacts to ODI captaincy row between Virat Kohli and BCCI The former England spinner backed India to script history and win their maiden Test series in South Africa this time around. India have never managed to win a Test series against the Proteas in their own backyard and have so far clinched only three Test wins in the Rainbow nation. "I think India have got a great chance. They seem like a favourite to win that series. They know how to win now away from India and that is to do with Ravi Shastri's coaching philosophy," said Panesar. "He really instilled that belief, the motivation to say guys any situation we are going to fight and if you are in a dominant position then we are going to keep our foot on the throat. "So, I think it is still there within this Indian team and this will be historic for Indian cricket for them to win their first series in South Africa and this is their best chance. They have got a stronger team. Their team is much stronger than the South Africans. I think India are firm favourites to win the series," he added. India are heading into the series on the back of a 1-0 win in the recently-concluded two-match Test series against New Zealand at home and will be riding high on confidence against a Proteas side, which is missing some of the big names this time around.

Virat Kohli knows his position could be up for grabs if he doesn't score runs in South Africa: Monty Panesar

India head coach Rahul Dravid recently reacted to the raging row between Virat Kohli and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over ODI captaincy. Kohli was sacked as ODI captain earlier this month with Rohit Sharma taking over. Ever since his sacking, Indian cricket has been engulfed in one of the&nbsp;biggest controversies&nbsp;in recent times.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of India's departure for the South Africa tour, Kohli had contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's comments about his sacking as ODI captain. Kohli debunked Ganguly's claims that the BCCI president had asked him to not give up India's T20 captaincy in October this year. The Indian Test skipper also revealed there was no prior communication from the BCCI about the change in ODI captaincy.

Kohli said he was informed about the decision only 90 minutes before it was made official. Kohli's comments in public put both Ganguly and the BCCI in a spot of bother ahead of India's tour of South Africa. India head coach Dravid broke his silence on the controversy for the first time on Saturday.

Dravid refused to reveal details of his conversations with Kohli in the build-up to the decision and said the move was a call from the selectors. The head coach also said he would not like to discuss his internal conversations in the media.

"To be honest, that's the role of the selectors. Not going to get into conversations I might or might not have had. Not the place or time for that, or for discussing my internal conversations in the media," said Dravid in the presser.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-seems-to-be-in-good-space-rahul-dravid-on-batters-rough-patch-ahead-of-sa-test-series-439913">&nbsp;Rahane seems to be in good space: Rahul Dravid on batter's rough patch ahead of SA Test series</a>

Dravid also lauded Kohli for leading the Indian Test team extremely well. He said the Indian captain has played a massive role in India's recent domination in the longest format and is someone who loves Test cricket. Kohli is India's most successful Test captain of all time with 39 wins in 66 matches as skipper.

"We want to keep improving and Virat has played a huge role in that. He has been fantastic as a captain and leader. He is one of those people who loves test cricket," Dravid said.

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India head coach Rahul Dravid recently reacted to the raging row between Virat Kohli and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over ODI captaincy. Kohli was sacked as ODI captain earlier this month with Rohit Sharma taking over.

India head coach Rahul Dravid recently reacted to the raging row between Virat Kohli and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over ODI captaincy. Kohli was sacked as ODI captain earlier this month with Rohit Sharma taking over. Ever since his sacking, Indian cricket has been engulfed in one of the biggest controversies in recent times. Speaking at a press conference ahead of India's departure for the South Africa tour, Kohli had contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's comments about his sacking as ODI captain. Kohli debunked Ganguly's claims that the BCCI president had asked him to not give up India's T20 captaincy in October this year. The Indian Test skipper also revealed there was no prior communication from the BCCI about the change in ODI captaincy. Kohli said he was informed about the decision only 90 minutes before it was made official. Kohli's comments in public put both Ganguly and the BCCI in a spot of bother ahead of India's tour of South Africa. India head coach Dravid broke his silence on the controversy for the first time on Saturday. Dravid refused to reveal details of his conversations with Kohli in the build-up to the decision and said the move was a call from the selectors. The head coach also said he would not like to discuss his internal conversations in the media. "To be honest, that's the role of the selectors. Not going to get into conversations I might or might not have had. Not the place or time for that, or for discussing my internal conversations in the media," said Dravid in the presser. Also Read: Rahane seems to be in good space: Rahul Dravid on batter's rough patch ahead of SA Test series Dravid also lauded Kohli for leading the Indian Test team extremely well. He said the Indian captain has played a massive role in India's recent domination in the longest format and is someone who loves Test cricket. Kohli is India's most successful Test captain of all time with 39 wins in 66 matches as skipper. "We want to keep improving and Virat has played a huge role in that. He has been fantastic as a captain and leader. He is one of those people who loves test cricket," Dravid said. .

'That's the role of selectors': Rahul Dravid reacts to ODI captaincy row between Virat Kohli and BCCI

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has named a couple of players who he feels are string contenders to lead the Indian cricket team in the future. Rohit Sharma recently took over from Virat Kohli as ODI and T20I captain of the Indian team after the T20 World Cup debacle where the Men in Blue had failed to qualify for the semi-finals.

Shastri was also replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach of the team as his contract expired post the T20 World Cup. The former head coach feels KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer are two players who are contenders to be an Indian captain in the future. He revealed the names while speaking about Dravid replacing him as the head coach.

"Rahul Dravid knows his job. All I want to say to him is enjoy. KL Rahul is there, Shreyas Iyer has good leading qualities in the future especially in white-ball cricket," Shastri told Indian Express.

Rahul is already part of India's leadership group and has been appointed the team's full-time vice-captain in white-ball cricket with Rohit leading the team. He also was named the stand-in vice-captain of the Test team for the upcoming Test series against South Africa after an injury to Rohit, who was to be Virat Kohli's deputy for the series.

Rahul has also led Punjab Kings for two seasons in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has been a regular across formats for Team India over the last few years. He is likely to lead whichever team he decides to join ahead of the IPL mega auction having left Punjab Kings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-held-me-when-i-was-no-one-i-was-someone-when-dhoni-became-captain-harbhajan-singh-439726">Ganguly held me when I was 'no one', I was 'someone' when Dhoni became captain: Harbhajan&nbsp;</a>

Meanwhile, Iyer has also been fantastic as a captain in the IPL and has shown great leadership qualities with Delhi Capitals. He inspired Delhi to their maiden final in IPL 2020. However, Iyer is yet to take a leadership role in the Indian team.

Nonetheless, Shastri, who has observed him from close quarters during his coaching stint, believes Iyer has the potential to lead India in the future. Currently, Rohit is India's white-ball captain while Kohli continues to lead the side in Tests.

