Team India were clinical in the first T20I of the three-match series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. Opting to bowl first, the Rohit Sharma-led side restricted Windies for 157/7 and chased down the score with seven balls and 6 wickets to spare on Wednesday (February 16).&nbsp;

India were led by Harshal Patel and debutant spinner Ravi Bishnoi's two wickets apiece to restrict the tall West Indian batting line-up before Rohit &amp; Co. chased down the score in the penultimate over. However, it wasn't an easy ride as the Indian batting line-up were challenged towards the end of the run-chase before Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer's unbeaten fifth-wicket stand completed the formalities.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-your-property-heartwarming-tendulkar-reveals-why-he-returned-virat-kohlis-retirement-gift-454035">This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift</a>

During the course of the game, India had some injury concerns. Deepak Chahar got injured while fielding. On the other hand, all-rounder Iyer also incurred a blow on his thumb. While nothing has been confirmed regarding the duo's availability, Shardul Thakur and Avesh Khan or Mohammad Siraj could be drafted into the playing XI in place of Iyer and Chahar, respectively.

India can also bring in Shreyas Iyer or Ruturaj Gaikwad for the KKR opener Venkatesh. However, they might not risk being a bowler short versus a dented WI batting line-up. Hence, Shardul is very likely to replace Iyer if the latter sits out. Rest of the line-up is expected to be unchanged.

The second and penultimate tie will be held at the same venue, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Friday evening (February 18). The final T20I will also be played here.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-1st-t20i-im-saying-it-how-virat-kohli-convinced-skipper-rohit-sharma-to-take-drs-watch-453958">India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch</a>

India's likely playing XI for 2nd T20I:&nbsp;Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Venkatesh Iyer/Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar/Mohammed Siraj/Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal.

Team India were clinical in the first T20I of the three-match series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. Opting to bowl first, the Rohit Sharma-led side restricted Windies for 157/7 and chased down the score with seven balls and 6 wickets to spare on Wednesday (February 16).

Team India were clinical in the first T20I of the three-match series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. Opting to bowl first, the Rohit Sharma-led side restricted Windies for 157/7 and chased down the score with seven balls and 6 wickets to spare on Wednesday (February 16). India were led by Harshal Patel and debutant spinner Ravi Bishnoi's two wickets apiece to restrict the tall West Indian batting line-up before Rohit & Co. chased down the score in the penultimate over. However, it wasn't an easy ride as the Indian batting line-up were challenged towards the end of the run-chase before Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer's unbeaten fifth-wicket stand completed the formalities. ALSO READ | This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift During the course of the game, India had some injury concerns. Deepak Chahar got injured while fielding. On the other hand, all-rounder Iyer also incurred a blow on his thumb. While nothing has been confirmed regarding the duo's availability, Shardul Thakur and Avesh Khan or Mohammad Siraj could be drafted into the playing XI in place of Iyer and Chahar, respectively. India can also bring in Shreyas Iyer or Ruturaj Gaikwad for the KKR opener Venkatesh. However, they might not risk being a bowler short versus a dented WI batting line-up. Hence, Shardul is very likely to replace Iyer if the latter sits out. Rest of the line-up is expected to be unchanged. The second and penultimate tie will be held at the same venue, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Friday evening (February 18). The final T20I will also be played here. ALSO READ | India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch India's likely playing XI for 2nd T20I: Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Venkatesh Iyer/Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar/Mohammed Siraj/Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal.

Will Avesh Khan get a look-in for Deepak Chahar? Predicting India's XI for 2nd T20I vs West Indies

During the first ODI between India and West Indies, former Team India skipper Virat Kohli had convinced his successor Rohit Sharma to take a review which led to&nbsp;Shamarh Brooks' dismissal, in Ahmedabad. A similar such incident took place during the three-match T20I series opener between both sides on Wednesday (February 16), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

Opting to bowl first, Rohit &amp; Co. had started well to claim two wickets in the WI innings. During debutant leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi's maiden over, India went ahead and took a Decision Review System (DRS) in a bid to claim Roston Chase's wicket. It was a googly from the spinner which went down the leg side and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant dislodged the bails. Initially, square leg-umpire&nbsp;Jayaraman Madanagopal signalled a wide amid strong appeal for a caught-behind by the Indian players.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-kishan-shares-dravids-words-of-wisdom-after-mi-star-bagged-whopping-deal-at-ipl-mega-auction-453940">Ind vs WI: Kishan shares Dravid's words of wisdom after MI star bagged whopping deal at IPL mega auction</a>

At first, Rohit was taken aback by the umpire's initial decision but was convinced by Kohli to take the decision upstairs.&nbsp;“Main bol raha hu, tu review le&nbsp;(I’m saying it, you go ahead for the review),” Kohli told Hitman. By the time Rohit took the DRS,&nbsp;leg umpire had already obliged to the appeal made by the home team. For the unversed, nowadays umpires check for caught-behind as well before checking for a stumping call.&nbsp;Watch the video:

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Thus, India’s review remained intact. The UltraEdge confirmed the flat line when the ball had passed Chase's willow. Further, the&nbsp;umpire review also assured that there was a spike when the ball passed the pad and, hence, not bat was involved. As&nbsp;the spin-bowling all-rounder was well within&nbsp;his crease when the bails were dislodged, he resumed his innings. In addition, as there was pad involved, the wide call was overturned by the main umpire.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-been-happening-for-years-sunil-gavaskar-rubbishes-rift-rumours-between-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-451281">This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli</a>

Chase couldn't do much with the bat as he fell for 4, lbw off Bishnoi. Nicholas Pooran's fifty took Windies to 157/7, with Bishnoi and Harshal Patel claiming two wickets apiece. Eventually, Rohit-led India won the clash by 6 wickets and 7 balls to spare to go 1-0 up in the series.

The second and penultimate match will be played at the same venue on Friday (February 18).

During the first ODI between India and West Indies, former Team India skipper Virat Kohli had convinced his successor Rohit Sharma to take a review which led to Shamarh Brooks' dismissal, in Ahmedabad.

During the first ODI between India and West Indies, former Team India skipper Virat Kohli had convinced his successor Rohit Sharma to take a review which led to Shamarh Brooks' dismissal, in Ahmedabad. A similar such incident took place during the three-match T20I series opener between both sides on Wednesday (February 16), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Opting to bowl first, Rohit & Co. had started well to claim two wickets in the WI innings. During debutant leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi's maiden over, India went ahead and took a Decision Review System (DRS) in a bid to claim Roston Chase's wicket. It was a googly from the spinner which went down the leg side and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant dislodged the bails. Initially, square leg-umpire Jayaraman Madanagopal signalled a wide amid strong appeal for a caught-behind by the Indian players. ALSO READ | Ind vs WI: Kishan shares Dravid's words of wisdom after MI star bagged whopping deal at IPL mega auction At first, Rohit was taken aback by the umpire's initial decision but was convinced by Kohli to take the decision upstairs. “Main bol raha hu, tu review le (I’m saying it, you go ahead for the review),” Kohli told Hitman. By the time Rohit took the DRS, leg umpire had already obliged to the appeal made by the home team. For the unversed, nowadays umpires check for caught-behind as well before checking for a stumping call. Watch the video: pic.twitter.com/zUFGUyYiYb — Maqbool (@im_maqbool) February 16, 2022 × Thus, India’s review remained intact. The UltraEdge confirmed the flat line when the ball had passed Chase's willow. Further, the umpire review also assured that there was a spike when the ball passed the pad and, hence, not bat was involved. As the spin-bowling all-rounder was well within his crease when the bails were dislodged, he resumed his innings. In addition, as there was pad involved, the wide call was overturned by the main umpire. pic.twitter.com/PrqBkawOlh — Maqbool (@im_maqbool) February 16, 2022 × ALSO READ | This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli Chase couldn't do much with the bat as he fell for 4, lbw off Bishnoi. Nicholas Pooran's fifty took Windies to 157/7, with Bishnoi and Harshal Patel claiming two wickets apiece. Eventually, Rohit-led India won the clash by 6 wickets and 7 balls to spare to go 1-0 up in the series. The second and penultimate match will be played at the same venue on Friday (February 18).

India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch

The IPL 2022 mega auction was a successful two-day event, held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. After the end of the mega auction, Ishan Kishan finished as the most expensive player; being bought back by the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise for a whopping INR 152.5 million (INR 15.25 crore).

Ishan wasn't retained by the Rohit Sharma-led MI franchise ahead of the mega auction. However,&nbsp;his rise in stature and wide range of shots ensured that he was re-acquired by the five-time champions MI in the mega auction. Ahead of the India-West Indies T20I series, on Wednesday (February 16), the 23-year-old Ishan revealed the advice he got from head coach Rahul Dravid post the auction proceedings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/debutant-ravi-bishnoi-skipper-rohit-sharma-star-as-india-beat-west-indies-by-6-wickets-in-1st-t20i-453860">Debutant Ravi Bishnoi, skipper Rohit Sharma star as India beat West Indies by 6 wickets in 1st T20I</a>

“It’s [auction] done. Had a good chat with Rahul sir also. [He]&nbsp;asked us to just focus on what we are doing right now. Obviously, IPL is a big platform for everyone, and people get happy when they go to good teams. But the focus is on this series,” Kishan told the host broadcaster before the T20I encounter on Wednesday.

“I’m the happiest when I open the innings, but looking at the situation and what the team asks me to do, I’m okay with my role and comfortable batting anywhere. It’s a big six-hitting ground (Eden Gardens, Kolkata) but that’s my strength, I can clear any ground on any day. I have to go there and watch the ball, be clear about what my role is and what the team needs me to do," the 23-year old further highlighted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2022-top-5-players-who-failed-to-draw-a-single-bid-and-went-unsold-at-mega-auction-453287">IPL 2022 Unsold Players' List: Top 5 stars who failed to draw a single bid at mega auction</a>

Talking about Ishan's performance in the first T20I, the swashbuckling left-hander wasn't at his fluent best and managed a 42-ball 35 in India's chase of 158. Being asked to bat first, Kieron Pollard-led WI managed 157/7 -- with debutant Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel taking two scalps each -- before India chased down the total with 7 balls and 6 wickets to spare. Rohit's 19-ball 40 and Suryakumar Yadav-Venkatesh Iyer's finishing skills enabled a 1-0 lead for the hosts.

The second and penultimate T20I will be played at the same venue on Friday (February 18).

The IPL 2022 mega auction was a successful two-day event, held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. After the end of the mega auction, Ishan Kishan finished as the most expensive player; being bought back by the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise for a whopping INR 152.

The IPL 2022 mega auction was a successful two-day event, held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. After the end of the mega auction, Ishan Kishan finished as the most expensive player; being bought back by the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise for a whopping INR 152.5 million (INR 15.25 crore). Ishan wasn't retained by the Rohit Sharma-led MI franchise ahead of the mega auction. However, his rise in stature and wide range of shots ensured that he was re-acquired by the five-time champions MI in the mega auction. Ahead of the India-West Indies T20I series, on Wednesday (February 16), the 23-year-old Ishan revealed the advice he got from head coach Rahul Dravid post the auction proceedings. ALSO READ | Debutant Ravi Bishnoi, skipper Rohit Sharma star as India beat West Indies by 6 wickets in 1st T20I “It’s [auction] done. Had a good chat with Rahul sir also. [He] asked us to just focus on what we are doing right now. Obviously, IPL is a big platform for everyone, and people get happy when they go to good teams. But the focus is on this series,” Kishan told the host broadcaster before the T20I encounter on Wednesday. “I’m the happiest when I open the innings, but looking at the situation and what the team asks me to do, I’m okay with my role and comfortable batting anywhere. It’s a big six-hitting ground (Eden Gardens, Kolkata) but that’s my strength, I can clear any ground on any day. I have to go there and watch the ball, be clear about what my role is and what the team needs me to do," the 23-year old further highlighted. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 Unsold Players' List: Top 5 stars who failed to draw a single bid at mega auction Talking about Ishan's performance in the first T20I, the swashbuckling left-hander wasn't at his fluent best and managed a 42-ball 35 in India's chase of 158. Being asked to bat first, Kieron Pollard-led WI managed 157/7 -- with debutant Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel taking two scalps each -- before India chased down the total with 7 balls and 6 wickets to spare. Rohit's 19-ball 40 and Suryakumar Yadav-Venkatesh Iyer's finishing skills enabled a 1-0 lead for the hosts. The second and penultimate T20I will be played at the same venue on Friday (February 18).

Ind vs WI: Kishan shares Dravid's words of wisdom after MI star bagged whopping deal at IPL mega auction

Sachin Tendulkar remains a big name in world cricket. Having represented Team India for 24 years, the Master Blaster signed off as the most successful batsman at the international level, with 100 centuries and being a part of the MS Dhoni-led Indian team's victorious run in the 2011 ODI World Cup.

During his last international game -- i.e. a Test match versus West Indies at his home ground Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai -- Tendulkar received a special gift from Virat Kohli. On the occasion of Tendulkar's retirement, Kohli gifted the iconic batter a prized asset that he possessed. It was a sacred thread given to Kohli by his late father, Prem Kohli.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-deserves-every-penny-earned-at-ipl-mega-auction-sunil-gavaskar-lavishes-huge-praise-on-indian-star-454010">He deserves every penny earned at IPL mega auction: Sunil Gavaskar lavishes huge praise on Indian star</a>

Recalling the occasion of his final match as an international cricketer, Tendulkar revealed the whole story and shared why he returned Kohli's retirement gift. He said: “I was sitting in one corner alone with a towel on my head and wiping tears and I was really emotional. And at that time, Virat had come to me and Virat gave me the sacred thread that his father had given him…

“And I kept that for a while and then returned that to him again. I said, ‘This is priceless and this has to stay with you and no one else. This is your property. And you should have it till your last breath.’ And I gave it back to him. So that was an emotional moment, something which will be always there in my memory, forever. “

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-1st-t20i-im-saying-it-how-virat-kohli-convinced-skipper-rohit-sharma-to-take-drs-watch-453958">India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch</a>

During the conversation, Master Blaster also revealed that he was unaware of his earnings as an India cricketer. “It was more about the number of runs that I scored, not how big my bank account was - didn't matter. For me, when I started at that time in 1989 till the end of my career, I did not know how much I was getting paid to play for India, because I never looked at it that way,” he pointed out.

Tendulkar retired from the highest level with over 34,000 runs and 100 centuries under his belt. He remains an all-time great courtesy his 24-year-long career, spanning from 1989-2013.

Sachin Tendulkar remains a big name in world cricket. Having represented Team India for 24 years, the Master Blaster signed off as the most successful batsman at the international level, with 100 centuries and being a part of the MS Dhoni-led Indian team's victorious run in the 2011 ODI World Cup.

