Team India players are currently involved in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition. Nonetheless, all the focus is on this year's ODI World Cup (ODI WC), which will be held in India in October-November. India will gear up to face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, soon after IPL 16 in early June, before the 50-over showpiece event kicks off later this year.

It is to be noted that India remains one of the top teams across formats but have not won an ICC title since 2013. Under MS Dhoni, India last won an ICC event during the 2013 Champions Trophy. Since then, they have reached the final of the 2014 T20 World Cup (T20 WC), semi-finals of the 2015 and 2019 ODI WCs and semis of the 2016 and 2022 editions of the T20 WC. In addition, they played the inaugural WTC final where they lost to New Zealand.&nbsp;

Thus, all eyes are on Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. to replicate Dhoni-led India's 2011 batch's ODI WC success later this year. Ahead of the showpiece event, Indian team is preparing and gelling well -- with several positives -- but are dealing with regular injury concerns and questions have also been raised on the frequent rests given to key players. In this regard, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar issued a stern warning to the Men in Blue.

"In a World Cup year any match missed means preparation gets hampered as the balance of the team gets affected. Another failure to win a World Cup will have repercussions that could possibly end a few international careers and that should be a red flag for those talking burnout and missing games for India." Gavaskar recently wrote in his column for Mid-Day

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-day-they-call-you-indias-future-next-day-they-say-you-should-drive-an-auto-md-siraj-on-online-trolls-578563">One day they call you India's future, next day they say you should drive an auto: Md Siraj on online trolls</a>

'BCCI needs to look into this concept of rest,&nbsp;a line needs to be drawn'

"I honestly feel that the BCCI needs to look into this concept of rest. All the Grade A cricketers have received very good contracts. They receive payment for every match. Tell me if there is any company whose CEO, or MDs get so much time off? I feel that if Indian cricket is to become more professional, a line needs to be drawn. If you want to be rested, you need to reduce your guarantees. Then you take rest, because you don't want to play. But how can anyone say that I don't want to play for the Indian team. Which is why I do not agree to the concept," Gavaskar has previously stated.

Before&nbsp;IPL 2023, India lost a home ODI series to Australia but still have plenty of 50-over games to play before the commencement of the 50-over World Cup. Will they lift the ODI WC after 12 years? Only time will tell...

Team India players are currently involved in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition. Nonetheless, all the focus is on this year's ODI World Cup (ODI WC), which will be held in India in October-November.

Team India players are currently involved in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition. Nonetheless, all the focus is on this year's ODI World Cup (ODI WC), which will be held in India in October-November. India will gear up to face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, soon after IPL 16 in early June, before the 50-over showpiece event kicks off later this year. It is to be noted that India remains one of the top teams across formats but have not won an ICC title since 2013. Under MS Dhoni, India last won an ICC event during the 2013 Champions Trophy. Since then, they have reached the final of the 2014 T20 World Cup (T20 WC), semi-finals of the 2015 and 2019 ODI WCs and semis of the 2016 and 2022 editions of the T20 WC. In addition, they played the inaugural WTC final where they lost to New Zealand. Thus, all eyes are on Rohit Sharma & Co. to replicate Dhoni-led India's 2011 batch's ODI WC success later this year. Ahead of the showpiece event, Indian team is preparing and gelling well -- with several positives -- but are dealing with regular injury concerns and questions have also been raised on the frequent rests given to key players. In this regard, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar issued a stern warning to the Men in Blue. "In a World Cup year any match missed means preparation gets hampered as the balance of the team gets affected. Another failure to win a World Cup will have repercussions that could possibly end a few international careers and that should be a red flag for those talking burnout and missing games for India." Gavaskar recently wrote in his column for Mid-Day Also Read: One day they call you India's future, next day they say you should drive an auto: Md Siraj on online trolls 'BCCI needs to look into this concept of rest, a line needs to be drawn' "I honestly feel that the BCCI needs to look into this concept of rest. All the Grade A cricketers have received very good contracts. They receive payment for every match. Tell me if there is any company whose CEO, or MDs get so much time off? I feel that if Indian cricket is to become more professional, a line needs to be drawn. If you want to be rested, you need to reduce your guarantees. Then you take rest, because you don't want to play. But how can anyone say that I don't want to play for the Indian team. Which is why I do not agree to the concept," Gavaskar has previously stated. Before IPL 2023, India lost a home ODI series to Australia but still have plenty of 50-over games to play before the commencement of the 50-over World Cup. Will they lift the ODI WC after 12 years? Only time will tell...

Another failure to win a World Cup could end few international careers: Gavaskar's stern warning to Team India

Former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq has always created a stir with his controversial statements. He had called Jasprit Bumrah a 'baby bowler' and openly claimed that Team India's star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is nowhere close to legendary former cricketer Kapil Dev. Recently, the ex-Pakistani player opened up on his controversial remark on Pandya.

In a conversation with Times of India, Razzaq said, "My earlier statement on Hardik Pandya was taken the wrong way. I didn't mean it. As a cricketer, I just said there is scope for improvement in him (Pandya). I didn't comment on a player who is from India, England, or Australia. I just said things as a cricketer. If Kapil Dev says that he wants to give advice to Abdul Razzaq, I will take this statement positively."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-simon-doull-aamer-sohail-debate-over-babar-azams-t20i-strike-rate-on-live-tv-during-afg-pak-tie-576243">Watch: Simon Doull, Aamer Sohail debate over Babar Azam's T20I strike rate on live TV during Afg-Pak tie</a>

'That was just a statement as a former all-rounder'

Razzaq further opined, "He can work on a couple of things which according to him are areas of improvement - in terms of foot movement, bat movement, and how to judge a delivery before it is bowled. That was what I meant earlier. That was just a statement as a former all-rounder. People took it the wrong way and criticised me as well."

He added, "Hardik is a complete all-rounder. But no one is perfect. Everyone needs improvement in certain areas. When I was playing, I also lacked certain things. Wasim Akram was the same, Imran Khan was the same, Kapil Dev was the same. But still, we consider them all to be greats of the game."

Hardik was last seen in action during India's home ODIs versus Australia, which Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. lost 2-1. He has represented India in 74 ODIs and 87 T20Is and hasn't played a Test since mid-2018. The 29-year-old will lead the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in the forthcoming IPL 2023 edition, which kicks off on Friday (March 31) in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

Hardik remains one of India's key players in the run-up to the 2023 ODI World Cup.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq has always created a stir with his controversial statements. He had called Jasprit Bumrah a 'baby bowler' and openly claimed that Team India's star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is nowhere close to legendary former cricketer Kapil Dev.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq has always created a stir with his controversial statements. He had called Jasprit Bumrah a 'baby bowler' and openly claimed that Team India's star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is nowhere close to legendary former cricketer Kapil Dev. Recently, the ex-Pakistani player opened up on his controversial remark on Pandya. In a conversation with Times of India, Razzaq said, "My earlier statement on Hardik Pandya was taken the wrong way. I didn't mean it. As a cricketer, I just said there is scope for improvement in him (Pandya). I didn't comment on a player who is from India, England, or Australia. I just said things as a cricketer. If Kapil Dev says that he wants to give advice to Abdul Razzaq, I will take this statement positively." Also Read: Watch: Simon Doull, Aamer Sohail debate over Babar Azam's T20I strike rate on live TV during Afg-Pak tie 'That was just a statement as a former all-rounder' Razzaq further opined, "He can work on a couple of things which according to him are areas of improvement - in terms of foot movement, bat movement, and how to judge a delivery before it is bowled. That was what I meant earlier. That was just a statement as a former all-rounder. People took it the wrong way and criticised me as well." He added, "Hardik is a complete all-rounder. But no one is perfect. Everyone needs improvement in certain areas. When I was playing, I also lacked certain things. Wasim Akram was the same, Imran Khan was the same, Kapil Dev was the same. But still, we consider them all to be greats of the game." Hardik was last seen in action during India's home ODIs versus Australia, which Rohit Sharma & Co. lost 2-1. He has represented India in 74 ODIs and 87 T20Is and hasn't played a Test since mid-2018. The 29-year-old will lead the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in the forthcoming IPL 2023 edition, which kicks off on Friday (March 31) in Ahmedabad. Hardik remains one of India's key players in the run-up to the 2023 ODI World Cup.

'If Kapil Dev says he wants to...': Abdul Razzaq opens up on his controversial remark on Hardik Pandya

Ravindra Jadeja has been promoted to Grade A+ in BCCI's recently-released central contract list. Jadeja has been on a roll ever since he returned to action after a long injury layoff with superlative performances during India's home series versus Australia. Thus, he has joined skipper Rohit Sharma, former captain Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah in the top-grade contract (salary of INR 70 million/7 crore).

KL Rahul, who got removed as the white-ball vice-captain and was dropped for the final two Tests versus Australia, has been demoted to Grade B. As many as five players have been included in Grade A (INR 50 million/5 crore) whereas there are six players in Grade B and 11 in Grade C.

Check out the full list:

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-wi-quinton-de-kock-hits-maiden-t20i-hundred-as-proteas-complete-highest-t20i-run-chase-in-centurion-576011">SA vs WI: Quinton de Kock hits maiden T20I hundred as Proteas complete highest T20I run chase in Centurion</a>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>PLAYER</td>
			<td>GRADE</td>
			<td>SALARY (in INR)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rohit Sharma</td>
			<td>A+</td>
			<td>70 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Virat Kohli</td>
			<td>A+</td>
			<td>70 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Jasprit Bumrah</td>
			<td>A+</td>
			<td>70 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ravindra Jadeja</td>
			<td>A+</td>
			<td>70 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Hardik Pandya</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>R Ashwin</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rishabh Pant</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Axar Patel</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Md Shami</td>
			<td>A</td>
			<td>50 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Cheteshwar Pujara</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>KL Rahul</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Shreyas Iyer</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Md Siraj</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Suryakumar Yadav</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Shubman Gill</td>
			<td>B</td>
			<td>30 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Shikhar Dhawan</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Shardul Thakur</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Yuzvendra Chahal</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Umesh Yadav</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sanju Samson</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ishan Kishan</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Deepak Hooda</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Kuldeep Yadav</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>KS Bharat</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Washington Sundar</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Arshdeep Singh</td>
			<td>C</td>
			<td>10 million</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Shikhar Dhawan, who has been dropped from the ODI setup, is one of the biggest names in Grade C. He has been replaced by Shubman Gill as Rohit's opening partner in the 50-over setup whereas he was out of the T20I line-up in late 2021 itself. Moreover, star pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's name was missing from the entire list.

All the star Indian cricketers are now gearing up for IPL 2023 edition, which kicks off on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Ravindra Jadeja has been promoted to Grade A+ in BCCI's recently-released central contract list. Jadeja has been on a roll ever since he returned to action after a long injury layoff with superlative performances during India's home series versus Australia.

Ravindra Jadeja has been promoted to Grade A+ in BCCI's recently-released central contract list. Jadeja has been on a roll ever since he returned to action after a long injury layoff with superlative performances during India's home series versus Australia. Thus, he has joined skipper Rohit Sharma, former captain Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah in the top-grade contract (salary of INR 70 million/7 crore). KL Rahul, who got removed as the white-ball vice-captain and was dropped for the final two Tests versus Australia, has been demoted to Grade B. As many as five players have been included in Grade A (INR 50 million/5 crore) whereas there are six players in Grade B and 11 in Grade C. Check out the full list: Also Read: SA vs WI: Quinton de Kock hits maiden T20I hundred as Proteas complete highest T20I run chase in Centurion PLAYER GRADE SALARY (in INR) Rohit Sharma A+ 70 million Virat Kohli A+ 70 million Jasprit Bumrah A+ 70 million Ravindra Jadeja A+ 70 million Hardik Pandya A 50 million R Ashwin A 50 million Rishabh Pant A 50 million Axar Patel A 50 million Md Shami A 50 million Cheteshwar Pujara B 30 million KL Rahul B 30 million Shreyas Iyer B 30 million Md Siraj B 30 million Suryakumar Yadav B 30 million Shubman Gill B 30 million Shikhar Dhawan C 10 million Shardul Thakur C 10 million Yuzvendra Chahal C 10 million Umesh Yadav C 10 million Sanju Samson C 10 million Ishan Kishan C 10 million Deepak Hooda C 10 million Kuldeep Yadav C 10 million KS Bharat C 10 million Washington Sundar C 10 million Arshdeep Singh C 10 million Shikhar Dhawan, who has been dropped from the ODI setup, is one of the biggest names in Grade C. He has been replaced by Shubman Gill as Rohit's opening partner in the 50-over setup whereas he was out of the T20I line-up in late 2021 itself. Moreover, star pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar's name was missing from the entire list. All the star Indian cricketers are now gearing up for IPL 2023 edition, which kicks off on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

BCCI central contracts: Ravindra Jadeja gets a PROMOTION, KL Rahul DEMOTED - Check full list

Shikhar Dhawan is in the last phase of his international career. At present, the 37-year-old cricketer isn't part of Team India across formats. However, Dhawan remains a big name in world cricket. He is known for his immaculate record in white-ball formats, especially in the ODIs, and for his positive approach and is a style icon for youngsters.

From his iconic moustache to several tattoos, Dhawan is a fan favourite. In a recent interaction, the swashbuckling left-hander opened up on a hilarious incident when he got his first tattoo and how he ended up taking an HIV test afterwards.

In an interview with Aajtak, Dhawan said, "When I was 14-15 years old, I had gone to Manali and had got a tattoo done on my back without informing my family members. I had to hide it for quite some time, about 3-4 months, and then when my father got to know, he beat me. I got a bit scared after doing the tattoo because I had no clue about the number of bodies that needle had pierced. So then I went and did my HIV Test and it's negative to date (laughs)."

<section>
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/decision-reversed-icc-modifies-india-australia-indore-pitch-rating-after-bccis-appeal-576171">Decision reversed! ICC modifies India-Australia Indore pitch rating after BCCI's appeal</a>

Dhawan was last seen in action for Team India during their three-match ODI series versus hosts Bangladesh in late 2022. Since then, he hasn't been part of the ODI squad whereas he was out of the T20I setup before 2021 T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

So far, he has featured in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs and 68 T20Is with&nbsp;2,315, 6,793 and 1,759 runs respectively. He has slammed 24 hundreds and scored 55 half-centuries overall.
</section>

Shikhar Dhawan is in the last phase of his international career. At present, the 37-year-old cricketer isn't part of Team India across formats. However, Dhawan remains a big name in world cricket.

Shikhar Dhawan is in the last phase of his international career. At present, the 37-year-old cricketer isn't part of Team India across formats. However, Dhawan remains a big name in world cricket. He is known for his immaculate record in white-ball formats, especially in the ODIs, and for his positive approach and is a style icon for youngsters. From his iconic moustache to several tattoos, Dhawan is a fan favourite. In a recent interaction, the swashbuckling left-hander opened up on a hilarious incident when he got his first tattoo and how he ended up taking an HIV test afterwards. In an interview with Aajtak, Dhawan said, "When I was 14-15 years old, I had gone to Manali and had got a tattoo done on my back without informing my family members. I had to hide it for quite some time, about 3-4 months, and then when my father got to know, he beat me. I got a bit scared after doing the tattoo because I had no clue about the number of bodies that needle had pierced. So then I went and did my HIV Test and it's negative to date (laughs)." Also Read: Decision reversed! ICC modifies India-Australia Indore pitch rating after BCCI's appeal Dhawan was last seen in action for Team India during their three-match ODI series versus hosts Bangladesh in late 2022. Since then, he hasn't been part of the ODI squad whereas he was out of the T20I setup before 2021 T20 World Cup. So far, he has featured in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs and 68 T20Is with 2,315, 6,793 and 1,759 runs respectively. He has slammed 24 hundreds and scored 55 half-centuries overall.

