Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has made some startling revelations regarding Team India's squad selection for the 2019 ODI World Cup. Many were left shocked at the time after Ambati Rayudu, who was India's designated number 4. batter in the build-up to the World Cup, was surprisingly left out of the squad with all-rounder Vijay Shankar making the cut.

Shastri has revealed he wanted Rayudu or Shreyas Iyer in the squad as the no.4 batter while questioning the bizarre selection of three wicket-keepers in the team. While Shankar was selected over Rayudu, an injury to opener Shikhar Dhawan saw India rope in Rishabh Pant as a replacement when there were already two wicket-keeper batters in the team - MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik.

Skipper Virat Kohli had openly admitted in the run-up to the 2019 World Cup that Rayudu will be India's no.4 batter in the showpiece event, however, the senior batted was snubbed by the national selectors. Opening up on India's bizarre team selection for the 2019 ODI World Cup, Shastri insisted he has no say in the decision-making and said there was no logic behind having three wicket-keepers in the squad.

“I had no say in that (team selection). 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 [Pant] and Dinesh [Karthik] all together?” - Shastri was quoted as saying in an interview by Times of India.

“But I never interfered with the selectors’ work, except when I was asked for feedback or as part of a general discussion,” he added.

India played phenomenally well in the 2019 ODI World Cup where they topped the points table in the group stages with only one defeat and seven wins in nine games as one match ended in a no-result. However, their campaign came to an end after an 18-run defeat against New Zealand in the all-important semi-final.

Also Read:&nbsp;<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">'That guy has 70 hundreds': Former Pakistan skipper slams BCCI for sacking Virat Kohli as ODI captain</a>

Asked to chase down a target of 240 runs at Old Trafford in Manchester, the Indian batting line-up succumbed under pressure. The top-order collapsed leaving the team reeling on 24/4 before half-centuries from Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni kept India in the game. However, the duo failed to take the team over the line.

India played three major ICC tournaments under Shastri but failed to win a trophy. They reached the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup before losing in the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship this year. In the T20 World Cup 2021, India failed to make it to the knockout stages.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has made some startling revelations regarding Team India's squad selection for the 2019 ODI World Cup. Many were left shocked at the time after Ambati Rayudu, who was India's designated number 4.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has made some startling revelations regarding Team India's squad selection for the 2019 ODI World Cup. Many were left shocked at the time after Ambati Rayudu, who was India's designated number 4. batter in the build-up to the World Cup, was surprisingly left out of the squad with all-rounder Vijay Shankar making the cut. Shastri has revealed he wanted Rayudu or Shreyas Iyer in the squad as the no.4 batter while questioning the bizarre selection of three wicket-keepers in the team. While Shankar was selected over Rayudu, an injury to opener Shikhar Dhawan saw India rope in Rishabh Pant as a replacement when there were already two wicket-keeper batters in the team - MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik. Skipper Virat Kohli had openly admitted in the run-up to the 2019 World Cup that Rayudu will be India's no.4 batter in the showpiece event, however, the senior batted was snubbed by the national selectors. Opening up on India's bizarre team selection for the 2019 ODI World Cup, Shastri insisted he has no say in the decision-making and said there was no logic behind having three wicket-keepers in the squad. “I had no say in that (team selection). 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 [Pant] and Dinesh [Karthik] all together?” - Shastri was quoted as saying in an interview by Times of India. “But I never interfered with the selectors’ work, except when I was asked for feedback or as part of a general discussion,” he added. India played phenomenally well in the 2019 ODI World Cup where they topped the points table in the group stages with only one defeat and seven wins in nine games as one match ended in a no-result. However, their campaign came to an end after an 18-run defeat against New Zealand in the all-important semi-final. Also Read: 'That guy has 70 hundreds': Former Pakistan skipper slams BCCI for sacking Virat Kohli as ODI captain Asked to chase down a target of 240 runs at Old Trafford in Manchester, the Indian batting line-up succumbed under pressure. The top-order collapsed leaving the team reeling on 24/4 before half-centuries from Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni kept India in the game. However, the duo failed to take the team over the line. India played three major ICC tournaments under Shastri but failed to win a trophy. They reached the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup before losing in the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship this year. In the T20 World Cup 2021, India failed to make it to the knockout stages.

Rayudu or Iyer could've come in, there was no logic behind having 3 keepers in 2019 WC squad: Ravi Shastri

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been the superstars of Indian cricket for quite sometime. Both of them were touted to be the next-big-thing when they were coming up the ranks in their early days.&nbsp;While Rohit debuted in early 2007 and was also part of the victorious MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue in the inaugural T20 World Cup, Kohli came into the scene in 2008. Since then, both have risen up the ladder through sheer consistency and talent. The duo are also part of the leadership group for long and continue to take Indian cricket forward.&nbsp;

However, not many know the first impression Rohit had created in Virat's mind during their early days.&nbsp;In a chat with Gaurav Kapur on his show&nbsp;'Breakfast with Champions',&nbsp;Kohli had recalled his first impression of Rohit the batsman. Back then, Kohli had confessed that he was curious to know why Rohit was hyped so much. However, after seeing him bat in the 2007 T20 WC, all of Kohli's questions were answered in a jiffy.

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>

Kohli told host Gaurav, "Initially when Rohit was bursting onto the scene...we were all very curios because everyone was talking about his player Rohit Sharma. We were very curios because we were also young players but nobody was talking about us. Then during the T20 World Cup I saw him bat...and I just slumped on the sofa. That shut my mouth forever. When you saw him play you understood what people were talking about. What we are witnessing here, amazing. I haven't seen someone time the ball better than him."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-virat-kohli-had-seen-a-future-team-india-captain-in-rohit-sharma-435458">Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma</a>

Virat and Rohit -- Two superstars of Indian cricket

Speaking of Kohli's achievements to date, he led India to the U-19 World Cup in 2008, was part of India's 2011 ODI WC triumph and 2013 Champions Trophy title win. He has over 22,000 international runs and 70 centuries under his belt. In addition, he has led India to the No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings on numerous occasions and to the 2019 ODI WC semi-finals and WTC final.

Rohit, on the other hand, has close to 10,000 ODI runs, is the third-highest run-getter in T20Is (after second-positioned Kohli)&nbsp;and remains the Indian opener across formats. He was part of India's 2007 T20 WC success as well as the CT'2013 win.&nbsp;

Recently, Rohit took over from Kohli to become India's limited-overs captain whereas the latter continues to remain the Test captain.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been the superstars of Indian cricket for quite sometime. Both of them were touted to be the next-big-thing when they were coming up the ranks in their early days.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been the superstars of Indian cricket for quite sometime. Both of them were touted to be the next-big-thing when they were coming up the ranks in their early days. While Rohit debuted in early 2007 and was also part of the victorious MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue in the inaugural T20 World Cup, Kohli came into the scene in 2008. Since then, both have risen up the ladder through sheer consistency and talent. The duo are also part of the leadership group for long and continue to take Indian cricket forward. However, not many know the first impression Rohit had created in Virat's mind during their early days. In a chat with Gaurav Kapur on his show 'Breakfast with Champions', Kohli had recalled his first impression of Rohit the batsman. Back then, Kohli had confessed that he was curious to know why Rohit was hyped so much. However, after seeing him bat in the 2007 T20 WC, all of Kohli's questions were answered in a jiffy. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli had the character, game and personality to step into MS Dhoni's shoes, says Ravi Shastri Kohli told host Gaurav, "Initially when Rohit was bursting onto the scene...we were all very curios because everyone was talking about his player Rohit Sharma. We were very curios because we were also young players but nobody was talking about us. Then during the T20 World Cup I saw him bat...and I just slumped on the sofa. That shut my mouth forever. When you saw him play you understood what people were talking about. What we are witnessing here, amazing. I haven't seen someone time the ball better than him." ALSO READ | Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma Virat and Rohit -- Two superstars of Indian cricket Speaking of Kohli's achievements to date, he led India to the U-19 World Cup in 2008, was part of India's 2011 ODI WC triumph and 2013 Champions Trophy title win. He has over 22,000 international runs and 70 centuries under his belt. In addition, he has led India to the No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings on numerous occasions and to the 2019 ODI WC semi-finals and WTC final. Rohit, on the other hand, has close to 10,000 ODI runs, is the third-highest run-getter in T20Is (after second-positioned Kohli) and remains the Indian opener across formats. He was part of India's 2007 T20 WC success as well as the CT'2013 win. Recently, Rohit took over from Kohli to become India's limited-overs captain whereas the latter continues to remain the Test captain.

'Haven't seen someone....' - THROWBACK! When Virat Kohli shared his first impression of batsman Rohit Sharma

Indian cricket has seen rapid changes being made in the senior men's team following the T20 World Cup edition, in the UAE. Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach ended as Rahul Dravid replaced him from the top post. While Virat Kohli had already announced his resignation as T20I captain post the World Cup, Rohit not only replaced him in the shortest format but BCCI also named Hitman as the ODI skipper on Wednesday (December 8). Hence, Team India is slowly and steadily settling into the Dravid-Rohit era.

Recently, former coach Ravi Shastri stated that he felt Kohli had the character, game and personality to step into MS Dhoni's shoes as the Indian captain. Shastri worked closely with Kohli after serving as Team India's director from 2014-16. In mid-2017, the former Indian all-rounder succeeded Anil Kumble to become the head coach and former a strong pair with Captain Kohli across formats till the 2021 T20 WC.

"Barring interviews on television (with players), I knew nobody (joining as team director in 2014) except probably MS Dhoni because I had worked with him in 2007. There was nobody from my generation, there was nobody from the immediate generation after me. For instance, I had a connect with players of the previous decade - Sachin, Rahul, Sourav, Anil. That generation was gone. So, once I came on board, my first challenge was to identify someone who could walk the talk and I found in Virat Kohli the guy with the character, game and personality to step into Dhoni's shoes," Shastri said in an interview with the&nbsp;Times of India.

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>

He further asserted, "Virat was reeling from that tour of England (where he amassed 134 runs in 5 Tests in England) because he hardly got runs. He was in a state of shock the way things had panned out. But you could see there was still enough there to get him going. Once he was back on his feet, there would be no looking back.

"I began watching him very closely. The more closely I saw him, I could see his sense of confidence returning back with each day. Those initial two-three months went in getting to know the team better. We began talking a lot, on various issues - batting techniques, the path forward, lot of things. And I think, it really came to the surface in Australia, when he finally bought into everything we discussed. He was absolutely ready to walk that talk - not just in the way he played his game but the way we wanted the team to play."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-still-a-leader-of-the-team-indias-newly-appointed-limited-overs-captain-rohit-sharma-opines-on-virat-kohli-435550">He's still a leader of the team: India's newly-appointed limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opines on Virat Kohli</a>

Kohli-Shastri formed a deadly captain-coach pair for Team India. Under the duo, India won Test series in Australia (twice), earned an unassailable 2-1 lead in the England Tests in the United Kingdom early this year, won bilateral ODI series in South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, won T20I series in SENA countries, played the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup and ended as the runners-up of the inaugural WTC. Nonetheless, they couldn't take India to an ICC title during their partnership.&nbsp;

Now, the onus is on Dravid-Rohit to take India to greater heights in limited-overs. However, Kohli remains the Test captain and will look to lead India to their first-ever series win on South African soil in the upcoming tour of the African nation, starting from December 26.

Indian cricket has seen rapid changes being made in the senior men's team following the T20 World Cup edition, in the UAE. Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach ended as Rahul Dravid replaced him from the top post.

Indian cricket has seen rapid changes being made in the senior men's team following the T20 World Cup edition, in the UAE. Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach ended as Rahul Dravid replaced him from the top post. While Virat Kohli had already announced his resignation as T20I captain post the World Cup, Rohit not only replaced him in the shortest format but BCCI also named Hitman as the ODI skipper on Wednesday (December 8). Hence, Team India is slowly and steadily settling into the Dravid-Rohit era. Recently, former coach Ravi Shastri stated that he felt Kohli had the character, game and personality to step into MS Dhoni's shoes as the Indian captain. Shastri worked closely with Kohli after serving as Team India's director from 2014-16. In mid-2017, the former Indian all-rounder succeeded Anil Kumble to become the head coach and former a strong pair with Captain Kohli across formats till the 2021 T20 WC. "Barring interviews on television (with players), I knew nobody (joining as team director in 2014) except probably MS Dhoni because I had worked with him in 2007. There was nobody from my generation, there was nobody from the immediate generation after me. For instance, I had a connect with players of the previous decade - Sachin, Rahul, Sourav, Anil. That generation was gone. So, once I came on board, my first challenge was to identify someone who could walk the talk and I found in Virat Kohli the guy with the character, game and personality to step into Dhoni's shoes," Shastri said in an interview with 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 He further asserted, "Virat was reeling from that tour of England (where he amassed 134 runs in 5 Tests in England) because he hardly got runs. He was in a state of shock the way things had panned out. But you could see there was still enough there to get him going. Once he was back on his feet, there would be no looking back. "I began watching him very closely. The more closely I saw him, I could see his sense of confidence returning back with each day. Those initial two-three months went in getting to know the team better. We began talking a lot, on various issues - batting techniques, the path forward, lot of things. And I think, it really came to the surface in Australia, when he finally bought into everything we discussed. He was absolutely ready to walk that talk - not just in the way he played his game but the way we wanted the team to play." ALSO READ | He's still a leader of the team: India's newly-appointed limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opines on Virat Kohli Kohli-Shastri formed a deadly captain-coach pair for Team India. Under the duo, India won Test series in Australia (twice), earned an unassailable 2-1 lead in the England Tests in the United Kingdom early this year, won bilateral ODI series in South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, won T20I series in SENA countries, played the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup and ended as the runners-up of the inaugural WTC. Nonetheless, they couldn't take India to an ICC title during their partnership. Now, the onus is on Dravid-Rohit to take India to greater heights in limited-overs. However, Kohli remains the Test captain and will look to lead India to their first-ever series win on South African soil in the upcoming tour of the African nation, starting from December 26.

Virat Kohli had the character, game and personality to step into MS Dhoni's shoes, says Ravi Shastri

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday confirmed Virat Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as the captain of India's ODI team ahead of the South Africa tour. The decision has not gone down well with many, who feel Kohli has been treated unfairly by the Indian cricket board despite having expressed his desire to continue leading the side in ODIs and Tests when he had announced his decision to step down as the T20 captain of the side in October this year.

Some reports claimed Kohli was handed an ultimatum by the BCCI to announce the decision to leave ODI captaincy himself. However, Kohli decided not to step down which led to the board announcing that he has been replaced by Rohit as the skipper of the Indian team in the fifty-over format. Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has slammed the BCCI for setting a wrong example by sacking Kohli.

In a video on his YouTube channel, Butt reacted to the reports of BCCI asking Kohli to step down himself within 48 hours. The ex-Pakistan batter said a player of Kohli's stature, who has 70 centuries to his name in international cricket, should not have been treated the way he has been and that it sets the wrong example for the youngsters in the team.

"How big is this an example for the upcoming guys? That guy has 70 hundreds. The rest of the team combined doesn't have 70 hundreds. At age 30 he was around that number... It's not like he has scored ducks, played the wrong way or lost matches for the team. It's not like his intent has gone down, nor average or strike rate has drastically fallen. He has played brilliantly in supporting acts, played crucial innings in Test matches," said Butt as he criticised the BCCI.

"But still if this can happen then what will others have to do to avoid a situation like this? What example are you setting for the youngsters? I think this is not the kind of treatment that you want as a player when you have done so much. Lesser players wouldn't want it. This is not the kind of treatment you would want youngsters to see. If this is happening with him then others haven't even started following in his footsteps yet," he added.