Sachin Tendulkar remains a big name in world cricket. Having represented Team India for 24 years, the Master Blaster signed off as the most successful batsman at the international level, with 100 centuries and being a part of the MS Dhoni-led Indian team's victorious run in the 2011 ODI World Cup. During his last international game -- i.e. a Test match versus West Indies at his home ground Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai -- Tendulkar received a special gift from Virat Kohli. On the occasion of Tendulkar's retirement, Kohli gifted the iconic batter a prized asset that he possessed. It was a sacred thread given to Kohli by his late father, Prem Kohli. ALSO READ | He deserves every penny earned at IPL mega auction: Sunil Gavaskar lavishes huge praise on Indian star Recalling the occasion of his final match as an international cricketer, Tendulkar revealed the whole story and shared why he returned Kohli's retirement gift. He said: “I was sitting in one corner alone with a towel on my head and wiping tears and I was really emotional. And at that time, Virat had come to me and Virat gave me the sacred thread that his father had given him… “And I kept that for a while and then returned that to him again. I said, ‘This is priceless and this has to stay with you and no one else. This is your property. And you should have it till your last breath.’ And I gave it back to him. So that was an emotional moment, something which will be always there in my memory, forever. “ ALSO READ | India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch During the conversation, Master Blaster also revealed that he was unaware of his earnings as an India cricketer. “It was more about the number of runs that I scored, not how big my bank account was - didn't matter. For me, when I started at that time in 1989 till the end of my career, I did not know how much I was getting paid to play for India, because I never looked at it that way,” he pointed out. Tendulkar retired from the highest level with over 34,000 runs and 100 centuries under his belt. He remains an all-time great courtesy his 24-year-long career, spanning from 1989-2013.

This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift

After having won the first T20I against West Indies, Rohit Sharma-led India would look to seal the ongoing series when both teams lock horns in the second T20I.

India and West Indies will lock horns in the second T20I of the three-match series on Friday at the Eden Gardens. Ravi Bishnoi's two-wicket haul was backed up by quality knocks by Rohit Sharma (40) and Suryakumar Yadav (34*) as India defeated West Indies by six wickets in the first T20I.

The hosts would look to continue with their momentum, and ensure that the T20I is sealed on Friday itself.

Virat Kohli managed to score just 17 runs in the first game, and the management would hope that the right-handed batter manages to score big.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20i-we-are-not-even-talking-about-him-aakash-chopra-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-string-of-low-scores-453996">'We're not even talking about him'- Chopra reacts to string of low scores from Kohli after 1st T20I vs WI</a>

Virat had lost scored a century in 2019 against Bangladesh and since then the three-figure has kept on eluding him.

Virat, who is the second-highest run-scorer in men's T20Is, would hope that he finds form soon and the century drought is broken.

In the first T20I, Rohit scored a whirlwind 40 and it was his innings that kept India ahead in the chase. However, a few quick wickets meant that India was in a spot of bother chasing 158, but in the end, Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer showed calm heads and India registered a victory.

Ravi Bishnoi impressed one and all on his debut as he registered figures of 2-17, and he would look to go on with his form.

Yuzvendra Chahal, Deepak Chahar, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowled well in patches, but the management would hope for more consistency. Harshal Patel also returned with two wickets and he seemed like a value addition to the team.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-1st-t20i-im-saying-it-how-virat-kohli-convinced-skipper-rohit-sharma-to-take-drs-watch-453958">India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch</a>

Talking about West Indies, Nicholas Pooran impressed with his 61-run knock, but the rest of the batters once again disappointed just like the ODI series.

The visitors would hope for their top-order to come good in the second T20I if they want to level the series.

Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda.

West Indies: Kieron Pollard (c), Nicholas Pooran, Fabien Allen, Darren Bravo, Roseton Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Dominic Drakes, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Rovman Powell, Romario Shephard, Odean Smith, Hayden Walsh Jr.

After having won the first T20I against West Indies, Rohit Sharma-led India would look to seal the ongoing series when both teams lock horns in the second T20I. India and West Indies will lock horns in the second T20I of the three-match series on Friday at the Eden Gardens.

After having won the first T20I against West Indies, Rohit Sharma-led India would look to seal the ongoing series when both teams lock horns in the second T20I. India and West Indies will lock horns in the second T20I of the three-match series on Friday at the Eden Gardens. Ravi Bishnoi's two-wicket haul was backed up by quality knocks by Rohit Sharma (40) and Suryakumar Yadav (34*) as India defeated West Indies by six wickets in the first T20I. The hosts would look to continue with their momentum, and ensure that the T20I is sealed on Friday itself. Virat Kohli managed to score just 17 runs in the first game, and the management would hope that the right-handed batter manages to score big. ALSO READ: 'We're not even talking about him'- Chopra reacts to string of low scores from Kohli after 1st T20I vs WI Virat had lost scored a century in 2019 against Bangladesh and since then the three-figure has kept on eluding him. Virat, who is the second-highest run-scorer in men's T20Is, would hope that he finds form soon and the century drought is broken. In the first T20I, Rohit scored a whirlwind 40 and it was his innings that kept India ahead in the chase. However, a few quick wickets meant that India was in a spot of bother chasing 158, but in the end, Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer showed calm heads and India registered a victory. Ravi Bishnoi impressed one and all on his debut as he registered figures of 2-17, and he would look to go on with his form. Yuzvendra Chahal, Deepak Chahar, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowled well in patches, but the management would hope for more consistency. Harshal Patel also returned with two wickets and he seemed like a value addition to the team. ALSO READ: India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch Talking about West Indies, Nicholas Pooran impressed with his 61-run knock, but the rest of the batters once again disappointed just like the ODI series. The visitors would hope for their top-order to come good in the second T20I if they want to level the series. Squads: India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda. West Indies: Kieron Pollard (c), Nicholas Pooran, Fabien Allen, Darren Bravo, Roseton Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Dominic Drakes, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Rovman Powell, Romario Shephard, Odean Smith, Hayden Walsh Jr.

India look to seal series against West Indies in 2nd T20I amid talks on Virat Kohli's dip in form

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies by six wickets in the three-match T20I series opener, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Wednesday evening (February 16). Bowling first, India rode on debutant Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel's two wickets apiece to restrict the former world champions for 157/7.

In reply, India completed the run-chase in the penultimate over, with seven balls to spare, as Rohit's 19-ball 40 and finishing knocks from Suryakumar Yadav-Venkatesh&nbsp;Iyer propelled the team to a 1-0 lead. While India were made to sweat hard at the end of their run-chase, it was a clinical performance from the home side.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, former skipper Virat Kohli once again failed to make a big score (being out for 17) after settling in as his string of low scores continue in the home series versus the Windies. In the three ODIs, he had amassed only 26 runs to end a forgettable series in the 50-over format.

A lot has been said and written about Kohli's form of late. While the 33-year-old hasn't scored a ton since late 2019, he has done reasonably well with regular fifty-plus scores in white-ball formats, however, his current run versus the West Indies team is below par.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-1st-t20i-im-saying-it-how-virat-kohli-convinced-skipper-rohit-sharma-to-take-drs-watch-453958">India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch</a>

Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra reacted to Kohli's string of low scores after the first T20I.&nbsp;

"Virat Kohli did not score runs again and the way he is getting out, that's very unlike him. We are doing very little conversation about Virat Kohli, which is never a good thing. We are not even talking about him, that is hurting me, that must be hurting him," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

"A good player's recognizance is that his name is written with prominence in any report card, it is his story even on the day when he fails because 40 for Kohli is a failure, 40 for Aakash is a success."

Having analysed&nbsp;his work over the years, Chopra believes&nbsp;that it was 'discipline' that made Kohli the best batter in the world. However, the manner in which the right-hander is planning his innings isn't synonymous with the way Kohli used to play in the past.

"The way Kohli got out, discipline was making him the greatest batter on the planet, what would have happened if that shot had gone for a six? Nothing would have happened, you wouldn't have won the match because of that six. But when you get out, the team is also stuck slightly. Virat Kohli never used to do like this earlier, that if a six is not required, he never used to hit it and scored through singles or fours. He was risk-averse, that he will not play the risky shots at all. That is what Virat was all about but now he is not playing like that and that is a bit of a concern," Chopra further explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-kishan-shares-dravids-words-of-wisdom-after-mi-star-bagged-whopping-deal-at-ipl-mega-auction-453940">Ind vs WI: Kishan shares Dravid's words of wisdom after MI star bagged whopping deal at IPL mega auction</a>

The second and penultimate T20I between India and West Indies will be held at the same venue on Friday (February 18). While Rohit-led Men in Blue will be eager to take an unassailable lead versus the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies, Kohli will be desperate to score big in the upcoming encounter.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies by six wickets in the three-match T20I series opener, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Wednesday evening (February 16). Bowling first, India rode on debutant Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel's two wickets apiece to restrict the former world champions for 157/7.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies by six wickets in the three-match T20I series opener, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Wednesday evening (February 16). Bowling first, India rode on debutant Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel's two wickets apiece to restrict the former world champions for 157/7. In reply, India completed the run-chase in the penultimate over, with seven balls to spare, as Rohit's 19-ball 40 and finishing knocks from Suryakumar Yadav-Venkatesh Iyer propelled the team to a 1-0 lead. While India were made to sweat hard at the end of their run-chase, it was a clinical performance from the home side. Nonetheless, former skipper Virat Kohli once again failed to make a big score (being out for 17) after settling in as his string of low scores continue in the home series versus the Windies. In the three ODIs, he had amassed only 26 runs to end a forgettable series in the 50-over format. A lot has been said and written about Kohli's form of late. While the 33-year-old hasn't scored a ton since late 2019, he has done reasonably well with regular fifty-plus scores in white-ball formats, however, his current run versus the West Indies team is below par. ALSO READ | India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra reacted to Kohli's string of low scores after the first T20I. "Virat Kohli did not score runs again and the way he is getting out, that's very unlike him. We are doing very little conversation about Virat Kohli, which is never a good thing. We are not even talking about him, that is hurting me, that must be hurting him," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. "A good player's recognizance is that his name is written with prominence in any report card, it is his story even on the day when he fails because 40 for Kohli is a failure, 40 for Aakash is a success." Having analysed his work over the years, Chopra believes that it was 'discipline' that made Kohli the best batter in the world. However, the manner in which the right-hander is planning his innings isn't synonymous with the way Kohli used to play in the past. "The way Kohli got out, discipline was making him the greatest batter on the planet, what would have happened if that shot had gone for a six? Nothing would have happened, you wouldn't have won the match because of that six. But when you get out, the team is also stuck slightly. Virat Kohli never used to do like this earlier, that if a six is not required, he never used to hit it and scored through singles or fours. He was risk-averse, that he will not play the risky shots at all. That is what Virat was all about but now he is not playing like that and that is a bit of a concern," Chopra further explained. ALSO READ | Ind vs WI: Kishan shares Dravid's words of wisdom after MI star bagged whopping deal at IPL mega auction The second and penultimate T20I between India and West Indies will be held at the same venue on Friday (February 18). While Rohit-led Men in Blue will be eager to take an unassailable lead versus the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies, Kohli will be desperate to score big in the upcoming encounter.

'We're not even talking about him'- Chopra reacts to string of low scores from Kohli after 1st T20I vs WI

From Cristiano Ronaldo to Virat Kohli: Top 5 sporting stars with STAGGERING number of Instagram followers

Team India put on a clinical display in the three-match ODI series versus West Indies, at home, to inflict a whitewash. Ahead of the three T20Is, starting on February 16, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have been dealt with injury concerns with limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel being ruled out.

In Rahul's absence, who suffered a&nbsp;hamstring injury and wasn't part of the third and final ODI, BCCI have named a new vice-captain for the T20I leg. Rishabh Pant has been promoted as Rohit's deputy for the T20I series. This is the first time that Pant has been named as Team India's vice-captain for a series as the left-hander continues to grow in stature.&nbsp;

Pant is being looked upon as a future leader for Team India, especially after the rapid changes that have taken place in the senior men's team post the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. For the unversed, the 24-year-old is also a contender to become the Test captain (or vice-captain) with Virat Kohli's resignation early this year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/avesh-khan-reveals-rishabh-pants-reaction-when-he-was-sold-to-lucknow-super-giants-during-ipl-2022-auction-453303">Avesh Khan reveals Rishabh Pant's reaction when he was sold to Lucknow Super Giants during IPL 2022 auction</a>

The announcement came as BCCI confirmed Kuldeep Yadav to have replaced an injured Sundar for the upcoming T20Is. On the other hand, Deepak Hooda and Ruturaj Gaikwad are now also a part of the squad, with Rahul and Axar being ruled out.

After Pant's elevation as vice-captain, his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals (DC) also congratulated him. He will be leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) once again during the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition. Here's what DC's official Twitter handle wrote:

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You're looking at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s T20I vice-captain for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> series 🤩 
 
Proud of you, <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://t.co/iPZZZZEtDC">pic.twitter.com/iPZZZZEtDC</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1493272115457687552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-mentions-why-team-india-struggled-in-2021-t20-wc-and-tasted-success-between-2007-13-453238">Suresh Raina explains why India struggled in 2021 T20 WC, opines on team's success between 2007-13</a>

India’s T20I squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain) (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda, Kuldeep Yadav

Team India put on a clinical display in the three-match ODI series versus West Indies, at home, to inflict a whitewash. Ahead of the three T20Is, starting on February 16, Rohit Sharma & Co.

Team India put on a clinical display in the three-match ODI series versus West Indies, at home, to inflict a whitewash. Ahead of the three T20Is, starting on February 16, Rohit Sharma & Co. have been dealt with injury concerns with limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel being ruled out. In Rahul's absence, who suffered a hamstring injury and wasn't part of the third and final ODI, BCCI have named a new vice-captain for the T20I leg. Rishabh Pant has been promoted as Rohit's deputy for the T20I series. This is the first time that Pant has been named as Team India's vice-captain for a series as the left-hander continues to grow in stature. Pant is being looked upon as a future leader for Team India, especially after the rapid changes that have taken place in the senior men's team post the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. For the unversed, the 24-year-old is also a contender to become the Test captain (or vice-captain) with Virat Kohli's resignation early this year. ALSO READ | Avesh Khan reveals Rishabh Pant's reaction when he was sold to Lucknow Super Giants during IPL 2022 auction The announcement came as BCCI confirmed Kuldeep Yadav to have replaced an injured Sundar for the upcoming T20Is. On the other hand, Deepak Hooda and Ruturaj Gaikwad are now also a part of the squad, with Rahul and Axar being ruled out. After Pant's elevation as vice-captain, his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals (DC) also congratulated him. He will be leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) once again during the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition. Here's what DC's official Twitter handle wrote: You're looking at #TeamIndia's T20I vice-captain for the #INDvWI series 🤩 Proud of you, @RishabhPant17 💙#YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/iPZZZZEtDC — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) February 14, 2022 × ALSO READ | Suresh Raina explains why India struggled in 2021 T20 WC, opines on team's success between 2007-13 India’s T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain) (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda, Kuldeep Yadav

India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence

Hardik Pandya has not been part of Team India's white-ball setup post the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Pandya had already lost his Test spot after not being able to fulfill the all-rounder's duty and is out of the white-ball setup as well&nbsp;in&nbsp;order to regain full fitness.

Ahead of India's three-match T20I series versus West Indies, on Wednesday (February 16), Team India limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opened up on Hardik's possible return and categorially denied having any word with the national selectors on the all-rounder's comeback into the national side. As of now, Hardik hasn't been considered for India's home season, also including Sri Lanka, as he is regaining full fitness to bat and ball in the IPL 2022 edition. Depending on his fitness and performance, he is likely to be considered for national recall post this year's IPL season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-you-guys-can-keep-quiet-rohit-sharma-tells-reporters-when-asked-about-virat-kohlis-lean-patch-453442">'If you guys can keep quiet..': Rohit Sharma tells reporters when asked about Virat Kohli's lean patch</a>

"Hardik is an important player. He has brings three skills into the team. We have not had any discussion over him playing as a pure batter,"&nbsp;Rohit told reporters on Tuesday (February 15).&nbsp;"It's important for us to have all players available. Since the world cup, we have had many injuries. It is important for us to have all players available first, then we can think about the second step which is analysing opponents, conditions,&nbsp;and players of what skillset would suit."