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Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has named a couple of players who he feels are string contenders to lead the Indian cricket team in the future. Rohit Sharma recently took over from Virat Kohli as ODI and T20I captain of the Indian team after the T20 World Cup debacle where the Men in Blue had failed to qualify for the semi-finals.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has named a couple of players who he feels are string contenders to lead the Indian cricket team in the future. Rohit Sharma recently took over from Virat Kohli as ODI and T20I captain of the Indian team after the T20 World Cup debacle where the Men in Blue had failed to qualify for the semi-finals. Shastri was also replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach of the team as his contract expired post the T20 World Cup. The former head coach feels KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer are two players who are contenders to be an Indian captain in the future. He revealed the names while speaking about Dravid replacing him as the head coach. "Rahul Dravid knows his job. All I want to say to him is enjoy. KL Rahul is there, Shreyas Iyer has good leading qualities in the future especially in white-ball cricket," Shastri told Indian Express. Rahul is already part of India's leadership group and has been appointed the team's full-time vice-captain in white-ball cricket with Rohit leading the team. He also was named the stand-in vice-captain of the Test team for the upcoming Test series against South Africa after an injury to Rohit, who was to be Virat Kohli's deputy for the series. Rahul has also led Punjab Kings for two seasons in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has been a regular across formats for Team India over the last few years. He is likely to lead whichever team he decides to join ahead of the IPL mega auction having left Punjab Kings. Also Read: Ganguly held me when I was 'no one', I was 'someone' when Dhoni became captain: Harbhajan Meanwhile, Iyer has also been fantastic as a captain in the IPL and has shown great leadership qualities with Delhi Capitals. He inspired Delhi to their maiden final in IPL 2020. However, Iyer is yet to take a leadership role in the Indian team. Nonetheless, Shastri, who has observed him from close quarters during his coaching stint, believes Iyer has the potential to lead India in the future. Currently, Rohit is India's white-ball captain while Kohli continues to lead the side in Tests.

Not Rishabh Pant! Former head coach Ravi Shastri names 2 players who can captain Team India in future

India head coach Rahul Dravid on Saturday, addressed the pre-match press conference ahead of the team's first Test against South Africa in the upcoming three-match series. The Indian team is gearing up to face the hosts in the Boxing Day Test that gets underway from December 26 (Sunday) at the SuperSport Park in Centurion.&nbsp;

This will be head coach Dravid's first major assignment overseas with the Indian team since replacing Ravi Shastri. Though India are a strong unit heading into the series and are riding high on confidence having defeated New Zealand 1-0 at home recently, the South Africa Test series is going to be a huge challenge for Virat Kohli and his men.

India have never won a Test series against the Proteas in their own backyard and have a woeful record against the hosts. However, India appear&nbsp;favourites this time around with a great balance of youth and experience in their squad and are up against a South African side that is in transition.&nbsp;

Ahead of the first Test, India's biggest concern is the form of senior batters like Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. While Pujara is likely to get the nod in the playing XI, Rahane's recent struggles might see him miss out on a spot in the team. Rahane was recently replaced as the vice-captain of the Test tea by Rohit Sharma, owing to his poor form. However, KL Rahul will be Kohli's deputy in the Test series due to Rohit's injury.

Opening up on Rahane's lean patch, Dravid said he has had positive conversations with the senior batter, who currently seems in a good space ahead of the series. "The conversations with him have been very positive, he's training really well this week. The conversations are no different from actually with most of the players. He seems to be in a really good space," Dravid said in the press conference.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-there-when-virat-kohli-made-his-debut-his-growth-as-a-cricketer-has-been-phenomenal-rahul-dravid-439798">I was there when Virat Kohli made his debut, his growth as a cricketer has been phenomenal: Dravid</a>

When asked about Rahane's chances of featuring in the playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against South Africa, Dravid refused to give out details and said the team combination has already been decided for the Boxing Day encounter.

"In terms of the playing XI, who's going to play you know, I think we're very clear within our group, what the kind of team is going to be leading into the Boxing Day test match," the India head coach added.

It remains to be seen if Rahane will be trusted in the series-opener on a Centurion track which is expected to assist the pacers, or if India will head into the game with Shreyas Iyer, who had a fantastic debut series against New Zealand at home.

India head coach Rahul Dravid on Saturday, addressed the pre-match press conference ahead of the team's first Test against South Africa in the upcoming three-match series.

India head coach Rahul Dravid on Saturday, addressed the pre-match press conference ahead of the team's first Test against South Africa in the upcoming three-match series. The Indian team is gearing up to face the hosts in the Boxing Day Test that gets underway from December 26 (Sunday) at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. This will be head coach Dravid's first major assignment overseas with the Indian team since replacing Ravi Shastri. Though India are a strong unit heading into the series and are riding high on confidence having defeated New Zealand 1-0 at home recently, the South Africa Test series is going to be a huge challenge for Virat Kohli and his men. India have never won a Test series against the Proteas in their own backyard and have a woeful record against the hosts. However, India appear favourites this time around with a great balance of youth and experience in their squad and are up against a South African side that is in transition. Ahead of the first Test, India's biggest concern is the form of senior batters like Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. While Pujara is likely to get the nod in the playing XI, Rahane's recent struggles might see him miss out on a spot in the team. Rahane was recently replaced as the vice-captain of the Test tea by Rohit Sharma, owing to his poor form. However, KL Rahul will be Kohli's deputy in the Test series due to Rohit's injury. Opening up on Rahane's lean patch, Dravid said he has had positive conversations with the senior batter, who currently seems in a good space ahead of the series. "The conversations with him have been very positive, he's training really well this week. The conversations are no different from actually with most of the players. He seems to be in a really good space," Dravid said in the press conference. Also Read: I was there when Virat Kohli made his debut, his growth as a cricketer has been phenomenal: Dravid When asked about Rahane's chances of featuring in the playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against South Africa, Dravid refused to give out details and said the team combination has already been decided for the Boxing Day encounter. "In terms of the playing XI, who's going to play you know, I think we're very clear within our group, what the kind of team is going to be leading into the Boxing Day test match," the India head coach added. It remains to be seen if Rahane will be trusted in the series-opener on a Centurion track which is expected to assist the pacers, or if India will head into the game with Shreyas Iyer, who had a fantastic debut series against New Zealand at home.

Ajinkya Rahane seems to be in good space: Rahul Dravid on batter's rough patch ahead of SA Test series

India are all set to take on South Africa in a three-match Test series starting from December 26. The first Test will be a Boxing Day game that gets underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion from Sunday. India are heading into the series on a confident note after defeating world Test champions New Zealand 1-0 in the recently-concluded two-match series at home but the South Africa series will be one of the most challenging assignments for the Virat Kohli-led side.

