Team India have gone through rapid changes in the recent months. Post the T20 World Cup in the UAE, Ravi Shastri's tenure as the head coach came to an end and he got replaced by Rahul Dravid. While Virat Kohli also stepped aside as the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma took over from him and recently was also named as the ODI captain, leading to Kohli's removal.

All this has happened before India's all-important all-format tour of South Africa, which will have the three Tests and equal number of ODIs initially before the T20I leg. Ahead of India's departure to the African nation, the national side has been dealt with a huge blow as Rohit injured himself in training in Mumbai and is sure to miss the Test series. Now, reports have come in that Kohli won't be part of the three ODIs in order to spend time with his family. Hence, such developments have raised quite a few eyebrows among the Indian cricket fans as they sniff rift between the two superstar cricketers following the ODI captaincy switch.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-is-countering-every-point-intelligently-ex-pak-captain-reacts-to-hitmans-comments-on-virat-kohli-436601">Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli</a>

Hence, former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin has now also reacted to the whole development. Taking to Twitter, Azharuddin wrote:&nbsp;“Virat Kohli has informed that he's not available for the ODI series &amp; Rohit Sharma is unavailable for the upcoming tests. There is no harm in taking a break but the&nbsp;timing has to be better. This just substantiates speculation about the rift. Neither will be giving up the&nbsp;other form of cricket.”

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Virat Kohli has informed that he's not available for the ODI series &amp; Rohit Sharma is unavailable fr d upcoming test. There is no harm in takin a break but d timing has to be better. This just substantiates speculation abt d rift. Neither wil be giving up d other form of cricket.
— Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) <a href="https://twitter.com/azharflicks/status/1470655304194936833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-set-to-miss-upcoming-odi-series-against-south-africa-due-to-personal-reasons-report-436766">Virat Kohli set to miss upcoming ODI series against South Africa due to personal reasons - Report</a>

As the rif speculations are once again on the rise, a BCCI official has cleared the air regarding Kohli's absence form the ODIs. "Virat Kohli has informed us that he'll not be available for the ODI series. He wants to spend time with his family - don't read into social media rumours too much, there is nothing between Virat and Rohit", a BCCI official had told&nbsp;News9.

At present, the Dravid-led Indian team are set to leave for South Africa in a few days. The tour will commence on December 26 in Centurion with the three-match Test series opener.&nbsp;

Team India have gone through rapid changes in the recent months. Post the T20 World Cup in the UAE, Ravi Shastri's tenure as the head coach came to an end and he got replaced by Rahul Dravid.

Team India have gone through rapid changes in the recent months. Post the T20 World Cup in the UAE, Ravi Shastri's tenure as the head coach came to an end and he got replaced by Rahul Dravid. While Virat Kohli also stepped aside as the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma took over from him and recently was also named as the ODI captain, leading to Kohli's removal. All this has happened before India's all-important all-format tour of South Africa, which will have the three Tests and equal number of ODIs initially before the T20I leg. Ahead of India's departure to the African nation, the national side has been dealt with a huge blow as Rohit injured himself in training in Mumbai and is sure to miss the Test series. Now, reports have come in that Kohli won't be part of the three ODIs in order to spend time with his family. Hence, such developments have raised quite a few eyebrows among the Indian cricket fans as they sniff rift between the two superstar cricketers following the ODI captaincy switch. ALSO READ | Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli Hence, former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin has now also reacted to the whole development. Taking to Twitter, Azharuddin wrote: “Virat Kohli has informed that he's not available for the ODI series & Rohit Sharma is unavailable for the upcoming tests. There is no harm in taking a break but the timing has to be better. This just substantiates speculation about the rift. Neither will be giving up the other form of cricket.” Virat Kohli has informed that he's not available for the ODI series & Rohit Sharma is unavailable fr d upcoming test. There is no harm in takin a break but d timing has to be better. This just substantiates speculation abt d rift. Neither wil be giving up d other form of cricket. — Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) December 14, 2021 × ALSO READ | Virat Kohli set to miss upcoming ODI series against South Africa due to personal reasons - Report As the rif speculations are once again on the rise, a BCCI official has cleared the air regarding Kohli's absence form the ODIs. "Virat Kohli has informed us that he'll not be available for the ODI series. He wants to spend time with his family - don't read into social media rumours too much, there is nothing between Virat and Rohit", a BCCI official had told News9. At present, the Dravid-led Indian team are set to leave for South Africa in a few days. The tour will commence on December 26 in Centurion with the three-match Test series opener.

This substantiates speculation about rift: Azhar reacts as Rohit set to miss SA Tests, Kohli to skip ODIs

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (November 13) confirmed Rohit Sharma will miss the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa after a hamstring injury. Rohit pulled his left hamstring while training in Mumbai and has been replaced by India A batter Priyank Panchal, who recently led the India A team on their tour of South Africa.

Rohit's absence will be a huge blow for team India in the Test series which is set to get underway from December 26 in Centurion. The three-match Test series will be followed by as many ODIs against the Proteas. Reacting to Panchal's selection as Rohit's replacement for the SA Test series, former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra said he was quite surprised.

Chopra was left baffled to see Panchal getting the nod ahead of Abhimanyu Easwaran, who was part of India's squad for the England tour earlier this year but didn't get a chance as Rohit opened the batting with Shubman Gill. &nbsp;Chopra said he is failing to understand the selection process as there is no clarity.

"Abhimanyu Easwaran had gone to England. He was a part of the Indian team and was kept as the backup opener. But now he is not the backup opener. It is like Akkad bakkad bambe bo - that's the feeling that you get because there is no clarity," said the former India cricketer in a video on his YouTube channel.

"There is a twist in the story, that begs a question to be asked that what is happening in this world? Now it seems Priyank Panchal is the backup opener, which is surprising," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-set-to-miss-upcoming-odi-series-against-south-africa-due-to-personal-reasons-report-436766">Virat Kohli set to miss upcoming ODI series against South Africa due to personal reasons - Report</a>

Easwaran was India's second-highest run-getter behind Hanuma Vihari with 205 runs from three matches against South Africa A on the team's recent tour. However, he has been pipped by Panchal, who Chopra believes is not a bad choice but his selection is unfair on Easwaran.

"Let me be honest, Priyank Panchal is not a bad choice - in fact when you saw Rohit Sharma playing as a Test opener, then also there was supposed to be a choice Priyank Panchal and Abhimanyu Easwaran but then Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri thought of opening with Rohit. Rohit started to open and Priyank Panchal and Abhimanyu Easwaran didn't get a chance at all," said Chopra.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (November 13) confirmed Rohit Sharma will miss the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa after a hamstring injury.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday (November 13) confirmed Rohit Sharma will miss the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa after a hamstring injury. Rohit pulled his left hamstring while training in Mumbai and has been replaced by India A batter Priyank Panchal, who recently led the India A team on their tour of South Africa. Rohit's absence will be a huge blow for team India in the Test series which is set to get underway from December 26 in Centurion. The three-match Test series will be followed by as many ODIs against the Proteas. Reacting to Panchal's selection as Rohit's replacement for the SA Test series, former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra said he was quite surprised. Chopra was left baffled to see Panchal getting the nod ahead of Abhimanyu Easwaran, who was part of India's squad for the England tour earlier this year but didn't get a chance as Rohit opened the batting with Shubman Gill. Chopra said he is failing to understand the selection process as there is no clarity. "Abhimanyu Easwaran had gone to England. He was a part of the Indian team and was kept as the backup opener. But now he is not the backup opener. It is like Akkad bakkad bambe bo - that's the feeling that you get because there is no clarity," said the former India cricketer in a video on his YouTube channel. "There is a twist in the story, that begs a question to be asked that what is happening in this world? Now it seems Priyank Panchal is the backup opener, which is surprising," he added. Also Read: Virat Kohli set to miss upcoming ODI series against South Africa due to personal reasons - Report Easwaran was India's second-highest run-getter behind Hanuma Vihari with 205 runs from three matches against South Africa A on the team's recent tour. However, he has been pipped by Panchal, who Chopra believes is not a bad choice but his selection is unfair on Easwaran. "Let me be honest, Priyank Panchal is not a bad choice - in fact when you saw Rohit Sharma playing as a Test opener, then also there was supposed to be a choice Priyank Panchal and Abhimanyu Easwaran but then Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri thought of opening with Rohit. Rohit started to open and Priyank Panchal and Abhimanyu Easwaran didn't get a chance at all," said Chopra.

'There is no clarity': Former India cricketer baffled by Panchal's selection over Easwaran for SA Test series

Rohit Sharma has become India's new captain across white-ball formats after replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper of the team last week. Rohit had been appointed as the T20I skipper of the Indian team after Kohli decided to step down from captaincy post the T20 World Cup 2021. While had expressed his desire to continue leading the team in both Tests and ODIs, his captaincy stint in the fifty-over format was cut short by the selectors.

Rohit will be leading India for the first time as the full-time captain in ODIs on the team's upcoming tour of South Africa while Kohli will continue playing as a batter in both formats. After replacing him as the ODI captain of the team, Rohit heaped praise on Kohli's leadership qualities and lauded him for leading the team from the front.

Rohit said Kohli had the determination to win every game as a captain and that he enjoyed playing under his captaincy. Kohli had taken over as India's Test captain in 2014 before replacing MS Dhoni as the full-time across all three formats in 2017. He led India to the final of the Champions Trophy in 2017 before inspiring the team to the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup, and the final of the ICC World Test Championship earlier this year.

"He has put the team in a situation where there is no looking back. Those five years that he led the team, he led from the front every time we stepped on to the park. There was clear grit and determination to win every game. That was the message to the entire squad," Rohit said in an interview with BCCI.

"We had a great time playing under him. I have played a lot of cricket with him and enjoyed each and every moment and I will still continue to do that. We need to keep getting better as a team and as individuals and that will be the focus for not just me but for the entire squad moving forward," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-speaks-for-the-first-time-after-becoming-odi-skipper-talks-outside-are-immaterial-436337">Rohit Sharma speaks for the first time after becoming ODI skipper: 'Talks outside are immaterial'</a>

Kohli led India in a total of 95 ODI matches as captain and won 65 games with a winning percentage of over 70. He also was one of the consistent performers with the bat despite the burden of captaincy and played an instrumental role in helping India reach the final and the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy and ICC ODI World Cup in 2017 and 2019 respectively. 
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Rohit Sharma has become India's new captain across white-ball formats after replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper of the team last week. Rohit had been appointed as the T20I skipper of the Indian team after Kohli decided to step down from captaincy post the T20 World Cup 2021.

Rohit Sharma has become India's new captain across white-ball formats after replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper of the team last week. Rohit had been appointed as the T20I skipper of the Indian team after Kohli decided to step down from captaincy post the T20 World Cup 2021. While had expressed his desire to continue leading the team in both Tests and ODIs, his captaincy stint in the fifty-over format was cut short by the selectors. Rohit will be leading India for the first time as the full-time captain in ODIs on the team's upcoming tour of South Africa while Kohli will continue playing as a batter in both formats. After replacing him as the ODI captain of the team, Rohit heaped praise on Kohli's leadership qualities and lauded him for leading the team from the front. Rohit said Kohli had the determination to win every game as a captain and that he enjoyed playing under his captaincy. Kohli had taken over as India's Test captain in 2014 before replacing MS Dhoni as the full-time across all three formats in 2017. He led India to the final of the Champions Trophy in 2017 before inspiring the team to the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup, and the final of the ICC World Test Championship earlier this year. "He has put the team in a situation where there is no looking back. Those five years that he led the team, he led from the front every time we stepped on to the park. There was clear grit and determination to win every game. That was the message to the entire squad," Rohit said in an interview with BCCI. "We had a great time playing under him. I have played a lot of cricket with him and enjoyed each and every moment and I will still continue to do that. We need to keep getting better as a team and as individuals and that will be the focus for not just me but for the entire squad moving forward," he added. Also Read: Rohit Sharma speaks for the first time after becoming ODI skipper: 'Talks outside are immaterial' Kohli led India in a total of 95 ODI matches as captain and won 65 games with a winning percentage of over 70. He also was one of the consistent performers with the bat despite the burden of captaincy and played an instrumental role in helping India reach the final and the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy and ICC ODI World Cup in 2017 and 2019 respectively.

Rohit Sharma heaps praise on Virat Kohli: He led from the front, there was determination to win every game

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Under Shastri, India achieved wholesome success across formats but couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

In Tests, Shastri guided India to the No. 1 rankings and the WTC final. In limited-overs, India won bilateral series in SENA countries, won bilateral ODIs in South Africa, New Zealand and Australia, dominated at home and reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup.

Recently, Shastri spilled the beans on various aspects in Indian cricket during his tenure as the head coach, from mid-2017 to late 2021. During his interaction, he opened up on Ambati Rayudu's controversial omission from the CWC'19 squad.

"I had no say in that. But I wasn't okay with three wicketkeepers being picked for the World Cup. Either Ambati or Shreyas could've come in. What was the logic in having MS Dhoni, Rishabh and Dinesh all together? But I never interfered with the selectors' work, except when I was asked for feedback or as part of a general discussion," Shastri told the Times of India.

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To this, former selector and spinner Sarandeep Singh -- who was part of the MSK Prasad-led selection committee who named the WC squad -- has reacted and slammed Shastri's comments. "All the three wicket-keepers are very good as batsmen. A selector does not interfere in selection. Rishabh Pant was selected when Shikhar Dhawan got injured during the World Cup. We already had an opener in KL Rahul,"&nbsp;Sarandeep Singh told ANI.

He further asserted, "So, we were looking for someone to come and bat in the middle order and play big shots. This is the reason why Rishabh Pant was in the team. But to pick playing eleven is team management's call. The selection committee does not interfere in it. In the 2019 World Cup if you are looking at selection of Rishabh Pant then he was not their first choice. MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik were in the team and we were winning all the matches. We even topped the table. But suddenly with these things coming, it is upsetting for us because we did our job fairly."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-is-countering-every-point-intelligently-ex-pak-captain-reacts-to-hitmans-comments-on-virat-kohli-436601">Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli</a>

He added, "We travelled all the time, we saw domestic matches in which batsmen, bowlers or all-rounders are doing well. There is nothing like that we never share anything and we just have things on the table and we say that this is the team. The captain is also sitting in the meeting all the time."

India played the semi-finals of the CWC'19 versus New Zealand and lost the thrilling contest by 18 runs at Old Trafford, Manchester.

At present, Kohli has been removed as the limited-overs captain and replaced by Rohit Sharma. Team India is gearing up for their tour of South Africa, comprising three ODIs and Tests each. Under new coach Rahul Dravid, India will play their tour opener on December 26, in Centurion, with the Test series set to be held first.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Under Shastri, India achieved wholesome success across formats but couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Under Shastri, India achieved wholesome success across formats but couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. In Tests, Shastri guided India to the No. 1 rankings and the WTC final. In limited-overs, India won bilateral series in SENA countries, won bilateral ODIs in South Africa, New Zealand and Australia, dominated at home and reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup. Recently, Shastri spilled the beans on various aspects in Indian cricket during his tenure as the head coach, from mid-2017 to late 2021. During his interaction, he opened up on Ambati Rayudu's controversial omission from the CWC'19 squad. "I had no say in that. But I wasn't okay with three wicketkeepers being picked for the World Cup. Either Ambati or Shreyas could've come in. What was the logic in having MS Dhoni, Rishabh and Dinesh all together? But I never interfered with the selectors' work, except when I was asked for feedback or as part of a general discussion," Shastri told the Times of India. ALSO READ | 'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark To this, former selector and spinner Sarandeep Singh -- who was part of the MSK Prasad-led selection committee who named the WC squad -- has reacted and slammed Shastri's comments. "All the three wicket-keepers are very good as batsmen. A selector does not interfere in selection. Rishabh Pant was selected when Shikhar Dhawan got injured during the World Cup. We already had an opener in KL Rahul," Sarandeep Singh told ANI. He further asserted, "So, we were looking for someone to come and bat in the middle order and play big shots. This is the reason why Rishabh Pant was in the team. But to pick playing eleven is team management's call. The selection committee does not interfere in it. In the 2019 World Cup if you are looking at selection of Rishabh Pant then he was not their first choice. MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik were in the team and we were winning all the matches. We even topped the table. But suddenly with these things coming, it is upsetting for us because we did our job fairly." ALSO READ | Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli He added, "We travelled all the time, we saw domestic matches in which batsmen, bowlers or all-rounders are doing well. There is nothing like that we never share anything and we just have things on the table and we say that this is the team. The captain is also sitting in the meeting all the time." India played the semi-finals of the CWC'19 versus New Zealand and lost the thrilling contest by 18 runs at Old Trafford, Manchester. At present, Kohli has been removed as the limited-overs captain and replaced by Rohit Sharma. Team India is gearing up for their tour of South Africa, comprising three ODIs and Tests each. Under new coach Rahul Dravid, India will play their tour opener on December 26, in Centurion, with the Test series set to be held first.

The captain is also sitting in meeting: Former selector reacts to Shastri's remark on India's CWC'19 squad

Former India wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim believes Shikhar Dhawan would not make it to the Indian team's&nbsp;playing XI&nbsp;for the next South Africa trip since the team already has proven and in-form openers in Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul.

In the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Dhawan led a second-string Indian squad in the ODIs and T20Is in Sri Lanka in July, but he hasn't played for the national team since.

Despite a successful season with the Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2021, when he accumulated 587 runs at 39.13 to finish as the fourth-highest scorer, he was snubbed for the T20 World Cup in the UAE.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-ruled-out-of-upcoming-test-series-against-south-africa-priyank-panchal-likely-replacement-436590">Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement</a>

The selectors snubbed him once more for the home T20Is against New Zealand, instead went&nbsp;with Rohit and Rahul as the key openers and Ishan Kishan as the reserve option.

That's why Karim believes it's pointless to take Dhawan to South Africa if he's not going to make the final XI for the ODI series against South Africa, which begins on January 19.

