BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had revealed that his former teammate and Test specialist VVS Laxman was eager to be India's head coach when Ravi Shastri's tenure was set to end in late 2021. However, the position went to Laxman's good friend Rahul Dravid.

Nonetheless, Laxman -- who is now serving as the National Cricket Academy (NCA) -- is set to take charge of India's T20I squad for the upcoming two-match series versus hosts Ireland. The former middle-order batter will fill in for Dravid, who will be with the Indian Test line-up ahead of their fifth and final match versus England in the United Kingdom, set to be held on July 01.

<section itemprop="articleBody">
"He will travel with the Indian team to Dublin" said Jay Shah, the BCCI Secretary, confirming that Laxman will take charge&nbsp;in the absence of&nbsp;Dravid.&nbsp;
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-chief-selector-reacts-to-cheteshwar-pujaras-test-comeback-for-india-england-series-finale-482085">Former chief selector reacts to Cheteshwar Pujara's Test comeback for India-England series finale</a>

The arrangement is similar to the one Team India had last year. During India's tour of the United Kingdom, after&nbsp;the WTC final and prior to the&nbsp;five Tests versus then Joe Root-led England, regular coach Shastri was with Virat Kohli-starrer red-ball team whereas Dravid had stepped in as the stand-in coach of the white-ball side who had travelled to Sri Lanka for three ODIs and T20Is each.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-has-amazing-reflexes-like-f1-driver-and-mind-like-5-star-general-says-team-indias-former-trainer-482128">MS Dhoni has amazing reflexes like F1 driver and mind like 5-star General, says Team India's former trainer</a>

This will be Laxman's first-ever assignment in a coaching role for the senior men's team. Earlier this year, he was a part of the backroom staff of the India U-19 team that lifted the trophy in the Caribbean island, beating England in the final.

The squad for the Ireland T20Is is yet to be announced by the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee.
</section>

BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had revealed that his former teammate and Test specialist VVS Laxman was eager to be India's head coach when Ravi Shastri's tenure was set to end in late 2021.

BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had revealed that his former teammate and Test specialist VVS Laxman was eager to be India's head coach when Ravi Shastri's tenure was set to end in late 2021. However, the position went to Laxman's good friend Rahul Dravid. Nonetheless, Laxman -- who is now serving as the National Cricket Academy (NCA) -- is set to take charge of India's T20I squad for the upcoming two-match series versus hosts Ireland. The former middle-order batter will fill in for Dravid, who will be with the Indian Test line-up ahead of their fifth and final match versus England in the United Kingdom, set to be held on July 01. "He will travel with the Indian team to Dublin" said Jay Shah, the BCCI Secretary, confirming that Laxman will take charge in the absence of Dravid. ALSO READ | Former chief selector reacts to Cheteshwar Pujara's Test comeback for India-England series finale The arrangement is similar to the one Team India had last year. During India's tour of the United Kingdom, after the WTC final and prior to the five Tests versus then Joe Root-led England, regular coach Shastri was with Virat Kohli-starrer red-ball team whereas Dravid had stepped in as the stand-in coach of the white-ball side who had travelled to Sri Lanka for three ODIs and T20Is each. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni has amazing reflexes like F1 driver and mind like 5-star General, says Team India's former trainer This will be Laxman's first-ever assignment in a coaching role for the senior men's team. Earlier this year, he was a part of the backroom staff of the India U-19 team that lifted the trophy in the Caribbean island, beating England in the final. The squad for the Ireland T20Is is yet to be announced by the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms VVS Laxman to be in charge of India's T20I side for Ireland series

MS Dhoni retired from international cricket in August 2020. However, the 40-year-old remains a big name in world cricket to date. Debuting for Team India in late 2004, when the team desperately needed a specialist keeper-batter, Dhoni became the darling of the masses instantly courtesy of his big hits.&nbsp;

Soon, Dhoni's presence of mind, calmness, improved keeping skills, and fearless approach to the game saw him being promoted as India's captain across formats. While he became much a mature finisher in limited-overs, got the runs coming in whites (especially by playing some gutsy knocks both at home and overseas), and made world cricket take note of his unorthodox yet effective keeping skills, Dhoni changed Indian cricket forever by leading them to all major ICC titles and No. 1 rankings across formats.

Dhoni ended with 17,266 runs, 108 half-centuries, 16 tons, 634 catches, and 195 stumpings, overall, however, his knack for reading the game from behind the stumps,&nbsp;fast reflexes as a keeper, power-hitting, quick legs and overall fitness separated him from others.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/virat-rohits-barren-run-to-mi-csks-mighty-fall-5-surprising-elements-from-ipl-2022s-league-stage-481871">Virat, Rohit's barren run to MI-CSK's mighty fall: 5 surprising elements from IPL 2022's league stage</a>

Recently, Team India's former trainer&nbsp;Ramji Srinivasan -- part of the team during their 2011 ODI World Cup success -- hailed the former captain after having observed him from closed quarters.

"MSD is an enigma and like Sachin Tendulkar, is one in a billion product. He does what suits him, be it strength work, agility, speed or hybrid work. He has his own protocols in place, which suits him. He has amazing reflex like a Formula One driver and with a mind like 5-star General. Very few can match MSD fitness when they reach that age," Srinivasan told the New Indian Express.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-legend-ms-dhoni-confirms-participation-in-ipl-2023-says-will-be-unfair-not-to-say-thank-you-to-chennai-480762">CSK legend MS Dhoni confirms participation in IPL 2023, says 'will be unfair to not say thank you to Chennai'</a>

Dhoni was recently seen in IPL 2022, where he once again represented the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise. The 40-year-old continued to display his sharp mind as a leader and keeper whereas his fitness remains unmatched. He has confirmed his participation in IPL 2023 and is most likely to continue as CSK's skipper for another season.

MS Dhoni retired from international cricket in August 2020. However, the 40-year-old remains a big name in world cricket to date. Debuting for Team India in late 2004, when the team desperately needed a specialist keeper-batter, Dhoni became the darling of the masses instantly courtesy of his big hits.

MS Dhoni retired from international cricket in August 2020. However, the 40-year-old remains a big name in world cricket to date. Debuting for Team India in late 2004, when the team desperately needed a specialist keeper-batter, Dhoni became the darling of the masses instantly courtesy of his big hits. Soon, Dhoni's presence of mind, calmness, improved keeping skills, and fearless approach to the game saw him being promoted as India's captain across formats. While he became much a mature finisher in limited-overs, got the runs coming in whites (especially by playing some gutsy knocks both at home and overseas), and made world cricket take note of his unorthodox yet effective keeping skills, Dhoni changed Indian cricket forever by leading them to all major ICC titles and No. 1 rankings across formats. Dhoni ended with 17,266 runs, 108 half-centuries, 16 tons, 634 catches, and 195 stumpings, overall, however, his knack for reading the game from behind the stumps, fast reflexes as a keeper, power-hitting, quick legs and overall fitness separated him from others. ALSO READ | Virat, Rohit's barren run to MI-CSK's mighty fall: 5 surprising elements from IPL 2022's league stage Recently, Team India's former trainer Ramji Srinivasan -- part of the team during their 2011 ODI World Cup success -- hailed the former captain after having observed him from closed quarters. "MSD is an enigma and like Sachin Tendulkar, is one in a billion product. He does what suits him, be it strength work, agility, speed or hybrid work. He has his own protocols in place, which suits him. He has amazing reflex like a Formula One driver and with a mind like 5-star General. Very few can match MSD fitness when they reach that age," Srinivasan told the New Indian Express. ALSO READ | CSK legend MS Dhoni confirms participation in IPL 2023, says 'will be unfair to not say thank you to Chennai' Dhoni was recently seen in IPL 2022, where he once again represented the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise. The 40-year-old continued to display his sharp mind as a leader and keeper whereas his fitness remains unmatched. He has confirmed his participation in IPL 2023 and is most likely to continue as CSK's skipper for another season.

MS Dhoni has amazing reflexes like F1 driver and mind like 5-star General, says Team India's former trainer

On Sunday (May 22), the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee announced a 17-man squad for Rohit Sharma-led India's fifth and final Test versus England, which will be held in early July at&nbsp;Edgbaston, Birmingham.

Among the four senior players who were dropped for the home series versus Sri Lanka, in March, Cheteshwar Pujara is the only one to have stormed his way back into the squad. Pujara was rewarded for his memorable run for&nbsp;Sussex in the County Championship in England. The right-hander returned with&nbsp;720 runs in 8 innings at an average of 120.0, including two double-tons, to make a comeback into the Test line-up for the series decider versus England, i.e. a part of&nbsp;the incomplete series held last year in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

Thus, former chief selector MSK Prasad reacted to Pujara's comeback in whites and hailed his commitment. “Unbelievable. Only one word I can say is an unbelievable comeback. This shows the commitment he has towards the sport and himself. It's a wonderful story,” Prasad told NDTV.

<section>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-didnt-want-anyone-to-question-him-virender-sehwag-hails-anil-kumble-for-his-test-comeback-481825">'I didn't want anyone to question him...' - Virender Sehwag hails Anil Kumble for his Test comeback</a>

“Not many people would have believed what he has done. I think credit to him, for the way he performed in the County to stake his claim in the Test team. Because all through his career he has always been a Test cricketer, and had he not been there in this team, I think we would have missed him forever," the former keeper-batter added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cheteshwar-pujara-returns-as-selectors-announce-indias-squad-for-one-off-test-against-england-481256">Cheteshwar Pujara returns as selectors announce India's squad for one-off Test against England</a>

Pujara was unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, following which he went to play the County championship.&nbsp;The decision proved to be a masterstroke for the Test specialist as he made a quick return to the red-ball squad after being dropped following a poor run in the South Africa Tests, held early this year.

Indian cricket team Test squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, R Jadeja, R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Prasidh Krishna
</section>

On Sunday (May 22), the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee announced a 17-man squad for Rohit Sharma-led India's fifth and final Test versus England, which will be held in early July at Edgbaston, Birmingham.

On Sunday (May 22), the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee announced a 17-man squad for Rohit Sharma-led India's fifth and final Test versus England, which will be held in early July at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Among the four senior players who were dropped for the home series versus Sri Lanka, in March, Cheteshwar Pujara is the only one to have stormed his way back into the squad. Pujara was rewarded for his memorable run for Sussex in the County Championship in England. The right-hander returned with 720 runs in 8 innings at an average of 120.0, including two double-tons, to make a comeback into the Test line-up for the series decider versus England, i.e. a part of the incomplete series held last year in the United Kingdom. Thus, former chief selector MSK Prasad reacted to Pujara's comeback in whites and hailed his commitment. “Unbelievable. Only one word I can say is an unbelievable comeback. This shows the commitment he has towards the sport and himself. It's a wonderful story,” Prasad told NDTV. ALSO READ | 'I didn't want anyone to question him...' - Virender Sehwag hails Anil Kumble for his Test comeback “Not many people would have believed what he has done. I think credit to him, for the way he performed in the County to stake his claim in the Test team. Because all through his career he has always been a Test cricketer, and had he not been there in this team, I think we would have missed him forever," the former keeper-batter added. ALSO READ | Cheteshwar Pujara returns as selectors announce India's squad for one-off Test against England Pujara was unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, following which he went to play the County championship. The decision proved to be a masterstroke for the Test specialist as he made a quick return to the red-ball squad after being dropped following a poor run in the South Africa Tests, held early this year. Indian cricket team Test squad: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, R Jadeja, R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Prasidh Krishna

Former chief selector reacts to Cheteshwar Pujara's Test comeback for India-England series finale

Virender Sehwag had a stellar run for Team India across formats. While his playing style was more suited to the limited-overs, the former Indian opener proved his critics wrong with some stunning performances in the red-ball format. As a result, he ended with&nbsp;8,586 runs in whites, including two triple tons. In fact, he scored more in Tests after 8,273 runs in his ODI career and, hence, defied the odds.

Despite his fruitful run in whites, Sehwag was dropped from the Test line-up for a year after playing his 52nd match in the format. Before India's famous tour of Australia in 2007-08, he was recalled into the side on then captain Anil Kumble's insistence. While the decision was questioned by many, Sehwag proved Kumble's decision right by scoring big in the last two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Recently, Sehwag hailed his former skipper Kumble for showing faith in him.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricketers-must-ensure-harmony-between-india-pakistan-akhtar-on-sehwags-chucking-allegations-480737">'Cricketers must ensure harmony between India-Pakistan' - Akhtar on Sehwag's 'chucking' allegation</a>

“Suddenly, I realised I was not part of the Test side; it hurt. I would have ended with 10,000+ Test runs had I not been dropped for that period,” Sehwag told&nbsp;Sports 18.

After not being a part of the playing XI for the first two Tests in the India-Australia series Down Under, Sehwag recalled Kumble's words ahead of a practice match before the penultimate Test. “Score a 50 in this match, and you will be picked for the match in Perth.”

As a result of returning with a century in the India-ACT Invitation XI match, Sehwag stormed his way back into the XI for the Perth Test. He gave a good start to the team in both the innings and also claimed two wickets in India's famous 72-run win. However, it was in the fourth and final Test where the ex-Indian opener showed his class and announced his return in style, scoring 63 and a match-saving&nbsp;151-run knock in the second innings.

“Those 60 runs were the toughest I scored in my life. I was playing to repay the faith Anil Bhai put in me. I did not want anyone to question him for bringing me to Australia. I was focused on the striker’s end; on the other end, I spoke to the umpire, humming my favourite songs. The pressure was gone," Sehwag added.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-would-remember-me-if-i-scored-tons-at-sachin-gangulys-pace-says-ex-indian-opener-virender-sehwag-479904">Nobody would remember me if I scored tons at Sachin, Ganguly's pace, says ex-Indian opener Virender Sehwag</a>

Sehwag remembered Kumble's words after his memorable performance in the series decider, in Adelaida. Back then, Kumble had told Sehwag, "As long as I am the Test team captain, you will not be dropped from the side."

Before signing off, Sehwag lauded both Kumble and Sourav Ganguly for trusting and backing him. “That’s what a player yearns for the most, the confidence of his captain. I got that from Ganguly in my initial years and from Kumble later,” he&nbsp;concluded.
</section>

Virender Sehwag had a stellar run for Team India across formats. While his playing style was more suited to the limited-overs, the former Indian opener proved his critics wrong with some stunning performances in the red-ball format.

Virender Sehwag had a stellar run for Team India across formats. While his playing style was more suited to the limited-overs, the former Indian opener proved his critics wrong with some stunning performances in the red-ball format. As a result, he ended with 8,586 runs in whites, including two triple tons. In fact, he scored more in Tests after 8,273 runs in his ODI career and, hence, defied the odds. Despite his fruitful run in whites, Sehwag was dropped from the Test line-up for a year after playing his 52nd match in the format. Before India's famous tour of Australia in 2007-08, he was recalled into the side on then captain Anil Kumble's insistence. While the decision was questioned by many, Sehwag proved Kumble's decision right by scoring big in the last two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Recently, Sehwag hailed his former skipper Kumble for showing faith in him. ALSO READ | 'Cricketers must ensure harmony between India-Pakistan' - Akhtar on Sehwag's 'chucking' allegation “Suddenly, I realised I was not part of the Test side; it hurt. I would have ended with 10,000+ Test runs had I not been dropped for that period,” Sehwag told Sports 18. After not being a part of the playing XI for the first two Tests in the India-Australia series Down Under, Sehwag recalled Kumble's words ahead of a practice match before the penultimate Test. “Score a 50 in this match, and you will be picked for the match in Perth.” As a result of returning with a century in the India-ACT Invitation XI match, Sehwag stormed his way back into the XI for the Perth Test. He gave a good start to the team in both the innings and also claimed two wickets in India's famous 72-run win. However, it was in the fourth and final Test where the ex-Indian opener showed his class and announced his return in style, scoring 63 and a match-saving 151-run knock in the second innings. “Those 60 runs were the toughest I scored in my life. I was playing to repay the faith Anil Bhai put in me. I did not want anyone to question him for bringing me to Australia. I was focused on the striker’s end; on the other end, I spoke to the umpire, humming my favourite songs. The pressure was gone," Sehwag added. ALSO READ | Nobody would remember me if I scored tons at Sachin, Ganguly's pace, says ex-Indian opener Virender Sehwag Sehwag remembered Kumble's words after his memorable performance in the series decider, in Adelaida. Back then, Kumble had told Sehwag, "As long as I am the Test team captain, you will not be dropped from the side." Before signing off, Sehwag lauded both Kumble and Sourav Ganguly for trusting and backing him. “That’s what a player yearns for the most, the confidence of his captain. I got that from Ganguly in my initial years and from Kumble later,” he concluded.