"Doors are open for everyone. We have not fixated on anyone. In&nbsp;Australia, we'll play in very different conditions. We'll need players of different skillset. We need to prepare players accordingly, be it spin all-rounder, fast all-rounders or lower-order batters.&nbsp; We need to see the bowling options too, new ball, death overs, spinners in powerplays, etc. Right now, we are dealing with the options we have," he further explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-t20is-bcci-name-rishabh-pant-as-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-kl-rahuls-absence-453395">India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence</a>

Hardik will next be seen in action in IPL 2022 edition, to be held in India, where he will lead the new franchise Gujarat Titans (GT). He is expected to bat as well as bowl and not just feature as a pure batter, which had led to his omission from the Test setup and has also put his limited-overs spot in danger.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya has not been part of Team India's white-ball setup post the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Pandya had already lost his Test spot after not being able to fulfill the all-rounder's duty and is out of the white-ball setup as well in order to regain full fitness.

Hardik Pandya has not been part of Team India's white-ball setup post the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Pandya had already lost his Test spot after not being able to fulfill the all-rounder's duty and is out of the white-ball setup as well in order to regain full fitness. Ahead of India's three-match T20I series versus West Indies, on Wednesday (February 16), Team India limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opened up on Hardik's possible return and categorially denied having any word with the national selectors on the all-rounder's comeback into the national side. As of now, Hardik hasn't been considered for India's home season, also including Sri Lanka, as he is regaining full fitness to bat and ball in the IPL 2022 edition. Depending on his fitness and performance, he is likely to be considered for national recall post this year's IPL season. ALSO READ | 'If you guys can keep quiet..': Rohit Sharma tells reporters when asked about Virat Kohli's lean patch "Hardik is an important player. He has brings three skills into the team. We have not had any discussion over him playing as a pure batter," Rohit told reporters on Tuesday (February 15). "It's important for us to have all players available. Since the world cup, we have had many injuries. It is important for us to have all players available first, then we can think about the second step which is analysing opponents, conditions, and players of what skillset would suit." "Doors are open for everyone. We have not fixated on anyone. In Australia, we'll play in very different conditions. We'll need players of different skillset. We need to prepare players accordingly, be it spin all-rounder, fast all-rounders or lower-order batters. We need to see the bowling options too, new ball, death overs, spinners in powerplays, etc. Right now, we are dealing with the options we have," he further explained. ALSO READ | India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence Hardik will next be seen in action in IPL 2022 edition, to be held in India, where he will lead the new franchise Gujarat Titans (GT). He is expected to bat as well as bowl and not just feature as a pure batter, which had led to his omission from the Test setup and has also put his limited-overs spot in danger.

Doors are open for everyone: Rohit Sharma opens up on Team India star Hardik Pandya's possible return

Team India had a forgettable run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Under Virat Kohli, India endured a disastrous campaign, being eliminated in the Super 12 round. India have failed to end their ICC-title drought since 2013, when they lifted the Champions Trophy under former captain MS Dhoni.

During 2007-2013, India had a lot of success in ICC tournaments, winning the inaugural T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy, nine years back. Since then, the Men in Blue have done well in many ICC tournaments -- sans the last edition of the T20 WC -- but failed to lift the coveted title.&nbsp;

Suresh Raina, who went unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, recently opened up on India's struggles to win a major trophy and explained why the national side did so well between 2007-13. He cited&nbsp;the availability of multiple players, who could bat and as well roll their arms, as one of the main reasons for team's past success whereas feels the lack of more bowling options is now hurting the Men in Blue.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-ms-dhoni-showed-his-simplicity-by-travelling-with-jharkhand-players-in-train-see-pic-453218">THROWBACK: When MS Dhoni showed his simplicity by travelling with Jharkhand players in train - See pic</a>

"I think this is why we won the 2007 World T20, the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. When I started in Ranji, I remember our coach Gyanu bhai (Gyanendra Pandey) would always tell us, ‘you should bowl.’ It gives a captain the ability to get in eight-ten overs if he has a sixth or seventh bowling option, when he is playing only five bowlers. That is good planning," Raina told&nbsp;The Indian Express&nbsp;at&nbsp;Idea Exchange.

“So you see Viru paa (Sehwag), Yuvraj Singh, Yusuf Pathan and me, including in the 2011 World Cup, all would bowl,” said the veteran cricketer. He added, "When we lost in the Champions Trophy (2017), or even recently in Dubai (in the T20 World Cup), we did not have a sixth bowling option. Now Shreyas Iyer is working on his bowling, I think he should keep working hard. Rohit will have a good option then.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-hes-going-through-a-lean-phase-vikram-rathour-expects-virat-kohli-to-regain-form-in-wi-t20is-453207">Don't think he's going through a lean phase: Vikram Rathour expects Virat Kohli to regain form in WI T20Is</a>

He further asseerted, “In the South Africa series, recently, Aiden Markram was bowling six-eight overs upfront, and the main bowlers were coming in later. This is a big factor for the Indian team. Suryakumar Yadav can bowl as well. Even Rohit would bowl before his injury. So someone will have to step in, and bowl at least six-eight overs regularly in nets."&nbsp;

“Batsmen should definitely work on their batting but they need to come in early or stay back for half an hour for the nation (to bowl a bit in the nets). They will have to like that process. Once you start liking it, you will not go away without bowling five-six overs,” added the ex-Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter.

Raina, who had a base price of INR 20 million, went unsold at IPL auction this year. He remains one of the most successful batters in IPL history, being the fourth-highest run-getter (5,528), and was a vital all-rounder for Team India from 2005-2020.

He was a part of India's title win in 2011 ODI WC and Champions Trophy success in 2013.

Team India had a forgettable run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Under Virat Kohli, India endured a disastrous campaign, being eliminated in the Super 12 round.

Team India had a forgettable run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Under Virat Kohli, India endured a disastrous campaign, being eliminated in the Super 12 round. India have failed to end their ICC-title drought since 2013, when they lifted the Champions Trophy under former captain MS Dhoni. During 2007-2013, India had a lot of success in ICC tournaments, winning the inaugural T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy, nine years back. Since then, the Men in Blue have done well in many ICC tournaments -- sans the last edition of the T20 WC -- but failed to lift the coveted title. Suresh Raina, who went unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, recently opened up on India's struggles to win a major trophy and explained why the national side did so well between 2007-13. He cited the availability of multiple players, who could bat and as well roll their arms, as one of the main reasons for team's past success whereas feels the lack of more bowling options is now hurting the Men in Blue. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When MS Dhoni showed his simplicity by travelling with Jharkhand players in train - See pic "I think this is why we won the 2007 World T20, the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. When I started in Ranji, I remember our coach Gyanu bhai (Gyanendra Pandey) would always tell us, ‘you should bowl.’ It gives a captain the ability to get in eight-ten overs if he has a sixth or seventh bowling option, when he is playing only five bowlers. That is good planning," Raina told The Indian Express at Idea Exchange. “So you see Viru paa (Sehwag), Yuvraj Singh, Yusuf Pathan and me, including in the 2011 World Cup, all would bowl,” said the veteran cricketer. He added, "When we lost in the Champions Trophy (2017), or even recently in Dubai (in the T20 World Cup), we did not have a sixth bowling option. Now Shreyas Iyer is working on his bowling, I think he should keep working hard. Rohit will have a good option then.” ALSO READ | Don't think he's going through a lean phase: Vikram Rathour expects Virat Kohli to regain form in WI T20Is He further asseerted, “In the South Africa series, recently, Aiden Markram was bowling six-eight overs upfront, and the main bowlers were coming in later. This is a big factor for the Indian team. Suryakumar Yadav can bowl as well. Even Rohit would bowl before his injury. So someone will have to step in, and bowl at least six-eight overs regularly in nets." “Batsmen should definitely work on their batting but they need to come in early or stay back for half an hour for the nation (to bowl a bit in the nets). They will have to like that process. Once you start liking it, you will not go away without bowling five-six overs,” added the ex-Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter. Raina, who had a base price of INR 20 million, went unsold at IPL auction this year. He remains one of the most successful batters in IPL history, being the fourth-highest run-getter (5,528), and was a vital all-rounder for Team India from 2005-2020. He was a part of India's title win in 2011 ODI WC and Champions Trophy success in 2013.

Suresh Raina explains why India struggled in 2021 T20 WC, opines on team's success between 2007-13

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. The 40-year-old remains active in the Indian Premier League (IPL) despite announcing his international retirement on August 15, 2020. The former Indian captain signed off from the highest level as one of the most successful wicketkeeper-batsmen of all time, amassing 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 108 half-centuries alongside&nbsp;claiming 634 catches and 195 stumpings.&nbsp;

Apart from his staggering numbers at the international level, Dhoni has always remained a down-to-earth person, adding more fans worldwide with his simplicity and humility. A fine example of his simplicity was on display when the former keeper-batter ditched the luxuries of a flight journey and travelled with his Jharkhand One-Day side by train, from Ranchi to Howrah, to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy in Kolkata in early 2017.

Dhoni rolled back the clock to his days of struggle, in the early 2000s, when he was posted as a ticket inspector in Kharagpur, to travel in second-tier AC of 18616 Kriya Yoga Express along with his state teammates.&nbsp;

Back then, it was Dhoni's first travel in train after 13 long years. On the occasion, Dhoni seemed very relaxed and content. He had&nbsp;also taken to his official Instagram handle to share a picture with his team members from their train journey in 2017. Here's the post:

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhonis-csk-pay-heartfelt-tribute-to-suresh-raina-as-star-player-goes-unsold-at-ipl-2022-mega-auction-453185">MS Dhoni's CSK pay heartfelt tribute to Suresh Raina as star player goes unsold at IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

"They (Jharkhand) did not have a special coach reserved for them and Dhoni travelled with his team and other co-passengers in 2AC. They had a block booking for 23 passengers including Dhoni," South Eastern Railway chief public relations officer Sanjoy Ghosh had then said.&nbsp;

"We had a prior information about this and so we had arranged special security when they boarded in Ranchi last night and upon their arrival this morning in Howrah," Ghosh said. "Railway is India's lifeline and everyone travels by train at some point. It's Dhoni's greatness that he opted to take train and be with his wards instead of flying," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chennai-super-kings-complete-squad-for-ipl-2022-deepak-chahar-most-expensive-in-raina-less-line-up-453033">Chennai Super Kings complete squad for IPL 2022: Deepak Chahar most expensive in Raina-less line-up</a>

For the unversed, Dhoni was employed by SER as a TTE from September 2001 till July 2004 in Kharagpur; something which was&nbsp;very well-documented in&nbsp;his superhit biopic 'MS Dhoni The Untold Story' (released in 2016).

At present, Dhoni is gearing up to lead the defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, set to be held in India in late March. The Yellow Army have revamped and built a strong squad in the just-concluded two-day IPL 2022 mega auction, in Bengaluru.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. The 40-year-old remains active in the Indian Premier League (IPL) despite announcing his international retirement on August 15, 2020.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. The 40-year-old remains active in the Indian Premier League (IPL) despite announcing his international retirement on August 15, 2020. The former Indian captain signed off from the highest level as one of the most successful wicketkeeper-batsmen of all time, amassing 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 108 half-centuries alongside claiming 634 catches and 195 stumpings. Apart from his staggering numbers at the international level, Dhoni has always remained a down-to-earth person, adding more fans worldwide with his simplicity and humility. A fine example of his simplicity was on display when the former keeper-batter ditched the luxuries of a flight journey and travelled with his Jharkhand One-Day side by train, from Ranchi to Howrah, to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy in Kolkata in early 2017. Dhoni rolled back the clock to his days of struggle, in the early 2000s, when he was posted as a ticket inspector in Kharagpur, to travel in second-tier AC of 18616 Kriya Yoga Express along with his state teammates. Back then, it was Dhoni's first travel in train after 13 long years. On the occasion, Dhoni seemed very relaxed and content. He had also taken to his official Instagram handle to share a picture with his team members from their train journey in 2017. Here's the post: View this post on Instagram A post shared by M S Dhoni (@mahi7781) × ALSO READ | MS Dhoni's CSK pay heartfelt tribute to Suresh Raina as star player goes unsold at IPL 2022 mega auction "They (Jharkhand) did not have a special coach reserved for them and Dhoni travelled with his team and other co-passengers in 2AC. They had a block booking for 23 passengers including Dhoni," South Eastern Railway chief public relations officer Sanjoy Ghosh had then said. "We had a prior information about this and so we had arranged special security when they boarded in Ranchi last night and upon their arrival this morning in Howrah," Ghosh said. "Railway is India's lifeline and everyone travels by train at some point. It's Dhoni's greatness that he opted to take train and be with his wards instead of flying," he added. ALSO READ | Chennai Super Kings complete squad for IPL 2022: Deepak Chahar most expensive in Raina-less line-up For the unversed, Dhoni was employed by SER as a TTE from September 2001 till July 2004 in Kharagpur; something which was very well-documented in his superhit biopic 'MS Dhoni The Untold Story' (released in 2016). At present, Dhoni is gearing up to lead the defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, set to be held in India in late March. The Yellow Army have revamped and built a strong squad in the just-concluded two-day IPL 2022 mega auction, in Bengaluru.

THROWBACK: When MS Dhoni showed his simplicity by travelling with Jharkhand players in train - See pic

Virat Kohli's batting form has been a topic of discussion of late. While it is well-known by now that the 33-year-old's last international ton came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, the former Indian skipper has been among runs -- especially in the white-ball formats -- but had a forgettable three-match ODI series versus West Indies.&nbsp;

Kohli, who has been succeeded by Rohit Sharma as Team India's white-ball captain, ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus the Men in Maroon, crossing the double-digit mark only once. Ahead of the three-match T20I series between both the teams, in India, batting coach Vikram Rathour played down Kohli's form struggles.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/royal-challengers-bangalore-complete-squad-for-ipl-2022-faf-du-plessis-to-captain-pace-heavy-line-up-453152">Royal Challengers Bangalore complete squad for IPL 2022: Faf du Plessis to captain pace-heavy line-up?</a>

"I don't think he's going through a lean phase. I understand he had a poor series against the West Indies (in ODIs) but no conversation as such," Rathour said in a media interaction ahead of the 1st T20I between India and the West Indies.

"He's batting really well in the nets and the kind of preparation he's putting in. We are waiting for... I'm certain that in one of these innings he will be back among runs," batting coach Rathour added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-needs-confidence-rohit-sharma-reacts-to-questions-over-kohlis-continued-lean-patch-452522">'Virat needs confidence?' Rohit Sharma reacts to questions over Kohli's continued lean patch</a>

For the unversed, Kohli endured his worst ODI&nbsp;series in 9 years, during Rohit-led India's 3-0 whitewash over West Indies. Thus, he will be eager to turn the tide in the forthcoming three T20Is. He has been in good form in the shortest format, with five fifty-plus scores in last ten innings, and will be desperate to get a big score under his belt.

The three T20Is commence on February 16, in Kolkata.

Virat Kohli's batting form has been a topic of discussion of late. While it is well-known by now that the 33-year-old's last international ton came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, the former Indian skipper has been among runs -- especially in the white-ball formats -- but had a forgettable three-match ODI series versus West Indies.

