Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has criticised Team India's bowling coach Bharat Arun over his remarks on the toss being one of the reasons behind the team's failure in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. India were knocked out of the tournament on Sunday (November 07) after Afghanistan's 8-wicket defeat at the hands of New Zealand in Abu Dhabi.

New Zealand became the second team from Group 2 to qualify for the semis with eight points from five matches. Harbhajan said the Indian team management should accept the fact that the team didn't play as well as they should have and failed to live up to the expectations in the tournament.

India lost their opening game against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets before getting thrashed by New Zealand by eight wickets in their next game. The consecutive defeats in their first two matches did enough damage as India eventually bowed out of the competition even before they could have taken the field in their last Super 12 game against Namibia.

Talking about India's poor show in the tournament, the team's bowling coach Bharat Arun had earlier blamed the toss and the pitches in Dubai for India's lacklustre performances. Arun had claimed batting second was not easy on the Dubai track which cost India in the tournament.

"I am not trying to give any excuses but I think in this World Cup the trend has been the team that wins the toss has a big advantage especially when you are in playing in Dubai. The wicket kind of eases out when you come out to bowl the second time. These are no excuses. We should have done better, we should have batted better. In the first match, we had the chance to defend a good total, but we looked a little below par," bowling coach Arun said during the pre-match presser ahead of India's game against Namibia.

Reacting to Arun's remarks, Harbhajan cited the example of MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings, who won the final of IPL 2021 after batting first against Kolkata Knight Riders in Dubai. CSK had posted a big total of 192 runs on the board, batting first and restricted Kolkata Knight Riders on 165 runs to win the game comfortably by 27 runs and lift their 4th IPL trophy.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-points-what-went-wrong-for-india-at-t20-world-cup-2021-427652">5 points -&nbsp;What went wrong for India at T20 World Cup 2021</a>

“I heard Bharat Arun saying that had India won the toss, they could have done this and done that. All that is up for a later discussion. If you had thought that you wanted to bowl first or bat first, well didn’t Chennai Super Kings win the IPL after batting first? They did score 190, so you have to make runs. Let us accept the fact that we didn’t play well as we should have and we did not live up to expectations,” Harbhajan was quoted as saying by India Today.

India will play Namibia in their final Super 12 game on Monday before heading home from the T20 World Cup 2021. It will be a dead-rubber for both sides with Pakistan and New Zealand already in the semis from Group 2.

Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has criticised Team India's bowling coach Bharat Arun over his remarks on the toss being one of the reasons behind the team's failure in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021.

Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has criticised Team India's bowling coach Bharat Arun over his remarks on the toss being one of the reasons behind the team's failure in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. India were knocked out of the tournament on Sunday (November 07) after Afghanistan's 8-wicket defeat at the hands of New Zealand in Abu Dhabi. New Zealand became the second team from Group 2 to qualify for the semis with eight points from five matches. Harbhajan said the Indian team management should accept the fact that the team didn't play as well as they should have and failed to live up to the expectations in the tournament. India lost their opening game against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets before getting thrashed by New Zealand by eight wickets in their next game. The consecutive defeats in their first two matches did enough damage as India eventually bowed out of the competition even before they could have taken the field in their last Super 12 game against Namibia. Talking about India's poor show in the tournament, the team's bowling coach Bharat Arun had earlier blamed the toss and the pitches in Dubai for India's lacklustre performances. Arun had claimed batting second was not easy on the Dubai track which cost India in the tournament. "I am not trying to give any excuses but I think in this World Cup the trend has been the team that wins the toss has a big advantage especially when you are in playing in Dubai. The wicket kind of eases out when you come out to bowl the second time. These are no excuses. We should have done better, we should have batted better. In the first match, we had the chance to defend a good total, but we looked a little below par," bowling coach Arun said during the pre-match presser ahead of India's game against Namibia. Reacting to Arun's remarks, Harbhajan cited the example of MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings, who won the final of IPL 2021 after batting first against Kolkata Knight Riders in Dubai. CSK had posted a big total of 192 runs on the board, batting first and restricted Kolkata Knight Riders on 165 runs to win the game comfortably by 27 runs and lift their 4th IPL trophy. Also Read: 5 points - What went wrong for India at T20 World Cup 2021 “I heard Bharat Arun saying that had India won the toss, they could have done this and done that. All that is up for a later discussion. If you had thought that you wanted to bowl first or bat first, well didn’t Chennai Super Kings win the IPL after batting first? They did score 190, so you have to make runs. Let us accept the fact that we didn’t play well as we should have and we did not live up to expectations,” Harbhajan was quoted as saying by India Today. India will play Namibia in their final Super 12 game on Monday before heading home from the T20 World Cup 2021. It will be a dead-rubber for both sides with Pakistan and New Zealand already in the semis from Group 2.

'Didn't CSK win IPL 2021 batting first': Harbhajan Singh criticises India's bowling coach over 'toss' excuse

India will take on Namibia in their final Super 12 clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Monday (November 08). India have already been knocked out of the race for a spot in the semi-finals after Afghanistan's 8-wicket defeat at the hands of New Zealand on Sunday, but Virat Kohli &amp; Co. will be hoping to sign off from the tournament with a win.

The Namibia game will also mark an end to an era in Indian cricket as it will be Kohli's last T20I game as the captain of the Indian team and head coach Ravi Shastri's final game in charge as well. While Kohli has already announced he will be stepping down from the post of captain in T20Is, Shastri will also be relinquishing the Indian team's head coach post for Rahul Dravid after the T20 World Cup 2021.

Former India batter and cricket expert Sanjay Manjrekar believes Kohli had a chance to take a step towards 'the inevitable' ahead of India's game against Namibia. Manjrekar believes Kohli should straightway offer captaincy to Rohit Sharma for the Namibia clash and set a new trend.

"If Virat Kohli wants to sort of start a new trend, the inevitable future in T20 cricket, he could maybe offer the leadership straightaway to Rohit Sharma in this final game. Then Rohit Sharma may not be rested and play as captain," Manjrekar said in a video for Dafa News.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-points-what-went-wrong-for-india-at-t20-world-cup-2021-427652">5 points - What went wrong for India at T20 World Cup 2021</a>

Rohit is one of the frontrunners to replace Kohli as India's captain in T20Is with an illustrious captaincy record in the Indian Premier League. Rohit has led his side Mumbai Indians to a record five IPL titles and is the most successful captain in the history of the league.

He is likely to lead India in their upcoming T20I series against New Zealand and might be appointed as the full-time captain in T20Is keeping the next year's T20 World Cup in mind.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India will take on Namibia in their final Super 12 clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Monday (November 08). India have already been knocked out of the race for a spot in the semi-finals after Afghanistan's 8-wicket defeat at the hands of New Zealand on Sunday, but Virat Kohli & Co.

India will take on Namibia in their final Super 12 clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Monday (November 08). India have already been knocked out of the race for a spot in the semi-finals after Afghanistan's 8-wicket defeat at the hands of New Zealand on Sunday, but Virat Kohli & Co. will be hoping to sign off from the tournament with a win. The Namibia game will also mark an end to an era in Indian cricket as it will be Kohli's last T20I game as the captain of the Indian team and head coach Ravi Shastri's final game in charge as well. While Kohli has already announced he will be stepping down from the post of captain in T20Is, Shastri will also be relinquishing the Indian team's head coach post for Rahul Dravid after the T20 World Cup 2021. Former India batter and cricket expert Sanjay Manjrekar believes Kohli had a chance to take a step towards 'the inevitable' ahead of India's game against Namibia. Manjrekar believes Kohli should straightway offer captaincy to Rohit Sharma for the Namibia clash and set a new trend. "If Virat Kohli wants to sort of start a new trend, the inevitable future in T20 cricket, he could maybe offer the leadership straightaway to Rohit Sharma in this final game. Then Rohit Sharma may not be rested and play as captain," Manjrekar said in a video for Dafa News. Also Read: 5 points - What went wrong for India at T20 World Cup 2021 Rohit is one of the frontrunners to replace Kohli as India's captain in T20Is with an illustrious captaincy record in the Indian Premier League. Rohit has led his side Mumbai Indians to a record five IPL titles and is the most successful captain in the history of the league. He is likely to lead India in their upcoming T20I series against New Zealand and might be appointed as the full-time captain in T20Is keeping the next year's T20 World Cup in mind.

Virat Kohli should hand over captaincy to Rohit Sharma for India's match against Namibia: Sanjay Manjrekar

5 points: What went wrong for India at T20 World Cup 2021

Team India was ousted from the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (November 07) after Afghanistan's 8-wicket defeat against New Zealand in their final Super 12 clash at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. India's hopes lingered on Afghanistan as only a win for Mohammad Nabi &amp; Co. would have kept the Virat Kohli-led side in the race to qualify for the semi-finals.

However, Afghanistan lost against New Zealand on Sunday after failing to defend a total of 125 runs to bow out of the competition while also confirming India's exit from the tournament. Reacting to India's ouster, former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag shared a hilarious Rahul Gandhi-inspired meme on Twitter to leave fans in splits.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India’s campaign at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCT20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCT20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/VhsdiQld8I">pic.twitter.com/VhsdiQld8I</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1457332807433216009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 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>

India's fans were hoping for a miracle from Afghanistan which would have kept India in the race for the semi-finals. However, the Nabi-led side could not pull off an upset against the Kiwis, who were clinical with the bat and lost just two wickets in the run-chase and completed it with eleven balls to spare.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hits-and-flops-from-indias-t20-world-cup-2021-campaign-427237">Hits and flops from India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign</a>

India were all but out of the race for the semi-finals after their back-to-back defeats against Pakistan and New Zealand in their first two games in the Super 12 as they got off to a shambolic start in the tournament. However, India bounced back with a bog win against Afghanistan by 66 runs in their third game before thrashing Scotland by 8 wickets inside just 39 balls in their fourth Super 12 clash to remain alive in the competition.

Nonetheless, their fate was sealed after New Zealand defeated Afghanistan and moved to 8 points to confirm their second spot on the points table and enter the semis. Even a win against Namibia in their last game can see India reach a maximum of six points which confirms their exit from the tournament.

Team India was ousted from the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (November 07) after Afghanistan's 8-wicket defeat against New Zealand in their final Super 12 clash at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Team India was ousted from the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (November 07) after Afghanistan's 8-wicket defeat against New Zealand in their final Super 12 clash at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. India's hopes lingered on Afghanistan as only a win for Mohammad Nabi & Co. would have kept the Virat Kohli-led side in the race to qualify for the semi-finals. However, Afghanistan lost against New Zealand on Sunday after failing to defend a total of 125 runs to bow out of the competition while also confirming India's exit from the tournament. Reacting to India's ouster, former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag shared a hilarious Rahul Gandhi-inspired meme on Twitter to leave fans in splits. India’s campaign at the #ICCT20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/VhsdiQld8I — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) November 7, 2021 × India's fans were hoping for a miracle from Afghanistan which would have kept India in the race for the semi-finals. However, the Nabi-led side could not pull off an upset against the Kiwis, who were clinical with the bat and lost just two wickets in the run-chase and completed it with eleven balls to spare. Also Read: Hits and flops from India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign India were all but out of the race for the semi-finals after their back-to-back defeats against Pakistan and New Zealand in their first two games in the Super 12 as they got off to a shambolic start in the tournament. However, India bounced back with a bog win against Afghanistan by 66 runs in their third game before thrashing Scotland by 8 wickets inside just 39 balls in their fourth Super 12 clash to remain alive in the competition. Nonetheless, their fate was sealed after New Zealand defeated Afghanistan and moved to 8 points to confirm their second spot on the points table and enter the semis. Even a win against Namibia in their last game can see India reach a maximum of six points which confirms their exit from the tournament.

Virender Sehwag reacts with hilarious meme as India bow out of T20 WC 2021 after Afghanistan's defeat

India were one of the overwhelming favourites heading into the T20 World Cup 2021. Expectations were high from Virat Kohli's men, who had played some amazing cricket in the build-up to the World Cup and dominated across formats. However, what unfolded in the UAE was hard to believe for many as India's campaign came crashing down in a matter of just two games.

Two games was all it took as the Men in Blue found themselves on the verge of an early exit from the competition. A lot was said about India's unbeaten record against Pakistan in World Cups with not many writing off the Babar Azam-led side even before they took the field against their arch-rivals in the opener in Dubai on October 24.

Pakistan produced a brilliant all-round performance to thoroughly outclass India and win the game by ten wickets to get off to a perfect start in the tournament. India's defeat not only marked an end to their flawless streak in World Cup matches against Pakistan but did enough damage to the team's confidence as they looked out of sorts in the next game against New Zealand.

In what was a painful repeat of the thrashing at the hands of Pakistan, New Zealand crushed India by eight wickets to further dent their hopes of qualifying for the semi-finals. Just when it looked like Kohli's team was set for an early exit from the tournament, India bounced back emphatically to thrash Afghanistan and Scotland in their next two games and keep their hopes alive.

However, their fate was no more in their hands with the Kohli-led side in desperate need of a favour from Afghanistan to finish above them and New Zealand in terms of net run rate. India needed Afghanistan to beat New Zealand to help them salvage their campaign, however, the Mohammad Nabi-led side suffered an 8-wicket defeat in their final Super 12 clash on Sunday to confirm India's exit from the tournament.

Not many Indian players have so far managed to impress in the ongoing T20 World Cup but there have been a few who have risen after a disappointing start and have helped the team stage a fightback after what was a disastrous start. Here we take a look at the hits and flops from Team India's campaign so far in the T20 World Cup 2021 with a game to spare against Namibia.

<h2>Hits</h2>

1) KL Rahul

Opening batter KL Rahul has been one of the few sparks in the Indian team from what has been an abysmal campaign so far in the T20 World Cup. Rahul faltered in the first two matches against Pakistan and New Zealand with 21 runs combined, before redeeming himself with two brilliant knocks in the next two games.

The stylish right-hander roared back to form with a classy 69 off 48 balls against Afghanistan where he slammed two sixes and six fours to help India register a big win by 66 runs. He continued his stunning form against Scotland as he took the Scottish bowlers to the cleaners to race away to a fifty off just 18 balls, helping India chase down 89 runs in just 39 balls.

Rahul smashed six fours and three sixes in his fiery cameo as India absolutely mauled Scotland. Rahul is India's highest run-getter so far in the tournament with 140 runs from 4 matches.

2) Jasprit Bumrah&nbsp;

After a disappointing outing against Pakistan where all Indian bowlers went wicket-less, Bumrah was the first Indian to pick up a wicket in the tournament. He dismissed Martin Guptill in the game against New Zealand to open India's wicket account in the tournament and followed it up with the dismissal of Daryl Mitchell in the same game.

Bumrah bowled at an economy of 4.80 and was India's best bowler against the Kiwis but his efforts were not enough to push India over the line.

He finished with excellent figures of 1/25 in his 4 overs against Afghanistan before wreaking havoc against Scotland. Bumrah bowled at an economy of just 2.70 in his two overs against Scotland, conceding 10 runs to return with two wickets. Fair to say, Bumrah has been one of the most consistent bowlers for the Men in Blue so far and has 5 wickets to his name in four matches.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-shastri-to-coach-an-ipl-team-ahmedabad-franchise-approach-outgoing-india-head-coach-report-427373">&nbsp;Ravi Shastri to coach an IPL team? Ahmedabad franchise approach outgoing India head coach - Report</a>

3) Mohammed Shami&nbsp;

Trolled viciously after an off day against Pakistan, Mohammed Shami has since scripted a remarkable turnaround in the tournament. Shami was targeted over his faith and was on the receiving end of horrific abuse on social media after his poor outing against Babar Azam's men. He once again went wicket-less against New Zealand as questions were raised over his place in the team.

Shami's redemption came against Afghanistan where he picked up the important wickets of Mohammad Shehzad and Mohammad Nabi to derail their batting line-up and finish with sublime figures of 3/32 in his four overs. That was just the start as Shami once again wreaked havoc against Scotland.

The senior pacer responded to his critics in style as he picked up another three-wicket haul against Scotland while conceding only 15 runs from his 3 overs. Shami has been India's highest wicket-taker so far in the tournament with six wickets from four matches.

<h2>Flops</h2>

1) Bhuvneshwar Kumar

One of the senior-most members of the Indian squad in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021, Buvneshwar has been around for several years now. He was once undroppable in T20s for India but the right-arm speedster has been struggling with his form ever since his return from injury last year.

Bhuvneshwar played in India's ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in the opener and was taken to the cleaners by Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to concede 25 runs in his three overs without taking a wicket. He was dropped for Shardul Thakur in the next game against New Zealand before sitting out in the next two games as well.&nbsp;

There were a lot of expectations from Bhuvneshwar as one of India's prominent bowlers in the T20 World Cup but he has had a disappointing campaign.

2) Hardik Pandya

The star all-rounder didn't bowl at all in the second leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 for Mumbai Indians but was picked purely as a batter in the World Cup squad despite question marks over his place in the side. While he didn't bowl in the first game against Pakistan, Hardik clearly struggled with the bat.

He also picked up a shoulder injury during the game and was later taken for scans leading to questions over his fitness. Hardik was expected to be one of the vital cogs of India's wheel in the T20 World Cup and be a game-changer for the Kohli-led side, however, he has failed to deliver with both the bat and the ball in the tournament.