'I didn't want anyone to question him...' - Virender Sehwag hails Anil Kumble for his Test comeback

Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) have joined the IPL 2022 playoffs for the first time since&nbsp;2018 edition. While many players have stood tall for the one-time winners, R Ashwin's inclusion and the out-of-the-box usage of the star player from the team management has helped the RR franchise extensively in the 15th season.&nbsp;

Ashwin has not only bowled some tidy spells, picked up crucial wickets from time to time but the 35-year-old has become a vital cog of Samson &amp; Co. by virtue of his cameos and overall contributions with the bat. In 14 games, 183 runs with a fifty -- his maiden IPL half-century -- and a match-finishing 40 not out in a moderate run-chase versus defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) recently.&nbsp;

Thus, Ashwin is having a ball in IPL 2022 and looks set to continue in a similar stead for the inaugural champions in the playoffs. Ahead of the knockouts, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has backed the all-rounder Ashwin to feature in India's T20 World Cup squad later this year. For the unversed, he was also a part of India's scheme of things in last year's T20 WC. Back then, he had staged a combeack in limited-overs after a four-year hiatus based on his impressive run in IPL 2021.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-t20is-former-indian-opener-snubs-dinesh-karthik-in-his-probable-xi-for-kl-rahul-co-481461">India vs SA T20Is: Former Indian opener snubs Dinesh Karthik in his probable XI for KL Rahul &amp; Co.</a>

<section>“I think he wanted to show he can bat anywhere. He started his career as an opening batsman, not at the first-class level may be, but at the club level. Now he has become one of the greatest spinners in the game," Gavaskar told&nbsp;Star Sports.</section>

"And he also knows that he is a batsman who has got five Test hundreds. So he can bat, he knows that. He has now shown that he can do it in the ultra-short format and be in the Indian team for the World Cup in Australia. That is his aim and that is why he is so excited about his own batting performance. He's showing with the ball and with the bat that ‘Hello! Pick me’," Gavaskar added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-playoffs-all-you-need-to-know-about-schedule-timings-and-venues-481387">IPL 2022 playoffs: All you need to know about schedule, timings and venues</a>

<section>Ashwin-starrer RR have a serious chance of lifting their first IPL title after 14 years in the ongoing season. They are gearing up for Qualifier 1 where they will lock horns with the Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT), who ended the league stage at the top of the points table.</section>

Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) have joined the IPL 2022 playoffs for the first time since 2018 edition. While many players have stood tall for the one-time winners, R Ashwin's inclusion and the out-of-the-box usage of the star player from the team management has helped the RR franchise extensively in the 15th season.

Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) have joined the IPL 2022 playoffs for the first time since 2018 edition. While many players have stood tall for the one-time winners, R Ashwin's inclusion and the out-of-the-box usage of the star player from the team management has helped the RR franchise extensively in the 15th season. Ashwin has not only bowled some tidy spells, picked up crucial wickets from time to time but the 35-year-old has become a vital cog of Samson & Co. by virtue of his cameos and overall contributions with the bat. In 14 games, 183 runs with a fifty -- his maiden IPL half-century -- and a match-finishing 40 not out in a moderate run-chase versus defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) recently. Thus, Ashwin is having a ball in IPL 2022 and looks set to continue in a similar stead for the inaugural champions in the playoffs. Ahead of the knockouts, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has backed the all-rounder Ashwin to feature in India's T20 World Cup squad later this year. For the unversed, he was also a part of India's scheme of things in last year's T20 WC. Back then, he had staged a combeack in limited-overs after a four-year hiatus based on his impressive run in IPL 2021. ALSO READ | India vs SA T20Is: Former Indian opener snubs Dinesh Karthik in his probable XI for KL Rahul & Co. “I think he wanted to show he can bat anywhere. He started his career as an opening batsman, not at the first-class level may be, but at the club level. Now he has become one of the greatest spinners in the game," Gavaskar told Star Sports. "And he also knows that he is a batsman who has got five Test hundreds. So he can bat, he knows that. He has now shown that he can do it in the ultra-short format and be in the Indian team for the World Cup in Australia. That is his aim and that is why he is so excited about his own batting performance. He's showing with the ball and with the bat that ‘Hello! Pick me’," Gavaskar added. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 playoffs: All you need to know about schedule, timings and venues Ashwin-starrer RR have a serious chance of lifting their first IPL title after 14 years in the ongoing season. They are gearing up for Qualifier 1 where they will lock horns with the Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT), who ended the league stage at the top of the points table.

'Hello! Pick me': Sunil Gavaskar backs RR star to be part of Team India squad for T20 World Cup

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee announced an 18-member Team India squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, starting from June 09. While the big guns such as regular captain Rohit Sharma, former skipper Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested, KL Rahul will lead the line-up, which also sees the comeback of Dinesh Karthik.

Karthik, who had donned the commentator's hat last year, has seen his career getting revived in IPL 2022, where he is representing the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Karthik got a new lease of life at the RCB, where he has made heads turn being a fantastic finisher for the three-time runners-up and rescuing them from several precarious situations. In 14 games, Karthik has amassed 287 runs&nbsp;at an average of 57.40 and a strike rate of 191.

Thus, Karthik's IPL 15 knocks have helped him make a comeback in Team India setup. In a video shared by RCB, the veteran keeper-batter thanked Bengaluru's top brass&nbsp;Sanjay Bangar, Mike Hesson and Indian captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid for instilling faith on him.

"Very happy. Very very very satisfying. I must say this has been my most memorable comeback because a lot of people had given up on me and for me to do what I did, practice with the way I did with my coach Nayar. So many special things in the lead to the auction and how I practiced post that. I lot of credit also to Sanjay Bangar and Mike Hesson. The clarity that they gave me to execute the role that I wanted to, in many ways I am indebted to RCB for picking me and believing in me," said Karthik who was roped in by the francse&nbsp;for 5.50 crore at IPL mega auction.

"A lot of credit must go to the selectors, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid because these days with so many young boys putting their names for selection, to see the skillset that is there and then to believe that this is the guy we need for the World Cup, it is a very very humbling feeling. I know the journey is still there to the World Cup but to be a part of the scheme of things and giving me an opportunity to showcase my skills and I am very proud of it," Karthik added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-rested-as-india-announce-squad-for-t20i-series-against-south-africa-481249">Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma rested as India announce squad for T20I series against South Africa</a>

"I started believing but people around me gave me a feeling saying I should not dream too much. I took up the role of a commentator and that made it look like I am no more interested in trying to come back to the Indian team but I have always said that for me, playing for the Indian team is the priority, because I had time I did it. I am very excited overall," he signed off.

India's T20I squad for South Africa series -&nbsp;KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee announced an 18-member Team India squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, starting from June 09.

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee announced an 18-member Team India squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, starting from June 09. While the big guns such as regular captain Rohit Sharma, former skipper Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested, KL Rahul will lead the line-up, which also sees the comeback of Dinesh Karthik. Karthik, who had donned the commentator's hat last year, has seen his career getting revived in IPL 2022, where he is representing the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Karthik got a new lease of life at the RCB, where he has made heads turn being a fantastic finisher for the three-time runners-up and rescuing them from several precarious situations. In 14 games, Karthik has amassed 287 runs at an average of 57.40 and a strike rate of 191. Thus, Karthik's IPL 15 knocks have helped him make a comeback in Team India setup. In a video shared by RCB, the veteran keeper-batter thanked Bengaluru's top brass Sanjay Bangar, Mike Hesson and Indian captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid for instilling faith on him. "Very happy. Very very very satisfying. I must say this has been my most memorable comeback because a lot of people had given up on me and for me to do what I did, practice with the way I did with my coach Nayar. So many special things in the lead to the auction and how I practiced post that. I lot of credit also to Sanjay Bangar and Mike Hesson. The clarity that they gave me to execute the role that I wanted to, in many ways I am indebted to RCB for picking me and believing in me," said Karthik who was roped in by the francse for 5.50 crore at IPL mega auction. "A lot of credit must go to the selectors, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid because these days with so many young boys putting their names for selection, to see the skillset that is there and then to believe that this is the guy we need for the World Cup, it is a very very humbling feeling. I know the journey is still there to the World Cup but to be a part of the scheme of things and giving me an opportunity to showcase my skills and I am very proud of it," Karthik added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma rested as India announce squad for T20I series against South Africa "I started believing but people around me gave me a feeling saying I should not dream too much. I took up the role of a commentator and that made it look like I am no more interested in trying to come back to the Indian team but I have always said that for me, playing for the Indian team is the priority, because I had time I did it. I am very excited overall," he signed off. India's T20I squad for South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

'A lot of people had given up on me' - Dinesh Karthik reacts after his memorable Team India comeback

Many had their doubts over Rishabh Pant and whether he would be able to replace MS Dhoni across formats, after the veteran's retirement. While Pant took some time to take off in all forms of the game, the 24-year-old has now come to his own and made the wicketkeeper's slot his own in every format.

Filling in for Dhoni can never be easy for anyone, be it in IPL or for Team India, however, Pant is slowly making his own identity as an explosive middle-order batter for the national side (and also for his IPL franchise, i.e. the Delhi Capitals). Ahead of India's next assignment, which will be a five-match T20I series at home versus South Africa in early June, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag feels Pant can be more successful as an opener.

Sehwag told&nbsp;Sports 18, "We don’t play limited-overs to score 50 or 100 but to score at a brisk pace, no matter the situation or the opposition,” Sehwag told Sports 18, “At no. 4 or 5, he will find himself in situations that demand greater responsibility, but if he opens, he will be far more successful."

Pant has 1,920 runs in 30 Tests and has been more successful in whites. In limited-overs, he has 715 and 683 runs in ODIs and T20Is, respectively.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prithvi-shaw-rishabh-pant-can-help-india-rule-test-cricket-and-win-world-test-championship-virender-sehwag-480705">Prithvi Shaw, Rishabh Pant can help India rule Test cricket and win World Test Championship: Virender Sehwag</a>

Sehwag also opined that Prithvi Shaw and Pant will form a daunting par for India in Tests and can help the team dominate the red-ball format. In this regard, he stated, "He (Prithvi Shaw) is a player who can bring back the excitement in Test cricket." Sehwag added, "Opposition will have to think if 400 would be enough with Shaw and Pant in our ranks. Shaw and Pant in one team could help India rule Test cricket and win the World Test Championship."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricketers-must-ensure-harmony-between-india-pakistan-akhtar-on-sehwags-chucking-allegations-480737">'Cricketers must ensure harmony between India-Pakistan' - Akhtar on Sehwag's 'chucking' allegation</a>

Currently, Pant and Shaw are part of the DC franchise in the IPL 2022 edition. Pant &amp; Co. are alive in the playoffs race and need to win against Mumbai Indians (MI) in their last league stage encounter to confirm a spot in the playoffs.&nbsp;

Many had their doubts over Rishabh Pant and whether he would be able to replace MS Dhoni across formats, after the veteran's retirement. While Pant took some time to take off in all forms of the game, the 24-year-old has now come to his own and made the wicketkeeper's slot his own in every format.

Many had their doubts over Rishabh Pant and whether he would be able to replace MS Dhoni across formats, after the veteran's retirement. While Pant took some time to take off in all forms of the game, the 24-year-old has now come to his own and made the wicketkeeper's slot his own in every format. Filling in for Dhoni can never be easy for anyone, be it in IPL or for Team India, however, Pant is slowly making his own identity as an explosive middle-order batter for the national side (and also for his IPL franchise, i.e. the Delhi Capitals). Ahead of India's next assignment, which will be a five-match T20I series at home versus South Africa in early June, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag feels Pant can be more successful as an opener. Sehwag told Sports 18, "We don’t play limited-overs to score 50 or 100 but to score at a brisk pace, no matter the situation or the opposition,” Sehwag told Sports 18, “At no. 4 or 5, he will find himself in situations that demand greater responsibility, but if he opens, he will be far more successful." Pant has 1,920 runs in 30 Tests and has been more successful in whites. In limited-overs, he has 715 and 683 runs in ODIs and T20Is, respectively. ALSO READ | Prithvi Shaw, Rishabh Pant can help India rule Test cricket and win World Test Championship: Virender Sehwag Sehwag also opined that Prithvi Shaw and Pant will form a daunting par for India in Tests and can help the team dominate the red-ball format. In this regard, he stated, "He (Prithvi Shaw) is a player who can bring back the excitement in Test cricket." Sehwag added, "Opposition will have to think if 400 would be enough with Shaw and Pant in our ranks. Shaw and Pant in one team could help India rule Test cricket and win the World Test Championship." ALSO READ | 'Cricketers must ensure harmony between India-Pakistan' - Akhtar on Sehwag's 'chucking' allegation Currently, Pant and Shaw are part of the DC franchise in the IPL 2022 edition. Pant & Co. are alive in the playoffs race and need to win against Mumbai Indians (MI) in their last league stage encounter to confirm a spot in the playoffs.

'If he opens, he'll be more successful: Virender Sehwag rates Rishabh Pant's chances as Team India opener

Virat Kohli remains the talk of the cricketing fraternity despite his dismal run in IPL 2022. So far, the former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain has amassed only&nbsp;236 runs at an average of&nbsp;19.67 and a poor strike rate of&nbsp;113.46 with a solitary fifty under his belt.

While a lot has been said and written about Kohli and how he should take a break in order to rediscover his form and comeback motivated as ever for Team India, the 33-year-old recently opened up on the prospect of taking a breather from cricket and spoke about his goals for the national side.

"I know how motivated I will be when the scores start coming," Kohli told Star Sports. "I want to win India the Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup; that's the motivation."

"I have to move forward maintaining a balance, get some rest, some rejuvenation, once I'm in the mindset then there's no looking back and... it's great fun. My main aim is to help India win the Asia Cup and the World Cup and for that I am ready to do anything for the team," he told former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh in a chat for Star Sports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-built-a-new-team-doubt-if-virat-kohli-did-the-same-as-captain-says-virender-sehwag-480429">Sourav Ganguly built a new team, doubt if Virat Kohli did the same as captain, says Virender Sehwag</a>

While Ravi Shastri, Kevin Pietersen and many others have called for Kohli to take a break from the cricketing activities, the latter opened up in this regard and said, "It's not a lot of people who mentioned it. There is one person precisely who has mentioned it which is Ravi bhai and that's because he has seen from close quarters over the last six-seven years the reality of the situation that I have been in."

"The amount of cricket that I have played and the ups and downs and the toll that it takes on you to play three formats of the game plus the IPL for 10-11 years non-stop with the seven years of captaincy in between," he opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-virat-kohli-on-verge-of-achieving-major-milestone-as-rcb-face-gt-in-a-must-win-tie-480386">IPL 2022: Virat Kohli on verge of achieving major milestone as RCB face GT in a must-win tie</a>

"It is definitely a thing that one needs to consider because you don't want to do something which you are not a part of 100% and I have always believed in that in my life. So, to take a break and when to take a break is obviously something that I need to take a call on, but it is only a healthy decision for anyone to take some time off and just rejuvenate yourself mentally and physically.

"Not so much physically because physical fitness you keep up with through the course of playing cricket all the time, but it is a mental kind of reset that you need, and you want to be excited for what you are doing. You don't want to feel like you have been forcing yourself into any situation," Kohli added.

With India's T20I squad to be announced for the forthcoming South Africa series, from June 09, it seems Kohli will get a break and will likely return to action for the fifth and final Test versus England, in early July.

Virat Kohli remains the talk of the cricketing fraternity despite his dismal run in IPL 2022. So far, the former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain has amassed only 236 runs at an average of 19.