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">Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report</a>

Kohli was sacked on Wednesday with a social media post from BCCI confirming that Rohit will be leading the ODI team going ahead. When asked about the decision, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly explained how the board didn't want split captaincy in white-ball cricket which led to the selectors handing over both T20 and ODI captaincy to Rohit.

Rohit had been appointed as the captain of India's T20I team post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 this year. Kohli led India in a total of 95 ODI matches, winning 65 of them with a win percentage of over 70.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday confirmed Virat Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as the captain of India's ODI team ahead of the South Africa tour.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday confirmed Virat Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as the captain of India's ODI team ahead of the South Africa tour. The decision has not gone down well with many, who feel Kohli has been treated unfairly by the Indian cricket board despite having expressed his desire to continue leading the side in ODIs and Tests when he had announced his decision to step down as the T20 captain of the side in October this year. Some reports claimed Kohli was handed an ultimatum by the BCCI to announce the decision to leave ODI captaincy himself. However, Kohli decided not to step down which led to the board announcing that he has been replaced by Rohit as the skipper of the Indian team in the fifty-over format. Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has slammed the BCCI for setting a wrong example by sacking Kohli. In a video on his YouTube channel, Butt reacted to the reports of BCCI asking Kohli to step down himself within 48 hours. The ex-Pakistan batter said a player of Kohli's stature, who has 70 centuries to his name in international cricket, should not have been treated the way he has been and that it sets the wrong example for the youngsters in the team. "How big is this an example for the upcoming guys? That guy has 70 hundreds. The rest of the team combined doesn't have 70 hundreds. At age 30 he was around that number... It's not like he has scored ducks, played the wrong way or lost matches for the team. It's not like his intent has gone down, nor average or strike rate has drastically fallen. He has played brilliantly in supporting acts, played crucial innings in Test matches," said Butt as he criticised the BCCI. "But still if this can happen then what will others have to do to avoid a situation like this? What example are you setting for the youngsters? I think this is not the kind of treatment that you want as a player when you have done so much. Lesser players wouldn't want it. This is not the kind of treatment you would want youngsters to see. If this is happening with him then others haven't even started following in his footsteps yet," he added. Also Read: Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report Kohli was sacked on Wednesday with a social media post from BCCI confirming that Rohit will be leading the ODI team going ahead. When asked about the decision, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly explained how the board didn't want split captaincy in white-ball cricket which led to the selectors handing over both T20 and ODI captaincy to Rohit. Rohit had been appointed as the captain of India's T20I team post the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 this year. Kohli led India in a total of 95 ODI matches, winning 65 of them with a win percentage of over 70.

'That guy has 70 hundreds': Former Pakistan skipper slams BCCI for sacking Virat Kohli as ODI captain

Team India have gone through rapid changes ever since their disappointing run in the T20 World Cup came to an end. While Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end, he was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach. Rohit Sharma took over as the T20I captain after Virat Kohli had announced that the T20 WC would be his last assignment as the captain in the shortest format.

On Wednesday (December 8), the BCCI announced Rohit as the ODI captain, replacing Kohli, whereas Hitman has also been promoted as the Test vice-captain. Kohli will, however, continue to lead the Test line-up.&nbsp;

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>

Speaking on his official YouTube channel in a video, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on the changes taken place in Team India. He said that the team has maintained the difference between red and white-ball cricket with Rohit taking over as ODI captain.&nbsp;

“The day Virat Kohli left his T20 captaincy, it was a foregone conclusion that he will also lose his one-day captaincy. You would always want to go with the captain who leads the T20 team (for the ODI side). In world cricket, you don’t see a player leading the Test and ODI team not captaining the side in T20s. A distinction is always over white-ball cricket and red-ball cricket, and now we have that distinction," he stated.

The former cricketer also sounded optimistic of India's fortunes under Rohit.&nbsp;“What he brings to the table is his tactical acumen. He is very good tactically. Rohit Sharma has always been a lucky captain, so that also helps!", Chopra further added.&nbsp;

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>

Meanwhile, Chopra also made a valid point that Rohit the batter will have to assist Rohit the captain. "Rohit Sharma the batsman will have to help Rohit Sharma the captain. Indian cricket is a lot about 1-2-3 (top order), so when Rohit, Rahul and Virat Kohli score big, it’s always good for Indian cricket,” he concluded.

Talking about Kohli, India did fairly well in bilateral series in limited-overs but couldn't win an ICC title. The Men in Blue reached the 2017 Champions Trophy final and also played the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup. India will now hope to end their ICC-title drought under new captain Rohit.

Rohit, on the other hand, will have to replicate Kohli's efforts as a batsman while captaining the side. The 33-year-old did a brilliant job while leading from the front with the willow in hand and, hence, his successor will hope to carry on in a similar manner.

Team India have gone through rapid changes ever since their disappointing run in the T20 World Cup came to an end. While Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end, he was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach.

Team India have gone through rapid changes ever since their disappointing run in the T20 World Cup came to an end. While Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end, he was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach. Rohit Sharma took over as the T20I captain after Virat Kohli had announced that the T20 WC would be his last assignment as the captain in the shortest format. On Wednesday (December 8), the BCCI announced Rohit as the ODI captain, replacing Kohli, whereas Hitman has also been promoted as the Test vice-captain. Kohli will, however, continue to lead the Test line-up. ALSO READ | 'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark Speaking on his official YouTube channel in a video, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on the changes taken place in Team India. He said that the team has maintained the difference between red and white-ball cricket with Rohit taking over as ODI captain. “The day Virat Kohli left his T20 captaincy, it was a foregone conclusion that he will also lose his one-day captaincy. You would always want to go with the captain who leads the T20 team (for the ODI side). In world cricket, you don’t see a player leading the Test and ODI team not captaining the side in T20s. A distinction is always over white-ball cricket and red-ball cricket, and now we have that distinction," he stated. The former cricketer also sounded optimistic of India's fortunes under Rohit. “What he brings to the table is his tactical acumen. He is very good tactically. Rohit Sharma has always been a lucky captain, so that also helps!", Chopra further added. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain Meanwhile, Chopra also made a valid point that Rohit the batter will have to assist Rohit the captain. "Rohit Sharma the batsman will have to help Rohit Sharma the captain. Indian cricket is a lot about 1-2-3 (top order), so when Rohit, Rahul and Virat Kohli score big, it’s always good for Indian cricket,” he concluded. Talking about Kohli, India did fairly well in bilateral series in limited-overs but couldn't win an ICC title. The Men in Blue reached the 2017 Champions Trophy final and also played the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup. India will now hope to end their ICC-title drought under new captain Rohit. Rohit, on the other hand, will have to replicate Kohli's efforts as a batsman while captaining the side. The 33-year-old did a brilliant job while leading from the front with the willow in hand and, hence, his successor will hope to carry on in a similar manner.

You'd always go with captain who leads in T20Is: Aakash Chopra reacts to ODI captaincy switch in Team India

On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Many believe it was always coming ever since Kohli stepped aside as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE.&nbsp;

Reacting to the development, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly explained the thinking behind Kohli's removal and Rohit's appointment. He told ANI, "t's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together.&nbsp;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."

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>

Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has also reacted to the ODI captaincy switch in Team India, seeing Rohit become the limited-overs captain&nbsp;altogether. On his YouTube channel, Butt said, "This doesn't come as a surprise to me. It was on the cards. It doesn't make sense anyway if he's only the T20I captain. It makes sense to segregate between white between red ball and white ball to reduce the pressure on a certain player. India doesn't not play a lot T20Is; they mainly play ODIs and Tests. In order to reduce workload (off Kohli), the entire white-ball captaincy had to go one way."

"Like I said, there is no element of surprise here. It's a good thing because you will see Virat Kohli's performance getting better because he was extremely overloaded.

"And as it is, the volume of cricket that India plays is very high. The pressure is even higher when all eyes are on him and people only talk about him not scoring runs. For people, him scoring 50s did not amount to anything. I reckon this was a perfect exchange with Rohit Sharma," the tainted player added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-still-a-leader-of-the-team-indias-newly-appointed-limited-overs-captain-rohit-sharma-opines-on-virat-kohli-435550">He's still a leader of the team: India's newly-appointed limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opines on Virat Kohli</a>

Under Rohit, India will now look to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. While India did enjoy considerable success under Kohli's leadership in the shorter formats, he couldn't lead the national side to an ICC trophy. In addition, the&nbsp;BCCI as well as the selectors wanted one captain for the white-ball formats, hence, the 33-year-old got replaced from the top post in ODIs.&nbsp;

At present, India is set to tour South Africa where they will three Tests and ODIs each starting from December 26. Kohli will continue to lead in Tests, with Rohit being promoted as his deputy in whites, whereas Hitman will take charge of the limited-overs side altogether.

On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Many believe it was always coming ever since Kohli stepped aside as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE.

On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Many believe it was always coming ever since Kohli stepped aside as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Reacting to the development, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly explained the thinking behind Kohli's removal and Rohit's appointment. He told ANI, "t'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. 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." ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has also reacted to the ODI captaincy switch in Team India, seeing Rohit become the limited-overs captain altogether. On his YouTube channel, Butt said, "This doesn't come as a surprise to me. It was on the cards. It doesn't make sense anyway if he's only the T20I captain. It makes sense to segregate between white between red ball and white ball to reduce the pressure on a certain player. India doesn't not play a lot T20Is; they mainly play ODIs and Tests. In order to reduce workload (off Kohli), the entire white-ball captaincy had to go one way." "Like I said, there is no element of surprise here. It's a good thing because you will see Virat Kohli's performance getting better because he was extremely overloaded. "And as it is, the volume of cricket that India plays is very high. The pressure is even higher when all eyes are on him and people only talk about him not scoring runs. For people, him scoring 50s did not amount to anything. I reckon this was a perfect exchange with Rohit Sharma," the tainted player added. ALSO READ | He's still a leader of the team: India's newly-appointed limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opines on Virat Kohli Under Rohit, India will now look to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. While India did enjoy considerable success under Kohli's leadership in the shorter formats, he couldn't lead the national side to an ICC trophy. In addition, the BCCI as well as the selectors wanted one captain for the white-ball formats, hence, the 33-year-old got replaced from the top post in ODIs. At present, India is set to tour South Africa where they will three Tests and ODIs each starting from December 26. Kohli will continue to lead in Tests, with Rohit being promoted as his deputy in whites, whereas Hitman will take charge of the limited-overs side altogether.

'Doesn't make sense...' - Former Pak captain reacts as Rohit replaces Kohli to become India's ODI skipper

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India captain in ODIs on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit is now India's limited-overs captain whereas Virat Kohli remains in-charge of the Test side. Recently, Rohit lavished huge praise on King Kohli, who he believes will remain a leader in the team.

During a recent interaction, when he wasn't officially announced as the ODI captain, Hitman spoke highly of Virat and how the team will continue to benefit having the former captain in the limited-overs format.

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>

"A batter of Kohli's quality is always needed in the squad. To have an average of 50 plus in the T20 format, it is crazy and unreal. Obviously, with the experience... he has batted and bailed India out so many times from difficult situations.

"The quality and his kind of batsmanship is required. Plus, he is still a leader of the team. All those things put together, you don’t want to miss out. You don’t want to ignore that kind of stuff. His presence is very important to the team," said Rohit on&nbsp;the show 'Backstage with Boria', organised by veteran sports journalist Boria Majumdar

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>

Under Kohli, India dominated the bilateral series -- both in T20Is and ODIs. In the shortest format, India won bilaterals in SENA countries, beat West Indies in the Caribbean island, Sri Lanka in their own backyard and also thrashed oppositions at home. In ODIs, the 33-year-old led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and also won bilateral series in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Nonetheless, India couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

Rohit will now like to make the most of Kohli's presence as a batter and take Indian cricket to greater heights in the shorter formats.&nbsp;

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India captain in ODIs on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit is now India's limited-overs captain whereas Virat Kohli remains in-charge of the Test side.

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India captain in ODIs on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit is now India's limited-overs captain whereas Virat Kohli remains in-charge of the Test side. Recently, Rohit lavished huge praise on King Kohli, who he believes will remain a leader in the team. During a recent interaction, when he wasn't officially announced as the ODI captain, Hitman spoke highly of Virat and how the team will continue to benefit having the former captain in the limited-overs format. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain "A batter of Kohli's quality is always needed in the squad. To have an average of 50 plus in the T20 format, it is crazy and unreal. Obviously, with the experience... he has batted and bailed India out so many times from difficult situations. "The quality and his kind of batsmanship is required. Plus, he is still a leader of the team. All those things put together, you don’t want to miss out. You don’t want to ignore that kind of stuff. His presence is very important to the team," said Rohit on the show 'Backstage with Boria', organised by veteran sports journalist Boria Majumdar ALSO READ | 'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli Under Kohli, India dominated the bilateral series -- both in T20Is and ODIs. In the shortest format, India won bilaterals in SENA countries, beat West Indies in the Caribbean island, Sri Lanka in their own backyard and also thrashed oppositions at home. In ODIs, the 33-year-old led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and also won bilateral series in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Nonetheless, India couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Rohit will now like to make the most of Kohli's presence as a batter and take Indian cricket to greater heights in the shorter formats.

He's still a leader of the team: India's newly-appointed limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opines on Virat Kohli

BCCI dropped a bomb on Wednesday (December 8) as the board announced Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain. Many believed Virat Kohli was set to lose the top job in the ODI format after he resigned as the T20I skipper.&nbsp;

As per reports, the BCCI had given Kohli 48 hours to announce that he would be stepping aside as the ODI captain. However, when the 33-year-old chose to remain silent, the board went ahead by announcing Rohit as the new captain in the 50-over format. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain and, hence, will now serve as the limited-overs skipper altogether.

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>

BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly finally reacted to big development and broke his silence on Kohli being replaced by Hitman. “It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together,” Ganguly told ANI.&nbsp;

"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 stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thats-something-that-he-will-be-able-rohit-sharma-opines-on-team-india-head-coach-rahul-dravid-435510">'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid</a>

The BCCI President added, "We have full faith in Rohit Sharma's leadership abilities, and Virat will continue as the Test captain. We as BCCI are confident that Indian cricket is in good hands. We thank Virat Kohli for his contributions as captain in the white-ball format."

Talking about Kohli's run as an ODI captain, he led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and the semi-final of the 2019 ODI WC. He ended with a win percentage of over 70 (70.43), however, couldn't end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

Thus, Indian cricket will start a new era in their forthcoming tour of South Africa, where they will have Kohli serving as the Test captain whereas Rohit will start his journey as the shorter formats' skipper.&nbsp;

India's tour of SA comprises three Tests and ODIs each, which will commence with the Test series on December 26 in Centurion.

BCCI dropped a bomb on Wednesday (December 8) as the board announced Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain. Many believed Virat Kohli was set to lose the top job in the ODI format after he resigned as the T20I skipper.