India have never won a Test series in South Africa and have managed only three wins in Test matches in the Rainbow nation so far in their cricketing history. India have always found it difficult to take down the Proteas in their own backyard in the longest format of the game.

However, with a South Africa team that is currently not on top of its game, and India running high on confidence with a number of talented players in their line-up, it might be a different result this time around. However, former India opener and popular commentator Aakash Chopra believes India won't be able to win the Test series in South Africa this year as well.

Speaking in a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra predicted the three-match series to end in a 1-1 draw. He said he would have predicted South Africa to win it 2-1 but an injury to their premie pacer Anrich Nortje has improved India's chances in the Test series. Not just Nortje, South Africa are also set to miss Quinton De Kock for a part of the series.

"I don't see India winning this right now, I mean it is difficult. I would have said 2-1 for South Africa if Nortje was playing. Nortje is not there, I am saying this series can again end at 1-1. There is a chance of a drawn Test match, the first Test could be in slight trouble because of rain," said Chopra.

"It is going to be interesting but I feel this might be a drawn series. 51% South Africa, 49% India. That's what I am thinking at this point in time. If any team wins, I feel that will be South Africa," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-why-series-opener-between-india-south-africa-will-be-called-boxing-day-test-439678">Explained! Why series-opener between India-South Africa will be called Boxing Day Test?</a>

South Africa are no more the giants of Test cricket that they once were and have had to deal with a fair share of their own struggles. The team is in transition and will also miss former captain Faf du Plessis, who has already retired from the longest format. While admitting that the current South Africa side has not been able to produce the desired results, Chopra said the hosts have started to regroup well recently.

"It is not that South Africa's team is flying high. I think they are starting to regroup really well. The World Cup has shown that they have the players, where the things are falling in place but it is still a team in transition," said the former India batter.

India have their best chance to win a Test series in South Africa this year considering the talent and experience in their squad and the lack of big names in the South Africa line-up. Kohli, who has led India to some phenomenal wins overseas, will be looking to script history by inspiring the team to their maiden triumph against the Proteas in their own backyard.

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India are all set to take on South Africa in a three-match Test series starting from December 26. The first Test will be a Boxing Day game that gets underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion from Sunday.

India are all set to take on South Africa in a three-match Test series starting from December 26. The first Test will be a Boxing Day game that gets underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion from Sunday. India are heading into the series on a confident note after defeating world Test champions New Zealand 1-0 in the recently-concluded two-match series at home but the South Africa series will be one of the most challenging assignments for the Virat Kohli-led side. India have never won a Test series in South Africa and have managed only three wins in Test matches in the Rainbow nation so far in their cricketing history. India have always found it difficult to take down the Proteas in their own backyard in the longest format of the game. However, with a South Africa team that is currently not on top of its game, and India running high on confidence with a number of talented players in their line-up, it might be a different result this time around. However, former India opener and popular commentator Aakash Chopra believes India won't be able to win the Test series in South Africa this year as well. Speaking in a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra predicted the three-match series to end in a 1-1 draw. He said he would have predicted South Africa to win it 2-1 but an injury to their premie pacer Anrich Nortje has improved India's chances in the Test series. Not just Nortje, South Africa are also set to miss Quinton De Kock for a part of the series. "I don't see India winning this right now, I mean it is difficult. I would have said 2-1 for South Africa if Nortje was playing. Nortje is not there, I am saying this series can again end at 1-1. There is a chance of a drawn Test match, the first Test could be in slight trouble because of rain," said Chopra. "It is going to be interesting but I feel this might be a drawn series. 51% South Africa, 49% India. That's what I am thinking at this point in time. If any team wins, I feel that will be South Africa," he added. Also Read: Explained! Why series-opener between India-South Africa will be called Boxing Day Test? South Africa are no more the giants of Test cricket that they once were and have had to deal with a fair share of their own struggles. The team is in transition and will also miss former captain Faf du Plessis, who has already retired from the longest format. While admitting that the current South Africa side has not been able to produce the desired results, Chopra said the hosts have started to regroup well recently. "It is not that South Africa's team is flying high. I think they are starting to regroup really well. The World Cup has shown that they have the players, where the things are falling in place but it is still a team in transition," said the former India batter. India have their best chance to win a Test series in South Africa this year considering the talent and experience in their squad and the lack of big names in the South Africa line-up. Kohli, who has led India to some phenomenal wins overseas, will be looking to script history by inspiring the team to their maiden triumph against the Proteas in their own backyard.

'Don't see India winning this': Former opener makes bold prediction ahead of South Africa Test series

Rahul Dravid was part of the Indian team when a young Virat Kohli made his Test debut for India in&nbsp;2011. Kohli has since gone on to become one of the best batsmen of the current era and has established his credentials as a modern-day great with his batting heroics across formats.

He has been one of India's most consistent run-getters over the years and is currently one of the most loved sportspersons in the world. Kohli's growth both as a cricketer and as a person has been 'phenomenal' as per head coach Dravid, who has lauded the Test skipper for driving the culture of the current Indian team.

"I was there when he made his debut, batted with him in that match. It's phenomenal 10 years later to see how he has grown as a cricketer and a person," head coach Dravid said in an interview with&nbsp;BCCI.TV.

On his Test debut for India against West Indies in 2011, Kohli had batted with Dravid in the second innings in Kingston, Jamaica. Kohli had scored 4 runs in the first innings and got 15 runs in the second innings. He shared a 43-run stand with Dravid in the second innings.

Kohli has since gone on to become one of India's most successful Test batters and the best Test captain that the country has ever produced. Kohli currently has 7801 runs to his name in 97 Test matches at an average of over 50. He has led India to 39 wins in 66 Tests as captain - the most by an Indian captain.

"Just the kind of performances he has had for India over the last 10 years, with the bat and the way he has led the team, have been terrific. In a lot of ways he has driven the culture of this team whether it be with fitness or energy or ambition. From the outside, it has been fascinating to watch," said Dravid as he lauded the Indian Test skipper.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>'s transformation 
Excitement about SA challenge br&gt;Initial few months as Head Coach 
 
Rahul Dravid discusses it all as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> gear up for the first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> Test in Centurion. 
 
Watch the full interview <a href="https://t.co/2H0FlKQG7q">https://t.co/2H0FlKQG7q</a> <a href="https://t.co/vrwqz5uQA8">pic.twitter.com/vrwqz5uQA8</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1474610784143491073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-in-awe-of-83-couldnt-have-relived-most-iconic-moment-of-indian-cricket-in-a-better-manner-439791">Virat Kohli in awe of 83: Couldn't have relived most iconic moment of Indian cricket in a better manner</a>

Dravid said he is looking forward to supporting Kohli in the Indian dressing room. The India head coach also called him one player who keeps evolving and has kept getting better with time by producing consistent performances with the bat.

