Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has opened up on Test captain Virat Kohli's mode of dismissals in recent times. For the unversed, the 33-year-old Indian batter hasn't been able to score an international ton since late 2019 and averages only 26.08 in Tests since early 2020.&nbsp;

Hence, Chopra opened up on Kohli's failures, who is out of the ongoing second Test between India and South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. The 33-year-old Kohli didn't impress even in the series opener of the three-match Tests versus SA, returning with scores of 35 and 18. In addition, his dismissals were identical by flashing away from the off-stump line.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-has-similar-numbers-but-people-arent-questioning-him-nehra-reacts-to-criticism-of-rahane-and-pujara-442162">Kohli has similar numbers but people aren't questioning him: Nehra reacts to criticism of Rahane and Pujara</a>

Thus, Chopra said&nbsp;on the Byju's Cricket Live Show on Star Sports on Day 1 of the J'burg Test on Monday (January 3), "Kohli can show a bit more patience. Remember the new year's Test match, Sydney 2004 when Sachin Tendulkar was getting out driving and then he didn't play a single drive. I'm not saying go down that road because Sachin had more shots as compared to Virat but then, this is the recipe."

"I don't think Kohli has too much of an issue playing the bouncers. It's just about knowing where your off-stump is. Trusting the bounce a little more so you can leave the ball a little more. It doesn't necessarily have to be on line. You don't even need to misread the line; you're not going to get bowled because the ball will be going over the stumps," added Chopra.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-of-the-two-have-to-karthik-makes-bold-claim-predicts-who-could-miss-out-on-virat-kohlis-return-442147">'One of the two have to...' - Karthik makes bold claim, predicts who could miss out on Virat Kohli's return</a>

Kohli will be eager to return to full fitness and play the third and final Test against the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. He will also like to start 2022 with a bang by breaking is century-drought.&nbsp;

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has opened up on Test captain Virat Kohli's mode of dismissals in recent times. For the unversed, the 33-year-old Indian batter hasn't been able to score an international ton since late 2019 and averages only 26.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has opened up on Test captain Virat Kohli's mode of dismissals in recent times. For the unversed, the 33-year-old Indian batter hasn't been able to score an international ton since late 2019 and averages only 26.08 in Tests since early 2020. Hence, Chopra opened up on Kohli's failures, who is out of the ongoing second Test between India and South Africa at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. The 33-year-old Kohli didn't impress even in the series opener of the three-match Tests versus SA, returning with scores of 35 and 18. In addition, his dismissals were identical by flashing away from the off-stump line. ALSO READ | Kohli has similar numbers but people aren't questioning him: Nehra reacts to criticism of Rahane and Pujara Thus, Chopra said on the Byju's Cricket Live Show on Star Sports on Day 1 of the J'burg Test on Monday (January 3), "Kohli can show a bit more patience. Remember the new year's Test match, Sydney 2004 when Sachin Tendulkar was getting out driving and then he didn't play a single drive. I'm not saying go down that road because Sachin had more shots as compared to Virat but then, this is the recipe." "I don't think Kohli has too much of an issue playing the bouncers. It's just about knowing where your off-stump is. Trusting the bounce a little more so you can leave the ball a little more. It doesn't necessarily have to be on line. You don't even need to misread the line; you're not going to get bowled because the ball will be going over the stumps," added Chopra. ALSO READ | 'One of the two have to...' - Karthik makes bold claim, predicts who could miss out on Virat Kohli's return Kohli will be eager to return to full fitness and play the third and final Test against the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. He will also like to start 2022 with a bang by breaking is century-drought.

SRT had more shots as compared to Kohli: Aakash Chopra weighs-in on Indian Test captain's dismissals

The President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Sourav&nbsp;Ganguly&nbsp;was discharged from the hospital on Friday (December 31) four days after being admitted with coronavirus (COVID-19).&nbsp;

Now, an India-based news agency PTI reported that the former Indian cricketer had tested positive for the delta plus variant of the deadly Covid.

Citing a hospital official, the report revealed that the infection was not severe and could be managed in home isolation.&nbsp;

"Ganguly's samples tested positive for the Delta plus variant. We are treating him for that," the official said as quoted by PTI. &nbsp;

Previously, it was known that the 49-year-old was admitted to Kolkata's Woodlands Multispeciality hospital on Monday. He was tested positive for the virus and had a mild fever.&nbsp;

Citing a doctor, the AFP report stated that the ex-cricketer had expressed his desire to go home after he tested negative for the Omicron variant.

The doctor said that Ganguly will remain in home isolation for the next fortnight under doctors' supervision.&nbsp;

His brother Snehasish told AFP that Ganguly received an "antibody cocktail therapy" as part of his treatment. "Sourav is resting at home," he said.&nbsp;

The head of the country's cricket board, Ganguly was twice admitted to hospital earlier this year with chest pain and underwent an angioplasty.

The President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Sourav Ganguly was discharged from the hospital on Friday (December 31) four days after being admitted with coronavirus (COVID-19).

The President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Sourav Ganguly was discharged from the hospital on Friday (December 31) four days after being admitted with coronavirus (COVID-19). Now, an India-based news agency PTI reported that the former Indian cricketer had tested positive for the delta plus variant of the deadly Covid. Citing a hospital official, the report revealed that the infection was not severe and could be managed in home isolation. "Ganguly's samples tested positive for the Delta plus variant. We are treating him for that," the official said as quoted by PTI. Previously, it was known that the 49-year-old was admitted to Kolkata's Woodlands Multispeciality hospital on Monday. He was tested positive for the virus and had a mild fever. Citing a doctor, the AFP report stated that the ex-cricketer had expressed his desire to go home after he tested negative for the Omicron variant. The doctor said that Ganguly will remain in home isolation for the next fortnight under doctors' supervision. His brother Snehasish told AFP that Ganguly received an "antibody cocktail therapy" as part of his treatment. "Sourav is resting at home," he said. The head of the country's cricket board, Ganguly was twice admitted to hospital earlier this year with chest pain and underwent an angioplasty.

BCCI President Sourav Ganguly had tested positive for delta plus variant of COVID-19: Report

Chetan Sharma,&nbsp;chairman of BCCI's All-India Senior Selection Committee, spoke at length on various aspects pertaining to Indian cricket after the selectors announced the 18-man squad for India's upcoming three ODIs versus South Africa, starting on January 19.&nbsp;

After the squad got announced, which saw KL Rahul become the captain in absence of injured limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma, Chetan Sharma --&nbsp;the former cricketer-turned-chairman of selection committee -- reacted to the rift rumours between Rohit and Virat Kohli. For the unversed, the rift rumours had once again resurfaced in Indian cricket post Rohit replacing Kohli as the limited-overs captain in early December, 2021.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-captaincy-row-kl-rahul-as-future-captain-major-talking-points-from-chetan-sharmas-press-conference-441599">ODI captaincy row, KL Rahul as future captain: Major talking points from Chetan Sharma's press conference</a>

On being asked in a press conference, if the BCCI will look to arrange a meeting between Rohit and Kohli to sort out&nbsp;things, Chetan&nbsp;replied, "but about what? Things are absolutely fine. That's why I was saying don't go by speculations. We're all cricketers first and selectors later. There is nothing between them."&nbsp;

The chief selector further claimed he laughs at reports of a rift between the two superstar cricketers and asserted, "Sometimes I read reports about them and laugh. I'm telling you there is such good planning between them about the future. Things are fantastic. If you were in my place, you would have enjoyed watching how these guys are working together as a team and family and a unit. It's really saddening when people make up things like that. So please, leave controversies behind in 2021. Let's talk about how to make them the best team."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-named-captain-for-south-africa-odis-as-rohit-sharma-ruled-out-due-to-hamstring-injury-441482">KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury</a>

On December 15, 2021, Kohli had addressed the media in a press conference before India's departure to South Africa and had reacted to the baseless rift rumours. Back then, he had stated, "Between Rohit and I, there is no problem at all. Honestly, over the last 2, 2 and half years, I have been clarifying this. I am tired of doing it. Again and again, the same question is being asked of me. I will tell you one thing with a guarantee that my actions and my communications will never bring down the team till the time I play cricket."

At present, Kohli-led Indian Test team is on the cusp of winning their first-ever series on African soil after gaining a 1-0 lead in the three Tests versus the Proteas following the Centurion Test. If India win one of the two remaining Tests, they will achieve their maiden Test series triumph in the rainbow nation.&nbsp;

The ODIs will kick off on January 19 at Paarl.&nbsp;

Chetan Sharma, chairman of BCCI's All-India Senior Selection Committee, spoke at length on various aspects pertaining to Indian cricket after the selectors announced the 18-man squad for India's upcoming three ODIs versus South Africa, starting on January 19.

Chetan Sharma, chairman of BCCI's All-India Senior Selection Committee, spoke at length on various aspects pertaining to Indian cricket after the selectors announced the 18-man squad for India's upcoming three ODIs versus South Africa, starting on January 19. After the squad got announced, which saw KL Rahul become the captain in absence of injured limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma, Chetan Sharma -- the former cricketer-turned-chairman of selection committee -- reacted to the rift rumours between Rohit and Virat Kohli. For the unversed, the rift rumours had once again resurfaced in Indian cricket post Rohit replacing Kohli as the limited-overs captain in early December, 2021. ALSO READ | ODI captaincy row, KL Rahul as future captain: Major talking points from Chetan Sharma's press conference On being asked in a press conference, if the BCCI will look to arrange a meeting between Rohit and Kohli to sort out things, Chetan replied, "but about what? Things are absolutely fine. That's why I was saying don't go by speculations. We're all cricketers first and selectors later. There is nothing between them." The chief selector further claimed he laughs at reports of a rift between the two superstar cricketers and asserted, "Sometimes I read reports about them and laugh. I'm telling you there is such good planning between them about the future. Things are fantastic. If you were in my place, you would have enjoyed watching how these guys are working together as a team and family and a unit. It's really saddening when people make up things like that. So please, leave controversies behind in 2021. Let's talk about how to make them the best team." ALSO READ | KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury On December 15, 2021, Kohli had addressed the media in a press conference before India's departure to South Africa and had reacted to the baseless rift rumours. Back then, he had stated, "Between Rohit and I, there is no problem at all. Honestly, over the last 2, 2 and half years, I have been clarifying this. I am tired of doing it. Again and again, the same question is being asked of me. I will tell you one thing with a guarantee that my actions and my communications will never bring down the team till the time I play cricket." At present, Kohli-led Indian Test team is on the cusp of winning their first-ever series on African soil after gaining a 1-0 lead in the three Tests versus the Proteas following the Centurion Test. If India win one of the two remaining Tests, they will achieve their maiden Test series triumph in the rainbow nation. The ODIs will kick off on January 19 at Paarl.

Sometimes I read reports and laugh: Chetan Sharma reacts to Virat Kohli-Rohit Sharma rift rumours

R Ashwin is currently involved in India's three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The 35-year-old was part of India's historic 113-run win over the Dean Elgar-led Proteas at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The off-spinner attained two wickets in the match and will hope to contribute more in the remaining two Tests and lead India to their first-ever series win in the rainbow nation.

Recently, the spin-bowling all-rounder Ashwin recalled a time when people had written him off completely. In 2021, Ashwin made a comeback in the limited-overs setup after four years when he was part of the T20 World Cup and New Zealand T20Is at home. On the last day of 2021, he was also named in India's 18-man squad for the Proteas ODIs. While the offie is now back to featuring in all forms of the game for Team India, he had to struggle for a long time between 2017 to mid-2021; only playing the Tests. Thus, Ashwin recalled the time when criticism from people&nbsp; -- who lost faith in the spinner and wrote him off -- affected him.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-were-timid-it-showed-in-our-game-ravi-shastri-decodes-team-indias-2021-t20-world-cup-debacle-441565">We were timid, it showed in our game: Ravi Shastri decodes Team India's 2021 T20 World Cup debacle</a>

Speaking on Backstage with Boria, Ashwin said, "As a sportsman, you are engulfed by criticism. You want to overcome that. A lot of people wrote me off. I used to walk into club games in Chennai and I used to put in the hard yards. And I would hear murmurs about people saying ‘this guy is coming a`nd playing because his international career is done, he is finished’. I used to keep hearing these things. Sometimes it’s easy to laugh off, sometimes it hurts.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/packed-home-season-asia-cup-t20-wc-a-glance-at-kohli-rohit-starrer-indias-cricketing-calendar-for-2022-441557">Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar for 2022</a>

"I used to wake up during the pandemic every single day telling myself - it doesn’t matter what people think, but this particular cricketer, this particular character has, has something left. And, this is not how I want to leave. It used to be a hard battle. I used to train twice in a day. I reviewed over 3-10 dietitians. I am definitely eating better, training better and more positive inside my head," Ashwin further said.

Ashwin ended 2021 being the highest-wicket taker in the purest format (54 scalps). Being back in the reckoning in the limited-overs setup, he will now hope to perform in a similar stead in all forms of the game for Team India in 2022.

R Ashwin is currently involved in India's three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The 35-year-old was part of India's historic 113-run win over the Dean Elgar-led Proteas at SuperSport Park, Centurion.

R Ashwin is currently involved in India's three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The 35-year-old was part of India's historic 113-run win over the Dean Elgar-led Proteas at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The off-spinner attained two wickets in the match and will hope to contribute more in the remaining two Tests and lead India to their first-ever series win in the rainbow nation. Recently, the spin-bowling all-rounder Ashwin recalled a time when people had written him off completely. In 2021, Ashwin made a comeback in the limited-overs setup after four years when he was part of the T20 World Cup and New Zealand T20Is at home. On the last day of 2021, he was also named in India's 18-man squad for the Proteas ODIs. While the offie is now back to featuring in all forms of the game for Team India, he had to struggle for a long time between 2017 to mid-2021; only playing the Tests. Thus, Ashwin recalled the time when criticism from people -- who lost faith in the spinner and wrote him off -- affected him. ALSO READ | We were timid, it showed in our game: Ravi Shastri decodes Team India's 2021 T20 World Cup debacle Speaking on Backstage with Boria, Ashwin said, "As a sportsman, you are engulfed by criticism. You want to overcome that. A lot of people wrote me off. I used to walk into club games in Chennai and I used to put in the hard yards. And I would hear murmurs about people saying ‘this guy is coming a`nd playing because his international career is done, he is finished’. I used to keep hearing these things. Sometimes it’s easy to laugh off, sometimes it hurts. ALSO READ | Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar for 2022 "I used to wake up during the pandemic every single day telling myself - it doesn’t matter what people think, but this particular cricketer, this particular character has, has something left. And, this is not how I want to leave. It used to be a hard battle. I used to train twice in a day. I reviewed over 3-10 dietitians. I am definitely eating better, training better and more positive inside my head," Ashwin further said. Ashwin ended 2021 being the highest-wicket taker in the purest format (54 scalps). Being back in the reckoning in the limited-overs setup, he will now hope to perform in a similar stead in all forms of the game for Team India in 2022.

Kept hearing murmurs about people saying 'this guy is finished', recalls R Ashwin

England's quest to regain the Ashes lasted just three matches. England's batters barely showed up as Australia ruthlessly battered England into submission in Brisbane, Adelaide and Melbourne. The prospect of a series whitewash is all too real now for England and heads are expected to roll within the Test team setup. There have been a record 9 defeats in 2021 and reports indicate Head Coach Chris Silverwood may face the axe. Why have England hit rock bottom? Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo speaks to Ashes winner and former England international Monty Panesar.