"Even if Dhawan is there in the squad, will he be part of the playing XI? KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma have opened in Tests and T20s, so I think they will open in ODIs as well. So, if you are including Dhawan in the squad and not playing him, should he be in the team? I don't see the point of his inclusion, what is the need?"&nbsp;Karim&nbsp;stated&nbsp;this&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;Khelneeti&nbsp;podcast&nbsp;on&nbsp;YouTube.

Karim believes Dhawan's only advantage is his left-hand-right-hand combination with Rohit Sharma.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-is-countering-every-point-intelligently-ex-pak-captain-reacts-to-hitmans-comments-on-virat-kohli-436601">Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli</a>

"The only thing possible is the left-hand-right-hand combination of Rohit and Dhawan. It has been a formidable partnership as well."

The former BCCI general manager went on to suggest that Dhawan may find it "difficult" to make a comeback in any of the Indian sides right now.

"It would be difficult for Dhawan to come back into this side. I still think that he should be given one more opportunity because he is a big player with experience. Have to see what the selectors and the team management think," he further added.

Former India wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim believes Shikhar Dhawan would not make it to the Indian team's playing XI for the next South Africa trip since the team already has proven and in-form openers in Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul.

Former India wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim believes Shikhar Dhawan would not make it to the Indian team's playing XI for the next South Africa trip since the team already has proven and in-form openers in Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul. In the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Dhawan led a second-string Indian squad in the ODIs and T20Is in Sri Lanka in July, but he hasn't played for the national team since. Despite a successful season with the Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2021, when he accumulated 587 runs at 39.13 to finish as the fourth-highest scorer, he was snubbed for the T20 World Cup in the UAE. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement The selectors snubbed him once more for the home T20Is against New Zealand, instead went with Rohit and Rahul as the key openers and Ishan Kishan as the reserve option. That's why Karim believes it's pointless to take Dhawan to South Africa if he's not going to make the final XI for the ODI series against South Africa, which begins on January 19. "Even if Dhawan is there in the squad, will he be part of the playing XI? KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma have opened in Tests and T20s, so I think they will open in ODIs as well. So, if you are including Dhawan in the squad and not playing him, should he be in the team? I don't see the point of his inclusion, what is the need?" Karim stated this on the Khelneeti podcast on YouTube. Karim believes Dhawan's only advantage is his left-hand-right-hand combination with Rohit Sharma. ALSO READ: Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli "The only thing possible is the left-hand-right-hand combination of Rohit and Dhawan. It has been a formidable partnership as well." The former BCCI general manager went on to suggest that Dhawan may find it "difficult" to make a comeback in any of the Indian sides right now. "It would be difficult for Dhawan to come back into this side. I still think that he should be given one more opportunity because he is a big player with experience. Have to see what the selectors and the team management think," he further added.

It would be difficult for Shikhar Dhawan to come back into Indian side, says former selector

In what comes as a huge blow for India ahead of their upcoming tour of South Africa later this month, vice-captain Rohit Sharm has been ruled out of the three-match Test series due to an injury. Rohit&nbsp;suffered a hamstring injury&nbsp;while training at the Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai, where he had been practising for the past week.

India are scheduled to tour South Africa later this month for a three-match Test series followed by as many ODIs. The first Test will get underway from January 26 in Centurion followed by the next two encounters in Johannesburg and Cape Town respectively.

Rohit has suffered a serious injury and his participation in the ODI series as well remains in doubt. He had been appointed as India's new ODI captain and Test vice-captain last week, replacing Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively.

While it is not certain who will take over as the vice-captain in Tests in Rohit's&nbsp;absence, India A captain Priyank Panchal has been named as his replacement. Panchal recently led India A on their tour of South Africa for three unofficial Test matches against South Africa A.

"Team India Test vice-captain Rohit Sharma sustained a left hamstring injury during his training session here in Mumbai yesterday. He has been ruled out of the upcoming 3-match Test series against South Africa. Priyank Panchal will replace Rohit Sharma in the Test squad," BCCI stated in a press release.

The Indian team is scheduled to leave for South Africa on December 16 and Rohit will not take part in the three-match Test series. The newly-appointed vice-captain had recently missed the two-match Test series against New Zealand at home due to workload management.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-asia-cup-without-kohli-speaks-volumes-ganguly-explains-why-rohit-was-picked-as-odi-captain-436484">Winning Asia Cup without Kohli speaks volumes: Ganguly explains why Rohit was picked as ODI captain</a>

In his absence, Mayank Agarwal is likely to be the first-choice designated opener along with Shubman Gill. Panchal, who opened against South Africa A, can also be tried out as an opener against the hosts. Nonetheless, Rohit's absence will be a big miss for India as he had been in sublime form in Test cricket of late and had performed exceptionally well in England earlier this year.

Rohit was India's highest run-getter in Tests with 906 runs in eleven matches in 2021.&nbsp;

In what comes as a huge blow for India ahead of their upcoming tour of South Africa later this month, vice-captain Rohit Sharm has been ruled out of the three-match Test series due to an injury.

In what comes as a huge blow for India ahead of their upcoming tour of South Africa later this month, vice-captain Rohit Sharm has been ruled out of the three-match Test series due to an injury. Rohit suffered a hamstring injury while training at the Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai, where he had been practising for the past week. India are scheduled to tour South Africa later this month for a three-match Test series followed by as many ODIs. The first Test will get underway from January 26 in Centurion followed by the next two encounters in Johannesburg and Cape Town respectively. Rohit has suffered a serious injury and his participation in the ODI series as well remains in doubt. He had been appointed as India's new ODI captain and Test vice-captain last week, replacing Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane respectively. While it is not certain who will take over as the vice-captain in Tests in Rohit's absence, India A captain Priyank Panchal has been named as his replacement. Panchal recently led India A on their tour of South Africa for three unofficial Test matches against South Africa A. "Team India Test vice-captain Rohit Sharma sustained a left hamstring injury during his training session here in Mumbai yesterday. He has been ruled out of the upcoming 3-match Test series against South Africa. Priyank Panchal will replace Rohit Sharma in the Test squad," BCCI stated in a press release. The Indian team is scheduled to leave for South Africa on December 16 and Rohit will not take part in the three-match Test series. The newly-appointed vice-captain had recently missed the two-match Test series against New Zealand at home due to workload management. Also Read: Winning Asia Cup without Kohli speaks volumes: Ganguly explains why Rohit was picked as ODI captain In his absence, Mayank Agarwal is likely to be the first-choice designated opener along with Shubman Gill. Panchal, who opened against South Africa A, can also be tried out as an opener against the hosts. Nonetheless, Rohit's absence will be a big miss for India as he had been in sublime form in Test cricket of late and had performed exceptionally well in England earlier this year. Rohit was India's highest run-getter in Tests with 906 runs in eleven matches in 2021.

Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal named replacement

Former India cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has urged the selectors to pick in-form batter Ruturaj Gaikwad in India's ODI squad for the upcoming series against South Africa. India are scheduled to play a three-match Test series followed by three ODIs in South Africa with the tour starting from December 26. Vengsarkar feels Gaikwad has scored enough runs and deserves a spot in the ODI team.

Gaikwad was instrumental in helping Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lift their fourth IPL title this season. He finished as the highest run-getter of IPL 2021 with 635 runs in 16 matches and has continued his purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Gaikwad is currently the leading run-getter in the Vijay Hazare Trophy with 435 runs in just four matches including three centuries.

He has been knocking at the selectors' door for a while now and is likely to be selected in the ODI squad having already made his T20I debut earlier this year. Vengsarkar believes the 24-year-old should be picked straight away and given a proper run in the ODI series against South Africa.

"You must pick a man in form. How many more runs does he need to score to prove himself? It is high time the selectors pick him straight away and give him a proper opportunity," Vengsarkar was quoted as saying in an interview by Times of India.

Vengsarkar believes Gaikwad should be given an opportunity straight away against South Africa as he is 24 and has already proven himself with incredible consistency. The former India cricketer believes the youngster can also play at no.3 if not as an opener.

"He (Gaikwad) can bat at No 3 also. He must be accommodated in the team. It's not like Ruturaj 18 or 19. He's 24 now. There's no point in picking him when he'll be 28," said Vengsarkar.

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India's newly-appointed ODI captain Rohit Sharma has injured himself ahead of the start of the South Africa tour and has been ruled out of the Test series. He also remains in doubt to take part in the ODI series. In case, Rohit fails to recover in time for the ODIs, Gaikwad might be tested as an opener against South Africa. 
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Former India cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has urged the selectors to pick in-form batter Ruturaj Gaikwad in India's ODI squad for the upcoming series against South Africa.

Former India cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has urged the selectors to pick in-form batter Ruturaj Gaikwad in India's ODI squad for the upcoming series against South Africa. India are scheduled to play a three-match Test series followed by three ODIs in South Africa with the tour starting from December 26. Vengsarkar feels Gaikwad has scored enough runs and deserves a spot in the ODI team. Gaikwad was instrumental in helping Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lift their fourth IPL title this season. He finished as the highest run-getter of IPL 2021 with 635 runs in 16 matches and has continued his purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Gaikwad is currently the leading run-getter in the Vijay Hazare Trophy with 435 runs in just four matches including three centuries. He has been knocking at the selectors' door for a while now and is likely to be selected in the ODI squad having already made his T20I debut earlier this year. Vengsarkar believes the 24-year-old should be picked straight away and given a proper run in the ODI series against South Africa. "You must pick a man in form. How many more runs does he need to score to prove himself? It is high time the selectors pick him straight away and give him a proper opportunity," Vengsarkar was quoted as saying in an interview by Times of India. Vengsarkar believes Gaikwad should be given an opportunity straight away against South Africa as he is 24 and has already proven himself with incredible consistency. The former India cricketer believes the youngster can also play at no.3 if not as an opener. "He (Gaikwad) can bat at No 3 also. He must be accommodated in the team. It's not like Ruturaj 18 or 19. He's 24 now. There's no point in picking him when he'll be 28," said Vengsarkar. Also Read: Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement India's newly-appointed ODI captain Rohit Sharma has injured himself ahead of the start of the South Africa tour and has been ruled out of the Test series. He also remains in doubt to take part in the ODI series. In case, Rohit fails to recover in time for the ODIs, Gaikwad might be tested as an opener against South Africa.

'Ruturaj Gaikwad is not 18-19': Dilip Vengsarkar bats for CSK star's selection in ODI squad for SA tour

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. While Rohit Sharma succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter had resigned post the T20 WC, Hitman also replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper recently (on December 8).

BCCI named Rohit as Kohli's successor in the limited-overs format whereas the former has also been promoted as the Test vice-captain. Ever since Kohli was entirely removed as the white-ball captain, there have been plenty of reactions on the whole development, on social media platforms and elsewhere.&nbsp;

Recently, Rohit also opened up on taking over from Virat and told on BCCI.tv, "He has put the team in a situation where there is no looking back. Those five years that he led the team, he led from the front every time we stepped on to the park. There was clear grit and determination to win every game. That was the message to the entire squad."

"We had a great time playing under him. I have played a lot of cricket with him and enjoyed each and every moment and I will still continue to do that. We need to keep getting better as a team and as individuals and that will be the focus for not just me but for the entire squad moving forward," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-ruled-out-of-upcoming-test-series-against-south-africa-priyank-panchal-likely-replacement-436590">Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement</a>

Thus, impressed with Hitman's answers and way of handling things calmly, Pakistan's former captain Salman Butt&nbsp; has opened up on the whole captaincy change and lavished praise on Rohit in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel.

Butt said, "Rohit Sharma is countering every point very intelligently. There are all kinds of talks floating on social media w.r.t. to the send-off (from captaincy) given to Kohli. Rohit Sharma has all the credentials (to take over the role); he is an outstanding player and a great captain and he was bound to take over next."

"It makes sense to have only a single captain in white-ball cricket. Somewhere down the line, Virat Kohli will also understand this. They have been the captain and vice-captain for several years. There should be no issue if they back each other. Rohit Sharma is trying to keep everything calm and cool. What he has said is also true as Kohli has raised the bar of Indian cricket with his intensity," he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-heaps-praise-on-virat-kohli-he-led-from-the-front-there-was-determination-to-win-every-game-436442">Rohit Sharma heaps praise on Virat Kohli: He led from the front, there was determination to win every game</a>

Butt, however, also stated that Rohit can be a short-term captain as age is not on his age (being 34 at present). "Sharma could just be a short-term captain. Being 34 years old, the player is expected to play for only the next 3-4 years. I don't think any other player was ready apart from Sharma for the captaincy role at the moment," Butt concluded.

Rohit will take over as India's full-time limited-overs captain with the forthcoming South Africa ODIs, in the African nation. However, the 34-year-old is set to miss the three Tests versus the Proteas due to an injury he suffered recently during training in Mumbai, before India's departure to the African nation.

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. While Rohit Sharma succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter had resigned post the T20 WC, Hitman also replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper recently (on December 8).

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. While Rohit Sharma succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter had resigned post the T20 WC, Hitman also replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper recently (on December 8). BCCI named Rohit as Kohli's successor in the limited-overs format whereas the former has also been promoted as the Test vice-captain. Ever since Kohli was entirely removed as the white-ball captain, there have been plenty of reactions on the whole development, on social media platforms and elsewhere. Recently, Rohit also opened up on taking over from Virat and told on BCCI.tv, "He has put the team in a situation where there is no looking back. Those five years that he led the team, he led from the front every time we stepped on to the park. There was clear grit and determination to win every game. That was the message to the entire squad." "We had a great time playing under him. I have played a lot of cricket with him and enjoyed each and every moment and I will still continue to do that. We need to keep getting better as a team and as individuals and that will be the focus for not just me but for the entire squad moving forward," he added. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement Thus, impressed with Hitman's answers and way of handling things calmly, Pakistan's former captain Salman Butt has opened up on the whole captaincy change and lavished praise on Rohit in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel. Butt said, "Rohit Sharma is countering every point very intelligently. There are all kinds of talks floating on social media w.r.t. to the send-off (from captaincy) given to Kohli. Rohit Sharma has all the credentials (to take over the role); he is an outstanding player and a great captain and he was bound to take over next." "It makes sense to have only a single captain in white-ball cricket. Somewhere down the line, Virat Kohli will also understand this. They have been the captain and vice-captain for several years. There should be no issue if they back each other. Rohit Sharma is trying to keep everything calm and cool. What he has said is also true as Kohli has raised the bar of Indian cricket with his intensity," he said. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma heaps praise on Virat Kohli: He led from the front, there was determination to win every game Butt, however, also stated that Rohit can be a short-term captain as age is not on his age (being 34 at present). "Sharma could just be a short-term captain. Being 34 years old, the player is expected to play for only the next 3-4 years. I don't think any other player was ready apart from Sharma for the captaincy role at the moment," Butt concluded. Rohit will take over as India's full-time limited-overs captain with the forthcoming South Africa ODIs, in the African nation. However, the 34-year-old is set to miss the three Tests versus the Proteas due to an injury he suffered recently during training in Mumbai, before India's departure to the African nation.

Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli

Sourav Ganguly has backed Rohit Sharma to succeed as India's new ODI captain and has explained why the selectors felt he was the right choice for the important role. Kohli was sacked as ODI captain of the Indian team last week with Rohit taking over. The decision was confirmed by the BCCI in a tweet while also announcing India's squad for the upcoming Test series against South Africa.

Citing Rohit's phenomenal captaincy record in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Ganguly said the selectors backed him as he had the credentials of a great leader. Ganguly also highlighted how Rohit led India to Asia Cup triumph in 2018 which he felt spoke volumes of the team strength at the time under the Hitman's captaincy. Ganguly believes Rohit will help India spark a turnaround in major tournaments.

"Of course. That’s why the selectors have backed him. He will find a way to do well and I hope he does. His record for IPL(Mumbai Indians) is phenomenal… winning five titles. He captained India in Asia Cup a couple of years ago which India won as well, and India won without Kohli. To win a title without him spoke volumes of that team’s strength. So he has had success in big tournaments. He has a good team. So hopefully they can all turn it around," Ganguly said in an interview with News18.

Kohli had taken over as India's full-time limited-overs captain in 2017 from former captain MS Dhoni. While he led the team exceptionally well, Kohli failed to inspire India to an ICC trophy during his stint as the leader of the side. India reached the final of the Champions Trophy in 2017 and the semi-final of the ODI World Cup in 2019.

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In T20 World Cup 2021, the team endured a disappointing campaign as they failed to make it to the knockout stages. Kohli led India in three major ICC tournaments, failing to win any of them as his stint as captain ended trophyless.

Ganguly said the selectors were not in favour of having two captains in white-ball cricket which led to the decision of Rohit replacing Kohli in ODIs as well after T20Is.&nbsp;

“It’s a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together. Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper, but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats," said the BCCI president.

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Sourav Ganguly has backed Rohit Sharma to succeed as India's new ODI captain and has explained why the selectors felt he was the right choice for the important role.

Sourav Ganguly has backed Rohit Sharma to succeed as India's new ODI captain and has explained why the selectors felt he was the right choice for the important role. Kohli was sacked as ODI captain of the Indian team last week with Rohit taking over. The decision was confirmed by the BCCI in a tweet while also announcing India's squad for the upcoming Test series against South Africa. Citing Rohit's phenomenal captaincy record in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Ganguly said the selectors backed him as he had the credentials of a great leader. Ganguly also highlighted how Rohit led India to Asia Cup triumph in 2018 which he felt spoke volumes of the team strength at the time under the Hitman's captaincy. Ganguly believes Rohit will help India spark a turnaround in major tournaments. "Of course. That’s why the selectors have backed him. He will find a way to do well and I hope he does. His record for IPL(Mumbai Indians) is phenomenal… winning five titles. He captained India in Asia Cup a couple of years ago which India won as well, and India won without Kohli. To win a title without him spoke volumes of that team’s strength. So he has had success in big tournaments. He has a good team. So hopefully they can all turn it around," Ganguly said in an interview with News18. Kohli had taken over as India's full-time limited-overs captain in 2017 from former captain MS Dhoni. While he led the team exceptionally well, Kohli failed to inspire India to an ICC trophy during his stint as the leader of the side. India reached the final of the Champions Trophy in 2017 and the semi-final of the ODI World Cup in 2019. Also Read: Rohit heaps praise on Kohli: He led from the front, there was determination to win every game In T20 World Cup 2021, the team endured a disappointing campaign as they failed to make it to the knockout stages. Kohli led India in three major ICC tournaments, failing to win any of them as his stint as captain ended trophyless. Ganguly said the selectors were not in favour of having two captains in white-ball cricket which led to the decision of Rohit replacing Kohli in ODIs as well after T20Is. “It’s a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together. Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper, but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats," said the BCCI president.