"Coming into this environment, being part of it and supporting him along the way is something I am really looking forward to. He has always improved. I think he is one of those players who keeps evolving, getting better and keeps pushing himself and has had great success wherever he has played," said Dravid.

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Rahul Dravid was part of the Indian team when a young Virat Kohli made his Test debut for India in 2011. Kohli has since gone on to become one of the best batsmen of the current era and has established his credentials as a modern-day great with his batting heroics across formats.

Rahul Dravid was part of the Indian team when a young Virat Kohli made his Test debut for India in 2011. Kohli has since gone on to become one of the best batsmen of the current era and has established his credentials as a modern-day great with his batting heroics across formats. He has been one of India's most consistent run-getters over the years and is currently one of the most loved sportspersons in the world. Kohli's growth both as a cricketer and as a person has been 'phenomenal' as per head coach Dravid, who has lauded the Test skipper for driving the culture of the current Indian team. "I was there when he made his debut, batted with him in that match. It's phenomenal 10 years later to see how he has grown as a cricketer and a person," head coach Dravid said in an interview with BCCI.TV. On his Test debut for India against West Indies in 2011, Kohli had batted with Dravid in the second innings in Kingston, Jamaica. Kohli had scored 4 runs in the first innings and got 15 runs in the second innings. He shared a 43-run stand with Dravid in the second innings. Kohli has since gone on to become one of India's most successful Test batters and the best Test captain that the country has ever produced. Kohli currently has 7801 runs to his name in 97 Test matches at an average of over 50. He has led India to 39 wins in 66 Tests as captain - the most by an Indian captain. "Just the kind of performances he has had for India over the last 10 years, with the bat and the way he has led the team, have been terrific. In a lot of ways he has driven the culture of this team whether it be with fitness or energy or ambition. From the outside, it has been fascinating to watch," said Dravid as he lauded the Indian Test skipper. .@imVkohli's transformation Excitement about SA challenge br>Initial few months as Head Coach Rahul Dravid discusses it all as #TeamIndia gear up for the first #SAvIND Test in Centurion. Watch the full interview https://t.co/2H0FlKQG7q pic.twitter.com/vrwqz5uQA8 — BCCI (@BCCI) December 25, 2021 × Also Read: Virat Kohli in awe of 83: Couldn't have relived most iconic moment of Indian cricket in a better manner Dravid said he is looking forward to supporting Kohli in the Indian dressing room. The India head coach also called him one player who keeps evolving and has kept getting better with time by producing consistent performances with the bat. "Coming into this environment, being part of it and supporting him along the way is something I am really looking forward to. He has always improved. I think he is one of those players who keeps evolving, getting better and keeps pushing himself and has had great success wherever he has played," said Dravid.

I was there when Virat Kohli made his debut, his growth as a cricketer has been phenomenal: Rahul Dravid

Team India enjoyed the services of MS Dhoni as mentor for the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The move was made by the BCCI so that Dhoni's presence would help the youngsters in an ICC event and guide the team to their first-ever ICC-trophy since 2013.

While India's campaign was disappointing, to say the least, Dhoni's presence as a mentor was much appreciated in the cricketing fraternity. Now, former Indian pacer Atul Wassan has dropped a bomb and explained why the ex-Indian captain was actually appointed as the mentor for the showpiece event, where Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue failed to make it to the semi-finals.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-has-been-an-impeccable-leader-ravi-shastri-praises-indian-test-captain-ahead-of-sa-series-439391">'Virat Kohli has been an impeccable leader' - Ravi Shastri praises Indian Test captain ahead of SA series</a>

According to Atul, MS Dhoni was brought in as the mentor of the national side to bring some balance into the way decisions were being made by the team management, led by Kohli and then head coach Ravi Shastri.

"I'll tell you. Dhoni was brought in just to keep some balance because everybody had a feeling that Virat and Ravi Shastri were totally handling, selecting, managing whoever they wanted to play,"&nbsp;Wasan said in a chat on CNN News 18.

"They were controlling Indian cricket. So, they (BCCI) thought somebody should come in with some kind of value who would just monitor that there is a balance. I think they messed up greatly in the World Cup,"&nbsp;the ex-India quick pointed out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-vs-bcci-dont-know-why-there-was-any-statement-by-sourav-ganguly-says-sanjay-manjrekar-439302">Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar</a>

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket since early December, 2021. With Kohli being removed as the ODI captain and being succeeded by Rohit Sharma, there has been a huge outrage especially post Kohli's explosive presser before India's departure for South Africa. Thus, Kohli and the BCCI are now at loggerheads due to their contrasting statements on the turn of events with regard to the ODI captaincy saga.

Wassan also opined on the ODI captaincy change and said, "Here in India, once you have played a lot of cricket and you become a demi-god, the player expects to get some lineage, get some special treatment. This system needs to change.

"If you are not gelling well with the organisation and you have got a better option, players also have to stop feeling low or let down. Don't expect too much from the board because once you have a tap on the shoulder, you have got to take it as a man."

At present, Kohli-led Indian team is in South Africa for the three-match Test series in the African nation, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. It will be followed by the three ODIs, by when Rohit (who is ruled out of Tests due to injury) is expected to regain fitness and take charge of the team.

Team India enjoyed the services of MS Dhoni as mentor for the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The move was made by the BCCI so that Dhoni's presence would help the youngsters in an ICC event and guide the team to their first-ever ICC-trophy since 2013.