Though he has resumed bowling from the New Zealand game, Hardik is yet to make a significant contribution with the ball and his 13-ball 35 against Afghanistan has been his only major contribution with the bat so far in this year's T20 World Cup.

3) Varun Chakaravarthy

Touted as a rising mystery spinner, Varun Chakaravarthy has been a huge letdown for Team India at the T20 World Cup so far. He was picked over the likes of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav in the T20 World Cup squad but has failed to live up to the expectations in what has been a woeful campaign for him so far.

After going wicket-less in the first two games against Pakistan and New Zealand, Chakaravarthy was rightfully dropped from the playing XI against Afghanistan before making a comeback in the Scotland encounter. He once again failed to pick up a wicket against Scotland and is yet to open his account despite having bowled 11 overs in the tournament so far.

&nbsp;

India were one of the overwhelming favourites heading into the T20 World Cup 2021. Expectations were high from Virat Kohli's men, who had played some amazing cricket in the build-up to the World Cup and dominated across formats.

India were one of the overwhelming favourites heading into the T20 World Cup 2021. Expectations were high from Virat Kohli's men, who had played some amazing cricket in the build-up to the World Cup and dominated across formats. However, what unfolded in the UAE was hard to believe for many as India's campaign came crashing down in a matter of just two games. Two games was all it took as the Men in Blue found themselves on the verge of an early exit from the competition. A lot was said about India's unbeaten record against Pakistan in World Cups with not many writing off the Babar Azam-led side even before they took the field against their arch-rivals in the opener in Dubai on October 24. Pakistan produced a brilliant all-round performance to thoroughly outclass India and win the game by ten wickets to get off to a perfect start in the tournament. India's defeat not only marked an end to their flawless streak in World Cup matches against Pakistan but did enough damage to the team's confidence as they looked out of sorts in the next game against New Zealand. In what was a painful repeat of the thrashing at the hands of Pakistan, New Zealand crushed India by eight wickets to further dent their hopes of qualifying for the semi-finals. Just when it looked like Kohli's team was set for an early exit from the tournament, India bounced back emphatically to thrash Afghanistan and Scotland in their next two games and keep their hopes alive. However, their fate was no more in their hands with the Kohli-led side in desperate need of a favour from Afghanistan to finish above them and New Zealand in terms of net run rate. India needed Afghanistan to beat New Zealand to help them salvage their campaign, however, the Mohammad Nabi-led side suffered an 8-wicket defeat in their final Super 12 clash on Sunday to confirm India's exit from the tournament. Not many Indian players have so far managed to impress in the ongoing T20 World Cup but there have been a few who have risen after a disappointing start and have helped the team stage a fightback after what was a disastrous start. Here we take a look at the hits and flops from Team India's campaign so far in the T20 World Cup 2021 with a game to spare against Namibia. Hits 1) KL Rahul Opening batter KL Rahul has been one of the few sparks in the Indian team from what has been an abysmal campaign so far in the T20 World Cup. Rahul faltered in the first two matches against Pakistan and New Zealand with 21 runs combined, before redeeming himself with two brilliant knocks in the next two games. The stylish right-hander roared back to form with a classy 69 off 48 balls against Afghanistan where he slammed two sixes and six fours to help India register a big win by 66 runs. He continued his stunning form against Scotland as he took the Scottish bowlers to the cleaners to race away to a fifty off just 18 balls, helping India chase down 89 runs in just 39 balls. Rahul smashed six fours and three sixes in his fiery cameo as India absolutely mauled Scotland. Rahul is India's highest run-getter so far in the tournament with 140 runs from 4 matches. 2) Jasprit Bumrah After a disappointing outing against Pakistan where all Indian bowlers went wicket-less, Bumrah was the first Indian to pick up a wicket in the tournament. He dismissed Martin Guptill in the game against New Zealand to open India's wicket account in the tournament and followed it up with the dismissal of Daryl Mitchell in the same game. Bumrah bowled at an economy of 4.80 and was India's best bowler against the Kiwis but his efforts were not enough to push India over the line. He finished with excellent figures of 1/25 in his 4 overs against Afghanistan before wreaking havoc against Scotland. Bumrah bowled at an economy of just 2.70 in his two overs against Scotland, conceding 10 runs to return with two wickets. Fair to say, Bumrah has been one of the most consistent bowlers for the Men in Blue so far and has 5 wickets to his name in four matches. Also Read: Ravi Shastri to coach an IPL team? Ahmedabad franchise approach outgoing India head coach - Report 3) Mohammed Shami Trolled viciously after an off day against Pakistan, Mohammed Shami has since scripted a remarkable turnaround in the tournament. Shami was targeted over his faith and was on the receiving end of horrific abuse on social media after his poor outing against Babar Azam's men. He once again went wicket-less against New Zealand as questions were raised over his place in the team. Shami's redemption came against Afghanistan where he picked up the important wickets of Mohammad Shehzad and Mohammad Nabi to derail their batting line-up and finish with sublime figures of 3/32 in his four overs. That was just the start as Shami once again wreaked havoc against Scotland. The senior pacer responded to his critics in style as he picked up another three-wicket haul against Scotland while conceding only 15 runs from his 3 overs. Shami has been India's highest wicket-taker so far in the tournament with six wickets from four matches. Flops 1) Bhuvneshwar Kumar One of the senior-most members of the Indian squad in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021, Buvneshwar has been around for several years now. He was once undroppable in T20s for India but the right-arm speedster has been struggling with his form ever since his return from injury last year. Bhuvneshwar played in India's ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in the opener and was taken to the cleaners by Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to concede 25 runs in his three overs without taking a wicket. He was dropped for Shardul Thakur in the next game against New Zealand before sitting out in the next two games as well. There were a lot of expectations from Bhuvneshwar as one of India's prominent bowlers in the T20 World Cup but he has had a disappointing campaign. 2) Hardik Pandya The star all-rounder didn't bowl at all in the second leg of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 for Mumbai Indians but was picked purely as a batter in the World Cup squad despite question marks over his place in the side. While he didn't bowl in the first game against Pakistan, Hardik clearly struggled with the bat. He also picked up a shoulder injury during the game and was later taken for scans leading to questions over his fitness. Hardik was expected to be one of the vital cogs of India's wheel in the T20 World Cup and be a game-changer for the Kohli-led side, however, he has failed to deliver with both the bat and the ball in the tournament. Though he has resumed bowling from the New Zealand game, Hardik is yet to make a significant contribution with the ball and his 13-ball 35 against Afghanistan has been his only major contribution with the bat so far in this year's T20 World Cup. 3) Varun Chakaravarthy Touted as a rising mystery spinner, Varun Chakaravarthy has been a huge letdown for Team India at the T20 World Cup so far. He was picked over the likes of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav in the T20 World Cup squad but has failed to live up to the expectations in what has been a woeful campaign for him so far. After going wicket-less in the first two games against Pakistan and New Zealand, Chakaravarthy was rightfully dropped from the playing XI against Afghanistan before making a comeback in the Scotland encounter. He once again failed to pick up a wicket against Scotland and is yet to open his account despite having bowled 11 overs in the tournament so far.

Hits and flops from India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign

Virat Kohli-led Team India are out of the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 even before they could have taken the field against Namibia for their final Super 12 clash on Monday (November 08). Afghanistan's eight-wicket loss against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi on Sunday confirmed India's exit from the tournament.

India's campaign got off to the worst possible start in this year's T20 World Cup as the Men in Blue lost to arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets before New Zealand handed them an eight-wicket thrashing in the next game. India bounced back and won their next two games on the trot by big margins to ensure they remain alive in the race for a spot in the semis.

However, their fate rested in the hands of Afghanistan, who needed to beat New Zealand to keep India alive in the tournament. Afghanistan failed to defend a low-key total of 124 runs in their final Super 12 game on Sunday as they lost by eight wickets.

The defeat not only sealed India's fate but also confirmed Afghanistan's ouster from the tournament as both teams exited from the group stages respectively. Batting first, Afghanistan looked set to post a competitive total on the board as&nbsp;Najibullah Zadran slammed a brilliant knock of 73 runs off 48 balls.

However, he failed to find support from the other end as Afghanistan could only manage 125 runs on the board. New Zealand chased down the target with 11 balls to spare and registered a comfortable win to finish second in Group 2 and move into the semis.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-virat-kohli-in-harbhajan-singhs-star-studded-all-time-t20-xi-ms-dhoni-named-captain-427423">No Virat Kohli in Harbhajan Singh's star-studded all-time T20 XI, MS Dhoni named captain</a>

India will play Namibia in their final Super 12 game on Monday but the game will be of little or no significance as far as the semi-finals are concerned as even a win for India will see them finish third on the points table behind Pakistan and New Zealand.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led Team India are out of the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 even before they could have taken the field against Namibia for their final Super 12 clash on Monday (November 08).

Virat Kohli-led Team India are out of the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 even before they could have taken the field against Namibia for their final Super 12 clash on Monday (November 08). Afghanistan's eight-wicket loss against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi on Sunday confirmed India's exit from the tournament. India's campaign got off to the worst possible start in this year's T20 World Cup as the Men in Blue lost to arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets before New Zealand handed them an eight-wicket thrashing in the next game. India bounced back and won their next two games on the trot by big margins to ensure they remain alive in the race for a spot in the semis. However, their fate rested in the hands of Afghanistan, who needed to beat New Zealand to keep India alive in the tournament. Afghanistan failed to defend a low-key total of 124 runs in their final Super 12 game on Sunday as they lost by eight wickets. The defeat not only sealed India's fate but also confirmed Afghanistan's ouster from the tournament as both teams exited from the group stages respectively. Batting first, Afghanistan looked set to post a competitive total on the board as Najibullah Zadran slammed a brilliant knock of 73 runs off 48 balls. However, he failed to find support from the other end as Afghanistan could only manage 125 runs on the board. New Zealand chased down the target with 11 balls to spare and registered a comfortable win to finish second in Group 2 and move into the semis. Also Read: No Virat Kohli in Harbhajan Singh's star-studded all-time T20 XI, MS Dhoni named captain India will play Namibia in their final Super 12 game on Monday but the game will be of little or no significance as far as the semi-finals are concerned as even a win for India will see them finish third on the points table behind Pakistan and New Zealand.

India's campaign in T20 World Cup 2021 over as Virat Kohli & Co. make group-stage exit

India's fate in T20 World Cup 2021 will be decided even before they take the field against Namibia in their final Super 12 clash at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Monday (November 07). India's hopes rest on the shoulders of Afghanistan, who&nbsp;are in a must-win situation against the Kiwis.

Heading into the game, New Zealand are placed second in the Group 2 table while India are placed third with a slightly better net run rate than Afghanistan, who are at the fourth spot with as many points as India (4) from four matches. If New Zealand beat Afghanistan they will finish second in the group and qualify for the semis.

However, if Afghanistan manage to pull off an upset agains New Zealand, they will give both themselves and India a chance to become the second team from the group to reach the semis while dumping the Kiwis out of the tournament.

India's eyes will be on the result of the Afghanistan-New Zealand game, however, they would want to finish their Super 12 campaign with a win against Namibia irrespective of the result of the first game on Sunday. After facing back-to-back defeats in their first two matches, India have bounced back strongly with two big wins against Afghanistan and Scotland in their last two games to keep their semi-final hopes alive.

The Virat Kohli-led side will be looking to extend their unbeaten streak to three matches against Namibia on Monday. The batting line-up is unlikely to be changed as both openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul have looked in great touch while the likes of Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya have also fired with the willow.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explainer-what-india-new-zealand-afghanistan-need-to-do-to-qualify-for-t20-world-cup-2021-semi-finals-427196">What India, New Zealand &amp; Afghanistan need to do to qualify for T20 World Cup 2021 semi-finals</a>

In the bowling department, Kohli might be tempted to play Rahul Chahar in place of Varun Chakaravarthy, who has struggled to pick wickets so far in the tournament. Shardul Thakur might also come in for the right-arm spinner giving India an extra pace option against Namibia.

However, Kohli might not want to change the winning combination from India's clinical 8-wicket win against New Zealand in their last game and would be looking to continue the winning momentum.

India's predicted playing XI for Namibia game in T20 World Cup 2021:

Virat Kohli (C), KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Varun Chakaravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India's fate in T20 World Cup 2021 will be decided even before they take the field against Namibia in their final Super 12 clash at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Monday (November 07).

India's fate in T20 World Cup 2021 will be decided even before they take the field against Namibia in their final Super 12 clash at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Monday (November 07). India's hopes rest on the shoulders of Afghanistan, who are in a must-win situation against the Kiwis. Heading into the game, New Zealand are placed second in the Group 2 table while India are placed third with a slightly better net run rate than Afghanistan, who are at the fourth spot with as many points as India (4) from four matches. If New Zealand beat Afghanistan they will finish second in the group and qualify for the semis. However, if Afghanistan manage to pull off an upset agains New Zealand, they will give both themselves and India a chance to become the second team from the group to reach the semis while dumping the Kiwis out of the tournament. India's eyes will be on the result of the Afghanistan-New Zealand game, however, they would want to finish their Super 12 campaign with a win against Namibia irrespective of the result of the first game on Sunday. After facing back-to-back defeats in their first two matches, India have bounced back strongly with two big wins against Afghanistan and Scotland in their last two games to keep their semi-final hopes alive. The Virat Kohli-led side will be looking to extend their unbeaten streak to three matches against Namibia on Monday. The batting line-up is unlikely to be changed as both openers Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul have looked in great touch while the likes of Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya have also fired with the willow. Also Read: What India, New Zealand & Afghanistan need to do to qualify for T20 World Cup 2021 semi-finals In the bowling department, Kohli might be tempted to play Rahul Chahar in place of Varun Chakaravarthy, who has struggled to pick wickets so far in the tournament. Shardul Thakur might also come in for the right-arm spinner giving India an extra pace option against Namibia. However, Kohli might not want to change the winning combination from India's clinical 8-wicket win against New Zealand in their last game and would be looking to continue the winning momentum. India's predicted playing XI for Namibia game in T20 World Cup 2021: Virat Kohli (C), KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Varun Chakaravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

Varun Chakaravarthy out? India's predicted XI for must-win game against Namibia in T20 WC 2021

A spot in the semi-final will be on the line for Australia when they lock horns with West Indies in their final Super 12 clash at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (November 06). Australia have so far won three for their first four matches and are one win away from securing a spot in the top two to make it to the next round.

A loss against West Indies might prove fatal to their chances of qualifying for the semi-finals as South Africa are breathing down their neck with the same number of points in their bag and a game in hand. If Australia lose against West Indies and South Africa win their final Super 12 game against England, the Proteas would finish second in the group and qualify for the semis.

Currently, Australia are in a stronger position to make it to the next round even if South Africa manage to beat England in their last group game as Aussies have a much better net run rate of +1.031 compared to South Africa's +0.742, who will have to register a huge win if they are to surpass Australia even if Aaron Finch's men beat West Indies.

Australia haven't played their best cricket so far in the T20 World Cup this year but still, stand only one win away from qualifying. However, the same can't be said about West Indies, who were everyone's second favourite at the start of the tournament but have had a miserable campaign so far.

Sri Lanka thrashed West Indies by 20 runs in their fourth Super 12 clash on Thursday (November 04) to end their hopes of finishing in the top four. Despite having extraordinarily firepower in their batting line-up and some brilliant experienced&nbsp;all-rounders in their squad, Windies have only managed one win in four matches so far in the tournament.

Adam Zampa picked up a five-wicket haul as Australia defeated Bangladesh comprehensively by eight wickets in their last game and will be heading into the West Indies clash on a confident note. The Aussies have their fate in their own hands as they would need a win to ensure they can consolidate their second spot on the points table.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-respect-virat-kohli-and-other-team-members-visit-scotland-dressing-room-after-the-game-see-pics-427071">'Huge respect': Kohli and other team members visit Scotland dressing room after the game - see pics</a>

Australia vs West Indies, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction:

West Indies have dominated Australia in T20Is when it comes to head-to-head record between the two sides with 10 wins in total 16 meetings against each other. However, in this year's T20 World Cup, West Indies have not been the side they are known as and have massively underperformed. Aussies might start as favourites against them and will look to give their all considering it will be their las bid for a spot in the semi-finals.

&nbsp;

A spot in the semi-final will be on the line for Australia when they lock horns with West Indies in their final Super 12 clash at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (November 06).