Virat Kohli remains the talk of the cricketing fraternity despite his dismal run in IPL 2022. So far, the former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain has amassed only 236 runs at an average of 19.67 and a poor strike rate of 113.46 with a solitary fifty under his belt. While a lot has been said and written about Kohli and how he should take a break in order to rediscover his form and comeback motivated as ever for Team India, the 33-year-old recently opened up on the prospect of taking a breather from cricket and spoke about his goals for the national side. "I know how motivated I will be when the scores start coming," Kohli told Star Sports. "I want to win India the Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup; that's the motivation." "I have to move forward maintaining a balance, get some rest, some rejuvenation, once I'm in the mindset then there's no looking back and... it's great fun. My main aim is to help India win the Asia Cup and the World Cup and for that I am ready to do anything for the team," he told former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh in a chat for Star Sports. ALSO READ | Sourav Ganguly built a new team, doubt if Virat Kohli did the same as captain, says Virender Sehwag While Ravi Shastri, Kevin Pietersen and many others have called for Kohli to take a break from the cricketing activities, the latter opened up in this regard and said, "It's not a lot of people who mentioned it. There is one person precisely who has mentioned it which is Ravi bhai and that's because he has seen from close quarters over the last six-seven years the reality of the situation that I have been in." "The amount of cricket that I have played and the ups and downs and the toll that it takes on you to play three formats of the game plus the IPL for 10-11 years non-stop with the seven years of captaincy in between," he opined. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Virat Kohli on verge of achieving major milestone as RCB face GT in a must-win tie "It is definitely a thing that one needs to consider because you don't want to do something which you are not a part of 100% and I have always believed in that in my life. So, to take a break and when to take a break is obviously something that I need to take a call on, but it is only a healthy decision for anyone to take some time off and just rejuvenate yourself mentally and physically. "Not so much physically because physical fitness you keep up with through the course of playing cricket all the time, but it is a mental kind of reset that you need, and you want to be excited for what you are doing. You don't want to feel like you have been forcing yourself into any situation," Kohli added. With India's T20I squad to be announced for the forthcoming South Africa series, from June 09, it seems Kohli will get a break and will likely return to action for the fifth and final Test versus England, in early July.

I want to win India the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, says former skipper Virat Kohli

Team India's cricketing calendar will resume as soon as the IPL 2022 edition concludes, on May 29. The senior men's team's hectic schedule will once again see two teams in action at the same time, as was the case last year. A white-ball squad will face South Africa at home and Ireland in their own backyard, whereas the red-ball team will be on the England tour in June-July.&nbsp;

Thus, the Indian team&nbsp;will have two captains leading the national side simultaneously&nbsp;along with&nbsp;two coaching staff&nbsp;at work. In head coach Rahul Dravid's absence, who will be with the Test line-up, National Cricket Academy's (NCA) current head VVS Laxman is likely to step in his former teammate's role and act as the head coach for the white-ball assignments versus SA and Ireland.&nbsp;Earlier this year, the former Test specialist had assisted the victorious Yash Dhull-led India U-19 team in&nbsp;the Junior World Cup in West Indies.

“We now have a warm-up game against Leicestershire on June 24 before the Birmingham Test. Rahul Dravid&nbsp;and team will leave on June 15th or 16th. We will be asking VVS (Laxman) to step in for India South Africa T20’s and Ireland T20’s," a top BCCI official was quoted as saying by&nbsp;InsideSport.in.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-would-remember-me-if-i-scored-tons-at-sachin-gangulys-pace-says-ex-indian-opener-virender-sehwag-479904">Nobody would remember me if I scored tons at Sachin, Ganguly's pace, says ex-Indian opener Virender Sehwag</a>

In mid-2021, a similar such arrangement was made within the Indian team. In June-July, the then head coach Ravi Shastri was with the Virat Kohli-led Indian team in the United Kingdom for the WTC final&nbsp;and England Tests. On the other hand, the previous NCA chief Dravid took over the coaching role for the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian side touring Sri Lanka, during the same time in late July.

Team India's cricketing calendar will resume as soon as the IPL 2022 edition concludes, on May 29. The senior men's team's hectic schedule will once again see two teams in action at the same time, as was the case last year.

Team India's cricketing calendar will resume as soon as the IPL 2022 edition concludes, on May 29. The senior men's team's hectic schedule will once again see two teams in action at the same time, as was the case last year. A white-ball squad will face South Africa at home and Ireland in their own backyard, whereas the red-ball team will be on the England tour in June-July. Thus, the Indian team will have two captains leading the national side simultaneously along with two coaching staff at work. In head coach Rahul Dravid's absence, who will be with the Test line-up, National Cricket Academy's (NCA) current head VVS Laxman is likely to step in his former teammate's role and act as the head coach for the white-ball assignments versus SA and Ireland. Earlier this year, the former Test specialist had assisted the victorious Yash Dhull-led India U-19 team in the Junior World Cup in West Indies. “We now have a warm-up game against Leicestershire on June 24 before the Birmingham Test. Rahul Dravid and team will leave on June 15th or 16th. We will be asking VVS (Laxman) to step in for India South Africa T20’s and Ireland T20’s," a top BCCI official was quoted as saying by InsideSport.in. ALSO READ | Nobody would remember me if I scored tons at Sachin, Ganguly's pace, says ex-Indian opener Virender Sehwag In mid-2021, a similar such arrangement was made within the Indian team. In June-July, the then head coach Ravi Shastri was with the Virat Kohli-led Indian team in the United Kingdom for the WTC final and England Tests. On the other hand, the previous NCA chief Dravid took over the coaching role for the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian side touring Sri Lanka, during the same time in late July.

NCA chief VVS Laxman likely to don head coach's hat for SA, Ireland series in Rahul Dravid's absence: Report

Virender Sehwag was a special talent. Making a mark in a batting line-up comprising members of India's golden era, such as&nbsp;Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman was never going to be easy for anyone. However, Sehwag had his own way of approaching the game and played his own way despite many criticism.

While Sehwag excelled in the ODI format, and also struck at 145.38 in 19 T20Is for India, he exceeded expectations with his performances in the purest format of the game. Not having a textbook technique, Sehwag surprised one and all by amassing&nbsp;8,586 runs in whites, striking at a whopping&nbsp;82.23 along with 23 tons and 32 fifties.

Recently, speaking to Sports 18, Sehwag opined that while the likes of SRT, Dravid, Ganguly and others scored centuries in 150-200 balls, he reached the milestone lot earlier than them, helping him in creating his own identity.&nbsp;"Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Sourav Ganguly all would score their centuries playing 150-200 balls. If I scored hundreds at the same rate, no one would remember me. I had to score runs faster than them to create my identity,” said Sehwag, who represented India in 104 Tests and ended with an average of 49.34.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-ravindra-jadeja-virender-sehwag-names-csk-player-who-can-replace-ms-dhoni-as-captain-478855">Not Ravindra Jadeja! Virender Sehwag names CSK player who can replace MS Dhoni as captain</a>

While many batters tend to slow down or play cautiously en route a triple-figure mark, Sehwag continued to play fearless cricket and continued to take on the bowlers by sticking to his approach. In this regard, he added, "I always thought that if I stayed till the end of the day, I should score 250 runs, and in that process, I obviously would have to cross 100, 150, 200 and so on. So, there was no pressure in hitting a ball to or over the fence in the nineties because the goal was not to stop at 100."

Virender Sehwag was a special talent. Making a mark in a batting line-up comprising members of India's golden era, such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman was never going to be easy for anyone.

Virender Sehwag was a special talent. Making a mark in a batting line-up comprising members of India's golden era, such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman was never going to be easy for anyone. However, Sehwag had his own way of approaching the game and played his own way despite many criticism. While Sehwag excelled in the ODI format, and also struck at 145.38 in 19 T20Is for India, he exceeded expectations with his performances in the purest format of the game. Not having a textbook technique, Sehwag surprised one and all by amassing 8,586 runs in whites, striking at a whopping 82.23 along with 23 tons and 32 fifties. Recently, speaking to Sports 18, Sehwag opined that while the likes of SRT, Dravid, Ganguly and others scored centuries in 150-200 balls, he reached the milestone lot earlier than them, helping him in creating his own identity. "Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Sourav Ganguly all would score their centuries playing 150-200 balls. If I scored hundreds at the same rate, no one would remember me. I had to score runs faster than them to create my identity,” said Sehwag, who represented India in 104 Tests and ended with an average of 49.34. ALSO READ | Not Ravindra Jadeja! Virender Sehwag names CSK player who can replace MS Dhoni as captain While many batters tend to slow down or play cautiously en route a triple-figure mark, Sehwag continued to play fearless cricket and continued to take on the bowlers by sticking to his approach. In this regard, he added, "I always thought that if I stayed till the end of the day, I should score 250 runs, and in that process, I obviously would have to cross 100, 150, 200 and so on. So, there was no pressure in hitting a ball to or over the fence in the nineties because the goal was not to stop at 100."

Nobody would remember me if I scored tons at Sachin, Ganguly's pace, says ex-Indian opener Virender Sehwag

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) locked horns with&nbsp;Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 58 of IPL 2022 edition on Wednesday evening (May 11). In a bid to remain alive in the playoffs race, the Delhi franchise brought their A-game as they restricted RR to 160-6 and later chased down the target with eight wickets and 11 balls to spare.

While it was Mitchell Marsh show, returning with 2 for 25 and 62-ball 89, Pant also marshalled his troops well and took a brave call to bat second after winning the toss. Later, he also ended with a 4-ball 13* as he entered an elite list.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-mi-ipl-2022-today-match-prediction-who-will-win-chennai-super-kings-vs-mumbai-indians-clash-478363">CSK vs MI, IPL 2022 today match prediction: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians clash?</a>

The 24-year-old Pant is now among Indian wicketkeeper-batsman with in excess of 4,000 runs in T20 cricket. The list is topped by none other than the legendary cricketer MS Dhoni. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain&nbsp;has amassed 7,098 runs whereas Dinesh Karthik&nbsp;is at the second spot with&nbsp;6,557 runs in 339 T20s. Parthiv Patel, on the other hand, finished&nbsp;his T20 career with 4,300 runs. Given that Pant is only 24 and in the initial phase of his career, he is set to scale new heights and top the list in the coming years.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-ipl-2022-points-table-after-delhi-capitals-thrash-rajasthan-royals-by-8-wickets-478212">Updated IPL 2022 points table after Delhi Capitals thrash Rajasthan Royals by 8 wickets</a>

After DC pulled off a big win and kept their playoffs hopes alive, with 14 points and two games remaining, Pant said at the post-match presentation, "Very close to a perfect game. Always believe there's room for improvement. When you know the wicket is going to turn, little bit not much, there's an opportunity to both bowl first or bat first. In the toss I said anything around 140-160 would be good for us, and we got 160. Destiny is always on your hands, you can look to give 100 percent. Fielding wise we can be better. He got typhoid or something like that (talking about Shaw), doctor told me that."

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) locked horns with Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 58 of IPL 2022 edition on Wednesday evening (May 11). In a bid to remain alive in the playoffs race, the Delhi franchise brought their A-game as they restricted RR to 160-6 and later chased down the target with eight wickets and 11 balls to spare.

Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) locked horns with Sanju Samson's Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 58 of IPL 2022 edition on Wednesday evening (May 11). In a bid to remain alive in the playoffs race, the Delhi franchise brought their A-game as they restricted RR to 160-6 and later chased down the target with eight wickets and 11 balls to spare. While it was Mitchell Marsh show, returning with 2 for 25 and 62-ball 89, Pant also marshalled his troops well and took a brave call to bat second after winning the toss. Later, he also ended with a 4-ball 13* as he entered an elite list. ALSO READ | CSK vs MI, IPL 2022 today match prediction: Who will win Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians clash? The 24-year-old Pant is now among Indian wicketkeeper-batsman with in excess of 4,000 runs in T20 cricket. The list is topped by none other than the legendary cricketer MS Dhoni. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain has amassed 7,098 runs whereas Dinesh Karthik is at the second spot with 6,557 runs in 339 T20s. Parthiv Patel, on the other hand, finished his T20 career with 4,300 runs. Given that Pant is only 24 and in the initial phase of his career, he is set to scale new heights and top the list in the coming years. ALSO READ | Updated IPL 2022 points table after Delhi Capitals thrash Rajasthan Royals by 8 wickets After DC pulled off a big win and kept their playoffs hopes alive, with 14 points and two games remaining, Pant said at the post-match presentation, "Very close to a perfect game. Always believe there's room for improvement. When you know the wicket is going to turn, little bit not much, there's an opportunity to both bowl first or bat first. In the toss I said anything around 140-160 would be good for us, and we got 160. Destiny is always on your hands, you can look to give 100 percent. Fielding wise we can be better. He got typhoid or something like that (talking about Shaw), doctor told me that."

IPL 2022: Rishabh Pant joins MS Dhoni-led elite list of Indian wicketkeeper-batters with 4k runs in T20s

Amid the IPL 2022, the Indian team's head coach Rahul Dravid is getting some off time from national duties. Since the past few days, speculations have been rife that the former Indian captain is set to attend a BJP event in the poll-bound Himachal Pradesh. However, the 49-year-old has now responded to all such speculations.

Speaking to news agency&nbsp;ANI&nbsp;on Tuesday (May 10), Dravid dismissed the talks of attending a BJP Yuva Morcha meet in the poll-bound state in the coming days. "A section of the media has reported that I will attend a meeting in Himachal Pradesh from May 12th-15th, 2022. I wish to clarify that the said report is incorrect," Dravid was quoted saying by the news agency.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-to-host-australia-in-three-t20is-before-t20-world-cup-bg-trophy-early-next-year-477823">India to host Australia in three T20Is before T20 World Cup, BG Trophy early next year</a>

Dravid's response&nbsp;came after BJP Dharamsala MLA Vishal Nehria had claimed that the Team India coach will grace his presence in the Yuva Morcha's National Working Committee session in Dharamshala. "The National Working Committee of BJP Yuva Morcha will be held in Dharamshala from May 12 to 15. The national leadership of BJP and the leadership of Himachal Pradesh will be involved. BJP National President JP Nadda, National Organization Minister and Union Minister will also attend the session," Nehria had earlier said.

Dravid took over as India's head coach after Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end post the 2021 T20 World Cup. Since then, India have been unbeaten in T20Is, beat West Indies in three ODIs before being whitewashed by South Africa in a three-match series earlier this year, won a home Test series versus New Zealand and Sri Lanka but lost the Test series versus hosts South Africa 2-1.

Amid the IPL 2022, the Indian team's head coach Rahul Dravid is getting some off time from national duties. Since the past few days, speculations have been rife that the former Indian captain is set to attend a BJP event in the poll-bound Himachal Pradesh.

Amid the IPL 2022, the Indian team's head coach Rahul Dravid is getting some off time from national duties. Since the past few days, speculations have been rife that the former Indian captain is set to attend a BJP event in the poll-bound Himachal Pradesh. However, the 49-year-old has now responded to all such speculations. Speaking to news agency ANI on Tuesday (May 10), Dravid dismissed the talks of attending a BJP Yuva Morcha meet in the poll-bound state in the coming days. "A section of the media has reported that I will attend a meeting in Himachal Pradesh from May 12th-15th, 2022. I wish to clarify that the said report is incorrect," Dravid was quoted saying by the news agency. ALSO READ | India to host Australia in three T20Is before T20 World Cup, BG Trophy early next year Dravid's response came after BJP Dharamsala MLA Vishal Nehria had claimed that the Team India coach will grace his presence in the Yuva Morcha's National Working Committee session in Dharamshala. "The National Working Committee of BJP Yuva Morcha will be held in Dharamshala from May 12 to 15. The national leadership of BJP and the leadership of Himachal Pradesh will be involved. BJP National President JP Nadda, National Organization Minister and Union Minister will also attend the session," Nehria had earlier said. Dravid took over as India's head coach after Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end post the 2021 T20 World Cup. Since then, India have been unbeaten in T20Is, beat West Indies in three ODIs before being whitewashed by South Africa in a three-match series earlier this year, won a home Test series versus New Zealand and Sri Lanka but lost the Test series versus hosts South Africa 2-1.

Will Rahul Dravid attend a BJP event in poll-bound Himachal? Team India head coach responds

India are set to host Australia in a three-match T20I series in September, ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup. Prior to the upcoming edition of the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later in October, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will gear up for the marquee event by facing the T20 World champions Aaron Finch-led Aussies in the Indian subcontinent.

"Australia will play a number of white ball series with home games against Zimbabwe, New Zealand, West Indies, and England coming to either side of three T20s in India in September," a report in Fox Sports read.