Team India enjoyed the services of MS Dhoni as mentor for the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The move was made by the BCCI so that Dhoni's presence would help the youngsters in an ICC event and guide the team to their first-ever ICC-trophy since 2013. While India's campaign was disappointing, to say the least, Dhoni's presence as a mentor was much appreciated in the cricketing fraternity. Now, former Indian pacer Atul Wassan has dropped a bomb and explained why the ex-Indian captain was actually appointed as the mentor for the showpiece event, where Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue failed to make it to the semi-finals. ALSO READ | 'Virat Kohli has been an impeccable leader' - Ravi Shastri praises Indian Test captain ahead of SA series According to Atul, MS Dhoni was brought in as the mentor of the national side to bring some balance into the way decisions were being made by the team management, led by Kohli and then head coach Ravi Shastri. "I'll tell you. Dhoni was brought in just to keep some balance because everybody had a feeling that Virat and Ravi Shastri were totally handling, selecting, managing whoever they wanted to play," Wasan said in a chat on CNN News 18. "They were controlling Indian cricket. So, they (BCCI) thought somebody should come in with some kind of value who would just monitor that there is a balance. I think they messed up greatly in the World Cup," the ex-India quick pointed out. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar A lot has transpired in Indian cricket since early December, 2021. With Kohli being removed as the ODI captain and being succeeded by Rohit Sharma, there has been a huge outrage especially post Kohli's explosive presser before India's departure for South Africa. Thus, Kohli and the BCCI are now at loggerheads due to their contrasting statements on the turn of events with regard to the ODI captaincy saga. Wassan also opined on the ODI captaincy change and said, "Here in India, once you have played a lot of cricket and you become a demi-god, the player expects to get some lineage, get some special treatment. This system needs to change. "If you are not gelling well with the organisation and you have got a better option, players also have to stop feeling low or let down. Don't expect too much from the board because once you have a tap on the shoulder, you have got to take it as a man." At present, Kohli-led Indian team is in South Africa for the three-match Test series in the African nation, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. It will be followed by the three ODIs, by when Rohit (who is ruled out of Tests due to injury) is expected to regain fitness and take charge of the team.

Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra recently gave his take on Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara's struggles ahead of India's Test series against South Africa. While Rahane's inconsistency has been a huge concern for India, Pujara's form has also dipped over the last couple of years. With intense competition for spots in the playing XI, there remains uncertainty over Rahane and Pujara's places in the playing XI ahead of the first Test against South Africa.

While Shreyas Iyer is in the reckoning after his fantastic debut in the recently-concluded Test series against New Zealand at home, Hanuma Vihari is also in contention to find a spot in the middle-order. While Nehra believes the senior Indian batters should be backed, he insisted Rahane will find it difficult to get into the XI.

While backing the senior batters to return to form, Nehra cited the example of captain Virat Kohli, who hasn't been at his best for a while now and said the team management can't drop Kohi just because of his rough patch.

“It's difficult undoubtedly. There have been some injuries but you have to find a solution. If you solely go by stats, even Kohli has been inconsistent for the past 1-1.5 years and that is why I think you cannot just rely on numbers. You can't say 'let's drop Kohli'. Even Pujara has not been in good form. But yes, Rahane is probably at the most risk,” said Nehra on Cricbuzz.

Rahane was India's stand-in captain for the first Test against New Zealand in Kohli's absence in their last series at home. However, he was replaced by Rohit Sharma as the vice-captain of the Test team ahead of the South Africa series due to his poor form. Nehra feels Rahane's chances will also depend on whether India decide&nbsp;to play an extra batter or not in the Boxing Day Test.

“In the previous series against New Zealand, Rahane was the captain in the first Test. When Virat came in the second, Rahane wasn't in the XI. So, whether you opt to play with 5 batters or 6 in the first Test against South Africa, it is difficult for Rahane to find a spot," said the former India pacer.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-why-series-opener-between-india-south-africa-will-be-called-boxing-day-test-439678">Explained! Why series-opener between India-South Africa will be called Boxing Day Test?</a>

The track in Centurion is expected to be on the greener side and assist pacers in the series-opener that gets underway from December 26 (Sunday). It remains to be seen if India will be cautious in their approach and go with an extra batter or play just four frontline bowlers.

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra recently gave his take on Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara's struggles ahead of India's Test series against South Africa. While Rahane's inconsistency has been a huge concern for India, Pujara's form has also dipped over the last couple of years.

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra recently gave his take on Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara's struggles ahead of India's Test series against South Africa. While Rahane's inconsistency has been a huge concern for India, Pujara's form has also dipped over the last couple of years. With intense competition for spots in the playing XI, there remains uncertainty over Rahane and Pujara's places in the playing XI ahead of the first Test against South Africa. While Shreyas Iyer is in the reckoning after his fantastic debut in the recently-concluded Test series against New Zealand at home, Hanuma Vihari is also in contention to find a spot in the middle-order. While Nehra believes the senior Indian batters should be backed, he insisted Rahane will find it difficult to get into the XI. While backing the senior batters to return to form, Nehra cited the example of captain Virat Kohli, who hasn't been at his best for a while now and said the team management can't drop Kohi just because of his rough patch. “It's difficult undoubtedly. There have been some injuries but you have to find a solution. If you solely go by stats, even Kohli has been inconsistent for the past 1-1.5 years and that is why I think you cannot just rely on numbers. You can't say 'let's drop Kohli'. Even Pujara has not been in good form. But yes, Rahane is probably at the most risk,” said Nehra on Cricbuzz. Rahane was India's stand-in captain for the first Test against New Zealand in Kohli's absence in their last series at home. However, he was replaced by Rohit Sharma as the vice-captain of the Test team ahead of the South Africa series due to his poor form. Nehra feels Rahane's chances will also depend on whether India decide to play an extra batter or not in the Boxing Day Test. “In the previous series against New Zealand, Rahane was the captain in the first Test. When Virat came in the second, Rahane wasn't in the XI. So, whether you opt to play with 5 batters or 6 in the first Test against South Africa, it is difficult for Rahane to find a spot," said the former India pacer. Also Read: Explained! Why series-opener between India-South Africa will be called Boxing Day Test? The track in Centurion is expected to be on the greener side and assist pacers in the series-opener that gets underway from December 26 (Sunday). It remains to be seen if India will be cautious in their approach and go with an extra batter or play just four frontline bowlers.

'You can't say let's drop Kohli': Ashish Nehra on Pujara, Rahane's struggles ahead of South Africa series

Indian cricket hasn't been at ease in the past few weeks. After BCCI appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, it led to widespread reactions. While Kohli addressed the press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, and made it clear that he has no issues with Rohit, he made some glaring remarks.

The 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims that he was never asked to reconsider quitting as T20I captain. Moreover, he revealed that he was told about his ODI captaincy sacking just sometime before the official announcement took place. In addition, he denied claims (made by a board member) that he was looking to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and BCCI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-virat-kohlis-relation-with-rahul-dravid-will-be-good-in-long-run-predicts-danish-kaneria-439563">Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria</a>

Amid all this, there has been several reactions by former cricketers on the ODI captaincy row. Now, former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has also opened up on the whole episode and has acknowledged 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence as head coach in the national setup amid such troubled times.&nbsp;

"Lately, Indian cricket has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. Indian captain Virat Kohli's press conference before leaving for South Africa created a storm and Sourav Ganguly too got dragged into it," Kaif wrote in his column for India.com

"Thankfully for Indian cricket, they had a trouble-shooter in place. We know him by the name of Rahul Dravid, the new Head Coach of the Indian cricket team. Having played with and under Rahul bhai, I can safely tell you that if there was ever a man to handle the ship of the Indian team, it is him."