Virat Kohli's batting form has been a topic of discussion of late. While it is well-known by now that the 33-year-old's last international ton came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, the former Indian skipper has been among runs -- especially in the white-ball formats -- but had a forgettable three-match ODI series versus West Indies. Kohli, who has been succeeded by Rohit Sharma as Team India's white-ball captain, ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus the Men in Maroon, crossing the double-digit mark only once. Ahead of the three-match T20I series between both the teams, in India, batting coach Vikram Rathour played down Kohli's form struggles. ALSO READ | Royal Challengers Bangalore complete squad for IPL 2022: Faf du Plessis to captain pace-heavy line-up? "I don't think he's going through a lean phase. I understand he had a poor series against the West Indies (in ODIs) but no conversation as such," Rathour said in a media interaction ahead of the 1st T20I between India and the West Indies. "He's batting really well in the nets and the kind of preparation he's putting in. We are waiting for... I'm certain that in one of these innings he will be back among runs," batting coach Rathour added. ALSO READ | 'Virat needs confidence?' Rohit Sharma reacts to questions over Kohli's continued lean patch For the unversed, Kohli endured his worst ODI series in 9 years, during Rohit-led India's 3-0 whitewash over West Indies. Thus, he will be eager to turn the tide in the forthcoming three T20Is. He has been in good form in the shortest format, with five fifty-plus scores in last ten innings, and will be desperate to get a big score under his belt. The three T20Is commence on February 16, in Kolkata.

Don't think he's going through a lean phase: Vikram Rathour expects Virat Kohli to regain form in WI T20Is

The opening day of the IPL 2022 mega auction made heads turn as a lot of action and drama took place during the auction proceedings, being held in Bengaluru. A lot of marquee players were sold for a whopping price, such as Ishan Kishan, Jason Holder, Deepak Chahar, Shreyas Iyer, etc., whereas some popular players failed to draw a single bid.

After the end of Day 1 of the mega auction, Suresh Raina, Adil Rashid, Mohammad Nabi, Umesh Yadav, etc. made the list of unsold players. Thus, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh felt strange to see someone like Umesh, a&nbsp;regular member of India's side (in Tests), go unsold.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/complete-list-of-players-sold-on-day-1-of-ipl-2022-mega-auction-kishan-chahar-emerge-as-costliest-buys-452791">Complete list of players sold on Day 1 of IPL 2022 mega auction: Kishan, Chahar emerge as costliest buys</a>

Speaking to India Today after the end of Day 1 of the auction, Harbhajan opined, "It is very strange sort of thing for me to see someone like Umesh Yadav, who has been playing cricket for so many years and been a consistent member of the Indian cricket team. It's sad that someone did not pick their name at the auction."

"For me, it was a sad sort of moment of the auction. But I feel he will have a chance tomorrow. Some team will go for him. But not too sure for Raina as he hardly plays any cricket.&nbsp;Of course, he has been a very consistent member of the Chennai Super Kings and known as Mr. IPL. It is so sad when you see Umesh and Raina not getting a bid. Maybe CSK might buy him tomorrow but it will not be the same thing as you want to get picked in the first round itself. It was a sad sight of the IPL. This is how you reflect on time,” he further added.&nbsp;

Umesh has represented the likes of Delhi Capitals (DC) -- then known as Delhi Daredevils (DD), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and has accounted for 119 scalps.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-avesh-khan-becomes-highest-ever-uncapped-pick-sold-for-rs-10-crore-452779">IPL 2022 mega auction: Avesh Khan becomes highest-ever uncapped pick, sold for Rs 10 crore</a>

Ishan Kishan was the costliest player after the end of Day 1 of the two-day mega auction in Bengaluru. He was bought back by the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) for a whopping INR 152.5 million (INR 15.25 crore) whereas Wanindu Hasaranga was the most expensive foreign player; being resigned by the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for INR 107.5 million (INR 10.75 crore). On Day 2, Liam Livingstone has surpassed Hasaranga's price tag -- among overseas players -- to be sold to Punjab Kings (PBKS) for INR 115 million (INR 11.5 crore).

The opening day of the IPL 2022 mega auction made heads turn as a lot of action and drama took place during the auction proceedings, being held in Bengaluru. A lot of marquee players were sold for a whopping price, such as Ishan Kishan, Jason Holder, Deepak Chahar, Shreyas Iyer, etc.

The opening day of the IPL 2022 mega auction made heads turn as a lot of action and drama took place during the auction proceedings, being held in Bengaluru. A lot of marquee players were sold for a whopping price, such as Ishan Kishan, Jason Holder, Deepak Chahar, Shreyas Iyer, etc., whereas some popular players failed to draw a single bid. After the end of Day 1 of the mega auction, Suresh Raina, Adil Rashid, Mohammad Nabi, Umesh Yadav, etc. made the list of unsold players. Thus, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh felt strange to see someone like Umesh, a regular member of India's side (in Tests), go unsold. ALSO READ | Complete list of players sold on Day 1 of IPL 2022 mega auction: Kishan, Chahar emerge as costliest buys Speaking to India Today after the end of Day 1 of the auction, Harbhajan opined, "It is very strange sort of thing for me to see someone like Umesh Yadav, who has been playing cricket for so many years and been a consistent member of the Indian cricket team. It's sad that someone did not pick their name at the auction." "For me, it was a sad sort of moment of the auction. But I feel he will have a chance tomorrow. Some team will go for him. But not too sure for Raina as he hardly plays any cricket. Of course, he has been a very consistent member of the Chennai Super Kings and known as Mr. IPL. It is so sad when you see Umesh and Raina not getting a bid. Maybe CSK might buy him tomorrow but it will not be the same thing as you want to get picked in the first round itself. It was a sad sight of the IPL. This is how you reflect on time,” he further added. Umesh has represented the likes of Delhi Capitals (DC) -- then known as Delhi Daredevils (DD), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and has accounted for 119 scalps. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction: Avesh Khan becomes highest-ever uncapped pick, sold for Rs 10 crore Ishan Kishan was the costliest player after the end of Day 1 of the two-day mega auction in Bengaluru. He was bought back by the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) for a whopping INR 152.5 million (INR 15.25 crore) whereas Wanindu Hasaranga was the most expensive foreign player; being resigned by the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for INR 107.5 million (INR 10.75 crore). On Day 2, Liam Livingstone has surpassed Hasaranga's price tag -- among overseas players -- to be sold to Punjab Kings (PBKS) for INR 115 million (INR 11.5 crore).

IPL 2022 mega auction: Harbhajan feels it was 'sad sight of IPL' when regular Indian pacer went unsold

Rohit Sharma-led Team India lost the toss in the second and penultimate ODI, versus West Indies, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Wednesday (February 8). Being asked to bat first, Rohit was accompanied by Rishabh Pant at the top, surprising many.

India dropped Ishan Kishan, with the return of vice-captain KL Rahul in the side, but surprised many with Pant coming out to bat with Rohit. Pant usually bats at No. 4, or lower down the order, for the Men in Blue. With Shikhar Dhawan not being available for selection after recovering from Covid-19, Indian team management dropped Ishan to make way for Rahul -- who now bats at No. 5 -- and promoted Pant up the order.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvswi-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-west-indies-2nd-odi-match-ist-time-and-streaming-details-451463">INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details</a>

Reacting to India's experiment with Pant as an opener, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar told Star Sports on-air, "The first 10 overs is where India have been a bit slow in the past. They are looking to take advantage of the field restrictions in the first 10 overs. They are clearly looking to score maybe 60-70. That is what they are looking for. This is an experiment, make no mistake. If it works, that is the template that they will like to carry forward as they go on to the World Cup in India next year."

"It's something that will certainly look at. What it does also, if India are batting first, it will give him some time to recover. If he gets out in the 30th or 40th over, having done his job, he will get a little bit of break when he comes out to keep wickets."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-been-happening-for-years-sunil-gavaskar-rubbishes-rift-rumours-between-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-451281">This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli</a>

Gavaskar further asserted, "It's may also they (the team management) is looking to give him a sense of responsibility at the top of the order. We have seen him charge down the pitch and get out in the past. Sending him up the order is a way of maybe telling him, listen we expect more runs from him. We will find out how it all pans out."&nbsp;

"Who is going to be the finisher? I was thinking maybe Pant will get that role with the license to throw his bat around at the end when he comes into bat in the last 10-15 overs, provided the team has got off a very good start," he added.

Talking about the match, Rohit &amp; Co. didn't get off to a good start by losing three quick wickets. The home side's lower order have a lot riding on themselves to take the team score beyond 250.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India lost the toss in the second and penultimate ODI, versus West Indies, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Wednesday (February 8).

Rohit Sharma-led Team India lost the toss in the second and penultimate ODI, versus West Indies, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Wednesday (February 8). Being asked to bat first, Rohit was accompanied by Rishabh Pant at the top, surprising many. India dropped Ishan Kishan, with the return of vice-captain KL Rahul in the side, but surprised many with Pant coming out to bat with Rohit. Pant usually bats at No. 4, or lower down the order, for the Men in Blue. With Shikhar Dhawan not being available for selection after recovering from Covid-19, Indian team management dropped Ishan to make way for Rahul -- who now bats at No. 5 -- and promoted Pant up the order. ALSO READ | INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details Reacting to India's experiment with Pant as an opener, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar told Star Sports on-air, "The first 10 overs is where India have been a bit slow in the past. They are looking to take advantage of the field restrictions in the first 10 overs. They are clearly looking to score maybe 60-70. That is what they are looking for. This is an experiment, make no mistake. If it works, that is the template that they will like to carry forward as they go on to the World Cup in India next year." "It's something that will certainly look at. What it does also, if India are batting first, it will give him some time to recover. If he gets out in the 30th or 40th over, having done his job, he will get a little bit of break when he comes out to keep wickets." ALSO READ | This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli Gavaskar further asserted, "It's may also they (the team management) is looking to give him a sense of responsibility at the top of the order. We have seen him charge down the pitch and get out in the past. Sending him up the order is a way of maybe telling him, listen we expect more runs from him. We will find out how it all pans out." "Who is going to be the finisher? I was thinking maybe Pant will get that role with the license to throw his bat around at the end when he comes into bat in the last 10-15 overs, provided the team has got off a very good start," he added. Talking about the match, Rohit & Co. didn't get off to a good start by losing three quick wickets. The home side's lower order have a lot riding on themselves to take the team score beyond 250.

This is an experiment, make no mistake: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Rishabh Pant opens in 2nd ODI

On Sunday (February 6), Team India head coach Rahul Dravid was seen bowling at the nets to mark the&nbsp;23rd anniversary of Anil Kumble's 10-wicket haul, which he claimed in an India-Pakistan Test match at New Delhi, India in 1999. Back then, the former Indian spinner Kumble became only the second bowler overall, and first Indian, to achieve ten wickets in an innings in the purest format.

Courtesy Kumble's 10 for 74, India dismissed Wasim Akram-led Pakistan for 207, in pursuit of 420, to win by 212 runs at the then known as Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium,&nbsp;Delhi. Thus, Dravid also rolled his arms at the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team's net session ahead of their three-match ODI series opener versus West Indies, on February 6 in Ahmedabad.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has now poked fun at Dravid's bowling. Bhajji hilariously advised Dravid to widen his grip as otherwise the ball won't spin much. Here's what he wrote:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-virat-kohli-to-join-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-yuvraj-singh-in-elite-list-during-2nd-odi-451477">India vs WI: Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh in elite list during 2nd ODI</a>

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Grip is too wide jam .. won’t be able to spin as much you like 😋 <a href="https://t.co/sgjojRXWbK">https://t.co/sgjojRXWbK</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1491021741938049029?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvswi-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-west-indies-2nd-odi-match-ist-time-and-streaming-details-451463">INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details</a>

Talking about the first ODI, Rohit-led India thrashed Kieron Pollard's West Indies by six wickets to go 1-0 up in the series at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. Bowling first, India dismissed the Windies for 176 riding on Yuzvendra Chahal's 4 for 49 and Washington Sundar's 3-fer. In reply, Rohit's 60 and vital unbeaten knocks from Suryakumar Yadav and debutant Deepak Hooda led the hosts to an easy win.

The second and penultimate ODI will be held on Wednesday (February 09) at the same venue in Ahmedabad.

On Sunday (February 6), Team India head coach Rahul Dravid was seen bowling at the nets to mark the 23rd anniversary of Anil Kumble's 10-wicket haul, which he claimed in an India-Pakistan Test match at New Delhi, India in 1999.

On Sunday (February 6), Team India head coach Rahul Dravid was seen bowling at the nets to mark the 23rd anniversary of Anil Kumble's 10-wicket haul, which he claimed in an India-Pakistan Test match at New Delhi, India in 1999. Back then, the former Indian spinner Kumble became only the second bowler overall, and first Indian, to achieve ten wickets in an innings in the purest format. Courtesy Kumble's 10 for 74, India dismissed Wasim Akram-led Pakistan for 207, in pursuit of 420, to win by 212 runs at the then known as Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, Delhi. Thus, Dravid also rolled his arms at the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team's net session ahead of their three-match ODI series opener versus West Indies, on February 6 in Ahmedabad. Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has now poked fun at Dravid's bowling. Bhajji hilariously advised Dravid to widen his grip as otherwise the ball won't spin much. Here's what he wrote: ALSO READ | India vs WI: Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh in elite list during 2nd ODI Grip is too wide jam .. won’t be able to spin as much you like 😋 https://t.co/sgjojRXWbK — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) February 8, 2022 × ALSO READ | INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details Talking about the first ODI, Rohit-led India thrashed Kieron Pollard's West Indies by six wickets to go 1-0 up in the series at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. Bowling first, India dismissed the Windies for 176 riding on Yuzvendra Chahal's 4 for 49 and Washington Sundar's 3-fer. In reply, Rohit's 60 and vital unbeaten knocks from Suryakumar Yadav and debutant Deepak Hooda led the hosts to an easy win. The second and penultimate ODI will be held on Wednesday (February 09) at the same venue in Ahmedabad.

India vs WI: 'Grip is too wide jam' - Harbhajan Singh pokes fun at head coach Rahul Dravid's bowling

Virat Kohli gave up Team India's captaincy altogether when he resigned as the Test skipper post the South Africa Tests, held early this year. Having been succeeded by Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, Kohli was expected to return to his usual dominant best -- after a decent ODI series versus SA -- when Rohit-led India squared off with Kieron Pollard-led West Indies in the three-match ODI series opener, on Sunday (February 6), in Ahmedabad.

Kohli has had a good run in white-ball formats in the recent past. However, the 33-year-old has not been able to score a century in international cricket since 2019. His last ODI century came during India's tour of West Indies in August 2019. Thus, he was expected to go bonkers versus the Windies (against whom he averages 70.09) in the series opener but he fell for an eight-ball 4.&nbsp;

Ahead of the second and penultimate ODI, also to be held at the same venue; i.e. the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, Kohli is on the cusp of joining icons Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh and Md Azharuddin in an elite list.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvswi-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-west-indies-2nd-odi-match-ist-time-and-streaming-details-451463">INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details</a>

The 33-year-old Kohli will be playing his 100th ODI at home, 259th overall, on Wednesday (February&nbsp;9) during the second and penultimate tie. Kohli's 100th ODI appearance on home soil will make him the 36th cricketer to achieve the special feat in the shorter format. By virtue of this, he will&nbsp;join icons Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Mohammed Azharuddin, and Yuvraj Singh in an elite list by&nbsp;becoming&nbsp;only the fifth Indian to play 100 ODIs at home. At present, the list is spearheaded by Tendulkar (164 matches), Dhoni (127), Azharuddin (113), and Yuvraj (108 matches).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-thought-about-it-virat-kohli-reveals-he-has-been-approached-by-ipl-franchises-in-past-to-leave-rcb-451428">'I have thought about it': Virat Kohli reveals he has been approached by IPL franchises in past to leave RCB</a>

India will look to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series when they take on an inconsistent Kieron Pollard-led visitors in the picturesque Ahmedabad stadium on Wednesday. As Kohli completes a unique ton in ODIs, he will also look to end his century drought at the highest level.

