<p>His career spanned for 16 years (1996-2012). Sticking to his reputation of being a 'Test specialist', he proved his critics right and amassed 13,288 runs in the format. During his early days, not many rated him as an ODI player. However, he was far from being a pushover in ODIs and ended with 10,288 runs&nbsp;(to date, he is among five Indian players with over 10k runs in 50-over format).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rahul Dravid is synonymous to <em>breaking norm without creating much fuss</em>. When the legendary cricketer first appeared in international cricket, he was the first to accept that he was far from the best. Having someone of the stature of Sachin Tendulkar, who was already in his seventh year in international cricket, Dravid started his initial years trying to fit into the national side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dravid's zeal to perfect his game was evident right from the start.&nbsp;Hence, he performed at his best in the 1999 ODI World Cup while playing as a top-order batsman. As a result, he ended being the highest run-getter (461 runs) despite many feeling that ODIs weren't his cup of tea. While his ardent fans remember him as the country's greatest No. 3 Test batsman, one of his most defining knocks in whites came at No. 6 (180 in the 2001 Kolkata Test versus Australia). Thus, his relentless, childlike passion to better himself and serve the team in any manner caught up with fans instantly.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-will-do-kapil-dev-makes-bold-claim-on-team-indias-head-coach-rahul-dravid-432134"><strong>'He will do....' - Kapil Dev makes bold claim on Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid</strong></a></p>

<p>The challenges multiplied as years progressed for Dravid in international cricket. When Sourav Ganguly-led India were struggling to finalise a wicketkeeper-batsman in the line-up, the then skipper turned to his deputy in Dravid. In the 2003 ODI World Cup, Dravid returned with third-most dismissals among keepers (16). While he was reluctant to take the gloves at first, the former cricketer gave in just for the sake of adding more to the national side (vastly helping in the team combination). While run-making was his primary job, Dravid didn't believe in doing the routine business and moving&nbsp;aside. Time and again, he raised his hands to volunteer in bailing Team India out of crisis.</p>

<p>Before world cricket recognised MS Dhoni's brilliance as a finisher and he became the darling of his nation, Dravid also&nbsp;did the same job with distinction. Even before his captaincy stint, Dravid finished many innings and games with a bang (versus Sri Lanka, England, West Indies). In addition, his strike-rate soared significantly while batting with the captain's tag next to his name. Once slammed for being&nbsp;slow and a perfect foil to draw Test matches, the right-hander struck at 75. 42 as an ODI captain. It is to be noted that his overall strike-rate reads 71.23. Moreover, he struck at a whopping 83.64 in 2007.</p>

<p>Dravid also took over as India's captain in one of their most-troubled times (in the aftermath of the infamous Ganguly-Greg Chappell era). Keeping the forgettable&nbsp;2007 ODI WC aside, India flourished under his astute leadership and tactical awareness. Further, Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, RP Singh, Irfan Pathan and many others' respective careers gained mileage under his watchful eyes. In addition, India became a daunting chasing side by constantly batting second (achieving the world record of completing 17 successful ODI run-chases on the trot).</p>

<p>While the regular fans will remember Dravid's staggering career statistics, the&nbsp;connoisseurs of the game acknowledge that he was never&nbsp;behind bettering his numbers. The man has always been a selfless servant of Indian cricket. Hence, he has continued to remain relevant in Indian cricket's rise by constantly reinventing himself and promoting the game as a supporting actor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After hanging his boots, Dravid stepped into coaching. From 2016-2019, the former Indian captain took over the reins of India A and U-19 as the head coach. Under him, youngsters such as Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Siraj, etc. have not only flourished but are now integral to Indian team across formats. His simplicity and <em>keeping-things-simple</em> formula has gelled well with youngsters in finding their feet. Moreover, Dravid has given equal, or more, credit to his support staff and ensured his entire unit moved together in unison.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-once-scolded-him-sehwag-shares-unheard-incident-that-transformed-finisher-ms-dhoni-432151">'Rahul Dravid once scolded him' - Sehwag shares unheard incident that transformed 'finisher' MS Dhoni</a></strong></p>

<p>After the U-19 and India A coaching stint, Dravid added another new role in his glittering CV; i.e. taking over the National Cricket Academy. As the NCA head, he ensured a regular supply of young and uncapped players to the national setup, as and when required, by taking care of them in the premier academy. Moreover, the NCA also looked after the injured key players for their timely recovery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At present, the 48-year-old Dravid has taken over as India's full-time head coach, till the 2023 ODI World Cup. While many would feel his stature made it easier for him to land at the top job, however, he has rightly won the post by going through the hard yards and proving that his love for Indian cricket remains unchanged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dravid has truckload of runs under his belt to prove his mettle. However, the former player doesn't deserve to be&nbsp;judged by numbers. He adds value to Indian cricket in many ways and continues to serve in any given manner; showcasing his unflinching loyalty to the country's most-loved sport.</p>


His career spanned for 16 years (1996-2012). Sticking to his reputation of being a 'Test specialist', he proved his critics right and amassed 13,288 runs in the format.

His career spanned for 16 years (1996-2012). Sticking to his reputation of being a 'Test specialist', he proved his critics right and amassed 13,288 runs in the format. During his early days, not many rated him as an ODI player. However, he was far from being a pushover in ODIs and ended with 10,288 runs (to date, he is among five Indian players with over 10k runs in 50-over format). Rahul Dravid is synonymous to breaking norm without creating much fuss. When the legendary cricketer first appeared in international cricket, he was the first to accept that he was far from the best. Having someone of the stature of Sachin Tendulkar, who was already in his seventh year in international cricket, Dravid started his initial years trying to fit into the national side. Dravid's zeal to perfect his game was evident right from the start. Hence, he performed at his best in the 1999 ODI World Cup while playing as a top-order batsman. As a result, he ended being the highest run-getter (461 runs) despite many feeling that ODIs weren't his cup of tea. While his ardent fans remember him as the country's greatest No. 3 Test batsman, one of his most defining knocks in whites came at No. 6 (180 in the 2001 Kolkata Test versus Australia). Thus, his relentless, childlike passion to better himself and serve the team in any manner caught up with fans instantly. ALSO READ | 'He will do....' - Kapil Dev makes bold claim on Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid The challenges multiplied as years progressed for Dravid in international cricket. When Sourav Ganguly-led India were struggling to finalise a wicketkeeper-batsman in the line-up, the then skipper turned to his deputy in Dravid. In the 2003 ODI World Cup, Dravid returned with third-most dismissals among keepers (16). While he was reluctant to take the gloves at first, the former cricketer gave in just for the sake of adding more to the national side (vastly helping in the team combination). While run-making was his primary job, Dravid didn't believe in doing the routine business and moving aside. Time and again, he raised his hands to volunteer in bailing Team India out of crisis. Before world cricket recognised MS Dhoni's brilliance as a finisher and he became the darling of his nation, Dravid also did the same job with distinction. Even before his captaincy stint, Dravid finished many innings and games with a bang (versus Sri Lanka, England, West Indies). In addition, his strike-rate soared significantly while batting with the captain's tag next to his name. Once slammed for being slow and a perfect foil to draw Test matches, the right-hander struck at 75. 42 as an ODI captain. It is to be noted that his overall strike-rate reads 71.23. Moreover, he struck at a whopping 83.64 in 2007. Dravid also took over as India's captain in one of their most-troubled times (in the aftermath of the infamous Ganguly-Greg Chappell era). Keeping the forgettable 2007 ODI WC aside, India flourished under his astute leadership and tactical awareness. Further, Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, RP Singh, Irfan Pathan and many others' respective careers gained mileage under his watchful eyes. In addition, India became a daunting chasing side by constantly batting second (achieving the world record of completing 17 successful ODI run-chases on the trot). While the regular fans will remember Dravid's staggering career statistics, the connoisseurs of the game acknowledge that he was never behind bettering his numbers. The man has always been a selfless servant of Indian cricket. Hence, he has continued to remain relevant in Indian cricket's rise by constantly reinventing himself and promoting the game as a supporting actor. After hanging his boots, Dravid stepped into coaching. From 2016-2019, the former Indian captain took over the reins of India A and U-19 as the head coach. Under him, youngsters such as Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya, Mohammed Siraj, etc. have not only flourished but are now integral to Indian team across formats. His simplicity and keeping-things-simple formula has gelled well with youngsters in finding their feet. Moreover, Dravid has given equal, or more, credit to his support staff and ensured his entire unit moved together in unison. ALSO READ | 'Rahul Dravid once scolded him' - Sehwag shares unheard incident that transformed 'finisher' MS Dhoni After the U-19 and India A coaching stint, Dravid added another new role in his glittering CV; i.e. taking over the National Cricket Academy. As the NCA head, he ensured a regular supply of young and uncapped players to the national setup, as and when required, by taking care of them in the premier academy. Moreover, the NCA also looked after the injured key players for their timely recovery. At present, the 48-year-old Dravid has taken over as India's full-time head coach, till the 2023 ODI World Cup. While many would feel his stature made it easier for him to land at the top job, however, he has rightly won the post by going through the hard yards and proving that his love for Indian cricket remains unchanged. Dravid has truckload of runs under his belt to prove his mettle. However, the former player doesn't deserve to be judged by numbers. He adds value to Indian cricket in many ways and continues to serve in any given manner; showcasing his unflinching loyalty to the country's most-loved sport.

The Wall remains rock solid: Rahul Dravid's loyalty to Indian cricket is applaudable

<p>Axar Patel continued his fine form with the ball for Team India on Saturday as he ran through New Zealand batting line-up on Day 3 of the onging first Test between the two sides in Kanpur. Axar bagged a five-wicket haul and finished with excellent figures of 5/62 as India bundled out the Kiwis for 296 runs in their first innings.</p>

<p>Resuming their first innings from 129/0, New Zealand could only add 22 runs on the board in the first session Day 3 before R Ashwin drew the first blood for India by getting rid of Will Young on 89. Umesh Yadav then sent Kane Williamson packing cheaply before Axar removed the likes of Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls and Tom Latham in quick succession to leave the Kiwis reeling on 227/5.</p>

<p>Axar also bowled well economically and conceded only 1.82 runs per over while continuously troubling the visitors with his spin. The left-arm spinner dedicated his five-wicket haul to his father on the latter's birthday which was incidentally on Saturday.</p>

<p>Axar took to Twitter to share a picture with his father and wrote - "Number 5. Thanks everyone for the messages. This one's for my hero.&nbsp;Happy Birthday Dad," he captioned the post.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Number 5<br />
<br />
Thanks everyone for the messages. This one's for my hero.<br />
Happy Birthday Dad <a href="https://t.co/xzlemXFXKH">pic.twitter.com/xzlemXFXKH</a></p>
— Akshar Patel (@akshar2026) <a href="https://twitter.com/akshar2026/status/1464597663421247494?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>New Zealand's batting line-up fell like a pack of cards on Day 3 as the Indian spinners ran riot. While Axar picked up his fifth five-wicket haul in the last seven matches, Ashwin too bowled well and finished with figures of 3/82. The duo picked up eight wickets between them to hand a handy 49-run lead heading into their second innings.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-should-consult-government-before-sending-team-to-sa-amid-covid-19-threat-says-anurag-thakur-432416">BCCI should consult government before sending team to SA amid COVID-19 threat, says Anurag Thakur</a></p>

<p>However, India got off to a poor start in their second innings as they lost opener Shubman Gill cheaply on just 1 off 3 balls. Kyle Jamieson cleaned up Gill to become the fastest bowler from New Zealand to reach fifty Test wickets. India ended Day 3 on 14/1 with a lead of 63 runs.</p>


Axar Patel continued his fine form with the ball for Team India on Saturday as he ran through New Zealand batting line-up on Day 3 of the onging first Test between the two sides in Kanpur.

Axar Patel continued his fine form with the ball for Team India on Saturday as he ran through New Zealand batting line-up on Day 3 of the onging first Test between the two sides in Kanpur. Axar bagged a five-wicket haul and finished with excellent figures of 5/62 as India bundled out the Kiwis for 296 runs in their first innings. Resuming their first innings from 129/0, New Zealand could only add 22 runs on the board in the first session Day 3 before R Ashwin drew the first blood for India by getting rid of Will Young on 89. Umesh Yadav then sent Kane Williamson packing cheaply before Axar removed the likes of Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls and Tom Latham in quick succession to leave the Kiwis reeling on 227/5. Axar also bowled well economically and conceded only 1.82 runs per over while continuously troubling the visitors with his spin. The left-arm spinner dedicated his five-wicket haul to his father on the latter's birthday which was incidentally on Saturday. Axar took to Twitter to share a picture with his father and wrote - "Number 5. Thanks everyone for the messages. This one's for my hero. Happy Birthday Dad," he captioned the post. Number 5 Thanks everyone for the messages. This one's for my hero. Happy Birthday Dad pic.twitter.com/xzlemXFXKH — Akshar Patel (@akshar2026) November 27, 2021 × New Zealand's batting line-up fell like a pack of cards on Day 3 as the Indian spinners ran riot. While Axar picked up his fifth five-wicket haul in the last seven matches, Ashwin too bowled well and finished with figures of 3/82. The duo picked up eight wickets between them to hand a handy 49-run lead heading into their second innings. Also Read: BCCI should consult government before sending team to SA amid COVID-19 threat, says Anurag Thakur However, India got off to a poor start in their second innings as they lost opener Shubman Gill cheaply on just 1 off 3 balls. Kyle Jamieson cleaned up Gill to become the fastest bowler from New Zealand to reach fifty Test wickets. India ended Day 3 on 14/1 with a lead of 63 runs.

'This one's for my hero': Axar Patel dedicates his five-wicket haul to his father on latter's birthday

<p>The detection of a new coronavirus variant - Omicron in South Africa can soon lead to the suspension of all sporting activities across the country. In the wake of the emergence of the new variant of the virus, the ongoing ODI series between South Africa and the Netherlands cricket team has been postponed while the Women's cricket World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe have also been suspended.</p>

<p>The new variant has been labelled as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO) with medical experts and scientists claiming that it mutates quickly. The threat of the new variant of the virus also looms large over the future of India's upcoming cricket tour of South Africa in December this year.</p>

<p>India are scheduled to tour South Africa for a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, as many ODIs and four T20I matches. However, there remain concerns over the tour after the detection of the Omicron variant of coronavirus.</p>

<p>Sports Minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should consult the government before taking a final call on sending the Indian team to South Africa. Thakur said it is not right to send the team to a country where there is a significant threat of the virus.</p>

<p>"Not only BCCI, but every board should also consult the Indian government before sending the team to a country where a new COVID-19 variant has emerged. It is not right to send the team to a country where there is a threat, if BCCI consults us we will deliberate on that," Thakur was quoted as saying by ANI.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-officials-likely-to-meet-to-discuss-the-fate-of-indias-tour-of-south-africa-amid-covid-19-threat-432391">BCCI officials likely to meet to discuss the fate of India's tour of South Africa amid COVID-19 threat</a></p>

<p>On Saturday (November 27), the remaining two ODIs of the ongoing series between South Africa and the Netherlands in South Africa were called off over concerns due to the virus. The Omicron variant can soon lead to the shut down of all sports in the country.</p>

<p>"The recently discovered variant of coronavirus B.1.1.529 is of concern. It has more mutations than science knows about other alarming variants. The WHO has assessed this new variant as worrisome,"&nbsp; WHO said in a statement regarding the new variant.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The detection of a new coronavirus variant - Omicron in South Africa can soon lead to the suspension of all sporting activities across the country. In the wake of the emergence of the new variant of the virus, the ongoing ODI series between South Africa and the Netherlands cricket team has been postponed while the Women's cricket World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe have also been suspended.

The detection of a new coronavirus variant - Omicron in South Africa can soon lead to the suspension of all sporting activities across the country. In the wake of the emergence of the new variant of the virus, the ongoing ODI series between South Africa and the Netherlands cricket team has been postponed while the Women's cricket World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe have also been suspended. The new variant has been labelled as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO) with medical experts and scientists claiming that it mutates quickly. The threat of the new variant of the virus also looms large over the future of India's upcoming cricket tour of South Africa in December this year. India are scheduled to tour South Africa for a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, as many ODIs and four T20I matches. However, there remain concerns over the tour after the detection of the Omicron variant of coronavirus. Sports Minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should consult the government before taking a final call on sending the Indian team to South Africa. Thakur said it is not right to send the team to a country where there is a significant threat of the virus. "Not only BCCI, but every board should also consult the Indian government before sending the team to a country where a new COVID-19 variant has emerged. It is not right to send the team to a country where there is a threat, if BCCI consults us we will deliberate on that," Thakur was quoted as saying by ANI. Also Read: BCCI officials likely to meet to discuss the fate of India's tour of South Africa amid COVID-19 threat On Saturday (November 27), the remaining two ODIs of the ongoing series between South Africa and the Netherlands in South Africa were called off over concerns due to the virus. The Omicron variant can soon lead to the shut down of all sports in the country. "The recently discovered variant of coronavirus B.1.1.529 is of concern. It has more mutations than science knows about other alarming variants. The WHO has assessed this new variant as worrisome," WHO said in a statement regarding the new variant.