I did my HIV Test: Team India's Shikhar Dhawan shares hilarious episode of when he got his first tattoo

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition is keenly awaited. Every team is preparing hard for the marquee event which will be held in India entirely. As per a report, the 50-over marquee tournament is set to kick off in early October and will end by mid-November.&nbsp;

As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, the 2023 ODI WC will commence on&nbsp;October 05 whereas the finale will be held on November 19 at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The same report also suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the host of the ten-team tournament, has finalised as many as a dozen venues for the showpiece event.

Apart from Ahmedabad, the shortlisted cities are&nbsp;Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Dharamsala, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Indore, Rajkot, and Mumbai. It is to be noted that the tournament will be held in the round-robin stage, just like the 2019 edition, and will&nbsp;consist of&nbsp;48 matches including three knockouts across a 46-day period.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-team-india-shreyas-iyer-to-undergo-surgery-likely-to-skip-ipl-2023-wtc-final-and-odi-wc-574544">Big blow to Team India! Shreyas Iyer to undergo surgery, likely to skip IPL 2023, WTC final and ODI WC</a>

Why the delay from BCCI?

The BCCI has not specified venues for any games as of now, nor the two or three cities where the&nbsp;warm-up encounters will take place. It is learned that the delay in finalising the venues has been due to the threat posed by the monsoon season receding at different points across the nation.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) usually&nbsp;shares the World Cup schedules, at least, a year in the run-up to the event. However, much to the surprise of cricket fans worldwide, it hasn't been the case this time around. The wait has been prolonged as the Indian cricket board is&nbsp;yet to&nbsp;get the necessary clearance from the&nbsp;government.

The BCCI needs to get a tax exemption for hosting the mega&nbsp;tournament, and also acquire visa clearance for Team Pakistan. The Asian giants have not played a bilateral series in India since early 2013 and their last visit to their neighbouring country was during the 2016 T20 World Cup in India.

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition is keenly awaited. Every team is preparing hard for the marquee event which will be held in India entirely. As per a report, the 50-over marquee tournament is set to kick off in early October and will end by mid-November.

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition is keenly awaited. Every team is preparing hard for the marquee event which will be held in India entirely. As per a report, the 50-over marquee tournament is set to kick off in early October and will end by mid-November. As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, the 2023 ODI WC will commence on October 05 whereas the finale will be held on November 19 at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The same report also suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the host of the ten-team tournament, has finalised as many as a dozen venues for the showpiece event. Apart from Ahmedabad, the shortlisted cities are Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Dharamsala, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Indore, Rajkot, and Mumbai. It is to be noted that the tournament will be held in the round-robin stage, just like the 2019 edition, and will consist of 48 matches including three knockouts across a 46-day period. Also Read: Big blow to Team India! Shreyas Iyer to undergo surgery, likely to skip IPL 2023, WTC final and ODI WC Why the delay from BCCI? The BCCI has not specified venues for any games as of now, nor the two or three cities where the warm-up encounters will take place. It is learned that the delay in finalising the venues has been due to the threat posed by the monsoon season receding at different points across the nation. The International Cricket Council (ICC) usually shares the World Cup schedules, at least, a year in the run-up to the event. However, much to the surprise of cricket fans worldwide, it hasn't been the case this time around. The wait has been prolonged as the Indian cricket board is yet to get the necessary clearance from the government. The BCCI needs to get a tax exemption for hosting the mega tournament, and also acquire visa clearance for Team Pakistan. The Asian giants have not played a bilateral series in India since early 2013 and their last visit to their neighbouring country was during the 2016 T20 World Cup in India.

ODI World Cup likely to kick off on October 5, final on November 19 in Ahmedabad: Report

Team India has dealt with several injury concerns of late. While Jasprit Bumrah remains out of action since last September, Rishabh Pant is recovering from his horrific car accident. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer complained of back issues during the fourth and final Test between India and Australia, in Ahmedabad, and is now likely to miss IPL 2023, ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, and ODI World Cup.

As per a report in India Today, sources have confirmed that Iyer has been advised of surgery in his third meeting with a Mumbai-based doctor. Thus, the middle-order batter&nbsp;is expected to remain out of action for at least five months; ruling him out of IPL 2023 edition,&nbsp;WTC finale in early June, and possibly skipping the ODI WC at home as well.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-king-virat-kohli-to-ms-dhonis-protege-rishabh-pant-most-runs-in-an-ipl-season-574365">From KING Virat Kohli to MS Dhoni's protégé, Rishabh Pant: Most runs in an IPL season</a>

The 28-year-old Iyer&nbsp;will be touch and go for the 2023 ODI WC. However, it will be highly unlikely that the Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team management might consider the talented batter without playing him in the run-up to the showpiece event in the subcontinent.

Iyer was out of action due to injury concerns in the run-up to the 2021 T20 World Cup and even though he was included as a reserve, he didn't get a game. He didn't feature in a single game for Team India in the 2022 edition as well. Hence, if he is likely to miss the WTC final and the forthcoming 50-over WC, it will really be&nbsp;unfortunate for the youngster.

Moreover, the KKR franchise will also have to search for a new captain and batter as a replacement for Iyer. IPL 2023&nbsp;kicks off in less than ten days; on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Team India has dealt with several injury concerns of late. While Jasprit Bumrah remains out of action since last September, Rishabh Pant is recovering from his horrific car accident.

Team India has dealt with several injury concerns of late. While Jasprit Bumrah remains out of action since last September, Rishabh Pant is recovering from his horrific car accident. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer complained of back issues during the fourth and final Test between India and Australia, in Ahmedabad, and is now likely to miss IPL 2023, ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, and ODI World Cup. As per a report in India Today, sources have confirmed that Iyer has been advised of surgery in his third meeting with a Mumbai-based doctor. Thus, the middle-order batter is expected to remain out of action for at least five months; ruling him out of IPL 2023 edition, WTC finale in early June, and possibly skipping the ODI WC at home as well. Also Read: From KING Virat Kohli to MS Dhoni's protégé, Rishabh Pant: Most runs in an IPL season The 28-year-old Iyer will be touch and go for the 2023 ODI WC. However, it will be highly unlikely that the Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team management might consider the talented batter without playing him in the run-up to the showpiece event in the subcontinent. Iyer was out of action due to injury concerns in the run-up to the 2021 T20 World Cup and even though he was included as a reserve, he didn't get a game. He didn't feature in a single game for Team India in the 2022 edition as well. Hence, if he is likely to miss the WTC final and the forthcoming 50-over WC, it will really be unfortunate for the youngster. Moreover, the KKR franchise will also have to search for a new captain and batter as a replacement for Iyer. IPL 2023 kicks off in less than ten days; on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Big blow to Team India! Shreyas Iyer to undergo surgery, likely to skip IPL 2023, WTC final and ODI WC

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has backed Indian batsman Virat Kohli to break Sachin Tendulkar's record of 100 international centuries.

Akhtar, while speaking to media outlet Sporst Tak, however, said that Kohli should stick with Test and ODI formats only as T20 drains a lot of energy.

“As a cricketer, if you ask me, I feel he should stick with only Test and ODI formats. T20I format drains a lot of energy. He is a very excited kind of character. He wants to be out there, he wants to look good. He wants to have a good time in T20Is. He likes it. But at times, he needs to save his body. How old is he right now? 34 right? Easily he can play for about 6 to 8 years. If he plays 30-50 more Test matches, I'm sure it won't be difficult for him to score 25 centuries in those Test matches,” said Akhtar.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-shastri-backs-rahul-dravid-to-come-through-as-coach-gives-cheeky-reply-on-indias-lack-of-trophies-574107">Ravi Shastri backs Rahul Dravid to come through as coach, gives CHEEKY reply on India's lack of trophies</a>

The former speedster, however, said that reaching to 100-ton mark will be a daunting task for Kohli in terms of fitness and mental health.

“However, it will still be a daunting task for him in terms of fitness and mental health. Luckily, he is a strong guy, he is a Punjabi guy. It's great that he is in a good frame of mind. He is concentrating and having a good time with his cricket. So he should remain focused and cross the 100-century barrier. And India will reserve high praise for him. And all these trash talks about Babar Azam and Virat Kohli - these are great players. Who is bigger than Kohli or Babar in Asia? No one. So all these loose talks are done just to grab attention,” Akhtar added.

Notably, Kohli is second on the list of most international tons with 75 centuries. Kohli has scored 28 Test tons with the most recent one coming after nearly three and half years in the fourth Test against Australia in the recently-concluded Border-Gavaskar trophy.

Apart from that, Kohli also has 46 ODI centuries - three short of Sachin's world record of 49 and one in T20Is.

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Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has backed Indian batsman Virat Kohli to break Sachin Tendulkar's record of 100 international centuries. Akhtar, while speaking to media outlet Sporst Tak, however, said that Kohli should stick with Test and ODI formats only as T20 drains a lot of energy.

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has backed Indian batsman Virat Kohli to break Sachin Tendulkar's record of 100 international centuries. Akhtar, while speaking to media outlet Sporst Tak, however, said that Kohli should stick with Test and ODI formats only as T20 drains a lot of energy. “As a cricketer, if you ask me, I feel he should stick with only Test and ODI formats. T20I format drains a lot of energy. He is a very excited kind of character. He wants to be out there, he wants to look good. He wants to have a good time in T20Is. He likes it. But at times, he needs to save his body. How old is he right now? 34 right? Easily he can play for about 6 to 8 years. If he plays 30-50 more Test matches, I'm sure it won't be difficult for him to score 25 centuries in those Test matches,” said Akhtar. Also Read: Ravi Shastri backs Rahul Dravid to come through as coach, gives CHEEKY reply on India's lack of trophies The former speedster, however, said that reaching to 100-ton mark will be a daunting task for Kohli in terms of fitness and mental health. “However, it will still be a daunting task for him in terms of fitness and mental health. Luckily, he is a strong guy, he is a Punjabi guy. It's great that he is in a good frame of mind. He is concentrating and having a good time with his cricket. So he should remain focused and cross the 100-century barrier. And India will reserve high praise for him. And all these trash talks about Babar Azam and Virat Kohli - these are great players. Who is bigger than Kohli or Babar in Asia? No one. So all these loose talks are done just to grab attention,” Akhtar added. Notably, Kohli is second on the list of most international tons with 75 centuries. Kohli has scored 28 Test tons with the most recent one coming after nearly three and half years in the fourth Test against Australia in the recently-concluded Border-Gavaskar trophy. Apart from that, Kohli also has 46 ODI centuries - three short of Sachin's world record of 49 and one in T20Is. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'He needs to...': Shoaib Akhtar's advice to Virat Kohli if he wishes to break Sachin's 100-century record

The Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team is gearing up for the third and final ODI versus Australia, in Chennai, with the series levelled at 1-1. India will be eager to win the ODI series with the 50-over World Cup set to be held in India, which will be Dravid's last assignment as the head coach after taking over from Ravi Shastri in late 2021.

Before Dravid, Shastri coached India from mid-2017 till early November 2021. Prior to Shastri, it was Anil Kumble -- former Indian spinner and captain -- who coached India for a year. Under him, India beat New Zealand, England, Bangladesh, and Australia at home and reached the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy where Men in Blue lost to Pakistan.

When Kumble's initial one-year contract was about to end, there were rumours of a rift between then captain Virat Kohli and him. Thus, the search for a new coach began during Kumble's tenure end and not many know that former Indian opener Virender Sehwag had also applied for the top job.

"I wouldn’t have applied if Virat Kohli and then BCCI secretary Amitabh Choudhary hadn’t approached me. We had a meeting, and he (Choudhary) told me that things weren’t working out between Virat Kohli and Anil Kumble we want you to take the coaching position. He told me that Kumble’s contract will expire after the Champions Trophy in 2017 and then you can travel to West Indies with the team", Sehwag&nbsp;revealed while speaking on&nbsp;News18 India Chaupal.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virender-sehwag-names-indian-star-who-comes-close-to-his-style-of-batting-shares-an-advice-for-him-573887">Virender Sehwag names Indian star who comes close to his style of batting, shares an advice for him</a>

During the same interaction, Sehwag was asked if he has any regrets about not captaining Team India. To this, he said, "Not at all, I’m happy with what I achieved. Coming from a small family of farmers from Najafgarh I got the opportunity to play for India, got so much love and appreciation from fans and even if I would have captained Team India I would have gotten the same respect.”

Sehwag had a stellar run in international cricket, amassing&nbsp;8,586, 8,273, and 394 runs in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is respectively.

The Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team is gearing up for the third and final ODI versus Australia, in Chennai, with the series levelled at 1-1. India will be eager to win the ODI series with the 50-over World Cup set to be held in India, which will be Dravid's last assignment as the head coach after taking over from Ravi Shastri in late 2021.

The Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team is gearing up for the third and final ODI versus Australia, in Chennai, with the series levelled at 1-1. India will be eager to win the ODI series with the 50-over World Cup set to be held in India, which will be Dravid's last assignment as the head coach after taking over from Ravi Shastri in late 2021. Before Dravid, Shastri coached India from mid-2017 till early November 2021. Prior to Shastri, it was Anil Kumble -- former Indian spinner and captain -- who coached India for a year. Under him, India beat New Zealand, England, Bangladesh, and Australia at home and reached the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy where Men in Blue lost to Pakistan. When Kumble's initial one-year contract was about to end, there were rumours of a rift between then captain Virat Kohli and him. Thus, the search for a new coach began during Kumble's tenure end and not many know that former Indian opener Virender Sehwag had also applied for the top job. "I wouldn’t have applied if Virat Kohli and then BCCI secretary Amitabh Choudhary hadn’t approached me. We had a meeting, and he (Choudhary) told me that things weren’t working out between Virat Kohli and Anil Kumble we want you to take the coaching position. He told me that Kumble’s contract will expire after the Champions Trophy in 2017 and then you can travel to West Indies with the team", Sehwag revealed while speaking on News18 India Chaupal. Also read: Virender Sehwag names Indian star who comes close to his style of batting, shares an advice for him During the same interaction, Sehwag was asked if he has any regrets about not captaining Team India. To this, he said, "Not at all, I’m happy with what I achieved. Coming from a small family of farmers from Najafgarh I got the opportunity to play for India, got so much love and appreciation from fans and even if I would have captained Team India I would have gotten the same respect.” Sehwag had a stellar run in international cricket, amassing 8,586, 8,273, and 394 runs in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is respectively.

Wouldn’t have applied if Virat Kohli had not approached me: Sehwag recalls being offered India coach job

KL Rahul scored a sublime 75 not out in India's first ODI win versus Australia at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on March 17 (Friday). After a forgettable run in the Border-Gavaskar Test series, Rahul's return to form led to a sigh of relief for his supporters. In the recent past, a lot has been said and written on Rahul's form.

The former Indian vice-captain Rahul has been a part of international cricket since late 2014 and despite his occasional brilliance, the right-hander has still not been able to remain as consistent as he would have liked. Thus, it has led to severe criticism with former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad being quite vocal about Rahul's inconsistency. During the India-Australia Tests, Prasad's rant on Rahul went viral on Twitter and he also got engaged in a verbal spat with former Indian opener Aakash Chopra.

Recently, Prasad opened up on his criticism&nbsp;and said that 'it is&nbsp;not that I've only spoken about&nbsp;Rahul'.