Winning Asia Cup without Kohli speaks volumes: Ganguly explains why Rohit was picked as ODI captain

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) earlier this week confirmed that Virat Kohli will not be leading India in ODIs going forward. Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as captain of the ODI side ahead of India's tour of South Africa. The Hitman had earlier replaced Kohli as the T20I captain after the latter decided to step down from captaincy in the shortest format.

The selectors were against the idea of split captaincy in white-ball cricket and wanted one captain to lead the team in both ODIs and T20Is which saw Rohit replacing Kohli in the fifty-over format as well. While the decision has invited mixed reactions from the cricket fraternity, former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has called the move a good one for Kohli and the Indian team.

Hogg feels Rohit taking over captaincy will take a lot of burden off Kohli's shoulders and help him perform better as a batter. The Indian Test skipper has struggled with his consistency in the past couple of years and Hogg believes no captaincy pressure can prove to be a blessing in disguise for the batting maestro.

“I think this is a good move. Kohli should just embrace it and relax about the whole situation and should concentrate on captaining the Test team. So basically, you’ve got Rohit Sharma just concentrating on the team he wants in white-ball cricket and Virat Kohli focusing on Test cricket. It takes a lot of pressure off you,” Hogg said while speaking in a video on his YouTube channel.

“Whereas Rohit Sharma has only got to worry about the white-ball environment plus all the sponsorship and other commitments off the field. I think this is going to be better for Virat Kohli. It is going to improve his performances which have slightly dropped off slightly in the last couple of years when he’s been under pressure while captaining all three teams,” he added.

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However, Hogg insisted the dressing room should not be divided after the change in roles for Kohli and Rohit when India take on South Africa in their next assignment. India are scheduled to play three Tests and three ODIs in the Rainbow nation beginning from December 26.

“I think it’s a blessing in disguise. I just hope when they go on their next tour, that change room is not separated by this little slight division between these two particular players,” said Hogg.

Rohit has led the Indian team on a few occasions in the past in Kohli's absence. He led India to Asia Cup and Nidahas Trophy triumphs in 2018 and has a great record as captain.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) earlier this week confirmed that Virat Kohli will not be leading India in ODIs going forward. Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as captain of the ODI side ahead of India's tour of South Africa.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) earlier this week confirmed that Virat Kohli will not be leading India in ODIs going forward. Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as captain of the ODI side ahead of India's tour of South Africa. The Hitman had earlier replaced Kohli as the T20I captain after the latter decided to step down from captaincy in the shortest format. The selectors were against the idea of split captaincy in white-ball cricket and wanted one captain to lead the team in both ODIs and T20Is which saw Rohit replacing Kohli in the fifty-over format as well. While the decision has invited mixed reactions from the cricket fraternity, former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has called the move a good one for Kohli and the Indian team. Hogg feels Rohit taking over captaincy will take a lot of burden off Kohli's shoulders and help him perform better as a batter. The Indian Test skipper has struggled with his consistency in the past couple of years and Hogg believes no captaincy pressure can prove to be a blessing in disguise for the batting maestro. “I think this is a good move. Kohli should just embrace it and relax about the whole situation and should concentrate on captaining the Test team. So basically, you’ve got Rohit Sharma just concentrating on the team he wants in white-ball cricket and Virat Kohli focusing on Test cricket. It takes a lot of pressure off you,” Hogg said while speaking in a video on his YouTube channel. “Whereas Rohit Sharma has only got to worry about the white-ball environment plus all the sponsorship and other commitments off the field. I think this is going to be better for Virat Kohli. It is going to improve his performances which have slightly dropped off slightly in the last couple of years when he’s been under pressure while captaining all three teams,” he added. Also Read: 'Mate are you okay?': Virat Kohli, David Warner enjoy funny banter on Australian star's Insta post However, Hogg insisted the dressing room should not be divided after the change in roles for Kohli and Rohit when India take on South Africa in their next assignment. India are scheduled to play three Tests and three ODIs in the Rainbow nation beginning from December 26. “I think it’s a blessing in disguise. I just hope when they go on their next tour, that change room is not separated by this little slight division between these two particular players,” said Hogg. Rohit has led the Indian team on a few occasions in the past in Kohli's absence. He led India to Asia Cup and Nidahas Trophy triumphs in 2018 and has a great record as captain.

'It's a blessing in disguise': Former Aussie spinner on Virat Kohli losing Team India's ODI captaincy

Rohit Sharma has spoken for the first time since replacing Virat Kohli as the new ODI skipper of the Indian team. The Hitman has responded to the critics by stating that he is not bothered by the outside noise and is focused on the job at hand. Rohit was appointed as the ODI skipper of the Indian team earlier this week, ahead of the team's tour of South Africa later this month.

Rohit had earlier taken over as T20 captain after Kohli had decided to step down as India's captain in the shortest format. While Kohli was expected to continue leading in ODIs, his captaincy stint has been cut short by the national selectors, who believe having one captain in white-ball format will keep things simple for the Indian team.

Rohit, who has also been appointed as the vice-captain in Tests, replacing Ajinkya Rahane, said he is aware of the noise outside but is not focusing on what people are talking about.&nbsp;

"When you are playing cricket for India, the pressure is always going to be high. The pressure is always going to be there. There will be a lot of people talking about it; be it positively or negatively," Rohit said in his first interview with BCCI TV since taking over ODI captaincy.

"For me, personally, as a cricketer, it is important to focus on my job and not to focus on what people are talking about because you can't control that. I have said it a million times and I will keep repeating it," he added.

Rohit will not be leading India for the first time in South Africa as he has captained the team in quite a few matches in white-ball cricket. He has eight&nbsp;wins to his name in ten&nbsp;ODIs while leading Team India and has 18 wins in 22 T20Is. He had led India to Asia Cup and Nidahas Trophy triumphs in 2018.

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Rohit believes there will always be pressure on the Indian team when playing in a high-profile tournament and there will be criticism from all corners but it is important for the players to trust each other and not focus on the outside noise to ensure they can perform at their level best.

“This is also the same message to the team and the team understand that when we are playing a high-profile tournament, there will be a lot of talks," said Rohit.

"It's just important for us to focus on what we have in hand; which is to go and win games and play the way you are known for. So, those talks outside are immaterial. What we think of each other is more important. You want to share a strong bond between players and that is what will help us achieve the goal we want to," he added.. 
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Rohit Sharma has spoken for the first time since replacing Virat Kohli as the new ODI skipper of the Indian team. The Hitman has responded to the critics by stating that he is not bothered by the outside noise and is focused on the job at hand.

Rohit Sharma has spoken for the first time since replacing Virat Kohli as the new ODI skipper of the Indian team. The Hitman has responded to the critics by stating that he is not bothered by the outside noise and is focused on the job at hand. Rohit was appointed as the ODI skipper of the Indian team earlier this week, ahead of the team's tour of South Africa later this month. Rohit had earlier taken over as T20 captain after Kohli had decided to step down as India's captain in the shortest format. While Kohli was expected to continue leading in ODIs, his captaincy stint has been cut short by the national selectors, who believe having one captain in white-ball format will keep things simple for the Indian team. Rohit, who has also been appointed as the vice-captain in Tests, replacing Ajinkya Rahane, said he is aware of the noise outside but is not focusing on what people are talking about. "When you are playing cricket for India, the pressure is always going to be high. The pressure is always going to be there. There will be a lot of people talking about it; be it positively or negatively," Rohit said in his first interview with BCCI TV since taking over ODI captaincy. "For me, personally, as a cricketer, it is important to focus on my job and not to focus on what people are talking about because you can't control that. I have said it a million times and I will keep repeating it," he added. Rohit will not be leading India for the first time in South Africa as he has captained the team in quite a few matches in white-ball cricket. He has eight wins to his name in ten ODIs while leading Team India and has 18 wins in 22 T20Is. He had led India to Asia Cup and Nidahas Trophy triumphs in 2018. Also Read: Venkatesh Iyer set for ODI debut, likely to be named in squad for South Africa tour - Report Rohit believes there will always be pressure on the Indian team when playing in a high-profile tournament and there will be criticism from all corners but it is important for the players to trust each other and not focus on the outside noise to ensure they can perform at their level best. “This is also the same message to the team and the team understand that when we are playing a high-profile tournament, there will be a lot of talks," said Rohit. "It's just important for us to focus on what we have in hand; which is to go and win games and play the way you are known for. So, those talks outside are immaterial. What we think of each other is more important. You want to share a strong bond between players and that is what will help us achieve the goal we want to," he added..

Rohit Sharma speaks for the first time after becoming ODI skipper: 'Talks outside are immaterial'

Venkatesh Iyer's rise has been a phenomenal one. He is one of the most exciting youngsters in Indian cricket at present and has already made his T20 debut for the country after impressing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Iyer is in line to make his ODI debut after playing T20Is for India and is likely to be named in the ODI squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa.

Iyer had played an instrumental role in helping KKR reach the final of IPL 2021 with his splendid performances in the second leg of the tournament in UAE. In his debut campaign in the IPL, Iyer scored 370 runs and picked up 3 wickets in the tournament and has continued his purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy where he is currently the second-highest run-getter of the tournament with 348 runs from four matches so far.

With Hardik Pandya currently recovering from his injury at the National Cricket Academy, selectors are certain to pick Iyer as an all-rounder in India's ODI squad for the South Africa series, as per a report in PTI. Besides his explosive batting, Iyer has also been impressive with the ball in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has eight wickets to his name in four matches in the tournament.

"Venkatesh is surely going to South Africa. He is bowling 9 or 10 overs in every game and with Hardik still recuperating, it is the best time to give him chance and get him battle-ready for the bigger events ahead," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by PTI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-or-shreyas-iyer-msk-prasad-gives-his-take-on-middle-order-conundrum-ahead-of-sa-series-436290">Vihari or Iyer? MSK Prasad gives his take on middle-order conundrum ahead of SA series</a>

While he is an opening batter, Iyer is likely to be used in the middle-order for India and can be groomed as a finisher looking forward to the T20 World Cup next year and the ODI World Cup in 2023. With captain Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul set to continue as openers and Ishan Kishan also in the fray, Iyer will have to adapt to middle-order.

"The new team management absolutely did the right thing in advising him to bat in the middle order. As of now, if he doesn't get injured, Venkatesh is a certainty for the South Africa one-dayers," said the BCCI source.

Apart from Iyer, another youngster who is in contention to feature in the ODI squad is Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been absolutely bossing it with the bat in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy after a stellar IPL 2021 season where he bagged the Orange Cap for being the highest run-getter of the tournament.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-picking-up-cones-wickets-sourav-ganguly-shares-anecdote-to-highlight-rahul-dravids-humility-436269">'He was picking up cones, wickets': Sourav Ganguly shares anecdote to highlight Rahul Dravid's humility</a>

While Gaikwad has been knocking at the selectors' door for a while now, the right-hander might still be behind Shikhar Dhawan in the pecking order. Dhawan is likely to get a few chances in the ODI series against South Africa before he is sidelined for someone like Gaikwad.

"Technically, last time India played 50-over series, Dhawan was leading India and also had a match-winning knock in Sri Lanka," the BCCI source told PTI.

"He has the ability to score runs just when he has back to the wall. So while Gaikwad should be there in the squad, I think selectors might give one last chance to Dhawan, maybe take him and give him a game or two," he added.

(With agency inputs) 
&nbsp;

Venkatesh Iyer's rise has been a phenomenal one. He is one of the most exciting youngsters in Indian cricket at present and has already made his T20 debut for the country after impressing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

Venkatesh Iyer's rise has been a phenomenal one. He is one of the most exciting youngsters in Indian cricket at present and has already made his T20 debut for the country after impressing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Iyer is in line to make his ODI debut after playing T20Is for India and is likely to be named in the ODI squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa. Iyer had played an instrumental role in helping KKR reach the final of IPL 2021 with his splendid performances in the second leg of the tournament in UAE. In his debut campaign in the IPL, Iyer scored 370 runs and picked up 3 wickets in the tournament and has continued his purple patch in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy where he is currently the second-highest run-getter of the tournament with 348 runs from four matches so far. With Hardik Pandya currently recovering from his injury at the National Cricket Academy, selectors are certain to pick Iyer as an all-rounder in India's ODI squad for the South Africa series, as per a report in PTI. Besides his explosive batting, Iyer has also been impressive with the ball in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and has eight wickets to his name in four matches in the tournament. "Venkatesh is surely going to South Africa. He is bowling 9 or 10 overs in every game and with Hardik still recuperating, it is the best time to give him chance and get him battle-ready for the bigger events ahead," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by PTI. Also Read: Vihari or Iyer? MSK Prasad gives his take on middle-order conundrum ahead of SA series While he is an opening batter, Iyer is likely to be used in the middle-order for India and can be groomed as a finisher looking forward to the T20 World Cup next year and the ODI World Cup in 2023. With captain Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul set to continue as openers and Ishan Kishan also in the fray, Iyer will have to adapt to middle-order. "The new team management absolutely did the right thing in advising him to bat in the middle order. As of now, if he doesn't get injured, Venkatesh is a certainty for the South Africa one-dayers," said the BCCI source. Apart from Iyer, another youngster who is in contention to feature in the ODI squad is Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been absolutely bossing it with the bat in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy after a stellar IPL 2021 season where he bagged the Orange Cap for being the highest run-getter of the tournament. Also Read: 'He was picking up cones, wickets': Sourav Ganguly shares anecdote to highlight Rahul Dravid's humility While Gaikwad has been knocking at the selectors' door for a while now, the right-hander might still be behind Shikhar Dhawan in the pecking order. Dhawan is likely to get a few chances in the ODI series against South Africa before he is sidelined for someone like Gaikwad. "Technically, last time India played 50-over series, Dhawan was leading India and also had a match-winning knock in Sri Lanka," the BCCI source told PTI. "He has the ability to score runs just when he has back to the wall. So while Gaikwad should be there in the squad, I think selectors might give one last chance to Dhawan, maybe take him and give him a game or two," he added. (With agency inputs)

Venkatesh Iyer set for ODI debut, likely to be named in squad for South Africa tour - Report

India's Test skipper Virat Kohli recalled a hilarious incident as he sent his wishes to his former teammate Yuvraj Singh on his 40th birthday. Wishes have been flowing in from all corners as the former India all-rounder celebrates his birthday. Kohli took to Instagram and shared a special video on his story to wish Yuvraj while also sharing an 'outrageous' episode.

In the video posted by him, Kohli recalled how Yuvraj made him feel comfortable and welcomed him nicely when he first joined the Indian team. Kohli revealed the duo used to eat out and shop together and had similar likings before sharing an incident that will leave fans in splits.

Kohli recalled how Yuvraj once asked Kohli at around 3 in the morning to ride bicycles from Dambulla to Colombo in Sri Lanka. The Indian skipper said it was outrageous as the Indian team had to play a game after two days.

“I had come in from the Under-19 World Cup; he welcomed me very nicely, made me comfortable, started joking around with me, and we liked similar kind of food. We are both Punjabis, love Punjabi music, getting nice clothes, shoes (chuckles); all these kinds of things have remained common over the years. We used to go out and do quite a bit of shopping together in a group obviously; so the likes were quite similar," Kohli said in the video.

"We were in Dambulla; it was a couple of days off a match and literally at 3 or 3:30 in the morning he goes, 'We are gonna ride these bicycles to Colombo' and I clearly remember we all fell down laughing on the floor because it was just outrageous. We had a match in two days' time.

“Happy birthday Yuvi Pa! Lots of peace, happiness and prosperity to you and lots of love always. And my best wishes to you,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-personally-requested-virat-kohli-not-to-step-down-as-indias-t20-captain-sourav-ganguly-436252">I personally requested Virat Kohli not to step down as India's T20 Captain: Sourav Ganguly</a>

Yuvraj and Kohli were part of the Indian squad which won the 2011 ODI World Cup under MS Dhoni. The duo spent over a decade together in the Indian dressing room, representing the country across formats. Yuvraj announced his retirement from international cricket in 2019 after playing 304 ODIs, 58 T20Is and 40 Tests in his glorious career.

Yuvraj, who is regarded as one of the best Indian all-rounders of all time,&nbsp;amassed&nbsp;8701,&nbsp;1177 and 1900 runs in the three formats respectively. He also picked up a total of 148 wickets across three formats.

India's Test skipper Virat Kohli recalled a hilarious incident as he sent his wishes to his former teammate Yuvraj Singh on his 40th birthday. Wishes have been flowing in from all corners as the former India all-rounder celebrates his birthday.