BCCI should consult government before sending team to SA amid COVID-19 threat, says Anurag Thakur

<p>Left-arm spinner Axar Patel claimed figures of 5-62 to help India grab a handy 49-run first-innings lead in the opening test against New Zealand on Saturday. The home side suffered a setback, however, with Shubman Gill`s late dismissal as they finished day three on 14-1 at Kanpur`s Green Park Stadium.</p>

<p>Kyle Jamieson bowled Gill for one and troubled Cheteshwar Pujara who remained unbeaten on nine.<br />
Opener Mayank Agarwal was on four not out with India 63 ahead in the first match of the two-test series.</p>

<p>"This is the kind of pitch where you can`t expect wickets all the time," Patel said after registering his fifth five-wicket haul in seven innings.</p>

<p>"You have to be consistent with your line and length. The odd ball turned and occasionally it kept low. I think the wicket will slow down further."</p>

<p>Earlier, after inducing several edges that fell agonisingly short of fielders, Ravichandran Ashwin ended India`s 66-over wait for a first wicket by ending a 151-run opening stand between Tom Latham and Will Young.</p>

<p>Young, having made a career-best 89, edged Ashwin and substitute wicketkeeper KS Bharat - replacing Wriddhiman Saha who was being treated for a stiff neck - grabbed a low catch.</p>

<p>Young was initially ruled not out, but India reviewed that decision, which had to be overturned after replays confirmed the edge.</p>

<p>Replying to India`s first-innings total of 345, New Zealand were cruising at 197-1 in the morning session with Latham approaching his hundred and skipper Kane Williamson in the middle.</p>

<p>Soon after India took the second new ball, however, seamer Umesh Yadav trapped Williamson lbw on the stroke of lunch.</p>

<p>Williamson, who made 18, reviewed the decision, but replays confirmed the ball would have hit the top of his middle stump. Patel ran through the New Zealand middle order removing Ross Taylor and Henry Nicholls and denying Latham his century.</p>

<p>Latham made 95 before stepping out against Patel, only to be stumped after a fine knock that included 10 fours.<br />
Ravindra Jadeja dismissed debutant Rachin Ravindra and Ashwin (3-82) claimed the last two wickets as New Zealand were bowled out for 296.</p>


Left-arm spinner Axar Patel claimed figures of 5-62 to help India grab a handy 49-run first-innings lead in the opening test against New Zealand on Saturday. The home side suffered a setback, however, with Shubman Gill`s late dismissal as they finished day three on 14-1 at Kanpur`s Green Park Stadium.

Left-arm spinner Axar Patel claimed figures of 5-62 to help India grab a handy 49-run first-innings lead in the opening test against New Zealand on Saturday. The home side suffered a setback, however, with Shubman Gill`s late dismissal as they finished day three on 14-1 at Kanpur`s Green Park Stadium. Kyle Jamieson bowled Gill for one and troubled Cheteshwar Pujara who remained unbeaten on nine. Opener Mayank Agarwal was on four not out with India 63 ahead in the first match of the two-test series. "This is the kind of pitch where you can`t expect wickets all the time," Patel said after registering his fifth five-wicket haul in seven innings. "You have to be consistent with your line and length. The odd ball turned and occasionally it kept low. I think the wicket will slow down further." Earlier, after inducing several edges that fell agonisingly short of fielders, Ravichandran Ashwin ended India`s 66-over wait for a first wicket by ending a 151-run opening stand between Tom Latham and Will Young. Young, having made a career-best 89, edged Ashwin and substitute wicketkeeper KS Bharat - replacing Wriddhiman Saha who was being treated for a stiff neck - grabbed a low catch. Young was initially ruled not out, but India reviewed that decision, which had to be overturned after replays confirmed the edge. Replying to India`s first-innings total of 345, New Zealand were cruising at 197-1 in the morning session with Latham approaching his hundred and skipper Kane Williamson in the middle. Soon after India took the second new ball, however, seamer Umesh Yadav trapped Williamson lbw on the stroke of lunch. Williamson, who made 18, reviewed the decision, but replays confirmed the ball would have hit the top of his middle stump. Patel ran through the New Zealand middle order removing Ross Taylor and Henry Nicholls and denying Latham his century. Latham made 95 before stepping out against Patel, only to be stumped after a fine knock that included 10 fours. Ravindra Jadeja dismissed debutant Rachin Ravindra and Ashwin (3-82) claimed the last two wickets as New Zealand were bowled out for 296.

Axar Patel's five-wicket haul gives India handy lead over New Zealand on Day 3 of 1st Test

<p>The emergence of the new variant of COVID-19 in South Africa has jeopardised India's upcoming cricket tour of the country. The new variant Omicron has been detected in several countries and has been categorised as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The new COVID-19 variant is said to be mutating at a faster rate and can wreak havoc if not controlled.</p>

<p>Team India are scheduled to tour South Africa next month for a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is against the Proteas. However, there remains uncertainty over the tour amid threat&nbsp;from the new variant of the virus. The Test series between the two sides is scheduled to get underway from December 17.</p>

<p>With several countries across the world imposing travel restrictions on South Africa, India's cricket tour is also in danger. The top brass of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is all set to meet on Saturday to discuss the road ahead and the fate of the tour as the new variant of COVID-19 might soon lead to the suspension of all sports in South Africa.</p>

<p>"Yes it (the new Covid variant) is point of concern and we are having meeting with officials to discuss the roadmap of India tour to South Africa also about India A team which is already there," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by <em>India Today.</em></p>

<p>"We will first talk to our officials about it and then will talk to Cricket South Africa to understand the situation and accordingly will take a call. We are already in touch with concerned authorities and keeping close track," added the source.</p>

<p>India A are currently on a tour to South Africa for three&nbsp;unofficial Test matches. While the first game between India A and South Africa A ended in a draw on Friday, the second unofficial Test is all set to get underway from November 29.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/relations-between-kohli-ex-coach-shastri-and-bcci-were-not-great-inzamam-on-indias-t20-wc-debacle-432302">Relations between Kohli, ex-coach Shastri and BCCI were not great: Inzamam on India's T20 WC debacle</a></p>

<p>When asked if BCCI is planning to call the India A team back home from the country, the source said that any decision will be taken only after a discussion with Cricket South Africa.</p>

<p>"It is too early to comment on that but yes safety and security of players is paramount. Let us meet first and talk to the South Africa board, As of now there is nothing to worry about, we are in constant touch with players and team management there," the source told <em>India Today.</em></p>

<p>COVID-19 had led to indefinite suspension of all sorts of sporting events across the world last year when the virus first made its presence felt globally.</p>


The emergence of the new variant of COVID-19 in South Africa has jeopardised India's upcoming cricket tour of the country. The new variant Omicron has been detected in several countries and has been categorised as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The emergence of the new variant of COVID-19 in South Africa has jeopardised India's upcoming cricket tour of the country. The new variant Omicron has been detected in several countries and has been categorised as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The new COVID-19 variant is said to be mutating at a faster rate and can wreak havoc if not controlled. Team India are scheduled to tour South Africa next month for a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, three ODIs and four T20Is against the Proteas. However, there remains uncertainty over the tour amid threat from the new variant of the virus. The Test series between the two sides is scheduled to get underway from December 17. With several countries across the world imposing travel restrictions on South Africa, India's cricket tour is also in danger. The top brass of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is all set to meet on Saturday to discuss the road ahead and the fate of the tour as the new variant of COVID-19 might soon lead to the suspension of all sports in South Africa. "Yes it (the new Covid variant) is point of concern and we are having meeting with officials to discuss the roadmap of India tour to South Africa also about India A team which is already there," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by India Today. "We will first talk to our officials about it and then will talk to Cricket South Africa to understand the situation and accordingly will take a call. We are already in touch with concerned authorities and keeping close track," added the source. India A are currently on a tour to South Africa for three unofficial Test matches. While the first game between India A and South Africa A ended in a draw on Friday, the second unofficial Test is all set to get underway from November 29. Also Read: Relations between Kohli, ex-coach Shastri and BCCI were not great: Inzamam on India's T20 WC debacle When asked if BCCI is planning to call the India A team back home from the country, the source said that any decision will be taken only after a discussion with Cricket South Africa. "It is too early to comment on that but yes safety and security of players is paramount. Let us meet first and talk to the South Africa board, As of now there is nothing to worry about, we are in constant touch with players and team management there," the source told India Today. COVID-19 had led to indefinite suspension of all sorts of sporting events across the world last year when the virus first made its presence felt globally.

BCCI officials likely to meet to discuss the fate of India's tour of South Africa amid COVID-19 threat

<p>Senior Indian spinner R Ashwin was involved in a heated on-field exchange with umpire Nitin Menon during Day 3 of the ongoing first Test between India and New Zealand on Saturday. Ashwin drew the first blood for India on Day 3 as he got rid of Will Young on 89 to give India a much-needed first breakthrough in the game.</p>

<p>However, Ashwin's argument with umpire Menon grabbed the limelight later in the day. The on-field umpire had issues with Ashwin's follow-through while bowling as the spinner was running across the line of sight for the umpire and blocking his view.</p>

<p>Menon was seen having a chat with Ashwin after the spinner continued to bowl with the same follow through despite Menon expressing his objection. The spinner later made some corrections but the umpire was still not satisfied and even took up the matter with captain Ajinkya Rahane. The trio was seen having a discussion in the middle of the pitch as Ashwin looked animated.</p>

<p>The discussions between Ashwin, Rahane and umpire Menon went on for the next few overs before Ashwin relented and corrected his follow-through. The video of his argument with Menon went viral on social media.</p>

<p><strong>Watch video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ashwin argues with umpire Nitin Menon <a href="https://t.co/R5qMxyeDi0">pic.twitter.com/R5qMxyeDi0</a></p>
— Sunaina Gosh (@Sunainagosh7) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sunainagosh7/status/1464468640770625544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/relations-between-kohli-ex-coach-shastri-and-bcci-were-not-great-inzamam-on-indias-t20-wc-debacle-432302">Relations between Kohli, ex-coach Shastri and BCCI were not great: Inzamam on India's T20 WC debacle</a></p>

<p>Resuming their innings from 129/0 on Day 3, New Zealand lost Young in the first session before captain Kane Williamson was sent packing by Umesh Yadav for 18. Ross Taylor too couldn't stay on for long and was removed by Axar Patel, who also got rid of Henry Nicholls (2) in quick succession.</p>

<p>Axar also picked up the wicket of opener Tom Latham (95), who missed out on his hundred by just five runs. New Zealand are currently trailing India by 104 runs and will be hoping to close the gap as much as they can on India's total of 345 runs.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Senior Indian spinner R Ashwin was involved in a heated on-field exchange with umpire Nitin Menon during Day 3 of the ongoing first Test between India and New Zealand on Saturday.

Senior Indian spinner R Ashwin was involved in a heated on-field exchange with umpire Nitin Menon during Day 3 of the ongoing first Test between India and New Zealand on Saturday. Ashwin drew the first blood for India on Day 3 as he got rid of Will Young on 89 to give India a much-needed first breakthrough in the game. However, Ashwin's argument with umpire Menon grabbed the limelight later in the day. The on-field umpire had issues with Ashwin's follow-through while bowling as the spinner was running across the line of sight for the umpire and blocking his view. Menon was seen having a chat with Ashwin after the spinner continued to bowl with the same follow through despite Menon expressing his objection. The spinner later made some corrections but the umpire was still not satisfied and even took up the matter with captain Ajinkya Rahane. The trio was seen having a discussion in the middle of the pitch as Ashwin looked animated. The discussions between Ashwin, Rahane and umpire Menon went on for the next few overs before Ashwin relented and corrected his follow-through. The video of his argument with Menon went viral on social media. Watch video: Ashwin argues with umpire Nitin Menon pic.twitter.com/R5qMxyeDi0 — Sunaina Gosh (@Sunainagosh7) November 27, 2021 × Also Read: Relations between Kohli, ex-coach Shastri and BCCI were not great: Inzamam on India's T20 WC debacle Resuming their innings from 129/0 on Day 3, New Zealand lost Young in the first session before captain Kane Williamson was sent packing by Umesh Yadav for 18. Ross Taylor too couldn't stay on for long and was removed by Axar Patel, who also got rid of Henry Nicholls (2) in quick succession. Axar also picked up the wicket of opener Tom Latham (95), who missed out on his hundred by just five runs. New Zealand are currently trailing India by 104 runs and will be hoping to close the gap as much as they can on India's total of 345 runs.

R Ashwin involved in heated argument with umpire Nitin Menon over his followthrough - WATCH

<p>Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq who recently claimed that the Indian players 'were scared' and 'under pressure' even before the start of their game against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021, has made yet another absurd statement. Inzamam believes the relations between captain Virat Kohli, head coach Ravi Shastri and the BCCI were not good during the T20 World Cup which led to India's poor show in the tournament.</p>

<p>India suffered a crushing defeat in their opening game of the Super 12 against arch-rivals Pakistan before losing their next game against New Zealand by eight wickets. The back-to-bac defeats pushed India on the back foot and confirmed their early exit from the tournament as the Men in Blue could only manage three wins in a total of five matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's T20 setup has undergone massive changes since the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 as Shastri and Kohli have both stepped down from their respective posts of the head coach and captain. While Shastri has been replaced by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach across formats after the end of his contract, Kohli has been replaced by Rohit as the T20 captain of the team.</p>

<p>Inzamam said Kohli's announcement before the start of the tournament that he is leaving captaincy was not a good move. He also claimed that the relations were not good between Kohli, Shastri and the Indian cricket board as they knew Shastri was going to be replaced by Dravid after the tournament.</p>

<p>"I said this even before the match, that this statement of leaving captaincy after the tournament… it is not good. You have to play a big event and this shows that there is pressure on you and you are not comfortable. They all knew that after this tournament, Shastri was to get replaced by Dravid," Inzamam said on ARY News.</p>

<p>"This should not happen before a big event. Your authority gets challenged. And this means that relations between Kohli, Shastri and board were not great. If India were to win the T20 World Cup, would they have removed the captain and coach? There was some problem between them," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indians-were-scared-under-pressure-even-before-the-pakistan-match-started-inzamam-ul-haq-432071">Indians were scared, under pressure even before the Pakistan match started: Inzamam-ul-Haq</a></p>

<p>India's campaign at the T20 World Cup got off to the worst possible start with their ten-wicket defeat against Pakistan before slipping to an eight-wicket loss against New Zealand. The back-to-back defeats meant India failed to recover and had to make an exit from the group stages.</p>


Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq who recently claimed that the Indian players 'were scared' and 'under pressure' even before the start of their game against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021, has made yet another absurd statement.

Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq who recently claimed that the Indian players 'were scared' and 'under pressure' even before the start of their game against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2021, has made yet another absurd statement. Inzamam believes the relations between captain Virat Kohli, head coach Ravi Shastri and the BCCI were not good during the T20 World Cup which led to India's poor show in the tournament. India suffered a crushing defeat in their opening game of the Super 12 against arch-rivals Pakistan before losing their next game against New Zealand by eight wickets. The back-to-bac defeats pushed India on the back foot and confirmed their early exit from the tournament as the Men in Blue could only manage three wins in a total of five matches. India's T20 setup has undergone massive changes since the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 as Shastri and Kohli have both stepped down from their respective posts of the head coach and captain. While Shastri has been replaced by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach across formats after the end of his contract, Kohli has been replaced by Rohit as the T20 captain of the team. Inzamam said Kohli's announcement before the start of the tournament that he is leaving captaincy was not a good move. He also claimed that the relations were not good between Kohli, Shastri and the Indian cricket board as they knew Shastri was going to be replaced by Dravid after the tournament. "I said this even before the match, that this statement of leaving captaincy after the tournament… it is not good. You have to play a big event and this shows that there is pressure on you and you are not comfortable. They all knew that after this tournament, Shastri was to get replaced by Dravid," Inzamam said on ARY News. "This should not happen before a big event. Your authority gets challenged. And this means that relations between Kohli, Shastri and board were not great. If India were to win the T20 World Cup, would they have removed the captain and coach? There was some problem between them," he added. Also Read: Indians were scared, under pressure even before the Pakistan match started: Inzamam-ul-Haq India's campaign at the T20 World Cup got off to the worst possible start with their ten-wicket defeat against Pakistan before slipping to an eight-wicket loss against New Zealand. The back-to-back defeats meant India failed to recover and had to make an exit from the group stages.

Relations between Kohli, ex-coach Shastri and BCCI were not great: Inzamam on India's T20 WC debacle

<p>A new variant of COVID-19 has been detected in South Africa which is likely to wreak havoc across the country in the coming days. The scientists have said the new variant can have a high number of mutations which has got everyone concerned. The new COVID-19 variant can also lead to the suspension of all sporting events in South Africa in the coming weeks.</p>

<p>With all sports likely to shut down, Indian cricket team's tour of South Africa is also in jeopardy. Team India is scheduled to tour South Africa in December this year for a full-fledged tour consisting of three Tests, as many ODIs and four T20Is. However, the future of the tour now remains uncertain after the recent rise in COVID-19 cases across the country.</p>

<p>The cases are majorly rising in the northern part of South Africa with Johannesburg and Pretoria - which are the venues for the India Test series - vulnerable to the spread of the new variant of COVID-19. The Netherlands cricket team which is currently in South Africa for their ODI series which gets underway on Friday (November 26) are likely to travel back amid new travel restrictions being imposed in the UK in the aftermath of the detection of the new variant.</p>

<p>While the first ODI between South Arica and Netherlands is going ahead as per schedule, a decision on the remainder of the tour will be taken soon. The India A team is also currently on their tour of South Africa for two unofficial Test matches.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-franchises-miffed-after-bcci-bans-deals-with-cryptocurrency-exchanges-432097">IPL franchises miffed after BCCI bans deals with cryptocurrency exchanges</a></strong></p>

<p>As per news agency PTI, the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) will wait for the ground report from Cricket South Africa before taking a call on the future of India's tour of the country which gets underway from December 17 with the first Test in Johannesburg.</p>

<p>Indian players are scheduled to leave for South Africa in the second week of Decemeber. However, the new COVID-19 variant might delay their travelling plans.</p>


A new variant of COVID-19 has been detected in South Africa which is likely to wreak havoc across the country in the coming days. The scientists have said the new variant can have a high number of mutations which has got everyone concerned.