'Few people have taken it very seriously and few have criticised'

"I've got nothing against anybody but it's just that whatever I feel I say it. Few people take it; few don't. It's up to them. It's not that I've only spoken about KL Rahul. I even expressed my opinion over Sarfaraz Ahmed as well who has been performing brilliantly. I have made sure that I didn't cross the line, as simple as that. Few people have taken it very seriously and few have criticised," Prasad told CNN News 18.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-have-a-point-to-prove-md-hafeez-on-rohit-sharma-cos-chances-at-odi-wc-573906">'India have a point to prove': Md Hafeez on Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s chances at 2023 ODI World Cup</a>

He further stated, "Look I've got great respect and regard to KL Rahul. I've seen him since his Under-16 days - almost for 15 years. Having followed and worked with him at different stages be in Karnataka, at NCA or with the Indian team. He was given a long rope and that's fair enough for the kind of potential that he has. But he has not lived up to the talent that he is there. I am sure it will get better in the next few months but having said that, I have not been harsh; I had to say what I felt."

Rahul-starrer India is gearing up for the third and final ODI versus Australia before the action shifts to the IPL 2023 edition.

KL Rahul scored a sublime 75 not out in India's first ODI win versus Australia at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on March 17 (Friday). After a forgettable run in the Border-Gavaskar Test series, Rahul's return to form led to a sigh of relief for his supporters.

KL Rahul scored a sublime 75 not out in India's first ODI win versus Australia at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on March 17 (Friday). After a forgettable run in the Border-Gavaskar Test series, Rahul's return to form led to a sigh of relief for his supporters. In the recent past, a lot has been said and written on Rahul's form. The former Indian vice-captain Rahul has been a part of international cricket since late 2014 and despite his occasional brilliance, the right-hander has still not been able to remain as consistent as he would have liked. Thus, it has led to severe criticism with former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad being quite vocal about Rahul's inconsistency. During the India-Australia Tests, Prasad's rant on Rahul went viral on Twitter and he also got engaged in a verbal spat with former Indian opener Aakash Chopra. Recently, Prasad opened up on his criticism and said that 'it is not that I've only spoken about Rahul'. 'Few people have taken it very seriously and few have criticised' "I've got nothing against anybody but it's just that whatever I feel I say it. Few people take it; few don't. It's up to them. It's not that I've only spoken about KL Rahul. I even expressed my opinion over Sarfaraz Ahmed as well who has been performing brilliantly. I have made sure that I didn't cross the line, as simple as that. Few people have taken it very seriously and few have criticised," Prasad told CNN News 18. Also Read: 'India have a point to prove': Md Hafeez on Rohit Sharma & Co.'s chances at 2023 ODI World Cup He further stated, "Look I've got great respect and regard to KL Rahul. I've seen him since his Under-16 days - almost for 15 years. Having followed and worked with him at different stages be in Karnataka, at NCA or with the Indian team. He was given a long rope and that's fair enough for the kind of potential that he has. But he has not lived up to the talent that he is there. I am sure it will get better in the next few months but having said that, I have not been harsh; I had to say what I felt." Rahul-starrer India is gearing up for the third and final ODI versus Australia before the action shifts to the IPL 2023 edition.

'Not that I've only....': Venkatesh Prasad opens up on his criticism of KL Rahul on Twitter

KL Rahul's place in the Indian team has become a big talking point. While Rohit Sharma-led India are on a roll versus Australia and gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy following the Delhi Test, Rahul finds himself in a spot of bother owing to his poor run of form in whites. In the last 12 innings,&nbsp;he has only managed 198 runs. In addition, he&nbsp;has a total of 38 runs in the three outings in the ongoing series.

Although captain Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid continue to support Rahul, many have raised concerns over his poor form and called for his ouster. Former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad has been quite vocal on his views on Rahul and&nbsp;called for his omission at the earliest. He shared a series of tweets during the recently-concluded second Test, in the national capital, criticising Rahul and was advised by ex-opener Aakash Chopra to not slam the right-hander further amid the proceedings. Later, he shared Rahul's away numbers to break the "he has great overseas Test record" notion,&nbsp;praised the likes of discarded openers Shikhar Dhawan, Mayank Agarwal and youngster Shubman Gill.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/venkatesh-prasad-once-again-slams-kl-rahul-hits-back-at-he-has-great-overseas-test-record-claims-563881">Venkatesh Prasad once again slams KL Rahul, hits back at 'he has great overseas Test record' claims</a>

After all this, Chopra recently posted a video on his Youtube channel where he urged Prasad&nbsp;to stay calm and not peddle 'agendas' if&nbsp;any or point out Rahul's stats as per&nbsp;his thoughts. However, things have gone out of hand with the former speedster slamming Chopra for his choice of words.

Here's what Chopra said:

"I am not saying KL Rahul will become like Rohit Sharma but I humbly request you to stay calm. If there are any agendas, let's not peddle them. Let's talk about the numbers that are actually there and not those that suit your thoughts," Chopra stressed on his official Youtube channel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

'It was disappointing to see Aakash calling it personal agenda'

Prasad has now responded to Chopra's words and slammed him. He tweeted saying,&nbsp;"So my friend Aakash Chopra after making a vile video on YouTube this morning where he calls me an agenda peddle, &nbsp;conveniently and cleverly misquotes me, removes Mayank's average of 70 at home, wants to gag views which are not in line with what he believes but wanted Rohit out."

Further, he stated, "I have no agenda against any player, maybe there are others who have. Difference of opinion is fine but calling contrary views as apna personal agenda and Twitter par mat laayein is funny for&nbsp; 
@cricketaakash, considering he has made a great career by airing his views. I have nothing against KL or any other player, my voice has been against unfair selection and different yardsticks for performers. Be it Sarfaraz or Kuldeep, have voiced based on merit. But it was disappointing to see Aakash calling it personal agenda."

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So my friend Aakash Chopra after making a vile video on YouTube this morning where he calls me an agenda peddle, conveniently and cleverly misquotes me, removes Mayank’s average of 70 at home, wants to gag views which are not in line with what he believes but wanted Rohit out <a href="https://t.co/2HwFLMgvmd">pic.twitter.com/2HwFLMgvmd</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1628012386140688384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Prasad shared an old tweet of Chopra, in 2012, where he had called for current skipper Rohit's ouster from the team. "This is what Aakash had aired when Rohit was 24 with 4 yrs in international cross. He can use sarcasm for Rohit at 24, and I cannot point out underperforming Rahul at 31 with 8 years in International cricket.&nbsp;Yeh bhi sahi hai (This is also right)," Prasad&nbsp;pointed out."

Prasad concluded by saying, "And the argument that we should not criticise a player in an ongoing match personally doesn't make sense to me. That doesn't affect the players performance. &nbsp;Most players don't read views even after the match and no player can read in between match as phones are deposited." He added, "I admire Aakash for the hardwork he puts on his YouTube channel but calling a different view point as agenda because it doesn't suit his narrative is poor. There is no bitterness between us and since his video was in public domain wanted to put my point out here. Best wishes."

While the Chopra vs Prasad spat is unlikely to end soon, all eyes are on Rahul before India's third Test versus Australia at the Holkar Stadium, Indore on March 01. After being sacked as the Test vice-captain, he will be desperate to prove a point and silence his critics with a daddy hundred.

KL Rahul's place in the Indian team has become a big talking point. While Rohit Sharma-led India are on a roll versus Australia and gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy following the Delhi Test, Rahul finds himself in a spot of bother owing to his poor run of form in whites.

KL Rahul's place in the Indian team has become a big talking point. While Rohit Sharma-led India are on a roll versus Australia and gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy following the Delhi Test, Rahul finds himself in a spot of bother owing to his poor run of form in whites. In the last 12 innings, he has only managed 198 runs. In addition, he has a total of 38 runs in the three outings in the ongoing series. Although captain Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid continue to support Rahul, many have raised concerns over his poor form and called for his ouster. Former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad has been quite vocal on his views on Rahul and called for his omission at the earliest. He shared a series of tweets during the recently-concluded second Test, in the national capital, criticising Rahul and was advised by ex-opener Aakash Chopra to not slam the right-hander further amid the proceedings. Later, he shared Rahul's away numbers to break the "he has great overseas Test record" notion, praised the likes of discarded openers Shikhar Dhawan, Mayank Agarwal and youngster Shubman Gill. Also Read: Venkatesh Prasad once again slams KL Rahul, hits back at 'he has great overseas Test record' claims After all this, Chopra recently posted a video on his Youtube channel where he urged Prasad to stay calm and not peddle 'agendas' if any or point out Rahul's stats as per his thoughts. However, things have gone out of hand with the former speedster slamming Chopra for his choice of words. Here's what Chopra said: "I am not saying KL Rahul will become like Rohit Sharma but I humbly request you to stay calm. If there are any agendas, let's not peddle them. Let's talk about the numbers that are actually there and not those that suit your thoughts," Chopra stressed on his official Youtube channel. 'It was disappointing to see Aakash calling it personal agenda' Prasad has now responded to Chopra's words and slammed him. He tweeted saying, "So my friend Aakash Chopra after making a vile video on YouTube this morning where he calls me an agenda peddle, conveniently and cleverly misquotes me, removes Mayank's average of 70 at home, wants to gag views which are not in line with what he believes but wanted Rohit out." Further, he stated, "I have no agenda against any player, maybe there are others who have. Difference of opinion is fine but calling contrary views as apna personal agenda and Twitter par mat laayein is funny for @cricketaakash, considering he has made a great career by airing his views. I have nothing against KL or any other player, my voice has been against unfair selection and different yardsticks for performers. Be it Sarfaraz or Kuldeep, have voiced based on merit. But it was disappointing to see Aakash calling it personal agenda." So my friend Aakash Chopra after making a vile video on YouTube this morning where he calls me an agenda peddle, conveniently and cleverly misquotes me, removes Mayank’s average of 70 at home, wants to gag views which are not in line with what he believes but wanted Rohit out pic.twitter.com/2HwFLMgvmd — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 21, 2023 × Prasad shared an old tweet of Chopra, in 2012, where he had called for current skipper Rohit's ouster from the team. "This is what Aakash had aired when Rohit was 24 with 4 yrs in international cross. He can use sarcasm for Rohit at 24, and I cannot point out underperforming Rahul at 31 with 8 years in International cricket. Yeh bhi sahi hai (This is also right)," Prasad pointed out." Prasad concluded by saying, "And the argument that we should not criticise a player in an ongoing match personally doesn't make sense to me. That doesn't affect the players performance. Most players don't read views even after the match and no player can read in between match as phones are deposited." He added, "I admire Aakash for the hardwork he puts on his YouTube channel but calling a different view point as agenda because it doesn't suit his narrative is poor. There is no bitterness between us and since his video was in public domain wanted to put my point out here. Best wishes." While the Chopra vs Prasad spat is unlikely to end soon, all eyes are on Rahul before India's third Test versus Australia at the Holkar Stadium, Indore on March 01. After being sacked as the Test vice-captain, he will be desperate to prove a point and silence his critics with a daddy hundred.

'Disappointing...': Venkatesh Prasad blasts Aakash Chopra for calling him 'agenda peddler' vs KL Rahul

Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI versus Australia in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19). Mitchell Starc's five-fer bundled out India for a paltry 117 as Australia chased down the target with 234 balls to spare; levelling the series 1-1 before the final game on Wednesday (March 22).&nbsp;

India will be desperate to bounce back to winning ways and clinch the series as they continue their preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India entirely in October-November. Rohit Sharma &amp; Co., the No. 1 ranked ODI side, is one of the favourites for the marquee event, especially with them being the hosts. The last time the 50-over World Cup was held in India was in 2011, with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh also being the co-hosts, when MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the championship.

Although India will be strong contenders, Pakistan's former captain and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez feels the hosts are a strong outfit but lack in one aspect, i.e. of 'not able to perform in the big matches' and will have a point to prove to the world in the 2023 edition.

"Hot favourites are India. India have a big plus point because in the recent past, I feel like it started from the era of Ganguly. They have the mindset of a world-beater. From there, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli carried on. In the recent past, say in the last 10-12 years, wherever India are playing, they are considered as hot favourites. That is special from India," Hafeez said while speaking to Sports Tak on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket.

"And when the tournaments happen in India, when big matches happen in India, in bilateral series, oppositions have very little chance. Their success rate is very high. But, when big tournaments come, I think India are lacking in just one aspect. In the recent past, in ICC events, they are not able to perform in the big matches.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/viral-shahid-afridi-signs-on-indian-flag-for-a-fan-during-legends-league-cricket-watch-573745">Viral: Shahid Afridi signs on Indian flag for a fan during Legends League Cricket - Watch</a>

"You can describe it many ways, but the pressure of playing in knockout matches in ICC events, that is not there in bilateral series. It's quite similar to playing domestic cricket and international cricket. It's difficult to describe the pressure of playing in ICC knockout matches. India have not been able to handle that pressure in major events.

"They have lost crunch matches, against England they lost the semi-final. In 2017, in the Champions Trophy final, they lost. Then also, they were favourites. This is a pinching point as far as India are concerned. India now have a point to prove to the world. They should come and perform well in ICC major events," Hafeez added.

India's last ICC title, in the senior men's category, came in 2013 during the Champions Trophy in England and Wales.

On Babar Azam-led Pakistan's chances, the 42-year-old Hafeez stated, "Pakistan also will have their chances. They have one of the most versatile and lethal bowling attacks in the world. If you look at the fast-bowlers, they are match-winners. If you look at Shaheen Afridi, if he is fit and firing, the entire world wants to watch him in action. When you talk about spin-bowling, there are Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim and Mohammad Nawaz. There is a new young pace-bowling talent in Ihsanullah, he can also bowl in excess of 150 kph and hit the good areas.

"Pakistan playing in India have to also deal with pressure. Playing in India will mean a lot of pressure. A lot will depend on how much momentum Pakistan take into the World Cup and how the dressing room atmosphere is created to deal with pressure," he concluded.

Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI versus Australia in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19). Mitchell Starc's five-fer bundled out India for a paltry 117 as Australia chased down the target with 234 balls to spare; levelling the series 1-1 before the final game on Wednesday (March 22).

Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI versus Australia in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19). Mitchell Starc's five-fer bundled out India for a paltry 117 as Australia chased down the target with 234 balls to spare; levelling the series 1-1 before the final game on Wednesday (March 22). India will be desperate to bounce back to winning ways and clinch the series as they continue their preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India entirely in October-November. Rohit Sharma & Co., the No. 1 ranked ODI side, is one of the favourites for the marquee event, especially with them being the hosts. The last time the 50-over World Cup was held in India was in 2011, with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh also being the co-hosts, when MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the championship. Although India will be strong contenders, Pakistan's former captain and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez feels the hosts are a strong outfit but lack in one aspect, i.e. of 'not able to perform in the big matches' and will have a point to prove to the world in the 2023 edition. "Hot favourites are India. India have a big plus point because in the recent past, I feel like it started from the era of Ganguly. They have the mindset of a world-beater. From there, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli carried on. In the recent past, say in the last 10-12 years, wherever India are playing, they are considered as hot favourites. That is special from India," Hafeez said while speaking to Sports Tak on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket. "And when the tournaments happen in India, when big matches happen in India, in bilateral series, oppositions have very little chance. Their success rate is very high. But, when big tournaments come, I think India are lacking in just one aspect. In the recent past, in ICC events, they are not able to perform in the big matches. Also read: Viral: Shahid Afridi signs on Indian flag for a fan during Legends League Cricket - Watch "You can describe it many ways, but the pressure of playing in knockout matches in ICC events, that is not there in bilateral series. It's quite similar to playing domestic cricket and international cricket. It's difficult to describe the pressure of playing in ICC knockout matches. India have not been able to handle that pressure in major events. "They have lost crunch matches, against England they lost the semi-final. In 2017, in the Champions Trophy final, they lost. Then also, they were favourites. This is a pinching point as far as India are concerned. India now have a point to prove to the world. They should come and perform well in ICC major events," Hafeez added. India's last ICC title, in the senior men's category, came in 2013 during the Champions Trophy in England and Wales. On Babar Azam-led Pakistan's chances, the 42-year-old Hafeez stated, "Pakistan also will have their chances. They have one of the most versatile and lethal bowling attacks in the world. If you look at the fast-bowlers, they are match-winners. If you look at Shaheen Afridi, if he is fit and firing, the entire world wants to watch him in action. When you talk about spin-bowling, there are Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim and Mohammad Nawaz. There is a new young pace-bowling talent in Ihsanullah, he can also bowl in excess of 150 kph and hit the good areas. "Pakistan playing in India have to also deal with pressure. Playing in India will mean a lot of pressure. A lot will depend on how much momentum Pakistan take into the World Cup and how the dressing room atmosphere is created to deal with pressure," he concluded.