WION EXCLUSIVE: The Ashes post-mortem with Monty Panesar

The calendar year is coming to an end. A lot of action took place in the sporting arena after the Covid-19 pandemic wreaked havoc in 2020.&nbsp;Some big-ticket tournaments took place in the 22-yard cricket strip, which tested Team India (the senior men's team)&nbsp;to the core. While India continued to dominate in Tests, despite missing out on the coveted WTC title in the inaugural cycle's finale, they were decent in ODIs but had a forgettable campaign in the T20 World Cup in UAE. Talking about Virat Kohli, the 33-year-old had a rather ordinary calendar year with the end quarter turning into a nightmare.&nbsp;

The superstar cricketer, who remains the poster boy of Indian cricket, finished 2021 without being able to lead India to an ICC title and went on to dent his terms with BCCI and the current selection committee in early December. In addition, the right-hander ended without a hundred in international cricket (with his century drought lasting for over two years).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-conquering-aussies-down-under-to-t20-world-cup-debacle-team-india-in-2021-435891">From conquering Aussies Down Under to T20 World Cup debacle: Team India in 2021</a>

KING KOHLI BECOMES A PROUD FATHER&nbsp;BEFORE NATIONAL DUTY RESUMES

The year started for Kohli with some needless noise on his much-talked about paternity leave. On January 11, Kohli turned proud father&nbsp;as he welcomed his first child, daughter named Vamika, along with wife Anushka Sharma.&nbsp;

Watching India's glorious run in the Australia Tests Down Under by being miles away, Kohli returned to international cricket to take charge in the home Tests versus England. Losing his first Test of the year versus Joe Root &amp; Co., Kohli inspired India's comeback as the hosts romped past the Englishmen in the remainder of the series to win the four-match series 3-1&nbsp;and book a place in the WTC final.&nbsp;

Kohli, however, ended the series with 172 runs, including two fifty-plus scores, at an average of 28.66.&nbsp;

India then turned to the five T20Is and three ODIs against the same opposition. Facing a competitive Eoin Morgan-led side, India were tested before they won the series 3-2. The then Indian captain Kohli ended with 231 runs (most runs in bilateral T20Is involving Test-playing nations) to be adjudged the Player-of-the-Series.&nbsp;

In the ODIs, Kohli had two good outings with two fifties, but continued to remain away from triple-figure knocks.&nbsp;He, however, led his troops to a 2-1 series win. He was tested to the core as captain in terms of his bowling changes and field settings throughout the series against the ODI World champions.&nbsp;

IPL AMID COVID-19 SECOND WAVE

The IPL 2021 edition was the next assignment for Kohli. Leading the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the right-hander started the season on a high with back-to-back victories. While RCB did lose the plot to an extend before the COVID-19 second wave halted the tournament, Kohli's numbers with the bat was pretty mediocre with 198 runs at 33 in 7 games. His strike-rate remained below 120 on six outings.

GLORIOUS CHANCE RUINED IN WTC FINAL

The biggest assignment for Kohli, both as captain and batsman, came when he led India to the WTC final versus New Zealand in Southampton in mid-June. While many termed India as the overwhelming favourites, it seemed as if Kohli would finally be able to break the national side's jinx of not being able to win an ICC title since 2013. However, all hopes were dented as his year remained ordinary.&nbsp;

His returns with the bat were 44&nbsp;and 13&nbsp;as India lost convincingly by 8 wickets to lose the marquee title. Thus, the team had no choice but to revamp soon as the second cycle commenced with India's five Tests versus England in the United Kingdom, from August 3.

THE HIGHS AGAINST HOSTS ENGLAND

While India rode on KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma's batting performances, Kohli continued to remain below par despite few good innings. He averaged only 31.14 after the series was interrupted due to Covid crisis in Indian camp after the fourth and penultimate Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/md-kaif-acknowledges-trouble-shooter-rahul-dravids-presence-in-team-india-amid-virat-kohli-vs-bcci-row-439634">Md Kaif acknowledges 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence in Team India amid Virat Kohli vs BCCI row</a>

TWO BIG ANNOUNCEMENTS - WHO SAW IT COMING?

The action moved to the second and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE. Kohli returned to lead RCB after making two massive announcements.&nbsp;

In mid-September, Kohli announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain. He tweeted saying, "I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability. I thank everyone who has supported me in my journey as the Captain of the Indian Cricket Team."

"I couldn't have done it without them - the boys, the support staff, the selection committee, my coaches, and each and every Indian who prayed for us to win. Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all 3 formats and captaining regularly for last 5-6 years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian Team in Test and ODI Cricket. I have given everything to the Team during my time as T20 Captain and I will continue to do so for the T20 Team as a batsman moving forward."

"Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time. After a lot of contemplation and discussions with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I've decided to step down as the T20 Captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October. I have also spoken to the secretary Mr Jay Shah and the President of BCCI Mr Sourav Ganguly along with all the selectors about the same. I will continue to serve Indian Cricket and the Indian Team to the best of my ability."

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🇮🇳 ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/Ds7okjhj9J">pic.twitter.com/Ds7okjhj9J</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1438478585518456832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Thus, a prolonged dry spell with the bat, bio-bubble restrictions and burden of leading across formats hampered even someone of the statute of King Kohli. It was visible as while his ardent fans always waited for the real Kohli to show up, but he often kept returning with below-par performances as per his standards (For the unversed, vital knocks kept coming from his willow at regular intervals. However, one cannot get content with substandard showings when it comes to the superstar cricketer).

The day IPL 14 resumed, on September 19 in the UAE, Kohli also announced that this will be his last season as RCB captain. He said, "This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me."

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Virat Kohli to step down from RCB captaincy after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> 
 
“This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me.”: Virat Kohli<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://t.co/QSIdCT8QQM">pic.twitter.com/QSIdCT8QQM</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1439635618846281728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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NO IPL TROPHY OR T20 WC HEROICS

Thus, Kohli entered the IPL final leg with his loyalists hoping for him to sign off&nbsp;on a high as captain;&nbsp;winning RCB and his maiden trophy. Nonetheless, it didn't turn out that way as Bengaluru lost in the Eliminator with Kohli ending the season with 405 runs in 14 games at 119.46.&nbsp;

Post the IPL, Kohli moved to the T20 World Cup, which was to be his last assignment as T20I captain. Needless to say, the countrymen hoped for him to take India to the title and also sign off on a fitting note as the captain in the shortest format. However, Kohli endured back-to-back failures as India bowed out in the Super 12 round, also becoming the first Indian captain to lose a WC clash versus the Men in Green.&nbsp;

Kohli's dubious captaincy calls hogged headlines before India's untimely exit. Meanwhile, he finished with 68 runs in 5 games, with a high-score of 57 and not batting at all on two instances.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-virat-kohlis-relation-with-rahul-dravid-will-be-good-in-long-run-predicts-danish-kaneria-439563">Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria</a>

While Kohli was on a break during India's home T20Is and first Test versus New Zealand, he returned back to action for the second and final Test against the Black Caps. He led India with aplomb as they achieved their biggest win in terms of runs but once again couldn't break his century-drought, returning with 0 and 36. He has four ducks in Tests in 2021 with one more match to go in the calendar year.&nbsp;

BCCI ROW&nbsp;

On December 8, BCCI removed Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit as the limited-overs skipper. While many speculated a rift between the two cricketers, Kohli rubbished all such rumours in an explosive presser before India's departure to South Africa. However, he made some glaring statements, contradicting from the claims made by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly and a board member.&nbsp;

While Ganguly had claimed that he had requested Kohli to keep the top job in T20Is, as captain, Kohli denied all such claims. Moreover, he also stated that he was always available for the SA ODIs, contrary to statements made by BCCI treasurer Arun Dhamal.&nbsp;

Hence, it has now become BCCI vs Kohli as things have continued to go downhill for the 33-year-old batsman. Overall, 2021 has been a mixed bag for Kohli and he will be tested in the new calendar year as well. After all, he has endured more disappointments than spirited highs.&nbsp;

The calendar year is coming to an end. A lot of action took place in the sporting arena after the Covid-19 pandemic wreaked havoc in 2020. Some big-ticket tournaments took place in the 22-yard cricket strip, which tested Team India (the senior men's team) to the core.

The calendar year is coming to an end. A lot of action took place in the sporting arena after the Covid-19 pandemic wreaked havoc in 2020. Some big-ticket tournaments took place in the 22-yard cricket strip, which tested Team India (the senior men's team) to the core. While India continued to dominate in Tests, despite missing out on the coveted WTC title in the inaugural cycle's finale, they were decent in ODIs but had a forgettable campaign in the T20 World Cup in UAE. Talking about Virat Kohli, the 33-year-old had a rather ordinary calendar year with the end quarter turning into a nightmare. The superstar cricketer, who remains the poster boy of Indian cricket, finished 2021 without being able to lead India to an ICC title and went on to dent his terms with BCCI and the current selection committee in early December. In addition, the right-hander ended without a hundred in international cricket (with his century drought lasting for over two years). ALSO READ | From conquering Aussies Down Under to T20 World Cup debacle: Team India in 2021 KING KOHLI BECOMES A PROUD FATHER BEFORE NATIONAL DUTY RESUMES The year started for Kohli with some needless noise on his much-talked about paternity leave. On January 11, Kohli turned proud father as he welcomed his first child, daughter named Vamika, along with wife Anushka Sharma. Watching India's glorious run in the Australia Tests Down Under by being miles away, Kohli returned to international cricket to take charge in the home Tests versus England. Losing his first Test of the year versus Joe Root & Co., Kohli inspired India's comeback as the hosts romped past the Englishmen in the remainder of the series to win the four-match series 3-1 and book a place in the WTC final. Kohli, however, ended the series with 172 runs, including two fifty-plus scores, at an average of 28.66. India then turned to the five T20Is and three ODIs against the same opposition. Facing a competitive Eoin Morgan-led side, India were tested before they won the series 3-2. The then Indian captain Kohli ended with 231 runs (most runs in bilateral T20Is involving Test-playing nations) to be adjudged the Player-of-the-Series. In the ODIs, Kohli had two good outings with two fifties, but continued to remain away from triple-figure knocks. He, however, led his troops to a 2-1 series win. He was tested to the core as captain in terms of his bowling changes and field settings throughout the series against the ODI World champions. IPL AMID COVID-19 SECOND WAVE The IPL 2021 edition was the next assignment for Kohli. Leading the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the right-hander started the season on a high with back-to-back victories. While RCB did lose the plot to an extend before the COVID-19 second wave halted the tournament, Kohli's numbers with the bat was pretty mediocre with 198 runs at 33 in 7 games. His strike-rate remained below 120 on six outings. GLORIOUS CHANCE RUINED IN WTC FINAL The biggest assignment for Kohli, both as captain and batsman, came when he led India to the WTC final versus New Zealand in Southampton in mid-June. While many termed India as the overwhelming favourites, it seemed as if Kohli would finally be able to break the national side's jinx of not being able to win an ICC title since 2013. However, all hopes were dented as his year remained ordinary. His returns with the bat were 44 and 13 as India lost convincingly by 8 wickets to lose the marquee title. Thus, the team had no choice but to revamp soon as the second cycle commenced with India's five Tests versus England in the United Kingdom, from August 3. THE HIGHS AGAINST HOSTS ENGLAND While India rode on KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma's batting performances, Kohli continued to remain below par despite few good innings. He averaged only 31.14 after the series was interrupted due to Covid crisis in Indian camp after the fourth and penultimate Test. ALSO READ | Md Kaif acknowledges 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence in Team India amid Virat Kohli vs BCCI row TWO BIG ANNOUNCEMENTS - WHO SAW IT COMING? The action moved to the second and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE. Kohli returned to lead RCB after making two massive announcements. In mid-September, Kohli announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain. He tweeted saying, "I have been fortunate enough to not only represent India but also lead the Indian Cricket Team to my utmost capability. I thank everyone who has supported me in my journey as the Captain of the Indian Cricket Team." "I couldn't have done it without them - the boys, the support staff, the selection committee, my coaches, and each and every Indian who prayed for us to win. Understanding workload is a very important thing and considering my immense workload over the last 8-9 years playing all 3 formats and captaining regularly for last 5-6 years, I feel I need to give myself space to be fully ready to lead the Indian Team in Test and ODI Cricket. I have given everything to the Team during my time as T20 Captain and I will continue to do so for the T20 Team as a batsman moving forward." "Of course, arriving at this decision took a lot of time. After a lot of contemplation and discussions with my close people, Ravi bhai and also Rohit, who have been an essential part of the leadership group, I've decided to step down as the T20 Captain after this T20 World Cup in Dubai in October. I have also spoken to the secretary Mr Jay Shah and the President of BCCI Mr Sourav Ganguly along with all the selectors about the same. I will continue to serve Indian Cricket and the Indian Team to the best of my ability." 🇮🇳 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Ds7okjhj9J — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) September 16, 2021 × Thus, a prolonged dry spell with the bat, bio-bubble restrictions and burden of leading across formats hampered even someone of the statute of King Kohli. It was visible as while his ardent fans always waited for the real Kohli to show up, but he often kept returning with below-par performances as per his standards (For the unversed, vital knocks kept coming from his willow at regular intervals. However, one cannot get content with substandard showings when it comes to the superstar cricketer). The day IPL 14 resumed, on September 19 in the UAE, Kohli also announced that this will be his last season as RCB captain. He said, "This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me." Virat Kohli to step down from RCB captaincy after #IPL2021 “This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me.”: Virat Kohli#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers pic.twitter.com/QSIdCT8QQM — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) September 19, 2021 × NO IPL TROPHY OR T20 WC HEROICS Thus, Kohli entered the IPL final leg with his loyalists hoping for him to sign off on a high as captain; winning RCB and his maiden trophy. Nonetheless, it didn't turn out that way as Bengaluru lost in the Eliminator with Kohli ending the season with 405 runs in 14 games at 119.46. Post the IPL, Kohli moved to the T20 World Cup, which was to be his last assignment as T20I captain. Needless to say, the countrymen hoped for him to take India to the title and also sign off on a fitting note as the captain in the shortest format. However, Kohli endured back-to-back failures as India bowed out in the Super 12 round, also becoming the first Indian captain to lose a WC clash versus the Men in Green. Kohli's dubious captaincy calls hogged headlines before India's untimely exit. Meanwhile, he finished with 68 runs in 5 games, with a high-score of 57 and not batting at all on two instances. ALSO READ | Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria While Kohli was on a break during India's home T20Is and first Test versus New Zealand, he returned back to action for the second and final Test against the Black Caps. He led India with aplomb as they achieved their biggest win in terms of runs but once again couldn't break his century-drought, returning with 0 and 36. He has four ducks in Tests in 2021 with one more match to go in the calendar year. BCCI ROW On December 8, BCCI removed Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit as the limited-overs skipper. While many speculated a rift between the two cricketers, Kohli rubbished all such rumours in an explosive presser before India's departure to South Africa. However, he made some glaring statements, contradicting from the claims made by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly and a board member. While Ganguly had claimed that he had requested Kohli to keep the top job in T20Is, as captain, Kohli denied all such claims. Moreover, he also stated that he was always available for the SA ODIs, contrary to statements made by BCCI treasurer Arun Dhamal. Hence, it has now become BCCI vs Kohli as things have continued to go downhill for the 33-year-old batsman. Overall, 2021 has been a mixed bag for Kohli and he will be tested in the new calendar year as well. After all, he has endured more disappointments than spirited highs.