BCCI dropped a bomb on Wednesday (December 8) as the board announced Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain. Many believed Virat Kohli was set to lose the top job in the ODI format after he resigned as the T20I skipper. As per reports, the BCCI had given Kohli 48 hours to announce that he would be stepping aside as the ODI captain. However, when the 33-year-old chose to remain silent, the board went ahead by announcing Rohit as the new captain in the 50-over format. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain and, hence, will now serve as the limited-overs skipper altogether. ALSO READ | 'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly finally reacted to big development and broke his silence on Kohli being replaced by Hitman. “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 stated. ALSO READ | 'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid The BCCI President added, "We have full faith in Rohit Sharma's leadership abilities, and Virat will continue as the Test captain. We as BCCI are confident that Indian cricket is in good hands. We thank Virat Kohli for his contributions as captain in the white-ball format." Talking about Kohli's run as an ODI captain, he led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and the semi-final of the 2019 ODI WC. He ended with a win percentage of over 70 (70.43), however, couldn't end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Thus, Indian cricket will start a new era in their forthcoming tour of South Africa, where they will have Kohli serving as the Test captain whereas Rohit will start his journey as the shorter formats' skipper. India's tour of SA comprises three Tests and ODIs each, which will commence with the Test series on December 26 in Centurion.

Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain

Team India got a new ODI captain in the form of Rohit Sharma on Wednesday evening (December 8). The BCCI made the official announcement as there were speculations that Virat Kohli was on the verge of losing ODI captaincy after stepping down as the T20I captain recently.

As per reports, Kohli was given a 48-hours deadline by the BCCI to officially announce him stepping down as the ODI captain. However, the the Indian cricket board went ahead with the decision to name Rohit as Kohli's successor in ODIs after the 33-year-old remained mum and didn't officially step aside. While speculations are rife, Indian cricket is heading into a new era under Rohit Sharma in the shorter formats.

Ravi Shastri, who served as India's team director from 2014-2016 and then as head coach from mid-2017 to late 2021, opened up on Captain Rohit and also spoke highly of both 'superstars' Kohli and Hitman.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thats-something-that-he-will-be-able-rohit-sharma-opines-on-team-india-head-coach-rahul-dravid-435510">'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid</a>

"Rohit is not overawed; he always does what is best for the team. He marshalls all the resources of the team unlike, let's say, in football," Shastri told The Week in an interview.

He added, "In 2014, when I first came in, there was only one big player – MS Dhoni. Who else was there? Who was superstar material? Virat, and maybe Rohit Sharma, in white-ball cricket. To see these two guys come through and become great players in red- and white-ball cricket, to have a great fast-bowling attack, to beat Australia in their backyard – there have been so many firsts with this team. It is overwhelming."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-virat-kohli-had-seen-a-future-team-india-captain-in-rohit-sharma-435458">Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma</a>

Rohit Sharma will now lead Team India in ODIs and T20Is whereas he has also been promoted as the vice-captain in Tests. Kohli, on the other hand, remains in-charge of the Test side but has been relived of leadership duties in the limited-overs format.&nbsp;

At present, India is gearing up to tour South Africa where they will play three Tests and ODIs each. The tour opener will commence on December 26.

Team India got a new ODI captain in the form of Rohit Sharma on Wednesday evening (December 8). The BCCI made the official announcement as there were speculations that Virat Kohli was on the verge of losing ODI captaincy after stepping down as the T20I captain recently.

Team India got a new ODI captain in the form of Rohit Sharma on Wednesday evening (December 8). The BCCI made the official announcement as there were speculations that Virat Kohli was on the verge of losing ODI captaincy after stepping down as the T20I captain recently. As per reports, Kohli was given a 48-hours deadline by the BCCI to officially announce him stepping down as the ODI captain. However, the the Indian cricket board went ahead with the decision to name Rohit as Kohli's successor in ODIs after the 33-year-old remained mum and didn't officially step aside. While speculations are rife, Indian cricket is heading into a new era under Rohit Sharma in the shorter formats. Ravi Shastri, who served as India's team director from 2014-2016 and then as head coach from mid-2017 to late 2021, opened up on Captain Rohit and also spoke highly of both 'superstars' Kohli and Hitman. ALSO READ | 'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid "Rohit is not overawed; he always does what is best for the team. He marshalls all the resources of the team unlike, let's say, in football," Shastri told The Week in an interview. He added, "In 2014, when I first came in, there was only one big player – MS Dhoni. Who else was there? Who was superstar material? Virat, and maybe Rohit Sharma, in white-ball cricket. To see these two guys come through and become great players in red- and white-ball cricket, to have a great fast-bowling attack, to beat Australia in their backyard – there have been so many firsts with this team. It is overwhelming." ALSO READ | Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma Rohit Sharma will now lead Team India in ODIs and T20Is whereas he has also been promoted as the vice-captain in Tests. Kohli, on the other hand, remains in-charge of the Test side but has been relived of leadership duties in the limited-overs format. At present, India is gearing up to tour South Africa where they will play three Tests and ODIs each. The tour opener will commence on December 26.

'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. While Virat Kohli had already announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma was named his successor whereas Rahul Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri as the national side's head coach till 2023 ODI World Cup.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (December 8), Rohit was also named as the ODI captain as Hitman will take charge of the side in limited-overs. Recently, the 34-year-old Indian opener opined on Dravid the coach during a recent interaction in a&nbsp;show 'Backstage with Boria'.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-virat-kohli-had-seen-a-future-team-india-captain-in-rohit-sharma-435458">Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma</a>

Rohit opened up on Dravid's impact on the team and stated what the current coach will be able to create within Team India. Rohit&nbsp;said, "Rahul Bhai was a brilliant cricketer, we all know that without a doubt. We all know how he has played his cricket. He himself has come out and said on so many occasions that he was not so talented. He had to work so hard to get where he is today. I think that is going to reflect on this team as well."

Rohit further asserted, "That nothing is given on a platter to anyone. He will make you work hard. Obviously, when you do that, when you enjoy that process, you feel good about it. Because there is a process that has been put in place."

"And there is a structure as well. So people will enjoy that. Guys that are coming in, going out. They will have so much clarity about why they were out of the team, why they came into the team and all that. That is something that he will be able to create," he added.&nbsp;

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>

Dravid has a huge task to end India's ICC-title drought, since 2013, and will have to work with Kohli (the Test captain) and Rohit in tandem to take Indian cricket to greater heights. At present, the Indian team is gearing up to leave for South Africa where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26.

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. While Virat Kohli had already announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma was named his successor whereas Rahul Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri as the national side's head coach till 2023 ODI World Cup.

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. While Virat Kohli had already announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma was named his successor whereas Rahul Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri as the national side's head coach till 2023 ODI World Cup. On Wednesday (December 8), Rohit was also named as the ODI captain as Hitman will take charge of the side in limited-overs. Recently, the 34-year-old Indian opener opined on Dravid the coach during a recent interaction in a show 'Backstage with Boria'. ALSO READ | Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma Rohit opened up on Dravid's impact on the team and stated what the current coach will be able to create within Team India. Rohit said, "Rahul Bhai was a brilliant cricketer, we all know that without a doubt. We all know how he has played his cricket. He himself has come out and said on so many occasions that he was not so talented. He had to work so hard to get where he is today. I think that is going to reflect on this team as well." Rohit further asserted, "That nothing is given on a platter to anyone. He will make you work hard. Obviously, when you do that, when you enjoy that process, you feel good about it. Because there is a process that has been put in place." "And there is a structure as well. So people will enjoy that. Guys that are coming in, going out. They will have so much clarity about why they were out of the team, why they came into the team and all that. That is something that he will be able to create," he added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report Dravid has a huge task to end India's ICC-title drought, since 2013, and will have to work with Kohli (the Test captain) and Rohit in tandem to take Indian cricket to greater heights. At present, the Indian team is gearing up to leave for South Africa where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26.

'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), announced Rohit Sharma as the new Indian ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Hitman was being considered for the post as soon as he succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the&nbsp;UAE.

Prior to the T20 WC, Kohli had announced that he would step aside as the captain in the shortest format but continue to lead in Tests and ODIs. However, BCCI named Rohit as the only white-ball captain going forward whereas Kohli will continue to call the shots in Tests.

Not many know that during an event in 2013, Kohli had stated that he sees a future Team India captain in Rohit.&nbsp;

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>

Back then, Kohli had stated, "Rohit has a tremendous cricketing brain. I often take his advice during matches. He has shown his capability while leading Mumbai Indians in the IPL." The right-hander had shared his views when asked about who can lead the team apart from him and MS Dhoni, who was the Indian captain at that time.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-be-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-odis-kl-rahul-rishabh-pant-in-contention-report-435381">Who will be Rohit Sharma's deputy in ODIs? KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant in contention: Report</a>

It is to be noted that Rohit became a part of India's leadership group in 2017, when he was named Kohli's deputy in the shorter formats. Now being appointed as India's limited-overs captain, the onus is on Rohit to take the team forward and lead them to ICC titles (which has been missing in India's cabinet since 2013).

Talking about Kohli's run as ODI and T20I captain, India won bilateral T20Is in SENA countries and played the final and semi-finals of the 2017 Champions Trophy and 2019 ODI WC, respectively, but couldn't end their ICC-title drought.

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), announced Rohit Sharma as the new Indian ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Hitman was being considered for the post as soon as he succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE.

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), announced Rohit Sharma as the new Indian ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Hitman was being considered for the post as soon as he succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Prior to the T20 WC, Kohli had announced that he would step aside as the captain in the shortest format but continue to lead in Tests and ODIs. However, BCCI named Rohit as the only white-ball captain going forward whereas Kohli will continue to call the shots in Tests. Not many know that during an event in 2013, Kohli had stated that he sees a future Team India captain in Rohit. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report Back then, Kohli had stated, "Rohit has a tremendous cricketing brain. I often take his advice during matches. He has shown his capability while leading Mumbai Indians in the IPL." The right-hander had shared his views when asked about who can lead the team apart from him and MS Dhoni, who was the Indian captain at that time. ALSO READ | Who will be Rohit Sharma's deputy in ODIs? KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant in contention: Report It is to be noted that Rohit became a part of India's leadership group in 2017, when he was named Kohli's deputy in the shorter formats. Now being appointed as India's limited-overs captain, the onus is on Rohit to take the team forward and lead them to ICC titles (which has been missing in India's cabinet since 2013). Talking about Kohli's run as ODI and T20I captain, India won bilateral T20Is in SENA countries and played the final and semi-finals of the 2017 Champions Trophy and 2019 ODI WC, respectively, but couldn't end their ICC-title drought.

Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma

Team India is going through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. Well, it was a given following how disappointing the campaign turned out to be for the one-time winners.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI announced Rohit Sharma as the new ODI captain, after he had already taken over as the T20I captain post the World Cup. As per reports, Virat Kohli was given two days to announce his stepping down but since the right-hander didn't respond, BCCI went ahead and made the call themselves.&nbsp;

Not only this, Rohit also got promoted as the vice-captain of the Test side, due to Ajinkya Rahane's low returns. Thus, all eyes are on who will be Rohit's deputy in the ODI format. BCCI haven't revealed the new vice-captain in the 50-over format, hence, another big update will follow suit in the coming days.&nbsp;

As per a report in TOI, KL Rahul is touted to be the new vice-captain in ODI cricket. For the unversed, he is already Rohit's deputy in the shortest format, hence, it will make sense for him to take up the same role in ODIs.

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>

However, there's another school of thought which is eager to groom Rishabh Pant as a future captain. Hence, he may also be considered to be Rohit's deputy in ODIs.&nbsp;

“It’s important to maintain a balance. The selectors are not for making drastic changes. But the team management and the selectors are keen on giving younger players more important roles going forward. Pant is definitely seen as an important part of the leadership group although Rahul is the frontrunner for the vice-captaincy in ODIs because he is already the deputy to Rohit in T20Is,” a source was quoted as saying by TOI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-drops-a-bomb-rohit-sharma-replaces-virat-kohli-as-indias-odi-captain-ahead-of-sa-series-435208">BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series</a>

As per the reports, Rohit is keen to groom the next leader, hence, Pant can also be an option going forward.&nbsp;

"Rohit needed a clarity on his role. There aren’t many ODIs before India play the 2023 World Cup and he is big on grooming the next generation leader too. Virat Kohli too understood the situation,” a source told the paper.

Things will become crystal clear when BCCI announce India's ODI squad for the South Africa series, in the African nation, regarding the vice-captaincy position.

Team India is going through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. Well, it was a given following how disappointing the campaign turned out to be for the one-time winners.

Team India is going through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. Well, it was a given following how disappointing the campaign turned out to be for the one-time winners. On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI announced Rohit Sharma as the new ODI captain, after he had already taken over as the T20I captain post the World Cup. As per reports, Virat Kohli was given two days to announce his stepping down but since the right-hander didn't respond, BCCI went ahead and made the call themselves. Not only this, Rohit also got promoted as the vice-captain of the Test side, due to Ajinkya Rahane's low returns. Thus, all eyes are on who will be Rohit's deputy in the ODI format. BCCI haven't revealed the new vice-captain in the 50-over format, hence, another big update will follow suit in the coming days. As per a report in TOI, KL Rahul is touted to be the new vice-captain in ODI cricket. For the unversed, he is already Rohit's deputy in the shortest format, hence, it will make sense for him to take up the same role in ODIs. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report However, there's another school of thought which is eager to groom Rishabh Pant as a future captain. Hence, he may also be considered to be Rohit's deputy in ODIs. “It’s important to maintain a balance. The selectors are not for making drastic changes. But the team management and the selectors are keen on giving younger players more important roles going forward. Pant is definitely seen as an important part of the leadership group although Rahul is the frontrunner for the vice-captaincy in ODIs because he is already the deputy to Rohit in T20Is,” a source was quoted as saying by TOI. ALSO READ | BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series As per the reports, Rohit is keen to groom the next leader, hence, Pant can also be an option going forward. "Rohit needed a clarity on his role. There aren’t many ODIs before India play the 2023 World Cup and he is big on grooming the next generation leader too. Virat Kohli too understood the situation,” a source told the paper. Things will become crystal clear when BCCI announce India's ODI squad for the South Africa series, in the African nation, regarding the vice-captaincy position.

Who will be Rohit Sharma's deputy in ODIs? KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant in contention: Report

On Wednesday (December 8), the BCCI announced Rohit Sharma has the new Team India ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. The news came in the form of a tweet from BCCI's official Twitter handle, shocking many. BCCI tweeted saying, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI &amp; T20I teams going forward" after revealing India's 18-man Test squad for the South Africa tour.

Usually a press conference is held for such big announcements. However, the sudden turn of events surprised many. It is now being reported that Kohli was given a 48-hours ultimatum by the Indian cricket board to announce his decision to step aside as ODI captain. Failing to do the same, BCCI made the decision officially with Rohit&nbsp;taking&nbsp;over from Kohli, as per a report in PTI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-drops-a-bomb-rohit-sharma-replaces-virat-kohli-as-indias-odi-captain-ahead-of-sa-series-435208">BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series</a>

Things not ideal between Kohli and his players?&nbsp;

Back in September, when Kohli had announced his decision to leave T20I captaincy, another PTI report had claimed that the talismanic batsman had 'lost respect' as a leader, mainly due to his lack of communication within the team.

"The biggest problem with Virat has always been trust issues. He speaks about clear communication but where he had lost respect as a leader is lack of communication," an unnamed player from Team India had told the news agency a couple of years back.

For the unversed, the 33-year-old Kohli had earlier stepped down as India's T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Since then, many believed his future as ODI captain was also under dark clouds and the inevitable decision was finally taken on Wednesday evening. Under him, India played the final of 2017 Champions Trophy and reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI WC in England and Wales.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-replaces-ajinkya-rahane-as-indias-vice-captain-as-bcci-announce-18-man-squad-for-sa-tests-435209">Rohit Sharma replaces Ajinkya Rahane as India's vice-captain as BCCI announce 18-man squad for SA Tests</a>

It is also being reported that current head coach Rahul Dravid also played a role in promoting Rohit as the captain in white-ball formats. All eyes are now on Rohit, who is India's limited-overs captain (and also promoted as vice-captain in Tests), to succeed Kohli and take the team to greater heights under his leadership.