A spot in the semi-final will be on the line for Australia when they lock horns with West Indies in their final Super 12 clash at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 on Saturday (November 06). Australia have so far won three for their first four matches and are one win away from securing a spot in the top two to make it to the next round. A loss against West Indies might prove fatal to their chances of qualifying for the semi-finals as South Africa are breathing down their neck with the same number of points in their bag and a game in hand. If Australia lose against West Indies and South Africa win their final Super 12 game against England, the Proteas would finish second in the group and qualify for the semis. Currently, Australia are in a stronger position to make it to the next round even if South Africa manage to beat England in their last group game as Aussies have a much better net run rate of +1.031 compared to South Africa's +0.742, who will have to register a huge win if they are to surpass Australia even if Aaron Finch's men beat West Indies. Australia haven't played their best cricket so far in the T20 World Cup this year but still, stand only one win away from qualifying. However, the same can't be said about West Indies, who were everyone's second favourite at the start of the tournament but have had a miserable campaign so far. Sri Lanka thrashed West Indies by 20 runs in their fourth Super 12 clash on Thursday (November 04) to end their hopes of finishing in the top four. Despite having extraordinarily firepower in their batting line-up and some brilliant experienced all-rounders in their squad, Windies have only managed one win in four matches so far in the tournament. Adam Zampa picked up a five-wicket haul as Australia defeated Bangladesh comprehensively by eight wickets in their last game and will be heading into the West Indies clash on a confident note. The Aussies have their fate in their own hands as they would need a win to ensure they can consolidate their second spot on the points table. Also Read: 'Huge respect': Kohli and other team members visit Scotland dressing room after the game - see pics Australia vs West Indies, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: West Indies have dominated Australia in T20Is when it comes to head-to-head record between the two sides with 10 wins in total 16 meetings against each other. However, in this year's T20 World Cup, West Indies have not been the side they are known as and have massively underperformed. Aussies might start as favourites against them and will look to give their all considering it will be their las bid for a spot in the semi-finals.

AUS vs WI, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between Australia and West Indies?

Virat Kohli is all set to step down as Indian cricket team's captain from the T20I format post the conclusion of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Kohli is leading the Men in Blue in his final T20 assignment as the captain of the side and will be playing the shortest format as a pure batter after the showpiece event. The team is also expected to undergo a major overhaul as far as T20Is are concerned after a poor show in the World Cup this year.

India lost their first two matches of the Super 12 in a row against Pakistan and New Zealand and are currently on the verge of getting eliminated from the tournament from Super 12 despite having won comprehensively against Afghanistan and Scotland in their last two matches. India's fate rests in the hands of Afghanistan, who will have to beat New Zealand in their last Super 12 encounter to keep India alive in the race for semi-finals.

While Kohli is set to step aside as a captain after the T20 World Cup, there have been a lot of names that have come up to replace him as the leader of Team India in the shortest format. While many experts have backed Rohit Sharma to be the next T20 captain of Team India, the likes of Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul among others have also emerged as captaincy contenders.

Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra has named a surprise pick to succeed Kohli as the captain of the Indian team. He feels premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah can be an ideal candidate for captaincy since he is a regular member in the playing XI across all formats and is an important member of the squad.

"After Rohit Sharma, we are hearing the names of Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul [as contendors]. Rishabh Pant has travelled around the world but has also carried drinks and has even been left out from the team before. KL Rahul returned to Test cricket because Mayank Agarwal was injured... So Jasprit Bumrah can be an option too,"&nbsp;Nehra told Cricbuzz.

"As Ajay [Jadeja] said, he's sturdy, a certainty in the team, and is always in the XI for all formats. It's nowhere written in the rule book that fast bowlers can't be captains," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explainer-what-india-new-zealand-afghanistan-need-to-do-to-qualify-for-t20-world-cup-2021-semi-finals-427196">Explainer - What India, NZ&nbsp;&amp; Afghanistan need to do to qualify for T20 World Cup 2021 semi-finals</a>

While Bumrah is one of the vital cogs of the Indian bowling line-up across formats, he is unlikely to be promoted as a captain anytime soon. Rohit appears to be the likely one to take over the batton from Kohli in T20Is keeping the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind.

&nbsp;

Virat Kohli is all set to step down as Indian cricket team's captain from the T20I format post the conclusion of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Kohli is leading the Men in Blue in his final T20 assignment as the captain of the side and will be playing the shortest format as a pure batter after the showpiece event.

Virat Kohli is all set to step down as Indian cricket team's captain from the T20I format post the conclusion of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Kohli is leading the Men in Blue in his final T20 assignment as the captain of the side and will be playing the shortest format as a pure batter after the showpiece event. The team is also expected to undergo a major overhaul as far as T20Is are concerned after a poor show in the World Cup this year. India lost their first two matches of the Super 12 in a row against Pakistan and New Zealand and are currently on the verge of getting eliminated from the tournament from Super 12 despite having won comprehensively against Afghanistan and Scotland in their last two matches. India's fate rests in the hands of Afghanistan, who will have to beat New Zealand in their last Super 12 encounter to keep India alive in the race for semi-finals. While Kohli is set to step aside as a captain after the T20 World Cup, there have been a lot of names that have come up to replace him as the leader of Team India in the shortest format. While many experts have backed Rohit Sharma to be the next T20 captain of Team India, the likes of Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul among others have also emerged as captaincy contenders. Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra has named a surprise pick to succeed Kohli as the captain of the Indian team. He feels premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah can be an ideal candidate for captaincy since he is a regular member in the playing XI across all formats and is an important member of the squad. "After Rohit Sharma, we are hearing the names of Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul [as contendors]. Rishabh Pant has travelled around the world but has also carried drinks and has even been left out from the team before. KL Rahul returned to Test cricket because Mayank Agarwal was injured... So Jasprit Bumrah can be an option too," Nehra told Cricbuzz. "As Ajay [Jadeja] said, he's sturdy, a certainty in the team, and is always in the XI for all formats. It's nowhere written in the rule book that fast bowlers can't be captains," he added. Also Read: Explainer - What India, NZ & Afghanistan need to do to qualify for T20 World Cup 2021 semi-finals While Bumrah is one of the vital cogs of the Indian bowling line-up across formats, he is unlikely to be promoted as a captain anytime soon. Rohit appears to be the likely one to take over the batton from Kohli in T20Is keeping the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind.

'He is always in the XI': Ashish Nehra names surprise pick to replace Virat Kohli as India's T20I captain

India's eight-wicket win over Scotland in the T20 World Cup 2021 has left the race for a spot in the semi-final wide open in Group 2&nbsp;of the Super 12s. As the tournament heads towards its business end, the race for the top four is heating up with each passing day. Currently, as many as three teams are in contention to make it to the semis as far as Group 2 is concerned.

India have the trickiest route to the semi-finals despite having won their last two matches by huge margins. Their back-to-back defeats against Pakistan and New Zealand had pushed them on the brink of an early exit from the tournament but India have bounced back strongly to remain alive in the race for the semi-finals.

Nonetheless, Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s fate rests on the shoulders of Afghanistan, who will have to beat New Zealand in their final league game on Sunday to keep India in the race. A loss against New Zealand will end both India and Afghanistan's campaign in the tournament.

<h2>Here is a look at what India, New Zealand and Afghanistan need to qualify for the semis:</h2>

1) India (Points - 4, net run rate - +1.619, matches remaining - 1)

Let's start with the trickiest one and the most unlikely one to make it. India suffered consecutive defeats against Pakistan and New Zealand in their first two matches which almost confirmed their ouster from the tournament before they staged an emphatic comeback. India crushed Afghanistan by 66 runs before thrashing Scotland by 8 wickets on Friday (November 05).

If Afghanistan manage&nbsp;to beat New Zealand in their last Super 12 game on Sunday (November 06), India will have a great chance of qualifying, provided they beat Namibia by a good margin to stay above Afghanistan in the net run rate. However, if Afghanistan lose, India's campaign will be over in T20 World Cup 2021.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasim-jaffer-shares-hilarious-meme-on-t20-wc-semi-final-qualification-scenario-leaves-harbhajan-in-splits-427154">Jaffer shares hilarious meme on T20 WC semi-final qualification scenario, leaves Harbhajan in splits</a>

2) Afghanistan (Points - 4, net run rate - +1.481, matches remaining - 1)

Afghanistan are as much in the fray as India to qualify for the semis. The equation is not the simplest one for Afghanistan but they are in a must-win situation. A loss will confirm their exit from the competition while a win against New Zealand in their last game will not only keep India alive but also give Mohammad Nabi &amp; Co.&nbsp;a healthy chance of becoming the second team after Pakistan to qualify for semis from Group 2.

Afghanistan will have to win by a big margin against New Zealand to ensure their net run rate is too much for India to catch up when Kohli &amp; Co. take on Namibia in their last game. Afghanistan can qualify only if they can beat New Zealand and overtake India on net run rate while hoping that Kohli's men&nbsp;fail to surpass it in their game against Namibia.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-want-controversies-but-questions-will-be-raised-if-new-zealand-lose-against-afghanistan-shoaib-akhtar-427143">&nbsp;Don't want controversies but questions will be raised if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan:&nbsp;Akhtar</a>

3) New Zealand (Points - 6, net run rate - +1.277, matches remaining - 1)

New Zealand are the strongest contenders to finish second in Group 2 and qualify for the semi-finals. Their only loss so far in the tournament came against table-toppers Pakistan and the Black Caps have since won their next three matches in a row. The equation is a simple one for them as they have their fate in their own hands.

New Zealand will be the second team from Group 2 to qualify along with Pakistan if they beat Afghanistan in their last game. However, if they lose it might cost them a spot in the top four of the tournament. It is a must-win situation for New Zealand against Afghanistan as they can't afford a slip up in their final Super 12 game.

&nbsp;

India's eight-wicket win over Scotland in the T20 World Cup 2021 has left the race for a spot in the semi-final wide open in Group 2 of the Super 12s. As the tournament heads towards its business end, the race for the top four is heating up with each passing day.

India's eight-wicket win over Scotland in the T20 World Cup 2021 has left the race for a spot in the semi-final wide open in Group 2 of the Super 12s. As the tournament heads towards its business end, the race for the top four is heating up with each passing day. Currently, as many as three teams are in contention to make it to the semis as far as Group 2 is concerned. India have the trickiest route to the semi-finals despite having won their last two matches by huge margins. Their back-to-back defeats against Pakistan and New Zealand had pushed them on the brink of an early exit from the tournament but India have bounced back strongly to remain alive in the race for the semi-finals. Nonetheless, Virat Kohli & Co.'s fate rests on the shoulders of Afghanistan, who will have to beat New Zealand in their final league game on Sunday to keep India in the race. A loss against New Zealand will end both India and Afghanistan's campaign in the tournament. Here is a look at what India, New Zealand and Afghanistan need to qualify for the semis: 1) India (Points - 4, net run rate - +1.619, matches remaining - 1) Let's start with the trickiest one and the most unlikely one to make it. India suffered consecutive defeats against Pakistan and New Zealand in their first two matches which almost confirmed their ouster from the tournament before they staged an emphatic comeback. India crushed Afghanistan by 66 runs before thrashing Scotland by 8 wickets on Friday (November 05). If Afghanistan manage to beat New Zealand in their last Super 12 game on Sunday (November 06), India will have a great chance of qualifying, provided they beat Namibia by a good margin to stay above Afghanistan in the net run rate. However, if Afghanistan lose, India's campaign will be over in T20 World Cup 2021. Also Read: Jaffer shares hilarious meme on T20 WC semi-final qualification scenario, leaves Harbhajan in splits 2) Afghanistan (Points - 4, net run rate - +1.481, matches remaining - 1) Afghanistan are as much in the fray as India to qualify for the semis. The equation is not the simplest one for Afghanistan but they are in a must-win situation. A loss will confirm their exit from the competition while a win against New Zealand in their last game will not only keep India alive but also give Mohammad Nabi & Co. a healthy chance of becoming the second team after Pakistan to qualify for semis from Group 2. Afghanistan will have to win by a big margin against New Zealand to ensure their net run rate is too much for India to catch up when Kohli & Co. take on Namibia in their last game. Afghanistan can qualify only if they can beat New Zealand and overtake India on net run rate while hoping that Kohli's men fail to surpass it in their game against Namibia. Also Read: Don't want controversies but questions will be raised if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan: Akhtar 3) New Zealand (Points - 6, net run rate - +1.277, matches remaining - 1) New Zealand are the strongest contenders to finish second in Group 2 and qualify for the semi-finals. Their only loss so far in the tournament came against table-toppers Pakistan and the Black Caps have since won their next three matches in a row. The equation is a simple one for them as they have their fate in their own hands. New Zealand will be the second team from Group 2 to qualify along with Pakistan if they beat Afghanistan in their last game. However, if they lose it might cost them a spot in the top four of the tournament. It is a must-win situation for New Zealand against Afghanistan as they can't afford a slip up in their final Super 12 game.

Explainer: What India, New Zealand & Afghanistan need to do to qualify for T20 World Cup 2021 semi-finals

The race for the top four is heating up in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 as we head towards the business end of the tournament. England and Pakistan are the only two teams so far who have qualified for the semi-finals with four wins in four matches respectively. However, the race for the final spots are wide open in both groups at present.

In Group 1, Australia and South Africa are in contention to finish second and qualify for the semis. Australia will take on West Indies on Saturday (November 06) and will hope to beat them to make it to the next round. However, South Africa too have as many points as Australia (6) after 4 games and they will secure a berth in the semi-finals if Australia lose against West Indies and they manage to beat England in their final Super 12 game on Saturday.

South Africa can still qualify even if Australia win if they manage to earn a big victory against England to leave the Aaron Finch-led side behind on net run rate. Thus, Australia will hope for a favour from England and want the table-toppers to beat South Africa so they can progress into the knockout stages.

In Group 2, New Zealand, India and Afghanistan are three teams in contention for the second spot on the points table. If New Zealand win their last Super 12 game against Afghanistan they will finish second and qualify for the semi-finals. However, if they lose, it will keep both India and Afghanistan in the fray for a top-four finish.

Former India batter Wasim Jaffer, who his known for his witty and funny tweets on Twitter, came up with a hilarious post to describe the semi-final qualification scenario in the T20 World Cup 2021. Jaffer shared a meme inspired from a scene of an iconic Bollywood movie - 'Dhamal' to leave the fans in splits.

Jaffer's former India teammate Harbhajan Singh was also left in splits as he reacted to the meme shared by him.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Current situation : India and AUS not only need to win but need AFG and ENG to win too for certain/easier passage. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/6K6x0q7ogs">pic.twitter.com/6K6x0q7ogs</a>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1456841418824060938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/jIeZ2sqty4">https://t.co/jIeZ2sqty4</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1456856752146640898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-want-controversies-but-questions-will-be-raised-if-new-zealand-lose-against-afghanistan-shoaib-akhtar-427143">Don't want controversies but questions will be raised if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan:&nbsp;Akhtar</a>

A clear picture of the semi-final qualification scenario in Group 1 will be out on Saturday as both Australia and South Africa will be in action against West Indies and England respectively. On the other hand, the Group 1 scenario will be clear after the end of the first match on Sunday (October 07) when Afghanistan will take on New Zealand.

The race for the top four is heating up in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 as we head towards the business end of the tournament. England and Pakistan are the only two teams so far who have qualified for the semi-finals with four wins in four matches respectively.

The race for the top four is heating up in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 as we head towards the business end of the tournament. England and Pakistan are the only two teams so far who have qualified for the semi-finals with four wins in four matches respectively. However, the race for the final spots are wide open in both groups at present. In Group 1, Australia and South Africa are in contention to finish second and qualify for the semis. Australia will take on West Indies on Saturday (November 06) and will hope to beat them to make it to the next round. However, South Africa too have as many points as Australia (6) after 4 games and they will secure a berth in the semi-finals if Australia lose against West Indies and they manage to beat England in their final Super 12 game on Saturday. South Africa can still qualify even if Australia win if they manage to earn a big victory against England to leave the Aaron Finch-led side behind on net run rate. Thus, Australia will hope for a favour from England and want the table-toppers to beat South Africa so they can progress into the knockout stages. In Group 2, New Zealand, India and Afghanistan are three teams in contention for the second spot on the points table. If New Zealand win their last Super 12 game against Afghanistan they will finish second and qualify for the semi-finals. However, if they lose, it will keep both India and Afghanistan in the fray for a top-four finish. Former India batter Wasim Jaffer, who his known for his witty and funny tweets on Twitter, came up with a hilarious post to describe the semi-final qualification scenario in the T20 World Cup 2021. Jaffer shared a meme inspired from a scene of an iconic Bollywood movie - 'Dhamal' to leave the fans in splits. Jaffer's former India teammate Harbhajan Singh was also left in splits as he reacted to the meme shared by him. Current situation : India and AUS not only need to win but need AFG and ENG to win too for certain/easier passage. #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/6K6x0q7ogs — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) November 6, 2021 × https://t.co/jIeZ2sqty4 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) November 6, 2021 × Also Read: Don't want controversies but questions will be raised if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan: Akhtar A clear picture of the semi-final qualification scenario in Group 1 will be out on Saturday as both Australia and South Africa will be in action against West Indies and England respectively. On the other hand, the Group 1 scenario will be clear after the end of the first match on Sunday (October 07) when Afghanistan will take on New Zealand.

Wasim Jaffer shares hilarious meme on T20 WC semi-final qualification scenario, leaves Harbhajan in splits

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar feels questions will be raised if New Zealand fail to beat Afghanistan in their last Super 12 clash in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. The result of the New Zealand-Afghanistan will decide Team India's fate in the tournament as Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s hopes rest on the shoulders of Afghanistan.

If Afghanistan manage to beat New Zealand, India will have a chance of finishing second in Group 2 and qualify for the semi-finals. However, if New Zealand beat Afghanistan, India's campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 will be over even before they take the field in their final Super 12 game against Namibia on Sunday (November 07).

India have kept their semi-final hopes alive with back-to-back big wins against Afghanistan and Scotland in their last two games but their fate no more lies in their own hands in the tournament. New Zealand and Afghanistan will meet in Abu Dhabi on Sunday and the eyes of all Indian fans will be on the contest.