"I say this with quiet confidence as Dravid himself has seen a lot of ups and downs in his times as a former India cricketer and captain. He was leading India when Greg Chappell was around as a coach. He was captain of Rajasthan Royals when the spot-fixing and match-fixing controversy happened in 2013," mentioned Kaif.&nbsp;

He added, "As captain these phases tested him but he came out on top. His communication skills, patience, ability to handle egos and above all his selflessness worked in his favour."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

Following Kohli's explosive press conference, BCCI President Ganguly made it clear that the board will not react to the former's statements at present as India have plenty of cricketing action in the near future.

It will be interesting to see how Kohli-Dravid take Indian team forward in the forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The three Tests starts on December 26 in Centurion, which will be followed by the three ODIs in early January, 2022.

Indian cricket hasn't been at ease in the past few weeks. After BCCI appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, it led to widespread reactions.

Indian cricket hasn't been at ease in the past few weeks. After BCCI appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, it led to widespread reactions. While Kohli addressed the press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, and made it clear that he has no issues with Rohit, he made some glaring remarks. The 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims that he was never asked to reconsider quitting as T20I captain. Moreover, he revealed that he was told about his ODI captaincy sacking just sometime before the official announcement took place. In addition, he denied claims (made by a board member) that he was looking to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and BCCI. ALSO READ | Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria Amid all this, there has been several reactions by former cricketers on the ODI captaincy row. Now, former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has also opened up on the whole episode and has acknowledged 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence as head coach in the national setup amid such troubled times. "Lately, Indian cricket has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. Indian captain Virat Kohli's press conference before leaving for South Africa created a storm and Sourav Ganguly too got dragged into it," Kaif wrote in his column for India.com "Thankfully for Indian cricket, they had a trouble-shooter in place. We know him by the name of Rahul Dravid, the new Head Coach of the Indian cricket team. Having played with and under Rahul bhai, I can safely tell you that if there was ever a man to handle the ship of the Indian team, it is him." "I say this with quiet confidence as Dravid himself has seen a lot of ups and downs in his times as a former India cricketer and captain. He was leading India when Greg Chappell was around as a coach. He was captain of Rajasthan Royals when the spot-fixing and match-fixing controversy happened in 2013," mentioned Kaif. He added, "As captain these phases tested him but he came out on top. His communication skills, patience, ability to handle egos and above all his selflessness worked in his favour." ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC Following Kohli's explosive press conference, BCCI President Ganguly made it clear that the board will not react to the former's statements at present as India have plenty of cricketing action in the near future. It will be interesting to see how Kohli-Dravid take Indian team forward in the forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The three Tests starts on December 26 in Centurion, which will be followed by the three ODIs in early January, 2022.

Md Kaif acknowledges 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence in Team India amid Virat Kohli vs BCCI row

Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Friday (December 24). The off-spinner last played for Team India in March 2016 and had since been plying his trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 41-year-old took to Twitter on Saturday to announce his decision and thanked everyone who had a part to play in his 'beautiful journey'.

Tributes poured in from all corners as Harbhajan bid adieu to the game. One of the most successful spinners India has ever produced, Harbhajan was the first Indian to take a hat-trick in Tests and the youngest Indian to reach the milestone of 400 Test wickets.

His former teammate and ex-India opener Gautam Gambhir came up with a heartwarming tribute for the veteran spinner on his retirement. Terming him a true superstar, Gambhir said those who say&nbsp;cricket is becoming&nbsp;a batsman's game should look at Harbhajan's career.

"Those who say cricket is becoming a batsman’s game should look at your career. You’re a true superstar&nbsp; @harbhajan_singh," Gambhir wrote in a tweet.

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Those who say cricket is becoming a batsman’s game should look at your career. You’re a true superstar <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@harbhajan_singh</a>! <a href="https://t.co/LkLywlFGkO">pic.twitter.com/LkLywlFGkO</a>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1474331230480961538?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Gambhir and Harbhajan were part of several memorable victories for Team India between 2003 to 2012. The duo was part of the Indian squad which won the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup under MS Dhoni's captaincy. They enjoyed some memorable victories both at home and away from home together.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/harbhajan-singh-retires-a-look-at-veteran-spinners-top-five-records-for-team-india-439590">Harbhajan Singh retires -&nbsp;A look at veteran spinner's top five records for Team India</a>

Harbhajan signs off as India's 4th highest wicket-taker in Tests with 417 scalps to his name in 103 matches. He picked up 269 and 25 wickets in 236 ODIs and 28 T20I matches respectively. Harbhajan remains India's second-highest wicket-taker across formats behind only the legendary Anil Kumble.

Harbhajan also shone throughout his IPL career, playing for teams like Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings and the Kolkata Knight Riders. He picked up a total of 150 wickets in 163 IPL matches and is the 5th highest wicket-taker in the competition's history.

Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Friday (December 24). The off-spinner last played for Team India in March 2016 and had since been plying his trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Friday (December 24). The off-spinner last played for Team India in March 2016 and had since been plying his trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 41-year-old took to Twitter on Saturday to announce his decision and thanked everyone who had a part to play in his 'beautiful journey'. Tributes poured in from all corners as Harbhajan bid adieu to the game. One of the most successful spinners India has ever produced, Harbhajan was the first Indian to take a hat-trick in Tests and the youngest Indian to reach the milestone of 400 Test wickets. His former teammate and ex-India opener Gautam Gambhir came up with a heartwarming tribute for the veteran spinner on his retirement. Terming him a true superstar, Gambhir said those who say cricket is becoming a batsman's game should look at Harbhajan's career. "Those who say cricket is becoming a batsman’s game should look at your career. You’re a true superstar @harbhajan_singh," Gambhir wrote in a tweet. Those who say cricket is becoming a batsman’s game should look at your career. You’re a true superstar @harbhajan_singh! pic.twitter.com/LkLywlFGkO — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) December 24, 2021 × Gambhir and Harbhajan were part of several memorable victories for Team India between 2003 to 2012. The duo was part of the Indian squad which won the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup under MS Dhoni's captaincy. They enjoyed some memorable victories both at home and away from home together. Also Read: Harbhajan Singh retires - A look at veteran spinner's top five records for Team India Harbhajan signs off as India's 4th highest wicket-taker in Tests with 417 scalps to his name in 103 matches. He picked up 269 and 25 wickets in 236 ODIs and 28 T20I matches respectively. Harbhajan remains India's second-highest wicket-taker across formats behind only the legendary Anil Kumble. Harbhajan also shone throughout his IPL career, playing for teams like Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings and the Kolkata Knight Riders. He picked up a total of 150 wickets in 163 IPL matches and is the 5th highest wicket-taker in the competition's history.