India's Test skipper Virat Kohli recalled a hilarious incident as he sent his wishes to his former teammate Yuvraj Singh on his 40th birthday. Wishes have been flowing in from all corners as the former India all-rounder celebrates his birthday. Kohli took to Instagram and shared a special video on his story to wish Yuvraj while also sharing an 'outrageous' episode. In the video posted by him, Kohli recalled how Yuvraj made him feel comfortable and welcomed him nicely when he first joined the Indian team. Kohli revealed the duo used to eat out and shop together and had similar likings before sharing an incident that will leave fans in splits. Kohli recalled how Yuvraj once asked Kohli at around 3 in the morning to ride bicycles from Dambulla to Colombo in Sri Lanka. The Indian skipper said it was outrageous as the Indian team had to play a game after two days. “I had come in from the Under-19 World Cup; he welcomed me very nicely, made me comfortable, started joking around with me, and we liked similar kind of food. We are both Punjabis, love Punjabi music, getting nice clothes, shoes (chuckles); all these kinds of things have remained common over the years. We used to go out and do quite a bit of shopping together in a group obviously; so the likes were quite similar," Kohli said in the video. "We were in Dambulla; it was a couple of days off a match and literally at 3 or 3:30 in the morning he goes, 'We are gonna ride these bicycles to Colombo' and I clearly remember we all fell down laughing on the floor because it was just outrageous. We had a match in two days' time. “Happy birthday Yuvi Pa! Lots of peace, happiness and prosperity to you and lots of love always. And my best wishes to you,” he added. Also Read: I personally requested Virat Kohli not to step down as India's T20 Captain: Sourav Ganguly Yuvraj and Kohli were part of the Indian squad which won the 2011 ODI World Cup under MS Dhoni. The duo spent over a decade together in the Indian dressing room, representing the country across formats. Yuvraj announced his retirement from international cricket in 2019 after playing 304 ODIs, 58 T20Is and 40 Tests in his glorious career. Yuvraj, who is regarded as one of the best Indian all-rounders of all time, amassed 8701, 1177 and 1900 runs in the three formats respectively. He also picked up a total of 148 wickets across three formats.

'We fell down laughing': Kohli wishes birthday boy Yuvraj with 'outrageous' story from Sri Lanka - WATCH

Hanuma Vihari was dropped from India's Test squad for the recently-concluded two-match series against New Zealand at home. The middle-order batter, who was last seen in action for Team India on the tour of Australia last year, was sent to South Africa with India A side to take part in the unofficial Test series against South Africa A.

However, Vihari is now back in the squad for India's upcoming tour of South Africa later this month. Team India will play three Tests in the rainbow nation starting from December 26. With Shreyas Iyer impressing in the middle-order in his debut Test series against the Kiwis, the Indian team management is set to face a selection headache.

Both Vihari and Iyer are in contention to feature in the middle-order against South Africa and it remains to be seen who will make the cut in the playing XI for the first Test. Ahead of the tour, former India chief selector MSK Prasad has weighed in on the debate and said Vihari deserved a place in the squad for the New Zealand series at home instead of being sent with the India A team.

"First, of all, he was deserving of a place in the squad for the New Zealand series at home. I think since he was not going to get an opportunity, they would have sent him for India A tour. Now in the 2nd unofficial Test, he has hit two (three) half-centuries. Yes, having somebody who has done well in away series in England, Australia and West Indies. If you are looking at a youngster, then Hanuma Vihari should be played," Prasad was quoted as saying by India Today.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-picking-up-cones-wickets-sourav-ganguly-shares-anecdote-to-highlight-rahul-dravids-humility-436269">'He was picking up cones, wickets': Ganguly shares anecdote to highlight Rahul Dravid's humility</a>

Vihari showcased great form in the series against South Africa A and slammed three consecutive fifties. He has done well overseas for Team India and can also send down a few overs if required. However, Prasad believes the selection will depend on the conditions and what role the Indian team management is expecting the two batters to play in the Test series.

"A lot depends on what they are expecting from the player, the role he is going to play. Hanuma Vihari is a guy who is solid in his technique. Similarly, Shreyas Iyer is someone who can bring in a little aggression," explained Prasad.

"So it all depends on the batting order and what kind of role that the team management expects of their middle-order batter. Based on that, one of them can be given an opportunity," he added.

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Hanuma Vihari was dropped from India's Test squad for the recently-concluded two-match series against New Zealand at home. The middle-order batter, who was last seen in action for Team India on the tour of Australia last year, was sent to South Africa with India A side to take part in the unofficial Test series against South Africa A.

Hanuma Vihari was dropped from India's Test squad for the recently-concluded two-match series against New Zealand at home. The middle-order batter, who was last seen in action for Team India on the tour of Australia last year, was sent to South Africa with India A side to take part in the unofficial Test series against South Africa A. However, Vihari is now back in the squad for India's upcoming tour of South Africa later this month. Team India will play three Tests in the rainbow nation starting from December 26. With Shreyas Iyer impressing in the middle-order in his debut Test series against the Kiwis, the Indian team management is set to face a selection headache. Both Vihari and Iyer are in contention to feature in the middle-order against South Africa and it remains to be seen who will make the cut in the playing XI for the first Test. Ahead of the tour, former India chief selector MSK Prasad has weighed in on the debate and said Vihari deserved a place in the squad for the New Zealand series at home instead of being sent with the India A team. "First, of all, he was deserving of a place in the squad for the New Zealand series at home. I think since he was not going to get an opportunity, they would have sent him for India A tour. Now in the 2nd unofficial Test, he has hit two (three) half-centuries. Yes, having somebody who has done well in away series in England, Australia and West Indies. If you are looking at a youngster, then Hanuma Vihari should be played," Prasad was quoted as saying by India Today. Also Read: 'He was picking up cones, wickets': Ganguly shares anecdote to highlight Rahul Dravid's humility Vihari showcased great form in the series against South Africa A and slammed three consecutive fifties. He has done well overseas for Team India and can also send down a few overs if required. However, Prasad believes the selection will depend on the conditions and what role the Indian team management is expecting the two batters to play in the Test series. "A lot depends on what they are expecting from the player, the role he is going to play. Hanuma Vihari is a guy who is solid in his technique. Similarly, Shreyas Iyer is someone who can bring in a little aggression," explained Prasad. "So it all depends on the batting order and what kind of role that the team management expects of their middle-order batter. Based on that, one of them can be given an opportunity," he added. ×

Hanuma Vihari or Shreyas Iyer? MSK Prasad gives his take on middle-order conundrum ahead of SA series

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly recently shared a heartwarming anecdote about India's current head coach Rahul Dravid. Ganguly lauded Dravid for his humble nature despite being one of the legends of the sport. Dravid, who is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time, had taken over as India's head coach in November this year.

Speaking about Dravid's humility despite his glorious achievements in cricket, Ganguly shared an interesting anecdote from the recently-concluded first Test between India and New Zealand in Kanpur. Ganguly revealed Dravid was carrying cones and wickets back to the dressing room after a practice session in Kanpur which reflected his down-to-earth character.

“I wish him (Dravid) all the best. I heard that in Kanpur, after the day’s practice he was picking up the cones and wickets and balls and bringing them back to the dressing room. It must have been a great sight for cameramen and photographers to see Rahul Dravid do that (smiles). But he is that sort of a person," Ganguly said in an interview with News18.

"We will support him and Rohit and Virat in test cricket whichever way they want," added the BCCI president.

Gangly and Dravis shared a number of years together playing for India and represented the team across formats. The two greats share a cordial relationship between them and Ganguly had earlier revealed he had personally convinced the batting legend to take up the India head coach job.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-personally-requested-virat-kohli-not-to-step-down-as-indias-t20-captain-sourav-ganguly-436252">I personally requested Virat Kohli not to step down as India's T20 Captain: Sourav Ganguly</a>

Dravid was heading the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru and was not sure about staying away from his family for the most part of the year as the India head coach job would require him to travel across the globe almost throughout the year.

However, Dravid later agreed to take up the all-important role and replaced Ravi Shastri, whose tenure as the head coach of the team came to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021.

&nbsp;

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly recently shared a heartwarming anecdote about India's current head coach Rahul Dravid. Ganguly lauded Dravid for his humble nature despite being one of the legends of the sport.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly recently shared a heartwarming anecdote about India's current head coach Rahul Dravid. Ganguly lauded Dravid for his humble nature despite being one of the legends of the sport. Dravid, who is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time, had taken over as India's head coach in November this year. Speaking about Dravid's humility despite his glorious achievements in cricket, Ganguly shared an interesting anecdote from the recently-concluded first Test between India and New Zealand in Kanpur. Ganguly revealed Dravid was carrying cones and wickets back to the dressing room after a practice session in Kanpur which reflected his down-to-earth character. “I wish him (Dravid) all the best. I heard that in Kanpur, after the day’s practice he was picking up the cones and wickets and balls and bringing them back to the dressing room. It must have been a great sight for cameramen and photographers to see Rahul Dravid do that (smiles). But he is that sort of a person," Ganguly said in an interview with News18. "We will support him and Rohit and Virat in test cricket whichever way they want," added the BCCI president. Gangly and Dravis shared a number of years together playing for India and represented the team across formats. The two greats share a cordial relationship between them and Ganguly had earlier revealed he had personally convinced the batting legend to take up the India head coach job. Also Read: I personally requested Virat Kohli not to step down as India's T20 Captain: Sourav Ganguly Dravid was heading the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru and was not sure about staying away from his family for the most part of the year as the India head coach job would require him to travel across the globe almost throughout the year. However, Dravid later agreed to take up the all-important role and replaced Ravi Shastri, whose tenure as the head coach of the team came to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021.

'He was picking up cones, wickets': Sourav Ganguly shares anecdote to highlight Rahul Dravid's humility

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Chetan Sharma-led national selection panel has been facing the wrath of fans and experts online ever since replacing Virat Kohli with Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the Indian cricket team. The BCCI confirmed the decision in a tweet on Wednesday while announcing India's Test squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa later this month.

The decision soon became one of the major talking points on social media, drawing mixed reactions from fans and experts of the game. While some felt the decision was in the making for some time, some criticised the BCCI for treating Kohli unfairly. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, who had earlier explained the reason behind the move, has once again reiterated that Kohli was removed as ODI captain as the selectors wanted only one white-ball captain.

Ganguly, who has himself been a successful captain for the Indian team during his playing days, revealed he had personally requested Kohli to not give up T20 captaincy. Kohli had announced that he will be stepping down as the T20 captain of the Indian team post the T20 World Cup 2021 in October this year while citing workload issues.

"It’s like I said… I personally requested him (Kohli) not to give up T20 captaincy. Obviously, he felt the workload. Which is fine, he has been a great cricketer, he has been very intense with his cricket. He has captained for a long period of time and these things happen. Because I have captained for a long period of time; therefore, I know," Ganguly was quoted as saying in an interview by News18.

"Also, they wanted only one white-ball captain. And that’s why this decision. I don’t know what’s going to happen in future. But as I said, it’s a good team and it has some fantastic players and I hope they will turn it around," the BCCI president added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-reacts-to-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-skipper-he-has-won-5-ipl-titles-as-captain-436228">'He has won 5 IPL titles as captain':&nbsp;Gambhir reacts to Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI skipper</a>

BCCI was heavily criticised for the manner in which the decision to remove Kohli was announced. The confirmation came through a tweet with a press release without any explanation from the selectors. Kohli led India in a total of 95 ODI matches, winning 65 games with a win percentage of over 70.

The batting maestro will now b leading the team only in Tests while Rohit will be taking over as full-time ODI captain from the upcoming South Africa series.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Chetan Sharma-led national selection panel has been facing the wrath of fans and experts online ever since replacing Virat Kohli with Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the Indian cricket team.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Chetan Sharma-led national selection panel has been facing the wrath of fans and experts online ever since replacing Virat Kohli with Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the Indian cricket team. The BCCI confirmed the decision in a tweet on Wednesday while announcing India's Test squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa later this month. The decision soon became one of the major talking points on social media, drawing mixed reactions from fans and experts of the game. While some felt the decision was in the making for some time, some criticised the BCCI for treating Kohli unfairly. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, who had earlier explained the reason behind the move, has once again reiterated that Kohli was removed as ODI captain as the selectors wanted only one white-ball captain. Ganguly, who has himself been a successful captain for the Indian team during his playing days, revealed he had personally requested Kohli to not give up T20 captaincy. Kohli had announced that he will be stepping down as the T20 captain of the Indian team post the T20 World Cup 2021 in October this year while citing workload issues. "It’s like I said… I personally requested him (Kohli) not to give up T20 captaincy. Obviously, he felt the workload. Which is fine, he has been a great cricketer, he has been very intense with his cricket. He has captained for a long period of time and these things happen. Because I have captained for a long period of time; therefore, I know," Ganguly was quoted as saying in an interview by News18. "Also, they wanted only one white-ball captain. And that’s why this decision. I don’t know what’s going to happen in future. But as I said, it’s a good team and it has some fantastic players and I hope they will turn it around," the BCCI president added. Also Read: 'He has won 5 IPL titles as captain': Gambhir reacts to Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI skipper BCCI was heavily criticised for the manner in which the decision to remove Kohli was announced. The confirmation came through a tweet with a press release without any explanation from the selectors. Kohli led India in a total of 95 ODI matches, winning 65 games with a win percentage of over 70. The batting maestro will now b leading the team only in Tests while Rohit will be taking over as full-time ODI captain from the upcoming South Africa series.

I personally requested Virat Kohli not to step down as India's T20 Captain: Sourav Ganguly

Rohit Sharma will now be leading the Indian cricket team across white-ball formats after replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper of the team earlier this week. Kohli, who had stepped down as the captain of India's T20 team in October this year, has now been replaced as ODI skipper as well ahead of the team's tour of South Africa. Kohli will continue to lead India in Tests.

Reacting to Rohit's appointment as ODI skipper of the Indian team, former India opener Gautam Gambhir heaped praise on the Hitman. Gambhir pointed out Rohit's brilliant captaincy credentials in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and said he must be doing something right as a captain to have been elevated to a leadership role in ODIs as well after T20Is.

Rohit has led Mumbai Indians to a record five titles in the Indian Premier League - the most by any captain in the history of the competition. Kohli, on the other hand, failed to win his maiden title with Royal Challengers Bangalore before stepping down as the captain of the side after the conclusion of IPL 2021 this year. Gambhir also praised Rohit for his ability to stay calm under pressure and not push his players too hard.

"Rohit Sharma has won 5 IPL titles as a captain, so he must be doing something right as compared to other captains and at the same time [the best thing about him is] his calmness and sometimes his laid back attitude as well, keeping things relaxed, at the same time not pushing players too hard," Gambhir said on Star Sports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-era-3-reasons-why-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-captain-can-be-a-good-move-for-team-india-435882">3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India</a>

Gambhir spoke in the favour of having a separate captain in Tests and the two white-ball formats to keep things simple going forward. He explained how having both the ODI and T20I teams under him will help Rohit in grooming the white-ball players for both formats while Kohli can focus solely on Test cricket.

"Rohit himself is a chilled out character as well which actually helps the entire squad plus I think it's good for Indian cricket that now we have got two captains - one in white-ball cricket and one in red-ball cricket so Rohit will get enough time to groom white-ball cricket, whether it is the T20 format or ODI," said Gambhir.

"I feel that Rohit Sharma as a leader will definitely do well for Indian cricket, so Indian cricket is in very safe hands," he added.

&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma will now be leading the Indian cricket team across white-ball formats after replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper of the team earlier this week. Kohli, who had stepped down as the captain of India's T20 team in October this year, has now been replaced as ODI skipper as well ahead of the team's tour of South Africa.

Rohit Sharma will now be leading the Indian cricket team across white-ball formats after replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper of the team earlier this week. Kohli, who had stepped down as the captain of India's T20 team in October this year, has now been replaced as ODI skipper as well ahead of the team's tour of South Africa. Kohli will continue to lead India in Tests. Reacting to Rohit's appointment as ODI skipper of the Indian team, former India opener Gautam Gambhir heaped praise on the Hitman. Gambhir pointed out Rohit's brilliant captaincy credentials in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and said he must be doing something right as a captain to have been elevated to a leadership role in ODIs as well after T20Is. Rohit has led Mumbai Indians to a record five titles in the Indian Premier League - the most by any captain in the history of the competition. Kohli, on the other hand, failed to win his maiden title with Royal Challengers Bangalore before stepping down as the captain of the side after the conclusion of IPL 2021 this year. Gambhir also praised Rohit for his ability to stay calm under pressure and not push his players too hard. "Rohit Sharma has won 5 IPL titles as a captain, so he must be doing something right as compared to other captains and at the same time [the best thing about him is] his calmness and sometimes his laid back attitude as well, keeping things relaxed, at the same time not pushing players too hard," Gambhir said on Star Sports. Also Read: 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India Gambhir spoke in the favour of having a separate captain in Tests and the two white-ball formats to keep things simple going forward. He explained how having both the ODI and T20I teams under him will help Rohit in grooming the white-ball players for both formats while Kohli can focus solely on Test cricket. "Rohit himself is a chilled out character as well which actually helps the entire squad plus I think it's good for Indian cricket that now we have got two captains - one in white-ball cricket and one in red-ball cricket so Rohit will get enough time to groom white-ball cricket, whether it is the T20 format or ODI," said Gambhir. "I feel that Rohit Sharma as a leader will definitely do well for Indian cricket, so Indian cricket is in very safe hands," he added.

Gautam Gambhir reacts to Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI skipper: 'He has won 5 IPL titles as captain'

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments.&nbsp;

Year 2021 had plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. Talking about Team India, the senior men's team had some glorious highs along with two disheartening lows. While the optimists can claim that India maintained their hold in the top-3 in rankings across formats, one reality also remains that national side couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.&nbsp;

Revisiting India's 2021, let us have a look at how Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer line-up performed in the calendar year:

Conquering all odds Down Under

Ajinkya Rahane-led India managed to draw the 2020/22 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the halfway stage before 2021 commenced. Coming to the third and penultimate Test, Rishabh Pant's scintillating 97, Cheteshwar Pujara's lengthy stay at the middle and blockathon from R Ashwin-Hanuna Vihari led to the series being wide open, at 1-1, going into the finale at The Gabba, Brisbane.&nbsp;

The fourth and final Test lived upto expectations. Second-stringed India were jolted further with injuries to Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin, Vihari, Jasprit Bumrah. However, they managed to keep themselves alive on the last day, chasing 328 to break Aussies' proud and unbeaten streak at the venue since 32 years.&nbsp;

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Riding on Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur's fifties in the first essay, Mohammed Siraj's five-fer and Pant-Pujara's fighting knocks in the final innings, India chased down the total with three wickets in hand to win the series 2-1 in a dramatic fashion.&nbsp;

The Test would easily go down as one of the greatest heists pulled off by a second-stringed side in the toughest format.&nbsp;

England tour of India, 2021

Soon after the triumph versus the Aussies, India hosted England in an all-format tour of the Three Lions.&nbsp;

Test series: India 3, England 1

Losing the series opener, being in a tough spot in the second Test in Chennai, hearing several criticism around the Ahmedabad pitch, Kohli-led India won the four-match Test series 3-1 to confirm their slot in the inaugural WTC final.&nbsp;

The top-performers for the home side were Ashwin (32 wickets and a ton), Axar Patel (27 wickets in his debut series), Pant and Rohit Sharma's contributions with the willow.&nbsp;

Beating Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. in white-ball formats&nbsp;

The five T20Is and three ODIs followed suit. The white-ball series was expected to be a tougher assignment for hosts given England's strength in the shorter formats. The T20Is lived upto expectations before India won it 3-2 eventually. The three ODIs saw India go 1-0 up before Morgan-less England turned it around to level it at 1-1. Nonetheless, the series finale was a tough nut to crack for the hosts before finally winning it 2-1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-find-anything-wrong-former-india-player-opines-on-rohit-sharma-replacing-virat-kohli-as-odi-captain-435854">Don't find anything wrong: Former India player opines on Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as ODI captain</a>

WTC final - One Where India Never Turned Up&nbsp;

After the England home series, Indian players featured in the IPL 2021 edition, which was cut-short due to the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in India. Getting a much-needed breather before WTC final, Team India finally reached the United Kingdom in early June (for WTC final and England Tests).