In a new video on his YouTube channel, Akhtar said he wants to refrain from controversy but questions will be asked if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan on Sunday. Hinting at the rumours of match-fixing, Akhtar said it will be hard to stop what is being said on social media in case of a New Zealand defeat which will hand India an advantage in the competition.

"If New Zealand lose to Afghanistan, then many questions will be raised. Let me warn you beforehand, many questions will be raised. I fear it would start another trending news on social media. I don't want to get into more controversies, I don't want to talk on these topics but the sentiments of Pakistan people are too high in New Zealand," Akhtar said in the video.

"I think New Zealand is a better team than Afghanistan, god forbid, if they don't win, there will be a problem, no one will be able to stop what's being said on social media," he added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VqcaRS5siec" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spirit-of-cricket-scotland-players-request-to-visit-indian-dressing-room-chat-with-dhoni-kohli-watch-427134">Spirit of cricket! Scotland players request to visit Indian dressing room, chat with Dhoni, Kohli&nbsp;</a>

As far as Group 2 is concerned, Pakistan have qualified for the semi-finals with four wins in four matches and are placed on top of the table with 8 points. New Zealand are at the second spot with six points and a net run rate of +1.277. India and Afghanistan have four points each from four games but India are ahead with a better net run rate of +1.619 compared to Afghanistan's +1.481.

If Afghanistan are to qualify, they will have to beat New Zealand by a big margin and hope India lose against Namibia or win by a small margin which keep the Kohli-led side behind in the net run rate.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar feels questions will be raised if New Zealand fail to beat Afghanistan in their last Super 12 clash in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar feels questions will be raised if New Zealand fail to beat Afghanistan in their last Super 12 clash in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. The result of the New Zealand-Afghanistan will decide Team India's fate in the tournament as Virat Kohli & Co.'s hopes rest on the shoulders of Afghanistan. If Afghanistan manage to beat New Zealand, India will have a chance of finishing second in Group 2 and qualify for the semi-finals. However, if New Zealand beat Afghanistan, India's campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 will be over even before they take the field in their final Super 12 game against Namibia on Sunday (November 07). India have kept their semi-final hopes alive with back-to-back big wins against Afghanistan and Scotland in their last two games but their fate no more lies in their own hands in the tournament. New Zealand and Afghanistan will meet in Abu Dhabi on Sunday and the eyes of all Indian fans will be on the contest. In a new video on his YouTube channel, Akhtar said he wants to refrain from controversy but questions will be asked if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan on Sunday. Hinting at the rumours of match-fixing, Akhtar said it will be hard to stop what is being said on social media in case of a New Zealand defeat which will hand India an advantage in the competition. "If New Zealand lose to Afghanistan, then many questions will be raised. Let me warn you beforehand, many questions will be raised. I fear it would start another trending news on social media. I don't want to get into more controversies, I don't want to talk on these topics but the sentiments of Pakistan people are too high in New Zealand," Akhtar said in the video. "I think New Zealand is a better team than Afghanistan, god forbid, if they don't win, there will be a problem, no one will be able to stop what's being said on social media," he added. × Also Read: Spirit of cricket! Scotland players request to visit Indian dressing room, chat with Dhoni, Kohli As far as Group 2 is concerned, Pakistan have qualified for the semi-finals with four wins in four matches and are placed on top of the table with 8 points. New Zealand are at the second spot with six points and a net run rate of +1.277. India and Afghanistan have four points each from four games but India are ahead with a better net run rate of +1.619 compared to Afghanistan's +1.481. If Afghanistan are to qualify, they will have to beat New Zealand by a big margin and hope India lose against Namibia or win by a small margin which keep the Kohli-led side behind in the net run rate.

Don't want controversies but questions will be raised if New Zealand lose against Afghanistan: Shoaib Akhtar

India thrashed Scotland by eight wickets in their penultimate Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup 2021 on Friday (November 05) to keep their semi-final hopes alive in the tournament. India produced a dominant performance with the bat and the ball to register an emphatic victory and massively improve their net run-rate to remain in the race for a top-two finish in Group 2.

Indian bowlers wreaked havoc on the Scottish batting line-up after the Kyle Coetzer-led side were asked to bat first at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday. Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami picked up three wickets apiece as Scotland were bundled out cheaply for a paltry 85.

In reply, Indian openers KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma went bonkers in the run-chase as they help the team chase down the target in just 39 balls. Rahul smashed 50 off 19 balls laced with three sixes and six fours while Rohit scored a quickfire 30 off 16 balls with the help of five fours and a solitary six. India won the game comprehensively with as many as 13.3 overs to spare.

Post the game, Scotland players requested to visit the Indian dressing room and the Indian players obliged. It was a great gesture from the Indian stars to acknowledge and appreciate the Scotland players, who looked excited to meet and chat with some of the best cricketers in the world.&nbsp;

The likes of MS Dhoni, who is the mentor of the team for the tournament, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, R Ashwin and Hardik Pandya among others were seen sharing their experiences with the Scotland players. BCCI shared a video of the Scotland players visiting the Indian dressing room on their official Twitter handle.

Watch video:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
MUST WATCH: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpiritOfCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpiritOfCricket</a> was at its best as Scotland expressed their wish to visit the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> dressing room &amp; our boys made them feel at home - By <a href="https://twitter.com/Moulinparikh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Moulinparikh</a> 
 
Special feature <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSCO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSCO</a> <a href="https://t.co/pfY3r9evwH">https://t.co/pfY3r9evwH</a> <a href="https://t.co/g6g6A86zve">pic.twitter.com/g6g6A86zve</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1456847577010167811?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-will-pack-our-bags-go-ravindra-jadejas-cheeky-response-to-question-on-nz-afghanistan-game-427126">'Will pack our bags &amp; go': Jadeja's cheeky response to question on NZ-Afghanistan game - WATCH</a>

India have now registered two back-to-back dominant victories against Afghanistan and Scotland respectively but their hopes of finishing in the top two in Group 2 depend on the fate of the Afghanistan-New Zealand game. If New Zealand manage to beat Afghanistan they will move to eight points and will finish second to qualify for the semi-finals.

However, if Afghanistan manage to beat New Zealand, India will have to win by a big margin in their last game against Namibia to make it to the next round.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India thrashed Scotland by eight wickets in their penultimate Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup 2021 on Friday (November 05) to keep their semi-final hopes alive in the tournament.

India thrashed Scotland by eight wickets in their penultimate Super 12 clash of the T20 World Cup 2021 on Friday (November 05) to keep their semi-final hopes alive in the tournament. India produced a dominant performance with the bat and the ball to register an emphatic victory and massively improve their net run-rate to remain in the race for a top-two finish in Group 2. Indian bowlers wreaked havoc on the Scottish batting line-up after the Kyle Coetzer-led side were asked to bat first at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Friday. Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami picked up three wickets apiece as Scotland were bundled out cheaply for a paltry 85. In reply, Indian openers KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma went bonkers in the run-chase as they help the team chase down the target in just 39 balls. Rahul smashed 50 off 19 balls laced with three sixes and six fours while Rohit scored a quickfire 30 off 16 balls with the help of five fours and a solitary six. India won the game comprehensively with as many as 13.3 overs to spare. Post the game, Scotland players requested to visit the Indian dressing room and the Indian players obliged. It was a great gesture from the Indian stars to acknowledge and appreciate the Scotland players, who looked excited to meet and chat with some of the best cricketers in the world. The likes of MS Dhoni, who is the mentor of the team for the tournament, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, R Ashwin and Hardik Pandya among others were seen sharing their experiences with the Scotland players. BCCI shared a video of the Scotland players visiting the Indian dressing room on their official Twitter handle. Watch video: MUST WATCH: #SpiritOfCricket was at its best as Scotland expressed their wish to visit the #TeamIndia dressing room & our boys made them feel at home - By @Moulinparikh Special feature #T20WorldCup #INDvSCO https://t.co/pfY3r9evwH pic.twitter.com/g6g6A86zve — BCCI (@BCCI) November 6, 2021 × Also Read: 'Will pack our bags & go': Jadeja's cheeky response to question on NZ-Afghanistan game - WATCH India have now registered two back-to-back dominant victories against Afghanistan and Scotland respectively but their hopes of finishing in the top two in Group 2 depend on the fate of the Afghanistan-New Zealand game. If New Zealand manage to beat Afghanistan they will move to eight points and will finish second to qualify for the semi-finals. However, if Afghanistan manage to beat New Zealand, India will have to win by a big margin in their last game against Namibia to make it to the next round.

Spirit of cricket! Scotland players request to visit Indian dressing room, chat with Dhoni, Kohli - WATCH

India's hopes of making it to the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2021 rests on the fate of Aghanistan's final Super 12 clash against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi on Sunday (November 07). If Afghanistan lose against New Zealand, India will be out of the race for the semis even before they take the field in their last Super 12 game against Namibia on Monday.

The equation is a tricky one for India as they will depend on the result of the Afghanistan-New Zealand game to salvage their chance of finishing in the top two in their group. If Afghanistan beat New Zealand, India will have to ensure they defeat Namibia by a big margin to keep their net run rate better than Afghanistan to finish second behind top-ranked Pakistan.

India thrashed Scotland by 8 wickets in their penultimate group stage game on Friday to keep their top-four hopes alive. India bundled out the minnows for a paltry 85 and chased down the target in just 39 balls to get their net run rate above Afghanistan and New Zealand. India now have two wins in a row and will be hoping for Afghanistan to hand them a lifeline in the tournament.

After India's dominant 8-wicket win against Scotland on Friday, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja came up with a cheeky response to a reporter's question about the Afghanistan-New Zealand game. The journalist had asked Jadeja what will the Indian team do if New Zealand beat Afghanistan?

"There are talks going around that if New Zealand lost to Afghanistan, our chances brighten. But what if New Zealand don't lose to Afghanistan?" - the journalist asked Jadeja in the post-match press conference.

"Toh phir... bag pack karke ghar Jayenge, aur kya? (What else? Pack our bags and head home)," Jadeja replied.

Watch video

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"Toh phir aur bag pack karke ghar jayenge, aur kya" <a href="https://t.co/V6DE71UcM0">pic.twitter.com/V6DE71UcM0</a>
— Jayesh (@jayeshvk16) <a href="https://twitter.com/jayeshvk16/status/1456666440455516161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20wc-india-beat-scotland-in-63-overs-heres-how-it-changes-semis-permutations-how-can-india-qualify-427076">India beat Scotland in 6.3 overs, here's how it changes semis permutations. How can India qualify?</a>

Afghanistan have so far registered big wins against Scotland and Namibia but lost against Pakistan and India. They did give Pakistan a close fight and almost pulled off a win before Asif Ali's cameo took the game away from them.

The Mohammad Nabi-led side will be hoping to beat New Zealand which will not only keep India in the tournament but also give Afghanistan a chance to become the second team from the Group 2 to qualify for the semifinals.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

India's hopes of making it to the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2021 rests on the fate of Aghanistan's final Super 12 clash against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi on Sunday (November 07).

India's hopes of making it to the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2021 rests on the fate of Aghanistan's final Super 12 clash against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi on Sunday (November 07). If Afghanistan lose against New Zealand, India will be out of the race for the semis even before they take the field in their last Super 12 game against Namibia on Monday. The equation is a tricky one for India as they will depend on the result of the Afghanistan-New Zealand game to salvage their chance of finishing in the top two in their group. If Afghanistan beat New Zealand, India will have to ensure they defeat Namibia by a big margin to keep their net run rate better than Afghanistan to finish second behind top-ranked Pakistan. India thrashed Scotland by 8 wickets in their penultimate group stage game on Friday to keep their top-four hopes alive. India bundled out the minnows for a paltry 85 and chased down the target in just 39 balls to get their net run rate above Afghanistan and New Zealand. India now have two wins in a row and will be hoping for Afghanistan to hand them a lifeline in the tournament. After India's dominant 8-wicket win against Scotland on Friday, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja came up with a cheeky response to a reporter's question about the Afghanistan-New Zealand game. The journalist had asked Jadeja what will the Indian team do if New Zealand beat Afghanistan? "There are talks going around that if New Zealand lost to Afghanistan, our chances brighten. But what if New Zealand don't lose to Afghanistan?" - the journalist asked Jadeja in the post-match press conference. "Toh phir... bag pack karke ghar Jayenge, aur kya? (What else? Pack our bags and head home)," Jadeja replied. Watch video "Toh phir aur bag pack karke ghar jayenge, aur kya" pic.twitter.com/V6DE71UcM0 — Jayesh (@jayeshvk16) November 5, 2021 × Also Read: India beat Scotland in 6.3 overs, here's how it changes semis permutations. How can India qualify? Afghanistan have so far registered big wins against Scotland and Namibia but lost against Pakistan and India. They did give Pakistan a close fight and almost pulled off a win before Asif Ali's cameo took the game away from them. The Mohammad Nabi-led side will be hoping to beat New Zealand which will not only keep India in the tournament but also give Afghanistan a chance to become the second team from the Group 2 to qualify for the semifinals.

WATCH: 'Will pack our bags & go': Ravindra Jadeja's cheeky response to question on NZ-Afghanistan game

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes it is time for the Indian team to re-assess their T20 setup and leave out players who are better suited for the other formats of the game. India have had a poor start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 and are currently on the verge of missing out on a spot in the playoffs after two losses and one win in their first three Super 12 matches.

India's woeful start has led to several questions being raised about the selection of some of the members of the current T20 World Cup squad. Manjrekar cited the example of fast bowler Mohammed Shami and said while he is suited for Test cricket, India clearly have better bowlers than him when it comes to the shortest format of the game.

Indian pacers have struggled to deliver so far in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Barring Jasprit Bumrah, none of the speedsters have managed to make an impact so far. Shami, who went wicket-less in the first two games against Pakistan and New Zealand, returned to form as he picked up three wickets against Afghanistan in their last encounter.

"I think the time has come now for India to look at their T20 team and look at certain players and maybe assess whether these guys are better suited to playing some other format... Maybe there are some players in this T20 team who will add greater value or the best value that they can possibly add in one format and not be as good in the others... I am thinking about Mohammed Shami," Manjrekar said in a preview video for&nbsp;Dafa News,&nbsp;ahead of India's game against Scotland in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Friday (November 05).

"I think we have seen enough of Mohammed Shami to know that his greatest quality and where he's a superb asset for the team is Test match cricket. The last time I looked, his economy in T20 cricket was 9. I know he bowled well against Afghanistan but India clearly has bowlers who are slightly better than Mohammed Shami in T20 cricket," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-varun-or-ashwin-against-scotland-varun-chakravarthy-undergoes-fitness-drills-426776">Varun or Ashwin against Scotland? Varun Chakravarthy undergoes fitness drills</a>

Shami, who has been with the Indian team for quite a while now, has so far managed to play only 15 T20Is and has 15 wickets to his name at an average of over 34 and an economy rate of 9.79. Manjrekasr said the selectors should avoid making the mistake of selecting a player in a particular format based on his reputation in some other format.

"One must learn, as selectors especially, to disregard the reputation a man has earned in another format while assessing his place in a side for one format. India makes that mistake with Ravichandran Ashwin and to an extent Mohammed Shami," said the former India batter.

India will be looking to continue their winning run against Scotland on Friday after registering a big win by 66 runs in their last game against Afghanistan to open their win account in the tournament.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes it is time for the Indian team to re-assess their T20 setup and leave out players who are better suited for the other formats of the game.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes it is time for the Indian team to re-assess their T20 setup and leave out players who are better suited for the other formats of the game. India have had a poor start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 and are currently on the verge of missing out on a spot in the playoffs after two losses and one win in their first three Super 12 matches. India's woeful start has led to several questions being raised about the selection of some of the members of the current T20 World Cup squad. Manjrekar cited the example of fast bowler Mohammed Shami and said while he is suited for Test cricket, India clearly have better bowlers than him when it comes to the shortest format of the game. Indian pacers have struggled to deliver so far in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Barring Jasprit Bumrah, none of the speedsters have managed to make an impact so far. Shami, who went wicket-less in the first two games against Pakistan and New Zealand, returned to form as he picked up three wickets against Afghanistan in their last encounter. "I think the time has come now for India to look at their T20 team and look at certain players and maybe assess whether these guys are better suited to playing some other format... Maybe there are some players in this T20 team who will add greater value or the best value that they can possibly add in one format and not be as good in the others... I am thinking about Mohammed Shami," Manjrekar said in a preview video for Dafa News, ahead of India's game against Scotland in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Friday (November 05). "I think we have seen enough of Mohammed Shami to know that his greatest quality and where he's a superb asset for the team is Test match cricket. The last time I looked, his economy in T20 cricket was 9. I know he bowled well against Afghanistan but India clearly has bowlers who are slightly better than Mohammed Shami in T20 cricket," he added. Also Read: Varun or Ashwin against Scotland? Varun Chakravarthy undergoes fitness drills Shami, who has been with the Indian team for quite a while now, has so far managed to play only 15 T20Is and has 15 wickets to his name at an average of over 34 and an economy rate of 9.79. Manjrekasr said the selectors should avoid making the mistake of selecting a player in a particular format based on his reputation in some other format. "One must learn, as selectors especially, to disregard the reputation a man has earned in another format while assessing his place in a side for one format. India makes that mistake with Ravichandran Ashwin and to an extent Mohammed Shami," said the former India batter. India will be looking to continue their winning run against Scotland on Friday after registering a big win by 66 runs in their last game against Afghanistan to open their win account in the tournament.