A new variant of COVID-19 has been detected in South Africa which is likely to wreak havoc across the country in the coming days. The scientists have said the new variant can have a high number of mutations which has got everyone concerned. The new COVID-19 variant can also lead to the suspension of all sporting events in South Africa in the coming weeks. With all sports likely to shut down, Indian cricket team's tour of South Africa is also in jeopardy. Team India is scheduled to tour South Africa in December this year for a full-fledged tour consisting of three Tests, as many ODIs and four T20Is. However, the future of the tour now remains uncertain after the recent rise in COVID-19 cases across the country. The cases are majorly rising in the northern part of South Africa with Johannesburg and Pretoria - which are the venues for the India Test series - vulnerable to the spread of the new variant of COVID-19. The Netherlands cricket team which is currently in South Africa for their ODI series which gets underway on Friday (November 26) are likely to travel back amid new travel restrictions being imposed in the UK in the aftermath of the detection of the new variant. While the first ODI between South Arica and Netherlands is going ahead as per schedule, a decision on the remainder of the tour will be taken soon. The India A team is also currently on their tour of South Africa for two unofficial Test matches. Also Read: IPL franchises miffed after BCCI bans deals with cryptocurrency exchanges As per news agency PTI, the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) will wait for the ground report from Cricket South Africa before taking a call on the future of India's tour of the country which gets underway from December 17 with the first Test in Johannesburg. Indian players are scheduled to leave for South Africa in the second week of Decemeber. However, the new COVID-19 variant might delay their travelling plans.

India's cricket tour in jeopardy as South Africa likely to suspend all sports due to new COVID-19 variant

<p>MS Dhoni is regarded as one of the finest cricketers to have graced the gentlemen's game. Dhoni came into the scene in late 2004 and retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020. During his stint at the international level, Dhoni established himself in varied roles.</p>

<p>Dhoni broke into the scene and became a household name for his hitting prowess. Soon, he transformed himself into a mature finisher, able wicketkeeper, Captain Cool, handy Test batsman, etc. While he donned many roles, it took sometime for him to hone his skills in the many responsibilities he had undertaken.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-will-do-kapil-dev-makes-bold-claim-on-team-indias-head-coach-rahul-dravid-432134"><strong>'He will do....' - Kapil Dev makes bold claim on Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid</strong></a></p>

<p>Dhoni is regarded as one of the greatest finishers of all-time. However, there was a time when he was scolded by Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid for not finishing a game and getting out. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared the unheard incident recently.</p>

<p>Sehwag told India TV, "He was given the finisher’s role under Dravid, who once scolded him for getting out after playing a bad shot. I think that incident changed him. So around 2006-07, he transformed and started taking responsibility of finishing matches. He (Dhoni) formed an unbelievable partnership with Yuvraj when we registered that record of 16 successive chases (during Dravid's captaincy era)."</p>

<p>Further, Sehwag also credited Sourav Ganguly for the sacrifice he made to ensure Dhoni flourished as a cricketer. "Those days (2005) we were experimenting with pinch-hitters. Dada (Ganguly) had planned that Dhoni would get 3-4 chances at No. 3. If it works then fine, otherwise they would try someone else. Very few captains do it. He first sacrificed his (opening) spot for me and then he gave his slot to Dhoni. If Dada had not done that, Dhoni might not have become such a big player."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-virat-kohli-or-rohit-sharma-former-pakistan-pacer-md-amir-picks-hardest-batsman-to-bowl-at-432100"><strong>Not Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma! Former Pakistan pacer Md. Amir picks 'hardest batsman to bowl at'</strong></a></p>

<p>Dhoni was seen in the Team India dugout as the mentor during their forgettable T20 World Cup 2021 campaign, in the UAE. He is now gearing up for the IPL 2022 edition, where he will lead Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after taking them to their fourth title in IPL 14. Meanwhile, Dravid has taken over as India's full-time coach till 2023 ODI World Cup.</p>


MS Dhoni is regarded as one of the finest cricketers to have graced the gentlemen's game. Dhoni came into the scene in late 2004 and retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020.

MS Dhoni is regarded as one of the finest cricketers to have graced the gentlemen's game. Dhoni came into the scene in late 2004 and retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020. During his stint at the international level, Dhoni established himself in varied roles. Dhoni broke into the scene and became a household name for his hitting prowess. Soon, he transformed himself into a mature finisher, able wicketkeeper, Captain Cool, handy Test batsman, etc. While he donned many roles, it took sometime for him to hone his skills in the many responsibilities he had undertaken. ALSO READ | 'He will do....' - Kapil Dev makes bold claim on Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid Dhoni is regarded as one of the greatest finishers of all-time. However, there was a time when he was scolded by Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid for not finishing a game and getting out. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared the unheard incident recently. Sehwag told India TV, "He was given the finisher’s role under Dravid, who once scolded him for getting out after playing a bad shot. I think that incident changed him. So around 2006-07, he transformed and started taking responsibility of finishing matches. He (Dhoni) formed an unbelievable partnership with Yuvraj when we registered that record of 16 successive chases (during Dravid's captaincy era)." Further, Sehwag also credited Sourav Ganguly for the sacrifice he made to ensure Dhoni flourished as a cricketer. "Those days (2005) we were experimenting with pinch-hitters. Dada (Ganguly) had planned that Dhoni would get 3-4 chances at No. 3. If it works then fine, otherwise they would try someone else. Very few captains do it. He first sacrificed his (opening) spot for me and then he gave his slot to Dhoni. If Dada had not done that, Dhoni might not have become such a big player." ALSO READ | Not Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma! Former Pakistan pacer Md. Amir picks 'hardest batsman to bowl at' Dhoni was seen in the Team India dugout as the mentor during their forgettable T20 World Cup 2021 campaign, in the UAE. He is now gearing up for the IPL 2022 edition, where he will lead Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after taking them to their fourth title in IPL 14. Meanwhile, Dravid has taken over as India's full-time coach till 2023 ODI World Cup.

'Rahul Dravid once scolded him' - Sehwag shares unheard incident that transformed 'finisher' MS Dhoni

<p>Rahul Dravid took over as India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the end of the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats and became a daunting force while playing overseas Tests. However, the national side couldn't win an ICC title and, hence, Dravid will like to end India's ICC-title drought during his tenure.</p>

<p>In his first-ever series as India's full-time coach, Dravid guided Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. to a T20I series whitewash of New Zealand at home. The Indian team is now involved in a two-match Test series versus the Black Caps and will like to continue their dominant run under new coach.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-he-doesnt-look-like-an-opener-aakash-chopra-shares-ideal-batting-position-for-shubman-gill-432069"><strong>IND vs NZ: 'He doesn't look like an opener' - Aakash Chopra shares ideal batting position for Shubman Gill</strong></a></p>

<p>Recently, speaking at Dravid's appointment as Team India's head coach, former World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev said at the Royal Calcutta Golf Course in Kolkata, "He's a good man, a good cricketer. He will do a better job as a coach than as a cricketer because in cricket nobody has done better than him. I'm just keeping my fingers crossed," He added. "You can't just judge one after his debut, you don't go by one performance. Over a period of time, what Rahul will do, we will come to know. You only think positive."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-bowling-so-can-we-call-him-all-rounder-kapil-dev-opines-on-team-india-star-hardik-pandya-432094"><strong>'He is not bowling so can we call him all-rounder?' - Kapil Dev opines on Team India star Hardik Pandya</strong></a></p>

<p>Dravid, who amassed 13,288&nbsp;and 10,889 runs in Test cricket and ODIs respectively, has donned several roles in Indian cricket since his international debut in 1996. From being a middle-order batsman, finisher, part-time keeper, vice-captain, captain, U-19 and India A coach, NCA head, The Wall will now look to excel in his new role as the national side's coach and take Indian cricket to greater heights.</p>


Rahul Dravid took over as India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the end of the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats and became a daunting force while playing overseas Tests.

Rahul Dravid took over as India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the end of the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats and became a daunting force while playing overseas Tests. However, the national side couldn't win an ICC title and, hence, Dravid will like to end India's ICC-title drought during his tenure. In his first-ever series as India's full-time coach, Dravid guided Rohit Sharma & Co. to a T20I series whitewash of New Zealand at home. The Indian team is now involved in a two-match Test series versus the Black Caps and will like to continue their dominant run under new coach. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ: 'He doesn't look like an opener' - Aakash Chopra shares ideal batting position for Shubman Gill Recently, speaking at Dravid's appointment as Team India's head coach, former World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev said at the Royal Calcutta Golf Course in Kolkata, "He's a good man, a good cricketer. He will do a better job as a coach than as a cricketer because in cricket nobody has done better than him. I'm just keeping my fingers crossed," He added. "You can't just judge one after his debut, you don't go by one performance. Over a period of time, what Rahul will do, we will come to know. You only think positive." ALSO READ | 'He is not bowling so can we call him all-rounder?' - Kapil Dev opines on Team India star Hardik Pandya Dravid, who amassed 13,288 and 10,889 runs in Test cricket and ODIs respectively, has donned several roles in Indian cricket since his international debut in 1996. From being a middle-order batsman, finisher, part-time keeper, vice-captain, captain, U-19 and India A coach, NCA head, The Wall will now look to excel in his new role as the national side's coach and take Indian cricket to greater heights.

'He will do....' - Kapil Dev makes bold claim on Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid

<p>Hardik Pandya hasn't had the best of times recently in international cricket. While he bowled some overs in the Sri Lanka tour, in mid-2021, he had a nightmarish tour with the bat. Further, he failed to get going in IPL 2021 but was expected to turn the tides in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, Hardik couldn't do much with the bat in India's opening two games -- versus Pakistan and New Zealand respectively -- whereas bowled only a handful of overs to return wicketless in the showpiece event. Barring his cameo versus Afghanistan, Hardik had an ordinary T20 WC campaign. With him not bowling his full quota of overs, Hardik is playing mainly as a specialist batsman -- for his hitting prowess -- in ODIs and T20Is whereas he&nbsp;has fallen down in the pecking order in Tests.</p>

<p>Thus, times are tough for the 27-year-old Indian star. Recently, India's 1983 World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev&nbsp;has&nbsp;stated that Hardik can't be termed an all-rounder till he doesn't start bowling regularly.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-he-doesnt-look-like-an-opener-aakash-chopra-shares-ideal-batting-position-for-shubman-gill-432069">IND vs NZ: 'He doesn't look like an opener' - Aakash Chopra shares ideal batting position for Shubman Gill</a></strong></p>

<p>"He has to do both the jobs to be considered an all-rounder. He is not bowling so can we call him all-rounder? Let him bowl, he has come out from the injury," Kapil said at the Royal Calcutta Golf Course, as per PTI.</p>

<p>"He is an extremely important batter to the country, for bowling he has to play a lot more matches, perform and bowl and then we will say," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-keep-whom-list-of-players-likely-to-be-retained-by-csk-kkr-dc-and-mi-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-432050"><strong>Who will keep whom? List of players likely to be retained by CSK, KKR, DC and MI ahead of IPL mega auction</strong></a></p>

<p>With no Hardik in the India-NZ T20I series, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. opted for Venkatesh Iyer in the line-up. If the Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) opener improves as a bowler in upcoming times, Hardik will find it tough to find a place even as a specialist batsman in the shorter formats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, it will be interesting to see by when Hardik returns to bowling his full quota of overs as he still remains one of the most important players for India across formats.</p>


Hardik Pandya hasn't had the best of times recently in international cricket. While he bowled some overs in the Sri Lanka tour, in mid-2021, he had a nightmarish tour with the bat.

Hardik Pandya hasn't had the best of times recently in international cricket. While he bowled some overs in the Sri Lanka tour, in mid-2021, he had a nightmarish tour with the bat. Further, he failed to get going in IPL 2021 but was expected to turn the tides in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE. Nonetheless, Hardik couldn't do much with the bat in India's opening two games -- versus Pakistan and New Zealand respectively -- whereas bowled only a handful of overs to return wicketless in the showpiece event. Barring his cameo versus Afghanistan, Hardik had an ordinary T20 WC campaign. With him not bowling his full quota of overs, Hardik is playing mainly as a specialist batsman -- for his hitting prowess -- in ODIs and T20Is whereas he has fallen down in the pecking order in Tests. Thus, times are tough for the 27-year-old Indian star. Recently, India's 1983 World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev has stated that Hardik can't be termed an all-rounder till he doesn't start bowling regularly. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ: 'He doesn't look like an opener' - Aakash Chopra shares ideal batting position for Shubman Gill "He has to do both the jobs to be considered an all-rounder. He is not bowling so can we call him all-rounder? Let him bowl, he has come out from the injury," Kapil said at the Royal Calcutta Golf Course, as per PTI. "He is an extremely important batter to the country, for bowling he has to play a lot more matches, perform and bowl and then we will say," he added. ALSO READ | Who will keep whom? List of players likely to be retained by CSK, KKR, DC and MI ahead of IPL mega auction With no Hardik in the India-NZ T20I series, Rohit Sharma & Co. opted for Venkatesh Iyer in the line-up. If the Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) opener improves as a bowler in upcoming times, Hardik will find it tough to find a place even as a specialist batsman in the shorter formats. Thus, it will be interesting to see by when Hardik returns to bowling his full quota of overs as he still remains one of the most important players for India across formats.

'He is not bowling so can we call him all-rounder?' - Kapil Dev opines on Team India star Hardik Pandya

<p>Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq has made a controversial remark claiming the Indian players were 'scared' and 'under pressure' even before the start of the game against Pakistan in the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021. India had suffered a crushing defeat by ten wickets against arch-rivals Pakistan in the opening clash of the showpiece event in Dubai.</p>

<p>The ten-wicket defeat was India's first against Pakistan in the history of the World Cup. India were on a winning streak of twelve matches against Pakistan in the ODI World Cup and T20 World Cup combined but the Men in Green brought an end to their losing streak with a flawless victory.</p>

<p>Former Pakistan skipper Inzamam questioned the body language of the Indian players before the start of the high-octane clash and said it was evident at the toss that Indian skipper Virat Kohli was under pressure compared to Pakistan's Babar Azam.</p>

<p>"I feel the Indians were scared even before the match started. Their body language, if you see Virat Kohli and Babar Azam's interview at the toss, you could sense who was under pressure," Inzamam said on <em>ARY News.</em></p>

<p>Batting first, India got off to a shambolic start in the game as they lost opener Rohit Sharma cheaply on a duck in the very first over before KL Rahul was sent packing for 3. Skipper Kohli's 57 off 49 balls and Rishabh Pant's 39 off 30 deliveries helped India post 151 runs on the board. Inzamam claimed the pressure didn't catch up to India after Rohit's dismissal but that the Men in Blue were on the back foot even before the start of the game.</p>

<p>"Our team's body language was much better than theirs. It wasn't that India were under pressure after Rohit Sharma's dismissal. Sharma himself was under pressure. It was evident that they all were under pressure even before the match began," Inzamam said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-keep-whom-list-of-players-likely-to-be-retained-by-csk-kkr-dc-and-mi-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-432050">List of players likely to be retained by CSK, KKR, DC and MI ahead of IPL mega auction</a></p>

<p>After getting bundled out for 151, Indian bowlers failed to pick up a single wicket as half-centuries from Babar and Mohammad Rizwan helped Pakistan win the game by ten wickets with 13 balls to spare. The victory hampered India's morale as they went on to lose their next game against New Zealand to bow out of the tournament from the group stages with two wins and three defeats.</p>

<p>Inzamam said the pressure after losing their opening game against Pakistan took a toll on the Indian team and they couldn't recover from it as they suffered yet another shambolic defeat against the Kiwis. The former Pakistan captain said India are a good T20I side but the pressure cost them the tournament.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-used-to-be-like-a-war-dubai-cricket-council-chairman-offers-to-host-india-pakistan-series-in-uae-431402">'It used to be like a war': Dubai Cricket Council chairman offers to host India-Pakistan series in UAE</a></p>

<p>"Indian team never plays the way they did. They are a good T20 team, there is no doubt about it. If you look at their performance in the last 2-3 years, they were the favourites. But that India-Pakistan match put so much pressure on them that there was no looking back," said Inzamam.</p>

<p>"Their feet weren't moving at all. After losing to Pakistan, they were handed so much criticism and there was a 3-4 day break. The poor guys couldn't even play Santner and Sodhi. They are such good players of spin. That pressure mounted on them." he added.</p>


Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq has made a controversial remark claiming the Indian players were 'scared' and 'under pressure' even before the start of the game against Pakistan in the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021.

Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq has made a controversial remark claiming the Indian players were 'scared' and 'under pressure' even before the start of the game against Pakistan in the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021. India had suffered a crushing defeat by ten wickets against arch-rivals Pakistan in the opening clash of the showpiece event in Dubai. The ten-wicket defeat was India's first against Pakistan in the history of the World Cup. India were on a winning streak of twelve matches against Pakistan in the ODI World Cup and T20 World Cup combined but the Men in Green brought an end to their losing streak with a flawless victory. Former Pakistan skipper Inzamam questioned the body language of the Indian players before the start of the high-octane clash and said it was evident at the toss that Indian skipper Virat Kohli was under pressure compared to Pakistan's Babar Azam. "I feel the Indians were scared even before the match started. Their body language, if you see Virat Kohli and Babar Azam's interview at the toss, you could sense who was under pressure," Inzamam said on ARY News. Batting first, India got off to a shambolic start in the game as they lost opener Rohit Sharma cheaply on a duck in the very first over before KL Rahul was sent packing for 3. Skipper Kohli's 57 off 49 balls and Rishabh Pant's 39 off 30 deliveries helped India post 151 runs on the board. Inzamam claimed the pressure didn't catch up to India after Rohit's dismissal but that the Men in Blue were on the back foot even before the start of the game. "Our team's body language was much better than theirs. It wasn't that India were under pressure after Rohit Sharma's dismissal. Sharma himself was under pressure. It was evident that they all were under pressure even before the match began," Inzamam said. Also Read: List of players likely to be retained by CSK, KKR, DC and MI ahead of IPL mega auction After getting bundled out for 151, Indian bowlers failed to pick up a single wicket as half-centuries from Babar and Mohammad Rizwan helped Pakistan win the game by ten wickets with 13 balls to spare. The victory hampered India's morale as they went on to lose their next game against New Zealand to bow out of the tournament from the group stages with two wins and three defeats. Inzamam said the pressure after losing their opening game against Pakistan took a toll on the Indian team and they couldn't recover from it as they suffered yet another shambolic defeat against the Kiwis. The former Pakistan captain said India are a good T20I side but the pressure cost them the tournament. Also Read: 'It used to be like a war': Dubai Cricket Council chairman offers to host India-Pakistan series in UAE "Indian team never plays the way they did. They are a good T20 team, there is no doubt about it. If you look at their performance in the last 2-3 years, they were the favourites. But that India-Pakistan match put so much pressure on them that there was no looking back," said Inzamam. "Their feet weren't moving at all. After losing to Pakistan, they were handed so much criticism and there was a 3-4 day break. The poor guys couldn't even play Santner and Sodhi. They are such good players of spin. That pressure mounted on them." he added.

Indians were scared, under pressure even before the Pakistan match started: Inzamam-ul-Haq

<p>After a gruelling T20 season, with IPL 2021's final leg followed by T20 World Cup in the UAE, Test cricket has now returned for the cricket lovers worldwide. While Sri Lanka-West Indies are involved in a Test series in the island nation, Team India have also kicked off their Test season with the first Test versus New Zealand underway in Kanpur on Thursday (November 25).</p>

<p>As soon as the Indian team started their two-match Test series opener versus the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps, former Indian opener-turned-meme specialist Wasim Jaffer won the internet with an epic post.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/viral-team-india-coach-rahul-dravid-resorts-to-off-spin-in-nets-ahead-of-1st-test-vs-nz-watch-431663"><strong>VIRAL: Team India coach Rahul Dravid resorts to off-spin in nets ahead of 1st Test vs NZ - WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p>Jaffer captioned the post, "Watching Test cricket after few months of T20 cricket feels the same as eating maa ke haath ka khana (eating home-cooked food by mother) after few months away from home."</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CWr25eAtIXA/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Wasim Jaffer (@wasimjaffer14)</a></p>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-axar-and-jadeja-are-in-the-same-league-says-former-pakistan-cricketer-431755">'Don't think Axar and Jadeja are in the same league,' says former Pakistan cricketer</a></strong></p>

<p>Test cricket has returned after a few months' halt. The IPL 14's final leg, in the UAE, was followed by the seventh edition of the T20 WC, from mid-September to November. Now, the longest format has come back into the fore with plenty of Test matches lined-up in the coming weeks. While India-New Zealand are involved in a Test series in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are also engaged in a two-match Test series versus West Indies and Pakistan, respectively, in their own backyards. On the other hand, the Ashes 2021 is set to commence in Australia from December 8.</p>

<p>Talking about the India-NZ first Test, stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and opted to bat first. At lunch, India are well-placed at 82&nbsp;for 1 with opener Shubman Gill unbeaten on 52. The hosts will look to post a big score and challenge the Kiwi line-up in Green Park, Kanpur.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


After a gruelling T20 season, with IPL 2021's final leg followed by T20 World Cup in the UAE, Test cricket has now returned for the cricket lovers worldwide. While Sri Lanka-West Indies are involved in a Test series in the island nation, Team India have also kicked off their Test season with the first Test versus New Zealand underway in Kanpur on Thursday (November 25).

After a gruelling T20 season, with IPL 2021's final leg followed by T20 World Cup in the UAE, Test cricket has now returned for the cricket lovers worldwide. While Sri Lanka-West Indies are involved in a Test series in the island nation, Team India have also kicked off their Test season with the first Test versus New Zealand underway in Kanpur on Thursday (November 25). As soon as the Indian team started their two-match Test series opener versus the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps, former Indian opener-turned-meme specialist Wasim Jaffer won the internet with an epic post. ALSO READ | VIRAL: Team India coach Rahul Dravid resorts to off-spin in nets ahead of 1st Test vs NZ - WATCH Jaffer captioned the post, "Watching Test cricket after few months of T20 cricket feels the same as eating maa ke haath ka khana (eating home-cooked food by mother) after few months away from home." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wasim Jaffer (@wasimjaffer14) × ALSO READ | 'Don't think Axar and Jadeja are in the same league,' says former Pakistan cricketer Test cricket has returned after a few months' halt. The IPL 14's final leg, in the UAE, was followed by the seventh edition of the T20 WC, from mid-September to November. Now, the longest format has come back into the fore with plenty of Test matches lined-up in the coming weeks. While India-New Zealand are involved in a Test series in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are also engaged in a two-match Test series versus West Indies and Pakistan, respectively, in their own backyards. On the other hand, the Ashes 2021 is set to commence in Australia from December 8. Talking about the India-NZ first Test, stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane won the toss and opted to bat first. At lunch, India are well-placed at 82 for 1 with opener Shubman Gill unbeaten on 52. The hosts will look to post a big score and challenge the Kiwi line-up in Green Park, Kanpur.

Ind vs NZ: Wasim Jaffer wins the internet with epic post as Test cricket returns after IPL 2021, T20 WC

<p>Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India won the toss and decided to bat first on Day 1 of the Kanpur Test versus New Zealand on Thursday (November 25). Riding on half-centuries from Shubman Gill (52), debutant Shreyas Iyer (75 not out) and Ravindra Jadeja (unbeaten 50), India closed the day's play being well-placed at 258-4.</p>

<p>At one stage, India were in troubled waters, being reduced to 145-4, before Iyer-Jadeja's unbeaten fifth-wicket stand took the home side out of crisis and ended the day on a high. Kane Williamson-led New Zealand bowlers had a tough day on the field. While they accounted for only a single wicket in the first session, NZ bowlers bounced back with three quick wickets in the second session before the tables turned against them in the final session.</p>

<p>While Iyer, Jadeja and Gill made heads turn and rose to the occasion for India, stand-in captain Rahane's poor run of form continued. The right-hander came in at No. 4 and looked good in the middle before throwing his wicket for 35. Hence, NCA head and former India Test specialist remained unimpressed with Rahane's shot selection post Day 1's proceedings.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gill-iyer-or-siraj-irfan-pathan-names-vital-cog-for-team-india-while-playing-overseas-tests-431884"><strong>Gill, Iyer or Siraj? Irfan Pathan names 'vital' cog for Team India while playing overseas Tests</strong></a></p>

<p>Talking to Star Sports, Laxman said, "The moment Ajinkya Rahane came into the crease, what did Kyle Jamieson do? He goes to short-pitch deliveries. We know Rahane has only one option against short-pitched deliveries, which is to play the pull shot. It was an instinctive shot that led to his dismissal. It's okay to play besides the line in places like South Africa and Australia even if there is not much width, because of the bounce, you can hit through the square of the wicket."</p>

<p>"In Kanpur, you can't play the ball where there is no bounce at all. You have to play with the full face of the bat, maybe a vertical bat. You can't play with an angled bat," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-shreyas-iyer-ravindra-jadejas-113-run-stand-takes-hosts-to-2584-at-stumps-on-day-1-431879"><strong>IND vs NZ, 1st Test: Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja's 113-run stand takes hosts to 258/4 at stumps on Day 1</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Rahane's last seven Test innings at home:</strong><br />
<br />
0<br />
1<br />
10<br />
67<br />
7<br />
27<br />
<strong>35 - in Kanpur Test</strong></p>

<p>Rahane fell to fast-bowling all-rounder Kyle Jamieson after settling in the middle. After end of day's play, NZ's star speedster Jamieson told the broadcasters, "Found some swing early and it was up and down a little bit. Hardly played the last couple of months. Nice to get back onto the park. Hopefully the new ball swings a little bit in the morning and we can get them. India fraction ahead I think. We hung around pretty well. Need a good start in the morning."</p>

<p>India will look to post anything over 400 and challenge the Kiwis. On the other hand, Rahane will be desperate&nbsp;to get a big score under his belt in the second innings and head into the series decider, in Mumbai, with a daddy hundred in his kitty.</p>


Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India won the toss and decided to bat first on Day 1 of the Kanpur Test versus New Zealand on Thursday (November 25). Riding on half-centuries from Shubman Gill (52), debutant Shreyas Iyer (75 not out) and Ravindra Jadeja (unbeaten 50), India closed the day's play being well-placed at 258-4.

Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India won the toss and decided to bat first on Day 1 of the Kanpur Test versus New Zealand on Thursday (November 25). Riding on half-centuries from Shubman Gill (52), debutant Shreyas Iyer (75 not out) and Ravindra Jadeja (unbeaten 50), India closed the day's play being well-placed at 258-4. At one stage, India were in troubled waters, being reduced to 145-4, before Iyer-Jadeja's unbeaten fifth-wicket stand took the home side out of crisis and ended the day on a high. Kane Williamson-led New Zealand bowlers had a tough day on the field. While they accounted for only a single wicket in the first session, NZ bowlers bounced back with three quick wickets in the second session before the tables turned against them in the final session. While Iyer, Jadeja and Gill made heads turn and rose to the occasion for India, stand-in captain Rahane's poor run of form continued. The right-hander came in at No. 4 and looked good in the middle before throwing his wicket for 35. Hence, NCA head and former India Test specialist remained unimpressed with Rahane's shot selection post Day 1's proceedings. ALSO READ | Gill, Iyer or Siraj? Irfan Pathan names 'vital' cog for Team India while playing overseas Tests Talking to Star Sports, Laxman said, "The moment Ajinkya Rahane came into the crease, what did Kyle Jamieson do? He goes to short-pitch deliveries. We know Rahane has only one option against short-pitched deliveries, which is to play the pull shot. It was an instinctive shot that led to his dismissal. It's okay to play besides the line in places like South Africa and Australia even if there is not much width, because of the bounce, you can hit through the square of the wicket." "In Kanpur, you can't play the ball where there is no bounce at all. You have to play with the full face of the bat, maybe a vertical bat. You can't play with an angled bat," he added. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test: Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja's 113-run stand takes hosts to 258/4 at stumps on Day 1 Rahane's last seven Test innings at home: 0 1 10 67 7 27 35 - in Kanpur Test Rahane fell to fast-bowling all-rounder Kyle Jamieson after settling in the middle. After end of day's play, NZ's star speedster Jamieson told the broadcasters, "Found some swing early and it was up and down a little bit. Hardly played the last couple of months. Nice to get back onto the park. Hopefully the new ball swings a little bit in the morning and we can get them. India fraction ahead I think. We hung around pretty well. Need a good start in the morning." India will look to post anything over 400 and challenge the Kiwis. On the other hand, Rahane will be desperate to get a big score under his belt in the second innings and head into the series decider, in Mumbai, with a daddy hundred in his kitty.

Ind vs NZ: VVS Laxman unimpressed with Ajinkya Rahane's shot selection after Day 1 of Kanpur Test

<p>India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in the two-match Test series opener on Thursday morning (November 25) at the Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. Electing to bat first, the Ajinkya Rahane-led hosts went to the lunch break at 82/1, riding on opener Shubman Gill's 52, and ended the day's play at a comfortable position, i.e. being 258-4 courtesy debutant Shreyas Iyer (75 not out) and Ravindra Jadeja's 50*.</p>

<p>With many regulars such as captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, KL Rahul (out due to injury) being out of action, the onus was on the youngsters -- such as Gill, Iyer, Mohammed Siraj -- to grab their opportunities. Day One of the opening Test was all about Iyer and Gill's commitment to bat for a long period and make a mark. While Siraj wasn't in the playing XI, Gill failed to stay for long but slammed an impressive fifty whereas Iyer returned to the pavillion being unbeaten on 75.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-gears-up-for-2nd-test-vs-nz-in-mumbai-trains-with-rcb-coach-sanjay-bangar-431845"><strong>Virat Kohli gears up for 2nd Test vs NZ in Mumbai, trains with RCB coach Sanjay Bangar</strong></a></p>

<p>The former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lavished praise on Indian youngster Gill and feels he will be a vital cog for India while touring abroad. During the lunch break, he told on Star Sports, "I really hope and feel that this guy will go on to have a really good career, especially in Test cricket because I think he can be very vital especially if we keep touring abroad. He has got outstanding backfoot game with his initial movement."</p>

<p>"He is a young guy and he is very talented when it comes to batting. He is trying to figure how to actually correct whatever little technical flaw he has, especially against the fuller delivery. He is coming down the pitch against the fast bowlers and I'm really impressed with the way he is playing against the spinners. He is playing the ball late," added Pathan.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-shreyas-iyer-ravindra-jadejas-113-run-stand-takes-hosts-to-2584-at-stumps-on-day-1-431879"><strong>IND vs NZ, 1st Test: Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja's 113-run stand takes hosts to 258/4 at stumps on Day 1</strong></a></p>

<p>Apart from Gill and Iyer, all-rounder Jadeja also made a statement by registering his 17th half-century in whites and taking India out of troubled waters, along with Iyer, after coming out to bat with hosts reeling at 145-4 in the second session.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kohli-less Indian team will aim to cross the 400-run mark and challenge the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps in the first Test.</p>


India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in the two-match Test series opener on Thursday morning (November 25) at the Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. Electing to bat first, the Ajinkya Rahane-led hosts went to the lunch break at 82/1, riding on opener Shubman Gill's 52, and ended the day's play at a comfortable position, i.

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in the two-match Test series opener on Thursday morning (November 25) at the Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. Electing to bat first, the Ajinkya Rahane-led hosts went to the lunch break at 82/1, riding on opener Shubman Gill's 52, and ended the day's play at a comfortable position, i.e. being 258-4 courtesy debutant Shreyas Iyer (75 not out) and Ravindra Jadeja's 50*. With many regulars such as captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, KL Rahul (out due to injury) being out of action, the onus was on the youngsters -- such as Gill, Iyer, Mohammed Siraj -- to grab their opportunities. Day One of the opening Test was all about Iyer and Gill's commitment to bat for a long period and make a mark. While Siraj wasn't in the playing XI, Gill failed to stay for long but slammed an impressive fifty whereas Iyer returned to the pavillion being unbeaten on 75. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli gears up for 2nd Test vs NZ in Mumbai, trains with RCB coach Sanjay Bangar The former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lavished praise on Indian youngster Gill and feels he will be a vital cog for India while touring abroad. During the lunch break, he told on Star Sports, "I really hope and feel that this guy will go on to have a really good career, especially in Test cricket because I think he can be very vital especially if we keep touring abroad. He has got outstanding backfoot game with his initial movement." "He is a young guy and he is very talented when it comes to batting. He is trying to figure how to actually correct whatever little technical flaw he has, especially against the fuller delivery. He is coming down the pitch against the fast bowlers and I'm really impressed with the way he is playing against the spinners. He is playing the ball late," added Pathan. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test: Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja's 113-run stand takes hosts to 258/4 at stumps on Day 1 Apart from Gill and Iyer, all-rounder Jadeja also made a statement by registering his 17th half-century in whites and taking India out of troubled waters, along with Iyer, after coming out to bat with hosts reeling at 145-4 in the second session. The Kohli-less Indian team will aim to cross the 400-run mark and challenge the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps in the first Test.

Gill, Iyer or Siraj? Irfan Pathan names 'vital' cog for Team India while playing overseas Tests

<p>Ahead of India's first Test versus New Zealand, at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur, head coach Rahul Dravid bowled some off-spin at the nets. The video has gone viral in no time as it was shared of Team India's official Instagram handle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dravid, who ended with 13,288&nbsp;Test runs and 10, 889 runs in ODIs, also accounted for five wickets in his entire international career, which spanned from 1996-2012. Hence, the former Indian captain rolled his arms in the nets and bowled to India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-will-be-great-understanding-and-irfan-pathan-confident-of-rahul-dravid-virat-kohli-partnership-431639">'There will be great understanding and...' - Irfan Pathan confident of Rahul Dravid-Virat Kohli partnership</a></strong></p>

<p>The video was shared on Indian cricket's official Instagram page with the caption, "That moment when #TeamIndia Head Coach Rahul Dravid rolled his arm over in the nets."&nbsp;&nbsp;The priceless clip has soon become the talk of the town and has already garnered over 220k likes on the photo and video sharing platform. <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-wont-be-any-unfair-treatment-harbhajan-points-out-changes-rahul-dravid-will-bring-in-team-india-431619"><strong>There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India</strong></a></p>

<p>Ahead of the two-match Test series opener, Pujara opened up on having someone of the stature of Dravid as India's coach. "It will help most of the players, especially young players who have worked with Rahul bhai during U-19 and India A days. Even experienced players like us, I have played with Rahul bhai.I have worked with him during the A series, so all of us are looking forward to his guidance. The amount of experience he has as a player and coach of the team, helps," Pujara said during a press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This will be India's first Test series under new coach Dravid. After whitewashing the Kiwis in the three T20Is, the Ajinkya Rahane-led hosts will look to maintain their dominance over the Black Caps and take an unassailable 1-0 lead in the series opener, at Green Park, Kanpur. The first Test begins from November 25 whereas the second and final Test will commence on December 3 in Mumbai.</p>


Ahead of India's first Test versus New Zealand, at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur, head coach Rahul Dravid bowled some off-spin at the nets. The video has gone viral in no time as it was shared of Team India's official Instagram handle.