On Wednesday (December 8), the BCCI announced Rohit Sharma has the new Team India ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. The news came in the form of a tweet from BCCI's official Twitter handle, shocking many.

On Wednesday (December 8), the BCCI announced Rohit Sharma has the new Team India ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. The news came in the form of a tweet from BCCI's official Twitter handle, shocking many. BCCI tweeted saying, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI & T20I teams going forward" after revealing India's 18-man Test squad for the South Africa tour. Usually a press conference is held for such big announcements. However, the sudden turn of events surprised many. It is now being reported that Kohli was given a 48-hours ultimatum by the Indian cricket board to announce his decision to step aside as ODI captain. Failing to do the same, BCCI made the decision officially with Rohit taking over from Kohli, as per a report in PTI. ALSO READ | BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series Things not ideal between Kohli and his players? Back in September, when Kohli had announced his decision to leave T20I captaincy, another PTI report had claimed that the talismanic batsman had 'lost respect' as a leader, mainly due to his lack of communication within the team. "The biggest problem with Virat has always been trust issues. He speaks about clear communication but where he had lost respect as a leader is lack of communication," an unnamed player from Team India had told the news agency a couple of years back. For the unversed, the 33-year-old Kohli had earlier stepped down as India's T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Since then, many believed his future as ODI captain was also under dark clouds and the inevitable decision was finally taken on Wednesday evening. Under him, India played the final of 2017 Champions Trophy and reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI WC in England and Wales. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma replaces Ajinkya Rahane as India's vice-captain as BCCI announce 18-man squad for SA Tests It is also being reported that current head coach Rahul Dravid also played a role in promoting Rohit as the captain in white-ball formats. All eyes are now on Rohit, who is India's limited-overs captain (and also promoted as vice-captain in Tests), to succeed Kohli and take the team to greater heights under his leadership.

Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report

Virat Kohli stepped aside as India's T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Rohit Sharma has, thus, taken over from Kohli in the shortest format. While split captaincy isn't very common in Indian cricket, Team India have different captains in the white-ball formats at present as Kohli remains the Test and ODI skipper.

As soon as Rohit took over as the T20I captain, many former cricketers and experts are of the view that there should be only one captain in the shorter formats and called for a change in ODI captaincy as well. However, the Chetan Sharma-led national selection committee isn't in any hurry to make any changes in ODI captaincy ahead of the all-important South Africa tour, from December 26.

Nonetheless, the selectors are most likely to discuss the 'sensitive issue' with both Kohli and Rohit before taking a final call.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahanes-vice-captaincy-ishant-sharmas-place-in-doubt-in-indias-test-team-for-south-africa-tour-434937">Ajinkya Rahane's vice captaincy, Ishant Sharma's place in doubt in India's Test team for South Africa tour</a>

As per a report in the&nbsp;Times of India, the matter the selection committee, led by Chetan Sharma, are eager to discuss the issue&nbsp;with both Kohli and Rohit and only then go ahead and make some changes, if at all required.

"The ODI captaincy is a sensitive issue. There is a school of thought that Rohit Sharma should be given charge of all white-ball cricket after being appointed the T20I captain. But for that, the selectors need to sit with Virat Kohli and know where he stands with his batting. The situation will have to be discussed with Rohit too, because he is also seeking clarity on his role," a source close to the selection panel was quoted as saying by&nbsp;TOI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-backs-players-through-thick-and-thin-former-pak-captain-lauds-virat-kohli-for-supporting-ajinkya-rahane-434784">He backs players through thick and thin: Former Pak captain lauds Virat Kohli for supporting Ajinkya Rahane</a>

At present, the ODI World Cup is far away (in late 2023). Hence, the selectors will like to go through the process thoroughly, have detailed talks with Rohit and Kohli before finalising on the captaincy issue. Thus, Kohli is likely to remain the Test and ODI captain, at present, whereas Rohit will continue to be his deputy in the 50-over format and in-charge of the team in T20Is.

India are scheduled to travel to South Africa as the tour-opener is set to take place on December 26 in Centurion. Kohli &amp; Co. will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs whereas&nbsp;the T20Is will be held later.

Virat Kohli stepped aside as India's T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Rohit Sharma has, thus, taken over from Kohli in the shortest format. While split captaincy isn't very common in Indian cricket, Team India have different captains in the white-ball formats at present as Kohli remains the Test and ODI skipper.

Virat Kohli stepped aside as India's T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Rohit Sharma has, thus, taken over from Kohli in the shortest format. While split captaincy isn't very common in Indian cricket, Team India have different captains in the white-ball formats at present as Kohli remains the Test and ODI skipper. As soon as Rohit took over as the T20I captain, many former cricketers and experts are of the view that there should be only one captain in the shorter formats and called for a change in ODI captaincy as well. However, the Chetan Sharma-led national selection committee isn't in any hurry to make any changes in ODI captaincy ahead of the all-important South Africa tour, from December 26. Nonetheless, the selectors are most likely to discuss the 'sensitive issue' with both Kohli and Rohit before taking a final call. ALSO READ | Ajinkya Rahane's vice captaincy, Ishant Sharma's place in doubt in India's Test team for South Africa tour As per a report in the Times of India, the matter the selection committee, led by Chetan Sharma, are eager to discuss the issue with both Kohli and Rohit and only then go ahead and make some changes, if at all required. "The ODI captaincy is a sensitive issue. There is a school of thought that Rohit Sharma should be given charge of all white-ball cricket after being appointed the T20I captain. But for that, the selectors need to sit with Virat Kohli and know where he stands with his batting. The situation will have to be discussed with Rohit too, because he is also seeking clarity on his role," a source close to the selection panel was quoted as saying by TOI. ALSO READ | He backs players through thick and thin: Former Pak captain lauds Virat Kohli for supporting Ajinkya Rahane At present, the ODI World Cup is far away (in late 2023). Hence, the selectors will like to go through the process thoroughly, have detailed talks with Rohit and Kohli before finalising on the captaincy issue. Thus, Kohli is likely to remain the Test and ODI captain, at present, whereas Rohit will continue to be his deputy in the 50-over format and in-charge of the team in T20Is. India are scheduled to travel to South Africa as the tour-opener is set to take place on December 26 in Centurion. Kohli & Co. will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs whereas the T20Is will be held later.

National selectors to discuss 'sensitive' ODI captaincy issue with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma: Report

Team India are scheduled to tour South Africa for a three-match Test series and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26. After demolishing New Zealand in the second and final Test in Mumbai and claiming the series 1-0, Virat Kohli-led India regained the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings and will now leave for South Africa with their heads held high.

While Kohli-led India have impressed one and all being on the road, with back-to-back series wins in Australia and an unassailable 2-1 lead in England, the national side will have to be a their very best to beat the Proteas in the African nation, where India have never won a Test series.

Harbhajan Singh, India's veteran off-spinner, believes this is India's golden opportunity to win a series in the rainbow nation. "I believe this is India's golden opportunity to win their first Test series in South Africa. If we look at their team, it is not as strong as it used to be. Even in the last tour, players like AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis… those guys never allowed India to win there. Although India have played well there, they have never won a series and this is their best chance because their batting isn't great," Harbhajan said in a video on his YouTube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-replaces-ajinkya-rahane-as-indias-vice-captain-as-bcci-announce-18-man-squad-for-sa-tests-435209">Rohit Sharma replaces Ajinkya Rahane as India's vice-captain as BCCI announce 18-man squad for SA Tests</a>

For the unversed, Bhajji has played two series -- in 2001 and 2010 -- in South Africa and returned with 18 wickets overall. On the other hand, India won their first-ever Test on South African soil&nbsp;under current head coach Rahul Dravid's captaincy, in 2006, but lost the series 2-1. In addition, they drew a three-match Test series in 2010, under MS Dhoni, but have never managed a series win in whites in SA. Will Kohli &amp; Co. turn the tides this time around?

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-drops-a-bomb-rohit-sharma-replaces-virat-kohli-as-indias-odi-captain-ahead-of-sa-series-435208">BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series</a>

India's Test squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj.

Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla

Team India are scheduled to tour South Africa for a three-match Test series and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26. After demolishing New Zealand in the second and final Test in Mumbai and claiming the series 1-0, Virat Kohli-led India regained the No.

Team India are scheduled to tour South Africa for a three-match Test series and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26. After demolishing New Zealand in the second and final Test in Mumbai and claiming the series 1-0, Virat Kohli-led India regained the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings and will now leave for South Africa with their heads held high. While Kohli-led India have impressed one and all being on the road, with back-to-back series wins in Australia and an unassailable 2-1 lead in England, the national side will have to be a their very best to beat the Proteas in the African nation, where India have never won a Test series. Harbhajan Singh, India's veteran off-spinner, believes this is India's golden opportunity to win a series in the rainbow nation. "I believe this is India's golden opportunity to win their first Test series in South Africa. If we look at their team, it is not as strong as it used to be. Even in the last tour, players like AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis… those guys never allowed India to win there. Although India have played well there, they have never won a series and this is their best chance because their batting isn't great," Harbhajan said in a video on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma replaces Ajinkya Rahane as India's vice-captain as BCCI announce 18-man squad for SA Tests For the unversed, Bhajji has played two series -- in 2001 and 2010 -- in South Africa and returned with 18 wickets overall. On the other hand, India won their first-ever Test on South African soil under current head coach Rahul Dravid's captaincy, in 2006, but lost the series 2-1. In addition, they drew a three-match Test series in 2010, under MS Dhoni, but have never managed a series win in whites in SA. Will Kohli & Co. turn the tides this time around? ALSO READ | BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series India's Test squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj. Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla

India tour of Proteas: Harbhajan explains why Kohli & Co. have 'golden opportunity' to win Test series in SA

BCCI have announced Rohit Sharma as India's new ODI captain ahead of the South Africa tour. On Wednesday (December 8), the Indian cricket board made the formal announcement after there were speculations of Hitman replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain.&nbsp;

While announcing India's Test squad for the South Africa tour, BCCI also revealed that Rohit will be succeeding Kohli in the ODI format after becoming the T20I captain post the World Cup, in the UAE. BCCI tweeted saying, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI &amp; T20I teams going forward."

Rohit will, thus, try and build a team for the future with the 2023 ODI World Cup in mind, which will be hosted by India. For the unversed, the 34-year-old wasn't part of India's victorious 2011 ODI WC squad and, hence, will be determined to win the 50-over championship as captain of the national side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-yuvraj-singh-lead-tributes-as-cds-general-bipin-rawat-passes-away-in-helicopter-crash-435194">Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh lead tributes as CDS General Bipin Rawat passes away in helicopter crash</a>

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The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI &amp; T20I teams going forward.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> <a href="https://t.co/hcg92sPtCa">pic.twitter.com/hcg92sPtCa</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/national-selectors-to-discuss-sensitive-odi-captaincy-issue-with-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-report-435009">National selectors to discuss 'sensitive' ODI captaincy issue with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma: Report</a>

Rohit not only became the Team India captain in the shorter formats but has also replaced Ajinkya Rahane to become the new vice-captain of the Test side. India's Test squad for the SA series is as follows:

Virat Kohli (Capt),Rohit Sharma(vc), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant(wk), Wriddhiman Saha(wk), R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Md. Siraj.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the standby players are as follows:&nbsp;Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla.

BCCI have announced Rohit Sharma as India's new ODI captain ahead of the South Africa tour. On Wednesday (December 8), the Indian cricket board made the formal announcement after there were speculations of Hitman replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain.

BCCI have announced Rohit Sharma as India's new ODI captain ahead of the South Africa tour. On Wednesday (December 8), the Indian cricket board made the formal announcement after there were speculations of Hitman replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain. While announcing India's Test squad for the South Africa tour, BCCI also revealed that Rohit will be succeeding Kohli in the ODI format after becoming the T20I captain post the World Cup, in the UAE. BCCI tweeted saying, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI & T20I teams going forward." Rohit will, thus, try and build a team for the future with the 2023 ODI World Cup in mind, which will be hosted by India. For the unversed, the 34-year-old wasn't part of India's victorious 2011 ODI WC squad and, hence, will be determined to win the 50-over championship as captain of the national side. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh lead tributes as CDS General Bipin Rawat passes away in helicopter crash The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI & T20I teams going forward.#TeamIndia | @ImRo45 pic.twitter.com/hcg92sPtCa — BCCI (@BCCI) December 8, 2021 × ALSO READ | National selectors to discuss 'sensitive' ODI captaincy issue with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma: Report Rohit not only became the Team India captain in the shorter formats but has also replaced Ajinkya Rahane to become the new vice-captain of the Test side. India's Test squad for the SA series is as follows: Virat Kohli (Capt),Rohit Sharma(vc), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant(wk), Wriddhiman Saha(wk), R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Md. Siraj. On the other hand, the standby players are as follows: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla.

BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series

India wrapped up the two-match Test series versus New Zealand on Monday (December 6) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India posted 325 and dismissed the Kiwis for a paltry 62 in the first innings. Courtesy a big lead, India declared at 276-7 to set up an imposing 540-run target for the visitors. In reply, the Black Caps fell like nine pins in the final innings for 167 to lose by a whopping 372-run margin.

With the 1-0 series win, India regained the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings. However, they will have to remain at their very best to hold onto the top spot with their forthcoming assignment versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26. Ahead of the series, former Test specialist and current NCA head VVS Laxman has pointed out one area where Indian batters need to work upon.

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Speaking on the Star Sports show&nbsp;Follow the Blues, Laxman said whether it was Ajinkya Rahane in the first innings of the Kanpur Test or Cheteshwar Pujara and&nbsp;Shubman Gill in the second innings in Mumbai, all got out after making&nbsp;good starts and, thus, failed to capitalise to put up big scores.

"It's very important not to repeat the same mistakes. If we saw the way Ajinkya Rahane got out in Kanpur, Pujara got out in Kanpur as well as in Mumbai, it's almost like a pattern which is developing. Even Shubman Gill, after settling down and throwing away his wicket. So I just believe it is about converting that start into a big score, which is very critical," Laxman said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/national-selectors-to-discuss-sensitive-odi-captaincy-issue-with-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-report-435009">National selectors to discuss 'sensitive' ODI captaincy issue with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma: Report</a>

"As it is, India plays with five genuine batters, then you have an all-rounder in the form of Jadeja, you then have a wicketkeeper-batter, so it is important for the top five batters to make it count once they get their eye in, once they spend time on the crease. Somewhere or the other I feel they are repeating the mistakes and throwing away their wickets after getting set, which you cannot do if you want to perform well against good teams and especially if you want to win the series in South Africa, as a batting unit you will have to fire," Laxman added.

India will leave for South Africa in a few days and gear up for the three-match Test series opener in Centurion on December 26 (i.e. the Boxing Day Test). For the unversed, India have a Test series win England, Australia and NZ but not in the African nation (among SENA countries).

Will they be able to turn the tides this time around in the rainbow nation? Only time will tell, however, their batters will have to stand tall versus the SA bowlers.

India wrapped up the two-match Test series versus New Zealand on Monday (December 6) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India posted 325 and dismissed the Kiwis for a paltry 62 in the first innings.