India clearly has better bowlers than him: Sanjay Manjrekar questions Md. Shami's spot in T20 WC squad

Indian captain Virat Kohli has turned 33 on Friday (November 5). The right-hander remains the poster boy of Indian cricket and the cricketing fraternity has extended their warm wishes for the superstar cricketer.&nbsp;

Kohli made his international debut in 2008. While he did produce moments of brilliance and was part of the MS Dhoni-led Indian team's victorious 2011 ODI World Cup campaign, his rise became evident in world cricket since early 2012. He became the vice-captain of the limited-overs setup post his memorable 183 versus Pakistan in the 2012 Asia Cup and also won hearts for his aggressive approach versus the Australians.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-coach-rahul-dravid-suggests-who-should-become-indias-next-white-ball-captain-reports-426706">New coach Rahul Dravid suggests who should become India's next white-ball captain: Reports</a>

He led India for the first time in mid-2013 and took over as the Test captain in early 2015. Under him, India have been the No. 1 ranked side in the annual rankings for five successive years and were the runners-up in the inaugural WTC.&nbsp;

Kohli's limited-overs success is also inspiring as he averages over 50 in ODIs (59.07) and T20Is (52.01). In 2018, he became the fastest to 10,000 ODI runs whereas he also returned with the Player-of-the-Tournament awards in the last two T20 WCs, in 2014 and 2016.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharmas-special-praise-for-virat-kohli-says-his-hunger-for-success-is-just-unbelievable-426461">Watch: Rohit Sharma's special praise for Virat Kohli, says 'his hunger for success is just unbelievable'</a>

Kohli is also the leading run-getter in T20Is (3,225 runs). Overall, he has 70 international tons (43 in ODIs, 27 in Tests), third-most overall. Overall, he has 23,159 runs at the highest level.

As a captain, Kohli has led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and 2019 ODI WC semi-finals.&nbsp;Currently, he is leading the Men in Blue for the last time in the shortest format in the T20 WC 2021 edition, in the UAE. He will also be seen on the field on his 33rd birthday as India play Scotland in their penultimate group stage clash in the Super 12 round, on Friday evening at Dubai International Cricket Stadium Dubai.&nbsp;

India will hope for a big win and Kohli to anchor the innings as well as marshal his troops emphatically to keep the one-time winners alive in the race for the semi-finals.&nbsp;

Talking about his personal life, the superstar cricketer is married to Bollywood star Anushka Sharma and the couple have a 9-month old daughter named Vamika. They are also with the cricketer in India's bio-bubble for the T20 WC in the UAE.&nbsp;

We wish Virat Kohli more success with bat and as captain going forward.

Indian captain Virat Kohli has turned 33 on Friday (November 5). The right-hander remains the poster boy of Indian cricket and the cricketing fraternity has extended their warm wishes for the superstar cricketer.

Indian captain Virat Kohli has turned 33 on Friday (November 5). The right-hander remains the poster boy of Indian cricket and the cricketing fraternity has extended their warm wishes for the superstar cricketer. Kohli made his international debut in 2008. While he did produce moments of brilliance and was part of the MS Dhoni-led Indian team's victorious 2011 ODI World Cup campaign, his rise became evident in world cricket since early 2012. He became the vice-captain of the limited-overs setup post his memorable 183 versus Pakistan in the 2012 Asia Cup and also won hearts for his aggressive approach versus the Australians. ALSO READ | New coach Rahul Dravid suggests who should become India's next white-ball captain: Reports He led India for the first time in mid-2013 and took over as the Test captain in early 2015. Under him, India have been the No. 1 ranked side in the annual rankings for five successive years and were the runners-up in the inaugural WTC. Kohli's limited-overs success is also inspiring as he averages over 50 in ODIs (59.07) and T20Is (52.01). In 2018, he became the fastest to 10,000 ODI runs whereas he also returned with the Player-of-the-Tournament awards in the last two T20 WCs, in 2014 and 2016. ALSO READ | Watch: Rohit Sharma's special praise for Virat Kohli, says 'his hunger for success is just unbelievable' Kohli is also the leading run-getter in T20Is (3,225 runs). Overall, he has 70 international tons (43 in ODIs, 27 in Tests), third-most overall. Overall, he has 23,159 runs at the highest level. As a captain, Kohli has led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and 2019 ODI WC semi-finals. Currently, he is leading the Men in Blue for the last time in the shortest format in the T20 WC 2021 edition, in the UAE. He will also be seen on the field on his 33rd birthday as India play Scotland in their penultimate group stage clash in the Super 12 round, on Friday evening at Dubai International Cricket Stadium Dubai. India will hope for a big win and Kohli to anchor the innings as well as marshal his troops emphatically to keep the one-time winners alive in the race for the semi-finals. Talking about his personal life, the superstar cricketer is married to Bollywood star Anushka Sharma and the couple have a 9-month old daughter named Vamika. They are also with the cricketer in India's bio-bubble for the T20 WC in the UAE. We wish Virat Kohli more success with bat and as captain going forward.

Happy Birthday, skipper: Indian captain Virat Kohli turns 33

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed out the differences in the approach of the Indian cricket team and the England cricket team as the two sides enjoy contrasting campaigns at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. While India are on the verge of missing out on a spot in the semi-finals after two losses in their first three games, England have been unbeaten so far in their first four matches and have already qualified for the semis.

During a recent question and answer session on his YouTube channel, Chopra was asked about what India can learn from England's success in T20 World Cup 2021. Chopra responded by providing a detailed analysis of England have managed to become a force to reckon with in white-ball cricket.

Chopra explained how England have started picking players based on the demands of the format while keeping their reputation and form in other formats of the game aside. He called England's philosophy 'crystal clear'.

“This team goes with a philosophy. England have their priorities crystal clear and everyone seems to be moving in the same direction. They picked all-rounders by looking at performances from the county circuit, the Natwest T20 blast and The Hundred. They selected only white-ball players as per the demands of the format," said the former Indian cricketer.

He further went on to cite the example of Joe Root and claimed if the England Test skipper was an Indian, he would not only have been part of the Indian T20 team but also would have been leading the side at present. Root, who currently leads England in Tests, is not a part of the T20 World Cup 2021 squad.

“England did not take into consideration Test performances, no matter how good they were. Look at Joe Root’s case. If Joe Root was an Indian, do you think he would not have been part of the Indian T20 squad? I can give you in writing that Root would have been part of the team even if he had a strike rate of 125. He might even have been the captain of the T20 team. This is what India is all about. That is not how England thinks," Chopra said.

England had headed into the T20 World Cup this year without Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, who are two of their best match-winners in white-ball cricket. However, they have barely missed the star duo and have been on a roll in the Super 12 stage of the tournament with four wins in a row. Chopra said Indan should learn from England and not form strategies around individuals but put a philosphy in place where they can use players as per their skills in a particular format.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ready-to-provide-evidence-ex-pakistan-pacer-says-he-heard-michael-vaughans-racist-comments-at-yorkshire-426965">Ready to provide evidence: Ex-Pakistan pacer says he heard Vaughan's racist comments at Yorkshire</a>

“They have a horses for courses policy. Dawid Malan is in the T20 squad but doesn’t play too many Tests. Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid have been told what is expected of them. Their priorities are very clear. That is why even if some players are missing, there is someone else who can get into that role very quickly and seamlessly. India will have to learn from this. You cannot make strategies centered around individuals. They should have a philosophy in place and fit the other things in. This is a sub-continent culture where individuals are given preference, which we need to move away from.”

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed out the differences in the approach of the Indian cricket team and the England cricket team as the two sides enjoy contrasting campaigns at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021.

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed out the differences in the approach of the Indian cricket team and the England cricket team as the two sides enjoy contrasting campaigns at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. While India are on the verge of missing out on a spot in the semi-finals after two losses in their first three games, England have been unbeaten so far in their first four matches and have already qualified for the semis. During a recent question and answer session on his YouTube channel, Chopra was asked about what India can learn from England's success in T20 World Cup 2021. Chopra responded by providing a detailed analysis of England have managed to become a force to reckon with in white-ball cricket. Chopra explained how England have started picking players based on the demands of the format while keeping their reputation and form in other formats of the game aside. He called England's philosophy 'crystal clear'. “This team goes with a philosophy. England have their priorities crystal clear and everyone seems to be moving in the same direction. They picked all-rounders by looking at performances from the county circuit, the Natwest T20 blast and The Hundred. They selected only white-ball players as per the demands of the format," said the former Indian cricketer. He further went on to cite the example of Joe Root and claimed if the England Test skipper was an Indian, he would not only have been part of the Indian T20 team but also would have been leading the side at present. Root, who currently leads England in Tests, is not a part of the T20 World Cup 2021 squad. “England did not take into consideration Test performances, no matter how good they were. Look at Joe Root’s case. If Joe Root was an Indian, do you think he would not have been part of the Indian T20 squad? I can give you in writing that Root would have been part of the team even if he had a strike rate of 125. He might even have been the captain of the T20 team. This is what India is all about. That is not how England thinks," Chopra said. England had headed into the T20 World Cup this year without Jofra Archer and Ben Stokes, who are two of their best match-winners in white-ball cricket. However, they have barely missed the star duo and have been on a roll in the Super 12 stage of the tournament with four wins in a row. Chopra said Indan should learn from England and not form strategies around individuals but put a philosphy in place where they can use players as per their skills in a particular format. Also Read: Ready to provide evidence: Ex-Pakistan pacer says he heard Vaughan's racist comments at Yorkshire “They have a horses for courses policy. Dawid Malan is in the T20 squad but doesn’t play too many Tests. Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid have been told what is expected of them. Their priorities are very clear. That is why even if some players are missing, there is someone else who can get into that role very quickly and seamlessly. India will have to learn from this. You cannot make strategies centered around individuals. They should have a philosophy in place and fit the other things in. This is a sub-continent culture where individuals are given preference, which we need to move away from.”

'If Joe Root was Indian, he might be leading T20 team' - Aakash Chopra on what India can learn from England

Rahul Dravid, on Wednesday (November 3), was announced as the new Team India head coach, who will take over from Ravi Shastri post the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Many believed Dravid was the ideal candidate to replace Shastri -- who took over as India's coach since mid-2017 -- and the Sourav Ganguly-led Indian cricket board managed to convince The Wall for the top job, after reports initially claimed that Dravid wasn't willing to&nbsp;stay away from his young family for so long with coaching duties.

Dravid has served Indian cricket brilliantly since his international debut. Apart from his 13,288 runs in Tests and 10,889 ODI runs, he performed various roles for the national side during his playing days; i.e. serving as a part-time wicketkeeper, finisher or middle-order batter in ODIs, opener and captain. Since his retirement, Dravid has groomed India's young talents as U-19 and A team's coach before taking over as the National Cricket Academy (NCA) head, in Bengaluru.

Thus, many have their eyes on Dravid in his new role as India's head coach. Ahead of the start of his tenure, former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja has made a&nbsp;special request for the BCCI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/brilliant-captain-to-excellent-mentor-selfless-rahul-dravid-continues-to-serve-indian-cricket-426721">Brilliant captain to excellent mentor: Selfless Rahul Dravid continues to serve Indian cricket</a>

Jadeja told Cricbuzz, "If there's a role model of discipline and dedication, it's Rahul Dravid. You want a lot of things from a coach but discipline and dedication are probably the two prime things. It will be interesting to see who will make the next T20 captain - Rahul Dravid or [the selectors]. There's no doubt in his praise but when someone becomes an Indian coach, if you don't let him work or don't use his vision then it's all redundant, anyone can be a coach in that way.

"So if you have brought Rahul Dravid, the biggest name, then at least go with his vision. This is my request to the board... If a man like Rahul Dravid has joined then please, please move alongside his vision, understanding and dedication, don't tell him how to run the team," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-coach-rahul-dravid-suggests-who-should-become-indias-next-white-ball-captain-reports-426706">New coach Rahul Dravid suggests who should become India's next white-ball captain: Reports</a>

Amid huge expectations, Dravid will be hoping to fulfill the country's wish of guiding Team India to their first-ever ICC title since 2013, i.e. if they return without the trophy in the ongoing T20 WC. As of now, Kohli-led India have a very small chance to proceed to the semi-finals from their group (Pool B).

Rahul Dravid, on Wednesday (November 3), was announced as the new Team India head coach, who will take over from Ravi Shastri post the T20 World Cup 2021 edition.

Rahul Dravid, on Wednesday (November 3), was announced as the new Team India head coach, who will take over from Ravi Shastri post the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Many believed Dravid was the ideal candidate to replace Shastri -- who took over as India's coach since mid-2017 -- and the Sourav Ganguly-led Indian cricket board managed to convince The Wall for the top job, after reports initially claimed that Dravid wasn't willing to stay away from his young family for so long with coaching duties. Dravid has served Indian cricket brilliantly since his international debut. Apart from his 13,288 runs in Tests and 10,889 ODI runs, he performed various roles for the national side during his playing days; i.e. serving as a part-time wicketkeeper, finisher or middle-order batter in ODIs, opener and captain. Since his retirement, Dravid has groomed India's young talents as U-19 and A team's coach before taking over as the National Cricket Academy (NCA) head, in Bengaluru. Thus, many have their eyes on Dravid in his new role as India's head coach. Ahead of the start of his tenure, former Indian cricketer Ajay Jadeja has made a special request for the BCCI. ALSO READ | Brilliant captain to excellent mentor: Selfless Rahul Dravid continues to serve Indian cricket Jadeja told Cricbuzz, "If there's a role model of discipline and dedication, it's Rahul Dravid. You want a lot of things from a coach but discipline and dedication are probably the two prime things. It will be interesting to see who will make the next T20 captain - Rahul Dravid or [the selectors]. There's no doubt in his praise but when someone becomes an Indian coach, if you don't let him work or don't use his vision then it's all redundant, anyone can be a coach in that way. "So if you have brought Rahul Dravid, the biggest name, then at least go with his vision. This is my request to the board... If a man like Rahul Dravid has joined then please, please move alongside his vision, understanding and dedication, don't tell him how to run the team," he added. ALSO READ | New coach Rahul Dravid suggests who should become India's next white-ball captain: Reports Amid huge expectations, Dravid will be hoping to fulfill the country's wish of guiding Team India to their first-ever ICC title since 2013, i.e. if they return without the trophy in the ongoing T20 WC. As of now, Kohli-led India have a very small chance to proceed to the semi-finals from their group (Pool B).

'Don't tell him...' - Jadeja has a special request for BCCI as Rahul Dravid named India's new head coach

Happy Birthday Virat Kohli: Top five records owned by the Indian captain

Prior to the T20 World Cup, Virat Kohli had dropped a bomb in mid-September when he announced that he will lead India for the last time in the shortest format in the marquee event in the UAE. Under him, India remain alive in the T20 WC but have very slim chances of making it to the semi-finals of the showpiece event as they need to win their remaining two games in the Super 12 round, by big margins, and also hope for other results to favour them.

India are in a tricky position in the Super 12 of the T20 WC after back-to-back defeats in their opening two fixtures, versus Pakistan and New Zealand, respectively. Irrespective of whether India will progress to the semi-finals or bow out in the group stages, the world cricket is eagerly waiting to see who will succeed Kohli as T20I captain.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sco-t20-world-cup-2021-prediction-who-will-win-todays-match-between-india-and-scotland-426889">IND vs SCO, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between India and Scotland?</a>

In this regard, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag told&nbsp;while responding to a query by a fan on his Facebook Watch show Virugiri Dot Com, "I think there are many candidates for captain but I think Rohit is the best candidate because he has done well as a leader for the Mumbai Indians team in the IPL. He has won the IPL championship five times. So according to me, the next T20 captain of Team India should be Rohit Sharma."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-plays-the-game-religion-doesnt-former-pak-spinner-slams-trolls-for-targetting-shami-virat-kohli-426908">Players plays the game, religion doesn't: Former Pak spinner slams trolls for targetting Shami, Virat Kohli</a>

As per reports, Rohit or Rahul are frontrunners to replace Kohli and become the next Indian captain in T20Is. In addition, the BCCI might also look to replace Kohli and appoint only one white-ball captain, especially if India bow out f the T20 WC in the group stages. The 33-year-old Kohli is, however, very likely to remain Team India's Test captain.

Prior to the T20 World Cup, Virat Kohli had dropped a bomb in mid-September when he announced that he will lead India for the last time in the shortest format in the marquee event in the UAE.

Prior to the T20 World Cup, Virat Kohli had dropped a bomb in mid-September when he announced that he will lead India for the last time in the shortest format in the marquee event in the UAE. Under him, India remain alive in the T20 WC but have very slim chances of making it to the semi-finals of the showpiece event as they need to win their remaining two games in the Super 12 round, by big margins, and also hope for other results to favour them. India are in a tricky position in the Super 12 of the T20 WC after back-to-back defeats in their opening two fixtures, versus Pakistan and New Zealand, respectively. Irrespective of whether India will progress to the semi-finals or bow out in the group stages, the world cricket is eagerly waiting to see who will succeed Kohli as T20I captain. ALSO READ | IND vs SCO, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between India and Scotland? In this regard, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag told while responding to a query by a fan on his Facebook Watch show Virugiri Dot Com, "I think there are many candidates for captain but I think Rohit is the best candidate because he has done well as a leader for the Mumbai Indians team in the IPL. He has won the IPL championship five times. So according to me, the next T20 captain of Team India should be Rohit Sharma." ALSO READ | Players plays the game, religion doesn't: Former Pak spinner slams trolls for targetting Shami, Virat Kohli As per reports, Rohit or Rahul are frontrunners to replace Kohli and become the next Indian captain in T20Is. In addition, the BCCI might also look to replace Kohli and appoint only one white-ball captain, especially if India bow out f the T20 WC in the group stages. The 33-year-old Kohli is, however, very likely to remain Team India's Test captain.