Ahead of India's first Test versus New Zealand, at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur, head coach Rahul Dravid bowled some off-spin at the nets. The video has gone viral in no time as it was shared of Team India's official Instagram handle. Dravid, who ended with 13,288 Test runs and 10, 889 runs in ODIs, also accounted for five wickets in his entire international career, which spanned from 1996-2012. Hence, the former Indian captain rolled his arms in the nets and bowled to India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara. ALSO READ | 'There will be great understanding and...' - Irfan Pathan confident of Rahul Dravid-Virat Kohli partnership The video was shared on Indian cricket's official Instagram page with the caption, "That moment when #TeamIndia Head Coach Rahul Dravid rolled his arm over in the nets." The priceless clip has soon become the talk of the town and has already garnered over 220k likes on the photo and video sharing platform. Here's the video: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Team India (@indiancricketteam) × ALSO READ | There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India Ahead of the two-match Test series opener, Pujara opened up on having someone of the stature of Dravid as India's coach. "It will help most of the players, especially young players who have worked with Rahul bhai during U-19 and India A days. Even experienced players like us, I have played with Rahul bhai.I have worked with him during the A series, so all of us are looking forward to his guidance. The amount of experience he has as a player and coach of the team, helps," Pujara said during a press conference. This will be India's first Test series under new coach Dravid. After whitewashing the Kiwis in the three T20Is, the Ajinkya Rahane-led hosts will look to maintain their dominance over the Black Caps and take an unassailable 1-0 lead in the series opener, at Green Park, Kanpur. The first Test begins from November 25 whereas the second and final Test will commence on December 3 in Mumbai.

VIRAL: Team India coach Rahul Dravid resorts to off-spin in nets ahead of 1st Test vs NZ - WATCH

<p>Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid's pairing started off with a bang as India whitewashed New Zealand in the three T20Is. While the two-match Test series between both sides will see Ajinkya Rahane lead in the series opener, regular captain Virat Kohli will join forces with newly-appointed head coach Dravid and hope to form a formidable captain-coach pair in Tests and ODIs.</p>

<p>Ahead of the first Test between India and New Zealand, at Green Park, Kanpur, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan stated that he feels confident of the Dravid-Kohli partnership. Despite their contrasting personalities, Pathan feels there will be great understanding and communication between Dravid and Kohli, who is now India's captain in Test and ODI format.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-wont-be-any-unfair-treatment-harbhajan-points-out-changes-rahul-dravid-will-bring-in-team-india-431619"><strong>There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India</strong></a></p>

<p>Irfan said on Star Sports, "This will be a new partnership between Rahul Dravid as well as Virat Kohli, the captain. Especially in the longer format, I don't see any problem because Rahul Dravid is a kind of guy who likes to come into the system, he doesn't change the system much. Now obviously, he's a very technical - tactical guy but he will not disrupt, he never used to disrupt even when he was captain, he always used to help boost the confidence of the player.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“One thing is for sure, there will be a great understanding and communication in this partnership, along with this youth players will be given as much importance as a senior player gets in the team. I'm not saying that this did not happen before but I have played under Rahul Dravid and this was very noticeable, if there was any young player in the team it was not hard to help them get into the team and it was solely due to Rahul Dravid’s mentality,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-with-shreyas-iyer-set-to-debut-predicting-team-indias-xi-for-series-opener-in-kanpur-431578"><strong>IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur</strong></a></p>

<p>Before Dravid came into the picture, Kohli formed a strong partnership with Ravi Shastri, Dravid's predecessor. Under Shastri-Kohli, India gained new heights across formats and played the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup and final of the inaugural WTC. However, they couldn't win an ICC title. Hence, Dravid will be eager to take India to an ICC trophy along with Kohli in the longer formats and also achieve similar success with T20I captain Rohit.&nbsp;</p>


Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid's pairing started off with a bang as India whitewashed New Zealand in the three T20Is. While the two-match Test series between both sides will see Ajinkya Rahane lead in the series opener, regular captain Virat Kohli will join forces with newly-appointed head coach Dravid and hope to form a formidable captain-coach pair in Tests and ODIs.

Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid's pairing started off with a bang as India whitewashed New Zealand in the three T20Is. While the two-match Test series between both sides will see Ajinkya Rahane lead in the series opener, regular captain Virat Kohli will join forces with newly-appointed head coach Dravid and hope to form a formidable captain-coach pair in Tests and ODIs. Ahead of the first Test between India and New Zealand, at Green Park, Kanpur, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan stated that he feels confident of the Dravid-Kohli partnership. Despite their contrasting personalities, Pathan feels there will be great understanding and communication between Dravid and Kohli, who is now India's captain in Test and ODI format. ALSO READ | There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India Irfan said on Star Sports, "This will be a new partnership between Rahul Dravid as well as Virat Kohli, the captain. Especially in the longer format, I don't see any problem because Rahul Dravid is a kind of guy who likes to come into the system, he doesn't change the system much. Now obviously, he's a very technical - tactical guy but he will not disrupt, he never used to disrupt even when he was captain, he always used to help boost the confidence of the player. “One thing is for sure, there will be a great understanding and communication in this partnership, along with this youth players will be given as much importance as a senior player gets in the team. I'm not saying that this did not happen before but I have played under Rahul Dravid and this was very noticeable, if there was any young player in the team it was not hard to help them get into the team and it was solely due to Rahul Dravid’s mentality,” he added. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur Before Dravid came into the picture, Kohli formed a strong partnership with Ravi Shastri, Dravid's predecessor. Under Shastri-Kohli, India gained new heights across formats and played the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup and final of the inaugural WTC. However, they couldn't win an ICC title. Hence, Dravid will be eager to take India to an ICC trophy along with Kohli in the longer formats and also achieve similar success with T20I captain Rohit.

'There will be great understanding and...' - Irfan Pathan confident of Rahul Dravid-Virat Kohli partnership

<p>Rahul Dravid has taken over as Team India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the former Indian all-rounder's tenure came to an end post the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats but couldn't end their ICC-trophy drought. Hence, Dravid is expected to turn things around and lead India to an ICC title, with their last major trophy coming in 2013.</p>

<p>Dravid has started with a bang by guiding the Indian team to a 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand in three T20Is. Ahead of the two-match Test series between India and the Black Caps, at home, veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has pointed out what changes one will be able to see in the Dravid-era.</p>

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<p>Speaking to Star Sports, Harbhajan said, "See, the combination will obviously take some time for everyone to adjust to with new things, new processes that Rahul will bring onto the table and I think the triangle of these three is joined to one another, Rahul with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. I think they should be working together and take Indian cricket to new heights."</p>

<p>"With Rahul coming in, I can tell you that players will be given a lot of assurance. Players will be given good chances, there won't be any unfair treatment and you’ll be left out of the team, they will be given proper opportunities and that’s what Rahul Dravid will bring onto the table. He will bring a lot of stability to the team," added Harbhajan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-with-shreyas-iyer-set-to-debut-predicting-team-indias-xi-for-series-opener-in-kanpur-431578">IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur</a></strong></p>

<p>Dravid-coached India will take on Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the two-match Test series opener on Thursday (November 25) in Kanpur. While Ajinkya Rahane-led India will be without many of their key players -- regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. -- they will still start as favourites and look to avenge their WTC final loss versus the Kiwis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the unversed, Dravid has been appointed as India's coach till 2023 ODI World Cup. Hence, he has quite a big task on his shoulders to end India's ICC-title drought with mega events lined-up in each year.</p>


Rahul Dravid has taken over as Team India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the former Indian all-rounder's tenure came to an end post the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats but couldn't end their ICC-trophy drought.

Rahul Dravid has taken over as Team India's head coach from Ravi Shastri after the former Indian all-rounder's tenure came to an end post the T20 World Cup. Under Shastri, India enjoyed considerable success across formats but couldn't end their ICC-trophy drought. Hence, Dravid is expected to turn things around and lead India to an ICC title, with their last major trophy coming in 2013. Dravid has started with a bang by guiding the Indian team to a 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand in three T20Is. Ahead of the two-match Test series between India and the Black Caps, at home, veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has pointed out what changes one will be able to see in the Dravid-era. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test live streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live online? Speaking to Star Sports, Harbhajan said, "See, the combination will obviously take some time for everyone to adjust to with new things, new processes that Rahul will bring onto the table and I think the triangle of these three is joined to one another, Rahul with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. I think they should be working together and take Indian cricket to new heights." "With Rahul coming in, I can tell you that players will be given a lot of assurance. Players will be given good chances, there won't be any unfair treatment and you’ll be left out of the team, they will be given proper opportunities and that’s what Rahul Dravid will bring onto the table. He will bring a lot of stability to the team," added Harbhajan. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur Dravid-coached India will take on Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the two-match Test series opener on Thursday (November 25) in Kanpur. While Ajinkya Rahane-led India will be without many of their key players -- regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. -- they will still start as favourites and look to avenge their WTC final loss versus the Kiwis. For the unversed, Dravid has been appointed as India's coach till 2023 ODI World Cup. Hence, he has quite a big task on his shoulders to end India's ICC-title drought with mega events lined-up in each year.

There won't be any unfair treatment: Harbhajan points out changes Rahul Dravid will bring in Team India

<p>After the three T20Is, the action will now move to the two-match Test series between India and New Zealand. The series opener will commence on Thursday (November 25) with Ajinkya Rahane-led India to lock horns with the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur.</p>

<p>The Test series will be India's first under new head coach Rahul Dravid. While the former Indian captain had a memorable start to his stint as the head coach with a 3-0 whitewash of the Kiwis in the T20Is, he will know that it won't be a cakewalk for the home side to beat the inaugural WTC winners. While India are missing some of their regulars in the squad such as captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, etc., they will start as favourites due to their dominant home record but NZ have enough firepower to challenge them.</p>

<p>NZ will depend on Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls and have enough variety in their bowling line-up with Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Neil Wagner along with able all-rounders such as Mitchell Santner, Kyle Jamieson, etc. From India's perspective, the series opener will give a chance to the likes of Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, etc. to continue their good work and make further statement in home conditions.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-prediction-who-will-win-series-opener-between-india-and-new-zealand-in-kanpur-431566"><strong>IND vs NZ, 1st Test prediction: Who will win series opener between India and New Zealand in Kanpur?</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Where is India vs New Zealand 1st Test match taking place?</strong></p>

<p>The India vs New Zealand 1st Test<strong>&nbsp;</strong>match will take place at the Green Park Stadium, Kanpur.</p>

<p><strong>What time does India vs New Zealand 1st Test match begin?</strong></p>

<p>The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match begins at 9:30 PM IST on Thursday (November 25).</p>

<p><strong>How to watch live coverage of India vs New Zealand 1st Test on TV?</strong></p>

<p>The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match will be aired live on Star Sports channels (Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-with-shreyas-iyer-set-to-debut-predicting-team-indias-xi-for-series-opener-in-kanpur-431578"><strong>IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>How to watch live coverage of India vs New Zealand 1st Test on the live streaming?</strong></p>

<p>The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match will be available to stream live on the Hotstar.</p>


After the three T20Is, the action will now move to the two-match Test series between India and New Zealand. The series opener will commence on Thursday (November 25) with Ajinkya Rahane-led India to lock horns with the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur.

After the three T20Is, the action will now move to the two-match Test series between India and New Zealand. The series opener will commence on Thursday (November 25) with Ajinkya Rahane-led India to lock horns with the Kane Williamson-led Black Caps at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur. The Test series will be India's first under new head coach Rahul Dravid. While the former Indian captain had a memorable start to his stint as the head coach with a 3-0 whitewash of the Kiwis in the T20Is, he will know that it won't be a cakewalk for the home side to beat the inaugural WTC winners. While India are missing some of their regulars in the squad such as captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, etc., they will start as favourites due to their dominant home record but NZ have enough firepower to challenge them. NZ will depend on Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls and have enough variety in their bowling line-up with Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Neil Wagner along with able all-rounders such as Mitchell Santner, Kyle Jamieson, etc. From India's perspective, the series opener will give a chance to the likes of Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, etc. to continue their good work and make further statement in home conditions. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test prediction: Who will win series opener between India and New Zealand in Kanpur? Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is India vs New Zealand 1st Test match taking place? The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match will take place at the Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. What time does India vs New Zealand 1st Test match begin? The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match begins at 9:30 PM IST on Thursday (November 25). How to watch live coverage of India vs New Zealand 1st Test on TV? The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match will be aired live on Star Sports channels (Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada). ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur How to watch live coverage of India vs New Zealand 1st Test on the live streaming? The India vs New Zealand 1st Test match will be available to stream live on the Hotstar.

IND vs NZ, 1st Test live streaming: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live online?

<p>Team India will face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the series opener of the two-match Test series at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur on Thursday (November 25). The Test series will be India's first-ever under new head coach Rahul Dravid and the national side will be eager to continue their dominant run in the purest format under the former Indian captain.</p>

<p>With the series being a part of the second cycle of the WTC, both sides have plenty to play for. For India, the hosts are without some of their big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant whereas the likes of Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, etc. will like to make the most of their opportunities with the key players rested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among the experienced lot, the onus will be on stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane, vice-captain Cheteshwar Pujara, Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin. Talking about the Kiwis, they are a formidable unit with Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Mitchell Santner having ample experience. Nonetheless, they will have to adjust to the contrasting conditions and the SG ball on offer in Indian conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-prediction-who-will-win-series-opener-between-india-and-new-zealand-in-kanpur-431566"><strong>IND vs NZ, 1st Test prediction: Who will win series opener between India and New Zealand in Kanpur?</strong></a></p>

<p>Ahead of the series opener, Rahane told at a presser on Wednesday, "Shreyas Iyer is going to make his debut." Hence, <strong>here's predicting India's line-up for the first Test in Kanpur:</strong></p>

<p>The top-order will comprise Mayank and Gill, with KL Rahul ruled out due to injury. Pujara, Shreyas Iyer and Rahane will form the middle order with Ashwin, Jadeja, Axar and Wriddhiman Saha following suit. Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav are expected to form the pace unit.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-has-no-role-in-it-treasurer-arun-dhumal-reacts-as-board-faces-backlash-over-diet-plan-with-halal-meat-431468"><strong>BCCI has no role in it: Treasurer Arun Dhumal reacts as board faces backlash over diet plan with halal meat</strong></a></p>

<p>While Ishant Sharma can get the nod either ahead of Umesh or Axar, Rahul Dravid-led thinktank is very likely to go ahead with three spinners at home (sticking to their strengths). In addition, Axar's form is exemplary whereas Umesh has a good record at home and, hence, both are unlikely to be overlooked.</p>

<p><strong>Predicting India's XI for first Test vs NZ: </strong>Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara (vc), Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj</p>


Team India will face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the series opener of the two-match Test series at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur on Thursday (November 25). The Test series will be India's first-ever under new head coach Rahul Dravid and the national side will be eager to continue their dominant run in the purest format under the former Indian captain.