Cricket Australia's full schedule (2022-23):

<section>
June-July 2022: Tour of Sri Lanka (3xT20s, 3xODIs, 2xTests) 
August-September 2022: Zimbabwe (3xODIs) and New Zealand (3xODIs) at home 
September 2022: White ball series in India (3xT20s) 
October 2022: West Indies and England at home (6xT20s) 
October-November 2022: T20 World Cup at home 
November 2022: England at home (3xODIs) 
December-January 2022-23: West Indies (2xTests) and South Africa (3xTests, 3xODIs) at home 
February-March 2023: Test tour of India (4xTests) 
March-May 2023: Indian Premier League 
June-July 2023: Ashes tour of England (5xTests, ODIs expected) 
August 2023: Test tour of South Africa (3xTests) 
October-November 2023: ODI World Cup in India

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-i-raised-my-voice-against-forced-conversion-danish-kaneria-tweets-amid-feud-with-shahid-afridi-477543">'India not our enemy country' - Danish Kaneria slams Shahid Afridi, makes explosive remark on Twitter</a>

Talking about the Australian cricket team, it is going to be on the road since June this year before returning home to defend its title in the T20 World Cup. Further, the Pat Cummins-led Australian side will also square off against India in the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in early 2023, in India. On the other hand, they will travel to the United Kingdom for the Ashes 2023 in June-July next year.

Meanwhile, India will also have a hectic schedule post the conclusion of IPL 2022. After hosting South Africa in five T20Is, they&nbsp;will travel to the United Kingdom where they play England in all formats, then lock horns with&nbsp;Ireland in a limited-overs series, travel to the Caribbean island before returning home to host&nbsp;the Aussies, and then make a trip Down Under for the T20 WC.
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India are set to host Australia in a three-match T20I series in September, ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup. Prior to the upcoming edition of the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later in October, Rohit Sharma & Co.

India are set to host Australia in a three-match T20I series in September, ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup. Prior to the upcoming edition of the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later in October, Rohit Sharma & Co. will gear up for the marquee event by facing the T20 World champions Aaron Finch-led Aussies in the Indian subcontinent. "Australia will play a number of white ball series with home games against Zimbabwe, New Zealand, West Indies, and England coming to either side of three T20s in India in September," a report in Fox Sports read. Cricket Australia's full schedule (2022-23): June-July 2022: Tour of Sri Lanka (3xT20s, 3xODIs, 2xTests) August-September 2022: Zimbabwe (3xODIs) and New Zealand (3xODIs) at home September 2022: White ball series in India (3xT20s) October 2022: West Indies and England at home (6xT20s) October-November 2022: T20 World Cup at home November 2022: England at home (3xODIs) December-January 2022-23: West Indies (2xTests) and South Africa (3xTests, 3xODIs) at home February-March 2023: Test tour of India (4xTests) March-May 2023: Indian Premier League June-July 2023: Ashes tour of England (5xTests, ODIs expected) August 2023: Test tour of South Africa (3xTests) October-November 2023: ODI World Cup in India ALSO READ | 'India not our enemy country' - Danish Kaneria slams Shahid Afridi, makes explosive remark on Twitter Talking about the Australian cricket team, it is going to be on the road since June this year before returning home to defend its title in the T20 World Cup. Further, the Pat Cummins-led Australian side will also square off against India in the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in early 2023, in India. On the other hand, they will travel to the United Kingdom for the Ashes 2023 in June-July next year. Meanwhile, India will also have a hectic schedule post the conclusion of IPL 2022. After hosting South Africa in five T20Is, they will travel to the United Kingdom where they play England in all formats, then lock horns with Ireland in a limited-overs series, travel to the Caribbean island before returning home to host the Aussies, and then make a trip Down Under for the T20 WC.

India to host Australia in three T20Is before T20 World Cup, BG Trophy early next year

India's tour of Pakistan in early 2004 was a historic affair. Not only did the tour take place after a long hiatus, but Team India and Pakistan engaged in a high-voltage ODI and Test series before the visitors returned victorious in both the formats.

After staging a comeback from being 2-1 down to win the five ODIs 3-2, the Indian team shifted focus to the three-match Test series opener, in Multan. While the first Test is widely remembered for Virender Sehwag's magical 309, first Indian with a triple ton in whites, stand-in captain Rahul Dravid's controversial decision also made heads turn when he declared India's first innings with Sachin Tendulkar stranded on 194*.

Recalling the epic Test and the declaration, former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh feels that the Tendulkar should've been given a chance to complete his double ton. Back then, Yuvraj was batting with Tendulkar and as soon as&nbsp;he got out on 59, Dravid made the bold declaration with India well-placed at 675-5 on Day 2.&nbsp;

"We got a message in between that we had to play fast, and we were going to declare,”&nbsp;Yuvraj&nbsp;said on Sports 18's Home of Heroes.

Yuvi further asserted, "He could have got those six runs in another over and we bowled 8-10 overs after that. I do not think another two overs would have made a difference to the Test match."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-got-support-from-virat-kohli-ravi-shastri-yuvraj-singh-rues-lack-of-backing-for-omission-475753">MS Dhoni got support from Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri: Yuvraj Singh rues lack of backing for omission</a>

The former southpaw added, “If it was the third or the fourth day, you have to put the team first and they would have declared when you were at 150. There is a difference of opinion. I think the team could have declared after his 200."

Eventually, India weren't needed to bat again in the opening Test as Inzamam-ul-Haq-led Pakistan were dismissed for 407 and 216, losing by an innings and 52 runs. Sehwag was the Player-of-the-Match but Dravid's decision remained a topic of discussion for long.

Later, regular captain Sourav Ganguly (who was out due to an injury) returned for the remaining two Tests as India won the series 2-1.

India's tour of Pakistan in early 2004 was a historic affair. Not only did the tour take place after a long hiatus, but Team India and Pakistan engaged in a high-voltage ODI and Test series before the visitors returned victorious in both the formats.

India's tour of Pakistan in early 2004 was a historic affair. Not only did the tour take place after a long hiatus, but Team India and Pakistan engaged in a high-voltage ODI and Test series before the visitors returned victorious in both the formats. After staging a comeback from being 2-1 down to win the five ODIs 3-2, the Indian team shifted focus to the three-match Test series opener, in Multan. While the first Test is widely remembered for Virender Sehwag's magical 309, first Indian with a triple ton in whites, stand-in captain Rahul Dravid's controversial decision also made heads turn when he declared India's first innings with Sachin Tendulkar stranded on 194*. Recalling the epic Test and the declaration, former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh feels that the Tendulkar should've been given a chance to complete his double ton. Back then, Yuvraj was batting with Tendulkar and as soon as he got out on 59, Dravid made the bold declaration with India well-placed at 675-5 on Day 2. "We got a message in between that we had to play fast, and we were going to declare,” Yuvraj said on Sports 18's Home of Heroes. Yuvi further asserted, "He could have got those six runs in another over and we bowled 8-10 overs after that. I do not think another two overs would have made a difference to the Test match." ALSO READ | MS Dhoni got support from Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri: Yuvraj Singh rues lack of backing for omission The former southpaw added, “If it was the third or the fourth day, you have to put the team first and they would have declared when you were at 150. There is a difference of opinion. I think the team could have declared after his 200." Eventually, India weren't needed to bat again in the opening Test as Inzamam-ul-Haq-led Pakistan were dismissed for 407 and 216, losing by an innings and 52 runs. Sehwag was the Player-of-the-Match but Dravid's decision remained a topic of discussion for long. Later, regular captain Sourav Ganguly (who was out due to an injury) returned for the remaining two Tests as India won the series 2-1.

Team could've declared after Tendulkar's 200: Yuvraj recalls Rahul Dravid's Multan Test declaration

Umran Malik has been a sensation in IPL 2022. On Thursday evening (May 05), when the Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) locked horns with the Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai, in match 50 of IPL 2022, the speedster created history by bettering his own record as he bowled the fastest delivery of the 15th season, clocking an unbelievable 157 kmph.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Umran had made heads turn when he bowled a searing yorker to MS Dhoni at 154 kmph in SRH's previous encounter versus the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in Pune on May 1 (Sunday). While Umran has made a habit of clocking over 150 at regular intervals this season, he has also churned out 15 scalps in 10 games. However, he was punished severely by DC opener David Warner on Thursday evening, as the Aussie opener smashed 21 off his over in the powerplay.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dc-vs-srh-david-warners-92-takes-him-to-an-elite-list-overtakes-chris-gayle-to-have-most-t20-fifties-476637">DC vs SRH: David Warner's 92* takes him to an elite list, overtakes Chris Gayle to have most T20 fifties</a>

Umran had already hit 154.8 kmph in match 50. However, he was breathing fire in the final over which was&nbsp;full of pace.&nbsp;He clocked 156 and 157 kmph in back-to-back deliveries and, thus, created history. Despite his unmatched pace, the 22-year-old young pacer returned wicketless, 4-0-52-0, as SRH bowlers were punished by the DC batters. Riding on David Warner's 92 not out and Rovman Powell's 67*, DC posted a mammoth 207-3 in 20 overs as SRH are in a spot of bother in the tall run-chase at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai.

Umran, who was a net bowler for Team India in their 2021 T20 World Cup campaign, has been very successful in IPL 2022 under the guidance of Dale Steyn. He remains a regular for the Hyderabad franchise and will be desperate to take the one-time winners to the playoffs this season. He has already been hailed and heavily praised by many former cricketers who have also urged Indian selectors to rope him in India's squad for the forthcoming home T20Is versus South Africa.

Umran Malik has been a sensation in IPL 2022. On Thursday evening (May 05), when the Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) locked horns with the Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai, in match 50 of IPL 2022, the speedster created history by bettering his own record as he bowled the fastest delivery of the 15th season, clocking an unbelievable 157 kmph.

Umran Malik has been a sensation in IPL 2022. On Thursday evening (May 05), when the Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) locked horns with the Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai, in match 50 of IPL 2022, the speedster created history by bettering his own record as he bowled the fastest delivery of the 15th season, clocking an unbelievable 157 kmph. For the unversed, Umran had made heads turn when he bowled a searing yorker to MS Dhoni at 154 kmph in SRH's previous encounter versus the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in Pune on May 1 (Sunday). While Umran has made a habit of clocking over 150 at regular intervals this season, he has also churned out 15 scalps in 10 games. However, he was punished severely by DC opener David Warner on Thursday evening, as the Aussie opener smashed 21 off his over in the powerplay. ALSO READ | DC vs SRH: David Warner's 92* takes him to an elite list, overtakes Chris Gayle to have most T20 fifties Umran had already hit 154.8 kmph in match 50. However, he was breathing fire in the final over which was full of pace. He clocked 156 and 157 kmph in back-to-back deliveries and, thus, created history. Despite his unmatched pace, the 22-year-old young pacer returned wicketless, 4-0-52-0, as SRH bowlers were punished by the DC batters. Riding on David Warner's 92 not out and Rovman Powell's 67*, DC posted a mammoth 207-3 in 20 overs as SRH are in a spot of bother in the tall run-chase at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai. Umran, who was a net bowler for Team India in their 2021 T20 World Cup campaign, has been very successful in IPL 2022 under the guidance of Dale Steyn. He remains a regular for the Hyderabad franchise and will be desperate to take the one-time winners to the playoffs this season. He has already been hailed and heavily praised by many former cricketers who have also urged Indian selectors to rope him in India's squad for the forthcoming home T20Is versus South Africa.

DC vs SRH: UNBELIEVABLE! Umran Malik bowls fastest delivery of IPL 2022, clocks 157 kmph

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh opened up on India's ICC title-drought since 2013. While Team India last lifted an ICC trophy in 2013 Champions Trophy, under MS Dhoni's leadership, they have come close in many following mega events only to fall short in the knockouts or finals.&nbsp;

Talking about India's 2019 ODI World Cup run, the Virat Kohli-led side were favourites for the marquee event in England and Wales. While they topped the round-robin stage, they were eliminated in the semi-finals with an 18-run defeat at the hands of eventual runners-up New Zealand. In the last year's T20 World Cup, Kohli &amp; Co. never found any momentum in their opening two games and despite winning their last three clashes, India bowed out of the tournament in the Super 12 round.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-cant-see-anyone-captain-csk-effectively-and-efficiently-after-ms-dhoni-says-ex-aussie-spinner-476309">I can't see anyone captain CSK effectively and efficiently after MS Dhoni, says ex-Aussie spinner</a>

Hence, Yuvraj -- who was the Player-of-the-Tournament in India's 2011 ODI World Cup success -- shared his take on where India went wrong and why they failed in the last two ICC events. “When we won the World Cup (2011), we all had a set position to bat. I felt 2019 World Cup; they didn’t plan it well,” Yuvraj said on Sports18’s Home of Heroes.

“They got Vijay Shankar to bat at #4 with just 5-7 ODIs, then they replaced him with&nbsp;Rishabh Pant, who had played 4 ODIs. When we played the 2003 World Cup, Mohd. Kaif, (Dinesh) Mongia and I had already played 50-odd ODIs,” Yuvraj added.

Dwelling on last edition of the T20 WC, Yuvi opined, "Our middle-order (batsmen) in T20 bats higher in franchise cricket. That is where we lacked in the last T20 World Cup."

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-got-support-from-virat-kohli-ravi-shastri-yuvraj-singh-rues-lack-of-backing-for-omission-475753">MS Dhoni got support from Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri: Yuvraj Singh rues lack of backing for omission</a>

Rohit Sharma-led India will be eager to move past their 2021 T20 WC failures and go the distance in this year's edition, which is set to be held in Australia later this year. At present, India is the No. 1 ranked team in the latest ICC T20I rankings and, thus, will be confident of turning the tides in their favour in this year's edition Down Under.
</section>

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh opened up on India's ICC title-drought since 2013. While Team India last lifted an ICC trophy in 2013 Champions Trophy, under MS Dhoni's leadership, they have come close in many following mega events only to fall short in the knockouts or finals.

Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh opened up on India's ICC title-drought since 2013. While Team India last lifted an ICC trophy in 2013 Champions Trophy, under MS Dhoni's leadership, they have come close in many following mega events only to fall short in the knockouts or finals. Talking about India's 2019 ODI World Cup run, the Virat Kohli-led side were favourites for the marquee event in England and Wales. While they topped the round-robin stage, they were eliminated in the semi-finals with an 18-run defeat at the hands of eventual runners-up New Zealand. In the last year's T20 World Cup, Kohli & Co. never found any momentum in their opening two games and despite winning their last three clashes, India bowed out of the tournament in the Super 12 round. ALSO READ | I can't see anyone captain CSK effectively and efficiently after MS Dhoni, says ex-Aussie spinner Hence, Yuvraj -- who was the Player-of-the-Tournament in India's 2011 ODI World Cup success -- shared his take on where India went wrong and why they failed in the last two ICC events. “When we won the World Cup (2011), we all had a set position to bat. I felt 2019 World Cup; they didn’t plan it well,” Yuvraj said on Sports18’s Home of Heroes. “They got Vijay Shankar to bat at #4 with just 5-7 ODIs, then they replaced him with Rishabh Pant, who had played 4 ODIs. When we played the 2003 World Cup, Mohd. Kaif, (Dinesh) Mongia and I had already played 50-odd ODIs,” Yuvraj added. Dwelling on last edition of the T20 WC, Yuvi opined, "Our middle-order (batsmen) in T20 bats higher in franchise cricket. That is where we lacked in the last T20 World Cup." ALSO READ | MS Dhoni got support from Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri: Yuvraj Singh rues lack of backing for omission Rohit Sharma-led India will be eager to move past their 2021 T20 WC failures and go the distance in this year's edition, which is set to be held in Australia later this year. At present, India is the No. 1 ranked team in the latest ICC T20I rankings and, thus, will be confident of turning the tides in their favour in this year's edition Down Under.

That's where they lacked: Yuvraj Singh explains why India failed in last two ICC tournaments

Former Indian cricketer Arun Lal has been in the news for all the good reasons. Last month, he got engaged to his love Bulbul Saha and the couple has now tied the knot on Monday (May 2),&nbsp;at Peerless Inn in&nbsp;Kolkata. At 66, Arun got married for the second time and reportedly also took the consent of his first wife Reena.&nbsp;

As per a report in Mid Day, Arun had parted ways with his first wife but still lives with her to take care of her illness. It is believed that Arun-Bulbul will still take care of Reena after their marriage. Inspiring! The former Indian cricketer, a cancer survivor and now&nbsp;the coach of the Bengal cricket team, got married in a private ceremony in the presence of family members and close friends.&nbsp;

Here are the newly-wed couple's&nbsp;pictures:

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-has-never-refused-to-play-against-pakistan-problem-lies-at-goverment-level-claims-former-pcb-chief-475847">BCCI has never refused to play against Pakistan, problem lies at government level, claims former PCB chief</a>

The above pictures were shared by Bulbul, who captioned them, "Officially Mrs. Lal. Thanks to my family and friends for supporting us."