No IPL title or ICC silverware, captaincy resignation and BCCI row: Reliving Virat Kohli's eventful 2021

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more. Talking about Indian men's senior cricket team, the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer performed in bilateral series across formats, played the WTC final and ended the year with some glaring changes in the team management.

Here's looking back at the positives for Team India in the year 2021:

Conquering Aussies Down Under

The year started with a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team stunning Australia in their own backyard to win their second successive Test series on Aussies soil in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Contrary to what many would've thought, the heroes for India were Mohammed Siraj (13 wickets), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Rishabh Pant (with two half-centuries), Shubman Gill (equal number of fifties), etc.

India hammer England across formats

After the Australia Tests, India romped past England in all forms of the game while hosting the Three Lions in early 2021. In Tests, India saw young guns such as Axar Patel (27 wickets), Rishabh Pant (second-highest run-getter for India), Washington Sundar (important fifties and 2&nbsp;wickets) perform. In the limited-overs leg, the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Rohit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar rose to the occasion with some success for Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vaughan-reacts-after-wasim-jaffer-hilariously-trolls-englishman-amid-joe-root-cos-ashes-horrors-440619">Vaughan reacts after Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Englishman amid Joe Root &amp; Co.'s Ashes horrors</a>

What a solid bench strength

India's solid bench strength once again came to the fore during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav (Player-of-the-Series in ODIs), Rahul Chahar (taking seven wickets in the tour), Prithvi Shaw (with some attractive knocks in the ODIs) made heads turn whereas Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar led from the front being the experienced ones among the lot.

IPL 2021

This year's IPL was the first-ever season to be played in two halves, in India and the UAE. Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the superstar duo didn't have a great campaign with the bat for their respective franchises but the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad (Orange Cap holder with 635 runs), Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Prithvi Shaw remained in the top 10 for most runs among batters. In the bowling department, Harshal Patel (32 wickets), Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh were among the top-10 wicket-takers.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-ipl-title-or-icc-silverware-captaincy-resignation-and-bcci-row-reliving-virat-kohlis-eventful-2021-439667">No IPL title or ICC silverware, captaincy resignation and BCCI row: Reliving Virat Kohli's eventful 2021</a>

While India's T20 World Cup campaign was a disaster, they returned with an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests versus Joe Root &amp; Co. in the United Kingdom. Bumrah returned with 18 wickets whereas Siraj finished with 15 scalps (second-most among Indians). With the bat, Rohit and KL Rahul led the show with 365 and 318 runs, respectively.&nbsp;

The Dravid-era

The year maybe ending with a controversy in the form of how things folded following the ODI&nbsp;captaincy row, however, Indian cricket fans can hope for things to be stable with an unfazed Rahul Dravid serving as the head coach. Dravid had led India in tumultuous times during the Greg Chappell-era. Hence, he has the calmness and excellent man-management skills to keep things afloat in the Indian camp during testing times as the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in white-ball formats.&nbsp;

In 2022, India will complete their tour of South Africa, which is currently underway, host Sri Lanka, West Indies, Afghanistan along with preparing for the T20 World Cup in Australia under Dravid's guidance. Fasten your seatbelts as India look for more success in 2022.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more. Talking about Indian men's senior cricket team, the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer performed in bilateral series across formats, played the WTC final and ended the year with some glaring changes in the team management. Here's looking back at the positives for Team India in the year 2021: Conquering Aussies Down Under The year started with a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team stunning Australia in their own backyard to win their second successive Test series on Aussies soil in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Contrary to what many would've thought, the heroes for India were Mohammed Siraj (13 wickets), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Rishabh Pant (with two half-centuries), Shubman Gill (equal number of fifties), etc. India hammer England across formats After the Australia Tests, India romped past England in all forms of the game while hosting the Three Lions in early 2021. In Tests, India saw young guns such as Axar Patel (27 wickets), Rishabh Pant (second-highest run-getter for India), Washington Sundar (important fifties and 2 wickets) perform. In the limited-overs leg, the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Rohit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar rose to the occasion with some success for Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan. ALSO READ | Vaughan reacts after Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Englishman amid Joe Root & Co.'s Ashes horrors What a solid bench strength India's solid bench strength once again came to the fore during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav (Player-of-the-Series in ODIs), Rahul Chahar (taking seven wickets in the tour), Prithvi Shaw (with some attractive knocks in the ODIs) made heads turn whereas Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar led from the front being the experienced ones among the lot. IPL 2021 This year's IPL was the first-ever season to be played in two halves, in India and the UAE. Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the superstar duo didn't have a great campaign with the bat for their respective franchises but the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad (Orange Cap holder with 635 runs), Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Prithvi Shaw remained in the top 10 for most runs among batters. In the bowling department, Harshal Patel (32 wickets), Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh were among the top-10 wicket-takers. ALSO READ | No IPL title or ICC silverware, captaincy resignation and BCCI row: Reliving Virat Kohli's eventful 2021 While India's T20 World Cup campaign was a disaster, they returned with an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests versus Joe Root & Co. in the United Kingdom. Bumrah returned with 18 wickets whereas Siraj finished with 15 scalps (second-most among Indians). With the bat, Rohit and KL Rahul led the show with 365 and 318 runs, respectively. The Dravid-era The year maybe ending with a controversy in the form of how things folded following the ODI captaincy row, however, Indian cricket fans can hope for things to be stable with an unfazed Rahul Dravid serving as the head coach. Dravid had led India in tumultuous times during the Greg Chappell-era. Hence, he has the calmness and excellent man-management skills to keep things afloat in the Indian camp during testing times as the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in white-ball formats. In 2022, India will complete their tour of South Africa, which is currently underway, host Sri Lanka, West Indies, Afghanistan along with preparing for the T20 World Cup in Australia under Dravid's guidance. Fasten your seatbelts as India look for more success in 2022.

Solid bench strength, IPL 2021, Test dominance to Rahul Dravid's return: Reliving India's 2021

India started Day 1 of the Centurion Test, versus South Africa, with a bang. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India were off to a flier courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. While Mayank fell for a well-made 60, Rahul continued from one end and took India to 272-3 at stumps on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test in the African nation.&nbsp;

As Rahul continued to score runs across formats, Kohli continued to remain away from his 71st international ton. His century-drought still didn't come to an end despite the 33-year-old Test captain making a good-looking 94-ball 35. Just when he was settled and looking good to stay unbeaten at stumps, the right-hander threw his wicket away by playing a loose shot off Lungi Ngidi.

Thus, Kohli's ardent fans continue to wait for the Indian skipper's 71st ton at the highest level. Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra opined on the Indian star batter's dismissal and while he stated that the manner of his dismissal is a 'concern', Nehra was quick to predict that a masterclass innings from King Kohli isn't far away.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-used-to-get-upset-when-his-name-was-not-in-the-xi-ashish-nehra-heaps-praise-on-young-india-pacer-440445">He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer</a>

Nehra told on Cricbuzz, "You expect runs from someone like Kohli. He would be unhappy with his performance. But if you look at the stats, Kohli has scored runs in the previous away series in England conditions. He has the hunger to score hundreds and double hundreds and he would be a bit unhappy with himself today.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-dravid-gives-a-pat-on-pujaras-back-to-uplift-his-spirits-after-golden-duck-watch-440395">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH</a>

"You expect Kohli to play those 135-150 kmph deliveries on the front foot but when the ball starts moving and gets bounce too, any player would face difficulties. We haven't seen the Kohli whom we saw in 2-3 years but once he gets out of this zone, he will be unstoppable. But Kohli's mentality and understanding of the game will help him score that much-awaited knock. He had scored 74 in the Adelaide Test against Australia this year and another such knock isn't far away," added Nehra.

Talking about the first Test, Day 2 of the series opener got washed out on Monday (December 27) without a ball being bowled due to rain showers. India will resume from 272-3 on the third day's morning session and hope to negate any threat from the Proteas bowlers before accelerating.&nbsp;

Kohli-led India have started really well and will hope their bowlers produce the goods to claim 20 wickets in the rain-marred Centurion Test.

India started Day 1 of the Centurion Test, versus South Africa, with a bang. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India were off to a flier courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal.

India started Day 1 of the Centurion Test, versus South Africa, with a bang. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Virat Kohli-led India were off to a flier courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. While Mayank fell for a well-made 60, Rahul continued from one end and took India to 272-3 at stumps on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test in the African nation. As Rahul continued to score runs across formats, Kohli continued to remain away from his 71st international ton. His century-drought still didn't come to an end despite the 33-year-old Test captain making a good-looking 94-ball 35. Just when he was settled and looking good to stay unbeaten at stumps, the right-hander threw his wicket away by playing a loose shot off Lungi Ngidi. Thus, Kohli's ardent fans continue to wait for the Indian skipper's 71st ton at the highest level. Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra opined on the Indian star batter's dismissal and while he stated that the manner of his dismissal is a 'concern', Nehra was quick to predict that a masterclass innings from King Kohli isn't far away. ALSO READ | He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer Nehra told on Cricbuzz, "You expect runs from someone like Kohli. He would be unhappy with his performance. But if you look at the stats, Kohli has scored runs in the previous away series in England conditions. He has the hunger to score hundreds and double hundreds and he would be a bit unhappy with himself today. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH "You expect Kohli to play those 135-150 kmph deliveries on the front foot but when the ball starts moving and gets bounce too, any player would face difficulties. We haven't seen the Kohli whom we saw in 2-3 years but once he gets out of this zone, he will be unstoppable. But Kohli's mentality and understanding of the game will help him score that much-awaited knock. He had scored 74 in the Adelaide Test against Australia this year and another such knock isn't far away," added Nehra. Talking about the first Test, Day 2 of the series opener got washed out on Monday (December 27) without a ball being bowled due to rain showers. India will resume from 272-3 on the third day's morning session and hope to negate any threat from the Proteas bowlers before accelerating. Kohli-led India have started really well and will hope their bowlers produce the goods to claim 20 wickets in the rain-marred Centurion Test.

Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Ex-India pacer Ashish Nehra predicts a top knock from Virat Kohli 'isn't far away'

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016. He was touted to become the head coach back then itself but the position went to Anil Kumble. After a year, Shastri got the top post as his tenure officially commenced from mid-2017.

Under Shastri, India achieved sizeable success across all forms of the game. The former Indian all-rounder guided India to success in Sri Lanka, West Indies, two Test series wins in a row in Australia, helped the team take an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the UK early this year, led them to the WTC finals and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In addition, he guided the side to ODI series wins in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and T20I bilateral series triumphs in SENA countries.

At home, India remained a dominant force under Shastri. However, he couldn't guide the side to an ICC title during his four-year-stint as his tenure came to a disappointing end with India's disastrous run in the T20 WC. Recalling Shastri's near-flawless stint as head coach, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar mentioned the biggest highlight of his ex-teammate's coaching career.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-used-to-get-upset-when-his-name-was-not-in-the-xi-ashish-nehra-heaps-praise-on-young-india-pacer-440445">He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer</a>

Gavaskar recalled Shastri's famous words after the defeat in Adelaide to&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;and said, "It obviously has got to be the way India bounced back earlier this year after being dismissed for 36 (in Adelaide Pink Ball Test). Because when something like that happens, the team tends to lose belief in itself, there is a sense of disappointment and there is a sense of giving up.

"And that is where Shastri played a huge role because from what I've read, is that he said that 'you wear this 36 like a badge'. And then Ajinkya Rahane, the way he led the side in the three Tests, and of course everyone stepped up. We played almost like an A team, not even the regular team. But every player who played in that, every replaced player came in and did well. And that is again tells you the kind of influence and input that Ravi Shastri had on the younger players and the fringe players who are waiting for their opportunities," added the Little Master.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/surprised-myself-with-how-calm-i-have-been-kl-rahul-reacts-to-his-truly-special-centurion-ton-vs-sa-440419">Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA</a>

Under Shastri, India were down and out in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy after the 8-wicket drubbing versus Australia in the series opener at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Nonetheless, the Kohli-less Indian side showed great character and fought fire with fire throughout the series to stage a comeback for the ages and eventually win&nbsp;2-1.&nbsp;

Now, Shastri has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach. Dravid-led Indian team is currently involved in the first Test, of the three-match series, versus South Africa in the African nation.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016. He was touted to become the head coach back then itself but the position went to Anil Kumble. After a year, Shastri got the top post as his tenure officially commenced from mid-2017. Under Shastri, India achieved sizeable success across all forms of the game. The former Indian all-rounder guided India to success in Sri Lanka, West Indies, two Test series wins in a row in Australia, helped the team take an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the UK early this year, led them to the WTC finals and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In addition, he guided the side to ODI series wins in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and T20I bilateral series triumphs in SENA countries. At home, India remained a dominant force under Shastri. However, he couldn't guide the side to an ICC title during his four-year-stint as his tenure came to a disappointing end with India's disastrous run in the T20 WC. Recalling Shastri's near-flawless stint as head coach, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar mentioned the biggest highlight of his ex-teammate's coaching career. ALSO READ | He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer Gavaskar recalled Shastri's famous words after the defeat in Adelaide to Star Sports and said, "It obviously has got to be the way India bounced back earlier this year after being dismissed for 36 (in Adelaide Pink Ball Test). Because when something like that happens, the team tends to lose belief in itself, there is a sense of disappointment and there is a sense of giving up. "And that is where Shastri played a huge role because from what I've read, is that he said that 'you wear this 36 like a badge'. And then Ajinkya Rahane, the way he led the side in the three Tests, and of course everyone stepped up. We played almost like an A team, not even the regular team. But every player who played in that, every replaced player came in and did well. And that is again tells you the kind of influence and input that Ravi Shastri had on the younger players and the fringe players who are waiting for their opportunities," added the Little Master. ALSO READ | Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA Under Shastri, India were down and out in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy after the 8-wicket drubbing versus Australia in the series opener at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Nonetheless, the Kohli-less Indian side showed great character and fought fire with fire throughout the series to stage a comeback for the ages and eventually win 2-1. Now, Shastri has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach. Dravid-led Indian team is currently involved in the first Test, of the three-match series, versus South Africa in the African nation.

Gavaskar recalls Shastri's journey as coach, mentions biggest highlight of his 4-year stint with Team India

Team India enjoyed the services of MS Dhoni as mentor for the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The move was made by the BCCI so that Dhoni's presence would help the youngsters in an ICC event and guide the team to their first-ever ICC-trophy since 2013.

While India's campaign was disappointing, to say the least, Dhoni's presence as a mentor was much appreciated in the cricketing fraternity. Now, former Indian pacer Atul Wassan has dropped a bomb and explained why the ex-Indian captain was actually appointed as the mentor for the showpiece event, where Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue failed to make it to the semi-finals.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-has-been-an-impeccable-leader-ravi-shastri-praises-indian-test-captain-ahead-of-sa-series-439391">'Virat Kohli has been an impeccable leader' - Ravi Shastri praises Indian Test captain ahead of SA series</a>

According to Atul, MS Dhoni was brought in as the mentor of the national side to bring some balance into the way decisions were being made by the team management, led by Kohli and then head coach Ravi Shastri.

"I'll tell you. Dhoni was brought in just to keep some balance because everybody had a feeling that Virat and Ravi Shastri were totally handling, selecting, managing whoever they wanted to play,"&nbsp;Wasan said in a chat on CNN News 18.

