<p>After BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced India's 15-man squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir stated that he would prefer to have Ishan Kishan over KL Rahul in the playing XI for the marquee event. Kishan has been in top form, having scored four successive half-centuries, whereas Rahul is yet to get some match practice despite being named in the CWC squad. He will make his comeback in the Super Four round of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, which will give a clear picture of his fitness going ahead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Analysing the World Cup squad, Gambhir made his preference known by backing Kishan and said on Star Sports, "Tell me something, what is more important to win a championship — name or form? If Rohit (Sharma) or Virat (Kohli) had scored something similar (four consecutive fifties), would you still say that KL Rahul would replace them?" He further pointed out. "The point is, when you're gearing up to win the World Cup, you don't see the name, you judge by their form. You choose the player who can perform and win you the World Cup."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-india-opener-virender-sehwag-calls-for-adding-bharat-to-indias-odi-world-cup-jersey-632636">Former India opener Virender Sehwag calls for adding 'Bharat' to India's ODI World Cup jersey</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir added, "I feel Ishan Kishan has done everything he needs to do to be a frontrunner," he further added. Just because he is Ishan Kishan and hasn't played a lot of international cricket, you're saying that KL Rahul should play before him," he said. "But if Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma were in place of Ishan Kishan, would KL Rahul be able to replace them? The answer is 'no'."</p>

<p>Kishan is riding high on his impressive 82 in India's Asia Cup opener versus arch-rivals Pakistan on September 02 in Kandy. Coming to bat at No. 5, the left-hander stitched a handy 138-run fifth-wicket stand with Hardik Pandya (87) to take India to 265 all-out in 48.5 overs. Meanwhile, Rahul has been superb for India in the middle-order since early 2020. At No. 5, he averages a healthy 53 with 742 runs in 18 innings along with a ton and seven half-centuries.</p>

<p>It will be interesting to see India's team combination going forward, with both Kishan and Rahul's availability. After the CWC squad announcement, captain Rohit Sharma did not rule out playing both the keeper-batters together in the XI. At present, India is gearing up for its first game in the Super Four round of the Asia Cup, where they once again take on Pakistan on September 10 (Sunday) in Colombo.</p>

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After BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced India's 15-man squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir stated that he would prefer to have Ishan Kishan over KL Rahul in the playing XI for the marquee event.

After BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced India's 15-man squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup, in India, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir stated that he would prefer to have Ishan Kishan over KL Rahul in the playing XI for the marquee event. Kishan has been in top form, having scored four successive half-centuries, whereas Rahul is yet to get some match practice despite being named in the CWC squad. He will make his comeback in the Super Four round of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, which will give a clear picture of his fitness going ahead. Analysing the World Cup squad, Gambhir made his preference known by backing Kishan and said on Star Sports, "Tell me something, what is more important to win a championship — name or form? If Rohit (Sharma) or Virat (Kohli) had scored something similar (four consecutive fifties), would you still say that KL Rahul would replace them?" He further pointed out. "The point is, when you're gearing up to win the World Cup, you don't see the name, you judge by their form. You choose the player who can perform and win you the World Cup." Also read: Former India opener Virender Sehwag calls for adding 'Bharat' to India's ODI World Cup jersey Gambhir added, "I feel Ishan Kishan has done everything he needs to do to be a frontrunner," he further added. Just because he is Ishan Kishan and hasn't played a lot of international cricket, you're saying that KL Rahul should play before him," he said. "But if Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma were in place of Ishan Kishan, would KL Rahul be able to replace them? The answer is 'no'." Kishan is riding high on his impressive 82 in India's Asia Cup opener versus arch-rivals Pakistan on September 02 in Kandy. Coming to bat at No. 5, the left-hander stitched a handy 138-run fifth-wicket stand with Hardik Pandya (87) to take India to 265 all-out in 48.5 overs. Meanwhile, Rahul has been superb for India in the middle-order since early 2020. At No. 5, he averages a healthy 53 with 742 runs in 18 innings along with a ton and seven half-centuries. It will be interesting to see India's team combination going forward, with both Kishan and Rahul's availability. After the CWC squad announcement, captain Rohit Sharma did not rule out playing both the keeper-batters together in the XI. At present, India is gearing up for its first game in the Super Four round of the Asia Cup, where they once again take on Pakistan on September 10 (Sunday) in Colombo. 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.

'If Kohli or Rohit were...': Gambhir prefers Kishan over Rahul in India's XI after CWC '23 squad announcement

<p>Team India announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup, at home, starting on October 5. From India's current 18-man Asia Cup squad, including a reserve player, the trio of Prasidh Krishna, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma have been dropped as the rest 15 made the cut in the final squad. It is to be noted that all the teams have until September 28 to make any changes to the squad. Thus, some late changes might take place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar named India's final 15 in a press conference along with captain Rohit Sharma in Sri Lanka, the duo took some questions from the reporters.</p>

<p>Sympathising with the dropped players, Rohit said, "There are no surprises and you can only get 15 in. Some of the guys will be disappointed. I have gone through it and I know how it feels. We have good all-round options and this is the best 15 we could get."</p>

<p>It is to be noted that Rohit played his first 50-over World Cup in 2015 as he was left out of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious squad from the 2011 edition. Back in 2011, when India co-hosted the mega event with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, Hitman was overlooked as his competitors Virat Kohli and Suresh Raina got a look-in.</p>

<p>However, Rohit revamped in style and had a decent run in 2015 whereas came to his best in the 2019 edition, ending as the highest run-getter (648 runs with five centuries) in England and Wales. Thus, the 36-year-old has gone through a lot of ups and downs and will surely lend a supporting hand to the players who failed to make the cut.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-indias-15-man-squad-for-2023-odi-world-cup-kl-rahul-makes-the-cut-632522">BCCI announces India's 15-man squad for 2023 ODI World Cup, KL Rahul makes the cut</a></strong></p>

<p>Rohit insisted that India are yet to find their right combination and added, "I have not thought about plans yet. The problem of plenty is a good problem to have. We have to see who is in form and who our opposition is. We need to see what the best possible combination could be. If someone misses out, then so be it. This keeps happening. You have to make tough calls for the team."</p>

<p>India will open their campaign versus Australia in Chennai&nbsp;on October 8 whereas the CWC 2023 opener will be held on October 5 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad.</p>

<p>At present, the Men in Blue are gearing up for the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2023 edition, where they will take on Pakistan on Sunday (September 10).&nbsp;</p>

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Team India announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup, at home, starting on October 5. From India's current 18-man Asia Cup squad, including a reserve player, the trio of Prasidh Krishna, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma have been dropped as the rest 15 made the cut in the final squad.

Team India announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup, at home, starting on October 5. From India's current 18-man Asia Cup squad, including a reserve player, the trio of Prasidh Krishna, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma have been dropped as the rest 15 made the cut in the final squad. It is to be noted that all the teams have until September 28 to make any changes to the squad. Thus, some late changes might take place. After BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar named India's final 15 in a press conference along with captain Rohit Sharma in Sri Lanka, the duo took some questions from the reporters. Sympathising with the dropped players, Rohit said, "There are no surprises and you can only get 15 in. Some of the guys will be disappointed. I have gone through it and I know how it feels. We have good all-round options and this is the best 15 we could get." It is to be noted that Rohit played his first 50-over World Cup in 2015 as he was left out of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious squad from the 2011 edition. Back in 2011, when India co-hosted the mega event with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, Hitman was overlooked as his competitors Virat Kohli and Suresh Raina got a look-in. However, Rohit revamped in style and had a decent run in 2015 whereas came to his best in the 2019 edition, ending as the highest run-getter (648 runs with five centuries) in England and Wales. Thus, the 36-year-old has gone through a lot of ups and downs and will surely lend a supporting hand to the players who failed to make the cut. Also read: BCCI announces India's 15-man squad for 2023 ODI World Cup, KL Rahul makes the cut Rohit insisted that India are yet to find their right combination and added, "I have not thought about plans yet. The problem of plenty is a good problem to have. We have to see who is in form and who our opposition is. We need to see what the best possible combination could be. If someone misses out, then so be it. This keeps happening. You have to make tough calls for the team." India will open their campaign versus Australia in Chennai on October 8 whereas the CWC 2023 opener will be held on October 5 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. At present, the Men in Blue are gearing up for the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2023 edition, where they will take on Pakistan on Sunday (September 10). 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.

I know how it feels: Rohit Sharma sympathises with dropped players after India name 15-man squad for CWC '23

<p>On Tuesday (September 05), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's 15-man provisional squad for the forthcoming home ODI World Cup, which kicks off exactly after a month (October 05). Rohit Sharma will lead the star-studded line-up, which comprises 15 of the 18 players currently involved in the Asia Cup. The final 15 sees the omission of Prasidh Krishna, Tilak Varma, and Sanju Samson from the current Asia Cup squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is to be noted that the two-time ODI world champions can make changes to their squad till September 28, hence, there might be some late changes.&nbsp;India will open their campaign versus Australia on October 08 in Chennai whereas the tournament opener will take place on October 05 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad.</p>

<p>Talking about the squad, India have gone ahead with batters such as Rohit, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, and Virat Kohli along with the two wicketkeeper-batsmen - KL Rahul&nbsp;and Ishan Kishan, whereas all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, and Hardik Pandya will look to add more depth to the squad.&nbsp;Kuldeep Yadav is India's sole specialist spinner, whereas Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah will form the pace attack.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 NEWS 🚨<br />
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India’s squad for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> announced 🔽<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1698970188132303276?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>There were question marks over Rahul's fitness, but the 31-year-old has been&nbsp;deemed fit and already travelling to Sri Lanka to join the Asia Cup squad, and, hence, made the cut. Some notable omissions are Yuzvendra Chahal, Krishna, Samson, R Ashwin, Washington Sundar, Shikhar Dhawan, etc.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-body-language-seemed-flat-ravi-shastri-slams-team-india-for-sloppy-fielding-show-vs-nepal-in-asia-cup-tie-632496">The body language seemed flat: Ravi Shastri slams Team India for sloppy fielding show vs Nepal in Asia Cup tie</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>India's schedule at the CWC 2023 edition</strong></p>

<p>After Australia, India will face Afghanistan on October 11 at the national capital New Delhi, and then lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan on October 14 in Ahmedabad. From thereon, the Men in Blue will take on Bangladesh, in Pune, on October 19, New Zealand on October 22 in Dharamshala, and England on October 29 in Lucknow, respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will host Sri Lanka on November 02&nbsp;at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, and then meet South Africa on November 05 and the Netherlands on November 12 in Bengaluru, respectively.&nbsp;In the last edition, in 2019, India bowed out of the semi-finals in England and Wales. This is the first time that India will entirely host the edition. The last time&nbsp;they co-hosted the showpiece event was with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in 2011, when they won the championship under MS Dhoni.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Will India replicate their 2011 success? Only time will tell...</p>

<p><strong>India's squad for CWC 2023:</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya (Vice-captain), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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On Tuesday (September 05), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's 15-man provisional squad for the forthcoming home ODI World Cup, which kicks off exactly after a month (October 05).

On Tuesday (September 05), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's 15-man provisional squad for the forthcoming home ODI World Cup, which kicks off exactly after a month (October 05). Rohit Sharma will lead the star-studded line-up, which comprises 15 of the 18 players currently involved in the Asia Cup. The final 15 sees the omission of Prasidh Krishna, Tilak Varma, and Sanju Samson from the current Asia Cup squad. It is to be noted that the two-time ODI world champions can make changes to their squad till September 28, hence, there might be some late changes. India will open their campaign versus Australia on October 08 in Chennai whereas the tournament opener will take place on October 05 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. Talking about the squad, India have gone ahead with batters such as Rohit, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, and Virat Kohli along with the two wicketkeeper-batsmen - KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan, whereas all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, and Hardik Pandya will look to add more depth to the squad. Kuldeep Yadav is India's sole specialist spinner, whereas Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah will form the pace attack. 🚨 NEWS 🚨 India’s squad for #CWC23 announced 🔽#TeamIndia — BCCI (@BCCI) September 5, 2023 × There were question marks over Rahul's fitness, but the 31-year-old has been deemed fit and already travelling to Sri Lanka to join the Asia Cup squad, and, hence, made the cut. Some notable omissions are Yuzvendra Chahal, Krishna, Samson, R Ashwin, Washington Sundar, Shikhar Dhawan, etc. Also read: The body language seemed flat: Ravi Shastri slams Team India for sloppy fielding show vs Nepal in Asia Cup tie India's schedule at the CWC 2023 edition After Australia, India will face Afghanistan on October 11 at the national capital New Delhi, and then lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan on October 14 in Ahmedabad. From thereon, the Men in Blue will take on Bangladesh, in Pune, on October 19, New Zealand on October 22 in Dharamshala, and England on October 29 in Lucknow, respectively. India will host Sri Lanka on November 02 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, and then meet South Africa on November 05 and the Netherlands on November 12 in Bengaluru, respectively. In the last edition, in 2019, India bowed out of the semi-finals in England and Wales. This is the first time that India will entirely host the edition. The last time they co-hosted the showpiece event was with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in 2011, when they won the championship under MS Dhoni. Will India replicate their 2011 success? Only time will tell... India's squad for CWC 2023: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya (Vice-captain), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav 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.

BCCI announces India's 15-man squad for 2023 ODI World Cup, KL Rahul makes the cut

<p>India survived a horrible top-order collapse against Pakistan in their Asia Cup 2023 opener as Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan played arguably the most important innings of their ODI careers. Pandya, vice-captain of India, and Kishan added 138 runs for the fifth wicket to rescue India from a precarious position.</p>

<p>Kishan, who already has a double-century to his name in ODIs, scored 82 and Pandya scored 87 as the duo took India to 204 in 37.3 after losing four wickets for 66. Kishan most probably got his chance in the playing XI as KL Rahul was not available for the first two matches of India's Asia Cup campaign. After the innings against Pakistan, however, Kishan has done everything he can to ensure he isn't overlooked once KL Rahul is back.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-provides-update-on-fitness-shares-training-video-watch-632253">Rishabh Pant provides update on fitness, shares training video - WATCH</a></p>

<p>Speaking on Kishan's performance, Rohit said at the toss against Nepal that 'it's a good sign for them.'</p>

<p>"The way we batted under pressure, Hardik and Ishan batted brilliantly. Ishan showed a lot of maturity and took the game on as well. Good signs for us", said Rohit</p>

<p>India's focus is on two players to replace Pant namely, Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul. Rahul, however, got injured in IPL 2023 and Sanju Samson came into the mix as well. KL, meanwhile was ruled out of India's first two matches, against Pakistan and Nepal, before the regional tournament started with a niggle, giving Kishan a chance to put his case forward. Making full use of the opportunity, Kishan played his best ODI innings so far.</p>

<p>Kishan's innings is also important as BCCI is expected to announce an initial 15-member squad for the upcoming ODI World Cup on Monday, September 4. The World Cup starts on October 5 in India and will continue till November 19. India are one of the title contenders along with defending champions England and New Zealand.</p>

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India survived a horrible top-order collapse against Pakistan in their Asia Cup 2023 opener as Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan played arguably the most important innings of their ODI careers.

India survived a horrible top-order collapse against Pakistan in their Asia Cup 2023 opener as Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan played arguably the most important innings of their ODI careers. Pandya, vice-captain of India, and Kishan added 138 runs for the fifth wicket to rescue India from a precarious position. Kishan, who already has a double-century to his name in ODIs, scored 82 and Pandya scored 87 as the duo took India to 204 in 37.3 after losing four wickets for 66. Kishan most probably got his chance in the playing XI as KL Rahul was not available for the first two matches of India's Asia Cup campaign. After the innings against Pakistan, however, Kishan has done everything he can to ensure he isn't overlooked once KL Rahul is back. Also Read: Rishabh Pant provides update on fitness, shares training video - WATCH Speaking on Kishan's performance, Rohit said at the toss against Nepal that 'it's a good sign for them.' "The way we batted under pressure, Hardik and Ishan batted brilliantly. Ishan showed a lot of maturity and took the game on as well. Good signs for us", said Rohit India's focus is on two players to replace Pant namely, Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul. Rahul, however, got injured in IPL 2023 and Sanju Samson came into the mix as well. KL, meanwhile was ruled out of India's first two matches, against Pakistan and Nepal, before the regional tournament started with a niggle, giving Kishan a chance to put his case forward. Making full use of the opportunity, Kishan played his best ODI innings so far. Kishan's innings is also important as BCCI is expected to announce an initial 15-member squad for the upcoming ODI World Cup on Monday, September 4. The World Cup starts on October 5 in India and will continue till November 19. India are one of the title contenders along with defending champions England and New Zealand. 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.