'Those who say cricket is a batsman's game...': Gambhir's tweet for Harbhajan on retirement wins hearts

From failing to cement his spot in the Indian Test team during their tour of Australia in 2020-21 to being named the vice-captain of the side for the upcoming Test series against South Africa, KL Rahul has managed to script a remarkable turnaround in his Test career. Rahul was behind Rishabh Pant in the pecking order as a wicket-keeper batter while Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal were competing for the opening slots.

Rahul had to return home due to an injury after missing the first two Tests on the Australia tour in 2020-21. However, he made a strong comeback on India's tour of England with 315 runs in four matches to force his way back in the team. He was named India's vice-captain for the South Africa Tests after Rohit Sharma picked up a hamstring injury ahead of the tour.

Rohit had replaced Ajinkya Rahane as India's vice-captain permanently in the longest format. Rahul recently opened up on his rise and the feeling of being handed over the Test captaincy ahead of an important series. The stylish right-hand batter said, around a year back, he was not even sure if he would ever play Test cricket for India again.&nbsp;

"Before 6-7 months or a year ago, I never thought I would get to play Test cricket again. Things changed quickly and I am very happy and grateful for such a huge responsibility is given to me as vice-captain for this tour. I am looking forward to giving my best," Rahul told his best friend and Indian teammate Mayank Agarwal in an interview for BCCI.TV.

India will square off against South Africa in the first Test in Centurion - a Boxing Day game that gets underway on December 26. The Boxing Day Test will mark the commencement of the three-match series between the two sides. When asked about Boxing Day games, Rahul said he has not had great luck in them as he recalled his debut.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-is-so-weak-he-cant-survive-in-a-single-format-ex-pakistan-captain-criticises-all-rounder-439582">&nbsp;Hardik Pandya is so weak, he can't survive in a single format: Ex-Pakistan captain criticises all-rounder</a>

Rahul had made his Test debut in a Boxing Day Test against Australia back in 2014 and did not do well as he was dismissed for 3 and 1 in the two innings respectively. On India's tour of Australia in 2018-19, he was dropped for the Boxing Day Test after failing to perform in the first two games in the series.

"I have bitter-sweet memories from Boxing Day. I debuted on a Boxing Day Test in Australia, but that did not go well. I lost my position again. I felt that's the end for me. I think I have become more balanced in my approach to the game. I have changed a lot from how I used to play in 2014 when I made my debut and in 2018," said Rahul.

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From failing to cement his spot in the Indian Test team during their tour of Australia in 2020-21 to being named the vice-captain of the side for the upcoming Test series against South Africa, KL Rahul has managed to script a remarkable turnaround in his Test career.

From failing to cement his spot in the Indian Test team during their tour of Australia in 2020-21 to being named the vice-captain of the side for the upcoming Test series against South Africa, KL Rahul has managed to script a remarkable turnaround in his Test career. Rahul was behind Rishabh Pant in the pecking order as a wicket-keeper batter while Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal were competing for the opening slots. Rahul had to return home due to an injury after missing the first two Tests on the Australia tour in 2020-21. However, he made a strong comeback on India's tour of England with 315 runs in four matches to force his way back in the team. He was named India's vice-captain for the South Africa Tests after Rohit Sharma picked up a hamstring injury ahead of the tour. Rohit had replaced Ajinkya Rahane as India's vice-captain permanently in the longest format. Rahul recently opened up on his rise and the feeling of being handed over the Test captaincy ahead of an important series. The stylish right-hand batter said, around a year back, he was not even sure if he would ever play Test cricket for India again. "Before 6-7 months or a year ago, I never thought I would get to play Test cricket again. Things changed quickly and I am very happy and grateful for such a huge responsibility is given to me as vice-captain for this tour. I am looking forward to giving my best," Rahul told his best friend and Indian teammate Mayank Agarwal in an interview for BCCI.TV. India will square off against South Africa in the first Test in Centurion - a Boxing Day game that gets underway on December 26. The Boxing Day Test will mark the commencement of the three-match series between the two sides. When asked about Boxing Day games, Rahul said he has not had great luck in them as he recalled his debut. Also Read: Hardik Pandya is so weak, he can't survive in a single format: Ex-Pakistan captain criticises all-rounder Rahul had made his Test debut in a Boxing Day Test against Australia back in 2014 and did not do well as he was dismissed for 3 and 1 in the two innings respectively. On India's tour of Australia in 2018-19, he was dropped for the Boxing Day Test after failing to perform in the first two games in the series. "I have bitter-sweet memories from Boxing Day. I debuted on a Boxing Day Test in Australia, but that did not go well. I lost my position again. I felt that's the end for me. I think I have become more balanced in my approach to the game. I have changed a lot from how I used to play in 2014 when I made my debut and in 2018," said Rahul.

Never thought I would get to play another Test for India: KL Rahul on being appointed as vice-captain

Hardik Pandya was once considered one of the most important members of the Indian cricket team across formats. He was contributing well with both the bat and the ball and had almost become indispensable in all three formats of the game. However, the star all-rounder is currently not part of India's squad in any of the three formats as he continues to deal with injuries and fitness concerns.

Hardik's fitness has been questioned by many in recent times as the all-rounder has failed to bowl regularly. Ever since his back surgery in 2020, he has not been able to contribute properly with the ball. He did not bowl at all for Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2021 and also played as a pure batter for India on several occasions.

He bowled only at times when a few overs were desperately required from him. Recently, India's former head coach Ravi Shastri said Pandya needs to work on his fitness to be able to bowl at least four overs regularly in T20Is. Reacting to Shastri's comments, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt criticised Pandya for his poor fitness.

Butt believes Pandya is too weak to even last in just one format and should be putting on some more muscles on his body to ensure he doesn't keep getting injured easily.&nbsp;

"Hardik Pandya's body is so weak that he can't even survive in a single format. He needs to put on some muscle by weight training and proper diet," Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel.

"Ravi Shastri recently said Pandya should go back and work hard so that he is able to bowl 4 overs. That means he can't even bowl 4 overs properly at the moment," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-recalls-meeting-hardik-pandya-during-asia-cup-2018-i-was-shocked-warned-him-about-injury-436121">Akhtar recalls meeting Hardik Pandya during Asia Cup 2018: 'I was shocked, warned him about injury'</a>

Pandya has struggled massively due to his fitness issues of late. While he didn't bowl at all in IPL 2021, his lack of bowling left India with only five options during the T20 World Cup 2021 where the Men in Blue failed to qualify for the semi-finals after two losses in the first two games.