'India have a point to prove': Md Hafeez on Rohit Sharma & Co.'s chances at 2023 ODI World Cup

Virender Sehwag had a stellar run at the international level. The former Team India opener ended his illustrious career with&nbsp;8,586, 8,273 and 394 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively. He was known for his fearless style of batting. Since his retirement, Indian cricket have had fearless batters such as Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur but many a times&nbsp;former cricketers come&nbsp;up with the cliched 'He reminds me of Sehwag' phrase when youngsters play a blazing knock.

However, Sehwag feels there is no player in the Indian team who bats like him but named Rishabh Pant as the one who comes closest to his batting approach. Sehwag also urged Pant to up his game so that he scores daddy hundreds like him.

"I don't think so there is any player in the Indian team who bats like me. The two players who came to my mind who have come close to it are Prithvi Shaw and Rishabh Pant. I think Rishabh Pant is a little bit close to what I used to bat like in Test cricket but he is satisfied with 90-100 but I used to score 200, 250 and 300 and then be content. If he took his game to that level then I think he can entertain the fans even more," Sehwag said during News18 India Chaupal.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-or-ks-bharat-gautam-gambhir-on-who-should-keep-wickets-for-india-in-wtc-final-vs-australia-573845">KL Rahul or KS Bharat? Gautam Gambhir on who should keep wickets for India in WTC final vs Australia</a>

"I used to play tennis ball cricket where my mindset was to hit more runs through boundaries. I played with the same template in international cricket and used to calculate how many boundaries I need to score a century. If I am on 90 and to reach 100 if I take 10 balls then the opposition has 10 balls to get me out, which is why I used to go for boundaries and gave them only two balls to stop me reaching the triple figure-mark. The risk percentage rate dropped from 100 to 200," mentioned the former India opener.

It is to be noted that Sehwag slammed two triple tons and as many as four double centuries in Tests along with a best of 219 in ODIs. Pant, on the other hand, has tasted a lot of success in Tests -- with five centuries in 33 matches -- and scored his maiden ODI ton in 2022. He is currently on recovery mode after being involved in a horrific car accident on December 30 last year.

Virender Sehwag had a stellar run at the international level. The former Team India opener ended his illustrious career with 8,586, 8,273 and 394 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively.

Virender Sehwag had a stellar run at the international level. The former Team India opener ended his illustrious career with 8,586, 8,273 and 394 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively. He was known for his fearless style of batting. Since his retirement, Indian cricket have had fearless batters such as Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur but many a times former cricketers come up with the cliched 'He reminds me of Sehwag' phrase when youngsters play a blazing knock. However, Sehwag feels there is no player in the Indian team who bats like him but named Rishabh Pant as the one who comes closest to his batting approach. Sehwag also urged Pant to up his game so that he scores daddy hundreds like him. "I don't think so there is any player in the Indian team who bats like me. The two players who came to my mind who have come close to it are Prithvi Shaw and Rishabh Pant. I think Rishabh Pant is a little bit close to what I used to bat like in Test cricket but he is satisfied with 90-100 but I used to score 200, 250 and 300 and then be content. If he took his game to that level then I think he can entertain the fans even more," Sehwag said during News18 India Chaupal. Also Read: KL Rahul or KS Bharat? Gautam Gambhir on who should keep wickets for India in WTC final vs Australia "I used to play tennis ball cricket where my mindset was to hit more runs through boundaries. I played with the same template in international cricket and used to calculate how many boundaries I need to score a century. If I am on 90 and to reach 100 if I take 10 balls then the opposition has 10 balls to get me out, which is why I used to go for boundaries and gave them only two balls to stop me reaching the triple figure-mark. The risk percentage rate dropped from 100 to 200," mentioned the former India opener. It is to be noted that Sehwag slammed two triple tons and as many as four double centuries in Tests along with a best of 219 in ODIs. Pant, on the other hand, has tasted a lot of success in Tests -- with five centuries in 33 matches -- and scored his maiden ODI ton in 2022. He is currently on recovery mode after being involved in a horrific car accident on December 30 last year.

Virender Sehwag names Indian star who comes close to his style of batting, shares an advice for him

After a gruelling four-match Test series, India and Australia have locked horns in the three-match ODI series opener at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (March 17). Both the regular captains Rohit Sharma and Pat Cummins are not in action as the latter remains in Australia after his mother's passing away whereas Hitman will join the squad for the remainder ODIs after missing the series opener due to personal reasons.

In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya is leading Team India. After winning the toss, India opted to bowl first and have bundled out the Steve Smith-led Aussies for a paltry 188 in 35.4 overs. Md Siraj and Md Shami ended with three scalps each whereas Ravindra Jadeja took 2 for 48. Captain Hardik removed the dangerman Smith with KL Rahul grabbing a sharp low catch. Here's the video of Rahul's timely dive as he removed Smith with a stunner behind the stumps:

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Edged and taken!<a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> strikes and how good was that grab behind the stumps from <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@klrahul</a> 💪 
 
Steve Smith departs. 
 
Watch his dismissal here 👇👇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/yss3sj4N4z">pic.twitter.com/yss3sj4N4z</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1636659941585870848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Rohit-less India will look to take a 1-0 lead in the three ODIs after dismissing Australia for 188. At one stage, they were well-placed at 129 for 2 with Mitchell Marsh (81 off 65 balls) lying the perfect platform but regular breakthroughs dented their progress.

From 129 for 2, Australia were soon reduced to 188 all-out and the Men in Yellow have a herculean task to stop the Indian team from chasing down the below-par total.

After a gruelling four-match Test series, India and Australia have locked horns in the three-match ODI series opener at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (March 17).

After a gruelling four-match Test series, India and Australia have locked horns in the three-match ODI series opener at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (March 17). Both the regular captains Rohit Sharma and Pat Cummins are not in action as the latter remains in Australia after his mother's passing away whereas Hitman will join the squad for the remainder ODIs after missing the series opener due to personal reasons. In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya is leading Team India. After winning the toss, India opted to bowl first and have bundled out the Steve Smith-led Aussies for a paltry 188 in 35.4 overs. Md Siraj and Md Shami ended with three scalps each whereas Ravindra Jadeja took 2 for 48. Captain Hardik removed the dangerman Smith with KL Rahul grabbing a sharp low catch. Here's the video of Rahul's timely dive as he removed Smith with a stunner behind the stumps: Edged and taken!@hardikpandya7 strikes and how good was that grab behind the stumps from @klrahul 💪 Steve Smith departs. Watch his dismissal here 👇👇#INDvAUS @mastercardindia pic.twitter.com/yss3sj4N4z — BCCI (@BCCI) March 17, 2023 × Also read: You safe Sachin: Adam Gilchrist reacts to INCORRECT claims labelling him as world's RICHEST cricketer Rohit-less India will look to take a 1-0 lead in the three ODIs after dismissing Australia for 188. At one stage, they were well-placed at 129 for 2 with Mitchell Marsh (81 off 65 balls) lying the perfect platform but regular breakthroughs dented their progress. From 129 for 2, Australia were soon reduced to 188 all-out and the Men in Yellow have a herculean task to stop the Indian team from chasing down the below-par total.

WATCH: KL Rahul takes a STUNNER as Hardik Pandya gets rid of Steve Smith in India-Australia 1st ODI

Rishabh Pant has been out of cricketing action ever since he was involved in a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. The star wicketkeeper-batter sustained several injuries following a near-fatal car accident, which took place in the early hours on December 30 in Dehradun-Delhi highway. Since then, the 25-year-old is on recovery mode and keeps sharing updates of his progress for is fans worldwide.

On Wednesday (March 15), Pant took to his official Twitter handle where he shared a video of him walking in a pool. "Grateful for small things, big things, And everything in between," he wrote. Here's the clip:

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Grateful for small thing, big things and everything in between. 🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RP17?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RP17</a> <a href="https://t.co/NE9Do72Thr">pic.twitter.com/NE9Do72Thr</a>
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1635961020773552133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Pant had also provided an update on his surgery pertaining to a ligament tear. "I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes," Pant wrote on Twitter. "I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead. Thank you to the @BCCI, @JayShah &amp; government authorities for their incredible support."

He further added, "From the bottom of my heart, I also would like to thank all my fans, teammates, doctors and the physios for your kind words and encouragement. Looking forward to seeing you all on the field."

Pant missed the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held in India, where Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. defeated Australia 2-1. Hence, both sides have now qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, to be held early June. Pant will miss IPL 2023, WTC finale and possibly the 2023 ODI World Cup as well.

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&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant has been out of cricketing action ever since he was involved in a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. The star wicketkeeper-batter sustained several injuries following a near-fatal car accident, which took place in the early hours on December 30 in Dehradun-Delhi highway.

Rishabh Pant has been out of cricketing action ever since he was involved in a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. The star wicketkeeper-batter sustained several injuries following a near-fatal car accident, which took place in the early hours on December 30 in Dehradun-Delhi highway. Since then, the 25-year-old is on recovery mode and keeps sharing updates of his progress for is fans worldwide. On Wednesday (March 15), Pant took to his official Twitter handle where he shared a video of him walking in a pool. "Grateful for small things, big things, And everything in between," he wrote. Here's the clip: Grateful for small thing, big things and everything in between. 🙏#RP17 pic.twitter.com/NE9Do72Thr — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) March 15, 2023 × Also Read: WATCH: MS Dhoni's NO-LOOK big hit at the CSK nets goes viral ahead of IPL 2023 Earlier, Pant had also provided an update on his surgery pertaining to a ligament tear. "I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes," Pant wrote on Twitter. "I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead. Thank you to the @BCCI, @JayShah & government authorities for their incredible support." He further added, "From the bottom of my heart, I also would like to thank all my fans, teammates, doctors and the physios for your kind words and encouragement. Looking forward to seeing you all on the field." Pant missed the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held in India, where Rohit Sharma & Co. defeated Australia 2-1. Hence, both sides have now qualified for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, to be held early June. Pant will miss IPL 2023, WTC finale and possibly the 2023 ODI World Cup as well. ×

Rishabh Pant's recovery process kicks off with walk in the pool as HEARTFELT video goes viral - WATCH

Rishabh Pant got involved in a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. The Indian star player sustained several injuries in the near-fatal accident and is out of cricketing action for a long time. Pant is out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final and possibly will miss the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 as well.

Pant is on recovery mode at present and was recently visited by India's former star all-rounder Yuvraj Singh. The former cricketer shared a picture with Pant from his official Twitter handle with a heartfelt caption.&nbsp;

"On to baby steps !!! This champion is going to rise again .was good catching up and having a laugh. what a guy positive and funny always !! More power to you," wrote Yuvraj.

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On to baby steps !!! This champion is going to rise again 🔜 .was good catching up and having a laugh 😅what a guy positive and funny always !! More power to you 🤛 💫 <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> <a href="https://t.co/OKv487GrRC">pic.twitter.com/OKv487GrRC</a>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1636394504583512066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Ever since Pant's recovery kicked off, he has remained active on social media platforms where he keeps sharing updates of his progress with fans. Few days back, he shared&nbsp;a video of him walking in a pool. He wrote, "Grateful for small things, big things, And everything in between," he wrote. Here's the clip:

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Grateful for small thing, big things and everything in between. 🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RP17?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RP17</a> <a href="https://t.co/NE9Do72Thr">pic.twitter.com/NE9Do72Thr</a>
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1635961020773552133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Pant&nbsp;had earlier also provided an update on his surgery pertaining to a ligament tear. "I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes," Pant wrote on Twitter. "I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead. Thank you to the @BCCI, @JayShah &amp; government authorities for their incredible support."

He further added, "From the bottom of my heart, I also would like to thank all my fans, teammates, doctors and the physios for your kind words and encouragement. Looking forward to seeing you all on the field."

Rishabh Pant got involved in a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. The Indian star player sustained several injuries in the near-fatal accident and is out of cricketing action for a long time.

Rishabh Pant got involved in a horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. The Indian star player sustained several injuries in the near-fatal accident and is out of cricketing action for a long time. Pant is out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final and possibly will miss the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 as well. Pant is on recovery mode at present and was recently visited by India's former star all-rounder Yuvraj Singh. The former cricketer shared a picture with Pant from his official Twitter handle with a heartfelt caption. "On to baby steps !!! This champion is going to rise again .was good catching up and having a laugh. what a guy positive and funny always !! More power to you," wrote Yuvraj. On to baby steps !!! This champion is going to rise again 🔜 .was good catching up and having a laugh 😅what a guy positive and funny always !! More power to you 🤛 💫 @RishabhPant17 pic.twitter.com/OKv487GrRC — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) March 16, 2023 × Also read: You safe Sachin: Adam Gilchrist reacts to INCORRECT claims labelling him as world's RICHEST cricketer Ever since Pant's recovery kicked off, he has remained active on social media platforms where he keeps sharing updates of his progress with fans. Few days back, he shared a video of him walking in a pool. He wrote, "Grateful for small things, big things, And everything in between," he wrote. Here's the clip: Grateful for small thing, big things and everything in between. 🙏#RP17 pic.twitter.com/NE9Do72Thr — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) March 15, 2023 × Pant had earlier also provided an update on his surgery pertaining to a ligament tear. "I am humbled and grateful for all the support and good wishes," Pant wrote on Twitter. "I am glad to let you know that my surgery was a success. The road to recovery has begun and I am ready for the challenges ahead. Thank you to the @BCCI, @JayShah & government authorities for their incredible support." He further added, "From the bottom of my heart, I also would like to thank all my fans, teammates, doctors and the physios for your kind words and encouragement. Looking forward to seeing you all on the field."

'The champion is...: Yuvraj Singh meets Rishabh Pant, shares heartfelt post for star player

Sachin Tendulkar is undoubtedly one of the greatest batters of all time. Tendulkar made his international debut in 1989 and soon became a household name, being India's main batter all throughout the 90s. While several injuries did dent his journey, he kept bouncing back and adapted to the changing demands of the game to remain a part of the national side till his international retirement in 2013.&nbsp;

Tendulkar ended with 34,357 runs, scoring as many as 100 international tons and being part of the triumphant MS Dhoni-led India's 2011 ODI World Cup squad. During his 24-year-long illustrious career, the right-hander faced a plethora of quality bowlers and had fierce rivalry with many. Among them, Pakistan great Saqlain Mushtaq also shared a healthy rivalry with the Indian star batter; dismissing him on quite a few occasions (especially during the epic Chennai Test in 1999). Recently, the legendary spinner recalled an incident when he tried to get into Tendulkar's skin but the ploy backfired.