"They were controlling Indian cricket. So, they (BCCI) thought somebody should come in with some kind of value who would just monitor that there is a balance. I think they messed up greatly in the World Cup,"&nbsp;the ex-India quick pointed out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-vs-bcci-dont-know-why-there-was-any-statement-by-sourav-ganguly-says-sanjay-manjrekar-439302">Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar</a>

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket since early December, 2021. With Kohli being removed as the ODI captain and being succeeded by Rohit Sharma, there has been a huge outrage especially post Kohli's explosive presser before India's departure for South Africa. Thus, Kohli and the BCCI are now at loggerheads due to their contrasting statements on the turn of events with regard to the ODI captaincy saga.

Wassan also opined on the ODI captaincy change and said, "Here in India, once you have played a lot of cricket and you become a demi-god, the player expects to get some lineage, get some special treatment. This system needs to change.

"If you are not gelling well with the organisation and you have got a better option, players also have to stop feeling low or let down. Don't expect too much from the board because once you have a tap on the shoulder, you have got to take it as a man."

At present, Kohli-led Indian team is in South Africa for the three-match Test series in the African nation, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. It will be followed by the three ODIs, by when Rohit (who is ruled out of Tests due to injury) is expected to regain fitness and take charge of the team.

Team India enjoyed the services of MS Dhoni as mentor for the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The move was made by the BCCI so that Dhoni's presence would help the youngsters in an ICC event and guide the team to their first-ever ICC-trophy since 2013.

Team India enjoyed the services of MS Dhoni as mentor for the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The move was made by the BCCI so that Dhoni's presence would help the youngsters in an ICC event and guide the team to their first-ever ICC-trophy since 2013. While India's campaign was disappointing, to say the least, Dhoni's presence as a mentor was much appreciated in the cricketing fraternity. Now, former Indian pacer Atul Wassan has dropped a bomb and explained why the ex-Indian captain was actually appointed as the mentor for the showpiece event, where Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue failed to make it to the semi-finals. ALSO READ | 'Virat Kohli has been an impeccable leader' - Ravi Shastri praises Indian Test captain ahead of SA series According to Atul, MS Dhoni was brought in as the mentor of the national side to bring some balance into the way decisions were being made by the team management, led by Kohli and then head coach Ravi Shastri. "I'll tell you. Dhoni was brought in just to keep some balance because everybody had a feeling that Virat and Ravi Shastri were totally handling, selecting, managing whoever they wanted to play," Wasan said in a chat on CNN News 18. "They were controlling Indian cricket. So, they (BCCI) thought somebody should come in with some kind of value who would just monitor that there is a balance. I think they messed up greatly in the World Cup," the ex-India quick pointed out. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar A lot has transpired in Indian cricket since early December, 2021. With Kohli being removed as the ODI captain and being succeeded by Rohit Sharma, there has been a huge outrage especially post Kohli's explosive presser before India's departure for South Africa. Thus, Kohli and the BCCI are now at loggerheads due to their contrasting statements on the turn of events with regard to the ODI captaincy saga. Wassan also opined on the ODI captaincy change and said, "Here in India, once you have played a lot of cricket and you become a demi-god, the player expects to get some lineage, get some special treatment. This system needs to change. "If you are not gelling well with the organisation and you have got a better option, players also have to stop feeling low or let down. Don't expect too much from the board because once you have a tap on the shoulder, you have got to take it as a man." At present, Kohli-led Indian team is in South Africa for the three-match Test series in the African nation, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. It will be followed by the three ODIs, by when Rohit (who is ruled out of Tests due to injury) is expected to regain fitness and take charge of the team.

Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC

Indian cricket hasn't been at ease in the past few weeks. After BCCI appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, it led to widespread reactions. While Kohli addressed the press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, and made it clear that he has no issues with Rohit, he made some glaring remarks.

The 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims that he was never asked to reconsider quitting as T20I captain. Moreover, he revealed that he was told about his ODI captaincy sacking just sometime before the official announcement took place. In addition, he denied claims (made by a board member) that he was looking to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and BCCI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-virat-kohlis-relation-with-rahul-dravid-will-be-good-in-long-run-predicts-danish-kaneria-439563">Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria</a>

Amid all this, there has been several reactions by former cricketers on the ODI captaincy row. Now, former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has also opened up on the whole episode and has acknowledged 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence as head coach in the national setup amid such troubled times.&nbsp;

"Lately, Indian cricket has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. Indian captain Virat Kohli's press conference before leaving for South Africa created a storm and Sourav Ganguly too got dragged into it," Kaif wrote in his column for India.com

"Thankfully for Indian cricket, they had a trouble-shooter in place. We know him by the name of Rahul Dravid, the new Head Coach of the Indian cricket team. Having played with and under Rahul bhai, I can safely tell you that if there was ever a man to handle the ship of the Indian team, it is him."

"I say this with quiet confidence as Dravid himself has seen a lot of ups and downs in his times as a former India cricketer and captain. He was leading India when Greg Chappell was around as a coach. He was captain of Rajasthan Royals when the spot-fixing and match-fixing controversy happened in 2013," mentioned Kaif.&nbsp;

He added, "As captain these phases tested him but he came out on top. His communication skills, patience, ability to handle egos and above all his selflessness worked in his favour."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

Following Kohli's explosive press conference, BCCI President Ganguly made it clear that the board will not react to the former's statements at present as India have plenty of cricketing action in the near future.

It will be interesting to see how Kohli-Dravid take Indian team forward in the forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The three Tests starts on December 26 in Centurion, which will be followed by the three ODIs in early January, 2022.

Indian cricket hasn't been at ease in the past few weeks. After BCCI appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, it led to widespread reactions.

Indian cricket hasn't been at ease in the past few weeks. After BCCI appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, it led to widespread reactions. While Kohli addressed the press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, and made it clear that he has no issues with Rohit, he made some glaring remarks. The 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims that he was never asked to reconsider quitting as T20I captain. Moreover, he revealed that he was told about his ODI captaincy sacking just sometime before the official announcement took place. In addition, he denied claims (made by a board member) that he was looking to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and BCCI. ALSO READ | Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria Amid all this, there has been several reactions by former cricketers on the ODI captaincy row. Now, former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has also opened up on the whole episode and has acknowledged 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence as head coach in the national setup amid such troubled times. "Lately, Indian cricket has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. Indian captain Virat Kohli's press conference before leaving for South Africa created a storm and Sourav Ganguly too got dragged into it," Kaif wrote in his column for India.com "Thankfully for Indian cricket, they had a trouble-shooter in place. We know him by the name of Rahul Dravid, the new Head Coach of the Indian cricket team. Having played with and under Rahul bhai, I can safely tell you that if there was ever a man to handle the ship of the Indian team, it is him." "I say this with quiet confidence as Dravid himself has seen a lot of ups and downs in his times as a former India cricketer and captain. He was leading India when Greg Chappell was around as a coach. He was captain of Rajasthan Royals when the spot-fixing and match-fixing controversy happened in 2013," mentioned Kaif. He added, "As captain these phases tested him but he came out on top. His communication skills, patience, ability to handle egos and above all his selflessness worked in his favour." ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC Following Kohli's explosive press conference, BCCI President Ganguly made it clear that the board will not react to the former's statements at present as India have plenty of cricketing action in the near future. It will be interesting to see how Kohli-Dravid take Indian team forward in the forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The three Tests starts on December 26 in Centurion, which will be followed by the three ODIs in early January, 2022.

Md Kaif acknowledges 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence in Team India amid Virat Kohli vs BCCI row

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup. On the other hand, BCCI recently sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper.

Ahead of India's tour-opener versus South Africa in Centurion, on December 26, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a big claim on the partnership of Kohli-Dravid, who are the captain-coach in the Test format for the national side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-retires-draws-curtains-to-glorious-23-year-long-international-career-439548">Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career</a>

By now, all the cricket fans are well aware of the rusty relations between Kohli and the BCCI post the ODI captaincy switch. After being sacked as the ODI skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims, who had earlier stated that he had advised the former to continue as the T20I captain. Kohli also revealed that he had no prior communication with the national selectors before his sacking. Hence, the Indian Test captain's relations with Ganguly has gone down. In 2017, he had a fallout with then head coach Anil Kumble as well. Hence, Kaneria feels his relations with Dravid might also not be good in the long run.

"It's been two years, Virat has not made any century, so he needs to focus on his game. Speaking against legends like Sourav Ganguly and anyone else is not going to help him," Kaneria told IANS in an interview.

He further asserted, "Virat had problems with Anil Kumble, now he has problems with Ganguly. Kumble and Ganguly have proved themselves; they are the real ambassadors of the game. Virat is speaking against Ganguly who has changed Indian cricket and then MS Dhoni took it forward. Now Virat's 90-minute jibe is really not needed at this time."

"He is struggling to make runs in Tests and T20s. And as a captain, he has not won any ICC trophy, so everything is going against him. And now this blame game, I don't think this is going to help him as well as Indian cricket," Kaneria further explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

Kaneria added, "As far as Rohit Sharma is concerned, he's been an outstanding ambassador of the game; he has won five IPL trophies. His captaincy is impeccable; his camaraderie with Rahul Dravid is amazing. I don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Dravid will be good in the long run. Virat had a problem with Anil Kumble as well. Both Kumble and Dravid are coming from South India and they have big status in cricket. I played against both of them, and I know what kind of intellectuals they are."

It will be interesting to see how the relation&nbsp;between Kohli and Dravid will pan out going forward. At present, the Dravid-Kohli-led Indian team is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in Centurion, on Sunday (December 26).

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup.

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup. On the other hand, BCCI recently sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper. Ahead of India's tour-opener versus South Africa in Centurion, on December 26, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a big claim on the partnership of Kohli-Dravid, who are the captain-coach in the Test format for the national side. ALSO READ | Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career By now, all the cricket fans are well aware of the rusty relations between Kohli and the BCCI post the ODI captaincy switch. After being sacked as the ODI skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims, who had earlier stated that he had advised the former to continue as the T20I captain. Kohli also revealed that he had no prior communication with the national selectors before his sacking. Hence, the Indian Test captain's relations with Ganguly has gone down. In 2017, he had a fallout with then head coach Anil Kumble as well. Hence, Kaneria feels his relations with Dravid might also not be good in the long run. "It's been two years, Virat has not made any century, so he needs to focus on his game. Speaking against legends like Sourav Ganguly and anyone else is not going to help him," Kaneria told IANS in an interview. He further asserted, "Virat had problems with Anil Kumble, now he has problems with Ganguly. Kumble and Ganguly have proved themselves; they are the real ambassadors of the game. Virat is speaking against Ganguly who has changed Indian cricket and then MS Dhoni took it forward. Now Virat's 90-minute jibe is really not needed at this time." "He is struggling to make runs in Tests and T20s. And as a captain, he has not won any ICC trophy, so everything is going against him. And now this blame game, I don't think this is going to help him as well as Indian cricket," Kaneria further explained. ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC Kaneria added, "As far as Rohit Sharma is concerned, he's been an outstanding ambassador of the game; he has won five IPL trophies. His captaincy is impeccable; his camaraderie with Rahul Dravid is amazing. I don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Dravid will be good in the long run. Virat had a problem with Anil Kumble as well. Both Kumble and Dravid are coming from South India and they have big status in cricket. I played against both of them, and I know what kind of intellectuals they are." It will be interesting to see how the relation between Kohli and Dravid will pan out going forward. At present, the Dravid-Kohli-led Indian team is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in Centurion, on Sunday (December 26).

Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria

Team India's veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has announced his international retirement on Friday (December 24). The 41-year-old has had a stellar run at the highest level and finally decided to call it quits, drawing curtains to a glorious 23-year-long career in international cricket.

Harbhajan tweeted saying, "All good things come to an end and today as I bid adieu to the game that has given me everything in life, I would like to thank everyone who made this 23-year-long journey beautiful and memorable. 
My heartfelt thank you Grateful"

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
All good things come to an end and today as I bid adieu to the game that has given me everything in life, I would like to thank everyone who made this 23-year-long journey beautiful and memorable. 
My heartfelt thank you Grateful .<a href="https://t.co/iD6WHU46MU">https://t.co/iD6WHU46MU</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1474302128311062533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/once-virat-kohli-said-shastri-reacts-to-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-indias-limited-overs-captain-439523">'Once Virat Kohli said....' - Shastri reacts to Rohit Sharma's appointment as India's limited-overs captain</a>

Harbhajan shared a video along with his tweet and explained, "My journey from the streets of Jalandhar to the Indian team has been spectacular. I have never had the sort of motivation that I did when I was wearing the India jersey. But there comes a time when you have to take the tough decisions and move ahead. I have been willing to make an announcement for the past few years and have been waiting to share this moment with you.

Today, I am announcing my retirement from all forms of the game. Though informally, I had taken retirement before but couldn't announce it. I have not been playing active cricket for a while but due to commitments with KKR, I have wanted to stay with them. I had already decided to retire. Like every other cricketer, I wanted to say goodbye to this game in the Indian jersy but fate probably had something else in mind.

Whichever team I have played for, I have tried to help them finish at the top, be it Indian team, KKR, MI, CSK or the county sides."

Harbhajan ended as India's fourth-highest wicket-taker in Tests (417), also being the first-ever Indian to claim a hat-trick in the longest form of the game. In the white-ball formats, he accounted for 269 ODI and 25 T20I scalps. He was part of the national side's memorable 2007 T20 World Cup win and 2011 ODI World Cup triumph. He also played an integral role in India achieving the No. 1 rank for the first time in Test cricket in late 2009, under MS Dhoni's leadership.&nbsp;

Harbhajan also ended with 4 IPL trophies, playing for Mumbai Indians (MI), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Overall, he featured in 163 IPL matches, ending with 150 wickets (fifth overall).

Team India's veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has announced his international retirement on Friday (December 24). The 41-year-old has had a stellar run at the highest level and finally decided to call it quits, drawing curtains to a glorious 23-year-long career in international cricket.

Team India's veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has announced his international retirement on Friday (December 24). The 41-year-old has had a stellar run at the highest level and finally decided to call it quits, drawing curtains to a glorious 23-year-long career in international cricket. Harbhajan tweeted saying, "All good things come to an end and today as I bid adieu to the game that has given me everything in life, I would like to thank everyone who made this 23-year-long journey beautiful and memorable. My heartfelt thank you Grateful" ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC All good things come to an end and today as I bid adieu to the game that has given me everything in life, I would like to thank everyone who made this 23-year-long journey beautiful and memorable. My heartfelt thank you Grateful .https://t.co/iD6WHU46MU — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) December 24, 2021 × ALSO READ | 'Once Virat Kohli said....' - Shastri reacts to Rohit Sharma's appointment as India's limited-overs captain Harbhajan shared a video along with his tweet and explained, "My journey from the streets of Jalandhar to the Indian team has been spectacular. I have never had the sort of motivation that I did when I was wearing the India jersey. But there comes a time when you have to take the tough decisions and move ahead. I have been willing to make an announcement for the past few years and have been waiting to share this moment with you. Today, I am announcing my retirement from all forms of the game. Though informally, I had taken retirement before but couldn't announce it. I have not been playing active cricket for a while but due to commitments with KKR, I have wanted to stay with them. I had already decided to retire. Like every other cricketer, I wanted to say goodbye to this game in the Indian jersy but fate probably had something else in mind. Whichever team I have played for, I have tried to help them finish at the top, be it Indian team, KKR, MI, CSK or the county sides." Harbhajan ended as India's fourth-highest wicket-taker in Tests (417), also being the first-ever Indian to claim a hat-trick in the longest form of the game. In the white-ball formats, he accounted for 269 ODI and 25 T20I scalps. He was part of the national side's memorable 2007 T20 World Cup win and 2011 ODI World Cup triumph. He also played an integral role in India achieving the No. 1 rank for the first time in Test cricket in late 2009, under MS Dhoni's leadership. Harbhajan also ended with 4 IPL trophies, playing for Mumbai Indians (MI), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Overall, he featured in 163 IPL matches, ending with 150 wickets (fifth overall).

Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career

Former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri has reacted to the number of developments that have taken place in the senior men's cricket team post the end of his tenure. Post his exit, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Virat Kohli recently got removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma replacing him as the limited-overs skipper.

For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. In mid-September, the 33-year-old Kohli had revealed that the mega event in the UAE will be his last assignment as the T20I skipper. Thus, Shastri has opened up on Rohit taking over as the white-ball captain and the ODI captaincy row, created due to contrasting statements from Kohli and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-job-isnt-to-butter-everyones-toast-ravi-shastri-recalls-his-praise-for-kuldeep-which-crushed-r-ashwin-439515">My job isn't to butter everyone’s toast: Ravi Shastri recalls his praise for Kuldeep which 'crushed' R Ashwin</a>

Shastri told the Indian Express, "Once Virat said he didn't want to lead T20s, it opened for Rohit. He should be the white-ball captain. Rohit Sharma is the T20 captain now. He should be the white-ball captain."

On Ganguly and the ODI captaincy saga, the former all-rounder opined, "I see no residue. Just events and you react to those events. That aside, we are cricketers. Both of us know the game. That does not mean we will agree on everything. Interacted with Ganguly many times. With good communication, the Indian team situation can be handled better."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

At present, Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa for the three-match series versus the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. After winning back-to-back Test series in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, early this year, India will look to win their maiden series in the African nation.&nbsp;

Former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri has reacted to the number of developments that have taken place in the senior men's cricket team post the end of his tenure.

Former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri has reacted to the number of developments that have taken place in the senior men's cricket team post the end of his tenure. Post his exit, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Virat Kohli recently got removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma replacing him as the limited-overs skipper. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. In mid-September, the 33-year-old Kohli had revealed that the mega event in the UAE will be his last assignment as the T20I skipper. Thus, Shastri has opened up on Rohit taking over as the white-ball captain and the ODI captaincy row, created due to contrasting statements from Kohli and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly. ALSO READ | My job isn't to butter everyone’s toast: Ravi Shastri recalls his praise for Kuldeep which 'crushed' R Ashwin Shastri told the Indian Express, "Once Virat said he didn't want to lead T20s, it opened for Rohit. He should be the white-ball captain. Rohit Sharma is the T20 captain now. He should be the white-ball captain." On Ganguly and the ODI captaincy saga, the former all-rounder opined, "I see no residue. Just events and you react to those events. That aside, we are cricketers. Both of us know the game. That does not mean we will agree on everything. Interacted with Ganguly many times. With good communication, the Indian team situation can be handled better." ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC At present, Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa for the three-match series versus the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. After winning back-to-back Test series in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, early this year, India will look to win their maiden series in the African nation.

'Once Virat Kohli said....' - Shastri reacts to Rohit Sharma's appointment as India's limited-overs captain

India beat Australia in the four Tests during their 2018/19 tour Down Under to win their first-ever series in whites in Aussies' backyard. During the series, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah led the charge for India's historic win whereas the likes of Ishant Sharma, Captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav also played their parts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Back then, Ashwin accounted for six scalps in the series opener in Adelaide before injury ruled him out of action for the remainder of the Tests. Kuldeep featured in the last Test, in Sydney, and returned with a five-fer to earn words of praise from then head coach Ravi Shastri. At that time, Shastri labelled Kuldeep as India's best 'overseas spinner'.

Ashwin recalled Shastri's words, which 'absolutely crushed' him while he watched the proceedings from the sidelines due to injury concerns.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/difficult-to-maintain-former-indian-cricketers-react-to-r-ashwins-remark-on-ravi-shastri-438965">'Difficult to maintain....' - Former Indian cricketers react to R Ashwin's remark on Ravi Shastri</a>

Ashwin recently reacted to Shastri's remark and told in an interview with The&nbsp;Cricket Monthly, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia."

"But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success? I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series," he added.

Now, Shastri has reacted to Ashwin's statements and told the Indian Express, "Ashwin did not play the Test in Sydney and Kuldeep bowled well. So it's fair I give Kuldeep a chance. If that hurt Ashwin, I am very happy. It made him do something different. My job is not to butter everyone’s toast. My job is to state facts without agenda."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/felt-crushed-r-ashwin-recalls-ravi-shastris-huge-praise-for-kuldeep-yadav-during-2018-19-australia-tour-438692">Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour</a>

Ashwin, however, played a bigger role in India's second successive Test series win in Australia during the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. He returned with 11 wickets in 3 Tests to end as India's second-highest wicket-taker in their historic 2-1 series triumph over Tim Paine &amp; Co. Injury, however, ruled him out of action for the series finale at The Gabba, Brisbane.&nbsp;

At present, Ashwin-starrer Team India is gearing up for the series opener of the three Tests versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion.

India beat Australia in the four Tests during their 2018/19 tour Down Under to win their first-ever series in whites in Aussies' backyard. During the series, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah led the charge for India's historic win whereas the likes of Ishant Sharma, Captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav also played their parts.

India beat Australia in the four Tests during their 2018/19 tour Down Under to win their first-ever series in whites in Aussies' backyard. During the series, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah led the charge for India's historic win whereas the likes of Ishant Sharma, Captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav also played their parts. Back then, Ashwin accounted for six scalps in the series opener in Adelaide before injury ruled him out of action for the remainder of the Tests. Kuldeep featured in the last Test, in Sydney, and returned with a five-fer to earn words of praise from then head coach Ravi Shastri. At that time, Shastri labelled Kuldeep as India's best 'overseas spinner'. Ashwin recalled Shastri's words, which 'absolutely crushed' him while he watched the proceedings from the sidelines due to injury concerns. ALSO READ | 'Difficult to maintain....' - Former Indian cricketers react to R Ashwin's remark on Ravi Shastri Ashwin recently reacted to Shastri's remark and told in an interview with The Cricket Monthly, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia." "But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success? I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series," he added. Now, Shastri has reacted to Ashwin's statements and told the Indian Express, "Ashwin did not play the Test in Sydney and Kuldeep bowled well. So it's fair I give Kuldeep a chance. If that hurt Ashwin, I am very happy. It made him do something different. My job is not to butter everyone’s toast. My job is to state facts without agenda." ALSO READ | Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour Ashwin, however, played a bigger role in India's second successive Test series win in Australia during the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. He returned with 11 wickets in 3 Tests to end as India's second-highest wicket-taker in their historic 2-1 series triumph over Tim Paine & Co. Injury, however, ruled him out of action for the series finale at The Gabba, Brisbane. At present, Ashwin-starrer Team India is gearing up for the series opener of the three Tests versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion.

My job isn't to butter everyone’s toast: Ravi Shastri recalls his praise for Kuldeep which 'crushed' R Ashwin

The mega auction for the next edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is keenly awaited. After the eight existing franchises shared their list of retained players on November 30, the two new IPL teams in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad will get a chance to pick three players each -- among the non-retained list of players -- before the action moves to the mega auction. As per latest reports, the IPL 2022 mega auction is set to be held in the garden city, i.e. Bengaluru on February 7 and 8.&nbsp;

"Unless the COVID-19 situation worsens, we will have the IPL mega auction in India. The two-day event will be held on February 7 and 8 and like other years, we plan to hold it in Bengaluru. Preparations are underway," a senior BCCI official told the news agency PTI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-likely-dates-revealed-set-to-be-a-two-day-affair-438406">IPL 2022 mega auction likely dates revealed, set to be a two-day affair</a>

This time around, several top players are set to go under the hammer as the eight existing IPL franchises will look to revamp whereas the two new teams will build their respective line-ups after wisely choosing three players each prior to the mega auction. The likes of KL Rahul, Rashid Khan, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, David Warner, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jonny Bairstow, Faf du Plessis, Dwayne Bravo, Sam Curran, Pandya brothers and many others have not been retained. Hence, all eyes will be on them before as well as during the auction.&nbsp;

For the unversed, the auction was supposed to be held in early January, 2022. However, it has been delayed due to lack of clarity regarding the Ahmedabad franchise's future ever since the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI initiated an inquiry on CVC Capital Partners' association with betting firms. On the other hand, the RP Sanjiv Goenka Group-owned Lucknow franchise are on a signing spree at the moment. They have already signed Andy Flower as the head coach, Gautam Gambhir as the team mentor and named Vijay Dahiya as the assistant coach recently.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-virat-kohli-shadab-khan-names-star-indian-opener-and-david-warner-as-toughest-batter-to-bowl-at-439078">Not Virat Kohli! Shadab Khan names star Indian opener and David Warner as 'toughest batter to bowl' at</a>

With plenty of action in the shortest format in the run-up to the mega auction, in form of BBL, Syed Mushtaq Ali Tournament, etc., there will be several&nbsp;options for all the ten IPL teams in the star-studded event which is likely to be held in Bengaluru.

The mega auction for the next edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is keenly awaited. After the eight existing franchises shared their list of retained players on November 30, the two new IPL teams in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad will get a chance to pick three players each -- among the non-retained list of players -- before the action moves to the mega auction.

The mega auction for the next edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is keenly awaited. After the eight existing franchises shared their list of retained players on November 30, the two new IPL teams in the form of Lucknow and Ahmedabad will get a chance to pick three players each -- among the non-retained list of players -- before the action moves to the mega auction. As per latest reports, the IPL 2022 mega auction is set to be held in the garden city, i.e. Bengaluru on February 7 and 8. "Unless the COVID-19 situation worsens, we will have the IPL mega auction in India. The two-day event will be held on February 7 and 8 and like other years, we plan to hold it in Bengaluru. Preparations are underway," a senior BCCI official told the news agency PTI. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction likely dates revealed, set to be a two-day affair This time around, several top players are set to go under the hammer as the eight existing IPL franchises will look to revamp whereas the two new teams will build their respective line-ups after wisely choosing three players each prior to the mega auction. The likes of KL Rahul, Rashid Khan, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, David Warner, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jonny Bairstow, Faf du Plessis, Dwayne Bravo, Sam Curran, Pandya brothers and many others have not been retained. Hence, all eyes will be on them before as well as during the auction. For the unversed, the auction was supposed to be held in early January, 2022. However, it has been delayed due to lack of clarity regarding the Ahmedabad franchise's future ever since the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI initiated an inquiry on CVC Capital Partners' association with betting firms. On the other hand, the RP Sanjiv Goenka Group-owned Lucknow franchise are on a signing spree at the moment. They have already signed Andy Flower as the head coach, Gautam Gambhir as the team mentor and named Vijay Dahiya as the assistant coach recently. ALSO READ | Not Virat Kohli! Shadab Khan names star Indian opener and David Warner as 'toughest batter to bowl' at With plenty of action in the shortest format in the run-up to the mega auction, in form of BBL, Syed Mushtaq Ali Tournament, etc., there will be several options for all the ten IPL teams in the star-studded event which is likely to be held in Bengaluru.

Countdown begins! IPL 2022 mega auction likely to be held on Feb 7 and 8 in Bengaluru: Report

Team India are set to commence their tour of South Africa with the first Test to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the three-match Test series, former SA speedster Allan Donald has lavished praise on Kohli-led Indian team and expects a bumper contest between both sides in the forthcoming series in the African nation.&nbsp;

Despite not having the likes of Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Shubman Gill, Indian team is strong enough to challenge the Dean Elgar-led side in their own backyard. The No. 1 ranked Indian team will also be eager to win their first-ever series in whites in South Africa, after losing closely (2-1) during the 2018 tour.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-vs-bcci-dont-know-why-there-was-any-statement-by-sourav-ganguly-says-sanjay-manjrekar-439302">Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar</a>

Donald believes India have been very good while being on the road and can pose a serious threat to the Proteas. "There is no doubt this is one of the marquee series in the world game and we can look forward to an incredible battle over the summer," Donald was quoted as saying by cricket.co.za.

He added, "Kohli's comments a few years ago were that you'll never be classed as a great side if you don't win away from home and that has been something he really worked towards. You saw them win in Australia and also reach the WTC (World Test Championship) Final. This is a quality Indian team that is here. I'm looking forward to it."

Donald pointed out, "Both teams line up really well, both have strong bowling line-ups and that will mean the batting on both sides will be tested. Our batting has lost some key players in the last couple of seasons. There's no hiding from the fact that it’s a young line-up and they will be tested by the Indian attack."

"For me that is where the series will be decided. In the last few seasons, we haven't scored enough runs and that will be the challenge. If we can put the runs on the board, we undoubtedly have the bowlers who can take 20 wickets. There is a really good balance to our attack, and it will be interesting to watch."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-1st-test-msk-prasad-picks-4-pacers-for-kohli-co-as-experienced-campaigner-misses-out-439277">India vs SA, 1st Test: MSK Prasad picks 4 pacers for Kohli &amp; Co. as experienced campaigner misses out</a>

Recently, Kohli had recalled India's 2018 Tests versus SA and said, "South Africa was really the start for us as a team, travelling and starting to belief we can win series overseas. We built it up nicely in England, and Australia was an accumulation of all those efforts."

It will be interesting to see if India can achieve their first-ever Test series in South Africa. They are coming to the African nation on the back of two historic series wins in Australia, reaching the inaugural WTC final and taking an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests held in the United Kingdom early this year.&nbsp;

For India to do well, the likes of Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, Cheteshwar Pujara and Mohammed Shami will have to be on their toes and perform in all cylinders.

Team India are set to commence their tour of South Africa with the first Test to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the three-match Test series, former SA speedster Allan Donald has lavished praise on Kohli-led Indian team and expects a bumper contest between both sides in the forthcoming series in the African nation.

Team India are set to commence their tour of South Africa with the first Test to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the three-match Test series, former SA speedster Allan Donald has lavished praise on Kohli-led Indian team and expects a bumper contest between both sides in the forthcoming series in the African nation. Despite not having the likes of Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Shubman Gill, Indian team is strong enough to challenge the Dean Elgar-led side in their own backyard. The No. 1 ranked Indian team will also be eager to win their first-ever series in whites in South Africa, after losing closely (2-1) during the 2018 tour. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar Donald believes India have been very good while being on the road and can pose a serious threat to the Proteas. "There is no doubt this is one of the marquee series in the world game and we can look forward to an incredible battle over the summer," Donald was quoted as saying by cricket.co.za. He added, "Kohli's comments a few years ago were that you'll never be classed as a great side if you don't win away from home and that has been something he really worked towards. You saw them win in Australia and also reach the WTC (World Test Championship) Final. This is a quality Indian team that is here. I'm looking forward to it." Donald pointed out, "Both teams line up really well, both have strong bowling line-ups and that will mean the batting on both sides will be tested. Our batting has lost some key players in the last couple of seasons. There's no hiding from the fact that it’s a young line-up and they will be tested by the Indian attack." "For me that is where the series will be decided. In the last few seasons, we haven't scored enough runs and that will be the challenge. If we can put the runs on the board, we undoubtedly have the bowlers who can take 20 wickets. There is a really good balance to our attack, and it will be interesting to watch." ALSO READ | India vs SA, 1st Test: MSK Prasad picks 4 pacers for Kohli & Co. as experienced campaigner misses out Recently, Kohli had recalled India's 2018 Tests versus SA and said, "South Africa was really the start for us as a team, travelling and starting to belief we can win series overseas. We built it up nicely in England, and Australia was an accumulation of all those efforts." It will be interesting to see if India can achieve their first-ever Test series in South Africa. They are coming to the African nation on the back of two historic series wins in Australia, reaching the inaugural WTC final and taking an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests held in the United Kingdom early this year. For India to do well, the likes of Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, Cheteshwar Pujara and Mohammed Shami will have to be on their toes and perform in all cylinders.