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale was much-awaited. Entering the final as the No. 1 ranked side, having beaten Australia in their own backyard, India were favourites versus the Black Caps. Nonetheless, India's wait for an ICC title, since 2013, extended as Kane Williamson &amp; Co. produced an all-round performance.

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Being asked to bat first, at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India were 70 for no loss before being bundled out for 217. In reply, NZ were dismissed for 249; gaining a vital 32-run. India had no answers to Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson's pace, swing and bounce as they were dismissed for 170 in the second innings, setting up a paltry 139-run target.

Kiwis, thus, closed the match with 8 wickets to spare and become the World Test Champions. Agony continued for India in ICC events.

India vs England, five Tests in the UK

After the shambles of the WTC final, India regrouped for&nbsp;the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Despite coming so close to the WTC title, India missed out in the final hurdle but had to revamp and start from scratch as the second cycle commenced with the England series.

Kohli-led India were up for the challenge. They came close to winning the five-match Test series opener in Edgbaston before rain washed out entire day five's proceedings. The second Test, at Lord's, brought more luck for India as they won their third Test at the venue, first after seven years, with a comprehensive 151-run margin. Jasprit Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's 89-run unbeaten ninth-wicket stand, KL Rahul's first-innings ton, Mohammed Siraj's eight-wicket haul led to India going 1-0 up despite conceding a 27-run lead.

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The third Test was a disaster for the visitors, losing by an innings and 76 runs. The fourth and penultimate Test once again tested Kohli's brigade to the core but they triumphed against all odds. Being asked to bat first, India were dismissed for 190, after reeling at 127-7 at one stage. To add to this, they conceded a 99-run lead before staging a comeback for the ages.

Riding on Rohit's 127 and fifties from Cheteshwar Pujara, Shardul Thakur (twin half-centuries in the match), Rishabh Pant and cameos from the tail, India set up a daunting 368-run target for Root &amp; Co. In reply, the hosts fell like nine pins, for 210, to lose by 151 runs. Thus, England gave an unassailable lead to the tourists.

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The fifth and final Test, in Manchester, got cancelled at the last minute due to Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. The series decider will be held next year as Team India loyalists are desperately waiting for the national side's first-ever Test series win on English soil since 2007.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-being-able-to-win-icc-title-mightve-cost-virat-kohli-the-odi-captaincy-former-indian-wicketkeeper-435848">Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper</a>

T20 World Cup 2021 - India succumb to new low

After the England Tests and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE, the action moved to the Men's T20 World Cup. Starting as one of the strongest contenders, India endured a horrible start. In their opening game, Kohli-led India lost to arch-rivals Pakistan for the first time in World Cup history (both in ODIs and T20Is). Losing by ten wickets, India had a herculean task to stage a comeback.

Nonetheless, more embarrassment awaited the one-time winners. India's losing streak versus New Zealand in ICC events, since 2007, continued as they were hammered by the Black Caps in their second outing. Starring on the brink of an early exit, India gathered themselves to pull off three convincing wins, however, the writing was on the wall long back.

India failed to move past the group stages with three wins from five encounters. Winning against the likes of Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia didn't matter as the Pakistan and New Zealand encounters dented India's campaign severely.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/some-in-bcci-made-sure-i-dont-get-the-job-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-makes-glaring-remark-435719">'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark</a>

New Zealand tour of India: Start of Rahul Dravid-era

Post the disheartening T20 WC, India began a new era under Rahul Dravid. After much hesitation, Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri to become India's head coach as the former all-rounder's tenure ended with the T20 WC campaign. In addition, Kohli stepped aside as the Indian captain in T20Is -- having made the official announcement prior to the mega event -- and was replaced by Rohit.

While Rohit-led India commenced a new journey in the shortest format with the home series versus NZ. Sans Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and the likes, India demolished the Black Caps 3-0. The two-match Test series followed suit.

It wasn't going to be easy versus the World Test champions. Hence, Williamson-led Kiwis held onto a fighting draw in the series opener, which saw Ajinkya Rahane leading the side in Kohli's absence. The second and final Test brought Kohli back in action as the hosts humbled the visitors at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150 and vital contributions from Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav and R Ashwin, India beat New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin (their biggest win by runs).

India still have a Test left in the calendar year. They are scheduled to tour South Africa, comprising three Tests and ODIs each, but the tour-opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test at Centurion.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-era-3-reasons-why-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-captain-can-be-a-good-move-for-team-india-435882">A new era! 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India</a>

The ICC title wait, unearthing of young stars, change in leadership group

Overall, India had a topsy-turvy ride in 2021. While they continued to remain a solid unit across formats, they particularly flourished in bilateral series as an ICC title continues to evade them. Young stars such as Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Ishan Kishan, Pant, etc. made a mark whereas KL Rahul rose in prominence and stature. Kohli lost limited-overs captaincy altogether as Rohit-Dravid-era has commenced in the white-ball formats.

Team India will hope to continue their dominance at home and conquer more Test series away from home. However, their biggest aim would be to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments. Year 2021 had plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. Talking about Team India, the senior men's team had some glorious highs along with two disheartening lows. While the optimists can claim that India maintained their hold in the top-3 in rankings across formats, one reality also remains that national side couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Revisiting India's 2021, let us have a look at how Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer line-up performed in the calendar year: Conquering all odds Down Under Ajinkya Rahane-led India managed to draw the 2020/22 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the halfway stage before 2021 commenced. Coming to the third and penultimate Test, Rishabh Pant's scintillating 97, Cheteshwar Pujara's lengthy stay at the middle and blockathon from R Ashwin-Hanuna Vihari led to the series being wide open, at 1-1, going into the finale at The Gabba, Brisbane. The fourth and final Test lived upto expectations. Second-stringed India were jolted further with injuries to Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin, Vihari, Jasprit Bumrah. However, they managed to keep themselves alive on the last day, chasing 328 to break Aussies' proud and unbeaten streak at the venue since 32 years. × Riding on Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur's fifties in the first essay, Mohammed Siraj's five-fer and Pant-Pujara's fighting knocks in the final innings, India chased down the total with three wickets in hand to win the series 2-1 in a dramatic fashion. The Test would easily go down as one of the greatest heists pulled off by a second-stringed side in the toughest format. England tour of India, 2021 Soon after the triumph versus the Aussies, India hosted England in an all-format tour of the Three Lions. Test series: India 3, England 1 Losing the series opener, being in a tough spot in the second Test in Chennai, hearing several criticism around the Ahmedabad pitch, Kohli-led India won the four-match Test series 3-1 to confirm their slot in the inaugural WTC final. The top-performers for the home side were Ashwin (32 wickets and a ton), Axar Patel (27 wickets in his debut series), Pant and Rohit Sharma's contributions with the willow. Beating Eoin Morgan & Co. in white-ball formats The five T20Is and three ODIs followed suit. The white-ball series was expected to be a tougher assignment for hosts given England's strength in the shorter formats. The T20Is lived upto expectations before India won it 3-2 eventually. The three ODIs saw India go 1-0 up before Morgan-less England turned it around to level it at 1-1. Nonetheless, the series finale was a tough nut to crack for the hosts before finally winning it 2-1. ALSO READ | Don't find anything wrong: Former India player opines on Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as ODI captain WTC final - One Where India Never Turned Up After the England home series, Indian players featured in the IPL 2021 edition, which was cut-short due to the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in India. Getting a much-needed breather before WTC final, Team India finally reached the United Kingdom in early June (for WTC final and England Tests). The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale was much-awaited. Entering the final as the No. 1 ranked side, having beaten Australia in their own backyard, India were favourites versus the Black Caps. Nonetheless, India's wait for an ICC title, since 2013, extended as Kane Williamson & Co. produced an all-round performance. × Being asked to bat first, at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India were 70 for no loss before being bundled out for 217. In reply, NZ were dismissed for 249; gaining a vital 32-run. India had no answers to Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson's pace, swing and bounce as they were dismissed for 170 in the second innings, setting up a paltry 139-run target. Kiwis, thus, closed the match with 8 wickets to spare and become the World Test Champions. Agony continued for India in ICC events. India vs England, five Tests in the UK After the shambles of the WTC final, India regrouped for the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Despite coming so close to the WTC title, India missed out in the final hurdle but had to revamp and start from scratch as the second cycle commenced with the England series. Kohli-led India were up for the challenge. They came close to winning the five-match Test series opener in Edgbaston before rain washed out entire day five's proceedings. The second Test, at Lord's, brought more luck for India as they won their third Test at the venue, first after seven years, with a comprehensive 151-run margin. Jasprit Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's 89-run unbeaten ninth-wicket stand, KL Rahul's first-innings ton, Mohammed Siraj's eight-wicket haul led to India going 1-0 up despite conceding a 27-run lead. × The third Test was a disaster for the visitors, losing by an innings and 76 runs. The fourth and penultimate Test once again tested Kohli's brigade to the core but they triumphed against all odds. Being asked to bat first, India were dismissed for 190, after reeling at 127-7 at one stage. To add to this, they conceded a 99-run lead before staging a comeback for the ages. Riding on Rohit's 127 and fifties from Cheteshwar Pujara, Shardul Thakur (twin half-centuries in the match), Rishabh Pant and cameos from the tail, India set up a daunting 368-run target for Root & Co. In reply, the hosts fell like nine pins, for 210, to lose by 151 runs. Thus, England gave an unassailable lead to the tourists. × The fifth and final Test, in Manchester, got cancelled at the last minute due to Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. The series decider will be held next year as Team India loyalists are desperately waiting for the national side's first-ever Test series win on English soil since 2007. ALSO READ | Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper T20 World Cup 2021 - India succumb to new low After the England Tests and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE, the action moved to the Men's T20 World Cup. Starting as one of the strongest contenders, India endured a horrible start. In their opening game, Kohli-led India lost to arch-rivals Pakistan for the first time in World Cup history (both in ODIs and T20Is). Losing by ten wickets, India had a herculean task to stage a comeback. Nonetheless, more embarrassment awaited the one-time winners. India's losing streak versus New Zealand in ICC events, since 2007, continued as they were hammered by the Black Caps in their second outing. Starring on the brink of an early exit, India gathered themselves to pull off three convincing wins, however, the writing was on the wall long back. India failed to move past the group stages with three wins from five encounters. Winning against the likes of Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia didn't matter as the Pakistan and New Zealand encounters dented India's campaign severely. ALSO READ | 'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark New Zealand tour of India: Start of Rahul Dravid-era Post the disheartening T20 WC, India began a new era under Rahul Dravid. After much hesitation, Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri to become India's head coach as the former all-rounder's tenure ended with the T20 WC campaign. In addition, Kohli stepped aside as the Indian captain in T20Is -- having made the official announcement prior to the mega event -- and was replaced by Rohit. While Rohit-led India commenced a new journey in the shortest format with the home series versus NZ. Sans Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and the likes, India demolished the Black Caps 3-0. The two-match Test series followed suit. It wasn't going to be easy versus the World Test champions. Hence, Williamson-led Kiwis held onto a fighting draw in the series opener, which saw Ajinkya Rahane leading the side in Kohli's absence. The second and final Test brought Kohli back in action as the hosts humbled the visitors at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150 and vital contributions from Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav and R Ashwin, India beat New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin (their biggest win by runs). India still have a Test left in the calendar year. They are scheduled to tour South Africa, comprising three Tests and ODIs each, but the tour-opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test at Centurion. ALSO READ | A new era! 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India The ICC title wait, unearthing of young stars, change in leadership group Overall, India had a topsy-turvy ride in 2021. While they continued to remain a solid unit across formats, they particularly flourished in bilateral series as an ICC title continues to evade them. Young stars such as Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Ishan Kishan, Pant, etc. made a mark whereas KL Rahul rose in prominence and stature. Kohli lost limited-overs captaincy altogether as Rohit-Dravid-era has commenced in the white-ball formats. Team India will hope to continue their dominance at home and conquer more Test series away from home. However, their biggest aim would be to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

From conquering Aussies Down Under to T20 World Cup debacle: Team India in 2021

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar recently recalled his meeting with star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya during the Asia Cup in 2018. Akhtar said he was shocked by Hardik's very lean physique and had even warned him of an injury. Incidentally, Hardik was stretchered off the field just moments later due to a back injury in India's clash against Pakistan.

Hardik suffered a back injury while bowling during the game against Pakistan. He went down on the ground and lied motionless for a while after clutching his back. BCCI later confirmed that he had incurred 'an acute lower back injury'. The back injury has since continued to trouble the all-rounder, who has had to significantly reduce his workload due to the issue and has avoided bowling too much.

Akhtar revealed he was present in Dubai for the India-Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2018 and had met both Hardik and Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Talking to former India cricketer Aakash Chopra on his YouTube channel, Akhtar recalled how he warned Hardik about an injury ahead of the game and the all-rounder ended up getting his back injured just moments later.

"I told Bumrah in Dubai, even Hardik Pandya...I still have such strong back muscles behind my shoulders, but they looked so lean. I was shocked. I warned him that you will get injured, but he told me that he has been playing a lot of cricket. Exactly an hour and a half later, he got injured," Akhtar said.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-transparency-at-all-virat-kohlis-childhood-coach-surprised-by-gangulys-statement-on-ex-odi-skipper-436105">&nbsp;'No transparency at all': Virat Kohli's childhood coach 'surprised' by Ganguly's statement on ex-ODI skipper</a>

Hardik's back injury has seen him struggle consistently while bowling in the last few years. The all-rounder did not bowl at all for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2021 this year and has&nbsp;not been bowling regularly for India as well in both ODIs and T20Is.

Hardik was dropped from India's T20 squad post the T20 World Cup 2021 where he failed to impress with both the bat and the ball as the team endured a disappointing campaign. The all-rounder is currently training at the NCA in Bengaluru and will be hoping to make a strong comeback in the future.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar recently recalled his meeting with star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya during the Asia Cup in 2018. Akhtar said he was shocked by Hardik's very lean physique and had even warned him of an injury.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar recently recalled his meeting with star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya during the Asia Cup in 2018. Akhtar said he was shocked by Hardik's very lean physique and had even warned him of an injury. Incidentally, Hardik was stretchered off the field just moments later due to a back injury in India's clash against Pakistan. Hardik suffered a back injury while bowling during the game against Pakistan. He went down on the ground and lied motionless for a while after clutching his back. BCCI later confirmed that he had incurred 'an acute lower back injury'. The back injury has since continued to trouble the all-rounder, who has had to significantly reduce his workload due to the issue and has avoided bowling too much. Akhtar revealed he was present in Dubai for the India-Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2018 and had met both Hardik and Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Talking to former India cricketer Aakash Chopra on his YouTube channel, Akhtar recalled how he warned Hardik about an injury ahead of the game and the all-rounder ended up getting his back injured just moments later. "I told Bumrah in Dubai, even Hardik Pandya...I still have such strong back muscles behind my shoulders, but they looked so lean. I was shocked. I warned him that you will get injured, but he told me that he has been playing a lot of cricket. Exactly an hour and a half later, he got injured," Akhtar said. Also Read: 'No transparency at all': Virat Kohli's childhood coach 'surprised' by Ganguly's statement on ex-ODI skipper Hardik's back injury has seen him struggle consistently while bowling in the last few years. The all-rounder did not bowl at all for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2021 this year and has not been bowling regularly for India as well in both ODIs and T20Is. Hardik was dropped from India's T20 squad post the T20 World Cup 2021 where he failed to impress with both the bat and the ball as the team endured a disappointing campaign. The all-rounder is currently training at the NCA in Bengaluru and will be hoping to make a strong comeback in the future.

Shoaib Akhtar recalls meeting Hardik Pandya during Asia Cup 2018: 'I was shocked, warned him about injury'

Rohit Sharma has replaced Virat Kohli as Team India's white-ball captain ahead of the team's tour of South Africa later this month. It will be the beginning of a new era for the Indian team under Rohit's leadership with a T20 World Cup and an ODI World Cup lined up in the next two years.

The move to replace Kohli as ODI captain came as a surprise to many as the Indian batter had made it clear in October this year that he is keen to lead the national team in Tests and ODIs after reliving the T20 captaincy. However, his captaincy stint in limited-overs cricket was cut short by BCCI, who opted for one captain for white-ball cricket.

While the move has drawn mixed reactions from fans and former cricketers, it remains to be seen who will take over the vice-captaincy spot in ODIs left vacant by Rohit after he was elevated to captaincy.&nbsp;BCCI is yet to announce India's vice-captain in ODIs ahead of the South Africa tour. Here is a look at three top candidates for vice-captaincy -

1) KL Rahul

KL Rahul was appointed as Rohit Sharma's deputy for his first T20I series as full-time captain of the Indian team against New Zealand at home. Rahul is favourite to take over as vice-captain in ODIs as well. He is one of the few players who is a regular in both ODIs and T20Is for India and has been a consistent performer with the bat. He also has the experience of leading Punjab Kings for two seasons in the Indian Premier League.