Asia Cup: India skipper Rohit Sharma opens up on Ishan Kishan's innings vs Pakistan

<p>India's ace wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant provided a major update on his recovery as he was seen doing some decent-intensity workout at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. Pant shared the video of his training on social media platform Instagram.</p>

<p>The video, which saw Pant moving sideways and up &amp; down, was captioned "Thankful to god at least I have started seeing some light in the dark tunnel." Have a look at the video here:</p>

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<p>Notably, Pant met a horrific car accident in December 2022 while travelling to his hometown in Roorkee from New Delhi. The southpaw underwent a couple of surgeries after the unfortunate incident and has been in rehab ever since.&nbsp;In the absence of Pant during the crucial year of the ODI World Cup, India have found themselves in a bit of a soup over selecting a keeper-batsman.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wasim-jaffer-bats-for-tilak-varma-instead-of-suryakumar-yadav-in-indias-odi-world-cup-squad-632193">Wasim Jaffer bats for Tilak Varma instead of Suryakumar Yadav in India's ODI World Cup squad</a></p>

<h2>Ishan Kishan vs KL Rahul</h2>

<p>India's focus is on two players to replace Pant, namely, Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul. Rahul, however, got injured in IPL 2023 and Sanju Samson came into the mix as well. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), nonetheless, selected Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul as two options while announcing the squad for the ongoing Asia Cup - a precursor of the World Cup.</p>

<p>KL Rahul, meanwhile, was ruled out of India's first two matches&nbsp;against Pakistan and Nepal&nbsp;before the regional tournament started, with a niggle, giving Kishan a chance to put his case forward. Making full use of the opportunity, Kishan played his best ODI innings so far, scoring 82 and adding 138 runs for the fifth wicket with Hardik Pandya.</p>

<p>While Ishan has a double century to his name in ODIs, his 82 is ranked much higher because of the occasion and context of the game. India were four down for 66 when Pandya and Kishan joined each other and recused India from the embarrassing position. &nbsp;</p>

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India's ace wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant provided a major update on his recovery as he was seen doing some decent-intensity workout at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

India's ace wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant provided a major update on his recovery as he was seen doing some decent-intensity workout at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. Pant shared the video of his training on social media platform Instagram. The video, which saw Pant moving sideways and up & down, was captioned "Thankful to god at least I have started seeing some light in the dark tunnel." Have a look at the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rishabh Pant (@rishabpant) × Notably, Pant met a horrific car accident in December 2022 while travelling to his hometown in Roorkee from New Delhi. The southpaw underwent a couple of surgeries after the unfortunate incident and has been in rehab ever since. In the absence of Pant during the crucial year of the ODI World Cup, India have found themselves in a bit of a soup over selecting a keeper-batsman. Also Read: Wasim Jaffer bats for Tilak Varma instead of Suryakumar Yadav in India's ODI World Cup squad Ishan Kishan vs KL Rahul India's focus is on two players to replace Pant, namely, Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul. Rahul, however, got injured in IPL 2023 and Sanju Samson came into the mix as well. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), nonetheless, selected Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul as two options while announcing the squad for the ongoing Asia Cup - a precursor of the World Cup. KL Rahul, meanwhile, was ruled out of India's first two matches against Pakistan and Nepal before the regional tournament started, with a niggle, giving Kishan a chance to put his case forward. Making full use of the opportunity, Kishan played his best ODI innings so far, scoring 82 and adding 138 runs for the fifth wicket with Hardik Pandya. While Ishan has a double century to his name in ODIs, his 82 is ranked much higher because of the occasion and context of the game. India were four down for 66 when Pandya and Kishan joined each other and recused India from the embarrassing position. 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.

Rishabh Pant provides update on fitness, shares training video - WATCH

<p>Regular keeper and opener Ishan Kishan is being looked at as a backup for those two positions as BCCI is keen on including KL Rahul in India’s preliminary 15-man World Cup squad&nbsp;to be picked on either Monday or Tuesday. Rahul, who was supposed to undergo a fitness test on Monday, September 4&nbsp;at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), has been given a clearance certificate and will join the Indian Team in Colombo.</p>

<p>Kishan, who made headlines for his heroic knock against Pakistan after India got reduced to 66 for four at one stage, has more or less sealed his position in the team for the mega event, starting October 5. Kishan’s inclusion closes doors for Sanju Samson, who travelled with the Indian team for the Asia Cup 2023 as a reserve player.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Going by the latest reports, the coach, captain and team management have locked Kishan and middle-order batter Suryakumar Yadav as two backup players in the CWC squad.</p>

<p>As India will face Australia in the three-match ODIs before the World Cup begins, the selectors feel the team management would go easy on the players returning from lengthy injury layoffs, including Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-leads-race-to-be-part-of-2028-los-angeles-olympics-ioc-to-take-final-call-on-october-15-reports-632182">Cricket leads race to be part of 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, IOC to take final call on October 15 – Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>Iyer injured his back during the Border-Gavaskar series in March and has been out since, while Rahul suffered a leg injury during the IPL game on May 1. Both underwent rehab at the NCA. Upon attaining full fitness, both got picked in the side for the Asia Cup 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though Iyer played the game against Pakistan, scoring 14, Rahul was ruled out earlier due to a groin injury.</p>

<p>“Ishan is seen as a backup opener and a wicket-keeping option who can also bat at No. 5. The team management will be very cautious while pushing the players who are coming back from long injury layoffs. It doesn't want any of the players getting injured right before the World Cup as that can disrupt their plans in a big way. The three-ODI series against Australia at home this month will be a fair indicator,” a BCCI source close to the information told the Times of India (TOI).</p>

<h2>Rahul to join Indian team ahead of Asia Cup Super Four leg</h2>

<p>If India manages to beat Nepal or the game gets washed out, the Men in Blue will advance to the Super Four stage. Rahul and Jasprit Bumrah, who returned home ahead of India’s second group stage game for the birth of his first child, will join the Indian team in Colombo.</p>

<p>“There has been no complaint when he (Rahul) bats. It's while squatting that he has been feeling his hamstring. That has got much better in the past week. He will join the team for the Colombo leg of the Asia Cup. The World Cup team is likely to be announced in a day or two,” the source added.</p>

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Regular keeper and opener Ishan Kishan is being looked at as a backup for those two positions as BCCI is keen on including KL Rahul in India’s preliminary 15-man World Cup squad to be picked on either Monday or Tuesday.

Regular keeper and opener Ishan Kishan is being looked at as a backup for those two positions as BCCI is keen on including KL Rahul in India’s preliminary 15-man World Cup squad to be picked on either Monday or Tuesday. Rahul, who was supposed to undergo a fitness test on Monday, September 4 at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), has been given a clearance certificate and will join the Indian Team in Colombo. Kishan, who made headlines for his heroic knock against Pakistan after India got reduced to 66 for four at one stage, has more or less sealed his position in the team for the mega event, starting October 5. Kishan’s inclusion closes doors for Sanju Samson, who travelled with the Indian team for the Asia Cup 2023 as a reserve player. Going by the latest reports, the coach, captain and team management have locked Kishan and middle-order batter Suryakumar Yadav as two backup players in the CWC squad. As India will face Australia in the three-match ODIs before the World Cup begins, the selectors feel the team management would go easy on the players returning from lengthy injury layoffs, including Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul. ALSO READ: Cricket leads race to be part of 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, IOC to take final call on October 15 – Reports Iyer injured his back during the Border-Gavaskar series in March and has been out since, while Rahul suffered a leg injury during the IPL game on May 1. Both underwent rehab at the NCA. Upon attaining full fitness, both got picked in the side for the Asia Cup 2023. Though Iyer played the game against Pakistan, scoring 14, Rahul was ruled out earlier due to a groin injury. “Ishan is seen as a backup opener and a wicket-keeping option who can also bat at No. 5. The team management will be very cautious while pushing the players who are coming back from long injury layoffs. It doesn't want any of the players getting injured right before the World Cup as that can disrupt their plans in a big way. The three-ODI series against Australia at home this month will be a fair indicator,” a BCCI source close to the information told the Times of India (TOI). Rahul to join Indian team ahead of Asia Cup Super Four leg If India manages to beat Nepal or the game gets washed out, the Men in Blue will advance to the Super Four stage. Rahul and Jasprit Bumrah, who returned home ahead of India’s second group stage game for the birth of his first child, will join the Indian team in Colombo. “There has been no complaint when he (Rahul) bats. It's while squatting that he has been feeling his hamstring. That has got much better in the past week. He will join the team for the Colombo leg of the Asia Cup. The World Cup team is likely to be announced in a day or two,” the source added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Gloveman Ishan Kishan to play as backup keeper, opener as KL Rahul to be included in CWC squad: BCCI source

<p>India kicked off their campaign in the Asia Cup by taking on Babar Azam-led Pakistan on September 02 (Saturday) in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Opting to bat first, India were tottering at 27 for 2 and were further reduced to 66 for 4 before Ishan Kishan, batting at No. 5 for injured KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya stitched an impressive 138-run fifth-wicket stand as India managed to recover.</p>

<p>Eventually, Kishan (82) and Hardik (87) enabled India to post 266 all-out in 48.5 overs before rain abandoned the remainder of the game. While India's top-order continued to struggle versus Pakistan's pacers, especially Shaheen Afridi, Kishan gave a good account of himself while batting in a tough situation and was ably supported by white-ball vice-captain Hardik. After the game, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar lauded the 25-year-old despite the youngster missing out on a much-deserved century.</p>

<p>Gavaskar told&nbsp;<i>India Today,&nbsp;</i>"Got to give credit to the young man for coming in a crisis situation and scoring 82 runs and having that partnership. I think if he was discomforted by some injury, it is only natural for him to think that because he cannot run fast between the wickets, he should be looking for the boundary. So that's totally understandable at all. So I wouldn't point a finger at him at all. I would just pat him on the back and say well done to the young man<i>."</i></p>

<p>Kishan played his shots whenever offered enough room but was very calculative in his approach during his solid stand with Hardik. He took his chances versus the spinners and rotated the strike as well but lost his wicket for 82, dismissed by Haris Rauf in the 38th over. He missed out on a big knock, however, led India's recovery with a lot of maturity.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-fully-fit-jasprit-bumrah-returns-home-ahead-of-indias-second-group-game-reports-632010">Asia Cup: Fully-fit Jasprit Bumrah returns home ahead of India's second group game against Nepal - Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the former Indian opener also heaped praise on Hardik, who top-scored for the Men in Blue with a fine 87. "I think again no praise can be too high for the way he shepherded Ishan Kishan through that partnership. And of course, scoring runs himself hitting the boundaries, picking the ones and twos. And he showed that, you know, in a crisis situation to rise to the occasion, that was terrific innings," Gavaskar added.</p>

<p>On Monday (September 04), India took on lowly-ranked Nepal and the winner will join Pakistan, from Group A, in&nbsp;the Super Four. Talking about Kishan, he has made a strong case for himself, with the BCCI selectors set to name the 15-man provisional squad for next month's home ODI World Cup very soon.&nbsp;</p>

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India kicked off their campaign in the Asia Cup by taking on Babar Azam-led Pakistan on September 02 (Saturday) in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Opting to bat first, India were tottering at 27 for 2 and were further reduced to 66 for 4 before Ishan Kishan, batting at No.

India kicked off their campaign in the Asia Cup by taking on Babar Azam-led Pakistan on September 02 (Saturday) in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Opting to bat first, India were tottering at 27 for 2 and were further reduced to 66 for 4 before Ishan Kishan, batting at No. 5 for injured KL Rahul, and Hardik Pandya stitched an impressive 138-run fifth-wicket stand as India managed to recover. Eventually, Kishan (82) and Hardik (87) enabled India to post 266 all-out in 48.5 overs before rain abandoned the remainder of the game. While India's top-order continued to struggle versus Pakistan's pacers, especially Shaheen Afridi, Kishan gave a good account of himself while batting in a tough situation and was ably supported by white-ball vice-captain Hardik. After the game, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar lauded the 25-year-old despite the youngster missing out on a much-deserved century. Gavaskar told India Today, "Got to give credit to the young man for coming in a crisis situation and scoring 82 runs and having that partnership. I think if he was discomforted by some injury, it is only natural for him to think that because he cannot run fast between the wickets, he should be looking for the boundary. So that's totally understandable at all. So I wouldn't point a finger at him at all. I would just pat him on the back and say well done to the young man." Kishan played his shots whenever offered enough room but was very calculative in his approach during his solid stand with Hardik. He took his chances versus the spinners and rotated the strike as well but lost his wicket for 82, dismissed by Haris Rauf in the 38th over. He missed out on a big knock, however, led India's recovery with a lot of maturity. Also read: Asia Cup: Fully-fit Jasprit Bumrah returns home ahead of India's second group game against Nepal - Reports Meanwhile, the former Indian opener also heaped praise on Hardik, who top-scored for the Men in Blue with a fine 87. "I think again no praise can be too high for the way he shepherded Ishan Kishan through that partnership. And of course, scoring runs himself hitting the boundaries, picking the ones and twos. And he showed that, you know, in a crisis situation to rise to the occasion, that was terrific innings," Gavaskar added. On Monday (September 04), India took on lowly-ranked Nepal and the winner will join Pakistan, from Group A, in the Super Four. Talking about Kishan, he has made a strong case for himself, with the BCCI selectors set to name the 15-man provisional squad for next month's home ODI World Cup very soon. 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.

Wouldn't point a finger at him: Gavaskar in awe of Ishan Kishan after his heroics vs Pakistan in Asia Cup

<p>Out with a groin injury, KL Rahul will undergo a fitness test at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru on September 4, which will determine his participation in the remainder of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023. Also, as per the latest reports, KL Rahul will receive a call-up to the final 15-man squad for the Cricket World Cup 2023, to be picked on September 5.</p>

<p>Though Rahul got picked in the 17-member team for the Asia Cup, his last-minute injury ruled him out of the first two games against Pakistan and Nepal, respectively. The makeshift keeper-batter missed on-field action since getting injured during an IPL game for Lucknow Super Giants on May 1. Upon attaining full fitness, Rahul returned to the team but again got sidelined.</p>

<p>"He should be fine and is likely to be cleared to travel to Sri Lanka," a source close to the information told the Times of India (TOI).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-hardik-pandya-played-captains-knock-against-pakistan-says-former-aussie-matthew-hayden-631957">Asia Cup: Hardik Pandya played CAPTAIN'S KNOCK against Pakistan, says former Aussie batsman Matthew Hayden</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, despite being out of action, the right-handed batter could seal his place in India’s World Cup squad. The men’s selection committee head Ajit Agarkar will sit with the&nbsp;captain, coach and team management on Tuesday, September 5, in Kandy to finalise the team for the home mega event.</p>

<p>Rahul’s selection will, however, come at Sanju Samson’s cost, who travelled with the Indian Team as a reserve player. Reports also suggest that from the Asia Cup-bound players, out of which the final 15-man World Cup would get picked, three players, mainly Samson, Tilak Varma and Prasidh Krishna, could miss out on the cut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even though Rahul’s injury news was out before India’s first game against Pakistan in Kandy, Rohit Sharma decided against including Sanju Samson as a spare keeper-batter, instead playing Ishan Kishan in the middle order, a call that paid dividends in the end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The left-handed batter, who generally opens during the IPL and also for India, and someone who had scored a double hundred in the ODIs, was made to bat number five – a position at which KL Rahul would play once he returns to the setup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Against Pakistan, when the chips were down as India was reeling at 66 for four at one stage, Kishan and Pandya saved their sinking ship and added 138 runs for the fifth wicket. While Pandya scored 87, Ishan impressed everyone with his 81-ball 82, hitting nine fours and two sixes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian Team is likely to stick with the same XI for their second game Nepal, on Monday, September 4, in Kandy.&nbsp;</p>

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Out with a groin injury, KL Rahul will undergo a fitness test at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru on September 4, which will determine his participation in the remainder of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023.

Out with a groin injury, KL Rahul will undergo a fitness test at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru on September 4, which will determine his participation in the remainder of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023. Also, as per the latest reports, KL Rahul will receive a call-up to the final 15-man squad for the Cricket World Cup 2023, to be picked on September 5. Though Rahul got picked in the 17-member team for the Asia Cup, his last-minute injury ruled him out of the first two games against Pakistan and Nepal, respectively. The makeshift keeper-batter missed on-field action since getting injured during an IPL game for Lucknow Super Giants on May 1. Upon attaining full fitness, Rahul returned to the team but again got sidelined. "He should be fine and is likely to be cleared to travel to Sri Lanka," a source close to the information told the Times of India (TOI). ALSO READ: Asia Cup: Hardik Pandya played CAPTAIN'S KNOCK against Pakistan, says former Aussie batsman Matthew Hayden Meanwhile, despite being out of action, the right-handed batter could seal his place in India’s World Cup squad. The men’s selection committee head Ajit Agarkar will sit with the captain, coach and team management on Tuesday, September 5, in Kandy to finalise the team for the home mega event. Rahul’s selection will, however, come at Sanju Samson’s cost, who travelled with the Indian Team as a reserve player. Reports also suggest that from the Asia Cup-bound players, out of which the final 15-man World Cup would get picked, three players, mainly Samson, Tilak Varma and Prasidh Krishna, could miss out on the cut. Even though Rahul’s injury news was out before India’s first game against Pakistan in Kandy, Rohit Sharma decided against including Sanju Samson as a spare keeper-batter, instead playing Ishan Kishan in the middle order, a call that paid dividends in the end. The left-handed batter, who generally opens during the IPL and also for India, and someone who had scored a double hundred in the ODIs, was made to bat number five – a position at which KL Rahul would play once he returns to the setup. Against Pakistan, when the chips were down as India was reeling at 66 for four at one stage, Kishan and Pandya saved their sinking ship and added 138 runs for the fifth wicket. While Pandya scored 87, Ishan impressed everyone with his 81-ball 82, hitting nine fours and two sixes. The Indian Team is likely to stick with the same XI for their second game Nepal, on Monday, September 4, in Kandy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

KL Rahul to undergo fitness test on September 4 as BCCI keen on picking him in World Cup squad – Reports

<p>India reached a respectable total in their innings in the high-voltage clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023 on Saturday, September 2. After a disappointing start to the contest for Rohit Sharma’s men at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, a mature&nbsp;innings of 87 runs from Hardik Pandya and an 82-run knock from Ishan Kishan helped India reach 266 in 48.5 overs. For Pakistan Shaheen Shah Afridi wreaked havoc after he scalped four wickets while Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf ended with three wickets each.</p>

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A solid show with the bat from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>! 👌 👌<br />
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8⃣7⃣ for vice-captain <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a><br />
8⃣2⃣ for <a href="https://twitter.com/ishankishan51?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ishankishan51</a><br />
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Over to our bowlers now 👍 👍<br />
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Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/hPVV0wT83S">https://t.co/hPVV0wT83S</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsiaCup23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsiaCup23</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/15SNzWM0k1">pic.twitter.com/15SNzWM0k1</a></p>
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<h2><strong>India make poor start</strong></h2>

<p>The Men in Blue did not have the best of starts after rain halted the play initially. However, Shaheen Afridi would then wreak havoc with quickfire wickets of Rohit Sharma (11) and Virat Kohli (4). With India on the back foot, Pakistan further increased the pressure as they got the better of Shreyas Iyer (14) and Shubman Gill (10) reducing India to 66/4 in 14 overs. Haris Rauf got the better of the latter pair as he too joined the part for Pakistan.</p>

<h2><strong>Ishan, Hardik save India’s day</strong></h2>

<p>As India were struggling, Ishan and Hardik built a terrific 138-run stand for the fifth wicket as the Men in Blue came out of danger. Both the batters were aggressive with their approach as Ishan scored at a strike rate of 101 while Hardik was also scoring at almost 100. Ishan’s 82-run innings contained two sixes and nine fours while Hardik’s innings included one six and seven fours.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/javelin-champion-neeraj-chopra-eyes-gold-in-diamond-league-and-asian-games-but-staying-fit-remains-priority-631594">Neeraj Chopra eyes gold in Diamond League final and Asian Games but staying fit remains priority</a></p>

<p>The Mumbai Indians batter justified his selection in the team and also became the fourth wicketkeeper to score a fifty against Pakistan in the Asia Cup, joining MS Dhoni. It was also Ishan’s fourth consecutive fifty in the 50-over format, having scored three during three during the West Indies tour.</p>

<p>On the other hand, once Ishan and Hardik were dismissed Pakistan were back in the contest as Afridi added two more wickets to his tally. Haris Rauf also added one more to his tally while Nassem Shah was also excellent in his approach with three wickets. Interestingly, all the 10 wickets for Pakistan were scalped by pacers, highlighting their dominance with the ball.</p>

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India reached a respectable total in their innings in the high-voltage clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023 on Saturday, September 2. After a disappointing start to the contest for Rohit Sharma’s men at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, a mature innings of 87 runs from Hardik Pandya and an 82-run knock from Ishan Kishan helped India reach 266 in 48.