Rohit, KL Rahul or Pant? Sehwag suggests who should be India's next T20I captain after Virat Kohli

Team India star Rohit Sharma is currently one of the senior-most figures in the Indian team's dressing room and has been a consistent performer with the bat across formats. Rohit is the vice-captain of the Indian team in the limited-overs format and is the designated opener in all three formats of the game.

Rohit is currently in action for Team India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 where the Virat Kohli-led side are on the verge of missing out on a spot in the playoffs after two losses in their first three games. India bounced back to winning ways in their last game against Afghanistan as they thrashed them by 66 runs to record their first win in the tournament.

Speaking to ICC's official media handle ahead of India's 4th Super 12 game against Scotland on Friday (November 05), Rohit said he has matured a lot since the last T20 World Cup in 2016 and has always kept the team above himself when it comes to his batting.

“From 2016 to now, all I can see is of course, I have gained a lot of experience. I have matured as a batsman a lot more than what I was in 2016. Understanding of the game, what the team needs, because you always have to put the team ahead of yourself and see what the team needs at that point,” Rohit said in a video shared by the ICC.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tough-times-dont-last-tough-people-do-virender-sehwag-leads-wishes-for-virat-kohli-on-33rd-birthday-426867">Tough times don't last, tough people do: Virender Sehwag leads wishes for Virat Kohli on 33rd birthday</a>

Rohit also recalled the 2019 World Cup campaign where he was in top-notch form and slammed a staggering five centuries for Team India. Rohit broke the record for most centuries in a single World Cup campaign with his five tons. However, the Hitman said his runs and centuries mean nothing to him if India can't win the trophy.

“Yeah, the 2019 World Cup was a very special one for me personally. Only because I got runs and it was good. There was a procedure that I was trying to follow and it worked for me," Rohit said.

“That was happiness. You know when you go into any tournament, there is a certain plan which has been placed by you and you want to follow that. That is what I did and it worked for me. If you don't win the trophy, all those runs that you score, all those hundreds that you score mean nothing honestly", he added.

India were the best team in the group stages and had topped the points table before losing against New Zealand in the semi-final to bow out of the tournament. India have not won an ICC trophy since 2013 when MS Dhoni-led side defeated England to win the Champions Trophy in their own backyard.

&nbsp;

Team India star Rohit Sharma is currently one of the senior-most figures in the Indian team's dressing room and has been a consistent performer with the bat across formats.

Team India star Rohit Sharma is currently one of the senior-most figures in the Indian team's dressing room and has been a consistent performer with the bat across formats. Rohit is the vice-captain of the Indian team in the limited-overs format and is the designated opener in all three formats of the game. Rohit is currently in action for Team India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 where the Virat Kohli-led side are on the verge of missing out on a spot in the playoffs after two losses in their first three games. India bounced back to winning ways in their last game against Afghanistan as they thrashed them by 66 runs to record their first win in the tournament. Speaking to ICC's official media handle ahead of India's 4th Super 12 game against Scotland on Friday (November 05), Rohit said he has matured a lot since the last T20 World Cup in 2016 and has always kept the team above himself when it comes to his batting. “From 2016 to now, all I can see is of course, I have gained a lot of experience. I have matured as a batsman a lot more than what I was in 2016. Understanding of the game, what the team needs, because you always have to put the team ahead of yourself and see what the team needs at that point,” Rohit said in a video shared by the ICC. Also Read: Tough times don't last, tough people do: Virender Sehwag leads wishes for Virat Kohli on 33rd birthday Rohit also recalled the 2019 World Cup campaign where he was in top-notch form and slammed a staggering five centuries for Team India. Rohit broke the record for most centuries in a single World Cup campaign with his five tons. However, the Hitman said his runs and centuries mean nothing to him if India can't win the trophy. “Yeah, the 2019 World Cup was a very special one for me personally. Only because I got runs and it was good. There was a procedure that I was trying to follow and it worked for me," Rohit said. “That was happiness. You know when you go into any tournament, there is a certain plan which has been placed by you and you want to follow that. That is what I did and it worked for me. If you don't win the trophy, all those runs that you score, all those hundreds that you score mean nothing honestly", he added. India were the best team in the group stages and had topped the points table before losing against New Zealand in the semi-final to bow out of the tournament. India have not won an ICC trophy since 2013 when MS Dhoni-led side defeated England to win the Champions Trophy in their own backyard.

All the runs and hundreds you score mean nothing if you don’t win trophy: Rohit Sharma

Team India will face Scotland in match 37 of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. The Virat Kohli-led Indian team will be squaring off with the Scotland cricket team for the second time in T20 WC history. However, the last face-off was during the 2007 T20 WC, when the match got abandoned due to rain without a ball being bowled.

India are coming into this game on the back of a 66-run win over Afghanistan. After two flop games, the Men in Blue finally looked in their zone versus the Mohammad Nabi-led Afghan side. Their batters finally played with a lot of freedom and looked in their comfort zone despite being asked to set up a target. While the pitch was also favouring them, as compared to the ones offered in Dubai, they will like to follow the same approach as Virat Kohli &amp; Co. still need to work on their NRR and attain two big wins in the remaining two encounters for the semi-finals spot.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/happy-birthday-skipper-indian-captain-virat-kohli-turns-33-426825">Happy Birthday, skipper: Indian captain Virat Kohli turns 33</a>

Scotland, on the other hand, have been disappointing in the Super 12 round. After a solid start in the warm-up games and the qualifiers, the&nbsp;Kyle Coetzer-led side haven't lived upto expectations with a big defeat versus Afghanistan and two close losses, against Namibia and New Zealand. They will hope to produce their best performance versus India and then sign off on a high against Pakistan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-nz-vs-nam-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-new-zealand-vs-namibia-match-426863">T20 World Cup, NZ vs NAM live streaming: When and where to watch New Zealand vs Namibia match?</a>

Match prediction for India-Scotland encounter:&nbsp;The pitch in Dubai has been favouring the chasing side. Both teams will be eager to bat second, with dew also likely to play a part in the evening fixture. However, in the last game New Zealand defeated Scotland at the same venue, batting first (by a slender 16-run margin). Hence, toss will again play a crucial role. India will be eager to bat first and work on their NRR by posting a big score.

While the margin of victory cannot be predicted, India is expected to continue their winning win and keep their slim chances alive of entering the semi-finals.

Team India will face Scotland in match 37 of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. The Virat Kohli-led Indian team will be squaring off with the Scotland cricket team for the second time in T20 WC history.

Team India will face Scotland in match 37 of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. The Virat Kohli-led Indian team will be squaring off with the Scotland cricket team for the second time in T20 WC history. However, the last face-off was during the 2007 T20 WC, when the match got abandoned due to rain without a ball being bowled. India are coming into this game on the back of a 66-run win over Afghanistan. After two flop games, the Men in Blue finally looked in their zone versus the Mohammad Nabi-led Afghan side. Their batters finally played with a lot of freedom and looked in their comfort zone despite being asked to set up a target. While the pitch was also favouring them, as compared to the ones offered in Dubai, they will like to follow the same approach as Virat Kohli & Co. still need to work on their NRR and attain two big wins in the remaining two encounters for the semi-finals spot. ALSO READ | Happy Birthday, skipper: Indian captain Virat Kohli turns 33 Scotland, on the other hand, have been disappointing in the Super 12 round. After a solid start in the warm-up games and the qualifiers, the Kyle Coetzer-led side haven't lived upto expectations with a big defeat versus Afghanistan and two close losses, against Namibia and New Zealand. They will hope to produce their best performance versus India and then sign off on a high against Pakistan. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup, NZ vs NAM live streaming: When and where to watch New Zealand vs Namibia match? Match prediction for India-Scotland encounter: The pitch in Dubai has been favouring the chasing side. Both teams will be eager to bat second, with dew also likely to play a part in the evening fixture. However, in the last game New Zealand defeated Scotland at the same venue, batting first (by a slender 16-run margin). Hence, toss will again play a crucial role. India will be eager to bat first and work on their NRR by posting a big score. While the margin of victory cannot be predicted, India is expected to continue their winning win and keep their slim chances alive of entering the semi-finals.

IND vs SCO, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between India and Scotland?

Indian cricket team captain and one of the greatest batsmen of all time, Virat Kohli celebrates his 33rd birthday on Friday (November 05). Kohli has been a run machine for India across formats and continues to produce match-winning performances for his team while batting at an incredible consistency.

Kohli, who made his India debut against Sri Lanka in August 2008, has come a long way in establishing himself as one of the best batters in the world. While he has been one of India's most consistent performers with the willow over the last few years, he has also been excellent as a captain.&nbsp;

Kohli is currently leading the Indian team in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 in UAE which is all set to be his final tournament as the T20 captain of Team India. Having already confirmed that he will be stepping down from T20 captaincy post the World Cup, Kohli would have expected to finish on a high but his team have made a disastrous start in the tournament.

With two losses in their first three matches in the Super 12, India are on the verge of missing out on a spot in the semi-finals as they stare at an early exit from the tournament. Underfire Kohli has been receiving criticism from all corners amid India's poor run in the showpiece event.

On his 33rd birthday, former India opener Virender Sehwag led wishes with a brilliant message for the Indian captain to extend his support for him in a time of crisis.&nbsp;"Tough times don’t last long, tough people do. A once in a generation player, wishing @imVkohli a very happy birthday and a great year ahead. #HappyBirthdayViratKohli," Sehwag tweeted.

Several other cricketers including the likes of Ajinkya Rahane, Wasim Jaffer, Mohammed Siraj and others took to social media to wish the Indian captain on his special day.

Here's how cricket fraternity wished Virat Kohli on his 33rd birthday:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Tough times don’t last long, tough people do. A once in a generation player , wishing <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> a very happy birthday and a great year ahead. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayViratKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/a8Ysq9ff9v">pic.twitter.com/a8Ysq9ff9v</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1456468963039186951?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Happy Birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> . Wishing you good health and happiness for the coming year! <a href="https://t.co/mg4q8VYvFN">pic.twitter.com/mg4q8VYvFN</a>
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88/status/1456456962632081420?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Wishing a very happy birthday to <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>, have a great day and year ahead <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MajorThrowback?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MajorThrowback</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayViratKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/doSw7m6D08">pic.twitter.com/doSw7m6D08</a>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1456458784314847232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Happy birthday brother <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> I wish you love, peace and happiness.. keep inspiring champion.. love Always <a href="https://t.co/FsM3KlSEOH">pic.twitter.com/FsM3KlSEOH</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1456503182951993350?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Not everyone is as lucky as me to be blessed with a elder brother like you. Thank you so much for coming into my life and standing by my side through thick and thin. I hope you get all that you truly deserve. Happy Birthday king <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/pTn8NBZrHh">pic.twitter.com/pTn8NBZrHh</a>
— Mohammed Siraj (@mdsirajofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/mdsirajofficial/status/1456472008900767754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 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>

&nbsp;

Kohli is the only player in the world to average over 50 across all three formats at present and is the leading run-getter in T20Is with 3225 runs to his name in 93 matches at a brilliant average of over 52. The Indian skipper will be hoping to inspire his side to big wins in their remaining two matches in the T20 World Cup 2021.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-clearly-has-better-bowlers-than-him-sanjay-manjrekar-questions-md-shamis-spot-in-t20-wc-squad-426846">India clearly has better bowlers than him: Manjrekar questions Md. Shami's spot in T20 WC squad</a>

After facing back-to-back defeats in their first two games against Pakistan and New Zealand, India bounced back to beat Afghanistan by 66 runs in their last outing. India still have an outside chance of finishing in the top two if they can win their next two games against Scotland and Namibia by big margins.&nbsp;

However, India's fate will rest of the results of the other teams as New Zealand appear strongest to finish second with two wins in their last two matches.

Indian cricket team captain and one of the greatest batsmen of all time, Virat Kohli celebrates his 33rd birthday on Friday (November 05). Kohli has been a run machine for India across formats and continues to produce match-winning performances for his team while batting at an incredible consistency.

Indian cricket team captain and one of the greatest batsmen of all time, Virat Kohli celebrates his 33rd birthday on Friday (November 05). Kohli has been a run machine for India across formats and continues to produce match-winning performances for his team while batting at an incredible consistency. Kohli, who made his India debut against Sri Lanka in August 2008, has come a long way in establishing himself as one of the best batters in the world. While he has been one of India's most consistent performers with the willow over the last few years, he has also been excellent as a captain. Kohli is currently leading the Indian team in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 in UAE which is all set to be his final tournament as the T20 captain of Team India. Having already confirmed that he will be stepping down from T20 captaincy post the World Cup, Kohli would have expected to finish on a high but his team have made a disastrous start in the tournament. With two losses in their first three matches in the Super 12, India are on the verge of missing out on a spot in the semi-finals as they stare at an early exit from the tournament. Underfire Kohli has been receiving criticism from all corners amid India's poor run in the showpiece event. On his 33rd birthday, former India opener Virender Sehwag led wishes with a brilliant message for the Indian captain to extend his support for him in a time of crisis. "Tough times don’t last long, tough people do. A once in a generation player, wishing @imVkohli a very happy birthday and a great year ahead. #HappyBirthdayViratKohli," Sehwag tweeted. Several other cricketers including the likes of Ajinkya Rahane, Wasim Jaffer, Mohammed Siraj and others took to social media to wish the Indian captain on his special day. Here's how cricket fraternity wished Virat Kohli on his 33rd birthday: Tough times don’t last long, tough people do. A once in a generation player , wishing @imVkohli a very happy birthday and a great year ahead. #HappyBirthdayViratKohli pic.twitter.com/a8Ysq9ff9v — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) November 5, 2021 × Happy Birthday @imVkohli . Wishing you good health and happiness for the coming year! pic.twitter.com/mg4q8VYvFN — Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) November 5, 2021 × Wishing a very happy birthday to @imVkohli, have a great day and year ahead #MajorThrowback #HappyBirthdayViratKohli pic.twitter.com/doSw7m6D08 — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) November 5, 2021 × Happy birthday brother @imVkohli I wish you love, peace and happiness.. keep inspiring champion.. love Always pic.twitter.com/FsM3KlSEOH — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) November 5, 2021 × Not everyone is as lucky as me to be blessed with a elder brother like you. Thank you so much for coming into my life and standing by my side through thick and thin. I hope you get all that you truly deserve. Happy Birthday king @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/pTn8NBZrHh — Mohammed Siraj (@mdsirajofficial) November 5, 2021 × Kohli is the only player in the world to average over 50 across all three formats at present and is the leading run-getter in T20Is with 3225 runs to his name in 93 matches at a brilliant average of over 52. The Indian skipper will be hoping to inspire his side to big wins in their remaining two matches in the T20 World Cup 2021. Also Read: India clearly has better bowlers than him: Manjrekar questions Md. Shami's spot in T20 WC squad After facing back-to-back defeats in their first two games against Pakistan and New Zealand, India bounced back to beat Afghanistan by 66 runs in their last outing. India still have an outside chance of finishing in the top two if they can win their next two games against Scotland and Namibia by big margins. However, India's fate will rest of the results of the other teams as New Zealand appear strongest to finish second with two wins in their last two matches.

Tough times don't last, tough people do: Virender Sehwag leads wishes for Virat Kohli on 33rd birthday

On Wednesday (November 3), the BCCI announced Rahul Dravid as the new head coach of Team India. For the unversed, Ravi Shastri's tenure is set to end post India's T20 World Cup campaign, in the UAE. As Shastri had made it clear that he won't apply for an extension of his contract, the Indian cricket board named Dravid as his successor.

Dravid was touted to take over from Shastri due to his staggering record as India A and the U-19 head coach, from 2016-2019. Moreover, he has also served Indian cricket selflessly as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Bengaluru post his coaching stint. When he was named as the stand-in coach for India's limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka in mid-2021, speculations were rife that the former Indian captain was in-line to replace Shastri.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/which-theme-park-should-we-take-our-kids-rohit-sharma-spills-the-beans-on-his-conversations-with-r-ashwin-426680">&nbsp;'Which Theme park should we take our kids' - Rohit Sharma spills the beans on his conversations with R Ashwin</a>

Dravid is set to work with Virat Kohli, who will step aside as the T20I captain of the Men in Blue post the World Cup. While Kohli's future as ODI captain can also be discussed, depending on how India fare in the T20 WC, as per&nbsp;The Indian Express, Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI is also eager to rope in a new captain in ODIs. It is expected that the new T20I captain will don the captaincy hat in two formats. While shorter format's vice-captain Rohit Sharma seems to be an ideal choice, plans could change if the board wishes to make a young player as the limited-overs captain.