During the late 90s, both India and Pakistan squared off in several ODIs in Canada. In one of the Indo-Pak face-offs in Canada, Saqlain tried to sledge Tendulkar but ended up feeling guilty about it. "I once had an incident with Sachin. We went to Canada. I had come there after playing County cricket in England. I was a young boy then and I was in my own world of bowling. So after playing County I became a little cocky. Sachin was a very intelligent cricketer. I bowled a very tight first over to him and sledged him. I used some harsh words. "

"He came to me and said very nicely "Saqi... I never thought you would do this. And you don't even appear the kind of person who would say such words. I thought you're a very decent person". He said it so nicely and believe me for the next 4 overs, his words hit me. I was so consumed by what he said to me that before I could realise, he had done his job. He got set while batting," Saqlain said while speaking on The Nadir Ali podcast.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-former-captain-virat-kohli-eyes-plethora-of-records-in-odi-series-vs-men-in-yellow-572659">India vs Australia: Former captain Virat Kohli eyes plethora of records in ODI series vs Men in Yellow</a>

'How well did he trap me. Not with the bat, but only by using his words'

The Pakistani spinner added, "These are tactics. When someone talk to you nicely, you start thinking about it. While I was in my own thoughts, Sachin kept hitting at least one boundary in the next 4-5 overs and I began respecting him. When he finally stepped out and smashed another four, I felt a slap on my face. I then realised 'He played a game with me'. By then he was well set and things had gotten out of my hands. Later in the evening, we met and the hotel and I said to him 'You're a clever person'. And he started smiling. How well did he trap me. Not with the bat, but only by using his words."

Sachin Tendulkar is undoubtedly one of the greatest batters of all time. Tendulkar made his international debut in 1989 and soon became a household name, being India's main batter all throughout the 90s.

Sachin Tendulkar is undoubtedly one of the greatest batters of all time. Tendulkar made his international debut in 1989 and soon became a household name, being India's main batter all throughout the 90s. While several injuries did dent his journey, he kept bouncing back and adapted to the changing demands of the game to remain a part of the national side till his international retirement in 2013. Tendulkar ended with 34,357 runs, scoring as many as 100 international tons and being part of the triumphant MS Dhoni-led India's 2011 ODI World Cup squad. During his 24-year-long illustrious career, the right-hander faced a plethora of quality bowlers and had fierce rivalry with many. Among them, Pakistan great Saqlain Mushtaq also shared a healthy rivalry with the Indian star batter; dismissing him on quite a few occasions (especially during the epic Chennai Test in 1999). Recently, the legendary spinner recalled an incident when he tried to get into Tendulkar's skin but the ploy backfired. During the late 90s, both India and Pakistan squared off in several ODIs in Canada. In one of the Indo-Pak face-offs in Canada, Saqlain tried to sledge Tendulkar but ended up feeling guilty about it. "I once had an incident with Sachin. We went to Canada. I had come there after playing County cricket in England. I was a young boy then and I was in my own world of bowling. So after playing County I became a little cocky. Sachin was a very intelligent cricketer. I bowled a very tight first over to him and sledged him. I used some harsh words. " "He came to me and said very nicely "Saqi... I never thought you would do this. And you don't even appear the kind of person who would say such words. I thought you're a very decent person". He said it so nicely and believe me for the next 4 overs, his words hit me. I was so consumed by what he said to me that before I could realise, he had done his job. He got set while batting," Saqlain said while speaking on The Nadir Ali podcast. Also read: India vs Australia: Former captain Virat Kohli eyes plethora of records in ODI series vs Men in Yellow 'How well did he trap me. Not with the bat, but only by using his words' The Pakistani spinner added, "These are tactics. When someone talk to you nicely, you start thinking about it. While I was in my own thoughts, Sachin kept hitting at least one boundary in the next 4-5 overs and I began respecting him. When he finally stepped out and smashed another four, I felt a slap on my face. I then realised 'He played a game with me'. By then he was well set and things had gotten out of my hands. Later in the evening, we met and the hotel and I said to him 'You're a clever person'. And he started smiling. How well did he trap me. Not with the bat, but only by using his words."

Pakistan great recalls how Sachin Tendulkar 'trapped' him with words after he sledged the Indian legend

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. The former Indian captain retired in mid-2020 with 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 634 catches, 195 stumpings and leading India to all three major ICC titles. Dhoni created a huge stir in world cricket by keeping a check on his emotions on the field and being&nbsp;a shrewd tactician. He&nbsp;became a household name back in his early days due to his power-hitting, finishing skills and smart glovework.&nbsp;

While Dhoni earned a plethora of fans due to his various skills and talents on the field, the former keeper-batter has always been a private person off the 22-yard cricket strip. The former Indian captain has hardly been active on social media platforms. However, he used to be a bit more active, than current times, in 2011-2012.&nbsp;

In 2012, Dhoni hilariously&nbsp;replied to a user who had advised him&nbsp;to concentrate on his batting and not be active on Twitter. In July 2012, ahead of India's&nbsp;tour of Sri Lanka, the then national team captain&nbsp;Dhoni shared a tweet. Responding&nbsp;to&nbsp;his tweet, a user asked him to concentrate on his batting.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-is-aussie-legend-adam-gilchrist-the-richest-cricketer-in-the-world-heres-the-truth-571877">FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH</a>

Just then, Dhoni stunned one and all with his hilarious response.&nbsp;"Sir yes sir, any tips sir," Dhoni wrote in response.&nbsp;The tweet has garnered much attention and has been retweeted by over&nbsp;2,500&nbsp;users.&nbsp;Check out Dhoni's tweet -

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Spot the difference <a href="http://t.co/eTEvd3Gp">http://t.co/eTEvd3Gp</a>
— Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni/status/225143226426859520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2012</a></blockquote>
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<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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At present, Dhoni hardly remains active on Twitter or Instagram. He is currently gearing up for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition where he will once again lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The four-time winners had a miserable run in IPL 2022, finishing ninth, and, hence, will be desperate for a revamp this time around.

CSK will open their campaign against defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) in the season-opener on March 31, in Ahmedabad.

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MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. The former Indian captain retired in mid-2020 with 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 634 catches, 195 stumpings and leading India to all three major ICC titles.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. The former Indian captain retired in mid-2020 with 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 634 catches, 195 stumpings and leading India to all three major ICC titles. Dhoni created a huge stir in world cricket by keeping a check on his emotions on the field and being a shrewd tactician. He became a household name back in his early days due to his power-hitting, finishing skills and smart glovework. While Dhoni earned a plethora of fans due to his various skills and talents on the field, the former keeper-batter has always been a private person off the 22-yard cricket strip. The former Indian captain has hardly been active on social media platforms. However, he used to be a bit more active, than current times, in 2011-2012. In 2012, Dhoni hilariously replied to a user who had advised him to concentrate on his batting and not be active on Twitter. In July 2012, ahead of India's tour of Sri Lanka, the then national team captain Dhoni shared a tweet. Responding to his tweet, a user asked him to concentrate on his batting. Also read: FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH Just then, Dhoni stunned one and all with his hilarious response. "Sir yes sir, any tips sir," Dhoni wrote in response. The tweet has garnered much attention and has been retweeted by over 2,500 users. Check out Dhoni's tweet - Spot the difference http://t.co/eTEvd3Gp — Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) July 17, 2012 × @urssrilu666 sir yes sir, any tips sir — Mahendra Singh Dhoni (@msdhoni) July 17, 2012 × At present, Dhoni hardly remains active on Twitter or Instagram. He is currently gearing up for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition where he will once again lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The four-time winners had a miserable run in IPL 2022, finishing ninth, and, hence, will be desperate for a revamp this time around. CSK will open their campaign against defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) in the season-opener on March 31, in Ahmedabad. ×

'Any tips sir?': When Dhoni hilariously responded to a Twitter user who advised him to concentrate on batting

Steve Smith is set to lead Australia in the fourth and final Test versus India as well, with regular skipper Pat Cummins to remain in Australia with his ailing mother. The Aussie speedster's mother Maria is ill with breast cancer and is in palliative care, as reported by Cricket Australia. Thus, Cummins had skipped the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, as well -- which the visitors won by nine wickets to keep the series alive at 2-1 -- and will now also miss the series decider in Ahmedabad, starting on March 09.

Under Smith, Australia produced a clinical performance in the third Test at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Opting to bat first, Rohit Sharma-led India folded for a paltry 109 -- thanks to&nbsp;Matthew Kuhnemann's 5 for 16 -- before Australia only managed 197 but took a vital 88-run lead. In reply, India once again fell flat in their second essay; being dismissed for 163 in 60.3 overs. Chasing 76, Smith &amp; Co. chased down the target with nine wickets in hand in the morning session of Day 3.&nbsp;

Thus, Australia -- who were without Cummins -- produced a clinical performance to keep the four-match series alive, at 2-1 in India's favour.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-ready-to-give-our-lives-for-babar-azam-pak-batter-comes-in-support-of-under-fire-national-captain-569163">'We are ready to give our lives for Babar Azam': Pak batter comes in support of under-fire national captain</a>

After leading Australia to an emphatic win, Smith said after the game, "My time is done. It's Pat's team now. I've obviously been able to stand in this week, obviously in tough circumstances with Patty going home. Our thoughts are still with him back home."

"But India is a part of the world I love captaining ... it's probably my favourite place in the world to captain. Every ball is an event and therefore can dictate what happens after, which is something that I really love and you've got to be ahead of the game. So I thought I did it well this week and it was good fun," he added.

The fourth and final Test begins at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on March 09. Smith-led Aussies will be desperate to end the series with a 2-2 stalemate. They have already qualified for the WTC final after the Indore Test win.

Steve Smith is set to lead Australia in the fourth and final Test versus India as well, with regular skipper Pat Cummins to remain in Australia with his ailing mother.

Steve Smith is set to lead Australia in the fourth and final Test versus India as well, with regular skipper Pat Cummins to remain in Australia with his ailing mother. The Aussie speedster's mother Maria is ill with breast cancer and is in palliative care, as reported by Cricket Australia. Thus, Cummins had skipped the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, as well -- which the visitors won by nine wickets to keep the series alive at 2-1 -- and will now also miss the series decider in Ahmedabad, starting on March 09. Under Smith, Australia produced a clinical performance in the third Test at the Holkar Stadium, Indore. Opting to bat first, Rohit Sharma-led India folded for a paltry 109 -- thanks to Matthew Kuhnemann's 5 for 16 -- before Australia only managed 197 but took a vital 88-run lead. In reply, India once again fell flat in their second essay; being dismissed for 163 in 60.3 overs. Chasing 76, Smith & Co. chased down the target with nine wickets in hand in the morning session of Day 3. Thus, Australia -- who were without Cummins -- produced a clinical performance to keep the four-match series alive, at 2-1 in India's favour. Also read: 'We are ready to give our lives for Babar Azam': Pak batter comes in support of under-fire national captain After leading Australia to an emphatic win, Smith said after the game, "My time is done. It's Pat's team now. I've obviously been able to stand in this week, obviously in tough circumstances with Patty going home. Our thoughts are still with him back home." "But India is a part of the world I love captaining ... it's probably my favourite place in the world to captain. Every ball is an event and therefore can dictate what happens after, which is something that I really love and you've got to be ahead of the game. So I thought I did it well this week and it was good fun," he added. The fourth and final Test begins at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on March 09. Smith-led Aussies will be desperate to end the series with a 2-2 stalemate. They have already qualified for the WTC final after the Indore Test win.

India vs Australia, BGT 2022/23: Steve Smith set to lead in final Test in Pat Cummins' absence

India have been on the back foot in the third and penultimate Test versus Australia in Indore. They only managed 109 and 163 in the two innings and conceded a vital 88-run lead with Australia making 197 in their first essay. On Day 3, Australia need to chase down a paltry 76-run target to make the four-match Test series scoreline 2-1 with one match to go.

During the entire Test match, a lot has been said and written about India's poor tactics. Former cricketers and experts have questioned Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led think tank for not using R Ashwin early on during Day 2's morning session whereas in-form Axar Patel batted below the former in the second essay; running out of partners. In addition, Ravindra Jadeja batted above Shreyas Iyer, at No. 5, which wasn't well received by Sanjay Manjrekar.

Speaking to&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;at the end of Day 2, the cricketer-turned-commentator Manjrekar&nbsp;said, "It has just disappointed me in the last and this innings as well that Jadeja came ahead of Shreyas Iyer. You can't be doing that for left-right combination. You've got a proper batter...even if he is a right hander. And Jadeja coming in as a left-hander...I can understand when you have 2-3 left-arm spinners like Bangladesh used to have in the past. Here you have two quality off-spinners bowling. It did not make any sense to me. Iyer has a great feel for spinners so you want him ahead in the line-up. And he has shown his class."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-way-a-spin-bowler-should-come-on-in-sixth-over-matthew-hayden-slams-indore-test-pitch-567978">'No way a spin bowler should come on in sixth over': Matthew Hayden slams Indore Test pitch</a>

The ploy to promote Jadeja fell flat as the No. 1 Test all-rounder 4 and 7 in both the innings. Meanwhile, Iyer ended the Test with scores of 0 and 26. Day 3 started with India defending only a mere 76 and removed in-form Usman Khawaja in a flash. However, Travis Head-Marnus Labuschagne have steadied the ship for the Aussies and taken the side closer to a memorable win in Indore.

India have been on the back foot in the third and penultimate Test versus Australia in Indore. They only managed 109 and 163 in the two innings and conceded a vital 88-run lead with Australia making 197 in their first essay.

India have been on the back foot in the third and penultimate Test versus Australia in Indore. They only managed 109 and 163 in the two innings and conceded a vital 88-run lead with Australia making 197 in their first essay. On Day 3, Australia need to chase down a paltry 76-run target to make the four-match Test series scoreline 2-1 with one match to go. During the entire Test match, a lot has been said and written about India's poor tactics. Former cricketers and experts have questioned Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led think tank for not using R Ashwin early on during Day 2's morning session whereas in-form Axar Patel batted below the former in the second essay; running out of partners. In addition, Ravindra Jadeja batted above Shreyas Iyer, at No. 5, which wasn't well received by Sanjay Manjrekar. Speaking to Star Sports at the end of Day 2, the cricketer-turned-commentator Manjrekar said, "It has just disappointed me in the last and this innings as well that Jadeja came ahead of Shreyas Iyer. You can't be doing that for left-right combination. You've got a proper batter...even if he is a right hander. And Jadeja coming in as a left-hander...I can understand when you have 2-3 left-arm spinners like Bangladesh used to have in the past. Here you have two quality off-spinners bowling. It did not make any sense to me. Iyer has a great feel for spinners so you want him ahead in the line-up. And he has shown his class." Also Read: 'No way a spin bowler should come on in sixth over': Matthew Hayden slams Indore Test pitch The ploy to promote Jadeja fell flat as the No. 1 Test all-rounder 4 and 7 in both the innings. Meanwhile, Iyer ended the Test with scores of 0 and 26. Day 3 started with India defending only a mere 76 and removed in-form Usman Khawaja in a flash. However, Travis Head-Marnus Labuschagne have steadied the ship for the Aussies and taken the side closer to a memorable win in Indore.

'It did not make any sense': Sanjay Manjrekar slams Rohit Sharma's tactics in Indore Test

Australia defeated India by nine wickets on Day 3 of the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, to keep the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive, with the scoreline being 2-1 in hosts' favour. A lot has been said and written about the nature of the pitch on offer at the Holkar Stadium, Indore where the match ended in less than three complete days. After the game, captain Rohit Sharma reacted to all such noises around the Indore pitch.

The likes of Matthew Hayden, Ravi Shastri, Sunil Gavaskar, Michael Clarke, etc. opined on the pitch ever since the Test commenced on Wednesday (March 01). While 14 wickets fell on the opening day, as many as 16 fell on Day 2. At the post-match presser, Rohit reacted to all such criticism and revealed that&nbsp;it was Indian team's&nbsp;collective decision&nbsp;to play on such surfaces despite being aware of the challenges.&nbsp;

Rohit said, "Former cricketers did not play on pitches like this. So I don't know. Like I said, this is the kind of pitch we wanted to play in and this is our strength. When you play in home, you want to play to your strength and not worry about what people outside are speaking about. And had we not gotten results, we would have thought otherwise."