Talking about Bulbul, she is a teacher by profession. She has become an instant hit as soon as the wedding celebration pictures went viral last month. Punjab-born Arun, who represented India in 16 Tests and 13 ODIs, donned the commentator's hat post-retirement and moved to Bengal before taking up the coaching responsibilities. Under his guidance, Bengal reached the&nbsp;2020 Ranji Trophy final and have already cemented a spot in the quarter-finals of the 2021/22 season. The knockouts will kick off in June, post the IPL 2022 edition.

Former Indian cricketer Arun Lal has been in the news for all the good reasons. Last month, he got engaged to his love Bulbul Saha and the couple has now tied the knot on Monday (May 2), at Peerless Inn in Kolkata.

Former Indian cricketer Arun Lal has been in the news for all the good reasons. Last month, he got engaged to his love Bulbul Saha and the couple has now tied the knot on Monday (May 2), at Peerless Inn in Kolkata. At 66, Arun got married for the second time and reportedly also took the consent of his first wife Reena. As per a report in Mid Day, Arun had parted ways with his first wife but still lives with her to take care of her illness. It is believed that Arun-Bulbul will still take care of Reena after their marriage. Inspiring! The former Indian cricketer, a cancer survivor and now the coach of the Bengal cricket team, got married in a private ceremony in the presence of family members and close friends. Here are the newly-wed couple's pictures: × ALSO READ | BCCI has never refused to play against Pakistan, problem lies at government level, claims former PCB chief The above pictures were shared by Bulbul, who captioned them, "Officially Mrs. Lal. Thanks to my family and friends for supporting us." Talking about Bulbul, she is a teacher by profession. She has become an instant hit as soon as the wedding celebration pictures went viral last month. Punjab-born Arun, who represented India in 16 Tests and 13 ODIs, donned the commentator's hat post-retirement and moved to Bengal before taking up the coaching responsibilities. Under his guidance, Bengal reached the 2020 Ranji Trophy final and have already cemented a spot in the quarter-finals of the 2021/22 season. The knockouts will kick off in June, post the IPL 2022 edition.

Ex-India cricketer Arun Lal ties the knot with Bulbul Saha, couple's wedding pictures go viral

Yuvraj Singh has had a stellar career for Team India. He represented the national side in 2000 and went onto play till late 2017 before announcing his retirement in 2019. Yuvraj&nbsp;ended his international career with 1,900, 8,701 and 1,177 Test, ODI and T20I runs, respectively. In addition, he claimed as many as&nbsp;148 international scalps.&nbsp;

Yuvraj also played a key role in India's triumph in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup, under MS Dhoni's captaincy. Nonetheless, his career didn't reach another level despite the success enjoyed in 2011's showpiece event. While he fought cancer and returned on the field, he endured some tough moments on the pitch.

Yuvraj was severely criticised for his 21-ball 11 in India's 2014 T20 World Cup final defeat versus Sri Lanka, in Bangladesh. Thus, the former all-rounder opened up on his much-criticised knock and also stated that many former players didn't get a lot of support during the end of their careers, unlike MS Dhoni.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-reveals-why-he-couldnt-sleep-before-his-international-debut-versus-australia-474924">Yuvraj Singh reveals why he couldn't sleep before his international debut versus Australia</a>

Speaking on Home of Heroes on Sports18, Yuvraj recalled being low on confidence during the T20 WC in 2014 and having the fear of being dropped. "During the T20 World Cup in 2014, I was very low on confidence. There was an atmosphere that I could get dropped. It’s not an excuse but I wasn’t getting enough support from the team. From the time of Gary, I was in Duncan’s era and things had completely changed in the team," Yuvraj said.

"Definitely when you have support from the coach and the captain it helps. Look at Mahi (MS Dhoni) towards the end of his career. He had so much support from Virat and Ravi Shastri. They took him to the World Cup, he played till the end, and went on to play 350 games. I think support is very important but in Indian cricket everybody will not get support," he opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-dont-want-him-to-feel-that-captaincy-was-ms-dhoni-on-ravindra-jadeja-quitting-as-csk-skipper-475646">'You don't want him to feel that captaincy was...': MS Dhoni on Ravindra Jadeja quitting as CSK skipper</a>

"There have been great players like Harbhajan Singh, Virender Sehwag, VVS Laxman, Gautam Gambhir who didn’t get that (support). When you are batting out there and you know that the axe is hanging on your head how will you concentrate and bat and give your best. It is not an excuse but with different coaches and after 2011 times are very different," Yuvraj&nbsp;added.

Yuvraj still remains one of the greatest white-ball players for Team India. He also contributed in crunch moments with the ball in hand and was a pinch-hitter, especially during his early days.

Yuvraj Singh has had a stellar career for Team India. He represented the national side in 2000 and went onto play till late 2017 before announcing his retirement in 2019.

Yuvraj Singh has had a stellar career for Team India. He represented the national side in 2000 and went onto play till late 2017 before announcing his retirement in 2019. Yuvraj ended his international career with 1,900, 8,701 and 1,177 Test, ODI and T20I runs, respectively. In addition, he claimed as many as 148 international scalps. Yuvraj also played a key role in India's triumph in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup, under MS Dhoni's captaincy. Nonetheless, his career didn't reach another level despite the success enjoyed in 2011's showpiece event. While he fought cancer and returned on the field, he endured some tough moments on the pitch. Yuvraj was severely criticised for his 21-ball 11 in India's 2014 T20 World Cup final defeat versus Sri Lanka, in Bangladesh. Thus, the former all-rounder opened up on his much-criticised knock and also stated that many former players didn't get a lot of support during the end of their careers, unlike MS Dhoni. ALSO READ | Yuvraj Singh reveals why he couldn't sleep before his international debut versus Australia Speaking on Home of Heroes on Sports18, Yuvraj recalled being low on confidence during the T20 WC in 2014 and having the fear of being dropped. "During the T20 World Cup in 2014, I was very low on confidence. There was an atmosphere that I could get dropped. It’s not an excuse but I wasn’t getting enough support from the team. From the time of Gary, I was in Duncan’s era and things had completely changed in the team," Yuvraj said. "Definitely when you have support from the coach and the captain it helps. Look at Mahi (MS Dhoni) towards the end of his career. He had so much support from Virat and Ravi Shastri. They took him to the World Cup, he played till the end, and went on to play 350 games. I think support is very important but in Indian cricket everybody will not get support," he opined. ALSO READ | 'You don't want him to feel that captaincy was...': MS Dhoni on Ravindra Jadeja quitting as CSK skipper "There have been great players like Harbhajan Singh, Virender Sehwag, VVS Laxman, Gautam Gambhir who didn’t get that (support). When you are batting out there and you know that the axe is hanging on your head how will you concentrate and bat and give your best. It is not an excuse but with different coaches and after 2011 times are very different," Yuvraj added. Yuvraj still remains one of the greatest white-ball players for Team India. He also contributed in crunch moments with the ball in hand and was a pinch-hitter, especially during his early days.

MS Dhoni got support from Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri: Yuvraj Singh rues lack of backing for omission

Bengaluru will host the Ranji Trophy knockouts from June 4, with the final scheduled to be played from June 20-24, in a bio-bubble. Forty-one-time Ranji champions Mumbai will face Uttarakhand while Karnataka will play against Uttar Pradesh. On the other hand, Bengal will face Jharkhand and Punjab will run into Madhya Pradesh in the other two quarter-finals. 
 
Both the semi-finals are then scheduled for June 12-16 following three days of rest. It has been learnt there will be no mandatory quarantine for the knockout matches, but all teams will have to arrive with a negative RT-PCR test, an ESPNcricinfo report said.

Notably, the first phase of the Ranji Trophy, which consisted of the league phase and one pre-quarter final, was held before the start of IPL 2022. India`s premier first-class cricket tournament was shelved in 2020-21 because of the Covid-19 pandemic. It was the first time that Ranji Trophy was not played since its inception in the 1934-35 season.

Bengaluru will host the Ranji Trophy knockouts from June 4, with the final scheduled to be played from June 20-24, in a bio-bubble. Forty-one-time Ranji champions Mumbai will face Uttarakhand while Karnataka will play against Uttar Pradesh.

Bengaluru will host the Ranji Trophy knockouts from June 4, with the final scheduled to be played from June 20-24, in a bio-bubble. Forty-one-time Ranji champions Mumbai will face Uttarakhand while Karnataka will play against Uttar Pradesh. On the other hand, Bengal will face Jharkhand and Punjab will run into Madhya Pradesh in the other two quarter-finals. Both the semi-finals are then scheduled for June 12-16 following three days of rest. It has been learnt there will be no mandatory quarantine for the knockout matches, but all teams will have to arrive with a negative RT-PCR test, an ESPNcricinfo report said. Notably, the first phase of the Ranji Trophy, which consisted of the league phase and one pre-quarter final, was held before the start of IPL 2022. India`s premier first-class cricket tournament was shelved in 2020-21 because of the Covid-19 pandemic. It was the first time that Ranji Trophy was not played since its inception in the 1934-35 season.

Bengaluru set to conduct Ranji Trophy knockouts from June 4

Virat Kohli has been having a torrid time in IPL 2022. Playing as a regular batter this season, after giving up Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) captaincy post the end of last year's edition, the 33-year-old Kohli has failed miserably with the bat and has only 128 runs in nine outings, at an average of 16 in the ongoing season.

In addition, Kohli hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019. While he has got runs for Team India, especially in the white-ball formats and played some good knocks in Tests, he has been far from his usual best and hasn't converted any of his fifties, or starts, into anything significant in the last two years. Hence, concerns are rising for the superstar cricketer, who is going through a barren run.

Commenting on Kohli's dip in form, former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh feels that the ex-skipper needs to once again become a free-flowing personality to rediscover his mojo. “Obviously, he is also not happy, and people aren’t too, because we have seen him setting bigger benchmarks, scoring hundreds after hundreds. But this happens to the best players,” Yuvraj said on Sports18’s Home of Heroes.

“Virat needs to become a free-flowing personality again. If he can change himself and be like how he was earlier that will reflect in his game,” Yuvraj said. “He has proved himself to be the best of this era and believes in a strong work ethic and that has brought the best out of him over the years," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pull-out-of-ipl-2022-ravi-shastris-bold-suggestion-for-virat-kohli-amid-rcb-stars-batting-concerns-474207">'Pull out of IPL 2022' - Ravi Shastri's bold suggestion for Virat Kohli amid RCB star's batting concerns</a>

A few days back, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri -- who has worked closely with Kohli since 2014 -- made a big statement and asked the star batter to pull out of IPL 2022 to have some time off from the game and regain form for Team India. "I think a break is ideal for him because he has played non-stop cricket and he has captained the side across all formats. It will be wise of him to take a break. You know, sometimes you have to draw the balance. This year he is already into the tournament (IPL 2022), tomorrow if push comes to shove and you want to prolong your international career and make a mark there for 6-7 years, pull out of the IPL, for all you care," Shastri had told Star Sports presenter Jatin Sapru on his YouTube channel.

Virat Kohli has been having a torrid time in IPL 2022. Playing as a regular batter this season, after giving up Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) captaincy post the end of last year's edition, the 33-year-old Kohli has failed miserably with the bat and has only 128 runs in nine outings, at an average of 16 in the ongoing season.

Virat Kohli has been having a torrid time in IPL 2022. Playing as a regular batter this season, after giving up Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) captaincy post the end of last year's edition, the 33-year-old Kohli has failed miserably with the bat and has only 128 runs in nine outings, at an average of 16 in the ongoing season. In addition, Kohli hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019. While he has got runs for Team India, especially in the white-ball formats and played some good knocks in Tests, he has been far from his usual best and hasn't converted any of his fifties, or starts, into anything significant in the last two years. Hence, concerns are rising for the superstar cricketer, who is going through a barren run. Commenting on Kohli's dip in form, former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh feels that the ex-skipper needs to once again become a free-flowing personality to rediscover his mojo. “Obviously, he is also not happy, and people aren’t too, because we have seen him setting bigger benchmarks, scoring hundreds after hundreds. But this happens to the best players,” Yuvraj said on Sports18’s Home of Heroes. “Virat needs to become a free-flowing personality again. If he can change himself and be like how he was earlier that will reflect in his game,” Yuvraj said. “He has proved himself to be the best of this era and believes in a strong work ethic and that has brought the best out of him over the years," he added. ALSO READ | 'Pull out of IPL 2022' - Ravi Shastri's bold suggestion for Virat Kohli amid RCB star's batting concerns A few days back, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri -- who has worked closely with Kohli since 2014 -- made a big statement and asked the star batter to pull out of IPL 2022 to have some time off from the game and regain form for Team India. "I think a break is ideal for him because he has played non-stop cricket and he has captained the side across all formats. It will be wise of him to take a break. You know, sometimes you have to draw the balance. This year he is already into the tournament (IPL 2022), tomorrow if push comes to shove and you want to prolong your international career and make a mark there for 6-7 years, pull out of the IPL, for all you care," Shastri had told Star Sports presenter Jatin Sapru on his YouTube channel.

'Virat Kohli needs to....' - Yuvraj Singh shares words of wisdom for struggling RCB and Indian batter

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) failed to chase down a modest 145 versus Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 39 of IPL 2022 to lose by 29 runs at the MCA Stadium, Pune on Tuesday (April 26). All eyes were once again on Virat Kohli, the former RCB captain, who has been struggling for runs in the ongoing IPL season.

With only 119 runs in eight innings prior to the RR clash, it was expected that Kohli would come back to his usual best versus Rajasthan, a team against whom RCB were unbeaten in the last five face-offs. Despite Kohli being proactive on the field, talking to the bowlers and helping them plot batters' downfall, the star batter couldn't do much with the bat. He opened the innings for the first time in the 15th season but only managed a scratchy 10-ball 9.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-whats-fretting-virat-kohli-the-player-473401">IPL 2022: What's fretting Virat Kohli, the player?</a>

Reflecting on his woeful run with the bat, former India head coach Ravi Shastri once again suggested Kohli to take a break. In fact, he added that the 33-year-old should pull out of IPL 2022 to regain some form after a break and prolong his international career. "I think a break is ideal for him because he has played non-stop cricket and he has captained the side across all formats. It will be wise of him to take a break. You know, sometimes you have to draw the balance. This year he is already into the tournament (IPL 2022), tomorrow if push comes to shove and you want to prolong your international career and make a mark there for 6-7 years, pull out of the IPL, for all you care," Shastri said on sports presenter Jatin Sapru's YouTube channel.

<section>
"If that is the case, you have played for 14-15 years. Not only Virat, I'll tell that to any other player. If you want to play and do well for India, you have to draw the line where you want to take that break and the ideal break would be off-season where India is not playing and the only time India does not play is the IPL. Sometimes, you need to do that or tell the franchise I'll only play the half. Pay me half, as simple as that. Those tough calls need to come if you want to reach the zenith of your profession as an international player," he further asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-is-overcooked-if-anyone-needs-a-break-its-him-ravi-shastri-on-rcb-stars-woeful-form-472323">Virat Kohli is overcooked, if anyone needs a break it's him: Ravi Shastri on RCB star's woeful form</a>

Shastri added, "Virat is still young and he has best 5-6 years ahead of him. He would have realised what he has gone through in these last few months. He knows he has to go back to the drawing board, how he thinks, how he approaches and he has to literally start from scratch. There have been many players in the past who have gone through this. You mentioned first ball out, to be honest, from the outside I would not be worried. As a player if I have gotten out first ball, I have hardly been in. It is when you get in and throw it away, that is more disappointing. When he gets in, it is up to him to make it count."

For the unversed, Kohli has gone over 100 matches without a century&nbsp;across all formats (17 Tests, 21 ODIs, 25 T20Is and 39* IPL games). His last international ton came in late 2019. While he has got starts for India in all formats and scored some vital half-centuries, he has throw away his wicket after settling in or been dismissed for cheap more often than not since his last triple-figure knock.

Will Kohli pull out of IPL 2022? It will be a bold decision if he does...
</section>

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) failed to chase down a modest 145 versus Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 39 of IPL 2022 to lose by 29 runs at the MCA Stadium, Pune on Tuesday (April 26).