This is a quality Indian team: Allan Donald recalls Virat Kohli's words from 2018 ahead of Centurion Test

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has joined the bandwagon and reacted to the Virat Kohli vs BCCI ODI captaincy row. Ever since the BCCI announced that Kohli has been removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma being appointed as the limited-overs skipper, things went out of hand in a flash.

While Kohli rubbished rumours of any rift with Rohit in a press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, he claimed that BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had no word with him to reconsider quitting as T20I captain (contrary to Ganguly's claims) and even stressed&nbsp;that he had no prior communication with the selectors being his sacking as ODI skipper. In addition, the 33-year-old Kohli said that he was always available for the upcoming SA ODIs, in the African nation, contradicting a claim made by a board member. Hence, it has been Kohli vs BCCI since then.

Now, Manjrekar has also reacted to the unfortunate turn of events and feels that Ganguly shouldn't have made any statement on behalf of the selectors post Kohli's removal as ODI captain. The BCCI President had said that he had advised Kohli to retain the top job in T20Is before the latter completely contradicted from his remark.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-wont-be-solved-if-you-keep-dragging-it-shahid-afridi-reacts-to-bcci-vs-virat-kohli-captaincy-saga-439254">This won't be solved if you keep dragging it: Shahid Afridi reacts to BCCI vs Virat Kohli captaincy saga</a>

"Three different captains for three formats is not an ideal scenario but if you are left with no choice and that's gonna get the best out of the three teams, then so be it. The one very important member of the Indian cricket administration is a guy who doesn't quite get the attention that he deserves. And that's the chairman of selectors," Manjrekar told&nbsp;Times Now.&nbsp;

"So I don't know why there should have been a conversation publicly or any statement given by the president of the BCCI when really it is the job of the chairman of the selection committee," he added.&nbsp;

"Miscommunications and all the misunderstandings, everything has been happening over the years. It should have been the chairman of the selection committee versus Virat Kohli. That would have been the right way to go about it. That would have been a more professional exterior,” Manjrekar pointed out.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ganguly-had-no-business-to-speak-on-behalf-of-selection-committee-vengsarkar-on-bcci-kohli-captaincy-row-439033">Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row</a>

Recently, former chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar had also blamed Ganguly for creating a ruckus by speaking on behalf of the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee. Speaking to&nbsp;Khaleej Times, Vengsarkar has slammed Ganguly and said, "It’s very unfortunate, the whole thing. I think it should have been handled more professionally by the cricket board. The thing is that Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of the selection committee. Ganguly is the president of BCCI. Any issue about selection or captaincy, it’s the chairman of the selection committee who should speak."

At present, Ganguly-led BCCI have refrained from commenting on the matter post Kohli's explosive presser. Meanwhile, Kohli-led Indian Test team is gearing up for the three-match series versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas which will get underway in Centurion on December 26.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has joined the bandwagon and reacted to the Virat Kohli vs BCCI ODI captaincy row. Ever since the BCCI announced that Kohli has been removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma being appointed as the limited-overs skipper, things went out of hand in a flash.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has joined the bandwagon and reacted to the Virat Kohli vs BCCI ODI captaincy row. Ever since the BCCI announced that Kohli has been removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma being appointed as the limited-overs skipper, things went out of hand in a flash. While Kohli rubbished rumours of any rift with Rohit in a press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, he claimed that BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had no word with him to reconsider quitting as T20I captain (contrary to Ganguly's claims) and even stressed that he had no prior communication with the selectors being his sacking as ODI skipper. In addition, the 33-year-old Kohli said that he was always available for the upcoming SA ODIs, in the African nation, contradicting a claim made by a board member. Hence, it has been Kohli vs BCCI since then. Now, Manjrekar has also reacted to the unfortunate turn of events and feels that Ganguly shouldn't have made any statement on behalf of the selectors post Kohli's removal as ODI captain. The BCCI President had said that he had advised Kohli to retain the top job in T20Is before the latter completely contradicted from his remark. ALSO READ | This won't be solved if you keep dragging it: Shahid Afridi reacts to BCCI vs Virat Kohli captaincy saga "Three different captains for three formats is not an ideal scenario but if you are left with no choice and that's gonna get the best out of the three teams, then so be it. The one very important member of the Indian cricket administration is a guy who doesn't quite get the attention that he deserves. And that's the chairman of selectors," Manjrekar told Times Now. "So I don't know why there should have been a conversation publicly or any statement given by the president of the BCCI when really it is the job of the chairman of the selection committee," he added. "Miscommunications and all the misunderstandings, everything has been happening over the years. It should have been the chairman of the selection committee versus Virat Kohli. That would have been the right way to go about it. That would have been a more professional exterior,” Manjrekar pointed out. ALSO READ | Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row Recently, former chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar had also blamed Ganguly for creating a ruckus by speaking on behalf of the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee. Speaking to Khaleej Times, Vengsarkar has slammed Ganguly and said, "It’s very unfortunate, the whole thing. I think it should have been handled more professionally by the cricket board. The thing is that Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of the selection committee. Ganguly is the president of BCCI. Any issue about selection or captaincy, it’s the chairman of the selection committee who should speak." At present, Ganguly-led BCCI have refrained from commenting on the matter post Kohli's explosive presser. Meanwhile, Kohli-led Indian Test team is gearing up for the three-match series versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas which will get underway in Centurion on December 26.

Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar

India is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the series, Virat Kohli-led Indian team have had several injury concerns with the likes of Rohit Sharma (newly-appointed vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel being ruled out.

Thus, Kohli &amp; Co. will have to be on their toes to get the better of Dean Elgar &amp; Co. and attain their first-ever Test series win on South African soil. For that to happen, India will have to start well and hope for Kohli to deliver with the bat. In 2021, the right-hander hasn't been at his best and has amassed only 483 runs in 10 innings, at 28.43, with four half-centuries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ganguly-had-no-business-to-speak-on-behalf-of-selection-committee-vengsarkar-on-bcci-kohli-captaincy-row-439033">Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row</a>

With no Rohit -- who is India's leading run-getter in whites in 2021 -- former South Africa spinner Omar Henry feels there will be pressure on Kohli both as batter and captain. "Rohit not being there is a big factor. He's been their most prolific of run-getters for a while, so make no mistake, there will be pressure on Kohli. He will be tested as a batsman and captain,” Henry, who is also an ex-chief selector," told Mid-Day in an interview.

Henry still feels India have it in them to beat SA in their own backyard despite the handful of wins (3) in the purest format, overall, in the rainbow nation. "I believe India have a window to break that losing sequence if they utilise their pace department well," he added.

On the other hand, the former cricketer also opined on the ODI captaincy row in Indian cricket, which erupted early this month after BCCI sacked Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit as the new limited-overs skipper. In this regard, he said, "(Rahul) Dravid the coach and the leader in Kohli should able to able to put all of that behind and concentrate on this important assignment. You are playing for your country. Nothing is bigger and personal issues have to come second."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-labuschagne-dethrones-root-to-become-no-1-test-batter-babar-reclaims-top-spot-in-t20is-439022">ICC Rankings: Labuschagne dethrones Root to become No. 1 Test batter, Babar reclaims top spot in T20Is</a>

During India's last Test series in the African nation, Kohli-led team were competitive right throughout but lost the three Tests 2-1 versus the Faf du Plessis-led hosts. Will the scoreline be in India's favour this time around? Only time will tell...

India is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the series, Virat Kohli-led Indian team have had several injury concerns with the likes of Rohit Sharma (newly-appointed vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel being ruled out.

India is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the series, Virat Kohli-led Indian team have had several injury concerns with the likes of Rohit Sharma (newly-appointed vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel being ruled out. Thus, Kohli & Co. will have to be on their toes to get the better of Dean Elgar & Co. and attain their first-ever Test series win on South African soil. For that to happen, India will have to start well and hope for Kohli to deliver with the bat. In 2021, the right-hander hasn't been at his best and has amassed only 483 runs in 10 innings, at 28.43, with four half-centuries. ALSO READ | Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row With no Rohit -- who is India's leading run-getter in whites in 2021 -- former South Africa spinner Omar Henry feels there will be pressure on Kohli both as batter and captain. "Rohit not being there is a big factor. He's been their most prolific of run-getters for a while, so make no mistake, there will be pressure on Kohli. He will be tested as a batsman and captain,” Henry, who is also an ex-chief selector," told Mid-Day in an interview. Henry still feels India have it in them to beat SA in their own backyard despite the handful of wins (3) in the purest format, overall, in the rainbow nation. "I believe India have a window to break that losing sequence if they utilise their pace department well," he added. On the other hand, the former cricketer also opined on the ODI captaincy row in Indian cricket, which erupted early this month after BCCI sacked Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit as the new limited-overs skipper. In this regard, he said, "(Rahul) Dravid the coach and the leader in Kohli should able to able to put all of that behind and concentrate on this important assignment. You are playing for your country. Nothing is bigger and personal issues have to come second." ALSO READ | ICC Rankings: Labuschagne dethrones Root to become No. 1 Test batter, Babar reclaims top spot in T20Is During India's last Test series in the African nation, Kohli-led team were competitive right throughout but lost the three Tests 2-1 versus the Faf du Plessis-led hosts. Will the scoreline be in India's favour this time around? Only time will tell...

With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test

Virat Kohli-led India is in South Africa and are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus the Proteas, starting on December 26 in Centurion. Before the national side left for SA, Indian cricket saw a new controversy take place after Rohit Sharma became the limited-overs captain, with BCCI sacking Kohli as the ODI skipper.

After Kohli lost ODI captaincy, having already resigned as the T20I captain, his explosive press conference left many stunned. During the presser, he denied being asked by the BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly to reconsider his decision of stepping aside as the T20I skipper (as selectors were reportedly keen on having only one leader in white-ball formats) and also stated that he didn't have any prior communication with the selectors before being sacked as captain in the 50-over format.

Speaking about the whole incident to&nbsp;Khaleej Times, former cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has slammed Ganguly and said that he had no business to speak on behalf of the selectors.&nbsp;

"It’s very unfortunate, the whole thing. I think it should have been handled more professionally by the cricket board. The thing is that Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of the selection committee. Ganguly is the president of BCCI. Any issue about selection or captaincy, it’s the chairman of the selection committee who should speak,” Vengsarkar said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-the-selectors-call-former-india-pacer-feels-bcci-was-behind-virat-kohli-being-sacked-as-odi-captain-438994">Not the selectors' call: Former India pacer feels BCCI was behind Virat Kohli being sacked as ODI captain</a>

He further asserted, "Ganguly spoke about the whole thing, obviously Virat wanted to make his case clear. I believe it should have been between the chairman of the selection committee and the captain. A captain is selected or removed by the selection committee, that’s not Ganguly’s jurisdiction at all."&nbsp;

"Yes, things should change now. Kohli, you have to respect him, he has done so much for the country, so much for Indian cricket. But how they dealt with him, it must have definitely hurt him," Vengsarkar added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-shouldve-learnt-from-greg-chappell-episode-ex-selector-on-bcci-virat-kohli-row-438933">Sourav Ganguly should've learnt from Greg Chappell episode: Ex-selector on BCCI-Virat Kohli row</a>

After Kohli's presser, Ganguly had made it clear that BCCI won't comment any further on the matter for the time being. At present, India is on South Africa tour and more outside noise -- due to the captaincy change row -- will dent the national side's chances of winning the upcoming three Tests and equal number of ODIs in the rainbow nation.

The onus, however, will remain on Kohli who will have to perform in all cylinders as his terms with the BCCI is far from ideal in the present scenario.

Virat Kohli-led India is in South Africa and are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus the Proteas, starting on December 26 in Centurion. Before the national side left for SA, Indian cricket saw a new controversy take place after Rohit Sharma became the limited-overs captain, with BCCI sacking Kohli as the ODI skipper.

Virat Kohli-led India is in South Africa and are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus the Proteas, starting on December 26 in Centurion. Before the national side left for SA, Indian cricket saw a new controversy take place after Rohit Sharma became the limited-overs captain, with BCCI sacking Kohli as the ODI skipper. After Kohli lost ODI captaincy, having already resigned as the T20I captain, his explosive press conference left many stunned. During the presser, he denied being asked by the BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly to reconsider his decision of stepping aside as the T20I skipper (as selectors were reportedly keen on having only one leader in white-ball formats) and also stated that he didn't have any prior communication with the selectors before being sacked as captain in the 50-over format. Speaking about the whole incident to Khaleej Times, former cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar has slammed Ganguly and said that he had no business to speak on behalf of the selectors. "It’s very unfortunate, the whole thing. I think it should have been handled more professionally by the cricket board. The thing is that Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of the selection committee. Ganguly is the president of BCCI. Any issue about selection or captaincy, it’s the chairman of the selection committee who should speak,” Vengsarkar said. ALSO READ | Not the selectors' call: Former India pacer feels BCCI was behind Virat Kohli being sacked as ODI captain He further asserted, "Ganguly spoke about the whole thing, obviously Virat wanted to make his case clear. I believe it should have been between the chairman of the selection committee and the captain. A captain is selected or removed by the selection committee, that’s not Ganguly’s jurisdiction at all." "Yes, things should change now. Kohli, you have to respect him, he has done so much for the country, so much for Indian cricket. But how they dealt with him, it must have definitely hurt him," Vengsarkar added. ALSO READ | Sourav Ganguly should've learnt from Greg Chappell episode: Ex-selector on BCCI-Virat Kohli row After Kohli's presser, Ganguly had made it clear that BCCI won't comment any further on the matter for the time being. At present, India is on South Africa tour and more outside noise -- due to the captaincy change row -- will dent the national side's chances of winning the upcoming three Tests and equal number of ODIs in the rainbow nation. The onus, however, will remain on Kohli who will have to perform in all cylinders as his terms with the BCCI is far from ideal in the present scenario.

Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row

Ever since the BCCI announced Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the 50-over skipper, there has been a huge outrage in world cricket. While many thought things might not be at its best between Hitman and Kohli, the latter cleared the air in an explosive presser ahead of India's departure for South Africa.

While many have reacted to Kohli's statements, where he has openly denied having any prior communication before being removed as ODI captain and also of not having been told to reconsider quitting as T20I captain by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly, former India pacer Atul Wassan has claimed that it must have been the board's decision to remove Kohli as the ODI captain and not the selectors'.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/made-him-my-obsession-ashwin-reveals-how-he-got-the-better-of-steve-smith-in-202021-ind-aus-series-438982">Made him my obsession: Ashwin reveals how he got the better of Steve Smith in 2020/21 IND-AUS series</a>

Wassan told on CNN News 18, "I think Virat wanted to carry on till the 2023 World Cup, and they have done well in one-day cricket. We have not won any big trophy but generally we have done well. He is the premium one-day batter in the world. It could have been handled better and there was no need to jump to an immediate reaction."