Team India will face Kane Williamson-led New Zealand in the series opener of the two-match Test series at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur on Thursday (November 25). The Test series will be India's first-ever under new head coach Rahul Dravid and the national side will be eager to continue their dominant run in the purest format under the former Indian captain. With the series being a part of the second cycle of the WTC, both sides have plenty to play for. For India, the hosts are without some of their big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant whereas the likes of Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, etc. will like to make the most of their opportunities with the key players rested. Among the experienced lot, the onus will be on stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane, vice-captain Cheteshwar Pujara, Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin. Talking about the Kiwis, they are a formidable unit with Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Mitchell Santner having ample experience. Nonetheless, they will have to adjust to the contrasting conditions and the SG ball on offer in Indian conditions. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test prediction: Who will win series opener between India and New Zealand in Kanpur? Ahead of the series opener, Rahane told at a presser on Wednesday, "Shreyas Iyer is going to make his debut." Hence, here's predicting India's line-up for the first Test in Kanpur: The top-order will comprise Mayank and Gill, with KL Rahul ruled out due to injury. Pujara, Shreyas Iyer and Rahane will form the middle order with Ashwin, Jadeja, Axar and Wriddhiman Saha following suit. Mohammed Siraj and Umesh Yadav are expected to form the pace unit. ALSO READ | BCCI has no role in it: Treasurer Arun Dhumal reacts as board faces backlash over diet plan with halal meat While Ishant Sharma can get the nod either ahead of Umesh or Axar, Rahul Dravid-led thinktank is very likely to go ahead with three spinners at home (sticking to their strengths). In addition, Axar's form is exemplary whereas Umesh has a good record at home and, hence, both are unlikely to be overlooked. Predicting India's XI for first Test vs NZ: Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara (vc), Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane (c), Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Axar Patel, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj

IND vs NZ, 1st Test: With Shreyas Iyer set to debut, predicting Team India's XI for series opener in Kanpur

<p>After the three-match T20I series, the action between India and New Zealand will now move to the two-match Test series, starting from Thursday (November 25) at The Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. The series will be part of the second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) and, hence, both sides will look to walk away with vital points.</p>

<p>For India, they are without some of their regulars in the format. The regular skipper Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Rishabh Pant have been rested whereas KL Rahul was ruled out of the series, on Tuesday, due to a muscle strain on his left thigh. Thus, Ajinkya Rahane will once again take over the captaincy responsibilities with Cheteshwar Pujara as his deputy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-1st-test-going-to-be-different-challenge-to-what-we-get-back-home-says-kyle-jamieson-431539"><strong>IND v NZ, 1st Test: Going to be different challenge to what we get back home, says Kyle Jamieson</strong></a></p>

<p>Rahane will once again be leading a second-stringed Indian team, where the onus will be on Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer (who has been confirmed to make his debut), Wriddihman Saha, Mohammed Siraj, Ishant Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, R Ashwin etc. On the other hand, New Zealand will see the return of Kane Williamson, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls&nbsp;in action whereas Trent Boult, Kyle Jamieson, Mitchell Santner, etc. will form a formidable line-up of the Kiwis.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-ruled-out-of-nz-tests-due-to-injury-suryakumar-yadav-named-replacement-431388"><strong>KL Rahul ruled out of NZ Tests due to injury, Suryakumar Yadav named replacement</strong></a></p>

<p>The challenge for the Kiwis will be to adjust to the contrasting conditions and SG ball on offer in India. If their spinners can match the Indian spin trio -- Jadeja, Axar and Ashwin -- the match will surely go down the wire. Nonetheless, as Rahul Dravid-coached hosts haven't lost a series at home since 2012, they will still commence as overwhelming favourites.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Match prediction for 1st Test:&nbsp;</strong>There hasn't been much update regarding the nature of the surface expected in Kanpur. Nonetheless, it is expected to aid the batters before the spinners come into play from Day 3 onwards. The pacers will have to do the hard yards as the game progresses to provide breakthroughs at regular intervals. While the Indian team is without some of their star performers, Kiwis will like to make the most of their opposition's inexperience and make early inroads. However, India will still be favourites and are expected to go 1-0 up. Nonetheless, it also won't be a cakewalk for the home side versus the inaugural WTC winners.</p>


After the three-match T20I series, the action between India and New Zealand will now move to the two-match Test series, starting from Thursday (November 25) at The Green Park Stadium, Kanpur.

After the three-match T20I series, the action between India and New Zealand will now move to the two-match Test series, starting from Thursday (November 25) at The Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. The series will be part of the second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) and, hence, both sides will look to walk away with vital points. For India, they are without some of their regulars in the format. The regular skipper Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Rishabh Pant have been rested whereas KL Rahul was ruled out of the series, on Tuesday, due to a muscle strain on his left thigh. Thus, Ajinkya Rahane will once again take over the captaincy responsibilities with Cheteshwar Pujara as his deputy. ALSO READ | IND v NZ, 1st Test: Going to be different challenge to what we get back home, says Kyle Jamieson Rahane will once again be leading a second-stringed Indian team, where the onus will be on Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer (who has been confirmed to make his debut), Wriddihman Saha, Mohammed Siraj, Ishant Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, R Ashwin etc. On the other hand, New Zealand will see the return of Kane Williamson, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls in action whereas Trent Boult, Kyle Jamieson, Mitchell Santner, etc. will form a formidable line-up of the Kiwis. ALSO READ | KL Rahul ruled out of NZ Tests due to injury, Suryakumar Yadav named replacement The challenge for the Kiwis will be to adjust to the contrasting conditions and SG ball on offer in India. If their spinners can match the Indian spin trio -- Jadeja, Axar and Ashwin -- the match will surely go down the wire. Nonetheless, as Rahul Dravid-coached hosts haven't lost a series at home since 2012, they will still commence as overwhelming favourites. Match prediction for 1st Test: There hasn't been much update regarding the nature of the surface expected in Kanpur. Nonetheless, it is expected to aid the batters before the spinners come into play from Day 3 onwards. The pacers will have to do the hard yards as the game progresses to provide breakthroughs at regular intervals. While the Indian team is without some of their star performers, Kiwis will like to make the most of their opposition's inexperience and make early inroads. However, India will still be favourites and are expected to go 1-0 up. Nonetheless, it also won't be a cakewalk for the home side versus the inaugural WTC winners.

IND vs NZ, 1st Test prediction: Who will win series opener between India and New Zealand in Kanpur?

<p>Under MS Dhoni, Team India achieved wholesome success as the former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman remains the only international captain to lead his national side to all three major ICC titles during his captaincy tenure. When Dhoni stepped aside as the captain from all formats, in early 2017, Virat Kohli stepped up and took over the reins from his senior pro.</p>

<p>Dhoni, however, remained a vital cog of Kohli-led India's limited-overs side, having retired from Tests in late 2014, till he played his last match in the 2019 ODI World Cup and decided to hang up his boots the following year. Recently, the former Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun opened up on the smooth captaincy transition in Indian cricket between Dhoni and Kohli.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-youre-trying-to-do-something-for-the-team-it-will-never-go-unnoticed-says-rohit-sharma-post-nz-t20is-431248"><strong>If you're trying to do something for the team, it will never go unnoticed, says Rohit Sharma post NZ T20Is</strong></a></p>

<p>“Ravi told the importance of having a senior member like Dhoni in the team. It was about giving a lot of respect and he would definitely help him. Kohli understood that of course and it was a seamless transition. You could see the respect in the way Kohli would often let Dhoni handle little details and prowl on the boundary in ODIs. That kind of stuff can’t have happened without trust and respect. And Dhoni also saw he was given the space and responded so well,” Arun told Indian Express in an interview.</p>

<p>When Kohli took over as full-time captain, Dhoni continued to guide him from behind the stumps in terms of sharing small and valuable inputs, changing fielding positions and mentoring the bowlers. During this time, India enjoyed considerable success in white-ball formats but couldn't lift the 2019 ODI WC title, bowing out in the semi-finals.</p>

<p>Dhoni was also part of Kohli-led Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, serving as the team mentor.</p>

<p>Speaking of the former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri, Arun lavished praise on the ex-cricketer's tenure and said, "Fearlessness and honesty. During his tenure, there was absolutely no agenda. The decisions might have been right or wrong, that is irrelevant, but they came from the right place, purely thinking about team values and what we stood for as a team. Honesty encompasses criticism, self-introspection. It was in telling the team that ‘accept that we messed up’. It helped us evolve the team."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-watches-on-as-finisher-shahrukh-khans-last-ball-six-powers-tamil-nadu-to-smat-2021-title-431232"><strong>MS Dhoni watches on as 'finisher' Shahrukh Khan's last-ball six powers Tamil Nadu to SMAT 2021 title</strong></a></p>

<p>After the T20 WC, the Shastri-led coaching staff, including Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, stepped aside from their respective posts. Vikram Rathour continues to hold his post, i.e. of the batting coach, whereas Rahul Dravid has replaced Shastri as Team India's coach till 2023.</p>


Under MS Dhoni, Team India achieved wholesome success as the former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman remains the only international captain to lead his national side to all three major ICC titles during his captaincy tenure.

Under MS Dhoni, Team India achieved wholesome success as the former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman remains the only international captain to lead his national side to all three major ICC titles during his captaincy tenure. When Dhoni stepped aside as the captain from all formats, in early 2017, Virat Kohli stepped up and took over the reins from his senior pro. Dhoni, however, remained a vital cog of Kohli-led India's limited-overs side, having retired from Tests in late 2014, till he played his last match in the 2019 ODI World Cup and decided to hang up his boots the following year. Recently, the former Indian bowling coach Bharat Arun opened up on the smooth captaincy transition in Indian cricket between Dhoni and Kohli. ALSO READ | If you're trying to do something for the team, it will never go unnoticed, says Rohit Sharma post NZ T20Is “Ravi told the importance of having a senior member like Dhoni in the team. It was about giving a lot of respect and he would definitely help him. Kohli understood that of course and it was a seamless transition. You could see the respect in the way Kohli would often let Dhoni handle little details and prowl on the boundary in ODIs. That kind of stuff can’t have happened without trust and respect. And Dhoni also saw he was given the space and responded so well,” Arun told Indian Express in an interview. When Kohli took over as full-time captain, Dhoni continued to guide him from behind the stumps in terms of sharing small and valuable inputs, changing fielding positions and mentoring the bowlers. During this time, India enjoyed considerable success in white-ball formats but couldn't lift the 2019 ODI WC title, bowing out in the semi-finals. Dhoni was also part of Kohli-led Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, serving as the team mentor. Speaking of the former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri, Arun lavished praise on the ex-cricketer's tenure and said, "Fearlessness and honesty. During his tenure, there was absolutely no agenda. The decisions might have been right or wrong, that is irrelevant, but they came from the right place, purely thinking about team values and what we stood for as a team. Honesty encompasses criticism, self-introspection. It was in telling the team that ‘accept that we messed up’. It helped us evolve the team." ALSO READ | MS Dhoni watches on as 'finisher' Shahrukh Khan's last-ball six powers Tamil Nadu to SMAT 2021 title After the T20 WC, the Shastri-led coaching staff, including Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, stepped aside from their respective posts. Vikram Rathour continues to hold his post, i.e. of the batting coach, whereas Rahul Dravid has replaced Shastri as Team India's coach till 2023.

'Virat Kohli often let MS Dhoni handle...': Bharat Arun opines on smooth captaincy transition between duo

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal has clarified that the board has no role in determining the food choices of the players after the latest controversy over the new dietary plan of the Indian team. Dhumal said the players are free to choose what they want to eat and what they don't want to eat.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
In their dietary plan for the upcoming first Test of the two-match series against New Zealand in Kanpur, the Indan team management had requested strictly no pork and beef for the players. The catering request also clearly mentioned that the players will consume only halal meat.</p>

<p>Soon the dietary plan became a major talking point on social media with many dragging BCCI into the controversy and questioning the board over dictating the food choices of the players. Some also blamed for promoting halal meat. However, Dhumal clarified that the board has no role in creating the diet plan and it must have been made at the request of the players.</p>

<p>"This (diet plan) has never been discussed and will not be enforced. I don't know when this decision was taken or if it was. As far as I know, we never issued any guidelines related to diet plans. As far as food habits are concerned, it is the individual choice of players, BCCI has no role in it," the BCCI treasurer was quoted as saying by India Today.</p>

<p>"This 'halal' thing may have happened on any player's feedback at some point in time. For example, if a player says he doesn't eat beef and if a foreign team comes then the food should not be mixed. This halal issue has never been brought to BCCI's attention. The BCCI doesn't advise any of its players what to eat and what not to eat. Players are free to choose their own food. Whether they want to be vegetarian, it's their choice, whether they want to be vegan, it's their choice, whether they want to be non-vegetarian, it's their choice," he added.</p>

<p>Reports had claimed that it was BCCI's decision to include only halal meat for the players in their new diet regime. However, the dietary plan is only for the Kanpur Test against New Zealand and was shared with the host board - The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) by the Indian team management.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-indias-dietary-plan-with-halal-meat-and-no-beef-pork-only-for-kanpur-test-vs-new-zealand-report-431377">Team India's dietary plan with halal meat and no beef, pork only for Kanpur Test vs NZ - Report</a></p>

<p>It is a normal procedure for both teams to share their dietary, security and logistics plans with the host board before the start of an international match to ensure the players and staff members don't face any issues. Indian cricket team's menu on overseas tours reportedly often contains a directive to have halal meat on the menu.</p>

<p>While BCCI had no role in sharing the diet plan, the board was targeted online with several accusations surrounding the compulsion of only halal meat for the players in the Indian team for the New Zealand series.</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal has clarified that the board has no role in determining the food choices of the players after the latest controversy over the new dietary plan of the Indian team.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) treasurer Arun Dhumal has clarified that the board has no role in determining the food choices of the players after the latest controversy over the new dietary plan of the Indian team. Dhumal said the players are free to choose what they want to eat and what they don't want to eat. In their dietary plan for the upcoming first Test of the two-match series against New Zealand in Kanpur, the Indan team management had requested strictly no pork and beef for the players. The catering request also clearly mentioned that the players will consume only halal meat. Soon the dietary plan became a major talking point on social media with many dragging BCCI into the controversy and questioning the board over dictating the food choices of the players. Some also blamed for promoting halal meat. However, Dhumal clarified that the board has no role in creating the diet plan and it must have been made at the request of the players. "This (diet plan) has never been discussed and will not be enforced. I don't know when this decision was taken or if it was. As far as I know, we never issued any guidelines related to diet plans. As far as food habits are concerned, it is the individual choice of players, BCCI has no role in it," the BCCI treasurer was quoted as saying by India Today. "This 'halal' thing may have happened on any player's feedback at some point in time. For example, if a player says he doesn't eat beef and if a foreign team comes then the food should not be mixed. This halal issue has never been brought to BCCI's attention. The BCCI doesn't advise any of its players what to eat and what not to eat. Players are free to choose their own food. Whether they want to be vegetarian, it's their choice, whether they want to be vegan, it's their choice, whether they want to be non-vegetarian, it's their choice," he added. Reports had claimed that it was BCCI's decision to include only halal meat for the players in their new diet regime. However, the dietary plan is only for the Kanpur Test against New Zealand and was shared with the host board - The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) by the Indian team management. Also Read: Team India's dietary plan with halal meat and no beef, pork only for Kanpur Test vs NZ - Report It is a normal procedure for both teams to share their dietary, security and logistics plans with the host board before the start of an international match to ensure the players and staff members don't face any issues. Indian cricket team's menu on overseas tours reportedly often contains a directive to have halal meat on the menu. While BCCI had no role in sharing the diet plan, the board was targeted online with several accusations surrounding the compulsion of only halal meat for the players in the Indian team for the New Zealand series.

BCCI has no role in it: Treasurer Arun Dhumal reacts as board faces backlash over diet plan with halal meat

<p>Rohit Sharma-led Team India thrashed New Zealand 3-0 in the three T20Is. Following the T20 World Cup debacle, the Men in Blue beat the Black Caps to kick off a new era in Indian cricket. Post the T20 WC, there have been wholesome changes in the Indian cricket with head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar stepping aside from their respective posts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hence, Rahul Dravid has stepped in as the head coach whereas Rohit took over from Virat Kohli as India's captain in the shortest format. In Dravid-Rohit's first assignment, India emerged on top of the Kiwis and whitewashed the T20 WC 2021's runners-up. However, Dravid won hearts when he recently praised the Kiwis and said that it was always going to be tough on them to prepare and fight in&nbsp;the bilateral T20Is, after getting only a three-day gap post the&nbsp;World Cup final.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-ruled-out-of-nz-tests-due-to-injury-suryakumar-yadav-named-replacement-431388"><strong>KL Rahul ruled out of NZ Tests due to injury, Suryakumar Yadav named replacement</strong></a></p>

<p>Dravid told broadcasters Star Sports after the third T20I in Kolkata, "We have to keep our feet on the ground and be realistic, especially with bigger things down the line in the next 12 months. It's not easy for New Zealand to play a World Cup final, turn up three days later, and play three games in six days. We knew it was never going to be easy on them."</p>

<p>Hence, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has lavished praise on Dravid. Speaking on his Youtube channel, Butt said, "It only reflects utmost clarity and humility. And very realistic and professional talk because India did win but the other team just came from a World Cup final and hence it is not easy to mentally prepare for another international series so fast. They (New Zealand) also lost the toss. When you play so much international cricket, there is a difference in intensity as well. So he did take all these factors into account when making that statement. Yes India tested their bench strength, there was a new captain, new coach and they managed to win. But he is keeping them in line for the hunt. The actual target is the next target which will be in the next 10 months. So this is absolutely the correct and needed approach."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-easy-for-nz-to-rahul-dravid-sympathises-with-black-caps-after-india-whitewash-t20i-series-431220">'Not easy for NZ to...' - Rahul Dravid sympathises with Black Caps after India whitewash T20I series</a></strong></p>

<p>Post the T20Is, India will now look to dominate the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis in the two-match Test series, starting from November 25 (Thursday) in Kanpur. The first Test will see Ajinkya Rahane lead the side whereas regular captain Virat Kohli is expected to join forces with head coach Dravid for the second and final Test, which will be held at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on December 3.</p>


Rohit Sharma-led Team India thrashed New Zealand 3-0 in the three T20Is. Following the T20 World Cup debacle, the Men in Blue beat the Black Caps to kick off a new era in Indian cricket.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India thrashed New Zealand 3-0 in the three T20Is. Following the T20 World Cup debacle, the Men in Blue beat the Black Caps to kick off a new era in Indian cricket. Post the T20 WC, there have been wholesome changes in the Indian cricket with head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar stepping aside from their respective posts. Hence, Rahul Dravid has stepped in as the head coach whereas Rohit took over from Virat Kohli as India's captain in the shortest format. In Dravid-Rohit's first assignment, India emerged on top of the Kiwis and whitewashed the T20 WC 2021's runners-up. However, Dravid won hearts when he recently praised the Kiwis and said that it was always going to be tough on them to prepare and fight in the bilateral T20Is, after getting only a three-day gap post the World Cup final. ALSO READ | KL Rahul ruled out of NZ Tests due to injury, Suryakumar Yadav named replacement Dravid told broadcasters Star Sports after the third T20I in Kolkata, "We have to keep our feet on the ground and be realistic, especially with bigger things down the line in the next 12 months. It's not easy for New Zealand to play a World Cup final, turn up three days later, and play three games in six days. We knew it was never going to be easy on them." Hence, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has lavished praise on Dravid. Speaking on his Youtube channel, Butt said, "It only reflects utmost clarity and humility. And very realistic and professional talk because India did win but the other team just came from a World Cup final and hence it is not easy to mentally prepare for another international series so fast. They (New Zealand) also lost the toss. When you play so much international cricket, there is a difference in intensity as well. So he did take all these factors into account when making that statement. Yes India tested their bench strength, there was a new captain, new coach and they managed to win. But he is keeping them in line for the hunt. The actual target is the next target which will be in the next 10 months. So this is absolutely the correct and needed approach." ALSO READ | 'Not easy for NZ to...' - Rahul Dravid sympathises with Black Caps after India whitewash T20I series Post the T20Is, India will now look to dominate the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis in the two-match Test series, starting from November 25 (Thursday) in Kanpur. The first Test will see Ajinkya Rahane lead the side whereas regular captain Virat Kohli is expected to join forces with head coach Dravid for the second and final Test, which will be held at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on December 3.