2) Rishabh Pant

India's first-choice wicket-keeper in white-ball cricket, Rishabh Pant can also be a good fit as a vice-captain looking ahead. Pant has been exceptional in Tests recently and has also cemented his spot in both ODIs and T20Is. He led Delhi Capitals to the playoffs in IPL 2021 and has been maturing as a leader. He can be groomed for a future leadership role as Rohit's deputy in ODIs at present.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-era-3-reasons-why-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-captain-can-be-a-good-move-for-team-india-435882">3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India</a>

3) Shreyas Iyer&nbsp;

Shreyas Iyer has been around the Indian setup for a while now as far as ODIs and T20Is are concerned. Though he was not part of the T20 World Cup 2021's main squad, he is seen as a vital cog in India's batting line-up and has proved his leadership qualities at Delhi Capitals in the IPL. Iyer was the first and the only captain to lead Delhi Capitals to the final of the IPL. He can be an ideal deputy to Rohit in the fifty-over format.

Rohit Sharma has replaced Virat Kohli as Team India's white-ball captain ahead of the team's tour of South Africa later this month. It will be the beginning of a new era for the Indian team under Rohit's leadership with a T20 World Cup and an ODI World Cup lined up in the next two years.

Rohit Sharma has replaced Virat Kohli as Team India's white-ball captain ahead of the team's tour of South Africa later this month. It will be the beginning of a new era for the Indian team under Rohit's leadership with a T20 World Cup and an ODI World Cup lined up in the next two years. The move to replace Kohli as ODI captain came as a surprise to many as the Indian batter had made it clear in October this year that he is keen to lead the national team in Tests and ODIs after reliving the T20 captaincy. However, his captaincy stint in limited-overs cricket was cut short by BCCI, who opted for one captain for white-ball cricket. While the move has drawn mixed reactions from fans and former cricketers, it remains to be seen who will take over the vice-captaincy spot in ODIs left vacant by Rohit after he was elevated to captaincy. BCCI is yet to announce India's vice-captain in ODIs ahead of the South Africa tour. Here is a look at three top candidates for vice-captaincy - 1) KL Rahul KL Rahul was appointed as Rohit Sharma's deputy for his first T20I series as full-time captain of the Indian team against New Zealand at home. Rahul is favourite to take over as vice-captain in ODIs as well. He is one of the few players who is a regular in both ODIs and T20Is for India and has been a consistent performer with the bat. He also has the experience of leading Punjab Kings for two seasons in the Indian Premier League. 2) Rishabh Pant India's first-choice wicket-keeper in white-ball cricket, Rishabh Pant can also be a good fit as a vice-captain looking ahead. Pant has been exceptional in Tests recently and has also cemented his spot in both ODIs and T20Is. He led Delhi Capitals to the playoffs in IPL 2021 and has been maturing as a leader. He can be groomed for a future leadership role as Rohit's deputy in ODIs at present. Also Read: 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India 3) Shreyas Iyer Shreyas Iyer has been around the Indian setup for a while now as far as ODIs and T20Is are concerned. Though he was not part of the T20 World Cup 2021's main squad, he is seen as a vital cog in India's batting line-up and has proved his leadership qualities at Delhi Capitals in the IPL. Iyer was the first and the only captain to lead Delhi Capitals to the final of the IPL. He can be an ideal deputy to Rohit in the fifty-over format.

3 players who can become India's vice-captain after Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as ODI skipper

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s decision to sack Virat Kohli as ODI captain of the Indian team has drawn mixed reactions from the cricket fraternity. Several former cricketers and experts have shared their views on what has been one of the biggest developments in Indian cricket in recent times.

While some have criticised the BCCI for handing out unfair treatment to Kohli, some feel the move was bound to happen after Rohit Sharma was appointed as the T20I skipper of the side last month. Kohli had announced his decision to step down as India's T20I captain ahead of the T20 World Cup 2021.

He was replaced by Rohit as captain in the shortest format. However, Kohli had expressed his desire to continue leading the Indian team in Tests and ODIs with his main focus probably on the 2023 ODI World Cup. However, BCCI has cut short his captaincy stint in the fifty-over format to appoint Rohit as India's only white-ball skipper going forward.

It was a press release from BCCI on Wednesday that confirmed Rohit will be replacing Kohli as the ODI skipper going forward. Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has shared his two cents on the matter and said BCCI should have given Kohli some respect by not informing him and announcing the decision the way they did.

Kaneria pointed out at Kohli's great record as a batter and captain in ODIs while slamming the Indian cricket board for not giving the former captain the respect that he deserved for his contributions towards Indian cricket.

"Did the BCCI do the right thing with Kohli? I don't think so. They did not give him respect. He has gotten India 65 wins as captain, the fourth-highest by any India skipper,"&nbsp;Kaneria said in a video on his YouTube channel.

"The thing is why didn't you inform someone whose record as captain isn't bad at all. Second most-highest runs as India ODI skipper. Based on his record, he deserved respect. Sure, he hasn't won an ICC trophy as captain but the way he has led is phenomenal," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-era-3-reasons-why-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-captain-can-be-a-good-move-for-team-india-435882">3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India</a>

Calling Kohli a superstar in world cricket at present, Kaneria said someone like BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, who was a successful captain himself during his playing days, should have informed Kohli about the selectors' decision to replace him as captain in ODIs.

"The only two superstars going around in world cricket at the moment are Virat Kohli and Babar Azam. You should respect your superstars. The BCCI were harsh in removing Kohli without informing him. Sourav Ganguly is such a big name, a former captain. He should have communicated to Virat that we would like Rohit to captain. Another thing that went against him was that Kohli was not scoring runs as big and fluently as he used to," Kaneria said.

&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s decision to sack Virat Kohli as ODI captain of the Indian team has drawn mixed reactions from the cricket fraternity.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s decision to sack Virat Kohli as ODI captain of the Indian team has drawn mixed reactions from the cricket fraternity. Several former cricketers and experts have shared their views on what has been one of the biggest developments in Indian cricket in recent times. While some have criticised the BCCI for handing out unfair treatment to Kohli, some feel the move was bound to happen after Rohit Sharma was appointed as the T20I skipper of the side last month. Kohli had announced his decision to step down as India's T20I captain ahead of the T20 World Cup 2021. He was replaced by Rohit as captain in the shortest format. However, Kohli had expressed his desire to continue leading the Indian team in Tests and ODIs with his main focus probably on the 2023 ODI World Cup. However, BCCI has cut short his captaincy stint in the fifty-over format to appoint Rohit as India's only white-ball skipper going forward. It was a press release from BCCI on Wednesday that confirmed Rohit will be replacing Kohli as the ODI skipper going forward. Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has shared his two cents on the matter and said BCCI should have given Kohli some respect by not informing him and announcing the decision the way they did. Kaneria pointed out at Kohli's great record as a batter and captain in ODIs while slamming the Indian cricket board for not giving the former captain the respect that he deserved for his contributions towards Indian cricket. "Did the BCCI do the right thing with Kohli? I don't think so. They did not give him respect. He has gotten India 65 wins as captain, the fourth-highest by any India skipper," Kaneria said in a video on his YouTube channel. "The thing is why didn't you inform someone whose record as captain isn't bad at all. Second most-highest runs as India ODI skipper. Based on his record, he deserved respect. Sure, he hasn't won an ICC trophy as captain but the way he has led is phenomenal," he added. Also Read: 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India Calling Kohli a superstar in world cricket at present, Kaneria said someone like BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, who was a successful captain himself during his playing days, should have informed Kohli about the selectors' decision to replace him as captain in ODIs. "The only two superstars going around in world cricket at the moment are Virat Kohli and Babar Azam. You should respect your superstars. The BCCI were harsh in removing Kohli without informing him. Sourav Ganguly is such a big name, a former captain. He should have communicated to Virat that we would like Rohit to captain. Another thing that went against him was that Kohli was not scoring runs as big and fluently as he used to," Kaneria said.

'BCCI did not give Virat respect': Former Pakistan bowler reacts to Kohli's sacking as India's ODI captain

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Hence, Shastri's four-year-long tenure as head coach finally came to an end, which included several highs as well as some big jolts.

For the unversed, Shastri took over as the head coach in mid-2017 after Anil Kumble's unceremonious exit. Under him, India beat Australia twice in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the five Tests in the United Kingdom early this year, reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and ended as runners-up in the inaugural WTC. In addition, India dominated oppositions at home, across formats, and enjoyed wholesome success in limited-overs bilateral series while being on the road.

Nonetheless, the former all-rounder-cum-renowned-commentator's contributions for Indian cricket continued even before he took over as head coach in 2017. In 2014, he was roped in as team director, amid then coach Duncan Fletcher's presence, and continued to perform the role till early 2016. Thus, he was touted to be the ideal candidate to succeed Fletcher (continuing in his role even after Fletcher's departure). However, BCCI went ahead with Kumble before the former Indian spinner's rift with Virat Kohli brought Shastri back into the scheme of things,&nbsp;as the head coach.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-given-2-days-to-resign-as-odi-captain-before-bcci-announced-rohit-as-his-successor-report-435370">Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report</a>

Opining no the time he lost the head coach position in early 2016, Shastri told TOI in a recent interview, "There was this bolt from the blue. In less than two years after I was asked set aside my broadcast career, leave everything else and join the team, I suddenly found myself out for no reason. I had sown the seeds and the fruits were beginning to show and out of nowhere I came to know I was being replaced. Nobody told me why."

On being asked if the decision hurt him, the former cricketer didn't hold back and claimed,&nbsp;"Yes, more than anything, it hurt because of the manner in which it was done. For all that I had contributed, just on one word from the BCCI, there were better ways to let me know 'Oh look we don't want you, we don't like you. We want somebody else'&nbsp;- if that was the case. Anyway, I went back to do what I do best - which is television. Around nine months passed, and I didn't even have a clue that there was anything wrong inside the team. I mean, what could've been wrong? I was told there was a real problem and I said - how can there be a problem in nine months? The team that I had left was in such a good space. How the hell in nine months could something go that drastically wrong?"

Glaring remark by the ex-Indian head coach

He further asserted, "During my second stint, I came after a huge controversy. And it was literally egg on the faces of those who wanted me away. They opted for someone and nine months later, they came back to the very guy they threw out. And I'm not pointing any fingers at people (BCCI) in general. Specific people. I must say an attempt was made to ensure I don't get the job. But such is life."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-overawed-ravi-shastri-gives-his-take-on-captain-rohit-sharma-as-hitman-succeeds-virat-kohli-435518">'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli</a>

Thus, Shastri has pointed fingers at few people in the BCCI who didn't want him as the head coach initially in 2016. At present, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Team India have also gone through several changes post Shastri's exit.&nbsp;

Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as India's limited-overs captain. While the former continues to be in-charge of the Test side, Rohit has been promoted as his deputy in whites.

India are next scheduled to play three Tests and ODIs each versus South Africa, in the African nation, from December 26.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Hence, Shastri's four-year-long tenure as head coach finally came to an end, which included several highs as well as some big jolts.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Hence, Shastri's four-year-long tenure as head coach finally came to an end, which included several highs as well as some big jolts. For the unversed, Shastri took over as the head coach in mid-2017 after Anil Kumble's unceremonious exit. Under him, India beat Australia twice in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the five Tests in the United Kingdom early this year, reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and ended as runners-up in the inaugural WTC. In addition, India dominated oppositions at home, across formats, and enjoyed wholesome success in limited-overs bilateral series while being on the road. Nonetheless, the former all-rounder-cum-renowned-commentator's contributions for Indian cricket continued even before he took over as head coach in 2017. In 2014, he was roped in as team director, amid then coach Duncan Fletcher's presence, and continued to perform the role till early 2016. Thus, he was touted to be the ideal candidate to succeed Fletcher (continuing in his role even after Fletcher's departure). However, BCCI went ahead with Kumble before the former Indian spinner's rift with Virat Kohli brought Shastri back into the scheme of things, as the head coach. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report Opining no the time he lost the head coach position in early 2016, Shastri told TOI in a recent interview, "There was this bolt from the blue. In less than two years after I was asked set aside my broadcast career, leave everything else and join the team, I suddenly found myself out for no reason. I had sown the seeds and the fruits were beginning to show and out of nowhere I came to know I was being replaced. Nobody told me why." On being asked if the decision hurt him, the former cricketer didn't hold back and claimed, "Yes, more than anything, it hurt because of the manner in which it was done. For all that I had contributed, just on one word from the BCCI, there were better ways to let me know 'Oh look we don't want you, we don't like you. We want somebody else' - if that was the case. Anyway, I went back to do what I do best - which is television. Around nine months passed, and I didn't even have a clue that there was anything wrong inside the team. I mean, what could've been wrong? I was told there was a real problem and I said - how can there be a problem in nine months? The team that I had left was in such a good space. How the hell in nine months could something go that drastically wrong?" Glaring remark by the ex-Indian head coach He further asserted, "During my second stint, I came after a huge controversy. And it was literally egg on the faces of those who wanted me away. They opted for someone and nine months later, they came back to the very guy they threw out. And I'm not pointing any fingers at people (BCCI) in general. Specific people. I must say an attempt was made to ensure I don't get the job. But such is life." ALSO READ | 'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli Thus, Shastri has pointed fingers at few people in the BCCI who didn't want him as the head coach initially in 2016. At present, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Team India have also gone through several changes post Shastri's exit. Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as India's limited-overs captain. While the former continues to be in-charge of the Test side, Rohit has been promoted as his deputy in whites. India are next scheduled to play three Tests and ODIs each versus South Africa, in the African nation, from December 26.

'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark

Indian opener Mayank Agarwal was a stand out performer for his team with a century and a fifty in the second Test against New Zealand in Mumbai. However, his efforts were outshone by New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel, who bagged a historic ten-wicket haul in the game to become the only third bowler in the world to achieve the massive feat. Patel joined the legendary Anil Kumble and Jim Laker in an elite list of bowlers to have taken all ten wickets in an innings of a Test match.

It was a crucial game for Agarwal, who was struggling with his form in the run-up to the Test match with many suggesting he should be the one making way for returning skipper Virat Kohli in the Mumbai clash. However, Agarwal responded to his critics in style with a terrific display with the willow.&nbsp;

Opening the innings with Shubman Gill in the first innings, he slammed a brilliant knock of 150 runs to help India post a strong total of 325 runs on the board despite Patel's ten-wicket haul. He followed it up with a 62-run-knock in the second innings to continue his purple patch as India registered a big win by 372 runs.

Agarwal recently revealed advice from head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of his heroics in the second Test against the Black Caps. Dravid had asked Agarwal to just manage his emotions and mental energy as the batter had been struggling with his form for a long time.

“He (Dravid) said I know you haven't got a lot of runs but just manage your emotions. Manage your mental energy and your thoughts. Don't dwell too much on it, he helped in the mental aspect," Agarwal was quoted as saying by Sportskeeda in an interview.

“On the technical aspect, he insisted that this is the technique which gave you a lot of runs in the past. Just stick to that, the runs will come. Back the things that have worked for you, and fortunately in the very next innings, the runs came,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-era-3-reasons-why-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-captain-can-be-a-good-move-for-team-india-435882">3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India</a>

Despite being outshone by Patel, Agarwal had a memorable outing as he joined an elite list of openers featuring the likes of Sunil Gavaskar&nbsp;to have scored a hundred and a half-century in the same Test match while opening the innings in a Test match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

He will be now seen in action when India take on South Africa in a three-match Test series on their upcoming tour of the country later this month.

Indian opener Mayank Agarwal was a stand out performer for his team with a century and a fifty in the second Test against New Zealand in Mumbai. However, his efforts were outshone by New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel, who bagged a historic ten-wicket haul in the game to become the only third bowler in the world to achieve the massive feat.

Indian opener Mayank Agarwal was a stand out performer for his team with a century and a fifty in the second Test against New Zealand in Mumbai. However, his efforts were outshone by New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel, who bagged a historic ten-wicket haul in the game to become the only third bowler in the world to achieve the massive feat. Patel joined the legendary Anil Kumble and Jim Laker in an elite list of bowlers to have taken all ten wickets in an innings of a Test match. It was a crucial game for Agarwal, who was struggling with his form in the run-up to the Test match with many suggesting he should be the one making way for returning skipper Virat Kohli in the Mumbai clash. However, Agarwal responded to his critics in style with a terrific display with the willow. Opening the innings with Shubman Gill in the first innings, he slammed a brilliant knock of 150 runs to help India post a strong total of 325 runs on the board despite Patel's ten-wicket haul. He followed it up with a 62-run-knock in the second innings to continue his purple patch as India registered a big win by 372 runs. Agarwal recently revealed advice from head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of his heroics in the second Test against the Black Caps. Dravid had asked Agarwal to just manage his emotions and mental energy as the batter had been struggling with his form for a long time. “He (Dravid) said I know you haven't got a lot of runs but just manage your emotions. Manage your mental energy and your thoughts. Don't dwell too much on it, he helped in the mental aspect," Agarwal was quoted as saying by Sportskeeda in an interview. “On the technical aspect, he insisted that this is the technique which gave you a lot of runs in the past. Just stick to that, the runs will come. Back the things that have worked for you, and fortunately in the very next innings, the runs came,” he added. Also Read: 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India Despite being outshone by Patel, Agarwal had a memorable outing as he joined an elite list of openers featuring the likes of Sunil Gavaskar to have scored a hundred and a half-century in the same Test match while opening the innings in a Test match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. He will be now seen in action when India take on South Africa in a three-match Test series on their upcoming tour of the country later this month.

'You haven't got a lot of runs': Mayank Agarwal reveals advice from Rahul Dravid before his heroics vs NZ

Former India fielding coach R Sridhar has heaped praise on ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri. Sridhar, who worked under Shastri during his tenure with the Indian team, said a bad day for the team used to be a great coaching opportunity for him. India had a few terrible outings on the field under Shastri but managed to bounce back stronger each time.