Virat Kohli gave up Team India's captaincy altogether when he resigned as the Test skipper post the South Africa Tests, held early this year. Having been succeeded by Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, Kohli was expected to return to his usual dominant best -- after a decent ODI series versus SA -- when Rohit-led India squared off with Kieron Pollard-led West Indies in the three-match ODI series opener, on Sunday (February 6), in Ahmedabad.

Virat Kohli gave up Team India's captaincy altogether when he resigned as the Test skipper post the South Africa Tests, held early this year. Having been succeeded by Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, Kohli was expected to return to his usual dominant best -- after a decent ODI series versus SA -- when Rohit-led India squared off with Kieron Pollard-led West Indies in the three-match ODI series opener, on Sunday (February 6), in Ahmedabad. Kohli has had a good run in white-ball formats in the recent past. However, the 33-year-old has not been able to score a century in international cricket since 2019. His last ODI century came during India's tour of West Indies in August 2019. Thus, he was expected to go bonkers versus the Windies (against whom he averages 70.09) in the series opener but he fell for an eight-ball 4. Ahead of the second and penultimate ODI, also to be held at the same venue; i.e. the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, Kohli is on the cusp of joining icons Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh and Md Azharuddin in an elite list. ALSO READ | INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details The 33-year-old Kohli will be playing his 100th ODI at home, 259th overall, on Wednesday (February 9) during the second and penultimate tie. Kohli's 100th ODI appearance on home soil will make him the 36th cricketer to achieve the special feat in the shorter format. By virtue of this, he will join icons Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Mohammed Azharuddin, and Yuvraj Singh in an elite list by becoming only the fifth Indian to play 100 ODIs at home. At present, the list is spearheaded by Tendulkar (164 matches), Dhoni (127), Azharuddin (113), and Yuvraj (108 matches). ALSO READ | 'I have thought about it': Virat Kohli reveals he has been approached by IPL franchises in past to leave RCB India will look to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series when they take on an inconsistent Kieron Pollard-led visitors in the picturesque Ahmedabad stadium on Wednesday. As Kohli completes a unique ton in ODIs, he will also look to end his century drought at the highest level.

India vs WI: Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh in elite list during 2nd ODI

Over the years, Team India have excelled in the ODI format. As a result, they have won two ODI World Cup champions and have produced various superstar cricketers who have done wonders in the 50-over format.

On Sunday (February 6), Rohit Sharma-led India played their 1000th ODI; being the first-ever side to do so. During their landmark encounter, India beat Kieron Pollard-led West Indies by six wickets to make their 1000th appearance in the shorter&nbsp;format a memorable affair. Prior to the historic encounter, former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad revealed his all-time Indian ODI XI, featuring some superstar cricketers from the country.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-been-happening-for-years-sunil-gavaskar-rubbishes-rift-rumours-between-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-451281">This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli</a>

Prasad's ODI XI features Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, former skipper Virat Kohli, Md Azharuddin in the top order. The middle and lower-order comprises Yuvraj Singh, MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev (both of whom led India to 50-over World Cup titles -- in 1983 and 2011 respectively) with Anil Kumble, Harbhajan Singh, Javagal Srinath and Zaheer Khan as the specialist bowlers.

Prasad himself has played 161&nbsp;ODIs for Team India, accounting for&nbsp;196 wickets at an average of&nbsp;32.30 with one five-fer.

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As Indian Team is gearing up to play their <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/1000thODI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#1000thODI</a> , this is my all time India ODI playing X1 . 
 
Sehwag 
Tendulkar 
Kohli 
Azharuddin 
Yuvraj 
Dhoni 
Kapil Dev 
Kumble 
Harbhajan 
Javagal Srinath 
Zaheer Khan
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1490206710979788800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-rohit-sharma-surpasses-sachin-tendulkar-in-elite-list-with-blistering-60-in-series-opener-451256">Ind vs WI: Rohit Sharma surpasses Sachin Tendulkar in elite list with blistering 60 in series opener</a>

On the other hand, some big names such as Mohinder Amarnath, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly, Rohit Sharma, etc. failed to make the cut.

Venkatesh Prasad's all-time Indian ODI playing XI:&nbsp;Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Mohammed Azharuddin, Yuvraj Singh, MS Dhoni, Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, Harbhajan Singh, Javagal Srinath, Zaheer Khan.&nbsp;

Over the years, Team India have excelled in the ODI format. As a result, they have won two ODI World Cup champions and have produced various superstar cricketers who have done wonders in the 50-over format.

Over the years, Team India have excelled in the ODI format. As a result, they have won two ODI World Cup champions and have produced various superstar cricketers who have done wonders in the 50-over format. On Sunday (February 6), Rohit Sharma-led India played their 1000th ODI; being the first-ever side to do so. During their landmark encounter, India beat Kieron Pollard-led West Indies by six wickets to make their 1000th appearance in the shorter format a memorable affair. Prior to the historic encounter, former India pacer Venkatesh Prasad revealed his all-time Indian ODI XI, featuring some superstar cricketers from the country. ALSO READ | This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli Prasad's ODI XI features Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, former skipper Virat Kohli, Md Azharuddin in the top order. The middle and lower-order comprises Yuvraj Singh, MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev (both of whom led India to 50-over World Cup titles -- in 1983 and 2011 respectively) with Anil Kumble, Harbhajan Singh, Javagal Srinath and Zaheer Khan as the specialist bowlers. Prasad himself has played 161 ODIs for Team India, accounting for 196 wickets at an average of 32.30 with one five-fer. As Indian Team is gearing up to play their #1000thODI , this is my all time India ODI playing X1 . Sehwag Tendulkar Kohli Azharuddin Yuvraj Dhoni Kapil Dev Kumble Harbhajan Javagal Srinath Zaheer Khan — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 6, 2022 × ALSO READ | Ind vs WI: Rohit Sharma surpasses Sachin Tendulkar in elite list with blistering 60 in series opener On the other hand, some big names such as Mohinder Amarnath, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly, Rohit Sharma, etc. failed to make the cut. Venkatesh Prasad's all-time Indian ODI playing XI: Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Mohammed Azharuddin, Yuvraj Singh, MS Dhoni, Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, Harbhajan Singh, Javagal Srinath, Zaheer Khan.

Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar make the cut in Venkatesh Prasad's all-time Indian ODI XI

Following the 2019 ODI World Cup, rift rumours between then skipper Virat Kohli and his white-ball deputy Rohit Sharma intensified.&nbsp;Kohli, however, rubbished all such claims before India's tour of West Indies in August, 2019.&nbsp;

The rift rumours died down for a bit after a few months before it again hit the headlines&nbsp;in early December, 2021. After Rohit took over from Virat as the limited-overs captain, many speculated that all isn't well between the two superstar cricketers. Nonetheless, Kohli once again shunned all such claims in his explosive presser, on December 15,&nbsp;before Team India's trip to South Africa.&nbsp;

After the India-West Indies three-match ODI series opener, held in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 6), Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has slammed all such speculations seeing Rohit-Kohli's on-field chemistry&nbsp;versus Kieron Pollard &amp; Co. Both the senior cricketers were seen discussing strategies&nbsp;and helping each other out in taking DRS calls.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-tickets-for-india-pakistan-clash-at-the-mcg-sold-out-in-a-flash-451271">T20 World Cup 2022: Tickets for India-Pakistan clash, at the MCG, SOLD OUT in a flash</a>

Thus, Gavaskar told Star Sports after India's six-wicket win over the Windies, “Why wouldn't they be getting along? They are playing for India. All these talks that you generally hear about two players not gelling and etc. are all speculations. According to reliable sources or allegedly or reportedly. Nobody actually tells you and this has been happening for a years. And these guys don't even bother about it. You wouldn't even bother about these kind of speculations because you yourself know what the truth is. And so there is nothing."

“There are often speculations that the captain who is now a player in the team will not want the new captain to succeed. This is nonsense. Because if he doesn't score runs or a bowler doesn't pick wickets then he is going to be out of the team. He has already lost the captaincy or opted out of captaincy, now you don't contribute with the bat or ball then you are going to be out of the team. So all these talks are mere speculations from people who have nothing better to do and are trying and creating stories. So don't you worry. Today Kohli didn't get runs but he will get runs whether he is playing under Rohit Sharma or any other captain.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shy-players-dont-open-up-pragyan-ojha-differentiates-captaincy-styles-of-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-451198">'Shy players don't open up....' - Pragyan Ojha differentiates captaincy styles of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma</a>

Rohit-led India produced a clinical performance in the first ODI versus West Indies at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Sunday to go 1-0 up in the series. Bowling first, India dismissed the visitors for 176 and chased down the score with six wickets and 22 overs to spare.

The second and penultimate ODI will be held on Wednesday (February 09) at the same venue.

Following the 2019 ODI World Cup, rift rumours between then skipper Virat Kohli and his white-ball deputy Rohit Sharma intensified. Kohli, however, rubbished all such claims before India's tour of West Indies in August, 2019.

Following the 2019 ODI World Cup, rift rumours between then skipper Virat Kohli and his white-ball deputy Rohit Sharma intensified. Kohli, however, rubbished all such claims before India's tour of West Indies in August, 2019. The rift rumours died down for a bit after a few months before it again hit the headlines in early December, 2021. After Rohit took over from Virat as the limited-overs captain, many speculated that all isn't well between the two superstar cricketers. Nonetheless, Kohli once again shunned all such claims in his explosive presser, on December 15, before Team India's trip to South Africa. After the India-West Indies three-match ODI series opener, held in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 6), Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has slammed all such speculations seeing Rohit-Kohli's on-field chemistry versus Kieron Pollard & Co. Both the senior cricketers were seen discussing strategies and helping each other out in taking DRS calls. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2022: Tickets for India-Pakistan clash, at the MCG, SOLD OUT in a flash Thus, Gavaskar told Star Sports after India's six-wicket win over the Windies, “Why wouldn't they be getting along? They are playing for India. All these talks that you generally hear about two players not gelling and etc. are all speculations. According to reliable sources or allegedly or reportedly. Nobody actually tells you and this has been happening for a years. And these guys don't even bother about it. You wouldn't even bother about these kind of speculations because you yourself know what the truth is. And so there is nothing." “There are often speculations that the captain who is now a player in the team will not want the new captain to succeed. This is nonsense. Because if he doesn't score runs or a bowler doesn't pick wickets then he is going to be out of the team. He has already lost the captaincy or opted out of captaincy, now you don't contribute with the bat or ball then you are going to be out of the team. So all these talks are mere speculations from people who have nothing better to do and are trying and creating stories. So don't you worry. Today Kohli didn't get runs but he will get runs whether he is playing under Rohit Sharma or any other captain.” ALSO READ | 'Shy players don't open up....' - Pragyan Ojha differentiates captaincy styles of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma Rohit-led India produced a clinical performance in the first ODI versus West Indies at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Sunday to go 1-0 up in the series. Bowling first, India dismissed the visitors for 176 and chased down the score with six wickets and 22 overs to spare. The second and penultimate ODI will be held on Wednesday (February 09) at the same venue.

This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli

Rohit Sharma-led Team India began their home season with a bang. Playing the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies in the three-match ODI series opener,&nbsp;Rohit &amp; Co. thrashed the visitors by six wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to go 1-0 up.

Bowling first, India dismissed WI for a paltry 176 in 43.5 overs, courtesy Yuzvendra Chahal's 4 for 49 and Washington Sundar's 3-fer. In reply, Rohit's 60 and vital unbeaten knocks from Suryakumar Yadav and debutant Deepak Hooda took India home in only 28 overs.&nbsp;

Thus, India kicked off a new era in white-ball formats under Rohit on an emphatic note. The victory was more special for the national side as India played their 1000th ODI on Sunday (February 6), the first team to do so. On the other hand, newly-appointed limited-overs skipper Rohit surpassed Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar in an elite list with a blistering 60 on debut as the full-time white-ball skipper.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-not-in-right-frame-of-mind-aakash-chopra-on-former-captains-4-ball-8-in-1st-odi-vs-west-indies-451204">Virat Kohli not in right frame of mind: Aakash Chopra on former captain's 4-ball 8 in 1st ODI vs West Indies</a>

Rohit needed 51 runs to eclipse Tendulkar in the list of Indian batters with most ODI runs against the Men in Maroon. The&nbsp;swashbuckling batter has now scored 1,583 runs in 32 innings against the two-time ODI World Cup champions whereas batting legend Tendulkar finished with a total of&nbsp;1,573 runs against&nbsp;West Indies in his glittering&nbsp;ODI career. Former&nbsp;skipper Virat Kohli leads the chart, with most runs (2,243) versus the Windies in 39 innings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shy-players-dont-open-up-pragyan-ojha-differentiates-captaincy-styles-of-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-451198">'Shy players don't open up....' - Pragyan Ojha differentiates captaincy styles of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma</a>

At the post-match presentation after India's stunning six-wicket win, Rohit said, "I don't believe in perfect game. You cannot be perfect. We want to keep getting better. All in all a great effort from everyone. We ticked all boxes. Pretty happy with that. With that bat we could've finished with not so many wickets, that is one. Could also have created pressure on their lower order. Don't want to take any credit away. The way we bowled upfront and then towards the back end was good to see. We want to keep getting better as a team. The end goal is we should be able to achieve what the team wants. If the team requires us to do something different, have to do it. Don't think we have to change a lot. All I ask from players is to keep challenging themselves. I've been off for a while, haven't played for two months but I was back home hitting the balls. Knew there was a long season ahead. Had a good net session here. I was confident going into this game. Can take a lot of positives from this game. The pitch had something in it. There was softness in the pitch early on. In this particular game the toss became important. But honestly want to take the toss away from the play, don't want to depend on it a lot. But if you do, you have to take advantage."

The second and penultimate ODI will be held at the same venue on Wednesday (February 09).

Rohit Sharma-led Team India began their home season with a bang. Playing the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies in the three-match ODI series opener, Rohit & Co. thrashed the visitors by six wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to go 1-0 up.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India began their home season with a bang. Playing the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies in the three-match ODI series opener, Rohit & Co. thrashed the visitors by six wickets at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to go 1-0 up. Bowling first, India dismissed WI for a paltry 176 in 43.5 overs, courtesy Yuzvendra Chahal's 4 for 49 and Washington Sundar's 3-fer. In reply, Rohit's 60 and vital unbeaten knocks from Suryakumar Yadav and debutant Deepak Hooda took India home in only 28 overs. Thus, India kicked off a new era in white-ball formats under Rohit on an emphatic note. The victory was more special for the national side as India played their 1000th ODI on Sunday (February 6), the first team to do so. On the other hand, newly-appointed limited-overs skipper Rohit surpassed Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar in an elite list with a blistering 60 on debut as the full-time white-ball skipper. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli not in right frame of mind: Aakash Chopra on former captain's 4-ball 8 in 1st ODI vs West Indies Rohit needed 51 runs to eclipse Tendulkar in the list of Indian batters with most ODI runs against the Men in Maroon. The swashbuckling batter has now scored 1,583 runs in 32 innings against the two-time ODI World Cup champions whereas batting legend Tendulkar finished with a total of 1,573 runs against West Indies in his glittering ODI career. Former skipper Virat Kohli leads the chart, with most runs (2,243) versus the Windies in 39 innings. ALSO READ | 'Shy players don't open up....' - Pragyan Ojha differentiates captaincy styles of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma At the post-match presentation after India's stunning six-wicket win, Rohit said, "I don't believe in perfect game. You cannot be perfect. We want to keep getting better. All in all a great effort from everyone. We ticked all boxes. Pretty happy with that. With that bat we could've finished with not so many wickets, that is one. Could also have created pressure on their lower order. Don't want to take any credit away. The way we bowled upfront and then towards the back end was good to see. We want to keep getting better as a team. The end goal is we should be able to achieve what the team wants. If the team requires us to do something different, have to do it. Don't think we have to change a lot. All I ask from players is to keep challenging themselves. I've been off for a while, haven't played for two months but I was back home hitting the balls. Knew there was a long season ahead. Had a good net session here. I was confident going into this game. Can take a lot of positives from this game. The pitch had something in it. There was softness in the pitch early on. In this particular game the toss became important. But honestly want to take the toss away from the play, don't want to depend on it a lot. But if you do, you have to take advantage." The second and penultimate ODI will be held at the same venue on Wednesday (February 09).