India reached a respectable total in their innings in the high-voltage clash against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023 on Saturday, September 2. After a disappointing start to the contest for Rohit Sharma’s men at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, a mature innings of 87 runs from Hardik Pandya and an 82-run knock from Ishan Kishan helped India reach 266 in 48.5 overs. For Pakistan Shaheen Shah Afridi wreaked havoc after he scalped four wickets while Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf ended with three wickets each. Innings Break! A solid show with the bat from #TeamIndia! 👌 👌 8⃣7⃣ for vice-captain @hardikpandya7 8⃣2⃣ for @ishankishan51 Over to our bowlers now 👍 👍 Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/hPVV0wT83S#AsiaCup23 | #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/15SNzWM0k1 — BCCI (@BCCI) September 2, 2023 × India make poor start The Men in Blue did not have the best of starts after rain halted the play initially. However, Shaheen Afridi would then wreak havoc with quickfire wickets of Rohit Sharma (11) and Virat Kohli (4). With India on the back foot, Pakistan further increased the pressure as they got the better of Shreyas Iyer (14) and Shubman Gill (10) reducing India to 66/4 in 14 overs. Haris Rauf got the better of the latter pair as he too joined the part for Pakistan. Ishan, Hardik save India’s day As India were struggling, Ishan and Hardik built a terrific 138-run stand for the fifth wicket as the Men in Blue came out of danger. Both the batters were aggressive with their approach as Ishan scored at a strike rate of 101 while Hardik was also scoring at almost 100. Ishan’s 82-run innings contained two sixes and nine fours while Hardik’s innings included one six and seven fours. ALSO READ | Neeraj Chopra eyes gold in Diamond League final and Asian Games but staying fit remains priority The Mumbai Indians batter justified his selection in the team and also became the fourth wicketkeeper to score a fifty against Pakistan in the Asia Cup, joining MS Dhoni. It was also Ishan’s fourth consecutive fifty in the 50-over format, having scored three during three during the West Indies tour. On the other hand, once Ishan and Hardik were dismissed Pakistan were back in the contest as Afridi added two more wickets to his tally. Haris Rauf also added one more to his tally while Nassem Shah was also excellent in his approach with three wickets. Interestingly, all the 10 wickets for Pakistan were scalped by pacers, highlighting their dominance with the ball. 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.

Asia Cup 2023: Ishan, Hardik lead India to respectable total after Shaheen Afridi wreaks havoc with ball

<p>India wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan played one of the most important innings of his ODI career, scoring 82 off 81 balls and helped India recover from 66/4. Kishan finally was dismissed in 38th over by Haris Rauf but by that time India had successfully recovered from the precarious position.</p>

<p>Ishan, while trying to hit one out of the park, skewed up the third ball of 38th over in the air which was caught by Pak skipper Babar Azam with ease. After the catch, however, Rauf got a bit exited and decided to give Ishan Kishan a send off. Have a look at the video here:</p>

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<p>Ishan, who came on the crease in 10th over and hit nine hours and two sixes during his innings, and added 138 runs for the fifth wicket with Hardik Pandya. By the time Kishan departed, India had crossed 200-run mark and were on course for 275+.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-shreyas-iyer-reveals-he-had-sleepless-night-ahead-of-india-vs-pakistan-match-631779">Shreyas Iyer reveals he had 'sleepless night' ahead of India vs Pakistan match</a></p>

<p>Earlier, India won the toss and skipper Rohit Sharma decided to bat first on a cloudy day in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Pak pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf probed the Indian batters early on and even prized out three wickets before India reached 50.</p>

<p>The first wicket for India to fall was Rohit who was clean bowled through his defence. Shaheen had bowled previous two balls outside off to Rohit but brought the final ball of innings' fifth over into the batsman which uprooted Rohit's stumps.</p>

<p>In his next over, Afridi took out India's star batsman Virat Kohli who tried to play the ball towards third man for a single but the ball took an inside edge and hit the stumps. Haris Rauf then took over the reins and took the wickets of Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill to leave India four down for 66 in 15th over.</p>

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India wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan played one of the most important innings of his ODI career, scoring 82 off 81 balls and helped India recover from 66/4. Kishan finally was dismissed in 38th over by Haris Rauf but by that time India had successfully recovered from the precarious position.

India wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan played one of the most important innings of his ODI career, scoring 82 off 81 balls and helped India recover from 66/4. Kishan finally was dismissed in 38th over by Haris Rauf but by that time India had successfully recovered from the precarious position. Ishan, while trying to hit one out of the park, skewed up the third ball of 38th over in the air which was caught by Pak skipper Babar Azam with ease. After the catch, however, Rauf got a bit exited and decided to give Ishan Kishan a send off. Have a look at the video here: LOVED IT pic.twitter.com/MdqqK7aNKH — Rizwan stan. (@rizzyxshaddyy) September 2, 2023 × Ishan, who came on the crease in 10th over and hit nine hours and two sixes during his innings, and added 138 runs for the fifth wicket with Hardik Pandya. By the time Kishan departed, India had crossed 200-run mark and were on course for 275+. Also Read: Shreyas Iyer reveals he had 'sleepless night' ahead of India vs Pakistan match Earlier, India won the toss and skipper Rohit Sharma decided to bat first on a cloudy day in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Pak pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf probed the Indian batters early on and even prized out three wickets before India reached 50. The first wicket for India to fall was Rohit who was clean bowled through his defence. Shaheen had bowled previous two balls outside off to Rohit but brought the final ball of innings' fifth over into the batsman which uprooted Rohit's stumps. In his next over, Afridi took out India's star batsman Virat Kohli who tried to play the ball towards third man for a single but the ball took an inside edge and hit the stumps. Haris Rauf then took over the reins and took the wickets of Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill to leave India four down for 66 in 15th over. 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.

Asia Cup: Pak pacer Haris Rauf gives SEND OFF to Ishan Kishan after taking his wicket - WATCH

<p>Shreyas Iyer has made his return to the Indian team’s Playing XI against Pakistan in the Asia Cup group stage as the two-arch rivals lock horns at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele. Iyer, last seen in international action in March against Australia was subject to fitness, but has made the Playing XI. As expected, Ishan Kishan also made the Playing XI against Pakistan while Shardul Thakur and Kuldeep Yadav were also included while there was no place for Suryakumar Yadav.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 Toss &amp; Team Update 🚨<br />
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Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> has won the toss &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> have elected to bat against Pakistan. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a><br />
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A look at our Playing XI 🔽<br />
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<h2><strong>Iyer In, Surya Out</strong></h2>

<p>While it was always a tussle for a place in the middle order, Iyer fully fit and recovered and got the faith of captain Rohit Sharma in the Playing XI. He missed the entire Indian Premier League (IPL) season for Kolkata Knight Riders while also missing the West Indies and Ireland tour. On the flip side, Suryakumar had to drop to the bench with Kishan making the Playing XI. Suryakumar had a tough outing in the ODIs against Australia in March which could have seen him miss out on a place in the Playing XI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/javelin-champion-neeraj-chopra-eyes-gold-in-diamond-league-and-asian-games-but-staying-fit-remains-priority-631594">Neeraj Chopra eyes gold in Diamond League final and Asian Games but staying fit remains priority</a></p>

<h2><strong>India win toss</strong></h2>

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bat first in the challenging conditions of Pallekele. The Asia Cup contest between the arch-rivals is the 14th meeting between the sides with India leading the head-to-head 7-5. India won the group stage clash between the sides in the 2022 Asia Cup that was played in the T20I format while they lost in the Super Four stage.</p>

<p>Pakistan on the flip side, made no changes to the winning combination from the Nepal game as they went unchanged. Babar Azam’s side will guarantee passage into the Super Four with a win while India will look to make a positive start to their Asia Cup campaign. Pakistan earlier beat Nepal by 238 runs to start their Asia Cup campaign.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India’s Playing XI vs Pakistan</strong></h2>

<p>Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan (wk), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj</p>

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Shreyas Iyer has made his return to the Indian team’s Playing XI against Pakistan in the Asia Cup group stage as the two-arch rivals lock horns at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.

Shreyas Iyer has made his return to the Indian team’s Playing XI against Pakistan in the Asia Cup group stage as the two-arch rivals lock horns at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele. Iyer, last seen in international action in March against Australia was subject to fitness, but has made the Playing XI. As expected, Ishan Kishan also made the Playing XI against Pakistan while Shardul Thakur and Kuldeep Yadav were also included while there was no place for Suryakumar Yadav. 🚨 Toss & Team Update 🚨 Captain @ImRo45 has won the toss & #TeamIndia have elected to bat against Pakistan. #INDvPAK A look at our Playing XI 🔽 Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/hPVV0wT83S#AsiaCup2023 pic.twitter.com/onUyEVBwvA — BCCI (@BCCI) September 2, 2023 × Iyer In, Surya Out While it was always a tussle for a place in the middle order, Iyer fully fit and recovered and got the faith of captain Rohit Sharma in the Playing XI. He missed the entire Indian Premier League (IPL) season for Kolkata Knight Riders while also missing the West Indies and Ireland tour. On the flip side, Suryakumar had to drop to the bench with Kishan making the Playing XI. Suryakumar had a tough outing in the ODIs against Australia in March which could have seen him miss out on a place in the Playing XI. ALSO READ | Neeraj Chopra eyes gold in Diamond League final and Asian Games but staying fit remains priority India win toss India skipper Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bat first in the challenging conditions of Pallekele. The Asia Cup contest between the arch-rivals is the 14th meeting between the sides with India leading the head-to-head 7-5. India won the group stage clash between the sides in the 2022 Asia Cup that was played in the T20I format while they lost in the Super Four stage. Pakistan on the flip side, made no changes to the winning combination from the Nepal game as they went unchanged. Babar Azam’s side will guarantee passage into the Super Four with a win while India will look to make a positive start to their Asia Cup campaign. Pakistan earlier beat Nepal by 238 runs to start their Asia Cup campaign. India’s Playing XI vs Pakistan Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan (wk), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj 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.

Asia Cup 2023: Shreyas Iyer returns to Playing XI; Ishan Kishan, Shardul Thakur get nod vs Pakistan

<p>Ishan Kishan is one player everyone is talking about ahead of the marquee India-Pakistan clash in Pallekele, Kandy, on September 2. With returning makeshift keeper-batter KL Rahul out of the group stages due to a groin injury, Ishan is said to seal the middle-order slot in his absence. Per the latest reports, Rahul Dravid-led coaching staff is not keen on shuffling the top three this close to the World Cup 2023.</p>

<p>The Indian Express reports that Ishan could be tried at number four or five in the middle order during the Pakistan and Nepal games in Asia Cup 2023. Despite knowing what Ishan brings to the table at the top of the order, having scored a double hundred against Bangladesh in an ODI while opening the innings, Ishan will continue to fill Rahul’s shoes in his absence.</p>

<p>Though Sanju Samson has also travelled with the squad as a reserve player, the chances of him finding a place in the side look bleak, with team management alongside coaching staff and captain&nbsp;locking Ishan to play ahead of Sanju, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cpl-2023-ceo-pete-russell-defends-red-card-rule-says-we-are-doing-it-for-the-fans-631110">CPL 2023: CEO Pete Russell defends red-card rule, says we are doing it for the fans</a></strong></p>

<p>Since the India team remains unwilling to alter the top three – Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, having Shreyas Iyer at number four – a position at which he loved batting and scoring runs – would further provide the stability it lacked in the lead-up to this tournament.</p>

<p>Iyer and Rahul were out of action for a long time, but upon attaining full fitness at the NCA, both got named in the 17-man squad for the Asia Cup 2023. The Indian players attended a six-day conditioning camp in Alur, Bengaluru, working on gelling together and preparing for a packed winter before arriving in Colombo for the six-team tournament.</p>

<p>The Indian team, to be on the safer side, also included the Mumbai Indians pair of Suryakumar and Tilak Varma as backups in case of injuries to anyone in the batting order. While Tilak is yet to make his ODI debut, SKY failed to make the most of the chances to seal the middle-order slot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Therefore, the management is now left with Ishan and Shreyas as the first options for the number four and five slots.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Can Ishan deliver in the middle order?</h2>

<p>An opener in the true sense, Ishan is coming off a successful tour of the Caribbean, wherein he scored three successive fifties against the West Indies in T20Is. The left-handed batter in the six matches played in the number four position in ODIs, averages a mere 22.75, having struggled to get going against the spinners.</p>

<p>With the team management deciding on playing Ishan outside of the opening position, it remains to be seen how he will pull off this new role.&nbsp;</p>

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Ishan Kishan is one player everyone is talking about ahead of the marquee India-Pakistan clash in Pallekele, Kandy, on September 2. With returning makeshift keeper-batter KL Rahul out of the group stages due to a groin injury, Ishan is said to seal the middle-order slot in his absence.

Ishan Kishan is one player everyone is talking about ahead of the marquee India-Pakistan clash in Pallekele, Kandy, on September 2. With returning makeshift keeper-batter KL Rahul out of the group stages due to a groin injury, Ishan is said to seal the middle-order slot in his absence. Per the latest reports, Rahul Dravid-led coaching staff is not keen on shuffling the top three this close to the World Cup 2023. The Indian Express reports that Ishan could be tried at number four or five in the middle order during the Pakistan and Nepal games in Asia Cup 2023. Despite knowing what Ishan brings to the table at the top of the order, having scored a double hundred against Bangladesh in an ODI while opening the innings, Ishan will continue to fill Rahul’s shoes in his absence. Though Sanju Samson has also travelled with the squad as a reserve player, the chances of him finding a place in the side look bleak, with team management alongside coaching staff and captain locking Ishan to play ahead of Sanju, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma. ALSO READ: CPL 2023: CEO Pete Russell defends red-card rule, says we are doing it for the fans Since the India team remains unwilling to alter the top three – Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, having Shreyas Iyer at number four – a position at which he loved batting and scoring runs – would further provide the stability it lacked in the lead-up to this tournament. Iyer and Rahul were out of action for a long time, but upon attaining full fitness at the NCA, both got named in the 17-man squad for the Asia Cup 2023. The Indian players attended a six-day conditioning camp in Alur, Bengaluru, working on gelling together and preparing for a packed winter before arriving in Colombo for the six-team tournament. The Indian team, to be on the safer side, also included the Mumbai Indians pair of Suryakumar and Tilak Varma as backups in case of injuries to anyone in the batting order. While Tilak is yet to make his ODI debut, SKY failed to make the most of the chances to seal the middle-order slot. Therefore, the management is now left with Ishan and Shreyas as the first options for the number four and five slots. Can Ishan deliver in the middle order? An opener in the true sense, Ishan is coming off a successful tour of the Caribbean, wherein he scored three successive fifties against the West Indies in T20Is. The left-handed batter in the six matches played in the number four position in ODIs, averages a mere 22.75, having struggled to get going against the spinners. With the team management deciding on playing Ishan outside of the opening position, it remains to be seen how he will pull off this new role. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Asia Cup 2023: Rahul Dravid, team management pick batting position for Ishan Kishan as Pakistan game looms

<p>The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming Asia Cup, to be jointly held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The tournament begins on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan with the Babar Azam-led Men in Green hosting Nepal. The biggest clash is on September 02 when Rohit Sharma's Team India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in Pallekele, Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>India, Pakistan and Nepal are placed in Group A whereas the other group comprises Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. It is to be noted that India and Pakistan can meet thrice in the upcoming edition, including the final which will be held on September 17 in Colombo. For now, all eyes are on India's opening clash. Ahead of the continental tournament's commencement, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar picked his India XI.</p>

<h2><strong>'KL Rahul would.....'</strong></h2>

<p>Manjrekar told ESPNCricinfo, "My three seamers would be Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. Hardik Pandya would be my fourth seamer. My spinners would be Jadeja and Kuldeep. My opener would be Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma. No. 3 batter would be Virat Kohli. KL Rahul would play because he is the keeper."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-one-is-a-favourite-in-asia-cup-says-sourav-ganguly-ahead-of-indias-opening-tie-vs-arch-rivals-pakistan-629060">No one is a favourite in Asia Cup, says Sourav Ganguly ahead of India's opening tie vs arch-rivals Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that when Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors named India's squad early this week, the chief selector revealed that Rahul has picked up a niggle while recovering from a thigh injury (the niggle is unrelated to his original injury). Thus, India have kept plenty of options for the middle-order with the inclusion of uncapped player Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav&nbsp;in the final 17. In addition,&nbsp;Sanju Samson is the sole travelling reserve player.</p>

<p>Manjrekar has included Rahul in the playing XI and feels that either Shreyas Iyer or Varma could get the nod in the middle-order. “Either Shreyas Iyer or Tilak Varma could play [in the middle-order]. I am saying this because in India’s first-choice side XI, the first seven (six) batters, including Hardik Pandya, are all right-handers. Somewhere, India will have to fit in a left-hander in Tilak Varma. This is a problem India has,” Manjrekar added.</p>

<p>Both Iyer and Rahul are returning to the Indian team after long injury layoffs, hence, all eyes will be on the duo in the Asia Cup, which will be followed by the home ODI World Cup, beginning on October 05.</p>

<h2>Manjrekar's India XI for Asia Cup clash with Pakistan</h2>

<p>Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer/ Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj</p>

<h3>Here is India’s squad for Asia Cup 2023 –&nbsp;</h3>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna</p>

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The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming Asia Cup, to be jointly held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The tournament begins on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan with the Babar Azam-led Men in Green hosting Nepal.