He further asserted, "Unless the board wants to send out a signal, that 'Virat… ok, enough is enough. You are not doing well and we haven't won much, so this is a penalty’. That's what happened. It is not the selectors' call; it is the board's decision."

"It's a culmination of many things, and the biggest factor is Virat's form. That has contributed. If Virat was doing well and even if India did not win, nobody would have touched him, and also Ravi Shastri's moving out. They worked really well. With Ravi Shastri going out and a new style of thinking coming in… Rahul Dravid is a no-nonsense guy. He would call it right away. And probably that rankling of what happened with Anil Kumble as well."

"All these things got piled up to point where people said, ‘alright, let us look forward’. Virat would feel that he has been hard done by. A collective thought must have circulated among the top brass. They must have thought that this is the right time to clip Kohli's wings so that he isn't allowed to what he likes, and especially with Ravi no longer being there," added Wassan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-shouldve-learnt-from-greg-chappell-episode-ex-selector-on-bcci-virat-kohli-row-438933">Sourav Ganguly should've learnt from Greg Chappell episode: Ex-selector on BCCI-Virat Kohli row</a>

2021 hasn't been very kind to Kohli. While he hasn't been able to break his century-drought, he couldn't even lead India to an ICC title in the WTC final as well as in the 2021 T20 World Cup. Moreover, he also lost captaincy in the white-ball formats and will now look to start afresh in the upcoming three Tests between India and South Africa in the African nation, starting on December 26 in Centurion.

Under Kohli, India have won a Test series in Australia and also have an unassailable lead in the five-match series against England in the United Kingdom. Hence, the 33-year-old will now look to lead India to their maiden series win in whites on South African soil and silence the outside noise, being against him in the aftermath of the ODI captaincy row.&nbsp;

Ever since the BCCI announced Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the 50-over skipper, there has been a huge outrage in world cricket.

Ever since the BCCI announced Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the 50-over skipper, there has been a huge outrage in world cricket. While many thought things might not be at its best between Hitman and Kohli, the latter cleared the air in an explosive presser ahead of India's departure for South Africa. While many have reacted to Kohli's statements, where he has openly denied having any prior communication before being removed as ODI captain and also of not having been told to reconsider quitting as T20I captain by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly, former India pacer Atul Wassan has claimed that it must have been the board's decision to remove Kohli as the ODI captain and not the selectors'. ALSO READ | Made him my obsession: Ashwin reveals how he got the better of Steve Smith in 2020/21 IND-AUS series Wassan told on CNN News 18, "I think Virat wanted to carry on till the 2023 World Cup, and they have done well in one-day cricket. We have not won any big trophy but generally we have done well. He is the premium one-day batter in the world. It could have been handled better and there was no need to jump to an immediate reaction." He further asserted, "Unless the board wants to send out a signal, that 'Virat… ok, enough is enough. You are not doing well and we haven't won much, so this is a penalty’. That's what happened. It is not the selectors' call; it is the board's decision." "It's a culmination of many things, and the biggest factor is Virat's form. That has contributed. If Virat was doing well and even if India did not win, nobody would have touched him, and also Ravi Shastri's moving out. They worked really well. With Ravi Shastri going out and a new style of thinking coming in… Rahul Dravid is a no-nonsense guy. He would call it right away. And probably that rankling of what happened with Anil Kumble as well." "All these things got piled up to point where people said, ‘alright, let us look forward’. Virat would feel that he has been hard done by. A collective thought must have circulated among the top brass. They must have thought that this is the right time to clip Kohli's wings so that he isn't allowed to what he likes, and especially with Ravi no longer being there," added Wassan. ALSO READ | Sourav Ganguly should've learnt from Greg Chappell episode: Ex-selector on BCCI-Virat Kohli row 2021 hasn't been very kind to Kohli. While he hasn't been able to break his century-drought, he couldn't even lead India to an ICC title in the WTC final as well as in the 2021 T20 World Cup. Moreover, he also lost captaincy in the white-ball formats and will now look to start afresh in the upcoming three Tests between India and South Africa in the African nation, starting on December 26 in Centurion. Under Kohli, India have won a Test series in Australia and also have an unassailable lead in the five-match series against England in the United Kingdom. Hence, the 33-year-old will now look to lead India to their maiden series win in whites on South African soil and silence the outside noise, being against him in the aftermath of the ODI captaincy row.

Not the selectors' call: Former India pacer feels BCCI was behind Virat Kohli being sacked as ODI captain

There has been a lot happening in Indian cricket at present. Before the South Africa tour, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's limited-overs captain. While Hitman had already succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain -- post the latter's resignation -- Rohit took over from Kohli in ODIs as the selectors went ahead with only one captain in white-ball formats.

While many speculated things weren't ideal between Rohit and Kohli post the ODI captaincy switch, Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the SA tour and contradicted from BCCI's claims; i.e. regarding T20I captaincy resignation, or whether he had prior communication before his ODI captaincy sacking and if he was willing to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and the Indian cricket board.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/main-objective-is-to-play-for-the-country-former-pak-captain-defends-bccis-silence-over-kohli-presser-row-438496">Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row</a>

In a video on his YouTube channel, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra feels that discussions should've taken place between the concerned parties before the ODI captaincy change took place.

"It could have definitely been handled better, let's be very very honest. There are a lot of things which could have been better where they could have asked or had a discussion. You don't actually need to ask when you are removing someone as a captain. You just need to tell but it could have been handled a little better, that you acknowledge that the captain has done very well but now you are moving ahead and all of that. That communication could have happened," Chopra opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-test-and-odi-series-against-south-africa-to-be-played-behind-closed-doors-due-to-covid-19-438506">India's Test and ODI series against South Africa to be played behind closed doors due to COVID-19</a>

He further also suggested that Kohli could've spoken to the board members or selectors to clear the air regarding his availability for the SA ODIs, when news were circulating that he is willing to skip the series (also stated by a board member). In this regard, he said, "Virat Kohli could have also picked up the phone and spoken to them, everyone whose statements he didn't like because it was not only sources but it came from the horse's mouth, there were BCCI officials in that."

"So let's discuss between the two of us like grown-up adults and the BCCI officials could have also done the same thing. Washing dirty linen in public is never a great thing. The rumor markets are again hot and then the same sources, the same drama, we come back to square one, which we don't want."

At present, Ganguly-led BCCI has refrained from commenting on the matter post Kohli's presser. On the other hand, Kohli-led Team India's Test side is in South Africa where they are gearing up for the three-match series opener at Centurion on December 26.&nbsp;

There has been a lot happening in Indian cricket at present. Before the South Africa tour, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's limited-overs captain. While Hitman had already succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain -- post the latter's resignation -- Rohit took over from Kohli in ODIs as the selectors went ahead with only one captain in white-ball formats.

There has been a lot happening in Indian cricket at present. Before the South Africa tour, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's limited-overs captain. While Hitman had already succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain -- post the latter's resignation -- Rohit took over from Kohli in ODIs as the selectors went ahead with only one captain in white-ball formats. While many speculated things weren't ideal between Rohit and Kohli post the ODI captaincy switch, Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the SA tour and contradicted from BCCI's claims; i.e. regarding T20I captaincy resignation, or whether he had prior communication before his ODI captaincy sacking and if he was willing to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and the Indian cricket board. ALSO READ | Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row In a video on his YouTube channel, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra feels that discussions should've taken place between the concerned parties before the ODI captaincy change took place. "It could have definitely been handled better, let's be very very honest. There are a lot of things which could have been better where they could have asked or had a discussion. You don't actually need to ask when you are removing someone as a captain. You just need to tell but it could have been handled a little better, that you acknowledge that the captain has done very well but now you are moving ahead and all of that. That communication could have happened," Chopra opined. ALSO READ | India's Test and ODI series against South Africa to be played behind closed doors due to COVID-19 He further also suggested that Kohli could've spoken to the board members or selectors to clear the air regarding his availability for the SA ODIs, when news were circulating that he is willing to skip the series (also stated by a board member). In this regard, he said, "Virat Kohli could have also picked up the phone and spoken to them, everyone whose statements he didn't like because it was not only sources but it came from the horse's mouth, there were BCCI officials in that." "So let's discuss between the two of us like grown-up adults and the BCCI officials could have also done the same thing. Washing dirty linen in public is never a great thing. The rumor markets are again hot and then the same sources, the same drama, we come back to square one, which we don't want." At present, Ganguly-led BCCI has refrained from commenting on the matter post Kohli's presser. On the other hand, Kohli-led Team India's Test side is in South Africa where they are gearing up for the three-match series opener at Centurion on December 26.

'Virat Kohli could've picked up the phone...' - Aakash Chopra opines on Team India's ODI captaincy row

R Ashwin remains one of the key players for Team India. Debuting for the national side in 2010, the wily off-spinner was part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious run in the 2011 ODI World Cup. From thereon, he made his Test debut in late 2011 and remains an integral part of the Test line-up. On the other hand, he has now also made a comeback in the limited-overs setup after being out of contention for over four years.

Ahead of India's tour of South Africa, where they play three Tests and as many ODIs in the African nation, the 35-year-old made heads turn in a recent interview with The Cricket Monthly&nbsp;by saying that he was contemplating retiring from the game between 2018-2020.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-couldve-picked-up-the-phone-aakash-chopra-opines-on-team-indias-odi-captaincy-row-438647">'Virat Kohli could've picked up the phone...' - Aakash Chopra opines on Team India's ODI captaincy row</a>

Ashwin told, "Between 2018 and 2020, I contemplated giving up the sport at various points. I thought, 'I have put in a lot of effort, but it is not coming through.' The harder I tried, the farther it felt. Especially with athletic pubalgia and the patellar tendonitis (injury concerns) - I used to bowl six balls and then I used to be gasping for breath. And there would be pain all over the place.&nbsp;

"So you needed to make adjustments. When the knee pain got excruciating, the next ball I would probably jump less. When I jumped less, obviously the force needs to be produced through the core and the back and the shoulders, so the pubalgia would act up. So the third ball I would be extra side-on to try to use the hips. By the time I was done with six balls, I would be like, "I need a break here," he said in the interview while reflecting on his spat of injuries between the said period which brought his performances down as well to an extend.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-test-and-odi-series-against-south-africa-to-be-played-behind-closed-doors-due-to-covid-19-438506">India's Test and ODI series against South Africa to be played behind closed doors due to COVID-19</a>

"I contemplated retirement for a lot of reasons. I felt like people were not sensitive enough to my injuries. I felt like a lot of people were backed, why not me? I have done no less. I have won a lot of games for the team, and I am not feeling backed. I don't usually look for help, that somebody needs to back me, that somebody needs to cushion me or give me empathy. I felt I was not being able to be excellent and felt I needed a shoulder to lean on. It was not happening. I thought maybe I should try to find something else and be excellent at that," Ashwin asserted.

Despite batting several injuries since mid-2018, Ashwin has remained a part of India's Test line-up and was a vital cog in their Test series win in Australia in 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy edition and also taking India to the inaugural WTC final. Moreover, he has also impressed with 9 wickets in 5 T20Is ever since returning into the limited-overs setup.

Ashwin will next be seen in India's three-match Test series versus South Africa, which commences on December 26 at Centurion.

R Ashwin remains one of the key players for Team India. Debuting for the national side in 2010, the wily off-spinner was part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious run in the 2011 ODI World Cup.

R Ashwin remains one of the key players for Team India. Debuting for the national side in 2010, the wily off-spinner was part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious run in the 2011 ODI World Cup. From thereon, he made his Test debut in late 2011 and remains an integral part of the Test line-up. On the other hand, he has now also made a comeback in the limited-overs setup after being out of contention for over four years. Ahead of India's tour of South Africa, where they play three Tests and as many ODIs in the African nation, the 35-year-old made heads turn in a recent interview with The Cricket Monthly by saying that he was contemplating retiring from the game between 2018-2020. ALSO READ | 'Virat Kohli could've picked up the phone...' - Aakash Chopra opines on Team India's ODI captaincy row Ashwin told, "Between 2018 and 2020, I contemplated giving up the sport at various points. I thought, 'I have put in a lot of effort, but it is not coming through.' The harder I tried, the farther it felt. Especially with athletic pubalgia and the patellar tendonitis (injury concerns) - I used to bowl six balls and then I used to be gasping for breath. And there would be pain all over the place. "So you needed to make adjustments. When the knee pain got excruciating, the next ball I would probably jump less. When I jumped less, obviously the force needs to be produced through the core and the back and the shoulders, so the pubalgia would act up. So the third ball I would be extra side-on to try to use the hips. By the time I was done with six balls, I would be like, "I need a break here," he said in the interview while reflecting on his spat of injuries between the said period which brought his performances down as well to an extend. ALSO READ | India's Test and ODI series against South Africa to be played behind closed doors due to COVID-19 "I contemplated retirement for a lot of reasons. I felt like people were not sensitive enough to my injuries. I felt like a lot of people were backed, why not me? I have done no less. I have won a lot of games for the team, and I am not feeling backed. I don't usually look for help, that somebody needs to back me, that somebody needs to cushion me or give me empathy. I felt I was not being able to be excellent and felt I needed a shoulder to lean on. It was not happening. I thought maybe I should try to find something else and be excellent at that," Ashwin asserted. Despite batting several injuries since mid-2018, Ashwin has remained a part of India's Test line-up and was a vital cog in their Test series win in Australia in 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy edition and also taking India to the inaugural WTC final. Moreover, he has also impressed with 9 wickets in 5 T20Is ever since returning into the limited-overs setup. Ashwin will next be seen in India's three-match Test series versus South Africa, which commences on December 26 at Centurion.

I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20

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

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

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

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

MS Dhoni remains a big name in international cricket. The wicketkeeper-batsman made his international debut in late 2004 and soon became a household name for his hairstyle, power-hitting and leading India to the inaugural T20 World Cup title in 2007.&nbsp;

From thereon, there was no stopping Dhoni. The former Indian cricketer led the national side to all three major ICC titles, amassed over 17,000 runs across formats, accounted for 634 catches, 195 stumping and still remains India's second-highest six-hitter overall. While the 40-year-old was always in the middle of the action in the 22-yard cricket strip, and remains the same while representing Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL, he has always shied away from social media platforms.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-likely-to-announce-retirement-set-to-join-support-staff-of-high-profile-ipl-team-report-434854">Harbhajan Singh likely to announce retirement, set to join support staff of high-profile IPL team - Report</a>

However, Dhoni was fairly more active on social media platform Twitter in 2012. Back then, Dhoni had posted something on the micro-blogging site when a user asked him to focus on the game. To this, the keeper-batsman gave a cheeky response and won the internet. Here's what he wrote:

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/urssrilu666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@urssrilu666</a> sir yes sir, any tips sir
— Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni/status/225144124242788352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2012</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2011-world-cup-heroes-reunite-ms-dhoni-and-yuvraj-singhs-meet-up-makes-cricket-fans-nostalgic-watch-434814">2011 World Cup heroes reunite: MS Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh's meet-up makes cricket fans nostalgic - WATCH</a>

At present, Dhoni is hardly active on Twitter. He, at times, shares some posts on Instagram but is mostly inactive.

The 40-year-old was recently retained by CSK ahead of the mega auction for IPL 2022. Leading the franchise to their fourth title in IPL 2021, Dhoni will now gear up to replicate the same feat in next year's edition, which will also feature two new teams in Lucknow and Ahmedabad.