The all-rounder, who was retained for a whopping Rs 11 crore by Mumbai Indians in 2018, has been released by the franchise ahead of the 2022 season. He might join one of the two new teams - Lucknow or Ahmedabad ahead of IPL 2022.

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Hardik Pandya was once considered one of the most important members of the Indian cricket team across formats. He was contributing well with both the bat and the ball and had almost become indispensable in all three formats of the game.

Hardik Pandya was once considered one of the most important members of the Indian cricket team across formats. He was contributing well with both the bat and the ball and had almost become indispensable in all three formats of the game. However, the star all-rounder is currently not part of India's squad in any of the three formats as he continues to deal with injuries and fitness concerns. Hardik's fitness has been questioned by many in recent times as the all-rounder has failed to bowl regularly. Ever since his back surgery in 2020, he has not been able to contribute properly with the ball. He did not bowl at all for Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2021 and also played as a pure batter for India on several occasions. He bowled only at times when a few overs were desperately required from him. Recently, India's former head coach Ravi Shastri said Pandya needs to work on his fitness to be able to bowl at least four overs regularly in T20Is. Reacting to Shastri's comments, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt criticised Pandya for his poor fitness. Butt believes Pandya is too weak to even last in just one format and should be putting on some more muscles on his body to ensure he doesn't keep getting injured easily. "Hardik Pandya's body is so weak that he can't even survive in a single format. He needs to put on some muscle by weight training and proper diet," Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel. "Ravi Shastri recently said Pandya should go back and work hard so that he is able to bowl 4 overs. That means he can't even bowl 4 overs properly at the moment," he added. Also Read: Akhtar recalls meeting Hardik Pandya during Asia Cup 2018: 'I was shocked, warned him about injury' Pandya has struggled massively due to his fitness issues of late. While he didn't bowl at all in IPL 2021, his lack of bowling left India with only five options during the T20 World Cup 2021 where the Men in Blue failed to qualify for the semi-finals after two losses in the first two games. The all-rounder, who was retained for a whopping Rs 11 crore by Mumbai Indians in 2018, has been released by the franchise ahead of the 2022 season. He might join one of the two new teams - Lucknow or Ahmedabad ahead of IPL 2022.

Hardik Pandya is so weak, he can't survive in a single format: Ex-Pakistan captain criticises all-rounder

The Indian cricket team's journey to their maiden World Cup triumph in 1983 has been documented to perfection in the Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone starrer '83' which hit the theatres on Friday (December 24). The film had won over millions of fans even before its release with the near-perfect portrayal of each member of the 1983 World Cup-winning Indian squad by their respective on-screen character.

The film is set to take the cricket fans a trip down memory lane and bring out some of the never-heard stories of Indian cricket. The intriguing details of India's journey to their first-ever World Cup crown have been portrayed in the film which assembles an excellent cast full of stars.

Among the unheard stories that are set to awe the cricket fans across the nation, there is a segment in the film where Kapil Dev reveals why the Indian cricket team had to sleep empty stomach the night after winning the final against West Indies at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground.&nbsp; 
As per reports, the final segment of '83' features a special interview of Kapil.

In the interview, the World Cup-winning former captain reveals why the Indian players didn't get to eat in the night post the final against West Indies which they had won by 43 runs to script history at Lord's. Kapil reveals the Indian players were partying all night to celebrate their win and forgot about their dinner.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kapil-dev-madan-lal-recall-story-of-revenge-against-viv-richards-in-1983-world-cup-final-watch-438756">&nbsp;Kapil Dev, Madan Lal recall story of 'revenge' against Viv Richards in 1983 World Cup final - WATCH</a>

By the time, they realised that they were yet to have their dinner, it was too late. Kapil revealed when the team sat down for dinner, it was so late that all the eateries and restaurants had closed. They had no choice but to go to sleep without having food.

However, the former captain insisted no one was complaining as the players were basking in the glory of having won the World Cup for the first time. Bollywood superstar Ranveer Singh has played Kapil's character on the screen in '83' while his real-life wife Deepika Padukone, has played the character of Kapil's wife - Romi Devi on screen.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-kapil-dev-mankanded-peter-kirsten-during-indias-1992-tour-of-sa-watch-438727">THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA - WATCH</a>

The film is being loved by one and all as the cricket fans and Bollywood fans come together to relish a masterpiece by director Kabir Khan, who has tried his best to keep the film as real as possible to the real-life incidents in India's journey to maiden World Cup triumph.&nbsp;

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The Indian cricket team's journey to their maiden World Cup triumph in 1983 has been documented to perfection in the Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone starrer '83' which hit the theatres on Friday (December 24).

The Indian cricket team's journey to their maiden World Cup triumph in 1983 has been documented to perfection in the Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone starrer '83' which hit the theatres on Friday (December 24). The film had won over millions of fans even before its release with the near-perfect portrayal of each member of the 1983 World Cup-winning Indian squad by their respective on-screen character. The film is set to take the cricket fans a trip down memory lane and bring out some of the never-heard stories of Indian cricket. The intriguing details of India's journey to their first-ever World Cup crown have been portrayed in the film which assembles an excellent cast full of stars. Among the unheard stories that are set to awe the cricket fans across the nation, there is a segment in the film where Kapil Dev reveals why the Indian cricket team had to sleep empty stomach the night after winning the final against West Indies at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. As per reports, the final segment of '83' features a special interview of Kapil. In the interview, the World Cup-winning former captain reveals why the Indian players didn't get to eat in the night post the final against West Indies which they had won by 43 runs to script history at Lord's. Kapil reveals the Indian players were partying all night to celebrate their win and forgot about their dinner. Also Read: Kapil Dev, Madan Lal recall story of 'revenge' against Viv Richards in 1983 World Cup final - WATCH By the time, they realised that they were yet to have their dinner, it was too late. Kapil revealed when the team sat down for dinner, it was so late that all the eateries and restaurants had closed. They had no choice but to go to sleep without having food. However, the former captain insisted no one was complaining as the players were basking in the glory of having won the World Cup for the first time. Bollywood superstar Ranveer Singh has played Kapil's character on the screen in '83' while his real-life wife Deepika Padukone, has played the character of Kapil's wife - Romi Devi on screen. Also Read: THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA - WATCH The film is being loved by one and all as the cricket fans and Bollywood fans come together to relish a masterpiece by director Kabir Khan, who has tried his best to keep the film as real as possible to the real-life incidents in India's journey to maiden World Cup triumph.

83 movie: Kapil Dev reveals why Indian team slept empty stomach after winning the 1983 World Cup