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) failed to chase down a modest 145 versus Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 39 of IPL 2022 to lose by 29 runs at the MCA Stadium, Pune on Tuesday (April 26). All eyes were once again on Virat Kohli, the former RCB captain, who has been struggling for runs in the ongoing IPL season. With only 119 runs in eight innings prior to the RR clash, it was expected that Kohli would come back to his usual best versus Rajasthan, a team against whom RCB were unbeaten in the last five face-offs. Despite Kohli being proactive on the field, talking to the bowlers and helping them plot batters' downfall, the star batter couldn't do much with the bat. He opened the innings for the first time in the 15th season but only managed a scratchy 10-ball 9. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: What's fretting Virat Kohli, the player? Reflecting on his woeful run with the bat, former India head coach Ravi Shastri once again suggested Kohli to take a break. In fact, he added that the 33-year-old should pull out of IPL 2022 to regain some form after a break and prolong his international career. "I think a break is ideal for him because he has played non-stop cricket and he has captained the side across all formats. It will be wise of him to take a break. You know, sometimes you have to draw the balance. This year he is already into the tournament (IPL 2022), tomorrow if push comes to shove and you want to prolong your international career and make a mark there for 6-7 years, pull out of the IPL, for all you care," Shastri said on sports presenter Jatin Sapru's YouTube channel. "If that is the case, you have played for 14-15 years. Not only Virat, I'll tell that to any other player. If you want to play and do well for India, you have to draw the line where you want to take that break and the ideal break would be off-season where India is not playing and the only time India does not play is the IPL. Sometimes, you need to do that or tell the franchise I'll only play the half. Pay me half, as simple as that. Those tough calls need to come if you want to reach the zenith of your profession as an international player," he further asserted. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli is overcooked, if anyone needs a break it's him: Ravi Shastri on RCB star's woeful form Shastri added, "Virat is still young and he has best 5-6 years ahead of him. He would have realised what he has gone through in these last few months. He knows he has to go back to the drawing board, how he thinks, how he approaches and he has to literally start from scratch. There have been many players in the past who have gone through this. You mentioned first ball out, to be honest, from the outside I would not be worried. As a player if I have gotten out first ball, I have hardly been in. It is when you get in and throw it away, that is more disappointing. When he gets in, it is up to him to make it count." For the unversed, Kohli has gone over 100 matches without a century across all formats (17 Tests, 21 ODIs, 25 T20Is and 39* IPL games). His last international ton came in late 2019. While he has got starts for India in all formats and scored some vital half-centuries, he has throw away his wicket after settling in or been dismissed for cheap more often than not since his last triple-figure knock. Will Kohli pull out of IPL 2022? It will be a bold decision if he does...

'Pull out of IPL 2022' - Ravi Shastri's bold suggestion for Virat Kohli amid RCB star's batting concerns

When Virat Kohli got dismissed for a golden duck in Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) face-off versus Lucknow Super Giants, in IPL 2022's match 31, a statistic started doing the rounds on social media and elsewhere. It revealed that the once regarded 'run machine' has now gone over 100 matches without a century&nbsp;across all formats (17 Tests, 21 ODIs, 25 T20Is and 38*&nbsp;IPL games).&nbsp;

Kohli had a wry smile as he walked past KL Rahul &amp; Co. after an embarrassing first-ball duck. Four evenings later, King Kohli came to the crease in the second over of RCB's innings after Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) opted to bowl first at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai in match 36 of the 15th season, on Saturday evening (April 23). As soon as he arrived, Kane Williamson -- a tactical mastermind -- strived hard to grab Aiden Markram's attention to add him to the slip cordon. Soon, Marco Jansen bowled outside off-stump, on the fifth-stump line, as Kohli wasted no time to edge one and get caught in the slips. This time, no smile followed as RCB's former skipper stood still in disbelief. He&nbsp;looked helplessly toward his non-striker (Anuj Rawat) as&nbsp;if asking&nbsp;to be pinched in order to accept the reality before walking back.

After his second successive golden duck, Kohli's expression said it all. There was sheer disbelief in his eyes. Thus, there was pin-drop silence in the stadium as an often hard-to-please and unforgiving crowd silently sympathised with Kohli after yet another failure.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli's no-shows since NZ tour, 2020

Ducks - 9 
Golden Ducks - 3 (2 in IPL)

**across all formats

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-need-a-six-month-break-pietersen-comes-out-in-support-of-indias-under-fire-duo-473031">Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma need a six-month break: Pietersen comes out in support of India's under-fire duo</a>

What's fretting King Kohli? (Covid break, bio-bubble fatigue, overburdened, empty stands, BCCI row, etc.)

Those who possess even the most basic updates of men's cricket are aware of Kohli's barren run. It has been written, re-written, highlighted on front pages on several occasions, and even discussed on&nbsp;hour-long shows on how Team India and RCB's former captain has been without a century in competitive cricket since late 2019. At first, it seemed as if it was just a matter of time before Kohli would rediscover his form. However, time is now surely passing away at a rapid pace for the 33-year-old superstar cricketer.

Kohli's downfall coincided with Covid-19's advent. It led to a six-month-long break at the international level. Since then, Kohli has not been the old Kohli. At times, his aggression has gone missing, he has been completely undone by the bio-bubble restrictions and looked clueless playing in front of empty stands.&nbsp;A player of Kohli's caliber cherishes the crowd support. Their energy rubs on him, helping him remain at his usual chirpy best. All this is lagging in his game nowadays!

Also, Team India's unbelievably hectic cricketing&nbsp;calendar hasn't helped Kohli's case. Despite some mini-breaks, he has almost been omnipresent for India and the RCB. The nearly-decade-long captaincy responsibilities (he became RCB's full-time skipper in 2013) also led to him being overburdened. Moreover, the BCCI captaincy row added salt to Kohli's wounds. The entire saga panned out in the open. Thus, it led to Kohli taking BCCI heads on, however, mentally he kept losing the battle with each passing day...

The dismissals depict a sad story...

Since April 2020, Kohli has fallen to spinners more often than&nbsp;not (51 out of his total 74 dismissals have been against the tweakers). In addition, he continues to remain lost regarding&nbsp;the fourth-fifth stump lines; chasing deliveries way out of his arc. At times, the gap between bat and pad has also widened alarmingly. Surely, he can't be far away from finding his peak once again. He is too good a player to miss out for too long. But, hasn't it already been a long wait? Has he become a victim of his greatness? Is he overcooked and&nbsp;desperately in need of a lengthy break?

Ravi Shastri on Star Sports:&nbsp;Virat Kohli is overcooked. If anyone needs a break, it's him. Whether it's 2 months or a month-and-a-half, whether it's after England or before England. He needs a break because he has got 6-7 years of cricket left in him and you don't want to lose that with a fried brain. He is not the only one. There might be 1 or 2 in world cricket going through the same. You need to address the problem upfront.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-virat-kohlis-batting-woes-continue-dismissed-for-second-consecutive-golden-duck-watch-473267">IPL 2022: Virat Kohli's batting woes continue, dismissed for second consecutive golden duck - WATCH</a>

The answers lie within Kohli's mind. He knows his body and how his mind functions better&nbsp;than anyone (Taking the liberty to share a&nbsp;message for his&nbsp;plethora of&nbsp;fans: don't make him your main protagonist in every discussion. Don't even discuss him. Focus less on him. Outside noise needs to die down for Kohli to rise again).

Even the great Sachin Tendulkar had flaws. He, however, always found ways to tackle them. For now, Kohli is content with working on his strengths than weaknesses. Maybe he needs to slow down. Maybe, he needs to fight the bubble within&nbsp;before coming out of this crisis.

The engine surely needs an overhaul. At present, the damage has been done. But, King Kohli isn't one to be kept out for very long. Somewhere down the line, his usual form is still waiting for him. He just needs to redo the coding&nbsp;to function as usual.

When Virat Kohli got dismissed for a golden duck in Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) face-off versus Lucknow Super Giants, in IPL 2022's match 31, a statistic started doing the rounds on social media and elsewhere.

When Virat Kohli got dismissed for a golden duck in Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) face-off versus Lucknow Super Giants, in IPL 2022's match 31, a statistic started doing the rounds on social media and elsewhere. It revealed that the once regarded 'run machine' has now gone over 100 matches without a century across all formats (17 Tests, 21 ODIs, 25 T20Is and 38* IPL games). Kohli had a wry smile as he walked past KL Rahul & Co. after an embarrassing first-ball duck. Four evenings later, King Kohli came to the crease in the second over of RCB's innings after Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) opted to bowl first at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai in match 36 of the 15th season, on Saturday evening (April 23). As soon as he arrived, Kane Williamson -- a tactical mastermind -- strived hard to grab Aiden Markram's attention to add him to the slip cordon. Soon, Marco Jansen bowled outside off-stump, on the fifth-stump line, as Kohli wasted no time to edge one and get caught in the slips. This time, no smile followed as RCB's former skipper stood still in disbelief. He looked helplessly toward his non-striker (Anuj Rawat) as if asking to be pinched in order to accept the reality before walking back. After his second successive golden duck, Kohli's expression said it all. There was sheer disbelief in his eyes. Thus, there was pin-drop silence in the stadium as an often hard-to-please and unforgiving crowd silently sympathised with Kohli after yet another failure. Virat Kohli's no-shows since NZ tour, 2020 Ducks - 9 Golden Ducks - 3 (2 in IPL) **across all formats ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma need a six-month break: Pietersen comes out in support of India's under-fire duo What's fretting King Kohli? (Covid break, bio-bubble fatigue, overburdened, empty stands, BCCI row, etc.) Those who possess even the most basic updates of men's cricket are aware of Kohli's barren run. It has been written, re-written, highlighted on front pages on several occasions, and even discussed on hour-long shows on how Team India and RCB's former captain has been without a century in competitive cricket since late 2019. At first, it seemed as if it was just a matter of time before Kohli would rediscover his form. However, time is now surely passing away at a rapid pace for the 33-year-old superstar cricketer. Kohli's downfall coincided with Covid-19's advent. It led to a six-month-long break at the international level. Since then, Kohli has not been the old Kohli. At times, his aggression has gone missing, he has been completely undone by the bio-bubble restrictions and looked clueless playing in front of empty stands. A player of Kohli's caliber cherishes the crowd support. Their energy rubs on him, helping him remain at his usual chirpy best. All this is lagging in his game nowadays! Also, Team India's unbelievably hectic cricketing calendar hasn't helped Kohli's case. Despite some mini-breaks, he has almost been omnipresent for India and the RCB. The nearly-decade-long captaincy responsibilities (he became RCB's full-time skipper in 2013) also led to him being overburdened. Moreover, the BCCI captaincy row added salt to Kohli's wounds. The entire saga panned out in the open. Thus, it led to Kohli taking BCCI heads on, however, mentally he kept losing the battle with each passing day... The dismissals depict a sad story... Since April 2020, Kohli has fallen to spinners more often than not (51 out of his total 74 dismissals have been against the tweakers). In addition, he continues to remain lost regarding the fourth-fifth stump lines; chasing deliveries way out of his arc. At times, the gap between bat and pad has also widened alarmingly. Surely, he can't be far away from finding his peak once again. He is too good a player to miss out for too long. But, hasn't it already been a long wait? Has he become a victim of his greatness? Is he overcooked and desperately in need of a lengthy break? Ravi Shastri on Star Sports: Virat Kohli is overcooked. If anyone needs a break, it's him. Whether it's 2 months or a month-and-a-half, whether it's after England or before England. He needs a break because he has got 6-7 years of cricket left in him and you don't want to lose that with a fried brain. He is not the only one. There might be 1 or 2 in world cricket going through the same. You need to address the problem upfront. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Virat Kohli's batting woes continue, dismissed for second consecutive golden duck - WATCH The answers lie within Kohli's mind. He knows his body and how his mind functions better than anyone (Taking the liberty to share a message for his plethora of fans: don't make him your main protagonist in every discussion. Don't even discuss him. Focus less on him. Outside noise needs to die down for Kohli to rise again). Even the great Sachin Tendulkar had flaws. He, however, always found ways to tackle them. For now, Kohli is content with working on his strengths than weaknesses. Maybe he needs to slow down. Maybe, he needs to fight the bubble within before coming out of this crisis. The engine surely needs an overhaul. At present, the damage has been done. But, King Kohli isn't one to be kept out for very long. Somewhere down the line, his usual form is still waiting for him. He just needs to redo the coding to function as usual.

IPL 2022: What's fretting Virat Kohli, the player?

Rajasthan Royals (RR) faced Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in match 39 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Tuesday evening (April 26) at the MCA Stadium, Pune. Being asked to bat first, Sanju Samson &amp; Co. managed only 144-8, riding on Riyan Parag's 56 not out, but dismissed RCB for 115 to win by 29 runs (courtesy of R Ashwin's 3-fer and Kuldeep Sen's 4-wicket haul) and top the points table.

While RR continues to move from strength to strength in the ongoing season, with six wins from eight games, Samson has been criticised for his batting approach. Coming out to bat at No. 4, Samson had a tough task in hand as Royals were reduced to 33-3, with in-form opener Jos Buttler out for 8. Though the RR skipper played some big shots and settled in, he was dismissed for a 21-ball 27. Many former cricketers and experts lashed out at Samson for being overaggressive amid a crisis situation. He had attempted an unsuccessful reverse hit off Wanindu Hasaranga, who has dominated Samson, the batter went for the same shot on the very next ball, in the 10th over, to get clean bowled.

Thus, former West Indies speedster Ian Bishop commented on Samson's dismissal and said on ESPNcrincfo's 'T20 Time Out', "That Sanju is wasting good form and good opportunity to score runs to press for an international recall, to lead his team when Jos Buttler doesn't score."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-if-he-flops-for-one-or-two-matches-former-india-pacer-opines-on-virat-kohlis-poor-form-474340">IPL 2022: 'If he flops for one or two matches....' - Former India pacer opines on Virat Kohli's poor form</a>

"It's not that Sanju's out of form. But that's a match-up with Wanindu Hasaranga and him, and he should have known better. He got out of the blocks quite nicely," Bishop added.

Samson has looked good in most of his innings in this year's IPL. However, he hasn't played a big knock as yet. With India set to play the T20 World Cup later this year, in Australia, the Royals skipper needs to buckle up and produce some big scores to press hard for an international recall.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Royals (RR) faced Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in match 39 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Tuesday evening (April 26) at the MCA Stadium, Pune. Being asked to bat first, Sanju Samson & Co.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) faced Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in match 39 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Tuesday evening (April 26) at the MCA Stadium, Pune. Being asked to bat first, Sanju Samson & Co. managed only 144-8, riding on Riyan Parag's 56 not out, but dismissed RCB for 115 to win by 29 runs (courtesy of R Ashwin's 3-fer and Kuldeep Sen's 4-wicket haul) and top the points table. While RR continues to move from strength to strength in the ongoing season, with six wins from eight games, Samson has been criticised for his batting approach. Coming out to bat at No. 4, Samson had a tough task in hand as Royals were reduced to 33-3, with in-form opener Jos Buttler out for 8. Though the RR skipper played some big shots and settled in, he was dismissed for a 21-ball 27. Many former cricketers and experts lashed out at Samson for being overaggressive amid a crisis situation. He had attempted an unsuccessful reverse hit off Wanindu Hasaranga, who has dominated Samson, the batter went for the same shot on the very next ball, in the 10th over, to get clean bowled. Thus, former West Indies speedster Ian Bishop commented on Samson's dismissal and said on ESPNcrincfo's 'T20 Time Out', "That Sanju is wasting good form and good opportunity to score runs to press for an international recall, to lead his team when Jos Buttler doesn't score." ALSO READ | IPL 2022: 'If he flops for one or two matches....' - Former India pacer opines on Virat Kohli's poor form "It's not that Sanju's out of form. But that's a match-up with Wanindu Hasaranga and him, and he should have known better. He got out of the blocks quite nicely," Bishop added. Samson has looked good in most of his innings in this year's IPL. However, he hasn't played a big knock as yet. With India set to play the T20 World Cup later this year, in Australia, the Royals skipper needs to buckle up and produce some big scores to press hard for an international recall.

Sanju Samson wasting good form and opportunity to press for international recall, says ex-WI pacer

Virat Kohli's form has been a huge concern for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022. In nine outings, the 33-year-old former RCB captain has amassed only 128 runs at a dismal average of 16. On Tuesday evening (April 26), when RCB locked horns with the Rajasthan Royals (RR), many felt Kohli would turn it around with a big knock.