India wrapped up the two-match Test series versus New Zealand on Monday (December 6) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India posted 325 and dismissed the Kiwis for a paltry 62 in the first innings. Courtesy a big lead, India declared at 276-7 to set up an imposing 540-run target for the visitors. In reply, the Black Caps fell like nine pins in the final innings for 167 to lose by a whopping 372-run margin. With the 1-0 series win, India regained the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings. However, they will have to remain at their very best to hold onto the top spot with their forthcoming assignment versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26. Ahead of the series, former Test specialist and current NCA head VVS Laxman has pointed out one area where Indian batters need to work upon. ALSO READ | ICC Test Rankings: Mayank sees massive jump, R Ashwin narrows gap with No. 1 bowler Pat Cummins Speaking on the Star Sports show Follow the Blues, Laxman said whether it was Ajinkya Rahane in the first innings of the Kanpur Test or Cheteshwar Pujara and Shubman Gill in the second innings in Mumbai, all got out after making good starts and, thus, failed to capitalise to put up big scores. "It's very important not to repeat the same mistakes. If we saw the way Ajinkya Rahane got out in Kanpur, Pujara got out in Kanpur as well as in Mumbai, it's almost like a pattern which is developing. Even Shubman Gill, after settling down and throwing away his wicket. So I just believe it is about converting that start into a big score, which is very critical," Laxman said. ALSO READ | National selectors to discuss 'sensitive' ODI captaincy issue with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma: Report "As it is, India plays with five genuine batters, then you have an all-rounder in the form of Jadeja, you then have a wicketkeeper-batter, so it is important for the top five batters to make it count once they get their eye in, once they spend time on the crease. Somewhere or the other I feel they are repeating the mistakes and throwing away their wickets after getting set, which you cannot do if you want to perform well against good teams and especially if you want to win the series in South Africa, as a batting unit you will have to fire," Laxman added. India will leave for South Africa in a few days and gear up for the three-match Test series opener in Centurion on December 26 (i.e. the Boxing Day Test). For the unversed, India have a Test series win England, Australia and NZ but not in the African nation (among SENA countries). Will they be able to turn the tides this time around in the rainbow nation? Only time will tell, however, their batters will have to stand tall versus the SA bowlers.

VVS Laxman reveals one area where Indian batters need to improve ahead of SA Test series

After the end of the New Zealand series at home, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal and ace off-spinner R Ashwin made massive gains in the latest ICC Test rankings for batters and bowlers, respectively. Mayank, who was the Player-of-the-Match in the second and final Test in Mumbai, jumped up 30 spots following his masterclass 150 at the Wankhede Stadium versus the Black Caps.

Thus, the right-hander finds himself at the 11th position. In the top ten, Joe Root continues to lead the chart whereas Rohit Sharma (fifth position) and Virat Kohli (at sixth place) are the only two Indians in the top ten. For the bowlers, Ashwin gained&nbsp;43 rating points to reach a total of 883 and be at the second spot, narrowing his gap with Aussie Test captain and pacer Pat Cummins (908 rating points). Josh Hazlewood is at the third spot.

Ashwin, who ended the series with 14 wickets and valuable runs from the willow, also moved up in the list for all-rounders. The 35-year-old occupies the second spot in the list headed by Jason Holder. Ravindra Jadeja, who missed the second Test in Mumbai, slipped to the fourth position.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-india-vs-new-zealand-series-434499">Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series</a>

After grabbing the Player-of-the-Series award post the NZ Tests, Ashwin had told broadcasters, "I think I've got 10 (Player of the Series awards now). I enjoyed Wankhede honestly, and everyday there was something new, and I could challenge both edges. It was a wonderful performance by Ajaz. It doesn't spin all the time in Wankhede, and he used the seam and put the ball in the right places, and there was a bit of destiny involved in his 10-for too. Jayant and I have trained together, he flew to Chennai from Haryana in 2014 to pick my mind, so we have a good relation. Axar and I have played since Kings XI. I would like to go to South Africa and win a series there, we haven't done that before, and hopefully we can do it this time."

Mumbai Test's star spinner Ajaz Patel, who became only the third bowler to take ten wickets in an innings, also jumped 23 slots to occupy the 38th position. The New Zealander had started the India series at the 62nd position.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-led-india-regain-no-1-spot-in-icc-test-rankings-after-series-win-vs-new-zealand-434531">Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand</a>

Among the teams, Kohli-led India are at the top after the 1-0 series win over World Test champions NZ. The Kiwis, Australia, England and Pakistan follow suit in the top five.

India's next Test assignment is versus South Africa, in the African nation, where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The first Test kicks off on December 26 in Centurion.

After the end of the New Zealand series at home, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal and ace off-spinner R Ashwin made massive gains in the latest ICC Test rankings for batters and bowlers, respectively.

After the end of the New Zealand series at home, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal and ace off-spinner R Ashwin made massive gains in the latest ICC Test rankings for batters and bowlers, respectively. Mayank, who was the Player-of-the-Match in the second and final Test in Mumbai, jumped up 30 spots following his masterclass 150 at the Wankhede Stadium versus the Black Caps. Thus, the right-hander finds himself at the 11th position. In the top ten, Joe Root continues to lead the chart whereas Rohit Sharma (fifth position) and Virat Kohli (at sixth place) are the only two Indians in the top ten. For the bowlers, Ashwin gained 43 rating points to reach a total of 883 and be at the second spot, narrowing his gap with Aussie Test captain and pacer Pat Cummins (908 rating points). Josh Hazlewood is at the third spot. Ashwin, who ended the series with 14 wickets and valuable runs from the willow, also moved up in the list for all-rounders. The 35-year-old occupies the second spot in the list headed by Jason Holder. Ravindra Jadeja, who missed the second Test in Mumbai, slipped to the fourth position. ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series After grabbing the Player-of-the-Series award post the NZ Tests, Ashwin had told broadcasters, "I think I've got 10 (Player of the Series awards now). I enjoyed Wankhede honestly, and everyday there was something new, and I could challenge both edges. It was a wonderful performance by Ajaz. It doesn't spin all the time in Wankhede, and he used the seam and put the ball in the right places, and there was a bit of destiny involved in his 10-for too. Jayant and I have trained together, he flew to Chennai from Haryana in 2014 to pick my mind, so we have a good relation. Axar and I have played since Kings XI. I would like to go to South Africa and win a series there, we haven't done that before, and hopefully we can do it this time." Mumbai Test's star spinner Ajaz Patel, who became only the third bowler to take ten wickets in an innings, also jumped 23 slots to occupy the 38th position. The New Zealander had started the India series at the 62nd position. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand Among the teams, Kohli-led India are at the top after the 1-0 series win over World Test champions NZ. The Kiwis, Australia, England and Pakistan follow suit in the top five. India's next Test assignment is versus South Africa, in the African nation, where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The first Test kicks off on December 26 in Centurion.

ICC Test Rankings: Mayank sees massive jump, R Ashwin narrows gap with No. 1 bowler Pat Cummins

India thrashed New Zealand by 372 runs in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6) to clinch the series 1-0. The Virat Kohli-led Indian team produced a clinical performance with many young faces doing well, such as Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, etc.

On the other hand, Shreyas Iyer had also produced a match-winning performance in the first Test, scoring a century on his debut innings. Thus, many former cricketers and experts believe it is time for the Rahul Dravid-led team management to drop underperforming vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane from the Test squad ahead of the South Africa tour, from December 26.

Nonetheless, the 33-year-old Kohli has continued to back his deputy, who has only two fifty-plus knocks since his last ton in late 2020.

Speaking after India's 1-0 win in the two-match series, Kohli had said, "I can't judge Ajinkya's form. Nobody can judge anybody's form, for that matter. Because only an individual knows what part of his game he has to work on. But, as I have said in the past, it is important to back those players who have made impact performances in difficult situations and important Test matches in the past. We don't entertain this kind of atmosphere in the team that a player starts worrying about 'what next' the moment he is under a little bit of pressure.

"Yes, we can't expect this kind of balance from those on the outside where those who are singing praises will be asking for a player's head in two months. We don't react that way ever nor will we do it in the future because we know how much effort and hard work goes in for any person to get into a positive mental space, and we will support it. Be it Ajinkya or whoever. We will never take decisions based on the outside atmosphere," the 33-year old further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-take-a-decision-based-virat-kohli-continues-to-back-ajinkya-rahane-amid-widespread-criticism-434615">'Won’t take a decision based....': Virat Kohli continues to back Ajinkya Rahane amid widespread criticism</a>

Thus, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has lauded Kohli for backing his players through thick and thin. Kohli, who is India's most successful Test captain ever, was highly appreciated by Butt for backing his troops and believes that Rahane can return to form due to his captain's belief in him.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, the 37-year old opening batter said, "One of the most valuable reasons behind Team India's success under the captaincy of Virat Kohli is backing his players, especially when they most need them. Not just Kohli, pick any good captain in world cricket, they will always back their proven player, who is now going through a lean phase. And when such players are backed during their time of struggle, with the amount of confidence the player gains they come out stronger and produce unthinkable results."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-is-best-test-captain-india-have-ever-had-says-irfan-pathan-after-nz-test-series-434641">Virat Kohli is best Test captain India have ever had, says Irfan Pathan after NZ Test series</a>

He added, "In cases when the player has top-class credentials, has helped script unbelievable victories, or has performed well under pressure, you have to back them. And this is the reason why he is such a successful captain. He trusts his players, backs him through thick and thin. And that is why players respond. And he is the vice-captain of the Indian team, who led the Indian side to victory in Australia in the absence of Kohli and has performed as batsman as well."

Kohli-led India will now travel to the African nation for three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The first Test will commence on December 26 in Centurion as all eyes will be on Rahane if he can return back to form.

India thrashed New Zealand by 372 runs in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6) to clinch the series 1-0. The Virat Kohli-led Indian team produced a clinical performance with many young faces doing well, such as Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, etc.

India thrashed New Zealand by 372 runs in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6) to clinch the series 1-0. The Virat Kohli-led Indian team produced a clinical performance with many young faces doing well, such as Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, etc. On the other hand, Shreyas Iyer had also produced a match-winning performance in the first Test, scoring a century on his debut innings. Thus, many former cricketers and experts believe it is time for the Rahul Dravid-led team management to drop underperforming vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane from the Test squad ahead of the South Africa tour, from December 26. Nonetheless, the 33-year-old Kohli has continued to back his deputy, who has only two fifty-plus knocks since his last ton in late 2020. Speaking after India's 1-0 win in the two-match series, Kohli had said, "I can't judge Ajinkya's form. Nobody can judge anybody's form, for that matter. Because only an individual knows what part of his game he has to work on. But, as I have said in the past, it is important to back those players who have made impact performances in difficult situations and important Test matches in the past. We don't entertain this kind of atmosphere in the team that a player starts worrying about 'what next' the moment he is under a little bit of pressure. "Yes, we can't expect this kind of balance from those on the outside where those who are singing praises will be asking for a player's head in two months. We don't react that way ever nor will we do it in the future because we know how much effort and hard work goes in for any person to get into a positive mental space, and we will support it. Be it Ajinkya or whoever. We will never take decisions based on the outside atmosphere," the 33-year old further added. ALSO READ | 'Won’t take a decision based....': Virat Kohli continues to back Ajinkya Rahane amid widespread criticism Thus, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has lauded Kohli for backing his players through thick and thin. Kohli, who is India's most successful Test captain ever, was highly appreciated by Butt for backing his troops and believes that Rahane can return to form due to his captain's belief in him. Speaking on his YouTube channel, the 37-year old opening batter said, "One of the most valuable reasons behind Team India's success under the captaincy of Virat Kohli is backing his players, especially when they most need them. Not just Kohli, pick any good captain in world cricket, they will always back their proven player, who is now going through a lean phase. And when such players are backed during their time of struggle, with the amount of confidence the player gains they come out stronger and produce unthinkable results." ALSO READ | Virat Kohli is best Test captain India have ever had, says Irfan Pathan after NZ Test series He added, "In cases when the player has top-class credentials, has helped script unbelievable victories, or has performed well under pressure, you have to back them. And this is the reason why he is such a successful captain. He trusts his players, backs him through thick and thin. And that is why players respond. And he is the vice-captain of the Indian team, who led the Indian side to victory in Australia in the absence of Kohli and has performed as batsman as well." Kohli-led India will now travel to the African nation for three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The first Test will commence on December 26 in Centurion as all eyes will be on Rahane if he can return back to form.

He backs players through thick and thin: Former Pak captain lauds Virat Kohli for supporting Ajinkya Rahane

Ajinkya Rahane is expected to keep his place in the Indian team but whether he would remain vice-captain remains to be seen when the selectors announce the Test squad for tour of South Africa on Wednesday.

It is learnt that announcement of ODI squad could be delayed as the first match is on January 19 and the sensitive issue of Virat Kohli's future as white-ball leader is at stake.

However, Rahane, whose place in the playing XI is under doubt, will find it difficult to retain his vice-captaincy after 12 consecutive failures that led the team management to dropping him from the Mumbai Test on the pretext of hamstring niggles.

If Rahane is stripped of Test vice-captaincy, senior batter Rohit Sharma is the front runner for the job.

Similarly, Ishant Sharma, who has played more than 100 Test matches, doesn't look the force to reckon with anymore and he might not fit in the team, whether it's a three or four-pronged pace attack that India may use.

The likes of Prasidh Krishna and Avesh Khan may join Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav.

With Shreyas Iyer, Shubman Gill and in-form Hanuma Vihari set for the middle order, one between Priyank Panchal or Abhimanyu Easwaran could be the back up No. 3 for Cheteshwar Pujara.

Likely India Squad (maximum 20 players):

Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Chesteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan/Deepak Chahar, Wriddhiman Saha, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Hanuma Vihari, Abhimanyu Easwaran/Priyank Panchal, Jayant Yadav.&nbsp;

Ajinkya Rahane is expected to keep his place in the Indian team but whether he would remain vice-captain remains to be seen when the selectors announce the Test squad for tour of South Africa on Wednesday.

Ajinkya Rahane is expected to keep his place in the Indian team but whether he would remain vice-captain remains to be seen when the selectors announce the Test squad for tour of South Africa on Wednesday. It is learnt that announcement of ODI squad could be delayed as the first match is on January 19 and the sensitive issue of Virat Kohli's future as white-ball leader is at stake. However, Rahane, whose place in the playing XI is under doubt, will find it difficult to retain his vice-captaincy after 12 consecutive failures that led the team management to dropping him from the Mumbai Test on the pretext of hamstring niggles. If Rahane is stripped of Test vice-captaincy, senior batter Rohit Sharma is the front runner for the job. Similarly, Ishant Sharma, who has played more than 100 Test matches, doesn't look the force to reckon with anymore and he might not fit in the team, whether it's a three or four-pronged pace attack that India may use. The likes of Prasidh Krishna and Avesh Khan may join Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Umesh Yadav. With Shreyas Iyer, Shubman Gill and in-form Hanuma Vihari set for the middle order, one between Priyank Panchal or Abhimanyu Easwaran could be the back up No. 3 for Cheteshwar Pujara. Likely India Squad (maximum 20 players): Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Chesteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan/Deepak Chahar, Wriddhiman Saha, Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Hanuma Vihari, Abhimanyu Easwaran/Priyank Panchal, Jayant Yadav.

Ajinkya Rahane's vice captaincy, Ishant Sharma's place in doubt in India's Test team for South Africa tour

Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane have been a subject of discussion for long. The two senior pros have been in poor form for quite sometime and the criticism over the duo has grown in recent times, due to the emergence of other options in the middle-order such as Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, etc.