Ind vs WI: Rohit Sharma surpasses Sachin Tendulkar in elite list with blistering 60 in series opener

On Sunday (February 6), India lost one of its biggest superstars in the form of&nbsp;Lata Mangeshkar as the ace singer passed away&nbsp;at Mumbai's Breach Candy hospital after a month-long battle with Covid-19 infection. The sensational singer touched several hearts with her soulful voice over the years and her contributions to the Indian film industry will remain alive forever.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Mangeshkar was an ardent fan of the Indian cricket team. She was in attendance during Kapil Dev-led India's emphatic 1983 World Cup win at Lord's. In addition, the&nbsp;'nightingale of India' had fasted for the entire day during India-Pakistan's riveting 2011 ODI World Cup semi-final clash at Mohali. In an interview with&nbsp;PTI&nbsp;at the time, Mangeshkar had revealed, “I had watched the whole match and I was very tense. Everyone in my family follows some kind of superstition when India is playing. I, Meena, and Usha did not eat or drink anything during the match. I was constantly praying for victory and we had our dinner after India won."

Talking about the Indo-Pak CWC'11 semi-final clash, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue beat Pakistan by 29 runs -- in defence of 261 -- to enter the final, where they beat Sri Lanka and clinch&nbsp;the mega title.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/your-legacy-will-inspire-generations-kohli-sehwag-others-condole-demise-of-veteran-singer-lata-mangeshkar-450860">Your legacy will inspire generations: Kohli, Sehwag &amp; others condole demise of veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar</a>

Mangeshkar had also held a concert for the Kapil Dev-led Indian team following the 1983 WC win. It helped the BCCI to pay each&nbsp;Indian player&nbsp;0.1 Million (Rs 1 lakh) following the nation's first-ever World Cup title. The Bharat Ratna awardee also owns a signed photograph of Sir Donald Bradman.&nbsp;

The late singer's death has led to a&nbsp;two-date state mourning nationwide. Her funeral was conducted in Mumbai on Sunday evening with several big names such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shahrukh Khan, Sachin Tendulkar being in attendance. Cricketers from various parts of the world also took to social media platform Twitter to pay tribute and condolences to the iconic singer.

On Sunday (February 6), India lost one of its biggest superstars in the form of Lata Mangeshkar as the ace singer passed away at Mumbai's Breach Candy hospital after a month-long battle with Covid-19 infection.

On Sunday (February 6), India lost one of its biggest superstars in the form of Lata Mangeshkar as the ace singer passed away at Mumbai's Breach Candy hospital after a month-long battle with Covid-19 infection. The sensational singer touched several hearts with her soulful voice over the years and her contributions to the Indian film industry will remain alive forever. For the unversed, Mangeshkar was an ardent fan of the Indian cricket team. She was in attendance during Kapil Dev-led India's emphatic 1983 World Cup win at Lord's. In addition, the 'nightingale of India' had fasted for the entire day during India-Pakistan's riveting 2011 ODI World Cup semi-final clash at Mohali. In an interview with PTI at the time, Mangeshkar had revealed, “I had watched the whole match and I was very tense. Everyone in my family follows some kind of superstition when India is playing. I, Meena, and Usha did not eat or drink anything during the match. I was constantly praying for victory and we had our dinner after India won." Talking about the Indo-Pak CWC'11 semi-final clash, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue beat Pakistan by 29 runs -- in defence of 261 -- to enter the final, where they beat Sri Lanka and clinch the mega title. ALSO READ | Your legacy will inspire generations: Kohli, Sehwag & others condole demise of veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar Mangeshkar had also held a concert for the Kapil Dev-led Indian team following the 1983 WC win. It helped the BCCI to pay each Indian player 0.1 Million (Rs 1 lakh) following the nation's first-ever World Cup title. The Bharat Ratna awardee also owns a signed photograph of Sir Donald Bradman. The late singer's death has led to a two-date state mourning nationwide. Her funeral was conducted in Mumbai on Sunday evening with several big names such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shahrukh Khan, Sachin Tendulkar being in attendance. Cricketers from various parts of the world also took to social media platform Twitter to pay tribute and condolences to the iconic singer.

Throwback: When Lata Mangeshkar fasted for MS Dhoni-led India's CWC'11 semi-final win vs Pakistan

Indian cricket started a new era in white-ball formats under Rohit Sharma when the Men in Blue faced West Indies in the three-match ODI series opener on Sunday (February 6) in Ahmedabad on Sunday. It was a special outing for the two-time ODI World Champions as they were playing their 1000th match in the shorter format.

In their landmark outing, India beat the Kieron Pollard-led Windies without dropping much sweat. Opting to bowl first, India rode on Yuzvendra Chahal's 4-fer and Washington Sundar's 3 for 30 to dismiss the Men in Maroon for a paltry 176 43.5 overs. In reply, India's run-chase was led by Captain Rohit's 60 and vital unbeaten knocks from Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Hooda to win by six wickets.

Thus, Rohit's tenure as full-time white-ball captain has started on a memorable note. Being a proven leader in IPL, with as many as five trophies for the Mumbai Indians (MI), a lot is riding on Rohit to end India's ICC-title drought since 2013. Hence,&nbsp;former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha lauded Rohit's captaincy skills and shed light on how different it is from his predecessor Virat Kohli.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bowl-the-wrong-one-virat-kohli-helps-yuzvendra-chahal-plot-kieron-pollards-dismissal-in-1st-odi-watch-451168">'Bowl the wrong one': Virat Kohli helps Yuzvendra Chahal plot Kieron Pollard's dismissal in 1st ODI - WATCH</a>

"Kohli is so energetic and expressive that a player who doesn't have similar nature has problems in expressing himself... he doesn't get an idea about expressing his thoughts to the skipper in intense situations. But Rohit isn't too expressive. He knows that in such a high-intensity game, you will find players who are introverted. This is a major difference in the character or approach of Kohli &amp; Rohit," said Ojha on&nbsp;Cricbuzz.&nbsp;

"Overall, their intensity to win games is the same but many players say that they are comfortable with Rohit. Any new player takes time to open up... and Rohit makes that easier despite not being expressive on the field. A shy player gets a bit intimidated by Virat's in-your-face attitude. But the bigger goal of both Virat and Rohit is to take Indian cricket forward," Ojha further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-co-thrash-west-indies-by-6-wickets-as-india-register-comprehensive-win-in-1000th-odi-451044">Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. thrash West Indies by 6 wickets as India register comprehensive win in 1000th ODI</a>

For now, India enjoy a 1-0 lead in the three ODIs versus West Indies before the second and penultimate contest, which will be held on Wednesday (February 09). The action will then shift to the three T20Is, to be played in Kolkata.

Indian cricket started a new era in white-ball formats under Rohit Sharma when the Men in Blue faced West Indies in the three-match ODI series opener on Sunday (February 6) in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

Indian cricket started a new era in white-ball formats under Rohit Sharma when the Men in Blue faced West Indies in the three-match ODI series opener on Sunday (February 6) in Ahmedabad on Sunday. It was a special outing for the two-time ODI World Champions as they were playing their 1000th match in the shorter format. In their landmark outing, India beat the Kieron Pollard-led Windies without dropping much sweat. Opting to bowl first, India rode on Yuzvendra Chahal's 4-fer and Washington Sundar's 3 for 30 to dismiss the Men in Maroon for a paltry 176 43.5 overs. In reply, India's run-chase was led by Captain Rohit's 60 and vital unbeaten knocks from Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Hooda to win by six wickets. Thus, Rohit's tenure as full-time white-ball captain has started on a memorable note. Being a proven leader in IPL, with as many as five trophies for the Mumbai Indians (MI), a lot is riding on Rohit to end India's ICC-title drought since 2013. Hence, former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha lauded Rohit's captaincy skills and shed light on how different it is from his predecessor Virat Kohli. ALSO READ | 'Bowl the wrong one': Virat Kohli helps Yuzvendra Chahal plot Kieron Pollard's dismissal in 1st ODI - WATCH "Kohli is so energetic and expressive that a player who doesn't have similar nature has problems in expressing himself... he doesn't get an idea about expressing his thoughts to the skipper in intense situations. But Rohit isn't too expressive. He knows that in such a high-intensity game, you will find players who are introverted. This is a major difference in the character or approach of Kohli & Rohit," said Ojha on Cricbuzz. "Overall, their intensity to win games is the same but many players say that they are comfortable with Rohit. Any new player takes time to open up... and Rohit makes that easier despite not being expressive on the field. A shy player gets a bit intimidated by Virat's in-your-face attitude. But the bigger goal of both Virat and Rohit is to take Indian cricket forward," Ojha further added. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma & Co. thrash West Indies by 6 wickets as India register comprehensive win in 1000th ODI For now, India enjoy a 1-0 lead in the three ODIs versus West Indies before the second and penultimate contest, which will be held on Wednesday (February 09). The action will then shift to the three T20Is, to be played in Kolkata.

'Shy players don't open up....' - Pragyan Ojha differentiates captaincy styles of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma

India to play 1000th ODI: From Kapil, Dhoni to Ganguly - Captains who led Men in Blue in historic ties

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain the biggest two names in Indian cricket at present. While the captaincy baton has been passed&nbsp;from Kohli to Rohit in the white-ball formats, Indian cricket is set to enter a new era under Hitman in the forthcoming three-match ODI series versus West Indies at home.

Prior to the start of the India-WI series, in Ahmedabad, Rohit-Kohli are on the verge of joining former batting stars Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly in an elite list.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-played-424-internationals-sourav-ganguly-slams-accusations-of-him-interfering-in-selections-450455">I've played 424 internationals: Sourav Ganguly slams accusations of him interfering in selections</a>

Kohli and Rohit&nbsp;are&nbsp;just 94&nbsp;away from completing 5,000 runs in the ODI format, where both the superstars have excelled over the years. Currently, the duo have accumulated 4,906 runs, from 81 innings at 64.55 comprising 18-century stands. Thus, they can become only the third Indian batting pair to complete the milestone and join the two stalwarts -- Ganguly and Tendulkar -- who compiled a total of&nbsp;8,227 runs in 176 innings. Rohit&nbsp;features in the list&nbsp;along with opening partner&nbsp;Shikhar Dhawan. The two&nbsp;have amassed 5,023 runs in 112 innings after becoming a daunting opening pair since the 2013 Champions Trophy.

Overall, the Rohit-Kohli&nbsp;will become the eighth batting pair to enter the 5,000-run milestone. In addition, the two have had a staggering run versus the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. They have piled up 982 runs versus the Caribbean team and, thus, are 78 away from becoming the first-ever Indian pair to reach the 1,000-run club versus the Men in Maroon.

By virtue of this, they will once again join Tendulkar-Ganguly in becoming the second batting pair from Team India to have two or more partnership tallies of 1,000 runs, or, more, against a more than one opponent. Kohli-Rohit have over 1,000 runs as a pair versus Australia.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-odis-everything-to-know-about-squads-schedule-telecast-streaming-details-450441">India vs WI, ODIs: Everything to know about squads, schedule, telecast, streaming details</a>

The India-WI ODIs get underway on February 6, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. It will&nbsp;be followed by the three T20Is in Kolkata. Given India were whitewashed in the South Africa ODIs, in January, they will be eager to return to winning ways.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain the biggest two names in Indian cricket at present. While the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in the white-ball formats, Indian cricket is set to enter a new era under Hitman in the forthcoming three-match ODI series versus West Indies at home.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain the biggest two names in Indian cricket at present. While the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in the white-ball formats, Indian cricket is set to enter a new era under Hitman in the forthcoming three-match ODI series versus West Indies at home. Prior to the start of the India-WI series, in Ahmedabad, Rohit-Kohli are on the verge of joining former batting stars Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly in an elite list. ALSO READ | I've played 424 internationals: Sourav Ganguly slams accusations of him interfering in selections Kohli and Rohit are just 94 away from completing 5,000 runs in the ODI format, where both the superstars have excelled over the years. Currently, the duo have accumulated 4,906 runs, from 81 innings at 64.55 comprising 18-century stands. Thus, they can become only the third Indian batting pair to complete the milestone and join the two stalwarts -- Ganguly and Tendulkar -- who compiled a total of 8,227 runs in 176 innings. Rohit features in the list along with opening partner Shikhar Dhawan. The two have amassed 5,023 runs in 112 innings after becoming a daunting opening pair since the 2013 Champions Trophy. Overall, the Rohit-Kohli will become the eighth batting pair to enter the 5,000-run milestone. In addition, the two have had a staggering run versus the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. They have piled up 982 runs versus the Caribbean team and, thus, are 78 away from becoming the first-ever Indian pair to reach the 1,000-run club versus the Men in Maroon. By virtue of this, they will once again join Tendulkar-Ganguly in becoming the second batting pair from Team India to have two or more partnership tallies of 1,000 runs, or, more, against a more than one opponent. Kohli-Rohit have over 1,000 runs as a pair versus Australia. ALSO READ | India vs WI, ODIs: Everything to know about squads, schedule, telecast, streaming details The India-WI ODIs get underway on February 6, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. It will be followed by the three T20Is in Kolkata. Given India were whitewashed in the South Africa ODIs, in January, they will be eager to return to winning ways.

India vs WI, ODIs: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma on cusp of joining Sourav Ganguly-Tendulkar in elite list

The Indian Premier League (IPL)'s birth has been a gamechanger for cricket. In 2008, the IPL kicked off which led to the start of various T20 leagues across the globe. The likes of Australia, England, Pakistan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, etc. have started their own respective leagues in the shortest format.

Moreover, the likes of Australia and England have gone a step ahead in also running women's T20 leagues simultaneously, in the form of Women's Big Bash League (BBL), The Hundred, respectively. Such leagues have also gained eyeballs and led to the overall popularity of women's cricket worldwide.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the&nbsp;BCCI have managed to consolidate IPL's growth over the years and also start the Women's T20 Challenge. However, the women's version remains limited to only a few games.&nbsp; Amid the growing pressure on the Indian cricket board to start a full-fledged Women's IPL, former England captain Michael Vaughan has joined the bandwagon&nbsp;and urged BCCI President Sourav Ganguly to make the Women's IPL top priority.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/upto-you-all-to-judge-my-legacy-sourav-ganguly-on-his-tenure-as-bcci-president-450365">'Upto you all to judge my legacy' - Sourav Ganguly on his tenure as BCCI President</a>

Taking to his official Twitter handle, Vaughan wrote, "A Women's #IPL should be top priority now @SGanguly99&nbsp;!! Let’s get it sorted .."