While Kohli was involved in decision-making and was constantly talking with the bowlers during RR's innings, after they were asked to bat first in match 39 at the MCA Stadium, Pune, the veteran cricketer failed to live upto expectations with the bat. He came out to open the RCB innings along with skipper Faf du Plessis. However, he couldn't move past his barren run, returning with an unimpressive 10-ball 9.&nbsp;

Speaking to Cricbuzz, former India and RCB pacer RP Singh opined on Kohli's struggles. He feels that RCB will look at resting Kohli if he flops for one or two matches. "Team management and Kohli are both trying, it is not like they are not. But he is far away from hitting good form. If he flops for one or two matches, RCB will look at resting him, give him a break," he said.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pull-out-of-ipl-2022-ravi-shastris-bold-suggestion-for-virat-kohli-amid-rcb-stars-batting-concerns-474207">&nbsp;'Pull out of IPL 2022' - Ravi Shastri's bold suggestion for Virat Kohli amid RCB star's batting concerns</a>

On the other hand, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has openly advised Kohli to pull out of IPL 2022 in order to have some rest and return to scoring ways for Team India. His poor form is a cause of concern for Indian cricket team as well, with the T20 World Cup set to be held later this year in Australia. His last international ton came in late 2019, hence, time is running out for King Kohli.

Talking about RCB-RR clash, Faf du Plessis &amp; Co. lost the game by 29 runs after failing to chase a moderate 145-run target set by Rajasthan. While RR are now the table toppers after this win, RCB is at the fifth position in the points table.

Virat Kohli's form has been a huge concern for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022. In nine outings, the 33-year-old former RCB captain has amassed only 128 runs at a dismal average of 16.

Virat Kohli's form has been a huge concern for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022. In nine outings, the 33-year-old former RCB captain has amassed only 128 runs at a dismal average of 16. On Tuesday evening (April 26), when RCB locked horns with the Rajasthan Royals (RR), many felt Kohli would turn it around with a big knock. While Kohli was involved in decision-making and was constantly talking with the bowlers during RR's innings, after they were asked to bat first in match 39 at the MCA Stadium, Pune, the veteran cricketer failed to live upto expectations with the bat. He came out to open the RCB innings along with skipper Faf du Plessis. However, he couldn't move past his barren run, returning with an unimpressive 10-ball 9. Speaking to Cricbuzz, former India and RCB pacer RP Singh opined on Kohli's struggles. He feels that RCB will look at resting Kohli if he flops for one or two matches. "Team management and Kohli are both trying, it is not like they are not. But he is far away from hitting good form. If he flops for one or two matches, RCB will look at resting him, give him a break," he said. ALSO READ | 'Pull out of IPL 2022' - Ravi Shastri's bold suggestion for Virat Kohli amid RCB star's batting concerns On the other hand, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has openly advised Kohli to pull out of IPL 2022 in order to have some rest and return to scoring ways for Team India. His poor form is a cause of concern for Indian cricket team as well, with the T20 World Cup set to be held later this year in Australia. His last international ton came in late 2019, hence, time is running out for King Kohli. Talking about RCB-RR clash, Faf du Plessis & Co. lost the game by 29 runs after failing to chase a moderate 145-run target set by Rajasthan. While RR are now the table toppers after this win, RCB is at the fifth position in the points table.

IPL 2022: 'If he flops for one or two matches....' - Former India pacer opines on Virat Kohli's poor form

Virat Kohli remains the poster boy of Indian cricket. While many youngsters have joined Team India post Kohli, the 33-year-old remains the face of the national side and also the most-talked-about cricketer. While he is known as a fierce competitor on the 22-yard cricket strip, the right-hander is a very simple and humble person off the field.&nbsp;

Narrating an incident, during India's tour of West Indies immediately after the 2019 ODI World Cup, former Indian cricketer Vivek Razdan has revealed how Kohli never used to travel business class and rather preferred being with teammates in economy class during his captaincy era. As per Razdan, two business class seats&nbsp;are reserved in business class for the captain&nbsp;and head coach of Team India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pull-out-of-ipl-2022-ravi-shastris-bold-suggestion-for-virat-kohli-amid-rcb-stars-batting-concerns-474207">'Pull out of IPL 2022' - Ravi Shastri's bold suggestion for Virat Kohli amid RCB star's batting concerns</a>

"In a flight, two seats are reserved in business class - one for the captain and one for the coach. But I have never seen Virat Kohli travel in business class during a flight. He always prefers to be with his teammates in the economy class," Razdan told Sportskeeda.

"Apart from the coach, there was always a bowler occupying one of the business class seats. It was either Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami or, sometimes, Ravichandran Ashwin,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-whats-fretting-virat-kohli-the-player-473401">IPL 2022: What's fretting Virat Kohli, the player?</a>

Razdan further mentioned&nbsp;how Kohli didn't even request business seats even when his wife Anushka Sharma was a part of&nbsp;the national side during their 2019 West Indies tour. "Even when Anushka Sharma joined the West Indies tour of 2019 later, she and Virat traveled together in economy class. Virat never requested for his business class seat to be given to Anushka,"&nbsp;he added.

Virat Kohli remains the poster boy of Indian cricket. While many youngsters have joined Team India post Kohli, the 33-year-old remains the face of the national side and also the most-talked-about cricketer.

Virat Kohli remains the poster boy of Indian cricket. While many youngsters have joined Team India post Kohli, the 33-year-old remains the face of the national side and also the most-talked-about cricketer. While he is known as a fierce competitor on the 22-yard cricket strip, the right-hander is a very simple and humble person off the field. Narrating an incident, during India's tour of West Indies immediately after the 2019 ODI World Cup, former Indian cricketer Vivek Razdan has revealed how Kohli never used to travel business class and rather preferred being with teammates in economy class during his captaincy era. As per Razdan, two business class seats are reserved in business class for the captain and head coach of Team India. ALSO READ | 'Pull out of IPL 2022' - Ravi Shastri's bold suggestion for Virat Kohli amid RCB star's batting concerns "In a flight, two seats are reserved in business class - one for the captain and one for the coach. But I have never seen Virat Kohli travel in business class during a flight. He always prefers to be with his teammates in the economy class," Razdan told Sportskeeda. "Apart from the coach, there was always a bowler occupying one of the business class seats. It was either Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami or, sometimes, Ravichandran Ashwin,” he added. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: What's fretting Virat Kohli, the player? Razdan further mentioned how Kohli didn't even request business seats even when his wife Anushka Sharma was a part of the national side during their 2019 West Indies tour. "Even when Anushka Sharma joined the West Indies tour of 2019 later, she and Virat traveled together in economy class. Virat never requested for his business class seat to be given to Anushka," he added.

Virat never requested business class seat for Anushka: Former cricketer dwells on Indian star's nature

Ravi Shastri has donned several roles in Indian cricket. The former all-rounder turned into a successful commentator before serving as Team India's head coach from 2017 to 2021. However, he also fulfilled the role of the&nbsp;team director for the national side twice, in 2007 (during the Bangladesh tour) and from 2014 to 2016.

Before his appointment as India's team director in 2014, during MS Dhoni &amp; Co.'s England tour, Shastri had no time to react as the BCCI asked him to come onboard as soon as possible. Back then, he was part of the commentary panel for India-England Tests, where the Dhoni-led visitors were being hammered left, right and center (eventually losing 3-1).

Recalling his appointment, Shastri told The Guardian, “I had no warning. I was commentating at the Oval during India’s [2014] tour of England and came off air to find six or seven missed calls. ‘Seven bloody calls? What’s happened here?’. [The BCCI] just said: ‘We want you to take over, starting tomorrow, at any cost.’ I told them I’d have to speak to my family and commercial partners but they just said they would sort all that out. And like that, I was straight in from the commentary box. You’ll see when I joined the setup [during the ODIs], I was still in jeans and loafers. Instantly my job changed."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-one-comes-your-way-former-coach-ravi-shastri-reveals-how-team-india-tackled-australias-sledging-473996">'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging</a>

After serving as the team director for two years, Shastri was the frontrunner to be India's next coach post Duncan Fletcher's end of tenure. Shastri continued his job as the team director despite Fletcher's exit in 2015. However, Anil Kumble took over as the head coach for a year, in 2016, before the job went to Shastri post the 2017 Champions Trophy. The former cricketer recalled his first agenda after taking over as the head coach of Team India.

“We also had slingers [coaches with dogsticks] in the nets smashing the ball in at 160kph from 16 yards. Guys had no choice. There was no dodging, I’d stand behind the stumps to make sure of that. No matter who the person was, he had to go through that. The slingers would seriously let it rip and guys would look ugly. But you are meant to look ugly in the nets. In England, you have to grind and earn your runs."

“The same with the bowlers, we told them to stick in because there is a five-wicket session at any given time in England and at Lord’s and the Oval this decided the result. And we knew winning in Australia or England wasn’t coming with spin, it was fast bowlers, guys with aggression like Jasprit Bumrah. We were instrumental in making sure that guy played Test cricket. You don’t even need express pace, you just need attitude," Shastri opined.

Under Shastri, India were dominant across formats in bilateral series -- winning two Tests in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom -- played the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and inaugural WTC final.

Ravi Shastri has donned several roles in Indian cricket. The former all-rounder turned into a successful commentator before serving as Team India's head coach from 2017 to 2021.

Ravi Shastri has donned several roles in Indian cricket. The former all-rounder turned into a successful commentator before serving as Team India's head coach from 2017 to 2021. However, he also fulfilled the role of the team director for the national side twice, in 2007 (during the Bangladesh tour) and from 2014 to 2016. Before his appointment as India's team director in 2014, during MS Dhoni & Co.'s England tour, Shastri had no time to react as the BCCI asked him to come onboard as soon as possible. Back then, he was part of the commentary panel for India-England Tests, where the Dhoni-led visitors were being hammered left, right and center (eventually losing 3-1). Recalling his appointment, Shastri told The Guardian, “I had no warning. I was commentating at the Oval during India’s [2014] tour of England and came off air to find six or seven missed calls. ‘Seven bloody calls? What’s happened here?’. [The BCCI] just said: ‘We want you to take over, starting tomorrow, at any cost.’ I told them I’d have to speak to my family and commercial partners but they just said they would sort all that out. And like that, I was straight in from the commentary box. You’ll see when I joined the setup [during the ODIs], I was still in jeans and loafers. Instantly my job changed." ALSO READ | 'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging After serving as the team director for two years, Shastri was the frontrunner to be India's next coach post Duncan Fletcher's end of tenure. Shastri continued his job as the team director despite Fletcher's exit in 2015. However, Anil Kumble took over as the head coach for a year, in 2016, before the job went to Shastri post the 2017 Champions Trophy. The former cricketer recalled his first agenda after taking over as the head coach of Team India. “We also had slingers [coaches with dogsticks] in the nets smashing the ball in at 160kph from 16 yards. Guys had no choice. There was no dodging, I’d stand behind the stumps to make sure of that. No matter who the person was, he had to go through that. The slingers would seriously let it rip and guys would look ugly. But you are meant to look ugly in the nets. In England, you have to grind and earn your runs." “The same with the bowlers, we told them to stick in because there is a five-wicket session at any given time in England and at Lord’s and the Oval this decided the result. And we knew winning in Australia or England wasn’t coming with spin, it was fast bowlers, guys with aggression like Jasprit Bumrah. We were instrumental in making sure that guy played Test cricket. You don’t even need express pace, you just need attitude," Shastri opined. Under Shastri, India were dominant across formats in bilateral series -- winning two Tests in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom -- played the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and inaugural WTC final.

'We want you to take over at any cost' - Ravi Shastri on being appointed Team India's director in 2014

Shaheen Afridi has grown from strength to strength with each game for Pakistan. He has become the Men in Green's multi-format player in no time and his stature is rising at a rapid pace. Last year, the young pacer was the star performer for Babar Azam &amp; Co. as Pakistan finally ended their winless streak versus India in World Cup history.

With India and Pakistan playing each other in their respective Super 12 opening clash in 2021 T20 World Cup, in Dubai, Shaheen returned with a match-winning spell of 3 for 31 -- dismissing India's Big Three in Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli -- as Pakistan restricted India for&nbsp;151-7 before the one-time winners chased it down with ten wickets and 13 balls to spare.

Recently, in conversation with Geo Super, Shaheen revealed he had a chat with Shahid Afridi to get some tips ahead of the marquee clash versus India. "When we had that match against India in the T20 World Cup, I requested Lala to have a word with me. Because before that I played just one match against India, that too in Asia Cup, which was in One-Day format. And this was a T20 game and we never won a World Cup game against India," Shaheen said.

"So I thought that this was a big opportunity for me. So I called Lala for some tips and asked him, 'What different do I do today?'. He gave me very good advice and told, 'Do something so that the entire stadium notices only Shaheen' and give your 100 percent in bowling and fielding. I just did that and we got the results,” he added.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-one-comes-your-way-former-coach-ravi-shastri-reveals-how-team-india-tackled-australias-sledging-473996">'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging</a>

Shahid Afridi has had some memorable performances versus India during his playing days for Pakistan. Thus, his words surely encouraged a young Shaheen, who was highly impressive versus India and led the Men in Green to a stunning ten-wicket win at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.&nbsp;

Babar-led Pakistan, however, couldn't reach the tournament final in last year's edition, losing to eventual winners Australia in the semi-finals.
</section>

Shaheen Afridi has grown from strength to strength with each game for Pakistan. He has become the Men in Green's multi-format player in no time and his stature is rising at a rapid pace.

Shaheen Afridi has grown from strength to strength with each game for Pakistan. He has become the Men in Green's multi-format player in no time and his stature is rising at a rapid pace. Last year, the young pacer was the star performer for Babar Azam & Co. as Pakistan finally ended their winless streak versus India in World Cup history. With India and Pakistan playing each other in their respective Super 12 opening clash in 2021 T20 World Cup, in Dubai, Shaheen returned with a match-winning spell of 3 for 31 -- dismissing India's Big Three in Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli -- as Pakistan restricted India for 151-7 before the one-time winners chased it down with ten wickets and 13 balls to spare. Recently, in conversation with Geo Super, Shaheen revealed he had a chat with Shahid Afridi to get some tips ahead of the marquee clash versus India. "When we had that match against India in the T20 World Cup, I requested Lala to have a word with me. Because before that I played just one match against India, that too in Asia Cup, which was in One-Day format. And this was a T20 game and we never won a World Cup game against India," Shaheen said. "So I thought that this was a big opportunity for me. So I called Lala for some tips and asked him, 'What different do I do today?'. He gave me very good advice and told, 'Do something so that the entire stadium notices only Shaheen' and give your 100 percent in bowling and fielding. I just did that and we got the results,” he added. ALSO READ | 'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging Shahid Afridi has had some memorable performances versus India during his playing days for Pakistan. Thus, his words surely encouraged a young Shaheen, who was highly impressive versus India and led the Men in Green to a stunning ten-wicket win at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Babar-led Pakistan, however, couldn't reach the tournament final in last year's edition, losing to eventual winners Australia in the semi-finals.

Shaheen Afridi recalls chat with Shahid Afridi before match-winning spell against India in T20 World Cup

Team India had a drastic change of approach under Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri. Under Kohli-Shastri, India had a dominant run across formats, especially in bilateral series, but were most impressive in the red-ball format. Thus, India were at the No. 1 spot in ICC Test Rankings for a long period of time, played the inaugural WTC final, dominated at home and even tasted success in SENA countries.

While India came close to beating South Africa in three Tests in the African nation, in early 2018, they lost the series 2-1. In England, they lost 4-1 in 2018 before turning it around with an unassailable 2-1 lead in an incomplete five-match Test series in 2021. They struggled in New Zealand but won two series on the trot versus Australia in their own backyard during the Kohli-Shastri era.

Shastri became the first Asian coach to win a series in Australia when Kohli &amp; Co. won 2-1 in the 2018/19 tour. The series scoreline remained the same when India toured Australia and played the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under in 2020/21. Thus, it is safe to claim that the national side's playing style, mannerism and body language went through a rapid change under Shastri's coaching and Kohli's leadership.

Reflecting on India's twin success in Australia, Shastri recently spilled the beans on how he pumped up the Indian players and helped them in tackling the Aussies' sledging. "It was also outlining how we want to play: to be aggressive and ruthless, to up the fitness levels, to get a group of fast bowlers to take 20 wickets overseas. And it was about attitude, especially when playing the Aussies. I told the boys if one single expletive comes your way, give them three back: two in our language and one in theirs," said Shastri to the&nbsp;Guardian.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-bcci-to-do-away-with-bio-bubbles-and-hard-quarantine-senior-players-to-be-rested-report-473961">India vs SA: BCCI to do away with bio-bubbles and hard quarantine, senior players to be rested - Report</a>

While Cheteshwar Pujara, Kohli, Ishant Sharma, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah were India's star performers in the 2-1 Test series win over Australia in 2018/19, the visitors overcame various obstacles (injury concerns, Covid-19 bio-bubbles, sledging, racism) and played sans regular captain Kohli to triumph in the 2020/21 series Down Under. Back then, several youngsters such as Md Siraj, Shubman Gill, Pant, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, T Natarajan, etc. stood tall along with contributions from stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane, Pujara, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and R Ashwin.