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming Asia Cup, to be jointly held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The tournament begins on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan with the Babar Azam-led Men in Green hosting Nepal. The biggest clash is on September 02 when Rohit Sharma's Team India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. India, Pakistan and Nepal are placed in Group A whereas the other group comprises Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. It is to be noted that India and Pakistan can meet thrice in the upcoming edition, including the final which will be held on September 17 in Colombo. For now, all eyes are on India's opening clash. Ahead of the continental tournament's commencement, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar picked his India XI. 'KL Rahul would.....' Manjrekar told ESPNCricinfo, "My three seamers would be Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. Hardik Pandya would be my fourth seamer. My spinners would be Jadeja and Kuldeep. My opener would be Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma. No. 3 batter would be Virat Kohli. KL Rahul would play because he is the keeper." Also read: No one is a favourite in Asia Cup, says Sourav Ganguly ahead of India's opening tie vs arch-rivals Pakistan It is to be noted that when Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors named India's squad early this week, the chief selector revealed that Rahul has picked up a niggle while recovering from a thigh injury (the niggle is unrelated to his original injury). Thus, India have kept plenty of options for the middle-order with the inclusion of uncapped player Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav in the final 17. In addition, Sanju Samson is the sole travelling reserve player. Manjrekar has included Rahul in the playing XI and feels that either Shreyas Iyer or Varma could get the nod in the middle-order. “Either Shreyas Iyer or Tilak Varma could play [in the middle-order]. I am saying this because in India’s first-choice side XI, the first seven (six) batters, including Hardik Pandya, are all right-handers. Somewhere, India will have to fit in a left-hander in Tilak Varma. This is a problem India has,” Manjrekar added. Both Iyer and Rahul are returning to the Indian team after long injury layoffs, hence, all eyes will be on the duo in the Asia Cup, which will be followed by the home ODI World Cup, beginning on October 05. Manjrekar's India XI for Asia Cup clash with Pakistan Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer/ Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj Here is India’s squad for Asia Cup 2023 – Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna 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.

No Ishan Kishan! Sanjay Manjrekar picks star-studded India XI for Asia Cup opener vs Pakistan

<p>As India gear up for the upcoming Asia Cup and ICC ODI World Cup, the anticipation around the squad is getting quite an attention. While the date to announce the provisional squad for the World Cup is September 5, India will be naming their Asia Cup squad on August 21.</p>

<p>The main conundrum India selectors face is the wicketkeeper. Ever since Rishabh Pant got injured in a horrific car crash in December last year, the place has acted as a musical chair between KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson. While Rahul is the better batsman among all three, Kishan is closest to Pant in terms of style and aggression.</p>

<p>Talking about the conundrum, former India skipper Sourav Ganguly thinks that India should go with Kishan as their wicketkeeper-batsman.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-think-about-selection-i-am-in-good-space-in-my-life-ravi-ashwin-on-not-being-in-indias-plan-for-cwc-627260">I don't think about selection, I am in good space in my life: Ravi Ashwin on not being in India's plan for CWC</a></p>

<p>"Pant is the best wicketkeeper in the country, but you can see Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul (depending on his fitness); these two will be right up in Rohit's and Rahul's minds. I like Ishan Kishan because he just opens up the game for any team. I am sure Dravid will keep him in his plans," Ganguly said at a recent event.</p>

<p>Former India coach Ravi Shastri, speaking to Star Sport a while back, had also said that giving Rahul both responsibilities (batting and keeping) in a tournament like Asia Cup is a 'no-no.'</p>

<p>"See when you're talking of a player (KL Rahul) who's not played and is recovering from injury. To think of him in the XI of the Asia Cup, you're asking a little too much of the player himself. And then you're talking about keeping. When a guy comes from an injury, the range of movement and things of that sort, so that's a no-no," Shastri had explained.</p>

<p>The Asia Cup starts August 30 with India playing its first match on September 2 against Pakistan. The World Cup is, however, a bit away with the scheduled date being October 5.</p>

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As India gear up for the upcoming Asia Cup and ICC ODI World Cup, the anticipation around the squad is getting quite an attention. While the date to announce the provisional squad for the World Cup is September 5, India will be naming their Asia Cup squad on August 21.

As India gear up for the upcoming Asia Cup and ICC ODI World Cup, the anticipation around the squad is getting quite an attention. While the date to announce the provisional squad for the World Cup is September 5, India will be naming their Asia Cup squad on August 21. The main conundrum India selectors face is the wicketkeeper. Ever since Rishabh Pant got injured in a horrific car crash in December last year, the place has acted as a musical chair between KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson. While Rahul is the better batsman among all three, Kishan is closest to Pant in terms of style and aggression. Talking about the conundrum, former India skipper Sourav Ganguly thinks that India should go with Kishan as their wicketkeeper-batsman. Also Read: I don't think about selection, I am in good space in my life: Ravi Ashwin on not being in India's plan for CWC "Pant is the best wicketkeeper in the country, but you can see Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul (depending on his fitness); these two will be right up in Rohit's and Rahul's minds. I like Ishan Kishan because he just opens up the game for any team. I am sure Dravid will keep him in his plans," Ganguly said at a recent event. Former India coach Ravi Shastri, speaking to Star Sport a while back, had also said that giving Rahul both responsibilities (batting and keeping) in a tournament like Asia Cup is a 'no-no.' "See when you're talking of a player (KL Rahul) who's not played and is recovering from injury. To think of him in the XI of the Asia Cup, you're asking a little too much of the player himself. And then you're talking about keeping. When a guy comes from an injury, the range of movement and things of that sort, so that's a no-no," Shastri had explained. The Asia Cup starts August 30 with India playing its first match on September 2 against Pakistan. The World Cup is, however, a bit away with the scheduled date being October 5. 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.

Sourav Ganguly picks wicketkeeper between KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan for India's Asia Cup squad

<p>KL Rahul is nearing full fitness at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Bengaluru. Ahead of the Asia Cup squad announcement, the Indian team management is keenly awaiting the final fitness report of Rahul as well as Shreyas Iyer as their middle-order woes continue. While reports have been positive with regard to Rahul's fitness, it remains to be seen if he makes the squad for the upcoming continental tournament, starting on August 30.</p>

<p>While there is no doubt that India desperately need both Rahul and Iyer back in the squad, ex-Indian head coach Ravi Shastri doesn't want the former to speed up&nbsp;his return for the Asia Cup, to be jointly hosted by&nbsp;Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Shastri feels it might not be fair on Rahul to return in the multi-nation tournament and also don the gloves.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wanted-virat-kohli-to-bat-at-no-4-during-cwc-19-reveals-former-india-coach-ravi-shastri-625923">Wanted Virat Kohli to bat at No. 4 during CWC '19, reveals former India coach Ravi Shastri</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking on Star Sports' Selection Day show, Shastri opined, "See when when you're talking of a player (KL Rahul) who's not played and is recovering from injury. To think of him in the XI of the Asia Cup, you're asking a little too much of the player himself. And then you're talking keeping. When a guy comes from an injury, the range of movement and things of that sort, so that's a no no."</p>

<p>Thus, Shastri feels India can opt for Ishan Kishan's services, an attacking left-hander who can play at the top or in the middle and keep wickets instead of rushing for Rahul's return. Rohit Sharma-led India are yet to announce the squad for the mega event, where they open their campaign on September 2 versus Pakistan. The seven-time winners are placed in Group A with Pakistan and Nepal.</p>

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KL Rahul is nearing full fitness at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Bengaluru. Ahead of the Asia Cup squad announcement, the Indian team management is keenly awaiting the final fitness report of Rahul as well as Shreyas Iyer as their middle-order woes continue.

KL Rahul is nearing full fitness at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Bengaluru. Ahead of the Asia Cup squad announcement, the Indian team management is keenly awaiting the final fitness report of Rahul as well as Shreyas Iyer as their middle-order woes continue. While reports have been positive with regard to Rahul's fitness, it remains to be seen if he makes the squad for the upcoming continental tournament, starting on August 30. While there is no doubt that India desperately need both Rahul and Iyer back in the squad, ex-Indian head coach Ravi Shastri doesn't want the former to speed up his return for the Asia Cup, to be jointly hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Shastri feels it might not be fair on Rahul to return in the multi-nation tournament and also don the gloves. Also read: Wanted Virat Kohli to bat at No. 4 during CWC '19, reveals former India coach Ravi Shastri Speaking on Star Sports' Selection Day show, Shastri opined, "See when when you're talking of a player (KL Rahul) who's not played and is recovering from injury. To think of him in the XI of the Asia Cup, you're asking a little too much of the player himself. And then you're talking keeping. When a guy comes from an injury, the range of movement and things of that sort, so that's a no no." Thus, Shastri feels India can opt for Ishan Kishan's services, an attacking left-hander who can play at the top or in the middle and keep wickets instead of rushing for Rahul's return. Rohit Sharma-led India are yet to announce the squad for the mega event, where they open their campaign on September 2 versus Pakistan. The seven-time winners are placed in Group A with Pakistan and Nepal. 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.

Should nearly-fit KL Rahul be a part of India's XI in Asia Cup 2023? Ravi Shastri shares his take

<p>The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 (CWC '23) edition is not even two months away. The mega event will be held in India and, thus, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. are one of the favourites to lift the coveted title. After all, the last three editions have been won by the hosts. India, under MS Dhoni, started this trend in 2011 when the cricket-crazy country co-hosted the ODI World Cup (ODI WC) along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Back then, the Men in Blue trounced Sri Lanka in the summit clash by six wickets at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai to lift the title.</p>

<p>Will Rohit-led Men in Blue replicate Dhoni &amp; Co.'s heroics? Well, India do have the arsenal but still lag behind in many areas. The No. 4 spot continues to be a worry, which proved to be India's Achilles heel in the 2019 edition as well. It became a musical chair with no confirmed taker. This time around, the situation is pretty much the same. The injury to Shreyas Iyer is, however, the main reason for India's No. 4 spot still being a persistent issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since injuries to Iyer and KL Rahul, who bats at No. 5, India have tried to give a consistent run to Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav. Nonetheless, the trio haven't cemented the spot. During the ongoing India-West Indies T20Is, another candidate's name sprung up.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tilak Varma, who is yet to make an ODI debut, recently wore his first-ever international cap during the WI T20Is. Since then, he has returned with scores of 39, 51, 41 and 7*. The left-hander has played the situation with aplomb, displayed a steady approach and carried out his innings with utmost responsibility and purpose. Thus, many former cricketers have backed him to become India's No. 4 in the upcoming&nbsp;World Cup. But should Team India give up on their back-ups and bring in a youngster as a wildcard entry if Iyer and Rahul remain unfit?&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>MANY BACKING TILAK VARMA AS AN OPTION</strong></h2>

<p>In an interaction with news agency PTI, former Indian chief selector MSK Prasad said, "First of all, we should know whether Shreyas Iyer is fit or not. So, in case, if Shreyas Iyer is ruled out, in the present scenario, one guy who fits the bill is Tilak Varma, because of his versatility, because of his ability to play fast bowling and spin bowling and also because of his ability to switch the gears as and when required. More than anything else, we don't have a left-hander at the top of the order. So all these things will definitely go in favour of Tilak Varma."</p>

<p>On his YouTube channel, R Ashwin stated, "This is neck-and-neck with respect to the World Cup. So, will they think about Tilak Varma as an option if we don’t have enough backups? Because Sanju Samson has performed really well in ODIs. But the exciting part about Tilak Varma is that he is a left-hander and Team India is lacking left-handers. Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja) is the only left-handed batter in the top 7."</p>

<p>Ashwin added, "And look at the spinners from all the top teams. Australia have Ashton Agar. England has Moeen Ali and a leggie in Adil Rashid. So, most teams don’t have a finger spinner to challenge the left-handed batters. That is why the emergence of Tilak is crucial."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-couldnt-perform-in-icc-tournaments-due-to-internal-issues-claims-former-pakistan-captain-625009">India couldn't perform in ICC tournaments due to internal issues, claims former Pakistan captain</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>WHY INDIA SHOULD NOT GO THE 2019 WAY AND SHOULD AVOID PAST MISTAKES</strong></h2>

<p>Without a doubt, Varma is one for the future (who can play varied roles with the bat and&nbsp;also be a handy part-time bowler). Just like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, etc., the 20-year-old Varma will also be a part of the national setup post the CWC '23 with India nearing a massive transition (with the likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, etc. in the twilight of their careers). However, his inclusion in the ODI setup with regard to the upcoming world event makes little to no sense. The Mumbai Indians (MI) star just has a handful of matches under his belt in the gruelling international circuit. While his start is surely promising, although in the shortest format, ODIs is a different ball game altogether. Look at Suryakumar. He is a T20I giant, however, admits to his woeful ODI returns (averaging a poor 24.33 in 26 games).</p>

<p>During the WI T20Is, Surya admitted to his 50-over woes and said, "We've played so much T20 cricket now, that we have become habituated to it. We don't play as much one-day cricket anymore. That's one of the most challenging formats for me, because you need to have different gears." He added, "If I'm honest, I know my numbers in one-day cricket are quite poor. There is no shame in admitting that. We talk about honesty, you need to be honest but it's even more important how you work and improve on it."</p>

<p>Varma's T20I career has started in an identical fashion with that to his idol Suresh Raina (debut at 20, both taking two catches each in maiden outing, first-ever T20I fifty in losing cause). However, he hasn't even stepped into the ODI fore, a format ruled by his childhood hero. India's legendary captain MS Dhoni repeatedly emphasised on the need for players to be experienced enough&nbsp;to counter the pressure attached to a mega event. Back in August 2008, Dhoni&nbsp;said, "You have to give everyone enough chances, not just a few games."</p>

<p>Moreover, India have paid the price for regular shuffles in the batting order during their preparations in the last World Cup. We all remember how Ambati Rayudu's name was missing from the final 15 with Vijay Shankar -- having played only nine ODIs -- getting the nod. In addition, when Shankar got injured during the marquee tournament, India backed an exciting young talent like Pant to fill in the No. 4 spot rather than relying on the experienced Rayudu (who occupied the No. 4 spot for majority of 2018). What followed was a messed-up chase in the CWC '19 semi-final where India failed in pursuit of 240, versus eventual runners-up New Zealand, by shuffling the batting order cluelessly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Surely, Varma has an edge being a left-hander. However, India can always promote Ravindra Jadeja -- whose batting stokes are on the rise since 2018 -- in the 50-over showpiece event and, thus, not change their team combination drastically. Moreover, they also have Kishan who can bat at No. 4. Nonetheless, bringing Varma out of nowhere can jolt India's preparations. They have a rich pool of players but with the CWC '23 less than 60 days away, they cannot keep expanding their options. They have to shortlist a few and identify their No. 4 if Iyer, or even Rahul, continue to miss out due to injury concerns.</p>

<p>Recently, during an event, Rohit addressed&nbsp;India's&nbsp;struggle to book their No. 4 slot. He said, "Look, No. 4 has been an issue for us for a long time. After Yuvi (Yuvraj Singh), nobody has come and settled themselves in. But, for a long period of time, Shreyas (Iyer) has actually batted at No. 4 and he has done well - his numbers are really good. Unfortunately, injuries have given him a bit of trouble; he has been out for a while and that is honestly what has happened in the last 4-5 years. A lot of these guys have got injured and you will always see a new guy coming and playing there."</p>

<p>On Varma, Hitman stated, "He looks very promising. I have seen him for two years now, he has got the hunger, and that is the most important thing." The 36-year old pointed out, "In him I can see, for the age that he is of, he is quite matured. He knows his batting so well. When I speak with him I understand that the boy knows his batting – where he has to hit, what he has to do in that period."</p>

<p>"That is all that I will say about him, I do not know about the World Cup and all, but definitely the guy is talented and he showed it in these few games that he has played for India," he further opined.</p>

<p>There is some time before India finalise their Asia Cup squad, which will also give a major hint of their CWC '23 unit. It will be wise on their part if they go with a limited pool rather than just needlessly expanding it, pushing towards a downfall as experienced in 2019.</p>

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The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 (CWC '23) edition is not even two months away. The mega event will be held in India and, thus, Rohit Sharma & Co. are one of the favourites to lift the coveted title.