Ahead of the South Africa tour opener, where Virat Kohli &amp; Co. will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, veteran keeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik feels both Pujara and Rahane will manage to feature in the first Test. For the unversed, Pujara hasn't managed a triple-figure knock since early 2019 whereas Rahane has only two fifty-plus knocks since his last Test ton, which came in late 2020 during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia Down Under.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-be-a-surprise-if-r-ashwin-doesnt-play-test-series-vs-south-africa-says-former-english-speedster-434821">Won't be a surprise if R Ashwin doesn't play Test series vs South Africa, says former English speedster</a>

Prior to India's first Test versus Dean Elgar-led SA, Karthik told on Cricbuzz, "This whole group of KL Rahul, Rohit and Mayank will be the three openers, followed by Pujara, Rahane and Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill will be the batters. Don't know what will happen to Hanuma Vihari. Ideally, he should have been part of the squad, but it's sad that he had to go and play for India A. Are they going to fit him in when he comes back to the squad? Because everyone here has done enough to hold on to their places.&nbsp;

"Even the ones getting 30s and 40s, which cannot be undervalued, have looked set on tough wickets. Kanpur and Mumbai were not easy wickets. They applied themselves and played good shots. So where does a Vihari fit in that's an important question. Has Iyer done enough to come and take over Vihari's place."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-backs-players-through-thick-and-thin-former-pak-captain-lauds-virat-kohli-for-supporting-ajinkya-rahane-434784">He backs players through thick and thin: Former Pak captain lauds Virat Kohli for supporting Ajinkya Rahane</a>

He further asserted "Another man there who is hanging on by the skin of the teeth is&nbsp;Rahane. He is the vice-captain and has done phenomenally well as a captain. Where does he stand? But knowing Rahul Dravid, he will go with the tried and tested method of going with Pujara and Rahane to start with and then when things unfold he will allow it to unravel and makes changes necessary. All these guys will be on the plane to South Africa and will be in the XI as well. Don't see too many changes as well, maybe one odd change."

India will play the first Test versus South Africa in Centurion on December 26. It will be followed by the two Tests and three ODIs in the African nation. Talking about both Rahane and Pujara, time is running for the senior pros to hold onto their respective spots and the forthcoming Tests will be a do-or-die series for them.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane have been a subject of discussion for long. The two senior pros have been in poor form for quite sometime and the criticism over the duo has grown in recent times, due to the emergence of other options in the middle-order such as Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, etc.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane have been a subject of discussion for long. The two senior pros have been in poor form for quite sometime and the criticism over the duo has grown in recent times, due to the emergence of other options in the middle-order such as Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, etc. Ahead of the South Africa tour opener, where Virat Kohli & Co. will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, veteran keeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik feels both Pujara and Rahane will manage to feature in the first Test. For the unversed, Pujara hasn't managed a triple-figure knock since early 2019 whereas Rahane has only two fifty-plus knocks since his last Test ton, which came in late 2020 during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia Down Under. ALSO READ | Won't be a surprise if R Ashwin doesn't play Test series vs South Africa, says former English speedster Prior to India's first Test versus Dean Elgar-led SA, Karthik told on Cricbuzz, "This whole group of KL Rahul, Rohit and Mayank will be the three openers, followed by Pujara, Rahane and Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill will be the batters. Don't know what will happen to Hanuma Vihari. Ideally, he should have been part of the squad, but it's sad that he had to go and play for India A. Are they going to fit him in when he comes back to the squad? Because everyone here has done enough to hold on to their places. "Even the ones getting 30s and 40s, which cannot be undervalued, have looked set on tough wickets. Kanpur and Mumbai were not easy wickets. They applied themselves and played good shots. So where does a Vihari fit in that's an important question. Has Iyer done enough to come and take over Vihari's place." ALSO READ | He backs players through thick and thin: Former Pak captain lauds Virat Kohli for supporting Ajinkya Rahane He further asserted "Another man there who is hanging on by the skin of the teeth is Rahane. He is the vice-captain and has done phenomenally well as a captain. Where does he stand? But knowing Rahul Dravid, he will go with the tried and tested method of going with Pujara and Rahane to start with and then when things unfold he will allow it to unravel and makes changes necessary. All these guys will be on the plane to South Africa and will be in the XI as well. Don't see too many changes as well, maybe one odd change." India will play the first Test versus South Africa in Centurion on December 26. It will be followed by the two Tests and three ODIs in the African nation. Talking about both Rahane and Pujara, time is running for the senior pros to hold onto their respective spots and the forthcoming Tests will be a do-or-die series for them.

Dravid will go with tried and tested method: Karthik feels Pujara, Rahane will feature in 1st Test vs SA

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri said the Indian team was in 'shock for days' after getting all out for 36 runs in the second innings of the first Test against Australia in Adelaide last year. Shastri revealed it was the lowest point of his stint as the head coach of the Indian team and the players couldn't believe what had happened.

India were bundled out for a record low total of 36 runs in the second innings of the Adelaide Test and suffered a humiliating defeat by 8 wickets to get off to a losing start in the four-match series against the Aussies. The defeat had crushed India's morale but the visitors bounced back strongly to clinch the series 2-1 and create history by winning back-to-back Test series in Australia.

"See, the coach is in the firing line; there is no choice. That is the quirk of the job. You have to be ready from day one. I knew there would be no escape routes. The 36 all out was the lowest point," Shastri told The Week.

"We had nine wickets in hand (overnight) and then we were bundled out for 36. All that had to be done was score to 80-odd more runs (to be in the game). We were all numb. We were in a state of shock for days. How could that have happened?," he added.

Batting first in the Adelaide Test, India put on 244 runs on the board in their first innings before restricting Australia on 194 to gain a lead of 50 runs. The visitors ended Day 2 on 9/1 in their second innings but what unfolded on Day 3 was nothing less than extraordinary as India's batting line-up crumbled under pressure.

Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins ran through the Indian batting line-up, picking up nine wickets between them to bowl out the visitors for a mere 36. Australia chased down the target comfortably and won the game by 8 wickets. Despite captain Virat Kohli returning home on paternity leave post the first Test, India bounced back to win the series.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-worships-test-cricket-indian-team-has-been-an-ambassador-for-the-longest-format-ravi-shastri-434681">Virat Kohli worships Test cricket, Indian team has been an ambassador for the longest format: Ravi Shastri</a>

Shastri said it was an unbelievable effort from the Indian players to win stage a remarkable comeback in the series and clinch the four-match rubber 2-1 after the humiliating loss in Adelaide.

"It was not just me. I would be the first to put my hand up and say I was the one responsible, take the brickbats; there is no place to hide. I told the boys to focus on what they could do. The boys were unbelievable. One month after that 36 all out, on January 19, we had won the series. I am still thinking, how did that happen? I promise, as long as I live, people will talk about that series win," said Shastri.

&nbsp;

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri said the Indian team was in 'shock for days' after getting all out for 36 runs in the second innings of the first Test against Australia in Adelaide last year.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri said the Indian team was in 'shock for days' after getting all out for 36 runs in the second innings of the first Test against Australia in Adelaide last year. Shastri revealed it was the lowest point of his stint as the head coach of the Indian team and the players couldn't believe what had happened. India were bundled out for a record low total of 36 runs in the second innings of the Adelaide Test and suffered a humiliating defeat by 8 wickets to get off to a losing start in the four-match series against the Aussies. The defeat had crushed India's morale but the visitors bounced back strongly to clinch the series 2-1 and create history by winning back-to-back Test series in Australia. "See, the coach is in the firing line; there is no choice. That is the quirk of the job. You have to be ready from day one. I knew there would be no escape routes. The 36 all out was the lowest point," Shastri told The Week. "We had nine wickets in hand (overnight) and then we were bundled out for 36. All that had to be done was score to 80-odd more runs (to be in the game). We were all numb. We were in a state of shock for days. How could that have happened?," he added. Batting first in the Adelaide Test, India put on 244 runs on the board in their first innings before restricting Australia on 194 to gain a lead of 50 runs. The visitors ended Day 2 on 9/1 in their second innings but what unfolded on Day 3 was nothing less than extraordinary as India's batting line-up crumbled under pressure. Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins ran through the Indian batting line-up, picking up nine wickets between them to bowl out the visitors for a mere 36. Australia chased down the target comfortably and won the game by 8 wickets. Despite captain Virat Kohli returning home on paternity leave post the first Test, India bounced back to win the series. Also Read: Virat Kohli worships Test cricket, Indian team has been an ambassador for the longest format: Ravi Shastri Shastri said it was an unbelievable effort from the Indian players to win stage a remarkable comeback in the series and clinch the four-match rubber 2-1 after the humiliating loss in Adelaide. "It was not just me. I would be the first to put my hand up and say I was the one responsible, take the brickbats; there is no place to hide. I told the boys to focus on what they could do. The boys were unbelievable. One month after that 36 all out, on January 19, we had won the series. I am still thinking, how did that happen? I promise, as long as I live, people will talk about that series win," said Shastri.

'We were in a state of shock for days': Ravi Shastri reveals lowest point for him as India head coach

Former India captain MS Dhoni recently caught up with his old mate Yuvraj Singh sending cricket fans into a frenzy on social media. Dhoni and Yuvraj spent a number of years together in the Indian dressing room and were the vital cogs in the team's middle-order. The duo played an instrumental role in helping India attain several memorable wins across formats.

Dhoni and Yuvraj are regarded as two of the best finishers of the current generation and were the heroes of India's famous&nbsp; 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup triumphs. Yuvraj was the Man of the Tournament as his all-round heroics saw India bring an end to their 28-year-long wait for an ODI World Cup title in 2011 under Dhoni's captaincy.

As the legendary duo met for a shoot recently, Yuvraj shared a small clip of their meeting on his Instagram story and tagged Dhoni in it. The clip soon went viral on social media with fans getting nostalgic over the reunion of old mates.

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Yuvraj Singh's latest Instagram story:<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yuvi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yuvi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSD</a> <a href="https://t.co/FdCWaR2tkF">pic.twitter.com/FdCWaR2tkF</a>
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Meet up of Dhoni &amp; Yuvraj after a Long time... <a href="https://t.co/E1ByExs447">pic.twitter.com/E1ByExs447</a>
— CricketWithLove (@cricket_widlove) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricket_widlove/status/1467887547468632069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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While Yuvraj had announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in 2019, Dhoni retired from international cricket in August 2020. However, the former India captain continues to ply his trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he leads the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and has been retained by the four-time champions once again ahead of the 2022 season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/still-remember-you-smashing-me-ajaz-patel-tells-sehwag-after-perfect-ten-former-india-opener-responds-434652">'Still remember you smashing me': Ajaz Patel tells Sehwag after perfect ten, former India opener responds</a>

Dhoni-led CSK to their fourth IPL crown in IPL 2021 as the Yellow Army staged a remarkable comeback after missing out on the playoffs last season. CSK defeated Kolkata Knight Riders comprehensively in the final in Dubai to lift the elusive trophy for the fourth time as Dhoni yet again proved why he is regarded as one of the greatest captains of all time.

Dhoni has led CSK to a staggering nine finals and four titles in just twelve seasons while missing out on the top four only once. CSK have retained all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali and Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the IPL mega auction and will be looking to build a strong team once again this time around.

&nbsp;

Former India captain MS Dhoni recently caught up with his old mate Yuvraj Singh sending cricket fans into a frenzy on social media. Dhoni and Yuvraj spent a number of years together in the Indian dressing room and were the vital cogs in the team's middle-order.

Former India captain MS Dhoni recently caught up with his old mate Yuvraj Singh sending cricket fans into a frenzy on social media. Dhoni and Yuvraj spent a number of years together in the Indian dressing room and were the vital cogs in the team's middle-order. The duo played an instrumental role in helping India attain several memorable wins across formats. Dhoni and Yuvraj are regarded as two of the best finishers of the current generation and were the heroes of India's famous 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup triumphs. Yuvraj was the Man of the Tournament as his all-round heroics saw India bring an end to their 28-year-long wait for an ODI World Cup title in 2011 under Dhoni's captaincy. As the legendary duo met for a shoot recently, Yuvraj shared a small clip of their meeting on his Instagram story and tagged Dhoni in it. The clip soon went viral on social media with fans getting nostalgic over the reunion of old mates. Yuvraj Singh's latest Instagram story:#Yuvi #MSD pic.twitter.com/FdCWaR2tkF — StumpMic Cricket (@stumpmic_) December 6, 2021 × Meet up of Dhoni & Yuvraj after a Long time... pic.twitter.com/E1ByExs447 — CricketWithLove (@cricket_widlove) December 6, 2021 × While Yuvraj had announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in 2019, Dhoni retired from international cricket in August 2020. However, the former India captain continues to ply his trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he leads the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and has been retained by the four-time champions once again ahead of the 2022 season. Also Read: 'Still remember you smashing me': Ajaz Patel tells Sehwag after perfect ten, former India opener responds Dhoni-led CSK to their fourth IPL crown in IPL 2021 as the Yellow Army staged a remarkable comeback after missing out on the playoffs last season. CSK defeated Kolkata Knight Riders comprehensively in the final in Dubai to lift the elusive trophy for the fourth time as Dhoni yet again proved why he is regarded as one of the greatest captains of all time. Dhoni has led CSK to a staggering nine finals and four titles in just twelve seasons while missing out on the top four only once. CSK have retained all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali and Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the IPL mega auction and will be looking to build a strong team once again this time around.

2011 World Cup heroes reunite: MS Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh's meet-up makes cricket fans nostalgic - WATCH

Former India batter VVS Laxman wants Team India to not play vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane in the first Test of the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa. India is all set to travel to South Africa later this month for a full-fledged tour consisting of three Tests and three ODIs. The tour was scheduled to begin on December 17 but had to be postponed due to Omicron threat.

The three-match Test series will now kick off from December 26 with the Boxing Day Test in Centurion. Rahane, who is going through a rough patch in his Test career for a while now, continued to struggle in the recently-concluded series against New Zealand as he failed to get among the runs.

Laxman believes Rahane should make way for Shreyas Iyer, who made a fantastic debut with a century and a half-century in his debut game for India against the Kiwis. Iyer did well in the middle-order and is breathing down Rahane's neck to take his spot in the batting line-up. Laxman feels continuity is important and that Iyer should be given a long rope.

"According to me, Ajinkya Rahane cannot play in the first match. Continuity is very important, so I will play Shreyas Iyer because if you give someone two Test matches and the way he batted on debut under pressure," Laxman said on Star Sports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-worships-test-cricket-indian-team-has-been-an-ambassador-for-the-longest-format-ravi-shastri-434681">Kohli worships Test cricket, Indian team has been an ambassador for the longest format: Ravi Shastri</a>

"He scored a century and a half-century, so I will give that continuity, the confidence that you want to give to a young batsman, I will definitely give that," added the former India batter.

With Laxman backing Iyer's inclusion in the squad, it remains to be seen if Rahane will continue to be a regular in the playing XI for Team India in the South Africa Test series. Some reports have suggested that Rohit Sharma is likely to replace Rahane as the vice-captain of the Test team ahead of the South Africa tour.

&nbsp;

Former India batter VVS Laxman wants Team India to not play vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane in the first Test of the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa.