Hitman pointed out how it is important to laud Nathan Lyon (Player-of-the-Match for his 11-wicket haul including 8 for 64 in India's second innings) and not just talk about the pitch. "This pitch talk is getting too much. Every time we play in India, the focus is only on pitch. Why are people not asking me about Nathan Lyon and how well he bowled? Or, how well Pujara batted in the second innings? Or, how well Usman Khawaja played? Those are the things I can give you a details on, but not on pitch because it is absolutely not necessary,” Rohit added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-australia-beat-india-in-indore-568058">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat India in Indore</a>

At the post-match presentation, Rohit also highlighted how India should tackle such tough batting surfaces. "We need to keep it simple and follow the plan. When you are playing on challenging pitches, we need to be brave. We allowed their bowlers to bowl on one particular spot. Not taking any credit away from their bowlers. especially Nathan Lyon, he kept challenging us hitting the right lengths. When the bowler is trying to do that, gotta be a little brave which I thought we were not," he said.

The fourth and final Test gets underway in Ahmedabad on March 09. Australia have already qualified for the WTC final whereas India still need a win to not depend on other results and march into the summit clash, to be held in early June in London.

Australia defeated India by nine wickets on Day 3 of the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, to keep the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive, with the scoreline being 2-1 in hosts' favour.

Australia defeated India by nine wickets on Day 3 of the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, to keep the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive, with the scoreline being 2-1 in hosts' favour. A lot has been said and written about the nature of the pitch on offer at the Holkar Stadium, Indore where the match ended in less than three complete days. After the game, captain Rohit Sharma reacted to all such noises around the Indore pitch. The likes of Matthew Hayden, Ravi Shastri, Sunil Gavaskar, Michael Clarke, etc. opined on the pitch ever since the Test commenced on Wednesday (March 01). While 14 wickets fell on the opening day, as many as 16 fell on Day 2. At the post-match presser, Rohit reacted to all such criticism and revealed that it was Indian team's collective decision to play on such surfaces despite being aware of the challenges. Rohit said, "Former cricketers did not play on pitches like this. So I don't know. Like I said, this is the kind of pitch we wanted to play in and this is our strength. When you play in home, you want to play to your strength and not worry about what people outside are speaking about. And had we not gotten results, we would have thought otherwise." Hitman pointed out how it is important to laud Nathan Lyon (Player-of-the-Match for his 11-wicket haul including 8 for 64 in India's second innings) and not just talk about the pitch. "This pitch talk is getting too much. Every time we play in India, the focus is only on pitch. Why are people not asking me about Nathan Lyon and how well he bowled? Or, how well Pujara batted in the second innings? Or, how well Usman Khawaja played? Those are the things I can give you a details on, but not on pitch because it is absolutely not necessary,” Rohit added. Also Read: Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after Australia beat India in Indore At the post-match presentation, Rohit also highlighted how India should tackle such tough batting surfaces. "We need to keep it simple and follow the plan. When you are playing on challenging pitches, we need to be brave. We allowed their bowlers to bowl on one particular spot. Not taking any credit away from their bowlers. especially Nathan Lyon, he kept challenging us hitting the right lengths. When the bowler is trying to do that, gotta be a little brave which I thought we were not," he said. The fourth and final Test gets underway in Ahmedabad on March 09. Australia have already qualified for the WTC final whereas India still need a win to not depend on other results and march into the summit clash, to be held in early June in London.

'Former cricketers did not...': Rohit Sharma on ex-players' rant on Indore Test pitch after India's defeat

Day 1 of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia hasn't gone the home side's way. After opting to bat first, India only managed a paltry 109 in 33.2 overs and in reply saw Australia go to lunch at 70 for 1. However, Ravindra Jadeja and his ardent fans had something to cheer for as the all-rounder joined former Indian captain Kapil Dev in an elite list.&nbsp;

When Jadeja dismissed Australian opener Travis Head for 9, he became only the second Indian all-rounder, after Kapil, to complete a double of 5,000 runs and 500 international wickets.&nbsp;Playing in his 63rd Test, the 34-year-old&nbsp;achieved the historic feat in the ongoing series where he has been on a roll.&nbsp;So far, the left-hander has scored a vital 70 in the first Test and accounted for as many as 17 scalps -- including a 10-wicket haul in the second Test in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-the-best-option-to-succeed-cheteshwar-pujara-at-no-3-wasim-jaffer-pins-hopes-on-indias-star-batter-567090">He is the best option to succeed Cheteshwar Pujara at No. 3: Wasim Jaffer pins hopes on India's star batter</a>

Talking about the third and penultimate Test's opening day, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. chose to bat first after winning the coin toss. Since then, nothing has gone India's way as they were dismissed for 109. The likes of Rohit, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Jadeja, Shreyas Iyer, etc. fell flat and none of the Indian batters could stay&nbsp;in the middle for long.&nbsp;

In reply, the Steve Smith-led Australian line-up is off to a strong start after losing Head. Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschange, Smith and the likes will aim to go past India's score and compile a big lead for the visitors, who trail 0-2 in the four-match series.

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Day 1 of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia hasn't gone the home side's way. After opting to bat first, India only managed a paltry 109 in 33.

Day 1 of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia hasn't gone the home side's way. After opting to bat first, India only managed a paltry 109 in 33.2 overs and in reply saw Australia go to lunch at 70 for 1. However, Ravindra Jadeja and his ardent fans had something to cheer for as the all-rounder joined former Indian captain Kapil Dev in an elite list. When Jadeja dismissed Australian opener Travis Head for 9, he became only the second Indian all-rounder, after Kapil, to complete a double of 5,000 runs and 500 international wickets. Playing in his 63rd Test, the 34-year-old achieved the historic feat in the ongoing series where he has been on a roll. So far, the left-hander has scored a vital 70 in the first Test and accounted for as many as 17 scalps -- including a 10-wicket haul in the second Test in New Delhi. Also Read: He is the best option to succeed Cheteshwar Pujara at No. 3: Wasim Jaffer pins hopes on India's star batter Talking about the third and penultimate Test's opening day, Rohit Sharma & Co. chose to bat first after winning the coin toss. Since then, nothing has gone India's way as they were dismissed for 109. The likes of Rohit, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Jadeja, Shreyas Iyer, etc. fell flat and none of the Indian batters could stay in the middle for long. In reply, the Steve Smith-led Australian line-up is off to a strong start after losing Head. Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschange, Smith and the likes will aim to go past India's score and compile a big lead for the visitors, who trail 0-2 in the four-match series. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

IND vs AUS: Ravindra Jadeja joins Kapil Dev in elite list after getting rid of Travis Head in 3rd Test

Day 2 of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia, in Indore, saw Australia get dismissed for 197 -- resuming the day from 156 for 4 -- after dismissing Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. for 109 on Day 1. In their second essay, India only managed 163 all-out , setting a paltry 76-run target for the visitors. The third day will commence, on Friday (March 03), with Australia needing only 76 to make the four-match series scoreline 2-1.&nbsp;

From India's perspective, only Cheteshwar Pujara looked comfortable in the middle during their second innings. While India had a chance to wipe out the deficit and set a challenging target but none of their star batters made a mark. Pujara was the lone warrior who fell for an impressive 142-ball 59. He was dismissed by Nathan Lyon -- who returned with a stunning 8 for 64 -- but stand-in captain Steve Smith won all the accolodes for Pujara's dismissal by pulling off a one-handed stunner at leg slip. Pujara flicked a delivery off Lyon and it went low to Smith's right hand. The 33-year-old was proactive enough to grab the ball in a flash and send Pujara packing. Here's the video:

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Steve Smith 🙏😮<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pujara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pujara</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cheteshwarpujara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cheteshwarpujara</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsAUSTest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsAUSTest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsAus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsAus</a> <a href="https://t.co/FwoFM2wmD7">pic.twitter.com/FwoFM2wmD7</a>
— ßivek¹⁸ (@Bvekgupta) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bvekgupta/status/1631253275587792897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-test-unplayable-umesh-yadav-sends-mitchell-starcs-stumps-flying-with-a-jaffa-watch-567629">IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: UNPLAYABLE! Umesh Yadav sends Mitchell Starc's stumps flying with a jaffa - Watch</a>

After Pujara's dismissal, India were reduced to 155 for 8. From thereon, Axar Patel tried to go big and add to India's lead before he ran out of partners as the home side got dismissed for 163 in 60.3 overs. After stumps on Day 2, Pujara told the broadcasters, "It is a tough pitch to bat on. It is not easy and you need to trust your defence, you need to make sure to get to the pitch of the ball and try to judge the length early. I know it is not enough but still there is a chance (to win). You need to do that on such pitches, if you keep defending then there's one ball which will bounce and hit your glove, you need to find the right balance between attack and defence."

On his dismissal and Smith's brilliance, Pujara said, "It was a brilliant catch by Smith. Bit disappointed, the way things were coming along.. a partnership with Axar, we could have gotten a few more. I am learning few more shots and if there's a situation or demand then you get few quick runs, I have been working on that and I'm confident that whenever it is needed I can play the (big) shot."

Day 2 of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia, in Indore, saw Australia get dismissed for 197 -- resuming the day from 156 for 4 -- after dismissing Rohit Sharma & Co.

Day 2 of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia, in Indore, saw Australia get dismissed for 197 -- resuming the day from 156 for 4 -- after dismissing Rohit Sharma & Co. for 109 on Day 1. In their second essay, India only managed 163 all-out , setting a paltry 76-run target for the visitors. The third day will commence, on Friday (March 03), with Australia needing only 76 to make the four-match series scoreline 2-1. From India's perspective, only Cheteshwar Pujara looked comfortable in the middle during their second innings. While India had a chance to wipe out the deficit and set a challenging target but none of their star batters made a mark. Pujara was the lone warrior who fell for an impressive 142-ball 59. He was dismissed by Nathan Lyon -- who returned with a stunning 8 for 64 -- but stand-in captain Steve Smith won all the accolodes for Pujara's dismissal by pulling off a one-handed stunner at leg slip. Pujara flicked a delivery off Lyon and it went low to Smith's right hand. The 33-year-old was proactive enough to grab the ball in a flash and send Pujara packing. Here's the video: Steve Smith 🙏😮#pujara #cheteshwarpujara #INDvAUS #INDvsAUSTest #IndvsAus pic.twitter.com/FwoFM2wmD7 — ßivek¹⁸ (@Bvekgupta) March 2, 2023 × Also Read: IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: UNPLAYABLE! Umesh Yadav sends Mitchell Starc's stumps flying with a jaffa - Watch After Pujara's dismissal, India were reduced to 155 for 8. From thereon, Axar Patel tried to go big and add to India's lead before he ran out of partners as the home side got dismissed for 163 in 60.3 overs. After stumps on Day 2, Pujara told the broadcasters, "It is a tough pitch to bat on. It is not easy and you need to trust your defence, you need to make sure to get to the pitch of the ball and try to judge the length early. I know it is not enough but still there is a chance (to win). You need to do that on such pitches, if you keep defending then there's one ball which will bounce and hit your glove, you need to find the right balance between attack and defence." On his dismissal and Smith's brilliance, Pujara said, "It was a brilliant catch by Smith. Bit disappointed, the way things were coming along.. a partnership with Axar, we could have gotten a few more. I am learning few more shots and if there's a situation or demand then you get few quick runs, I have been working on that and I'm confident that whenever it is needed I can play the (big) shot."

WATCH: Steve Smith pulls off a stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 2 of Indore Test

Virat Kohli announced that he will step down as the T20I captain after the 2021 T20 World Cup. Post the showpiece event, he was sacked as the ODI captain before he eventually stepped down as the Test skipper. Under Kohli, India played four ICC tournaments where they reached the final twice, made it to the semi-finals once and bowed out of the group stage on one occasion. He led the charge for India in Tests and made them a ruthless side whereas the team remained consistent in bilaterals in white-ball formats but could not emerge on top in ICC knockouts.

During&nbsp;an appearance on the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) podcast, the 34-year-old Kohli recently revealed how many labelled him a failed captain for not winning an ICC title. "Look, you play to win tournaments. I captained in Champions Trophy 2017 (reached the final), 2019 World Cup (reached the semifinal), I captained in World Test Championship (reached the final), and T20 World Cup in 2021 (failed to qualify for the knockouts). After three (four) ICC tournaments, I was considered as a failed captain," Kohli said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-r-ashwin-overtakes-james-anderson-to-become-no-1-ranked-bowler-during-day-1-of-indore-test-567152">Ind vs Aus: R Ashwin overtakes James Anderson to become No. 1 ranked bowler during Day 1 of Indore Test</a>

Now, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has responded to Kohli's critics. He feels 'not winning&nbsp;an ICC tournament doesn't tell us that Kohli&nbsp;wasn't a strong leader'. On his Youtube channel, Butt said,&nbsp;"People who do not understand the game of cricket very well judge a captain's performance based on how he has fared in the Champions Trophy or the World Cup. However, if you have a good win percentage and are tactically very strong, but haven't won a big tournament, it wouldn't be fair to say that you haven't been a good captain."

Butt further added, "There might have been a few mistakes in high-pressure games, or it might just have been a case of luck. Not winning an ICC tournament doesn't tell us that he [Virat Kohli] wasn't a strong leader."

At present, the Kohli-starrer Indian team is involved in the four-match Test series versus Australia. On Day 1 of the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, hosts India are on the back foot at stumps after being dismissed for 109. Australia ended the day's play at 156 for 4, with an overall lead of 47.

Leading the series 2-0, Rohit Sharma-led India are aiming for another win in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to cement a spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. If India manage to win the WTC final, in June, they will finally end their ten-year-long ICC-title drought. 
 
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WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Virat Kohli announced that he will step down as the T20I captain after the 2021 T20 World Cup. Post the showpiece event, he was sacked as the ODI captain before he eventually stepped down as the Test skipper.

Virat Kohli announced that he will step down as the T20I captain after the 2021 T20 World Cup. Post the showpiece event, he was sacked as the ODI captain before he eventually stepped down as the Test skipper. Under Kohli, India played four ICC tournaments where they reached the final twice, made it to the semi-finals once and bowed out of the group stage on one occasion. He led the charge for India in Tests and made them a ruthless side whereas the team remained consistent in bilaterals in white-ball formats but could not emerge on top in ICC knockouts. During an appearance on the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) podcast, the 34-year-old Kohli recently revealed how many labelled him a failed captain for not winning an ICC title. "Look, you play to win tournaments. I captained in Champions Trophy 2017 (reached the final), 2019 World Cup (reached the semifinal), I captained in World Test Championship (reached the final), and T20 World Cup in 2021 (failed to qualify for the knockouts). After three (four) ICC tournaments, I was considered as a failed captain," Kohli said. Also Read: Ind vs Aus: R Ashwin overtakes James Anderson to become No. 1 ranked bowler during Day 1 of Indore Test Now, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has responded to Kohli's critics. He feels 'not winning an ICC tournament doesn't tell us that Kohli wasn't a strong leader'. On his Youtube channel, Butt said, "People who do not understand the game of cricket very well judge a captain's performance based on how he has fared in the Champions Trophy or the World Cup. However, if you have a good win percentage and are tactically very strong, but haven't won a big tournament, it wouldn't be fair to say that you haven't been a good captain." Butt further added, "There might have been a few mistakes in high-pressure games, or it might just have been a case of luck. Not winning an ICC tournament doesn't tell us that he [Virat Kohli] wasn't a strong leader." At present, the Kohli-starrer Indian team is involved in the four-match Test series versus Australia. On Day 1 of the third and penultimate Test, in Indore, hosts India are on the back foot at stumps after being dismissed for 109. Australia ended the day's play at 156 for 4, with an overall lead of 47. Leading the series 2-0, Rohit Sharma-led India are aiming for another win in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy to cement a spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. If India manage to win the WTC final, in June, they will finally end their ten-year-long ICC-title drought. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Not winning an ICC event...': Ex-Pak captain hits back at Kohli's critics who labelled him a 'failed' captain

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He had a stellar run in international cricket where he ended with 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 634 catches, 195 stumpings and led India to three major ICC titles. During his playing days, he remained India's most-preferred wicketkeeper-batter across formats.&nbsp;He ruled over international cricket for over a decade which led to the likes of Dinesh Karthik, Parthiv Patel and others not getting enough run.