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 (CWC '23) edition is not even two months away. The mega event will be held in India and, thus, Rohit Sharma & Co. are one of the favourites to lift the coveted title. After all, the last three editions have been won by the hosts. India, under MS Dhoni, started this trend in 2011 when the cricket-crazy country co-hosted the ODI World Cup (ODI WC) along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Back then, the Men in Blue trounced Sri Lanka in the summit clash by six wickets at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai to lift the title. Will Rohit-led Men in Blue replicate Dhoni & Co.'s heroics? Well, India do have the arsenal but still lag behind in many areas. The No. 4 spot continues to be a worry, which proved to be India's Achilles heel in the 2019 edition as well. It became a musical chair with no confirmed taker. This time around, the situation is pretty much the same. The injury to Shreyas Iyer is, however, the main reason for India's No. 4 spot still being a persistent issue. Since injuries to Iyer and KL Rahul, who bats at No. 5, India have tried to give a consistent run to Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav. Nonetheless, the trio haven't cemented the spot. During the ongoing India-West Indies T20Is, another candidate's name sprung up. Tilak Varma, who is yet to make an ODI debut, recently wore his first-ever international cap during the WI T20Is. Since then, he has returned with scores of 39, 51, 41 and 7*. The left-hander has played the situation with aplomb, displayed a steady approach and carried out his innings with utmost responsibility and purpose. Thus, many former cricketers have backed him to become India's No. 4 in the upcoming World Cup. But should Team India give up on their back-ups and bring in a youngster as a wildcard entry if Iyer and Rahul remain unfit? MANY BACKING TILAK VARMA AS AN OPTION In an interaction with news agency PTI, former Indian chief selector MSK Prasad said, "First of all, we should know whether Shreyas Iyer is fit or not. So, in case, if Shreyas Iyer is ruled out, in the present scenario, one guy who fits the bill is Tilak Varma, because of his versatility, because of his ability to play fast bowling and spin bowling and also because of his ability to switch the gears as and when required. More than anything else, we don't have a left-hander at the top of the order. So all these things will definitely go in favour of Tilak Varma." On his YouTube channel, R Ashwin stated, "This is neck-and-neck with respect to the World Cup. So, will they think about Tilak Varma as an option if we don’t have enough backups? Because Sanju Samson has performed really well in ODIs. But the exciting part about Tilak Varma is that he is a left-hander and Team India is lacking left-handers. Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja) is the only left-handed batter in the top 7." Ashwin added, "And look at the spinners from all the top teams. Australia have Ashton Agar. England has Moeen Ali and a leggie in Adil Rashid. So, most teams don’t have a finger spinner to challenge the left-handed batters. That is why the emergence of Tilak is crucial." Also read: India couldn't perform in ICC tournaments due to internal issues, claims former Pakistan captain WHY INDIA SHOULD NOT GO THE 2019 WAY AND SHOULD AVOID PAST MISTAKES Without a doubt, Varma is one for the future (who can play varied roles with the bat and also be a handy part-time bowler). Just like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, etc., the 20-year-old Varma will also be a part of the national setup post the CWC '23 with India nearing a massive transition (with the likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, etc. in the twilight of their careers). However, his inclusion in the ODI setup with regard to the upcoming world event makes little to no sense. The Mumbai Indians (MI) star just has a handful of matches under his belt in the gruelling international circuit. While his start is surely promising, although in the shortest format, ODIs is a different ball game altogether. Look at Suryakumar. He is a T20I giant, however, admits to his woeful ODI returns (averaging a poor 24.33 in 26 games). During the WI T20Is, Surya admitted to his 50-over woes and said, "We've played so much T20 cricket now, that we have become habituated to it. We don't play as much one-day cricket anymore. That's one of the most challenging formats for me, because you need to have different gears." He added, "If I'm honest, I know my numbers in one-day cricket are quite poor. There is no shame in admitting that. We talk about honesty, you need to be honest but it's even more important how you work and improve on it." Varma's T20I career has started in an identical fashion with that to his idol Suresh Raina (debut at 20, both taking two catches each in maiden outing, first-ever T20I fifty in losing cause). However, he hasn't even stepped into the ODI fore, a format ruled by his childhood hero. India's legendary captain MS Dhoni repeatedly emphasised on the need for players to be experienced enough to counter the pressure attached to a mega event. Back in August 2008, Dhoni said, "You have to give everyone enough chances, not just a few games." Moreover, India have paid the price for regular shuffles in the batting order during their preparations in the last World Cup. We all remember how Ambati Rayudu's name was missing from the final 15 with Vijay Shankar -- having played only nine ODIs -- getting the nod. In addition, when Shankar got injured during the marquee tournament, India backed an exciting young talent like Pant to fill in the No. 4 spot rather than relying on the experienced Rayudu (who occupied the No. 4 spot for majority of 2018). What followed was a messed-up chase in the CWC '19 semi-final where India failed in pursuit of 240, versus eventual runners-up New Zealand, by shuffling the batting order cluelessly. Surely, Varma has an edge being a left-hander. However, India can always promote Ravindra Jadeja -- whose batting stokes are on the rise since 2018 -- in the 50-over showpiece event and, thus, not change their team combination drastically. Moreover, they also have Kishan who can bat at No. 4. Nonetheless, bringing Varma out of nowhere can jolt India's preparations. They have a rich pool of players but with the CWC '23 less than 60 days away, they cannot keep expanding their options. They have to shortlist a few and identify their No. 4 if Iyer, or even Rahul, continue to miss out due to injury concerns. Recently, during an event, Rohit addressed India's struggle to book their No. 4 slot. He said, "Look, No. 4 has been an issue for us for a long time. After Yuvi (Yuvraj Singh), nobody has come and settled themselves in. But, for a long period of time, Shreyas (Iyer) has actually batted at No. 4 and he has done well - his numbers are really good. Unfortunately, injuries have given him a bit of trouble; he has been out for a while and that is honestly what has happened in the last 4-5 years. A lot of these guys have got injured and you will always see a new guy coming and playing there." On Varma, Hitman stated, "He looks very promising. I have seen him for two years now, he has got the hunger, and that is the most important thing." The 36-year old pointed out, "In him I can see, for the age that he is of, he is quite matured. He knows his batting so well. When I speak with him I understand that the boy knows his batting – where he has to hit, what he has to do in that period." "That is all that I will say about him, I do not know about the World Cup and all, but definitely the guy is talented and he showed it in these few games that he has played for India," he further opined. There is some time before India finalise their Asia Cup squad, which will also give a major hint of their CWC '23 unit. It will be wise on their part if they go with a limited pool rather than just needlessly expanding it, pushing towards a downfall as experienced in 2019. 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.

Explained | Why it is too late to consider Tilak Varma for India's No. 4 spot for CWC '23

<p>Former India opening batsman Wasim Jaffer wants Yashasvi Jaiswal to open batting in T20Is ahead of Ishan Kishan. Jaffer made the comments on the back of India's loss in first T20I against West Indies where they failed to chase a moderate 150-run target. Ishan, who opened the batting with Shubman Gill, could score only six runs before being dismissed.</p>

<p>“I want to see Yashasvi Jaiswal. He should play as an opening batter. I want to see Jaiswal in place of Ishan Kishan. Ishan Kishan’s T20I form worries me. In the last 15 innings, he hasn’t even scored a 40, the strike rate is also too low. So, that’s a cause of concern, but he was in good form in ODIs. It’s a different format (T20I). He also had an ordinary IPL season,” Jaffer said while speaking to ESPNCricinfo.</p>

<p>The former India batsman also gave the reasoning for selecting Jaiswal over Kishan and cited the former's IPL 2023 form as well.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-west-bengal-cricket-requests-bcci-to-reschedule-england-pakistan-game-over-security-concern-622778">ODI World Cup: West Bengal cricket requests BCCI to reschedule England-Pakistan game over security concern</a></p>

<p>“Why not give an opportunity to the boy who played very well in the IPL? He won the emerging player award and is confident. I’ll definitely look towards that change," Jaffer added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Jaiswal had a blockbuster IPL 2023, scoring 625 runs in 14 games for Rajasthan Royals at an average of 48 and a strike rate of 163. Kishan, on the other hand, had a moderate IPL for Mumbai Indians, scoring 454 runs in 16 games at an average of 30 and a strike rate of 142.</p>

<p>Jaffer, however, agreed that the first T20I was played on a difficult pitch hence the openers could not play as freely as they would have liked. India, chasing a target of 150, could manage only 145/9 in 20 overs.</p>

<p>“The first T20I was played on a difficult pitch, so expecting them [Kishan and Shubman Gill] to play in that fashion (free-flowing mode) is too much expectation. It’s crucial to see the pitch for the second T20I. If it’s good enough, then our batters will obviously play well,” Jaffer added.</p>

<p>The second T20I of the five-match series will be played on Sunday, August 6 at the same venue, that is, Providence.</p>

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Former India opening batsman Wasim Jaffer wants Yashasvi Jaiswal to open batting in T20Is ahead of Ishan Kishan. Jaffer made the comments on the back of India's loss in first T20I against West Indies where they failed to chase a moderate 150-run target.

Former India opening batsman Wasim Jaffer wants Yashasvi Jaiswal to open batting in T20Is ahead of Ishan Kishan. Jaffer made the comments on the back of India's loss in first T20I against West Indies where they failed to chase a moderate 150-run target. Ishan, who opened the batting with Shubman Gill, could score only six runs before being dismissed. “I want to see Yashasvi Jaiswal. He should play as an opening batter. I want to see Jaiswal in place of Ishan Kishan. Ishan Kishan’s T20I form worries me. In the last 15 innings, he hasn’t even scored a 40, the strike rate is also too low. So, that’s a cause of concern, but he was in good form in ODIs. It’s a different format (T20I). He also had an ordinary IPL season,” Jaffer said while speaking to ESPNCricinfo. The former India batsman also gave the reasoning for selecting Jaiswal over Kishan and cited the former's IPL 2023 form as well. Also Read: ODI World Cup: West Bengal cricket requests BCCI to reschedule England-Pakistan game over security concern “Why not give an opportunity to the boy who played very well in the IPL? He won the emerging player award and is confident. I’ll definitely look towards that change," Jaffer added. Notably, Jaiswal had a blockbuster IPL 2023, scoring 625 runs in 14 games for Rajasthan Royals at an average of 48 and a strike rate of 163. Kishan, on the other hand, had a moderate IPL for Mumbai Indians, scoring 454 runs in 16 games at an average of 30 and a strike rate of 142. Jaffer, however, agreed that the first T20I was played on a difficult pitch hence the openers could not play as freely as they would have liked. India, chasing a target of 150, could manage only 145/9 in 20 overs. “The first T20I was played on a difficult pitch, so expecting them [Kishan and Shubman Gill] to play in that fashion (free-flowing mode) is too much expectation. It’s crucial to see the pitch for the second T20I. If it’s good enough, then our batters will obviously play well,” Jaffer added. The second T20I of the five-match series will be played on Sunday, August 6 at the same venue, that is, Providence. 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.

Former India opener Wasim Jaffer wants Ishan Kishan replaced with THIS player in T20Is

<p>India beat West Indies, 2-1, in the recently-held three-match ODI series in the Caribbean island. While Rohit Sharma-led visitors won the series opener by five wickets, they lost the second and penultimate tie -- by six wickets -- before winning the decider by 200 runs. What made heads turn during the three ODIs was India's team combination as the Rahul Dravid-led team management rested Rohit and Kohli for the final two matches whereas the fringed players' usage was also questioned.</p>

<p>From the second ODI, Ishan Kishan opened the innings along with Shubman Gill. While Ishan ended the series with scores of 52, 55 and 77, it is to be noted that he played as an opener. Given Rohit and Gill are certain at the top, KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer will take the middle-order slots once deemed fit before the ODI World Cup. Thus, if Ishan makes the cut for the 50-over showpiece event, to be held in India later this year, he will most likely be slotted at the lower-order. Hence, many raised eyebrows as India used him as an opener throughout the WI ODIs.</p>

<p>The former cricketers and experts were baffled with how India utilised the likes of Axar Patel, Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson in the series whereas many slammed them for overlooking Yuzvendra Chahal. Now, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has lashed out at Team India for the way they have used some players in the recent ODIs.</p>

<h2><strong>'One guy being dropped after scoring 200... what's the point?'</strong></h2>

<p>Butt said on his official YouTube channel, "I absolutely agree (that India's experiment with Ishan was confusing). One guy being dropped after scoring 200... what's the point? Either they accept the fact that he is second option, even if he scores 1000 runs in a single innings. That never gives you the feeling of being the best, that never gives you the feeling that you will be rewarded for your performances. Currently, the feeling is no matter what you do, you will be the second option."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/many-think-indias-only-job-is-to-win-wcs-ashwin-schools-rohit-dravids-critics-backs-team-experiments-622028">'Many think India's only job is to win WCs': Ashwin schools Rohit-Dravid's critics, backs team experiments</a></strong></p>

<p>He further added, “He is not a bench strength level anymore. He's more than that. Secondly, I accept that Rohit is a big player, but some players are there who have been around for a long time but when pressure gets to them, they can't deliver. Especially at the knock-out stages, this is something that has to be worked on."</p>

<p>At present, India is involved in the five T20Is versus West Indies in the Caribbean island. Their main focus is now on the forthcoming Asia Cup, which commences late in August, before the ODI World Cup 2023 in India in October-November.</p>

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India beat West Indies, 2-1, in the recently-held three-match ODI series in the Caribbean island. While Rohit Sharma-led visitors won the series opener by five wickets, they lost the second and penultimate tie -- by six wickets -- before winning the decider by 200 runs.

India beat West Indies, 2-1, in the recently-held three-match ODI series in the Caribbean island. While Rohit Sharma-led visitors won the series opener by five wickets, they lost the second and penultimate tie -- by six wickets -- before winning the decider by 200 runs. What made heads turn during the three ODIs was India's team combination as the Rahul Dravid-led team management rested Rohit and Kohli for the final two matches whereas the fringed players' usage was also questioned. From the second ODI, Ishan Kishan opened the innings along with Shubman Gill. While Ishan ended the series with scores of 52, 55 and 77, it is to be noted that he played as an opener. Given Rohit and Gill are certain at the top, KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer will take the middle-order slots once deemed fit before the ODI World Cup. Thus, if Ishan makes the cut for the 50-over showpiece event, to be held in India later this year, he will most likely be slotted at the lower-order. Hence, many raised eyebrows as India used him as an opener throughout the WI ODIs. The former cricketers and experts were baffled with how India utilised the likes of Axar Patel, Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson in the series whereas many slammed them for overlooking Yuzvendra Chahal. Now, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has lashed out at Team India for the way they have used some players in the recent ODIs. 'One guy being dropped after scoring 200... what's the point?' Butt said on his official YouTube channel, "I absolutely agree (that India's experiment with Ishan was confusing). One guy being dropped after scoring 200... what's the point? Either they accept the fact that he is second option, even if he scores 1000 runs in a single innings. That never gives you the feeling of being the best, that never gives you the feeling that you will be rewarded for your performances. Currently, the feeling is no matter what you do, you will be the second option." Also read: 'Many think India's only job is to win WCs': Ashwin schools Rohit-Dravid's critics, backs team experiments He further added, “He is not a bench strength level anymore. He's more than that. Secondly, I accept that Rohit is a big player, but some players are there who have been around for a long time but when pressure gets to them, they can't deliver. Especially at the knock-out stages, this is something that has to be worked on." At present, India is involved in the five T20Is versus West Indies in the Caribbean island. Their main focus is now on the forthcoming Asia Cup, which commences late in August, before the ODI World Cup 2023 in India in October-November. 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.

'Even if he scores 1,000 runs in an inning, he is...': Ex-Pak captain slams India for experiments in WI ODIs

<p>India’s Ishan Kishan has underlined the importance of Shubman Gill in the side after the duo led the foundation for India’s win against the West Indies in the third ODI on Tuesday, August 1. Kishan, adjudged Player of the Series, insisted Gill played a huge role in boosting his confidence India beat the hosts by 200 runs in the final ODI to clinch the series 2-1. Kishan also commented on the T20 World Cup in 2024 and is not thinking about it at the moment.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">📍 Trinidad 🇹🇹<br />
<br />
'The Prince' Brian Charles Lara in conversation with Shubman Gill &amp; Ishan Kishan 🙌<br />
<br />
Coming 🔜 on <a href="https://t.co/Z3MPyeKtDz">https://t.co/Z3MPyeKtDz</a><br />
<br />
Stay Tuned! ⌛️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/eCsSRI1WeI">pic.twitter.com/eCsSRI1WeI</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1686576296950677506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Kishan underlines Gill’s importance</strong></h2>

<p>"He’s a tremendous player, I’ve seen how he middles the ball. Seeing him hitting it out of the middle gives me a lot of confidence as well. Always important to win at this level, and the learnings from these games are important. We were looking to get early wickets and didn't let any ball go. Everyone is looking very positive," Kishan said in a post-match interaction after helping India win the series.</p>

<p>The dynamic star from Mumbai Indians, Ishan was instrumental in India’s success as they beat the hosts to win the series. He played a crucial knock of 76 runs in the decisive final ODI while also scoring 55 and 52 in the previous two ODIs. His performances saw him awarded Player of the Series while his partner Shubman Gill was awarded Player of the Match.</p>

<p>Kishan also commented on the T20 World Cup and thinks it is a bridge too far and is not thinking about it. With senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma out of contention for the shortest format, Kishan is the front-runner to be in the first team and will be a key member for the Indian side when they return to the Caribbean Islands in 2024.</p>

<p>"I’ve played a few tournaments here and I know how the wickets play here, not really thinking about the next T20 World Cup. Focusing on the upcoming tournaments, you know how one tournament can change your life. We’re just focusing on that now," said Kishan.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-bilawal-bhutto-headed-panel-to-meet-on-thursday-to-decide-pakistans-participation-621480">ODI World Cup 2023: Bilawal Bhutto-headed panel to meet on Thursday to decide Pakistan's participation</a></p>

<h2><strong>Why Kishan could be in the Indian team for ODI World Cup?</strong></h2>

<p>With India struggling to accommodate left-hand batters in the Playing XI for the upcoming ODI World Cup, Kishan could be in India’s plan. With Rishabh Pant also missing from the team due to injury, Kishan could be the backup option as a wicketkeeper for the showpiece event that kickstarts on October 5 in India.</p>

<p>The Indian team for the ODI World Cup is likely to be announced at the end of the month while the Asia Cup 2023 takes center stage. India will start their ODI World Cup campaign against Australia on Sunday, October 8 in Chennai.</p>

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India’s Ishan Kishan has underlined the importance of Shubman Gill in the side after the duo led the foundation for India’s win against the West Indies in the third ODI on Tuesday, August 1.