Former Pak captain praises Rahul Dravid for his 'was never going to be easy on NZ' remark post T20I series

<p>Team India bounced back with a 3-0 clean sweep of New Zealand in the recently-concluded T20 series after a disappointing campaign at the T20 World Cup 2021. It was a clinical performance from the hosts throughout the series as they won all three games in a row against the T20 World Cup finalists to kick start the new era of Indian cricket under head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma with a win.</p>

<p>While the team's performance was lauded by many on social media, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) got embroiled in a fresh controversy after a report claimed the BCCI&nbsp;has banned beef and pork in any form in the new strict diet regimen for the Indian men's cricket team. The report also stated that the players have been asked to consume meat only in halal form.</p>

<p>However, the dietary plan has been shared by the Indian team management and not the BCCI for the upcoming first Test against New Zealand in Kanpur that starts from November 25 (Thursday). As per a report in<em> India Today,</em>&nbsp;"No pork and beef whatsoever in any form and variety. All meat must be Halal," is written as part of the catering requirements for Team India for the Kanpur Test and marked as 'important'.</p>

<p>Fans have been left irked by the Indian team management's&nbsp;decision to ban all other forms of meat except halal, with many claiming it is against Hindus as eating halal meat is forbidden and against the religion. Fans also dragged BCCI into the controversy slamming the board over the dietary plan.</p>

<p>There are two ways of slaughtering an animal - the halal method where the animal is given a cut and is left to bleed slowly, and the jhatka method where the animal is slaughtered in one go. Muslims consume only halal meat and&nbsp;abstain&nbsp;from eating any other type of meat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, as per <em>India Today</em>, the dietary plan has not come from the BCCI but the team management, which has to share the dietary plan along with security and logistics with the host board. The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association is the host board for the first Test which will be played in Kanpur. It is a regular procedure to share the security, diet and logistics plans with the host board before an international game.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, fans on Twitter have accused the BCCI of promoting halal meat after the details of their new dietary plan were reported.</p>

<p><strong>Here's how Twitter reacted to halal met being made compulsory for Team India:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As per reports, cricketers of 'SECULAR' India's national team will be able to eat only ‘Halal certified’ meat as per new diet plan !<br />
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Question to <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bcci</a> is when most of the players in Indian team are non-Muslims, then why HALAL is being imposed on them ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BCCI_Promotes_Halal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BCCI_Promotes_Halal</a> <a href="https://t.co/FPwxnuoEPB">pic.twitter.com/FPwxnuoEPB</a></p>
— 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐡🇮🇳 (@2prithish) <a href="https://twitter.com/2prithish/status/1462880397457383426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As per reports, cricketers of 'SECULAR' India's national team will be able to eat only ‘Halal certified’ meat as per new diet plan !<br />
<br />
Question to <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bcci</a> is when most of the players in Indian team are non-Muslims, then why HALAL is being imposed on them ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottHalalProducts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottHalalProducts</a> <a href="https://t.co/19AlrbIits">pic.twitter.com/19AlrbIits</a></p>
— HinduJagrutiOrg (@HinduJagrutiOrg) <a href="https://twitter.com/HinduJagrutiOrg/status/1462409703812591618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BCCI should not promote Halal at all.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BCCI_Promotes_Halal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BCCI_Promotes_Halal</a></p>
— Gaurav Goel (@goelgauravbjp) <a href="https://twitter.com/goelgauravbjp/status/1462994762848473092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There are 28 players contracted by <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bcci</a><br />
<br />
A+ grade :3<br />
A grade :10 (1 mu$lim)<br />
B grade :5<br />
C grade:10 (1 mu$lim)<br />
<br />
2 out of 28 (3.4%) are Mu$lims; But for them all other 26 players will also get Halal certified food.<br />
<br />
Why Halal is mandatory in a secular india?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BCCI_Promotes_Halal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BCCI_Promotes_Halal</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y4ZMr35dOG">pic.twitter.com/Y4ZMr35dOG</a></p>
— Sandeep Shinde (@sanatandeep_) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanatandeep_/status/1462988097444990976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-dravid-applauds-fielding-coach-after-ishan-kishans-direct-hit-dismisses-nzs-mitchell-santner-431369">Dravid applauds fielding coach after Ishan Kishan's direct hit dismisses&nbsp;Santner - WATCH</a></p>

<p>A dietary plan is shared every time the Indian team travels overseas as well for tournaments or series and the menu reportedly has directives for halal meat most of the time. It is also to be noted that the current Indian Test squad has a Muslim player.</p>

<p>Rohit-led India defeated New Zealand by a big margin of 73 runs in the third and final T20I of the series at the Eden Gardens on Sunday to register a clean sweep against the Kiwis. Batting first, India posted a strong total of 184 runs on the board before Axar Patel and Harshal Patel combined to run riot with the ball.</p>

<p>The duo picked up five wickets between them to bundle out the Kiwis for a paltry 111 and help India register a huge win and clinch the series 3-0. India will now play a two-match Test series against New Zealand which gets underway from Thursday (November 25).</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Team India bounced back with a 3-0 clean sweep of New Zealand in the recently-concluded T20 series after a disappointing campaign at the T20 World Cup 2021. It was a clinical performance from the hosts throughout the series as they won all three games in a row against the T20 World Cup finalists to kick start the new era of Indian cricket under head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma with a win.

Team India bounced back with a 3-0 clean sweep of New Zealand in the recently-concluded T20 series after a disappointing campaign at the T20 World Cup 2021. It was a clinical performance from the hosts throughout the series as they won all three games in a row against the T20 World Cup finalists to kick start the new era of Indian cricket under head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma with a win. While the team's performance was lauded by many on social media, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) got embroiled in a fresh controversy after a report claimed the BCCI has banned beef and pork in any form in the new strict diet regimen for the Indian men's cricket team. The report also stated that the players have been asked to consume meat only in halal form. However, the dietary plan has been shared by the Indian team management and not the BCCI for the upcoming first Test against New Zealand in Kanpur that starts from November 25 (Thursday). As per a report in India Today, "No pork and beef whatsoever in any form and variety. All meat must be Halal," is written as part of the catering requirements for Team India for the Kanpur Test and marked as 'important'. Fans have been left irked by the Indian team management's decision to ban all other forms of meat except halal, with many claiming it is against Hindus as eating halal meat is forbidden and against the religion. Fans also dragged BCCI into the controversy slamming the board over the dietary plan. There are two ways of slaughtering an animal - the halal method where the animal is given a cut and is left to bleed slowly, and the jhatka method where the animal is slaughtered in one go. Muslims consume only halal meat and abstain from eating any other type of meat. However, as per India Today, the dietary plan has not come from the BCCI but the team management, which has to share the dietary plan along with security and logistics with the host board. The Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association is the host board for the first Test which will be played in Kanpur. It is a regular procedure to share the security, diet and logistics plans with the host board before an international game. Nonetheless, fans on Twitter have accused the BCCI of promoting halal meat after the details of their new dietary plan were reported. Here's how Twitter reacted to halal met being made compulsory for Team India: As per reports, cricketers of 'SECULAR' India's national team will be able to eat only ‘Halal certified’ meat as per new diet plan ! Question to @bcci is when most of the players in Indian team are non-Muslims, then why HALAL is being imposed on them ?#BCCI_Promotes_Halal pic.twitter.com/FPwxnuoEPB — 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐡🇮🇳 (@2prithish) November 22, 2021 × As per reports, cricketers of 'SECULAR' India's national team will be able to eat only ‘Halal certified’ meat as per new diet plan ! Question to @bcci is when most of the players in Indian team are non-Muslims, then why HALAL is being imposed on them ?#BoycottHalalProducts pic.twitter.com/19AlrbIits — HinduJagrutiOrg (@HinduJagrutiOrg) November 21, 2021 × BCCI should not promote Halal at all.#BCCI_Promotes_Halal — Gaurav Goel (@goelgauravbjp) November 23, 2021 × There are 28 players contracted by @bcci A+ grade :3 A grade :10 (1 mu$lim) B grade :5 C grade:10 (1 mu$lim) 2 out of 28 (3.4%) are Mu$lims; But for them all other 26 players will also get Halal certified food. Why Halal is mandatory in a secular india?#BCCI_Promotes_Halal pic.twitter.com/Y4ZMr35dOG — Sandeep Shinde (@sanatandeep_) November 23, 2021 × Also Read: Dravid applauds fielding coach after Ishan Kishan's direct hit dismisses Santner - WATCH A dietary plan is shared every time the Indian team travels overseas as well for tournaments or series and the menu reportedly has directives for halal meat most of the time. It is also to be noted that the current Indian Test squad has a Muslim player. Rohit-led India defeated New Zealand by a big margin of 73 runs in the third and final T20I of the series at the Eden Gardens on Sunday to register a clean sweep against the Kiwis. Batting first, India posted a strong total of 184 runs on the board before Axar Patel and Harshal Patel combined to run riot with the ball. The duo picked up five wickets between them to bundle out the Kiwis for a paltry 111 and help India register a huge win and clinch the series 3-0. India will now play a two-match Test series against New Zealand which gets underway from Thursday (November 25).

Team India's dietary plan with halal meat and no beef, pork only for Kanpur Test vs New Zealand - Report

<p>Dubai Cricket Council chairman Abdul Rahman Falaknaz has offered to host India-Pakistan matches in the UAE making the country a neutral venue for both teams. India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series between them since 2013 owing to the political tension between the two nations.</p>

<p>After successfully hosting the second leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 and the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021, Falaknaz believes UAE can serve as the perfect venue for high voltage India-Pakistan clashes. While India have refused to travel to Pakistan, BCCI might agree to host games against the arch-rivals at a neutral venue like the UAE.</p>

<p>Recalling the good old days when India and Pakistan used to play regularly in Sharjah, Falaknaz said the matches between the two teams used to be like a sporting war on the field. He said getting India and Pakistan playing in the UAE will be the best thing for the Emirates Cricket Board.</p>

<p>"The best thing would be to get India-Pakistan matches here. When Sharjah used to host India and Pakistan all those years ago, it was like a war. But it was a good war, it was a sporting war and it was fantastic," Falaknaz was quoted as saying by the <em>Khaleej Times</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I remember (Bollywood actor) Raj Kapoor came once with his family. During the awards night, he took the mic and said, ‘How wonderful it is to have these India-Pakistan battles in Sharjah. Cricket brings people together, cricket has brought us together, and let us remain this way'," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-bans-pork-beef-in-any-form-halal-meat-made-compulsory-for-indian-cricket-team-report-431377?fbclid=IwAR2vgkm48Hpt7Pqr2B4jgixUmH-yMYA-YRU13M9UwcT9MWJSF54YjI7W2VA">BCCI bans pork, beef in any form; Halal meat made compulsory for Indian cricket team - Report</a></p>

<p>India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series between them since 2013 but continue to meet in the major ICC events. The arch-rivals recently locked horns in the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 in Dubai where the Babar Azam-led side defeated India by ten wickets to get off to a winning start in the tournament.</p>

<p>With their comprehensive ten-wicket win, Pakistan brought an end to their losing streak against India in World Cup matches and bagged their first win against the Men in Blue in a World Cup game.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Dubai Cricket Council chairman Abdul Rahman Falaknaz has offered to host India-Pakistan matches in the UAE making the country a neutral venue for both teams. India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series between them since 2013 owing to the political tension between the two nations.

Dubai Cricket Council chairman Abdul Rahman Falaknaz has offered to host India-Pakistan matches in the UAE making the country a neutral venue for both teams. India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series between them since 2013 owing to the political tension between the two nations. After successfully hosting the second leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 and the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021, Falaknaz believes UAE can serve as the perfect venue for high voltage India-Pakistan clashes. While India have refused to travel to Pakistan, BCCI might agree to host games against the arch-rivals at a neutral venue like the UAE. Recalling the good old days when India and Pakistan used to play regularly in Sharjah, Falaknaz said the matches between the two teams used to be like a sporting war on the field. He said getting India and Pakistan playing in the UAE will be the best thing for the Emirates Cricket Board. "The best thing would be to get India-Pakistan matches here. When Sharjah used to host India and Pakistan all those years ago, it was like a war. But it was a good war, it was a sporting war and it was fantastic," Falaknaz was quoted as saying by the Khaleej Times. "I remember (Bollywood actor) Raj Kapoor came once with his family. During the awards night, he took the mic and said, ‘How wonderful it is to have these India-Pakistan battles in Sharjah. Cricket brings people together, cricket has brought us together, and let us remain this way'," he added. Also Read: BCCI bans pork, beef in any form; Halal meat made compulsory for Indian cricket team - Report India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series between them since 2013 but continue to meet in the major ICC events. The arch-rivals recently locked horns in the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 in Dubai where the Babar Azam-led side defeated India by ten wickets to get off to a winning start in the tournament. With their comprehensive ten-wicket win, Pakistan brought an end to their losing streak against India in World Cup matches and bagged their first win against the Men in Blue in a World Cup game.

'It used to be like a war': Dubai Cricket Council chairman offers to host India-Pakistan series in UAE

<p>Ahead of the series opener of the two-match Test series between India and New Zealand, the Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India have been dealt with a major blow. KL Rahul, who was one of their star performers with the bat in the England Tests, has been ruled out of the series due to a muscle strain&nbsp;on his left thigh.</p>

<p>Rahul, who was part of the Rohit Sharma-led squad for the three T20Is, has been in sensational form across formats for Team India. He was certain to open the innings, either with Mayank Agarwal or Shubman Gill, but has been ruled out of the entire series and will now look forward to grab his chances in India's forthcoming tour of South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report filed by news agency&nbsp;<em>PTI</em>, it has been learned that the stylish opener Rahul missed India's customary practice session,&nbsp;at Kanpur's Green Park stadium, on the eve of the first Test. During the net session, youngster Shubman Gill opened the batting alongside Mayank Agarwal. It looks like the two will open the innings whereas Shreyas Iyer looks certain to debut and bat in the middle-order.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-bans-pork-beef-in-any-form-halal-meat-made-complusory-for-indian-cricket-team-report-431377"><strong>BCCI bans pork, beef in any form; Halal meat made complusory for Indian cricket team - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>On the other hand, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) named Suryakumar Yadav as Rahul's replacement. Either Shreyas Iyer or Suryakumar can make their Test debut but the former has an edge as he was in the squad in the first instance itself.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">NEWS - Suryakumar Yadav replaces KL Rahul in India's Test squad.<br />
<br />
KL Rahul has sustained a muscle strain on his left thigh and has been ruled out of the upcoming 2-match Paytm Test series against New Zealand.<br />
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More details here -<a href="https://t.co/ChXVhBSb6H">https://t.co/ChXVhBSb6H</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/uZp21Ybajx">pic.twitter.com/uZp21Ybajx</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1463092894995156995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mayank-or-gill-cheteshwar-pujara-reveals-which-indian-batter-will-be-in-playing-xi-for-1st-test-vs-nz-431379"><strong>Mayank or Gill? Cheteshwar Pujara reveals which Indian batter will be in playing XI for 1st Test vs NZ</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>India squad for the 1st Test vs New Zealand</strong></p>

<p>Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna</p>

<p>The big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Rohit Sharma are expected to return for the second and final Test, starting from December 3 in Mumbai.</p>


Ahead of the series opener of the two-match Test series between India and New Zealand, the Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India have been dealt with a major blow. KL Rahul, who was one of their star performers with the bat in the England Tests, has been ruled out of the series due to a muscle strain on his left thigh.