Recently, Karthik opened up on his overall journey and shared how he met Dhoni and eventually got replaced by him across formats.&nbsp;On RCB Podcast, Karthik said, "I made my debut before him. We went together on an India A tour and from there I got picked for the Indian team, he was still there in India A team."

He further opined, "That was the first time I played a four-day match together with him. I did so well that they picked me for the Indian team. From there, they went on another trip, there was an ODI tournament where he just blasted it. People stood up and said there is nobody like him. They said he's a special player. Obviously, I came to the Indian team, but by then the Dhoni mania was so big that you had to pick him. He then replaced me in all formats and he did very well. At the end of the day, it is all about taking opportunities. You got to be ready to take opportunities."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/master-blaster-sachin-tendulkar-to-receive-a-life-sized-statue-at-iconic-wankhede-stadium-in-mumbai-566740">Sachin Tendulkar to receive a life-sized statue at iconic Wankhede Stadium, Master Blaster reacts - WATCH</a>

Karthik went on to add that how Dhoni was doing was never a cause of concern for him as he wanted to keep improving. However, Dhoni's stupendous rise and success forced Karthik to be his understudy and he soon became a backup keeper-batter for India across formats.

"I was chasing excellence. I was constantly on the path of becoming the best cricketer in the world. Dhoni was there, he wasn't there – that wasn't my lookout. He was doing very well for himself. I knew that he had settled in the team. He made no mistake at the start. They sent him up an order, he got a hundred in ODI. He then went to Test cricket and scored 85. He kept brilliantly. Most importantly, he became a brand overnight. People were after him. He was hugely popular sportsperson right from the outset. I was always the understudy but I was always on the lookout for opportunities, doing something special," Karthik further added.

Both Karthik and Dhoni were part of India's 2019 ODI World Cup squad. After that, Dhoni took a sabbatical before announcing his international retirement in mid-2020. The former still couldn't become India's first-choice glovesman in white-ball formats as Rishabh Pant's emergence led to him remaining the second fiddle. Karthik was part of India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad but many feel he has already played his last for the Men in Blue after his poor run in the showpiece event. 
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MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He had a stellar run in international cricket where he ended with 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 634 catches, 195 stumpings and led India to three major ICC titles.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He had a stellar run in international cricket where he ended with 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 634 catches, 195 stumpings and led India to three major ICC titles. During his playing days, he remained India's most-preferred wicketkeeper-batter across formats. He ruled over international cricket for over a decade which led to the likes of Dinesh Karthik, Parthiv Patel and others not getting enough run. Recently, Karthik opened up on his overall journey and shared how he met Dhoni and eventually got replaced by him across formats. On RCB Podcast, Karthik said, "I made my debut before him. We went together on an India A tour and from there I got picked for the Indian team, he was still there in India A team." He further opined, "That was the first time I played a four-day match together with him. I did so well that they picked me for the Indian team. From there, they went on another trip, there was an ODI tournament where he just blasted it. People stood up and said there is nobody like him. They said he's a special player. Obviously, I came to the Indian team, but by then the Dhoni mania was so big that you had to pick him. He then replaced me in all formats and he did very well. At the end of the day, it is all about taking opportunities. You got to be ready to take opportunities." Also Read: Sachin Tendulkar to receive a life-sized statue at iconic Wankhede Stadium, Master Blaster reacts - WATCH Karthik went on to add that how Dhoni was doing was never a cause of concern for him as he wanted to keep improving. However, Dhoni's stupendous rise and success forced Karthik to be his understudy and he soon became a backup keeper-batter for India across formats. "I was chasing excellence. I was constantly on the path of becoming the best cricketer in the world. Dhoni was there, he wasn't there – that wasn't my lookout. He was doing very well for himself. I knew that he had settled in the team. He made no mistake at the start. They sent him up an order, he got a hundred in ODI. He then went to Test cricket and scored 85. He kept brilliantly. Most importantly, he became a brand overnight. People were after him. He was hugely popular sportsperson right from the outset. I was always the understudy but I was always on the lookout for opportunities, doing something special," Karthik further added. Both Karthik and Dhoni were part of India's 2019 ODI World Cup squad. After that, Dhoni took a sabbatical before announcing his international retirement in mid-2020. The former still couldn't become India's first-choice glovesman in white-ball formats as Rishabh Pant's emergence led to him remaining the second fiddle. Karthik was part of India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad but many feel he has already played his last for the Men in Blue after his poor run in the showpiece event.

'I came to Indian team, but by then MS Dhoni mania was so big...': Veteran keeper on ex-captain's effect

Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar remains one of the biggest names in world cricket. Despite retiring from international cricket in late 2013, his name continues to make heads turn as the Mumbaikar remains a fan-favourite across the globe and is worshipped in India. Tendulkar had a glorious run in international cricket, ending with 34,000 runs and 100 hundreds along with winning the ODI World Cup with Team India in 2011. Now, as per a report, he is set to have a life-sized statue at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

The MCA president Amol Kale stated that it will be the first statue at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. He revealed that it will be a small gesture of gratitude from the association towards Tendulkar for his overall contribution to Indian cricket. In addition, he revealed that they got the green signal from the legendaryc cricketer for having the life-sized statue erected at the Wankhede.

Kale told The Indian Express, “It will be the first statue in Wankhede Stadium, we will decide where it will be placed. He (Tendulkar) is a Bharat Ratna and everyone knows what he has done for cricket. As he turns 50 (on April 24), it will be a small token of appreciation from the MCA. I spoke to him three weeks ago and his consent was received,” Kale told the publication.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2023-who-is-mis-young-recruit-sonam-yadava-labourers-daughter-who-is-set-to-earn-inr-1-million-566689">WPL 2023: Who is MI's young recruit Sonam Yadav?A labourer's daughter who is set to earn INR 1 million</a>

Tendulkar also reacted to receiving the life-sized statue at his home ground. In an interaction with ANI, he said, "Pleasant surprise. My career started here. It was a journey with unbelievable memories. Best moment of my career came here when we won 2011 World Cup..."

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The MCA officials are&nbsp;hoping to unveil the statue on April 23, 2023; i.e. on the eve of Tendulkar's 50th. The Master Blaster retired from international cricket amassing 34,357 runs and 100 centuries. He slammed 51 Test hundreds and 49 tons in the 50-over format. He ended with 6 ODI WC tons and won the mega event during MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue's 2011 triumph on home soil.&nbsp;

Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar remains one of the biggest names in world cricket. Despite retiring from international cricket in late 2013, his name continues to make heads turn as the Mumbaikar remains a fan-favourite across the globe and is worshipped in India.

Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar remains one of the biggest names in world cricket. Despite retiring from international cricket in late 2013, his name continues to make heads turn as the Mumbaikar remains a fan-favourite across the globe and is worshipped in India. Tendulkar had a glorious run in international cricket, ending with 34,000 runs and 100 hundreds along with winning the ODI World Cup with Team India in 2011. Now, as per a report, he is set to have a life-sized statue at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. The MCA president Amol Kale stated that it will be the first statue at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. He revealed that it will be a small gesture of gratitude from the association towards Tendulkar for his overall contribution to Indian cricket. In addition, he revealed that they got the green signal from the legendaryc cricketer for having the life-sized statue erected at the Wankhede. Kale told The Indian Express, “It will be the first statue in Wankhede Stadium, we will decide where it will be placed. He (Tendulkar) is a Bharat Ratna and everyone knows what he has done for cricket. As he turns 50 (on April 24), it will be a small token of appreciation from the MCA. I spoke to him three weeks ago and his consent was received,” Kale told the publication. Also Read: WPL 2023: Who is MI's young recruit Sonam Yadav?A labourer's daughter who is set to earn INR 1 million Tendulkar also reacted to receiving the life-sized statue at his home ground. In an interaction with ANI, he said, "Pleasant surprise. My career started here. It was a journey with unbelievable memories. Best moment of my career came here when we won 2011 World Cup..." #WATCH | Mumbai: On his life-size statue being erected inside Wankhede stadium by MCA, Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar says, "Pleasant surprise. My career started here. It was a journey with unbelievable memories. Best moment of my career came here when we won 2011 World Cup..." pic.twitter.com/OAHPP7QkSB — ANI (@ANI) February 28, 2023 × The MCA officials are hoping to unveil the statue on April 23, 2023; i.e. on the eve of Tendulkar's 50th. The Master Blaster retired from international cricket amassing 34,357 runs and 100 centuries. He slammed 51 Test hundreds and 49 tons in the 50-over format. He ended with 6 ODI WC tons and won the mega event during MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue's 2011 triumph on home soil.

Sachin Tendulkar to receive a life-sized statue at iconic Wankhede Stadium, Master Blaster reacts - WATCH

On December 30, 2022, Rishabh Pant had a horrific accident in the Delhi-Dehradun highway. Suffering several injuries, the swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batter is out of action for quite some time and former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly recently opened up on Pant's likely return in the national side. Ganguly, who is&nbsp;with the Delhi Capitals in a management role for IPL 2023, feels the Indian star cricketer might take up to two years to return in the Indian team.

"I spoke to him a couple of times. Obviously he is going through a tough period, through injuries and surgeries and I wish him well. In a year's time or may be in a couple of years' time, he will be back playing for India," Ganguly was quoted as saying by PTI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-you-dont-score-runs-in-india-you-will-get-flak-sourav-ganguly-opines-on-kl-rahuls-form-566451">When you don't score runs in India, you will get flak: Sourav Ganguly opines on KL Rahul's form</a>

Ganguly, the ex-Indian skipper and BCCI chief,&nbsp;mentioned that he has&nbsp;spoken to Pant a couple of times since his horrific accident last year. In addition, he&nbsp;admitted that it would be tough to fill the void left by&nbsp;Pant in the Delhi Capitals camp for IPL 2023 and&nbsp;further revealed that the team has not finalised his replacement as of yet.

Last week, the Delhi camp announced David Warner as their captain for IPL 2023, which will kick off on March 31 with defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) taking on MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Ahmedabad. DC will open their campaign versus Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Lucknow on April 1.

On December 30, 2022, Rishabh Pant had a horrific accident in the Delhi-Dehradun highway. Suffering several injuries, the swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batter is out of action for quite some time and former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly recently opened up on Pant's likely return in the national side.

On December 30, 2022, Rishabh Pant had a horrific accident in the Delhi-Dehradun highway. Suffering several injuries, the swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batter is out of action for quite some time and former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly recently opened up on Pant's likely return in the national side. Ganguly, who is with the Delhi Capitals in a management role for IPL 2023, feels the Indian star cricketer might take up to two years to return in the Indian team. "I spoke to him a couple of times. Obviously he is going through a tough period, through injuries and surgeries and I wish him well. In a year's time or may be in a couple of years' time, he will be back playing for India," Ganguly was quoted as saying by PTI. Also Read: When you don't score runs in India, you will get flak: Sourav Ganguly opines on KL Rahul's form Ganguly, the ex-Indian skipper and BCCI chief, mentioned that he has spoken to Pant a couple of times since his horrific accident last year. In addition, he admitted that it would be tough to fill the void left by Pant in the Delhi Capitals camp for IPL 2023 and further revealed that the team has not finalised his replacement as of yet. Last week, the Delhi camp announced David Warner as their captain for IPL 2023, which will kick off on March 31 with defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) taking on MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Ahmedabad. DC will open their campaign versus Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Lucknow on April 1.

Rishabh Pant might take up to two years to return for India, feels Sourav Ganguly

KL Rahul's form remains a huge cause of concern for Team India ahead of the third and penultimate Test versus Australia in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. India have an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-match series and are likely to remain unchanged in their playing XI. However, many questions have been raised on Rahul being given a long run despite his repeated failures.

Recently, Sourav Ganguly -- former Indian captain and BCCI chief -- opined on Rahul.&nbsp;"When you don't score runs in India, obviously you will get flak. KL Rahul hasn't been the only one. There have been players in the past also," Ganguly told PTI in an exclusive interview on the sidelines of Delhi Capitals' IPL pre-season camp ahead of IPL 2023.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/awfully-inconsistent-irrational-ex-australia-captain-rips-apart-pat-cummins-co-for-poor-show-in-india-566382">Awfully inconsistent, irrational: Ex-Australia captain rips apart Pat Cummins &amp; Co for poor show in India</a>

Further, Ganguly sounded optimistic of Rahul's return to form and said, "He has performed but obviously you expect a lot more from a top order batter playing for India because the standards set by others are so high. When you fail for a while, obviously there will be criticism. I am sure Rahul has ability and I am sure as and when he gets more opportunities, he will have to find ways to score," he explained.

Rahul hasn't crossed the 25-run mark in his last ten innings. He has scored only 198 runs in the last 12 outings and has so far managed a paltry 38 runs overall in three innings in the Australia Tests. Hence, he will be desperate to go past his poor run of form in the third and penultimate India-Australia Test, in Indore, which kicks off on March 01.

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KL Rahul's form remains a huge cause of concern for Team India ahead of the third and penultimate Test versus Australia in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. India have an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-match series and are likely to remain unchanged in their playing XI.

KL Rahul's form remains a huge cause of concern for Team India ahead of the third and penultimate Test versus Australia in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. India have an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-match series and are likely to remain unchanged in their playing XI. However, many questions have been raised on Rahul being given a long run despite his repeated failures. Recently, Sourav Ganguly -- former Indian captain and BCCI chief -- opined on Rahul. "When you don't score runs in India, obviously you will get flak. KL Rahul hasn't been the only one. There have been players in the past also," Ganguly told PTI in an exclusive interview on the sidelines of Delhi Capitals' IPL pre-season camp ahead of IPL 2023. Also Read: Awfully inconsistent, irrational: Ex-Australia captain rips apart Pat Cummins & Co for poor show in India Further, Ganguly sounded optimistic of Rahul's return to form and said, "He has performed but obviously you expect a lot more from a top order batter playing for India because the standards set by others are so high. When you fail for a while, obviously there will be criticism. I am sure Rahul has ability and I am sure as and when he gets more opportunities, he will have to find ways to score," he explained. Rahul hasn't crossed the 25-run mark in his last ten innings. He has scored only 198 runs in the last 12 outings and has so far managed a paltry 38 runs overall in three innings in the Australia Tests. Hence, he will be desperate to go past his poor run of form in the third and penultimate India-Australia Test, in Indore, which kicks off on March 01. ×

When you don't score runs in India, you will get flak: Sourav Ganguly opines on KL Rahul's form

Yuvraj Singh represented India in 40 Tests, 304 ODIs and 58 T20Is. He is regarded as one of the greatest white-ball all-rounders in world cricket. He was India's hero during their title run in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup. However, former Sri Lanka player Russell Arnold has made a shocking claim about the ex-Indian cricketer. Arnold compared both Yuvraj and MS Dhoni -- two of India's greatest middle-order batters -- and feels the former wasn't good at absorbing pressure.