India’s Ishan Kishan has underlined the importance of Shubman Gill in the side after the duo led the foundation for India’s win against the West Indies in the third ODI on Tuesday, August 1. Kishan, adjudged Player of the Series, insisted Gill played a huge role in boosting his confidence India beat the hosts by 200 runs in the final ODI to clinch the series 2-1. Kishan also commented on the T20 World Cup in 2024 and is not thinking about it at the moment. 📍 Trinidad 🇹🇹 'The Prince' Brian Charles Lara in conversation with Shubman Gill & Ishan Kishan 🙌 Coming 🔜 on https://t.co/Z3MPyeKtDz Stay Tuned! ⌛️#TeamIndia | #WIvIND pic.twitter.com/eCsSRI1WeI — BCCI (@BCCI) August 2, 2023 × Kishan underlines Gill’s importance "He’s a tremendous player, I’ve seen how he middles the ball. Seeing him hitting it out of the middle gives me a lot of confidence as well. Always important to win at this level, and the learnings from these games are important. We were looking to get early wickets and didn't let any ball go. Everyone is looking very positive," Kishan said in a post-match interaction after helping India win the series. The dynamic star from Mumbai Indians, Ishan was instrumental in India’s success as they beat the hosts to win the series. He played a crucial knock of 76 runs in the decisive final ODI while also scoring 55 and 52 in the previous two ODIs. His performances saw him awarded Player of the Series while his partner Shubman Gill was awarded Player of the Match. Kishan also commented on the T20 World Cup and thinks it is a bridge too far and is not thinking about it. With senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma out of contention for the shortest format, Kishan is the front-runner to be in the first team and will be a key member for the Indian side when they return to the Caribbean Islands in 2024. "I’ve played a few tournaments here and I know how the wickets play here, not really thinking about the next T20 World Cup. Focusing on the upcoming tournaments, you know how one tournament can change your life. We’re just focusing on that now," said Kishan. ALSO READ | ODI World Cup 2023: Bilawal Bhutto-headed panel to meet on Thursday to decide Pakistan's participation Why Kishan could be in the Indian team for ODI World Cup? With India struggling to accommodate left-hand batters in the Playing XI for the upcoming ODI World Cup, Kishan could be in India’s plan. With Rishabh Pant also missing from the team due to injury, Kishan could be the backup option as a wicketkeeper for the showpiece event that kickstarts on October 5 in India. The Indian team for the ODI World Cup is likely to be announced at the end of the month while the Asia Cup 2023 takes center stage. India will start their ODI World Cup campaign against Australia on Sunday, October 8 in Chennai. 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.

IND vs WI 3rd ODI: Ishan Kishan underlines Shubman Gill's role, says 'gives me a lot of confidence'

<p>Hardik Pandya-led India thrashed West Indies by 200 runs in the third and final ODI to win the three-match series 2-1. The visitors won the series opener by five wickets and lost the second and penultimate tie by six wickets before dominating proceedings in the series decider. Once again, regular captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were rested but a second-string&nbsp;Indian team, who lost the second match rather disappointingly, displayed a strong performance to clinch the series.</p>

<p>There were several impressive performances from the Indian camp in the final ODI. Batting first, India rode on Ishan Kishan's 77, Shubman Gill's 85, Sanju Samson's 51 and stand-in captain Hardik's 52-ball 70 to post 351 for 5. In reply, the Windies bundled out for 151 in 35.3 overs with Shardul Thakur claiming a four-for whereas Mukesh Kumar returned with a three-wicket haul.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As Rohit and Kohli were rested for the final two games, the Indian team tested the likes of Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, etc. Talking about Samson, he came out to bat at No. 4 and returned with a sparkling 41-ball 51, studded with 2 fours and 4 sixes at 124.39. After his high-quality knock, Samson said that it is 'challenging' being an Indian cricketer.</p>

<p>Talking to the broadcasters after India posted a mammoth 351/5, Samson said, "Being an Indian cricketer is challenging, I have played domestic cricket for the last 8-9 years and for India, here and there, so it gives you a bit of understanding of playing in different positions. It is the number of overs you get and it is not about batting position so you have to prepare accordingly."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-ask-for-luxury-but-hardik-pandya-on-travel-arrangements-in-west-indies-after-odi-series-triumph-621597">'Don’t ask for luxury but...': Hardik Pandya on travel arrangements in West Indies after ODI series triumph</a></strong></p>

<p>“It feels really great to spend some time in the middle, score some runs and contribute for your country. I had different plans for different players, I wanted to use my feet and dominate the lengths of the bowlers," he added.</p>

<p>Samson has played 13 ODIs, scoring 390 runs with three half-centuries at an average of 55.71. He remains in contention to make it to India's 15-man squad for the ODI World Cup, to be held later this year in October-November.</p>

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Hardik Pandya-led India thrashed West Indies by 200 runs in the third and final ODI to win the three-match series 2-1. The visitors won the series opener by five wickets and lost the second and penultimate tie by six wickets before dominating proceedings in the series decider.

Hardik Pandya-led India thrashed West Indies by 200 runs in the third and final ODI to win the three-match series 2-1. The visitors won the series opener by five wickets and lost the second and penultimate tie by six wickets before dominating proceedings in the series decider. Once again, regular captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were rested but a second-string Indian team, who lost the second match rather disappointingly, displayed a strong performance to clinch the series. There were several impressive performances from the Indian camp in the final ODI. Batting first, India rode on Ishan Kishan's 77, Shubman Gill's 85, Sanju Samson's 51 and stand-in captain Hardik's 52-ball 70 to post 351 for 5. In reply, the Windies bundled out for 151 in 35.3 overs with Shardul Thakur claiming a four-for whereas Mukesh Kumar returned with a three-wicket haul. As Rohit and Kohli were rested for the final two games, the Indian team tested the likes of Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, etc. Talking about Samson, he came out to bat at No. 4 and returned with a sparkling 41-ball 51, studded with 2 fours and 4 sixes at 124.39. After his high-quality knock, Samson said that it is 'challenging' being an Indian cricketer. Talking to the broadcasters after India posted a mammoth 351/5, Samson said, "Being an Indian cricketer is challenging, I have played domestic cricket for the last 8-9 years and for India, here and there, so it gives you a bit of understanding of playing in different positions. It is the number of overs you get and it is not about batting position so you have to prepare accordingly." Also read: 'Don’t ask for luxury but...': Hardik Pandya on travel arrangements in West Indies after ODI series triumph “It feels really great to spend some time in the middle, score some runs and contribute for your country. I had different plans for different players, I wanted to use my feet and dominate the lengths of the bowlers," he added. Samson has played 13 ODIs, scoring 390 runs with three half-centuries at an average of 55.71. He remains in contention to make it to India's 15-man squad for the ODI World Cup, to be held later this year in October-November. 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.

Being an Indian cricketer is challenging, says Sanju Samson after a blistering 51 in IND vs WI 3rd ODI

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India beat West Indies by five wickets in the series opener of the three ODIs, being held in the Caribbean island. With the 2023 ODI World Cup set to be held in October-November, in India, Rohit &amp; Co. are now left with&nbsp;only a handful of ODIs in the run-up to the mega event at home. Thus, the series versus the lowly-ranked West Indies is crucial in their preparations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Men in Blue stood tall and dominated proceedings in the first ODI, dismissing the Windies for a paltry 114 after opting to bowl first, and chased down the score in 22.5 overs. Ravindra Jadeja's three-fer and Kuldeep Yadav's 4 for 6 led the show for India before Ishan Kishan's 52 and unbeaten cameos from Jadeja-Rohit took India past the finish line.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the run-chase, India shuffled their batting order as Ishan opened with Shubman Gill whereas Suryakumar Yadav, vice-captain Hardik Pandya, Shardul Thakur and Jadeja were also promoted. India's two experienced campaigners such as Virat Kohli and Rohit were demoted&nbsp;and Hitman explained the reason behind the move.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-shubman-gill-reacts-after-virat-kohli-pulls-off-a-one-handed-stunner-in-wi-vs-ind-1st-odi-620253">Watch: Shubman Gill reacts after Virat Kohli pulls off a one-handed stunner in IND vs WI 1st ODI</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'We will keep trying these things whenever possible'</strong></h2>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Rohit revealed, "We wanted to give game time to the ODI guys who have come in, we will keep trying those things whenever possible. To restrict them to 115, we knew we could try these guys and give them a go. I don't think they'll get many chances like this."</p>

<p>Rohit came out to bat at No. 7 whereas Kohli didn't feature in the run-chase. On him batting at No. 7, the Indian captain pointed out, "I made my debut for India and was batting at number 7, reminded me of those days."</p>

<p>With Rohit and Kohli experienced enough, India is focusing on giving their middle and lower-order batters enough chances -- wherever available -- in the run-up to the ODI WC, which starts on October 05. While only Ishan (52) made full use of batting at the top, India will be happy with other middle and lower-order batters also being exposed in the middle. They will hope for more such chances where they can&nbsp;experiment&nbsp;in the upcoming ODIs.</p>

<p>The second and penultimate ODI kicks off on Saturday (July 29) as Rohit &amp; Co. will hope to claim&nbsp;an unassailable lead.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Rohit Sharma-led India beat West Indies by five wickets in the series opener of the three ODIs, being held in the Caribbean island. With the 2023 ODI World Cup set to be held in October-November, in India, Rohit & Co.

Rohit Sharma-led India beat West Indies by five wickets in the series opener of the three ODIs, being held in the Caribbean island. With the 2023 ODI World Cup set to be held in October-November, in India, Rohit & Co. are now left with only a handful of ODIs in the run-up to the mega event at home. Thus, the series versus the lowly-ranked West Indies is crucial in their preparations. The Men in Blue stood tall and dominated proceedings in the first ODI, dismissing the Windies for a paltry 114 after opting to bowl first, and chased down the score in 22.5 overs. Ravindra Jadeja's three-fer and Kuldeep Yadav's 4 for 6 led the show for India before Ishan Kishan's 52 and unbeaten cameos from Jadeja-Rohit took India past the finish line. During the run-chase, India shuffled their batting order as Ishan opened with Shubman Gill whereas Suryakumar Yadav, vice-captain Hardik Pandya, Shardul Thakur and Jadeja were also promoted. India's two experienced campaigners such as Virat Kohli and Rohit were demoted and Hitman explained the reason behind the move. Also read: Watch: Shubman Gill reacts after Virat Kohli pulls off a one-handed stunner in IND vs WI 1st ODI 'We will keep trying these things whenever possible' At the post-match presentation, Rohit revealed, "We wanted to give game time to the ODI guys who have come in, we will keep trying those things whenever possible. To restrict them to 115, we knew we could try these guys and give them a go. I don't think they'll get many chances like this." Rohit came out to bat at No. 7 whereas Kohli didn't feature in the run-chase. On him batting at No. 7, the Indian captain pointed out, "I made my debut for India and was batting at number 7, reminded me of those days." With Rohit and Kohli experienced enough, India is focusing on giving their middle and lower-order batters enough chances -- wherever available -- in the run-up to the ODI WC, which starts on October 05. While only Ishan (52) made full use of batting at the top, India will be happy with other middle and lower-order batters also being exposed in the middle. They will hope for more such chances where they can experiment in the upcoming ODIs. The second and penultimate ODI kicks off on Saturday (July 29) as Rohit & Co. will hope to claim an unassailable lead. 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.

IND vs WI: Rohit Sharma explains why India shuffled their batting line-up in 1st ODI amid WC preparations

<p>Ishan Kishan’s fourth ODI fifty and Kuldeep Yadav’s four-for helped India beat West Indies by five wickets in the first ODI in Barbados on Thursday. In a contest that could be dubbed one-sided despite India losing five wickets in a chase of just 115, seamer Mukesh Kumar made his ODI debut. While Kishan was picked over Sanju Samson for the keeper’s role, indicating what the team’s plan looks like in the lead-up to the World Cup.</p>

<p>Electing to bowl first after winning the toss, Hardik Pandya - returning to the India side for the first time since IPL 2023 final, bowled with the new ball and picked the big wicket of Kyle Mayers on two. Brendon King and Alick Athanaze stitched a 38-run stand before debutant Mukesh and Shardul Thakur dismissed both in the space of four balls.</p>

<p>Seasoned campaigners Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer tried saving the sinking ship but fell prey to the spin-bowling duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav. After West Indies got reduced to 96 for five at one stage, it was about time before Kuldeep tore into their tail to return with figures of 4 for 6, while Jadeja picked three wickets for 37 runs.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-secretary-jay-shah-confirms-2023-world-cup-schedule-will-undergo-changes-620030">BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms 2023 World Cup schedule will undergo changes</a></p>

<p>For the hosts, Shai Hope was their highest-scorer, hitting 43 off 45 balls.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India, for a change, didn’t send their regular openers in captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill and instead sent two off-field besties, Kishan and Gill. While Gill departed on seven after a shaky start, the new number three for this game, Suryakumar Yadav, came out to bat ahead of Virat Kohli.</p>

<p>The T20 specialist thumped a few boundaries but got out on 19, plumb in front of left-armer Gudakesh Motie. Pandya departed soon as Kishan completed his fourth ODI fifty, bringing India closer to the win.</p>

<p>The attacking batter became Motie’s second scalp of the day, while Yannic Cariah picked Thakur on just one to reduce India to 97 for five at one stage.</p>

<p>Rohit, perhaps for the first time in ODIs, came to bat at number seven and, with Jadeja (16 off 21), helped India win the match with five wickets in hand.</p>

<p>With this, India won their second of the three matches on Caribbean soil on this tour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The second One-Dayer will be played at the same venue on Saturday, July 29.</p>

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Ishan Kishan’s fourth ODI fifty and Kuldeep Yadav’s four-for helped India beat West Indies by five wickets in the first ODI in Barbados on Thursday. In a contest that could be dubbed one-sided despite India losing five wickets in a chase of just 115, seamer Mukesh Kumar made his ODI debut.

Ishan Kishan’s fourth ODI fifty and Kuldeep Yadav’s four-for helped India beat West Indies by five wickets in the first ODI in Barbados on Thursday. In a contest that could be dubbed one-sided despite India losing five wickets in a chase of just 115, seamer Mukesh Kumar made his ODI debut. While Kishan was picked over Sanju Samson for the keeper’s role, indicating what the team’s plan looks like in the lead-up to the World Cup. Electing to bowl first after winning the toss, Hardik Pandya - returning to the India side for the first time since IPL 2023 final, bowled with the new ball and picked the big wicket of Kyle Mayers on two. Brendon King and Alick Athanaze stitched a 38-run stand before debutant Mukesh and Shardul Thakur dismissed both in the space of four balls. Seasoned campaigners Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer tried saving the sinking ship but fell prey to the spin-bowling duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav. After West Indies got reduced to 96 for five at one stage, it was about time before Kuldeep tore into their tail to return with figures of 4 for 6, while Jadeja picked three wickets for 37 runs. ALSO READ: BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms 2023 World Cup schedule will undergo changes For the hosts, Shai Hope was their highest-scorer, hitting 43 off 45 balls. Meanwhile, India, for a change, didn’t send their regular openers in captain Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill and instead sent two off-field besties, Kishan and Gill. While Gill departed on seven after a shaky start, the new number three for this game, Suryakumar Yadav, came out to bat ahead of Virat Kohli. The T20 specialist thumped a few boundaries but got out on 19, plumb in front of left-armer Gudakesh Motie. Pandya departed soon as Kishan completed his fourth ODI fifty, bringing India closer to the win. The attacking batter became Motie’s second scalp of the day, while Yannic Cariah picked Thakur on just one to reduce India to 97 for five at one stage. Rohit, perhaps for the first time in ODIs, came to bat at number seven and, with Jadeja (16 off 21), helped India win the match with five wickets in hand. With this, India won their second of the three matches on Caribbean soil on this tour. The second One-Dayer will be played at the same venue on Saturday, July 29. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WI vs IND, 1st ODI: Ishan Kishan, Kuldeep Yadav help India draw first blood, beat West Indies by five wickets

<p>India and West Indies played out a tame draw in the second and final Test, in Port-of-Spain in Trinidad, after the final day's play got washed out on Monday (July 24). After gaining a whopping 183-run lead, courtesy of Mohammed Siraj's 5 for 60, India accelerated from the word go in their second essay on the fourth day, with rain already making its presence felt. Thus, they managed to set up a challenging 365-run target for the hosts. Day Five was going to be a tough contest between bat and ball, with West Indies in search of 289 more runs whereas India needed eight more scalps for a win.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, rain played spoilsport to the entire day as honours were shared with India winning the series 1-0. Talking about Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s approach in the second innings, it impressed one and all as the visitors declared at 181 for 2 in just 24 overs (with a run rate of 7.54). Thus, many compared India's style of play with England's Bazball. Recently, Ishan Kishan -- who slammed an unbeaten 34-ball 52 in India's second essay&nbsp;-- opined on England's Bazball and made a big claim.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kishan feels England's Bazball is only possible on flat tracks. "It is not possible that you can play that fast every day, it depends upon the situation also," he told the reporters after Day five of the second Test got completely washed out.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-wtc-points-table-pakistan-sit-at-top-spot-after-india-vs-west-indies-2nd-test-ends-in-draw-619180">Updated WTC points table: Pakistan sit at top spot after India vs West Indies 2nd Test ends in draw</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'Don't think it is necessary that we must play...'</strong></h2>

<p>The 25-year-old added, "If the wicket is flat, where you can score quickly, and the need of the team is to get runs quickly, then I think you can take on that action. I don't think it is necessary that we must play in an aggressive manner in every match, but whenever there will be a need of playing attacking cricket, we have got enough firepower in our ranks. I don't think you can always play attacking shots in Test cricket."</p>

<p>A lot has been said and written about England's Bazball approach in the red-ball format ever since Ben Stokes became the captain along with Brendon McCullum joining in as the head coach&nbsp;in early 2022. Since then, the Three Lions have been on a roll in whites but lost a golden opportunity to win a home Ashes series in the ongoing 2023 edition after the fourth and penultimate Test, in Manchester, ended in a draw. Pat Cummins-led Aussies lead the five-match series 2-1.&nbsp;</p>

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India and West Indies played out a tame draw in the second and final Test, in Port-of-Spain in Trinidad, after the final day's play got washed out on Monday (July 24).