Dhoni, an IPL legend, is the eighth-highest run-getter in the tournament history (4,746) and has most dismissals by a keeper (161).

MS Dhoni remains a big name in international cricket. The wicketkeeper-batsman made his international debut in late 2004 and soon became a household name for his hairstyle, power-hitting and leading India to the inaugural T20 World Cup title in 2007.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in international cricket. The wicketkeeper-batsman made his international debut in late 2004 and soon became a household name for his hairstyle, power-hitting and leading India to the inaugural T20 World Cup title in 2007. From thereon, there was no stopping Dhoni. The former Indian cricketer led the national side to all three major ICC titles, amassed over 17,000 runs across formats, accounted for 634 catches, 195 stumping and still remains India's second-highest six-hitter overall. While the 40-year-old was always in the middle of the action in the 22-yard cricket strip, and remains the same while representing Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL, he has always shied away from social media platforms. ALSO READ | Harbhajan Singh likely to announce retirement, set to join support staff of high-profile IPL team - Report However, Dhoni was fairly more active on social media platform Twitter in 2012. Back then, Dhoni had posted something on the micro-blogging site when a user asked him to focus on the game. To this, the keeper-batsman gave a cheeky response and won the internet. Here's what he wrote: @urssrilu666 sir yes sir, any tips sir — Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) July 17, 2012 × ALSO READ | 2011 World Cup heroes reunite: MS Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh's meet-up makes cricket fans nostalgic - WATCH At present, Dhoni is hardly active on Twitter. He, at times, shares some posts on Instagram but is mostly inactive. The 40-year-old was recently retained by CSK ahead of the mega auction for IPL 2022. Leading the franchise to their fourth title in IPL 2021, Dhoni will now gear up to replicate the same feat in next year's edition, which will also feature two new teams in Lucknow and Ahmedabad. Dhoni, an IPL legend, is the eighth-highest run-getter in the tournament history (4,746) and has most dismissals by a keeper (161).

THROWBACK: 'Any tips sir' - When MS Dhoni's cheeky reply to his critic won the internet

South Africa's foreign ministry has said that a "full bio-secure environment" will be created for the Indian cricket team when it lands here for a highly-anticipated series next month and lauded the BCCI for not pulling out its 'A' team despite the panic caused by the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant.

India A will start their second unofficial Test against South Africa A in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, staying put in the country despite the global trepidation that has followed the Omicron variant's discovery.

The Indian senior team will compete in three Tests starting December 17, followed by as many ODIs and four T20 Internationals.

Virat Kohli and his men are scheduled to land here by December 9 but there have been some concerns about the tour due to the Omicron variant's discovery in the region which has led to travel restrictions by several countries.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-r-ashwin-shares-how-harbhajans-2001-spell-vs-australia-inspired-him-to-become-a-spinner-432994">IND vs NZ: R Ashwin shares how Harbhajan's 2001 spell vs Australia inspired him to become a spinner</a>

"South Africa will take all precautions necessary to ensure the health and safety of the Indian teams. A full Bio-secure environment will be established around both the South African and Indian 'A' Teams as well as the two National Teams," the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), which is the country's foreign ministry, stated.

"India's decision to show solidarity by choosing to continue with the tour of the Indian 'A' Team stands in contrast with a number of countries who have decided to close their borders and to restrict travel from Southern African...," it added.

The ministry said that the South African government has expressed its appreciation to the BCCI for allowing the tour to continue and "for not letting travel restrictions negatively impact on international sports."

The first India-South Africa Test will be played at Johannesburg, followed by the second match at Centurion (December 26) and the third match at Cape Town (January 3).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-indias-tour-of-sa-go-ahead-amid-omicron-scare-bcci-and-csa-in-touch-monitoring-situation-closely-432980">Will India's tour of SA go ahead amid Omicron scare? BCCI and CSA in touch, monitoring situation closely</a>

"The tour of the Indian National Team marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa's readmission to international cricket." 
In 1991, India had become the first country to host a South African team after the country was banned from international cricket in 1970 by the International Cricket Council (ICC) due to the then South African government's apartheid policy.

"The anniversary will be celebrated by a commemorative event that will take place on January 2, 2022 in Cape Town. This event will also serve to highlight the strong ties between South Africa and India, which is once again demonstrated by the tour of the two Indian teams," the ministry statement read.

South Africa's foreign ministry has said that a "full bio-secure environment" will be created for the Indian cricket team when it lands here for a highly-anticipated series next month and lauded the BCCI for not pulling out its 'A' team despite the panic caused by the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant.

South Africa's foreign ministry has said that a "full bio-secure environment" will be created for the Indian cricket team when it lands here for a highly-anticipated series next month and lauded the BCCI for not pulling out its 'A' team despite the panic caused by the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant. India A will start their second unofficial Test against South Africa A in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, staying put in the country despite the global trepidation that has followed the Omicron variant's discovery. The Indian senior team will compete in three Tests starting December 17, followed by as many ODIs and four T20 Internationals. Virat Kohli and his men are scheduled to land here by December 9 but there have been some concerns about the tour due to the Omicron variant's discovery in the region which has led to travel restrictions by several countries. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ: R Ashwin shares how Harbhajan's 2001 spell vs Australia inspired him to become a spinner "South Africa will take all precautions necessary to ensure the health and safety of the Indian teams. A full Bio-secure environment will be established around both the South African and Indian 'A' Teams as well as the two National Teams," the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), which is the country's foreign ministry, stated. "India's decision to show solidarity by choosing to continue with the tour of the Indian 'A' Team stands in contrast with a number of countries who have decided to close their borders and to restrict travel from Southern African...," it added. The ministry said that the South African government has expressed its appreciation to the BCCI for allowing the tour to continue and "for not letting travel restrictions negatively impact on international sports." The first India-South Africa Test will be played at Johannesburg, followed by the second match at Centurion (December 26) and the third match at Cape Town (January 3). ALSO READ | Will India's tour of SA go ahead amid Omicron scare? BCCI and CSA in touch, monitoring situation closely "The tour of the Indian National Team marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa's readmission to international cricket." In 1991, India had become the first country to host a South African team after the country was banned from international cricket in 1970 by the International Cricket Council (ICC) due to the then South African government's apartheid policy. "The anniversary will be celebrated by a commemorative event that will take place on January 2, 2022 in Cape Town. This event will also serve to highlight the strong ties between South Africa and India, which is once again demonstrated by the tour of the two Indian teams," the ministry statement read.

South Africa promises secure bio-bubble for India; lauds BCCI for continuing 'A' tour amid Omicron scare

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in the third and final T20I at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Sunday evening (November 21). With the series already in their grasp, Rohit Sharma-led Indian team experimented by giving more opportunities to young stars and opting to bat first; given the Men in Blue's ordinary record at defending totals.&nbsp;

Batting first, Rohit-starrer India posted a competitive 184-7 in 20 overs, courtesy the skipper's 56 and vital contributions from the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Ishan Kishan and Harshal Patel. In reply, Martin Guptill was the lone warrior for the Black Caps as none apart from the opener's 51 looked comfortable as the Kiwis folded for a paltry 111 in 17.2 overs to lose by 73 runs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-rohit-sharma-salutes-deepak-chahar-as-csk-star-hits-massive-6-in-kolkata-t20i-watch-431189">Ind vs NZ: Rohit Sharma salutes Deepak Chahar as CSK star hits massive 6 in Kolkata T20I - WATCH</a>

Given that NZ were the T20 World Cup finalists, they would be disappointed with the 0-3 scoreline. However, newly-appointed Indian team head coach Rahul Dravid feels NZ were surely exhausted, coming into the series after a three-day gap post the T20 WC final versus Australia. In addition, they didn't have a full-strength squad with regular captain Kane Williamson being&nbsp;rested.

"We have to keep our feet on the ground and be a bit realistic about this win," Dravid said at the post-match presentation here. "Not easy for NZ to play a World Cup final and then to turn up three days later and play three games in six days, was never going to be easy for them. It was nice from our perspective but we have to learn from this series and move forward. It's a long journey ahead over the next two years and we'll have our share of ups and downs," added the former Indian captain.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-bizarre-team-indias-harshal-patel-gets-dismissed-hit-wicket-vs-nz-during-kolkata-t20i-431164">WATCH: BIZARRE! Team India's Harshal Patel gets dismissed 'hit wicket' vs NZ during Kolkata T20I</a>

After the 3-0 result, Rohit told at the post-match presentation, "It's important to start well. That's always been my mindset. Once you've seen the pitch you know what you've got to do. It was nicely coming onto the bat with the dew coming early. We had something planned as a batting group. Wouldn't say it worked out well. Room for improvement in the middle order. The batting front - KL missed out today but his form is critical. Middle order didn't get much opportunity except today. The spinners did the job for us in the entire series."

The action will now move to the two-match Test series, starting from November 25 at Kanpur. The visitors will surely like to settle scores with India in the Tests post the failures in the shortest format.

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in the third and final T20I at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Sunday evening (November 21). With the series already in their grasp, Rohit Sharma-led Indian team experimented by giving more opportunities to young stars and opting to bat first; given the Men in Blue's ordinary record at defending totals.

India and New Zealand locked horns with each other in the third and final T20I at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Sunday evening (November 21). With the series already in their grasp, Rohit Sharma-led Indian team experimented by giving more opportunities to young stars and opting to bat first; given the Men in Blue's ordinary record at defending totals. Batting first, Rohit-starrer India posted a competitive 184-7 in 20 overs, courtesy the skipper's 56 and vital contributions from the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Ishan Kishan and Harshal Patel. In reply, Martin Guptill was the lone warrior for the Black Caps as none apart from the opener's 51 looked comfortable as the Kiwis folded for a paltry 111 in 17.2 overs to lose by 73 runs. ALSO READ | Ind vs NZ: Rohit Sharma salutes Deepak Chahar as CSK star hits massive 6 in Kolkata T20I - WATCH Given that NZ were the T20 World Cup finalists, they would be disappointed with the 0-3 scoreline. However, newly-appointed Indian team head coach Rahul Dravid feels NZ were surely exhausted, coming into the series after a three-day gap post the T20 WC final versus Australia. In addition, they didn't have a full-strength squad with regular captain Kane Williamson being rested. "We have to keep our feet on the ground and be a bit realistic about this win," Dravid said at the post-match presentation here. "Not easy for NZ to play a World Cup final and then to turn up three days later and play three games in six days, was never going to be easy for them. It was nice from our perspective but we have to learn from this series and move forward. It's a long journey ahead over the next two years and we'll have our share of ups and downs," added the former Indian captain. ALSO READ | WATCH: BIZARRE! Team India's Harshal Patel gets dismissed 'hit wicket' vs NZ during Kolkata T20I After the 3-0 result, Rohit told at the post-match presentation, "It's important to start well. That's always been my mindset. Once you've seen the pitch you know what you've got to do. It was nicely coming onto the bat with the dew coming early. We had something planned as a batting group. Wouldn't say it worked out well. Room for improvement in the middle order. The batting front - KL missed out today but his form is critical. Middle order didn't get much opportunity except today. The spinners did the job for us in the entire series." The action will now move to the two-match Test series, starting from November 25 at Kanpur. The visitors will surely like to settle scores with India in the Tests post the failures in the shortest format.

'Not easy for NZ to...' - Rahul Dravid sympathises with Black Caps after India whitewash T20I series

A new era in Indian cricket officially kicks off later today. Head coach Rahul Dravid and new T-20 international captain Rohit Sharma have taken over the reigns of the side - and their first assignment is a home series against New Zealand.

New era in Indian cricket officially kicks off today

Team India bowed out of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition in the Super 12 round and will now be lead by Rohit Sharma in the shortest format. For the unversed, Virat Kohli had already announced that the T20 WC will be his last assignment as the captain of the national side in the shortest format.

With Rohit taking over, many are looking forward to how he will respond to the challenge of leading the national side in T20I format. Given that he is the most successful captain in IPL history, with five titles for the Mumbai Indians, expectations are high from the Hitman. Ahead of his tenure, former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi has opened up on Rohit's new role and also had a word of advice for Virat, the outgoing T20I skipper.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-or-ajinkya-rahane-selectors-divided-over-vice-captaincy-post-in-indian-test-side-report-428519">Rohit Sharma or Ajinkya Rahane? Selectors divided over vice-captaincy post in Indian Test side: Report</a>

"As far as Rohit is concerned, this was on the cards. I have played with him for a year (at Deccan Chargers). He is an outstanding player with terrific shot selection. He stays relaxed where required and shows anger when needed to as well. We will see both sides. Like I said, this captaincy move was bound to happen. He should definitely be given a chance," Afridi said on Samaa TV.

"I think Virat should take the decision to continue as only a player. There will be relatively less pressure, he has played plenty of cricket too. He will enjoy his cricket and batting because captaining a team is not easy, especially in countries like India and Pakistan. As long as you are captaining well, things go smooth," added Afridi.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pak-spinner-feels-t20i-retirement-on-cards-for-virat-kohli-says-two-groups-exist-in-team-india-428457">Former Pak spinner feels T20I retirement on cards for Virat Kohli, says 'two groups exist in Team India'</a>

It will be interesting to see if Kohli steps aside as the national side's captain across formats and continues only as a player. The 33-year-old currently holds the captaincy post in the ODI and Test setup.

Recently, former Pakistan spinner Mushtaq Ahmed predicted that Kohli will retire from the shortest format very soon, in order to stretch his international career. Only time will tell what is in store for King Kohli.&nbsp;

Team India bowed out of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition in the Super 12 round and will now be lead by Rohit Sharma in the shortest format. For the unversed, Virat Kohli had already announced that the T20 WC will be his last assignment as the captain of the national side in the shortest format.

Team India bowed out of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition in the Super 12 round and will now be lead by Rohit Sharma in the shortest format. For the unversed, Virat Kohli had already announced that the T20 WC will be his last assignment as the captain of the national side in the shortest format. With Rohit taking over, many are looking forward to how he will respond to the challenge of leading the national side in T20I format. Given that he is the most successful captain in IPL history, with five titles for the Mumbai Indians, expectations are high from the Hitman. Ahead of his tenure, former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi has opened up on Rohit's new role and also had a word of advice for Virat, the outgoing T20I skipper. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma or Ajinkya Rahane? Selectors divided over vice-captaincy post in Indian Test side: Report "As far as Rohit is concerned, this was on the cards. I have played with him for a year (at Deccan Chargers). He is an outstanding player with terrific shot selection. He stays relaxed where required and shows anger when needed to as well. We will see both sides. Like I said, this captaincy move was bound to happen. He should definitely be given a chance," Afridi said on Samaa TV. "I think Virat should take the decision to continue as only a player. There will be relatively less pressure, he has played plenty of cricket too. He will enjoy his cricket and batting because captaining a team is not easy, especially in countries like India and Pakistan. As long as you are captaining well, things go smooth," added Afridi. ALSO READ | Former Pak spinner feels T20I retirement on cards for Virat Kohli, says 'two groups exist in Team India' It will be interesting to see if Kohli steps aside as the national side's captain across formats and continues only as a player. The 33-year-old currently holds the captaincy post in the ODI and Test setup. Recently, former Pakistan spinner Mushtaq Ahmed predicted that Kohli will retire from the shortest format very soon, in order to stretch his international career. Only time will tell what is in store for King Kohli.

Shahid Afridi feels Rohit will have two sides as India's T20I captain, shares word of advice for Virat Kohli

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

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

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

Happy Birthday, skipper: Indian captain Virat Kohli turns 33

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

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

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

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

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