Team India had a drastic change of approach under Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri. Under Kohli-Shastri, India had a dominant run across formats, especially in bilateral series, but were most impressive in the red-ball format.

Team India had a drastic change of approach under Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri. Under Kohli-Shastri, India had a dominant run across formats, especially in bilateral series, but were most impressive in the red-ball format. Thus, India were at the No. 1 spot in ICC Test Rankings for a long period of time, played the inaugural WTC final, dominated at home and even tasted success in SENA countries. While India came close to beating South Africa in three Tests in the African nation, in early 2018, they lost the series 2-1. In England, they lost 4-1 in 2018 before turning it around with an unassailable 2-1 lead in an incomplete five-match Test series in 2021. They struggled in New Zealand but won two series on the trot versus Australia in their own backyard during the Kohli-Shastri era. Shastri became the first Asian coach to win a series in Australia when Kohli & Co. won 2-1 in the 2018/19 tour. The series scoreline remained the same when India toured Australia and played the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under in 2020/21. Thus, it is safe to claim that the national side's playing style, mannerism and body language went through a rapid change under Shastri's coaching and Kohli's leadership. Reflecting on India's twin success in Australia, Shastri recently spilled the beans on how he pumped up the Indian players and helped them in tackling the Aussies' sledging. "It was also outlining how we want to play: to be aggressive and ruthless, to up the fitness levels, to get a group of fast bowlers to take 20 wickets overseas. And it was about attitude, especially when playing the Aussies. I told the boys if one single expletive comes your way, give them three back: two in our language and one in theirs," said Shastri to the Guardian. ALSO READ | India vs SA: BCCI to do away with bio-bubbles and hard quarantine, senior players to be rested - Report While Cheteshwar Pujara, Kohli, Ishant Sharma, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah were India's star performers in the 2-1 Test series win over Australia in 2018/19, the visitors overcame various obstacles (injury concerns, Covid-19 bio-bubbles, sledging, racism) and played sans regular captain Kohli to triumph in the 2020/21 series Down Under. Back then, several youngsters such as Md Siraj, Shubman Gill, Pant, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, T Natarajan, etc. stood tall along with contributions from stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane, Pujara, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah and R Ashwin.

'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging

Team India have a hectic schedule in the calendar year. Soon after the completion of IPL 2022, the Indian senior men's team will soon gear up for a home series versus South Africa. Temba Bavuma-led Proteas will arrive in India for five T20Is, from June 09-June 19, as the bilateral series will be a preparation for both sides for the 2022 T20 World Cup.

As per reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen on doing away with bio-bubbles and also getting rid of hard quarantine for the South Africa home series. As per the board's senior official, bio-bubbles are taking a hard toll on cricketers and, hence, it is likely that the players will benefit with more freedom given to them this time around.

For the unversed,&nbsp;the bilateral series for India, prior to the ongoing IPL season, have all been played under bio-bubbles. In fact, even IPL 2022 is being conducted within the bio-bubble environment. Thus, this will be a welcome change for players if a change is implemented by the BCCI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-told-umran-malik-he-is-the-future-of-indian-cricket-reveals-srh-speedsters-father-473906">Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni told Umran Malik he is the future of Indian cricket, reveals SRH speedster's father</a>

"If all goes well and things remain in control like it is right now, there will be no bio-bubbles and hard quarantine during the home series against South Africa," a senior BCCI official told the&nbsp;Press Trust of India

The official also indicated that some senior players are set to be rested for the SA series. "Then we are going to Ireland and England and there won't be any bio-bubble in those countries too. Some players have got periodic breaks but if you look at the bigger picture, living in bio-bubble one series after another and now two months of IPL is simply exhausting for the players," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-will-have-to-displace-pant-manjrekar-explains-why-dinesh-karthik-might-not-get-into-indias-playing-xi-473771">'He will have to displace Pant': Manjrekar explains why Dinesh Karthik might not get into India's playing XI</a>

Some multi-format players such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to miss the SA series. Some of them will play only a few matches whereas some will be allowed to skip the entire series.

Following the SA series, India play two T20Is versus hosts Ireland and also play&nbsp;1 Test, 3 T20Is, and 3 ODIs in England soon after. Thus, some key players are set&nbsp;to remain out of action in the SA T20Is to remain fresh with T20 World Cup in mind.

Team India have a hectic schedule in the calendar year. Soon after the completion of IPL 2022, the Indian senior men's team will soon gear up for a home series versus South Africa.

Team India have a hectic schedule in the calendar year. Soon after the completion of IPL 2022, the Indian senior men's team will soon gear up for a home series versus South Africa. Temba Bavuma-led Proteas will arrive in India for five T20Is, from June 09-June 19, as the bilateral series will be a preparation for both sides for the 2022 T20 World Cup. As per reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen on doing away with bio-bubbles and also getting rid of hard quarantine for the South Africa home series. As per the board's senior official, bio-bubbles are taking a hard toll on cricketers and, hence, it is likely that the players will benefit with more freedom given to them this time around. For the unversed, the bilateral series for India, prior to the ongoing IPL season, have all been played under bio-bubbles. In fact, even IPL 2022 is being conducted within the bio-bubble environment. Thus, this will be a welcome change for players if a change is implemented by the BCCI. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni told Umran Malik he is the future of Indian cricket, reveals SRH speedster's father "If all goes well and things remain in control like it is right now, there will be no bio-bubbles and hard quarantine during the home series against South Africa," a senior BCCI official told the Press Trust of India The official also indicated that some senior players are set to be rested for the SA series. "Then we are going to Ireland and England and there won't be any bio-bubble in those countries too. Some players have got periodic breaks but if you look at the bigger picture, living in bio-bubble one series after another and now two months of IPL is simply exhausting for the players," he added. ALSO READ | 'He will have to displace Pant': Manjrekar explains why Dinesh Karthik might not get into India's playing XI Some multi-format players such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to miss the SA series. Some of them will play only a few matches whereas some will be allowed to skip the entire series. Following the SA series, India play two T20Is versus hosts Ireland and also play 1 Test, 3 T20Is, and 3 ODIs in England soon after. Thus, some key players are set to remain out of action in the SA T20Is to remain fresh with T20 World Cup in mind.

India vs SA: BCCI to do away with bio-bubbles and hard quarantine, senior players to be rested - Report

Jasprit Bumrah is currently involved in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 edition. While he was been economical for the struggling Mumbai Indians (MI) in the 15th season, he has managed to pick only five wickets from eight games so far.

On the other hand, Shaheen Shah Afridi's rise has been spectacular in recent times. He accounted for a total of 17 wickets across formats during Pakistan's home series versus Australia recently. While Bumrah was also among wickets in India-Sri Lanka Tests, in the run-up to IPL 2022, Shaheen has made heads turn in recent times whereas Bumrah is being played by caution in the ongoing IPL season. Thus, former Pakistani cricketer Aqib Javed made a bold claim on Bumrah-Shaheen. He also added that Men in Green speedster Haris Rauf&nbsp;has a more aggressive body language than the Indian pacer.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ishan-kishan-gets-dismissed-in-bizarre-fashion-in-mis-face-off-versus-lsg-in-ipl-2022-473577">WATCH: Ishan Kishan gets dismissed in bizarre fashion in MI's face-off versus LSG in IPL 2022</a>

“The way Haris has bowled in the last few years, his average bowling speed is the fastest in the world. And the aggression he has, the way he runs, the batsman knows that the bowler is running towards him, but Bumrah's isn't that aggressive. And people enjoy these kind of bowlers who have such body language. Shaheen's graph is on the rise, while Bumrah is stable."

"He has less threatening performances than Shaheen, whether it's in T20s, ODIs or in Tests. And the rise of Pakistan cricket largely has depended on performances from Shaheen, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan,” said Javed to&nbsp;Paktv.tv.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-whats-fretting-virat-kohli-the-player-473401">IPL 2022: What's fretting Virat Kohli, the player?</a>

It is to be noted that Bumrah remains India's premier pacer across formats. He has been in form in Tests, also chipped in with key wickets in 2022 India-South Africa ODIs but hasn't played a lot of T20Is post last year's World Cup. At present, he might not be picking wickets at regular intervals for his IPL franchise, he still remains a potent threat for batters across formats.

Jasprit Bumrah is currently involved in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 edition. While he was been economical for the struggling Mumbai Indians (MI) in the 15th season, he has managed to pick only five wickets from eight games so far.

Jasprit Bumrah is currently involved in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 edition. While he was been economical for the struggling Mumbai Indians (MI) in the 15th season, he has managed to pick only five wickets from eight games so far. On the other hand, Shaheen Shah Afridi's rise has been spectacular in recent times. He accounted for a total of 17 wickets across formats during Pakistan's home series versus Australia recently. While Bumrah was also among wickets in India-Sri Lanka Tests, in the run-up to IPL 2022, Shaheen has made heads turn in recent times whereas Bumrah is being played by caution in the ongoing IPL season. Thus, former Pakistani cricketer Aqib Javed made a bold claim on Bumrah-Shaheen. He also added that Men in Green speedster Haris Rauf has a more aggressive body language than the Indian pacer. ALSO READ | WATCH: Ishan Kishan gets dismissed in bizarre fashion in MI's face-off versus LSG in IPL 2022 “The way Haris has bowled in the last few years, his average bowling speed is the fastest in the world. And the aggression he has, the way he runs, the batsman knows that the bowler is running towards him, but Bumrah's isn't that aggressive. And people enjoy these kind of bowlers who have such body language. Shaheen's graph is on the rise, while Bumrah is stable." "He has less threatening performances than Shaheen, whether it's in T20s, ODIs or in Tests. And the rise of Pakistan cricket largely has depended on performances from Shaheen, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan,” said Javed to Paktv.tv. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: What's fretting Virat Kohli, the player? It is to be noted that Bumrah remains India's premier pacer across formats. He has been in form in Tests, also chipped in with key wickets in 2022 India-South Africa ODIs but hasn't played a lot of T20Is post last year's World Cup. At present, he might not be picking wickets at regular intervals for his IPL franchise, he still remains a potent threat for batters across formats.

Shaheen Afridi's graph is on the rise, Jasprit Bumrah's is stable, says ex-Pakistan cricketer

The whole nation went in celebratory mode on Sunday (April 24) as Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar turned 49. Tendulkar remains one of the finest to have graced the gentlemen's game. The right-hander made his debut for India in 1989 and represented the Men in Blue till late 2013.&nbsp;

As a result, he amassed over 34,000 international runs and ended with a record 100 centuries across formats. In addition, he grabbed hold of an ODI World Cup medal in his last ICC event in 2011. Remembering his contribution for Indian cricket, being a perfectionist as a batter and his overall success, many ardent cricket followers and former as well as current cricketers took to social media platforms to wish Tendulkar on his special day.

England's Barmy Army also joined the bandwagon and wished Tendulkar on his 49th birthday. However, their wish didn't go down well among the Indian cricket loyalists.&nbsp;Barmy Army posted an image of the former Indian opener&nbsp;where&nbsp;the England cricket team players were seen celebrating the dismissal of the Master Blaster. The caption read, "Happy Birthday Little Master.". Thus, the tweet wasn't well-received by Tendulkar's fans and they schooled the Barmy Army.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-records-of-sachin-tendulkar-that-are-nearly-impossible-to-break-473484">Five records of Sachin Tendulkar that are nearly impossible to break</a>

Here's Barmy Army's tweet:

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Happy Birthday Little Master 🎂 <a href="https://t.co/3D8znHsIMT">pic.twitter.com/3D8znHsIMT</a>
— England’s Barmy Army (@TheBarmyArmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheBarmyArmy/status/1518158826788335618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Here's how some ardent SRT fans reacted to Barmy Army's message (including cricketer Amit Mishra):

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Thanks kids <a href="https://t.co/iGGUl1ugD1">https://t.co/iGGUl1ugD1</a> <a href="https://t.co/axAh81V538">pic.twitter.com/axAh81V538</a>
— Amit Mishra (@MishiAmit) <a href="https://twitter.com/MishiAmit/status/1518202107689865216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Didn't knew Barmy Army doesn't even know how to show respect to a legend and wishing a birthday. <a href="https://t.co/Otgdis5MS2">https://t.co/Otgdis5MS2</a>
— 𝗘𝗡𝗬𝗚𝗠𝗔 (@prad____) <a href="https://twitter.com/prad____/status/1518286091261911041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Sachin's test record vs England 🤙🔥 
Matches - 32 
Avg - 51+ 
Centuries - 7 
Half centuries - 13 
Highest score - 193 
Now cry more <a href="https://twitter.com/TheBarmyArmy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheBarmyArmy</a> 😁
— Rules Ramanujam (@No_AmNottttt) <a href="https://twitter.com/No_AmNottttt/status/1518186616405172226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-man-who-united-billions-virat-kohli-gautam-gambhir-lead-wishes-as-sachin-tendulkar-turns-49-473383">The man who united billions: Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir lead wishes as Sachin Tendulkar turns 49</a>

For the unversed, Tendulkar had a stellar record versus England.&nbsp;Sachin scored as many as 3,990 runs in 69 matches against England in Tests and ODIs combined,&nbsp;including&nbsp;nine centuries and 23 half-centuries.&nbsp;

At present, Tendulkar is part of the Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) camp in IPL 2022. He is serving as the team mentor for the five-time champions.

The whole nation went in celebratory mode on Sunday (April 24) as Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar turned 49. Tendulkar remains one of the finest to have graced the gentlemen's game.

The whole nation went in celebratory mode on Sunday (April 24) as Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar turned 49. Tendulkar remains one of the finest to have graced the gentlemen's game. The right-hander made his debut for India in 1989 and represented the Men in Blue till late 2013. As a result, he amassed over 34,000 international runs and ended with a record 100 centuries across formats. In addition, he grabbed hold of an ODI World Cup medal in his last ICC event in 2011. Remembering his contribution for Indian cricket, being a perfectionist as a batter and his overall success, many ardent cricket followers and former as well as current cricketers took to social media platforms to wish Tendulkar on his special day. England's Barmy Army also joined the bandwagon and wished Tendulkar on his 49th birthday. However, their wish didn't go down well among the Indian cricket loyalists. Barmy Army posted an image of the former Indian opener where the England cricket team players were seen celebrating the dismissal of the Master Blaster. The caption read, "Happy Birthday Little Master.". Thus, the tweet wasn't well-received by Tendulkar's fans and they schooled the Barmy Army. ALSO READ | Five records of Sachin Tendulkar that are nearly impossible to break Here's Barmy Army's tweet: Happy Birthday Little Master 🎂 pic.twitter.com/3D8znHsIMT — England’s Barmy Army (@TheBarmyArmy) April 24, 2022 × Here's how some ardent SRT fans reacted to Barmy Army's message (including cricketer Amit Mishra): Thanks kids https://t.co/iGGUl1ugD1 pic.twitter.com/axAh81V538 — Amit Mishra (@MishiAmit) April 24, 2022 × Didn't knew Barmy Army doesn't even know how to show respect to a legend and wishing a birthday. https://t.co/Otgdis5MS2 — 𝗘𝗡𝗬𝗚𝗠𝗔 (@prad____) April 24, 2022 × Sachin's test record vs England 🤙🔥 Matches - 32 Avg - 51+ Centuries - 7 Half centuries - 13 Highest score - 193 Now cry more @TheBarmyArmy 😁 — Rules Ramanujam (@No_AmNottttt) April 24, 2022 × ALSO READ | The man who united billions: Virat Kohli, Gautam Gambhir lead wishes as Sachin Tendulkar turns 49 For the unversed, Tendulkar had a stellar record versus England. Sachin scored as many as 3,990 runs in 69 matches against England in Tests and ODIs combined, including nine centuries and 23 half-centuries. At present, Tendulkar is part of the Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) camp in IPL 2022. He is serving as the team mentor for the five-time champions.

Netizens school Barmy Army for their controversial tweet on Sachin Tendulkar's 49th birthday

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