During a conversation with former Indian cricket WV Raman, Arnold made the glaring remark. While discussing Dhoni and Yuvraj, the Sri Lankan opined that Dhoni was more adept in playing both defensively and aggressively&nbsp;as per&nbsp;the situation.&nbsp;

"He could play both roles, there are very few who could do that. Both roles meant that when he needed to absorb pressure, he could do it. That was my strength, but I could hit a boundary now and then but not consistently score 15 runs or more. You give me eight to 10 (runs to score in an over), and I'll back myself. But Dhoni would back himself with 15 or 20 on the board and hit those big sixes consistently," Arnold pointed out.

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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-offered-captaincy-but-shoaib-akhtar-reveals-why-he-said-no-to-leading-pakistan-in-2002-564718">'I was offered captaincy but...': Shoaib Akhtar reveals why he said NO to leading Pakistan in 2002</a>

He added, "To be able to play both roles as expertly as he did, he is in a very different league. Not many players can play both those roles. You get players with flamboyance and come close to hitting those boundaries. Like Yuvraj Singh. But Yuvraj could not absorb the pressure when needed and play with his partner the way Dhoni did. Yuvraj had to be the boss to be extravagant and express himself. That was when he was at his best. But Dhoni was at his best at both ends of the line. He could be defensive and absorb pressure and throw those punches as well."

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Yuvraj and Dhoni are regarded as two of the finest players, especially in limited overs. Both won India innumerable matches with their memorable partnerships and made the Men in Blue one of the strongest sides during their playing days.

It will be interesting to see if Yuvraj responds to Arnold's claims.
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Yuvraj Singh represented India in 40 Tests, 304 ODIs and 58 T20Is. He is regarded as one of the greatest white-ball all-rounders in world cricket. He was India's hero during their title run in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup.

Yuvraj Singh represented India in 40 Tests, 304 ODIs and 58 T20Is. He is regarded as one of the greatest white-ball all-rounders in world cricket. He was India's hero during their title run in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup. However, former Sri Lanka player Russell Arnold has made a shocking claim about the ex-Indian cricketer. Arnold compared both Yuvraj and MS Dhoni -- two of India's greatest middle-order batters -- and feels the former wasn't good at absorbing pressure. During a conversation with former Indian cricket WV Raman, Arnold made the glaring remark. While discussing Dhoni and Yuvraj, the Sri Lankan opined that Dhoni was more adept in playing both defensively and aggressively as per the situation. "He could play both roles, there are very few who could do that. Both roles meant that when he needed to absorb pressure, he could do it. That was my strength, but I could hit a boundary now and then but not consistently score 15 runs or more. You give me eight to 10 (runs to score in an over), and I'll back myself. But Dhoni would back himself with 15 or 20 on the board and hit those big sixes consistently," Arnold pointed out. Also Read: 'I was offered captaincy but...': Shoaib Akhtar reveals why he said NO to leading Pakistan in 2002 He added, "To be able to play both roles as expertly as he did, he is in a very different league. Not many players can play both those roles. You get players with flamboyance and come close to hitting those boundaries. Like Yuvraj Singh. But Yuvraj could not absorb the pressure when needed and play with his partner the way Dhoni did. Yuvraj had to be the boss to be extravagant and express himself. That was when he was at his best. But Dhoni was at his best at both ends of the line. He could be defensive and absorb pressure and throw those punches as well." Yuvraj and Dhoni are regarded as two of the finest players, especially in limited overs. Both won India innumerable matches with their memorable partnerships and made the Men in Blue one of the strongest sides during their playing days. It will be interesting to see if Yuvraj responds to Arnold's claims.

Yuvraj couldn't absorb pressure and play with his partner the way Dhoni did, claims former SL cricketer

KL Rahul's form has become a huge talking point in the Indian cricket fraternity. The dashing opener has struggled for runs in the ongoing India-Australia Tests and has managed only 38 runs in three outings in the first two Tests. Thus, many have slammed him left, right and centre and called for his omission. Skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid continue to back the star opener whereas former cricketers Venkatesh Prasad and Aakash Chopra have been at loggerheads with regards to Rahul's place in the side.&nbsp;

Amid all this, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh took to his official Twitter handle to back Rahul and has urged one and all to 'leave him alone'. He tweeted, "Can we leave @klrahul alone guys ? He hasn’t done any crime.He is still a top player. He will come back strong.we all go thru such patches in international cricket.he is not the first one and last one. so please respect the fact that he is our own 🇮🇳 player and have faith." Here's Bhajji's post:

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Can we leave <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@klrahul</a> alone guys ? He hasn’t done any crime.He is still a top player. He will come back strong.we all go thru such patches in international cricket.he is not the first one and last one. so please respect the fact that he is our own 🇮🇳 player and have faith 🙏
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1628055859661266944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-shed-a-tear-or-two-dinesh-karthik-sympathises-with-kl-rahul-recalls-his-struggle-period-564444">I shed a tear or two: Dinesh Karthik sympathises with KL Rahul, recalls his struggle period</a>

Since Rahul's memorable ton in the India-South Africa Centurion Test in December 2021, the right-hander hasn't looked his part in whites. He has managed only 198 runs in the last 12 innings and his place is under threat with the rise of Shubman Gill in recent times.&nbsp;After India's Delhi Test victory, on February 19, Dravid backed Rahul and told Star Sports, "I&nbsp;think he (Rahul) needs to trust his processes. This is just a phase, he has been one of our most successful overseas openers. He’s got centuries in South Africa and England, we’ll continue to back him. I believe he has the quality and class to come out of this."

The India-Australia third and penultimate Test kicks off on March 01 in Indore. It will be interesting to see if Rahul holds on to his spot or Gill is given a run.&nbsp;

KL Rahul's form has become a huge talking point in the Indian cricket fraternity. The dashing opener has struggled for runs in the ongoing India-Australia Tests and has managed only 38 runs in three outings in the first two Tests.

KL Rahul's form has become a huge talking point in the Indian cricket fraternity. The dashing opener has struggled for runs in the ongoing India-Australia Tests and has managed only 38 runs in three outings in the first two Tests. Thus, many have slammed him left, right and centre and called for his omission. Skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid continue to back the star opener whereas former cricketers Venkatesh Prasad and Aakash Chopra have been at loggerheads with regards to Rahul's place in the side. Amid all this, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh took to his official Twitter handle to back Rahul and has urged one and all to 'leave him alone'. He tweeted, "Can we leave @klrahul alone guys ? He hasn’t done any crime.He is still a top player. He will come back strong.we all go thru such patches in international cricket.he is not the first one and last one. so please respect the fact that he is our own 🇮🇳 player and have faith." Here's Bhajji's post: Can we leave @klrahul alone guys ? He hasn’t done any crime.He is still a top player. He will come back strong.we all go thru such patches in international cricket.he is not the first one and last one. so please respect the fact that he is our own 🇮🇳 player and have faith 🙏 — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) February 21, 2023 × Also Read: I shed a tear or two: Dinesh Karthik sympathises with KL Rahul, recalls his struggle period Since Rahul's memorable ton in the India-South Africa Centurion Test in December 2021, the right-hander hasn't looked his part in whites. He has managed only 198 runs in the last 12 innings and his place is under threat with the rise of Shubman Gill in recent times. After India's Delhi Test victory, on February 19, Dravid backed Rahul and told Star Sports, "I think he (Rahul) needs to trust his processes. This is just a phase, he has been one of our most successful overseas openers. He’s got centuries in South Africa and England, we’ll continue to back him. I believe he has the quality and class to come out of this." The India-Australia third and penultimate Test kicks off on March 01 in Indore. It will be interesting to see if Rahul holds on to his spot or Gill is given a run.

'Can we leave KL Rahul alone?': Harbhajan Singh backs under-fire Indian opener amid severe criticism

India have been on a rampage versus Australia in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23. Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. won the series opener, in Nagpur, convincingly and also emerged on top in the second Test, in New Delhi, and will now aim for a 4-0 whitewash versus the Aussies at home. While the likes of Rohit, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Md Shami, Axar Patel have been on a roll, KL Rahul has struggled in particular in the two Tests.

Rahul, who has only 198 runs in the last 12 innings, has managed only 38 runs in 3 outings in the Australia Tests. Thus, he had drawn a lot of criticism and is place is on the line. Recently, veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik opined on Rahul's form and symphathised with him.&nbsp;He feels Rahul might lose his place soon not for his unlucky dismissal in the second innings of the Delhi Test but for his&nbsp;below-par returns since the South Africa series last year.

Karthik said on Cricbuzz, "He also knows for a fact that if he's going to be dropped for the next match, which is pretty much an eventuality, it is not because of the one innings, it is because of what has transpired in the last five-six Test matches. He is a class player. He is very good in all formats. At this point, I don't think it's the technique, it's what is happening between the ears. He might need some time away from the game. Come back fresh for the ODIs."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/disappointing-to-see-venkatesh-prasad-blasts-aakash-chopra-for-calling-him-agenda-peddle-vs-kl-rahul-564407">'Disappointing to see...': Venkatesh Prasad blasts Aakash Chopra for calling him 'agenda peddle' vs KL Rahul</a>

Karthik further added that he resonates with Rahul's current state. Sharing his own struggling period, DK&nbsp;revealed how he dealt with ups and downs in his career and said, "This is a professional world, you've got to deal with those sorrowful moments but as a player when I look at what he has gone through. When you get out that way knowing very well this could have been your last innings. It has happened to me when you go into the dressing room, quietly walk into the toilet, and shed a tear or two. It's not a nice feeling because there's not much you can do."

DK went on to pick Shubman Gill over Rahul for the third Test at Holkar Stadium, Indore. "Temporarily for the moment, I will have to go with Shubman Gill. He batted beautifully. There will be just one change in the India XI (for the third Test). I felt bad for KL Rahul. He has been under the scanner. But One thing is for sure, KL will come back strongly and when he does, there are not too many right-handed batters who can match him with the quality and range of shots," DK stated.

India will lock horns with Australia in the third and penultimate Test at Indore which kicks off on March 01. While Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid have backed Rahul, he might still be out of the playing XI given he has looked completely out of sorts -- especially mentally -- in the series.&nbsp;

India have been on a rampage versus Australia in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23. Rohit Sharma & Co. won the series opener, in Nagpur, convincingly and also emerged on top in the second Test, in New Delhi, and will now aim for a 4-0 whitewash versus the Aussies at home.

India have been on a rampage versus Australia in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23. Rohit Sharma & Co. won the series opener, in Nagpur, convincingly and also emerged on top in the second Test, in New Delhi, and will now aim for a 4-0 whitewash versus the Aussies at home. While the likes of Rohit, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Md Shami, Axar Patel have been on a roll, KL Rahul has struggled in particular in the two Tests. Rahul, who has only 198 runs in the last 12 innings, has managed only 38 runs in 3 outings in the Australia Tests. Thus, he had drawn a lot of criticism and is place is on the line. Recently, veteran keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik opined on Rahul's form and symphathised with him. He feels Rahul might lose his place soon not for his unlucky dismissal in the second innings of the Delhi Test but for his below-par returns since the South Africa series last year. Karthik said on Cricbuzz, "He also knows for a fact that if he's going to be dropped for the next match, which is pretty much an eventuality, it is not because of the one innings, it is because of what has transpired in the last five-six Test matches. He is a class player. He is very good in all formats. At this point, I don't think it's the technique, it's what is happening between the ears. He might need some time away from the game. Come back fresh for the ODIs." Also Read: 'Disappointing to see...': Venkatesh Prasad blasts Aakash Chopra for calling him 'agenda peddle' vs KL Rahul Karthik further added that he resonates with Rahul's current state. Sharing his own struggling period, DK revealed how he dealt with ups and downs in his career and said, "This is a professional world, you've got to deal with those sorrowful moments but as a player when I look at what he has gone through. When you get out that way knowing very well this could have been your last innings. It has happened to me when you go into the dressing room, quietly walk into the toilet, and shed a tear or two. It's not a nice feeling because there's not much you can do." DK went on to pick Shubman Gill over Rahul for the third Test at Holkar Stadium, Indore. "Temporarily for the moment, I will have to go with Shubman Gill. He batted beautifully. There will be just one change in the India XI (for the third Test). I felt bad for KL Rahul. He has been under the scanner. But One thing is for sure, KL will come back strongly and when he does, there are not too many right-handed batters who can match him with the quality and range of shots," DK stated. India will lock horns with Australia in the third and penultimate Test at Indore which kicks off on March 01. While Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid have backed Rahul, he might still be out of the playing XI given he has looked completely out of sorts -- especially mentally -- in the series.

I shed a tear or two: Dinesh Karthik sympathises with KL Rahul, recalls his struggle period

India's senior cricket teams -- both men's and women's -- are on a roll in international cricket. While Rohit Sharma-led India have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23, at home, versus Australia, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led&nbsp;side entered the T20 World Cup semi-finals on Monday (February 20).

There is more to rejoice for Indian fans as&nbsp;the jerseys of the Men in Blue is likely to&nbsp;get an upgrade. It is to be noted that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is&nbsp;close to roping in a big clothing brand as the jersey sponsor for Rohit &amp; Co.

As per a report by News18, the BCCI is close to signing a deal with Adidas as the official apparel sponsor. The deal is will kick off&nbsp;from June 2023. It will last for five years,&nbsp;until March 2028, according to the report.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/babar-azam-hasnt-become-pakistans-biggest-brand-as-he-cant-speak-english-shoaib-akhtar-564252">Babar Azam hasn't become Pakistan's biggest brand as he can’t speak English: Shoaib Akhtar</a>

Currently, the deal lies with Kewal Kiran Clothing Company, a&nbsp;parent company of Killer Jeans. They came into the picture after Mobile Premier League (MPL) backed out of their deal in November 2020.&nbsp;

Talking about Rohit-led India, they are on fire in the ongoing Test series versus Pat Cummins-led Baggy Greens. After winning the first Test, in Nagpur, by an innings and 132 runs, they beat the visitors by six wickets in the second Test in New Delhi to go 2-0 up in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The third and penultimate Test kicks off at Holkar Stadium, Indore on March 01.

India will aim for a whitewash and storm into the WTC final.&nbsp;

India's senior cricket teams -- both men's and women's -- are on a roll in international cricket. While Rohit Sharma-led India have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23, at home, versus Australia, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side entered the T20 World Cup semi-finals on Monday (February 20).

India's senior cricket teams -- both men's and women's -- are on a roll in international cricket. While Rohit Sharma-led India have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2022/23, at home, versus Australia, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side entered the T20 World Cup semi-finals on Monday (February 20). There is more to rejoice for Indian fans as the jerseys of the Men in Blue is likely to get an upgrade. It is to be noted that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is close to roping in a big clothing brand as the jersey sponsor for Rohit & Co. As per a report by News18, the BCCI is close to signing a deal with Adidas as the official apparel sponsor. The deal is will kick off from June 2023. It will last for five years, until March 2028, according to the report. Also Read: Babar Azam hasn't become Pakistan's biggest brand as he can’t speak English: Shoaib Akhtar Currently, the deal lies with Kewal Kiran Clothing Company, a parent company of Killer Jeans. They came into the picture after Mobile Premier League (MPL) backed out of their deal in November 2020. Talking about Rohit-led India, they are on fire in the ongoing Test series versus Pat Cummins-led Baggy Greens. After winning the first Test, in Nagpur, by an innings and 132 runs, they beat the visitors by six wickets in the second Test in New Delhi to go 2-0 up in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The third and penultimate Test kicks off at Holkar Stadium, Indore on March 01. India will aim for a whitewash and storm into the WTC final.

BCCI likely to ink a deal with Adidas as Team India's official apparel sponsor: Report

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