India and West Indies played out a tame draw in the second and final Test, in Port-of-Spain in Trinidad, after the final day's play got washed out on Monday (July 24). After gaining a whopping 183-run lead, courtesy of Mohammed Siraj's 5 for 60, India accelerated from the word go in their second essay on the fourth day, with rain already making its presence felt. Thus, they managed to set up a challenging 365-run target for the hosts. Day Five was going to be a tough contest between bat and ball, with West Indies in search of 289 more runs whereas India needed eight more scalps for a win. Nonetheless, rain played spoilsport to the entire day as honours were shared with India winning the series 1-0. Talking about Rohit Sharma & Co.'s approach in the second innings, it impressed one and all as the visitors declared at 181 for 2 in just 24 overs (with a run rate of 7.54). Thus, many compared India's style of play with England's Bazball. Recently, Ishan Kishan -- who slammed an unbeaten 34-ball 52 in India's second essay -- opined on England's Bazball and made a big claim. Kishan feels England's Bazball is only possible on flat tracks. "It is not possible that you can play that fast every day, it depends upon the situation also," he told the reporters after Day five of the second Test got completely washed out. Also read: Updated WTC points table: Pakistan sit at top spot after India vs West Indies 2nd Test ends in draw 'Don't think it is necessary that we must play...' The 25-year-old added, "If the wicket is flat, where you can score quickly, and the need of the team is to get runs quickly, then I think you can take on that action. I don't think it is necessary that we must play in an aggressive manner in every match, but whenever there will be a need of playing attacking cricket, we have got enough firepower in our ranks. I don't think you can always play attacking shots in Test cricket." A lot has been said and written about England's Bazball approach in the red-ball format ever since Ben Stokes became the captain along with Brendon McCullum joining in as the head coach in early 2022. Since then, the Three Lions have been on a roll in whites but lost a golden opportunity to win a home Ashes series in the ongoing 2023 edition after the fourth and penultimate Test, in Manchester, ended in a draw. Pat Cummins-led Aussies lead the five-match series 2-1. 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.

IND vs WI: Ishan Kishan not in favour of England's Bazball, says it can only be executed on flat tracks

<p>Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Ishaan Kishan marked his Test debut against the West Indies. In the first test, he opened his account in 20 balls. But, in the second Test at Port of Spain, when he got a chance to bat at number 4 in place of Virat Kohli, Ishan hit the first fifty of his Test career. Ishan played only 33 balls. He completed his half-century with a six. After day 4 play, the Indian wicket-keeper thanked fellow cricketer Rishabh Pant for some batting tips. If reports are to be believed, Ishan also played the innings with Pant’s bat.</p>

<h2>Ishan Kishan thanks Rishabh Pant</h2>

<p>Ishan Kishan talked about his half-century after the end of the fourth day's play of the Port of Spain Test. During this, he thanked fellow wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, who has been out of Team India due to injuries. “Before coming to the West Indies, I was at the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore. Rishabh Pant was also there. He gave me some tips regarding batting.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-2nd-test-siraj-batsmen-put-visitors-in-control-despite-rain-on-day-4-618742">India vs WI, 2nd Test: Siraj, batsmen put visitors in control despite rain on day 4</a></strong></p>

<p>Told how I should keep the bat position. We have been playing cricket together since under-19. He knows a lot about my batting. So he suggested to me about the bat position. Will be thankful for that,” Ishan Kishan said.</p>

<h2>Ishan Kishan came to bat before Virat Kohli</h2>

<p>Ishaan came out to bat at number 4, Virat Kohli's regular spot, in the second innings. This wicketkeeper also narrated their story and revealed that this half-century is special for him. “I knew what the team wanted from me. Everyone supported me. Virat supported me and told me to go and play my game. Virat bhai took the initiative and told me that I should go for batting at number 4. Because at that time a left-arm spinner was bowling from the West Indies side. It proved to be a good decision for the team.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-2nd-test-mohammed-siraj-speaks-on-who-helped-him-take-five-for-on-day-4-618767">&nbsp;India vs West Indies, 2nd Test: Mohammed Siraj speaks on who helped him take five-for on day 4</a></strong></p>

<p>“There are so many senior players who keep talking to the bowlers. It should be a good game tomorrow. The team needs to hit the right areas and it is also very important to get early wickets. It was one of my dreams to get into the whites. I just wanted to go in and hit every ball. Mostly thankful to my parents who have always supported me,” he added.</p>

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Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Ishaan Kishan marked his Test debut against the West Indies. In the first test, he opened his account in 20 balls. But, in the second Test at Port of Spain, when he got a chance to bat at number 4 in place of Virat Kohli, Ishan hit the first fifty of his Test career.

Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Ishaan Kishan marked his Test debut against the West Indies. In the first test, he opened his account in 20 balls. But, in the second Test at Port of Spain, when he got a chance to bat at number 4 in place of Virat Kohli, Ishan hit the first fifty of his Test career. Ishan played only 33 balls. He completed his half-century with a six. After day 4 play, the Indian wicket-keeper thanked fellow cricketer Rishabh Pant for some batting tips. If reports are to be believed, Ishan also played the innings with Pant’s bat. Ishan Kishan thanks Rishabh Pant Ishan Kishan talked about his half-century after the end of the fourth day's play of the Port of Spain Test. During this, he thanked fellow wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, who has been out of Team India due to injuries. “Before coming to the West Indies, I was at the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore. Rishabh Pant was also there. He gave me some tips regarding batting. Also read: India vs WI, 2nd Test: Siraj, batsmen put visitors in control despite rain on day 4 Told how I should keep the bat position. We have been playing cricket together since under-19. He knows a lot about my batting. So he suggested to me about the bat position. Will be thankful for that,” Ishan Kishan said. Ishan Kishan came to bat before Virat Kohli Ishaan came out to bat at number 4, Virat Kohli's regular spot, in the second innings. This wicketkeeper also narrated their story and revealed that this half-century is special for him. “I knew what the team wanted from me. Everyone supported me. Virat supported me and told me to go and play my game. Virat bhai took the initiative and told me that I should go for batting at number 4. Because at that time a left-arm spinner was bowling from the West Indies side. It proved to be a good decision for the team.” Also read: India vs West Indies, 2nd Test: Mohammed Siraj speaks on who helped him take five-for on day 4 “There are so many senior players who keep talking to the bowlers. It should be a good game tomorrow. The team needs to hit the right areas and it is also very important to get early wickets. It was one of my dreams to get into the whites. I just wanted to go in and hit every ball. Mostly thankful to my parents who have always supported me,” he added. 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.

IND vs WI: Why Ishan Kishan thanked Rishabh Pant after maiden Test fifty

<p>After riding on Mohammed Siraj's 5 for 60, India bundled out West Indies for 255 in their first innings on Sunday (July 23). In reply to India's 438, the Windies were 208 for 4 before Siraj struck at regular intervals to help his side take a massive 183-run lead on Day Four. In their second essay, India entered the record books with the fastest team hundred in the format as captain Rohit Sharma (44-ball 57) and Yashavi Jaiswal (30-ball 38) set the foundation for some quick runs. Ishan Kishan, promoted at No. 4, carried on from where Rohit-Jaiswal left and smashed a quickfire fifty.</p>

<p>Kishan returned with an impressive and attacking 34-ball 52 (laced with 4 fours and 2 sixes) as India declared at 181 for 2, setting up a challenging 365-run target for the home side. At Stumps on Day Four, West Indies are 76 for 2 and have a herculean task to save the series. After the end of the day's play, Kishan revealed it was Virat Kohli who sacrificed his usual batting slot, i.e. at No. 4 and asked for Kishan's promotion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-2nd-test-siraj-batsmen-put-visitors-in-control-despite-rain-on-day-4-618742">India vs WI, 2nd Test: Siraj, batsmen put visitors in control despite rain on day 4</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'Virat backed me and told me go and play your game'</strong></h2>

<p>Kishan told the broadcasters, "Was really special. I knew what the team needed from me. Everyone backed me. Virat backed me and told me go and play your game. Let's hope we will finish the game tomorrow. It was Virat bhai who took the initiative and told that I should go in. There was a slow left-armer who was bowling. It was a good call for the team. Sometimes you need to take these calls. We had the plan that we will play 10-12 overs after the rain break and score 70-80 runs. We wanted a 370-380 target."</p>

<p>On Day Five, on Monday (July 24), Rohit &amp; Co. will look to wrap up the Windies' innings in a flash and inflict a series whitewash. The Indian team won the series opener by an innings and 141 runs. They will be eager to add more points to their kitty in the new 2023-25 WTC cycle.</p>

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After riding on Mohammed Siraj's 5 for 60, India bundled out West Indies for 255 in their first innings on Sunday (July 23). In reply to India's 438, the Windies were 208 for 4 before Siraj struck at regular intervals to help his side take a massive 183-run lead on Day Four.

After riding on Mohammed Siraj's 5 for 60, India bundled out West Indies for 255 in their first innings on Sunday (July 23). In reply to India's 438, the Windies were 208 for 4 before Siraj struck at regular intervals to help his side take a massive 183-run lead on Day Four. In their second essay, India entered the record books with the fastest team hundred in the format as captain Rohit Sharma (44-ball 57) and Yashavi Jaiswal (30-ball 38) set the foundation for some quick runs. Ishan Kishan, promoted at No. 4, carried on from where Rohit-Jaiswal left and smashed a quickfire fifty. Kishan returned with an impressive and attacking 34-ball 52 (laced with 4 fours and 2 sixes) as India declared at 181 for 2, setting up a challenging 365-run target for the home side. At Stumps on Day Four, West Indies are 76 for 2 and have a herculean task to save the series. After the end of the day's play, Kishan revealed it was Virat Kohli who sacrificed his usual batting slot, i.e. at No. 4 and asked for Kishan's promotion. Also read: India vs WI, 2nd Test: Siraj, batsmen put visitors in control despite rain on day 4 'Virat backed me and told me go and play your game' Kishan told the broadcasters, "Was really special. I knew what the team needed from me. Everyone backed me. Virat backed me and told me go and play your game. Let's hope we will finish the game tomorrow. It was Virat bhai who took the initiative and told that I should go in. There was a slow left-armer who was bowling. It was a good call for the team. Sometimes you need to take these calls. We had the plan that we will play 10-12 overs after the rain break and score 70-80 runs. We wanted a 370-380 target." On Day Five, on Monday (July 24), Rohit & Co. will look to wrap up the Windies' innings in a flash and inflict a series whitewash. The Indian team won the series opener by an innings and 141 runs. They will be eager to add more points to their kitty in the new 2023-25 WTC cycle. 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.

WI vs IND: 'He took the initiative...' - Kishan reveals Kohli backed him to bat at No. 4 after maiden fifty

<p>Former India pacer Zaheer Khan isn't much impressed with how Ishan Kishan got out during the second Test against West Indies. The wicketkeeper-batsman got his opportunity ahead of Srikar Bharat on the tour but hasn't been of much impact so far with the bat.</p>

<p>“He started the knock well. So he will be extremely disappointed because once you have played 30-40 deliveries and scored 25 runs, you have gotten your eye in. In Test matches, it is said that it is not a problem if you get out at the start,” Zaheer said while speaking on JioCinema.</p>

<p>Unlike the first Test, Kishan had a decent opportunity to bat long in the second Test with a solid platform laid by openers Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as well. The left-hand batsman could score only 25 runs and got out to a shot which Zaheer described as a shot of T20 mindset.</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-harmanpreet-kaur-slams-umpiring-decision-as-bangladesh-avoid-series-defeat-in-thrilling-decider-618469">Harmanpreet Kaur slams umpiring decision as Bangladesh avoid series defeat in thrilling decider</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>“However, if you get out like this, especially the shot he played, the T20 or white-ball effect was seen in that, so he will be disappointed with that because he had an excellent opportunity to play a good knock today,” added the former India pacer.</p>

<p>India, nonetheless, finished strongly with a score of 438 in their first innings as Virat Kohli notched up his 29th Test century. Virat also broke Sachin Tendulkar's record of most centuries in first 500 international matches by one ton. Tendulkar had scored 75 of his 100 tons in the first 500 international games he had played while Kohli scored 76 in same number of matches. This was also Kohli's first ton in five years outside Asia.</p>

<p>As for bowling, India had scalped two West Indian wickets for a total of 117 runs before rain interrupted play on day 3. India currently lead the two-match series 1-0.</p>

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Former India pacer Zaheer Khan isn't much impressed with how Ishan Kishan got out during the second Test against West Indies. The wicketkeeper-batsman got his opportunity ahead of Srikar Bharat on the tour but hasn't been of much impact so far with the bat.

Former India pacer Zaheer Khan isn't much impressed with how Ishan Kishan got out during the second Test against West Indies. The wicketkeeper-batsman got his opportunity ahead of Srikar Bharat on the tour but hasn't been of much impact so far with the bat. “He started the knock well. So he will be extremely disappointed because once you have played 30-40 deliveries and scored 25 runs, you have gotten your eye in. In Test matches, it is said that it is not a problem if you get out at the start,” Zaheer said while speaking on JioCinema. Unlike the first Test, Kishan had a decent opportunity to bat long in the second Test with a solid platform laid by openers Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as well. The left-hand batsman could score only 25 runs and got out to a shot which Zaheer described as a shot of T20 mindset. Also Watch: Harmanpreet Kaur slams umpiring decision as Bangladesh avoid series defeat in thrilling decider “However, if you get out like this, especially the shot he played, the T20 or white-ball effect was seen in that, so he will be disappointed with that because he had an excellent opportunity to play a good knock today,” added the former India pacer. India, nonetheless, finished strongly with a score of 438 in their first innings as Virat Kohli notched up his 29th Test century. Virat also broke Sachin Tendulkar's record of most centuries in first 500 international matches by one ton. Tendulkar had scored 75 of his 100 tons in the first 500 international games he had played while Kohli scored 76 in same number of matches. This was also Kohli's first ton in five years outside Asia. As for bowling, India had scalped two West Indian wickets for a total of 117 runs before rain interrupted play on day 3. India currently lead the two-match series 1-0. 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.

Ind vs WI: Former India pacer Zaheer Khan 'not happy' with Ishan Kishan getting out playing white-ball shot

<p>India is taking on West Indies in the second and final Test on Thursday (July 20) at Port-of-Spain in Trinidad. Having won the series opener by an innings and 141 runs, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will aim for a series whitewash to also add vital points in their kitty in the 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Ahead of the second Test's commencement, Hitman hinted that India won't tinker too much with their playing XI after having won the first Test, in Dominica, without dropping much sweat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit also spoke at length about Ishan Kishan, who made his Test debut in&nbsp;the series opener. He was unbeaten on 1 in India's first innings&nbsp;but was impressive behind the stumps. Rohit revealed that Ishan has been given full freedom to play in his attacking manner even in the purest format of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to the reporters ahead of the second Test, Rohit said, "Ishan is a very talented player. We have seen it in the short career that he has had for India. He scored a double hundred in limited overs. He has the game, we have the responsibility to chisel that talent. We have to give him opportunities. He is a left-handed batter. He likes playing aggressive cricket. I have had clear discussions with him, and I have explained to him how the team management wants him to play. He has been given freedom. He has the game, he needs the freedom and we will give him the opportunity."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-500th-intl-game-indian-star-reacts-ahead-of-landmark-appearance-in-wi-vs-ind-2nd-test-watch-617771">Virat Kohli's 500th int'l game: Indian star reacts ahead of landmark appearance in WI vs IND 2nd Test - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>Rohit also opined on Ishan's wicketkeeping skills. He stated, "I would like to speak specifically about his wicket-keeping. He kept really, really well considering he played his first Test and to keep against Ashwin and Jadeja where the ball is turning and bouncing and some balls keeping low as well... I was very impressed with his keeping skills. Unfortunately, he got to score just one run as we had to declare. We want our top-order batters bat long. If the opportunity comes (to bat long), he (Ishan) is raring to go."</p>

<p>With India entering a transition phase, given the likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, R Ashwin, etc. being in the last phase of their careers, the national side is focused on backing their young stars. The current Test squad comprises Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Ishan, etc. The visiting side is keen on seeing their youngsters flourish. After Jaiswal's blitz in the series opener, India will hope for Ishan to get a big score in the final Test.</p>

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India is taking on West Indies in the second and final Test on Thursday (July 20) at Port-of-Spain in Trinidad. Having won the series opener by an innings and 141 runs, Rohit Sharma & Co.