India's worst defeat under Shastri came in the Adelaide Test against Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 when the visitors were bundled out for a record lowest total of 36 runs in their second innings. In August this year, India were skittled out for 78 in the Leeds Test against England. However, on both occasions, they managed to bounce back and win their next game.

“It was a wonderful opportunity to learn. To me, as a coach, a bad day is a great coaching opportunity. Good days are not great coaching opportunities but bad days are. When I say coaching opportunity, it's about understanding the person, striking a nice relationship with the players, an opportunity to coach them technically and mentally if required," Sridhar was quoted as saying by PTI.

The former India fielding coach recalled an instance when Shastri got a call from Australian great Greg Chapell, who asked him 'how the hell' did his team manage to bounce back even after facing several losses. Sridhar said to stage a comeback from such situations was the real character shown by the Indian team under Shastri and that every bad day was harnessed like a gold mine.

“Recently, Greg Chappell called up and asked Ravi Bhai, ‘How the hell do you bounce back after so many losses?’ That's a benchmark for this team. Every bad day was harnessed like a gold mine," Sridhar said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-era-3-reasons-why-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-captain-can-be-a-good-move-for-team-india-435882">3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India</a>

While India failed to win a single ICC trophy under Shastri as the head coach of the team, the Virat Kohli-led side became a force to reckon with in Test cricket and registered some memorable series wins both at home and away from home, including back-to-back Test series wins in Australia.

Shastri's tenure as the head coach came to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup in October this year following which he was replaced by current head coach Rahul Dravid. Sridhar, meanwhile, has been replaced by TK Diliep as the fielding coach of the team.&nbsp;

Former India fielding coach R Sridhar has heaped praise on ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri. Sridhar, who worked under Shastri during his tenure with the Indian team, said a bad day for the team used to be a great coaching opportunity for him.

Former India fielding coach R Sridhar has heaped praise on ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri. Sridhar, who worked under Shastri during his tenure with the Indian team, said a bad day for the team used to be a great coaching opportunity for him. India had a few terrible outings on the field under Shastri but managed to bounce back stronger each time. India's worst defeat under Shastri came in the Adelaide Test against Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 when the visitors were bundled out for a record lowest total of 36 runs in their second innings. In August this year, India were skittled out for 78 in the Leeds Test against England. However, on both occasions, they managed to bounce back and win their next game. “It was a wonderful opportunity to learn. To me, as a coach, a bad day is a great coaching opportunity. Good days are not great coaching opportunities but bad days are. When I say coaching opportunity, it's about understanding the person, striking a nice relationship with the players, an opportunity to coach them technically and mentally if required," Sridhar was quoted as saying by PTI. The former India fielding coach recalled an instance when Shastri got a call from Australian great Greg Chapell, who asked him 'how the hell' did his team manage to bounce back even after facing several losses. Sridhar said to stage a comeback from such situations was the real character shown by the Indian team under Shastri and that every bad day was harnessed like a gold mine. “Recently, Greg Chappell called up and asked Ravi Bhai, ‘How the hell do you bounce back after so many losses?’ That's a benchmark for this team. Every bad day was harnessed like a gold mine," Sridhar said. Also Read: 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India While India failed to win a single ICC trophy under Shastri as the head coach of the team, the Virat Kohli-led side became a force to reckon with in Test cricket and registered some memorable series wins both at home and away from home, including back-to-back Test series wins in Australia. Shastri's tenure as the head coach came to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup in October this year following which he was replaced by current head coach Rahul Dravid. Sridhar, meanwhile, has been replaced by TK Diliep as the fielding coach of the team.

'How the hell do you bounce back': When Greg Chappell called Ravi Shastri to laud Team India

The Board of control for cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday confirmed Rohit Sharma's appointment as India's new captain in ODIs, replacing Virat Kohli. The announcement came as a surprise to many with reports even claiming that Kohli didn't want to give up captaincy and was given an ultimatum of 48 hours to step down voluntarily but&nbsp;he didn't.

In the aftermath of the decision, reactions have been pouring in continuously from all corners with several former cricketers and experts sharing their two cents. The decision can pretty much shape up Team India's white-ball future in the next few years with a T20 World Cup and an ODI World Cup lined up to be played in the next two years.

While many had seen it coming, what surprised them was the way in which the decision was conveyed to Kohli and the fans of the Indian team. Without any explanations from the selectors, the press release simply stated that the Chetan Sharma-led panel has decided to hand over ODI captaincy to Rohit going forward.

While the jury is still out on whether the decision is the right one looking forward since Rohit is 34 and doesn't have too many years of cricket left in him at the top level, here we take a look at three reasons why his appointment might prove to be a masterstroke for the Indian team.

1) More freedom to Virat Kohli the batsman

Virat Kohli is one of the best batters of the current era and perhaps one of the greatest of all time. His consistency is immaculate&nbsp;and his hunger for success is unmatchable. However, in the past couple of years, Kohli has been far from his best and has struggled to match his own standards when it comes to batting.

He has been a&nbsp;pale shadow of himself across formats and has not scored a century for over two years now. Reliving him completely off the pressure of captaincy can help in reigniting the fire in the run-machine. It might help Kohli return to the top of his game and pile on runs at the consistency he is known for.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/that-guy-has-70-hundreds-former-pakistan-skipper-slams-bcci-for-sacking-virat-kohli-as-odi-captain-435764">&nbsp;'That guy has 70 hundreds': Former Pakistan skipper slams BCCI for sacking Virat Kohli as ODI captain</a>

2)&nbsp;Rohit Sharma's captaincy record is phenomenal&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma has been phenomenal as a captain for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has a great record as captain of the Indian team in a handful of matches in white-ball cricket. Rohit is the most successful skipper in the history of IPL with five titles to his name compared to Kohli's none.

He has led India in ten ODIs so far, winning eight and losing just two games. He had led the team to an Asia Cup triumph in 2018 - India's only major trophy under Ravi Shastri as the head coach of the team. In T20Is, Rohit has led the team in 22 T20Is and has 18 wins to his name as captain.

He has also proven time and again in the IPL that he is a great tactician and a calm head under pressure situations which are some qualities that can help him succeed as India's new white-ball skipper.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-succeeds-virat-kohli-sourav-ganguly-breaks-silence-as-hitman-named-indias-odi-captain-435527">Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Rohit Sharma named India's ODI captain</a>

3) No split captaincy for India

A number of successful teams in modern-day cricket have approached Tests and white-ball formats separately with different teams and different captains in charge for the two formats. However, most teams have kept things simple when it comes to just white-ball cricket.

Australia and England both have different personnel and captain for Tests but have one captain leading the side in both ODIs and T20Is. If anything, having one captain in charge of the team in the two formats helps in maintaining stability and keeping things simple to avoid confusion going ahead in selection matters and the brand of cricket the team wants to play&nbsp;among others.

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The Board of control for cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday confirmed Rohit Sharma's appointment as India's new captain in ODIs, replacing Virat Kohli. The announcement came as a surprise to many with reports even claiming that Kohli didn't want to give up captaincy and was given an ultimatum of 48 hours to step down voluntarily but he didn't.

The Board of control for cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday confirmed Rohit Sharma's appointment as India's new captain in ODIs, replacing Virat Kohli. The announcement came as a surprise to many with reports even claiming that Kohli didn't want to give up captaincy and was given an ultimatum of 48 hours to step down voluntarily but he didn't. In the aftermath of the decision, reactions have been pouring in continuously from all corners with several former cricketers and experts sharing their two cents. The decision can pretty much shape up Team India's white-ball future in the next few years with a T20 World Cup and an ODI World Cup lined up to be played in the next two years. While many had seen it coming, what surprised them was the way in which the decision was conveyed to Kohli and the fans of the Indian team. Without any explanations from the selectors, the press release simply stated that the Chetan Sharma-led panel has decided to hand over ODI captaincy to Rohit going forward. While the jury is still out on whether the decision is the right one looking forward since Rohit is 34 and doesn't have too many years of cricket left in him at the top level, here we take a look at three reasons why his appointment might prove to be a masterstroke for the Indian team. 1) More freedom to Virat Kohli the batsman Virat Kohli is one of the best batters of the current era and perhaps one of the greatest of all time. His consistency is immaculate and his hunger for success is unmatchable. However, in the past couple of years, Kohli has been far from his best and has struggled to match his own standards when it comes to batting. He has been a pale shadow of himself across formats and has not scored a century for over two years now. Reliving him completely off the pressure of captaincy can help in reigniting the fire in the run-machine. It might help Kohli return to the top of his game and pile on runs at the consistency he is known for. Also Read: 'That guy has 70 hundreds': Former Pakistan skipper slams BCCI for sacking Virat Kohli as ODI captain 2) Rohit Sharma's captaincy record is phenomenal Rohit Sharma has been phenomenal as a captain for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has a great record as captain of the Indian team in a handful of matches in white-ball cricket. Rohit is the most successful skipper in the history of IPL with five titles to his name compared to Kohli's none. He has led India in ten ODIs so far, winning eight and losing just two games. He had led the team to an Asia Cup triumph in 2018 - India's only major trophy under Ravi Shastri as the head coach of the team. In T20Is, Rohit has led the team in 22 T20Is and has 18 wins to his name as captain. He has also proven time and again in the IPL that he is a great tactician and a calm head under pressure situations which are some qualities that can help him succeed as India's new white-ball skipper. Also Read: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Rohit Sharma named India's ODI captain 3) No split captaincy for India A number of successful teams in modern-day cricket have approached Tests and white-ball formats separately with different teams and different captains in charge for the two formats. However, most teams have kept things simple when it comes to just white-ball cricket. Australia and England both have different personnel and captain for Tests but have one captain leading the side in both ODIs and T20Is. If anything, having one captain in charge of the team in the two formats helps in maintaining stability and keeping things simple to avoid confusion going ahead in selection matters and the brand of cricket the team wants to play among others.

A new era! 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as India's ODI captain on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit has now replaced Virat Kohli as the new limited-overs captain along with also being promoted as the Test vice-captain.&nbsp;

"The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI &amp; T20I teams going forward,"&nbsp;BCCI said in&nbsp;a statement while announcing the 18-man squad for the upcoming South Africa Tests.

Many believe Kohli's ODI captaincy was always under the radar ever since he decided to step down as the T20I skipper, citing workload issues. Hence, former India international Kirti Azad feels there's nothing wrong in Rohit's appointment as the limited-overs captain.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-being-able-to-win-icc-title-mightve-cost-virat-kohli-the-odi-captaincy-former-indian-wicketkeeper-435848">Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper</a>

"Well, change is constant. This happens Rohit has been doing well and Virat had said that he wanted to be away from the captaincy in limited-overs. So, the right person to get into his place is Rohit Sharma. That's a call by the selectors. Virat wanted it but selectors thought that Rohit Sharma should come in and that's about it. I don't find anything wrong with it," said Azad while speaking to news agency ANI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/easier-to-destroy-a-team-former-india-cricketer-blasts-selectors-for-removing-virat-kohli-as-odi-captain-435851">'Easier to destroy a team': Former India cricketer blasts selectors for removing Virat Kohli as ODI captain</a>

Kirti Azad also opined on Ajinkya Rahane's sacking as the Test vice-captain and said, "Every game that you play is a different game than the other. Yes, when you compare people you show records you say this guy was better and that guy was better. Somebody has got more centuries than the other but that doesn't mean one is better than the other. The importance of a player is not measured by his captaincy. Rahane is a very good player. His form was not good and keeping that in mind selectors have taken away the vice-captaincy. We try to read too much into it."

Coming to Rohit, he has led India whenever Kohli was rested and has already guided the national side to Nidahas Trophy and Asia Cup titles, both in 2018. He is also a proven leader in IPL, being the most-successful captain in the tournament with five titles for Mumbai Indians (MI).&nbsp;

Thus, Rohit-Rahul Dravid are now expected to end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought in the coming years, which is filled with plenty of ICC events in white-ball formats.

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as India's ODI captain on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit has now replaced Virat Kohli as the new limited-overs captain along with also being promoted as the Test vice-captain.

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as India's ODI captain on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit has now replaced Virat Kohli as the new limited-overs captain along with also being promoted as the Test vice-captain. "The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI & T20I teams going forward," BCCI said in a statement while announcing the 18-man squad for the upcoming South Africa Tests. Many believe Kohli's ODI captaincy was always under the radar ever since he decided to step down as the T20I skipper, citing workload issues. Hence, former India international Kirti Azad feels there's nothing wrong in Rohit's appointment as the limited-overs captain. ALSO READ | Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper "Well, change is constant. This happens Rohit has been doing well and Virat had said that he wanted to be away from the captaincy in limited-overs. So, the right person to get into his place is Rohit Sharma. That's a call by the selectors. Virat wanted it but selectors thought that Rohit Sharma should come in and that's about it. I don't find anything wrong with it," said Azad while speaking to news agency ANI. ALSO READ | 'Easier to destroy a team': Former India cricketer blasts selectors for removing Virat Kohli as ODI captain Kirti Azad also opined on Ajinkya Rahane's sacking as the Test vice-captain and said, "Every game that you play is a different game than the other. Yes, when you compare people you show records you say this guy was better and that guy was better. Somebody has got more centuries than the other but that doesn't mean one is better than the other. The importance of a player is not measured by his captaincy. Rahane is a very good player. His form was not good and keeping that in mind selectors have taken away the vice-captaincy. We try to read too much into it." Coming to Rohit, he has led India whenever Kohli was rested and has already guided the national side to Nidahas Trophy and Asia Cup titles, both in 2018. He is also a proven leader in IPL, being the most-successful captain in the tournament with five titles for Mumbai Indians (MI). Thus, Rohit-Rahul Dravid are now expected to end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought in the coming years, which is filled with plenty of ICC events in white-ball formats.

Don't find anything wrong: Former India player opines on Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as ODI captain

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s decision to replace Virat Kohli with Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the Indian team has not gone down well with many. The decision has left former cricketers and experts divided with some blaming the board for trying to correct something that was not wrong.

BCCI on Wednesday confirmed via a press release that Rohit will now be captaining India in ODIs as the board announced the squads for the team's upcoming tour of South Africa. Reactions have since been pouring in as many have criticised the board for sacking Kohli as ODI captain. Kohli had stepped down as the T20I captain in October this year but had announced he will continue leading the side in Tests and T20Is.

Former Indian cricketer Madan Lal, who was part of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, has lashed out at the national selectors for sacking Kohli as ODI captain. Lal believes it is difficult to build a team and much easier to destroy as he wondered how could have Kohli leading the team in ODIs led to confusion with Rohit leading in T20Is.

&nbsp;"I don't know what the selectors have thought about this, but if he [Kohli] is producing the right results then why [change him]? I can understand T20s [he stepped down as captain] because there is so much of cricket and he can concentrate on two other formats. But if you are successful and still you are removed, it will of course pinch him. I was thinking Kohli would have stayed [as captain] till the 2023 World Cup. It is very difficult to build a team, but easier to destroy it," Lal told Mid Day.

"I don't understand why would there be confusion. Every captain has a different style, so confusion is for what. The style will anyway change in Test and limited-overs. Virat and Rohit have their own style of leading the teams. MS Dhoni too had his own style. At the international level, it is about professionalism and performing all the time," added the former all-rounder.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-being-able-to-win-icc-title-mightve-cost-virat-kohli-the-odi-captaincy-former-indian-wicketkeeper-435848">&nbsp;Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper</a>

Rohit will take charge as India's full-time ODI captain in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa. He has already taken over as the T20I captain of the team and led India to a 3-0 clean sweep against New Zealand at home in what was his first major assignment as captain in the shortest format.

Meanwhile, Kohli will continue to be a vital cog in white-ball cricket for India as a pure batter and will continue leading the team in Tests.

&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s decision to replace Virat Kohli with Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the Indian team has not gone down well with many.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s decision to replace Virat Kohli with Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the Indian team has not gone down well with many. The decision has left former cricketers and experts divided with some blaming the board for trying to correct something that was not wrong. BCCI on Wednesday confirmed via a press release that Rohit will now be captaining India in ODIs as the board announced the squads for the team's upcoming tour of South Africa. Reactions have since been pouring in as many have criticised the board for sacking Kohli as ODI captain. Kohli had stepped down as the T20I captain in October this year but had announced he will continue leading the side in Tests and T20Is. Former Indian cricketer Madan Lal, who was part of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, has lashed out at the national selectors for sacking Kohli as ODI captain. Lal believes it is difficult to build a team and much easier to destroy as he wondered how could have Kohli leading the team in ODIs led to confusion with Rohit leading in T20Is. "I don't know what the selectors have thought about this, but if he [Kohli] is producing the right results then why [change him]? I can understand T20s [he stepped down as captain] because there is so much of cricket and he can concentrate on two other formats. But if you are successful and still you are removed, it will of course pinch him. I was thinking Kohli would have stayed [as captain] till the 2023 World Cup. It is very difficult to build a team, but easier to destroy it," Lal told Mid Day. "I don't understand why would there be confusion. Every captain has a different style, so confusion is for what. The style will anyway change in Test and limited-overs. Virat and Rohit have their own style of leading the teams. MS Dhoni too had his own style. At the international level, it is about professionalism and performing all the time," added the former all-rounder. Also Read: Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper Rohit will take charge as India's full-time ODI captain in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa. He has already taken over as the T20I captain of the team and led India to a 3-0 clean sweep against New Zealand at home in what was his first major assignment as captain in the shortest format. Meanwhile, Kohli will continue to be a vital cog in white-ball cricket for India as a pure batter and will continue leading the team in Tests.

'Easier to destroy a team': Former India cricketer blasts selectors for removing Virat Kohli as ODI captain

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), named Rohit Sharma as Team India's ODI captain. Virat Kohli got replaced as captain in the 50-over format after he had already resigned as the T20I skipper. Thus, Rohit will now be in-charge of the limited-overs sides but Kohli will continue to serve as the Test captain, with Hitman as his deputy.