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A Womens <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a> should be top priority now <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> !! Let’s get it sorted .. 👍👍
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1489280382998622217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-confirms-indias-pink-ball-test-vs-sri-lanka-to-be-held-in-bengaluru-450123">BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly confirms India's pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka to be held in Bengaluru</a>

India have quite a few popular women's cricketers, such as&nbsp;Mithali Raj, Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Jhulan Goswami, etc. Harman, Smriti, Jemimah have also been a part of WBBL, The Hundred and made heads turn with their performances and overall presence. Thus, BCCI have&nbsp; a good base ready and a platform to cash in and make a sizeable T20 league focusing on women's cricket.

Recently, Ganguly spilled the beans on BCCI's plan regarding Women's IPL.&nbsp;"Hopefully, in the future, we will be able to host a bigger women’s IPL once the number of women players [player pool] goes up. But this year, the Women’s T20 Challenge will happen during the IPL playoffs,” said Ganguly while talking to&nbsp;Sportstar.&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL)'s birth has been a gamechanger for cricket. In 2008, the IPL kicked off which led to the start of various T20 leagues across the globe.

The Indian Premier League (IPL)'s birth has been a gamechanger for cricket. In 2008, the IPL kicked off which led to the start of various T20 leagues across the globe. The likes of Australia, England, Pakistan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, etc. have started their own respective leagues in the shortest format. Moreover, the likes of Australia and England have gone a step ahead in also running women's T20 leagues simultaneously, in the form of Women's Big Bash League (BBL), The Hundred, respectively. Such leagues have also gained eyeballs and led to the overall popularity of women's cricket worldwide. On the other hand, the BCCI have managed to consolidate IPL's growth over the years and also start the Women's T20 Challenge. However, the women's version remains limited to only a few games. Amid the growing pressure on the Indian cricket board to start a full-fledged Women's IPL, former England captain Michael Vaughan has joined the bandwagon and urged BCCI President Sourav Ganguly to make the Women's IPL top priority. ALSO READ | 'Upto you all to judge my legacy' - Sourav Ganguly on his tenure as BCCI President Taking to his official Twitter handle, Vaughan wrote, "A Women's #IPL should be top priority now @SGanguly99 !! Let’s get it sorted .." A Womens #IPL should be top priority now @SGanguly99 !! Let’s get it sorted .. 👍👍 — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 3, 2022 × ALSO READ | BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly confirms India's pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka to be held in Bengaluru India have quite a few popular women's cricketers, such as Mithali Raj, Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Jhulan Goswami, etc. Harman, Smriti, Jemimah have also been a part of WBBL, The Hundred and made heads turn with their performances and overall presence. Thus, BCCI have a good base ready and a platform to cash in and make a sizeable T20 league focusing on women's cricket. Recently, Ganguly spilled the beans on BCCI's plan regarding Women's IPL. "Hopefully, in the future, we will be able to host a bigger women’s IPL once the number of women players [player pool] goes up. But this year, the Women’s T20 Challenge will happen during the IPL playoffs,” said Ganguly while talking to Sportstar.

Women's IPL should be top priority: Michael Vaughan tells BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly

On January 15, Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his resignation as Team India's Test captain. This came as a huge shock to the entire cricketing fraternity. Kohli's decision came a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in the rainbow nation.

The 33-year-old tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."

Under Kohli, India became a more confident and aggressive force in home Tests and started winning more regularly in away series as well. During his tenure as the Test captain, India won their maiden Test series in Australia, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom in mid-2021, played the inaugural WTC final and ended as the No. 1 ranked side in the format for five successive years in the annual updates of the ICC Rankings. Following his resignation, all-rounder Shardul Thakur has now opened up on Kohli's decision.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/upto-you-all-to-judge-my-legacy-sourav-ganguly-on-his-tenure-as-bcci-president-450365">&nbsp;'Upto you all to judge my legacy' - Sourav Ganguly on his tenure as BCCI President</a>

“It was an emotional moment for everyone. No one expected that he would resign from Test captaincy," Thakur told Indian Express in a chat.&nbsp;

“We did well under his captaincy, especially overseas. Those series we lost overseas were close ones. The team was doing well under him and no one expected this. However, now that he has made his decision, everyone should respect it,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/didnt-know-anyone-in-bcci-harbhajan-singh-opines-on-not-being-considered-for-india-captaincy-450232">Didn't know anyone in BCCI: Harbhajan Singh opines on not being considered for India captaincy</a>

After Kohli's sudden resignation as the Test captain, the BCCI selectors have a tough job to name his successor. The contenders are Rohit Sharma (already the Test vice-captain and limited-overs skipper), KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant. The selectors will have to take a call and finalise the next captain before India's upcoming two-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, at home, in February-March.&nbsp;

On January 15, Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his resignation as Team India's Test captain. This came as a huge shock to the entire cricketing fraternity.

On January 15, Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his resignation as Team India's Test captain. This came as a huge shock to the entire cricketing fraternity. Kohli's decision came a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in the rainbow nation. The 33-year-old tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." Under Kohli, India became a more confident and aggressive force in home Tests and started winning more regularly in away series as well. During his tenure as the Test captain, India won their maiden Test series in Australia, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom in mid-2021, played the inaugural WTC final and ended as the No. 1 ranked side in the format for five successive years in the annual updates of the ICC Rankings. Following his resignation, all-rounder Shardul Thakur has now opened up on Kohli's decision. ALSO READ | 'Upto you all to judge my legacy' - Sourav Ganguly on his tenure as BCCI President “It was an emotional moment for everyone. No one expected that he would resign from Test captaincy," Thakur told Indian Express in a chat. “We did well under his captaincy, especially overseas. Those series we lost overseas were close ones. The team was doing well under him and no one expected this. However, now that he has made his decision, everyone should respect it,” he added. ALSO READ | Didn't know anyone in BCCI: Harbhajan Singh opines on not being considered for India captaincy After Kohli's sudden resignation as the Test captain, the BCCI selectors have a tough job to name his successor. The contenders are Rohit Sharma (already the Test vice-captain and limited-overs skipper), KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant. The selectors will have to take a call and finalise the next captain before India's upcoming two-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, at home, in February-March.

No one expected Virat Kohli to resign as India's Test captain, reveals all-rounder Shardul Thakur

The former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly took over as the BCCI chief in late 2019, after India's ODI World Cup campaign. In September 2022, Ganguly is set to complete three years of his tenure. During his rein as the BCCI chief, a lot of things have transpired&nbsp;in Indian cricket.

Ganguly's tenure has been hit by the Covid-19 virus wreaking havoc in the cricketing calendar worldwide. While BCCI have managed to host the last two IPL seasons despite various Covid challenges, questions over Women's IPL's implementation at a bigger level and his recent fall-out with Virat Kohli have dented his image as the BCCI President of&nbsp;late.

During a recent interaction with Sportstar, the 49-year-old opined on his legacy as BCCI chief. "I don't think it's more challenging. What's my legacy? Well, I won't be able to tell it now. Let's see what happens. It is up to you all to judge my legacy, it is what it is. But it has been under tough circumstances due to Covid-19 over the last two years. The pandemic has wreaked havoc all over the world and we are fortunate that we could still manage to get a majority of cricket done," Ganguly told the portal in an interview.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-maharashtra-to-host-league-stage-call-on-playoffs-venues-not-taken-says-sourav-ganguly-450052">IPL 2022: Maharashtra to host league stage, call on playoffs' venues not taken, says Sourav Ganguly</a>

For now, the Ganguly-led Indian cricket board is looking to smoothly&nbsp;host India's white-ball series versus West Indies, starting on February 6,&nbsp;following the various Covid cases cropping up in the Rohit Sharma-led Indian camp on Wednesday (February 2).

Recently, Ganguly also revealed that the group stage of IPL 2022 will be held in Maharashtra whereas a call on playoffs' venues will be taken later. Regarding Women's IPL, he told in the same portal, "The Women’s T20 Challenge will again be back this year in the month of May. Hopefully, in the future, we will be able to host a bigger women’s IPL once the number of women players goes up. But this year, the Women’s T20 Challenge will happen during the IPL playoffs."

The former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly took over as the BCCI chief in late 2019, after India's ODI World Cup campaign. In September 2022, Ganguly is set to complete three years of his tenure.

The former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly took over as the BCCI chief in late 2019, after India's ODI World Cup campaign. In September 2022, Ganguly is set to complete three years of his tenure. During his rein as the BCCI chief, a lot of things have transpired in Indian cricket. Ganguly's tenure has been hit by the Covid-19 virus wreaking havoc in the cricketing calendar worldwide. While BCCI have managed to host the last two IPL seasons despite various Covid challenges, questions over Women's IPL's implementation at a bigger level and his recent fall-out with Virat Kohli have dented his image as the BCCI President of late. During a recent interaction with Sportstar, the 49-year-old opined on his legacy as BCCI chief. "I don't think it's more challenging. What's my legacy? Well, I won't be able to tell it now. Let's see what happens. It is up to you all to judge my legacy, it is what it is. But it has been under tough circumstances due to Covid-19 over the last two years. The pandemic has wreaked havoc all over the world and we are fortunate that we could still manage to get a majority of cricket done," Ganguly told the portal in an interview. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Maharashtra to host league stage, call on playoffs' venues not taken, says Sourav Ganguly For now, the Ganguly-led Indian cricket board is looking to smoothly host India's white-ball series versus West Indies, starting on February 6, following the various Covid cases cropping up in the Rohit Sharma-led Indian camp on Wednesday (February 2). Recently, Ganguly also revealed that the group stage of IPL 2022 will be held in Maharashtra whereas a call on playoffs' venues will be taken later. Regarding Women's IPL, he told in the same portal, "The Women’s T20 Challenge will again be back this year in the month of May. Hopefully, in the future, we will be able to host a bigger women’s IPL once the number of women players goes up. But this year, the Women’s T20 Challenge will happen during the IPL playoffs."

'Upto you all to judge my legacy' - Sourav Ganguly on his tenure as BCCI President

Harbhajan Singh dropped a bomb by announcing his international retirement before the end of 2021. Bhajji represented Team India for 18 years, with his career spanning from 1998-2016 (when he last represented India). The veteran spinner made a big name in world cricket, ending with 711 wickets at the highest level.

During his glorious run for Team India, the 41-year-old played under various captains. He started under Mohammad Azharuddin and was led by the likes of Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli (along with also being captained by Virender Sehwag and Anil Kumble for a brief period). In the IPL, Bhajji played under Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, Eoin Morgan, Dhoni whereas he himself captained the Mumbai Indians (MI) -- where he played for 10 years -- and led them to the 2011 Champions League title.

Despite him being in the leadership group for Team India and the Mumbai-based IPL franchise, he was never considered for captaining India. Before the 2007 T20 World Cup, he was being considered as one of the contenders for leading the Men in Blue in the showpiece event before Dhoni got the top post. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-i-was-scared-of-short-balls-i-wouldnt-have-scored-fifty-in-lords-test-vs-england-md-shami-slams-critics-450217">If I was scared of short balls, I wouldn’t have scored fifty in Lord's Test vs England: Md Shami slams critics</a>

As per the former India spinner, those who aren't favourites don't get the captaincy honour. "Oh yes! That is also an achievement that no one talks about - my captaincy. I didn’t know anyone in the BCCI; someone who could push my case because it is required (for national captaincy). If you are not among the favourites of someone (powerful), you don’t get such honours. But, let’s leave that topic. I know I was capable enough (to lead) as we used to guide a lot of captains. No big deal if I was an India captain or not. No regrets either if I didn’t become the captain for my country. I was always happy to serve the nation as a player," he told Cricketnext.com.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-married-to-him-harbhajan-singh-gives-cheeky-response-clears-air-on-rumoured-rift-with-ms-dhoni-449222">'I am not married to him': Harbhajan Singh gives cheeky response, clears air on rumoured rift with MS Dhoni</a>

Harbhajan's last international appearance came during the 2016 Asia Cup. He was part of India's victorious run in the 2007 T20 WC, 2011 ODI World Cup, Asia Cup win in 2010 and many other significant wins across the globe. He signed off being the fourth-highest Test wicket-taker in the purest format (417 scalps).&nbsp;

Harbhajan Singh dropped a bomb by announcing his international retirement before the end of 2021. Bhajji represented Team India for 18 years, with his career spanning from 1998-2016 (when he last represented India).

Harbhajan Singh dropped a bomb by announcing his international retirement before the end of 2021. Bhajji represented Team India for 18 years, with his career spanning from 1998-2016 (when he last represented India). The veteran spinner made a big name in world cricket, ending with 711 wickets at the highest level. During his glorious run for Team India, the 41-year-old played under various captains. He started under Mohammad Azharuddin and was led by the likes of Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli (along with also being captained by Virender Sehwag and Anil Kumble for a brief period). In the IPL, Bhajji played under Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, Eoin Morgan, Dhoni whereas he himself captained the Mumbai Indians (MI) -- where he played for 10 years -- and led them to the 2011 Champions League title. Despite him being in the leadership group for Team India and the Mumbai-based IPL franchise, he was never considered for captaining India. Before the 2007 T20 World Cup, he was being considered as one of the contenders for leading the Men in Blue in the showpiece event before Dhoni got the top post. ALSO READ | If I was scared of short balls, I wouldn’t have scored fifty in Lord's Test vs England: Md Shami slams critics As per the former India spinner, those who aren't favourites don't get the captaincy honour. "Oh yes! That is also an achievement that no one talks about - my captaincy. I didn’t know anyone in the BCCI; someone who could push my case because it is required (for national captaincy). If you are not among the favourites of someone (powerful), you don’t get such honours. But, let’s leave that topic. I know I was capable enough (to lead) as we used to guide a lot of captains. No big deal if I was an India captain or not. No regrets either if I didn’t become the captain for my country. I was always happy to serve the nation as a player," he told Cricketnext.com. ALSO READ | 'I am not married to him': Harbhajan Singh gives cheeky response, clears air on rumoured rift with MS Dhoni Harbhajan's last international appearance came during the 2016 Asia Cup. He was part of India's victorious run in the 2007 T20 WC, 2011 ODI World Cup, Asia Cup win in 2010 and many other significant wins across the globe. He signed off being the fourth-highest Test wicket-taker in the purest format (417 scalps).

Didn't know anyone in BCCI: Harbhajan Singh opines on not being considered for India captaincy

Team India have often struggled to get rid of the opposition's tail and also not&nbsp;managed contributions from the lower-order at regular intervals, especially while playing away Tests. However, things have changed for the good in the past year with the lower-order often bailing the team out of crisis and adding valuable runs to the scoreboard.&nbsp;

During India's 2021 five-match Test series versus England, in the United Kingdom, the then Virat Kohli-led side played a riveting second Test versus Joe Root-led England at Lord's. During the fifth day, the play started with India 181-6, leading the hosts by 154 runs. The overnight batters -- Rishabh Pant and Ishant Sharma -- returned back to the pavillion in a jiffy as it seemed like India will manage to set up a target close to 200, or slightly above it.

Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami joined together in the middle, with India reeling at 209-8, and stitched an unbeaten 89-run ninth-wicket stand, withstanding the short-ball ploy from the English seamers to take the team total to 298-8 (declare). While Bumrah remained unbeaten on 34, Shami registered a memorable fifty (second in whites) to remain 56 not out. Setting up a competitive 272-run target, India beat England by 151 runs after dismissing them for a paltry 124 in the final session of the match.

Recently, during an interview with India.com, Shami reflected back on his vital knock in the Lord's Test and slammed his critics saying that he is scared of short-pitched deliveries. "Let me tell you something. I was never scared of the short ball as many people thought it to be. I have always enjoyed my batting and I do try to contribute as much as possible with the bat and help the team. If I was scared of the short ball, I wouldn’t have scored that half-century at Lord’s. So I don’t think much about it,” the 31-year-old concluded.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-not-an-iota-of-md-shami-mentions-indias-ex-head-coach-ravi-shastris-stand-out-quality-450200">'There's not an iota of....': Md Shami mentions India's ex-head coach Ravi Shastri's stand-out quality</a>

Shami, who has an ODI World Cup hat-trick up his sleeves and remains a regular in India's Test line-up, has been rested for the India-West Indies white-ball series at home, which gets underway on February 6.

The experienced pacer had a good run in the India-South Africa Tests, early this year, returning with 14 wickets (most among Indians). He wasn't part of the three ODIs, which KL Rahul &amp; Co. lost 3-0.

Team India have often struggled to get rid of the opposition's tail and also not managed contributions from the lower-order at regular intervals, especially while playing away Tests.

Team India have often struggled to get rid of the opposition's tail and also not managed contributions from the lower-order at regular intervals, especially while playing away Tests. However, things have changed for the good in the past year with the lower-order often bailing the team out of crisis and adding valuable runs to the scoreboard. During India's 2021 five-match Test series versus England, in the United Kingdom, the then Virat Kohli-led side played a riveting second Test versus Joe Root-led England at Lord's. During the fifth day, the play started with India 181-6, leading the hosts by 154 runs. The overnight batters -- Rishabh Pant and Ishant Sharma -- returned back to the pavillion in a jiffy as it seemed like India will manage to set up a target close to 200, or slightly above it. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami joined together in the middle, with India reeling at 209-8, and stitched an unbeaten 89-run ninth-wicket stand, withstanding the short-ball ploy from the English seamers to take the team total to 298-8 (declare). While Bumrah remained unbeaten on 34, Shami registered a memorable fifty (second in whites) to remain 56 not out. Setting up a competitive 272-run target, India beat England by 151 runs after dismissing them for a paltry 124 in the final session of the match. Recently, during an interview with India.com, Shami reflected back on his vital knock in the Lord's Test and slammed his critics saying that he is scared of short-pitched deliveries. "Let me tell you something. I was never scared of the short ball as many people thought it to be. I have always enjoyed my batting and I do try to contribute as much as possible with the bat and help the team. If I was scared of the short ball, I wouldn’t have scored that half-century at Lord’s. So I don’t think much about it,” the 31-year-old concluded. ALSO READ | 'There's not an iota of....': Md Shami mentions India's ex-head coach Ravi Shastri's stand-out quality Shami, who has an ODI World Cup hat-trick up his sleeves and remains a regular in India's Test line-up, has been rested for the India-West Indies white-ball series at home, which gets underway on February 6. The experienced pacer had a good run in the India-South Africa Tests, early this year, returning with 14 wickets (most among Indians). He wasn't part of the three ODIs, which KL Rahul & Co. lost 3-0.

If I was scared of short balls, I wouldn’t have scored fifty in Lord's Test vs England: Md Shami slams critics

Ravi Shastri ended his four-year-long stint as Team India's head coach following the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue's disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Under Shastri, India achieved considerable success across formats.

Shastri took over from former Indian captain and spinner Anil Kumble, who occupied the head coach's position for a year. After the 2017 Champions Trophy, Shastri took over the reins and formed a lethal pair with former captain Virat Kohli. Under Kohli-Shastri, India developed into a ruthless unit in Tests, dominated bilateral series worldwide in ODIs and T20Is but failed to lead the national side to an ICC title.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/let-him-play-for-that-many-years-md-shami-on-babar-azams-comparison-with-virat-kohli-steve-smith-449269">'Let him play for that many years': Md. Shami on Babar Azam's comparison with Virat Kohli, Steve Smith</a>

During a recent interview with India.com, pace spearhead Mohammed Shami mentioned the stand-out quality of ex-head coach Shastri. “Everybody knows about Ravi Shastri’s pep talk and he speaks just like you see him in the commentary box. There is not an iota of negativity in Ravi Shastri. His positivity rubbed on to the team and that is something that stood out for me,” Shami opined.

Under Shastri's guidance, and the presence of ex-bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, Shami's fitness improved leaps and bounds. As a result, he took an ODI World Cup hat-trick, remained a regular in whites and sruck at regular intervals&nbsp;in the purest format.

Shami also praised Bharat Arun and said,&nbsp;"It was great working with Bharat Arun when he was the bowling coach of India. At the international level, there is not much to learn in terms of the basics. It was all about discussing bowling plans and he shared his views and it worked really well for us and the team."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itll-do-him-a-world-of-good-ex-head-coach-ravi-shastri-suggests-how-virat-kohli-can-rejuvenate-his-form-448400">It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form</a>

Shami has been rested for the white-ball series between India and West Indies, which gets underway on February 6 in Ahmedabad. Shastri, meanwhile, has revealed that he will enjoy his break time before stepping onto any new role.&nbsp;

Shastri has been replaced by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach, till the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.

Ravi Shastri ended his four-year-long stint as Team India's head coach following the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue's disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

Ravi Shastri ended his four-year-long stint as Team India's head coach following the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue's disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Under Shastri, India achieved considerable success across formats. Shastri took over from former Indian captain and spinner Anil Kumble, who occupied the head coach's position for a year. After the 2017 Champions Trophy, Shastri took over the reins and formed a lethal pair with former captain Virat Kohli. Under Kohli-Shastri, India developed into a ruthless unit in Tests, dominated bilateral series worldwide in ODIs and T20Is but failed to lead the national side to an ICC title. ALSO READ | 'Let him play for that many years': Md. Shami on Babar Azam's comparison with Virat Kohli, Steve Smith During a recent interview with India.com, pace spearhead Mohammed Shami mentioned the stand-out quality of ex-head coach Shastri. “Everybody knows about Ravi Shastri’s pep talk and he speaks just like you see him in the commentary box. There is not an iota of negativity in Ravi Shastri. His positivity rubbed on to the team and that is something that stood out for me,” Shami opined. Under Shastri's guidance, and the presence of ex-bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, Shami's fitness improved leaps and bounds. As a result, he took an ODI World Cup hat-trick, remained a regular in whites and sruck at regular intervals in the purest format. Shami also praised Bharat Arun and said, "It was great working with Bharat Arun when he was the bowling coach of India. At the international level, there is not much to learn in terms of the basics. It was all about discussing bowling plans and he shared his views and it worked really well for us and the team." ALSO READ | It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form Shami has been rested for the white-ball series between India and West Indies, which gets underway on February 6 in Ahmedabad. Shastri, meanwhile, has revealed that he will enjoy his break time before stepping onto any new role. Shastri has been replaced by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach, till the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.

'There's not an iota of....': Md Shami mentions India's ex-head coach Ravi Shastri's stand-out quality

Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are having a tough ride in international cricket for quite sometime. Before the South Africa Tests, in the rainbow nation early this year, Rahane-Pujara were already under the scanner for their dismal runs in the longest format of the game.

For Rahane, the senior pro had not scored a hundred since his flawless 112-run knock in the India-Australia MCG Test in late 2020. On the other hand, Pujara's century drought continues since early 2019. While Pujara has remained a vital cog with some half-centuries at regular intervals, much more is expected of him. Meanwhile, Rahane also lost his vice-captaincy position in whites owing to his dismal run with the bat.

The two senior batters had a chance to revamp in the India-SA Tests, however, both didn't have a great run in the three-match series. Both returned with a half-century each in six outings. For the unversed, Rahane returned with&nbsp;136 runs at 22.66 in the SA Tests whereas the No. 3 batter Pujara ended with&nbsp;124 runs at 20.66. Thus,&nbsp;calls for their omissions have intensified.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-maharashtra-to-host-league-stage-call-on-playoffs-venues-not-taken-says-sourav-ganguly-450052">IPL 2022: Maharashtra to host league stage, call on playoffs' venues not taken, says Sourav Ganguly</a>

In this regard, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has shared some advice for the under-fire pair. He told Sportstar,&nbsp;"Yeah, they are very good players. Hopefully, they will go back to Ranji Trophy and score a lot of runs, which I am sure they will. I don’t see any problem [for them to go back to domestic cricket after playing so much international cricket]. Ranji Trophy is a huge tournament, and we have all played the tournament."

"So, they, too, will go back there and perform. They have played the tournament in the past when they were only playing Test cricket and were not part of the ODI or limited-overs team. So, that won’t be a problem," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-opens-up-on-cheteshwar-pujara-ajinkya-rahanes-future-after-flop-show-in-sa-test-series-444795">Virat Kohli opens up on Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane's future after flop show in SA Test series</a>

India's next Test assignment will be a two-match series versus Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka, at home, in February-March. It will be interesting to see if Rahane and Pujara hold onto their respective spots -- despite intense competition with the presence of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, etc. -- or not.&nbsp;

The BCCI selectors will also have to name Virat Kohli's successor in Tests after he resigned as the red-ball captain following the SA Tests.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are having a tough ride in international cricket for quite sometime. Before the South Africa Tests, in the rainbow nation early this year, Rahane-Pujara were already under the scanner for their dismal runs in the longest format of the game.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are having a tough ride in international cricket for quite sometime. Before the South Africa Tests, in the rainbow nation early this year, Rahane-Pujara were already under the scanner for their dismal runs in the longest format of the game. For Rahane, the senior pro had not scored a hundred since his flawless 112-run knock in the India-Australia MCG Test in late 2020. On the other hand, Pujara's century drought continues since early 2019. While Pujara has remained a vital cog with some half-centuries at regular intervals, much more is expected of him. Meanwhile, Rahane also lost his vice-captaincy position in whites owing to his dismal run with the bat. The two senior batters had a chance to revamp in the India-SA Tests, however, both didn't have a great run in the three-match series. Both returned with a half-century each in six outings. For the unversed, Rahane returned with 136 runs at 22.66 in the SA Tests whereas the No. 3 batter Pujara ended with 124 runs at 20.66. Thus, calls for their omissions have intensified. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Maharashtra to host league stage, call on playoffs' venues not taken, says Sourav Ganguly In this regard, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has shared some advice for the under-fire pair. He told Sportstar, "Yeah, they are very good players. Hopefully, they will go back to Ranji Trophy and score a lot of runs, which I am sure they will. I don’t see any problem [for them to go back to domestic cricket after playing so much international cricket]. Ranji Trophy is a huge tournament, and we have all played the tournament." "So, they, too, will go back there and perform. They have played the tournament in the past when they were only playing Test cricket and were not part of the ODI or limited-overs team. So, that won’t be a problem," he added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli opens up on Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane's future after flop show in SA Test series India's next Test assignment will be a two-match series versus Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka, at home, in February-March. It will be interesting to see if Rahane and Pujara hold onto their respective spots -- despite intense competition with the presence of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, etc. -- or not. The BCCI selectors will also have to name Virat Kohli's successor in Tests after he resigned as the red-ball captain following the SA Tests.

'Hopefully, they'll go back...' -  Sourav Ganguly opines on under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane

Hardik Pandya isn't a part of the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team's forthcoming white-ball series versus West Indies, at home, as the national selectors are still not sure of his all-round abilities. Hardik is, meanwhile, keeping himself fit ahead of the IPL 2022 edition, which is reportedly set to be held entirely in India.

Hardik is well aware that the upcoming IPL season holds great significance for him. After not being retained by the Mumbai Indians (MI), the 28-year-old all-rounder will try to impress one and all in all departments as he has fallen behind in the pecking order, and lost&nbsp;his place in Tests, in the limited-overs side&nbsp;largely due to his inability to bowl (due to back issues). Moreover, he will also get a chance to make heads turn with his captaincy skills as he will lead his home franchise, the newly-formed Ahmedabad IPL team.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-event-to-be-held-in-india-franchises-eager-for-bcci-to-finalise-venues-report-449770">IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report</a>

Speaking ahead of IPL 2022, Hardik dissected the contrasting captaincy styles of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni and mentioned what he will pick from them. Hardik has played under the trio in IPL or for Team India. "From Virat, I will pick his aggression and passion, his energy which is tremendous. From Mahi bhai it's the composure, calmness, remaining same in every situation, trying to see what new things he can add," Hardik said on Tuesday (February 1) during an interaction facilitated by the Ahmedabad franchise.

"...and from Rohit, I would pick the freedom as he lets the player decide what he wants to do. These three qualities if I can pick up, it will be a very good combination," he further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-has-kept-whopping-amount-aside-for-shreyas-iyer-in-ipl-2022-mega-auction-reveals-aakash-chopra-449807">RCB has kept whopping amount aside for Shreyas Iyer in IPL 2022 mega auction, reveals Aakash Chopra</a>

On him returning as an all-rounder, with an aim to&nbsp;mainly roll&nbsp;his arms, Hardik pointed out, "It's a good start as IPL gives the platform to test myself in the new role as pressure is very similar. Not saying you are expected to win but everyone wants to win. It's a right step to go ahead and eventually get captaincy for your country but you don't look for that. If it's supposed to come it will come."

Hardik Pandya isn't a part of the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team's forthcoming white-ball series versus West Indies, at home, as the national selectors are still not sure of his all-round abilities.

Hardik Pandya isn't a part of the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team's forthcoming white-ball series versus West Indies, at home, as the national selectors are still not sure of his all-round abilities. Hardik is, meanwhile, keeping himself fit ahead of the IPL 2022 edition, which is reportedly set to be held entirely in India. Hardik is well aware that the upcoming IPL season holds great significance for him. After not being retained by the Mumbai Indians (MI), the 28-year-old all-rounder will try to impress one and all in all departments as he has fallen behind in the pecking order, and lost his place in Tests, in the limited-overs side largely due to his inability to bowl (due to back issues). Moreover, he will also get a chance to make heads turn with his captaincy skills as he will lead his home franchise, the newly-formed Ahmedabad IPL team. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report Speaking ahead of IPL 2022, Hardik dissected the contrasting captaincy styles of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni and mentioned what he will pick from them. Hardik has played under the trio in IPL or for Team India. "From Virat, I will pick his aggression and passion, his energy which is tremendous. From Mahi bhai it's the composure, calmness, remaining same in every situation, trying to see what new things he can add," Hardik said on Tuesday (February 1) during an interaction facilitated by the Ahmedabad franchise. "...and from Rohit, I would pick the freedom as he lets the player decide what he wants to do. These three qualities if I can pick up, it will be a very good combination," he further added. ALSO READ | RCB has kept whopping amount aside for Shreyas Iyer in IPL 2022 mega auction, reveals Aakash Chopra On him returning as an all-rounder, with an aim to mainly roll his arms, Hardik pointed out, "It's a good start as IPL gives the platform to test myself in the new role as pressure is very similar. Not saying you are expected to win but everyone wants to win. It's a right step to go ahead and eventually get captaincy for your country but you don't look for that. If it's supposed to come it will come."

IPL 2022: Ahmedabad captain Hardik Pandya mentions qualities he'll pick from Virat Kohli, Dhoni, Rohit

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