India is taking on West Indies in the second and final Test on Thursday (July 20) at Port-of-Spain in Trinidad. Having won the series opener by an innings and 141 runs, Rohit Sharma & Co. will aim for a series whitewash to also add vital points in their kitty in the 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Ahead of the second Test's commencement, Hitman hinted that India won't tinker too much with their playing XI after having won the first Test, in Dominica, without dropping much sweat. Rohit also spoke at length about Ishan Kishan, who made his Test debut in the series opener. He was unbeaten on 1 in India's first innings but was impressive behind the stumps. Rohit revealed that Ishan has been given full freedom to play in his attacking manner even in the purest format of the game. Speaking to the reporters ahead of the second Test, Rohit said, "Ishan is a very talented player. We have seen it in the short career that he has had for India. He scored a double hundred in limited overs. He has the game, we have the responsibility to chisel that talent. We have to give him opportunities. He is a left-handed batter. He likes playing aggressive cricket. I have had clear discussions with him, and I have explained to him how the team management wants him to play. He has been given freedom. He has the game, he needs the freedom and we will give him the opportunity." Also read: Virat Kohli's 500th int'l game: Indian star reacts ahead of landmark appearance in WI vs IND 2nd Test - Watch Rohit also opined on Ishan's wicketkeeping skills. He stated, "I would like to speak specifically about his wicket-keeping. He kept really, really well considering he played his first Test and to keep against Ashwin and Jadeja where the ball is turning and bouncing and some balls keeping low as well... I was very impressed with his keeping skills. Unfortunately, he got to score just one run as we had to declare. We want our top-order batters bat long. If the opportunity comes (to bat long), he (Ishan) is raring to go." With India entering a transition phase, given the likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, R Ashwin, etc. being in the last phase of their careers, the national side is focused on backing their young stars. The current Test squad comprises Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Ishan, etc. The visiting side is keen on seeing their youngsters flourish. After Jaiswal's blitz in the series opener, India will hope for Ishan to get a big score in the final Test. 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.

WI vs IND, 2nd Test: 'Have explained to him how....' - Rohit Sharma on India's star batter

<p>The South Korean military detained a North Korean soldier who crossed the heavily fortified demilitarised zone (DMZ) that separates the two countries, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JSC) said on Thursday.</p>

<p>The soldier expressed his intention to defect to South Korea, the JSC said later.</p>

<p>The unidentified active-duty soldier was first detected by thermal imaging equipment moving south near the Imjin River late on Wednesday and South Korean troops took him into custody just before midnight, the JCS said.</p>

<p>Also on Wednesday, the South Korean military recovered a body near the DMZ suspected to be that of a North Korean civilian, a spokesman for South Korea's defence ministry said on Thursday.</p>

<p>Clad in military-type pants and a belt, the body was found in the Imjin River and appeared to have been dead for at least two weeks, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported.</p>

<p>South Korea returned three North Koreans on Monday who had crossed the maritime border aboard a fishing vessel.</p>

<p>Officials from the South said they thought the fishermen may have wanted to defect but in the end the men chose to return to North Korea.</p>

<p>Hundreds of North Koreans make their way to South Korea each year hoping to defect, but unauthorized crossings of the DMZ are rare.</p>

<p>The zone is dotted with landmines, fences, guard posts, and other military equipment on both sides of the border.</p>

<p>The last defection by a North Korean soldier across the DMZ was in November 2018.</p>

<p>In November 2017 a North Korean soldier was shot multiple times by fellow soldiers as he fled across the border into South Korea, where he was treated by doctors.</p>

<p>Another North Korean soldier crossed the border to defect a few weeks later in an incident that led to South Korean guards firing warning shots into North Korea.</p>

<p>North and South Korea agreed last year to try to reduce tensions along their border by reducing the number of landmines and guard posts, disarming their guards at a truce village, and imposing a no-fly zone.</p>


The South Korean military detained a North Korean soldier who crossed the heavily fortified demilitarised zone (DMZ) that separates the two countries, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JSC) said on Thursday.

The South Korean military detained a North Korean soldier who crossed the heavily fortified demilitarised zone (DMZ) that separates the two countries, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JSC) said on Thursday. The soldier expressed his intention to defect to South Korea, the JSC said later. The unidentified active-duty soldier was first detected by thermal imaging equipment moving south near the Imjin River late on Wednesday and South Korean troops took him into custody just before midnight, the JCS said. Also on Wednesday, the South Korean military recovered a body near the DMZ suspected to be that of a North Korean civilian, a spokesman for South Korea's defence ministry said on Thursday. Clad in military-type pants and a belt, the body was found in the Imjin River and appeared to have been dead for at least two weeks, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported. South Korea returned three North Koreans on Monday who had crossed the maritime border aboard a fishing vessel. Officials from the South said they thought the fishermen may have wanted to defect but in the end the men chose to return to North Korea. Hundreds of North Koreans make their way to South Korea each year hoping to defect, but unauthorized crossings of the DMZ are rare. The zone is dotted with landmines, fences, guard posts, and other military equipment on both sides of the border. The last defection by a North Korean soldier across the DMZ was in November 2018. In November 2017 a North Korean soldier was shot multiple times by fellow soldiers as he fled across the border into South Korea, where he was treated by doctors. Another North Korean soldier crossed the border to defect a few weeks later in an incident that led to South Korean guards firing warning shots into North Korea. North and South Korea agreed last year to try to reduce tensions along their border by reducing the number of landmines and guard posts, disarming their guards at a truce village, and imposing a no-fly zone.

Watch: Rohit Sharma angry with Ishan Kishan’s batting in first Test against West Indies

<p>On Friday (June 23), the BCCI selection committee named India's squads&nbsp;for their two-match Test series and three ODIs versus West Indies as the tour commences next month in the Caribbean. Rohit Sharma retained captaincy of the 16-man Test squad, despite criticism after India's WTC final loss, whereas Ajinkya Rahane regained the vice-captaincy post.</p>

<p>Rahane served as Virat Kohli's deputy in whites for a long time and even led the team with aplomb in his absence before losing the post in late 2021. Soon, he even lost his spot before making his comeback during the WTC finale versus Australia early this month, where he returned with a sublime 89 and 46. With injuries to Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, Rahane once again got the vice-captaincy back and Little Master Sunil Gavaskar reacted to the same.</p>

<p>Gavaskar said there is 'nothing wrong' in Rahane regaining vice-captaincy but feels there was an opportunity lost to name a youngster as Rohit's deputy for the Windies tour. Talking to Sports Today, he said, "There is nothing wrong in having him [Ajinkya Rahane] as the vice-captain, but a missed opportunity to groom a young player. At least, tell a young player that we are looking at you as a future captain. So, he starts to think as a future leader."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-james-anderson-nathan-lyon-throw-ceremonial-pitches-during-mlb-london-game-watch-608671">Ashes 2023: James Anderson, Nathan Lyon throw ceremonial pitches during MLB London game - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'One is Shubman Gill and the other is....'</strong></h2>

<p>Further, Gavaskar named three youngsters who can lead India in whites going forward. "One is Shubman Gill and the other is Axar Patel [as future captains] because Axar comes in leaps and bounds, he just gets better every match. Giving him the responsibility as vice-captain will make them think. So, these are the two candidates in my view. If there are others, somebody like Ishan Kishan, once he cements his place in the team. He can come in the reckoning as well," the veteran added.</p>

<p>India's tour of West Indies kicks off on July 12, comprising two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is.</p>

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On Friday (June 23), the BCCI selection committee named India's squads for their two-match Test series and three ODIs versus West Indies as the tour commences next month in the Caribbean.

On Friday (June 23), the BCCI selection committee named India's squads for their two-match Test series and three ODIs versus West Indies as the tour commences next month in the Caribbean. Rohit Sharma retained captaincy of the 16-man Test squad, despite criticism after India's WTC final loss, whereas Ajinkya Rahane regained the vice-captaincy post. Rahane served as Virat Kohli's deputy in whites for a long time and even led the team with aplomb in his absence before losing the post in late 2021. Soon, he even lost his spot before making his comeback during the WTC finale versus Australia early this month, where he returned with a sublime 89 and 46. With injuries to Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, Rahane once again got the vice-captaincy back and Little Master Sunil Gavaskar reacted to the same. Gavaskar said there is 'nothing wrong' in Rahane regaining vice-captaincy but feels there was an opportunity lost to name a youngster as Rohit's deputy for the Windies tour. Talking to Sports Today, he said, "There is nothing wrong in having him [Ajinkya Rahane] as the vice-captain, but a missed opportunity to groom a young player. At least, tell a young player that we are looking at you as a future captain. So, he starts to think as a future leader." Also Read: Ashes 2023: James Anderson, Nathan Lyon throw ceremonial pitches during MLB London game - WATCH 'One is Shubman Gill and the other is....' Further, Gavaskar named three youngsters who can lead India in whites going forward. "One is Shubman Gill and the other is Axar Patel [as future captains] because Axar comes in leaps and bounds, he just gets better every match. Giving him the responsibility as vice-captain will make them think. So, these are the two candidates in my view. If there are others, somebody like Ishan Kishan, once he cements his place in the team. He can come in the reckoning as well," the veteran added. India's tour of West Indies kicks off on July 12, comprising two Tests, three ODIs and five 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. ×

Gavaskar opines on Rahane regaining vice-captaincy, suggests three names as India's next Test skipper

<p>Ishan Kishan is among several centrally contracted players who will reach the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru next week for strength and conditioning-related work ahead of the start of the West Indies tour. Following the WTC Final at the Oval this month, India will travel to the Caribbean Islands for two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is, starting July 12. The Indian Team is likely to depart on July 3.</p>

<p>With India’s premier domestic tournament Duleep Trophy, set to get underway in Bengaluru on June 28, Ishan decided to opt out at the last minute.</p>

<p>Selected to play for East Zone, which was scheduled to take on Central Zone in the first quarter in Alur, Ishan had a chance to play at least one red-ball match ahead of the West Indies tour. With this, he would have pushed for a case for a place in the Test side with KS Bharat, who played ahead of him in the WTC Final.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/graeme-smith-backs-india-coach-rahul-dravid-after-latest-wtc-final-slump-urges-fans-to-remain-patient-605573">Graeme Smith backs India coach Rahul Dravid after latest WTC Final slump, urges fans to remain patient</a></p>

<p>Generally in between two international series, contracted or targeted players who are not part of any ongoing domestic tournament are sent to the NCA for an update on their fitness status.</p>

<h2>Ishan to continue playing white-ball cricket</h2>

<p>While the Indian board is yet to announce squads for the Tests, which begin with the first game in Dominica on July 12, both Ishan and Bharat will retain their places. Meanwhile, following a mediocre outing against Australia at the Oval, KS Bharat could lose his place to the high-flying Kishan in the Test team.</p>

<p>If KS gets retained in the XI and Ishan gets to warm the benches, the left-handed batter is sure to start in the white-ball series that follows. Recent reports said that Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rinku Singh and Yashasvi Jaiswal are among the young uncapped batters who could get a chance in the five-match T20Is.</p>

<p>With regular captain Rohit Sharma expected to get some rest for ‘some part’ of the West Indies tour, Ishan Kishan will get his chance. Being one of the five Indians to score a double hundred in ODIs – against Bangladesh in 2022, Ishan is tipped to be the future of Indian Cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BCCI will likely announce squads for the West Indies series on June 27.</p>

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Ishan Kishan is among several centrally contracted players who will reach the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru next week for strength and conditioning-related work ahead of the start of the West Indies tour.

Ishan Kishan is among several centrally contracted players who will reach the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru next week for strength and conditioning-related work ahead of the start of the West Indies tour. Following the WTC Final at the Oval this month, India will travel to the Caribbean Islands for two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is, starting July 12. The Indian Team is likely to depart on July 3. With India’s premier domestic tournament Duleep Trophy, set to get underway in Bengaluru on June 28, Ishan decided to opt out at the last minute. Selected to play for East Zone, which was scheduled to take on Central Zone in the first quarter in Alur, Ishan had a chance to play at least one red-ball match ahead of the West Indies tour. With this, he would have pushed for a case for a place in the Test side with KS Bharat, who played ahead of him in the WTC Final. ALSO READ: Graeme Smith backs India coach Rahul Dravid after latest WTC Final slump, urges fans to remain patient Generally in between two international series, contracted or targeted players who are not part of any ongoing domestic tournament are sent to the NCA for an update on their fitness status. Ishan to continue playing white-ball cricket While the Indian board is yet to announce squads for the Tests, which begin with the first game in Dominica on July 12, both Ishan and Bharat will retain their places. Meanwhile, following a mediocre outing against Australia at the Oval, KS Bharat could lose his place to the high-flying Kishan in the Test team. If KS gets retained in the XI and Ishan gets to warm the benches, the left-handed batter is sure to start in the white-ball series that follows. Recent reports said that Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rinku Singh and Yashasvi Jaiswal are among the young uncapped batters who could get a chance in the five-match T20Is. With regular captain Rohit Sharma expected to get some rest for ‘some part’ of the West Indies tour, Ishan Kishan will get his chance. Being one of the five Indians to score a double hundred in ODIs – against Bangladesh in 2022, Ishan is tipped to be the future of Indian Cricket. The BCCI will likely announce squads for the West Indies series on June 27. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ishan Kishan among other contracted players head to NCA for strength & conditioning ahead of West Indies tour

<p>In the absence of Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan was considered by many as the top-choice wicketkeeper in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. Ishan could not manage to secure his spot in the playing XI for the WTC final. The youngster now seems quite unwilling to explore his future in red-ball cricket. A report published by the news agency PTI has claimed that Ishan decided to refrain from featuring in the East Zone team for the Duleep Trophy tournament. The article stated that the East Zone selectors were utterly perplexed after they got to know about Ishan Kishan’s decision to not take part in the first-class tournament which is taking place just ahead of the Test series against West Indies, starting from July 12.</p>

<p>While Ishan Kishan has already represented Team India in ODIs and T20Is, the 24-year-old is yet to make his red-ball cricket debut in the international circuit. He has donned the India jersey in 14 ODIs and 27 T20I matches. Ishan has one century and seven half centuries to his name in international cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the latest edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Ishan Kishan scored 454 runs with a strike rate of 142.76. The opener emerged as the second-highest run-scorer of the Mumbai Indians franchise this year.</p>

<h2><strong>What the report said</strong></h2>

<p>PTI reported that an East Zone selection committee member asked zonal selection committee convener Debasish Chakraborty if they could select Ishan Kishan for the Duleep Trophy. “As he is a senior India regular in white ball, he would have got the captaincy. Chakraborty got in touch with Ishan over the phone and came back and told us that he is not interested in playing Duleep Trophy. We were not told if he has an injury or not. Just that he doesn’t want to play,” the selector told PTI.</p>

<p>Abhishek Porel and Kumar Kushagra are the two designated wicketkeepers present in the East Zone squad. India A skipper Abhimanyu Easwaran will handle the leadership duty of the East Zone. Shahbaz Nadeem will be the vice-captain of the team.</p>

<h2><strong>East Zone Team</strong></h2>

<p>East Zone squad: Abhimanyu Easwaran (c), Santanu Mishra, Sudip Gharami, Riyan Parag, A. Majumdar, Bipin Saurabh, Abhishek Porel (wk), Kumar Kushagra (wk), Shahbaz Nadeem, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep, Anukul Roy, M Mura Singh, Ishan Porel.</p>


In the absence of Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan was considered by many as the top-choice wicketkeeper in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. Ishan could not manage to secure his spot in the playing XI for the WTC final.

In the absence of Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan was considered by many as the top-choice wicketkeeper in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. Ishan could not manage to secure his spot in the playing XI for the WTC final. The youngster now seems quite unwilling to explore his future in red-ball cricket. A report published by the news agency PTI has claimed that Ishan decided to refrain from featuring in the East Zone team for the Duleep Trophy tournament. The article stated that the East Zone selectors were utterly perplexed after they got to know about Ishan Kishan’s decision to not take part in the first-class tournament which is taking place just ahead of the Test series against West Indies, starting from July 12. While Ishan Kishan has already represented Team India in ODIs and T20Is, the 24-year-old is yet to make his red-ball cricket debut in the international circuit. He has donned the India jersey in 14 ODIs and 27 T20I matches. Ishan has one century and seven half centuries to his name in international cricket. In the latest edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Ishan Kishan scored 454 runs with a strike rate of 142.76. The opener emerged as the second-highest run-scorer of the Mumbai Indians franchise this year. What the report said PTI reported that an East Zone selection committee member asked zonal selection committee convener Debasish Chakraborty if they could select Ishan Kishan for the Duleep Trophy. “As he is a senior India regular in white ball, he would have got the captaincy. Chakraborty got in touch with Ishan over the phone and came back and told us that he is not interested in playing Duleep Trophy. We were not told if he has an injury or not. Just that he doesn’t want to play,” the selector told PTI. Abhishek Porel and Kumar Kushagra are the two designated wicketkeepers present in the East Zone squad. India A skipper Abhimanyu Easwaran will handle the leadership duty of the East Zone. Shahbaz Nadeem will be the vice-captain of the team. East Zone Team East Zone squad: Abhimanyu Easwaran (c), Santanu Mishra, Sudip Gharami, Riyan Parag, A. Majumdar, Bipin Saurabh, Abhishek Porel (wk), Kumar Kushagra (wk), Shahbaz Nadeem, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep, Anukul Roy, M Mura Singh, Ishan Porel.

Duleep Trophy: Ishan Kishan opts out of the tournament

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