Under Kohli, India had a great run in ODIs and T20Is with plenty of success in bilateral series, however, the Men in Blue couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. While many believe Kohli was set to be replaced as ODI captain as soon as he had decided to step aside as the T20I skipper, the 33-year-old hadn't mentioned that he is willing to give away the top job in the 50-over format as well.&nbsp;

Thus, former Indian wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim believes Kohli's inability to win an ICC trophy as captain cost him the top post in ODIs as well.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-succeeds-virat-kohli-sourav-ganguly-breaks-silence-as-hitman-named-indias-odi-captain-435527">Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain</a>

"It is right to say that Kohli has been sacked. He made the announcement while leaving the T20I captaincy and could have confirmed that he does not want to continue as ODI captain as well," Karim said on the YouTube show Khelneeti.&nbsp;"This meant he wanted to remain ODI captain. Not being able to win an ICC trophy could have cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy," he added.&nbsp;

"(Rahul) Dravid has often put emphasis on having clear communication with players. So, when it comes to taking such a big decision, I believe someone would have surely talked to Kohli," Karim concluded.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-to-prepare-for-103-situations-rohit-sharma-sets-sight-on-middle-order-to-end-indias-icc-title-drought-435813">Have to prepare for 10/3 situations: Rohit Sharma sets sight on middle-order to end India's ICC-title drought</a>

Recently, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had also opened up on Rohit replacing Kohli as the limited-overs captain. "It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together,"&nbsp;Ganguly told ANI. "Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him," he added.

The onus has, thus, shifted on Rohit to take India to greater heights and add more ICC titles in the shorter formats. The 34-year-old will take charge of the team for the first time, as full-time limited-overs captain, during the forthcoming South Africa ODIs in the African nation, in early 2022.

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), named Rohit Sharma as Team India's ODI captain. Virat Kohli got replaced as captain in the 50-over format after he had already resigned as the T20I skipper.

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), named Rohit Sharma as Team India's ODI captain. Virat Kohli got replaced as captain in the 50-over format after he had already resigned as the T20I skipper. Thus, Rohit will now be in-charge of the limited-overs sides but Kohli will continue to serve as the Test captain, with Hitman as his deputy. Under Kohli, India had a great run in ODIs and T20Is with plenty of success in bilateral series, however, the Men in Blue couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. While many believe Kohli was set to be replaced as ODI captain as soon as he had decided to step aside as the T20I skipper, the 33-year-old hadn't mentioned that he is willing to give away the top job in the 50-over format as well. Thus, former Indian wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim believes Kohli's inability to win an ICC trophy as captain cost him the top post in ODIs as well. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain "It is right to say that Kohli has been sacked. He made the announcement while leaving the T20I captaincy and could have confirmed that he does not want to continue as ODI captain as well," Karim said on the YouTube show Khelneeti. "This meant he wanted to remain ODI captain. Not being able to win an ICC trophy could have cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy," he added. "(Rahul) Dravid has often put emphasis on having clear communication with players. So, when it comes to taking such a big decision, I believe someone would have surely talked to Kohli," Karim concluded. ALSO READ | Have to prepare for 10/3 situations: Rohit Sharma sets sight on middle-order to end India's ICC-title drought Recently, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had also opened up on Rohit replacing Kohli as the limited-overs captain. "It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together," Ganguly told ANI. "Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him," he added. The onus has, thus, shifted on Rohit to take India to greater heights and add more ICC titles in the shorter formats. The 34-year-old will take charge of the team for the first time, as full-time limited-overs captain, during the forthcoming South Africa ODIs in the African nation, in early 2022.

Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper

India are set to tour South Africa where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test scheduled to take place in Centurion. The No. 1 ranked Indian Test side have a huge opportunity to win their first-ever series in South Africa. On the other hand, Kohli will also be eager to win another series overseas, after the highs in Australia and England.

Back in early 2018, Kohli-led India had toured South Africa for three Tests, six ODIs and three T20Is. At that time, India had their chances in the first two Tests but ended on the losing side before finishing the series with a consolation win. While India did compete really well, many slammed the then team management for their poor selection calls. Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane was dropped for the first two Tests as Rohit Sharma was preferred in the middle-order. The move didn't pay rich dividends as Hitman amassed 78 runs in four innings, at 19.50.

Rahane was added to the playing XI for the third and final Test at Johannesburg, where his vital 48 in the second innings helped India win the Test by 63 runs. Ex-Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has now opened up on why Rahane wasn't preferred over Rohit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-had-the-character-game-and-personality-to-step-into-ms-dhonis-shoes-says-ravi-shastri-435772">Virat Kohli had the character, game and personality to step into MS Dhoni's shoes, says Ravi Shastri</a>

Speaking to&nbsp;Times Of India, Shastri said, "It was always going to be between Rohit &amp; Ajinkya. There was no space for both. Rohit had got runs and we had been watching Test hunger build in him. So, we went by form. That's why Ajinkya didn't find a place."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-to-prepare-for-103-situations-rohit-sharma-sets-sight-on-middle-order-to-end-indias-icc-title-drought-435813">Have to prepare for 10/3 situations: Rohit Sharma sets sight on middle-order to end India's ICC-title drought</a>

On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI named Rohit as Kohli's deputy in whites, replacing Rahane. For the unversed, Rohit has raised his stature as a Test batsman whereas Rahane has only two fifty-plus scores since his last ton, which came in late 2020.

It will be interesting to see how Rahul Dravid-Kohli strategise and take India ahead in the forthcoming three Tests versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas in the African nation.

India are set to tour South Africa where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test scheduled to take place in Centurion.

India are set to tour South Africa where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test scheduled to take place in Centurion. The No. 1 ranked Indian Test side have a huge opportunity to win their first-ever series in South Africa. On the other hand, Kohli will also be eager to win another series overseas, after the highs in Australia and England. Back in early 2018, Kohli-led India had toured South Africa for three Tests, six ODIs and three T20Is. At that time, India had their chances in the first two Tests but ended on the losing side before finishing the series with a consolation win. While India did compete really well, many slammed the then team management for their poor selection calls. Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane was dropped for the first two Tests as Rohit Sharma was preferred in the middle-order. The move didn't pay rich dividends as Hitman amassed 78 runs in four innings, at 19.50. Rahane was added to the playing XI for the third and final Test at Johannesburg, where his vital 48 in the second innings helped India win the Test by 63 runs. Ex-Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has now opened up on why Rahane wasn't preferred over Rohit. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli had the character, game and personality to step into MS Dhoni's shoes, says Ravi Shastri Speaking to Times Of India, Shastri said, "It was always going to be between Rohit & Ajinkya. There was no space for both. Rohit had got runs and we had been watching Test hunger build in him. So, we went by form. That's why Ajinkya didn't find a place." ALSO READ | Have to prepare for 10/3 situations: Rohit Sharma sets sight on middle-order to end India's ICC-title drought On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI named Rohit as Kohli's deputy in whites, replacing Rahane. For the unversed, Rohit has raised his stature as a Test batsman whereas Rahane has only two fifty-plus scores since his last ton, which came in late 2020. It will be interesting to see how Rahul Dravid-Kohli strategise and take India ahead in the forthcoming three Tests versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas in the African nation.

Ravi Shastri reveals why Ajinkya Rahane wasn't preferred over Rohit Sharma during 2018 SA tour

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's ODI captain on Wednesday (December 8) as Hitman replaced Virat Kohli from the top post. Thus, he has now become India's limited-overs captain&nbsp;having already succeeded Kohli in T20Is.&nbsp;

While Kohli will continue to lead in Tests, Rohit will now be looked upon to end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Under Kohli, India reached the 2017 Champions Trophy final and 2019 ODI World Cup semifinal, however, couldn't return with the mega titles.&nbsp;

In the CT'2017 final, CWC'19 semis and during India's first two games in their horrible 2021 T20 World Cup campaign, their top-order failed and the middle-order couldn't revive their fortunes. Thus, new captain Rohit wants middle-order to prepare for 10/3 kind of situations going forward.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-had-the-character-game-and-personality-to-step-into-ms-dhonis-shoes-says-ravi-shastri-435772">Virat Kohli had the character, game and personality to step into MS Dhoni's shoes, says Ravi Shastri</a>

Rohit was asked on YouTube show&nbsp;Backstage with Boria&nbsp;if he has been able to figure out what went wrong in those games.

To this, Rohit said, "To be honest, not really. I would say it was that initial phase of the game where we lost the game. So that's something I'll keep in mind and see that we prepare for the worst. We have to prepare when the team is 10 for 3. That's how I want to move forward and get the message across to the boys that guys who are batting at No. 3, 4, 5, 6, there's nowhere written that if you are 10 for 2 or 3 [in a T20I], you can't get 180 or you can't get 190, or maybe more.

"I want the guys to prepare in that fashion. Let's say we are playing the semi-final and we are 10 for 2 in the first two overs, what do we do? What is the plan? I want to put ourselves in that situation again and see if we can respond to that. We have got some games before the World Cup to try and test that out. Because if you look there is a similarity between all three games that we lost - two Pakistan games and one New Zealand game in three ICC tournaments," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/havent-seen-someone-throwback-when-virat-kohli-shared-his-first-impression-of-batsman-rohit-sharma-435787">'Haven't seen someone....' - THROWBACK! When Virat Kohli shared his first impression of batsman Rohit Sharma</a>

Rohit further pointed out, "I do understand that the quality of the bowling was exceptional at that point, but it has happened three times. I hope that it doesn't happen for the fourth time. So hopefully we will prepare for that, keeping that situation in mind and move forward and see how we can plan - whether we can just counterattack straight from ball one, whoever batter goes in.

"And then I don't want people to think that, 'Oh, they are 10 for 2, what shot is he playing?' The commentators, the people of India or anywhere else, they need to understand that this is a plan of the team."

Will Dravid-Rohit take India to glory?

Rohit and new head coach Rahul Dravid will look to end India's title-woes as the national side have plenty of ICC events to take part in the future.&nbsp;For the unversed, Rohit has also been promoted as India's Test vice-captain. He has replaced an under-performing Ajinkya Rahane.

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's ODI captain on Wednesday (December 8) as Hitman replaced Virat Kohli from the top post. Thus, he has now become India's limited-overs captain having already succeeded Kohli in T20Is.

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's ODI captain on Wednesday (December 8) as Hitman replaced Virat Kohli from the top post. Thus, he has now become India's limited-overs captain having already succeeded Kohli in T20Is. While Kohli will continue to lead in Tests, Rohit will now be looked upon to end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Under Kohli, India reached the 2017 Champions Trophy final and 2019 ODI World Cup semifinal, however, couldn't return with the mega titles. In the CT'2017 final, CWC'19 semis and during India's first two games in their horrible 2021 T20 World Cup campaign, their top-order failed and the middle-order couldn't revive their fortunes. Thus, new captain Rohit wants middle-order to prepare for 10/3 kind of situations going forward. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli had the character, game and personality to step into MS Dhoni's shoes, says Ravi Shastri Rohit was asked on YouTube show Backstage with Boria if he has been able to figure out what went wrong in those games. To this, Rohit said, "To be honest, not really. I would say it was that initial phase of the game where we lost the game. So that's something I'll keep in mind and see that we prepare for the worst. We have to prepare when the team is 10 for 3. That's how I want to move forward and get the message across to the boys that guys who are batting at No. 3, 4, 5, 6, there's nowhere written that if you are 10 for 2 or 3 [in a T20I], you can't get 180 or you can't get 190, or maybe more. "I want the guys to prepare in that fashion. Let's say we are playing the semi-final and we are 10 for 2 in the first two overs, what do we do? What is the plan? I want to put ourselves in that situation again and see if we can respond to that. We have got some games before the World Cup to try and test that out. Because if you look there is a similarity between all three games that we lost - two Pakistan games and one New Zealand game in three ICC tournaments," he added. ALSO READ | 'Haven't seen someone....' - THROWBACK! When Virat Kohli shared his first impression of batsman Rohit Sharma Rohit further pointed out, "I do understand that the quality of the bowling was exceptional at that point, but it has happened three times. I hope that it doesn't happen for the fourth time. So hopefully we will prepare for that, keeping that situation in mind and move forward and see how we can plan - whether we can just counterattack straight from ball one, whoever batter goes in. "And then I don't want people to think that, 'Oh, they are 10 for 2, what shot is he playing?' The commentators, the people of India or anywhere else, they need to understand that this is a plan of the team." Will Dravid-Rohit take India to glory? Rohit and new head coach Rahul Dravid will look to end India's title-woes as the national side have plenty of ICC events to take part in the future. For the unversed, Rohit has also been promoted as India's Test vice-captain. He has replaced an under-performing Ajinkya Rahane.

Have to prepare for 10/3 situations: Rohit Sharma sets sight on middle-order to end India's ICC-title drought

The Indian cricket team saw a number of highs and lows in what was an eventful 2021. Ajinkya Rahane inspired the side to a memorable 2-1 Test series win in Australia without the likes of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and several other key players before India thrashed England at home to enter the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship.

India lost the World Test Championship final against New Zealand but enjoyed a tremendous run in the Test series in England. The Men in Blue headed into the T20 World Cup 2021 as favourites but were dumped out of the group stages after back-to-back losses against Pakistan and New Zealand to endure a disappointing campaign.

As cricket experts and former cricketers join the bandwagon to choose the best performers of the year as far as the Indian cricket team is concerned, former batter Aakash Chopra has picked the 'cricketer of the year' for the Indian team. The popular commentator explained why he feels Rohit deserves the tag.

In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra picked Rohit as India's Test cricketer of the year for his consistent performances at home and away from home. Chopra said it was a pivotal year in Rohit's Test career and a different style of Hitman was at the display in the longest format.

"There are a lot of names that come to mind - Rishabh Pant's name comes because he has scored a lot of runs. He was the one who helped conquer Gabba in the end. But my Test batter of the year has to be Rohit Sharma. He played defining knocks," said Chopra.

"The conditions were difficult during England's tour of India and he scored runs. In the first innings of the second Test in Chennai - he was on one side and the entire team, including the opposition, was on the other side. The quality of batting that was on display. Then when he went to England, once again he kept on fighting and stood there. We saw a different style of Rohit Sharma's batting," he added.

Rohit scored 906 runs at an average of 47.6 in 11 Test matches in the year 2021 including two centuries. When it came to T20Is, Chopra once again picked Rohit as India's player of the year in the shortest format despite great competition from the likes of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul among others.

"In T20Is, you think about Rahul but he has not scored that many runs. Kohli has also not scored that many runs. You will remember Suryakumar and Ishan Kishan's names as well but in my opinion, once again it is Rohit Sharma," said Chopra.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/that-guy-has-70-hundreds-former-pakistan-skipper-slams-bcci-for-sacking-virat-kohli-as-odi-captain-435764">&nbsp;'That guy has 70 hundreds': Former Pakistan skipper slams BCCI for sacking Virat Kohli as ODI captain</a>

In eleven T20Is this year, Rohit scored 424 runs at a brilliant average of 38.5 and a strike rate of 150. He was also appointed as India's T20 captain post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 and has now also been handed over the ODI captaincy. Chopra honoured Rohit with India's player of the year 2021 tag and called it his year as far as Indian cricket is concerned.

"This year has been different because the strike rate has gone up and the average has also gone up. He has been given the T20I captaincy also now. So, the best Test batter and the best T20 batter is Rohit Sharma - this is the year of Rohit Sharma," said the former India cricketer.

The Indian cricket team saw a number of highs and lows in what was an eventful 2021. Ajinkya Rahane inspired the side to a memorable 2-1 Test series win in Australia without the likes of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and several other key players before India thrashed England at home to enter the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship.

The Indian cricket team saw a number of highs and lows in what was an eventful 2021. Ajinkya Rahane inspired the side to a memorable 2-1 Test series win in Australia without the likes of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and several other key players before India thrashed England at home to enter the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship. India lost the World Test Championship final against New Zealand but enjoyed a tremendous run in the Test series in England. The Men in Blue headed into the T20 World Cup 2021 as favourites but were dumped out of the group stages after back-to-back losses against Pakistan and New Zealand to endure a disappointing campaign. As cricket experts and former cricketers join the bandwagon to choose the best performers of the year as far as the Indian cricket team is concerned, former batter Aakash Chopra has picked the 'cricketer of the year' for the Indian team. The popular commentator explained why he feels Rohit deserves the tag. In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra picked Rohit as India's Test cricketer of the year for his consistent performances at home and away from home. Chopra said it was a pivotal year in Rohit's Test career and a different style of Hitman was at the display in the longest format. "There are a lot of names that come to mind - Rishabh Pant's name comes because he has scored a lot of runs. He was the one who helped conquer Gabba in the end. But my Test batter of the year has to be Rohit Sharma. He played defining knocks," said Chopra. "The conditions were difficult during England's tour of India and he scored runs. In the first innings of the second Test in Chennai - he was on one side and the entire team, including the opposition, was on the other side. The quality of batting that was on display. Then when he went to England, once again he kept on fighting and stood there. We saw a different style of Rohit Sharma's batting," he added. Rohit scored 906 runs at an average of 47.6 in 11 Test matches in the year 2021 including two centuries. When it came to T20Is, Chopra once again picked Rohit as India's player of the year in the shortest format despite great competition from the likes of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul among others. "In T20Is, you think about Rahul but he has not scored that many runs. Kohli has also not scored that many runs. You will remember Suryakumar and Ishan Kishan's names as well but in my opinion, once again it is Rohit Sharma," said Chopra. Also Read: 'That guy has 70 hundreds': Former Pakistan skipper slams BCCI for sacking Virat Kohli as ODI captain In eleven T20Is this year, Rohit scored 424 runs at a brilliant average of 38.5 and a strike rate of 150. He was also appointed as India's T20 captain post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 and has now also been handed over the ODI captaincy. Chopra honoured Rohit with India's player of the year 2021 tag and called it his year as far as Indian cricket is concerned. "This year has been different because the strike rate has gone up and the average has also gone up. He has been given the T20I captaincy also now. So, the best Test batter and the best T20 batter is Rohit Sharma - this is the year of Rohit Sharma," said the former India cricketer.

No Virat Kohli, KL Rahul! Aakash Chopra names India's best player of the year 2021