Ahead of the series opener of the two-match Test series between India and New Zealand, the Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India have been dealt with a major blow. KL Rahul, who was one of their star performers with the bat in the England Tests, has been ruled out of the series due to a muscle strain on his left thigh. Rahul, who was part of the Rohit Sharma-led squad for the three T20Is, has been in sensational form across formats for Team India. He was certain to open the innings, either with Mayank Agarwal or Shubman Gill, but has been ruled out of the entire series and will now look forward to grab his chances in India's forthcoming tour of South Africa. According to a report filed by news agency PTI, it has been learned that the stylish opener Rahul missed India's customary practice session, at Kanpur's Green Park stadium, on the eve of the first Test. During the net session, youngster Shubman Gill opened the batting alongside Mayank Agarwal. It looks like the two will open the innings whereas Shreyas Iyer looks certain to debut and bat in the middle-order. ALSO READ | BCCI bans pork, beef in any form; Halal meat made complusory for Indian cricket team - Report On the other hand, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) named Suryakumar Yadav as Rahul's replacement. Either Shreyas Iyer or Suryakumar can make their Test debut but the former has an edge as he was in the squad in the first instance itself. NEWS - Suryakumar Yadav replaces KL Rahul in India's Test squad. KL Rahul has sustained a muscle strain on his left thigh and has been ruled out of the upcoming 2-match Paytm Test series against New Zealand. More details here -https://t.co/ChXVhBSb6H #INDvNZ @Paytm pic.twitter.com/uZp21Ybajx — BCCI (@BCCI) November 23, 2021 × ALSO READ | Mayank or Gill? Cheteshwar Pujara reveals which Indian batter will be in playing XI for 1st Test vs NZ India squad for the 1st Test vs New Zealand Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna The big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Rohit Sharma are expected to return for the second and final Test, starting from December 3 in Mumbai.

KL Rahul ruled out of NZ Tests due to injury, Suryakumar Yadav named replacement

<p>Team India demolished New Zealand in the three T20Is and have now shifted their focus on the two-match Test series, starting from November 25 in Kanpur. The series will give India a chance to not only move forward in the&nbsp;second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), but also take revenge on the Kiwis, who defeated them in the final of the inaugural WTC early this year.</p>

<p>Ahead of the first Test, Ajinkya Rahane-led India have problems of plenty as there are many takers for the opening slots. While KL Rahul is confirmed to open, following his sensational run in the England Tests, he will be accompanied by Shubman Gill or Mayank Agarwal. For the unversed, Mayank did bat in the middle-order in the final Test of the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Gill is also being touted to take the middle-order responsibilities given Rohit Sharma is certain to open with Rahul on his return.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-bans-pork-beef-in-any-form-halal-meat-made-complusory-for-indian-cricket-team-report-431377"><strong>BCCI bans pork, beef in any form; Halal meat made complusory for Indian cricket team - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Before the series opener, vice-captain Cheteshwar Pujara revealed who among Mayank or Gill will definitely be a part of the team. Pujara told in a virtual press conference that Gill is certain to play. He told while addressing a question, "Can’t reveal that at this stage. But see, he is a talented player and definitely he will be part of the team. So someone like him, you know he doesn’t need to worry too much, he has been playing good cricket for a couple of years since he has made his debut. It was unfortunate that he missed out on England, but he is a talented player, and I don’t think personally I will need to tell him much."</p>

<p>"Rahul bhai is there, he will give the best guidance. So I think he will just have to play his natural game. I can’t reveal the position he will bat at, but he is well prepared and I am sure he is looking forward to this series,” Pujara, who is the vice-captain for the first Test, said in response to a Sportskeeda's query during a virtual presser.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-dravid-applauds-fielding-coach-after-ishan-kishans-direct-hit-dismisses-nzs-mitchell-santner-431369"><strong>WATCH: Rahul Dravid applauds fielding coach after Ishan Kishan's direct hit dismisses NZ's Mitchell Santner</strong></a></p>

<p>Given that Mayank wasn't favoured despite Gill's absence during the England Tests, the latter seems to have an upper hand over the Karnataka-born cricketer for the opening slot. It will be interesting to see if Mayank bats lower down the order in the series opener.</p>

<p><strong>India squad for the 1st Test vs New Zealand</strong></p>

<p>Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna</p>

<p>The big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. are likely to return for the second and final Test in Mumbai, from December 3.</p>


Team India demolished New Zealand in the three T20Is and have now shifted their focus on the two-match Test series, starting from November 25 in Kanpur. The series will give India a chance to not only move forward in the second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), but also take revenge on the Kiwis, who defeated them in the final of the inaugural WTC early this year.

Team India demolished New Zealand in the three T20Is and have now shifted their focus on the two-match Test series, starting from November 25 in Kanpur. The series will give India a chance to not only move forward in the second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), but also take revenge on the Kiwis, who defeated them in the final of the inaugural WTC early this year. Ahead of the first Test, Ajinkya Rahane-led India have problems of plenty as there are many takers for the opening slots. While KL Rahul is confirmed to open, following his sensational run in the England Tests, he will be accompanied by Shubman Gill or Mayank Agarwal. For the unversed, Mayank did bat in the middle-order in the final Test of the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Gill is also being touted to take the middle-order responsibilities given Rohit Sharma is certain to open with Rahul on his return. ALSO READ | BCCI bans pork, beef in any form; Halal meat made complusory for Indian cricket team - Report Before the series opener, vice-captain Cheteshwar Pujara revealed who among Mayank or Gill will definitely be a part of the team. Pujara told in a virtual press conference that Gill is certain to play. He told while addressing a question, "Can’t reveal that at this stage. But see, he is a talented player and definitely he will be part of the team. So someone like him, you know he doesn’t need to worry too much, he has been playing good cricket for a couple of years since he has made his debut. It was unfortunate that he missed out on England, but he is a talented player, and I don’t think personally I will need to tell him much." "Rahul bhai is there, he will give the best guidance. So I think he will just have to play his natural game. I can’t reveal the position he will bat at, but he is well prepared and I am sure he is looking forward to this series,” Pujara, who is the vice-captain for the first Test, said in response to a Sportskeeda's query during a virtual presser. ALSO READ | WATCH: Rahul Dravid applauds fielding coach after Ishan Kishan's direct hit dismisses NZ's Mitchell Santner Given that Mayank wasn't favoured despite Gill's absence during the England Tests, the latter seems to have an upper hand over the Karnataka-born cricketer for the opening slot. It will be interesting to see if Mayank bats lower down the order in the series opener. India squad for the 1st Test vs New Zealand Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna The big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. are likely to return for the second and final Test in Mumbai, from December 3.

Mayank or Gill? Cheteshwar Pujara reveals which Indian batter will be in playing XI for 1st Test vs NZ

<p>Team India had a flawless outing in the third and final T20I versus New Zealand on Sunday evening (November 21) at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Rohit Sharma-led India walked into the final encounter with an unassailable 2-0 lead and aimed for a whitewash. The Men in Blue succeeded in clean sweeping the Kiwis as they won the last T20I by a whopping 73-run margin.</p>

<p>Opting to bat first, Rohit-led India posted a competitive 184-7, riding on skipper's 56 and vital contributions from Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Harshal Patel and Deepak Chahar. In reply, NZ folded for a paltry 111 in 17.2 overs as none apart from Martin Guptill (51) looked comfortable in the middle. Hence, India had a clinical game with all their departments contributing in the win.</p>

<p>In terms of fielding, the hosts were right on the money as well. Ishan Kishan, who usually dons the wicketkeeper's gloves, inflicted a direct hit from the deep to dismiss stand-in captain Mitchell Santner. Ishan's efforts was lauded by the spectators whereas newly-appointed head coach Rahul Dravid gave a pat on the back of fielding coach T Dilip, who has succeeded R Sridhar. <strong>Check out the video:</strong></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-often-let-ms-dhoni-handle-bharat-arun-opines-on-smooth-captaincy-transition-between-duo-431347">'Virat Kohli often let MS Dhoni handle...': Bharat Arun opines on smooth captaincy transition between duo</a></strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-indias-limited-overs-specialist-suryakumar-yadav-likely-to-join-test-squad-for-nz-series-report-431253"><strong>Team India's limited-overs specialist Suryakumar Yadav likely to join Test squad for NZ series: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>After a terrific T20I series, the Indian team will now shift their focus to the two-match Test series versus the Black Caps. The series opener will be held in Kanpur from November 25 whereas the second and final Test will be held in Mumbai, from December 3.</p>

<p><strong>India's squad for the 1st Test is as follows:</strong></p>

<p>Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna</p>

<p>The big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. are expected to return to the squad for the final Test.</p>


Team India had a flawless outing in the third and final T20I versus New Zealand on Sunday evening (November 21) at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Rohit Sharma-led India walked into the final encounter with an unassailable 2-0 lead and aimed for a whitewash.

Team India had a flawless outing in the third and final T20I versus New Zealand on Sunday evening (November 21) at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Rohit Sharma-led India walked into the final encounter with an unassailable 2-0 lead and aimed for a whitewash. The Men in Blue succeeded in clean sweeping the Kiwis as they won the last T20I by a whopping 73-run margin. Opting to bat first, Rohit-led India posted a competitive 184-7, riding on skipper's 56 and vital contributions from Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Harshal Patel and Deepak Chahar. In reply, NZ folded for a paltry 111 in 17.2 overs as none apart from Martin Guptill (51) looked comfortable in the middle. Hence, India had a clinical game with all their departments contributing in the win. In terms of fielding, the hosts were right on the money as well. Ishan Kishan, who usually dons the wicketkeeper's gloves, inflicted a direct hit from the deep to dismiss stand-in captain Mitchell Santner. Ishan's efforts was lauded by the spectators whereas newly-appointed head coach Rahul Dravid gave a pat on the back of fielding coach T Dilip, who has succeeded R Sridhar. Check out the video: ALSO READ | 'Virat Kohli often let MS Dhoni handle...': Bharat Arun opines on smooth captaincy transition between duo pic.twitter.com/2lbE7v454f — pant shirt fc (@pant_fc) November 22, 2021 × ALSO READ | Team India's limited-overs specialist Suryakumar Yadav likely to join Test squad for NZ series: Report After a terrific T20I series, the Indian team will now shift their focus to the two-match Test series versus the Black Caps. The series opener will be held in Kanpur from November 25 whereas the second and final Test will be held in Mumbai, from December 3. India's squad for the 1st Test is as follows: Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna The big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. are expected to return to the squad for the final Test.

WATCH: Rahul Dravid applauds fielding coach after Ishan Kishan's direct hit dismisses NZ's Mitchell Santner

<p>Former India batter Ajay Jadeja has slammed the selectors for ignoring Hanuma Vihari in India's Test squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand. The focus will shift to the longest format now after hosts India registered a 3-0 clean sweep in the just-concluded T20I series against the Kiwis.</p>

<p>Skipper Virat Kohli has been rested from the first Test of the two-match series and will return to lead the team in the second Test. In his absence, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane will lead India in the series-opener in Kanpur that gets underway from Thursday (November 25).</p>

<p>The biggest talking point from India's Test squad selection was Vihari's snub. Many were left surprised as the batter was dropped from the squad with Shreyas Iyer making the cut in the squad. While Vihari has been a regular in the whites for a while now, Iyer is yet to make his Test debut for India.</p>

<p>Vihari was, instead included in the India A squad for their tour of South Africa. Surprisingly, Vihari, who made his Test debut in September 2018, is yet to play a Test match in India. He was last seen in action during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 where he combined with R Ashwin to save the third Test for India with a memorable partnership despite being injured.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-be-a-challenging-issue-icc-chairman-on-india-travelling-to-pakistan-for-champions-trophy-in-2025-431247">Will be a challenging issue: ICC chairman on India travelling to Pakistan for Champions Trophy in 2025</a></p>

<p>Jadeja believes Vihari has done no wrong to miss out on a spot in the Test team and that the selectors are playing with players' minds by sending an established Test cricketer to be part of an India A tour without a reason.</p>

<p>"Vihari, poor guy. He did well. He has been with Indian cricket for a while, done well. What has he done wrong? Why should he go to India A tour, why can't he play a Test match at home? Or don't send him on A tour also. Somebody who has been with the team, now goes to India A tour and a new guy comes in. That's messing with people's minds," Jadeja said on <em>Cricbuzz.</em></p>

<p>Vihari was not part of the England Test series at home earlier this year but was recalled in the squad for the tour of England where he was left to warm the bench and didn't get to play a single game.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former India batter Ajay Jadeja has slammed the selectors for ignoring Hanuma Vihari in India's Test squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand. The focus will shift to the longest format now after hosts India registered a 3-0 clean sweep in the just-concluded T20I series against the Kiwis.

Former India batter Ajay Jadeja has slammed the selectors for ignoring Hanuma Vihari in India's Test squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand. The focus will shift to the longest format now after hosts India registered a 3-0 clean sweep in the just-concluded T20I series against the Kiwis. Skipper Virat Kohli has been rested from the first Test of the two-match series and will return to lead the team in the second Test. In his absence, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane will lead India in the series-opener in Kanpur that gets underway from Thursday (November 25). The biggest talking point from India's Test squad selection was Vihari's snub. Many were left surprised as the batter was dropped from the squad with Shreyas Iyer making the cut in the squad. While Vihari has been a regular in the whites for a while now, Iyer is yet to make his Test debut for India. Vihari was, instead included in the India A squad for their tour of South Africa. Surprisingly, Vihari, who made his Test debut in September 2018, is yet to play a Test match in India. He was last seen in action during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 where he combined with R Ashwin to save the third Test for India with a memorable partnership despite being injured. Also Read: Will be a challenging issue: ICC chairman on India travelling to Pakistan for Champions Trophy in 2025 Jadeja believes Vihari has done no wrong to miss out on a spot in the Test team and that the selectors are playing with players' minds by sending an established Test cricketer to be part of an India A tour without a reason. "Vihari, poor guy. He did well. He has been with Indian cricket for a while, done well. What has he done wrong? Why should he go to India A tour, why can't he play a Test match at home? Or don't send him on A tour also. Somebody who has been with the team, now goes to India A tour and a new guy comes in. That's messing with people's minds," Jadeja said on Cricbuzz. Vihari was not part of the England Test series at home earlier this year but was recalled in the squad for the tour of England where he was left to warm the bench and didn't get to play a single game.

'That's messing with people's mind': Ajay Jadeja slams selectors over Hanuma Vihari's snub from Test team

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) is aware that it will be a major challenge for the governing body to convince Team India to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy in 2025. ICC recently announced the host countries of the major tournaments for the 2024-2031 cycle with Pakistan being awarded the hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy.</p>

<p>India and Pakistan have not engaged in bilateral cricket since 2013 due to the political tensions between the two nations. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had expressed concerns over travelling to Pakistan for the Asia Cup last year before the tournament was eventually suspended due to COVID-19.</p>

<p>ICC chairman Greg Barclay is aware that it will be a difficult task for the ICC to convince the BCCI to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025. However, he hopes cricket can be a force to help improve relationships between the two countries as sports bring people together.</p>

<p>“Yeah, we know it’s a particularly challenging issue to work through, but from my point of view, I cannot control geopolitical forces. I just hope cricket can be a force to help improve relationships between countries. That is the one great thing sport can do is help people and nations come together. If it can help in contributing to that, then it is fantastic,” Barclay told reporters on Monday.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-to-host-champions-trophy-2025-india-to-stage-three-icc-tournaments-till-2031-429791">Pakistan to host Champions Trophy 2025, India to stage three ICC tournaments till 2031</a></p>

<p>While they have not engaged in any bilateral series for eight years now, India and Pakistan have met each other in major ICC events. The arch-rivals last locked horns in the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021 where the Babar Azam-led side defeated Virat Kohli &amp; Co. by ten wickets.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-watches-on-as-finisher-shahrukh-khans-last-ball-six-powers-tamil-nadu-to-smat-2021-title-431232">MS Dhoni watches on as 'finisher' Shahrukh Khan's last-ball six powers Tamil Nadu to SMAT 2021 title</a></p>

<p>With the comprehensive win, Pakistan also brought an end to their losing streak against Team India in World Cup matches. Pakistan had never won against India in the history of ODI and T20 World Cups but buried the losing streak with their memorable triumph in Dubai this year.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The International Cricket Council (ICC) is aware that it will be a major challenge for the governing body to convince Team India to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy in 2025.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is aware that it will be a major challenge for the governing body to convince Team India to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy in 2025. ICC recently announced the host countries of the major tournaments for the 2024-2031 cycle with Pakistan being awarded the hosting rights for the 2025 Champions Trophy. India and Pakistan have not engaged in bilateral cricket since 2013 due to the political tensions between the two nations. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had expressed concerns over travelling to Pakistan for the Asia Cup last year before the tournament was eventually suspended due to COVID-19. ICC chairman Greg Barclay is aware that it will be a difficult task for the ICC to convince the BCCI to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025. However, he hopes cricket can be a force to help improve relationships between the two countries as sports bring people together. “Yeah, we know it’s a particularly challenging issue to work through, but from my point of view, I cannot control geopolitical forces. I just hope cricket can be a force to help improve relationships between countries. That is the one great thing sport can do is help people and nations come together. If it can help in contributing to that, then it is fantastic,” Barclay told reporters on Monday. Also Read: Pakistan to host Champions Trophy 2025, India to stage three ICC tournaments till 2031 While they have not engaged in any bilateral series for eight years now, India and Pakistan have met each other in major ICC events. The arch-rivals last locked horns in the recently-concluded T20 World Cup 2021 where the Babar Azam-led side defeated Virat Kohli & Co. by ten wickets. Also Read: MS Dhoni watches on as 'finisher' Shahrukh Khan's last-ball six powers Tamil Nadu to SMAT 2021 title With the comprehensive win, Pakistan also brought an end to their losing streak against Team India in World Cup matches. Pakistan had never won against India in the history of ODI and T20 World Cups but buried the losing streak with their memorable triumph in Dubai this year.

Will be a challenging issue: ICC chairman on India travelling to Pakistan for Champions Trophy in 2025