As per&nbsp;The Indian Express,&nbsp;Dravid was asked about the new white-ball captain by the Cricket Advisory Committee during his interview process. In response, he has backed Rohit and KL Rahul for the job, the report mentions.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-a-stalwart-of-indian-cricket-rohit-sharma-reacts-as-rahul-dravid-appointed-team-indias-head-coach-426611">&nbsp;'He is a stalwart of Indian cricket' - Rohit Sharma reacts as Rahul Dravid appointed Team India's head coach</a>

Rohit, who is the most successful IPL captain with 5 titles, has led India in Kohli's absence in the shorter formats. Under him, India won the Nidahas Trophy and Asia Cup in 2018. His tactical awareness and calm and composed nature has been lauded by many former cricketers in the past.&nbsp;

It will be interesting to see if Kohli loses his captaincy post from the ODI format. Will BCCI name Rohit as the white-ball captain or spring in a surprise by naming Shreyas Iyer, Rahul or Rishabh Pant as the limited-overs skipper? Only time will tell...

On Wednesday (November 3), the BCCI announced Rahul Dravid as the new head coach of Team India. For the unversed, Ravi Shastri's tenure is set to end post India's T20 World Cup campaign, in the UAE.

On Wednesday (November 3), the BCCI announced Rahul Dravid as the new head coach of Team India. For the unversed, Ravi Shastri's tenure is set to end post India's T20 World Cup campaign, in the UAE. As Shastri had made it clear that he won't apply for an extension of his contract, the Indian cricket board named Dravid as his successor. Dravid was touted to take over from Shastri due to his staggering record as India A and the U-19 head coach, from 2016-2019. Moreover, he has also served Indian cricket selflessly as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Bengaluru post his coaching stint. When he was named as the stand-in coach for India's limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka in mid-2021, speculations were rife that the former Indian captain was in-line to replace Shastri. ALSO READ | 'Which Theme park should we take our kids' - Rohit Sharma spills the beans on his conversations with R Ashwin Dravid is set to work with Virat Kohli, who will step aside as the T20I captain of the Men in Blue post the World Cup. While Kohli's future as ODI captain can also be discussed, depending on how India fare in the T20 WC, as per The Indian Express, Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI is also eager to rope in a new captain in ODIs. It is expected that the new T20I captain will don the captaincy hat in two formats. While shorter format's vice-captain Rohit Sharma seems to be an ideal choice, plans could change if the board wishes to make a young player as the limited-overs captain. As per The Indian Express, Dravid was asked about the new white-ball captain by the Cricket Advisory Committee during his interview process. In response, he has backed Rohit and KL Rahul for the job, the report mentions. ALSO READ | 'He is a stalwart of Indian cricket' - Rohit Sharma reacts as Rahul Dravid appointed Team India's head coach Rohit, who is the most successful IPL captain with 5 titles, has led India in Kohli's absence in the shorter formats. Under him, India won the Nidahas Trophy and Asia Cup in 2018. His tactical awareness and calm and composed nature has been lauded by many former cricketers in the past. It will be interesting to see if Kohli loses his captaincy post from the ODI format. Will BCCI name Rohit as the white-ball captain or spring in a surprise by naming Shreyas Iyer, Rahul or Rishabh Pant as the limited-overs skipper? Only time will tell...

New coach Rahul Dravid suggests who should become India's next white-ball captain: Reports

From former cricketers to fans on social media, former batting legend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-appointed-as-team-indias-head-coach-set-to-take-over-from-new-zealand-home-series-426491">Rahul Dravid</a> received greetings after his appointment as the head coach of the Indian men's cricket team. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Wednesday (November 3) that the Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Sulakshana Naik and RP Singh unanimously decided Ravi Shastri's successor.&nbsp;

The former skipper and the right-handed batter, who was working as the head of the National Cricket Academy, has been appointed for a period of two years till the 2023 50-over World Cup in India and will take charge from the upcoming home series against New Zealand.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-virat-kohli-reacts-to-r-ashwins-return-after-india-beat-afghanistan-in-a-must-win-match-426538">T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli reacts to R Ashwin's return after India beat Afghanistan in a must-win match</a>

The 48-year-old, nicknamed "The Wall" said it was an "absolute honour". "I'm really looking forward to this role. Under Shastri, the team has done very well, and I hope to work with the team to take this forward," Dravid said.&nbsp;

"Having worked closely with most of the boys either at NCA, U19, and India A setup, I know they have the passion and desire to improve every day. There are some marquee multi-team events in the next two years, and I look forward to working with the players and the support staff to achieve our potential," Dravid added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharmas-special-praise-for-virat-kohli-says-his-hunger-for-success-is-just-unbelievable-426461">Rohit Sharma's special praise for Virat Kohli, says 'his hunger for success is just unbelievable'</a>

Dravid, who played 164 tests and 344 one-dayers between 1996 and 2012 and accumulated more than 10,000 runs in both formats, was previously in charge of India's Under-19 and A teams and is credited for a steady supply of young talent as head of the National Cricket Academy.&nbsp;

Netizens have congratulated Dravid on his new role. Check out some of the best reactions here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Congratulations Rahul Dravid for becoming the coach of Indian Men’s Cricket Team. Indian players will be hugely benefitted with his vast experience. Wishing him the very best to take Indian cricket to greater heights.
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1455919729558757384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rahul Dravid takes over as Head Coach of the Indian Senior Men’s Cricket Team after the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a>. Congratulations, and best wishes, Rahul. 🥳🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/AyM7XfE0Iw">pic.twitter.com/AyM7XfE0Iw</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1455927171822718982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Congratulations to Rahul Dravid on being appointed as the next India men's head coach 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketTwitter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketTwitter</a> <a href="https://t.co/jDMQFaDQyX">pic.twitter.com/jDMQFaDQyX</a>
— Lord's Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/HomeOfCricket/status/1455937460563845129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Congratulations to Rahul Dravid on being appointed as the next India men's head coach 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketTwitter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketTwitter</a> <a href="https://t.co/jDMQFaDQyX">pic.twitter.com/jDMQFaDQyX</a>
— Lord's Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/HomeOfCricket/status/1455937460563845129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Welcome <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulDravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulDravid</a>. The expectations are high but then they always were with you.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1455938972560076822?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I think Rahul Dravid is going to make a fantastic head coach for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> …
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1455921074500210688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 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>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The wall returns to rebuild. 🙌🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rahuldravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rahuldravid</a>
— Jatin Sapru (@jatinsapru) <a href="https://twitter.com/jatinsapru/status/1455921617033314315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 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>

Ravi Shastri's tenure

Shastri, who took up the job in mid-2017, had ruled out seeking an extension after his tenure expires following the T20 World Cup, where India beat Afghanistan on Wednesday to keep alive their slim hopes of reaching the semi-finals.

Under Shastri, India became the first Asian team to win a test series in Australia (2018-19) and triumphed again Down Under in 2020-21.

They climbed to the top of the test rankings and reached the final of this year's inaugural World Test Championship, where they were beaten by New Zealand.

Here are some other reactions for Dravid:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
New Era Begins.. This is one of my big dream,, Dravid sir became a Main Coach of Team India... Finally Dravid Era Begins.. <a href="https://t.co/AQyenCvyZO">pic.twitter.com/AQyenCvyZO</a>
— D  (@DilipVk18) <a href="https://twitter.com/DilipVk18/status/1455918429060272130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 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>

 
<img alt="Rahul Dravid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ea39ca5b-92fa-4098-985b-8746ba8e9b64" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Rahul%20Dravid%20%283%29.jpg" />

From former cricketers to fans on social media, former batting legend Rahul Dravid received greetings after his appointment as the head coach of the Indian men's cricket team.

From former cricketers to fans on social media, former batting legend Rahul Dravid received greetings after his appointment as the head coach of the Indian men's cricket team. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Wednesday (November 3) that the Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Sulakshana Naik and RP Singh unanimously decided Ravi Shastri's successor. The former skipper and the right-handed batter, who was working as the head of the National Cricket Academy, has been appointed for a period of two years till the 2023 50-over World Cup in India and will take charge from the upcoming home series against New Zealand. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli reacts to R Ashwin's return after India beat Afghanistan in a must-win match The 48-year-old, nicknamed "The Wall" said it was an "absolute honour". "I'm really looking forward to this role. Under Shastri, the team has done very well, and I hope to work with the team to take this forward," Dravid said. "Having worked closely with most of the boys either at NCA, U19, and India A setup, I know they have the passion and desire to improve every day. There are some marquee multi-team events in the next two years, and I look forward to working with the players and the support staff to achieve our potential," Dravid added. WATCH | Rohit Sharma's special praise for Virat Kohli, says 'his hunger for success is just unbelievable' Dravid, who played 164 tests and 344 one-dayers between 1996 and 2012 and accumulated more than 10,000 runs in both formats, was previously in charge of India's Under-19 and A teams and is credited for a steady supply of young talent as head of the National Cricket Academy. Netizens have congratulated Dravid on his new role. Check out some of the best reactions here: Congratulations Rahul Dravid for becoming the coach of Indian Men’s Cricket Team. Indian players will be hugely benefitted with his vast experience. Wishing him the very best to take Indian cricket to greater heights. — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) November 3, 2021 × Rahul Dravid takes over as Head Coach of the Indian Senior Men’s Cricket Team after the #T20WorldCup. Congratulations, and best wishes, Rahul. 🥳🤩#PlayBold #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/AyM7XfE0Iw — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) November 3, 2021 × Congratulations to Rahul Dravid on being appointed as the next India men's head coach 👏#CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/jDMQFaDQyX — Lord's Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) November 3, 2021 × Congratulations to Rahul Dravid on being appointed as the next India men's head coach 👏#CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/jDMQFaDQyX — Lord's Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) November 3, 2021 × Welcome #RahulDravid. The expectations are high but then they always were with you. — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) November 3, 2021 × I think Rahul Dravid is going to make a fantastic head coach for #India … — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) November 3, 2021 × The wall returns to rebuild. 🙌🏻#Rahuldravid — Jatin Sapru (@jatinsapru) November 3, 2021 × Ravi Shastri's tenure Shastri, who took up the job in mid-2017, had ruled out seeking an extension after his tenure expires following the T20 World Cup, where India beat Afghanistan on Wednesday to keep alive their slim hopes of reaching the semi-finals. Under Shastri, India became the first Asian team to win a test series in Australia (2018-19) and triumphed again Down Under in 2020-21. They climbed to the top of the test rankings and reached the final of this year's inaugural World Test Championship, where they were beaten by New Zealand. Here are some other reactions for Dravid: New Era Begins.. This is one of my big dream,, Dravid sir became a Main Coach of Team India... Finally Dravid Era Begins.. pic.twitter.com/AQyenCvyZO — D  (@DilipVk18) November 3, 2021 ×

'New Era Begins': Netizens congratulate Rahul Dravid on his appointment as India's head coach

Rahul Dravid, on Wednesday (November 4), was appointed as the Team India head coach by the BCCI. He will take over as the coach of the Indian cricket team, replacing Ravi Shastri, post the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Dravid, former Indian captain, was serving as the National Cricket Academy (NCA) head and was touted to be the frontrunners to succeed Shastri. He has finally signed a two-year deal as India coach, till the 2023 ODI World Cup.

The announcement was made during India-Afghanistan's T20 World Cup 2021 clash, on Wednesday evening (November 3), at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. When Rohit Sharma was told about Dravid's next role in the post-match presentation, the opener lauded the former Indian captain and said, "We were playing the game (against Afghanistan), so I had no idea (about it). Congratulations to him (Rahul Dravid) for coming back in a different capacity in the Indian team, we look forward to work with him."

He added, “He (Dravid) is a stalwart of Indian cricket and it will be nice working with him in future."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-era-begins-netizens-congratulate-rahul-dravid-on-his-appointment-as-indias-head-coach-426544">'New Era Begins': Netizens congratulate Rahul Dravid on his appointment as India's head coach</a>

Dravid remains one of the biggest servants of Indian cricket. Despite retiring from international cricket in 2012, he still contributes to the cricketing development in the country. After retirement, he took over as the India A and U-19 coach from 2016-2019, guiding the U-19 team to 2018 World Cup glory. Since then, he has served as the NCA head, supplying young talents to the national side by grooming them consistently and monitoring the key injured Indian players in the academy, in Bengaluru.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-appointed-as-team-indias-head-coach-set-to-take-over-from-new-zealand-home-series-426491">Rahul Dravid appointed as Team India's head coach, set to take over from New Zealand home series</a>

It is very much likely that Rohit and Rahul will form the captain-coach pair for India in T20Is, as Virat Kohli is set to step away as captain from the shortest format post the ongoing World Cup. While his ODI captaincy will also be discussed depending on India's run in the showpiece event, Kohli is expected to remain the Test captain. Thus, Dravid is most likely to start his tenure as India coach with split captaincy within the national side across formats.

Rahul Dravid, on Wednesday (November 4), was appointed as the Team India head coach by the BCCI. He will take over as the coach of the Indian cricket team, replacing Ravi Shastri, post the T20 World Cup 2021 edition.

Rahul Dravid, on Wednesday (November 4), was appointed as the Team India head coach by the BCCI. He will take over as the coach of the Indian cricket team, replacing Ravi Shastri, post the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Dravid, former Indian captain, was serving as the National Cricket Academy (NCA) head and was touted to be the frontrunners to succeed Shastri. He has finally signed a two-year deal as India coach, till the 2023 ODI World Cup. The announcement was made during India-Afghanistan's T20 World Cup 2021 clash, on Wednesday evening (November 3), at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. When Rohit Sharma was told about Dravid's next role in the post-match presentation, the opener lauded the former Indian captain and said, "We were playing the game (against Afghanistan), so I had no idea (about it). Congratulations to him (Rahul Dravid) for coming back in a different capacity in the Indian team, we look forward to work with him." He added, “He (Dravid) is a stalwart of Indian cricket and it will be nice working with him in future." ALSO READ | 'New Era Begins': Netizens congratulate Rahul Dravid on his appointment as India's head coach Dravid remains one of the biggest servants of Indian cricket. Despite retiring from international cricket in 2012, he still contributes to the cricketing development in the country. After retirement, he took over as the India A and U-19 coach from 2016-2019, guiding the U-19 team to 2018 World Cup glory. Since then, he has served as the NCA head, supplying young talents to the national side by grooming them consistently and monitoring the key injured Indian players in the academy, in Bengaluru. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid appointed as Team India's head coach, set to take over from New Zealand home series It is very much likely that Rohit and Rahul will form the captain-coach pair for India in T20Is, as Virat Kohli is set to step away as captain from the shortest format post the ongoing World Cup. While his ODI captaincy will also be discussed depending on India's run in the showpiece event, Kohli is expected to remain the Test captain. Thus, Dravid is most likely to start his tenure as India coach with split captaincy within the national side across formats.

'He is a stalwart of Indian cricket' - Rohit Sharma reacts as Rahul Dravid appointed Team India's head coach

Former cricketer Rahul Dravid has been appointed as the head coach of the Indian men's cricket team, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Wednesday (November 3), adding that the Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Sulakshana Naik and RP Singh unanimously made the decision.

Former cricketer Rahul Dravid has been appointed as the head coach of the Indian men's cricket team, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Wednesday (November 3), adding that the Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Sulakshana Naik and RP Singh unanimously made the decision. The 48-year-old Dravid was famous for his classical style and rock solid defence, earning the nickname "Mr. Dependable". He scored 13,288 runs in 164 Tests, second only to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar for India and fourth overall in the world rankings. Dravid, formerly head coach of India A and the under-19s, called his appointment "an absolute honour". "Having worked closely with most of the boys either at NCA, U19 and India A setup, I know they have the passion and desire to improve every day," he said in the statement. The Indian cricket board further informed that the batting legend will take charge from the upcoming home series against New Zealand. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly congratulated Dravid on his appointment as he said, "The BCCI welcomes Rahul Dravid as the Head Coach of India’s senior men team. Rahul has had an illustrious playing career and is one of the greats of the game." ALSO READ | T20 WC: R Ashwin returns to Team India's XI vs Afghanistan, know after how many days "He has also served Indian cricket as Head of National Cricket Academy (NCA) with distinction. Rahul’s effort at the NCA has nurtured several young cricketing talents who have gone on to represent the country at the international stage. I am hopeful that his new stint will take Indian cricket to new heights," Ganguly added. 🚨 NEWS 🚨: Mr Rahul Dravid appointed as Head Coach - Team India (Senior Men) More Details 🔽 — BCCI (@BCCI) November 3, 2021 × WATCH | Rohit Sharma's special praise for Virat Kohli, says 'his hunger for success is just unbelievable' Ravi Shastri's tenure T20 World Cup will mark the end of Ravi Shastri's tenure as India's head coach in the November 14 final in Dubai. BCCI states that under Shastri, the Indian team adopted a "bold and fearless" approach and performed creditably both in home and away conditions. Since replacing Anil Kumble in mid-2017, Shastri, 59, has overseen two-Test series victories in Australia, although the side crashed out in the semi-finals of the 2019 World Cup in England. India were also the first team to win all 5 T20Is in a bilateral series when it blanked New Zealand 5-0. Under Mr Shastri and his team’s guidance, India won all their seven Test series at home.