Former India batter VVS Laxman wants Team India to not play vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane in the first Test of the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa. India is all set to travel to South Africa later this month for a full-fledged tour consisting of three Tests and three ODIs. The tour was scheduled to begin on December 17 but had to be postponed due to Omicron threat. The three-match Test series will now kick off from December 26 with the Boxing Day Test in Centurion. Rahane, who is going through a rough patch in his Test career for a while now, continued to struggle in the recently-concluded series against New Zealand as he failed to get among the runs. Laxman believes Rahane should make way for Shreyas Iyer, who made a fantastic debut with a century and a half-century in his debut game for India against the Kiwis. Iyer did well in the middle-order and is breathing down Rahane's neck to take his spot in the batting line-up. Laxman feels continuity is important and that Iyer should be given a long rope. "According to me, Ajinkya Rahane cannot play in the first match. Continuity is very important, so I will play Shreyas Iyer because if you give someone two Test matches and the way he batted on debut under pressure," Laxman said on Star Sports. Also Read: Kohli worships Test cricket, Indian team has been an ambassador for the longest format: Ravi Shastri "He scored a century and a half-century, so I will give that continuity, the confidence that you want to give to a young batsman, I will definitely give that," added the former India batter. With Laxman backing Iyer's inclusion in the squad, it remains to be seen if Rahane will continue to be a regular in the playing XI for Team India in the South Africa Test series. Some reports have suggested that Rohit Sharma is likely to replace Rahane as the vice-captain of the Test team ahead of the South Africa tour.

Ajinkya Rahane cannot play: VVS Laxman wants India to drop vice-captain in 1st Test against South Africa

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has lauded the Virat Kohli-led team for being the 'ambassador' of Test cricket and excelling in the longest format over the last few years. Many believe Test cricket is losing its sheen amid the rise of shorter formats like T20 and T10 cricket. However, the Indian team has embraced Test cricket and has been a force to reckon with when it comes to playing in whites.

India defeated New Zealand by a huge margin of 372 runs in the second Test between the two sides on Monday to clinch the two-match series 1-0. With the win, India went on top of the ICC Test rankings dethroning New Zealand from the no.1 spot.

It will be the fifth straight year when the Indian team will be finishing&nbsp;as the no.1 ranked side in Tests under Kohli's captaincy and Shastri credited the players' love for the longest format as the reason behind India's dominance in Test cricket. The former India head coach also highlighted how captain Kohli worships Test cricket.

"I think if any team has been an ambassador for Test match over the last five years, it is this Indian cricket team. Virat worships Test match cricket, as do most of the team, which might surprise the world because of the amount of one-day cricket India plays, then IPL," Shastri&nbsp;told renowned author Jeffrey Archer on his podcast.

"If you ask anyone in the team, 99 percent of them would say they love Test match cricket. That’s why, what India have done in the last five years remain as the No. 1 team in the world at the end of every year," he added.

India have dominated the proceedings in Test cricket over the last few years with some memorable series wins at home and away from home including back-to-back series wins in Australia. India also reached the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) but lost against New Zealand to miss out on the trophy.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-creates-history-becomes-1st-player-to-win-50-international-matches-across-all-formats-434603">Virat Kohli creates history, becomes 1st player to win 50 international matches across all formats</a>

Nonetheless, Kohli &amp; Co. have been one of the best Test teams in the world in the last few years. Shastri said the greatest legacy that the current generation of Indian players will leave is the way they have embraced and played Test cricket.

"We may have lost the one-off WTC final against New Zealand but otherwise We have dominated the format for the last five years. To win two series in Australia, to win the series that was taking place in England, to win everywhere around the world white-ball and red-ball cricket, and to set a benchmark in red-ball cricket, the fast bowlers coming to the fore unheard of from the Indian cricket team it was remarkable," Shastri said.

"For me the greatest legacy this generation and this lot of players will leave is the way they have played Test cricket and embraced it," he added.

&nbsp;

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has lauded the Virat Kohli-led team for being the 'ambassador' of Test cricket and excelling in the longest format over the last few years.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has lauded the Virat Kohli-led team for being the 'ambassador' of Test cricket and excelling in the longest format over the last few years. Many believe Test cricket is losing its sheen amid the rise of shorter formats like T20 and T10 cricket. However, the Indian team has embraced Test cricket and has been a force to reckon with when it comes to playing in whites. India defeated New Zealand by a huge margin of 372 runs in the second Test between the two sides on Monday to clinch the two-match series 1-0. With the win, India went on top of the ICC Test rankings dethroning New Zealand from the no.1 spot. It will be the fifth straight year when the Indian team will be finishing as the no.1 ranked side in Tests under Kohli's captaincy and Shastri credited the players' love for the longest format as the reason behind India's dominance in Test cricket. The former India head coach also highlighted how captain Kohli worships Test cricket. "I think if any team has been an ambassador for Test match over the last five years, it is this Indian cricket team. Virat worships Test match cricket, as do most of the team, which might surprise the world because of the amount of one-day cricket India plays, then IPL," Shastri told renowned author Jeffrey Archer on his podcast. "If you ask anyone in the team, 99 percent of them would say they love Test match cricket. That’s why, what India have done in the last five years remain as the No. 1 team in the world at the end of every year," he added. India have dominated the proceedings in Test cricket over the last few years with some memorable series wins at home and away from home including back-to-back series wins in Australia. India also reached the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) but lost against New Zealand to miss out on the trophy. Also Read: Virat Kohli creates history, becomes 1st player to win 50 international matches across all formats Nonetheless, Kohli & Co. have been one of the best Test teams in the world in the last few years. Shastri said the greatest legacy that the current generation of Indian players will leave is the way they have embraced and played Test cricket. "We may have lost the one-off WTC final against New Zealand but otherwise We have dominated the format for the last five years. To win two series in Australia, to win the series that was taking place in England, to win everywhere around the world white-ball and red-ball cricket, and to set a benchmark in red-ball cricket, the fast bowlers coming to the fore unheard of from the Indian cricket team it was remarkable," Shastri said. "For me the greatest legacy this generation and this lot of players will leave is the way they have played Test cricket and embraced it," he added.

Virat Kohli worships Test cricket, Indian team has been an ambassador for the longest format: Ravi Shastri

Virender Sehwag was one of the former cricketers who lauded New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel after his historic ten-wicket haul against India in the first innings of the recently-cocnluded 2nd Test between the two sides in Mumbai on Monday. India defeated New Zealand by a big margin of 372 runs in the second and final Test to clinch the two-match series 1-0.

Though his efforts were not enough to inspire New Zealand to a victory, Patel had a memorable outing as he became only the third player in the world to bag all ten wickets in an innings of a Test match. The cricket fraternity congratulated the left-arm spinner over his massive feat with Sehwag also posting a tweet.

Responding to Sehwag's message congratulating him over his feat, Patel recalled how he was once taken to the cleaners by the former India opener. Patel said he was a net bowler at the time when Sehwag smashed him out of the park during a training session at the Eden Park in New Zealand.&nbsp;

"Thank you @virendersehwag, funny story I still remember you smashing me out of the ground at the outer oval at Eden Park when I came in as a net bowler," Patel wrote on Twitter as he reacted to Sehwag's message for him.

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Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@virendersehwag</a>, funny story I still remember you smashing me out of the ground at the outer oval at Eden Park when I came in as a net bowler
— ajaz patel (@AjazP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AjazP/status/1467304674122362883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The former India opener was quick to respond and sent a heartfelt message to the New Zealand spinner. Sehwag highlighted how Patel's ten-wicket haul is being talked about more than India's Test series win and said the best thing about time is that it changes.

"Waqt ki aadat hai , badalta zaroor hai. What you have achieved in Mumbai is extra-ordinary so much so that India ki jeet se jyada aapke charche hain. May you achieve ever more success and good luck," Sehwag wrote which roughly translates to - ("The best thing about time is that it changes. What you have achieved in Mumbai is extraordinary so much so that your feat is being discussed more than India's win. May you achieve more success good luck.")

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Waqt ki aadat hai , badalta zaroor hai. What you have achieved in Mumbai is extra-ordinary so much so that India ki jeet se jyada aapke charche hain. May you achieve ever more success and good luck. <a href="https://t.co/yqA34WOGZG">https://t.co/yqA34WOGZG</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1467732207082954755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-comes-up-with-brilliant-gesture-to-honour-ajaz-patel-after-historic-ten-wicket-haul-at-wankhede-434580">Team India comes up with brilliant gesture to honour Ajaz Patel after historic ten-wicket haul at&nbsp;</a>

However, Patel's efforts went in vain as India defeated New Zealand by 372 runs in the game. Asked to chase a staggering target of 540 runs in their second innings, the Kiwi batters could only manage 167 runs on the board as the visitors suffered a huge defeat.&nbsp;

India extended their unbeaten run in home Test series as they clinched their 14th consecutive Test series win at home with the 1-0 win.

Virender Sehwag was one of the former cricketers who lauded New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel after his historic ten-wicket haul against India in the first innings of the recently-cocnluded 2nd Test between the two sides in Mumbai on Monday.

Virender Sehwag was one of the former cricketers who lauded New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel after his historic ten-wicket haul against India in the first innings of the recently-cocnluded 2nd Test between the two sides in Mumbai on Monday. India defeated New Zealand by a big margin of 372 runs in the second and final Test to clinch the two-match series 1-0. Though his efforts were not enough to inspire New Zealand to a victory, Patel had a memorable outing as he became only the third player in the world to bag all ten wickets in an innings of a Test match. The cricket fraternity congratulated the left-arm spinner over his massive feat with Sehwag also posting a tweet. Responding to Sehwag's message congratulating him over his feat, Patel recalled how he was once taken to the cleaners by the former India opener. Patel said he was a net bowler at the time when Sehwag smashed him out of the park during a training session at the Eden Park in New Zealand. "Thank you @virendersehwag, funny story I still remember you smashing me out of the ground at the outer oval at Eden Park when I came in as a net bowler," Patel wrote on Twitter as he reacted to Sehwag's message for him. Thank you @virendersehwag, funny story I still remember you smashing me out of the ground at the outer oval at Eden Park when I came in as a net bowler — ajaz patel (@AjazP) December 5, 2021 × The former India opener was quick to respond and sent a heartfelt message to the New Zealand spinner. Sehwag highlighted how Patel's ten-wicket haul is being talked about more than India's Test series win and said the best thing about time is that it changes. "Waqt ki aadat hai , badalta zaroor hai. What you have achieved in Mumbai is extra-ordinary so much so that India ki jeet se jyada aapke charche hain. May you achieve ever more success and good luck," Sehwag wrote which roughly translates to - ("The best thing about time is that it changes. What you have achieved in Mumbai is extraordinary so much so that your feat is being discussed more than India's win. May you achieve more success good luck.") Waqt ki aadat hai , badalta zaroor hai. What you have achieved in Mumbai is extra-ordinary so much so that India ki jeet se jyada aapke charche hain. May you achieve ever more success and good luck. https://t.co/yqA34WOGZG — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) December 6, 2021 × Also Read: Team India comes up with brilliant gesture to honour Ajaz Patel after historic ten-wicket haul at However, Patel's efforts went in vain as India defeated New Zealand by 372 runs in the game. Asked to chase a staggering target of 540 runs in their second innings, the Kiwi batters could only manage 167 runs on the board as the visitors suffered a huge defeat. India extended their unbeaten run in home Test series as they clinched their 14th consecutive Test series win at home with the 1-0 win.

'Still remember you smashing me': Ajaz Patel tells Sehwag after perfect ten, former India opener responds

India beat New Zealand by 372 runs to win the second and final Test, at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, and also clinch the series 1-0. With this win, India are now at the third position in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship's points table. In addition, India regained the top spot in the ICC Test Rankings with the series victory over the Black Caps.

India have, thus, once again regained the numero uno position in Tests. Earlier, Kohli &amp; Co. have topped the Test rankings on five successive annual years and are now once again at the top. Under Kohli, India have defeated Australia (twice) in their own backyard, were the runners-up in the inaugural WTC, have an unassailable 2-1 lead versus England in the 2021&nbsp;away Tests and also remain unbeaten at home.

Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan lavished huge praise on the 33-year-old Kohli and labelled him as the best Test captain India ever had. He tweeted, "As I have said earlier and saying it again @imVkohli is the best Test Captain India have ever had! He's at the top with the win percentage of 59.09 per cent and the second spot is at 45 per cent."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-take-a-decision-based-virat-kohli-continues-to-back-ajinkya-rahane-amid-widespread-criticism-434615">'Won’t take a decision based....': Virat Kohli continues to back Ajinkya Rahane amid widespread criticism</a>

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As I have said earlier and saying it again <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> is the best Test Captain India have ever had! He's at the top with the win percentage of 59.09% and the second spot is at 45%.
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IrfanPathan/status/1467779872969805824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-creates-history-becomes-1st-player-to-win-50-international-matches-across-all-formats-434603">Virat Kohli creates history, becomes 1st player to win 50 international matches across all formats</a>

The Mumbai Test between India and New Zealand was Kohli's comeback in international cricket post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. While he didn't have a great run with the bat, he led the national side to yet another series win, 14th successive Test series triumph at home, and the No. 1 side will now shift their focus on the three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation, from December 26.

India beat New Zealand by 372 runs to win the second and final Test, at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, and also clinch the series 1-0. With this win, India are now at the third position in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship's points table.

India beat New Zealand by 372 runs to win the second and final Test, at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, and also clinch the series 1-0. With this win, India are now at the third position in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship's points table. In addition, India regained the top spot in the ICC Test Rankings with the series victory over the Black Caps. India have, thus, once again regained the numero uno position in Tests. Earlier, Kohli & Co. have topped the Test rankings on five successive annual years and are now once again at the top. Under Kohli, India have defeated Australia (twice) in their own backyard, were the runners-up in the inaugural WTC, have an unassailable 2-1 lead versus England in the 2021 away Tests and also remain unbeaten at home. Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan lavished huge praise on the 33-year-old Kohli and labelled him as the best Test captain India ever had. He tweeted, "As I have said earlier and saying it again @imVkohli is the best Test Captain India have ever had! He's at the top with the win percentage of 59.09 per cent and the second spot is at 45 per cent." ALSO READ | 'Won’t take a decision based....': Virat Kohli continues to back Ajinkya Rahane amid widespread criticism As I have said earlier and saying it again @imVkohli is the best Test Captain India have ever had! He's at the top with the win percentage of 59.09% and the second spot is at 45%. — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) December 6, 2021 × ALSO READ | Virat Kohli creates history, becomes 1st player to win 50 international matches across all formats The Mumbai Test between India and New Zealand was Kohli's comeback in international cricket post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. While he didn't have a great run with the bat, he led the national side to yet another series win, 14th successive Test series triumph at home, and the No. 1 side will now shift their focus on the three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation, from December 26.

Virat Kohli is best Test captain India have ever had, says Irfan Pathan after NZ Test series

Former India batter VVS Laxman lauded Mohammed Siraj for his terrific bowling display in the just-concluded second Test between India and New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday (December 06). Laxman said Siraj is a great asset for the Indian team while calling him one of the best fast bowlers in the world at present.

Siraj was not part of the playing XI in the first Test against New Zealand in Kanpur but made his comeback in the Mumbai Test. He made an instant impact with a three-wicket haul in New Zealand's first innings as the right-arm pacer ripped through the Kiwi batting line-up to dismantle their middle-order.&nbsp;

It was a brilliant spell from Siraj, who drew the first blood for India by dismissing Will Young on 4 before setting up New Zealand skipper Tom Latham with great variations. He followed it up with the prized scalp of Ross Taylor to finish with excellent figures of 3/19 in his 4 overs as India bundled out the Kiwis on a paltry 62 after posting 325 runs on the board in their first innings.

"He had a fantastic plan of bowling short-pitched deliveries and getting the important wicket of captain Latham. I enjoy his energy and intensity... the way he runs in hard towards the crease and it's great to see him show so much confidence in his craft," Laxman said on&nbsp;Star Sports after India defeated New Zealand in the 2nd Test to clinch the series 1-0.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-comes-up-with-brilliant-gesture-to-honour-ajaz-patel-after-historic-ten-wicket-haul-at-wankhede-434580">Team India comes up with brilliant gesture to honour Ajaz Patel after historic ten-wicket haul</a>

Siraj, who had made his Test debut in Australia, earlier this year, has had an amazing rise as his stature continues to grow as a reliable bowler in the longest format. He had impressed with his performances in England earlier this year and continued his superb show in the Test series against the Kiwis at home. Laxman lauded Siraj for his performances and said he is one of the best at present.

"He is growing and progressing really well as a Test match bowler. We have seen the way he performed when Bumrah, Shami and Ishant were not there in Australia. To go and back it up with impressive performances in England against a good batting line-up," said Laxman.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-creates-history-becomes-1st-player-to-win-50-international-matches-across-all-formats-434603">Virat Kohli creates history, becomes 1st player to win 50 international matches across all formats</a>

"The way he bowled on the surface - which assisted his style of bowling, and then the length he bowled on, and the way he consistently bowled with the seam. He is a great asset to this Indian team. Make no mistake... he is one of the world's best at the moment," he added.

Former India batter VVS Laxman lauded Mohammed Siraj for his terrific bowling display in the just-concluded second Test between India and New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday (December 06).

Former India batter VVS Laxman lauded Mohammed Siraj for his terrific bowling display in the just-concluded second Test between India and New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday (December 06). Laxman said Siraj is a great asset for the Indian team while calling him one of the best fast bowlers in the world at present. Siraj was not part of the playing XI in the first Test against New Zealand in Kanpur but made his comeback in the Mumbai Test. He made an instant impact with a three-wicket haul in New Zealand's first innings as the right-arm pacer ripped through the Kiwi batting line-up to dismantle their middle-order. It was a brilliant spell from Siraj, who drew the first blood for India by dismissing Will Young on 4 before setting up New Zealand skipper Tom Latham with great variations. He followed it up with the prized scalp of Ross Taylor to finish with excellent figures of 3/19 in his 4 overs as India bundled out the Kiwis on a paltry 62 after posting 325 runs on the board in their first innings. "He had a fantastic plan of bowling short-pitched deliveries and getting the important wicket of captain Latham. I enjoy his energy and intensity... the way he runs in hard towards the crease and it's great to see him show so much confidence in his craft," Laxman said on Star Sports after India defeated New Zealand in the 2nd Test to clinch the series 1-0. Also Read: Team India comes up with brilliant gesture to honour Ajaz Patel after historic ten-wicket haul Siraj, who had made his Test debut in Australia, earlier this year, has had an amazing rise as his stature continues to grow as a reliable bowler in the longest format. He had impressed with his performances in England earlier this year and continued his superb show in the Test series against the Kiwis at home. Laxman lauded Siraj for his performances and said he is one of the best at present. "He is growing and progressing really well as a Test match bowler. We have seen the way he performed when Bumrah, Shami and Ishant were not there in Australia. To go and back it up with impressive performances in England against a good batting line-up," said Laxman. Also Read: Virat Kohli creates history, becomes 1st player to win 50 international matches across all formats "The way he bowled on the surface - which assisted his style of bowling, and then the length he bowled on, and the way he consistently bowled with the seam. He is a great asset to this Indian team. Make no mistake... he is one of the world's best at the moment," he added.

'One of world's best at present': VVS Laxman lauds Indian pacer after superb show against New Zealand

India's Test skipper Virat Kohli created history on Monday (December 06) as he became the first player in international cricket to complete 50 wins in all three formats of the game. Kohli led India to a massive 372-run win in the second Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai as the hosts clinch the two-match series 1-0.

With India's win, Kohli achieved yet another elusive milestone as he featured in his 50th win in Test cricket. Kohli is now the only player in the world to have been part of the playing XI in 50 wins across all three formats - ODIs, Tests and T20Is. Regarded as one of the best batters of the current generation, Kohli has been a consistent performer for Team India over the years.

While he has been instrumental in Team India's success when it comes to his batting, he has also been exceptional as a leader and is already India's most successful Test captain of all time. It was Kohli's 39th win as captain in the longest format and 50th as a player.

"Congratulations @imVkohli. The first player with 50 international wins in each format of the game," BCCI wrote in a tweet as the board congratulated Kohli on the milestone.

Kohli now has 50 wins in 97 Test matches while he had already surpassed the half-century mark in ODIs and T20Is. In ODIs, the Indian skipper has been part of 153 wins in 254 matches while in T20Is, he has been in the playing XI 59 times on the winning side in a total of 95 games.

Virat Kohli's wins across formats:

Tests: 50 wins from 97 matches&nbsp; 
ODIs: 153 wins in 254 matches&nbsp; 
T20Is: 59 wins in 95 matches&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-comes-up-with-brilliant-gesture-to-honour-ajaz-patel-after-historic-ten-wicket-haul-at-wankhede-434580">Team India comes up with brilliant gesture to honour Ajaz Patel after historic ten-wicket haul at Wankhede</a>

The 1-0 win against New Zealand is India's 14th consecutive Test series win at home. Their last loss in India came against England under MS Dhoni's captaincy in 2012. India have since remained unbeaten in the Test series at home and continue to extend their dominance.

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India's Test skipper Virat Kohli created history on Monday (December 06) as he became the first player in international cricket to complete 50 wins in all three formats of the game.

India's Test skipper Virat Kohli created history on Monday (December 06) as he became the first player in international cricket to complete 50 wins in all three formats of the game. Kohli led India to a massive 372-run win in the second Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai as the hosts clinch the two-match series 1-0. With India's win, Kohli achieved yet another elusive milestone as he featured in his 50th win in Test cricket. Kohli is now the only player in the world to have been part of the playing XI in 50 wins across all three formats - ODIs, Tests and T20Is. Regarded as one of the best batters of the current generation, Kohli has been a consistent performer for Team India over the years. While he has been instrumental in Team India's success when it comes to his batting, he has also been exceptional as a leader and is already India's most successful Test captain of all time. It was Kohli's 39th win as captain in the longest format and 50th as a player. "Congratulations @imVkohli. The first player with 50 international wins in each format of the game," BCCI wrote in a tweet as the board congratulated Kohli on the milestone. Kohli now has 50 wins in 97 Test matches while he had already surpassed the half-century mark in ODIs and T20Is. In ODIs, the Indian skipper has been part of 153 wins in 254 matches while in T20Is, he has been in the playing XI 59 times on the winning side in a total of 95 games. Virat Kohli's wins across formats: Tests: 50 wins from 97 matches ODIs: 153 wins in 254 matches T20Is: 59 wins in 95 matches Also Read: Team India comes up with brilliant gesture to honour Ajaz Patel after historic ten-wicket haul at Wankhede The 1-0 win against New Zealand is India's 14th consecutive Test series win at home. Their last loss in India came against England under MS Dhoni's captaincy in 2012. India have since remained unbeaten in the Test series at home and continue to extend their dominance.

Virat Kohli creates history, becomes 1st player to win 50 international matches across all formats

India thrashed New Zealand by 372 runs on Day 4 of the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming the penultimate day with the home side needing 5 more wickets to go 1-0 up in the series finale, R Ashwin and Jayant Yadav's four-fers led to the Kiwis being bundled out for 167 in less than a session to lose by a handsome margin.

It was a flawless Test match for Virat Kohli-led India, who opted to bat first and posted 325. Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150, India made 325 and bundled out the Kiwis for 62 to earn a huge first-innings lead. In their second essay, India declared at 276-7 whereas the Black Caps posted only 167 in the final innings to fall apart like nine pins in the series decider after a fighting draw in the first Test at Kanpur.

Before Day 4 commenced on Monday morning, Captain Kohli made the day of a fan&nbsp;who was waiting for Team India players before their entry to the ground.. As the fan was celebrating his birthday, the 33-year-old Kohli wished him and the video of the same has gone viral on social media platforms. Here's the clip:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-india-bag-14th-consecutive-test-series-on-home-soil-after-1-0-scoreline-vs-nz-434562">Virat Kohli's India bag 14th consecutive Test series on home soil after 1-0 scoreline vs NZ</a>

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Here's KING VIRAT KOHLI wishing me happy birthday 
 
Your favourite cricketer wishes you on your big day, India wins the match &amp; you feature on TV... Can't get bigger than this... 
 
I love you Virat. Best human ever..<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsNZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/6hmIQgvEtg">pic.twitter.com/6hmIQgvEtg</a>
— Vinesh Prabhu (@vlp1994) <a href="https://twitter.com/vlp1994/status/1467750346160173059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-led-india-regain-no-1-spot-in-icc-test-rankings-after-series-win-vs-new-zealand-434531">Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand</a>

Kohli returned to international cricket, following the T20 World Cup 2021 edition in the UAE,&nbsp;during the Mumbai Test. While he didn't manage a big score in the match, he led the side to a whopping 372-run win over the World Test Champions NZ. With the series win, India bagged their 14th successive Test series on home soil and regained the top spot in the ICC Test Rankings before their all-important three-match Test series versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26 in Centurion.

India thrashed New Zealand by 372 runs on Day 4 of the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming the penultimate day with the home side needing 5 more wickets to go 1-0 up in the series finale, R Ashwin and Jayant Yadav's four-fers led to the Kiwis being bundled out for 167 in less than a session to lose by a handsome margin.

India thrashed New Zealand by 372 runs on Day 4 of the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming the penultimate day with the home side needing 5 more wickets to go 1-0 up in the series finale, R Ashwin and Jayant Yadav's four-fers led to the Kiwis being bundled out for 167 in less than a session to lose by a handsome margin. It was a flawless Test match for Virat Kohli-led India, who opted to bat first and posted 325. Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150, India made 325 and bundled out the Kiwis for 62 to earn a huge first-innings lead. In their second essay, India declared at 276-7 whereas the Black Caps posted only 167 in the final innings to fall apart like nine pins in the series decider after a fighting draw in the first Test at Kanpur. Before Day 4 commenced on Monday morning, Captain Kohli made the day of a fan who was waiting for Team India players before their entry to the ground.. As the fan was celebrating his birthday, the 33-year-old Kohli wished him and the video of the same has gone viral on social media platforms. Here's the clip: ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's India bag 14th consecutive Test series on home soil after 1-0 scoreline vs NZ Here's KING VIRAT KOHLI wishing me happy birthday Your favourite cricketer wishes you on your big day, India wins the match & you feature on TV... Can't get bigger than this... I love you Virat. Best human ever..#INDvsNZ #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/6hmIQgvEtg — Vinesh Prabhu (@vlp1994) December 6, 2021 × ALSO READ | Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand Kohli returned to international cricket, following the T20 World Cup 2021 edition in the UAE, during the Mumbai Test. While he didn't manage a big score in the match, he led the side to a whopping 372-run win over the World Test Champions NZ. With the series win, India bagged their 14th successive Test series on home soil and regained the top spot in the ICC Test Rankings before their all-important three-match Test series versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26 in Centurion.

Virat Kohli wishes fan 'happy birthday' ahead of Day 4 of India vs New Zealand Mumbai Test - Watch

Indian players came up with a brilliant gesture to honour New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel after his historic ten-wicket haul in the second Test between the two sides at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The Indian players presented Patel with a signed jersey after the conclusion of the Test match on Monday (November 06) to celebrate his bowling heroics in the game.

It was a memorable outing for Patel, who became only the third bowler in the world to claim all ten wickets in a Test innings after single-handedly bowling out India in their first innings. The left-arm spinner picked up all ten wickets in India's first innings to join Jim Laker and Anil Kumble in an elite company.

Ajaz finished with exceptional figures of 10/119 in his 47.5 overs in the first innings and followed it up with a four-wicket haul in the second innings. The left-arm spinner registered the best figures by any bowler against India in a Test match with a total of 14 wickets under his belt.

BCCI shared pictures of Indian spinner R Ashwin presenting an Indian jersey signed by every member of the Indian squad to Patel for his historic ten-wicket haul in the game. Ashwin also interviewed the Kiwi spinner, who has etched his name in history with his bowling heroics at the Wankhede.

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You just cannot miss this 🗣️ 🎥<a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashwinravi99</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/AjazP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AjazP</a> in one frame 
 
Stay tuned for this folks 
 
Interview coming up soon on <a href="https://t.co/Z3MPyesSeZ">https://t.co/Z3MPyesSeZ</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://t.co/mCzzMuQ7aZ">pic.twitter.com/mCzzMuQ7aZ</a>
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With his 14 wickets in the Mumbai Test, Patel broke England legend Ian Botham's 41-year-old record by registering the best match bowling figures against India in a Test. Patel surpassed Botham, who had finished with 1/106 in the Mumbai Test in 1980.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-wins-hearts-with-picture-of-the-day-featuring-axar-patel-ravindra-jadeja-after-india-beat-nz-434557">Ashwin wins hearts with 'picture of the day' featuring Axar, Patel, Ravindra &amp; Jadeja after India beat NZ</a>

Ajaz Patel's efforts in vain:

Ajaz Patel was the star for New Zealand with a historic ten-wicket haul&nbsp;in India's first innings but his efforts went in vain as the hosts registered a massive win by 372 runs to clinch the two-match series 1-0. The batters let down New Zealand as they were bundled out for 62 and 167 in the two innings respectively. Tasked to chase down 540 runs in the second innings, the Kiwis could only manage 167 runs on the board as they lost by a huge margin.

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Indian players came up with a brilliant gesture to honour New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel after his historic ten-wicket haul in the second Test between the two sides at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Indian players came up with a brilliant gesture to honour New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel after his historic ten-wicket haul in the second Test between the two sides at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The Indian players presented Patel with a signed jersey after the conclusion of the Test match on Monday (November 06) to celebrate his bowling heroics in the game. It was a memorable outing for Patel, who became only the third bowler in the world to claim all ten wickets in a Test innings after single-handedly bowling out India in their first innings. The left-arm spinner picked up all ten wickets in India's first innings to join Jim Laker and Anil Kumble in an elite company. Ajaz finished with exceptional figures of 10/119 in his 47.5 overs in the first innings and followed it up with a four-wicket haul in the second innings. The left-arm spinner registered the best figures by any bowler against India in a Test match with a total of 14 wickets under his belt. BCCI shared pictures of Indian spinner R Ashwin presenting an Indian jersey signed by every member of the Indian squad to Patel for his historic ten-wicket haul in the game. Ashwin also interviewed the Kiwi spinner, who has etched his name in history with his bowling heroics at the Wankhede. You just cannot miss this 🗣️ 🎥@ashwinravi99 & @AjazP in one frame Stay tuned for this folks Interview coming up soon on https://t.co/Z3MPyesSeZ#TeamIndia #INDvNZ @Paytm pic.twitter.com/mCzzMuQ7aZ — BCCI (@BCCI) December 6, 2021 × With his 14 wickets in the Mumbai Test, Patel broke England legend Ian Botham's 41-year-old record by registering the best match bowling figures against India in a Test. Patel surpassed Botham, who had finished with 1/106 in the Mumbai Test in 1980. Also Read: Ashwin wins hearts with 'picture of the day' featuring Axar, Patel, Ravindra & Jadeja after India beat NZ Ajaz Patel's efforts in vain: Ajaz Patel was the star for New Zealand with a historic ten-wicket haul in India's first innings but his efforts went in vain as the hosts registered a massive win by 372 runs to clinch the two-match series 1-0. The batters let down New Zealand as they were bundled out for 62 and 167 in the two innings respectively. Tasked to chase down 540 runs in the second innings, the Kiwis could only manage 167 runs on the board as they lost by a huge margin.

Team India comes up with brilliant gesture to honour Ajaz Patel after historic ten-wicket haul at Wankhede