Rahul Dravid appointed as Team India's head coach, set to take over from New Zealand home series

The legendary Kapil Dev has criticised Indian captain Virat Kohli for his 'we were not brave enough remark' after his side's loss against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). After a humiliating ten-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in the opening game, India faced a second successive defeat against New Zealand in their second Super 12 clash in Dubai.

India were restricted on a paltry total of 110 runs, batting first after suffering yet another batting collapse and later failed&nbsp;to defend the target. New Zealand chased down the low-key target without breaking a sweat as they registered an impressive win by eight wickets to open their account in the T20 World Cup 2021.

When asked about his team's poor show in the must-win game, Kohli was brutally honest as he said his teammates were not brave enough while terming the performance 'bizarre'. "Quite bizarre. To be very honest and brutal up front, I don't think we were brave enough with bat or ball," Kohli had said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

Kohli's his team was 'not brave' remark didn't impress World Cup-winning captain Kapil, who said it was a weak statement from the Indian captain and should not have come out from a player of his stature. Kapil said fingers will be pointed at Kohli if he will make such statements after a poor loss.

"For a big player like him, it is a very weak statement. If that is the kind of body language the team has and if that is the kind of thought process the captain has, it is really tough to lift the team. I felt a little strange hearing those words. He isn’t that kind of a player," Kapil said on ABP News.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-takes-a-dig-at-virat-kohli-reacting-to-everything-doesnt-mean-you-are-more-passionate-425844">&nbsp;Gambhir takes a dig at Virat Kohli: Reacting to everything doesn't mean you are more passionate</a>

"He is a fighter. I think he got lost in the moment or something. A captain should not say words like ‘we were not brave enough. You are playing for your country and he has passion. But when you say such words, fingers will definitely be pointed," he added.

India's campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 is on the verge of an early exit after two straight defeats in the first two matches. However, India stand an outside chance of qualifying for the top four if they can win their remaining three matches by big margins and hope some other results go in their favour.

The legendary Kapil Dev has criticised Indian captain Virat Kohli for his 'we were not brave enough remark' after his side's loss against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31).

The legendary Kapil Dev has criticised Indian captain Virat Kohli for his 'we were not brave enough remark' after his side's loss against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). After a humiliating ten-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in the opening game, India faced a second successive defeat against New Zealand in their second Super 12 clash in Dubai. India were restricted on a paltry total of 110 runs, batting first after suffering yet another batting collapse and later failed to defend the target. New Zealand chased down the low-key target without breaking a sweat as they registered an impressive win by eight wickets to open their account in the T20 World Cup 2021. When asked about his team's poor show in the must-win game, Kohli was brutally honest as he said his teammates were not brave enough while terming the performance 'bizarre'. "Quite bizarre. To be very honest and brutal up front, I don't think we were brave enough with bat or ball," Kohli had said at the post-match presentation ceremony. Kohli's his team was 'not brave' remark didn't impress World Cup-winning captain Kapil, who said it was a weak statement from the Indian captain and should not have come out from a player of his stature. Kapil said fingers will be pointed at Kohli if he will make such statements after a poor loss. "For a big player like him, it is a very weak statement. If that is the kind of body language the team has and if that is the kind of thought process the captain has, it is really tough to lift the team. I felt a little strange hearing those words. He isn’t that kind of a player," Kapil said on ABP News. Also Read: Gambhir takes a dig at Virat Kohli: Reacting to everything doesn't mean you are more passionate "He is a fighter. I think he got lost in the moment or something. A captain should not say words like ‘we were not brave enough. You are playing for your country and he has passion. But when you say such words, fingers will definitely be pointed," he added. India's campaign in the T20 World Cup 2021 is on the verge of an early exit after two straight defeats in the first two matches. However, India stand an outside chance of qualifying for the top four if they can win their remaining three matches by big margins and hope some other results go in their favour.

'Very weak statement': Kapil Dev on Virat Kohli's 'we were not brave' remark after New Zealand defeat

Indian cricketers have been facing flak from all corners after the team's poor start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. While the players have been criticised for their on-field performances by fans and experts alike, some trolls have resorted to abuse and rape threats to family members of the players.

While Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami was targeted over his religion, Indian captain Virat Kohli's daughter recieved rape threats online. Some pathetic comments have been made against the Indian cricketers by trolls online but a nine-month-old getting abused is reflective of how&nbsp;hideous cyberbullies can be.

Taking cognisance of the reports of Kohli's daughter getting rape threats online, the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) on Tuesday issued a notice to the Delhi Police, demanding the arrest of all accused. DCW chairperson Swati Maliwal termed the rape threats as &nbsp;“extremely shameful” while demanding an explanation from Delhi Police on action taken so far in the case.

"It's extremely shameful how Virat Kohli's nine-month-old daughter had to face rape threats online. This team has made us feel proud thousands of times, why such obnoxious behaviour when it lost?," Maliwal wrote in her tweet while attaching a picture of DCW's notice to Delhi Police.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
विराट कोहली की 9 महीने की बेटी को जिस तरह ट्विटर पर रेप की धमकी दी गई वो बेहद शर्मनाक है। इसी टीम ने हमें हज़ारों बार गौरवांवित महसूस कराया है, हार पे ये घटियापन क्यों? 
 
मैंने दिल्ली पुलिस को नोटिस जारी किया है, 9 महीने की बच्ची को रेप की धमकी देने वाले सभी गिरफ्तार हों! <a href="https://t.co/WhLrK4MTME">pic.twitter.com/WhLrK4MTME</a>
— Swati Maliwal (@SwatiJaiHind) <a href="https://twitter.com/SwatiJaiHind/status/1455439812450664451?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 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>

The Delhi Commission for Women has asked for a detailed report from Delhi Police in the matter by November 08. The notice states that the Delhi Police should provide the details of action taken in the case if no accused has been arrested so far.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-set-to-lose-odi-captaincy-as-india-on-verge-of-early-exit-in-t20-world-cup-reports-426160">Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Report</a>

A Twitter user - @criccrazygirl was one of the trolls who had issued a rape threat&nbsp;to Kohli's daughter. While many claimed it was a Pakistani bot account, a fact chek report by ALT News has claimed that it is an Indian account. It remains to be seen what action will the Delhi Police take in the matter which is of grave concern considering the increasing instance of nameless and faceless trolls abusing people on social media.

Earlier, Kohli had issued a strong statement after Shami was targeted over his religion by trolls on social media for his poor show against Pakistan. Kohli had said attacking someone over their religion is the most pathetic thing a human being can do while asserting that the team fully stands behind Shami.

“Attacking someone over their religion is the most, I would say, pathetic thing that a human being can do,” the Indian captain had said speaking in a press conference ahead of the New Zealand game.

&nbsp;

Indian cricketers have been facing flak from all corners after the team's poor start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. While the players have been criticised for their on-field performances by fans and experts alike, some trolls have resorted to abuse and rape threats to family members of the players.

Indian cricketers have been facing flak from all corners after the team's poor start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. While the players have been criticised for their on-field performances by fans and experts alike, some trolls have resorted to abuse and rape threats to family members of the players. While Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami was targeted over his religion, Indian captain Virat Kohli's daughter recieved rape threats online. Some pathetic comments have been made against the Indian cricketers by trolls online but a nine-month-old getting abused is reflective of how hideous cyberbullies can be. Taking cognisance of the reports of Kohli's daughter getting rape threats online, the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) on Tuesday issued a notice to the Delhi Police, demanding the arrest of all accused. DCW chairperson Swati Maliwal termed the rape threats as “extremely shameful” while demanding an explanation from Delhi Police on action taken so far in the case. "It's extremely shameful how Virat Kohli's nine-month-old daughter had to face rape threats online. This team has made us feel proud thousands of times, why such obnoxious behaviour when it lost?," Maliwal wrote in her tweet while attaching a picture of DCW's notice to Delhi Police. विराट कोहली की 9 महीने की बेटी को जिस तरह ट्विटर पर रेप की धमकी दी गई वो बेहद शर्मनाक है। इसी टीम ने हमें हज़ारों बार गौरवांवित महसूस कराया है, हार पे ये घटियापन क्यों? मैंने दिल्ली पुलिस को नोटिस जारी किया है, 9 महीने की बच्ची को रेप की धमकी देने वाले सभी गिरफ्तार हों! pic.twitter.com/WhLrK4MTME — Swati Maliwal (@SwatiJaiHind) November 2, 2021 × The Delhi Commission for Women has asked for a detailed report from Delhi Police in the matter by November 08. The notice states that the Delhi Police should provide the details of action taken in the case if no accused has been arrested so far. Also Read: Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Report A Twitter user - @criccrazygirl was one of the trolls who had issued a rape threat to Kohli's daughter. While many claimed it was a Pakistani bot account, a fact chek report by ALT News has claimed that it is an Indian account. It remains to be seen what action will the Delhi Police take in the matter which is of grave concern considering the increasing instance of nameless and faceless trolls abusing people on social media. Earlier, Kohli had issued a strong statement after Shami was targeted over his religion by trolls on social media for his poor show against Pakistan. Kohli had said attacking someone over their religion is the most pathetic thing a human being can do while asserting that the team fully stands behind Shami. “Attacking someone over their religion is the most, I would say, pathetic thing that a human being can do,” the Indian captain had said speaking in a press conference ahead of the New Zealand game.

DCW issues notice to Delhi police after Virat Kohli's 9-month-old daughter gets rape threats online

Legendary Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram has slammed the Indian team for neglecting international cricket and focusing on the Indian Premier League (IPL) as Virat Kohli &amp; Co. continue their horrible run in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. India has had a shambolic start to their campaign in the showpiece event as they find themselves languishing at the fifth spot on the points table after back-to-back losses in their first two matches.

India lost against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets in the opening game before going down against New Zealand by eight wickets in a one-sided second game in Dubai. The Men in Blue have been facing flak from all corners for their terrible show so far and have been criticised for their woeful performance.

Former Pakistan pacer Akram pointed out that India are not taking international cricket seriously while focusing only on IPL. Explaining how the lack of limited-overs cricket in the last few months could have cost the Indian team in the T20 World Cup, Akram said India's senior players were involved in a white-ball series last in March this year.

The former Pakistan pacer has made a valid point as the majority of the players in India's current T20I squad last played a white-ball series against England at home in March this year. India did travel to Sri Lanka for a limited-overs series in July but the squad was full of youngsters and not the senior members, who were busy in the Test series against England at the same time.

"India last played a limited-overs series with all the senior players in March. Now we are in November. So that shows they are not taking those international series seriously. They think playing the IPL is enough. You play as much league cricket in the world that you want. While playing league cricket, you will find one or two good bowlers in the opposition. In international cricket, you will face all five good bowlers," said Akram on Pakistani sports channel A Sports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-set-to-lose-odi-captaincy-as-india-on-verge-of-early-exit-in-t20-world-cup-reports-426160">Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports</a>

Asked to bat first against New Zealand, India's move to promote Ishan Kishan as an opener in place of experienced Rohit Sharma backfired as the young left-hander was dismissed cheaply on 3. The likes of Rohit, KL Rahul and captain Kohli were also sent back cheaply as the team could only manage 110 runs in 20 overs.

New Zealand chased down the target with ease and registered a comprehensive win by eight wickets with as many as 5.3 overs to spare. Akram said it was a one-sided game and that the move to demote Rohit to no.3 in a crucial encounter was a 'big mess-up'.

"It wasn’t a great game. It was a one-sided game. India committed a lot of mistakes. When they lost the toss, I feel they were pushed back a little psychologically. The biggest mess-up was downgrading Rohit Sharma to 3 in a crucial, do-or-die game. The guy has got four centuries in T20Is as opener. They could have made Ishan Kishan bat at 3 too. This was the start when the panic button was pressed," Akram added. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Legendary Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram has slammed the Indian team for neglecting international cricket and focusing on the Indian Premier League (IPL) as Virat Kohli & Co.

Legendary Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram has slammed the Indian team for neglecting international cricket and focusing on the Indian Premier League (IPL) as Virat Kohli & Co. continue their horrible run in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. India has had a shambolic start to their campaign in the showpiece event as they find themselves languishing at the fifth spot on the points table after back-to-back losses in their first two matches. India lost against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets in the opening game before going down against New Zealand by eight wickets in a one-sided second game in Dubai. The Men in Blue have been facing flak from all corners for their terrible show so far and have been criticised for their woeful performance. Former Pakistan pacer Akram pointed out that India are not taking international cricket seriously while focusing only on IPL. Explaining how the lack of limited-overs cricket in the last few months could have cost the Indian team in the T20 World Cup, Akram said India's senior players were involved in a white-ball series last in March this year. The former Pakistan pacer has made a valid point as the majority of the players in India's current T20I squad last played a white-ball series against England at home in March this year. India did travel to Sri Lanka for a limited-overs series in July but the squad was full of youngsters and not the senior members, who were busy in the Test series against England at the same time. "India last played a limited-overs series with all the senior players in March. Now we are in November. So that shows they are not taking those international series seriously. They think playing the IPL is enough. You play as much league cricket in the world that you want. While playing league cricket, you will find one or two good bowlers in the opposition. In international cricket, you will face all five good bowlers," said Akram on Pakistani sports channel A Sports. Also Read: Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports Asked to bat first against New Zealand, India's move to promote Ishan Kishan as an opener in place of experienced Rohit Sharma backfired as the young left-hander was dismissed cheaply on 3. The likes of Rohit, KL Rahul and captain Kohli were also sent back cheaply as the team could only manage 110 runs in 20 overs. New Zealand chased down the target with ease and registered a comprehensive win by eight wickets with as many as 5.3 overs to spare. Akram said it was a one-sided game and that the move to demote Rohit to no.3 in a crucial encounter was a 'big mess-up'. "It wasn’t a great game. It was a one-sided game. India committed a lot of mistakes. When they lost the toss, I feel they were pushed back a little psychologically. The biggest mess-up was downgrading Rohit Sharma to 3 in a crucial, do-or-die game. The guy has got four centuries in T20Is as opener. They could have made Ishan Kishan bat at 3 too. This was the start when the panic button was pressed," Akram added.

They think playing IPL is enough: Wasim Akram criticises India for neglecting intl cricket amid T20 WC turmoil

Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of early elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After the Men in Blue lost their Super 12 opening fixture versus Pakistan, they were also thrashed by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets as the one-time winners have a tough task to enter the semi-finals in the showpiece event.

Captain Kohli isn't having the best of times at present. While a lot was said when he announced his decision to resign as the T20I captain before the ongoing World Cup, many hoped that he would sign off on a high and finally win his first-ever ICC title as Team India's captain. Nonetheless, India's campaign so far has been disastrous, to say the least.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-to-lead-india-in-t20is-against-new-zealand-hardik-bhuvneshwar-likely-to-be-dropped-report-426155">Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report</a>

Now, reports suggest that Kohli might lose ODI captaincy. As per a report in PTI, the BCCI might discuss Kohli's ODI captaincy future.&nbsp;In addition, it will make more sense to have one player as the white-ball captain rather than splitting captaincy in shorter formats.

The report further states that since India have only three 50-over games in the current home season, with all the encounters against West Indies in February. Hence, the Indian cricket board is looking to stitch a two-year master-plan&nbsp;heading into the 2023 World Cup.

For the unversed, India have an ODI series in South Africa. It will be interesting to see&nbsp;whether Kohli would voluntarily step down from the 50-over captaincy or if he will wait for the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI to ask him to vacate the top post. In all likelihood, his leadership days in shorter formats are numbered given how things are shaping up for India in the T20 WC.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/never-seen-captaincy-potential-in-virat-kohli-says-danish-kaneria-as-india-near-elimination-in-t20-wc-426089">Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC</a>

India are set to go through a transition process post the T20 WC. As of now, Rohit Sharma looks like the strongest contender to take up white-ball captaincy whereas Rahul Dravid is more or less confirmed to replace Ravi Shastri as India's head coach.

Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of early elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After the Men in Blue lost their Super 12 opening fixture versus Pakistan, they were also thrashed by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets as the one-time winners have a tough task to enter the semi-finals in the showpiece event.

Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of early elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After the Men in Blue lost their Super 12 opening fixture versus Pakistan, they were also thrashed by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets as the one-time winners have a tough task to enter the semi-finals in the showpiece event. Captain Kohli isn't having the best of times at present. While a lot was said when he announced his decision to resign as the T20I captain before the ongoing World Cup, many hoped that he would sign off on a high and finally win his first-ever ICC title as Team India's captain. Nonetheless, India's campaign so far has been disastrous, to say the least. ALSO READ | Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report Now, reports suggest that Kohli might lose ODI captaincy. As per a report in PTI, the BCCI might discuss Kohli's ODI captaincy future. In addition, it will make more sense to have one player as the white-ball captain rather than splitting captaincy in shorter formats. The report further states that since India have only three 50-over games in the current home season, with all the encounters against West Indies in February. Hence, the Indian cricket board is looking to stitch a two-year master-plan heading into the 2023 World Cup. For the unversed, India have an ODI series in South Africa. It will be interesting to see whether Kohli would voluntarily step down from the 50-over captaincy or if he will wait for the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI to ask him to vacate the top post. In all likelihood, his leadership days in shorter formats are numbered given how things are shaping up for India in the T20 WC. ALSO READ | Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC India are set to go through a transition process post the T20 WC. As of now, Rohit Sharma looks like the strongest contender to take up white-ball captaincy whereas Rahul Dravid is more or less confirmed to replace Ravi Shastri as India's head coach.

Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports