<p>Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh believes Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will definitely target Team India's star wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. An explosive batter who can open the innings and bat in the middle-order as well, Kishan has seen his stakes rise in the last couple of years, owing to his exploits in the IPL and international cricket.</p>

<p>Kishan was released by Mumbai Indians ahead of the IPL mega auction this year and is among the top Indian players to watch out for at the two-day event in Bengaluru on Saturday and Sunday. Kishan had played an instrumental role in Mumbai India's title triumph in IPL 2020 where he notched up 516 runs in 14 games. He can provide much-needed versatility in RCB's batting line-up with his ability to strike the ball from the word go.</p>

<p>Ahead of the IPL mega auction, Harbhajan has predicted a bidding war for the young keeper-batter, who has listed his base price at Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million). Harbhajan believes RCB, who are also looking for a new captain after Virat Kohli's decision to quit captaincy, can rope in Kishan and groom him in a leadership role in the long term.</p>

<p>"Ishan Kishan is someone I am a fan of. On his own capability, on any given day, he can smash 70-80 runs off 30 balls and win the match for his team. He will become a very big player in the time to come. If a player like him goes to any team, he should be given the responsibility of leadership," Harbhajan said in a video on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>"The way he gets older, with responsibilities, he will become even bigger. He already captains Jharkhand. RCB would definitely target Ishan Kishan in the auction. It will be tough because many teams would go after him at the auction," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-dates-timings-and-venue-all-you-need-to-know-451440">IPL 2022 mega auction dates, timings and venue: All you need to know</a></strong></p>

<p>Mumbai Indians had to let go of Kishan as they decided to retain captain Rohit Sharma, star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard and Suryakumar Yadav. However, it won't come as a surprise if Mumbai Indians try to get Kishan back at the IPL mega auction this week.</p>

<p>The young wicket-keeper batter has so far played 61 IPL matches and has 1452 runs to his name at an average of over 28 and a strike rate of over 136.</p>


Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh believes Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will definitely target Team India's star wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh believes Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will definitely target Team India's star wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. An explosive batter who can open the innings and bat in the middle-order as well, Kishan has seen his stakes rise in the last couple of years, owing to his exploits in the IPL and international cricket. Kishan was released by Mumbai Indians ahead of the IPL mega auction this year and is among the top Indian players to watch out for at the two-day event in Bengaluru on Saturday and Sunday. Kishan had played an instrumental role in Mumbai India's title triumph in IPL 2020 where he notched up 516 runs in 14 games. He can provide much-needed versatility in RCB's batting line-up with his ability to strike the ball from the word go. Ahead of the IPL mega auction, Harbhajan has predicted a bidding war for the young keeper-batter, who has listed his base price at Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million). Harbhajan believes RCB, who are also looking for a new captain after Virat Kohli's decision to quit captaincy, can rope in Kishan and groom him in a leadership role in the long term. "Ishan Kishan is someone I am a fan of. On his own capability, on any given day, he can smash 70-80 runs off 30 balls and win the match for his team. He will become a very big player in the time to come. If a player like him goes to any team, he should be given the responsibility of leadership," Harbhajan said in a video on his YouTube channel. "The way he gets older, with responsibilities, he will become even bigger. He already captains Jharkhand. RCB would definitely target Ishan Kishan in the auction. It will be tough because many teams would go after him at the auction," he added. Also Read: IPL 2022 mega auction dates, timings and venue: All you need to know Mumbai Indians had to let go of Kishan as they decided to retain captain Rohit Sharma, star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard and Suryakumar Yadav. However, it won't come as a surprise if Mumbai Indians try to get Kishan back at the IPL mega auction this week. The young wicket-keeper batter has so far played 61 IPL matches and has 1452 runs to his name at an average of over 28 and a strike rate of over 136.

RCB would definitely target Ishan Kishan at IPL mega auction, he will become a big player: Harbhajan Singh

<p>Virat Kohli resigned as the Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) captain following the end of the three-time runners-up's campaign in the IPL 2021 edition. Kohli had announced the news at the start of the second and final leg of IPL 14, in the UAE, on September 19.</p>

<p>Back then, the RCB Twitter handle quoted Kohli as saying, "This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me."</p>

<p>He added, "It has been a great and an inspiring journey, captaining a talented bunch of players in the RCB squad. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the RCB management, coaches, support staff, players, and the entire RCB family, who have been instrumental in the growth of the franchise over the years."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/that-will-be-the-easiest-solution-ajit-agarkar-urges-virat-kohli-to-reconsider-captaining-rcb-in-ipl-2022-451328"><strong>That will be the easiest solution: Ajit Agarkar urges Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining RCB in IPL 2022</strong></a></p>

<p>Ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction, set to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh feels Kohli still remains the best man to lead RCB. "Despite having many big names, RCB is a team who is yet to lift the title. AB de Villiers won't play this season and Kohli has stepped down from captaincy... so they need to find a captain now. Among Indians, Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan are the two names who can efficiently lead the team," Harbhajan said while speaking on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>"Shreyas has already shown his captaincy prowess while leading the Delhi franchise. But I think Kohli will have to don the captaincy hat again. RCB won't get a better leader than him," opined Harbhajan.</p>

<p>"RCB is making a new team and they will search for a good leader. But does Kohli want to take up the role? It will be a big challenge but I won't be surprised if he agrees to be the captain for the next 1-2 years," he added.</p>

<p>Recently, former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar had also advised Kohli to reconsider taking up RCB captaincy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If Virat Kohli can take over the captaincy and if he is happy to do it and if he has the energy to do it, I think that will be the easiest solution for them," Agarkar told Star Sports show Game Plan ahead of the auction.</p>

<p>"At the end of the day, we have seen RCB over the years they haven't invested enough money in making a proper team of 12, 13 or 14 players with enough depth.&nbsp;It's always been dependent on the top three, not enough middle order players and if you don't have the money, you can't do that again. So, if you break the bank for one player, doesn't matter how good he is - will win you games but will never win you competitions," he further added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-hardik-pandya-didnt-draw-a-single-bid-and-went-unsold-at-ipl-2014-auction-451724"><strong>Throwback: When Hardik Pandya didn't draw a single bid and went UNSOLD at IPL 2014 auction</strong></a></p>

<p>Under Kohli, RCB won 64&nbsp;games and lost 69. He led the franchise in 140 games, taking them to the IPL 2016 final where they lost to the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).&nbsp;</p>

<p>For now, RCB have retained Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Md Siraj ahead of the mega auction. They will have to include some famed and marquee players and then choose their next captain, unless Kohli has a change of mind (which seems highly unlikely at this point of time). He has already given up Team India captaincy altogether (resigning from two formats and being sacked as the ODI captain).</p>


Virat Kohli resigned as the Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) captain following the end of the three-time runners-up's campaign in the IPL 2021 edition. Kohli had announced the news at the start of the second and final leg of IPL 14, in the UAE, on September 19.

Virat Kohli resigned as the Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) captain following the end of the three-time runners-up's campaign in the IPL 2021 edition. Kohli had announced the news at the start of the second and final leg of IPL 14, in the UAE, on September 19. Back then, the RCB Twitter handle quoted Kohli as saying, "This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me." He added, "It has been a great and an inspiring journey, captaining a talented bunch of players in the RCB squad. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the RCB management, coaches, support staff, players, and the entire RCB family, who have been instrumental in the growth of the franchise over the years." ALSO READ | That will be the easiest solution: Ajit Agarkar urges Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining RCB in IPL 2022 Ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction, set to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh feels Kohli still remains the best man to lead RCB. "Despite having many big names, RCB is a team who is yet to lift the title. AB de Villiers won't play this season and Kohli has stepped down from captaincy... so they need to find a captain now. Among Indians, Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan are the two names who can efficiently lead the team," Harbhajan said while speaking on his YouTube channel. "Shreyas has already shown his captaincy prowess while leading the Delhi franchise. But I think Kohli will have to don the captaincy hat again. RCB won't get a better leader than him," opined Harbhajan. "RCB is making a new team and they will search for a good leader. But does Kohli want to take up the role? It will be a big challenge but I won't be surprised if he agrees to be the captain for the next 1-2 years," he added. Recently, former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar had also advised Kohli to reconsider taking up RCB captaincy. "If Virat Kohli can take over the captaincy and if he is happy to do it and if he has the energy to do it, I think that will be the easiest solution for them," Agarkar told Star Sports show Game Plan ahead of the auction. "At the end of the day, we have seen RCB over the years they haven't invested enough money in making a proper team of 12, 13 or 14 players with enough depth. It's always been dependent on the top three, not enough middle order players and if you don't have the money, you can't do that again. So, if you break the bank for one player, doesn't matter how good he is - will win you games but will never win you competitions," he further added. ALSO READ | Throwback: When Hardik Pandya didn't draw a single bid and went UNSOLD at IPL 2014 auction Under Kohli, RCB won 64 games and lost 69. He led the franchise in 140 games, taking them to the IPL 2016 final where they lost to the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). For now, RCB have retained Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Md Siraj ahead of the mega auction. They will have to include some famed and marquee players and then choose their next captain, unless Kohli has a change of mind (which seems highly unlikely at this point of time). He has already given up Team India captaincy altogether (resigning from two formats and being sacked as the ODI captain).

Virat Kohli should don captaincy hat again: Harbhajan Singh urges Indian star to lead RCB in IPL 2022

<p>Rohit Sharma-led Team India dropped Ishan Kishan for the second and penultimate ODI versus West Indies, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Wednesday (February 8). Ishan, who played the series opener and made 28, made way for KL Rahul as the vice-captain returned to the squad after missing the first ODI.</p>

<p>With Ishan missing out, India promoted Rishabh Pant up the order -- in a bid to maintain the left-right-hand combination and also retain Rahul at No. 5. With Pant opening the innings along with skipper Rohit, veteran wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has heaped praise on Ishan. Despite the competition being intense for the opening slot, with another contender in Pant coming into the scheme of things, Karthik feels Ishan can still make a mark due to his 'tremendous skills'.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-an-experiment-make-no-mistake-sunil-gavaskar-reacts-as-rishabh-pant-opens-in-2nd-odi-451676">This is an experiment, make no mistake: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Rishabh Pant opens in 2nd ODI</a></strong></p>

<p>"Ishan by now would know that among all the available spots, the one that has the most competition is the opening. There are way too many openers and just two spots. He's going to be aware of that... but the good thing for Ishan is that he's not just a keeper. He's a good fielder as well. You double up as an option on the field. They are going to look at him as a pure opener like they did in the first game against West Indies," said Karthik in the pre-match show on Cricbuzz.</p>

<p>"He's got tremendous skills... he can attack from ball one. That's a skill every player doesn't possess. In the new age, players try and attack a lot from ball one. Teams that have succeeded in doing that consistently have done very well in multi-nation tournaments. So Ishan definitely has a good chance to come into the scheme of things," he further said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-hardik-pandyas-ahmedabad-franchise-named-gujarat-titans-reveals-team-owner-451636"><strong>IPL 2022: Hardik Pandya's Ahmedabad franchise named Gujarat Titans, reveals team owner</strong></a></p>

<p>India also went ahead with Pant as Shikhar Dhawan remains unavailable for selection despite recovering from Covid-19 virus. It is expected that Dhawan will return to the line-up in the series decider, on February 11, and also reclaim his opening slot along with Rohit.</p>


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

Rohit Sharma-led Team India dropped Ishan Kishan for the second and penultimate ODI versus West Indies, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Wednesday (February 8). Ishan, who played the series opener and made 28, made way for KL Rahul as the vice-captain returned to the squad after missing the first ODI. With Ishan missing out, India promoted Rishabh Pant up the order -- in a bid to maintain the left-right-hand combination and also retain Rahul at No. 5. With Pant opening the innings along with skipper Rohit, veteran wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has heaped praise on Ishan. Despite the competition being intense for the opening slot, with another contender in Pant coming into the scheme of things, Karthik feels Ishan can still make a mark due to his 'tremendous skills'. ALSO READ | This is an experiment, make no mistake: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Rishabh Pant opens in 2nd ODI "Ishan by now would know that among all the available spots, the one that has the most competition is the opening. There are way too many openers and just two spots. He's going to be aware of that... but the good thing for Ishan is that he's not just a keeper. He's a good fielder as well. You double up as an option on the field. They are going to look at him as a pure opener like they did in the first game against West Indies," said Karthik in the pre-match show on Cricbuzz. "He's got tremendous skills... he can attack from ball one. That's a skill every player doesn't possess. In the new age, players try and attack a lot from ball one. Teams that have succeeded in doing that consistently have done very well in multi-nation tournaments. So Ishan definitely has a good chance to come into the scheme of things," he further said. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Hardik Pandya's Ahmedabad franchise named Gujarat Titans, reveals team owner India also went ahead with Pant as Shikhar Dhawan remains unavailable for selection despite recovering from Covid-19 virus. It is expected that Dhawan will return to the line-up in the series decider, on February 11, and also reclaim his opening slot along with Rohit.

India vs WI, 2nd ODI: Dinesh Karthik lauds Indian star, says 'he has got tremendous skills'

<p>India got off to a winning start in the ongoing three-match ODI series against West Indies with a comfortable six-wicket win in the first ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The hosts will be locking horns with Kieron Pollard &amp; Co. in the second ODI of the series on Wednesday and will be hoping to continue their winning run against the visitors.</p>

<p>Spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Washington Sundar were brilliant for India in the series-opener as the duo rattled the West Indies batting line up to pick up seven wickets between them. West Indies were bundled out for a paltry 176 runs in 43.5 overs before India chased down the target with as many as 22 overs to spare.</p>

<p>Captain Rohit Sharma, who was leading the Men in Blue in his first ODI as the full-time skipper of the Indian team, slammed a brilliant 51-ball 60 to get the hosts off to a good start before Suryakumr Yadav (34) and debutant Deepak Hooda (26) wrapped up the run-chase while remaining unbeaten.</p>

<p>It was a comfortable victory for India in the first ODI, however, a change is likely in the playing XI for the second ODI as KL Rahul is available for selection after missing the first game. The vice-captain had missed the series-opener due to personal reasons but is likely to return to the XI in the second game.</p>

<p>Rahul is likely to replace left-hand batter Ishan Kishan at the top as India would like to give Hooda more chances in the middle-order after his good show on debut. Kishan, who also looked in fine touch for his 28 off 36 balls, might have to make way for Rahul, who is unlikely to be slotted in the middle-order and will play as an opener.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-virat-kohli-to-join-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-yuvraj-singh-in-elite-list-during-2nd-odi-451477">&nbsp;Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh in elite list during 2nd ODI</a></p>

<p>Apart from Rahul replacing Kishan, India are unlikely to make any other change and will once again reply on the spin pair of Chahal and Sundar to continue their terrific run in the second game. Sundar is unlikely to be replaced by any other spinner as he offers a lot with the bat as well lower down the order.</p>

<p><strong>India's predicted XI for 2nd ODI against West Indies:</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal,&nbsp;Prasidh Krishna</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


India got off to a winning start in the ongoing three-match ODI series against West Indies with a comfortable six-wicket win in the first ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

India got off to a winning start in the ongoing three-match ODI series against West Indies with a comfortable six-wicket win in the first ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The hosts will be locking horns with Kieron Pollard & Co. in the second ODI of the series on Wednesday and will be hoping to continue their winning run against the visitors. Spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Washington Sundar were brilliant for India in the series-opener as the duo rattled the West Indies batting line up to pick up seven wickets between them. West Indies were bundled out for a paltry 176 runs in 43.5 overs before India chased down the target with as many as 22 overs to spare. Captain Rohit Sharma, who was leading the Men in Blue in his first ODI as the full-time skipper of the Indian team, slammed a brilliant 51-ball 60 to get the hosts off to a good start before Suryakumr Yadav (34) and debutant Deepak Hooda (26) wrapped up the run-chase while remaining unbeaten. It was a comfortable victory for India in the first ODI, however, a change is likely in the playing XI for the second ODI as KL Rahul is available for selection after missing the first game. The vice-captain had missed the series-opener due to personal reasons but is likely to return to the XI in the second game. Rahul is likely to replace left-hand batter Ishan Kishan at the top as India would like to give Hooda more chances in the middle-order after his good show on debut. Kishan, who also looked in fine touch for his 28 off 36 balls, might have to make way for Rahul, who is unlikely to be slotted in the middle-order and will play as an opener. Also Read: Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh in elite list during 2nd ODI Apart from Rahul replacing Kishan, India are unlikely to make any other change and will once again reply on the spin pair of Chahal and Sundar to continue their terrific run in the second game. Sundar is unlikely to be replaced by any other spinner as he offers a lot with the bat as well lower down the order. India's predicted XI for 2nd ODI against West Indies: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Yuzvendra Chahal, Prasidh Krishna

Ishan Kishan to make way for KL Rahul? India's predicted playing XI for 2nd ODI against West Indies

<p>&nbsp;Opener Ishan Kishan and hard-hitting Tamil Nadu batter Shahrukh Khan were on Saturday added to the Indian squad for the first ODI against West Indies to be played here on Sunday.</p>

<p>The All-India Senior Selection Committee has added Ishan Kishan and Shahrukh Khan to India's squad for the first ODI against the West Indies to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday,? BCCI secretary Jay Shah said in a media release.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, skipper Rohit Sharma had already confirmed that Kishan would open the batting with him when the hosts take field on Sunday at the Motera'.</p>

<p>"Ishan Kishan is the only option we have and he will open with me," Rohit said on the eve of the series-opener.</p>

<p>"Mayank (Agarwal) was added to the squad and he is still in isolation. He came (joined) late and we have some rules in place. If someone is travelling, we have to put them in (mandatory 3-day) quarantine. He has still not finished his quarantine, so Ishan will open the innings,? elaborated Rohit.</p>

<p>The 23-year-old Kishan has played two ODIs, from which he has scored 60 runs with 59 as his best score. The southpaw has also featured in five T20Is from which he has scored 113 runs.</p>

<p>Kishan was also a prominent member for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL. The 26-year-old Chennai-born Shahrukh, known for his abilities to finish games, is a right-handed batter. He has played 33 List A' games from which he has scored 737 runs.</p>

<p>Indian Squad for the 1st ODI: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Ishan Kishan, Shahrukh Khan.&nbsp;</p>


Opener Ishan Kishan and hard-hitting Tamil Nadu batter Shahrukh Khan were on Saturday added to the Indian squad for the first ODI against West Indies to be played here on Sunday.

Opener Ishan Kishan and hard-hitting Tamil Nadu batter Shahrukh Khan were on Saturday added to the Indian squad for the first ODI against West Indies to be played here on Sunday. The All-India Senior Selection Committee has added Ishan Kishan and Shahrukh Khan to India's squad for the first ODI against the West Indies to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday,? BCCI secretary Jay Shah said in a media release. Earlier in the day, skipper Rohit Sharma had already confirmed that Kishan would open the batting with him when the hosts take field on Sunday at the Motera'. "Ishan Kishan is the only option we have and he will open with me," Rohit said on the eve of the series-opener. "Mayank (Agarwal) was added to the squad and he is still in isolation. He came (joined) late and we have some rules in place. If someone is travelling, we have to put them in (mandatory 3-day) quarantine. He has still not finished his quarantine, so Ishan will open the innings,? elaborated Rohit. The 23-year-old Kishan has played two ODIs, from which he has scored 60 runs with 59 as his best score. The southpaw has also featured in five T20Is from which he has scored 113 runs. Kishan was also a prominent member for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL. The 26-year-old Chennai-born Shahrukh, known for his abilities to finish games, is a right-handed batter. He has played 33 List A' games from which he has scored 737 runs. Indian Squad for the 1st ODI: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Ishan Kishan, Shahrukh Khan.

Ishan Kishan, Shahrukh Khan added to India's ODI squad for first game against West Indies

<p>India's limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma is gearing up to lead the team in his first ODI series as full-time captain of the Indian team. India will lock horns with West Indies in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06). Rohit had to miss India's tour of South Africa due to a hamstring injury but has now returned to the squad after recovering fully.</p>

<p>Ahead of the start of the three-match ODI series against Kieron Pollard &amp; Co., the Indian captain answered reporters' questions during a virtual pre-match press conference on Saturday. Rohit spoke on a range of topics from the COVID-19 situation in the Indian team to the team's vision in limited-overs cricket going forward.</p>

<p>Rohit was also asked about the lack of opportunities in the Indian team for the young openers Ruturak Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan. While Kishan was initially not part of the ODI squad and had been picked only in the T20I side, he was selected in the ODI squad after Shikhar Dhawan, Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week.</p>

<p>Rohit came up with a cheeky response to the question and asked the reporter if he wanted him to bench himself and senior opener Dhawan to give chances to the likes of Kishan and Gaikwad. "You are saying I and Shikhar should sit on the bench and give Ruturaj and Ishan chances at the top?"- Rohit responded.</p>

<p>"The top 3 batters in Indian ODI team have done very well. Young batters will get opportunities. Ishan is getting one. There are a lot of matches. The ones who do well will get opportunities. Dhawan did well in SA but is now affected by Covid. Ishan is getting the opportunity now," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-unhappy-with-anil-kumble-for-not-standing-up-for-players-claims-former-bcci-official-450649">Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official</a></p>

<p>Apart from Gaikwad, Dhawan and Iyer, pacer Navdeep Saini has also tested positive for the virus and is currently in isolation. All four players are likely to not feature in the ODI series against West Indies. Vice-captain KL Rahul, who also plays as an opener, will miss the first ODI due to personal reasons which will see Kishan get an opportunity at the top.</p>

<p>However, Rahul will be available for selection from the second ODI. Mayank Agarwal has also been added to India's ODI squad after COVID-19 cases in the team but the batter is currently in quarantine and will not feature in the first ODI of the series.</p>


India's limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma is gearing up to lead the team in his first ODI series as full-time captain of the Indian team. India will lock horns with West Indies in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06).

India's limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma is gearing up to lead the team in his first ODI series as full-time captain of the Indian team. India will lock horns with West Indies in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06). Rohit had to miss India's tour of South Africa due to a hamstring injury but has now returned to the squad after recovering fully. Ahead of the start of the three-match ODI series against Kieron Pollard & Co., the Indian captain answered reporters' questions during a virtual pre-match press conference on Saturday. Rohit spoke on a range of topics from the COVID-19 situation in the Indian team to the team's vision in limited-overs cricket going forward. Rohit was also asked about the lack of opportunities in the Indian team for the young openers Ruturak Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan. While Kishan was initially not part of the ODI squad and had been picked only in the T20I side, he was selected in the ODI squad after Shikhar Dhawan, Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week. Rohit came up with a cheeky response to the question and asked the reporter if he wanted him to bench himself and senior opener Dhawan to give chances to the likes of Kishan and Gaikwad. "You are saying I and Shikhar should sit on the bench and give Ruturaj and Ishan chances at the top?"- Rohit responded. "The top 3 batters in Indian ODI team have done very well. Young batters will get opportunities. Ishan is getting one. There are a lot of matches. The ones who do well will get opportunities. Dhawan did well in SA but is now affected by Covid. Ishan is getting the opportunity now," he added. Also Read: Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official Apart from Gaikwad, Dhawan and Iyer, pacer Navdeep Saini has also tested positive for the virus and is currently in isolation. All four players are likely to not feature in the ODI series against West Indies. Vice-captain KL Rahul, who also plays as an opener, will miss the first ODI due to personal reasons which will see Kishan get an opportunity at the top. However, Rahul will be available for selection from the second ODI. Mayank Agarwal has also been added to India's ODI squad after COVID-19 cases in the team but the batter is currently in quarantine and will not feature in the first ODI of the series.

'You want me & Shikhar Dhawan on bench?': Rohit Sharma stumps reporter after question on Kishan, Gaikwad

<p>The Indian team was dealt with a huge blow ahead of the start of the upcoming ODI series against West Indies as three players tested positive for COVID-19. Openers Ruturaj&nbsp;Gaikwad, Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested positive for the virus and are unlikely to feature in the three-match ODI rubber that gets underway on Sunday (February 06).</p>

<p>With Dhawan and Gaikwad down with COVID-19 and KL Rahul unavailable for selection in the first ODI due to personal reasons, the Indian team had to rope in Ishan Kishan and Mayank Agarwal as reserve openers ahead of the start of the series.</p>

<p>Indian captain Rohit Sharma on Saturday confirmed his opening partner for the first ODI against the Kieron Pollard-led side. Rohit said Kishan will open the batting with him in the series-opener as Mayank is still in quarantine after joining the rest of the Indian squad in Ahmedabad.</p>

<p>"Ishan will open with me. Mayank is still in isolation although he has come into the squad. So, Ishan will open," Rohit told the reporters during the pre-match virtual press conference on Saturday.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-unhappy-with-anil-kumble-for-not-standing-up-for-players-claims-former-bcci-official-450649">Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official</a></p>

<p>Rohit himself will be returning to the field for the Men in Blue after a gap of nearly two months as he had missed India's tour of South Africa due to a hamstring injury. The Hitman has fully recovered and is raring to go in what will be his first ODI series as India's full-time captain.</p>

<p>The first ODI between the two sides will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. While Kishan will open the batting, Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Hooda are likely to feature in the middle-order along with Rishabh Pant.</p>

<p>All-rounder Washington Sundar is also likely to be included in the playing XI given the absence of some of the top batters in the team.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Indian team was dealt with a huge blow ahead of the start of the upcoming ODI series against West Indies as three players tested positive for COVID-19. Openers Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested positive for the virus and are unlikely to feature in the three-match ODI rubber that gets underway on Sunday (February 06).

The Indian team was dealt with a huge blow ahead of the start of the upcoming ODI series against West Indies as three players tested positive for COVID-19. Openers Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested positive for the virus and are unlikely to feature in the three-match ODI rubber that gets underway on Sunday (February 06). With Dhawan and Gaikwad down with COVID-19 and KL Rahul unavailable for selection in the first ODI due to personal reasons, the Indian team had to rope in Ishan Kishan and Mayank Agarwal as reserve openers ahead of the start of the series. Indian captain Rohit Sharma on Saturday confirmed his opening partner for the first ODI against the Kieron Pollard-led side. Rohit said Kishan will open the batting with him in the series-opener as Mayank is still in quarantine after joining the rest of the Indian squad in Ahmedabad. "Ishan will open with me. Mayank is still in isolation although he has come into the squad. So, Ishan will open," Rohit told the reporters during the pre-match virtual press conference on Saturday. Also Read: Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official Rohit himself will be returning to the field for the Men in Blue after a gap of nearly two months as he had missed India's tour of South Africa due to a hamstring injury. The Hitman has fully recovered and is raring to go in what will be his first ODI series as India's full-time captain. The first ODI between the two sides will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. While Kishan will open the batting, Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Hooda are likely to feature in the middle-order along with Rishabh Pant. All-rounder Washington Sundar is also likely to be included in the playing XI given the absence of some of the top batters in the team.

Rohit Sharma confirms his opening partner for first ODI against West Indies in absence of Dhawan, Rahul

<p>The Indian cricket team has been dealt with a huge setback ahead of the start of the upcoming three-match ODI series against West Indies. The Men in Blue will lock horns with Kieron Pollard-led visitors in the first ODI of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06).</p>

<p>Ahead of the series opener, three Indian players have tested positive for COVID-19 and are unlikely to feature in the three ODIs. Opening batters Shikhar Dhawan, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer have all tested positive for coronavirus. Team India is facing a crunch in terms of the opening slot after Dhawan and Gaikwad's positive reports.</p>

<p>Vice-captain KL Rahul could have opened the batting with captain Rohit Sharma in the duo's absence. However, he is set to miss the first ODI due to personal reasons. As per a report in PTI, young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan has been added to India's ODI squad ahead of the start of the series.</p>

<p>Kishan, who also plays as an opener, has reportedly joined the Indian team in Ahmedabad and is likely to be the reserve opener in the squad. There are chances that the left-hander might open the batting with Rohit in the first ODI against West Indies on Sunday.</p>

<p>Apart from Kishan, Mayank Agarwal has also reportedly joined the Indian team in Ahmedabad amid COVID-19 infection to three players. While Kishan was only part of the T20I series against West Indies, Mayank was not a part of either of the two squads for the limited-overs series against West Indies.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/an-achievement-entire-nation-should-be-proud-of-sachin-tendulkar-on-indias-1000th-odi-milestone-450549">An achievement entire nation should be proud of: Sachin Tendulkar on India's 1000th ODI milestone</a></p>

<p>On Friday, the Indian team had their first training session in Ahmedabad where head coach Rahul Dravid introduced young spinner Ravi Bishnoi to the other members of the Indian team. Captain Rohit took charge of the session and was seen gearing up for his first major ODI assignment as India's captain.</p>


The Indian cricket team has been dealt with a huge setback ahead of the start of the upcoming three-match ODI series against West Indies. The Men in Blue will lock horns with Kieron Pollard-led visitors in the first ODI of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06).

The Indian cricket team has been dealt with a huge setback ahead of the start of the upcoming three-match ODI series against West Indies. The Men in Blue will lock horns with Kieron Pollard-led visitors in the first ODI of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06). Ahead of the series opener, three Indian players have tested positive for COVID-19 and are unlikely to feature in the three ODIs. Opening batters Shikhar Dhawan, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer have all tested positive for coronavirus. Team India is facing a crunch in terms of the opening slot after Dhawan and Gaikwad's positive reports. Vice-captain KL Rahul could have opened the batting with captain Rohit Sharma in the duo's absence. However, he is set to miss the first ODI due to personal reasons. As per a report in PTI, young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan has been added to India's ODI squad ahead of the start of the series. Kishan, who also plays as an opener, has reportedly joined the Indian team in Ahmedabad and is likely to be the reserve opener in the squad. There are chances that the left-hander might open the batting with Rohit in the first ODI against West Indies on Sunday. Apart from Kishan, Mayank Agarwal has also reportedly joined the Indian team in Ahmedabad amid COVID-19 infection to three players. While Kishan was only part of the T20I series against West Indies, Mayank was not a part of either of the two squads for the limited-overs series against West Indies. Also Read: An achievement entire nation should be proud of: Sachin Tendulkar on India's 1000th ODI milestone On Friday, the Indian team had their first training session in Ahmedabad where head coach Rahul Dravid introduced young spinner Ravi Bishnoi to the other members of the Indian team. Captain Rohit took charge of the session and was seen gearing up for his first major ODI assignment as India's captain.

Ishan Kishan added to India's ODI squad as Dhawan, Gaikwad test positive for COVID-19 - Report

<p>The IPL 2022 mega auction is just a few days away. The excitement among the ardent IPL fans is on another level as the mega auction returns after four long years. With the addition of two new more teams, in the form of Ahmedabad and Lucknow, all eyes are on how the new franchises will form their sides from scratch whereas&nbsp;it will be interesting to see how&nbsp;the eight old teams&nbsp;revamp and re-build after releasing some key players.</p>

<p>Among the non-retained players, the likes of David Warner, Kagiso Rabada, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Devdutt Padikkal, etc. are set to go under the radar. Ahead of the mega auction, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has made a bold revelation, saying that Iyer is set to be the most expensive player and Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have kept a whopping amount aside for him.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-event-to-be-held-in-india-franchises-eager-for-bcci-to-finalise-venues-report-449770"><strong>IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel, “Shreyas Iyer could be a potential captain of KKR or RCB. I don't think Punjab would be looking at him."</p>

<p>He further opined, "Someone told me that RCB has kept 20cr (INR 200 million) for Shreyas Iyer in IPL 2022 Mega Auction. The most expensive player, to be very honest, is going to be Shreyas Iyer. In this list, the most expensive will be Iyer because Ishan Kishan is not there. If Ishan was there, there could've been a tug of war. Now, they will reserve money for Ishan and money will be splashed out for Iyer."</p>

<p>For the foreign players, Chopra added, “The three most expensive overseas players will be Rabada, and then one of Quinton de Kock or David Warner will be the most expensive overseas player as well. There's a good possibility."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-warner-or-dhawan-chopra-predicts-indian-youngster-as-most-expensive-opener-in-ipl-2022-auction-449533"><strong>Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction</strong></a></p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if Iyer goes to the RCB camp. Under him, the Delhi franchise played their first-ever finale, in the 2020 season. He has amassed&nbsp;2,375 in 87 games at a strike-rate of&nbsp;123.96.</p>


The IPL 2022 mega auction is just a few days away. The excitement among the ardent IPL fans is on another level as the mega auction returns after four long years.

The IPL 2022 mega auction is just a few days away. The excitement among the ardent IPL fans is on another level as the mega auction returns after four long years. With the addition of two new more teams, in the form of Ahmedabad and Lucknow, all eyes are on how the new franchises will form their sides from scratch whereas it will be interesting to see how the eight old teams revamp and re-build after releasing some key players. Among the non-retained players, the likes of David Warner, Kagiso Rabada, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Devdutt Padikkal, etc. are set to go under the radar. Ahead of the mega auction, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has made a bold revelation, saying that Iyer is set to be the most expensive player and Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have kept a whopping amount aside for him. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel, “Shreyas Iyer could be a potential captain of KKR or RCB. I don't think Punjab would be looking at him." He further opined, "Someone told me that RCB has kept 20cr (INR 200 million) for Shreyas Iyer in IPL 2022 Mega Auction. The most expensive player, to be very honest, is going to be Shreyas Iyer. In this list, the most expensive will be Iyer because Ishan Kishan is not there. If Ishan was there, there could've been a tug of war. Now, they will reserve money for Ishan and money will be splashed out for Iyer." For the foreign players, Chopra added, “The three most expensive overseas players will be Rabada, and then one of Quinton de Kock or David Warner will be the most expensive overseas player as well. There's a good possibility." ALSO READ | Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction It will be interesting to see if Iyer goes to the RCB camp. Under him, the Delhi franchise played their first-ever finale, in the 2020 season. He has amassed 2,375 in 87 games at a strike-rate of 123.96.

RCB has kept whopping amount aside for Shreyas Iyer in IPL 2022 mega auction, reveals Aakash Chopra

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday (February 01) announced the final list of 590 players who are set to go under the hammer at the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. The IPL mega auction will be conducted in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13 where&nbsp;some of the best players from across the globe will be&nbsp;up for grabs for the ten franchises.</p>

<p>The final list of 590 players consists of 370 Indians and 220 overseas stars. There are 228 capped players, 355 uncapped players and 7 players from associate nations who will be going under the hammer at the IPL mega auction this month. The players have been divided across seven different categories as per their base price.</p>

<p>The players who have opted for the highest base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million) are in the top bracket followed by those in the brackets of Rs 1.5 crore (INR 15 million), Rs 1 crore (INR 10 million), Rs 75 lakh (INR 7.5 million), Rs 50 lakh (INR 5 million), Rs 40 lakh (INR 4 million) and Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million).</p>

<p>While the uncapped players, who are yet to make their international debut, can opt for a maximum base price of Rs 40 lakh (INR 4 million), a capped player is free to put his name under any of the seven brackets. Some of the top players from around the world, including the ten marquee stars, have opted for the highest base price of Rs 2 crore.</p>

<p>The likes of former Delhi Capitals skipper Shreyas Iyer, former Sunrisers Hyderabad captain David Warner, senior India spinner R Ashwin, South Africa's premier pacer Kagiso Rabada among others are part of the marquee set of ten players and are all under the base price of Rs 2 crore. India's explosive young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan is not among marquee names but is one of the players to watch out for in the Rs 2 crore category.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/370-indians-220-overseas-stars-up-for-grabs-complete-list-of-590-players-for-ipl-2022-mega-auction-449547">370 Indians, 220 overseas stars up for grabs: Complete list of 590 players for IPL 2022 mega auction</a></p>

<p><strong>Here is the complete list of 48 players with base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million) at IPL mega auction:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Indians - </strong>Ravichandran Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Shami, Devdutt Padikkal, Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa, Krunal Pandya, Harshal Patel, Ishan Kishan, Ambati Rayudu, Deepak Chahar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Dinesh Karthik</p>

<p><strong>Overseas - &nbsp;</strong>Trent Boult, Pat Cummins, Quinton de Kock, Faf du Plessis, Kagiso Rabada, David Warner, Steve Smith, Shakib Al Hasan, Dwayne Bravo, Jason Roy, Sam Billings, Matthew Wade, Lockie Ferguson, Josh Hazlewood, Mustafizur Rahman, Mark Wood, Imran Tahir, Mujeeb ur Rahman, Adam Zampa, Evin Lewis, Jofra Archer, James Vince, Marchant De Lange, Saqib Mahmood, Ashton Agar, Craig Overton, David Willey, Chris Jordan, Adil Rashid, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Mitchell Marsh</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday (February 01) announced the final list of 590 players who are set to go under the hammer at the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday (February 01) announced the final list of 590 players who are set to go under the hammer at the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. The IPL mega auction will be conducted in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13 where some of the best players from across the globe will be up for grabs for the ten franchises. The final list of 590 players consists of 370 Indians and 220 overseas stars. There are 228 capped players, 355 uncapped players and 7 players from associate nations who will be going under the hammer at the IPL mega auction this month. The players have been divided across seven different categories as per their base price. The players who have opted for the highest base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million) are in the top bracket followed by those in the brackets of Rs 1.5 crore (INR 15 million), Rs 1 crore (INR 10 million), Rs 75 lakh (INR 7.5 million), Rs 50 lakh (INR 5 million), Rs 40 lakh (INR 4 million) and Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million). While the uncapped players, who are yet to make their international debut, can opt for a maximum base price of Rs 40 lakh (INR 4 million), a capped player is free to put his name under any of the seven brackets. Some of the top players from around the world, including the ten marquee stars, have opted for the highest base price of Rs 2 crore. The likes of former Delhi Capitals skipper Shreyas Iyer, former Sunrisers Hyderabad captain David Warner, senior India spinner R Ashwin, South Africa's premier pacer Kagiso Rabada among others are part of the marquee set of ten players and are all under the base price of Rs 2 crore. India's explosive young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan is not among marquee names but is one of the players to watch out for in the Rs 2 crore category. Also Read: 370 Indians, 220 overseas stars up for grabs: Complete list of 590 players for IPL 2022 mega auction Here is the complete list of 48 players with base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million) at IPL mega auction: Indians - Ravichandran Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Shami, Devdutt Padikkal, Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa, Krunal Pandya, Harshal Patel, Ishan Kishan, Ambati Rayudu, Deepak Chahar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Dinesh Karthik Overseas - Trent Boult, Pat Cummins, Quinton de Kock, Faf du Plessis, Kagiso Rabada, David Warner, Steve Smith, Shakib Al Hasan, Dwayne Bravo, Jason Roy, Sam Billings, Matthew Wade, Lockie Ferguson, Josh Hazlewood, Mustafizur Rahman, Mark Wood, Imran Tahir, Mujeeb ur Rahman, Adam Zampa, Evin Lewis, Jofra Archer, James Vince, Marchant De Lange, Saqib Mahmood, Ashton Agar, Craig Overton, David Willey, Chris Jordan, Adil Rashid, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Mitchell Marsh

Ishan Kishan to Pat Cummins: Final list of players with highest base price of Rs 2 crore for IPL mega auction

<p>All eyes are now on the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mega auction, which is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. While the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad -- will look to build their team from scratch, the other eight&nbsp;teams will revamp after releasing some of their marquee players.</p>

<p>Prior to the mega auction proceedings, which will be held in Bengaluru, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra shared his thoughts and made a bold claim while predicting the 'most expensive opener'. The likes of David Warner, Jonny Bairstow, Shikhar Dhawan, Quinton de Kock, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, etc. will go under the hammer. Chopra believes Ishan will earn a whopping amount in the forthcoming two-day auction affair.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-opens-up-on-delhi-franchises-decision-to-choose-pradeep-sangwan-over-him-in-maiden-ipl-auction-449482"><strong>Kohli opens up on Delhi franchise's decision to choose Pradeep Sangwan over him in maiden IPL auction</strong></a></p>

<p>"In my opinion, Ishan Kishan will be the most expensive opener at the IPL 2022 Auction. He could actually be the most expensive player, one out of him or Shreyas Iyer could be the most expensive. I won't be surprised if it is Ishan Kishan," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p>He further stressed on the role of the openers and said, "The openers make or break the game. They have the ability because they have a lot of time. The problem in T20 is that you don't have time, it gets over very quickly. In such a case if you are an opener, you can decide the tempo of the match. KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Quinton de Kock, Shikhar Dhawan - you have seen a lot of players like that."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-disappointing-to-lose-shubman-gill-coach-brendon-mccullum-explains-why-kkr-released-star-batter-448916">'It was disappointing to lose Shubman Gill': Coach Brendon McCullum explains why KKR released star batter</a></strong></p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if Ishan goes for big in the auction or not. In IPL 2020, the then Mumbai Indians (MI) keeper-batter Ishan had amassed 516 runs at a strike-rate of&nbsp;145.76 with four&nbsp;half-centuries. While he didn't have a great run in IPL 2021, he is still expected to attract big money for his power-hitting and fearless style of play.</p>

<p>Chopra further also stated that while Bairstow and Warner will also fetch big amounts, he named Quinton de Kock as the most expensive opener among foreign players. "Ishan Kishan, Devdutt Padikkal, Quinton de Kock - I am saying the most expensive overseas opener, David Warner, Chris Lynn, Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow - a lot of money is going to be spent. Ambati Rayudu can open, Shikhar Dhawan, Robin Uthappa, Faf du Plessis - there are a lot of openers who will present themselves as options," he concluded.</p>


All eyes are now on the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mega auction, which is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. While the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad -- will look to build their team from scratch, the other eight teams will revamp after releasing some of their marquee players.

All eyes are now on the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mega auction, which is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. While the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad -- will look to build their team from scratch, the other eight teams will revamp after releasing some of their marquee players. Prior to the mega auction proceedings, which will be held in Bengaluru, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra shared his thoughts and made a bold claim while predicting the 'most expensive opener'. The likes of David Warner, Jonny Bairstow, Shikhar Dhawan, Quinton de Kock, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, etc. will go under the hammer. Chopra believes Ishan will earn a whopping amount in the forthcoming two-day auction affair. ALSO READ | Kohli opens up on Delhi franchise's decision to choose Pradeep Sangwan over him in maiden IPL auction "In my opinion, Ishan Kishan will be the most expensive opener at the IPL 2022 Auction. He could actually be the most expensive player, one out of him or Shreyas Iyer could be the most expensive. I won't be surprised if it is Ishan Kishan," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. He further stressed on the role of the openers and said, "The openers make or break the game. They have the ability because they have a lot of time. The problem in T20 is that you don't have time, it gets over very quickly. In such a case if you are an opener, you can decide the tempo of the match. KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Quinton de Kock, Shikhar Dhawan - you have seen a lot of players like that." ALSO READ | 'It was disappointing to lose Shubman Gill': Coach Brendon McCullum explains why KKR released star batter It will be interesting to see if Ishan goes for big in the auction or not. In IPL 2020, the then Mumbai Indians (MI) keeper-batter Ishan had amassed 516 runs at a strike-rate of 145.76 with four half-centuries. While he didn't have a great run in IPL 2021, he is still expected to attract big money for his power-hitting and fearless style of play. Chopra further also stated that while Bairstow and Warner will also fetch big amounts, he named Quinton de Kock as the most expensive opener among foreign players. "Ishan Kishan, Devdutt Padikkal, Quinton de Kock - I am saying the most expensive overseas opener, David Warner, Chris Lynn, Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow - a lot of money is going to be spent. Ambati Rayudu can open, Shikhar Dhawan, Robin Uthappa, Faf du Plessis - there are a lot of openers who will present themselves as options," he concluded.

Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction

<p>The IPL 2022 edition is still two months away. The BCCI is planning to host the 15th edition in India, from late March. Before the upcoming season begins, all eyes are on the mega auction. It is set to be held in Bengaluru in mid-February. Before the auction proceedings, seven out of the ten teams don't have to worry about choosing a captain as they have either retained their respective skippers or named new captains.</p>

<p>However, the likes of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) need to choose a captain as well in the forthcoming mega auction. While Virat Kohli resigned as the RCB captain post IPL 2021, KL Rahul left PBKS and will captain the Lucknow Super Giants in the forthcoming edition. Despite taking KKR to the IPL 14 finale, Eoin Morgan wasn't retained by the two-time winners and, hence, the Kolkata-based franchise will have to look for a captain in the auction proceedings.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-he-wanted-me-to-ahmedabad-captain-hardik-pandya-hails-ms-dhoni-for-grooming-him-447459"><strong>IPL 2022: 'He wanted me to....'- Ahmedabad captain Hardik Pandya hails MS Dhoni for grooming him</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking on&nbsp;<em>Cricbuzz</em>, former KKR captain Dinesh Karthik -- who has also registered himself in the mega auction --&nbsp;named three players who can take up captaincy roles. He named Shreyas Iyer as one of the options and further said, "If you go by recent history, obviously David Warner. He has captained a franchise, he's available. If you go by the current international standards, Pat Cummins. He is put his name in so he obviously has an opportunity to be a captain if he goes to a franchise that believes he could be a captain."</p>

<p>“If you throw an outside name, obviously Ishan Kishan has led the U-19s. He has led Jharkhand. So, they seem as options,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pune-intended-how-csk-rajasthan-royals-reacted-to-lucknow-super-giants-name-announcement-447482"><strong>'Pun(e) intended': How CSK, Rajasthan Royals reacted to Lucknow Super Giants' name announcement</strong></a></p>

<p>It will be interesting to see who all are named the captains for the three franchises who are in need of a skipper at the moment. The likes of Shreyas, Ishan, Warner, Cummins will surely be expensive buys and can also serve as captains. Some other options are Morgan, Jason Holder, Ben Stokes, etc.</p>


The IPL 2022 edition is still two months away. The BCCI is planning to host the 15th edition in India, from late March. Before the upcoming season begins, all eyes are on the mega auction.

The IPL 2022 edition is still two months away. The BCCI is planning to host the 15th edition in India, from late March. Before the upcoming season begins, all eyes are on the mega auction. It is set to be held in Bengaluru in mid-February. Before the auction proceedings, seven out of the ten teams don't have to worry about choosing a captain as they have either retained their respective skippers or named new captains. However, the likes of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) need to choose a captain as well in the forthcoming mega auction. While Virat Kohli resigned as the RCB captain post IPL 2021, KL Rahul left PBKS and will captain the Lucknow Super Giants in the forthcoming edition. Despite taking KKR to the IPL 14 finale, Eoin Morgan wasn't retained by the two-time winners and, hence, the Kolkata-based franchise will have to look for a captain in the auction proceedings. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: 'He wanted me to....'- Ahmedabad captain Hardik Pandya hails MS Dhoni for grooming him Speaking on Cricbuzz, former KKR captain Dinesh Karthik -- who has also registered himself in the mega auction -- named three players who can take up captaincy roles. He named Shreyas Iyer as one of the options and further said, "If you go by recent history, obviously David Warner. He has captained a franchise, he's available. If you go by the current international standards, Pat Cummins. He is put his name in so he obviously has an opportunity to be a captain if he goes to a franchise that believes he could be a captain." “If you throw an outside name, obviously Ishan Kishan has led the U-19s. He has led Jharkhand. So, they seem as options,” he added. ALSO READ | 'Pun(e) intended': How CSK, Rajasthan Royals reacted to Lucknow Super Giants' name announcement It will be interesting to see who all are named the captains for the three franchises who are in need of a skipper at the moment. The likes of Shreyas, Ishan, Warner, Cummins will surely be expensive buys and can also serve as captains. Some other options are Morgan, Jason Holder, Ben Stokes, etc.

IPL 2022: Dinesh Karthik names Indian youngster among 3 star players who could captain a franchise

<p>The year gone by was far from a fruitful one for the Indian team as the Men in Blue once again failed to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought. India lost the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship against New Zealand before failing to qualify for the knockout stages of the T20 World Cup 2021.</p>

<p>While it was a disappointing year for the Indian cricket team in terms of results, 2021 saw the rise of a number of promising youngsters, who can become the future stars of Indian cricket. While Mohammed Siraj and Rishabh Pant cemented their spots in the Indian team with their heroics in Australia, Ishan Kishan realised his dream of making his India debut.</p>

<p>Ruturaj Gaikwad continued his purple patch in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 and finished as the highest run-getter of the season, beating seasoned campaigners like KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan and Faf du Plessis to the Orange Cap before enjoying a sensational run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy where he went on to notch up 603 runs in just five games averaging over 150.</p>

<p>Venkatesh Iyer was also among one of the finds for Indian cricket in the year 2021 after his all-round heroics for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League. There is plenty to look forward to in terms of talent in Indian cricket in 2022 as a number of these youngsters will be raring to make it count and make the world take notice of their performances this year.</p>

<p><strong>Here is a look at some Indian youngsters to look forward to in 2022:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Ruturaj Gaikwad</strong></p>

<p>Ruturaj Gaikwad could easily be the next big thing in Indian cricket if nurtured in a proper manner and given adequate opportunities. In the last couple of years, Gaikwad has showcased his skills and talent against the best of bowlers in the Indian Premier League and has impressed one and all with his impeccable technique and tenacity.</p>

<p>Gaikwad is a technically gifted batter, who can make run-scoring look easy. He was the top scorer in IPL 2022 with 635 runs in 16 matches at an impressive average of&nbsp;45.35 and a strike rate of over 136. He then finished as the highest run-getter in the Vijay Hazare Trophy where he notched up 603 runs in just five games to earn an ODI call-up in the Indian squad.</p>

<p>He is one of the promising batters to look forward to in the year 2022 as Gaikwad looks set to make it big in Indian cricket in the future.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lot-of-people-wouldnt-have-been-able-to-digest-virat-kohli-reaching-50-60-wins-as-test-captain-ravi-shastri-446945">Lot of people wouldn't have been able to digest Virat Kohli reaching 50-60 wins as Test captain: Ravi Shastri</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Venkatesh Iyer&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Venkatesh Iyer enjoyed one of his best cricketing seasons in the year 2021 as he rose to prominence after his all-round heroics for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). An explosive opener and a handy bowler, Iyer has risen through the ranks quickly and has already made his ODI and T20I debut for the Indian team. He had played an instrumental role in helping KKR reach the final of IPL 2021 with some brilliant performances with the bat.</p>

<p>Iyer, an attacking left-hander, notched up 370 runs in just ten matches striking close to 130 for KKR in the second phase of IPL 2021 in the UAE. He then continued his impressive run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy before being called up to the Indian ODI team. 2022 can be a crucial year for the batting all-rounder, who has got the skills and talent to become a future star of Indian cricket.</p>

<p><strong>Avesh Khan&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Avesh Khan has risen through humble beginnings to come a long way in his cricketing career as he continues to knock on the selectors' doors for what seems to be an inevitable India debut. Avesh had a brilliant IPL 2021 for Delhi Capitals as he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker of the season with 24 wickets in 16 matches helping Delhi reach the playoffs.</p>

<p>Avesh was also called up as one of the standby fast bowlers for the Indian team on their tour of England last year. The 25-year-old has pace, and the ability to bowl the right line and lengths consistently which makes him a great asset for his team. He can be one of the pacers to burst onto the scene for India in 2022 and make his dream international debut.</p>

<p><strong>Ishan Kishan&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ishan Kishan enjoyed a dream run in IPL 2022 and was one of the standout performers for Mumbai Indians in their title-winning campaign. He was deservingly handed his India debut last year and went on to impress as an opener. Ishan's explosive and swashbuckling style of batting can take the game away from the opposition in the matter of a few overs.</p>

<p>He has played only 5 T20Is and 2 ODIs for India so far but is currently part of the ODI squad in the ongoing series against South Africa and is expected to be in the fray going forward. Ishan can have a breakthrough year in 2022 if he is given consistent opportunities for Team India.</p>

<p><strong>Prasidh Krishna&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>One of the most promising fast bowlers in the country at present, Prasidh&nbsp;Krishna has been a part of the Indian Premier League for a while now but hasn't quite been able to set the stage on fire with his performances. Nonetheless, he remains an exciting prospect for the Indian team and can be utilised across all three formats.</p>

<p>A tall and lanky fast bowler, who can clock good pacer consistently, Krishna made his India debut in an ODI against England at home last year and is currently a part of the squad in the ongoing ODI series against South Africa. He is expected to be eased into the other formats as well and might become a potent fast bowler for India in the future.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-has-a-big-task-ahead-has-to-prove-he-is-not-an-overrated-coach-shoaib-akhtar-446926">Rahul Dravid has a big task ahead, has to prove he is not an overrated coach: Shoaib Akhtar</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Ravi Bishnoi&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Ravi Bishnoi rose to prominence after his brilliant performances for the India U-19 team during the U-19 World Cup in 2020. He was roped in by Punjab Kings at the IPL player auction in the same year and hasn't looked back since. Bishnoi is currently one of the hottest young spin prospects in the country and has a bright future lying ahead of him.</p>

<p>In his debut IPL season, he picked up 12 wickets in 14 games for Punjab before taking 12 wickets once again in just nine games last season. He has 24 wickets so far in 23 IPL matches and has been picked by the Lucknow IPL team as one of their three drafts picks ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. Bishnoi can breakthrough into the Indian team this year if he can deliver consistently in the upcoming IPL season.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The year gone by was far from a fruitful one for the Indian team as the Men in Blue once again failed to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought. India lost the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship against New Zealand before failing to qualify for the knockout stages of the T20 World Cup 2021.

The year gone by was far from a fruitful one for the Indian team as the Men in Blue once again failed to bring an end to their long-standing ICC trophy drought. India lost the final of the inaugural edition of the World Test Championship against New Zealand before failing to qualify for the knockout stages of the T20 World Cup 2021. While it was a disappointing year for the Indian cricket team in terms of results, 2021 saw the rise of a number of promising youngsters, who can become the future stars of Indian cricket. While Mohammed Siraj and Rishabh Pant cemented their spots in the Indian team with their heroics in Australia, Ishan Kishan realised his dream of making his India debut. Ruturaj Gaikwad continued his purple patch in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 and finished as the highest run-getter of the season, beating seasoned campaigners like KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan and Faf du Plessis to the Orange Cap before enjoying a sensational run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy where he went on to notch up 603 runs in just five games averaging over 150. Venkatesh Iyer was also among one of the finds for Indian cricket in the year 2021 after his all-round heroics for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League. There is plenty to look forward to in terms of talent in Indian cricket in 2022 as a number of these youngsters will be raring to make it count and make the world take notice of their performances this year. Here is a look at some Indian youngsters to look forward to in 2022: Ruturaj Gaikwad Ruturaj Gaikwad could easily be the next big thing in Indian cricket if nurtured in a proper manner and given adequate opportunities. In the last couple of years, Gaikwad has showcased his skills and talent against the best of bowlers in the Indian Premier League and has impressed one and all with his impeccable technique and tenacity. Gaikwad is a technically gifted batter, who can make run-scoring look easy. He was the top scorer in IPL 2022 with 635 runs in 16 matches at an impressive average of 45.35 and a strike rate of over 136. He then finished as the highest run-getter in the Vijay Hazare Trophy where he notched up 603 runs in just five games to earn an ODI call-up in the Indian squad. He is one of the promising batters to look forward to in the year 2022 as Gaikwad looks set to make it big in Indian cricket in the future. Also Read: Lot of people wouldn't have been able to digest Virat Kohli reaching 50-60 wins as Test captain: Ravi Shastri Venkatesh Iyer Venkatesh Iyer enjoyed one of his best cricketing seasons in the year 2021 as he rose to prominence after his all-round heroics for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). An explosive opener and a handy bowler, Iyer has risen through the ranks quickly and has already made his ODI and T20I debut for the Indian team. He had played an instrumental role in helping KKR reach the final of IPL 2021 with some brilliant performances with the bat. Iyer, an attacking left-hander, notched up 370 runs in just ten matches striking close to 130 for KKR in the second phase of IPL 2021 in the UAE. He then continued his impressive run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy before being called up to the Indian ODI team. 2022 can be a crucial year for the batting all-rounder, who has got the skills and talent to become a future star of Indian cricket. Avesh Khan Avesh Khan has risen through humble beginnings to come a long way in his cricketing career as he continues to knock on the selectors' doors for what seems to be an inevitable India debut. Avesh had a brilliant IPL 2021 for Delhi Capitals as he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker of the season with 24 wickets in 16 matches helping Delhi reach the playoffs. Avesh was also called up as one of the standby fast bowlers for the Indian team on their tour of England last year. The 25-year-old has pace, and the ability to bowl the right line and lengths consistently which makes him a great asset for his team. He can be one of the pacers to burst onto the scene for India in 2022 and make his dream international debut. Ishan Kishan Ishan Kishan enjoyed a dream run in IPL 2022 and was one of the standout performers for Mumbai Indians in their title-winning campaign. He was deservingly handed his India debut last year and went on to impress as an opener. Ishan's explosive and swashbuckling style of batting can take the game away from the opposition in the matter of a few overs. He has played only 5 T20Is and 2 ODIs for India so far but is currently part of the ODI squad in the ongoing series against South Africa and is expected to be in the fray going forward. Ishan can have a breakthrough year in 2022 if he is given consistent opportunities for Team India. Prasidh Krishna One of the most promising fast bowlers in the country at present, Prasidh Krishna has been a part of the Indian Premier League for a while now but hasn't quite been able to set the stage on fire with his performances. Nonetheless, he remains an exciting prospect for the Indian team and can be utilised across all three formats. A tall and lanky fast bowler, who can clock good pacer consistently, Krishna made his India debut in an ODI against England at home last year and is currently a part of the squad in the ongoing ODI series against South Africa. He is expected to be eased into the other formats as well and might become a potent fast bowler for India in the future. Also Read: Rahul Dravid has a big task ahead, has to prove he is not an overrated coach: Shoaib Akhtar Ravi Bishnoi Ravi Bishnoi rose to prominence after his brilliant performances for the India U-19 team during the U-19 World Cup in 2020. He was roped in by Punjab Kings at the IPL player auction in the same year and hasn't looked back since. Bishnoi is currently one of the hottest young spin prospects in the country and has a bright future lying ahead of him. In his debut IPL season, he picked up 12 wickets in 14 games for Punjab before taking 12 wickets once again in just nine games last season. He has 24 wickets so far in 23 IPL matches and has been picked by the Lucknow IPL team as one of their three drafts picks ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. Bishnoi can breakthrough into the Indian team this year if he can deliver consistently in the upcoming IPL season.

Ruturaj Gaikwad to Avesh Khan: Indian youngsters to look forward to in 2022

<p>A whopping 1214 players have registered for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction which is all set to be conducted next month. Not eight but ten teams will be part of the mega auction this time around and will be looking to build their squads from a scratch. All ten teams have already revealed the list of players they have retained/picked from the draft ahead of the mega auction.</p>

<p>A total of 270 capped, 903 uncapped and 41 players from associate nations have registered their names for the IPL mega auction. The top bracket for the auction is Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million). A number of top Indian and overseas players have opted to register in the highest bracket for the auction.</p>

<p>The 2 crore&nbsp;(INR 20 million) bracket consists of 17 Indians and a total of 32 overseas players. The likes of senior Indian spinner R Ashwin, senior India batter Shikhar Dhawan, veteran batter Suresh Raina and young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan are among the big Indian names in the top bracket for the mega auction.</p>

<p>Australian opener David Warner, Faf du Plessis, Trent Boult, Kagiso Rabada and Pat Cummins among others are among the overseas superstars, who have opted for the highest base price. The players in this bracket will see their bidding start from the base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million) at the mega auction.</p>

<p>While there are several familiar names in the top bracket, there are some surprising names as well in the Rs 2 crore category with the likes of Devdutt Padikkal, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar opting for the highest base price. West Indies' all-rounder Odean Smith, who is not a prominent figure in international cricket yet, has also opted for the highest bracket alongside the likes of Evin Lewis and Dwayne Bravo.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chris-gayle-jofra-archer-and-mitchell-starc-among-big-names-to-pull-out-of-ipl-2022-446656">Chris Gayle, Jofra Archer and Mitchell Starc among big names to pull out of IPL 2022</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here is the full list of Indian and overseas players with the base price of Rs 2 crore for IPL 2022 mega auction:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Indian players with base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million):</strong></p>

<p>R Ashwin, Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa, Mohammad Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal, Deepak Chahar, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik, Ishan Kishan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Devdutt Padikkal, Krunal Pandya, Harshal Patel, Ambati Rayudu, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Overseas players with base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million):</strong></p>

<p>Mujeeb Zadran, Ashton Agar, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mithcell Marsh, Steve Smith, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa, Shakib Al Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman, Sam Billiings, Saqib Mahmood, Chris Jordan, Craig Overton, Adil Rashid, Jason Roy, James Vince, David Willey, Mark Wood, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Quinton de Kock, Marchant de Lange, Faf du Plessis, Kagiso Rabada, Imran Tahir, Fabian Allen, Dwayne Bravo, Evin Lewis, Odean Smith.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-rashid-khan-and-shubman-gill-join-ahmedabad-ipl-team-ahead-of-mega-auction-446575">Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan and Shubman Gill join Ahmedabad IPL team ahead of mega auction</a></strong></p>

<p>The list contains some of the most experienced campaigners and young prospects who can go on to become future superstars in the league. While experience is valued significantly by all teams in the IPL, the young guns will also be in huge demand considering they can prove to be long-term investments for the franchises.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A whopping 1214 players have registered for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction which is all set to be conducted next month. Not eight but ten teams will be part of the mega auction this time around and will be looking to build their squads from a scratch.

A whopping 1214 players have registered for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction which is all set to be conducted next month. Not eight but ten teams will be part of the mega auction this time around and will be looking to build their squads from a scratch. All ten teams have already revealed the list of players they have retained/picked from the draft ahead of the mega auction. A total of 270 capped, 903 uncapped and 41 players from associate nations have registered their names for the IPL mega auction. The top bracket for the auction is Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million). A number of top Indian and overseas players have opted to register in the highest bracket for the auction. The 2 crore (INR 20 million) bracket consists of 17 Indians and a total of 32 overseas players. The likes of senior Indian spinner R Ashwin, senior India batter Shikhar Dhawan, veteran batter Suresh Raina and young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan are among the big Indian names in the top bracket for the mega auction. Australian opener David Warner, Faf du Plessis, Trent Boult, Kagiso Rabada and Pat Cummins among others are among the overseas superstars, who have opted for the highest base price. The players in this bracket will see their bidding start from the base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million) at the mega auction. While there are several familiar names in the top bracket, there are some surprising names as well in the Rs 2 crore category with the likes of Devdutt Padikkal, Harshal Patel, Deepak Chahar opting for the highest base price. West Indies' all-rounder Odean Smith, who is not a prominent figure in international cricket yet, has also opted for the highest bracket alongside the likes of Evin Lewis and Dwayne Bravo. Also Read: Chris Gayle, Jofra Archer and Mitchell Starc among big names to pull out of IPL 2022 Here is the full list of Indian and overseas players with the base price of Rs 2 crore for IPL 2022 mega auction: Indian players with base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million): R Ashwin, Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa, Mohammad Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal, Deepak Chahar, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik, Ishan Kishan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Devdutt Padikkal, Krunal Pandya, Harshal Patel, Ambati Rayudu, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav. Overseas players with base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million): Mujeeb Zadran, Ashton Agar, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mithcell Marsh, Steve Smith, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa, Shakib Al Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman, Sam Billiings, Saqib Mahmood, Chris Jordan, Craig Overton, Adil Rashid, Jason Roy, James Vince, David Willey, Mark Wood, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Quinton de Kock, Marchant de Lange, Faf du Plessis, Kagiso Rabada, Imran Tahir, Fabian Allen, Dwayne Bravo, Evin Lewis, Odean Smith. Also Read: Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan and Shubman Gill join Ahmedabad IPL team ahead of mega auction The list contains some of the most experienced campaigners and young prospects who can go on to become future superstars in the league. While experience is valued significantly by all teams in the IPL, the young guns will also be in huge demand considering they can prove to be long-term investments for the franchises.

Shreyas Iyer to David Warner: Full list of players with highest base price of Rs 2cr ahead of IPL mega auction

From Rahul to Hardik: 6 players who can be picked by new teams and not enter IPL 2022 auction pool

<p>The Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction is all set to be a grand affair this year with as many as ten teams battling it out for a number of top players who will be going under the hammer at the showpiece event. While the existing eight teams have already revealed their final retentions, the two new franchises - Lucknow and Ahmedabad can make three picks each from the pool of non-retained players.</p>

<p>Barring the players picked by Ahmedabad and Lucknow in the draft, all others will be heading to the mega auction. Several big Indian names, who have not been retained by their respective IPL sides will be up for grabs at the mega auction. Here we take a look at five Indian stars who are likely to fetch a huge amount at the IPL 2022 mega player auction.</p>

<p><strong>KL Rahul&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>One of the favourites to captain the Lucknow IPL franchise in the 2022 season, former Punjab Kings skipper KL Rahul is unlikely to head into the auction pool as he is expected to be picked in the players draft ahead of the event. Rahul is reportedly set to join Lucknow and has been offered a staggering contract.</p>

<p>He has been one of the most consistent performers in the IPL over the last few seasons and has been among the runs. Rahul was recently appointed as India's limited-overs vice-captain and is seen as a future leader of the national team as well. He has so far played 94 IPL matches and has an impressive 3273 runs to his name at an average of over 47.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/faf-du-plessis-to-ishan-kishan-5-players-who-might-be-bought-back-by-their-ipl-franchise-at-mega-auction-436140">Faf du Plessis to Ishan Kishan: 5 players who might be bought back by their IPL franchise at mega auction</a></p>

<p><strong>Hardik Pandya</strong></p>

<p>Mumbai Indians had to let go of their star all-rounder Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction owing to his recent fitness issues and concerns regarding his bowling. Hardik, who has played an instrumental role in Mumbai Indians' success over the years, didn't bowl at all in IPL 2021 as he continues to deal with his back issues which have hampered his progress.</p>

<p>Hardik had been retained for a sum of Rs 11 crore (110 million) by Mumbai Indians in 2018 and is expected to go for big money once again if he heads to the auction pool. However, there is a strong chance that the all-rounder is picked by one of the two new teams - Lucknow or Ahmedabad before the auction for a huge sum.</p>

<p><strong>Shreyas Iyer&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Shreyas Iyer's rise in the Indian Premier League has been nothing short of extraordinary. From a young batting talent, Iyer matured into a fine leader for the Delhi Capitals after he was handed over captaincy midway into the IPL 2018 season. He led DC to their first-ever final in IPL 2020 and proved why he is on his path to becoming one of the future greats in the IPL.</p>

<p>Besides his captaincy credentials, Iyer is a reliable batsman, who has been a consistent performer in the league. He was released by Delhi Capitals after reportedly expressing his desire to look for a leadership role elsewhere after being replaced by Rishabh Pant as captain. Iyer has 2375 runs in 87 matches in the IPL at an average of over 31.</p>

<p><strong>Shikhar Dhawan&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Senior India batter Shikhar Dhawan might have slipped down the pecking order in the Indian team as far as T20Is are concerned, but he remains a prolific run-getter in the IPL. Dhawan has been churning out runs regularly for every team that he has played for in the league so far and enjoyed a brilliant stint for Delhi Capitals before being released this year.</p>

<p>Dhawan scored 587 runs in 16 matches for DC in IPL 2020 and was the fourth-highest run-getter in the tournament. The experienced opener will be in massive demand at the IPL 2022 mega auction and is expected to trigger a bidding war among teams.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mike-hesson-called-me-ipl-2021s-highest-wicket-taker-harshal-patel-reveals-why-rcb-did-not-retain-him-443143">&nbsp;'Mike Hesson called me': IPL 2021's highest wicket-taker Harshal Patel reveals why RCB did not retain him</a></p>

<p><strong>Ishan Kishan&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The explosive young wicket-keeper batter made his India debut last year and has been impressive since. Kishan didn't have a season to remember in IPL 2021 but still managed to stay among the runs despite not getting many chances. However, his versatility as a batter who can fire as an opener, as well as in the middle-order makes him a huge asset for any team.</p>

<p>Kishan is also a brilliant young wicket-keeper and can also be groomed into a leadership role in the future. He is certain to draw bids from a number of teams at the IPL mega auction and get a fat pay cheque for his services.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction is all set to be a grand affair this year with as many as ten teams battling it out for a number of top players who will be going under the hammer at the showpiece event.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction is all set to be a grand affair this year with as many as ten teams battling it out for a number of top players who will be going under the hammer at the showpiece event. While the existing eight teams have already revealed their final retentions, the two new franchises - Lucknow and Ahmedabad can make three picks each from the pool of non-retained players. Barring the players picked by Ahmedabad and Lucknow in the draft, all others will be heading to the mega auction. Several big Indian names, who have not been retained by their respective IPL sides will be up for grabs at the mega auction. Here we take a look at five Indian stars who are likely to fetch a huge amount at the IPL 2022 mega player auction. KL Rahul One of the favourites to captain the Lucknow IPL franchise in the 2022 season, former Punjab Kings skipper KL Rahul is unlikely to head into the auction pool as he is expected to be picked in the players draft ahead of the event. Rahul is reportedly set to join Lucknow and has been offered a staggering contract. He has been one of the most consistent performers in the IPL over the last few seasons and has been among the runs. Rahul was recently appointed as India's limited-overs vice-captain and is seen as a future leader of the national team as well. He has so far played 94 IPL matches and has an impressive 3273 runs to his name at an average of over 47. Also Read: Faf du Plessis to Ishan Kishan: 5 players who might be bought back by their IPL franchise at mega auction Hardik Pandya Mumbai Indians had to let go of their star all-rounder Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction owing to his recent fitness issues and concerns regarding his bowling. Hardik, who has played an instrumental role in Mumbai Indians' success over the years, didn't bowl at all in IPL 2021 as he continues to deal with his back issues which have hampered his progress. Hardik had been retained for a sum of Rs 11 crore (110 million) by Mumbai Indians in 2018 and is expected to go for big money once again if he heads to the auction pool. However, there is a strong chance that the all-rounder is picked by one of the two new teams - Lucknow or Ahmedabad before the auction for a huge sum. Shreyas Iyer Shreyas Iyer's rise in the Indian Premier League has been nothing short of extraordinary. From a young batting talent, Iyer matured into a fine leader for the Delhi Capitals after he was handed over captaincy midway into the IPL 2018 season. He led DC to their first-ever final in IPL 2020 and proved why he is on his path to becoming one of the future greats in the IPL. Besides his captaincy credentials, Iyer is a reliable batsman, who has been a consistent performer in the league. He was released by Delhi Capitals after reportedly expressing his desire to look for a leadership role elsewhere after being replaced by Rishabh Pant as captain. Iyer has 2375 runs in 87 matches in the IPL at an average of over 31. Shikhar Dhawan Senior India batter Shikhar Dhawan might have slipped down the pecking order in the Indian team as far as T20Is are concerned, but he remains a prolific run-getter in the IPL. Dhawan has been churning out runs regularly for every team that he has played for in the league so far and enjoyed a brilliant stint for Delhi Capitals before being released this year. Dhawan scored 587 runs in 16 matches for DC in IPL 2020 and was the fourth-highest run-getter in the tournament. The experienced opener will be in massive demand at the IPL 2022 mega auction and is expected to trigger a bidding war among teams. Also Read: 'Mike Hesson called me': IPL 2021's highest wicket-taker Harshal Patel reveals why RCB did not retain him Ishan Kishan The explosive young wicket-keeper batter made his India debut last year and has been impressive since. Kishan didn't have a season to remember in IPL 2021 but still managed to stay among the runs despite not getting many chances. However, his versatility as a batter who can fire as an opener, as well as in the middle-order makes him a huge asset for any team. Kishan is also a brilliant young wicket-keeper and can also be groomed into a leadership role in the future. He is certain to draw bids from a number of teams at the IPL mega auction and get a fat pay cheque for his services.

KL Rahul to Hardik Pandya: Indian stars who can bag big contracts at IPL 2022 mega auction

<p>The countdown for the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction has started with the existing eight teams having revealed their final list of retained and released players. All eight teams have managed to keep some of the best players to build their squads around ahead of the 2022 season which is all set to be a ten-team affair.</p>

<p>While the existing eight teams have been allowed to retain a maximum of four players each, the two new teams - Ahmedabad and Lucknow can pick a maximum of three players each ahead of the mega auction from the large pool of non-retained players.</p>

<p>While some of the top players are already in negotiations with the two new teams and are likely to be part of a new team in IPL 2022, some players might get bought back by their respective former franchises at the mega auction. Here is a look at five players that the teams will look to buy back at the IPL mega auction.</p>

<p><strong>1) Faf du Plessis&nbsp; - Chennai Super Kings&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Faf du Plessis played an instrumental role in helping Chennai Super Kings (CSK) reach the final of the IPL 2019 before inspiring them to a memorable title triumph in IPL 2021 this year. The veteran South African batter has been one of the best performers with the willow for CSK in the last few years. Du Plessis was the second-highest run-getter in the IPL 2021 with 633 runs in 16 games at an average of over 45.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Du Plessis missed out on the Orange Cap by just three runs as his opening partner Ruturaj Gaikwad finished as the top run-getter of the season with 635 runs. Du Plessis was one of the favourites to be retained by CSK, however, he was pipped by all-rounder Moeen Ali. Nonetheless, CSK are likely to go all out to get Du Plessis back at the mega auction.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-to-chris-gayle-five-ipl-veterans-who-might-go-unsold-at-the-upcoming-mega-auction-434904">Suresh Raina to Chris Gayle: Five IPL veterans who might go unsold at the upcoming mega auction</a></p>

<p><strong>2) Ishan Kishan</strong></p>

<p>The explosive young wicket-keeper batter has seen his stature grow in the past couple of years. Kishan was sensational for the four-time champions in IPL 2020 with a staggering 516 runs in 14 games at a strike rate of over 145 and a brilliant average of over 57.</p>

<p>Kishan made his T20I debut for India earlier this year and has been impressive in the handful of games he has played for the national team. He was one of the major contenders to be retained by the Mumbai Indians ahead of the mega auction, however, was let go of at the end with the franchise retaining Suryakumar Yadav. MI might look to buy back Kishan at the mega auction.</p>

<p><strong>3) Avesh Khan</strong></p>

<p>One of the best Indian pacers of the 2021 season, Avesh Khan was instrumental in helping Delhi Capitals reach the playoffs this year. He was the second-highest wicket-taker of the season with 24 wickets in 16 matches in IPL 2021. The Indian fast bowler is likely to be in huge demand at the mega auction and Delhi Capitals would be hoping to bring him back to the franchise ahead of IPL 2022.</p>

<p><strong>4) Devdutt Padikkal&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>One of the prominent young batting talents in the country at present, Devdutt Padikkal has been a consistent run-getter for RCB since making his debut for the franchise in IPL 2020. The left-hander notched up 473 runs in 15 games in his debut season before following it up with 411 runs in 14 matches in IPL 2021 this year. RCB were expected to keep hold of the youngster but he was surprisingly released by the franchise. RCB will be hopeful of getting him back at the mega auction.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-kl-rahul-to-shreyas-iyer-5-potential-captaincy-candidates-for-new-ipl-teams-lucknow-and-ahmedabad-434365">From&nbsp;Rahul to&nbsp;Iyer: 5 potential captaincy candidates for new IPL teams Lucknow and Ahmedabad</a><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>5)&nbsp;Sam Curran</strong></p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings retained Moeen Ali while letting go of some of their prominent overseas players like Du Plessis, Dwayne Bravo and Sam Curran. While Bravo's growing age remains a concern, England star Curran can be bought back by the franchise at the mega auction. Curran did well for CSK in the last couple of years with 242 runs and 22 wickets in the last two seasons.</p>


The countdown for the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction has started with the existing eight teams having revealed their final list of retained and released players.

The countdown for the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction has started with the existing eight teams having revealed their final list of retained and released players. All eight teams have managed to keep some of the best players to build their squads around ahead of the 2022 season which is all set to be a ten-team affair. While the existing eight teams have been allowed to retain a maximum of four players each, the two new teams - Ahmedabad and Lucknow can pick a maximum of three players each ahead of the mega auction from the large pool of non-retained players. While some of the top players are already in negotiations with the two new teams and are likely to be part of a new team in IPL 2022, some players might get bought back by their respective former franchises at the mega auction. Here is a look at five players that the teams will look to buy back at the IPL mega auction. 1) Faf du Plessis - Chennai Super Kings Faf du Plessis played an instrumental role in helping Chennai Super Kings (CSK) reach the final of the IPL 2019 before inspiring them to a memorable title triumph in IPL 2021 this year. The veteran South African batter has been one of the best performers with the willow for CSK in the last few years. Du Plessis was the second-highest run-getter in the IPL 2021 with 633 runs in 16 games at an average of over 45. Du Plessis missed out on the Orange Cap by just three runs as his opening partner Ruturaj Gaikwad finished as the top run-getter of the season with 635 runs. Du Plessis was one of the favourites to be retained by CSK, however, he was pipped by all-rounder Moeen Ali. Nonetheless, CSK are likely to go all out to get Du Plessis back at the mega auction. Also Read: Suresh Raina to Chris Gayle: Five IPL veterans who might go unsold at the upcoming mega auction 2) Ishan Kishan The explosive young wicket-keeper batter has seen his stature grow in the past couple of years. Kishan was sensational for the four-time champions in IPL 2020 with a staggering 516 runs in 14 games at a strike rate of over 145 and a brilliant average of over 57. Kishan made his T20I debut for India earlier this year and has been impressive in the handful of games he has played for the national team. He was one of the major contenders to be retained by the Mumbai Indians ahead of the mega auction, however, was let go of at the end with the franchise retaining Suryakumar Yadav. MI might look to buy back Kishan at the mega auction. 3) Avesh Khan One of the best Indian pacers of the 2021 season, Avesh Khan was instrumental in helping Delhi Capitals reach the playoffs this year. He was the second-highest wicket-taker of the season with 24 wickets in 16 matches in IPL 2021. The Indian fast bowler is likely to be in huge demand at the mega auction and Delhi Capitals would be hoping to bring him back to the franchise ahead of IPL 2022. 4) Devdutt Padikkal One of the prominent young batting talents in the country at present, Devdutt Padikkal has been a consistent run-getter for RCB since making his debut for the franchise in IPL 2020. The left-hander notched up 473 runs in 15 games in his debut season before following it up with 411 runs in 14 matches in IPL 2021 this year. RCB were expected to keep hold of the youngster but he was surprisingly released by the franchise. RCB will be hopeful of getting him back at the mega auction. Also Read: From Rahul to Iyer: 5 potential captaincy candidates for new IPL teams Lucknow and Ahmedabad 5) Sam Curran Chennai Super Kings retained Moeen Ali while letting go of some of their prominent overseas players like Du Plessis, Dwayne Bravo and Sam Curran. While Bravo's growing age remains a concern, England star Curran can be bought back by the franchise at the mega auction. Curran did well for CSK in the last couple of years with 242 runs and 22 wickets in the last two seasons.

Faf du Plessis to Ishan Kishan: 5 players who might be bought back by their IPL franchise at mega auction

<p>All the eight existing IPL franchises revealed their list of retained players on Tuesday evening (November 30). While some big names were retained, many popular names got released. Though many are set to enter the auction pool, some big players are expected to be picked by the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow and Ahmedabad -- as the two new additions have a license to pick three players each prior to IPL 2022 mega auction.</p>

<p>For the unversed, the big players such as KL Rahul, David Warner, Hardik Pandya, Quinton de Kock, Ben Stokes, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Shikhar Dhawan, etc. have been released. Hence, the two new IPL teams have quite a few options to pick from.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rashid-khan-to-ben-stokes-top-5-overseas-players-released-by-their-teams-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-433867"><strong>Rashid Khan to Ben Stokes: Top 5 overseas players released by their teams ahead of IPL mega auction</strong></a></p>

<p>Before the mega auction, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra named six players who are most likely to be picked by Lucknow and Ahmedabad. Speaking on his Youtube channel, "My first pick is KL Rahul. I feel he will not be able to reach the auction. Punjab Kings wanted to retain him but he didn’t want to. I think he is going to Lucknow and will become the captain of the new team. Rashid Khan is second in the pecking order. I don’t think his name will reach the auction table. He did not want to stay at SunRisers Hyderabad as he has been already approached by a new franchise with a better salary.</p>

<p>My third pick is Shreyas Iyer. He is likely to become captain of the Ahmedabad franchise. He is an important player and will be drafted to a new team. I won’t be surprised to see him lead Ahmedabad as he has already captained Delhi Capitals. Yuzvendra Chahal is another player who might go to Ahmedabad. Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya might not be a part of the auction, but Ishan Kishan’s stocks are a bit high at the moment," he opined.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rahul-iyer-or-warner-aakash-chopra-suggests-virat-kohlis-successor-at-rcb-ahead-of-ipl-2022-433845"><strong>Not Rahul, Iyer or Warner! Aakash Chopra suggests Virat Kohli's successor at RCB ahead of IPL 2022</strong></a></p>

<p>“David Warner will not make it to the auction either. He is a proven match-winner. He has a lot of experience, has won a lot of games, and has scored 600 odds runs in so many seasons. You won’t find a more consistent player than him,” Chopra added.</p>

<p>The IPL 2022 mega auction is likely to be held in early 2022. On the other hand, BCCI secretary Jay Shah had confirmed that the next edition will be held in India.</p>


All the eight existing IPL franchises revealed their list of retained players on Tuesday evening (November 30). While some big names were retained, many popular names got released.

All the eight existing IPL franchises revealed their list of retained players on Tuesday evening (November 30). While some big names were retained, many popular names got released. Though many are set to enter the auction pool, some big players are expected to be picked by the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow and Ahmedabad -- as the two new additions have a license to pick three players each prior to IPL 2022 mega auction. For the unversed, the big players such as KL Rahul, David Warner, Hardik Pandya, Quinton de Kock, Ben Stokes, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Shreyas Iyer, Shikhar Dhawan, etc. have been released. Hence, the two new IPL teams have quite a few options to pick from. ALSO READ | Rashid Khan to Ben Stokes: Top 5 overseas players released by their teams ahead of IPL mega auction Before the mega auction, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra named six players who are most likely to be picked by Lucknow and Ahmedabad. Speaking on his Youtube channel, "My first pick is KL Rahul. I feel he will not be able to reach the auction. Punjab Kings wanted to retain him but he didn’t want to. I think he is going to Lucknow and will become the captain of the new team. Rashid Khan is second in the pecking order. I don’t think his name will reach the auction table. He did not want to stay at SunRisers Hyderabad as he has been already approached by a new franchise with a better salary. My third pick is Shreyas Iyer. He is likely to become captain of the Ahmedabad franchise. He is an important player and will be drafted to a new team. I won’t be surprised to see him lead Ahmedabad as he has already captained Delhi Capitals. Yuzvendra Chahal is another player who might go to Ahmedabad. Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya might not be a part of the auction, but Ishan Kishan’s stocks are a bit high at the moment," he opined. ALSO READ | Not Rahul, Iyer or Warner! Aakash Chopra suggests Virat Kohli's successor at RCB ahead of IPL 2022 “David Warner will not make it to the auction either. He is a proven match-winner. He has a lot of experience, has won a lot of games, and has scored 600 odds runs in so many seasons. You won’t find a more consistent player than him,” Chopra added. The IPL 2022 mega auction is likely to be held in early 2022. On the other hand, BCCI secretary Jay Shah had confirmed that the next edition will be held in India.

Aakash Chopra predicts 6 players who will be picked by Lucknow and Ahmedabad before IPL 2022 auction

From KL Rahul to Suresh Raina: Iconic Indian players who weren't retained before IPL 2022 mega auction

<p>The D-Day is finally here. The existing eight IPL franchises have released their set of retained players ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. In this regard, the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) have also shared their list.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Skipper Rohit Sharma and pacer Jasprit Bumrah, all-rounder and vice-captain Kieron Pollard and No. 3 batter Suryakumar Yadav have been retained by the Men in Blue. Hence, some of the big names in their line-up such as&nbsp;Pandya brothers, Quinton de Kock, Trent Boult&nbsp;and Ishan Kishan have missed the cut; shocking many of their loyal fans worldwide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about Rohit and Bumrah, they remain their most important players. While Rohit has been their seasoned campaigner and led them to five titles, Bumrah has also made a resounding name for himself worldwide while playing for the franchise. He has been a regular for the MI line-up, with 130 wickets so far, and his retention isn't surprising. On the other hand, Pollard's association with the MI line-up started since the IPL 2010 edition and has been a vital cog of the franchise ever since. He has amassed&nbsp;3,268 in 178 matches for the MI franchise along with accounting for&nbsp;65 wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-to-rohit-sharma-complete-list-of-reported-retentions-for-all-8-franchises-ahead-of-ipl-mega-auction-432931"><strong>MS Dhoni to Rohit Sharma: Complete list of reported retentions for all 8 franchises ahead of IPL mega auction</strong></a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, SKY has been one of their most consistent players since IPL 2018. Surya scored in excess of 400 runs from IPL 2018-2020 but had a ordinary season by his standards in IPL 14. Nonetheless, he has been backed by the MI team management.</p>

<p>For the unversed, MI now have 48 crores (480 million) left in their purse ahead of the mega auction in 2022.&nbsp; The franchise will now like to create a new core for themselves -- and also try to bring back some of their non-retained players -- for the upcoming seasons in&nbsp;the IPL 2022 auction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The auction is reportedly scheduled to take place early in January, 2022.</p>


The D-Day is finally here. The existing eight IPL franchises have released their set of retained players ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. In this regard, the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) have also shared their list.

The D-Day is finally here. The existing eight IPL franchises have released their set of retained players ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. In this regard, the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) have also shared their list. Skipper Rohit Sharma and pacer Jasprit Bumrah, all-rounder and vice-captain Kieron Pollard and No. 3 batter Suryakumar Yadav have been retained by the Men in Blue. Hence, some of the big names in their line-up such as Pandya brothers, Quinton de Kock, Trent Boult and Ishan Kishan have missed the cut; shocking many of their loyal fans worldwide. Talking about Rohit and Bumrah, they remain their most important players. While Rohit has been their seasoned campaigner and led them to five titles, Bumrah has also made a resounding name for himself worldwide while playing for the franchise. He has been a regular for the MI line-up, with 130 wickets so far, and his retention isn't surprising. On the other hand, Pollard's association with the MI line-up started since the IPL 2010 edition and has been a vital cog of the franchise ever since. He has amassed 3,268 in 178 matches for the MI franchise along with accounting for 65 wickets. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni to Rohit Sharma: Complete list of reported retentions for all 8 franchises ahead of IPL mega auction Meanwhile, SKY has been one of their most consistent players since IPL 2018. Surya scored in excess of 400 runs from IPL 2018-2020 but had a ordinary season by his standards in IPL 14. Nonetheless, he has been backed by the MI team management. For the unversed, MI now have 48 crores (480 million) left in their purse ahead of the mega auction in 2022. The franchise will now like to create a new core for themselves -- and also try to bring back some of their non-retained players -- for the upcoming seasons in the IPL 2022 auction. The auction is reportedly scheduled to take place early in January, 2022.

MI complete retention list: Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav and Kieron Pollard retained

<p>Mumbai Indians (MI) face one of the trickiest challenges as the deadline day for Indian Premier League (IPL) retentions approaches. With one of the best squads at their disposal, the five-time champions will have to do intense brainstorming to select the four players they want to retain&nbsp;ahead of the mega auction. Each of the existing eight teams can retain a maximum of four players each.</p>

<p>The total purse allotted&nbsp;to all ten franchises will be Rs 90 (INR 900 million), out of which Rs 42 crore (INR 420 million) will be deducted if a franchise decides to retain four players. MI are one of the teams who might consider utilising all four slots for retentions with an incredible amount of talent in their existing squad.</p>

<p>Former Mumbai Indians pacer Mitchell McClenaghan recently picked one player between the likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya, who he feels the franchise should definitely retain. While captain Rohit Sharma and fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah are likely to be the first two retentions for MI, it remains to be seen who will take the other two slots.</p>

<p>Responding to a question from<em> ESPN Cricinfo</em> on Twitter, McClenaghan said MI should retain Hardik if they had the choice to keep only one player between Suryakumar, Ishan, Hardik and Krunal. "Clearly Hardik. It's not even a question - there is a severe lack of Indian all-rounders and finishers. No one on that level yet," McClenaghan, a four-time IPL winner with MI, wrote on Twitter.</p>

<p><img alt="McClenaghan tweet." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dfd22f3d-18e9-4361-b271-51c825db832a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/McClenaghan%20tweet.png" /></p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-ms-dhoni-will-play-full-season-ex-nz-bowler-makes-bold-prediction-on-csk-captains-ipl-future-432542">'Don't think&nbsp;Dhoni will play full season': Ex-NZ bowler makes bold prediction on CSK captain's IPL future</a></p>

<p>However, as per reports, Hardik is unlikely to be retained by Mumbai Indians and is not on their list of priorities. West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard along with young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan are reportedly set to be retained by the Rohit Sharma-led side.</p>

<p>If released, Hardik might be roped in by one of the two new teams - Ahmedabad and Lucknow ahead of the mega auction. And if he goes into the auction pool, the Indian all-rounder is likely to trigger a bidding war among franchises.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Mumbai Indians (MI) face one of the trickiest challenges as the deadline day for Indian Premier League (IPL) retentions approaches. With one of the best squads at their disposal, the five-time champions will have to do intense brainstorming to select the four players they want to retain ahead of the mega auction.

Mumbai Indians (MI) face one of the trickiest challenges as the deadline day for Indian Premier League (IPL) retentions approaches. With one of the best squads at their disposal, the five-time champions will have to do intense brainstorming to select the four players they want to retain ahead of the mega auction. Each of the existing eight teams can retain a maximum of four players each. The total purse allotted to all ten franchises will be Rs 90 (INR 900 million), out of which Rs 42 crore (INR 420 million) will be deducted if a franchise decides to retain four players. MI are one of the teams who might consider utilising all four slots for retentions with an incredible amount of talent in their existing squad. Former Mumbai Indians pacer Mitchell McClenaghan recently picked one player between the likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya, who he feels the franchise should definitely retain. While captain Rohit Sharma and fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah are likely to be the first two retentions for MI, it remains to be seen who will take the other two slots. Responding to a question from ESPN Cricinfo on Twitter, McClenaghan said MI should retain Hardik if they had the choice to keep only one player between Suryakumar, Ishan, Hardik and Krunal. "Clearly Hardik. It's not even a question - there is a severe lack of Indian all-rounders and finishers. No one on that level yet," McClenaghan, a four-time IPL winner with MI, wrote on Twitter. Also Read: 'Don't think Dhoni will play full season': Ex-NZ bowler makes bold prediction on CSK captain's IPL future However, as per reports, Hardik is unlikely to be retained by Mumbai Indians and is not on their list of priorities. West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard along with young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan are reportedly set to be retained by the Rohit Sharma-led side. If released, Hardik might be roped in by one of the two new teams - Ahmedabad and Lucknow ahead of the mega auction. And if he goes into the auction pool, the Indian all-rounder is likely to trigger a bidding war among franchises.

Ishan, Suryakumar, Hardik or Krunal? Former Mumbai Indians pacer picks one player franchise should retain

<p>The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 edition is far away. However, the excitement of the cricket fans knows no boundaries as the mega auction ahead of the next season is likely to take place in January 2022. Ahead of the mega auction, the eight existing franchises are set to share their list of retained players very soon.</p>

<p>As per a report, the five-time winners Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) are unlikely to retain their star batsman Suryakumar Yadav. As per the rules, every franchise can retain a maximum of four players (either three Indians and a foreign player or two Indians and overseas players each). Hence, MI are likely to let go off SKY. For the unversed, the right-hander has been one of the most important players for the Men in Blue since the 2018 season (when he returned to the MI line-up ahead of the 11th edition).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-auction-csk-to-retain-ms-dhoni-for-three-seasons-dc-to-let-go-shreyas-iyer-report-431740">IPL 2022 auction: CSK to retain MS Dhoni for three seasons, DC to let go Shreyas Iyer - Report</a></strong></p>

<p>In 2018, Surya amassed 512&nbsp;runs for the MI and crossed the 400-run mark in the following two seasons. In IPL 2021, SKY wasn't at his usual best and ended with 317 runs in 14 matches, at an average of 22.64 and strike-rate of 143.43. As per reports, there are strong chances that Rohit, Jasprit Bumrah, Kieron Pollard and Ishan Kishan will be the four retained players by the MI. While MI can always reacquire the services of SKY from the auction pool, the two new IPL teams -- of Ahmedabad and Lucknow -- will like to make the most of their chances as they can sign three cricketers each among the non-retained players before the auction.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-will-be-more-exciting-than-ever-bcci-secretary-jay-shah-confirms-ipl-2022-to-take-place-in-india-430782"><strong>It will be more exciting than ever: BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms IPL 2022 to take place in India</strong></a></p>

<p>With the likes of Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Trent Boult, SKY, Quinton de Kock likely to enter the auction pool, such big names will draw the attention of the two new teams prior to the mega auction.</p>

<p>Recently, BCCI secretary Jay Shah had also announced that the next edition of the cash-rich league will be held in India, which is likely to begin in early April at Chennai.&nbsp; The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will enter IPL 2022 as the defending champions, having beaten Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 27 runs in the IPL 14 finale.</p>


The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 edition is far away. However, the excitement of the cricket fans knows no boundaries as the mega auction ahead of the next season is likely to take place in January 2022.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 edition is far away. However, the excitement of the cricket fans knows no boundaries as the mega auction ahead of the next season is likely to take place in January 2022. Ahead of the mega auction, the eight existing franchises are set to share their list of retained players very soon. As per a report, the five-time winners Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI) are unlikely to retain their star batsman Suryakumar Yadav. As per the rules, every franchise can retain a maximum of four players (either three Indians and a foreign player or two Indians and overseas players each). Hence, MI are likely to let go off SKY. For the unversed, the right-hander has been one of the most important players for the Men in Blue since the 2018 season (when he returned to the MI line-up ahead of the 11th edition). ALSO READ | IPL 2022 auction: CSK to retain MS Dhoni for three seasons, DC to let go Shreyas Iyer - Report In 2018, Surya amassed 512 runs for the MI and crossed the 400-run mark in the following two seasons. In IPL 2021, SKY wasn't at his usual best and ended with 317 runs in 14 matches, at an average of 22.64 and strike-rate of 143.43. As per reports, there are strong chances that Rohit, Jasprit Bumrah, Kieron Pollard and Ishan Kishan will be the four retained players by the MI. While MI can always reacquire the services of SKY from the auction pool, the two new IPL teams -- of Ahmedabad and Lucknow -- will like to make the most of their chances as they can sign three cricketers each among the non-retained players before the auction. ALSO READ | It will be more exciting than ever: BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms IPL 2022 to take place in India With the likes of Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Trent Boult, SKY, Quinton de Kock likely to enter the auction pool, such big names will draw the attention of the two new teams prior to the mega auction. Recently, BCCI secretary Jay Shah had also announced that the next edition of the cash-rich league will be held in India, which is likely to begin in early April at Chennai. The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will enter IPL 2022 as the defending champions, having beaten Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 27 runs in the IPL 14 finale.

Mumbai Indians unlikely to retain star batsman ahead of mega auction for IPL 2022: Report

<p>Team India had a flawless outing in the third and final T20I versus New Zealand on Sunday evening (November 21) at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Rohit Sharma-led India walked into the final encounter with an unassailable 2-0 lead and aimed for a whitewash. The Men in Blue succeeded in clean sweeping the Kiwis as they won the last T20I by a whopping 73-run margin.</p>

<p>Opting to bat first, Rohit-led India posted a competitive 184-7, riding on skipper's 56 and vital contributions from Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Harshal Patel and Deepak Chahar. In reply, NZ folded for a paltry 111 in 17.2 overs as none apart from Martin Guptill (51) looked comfortable in the middle. Hence, India had a clinical game with all their departments contributing in the win.</p>

<p>In terms of fielding, the hosts were right on the money as well. Ishan Kishan, who usually dons the wicketkeeper's gloves, inflicted a direct hit from the deep to dismiss stand-in captain Mitchell Santner. Ishan's efforts was lauded by the spectators whereas newly-appointed head coach Rahul Dravid gave a pat on the back of fielding coach T Dilip, who has succeeded R Sridhar. <strong>Check out the video:</strong></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-often-let-ms-dhoni-handle-bharat-arun-opines-on-smooth-captaincy-transition-between-duo-431347">'Virat Kohli often let MS Dhoni handle...': Bharat Arun opines on smooth captaincy transition between duo</a></strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-indias-limited-overs-specialist-suryakumar-yadav-likely-to-join-test-squad-for-nz-series-report-431253"><strong>Team India's limited-overs specialist Suryakumar Yadav likely to join Test squad for NZ series: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>After a terrific T20I series, the Indian team will now shift their focus to the two-match Test series versus the Black Caps. The series opener will be held in Kanpur from November 25 whereas the second and final Test will be held in Mumbai, from December 3.</p>

<p><strong>India's squad for the 1st Test is as follows:</strong></p>

<p>Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna</p>

<p>The big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. are expected to return to the squad for the final Test.</p>


Team India had a flawless outing in the third and final T20I versus New Zealand on Sunday evening (November 21) at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Rohit Sharma-led India walked into the final encounter with an unassailable 2-0 lead and aimed for a whitewash.

Team India had a flawless outing in the third and final T20I versus New Zealand on Sunday evening (November 21) at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Rohit Sharma-led India walked into the final encounter with an unassailable 2-0 lead and aimed for a whitewash. The Men in Blue succeeded in clean sweeping the Kiwis as they won the last T20I by a whopping 73-run margin. Opting to bat first, Rohit-led India posted a competitive 184-7, riding on skipper's 56 and vital contributions from Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Venkatesh Iyer, Harshal Patel and Deepak Chahar. In reply, NZ folded for a paltry 111 in 17.2 overs as none apart from Martin Guptill (51) looked comfortable in the middle. Hence, India had a clinical game with all their departments contributing in the win. In terms of fielding, the hosts were right on the money as well. Ishan Kishan, who usually dons the wicketkeeper's gloves, inflicted a direct hit from the deep to dismiss stand-in captain Mitchell Santner. Ishan's efforts was lauded by the spectators whereas newly-appointed head coach Rahul Dravid gave a pat on the back of fielding coach T Dilip, who has succeeded R Sridhar. Check out the video: ALSO READ | 'Virat Kohli often let MS Dhoni handle...': Bharat Arun opines on smooth captaincy transition between duo pic.twitter.com/2lbE7v454f — pant shirt fc (@pant_fc) November 22, 2021 × ALSO READ | Team India's limited-overs specialist Suryakumar Yadav likely to join Test squad for NZ series: Report After a terrific T20I series, the Indian team will now shift their focus to the two-match Test series versus the Black Caps. The series opener will be held in Kanpur from November 25 whereas the second and final Test will be held in Mumbai, from December 3. India's squad for the 1st Test is as follows: Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna The big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. are expected to return to the squad for the final Test.

WATCH: Rahul Dravid applauds fielding coach after Ishan Kishan's direct hit dismisses NZ's Mitchell Santner

<p>India played their second game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition against Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After losing their tournament-opener versus arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets, the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback in style and get off the mark in the points table.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, nothing of that sort happened as Kohli &amp; Co. lost their second game on the trot, by eight wickets versus the Black Caps. Being asked to bat first, India posted a below-par 110-7 in 20 overs. In reply, the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls in hand and pushed the one-time winners are on the brink of an early exit from the mega event.</p>

<p>While nothing has clicked for India in the two games in the T20 WC, many former cricketers and experts of the gentlemen's game has slammed the Kohli-led thinktank for their questionable changes in the playing XI versus New Zealand. Ishan Kishan came in place of injured Suryakumar Yadav and was asked to open as Rohit was demoted to No. 3 whereas Kohli also moved a spot below his usual position. Meanwhile, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was replaced by Shardul Thakur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many feel India pressed the panic button after one loss. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir feels mentor MS Dhoni had no role behind the knee-jerk changes made by India in their playing&nbsp;XI versus the Kiwis. Gambhir has, meanwhile,&nbsp;slammed Kohli the strategist behind India's poor decision-making.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharmas-special-praise-for-virat-kohli-says-his-hunger-for-success-is-just-unbelievable-426461"><strong>Watch: Rohit Sharma's special praise for Virat Kohli, says 'his hunger for success is just unbelievable'</strong></a></p>

<p>"Kohli has never impressed me as a strategist. Once again, he was a disappointment on Sunday. For starters, why did he change the team from the one that played against Pakistan? If that was not enough, he also changed the batting order and had Ishan Kishan open in place of Rohit. I have played long enough with MS Dhoni to know that he would have nothing to do with these knee-jerk changes just after one game. And what I also understand is that the other support staff hardly challenge Kohli's calls," Gambhir wrote in his coloumn for <em>TOI</em>.</p>

<p>"But the question is whether Sodhi and other New Zealanders bowled well or India batted below par. I am the first one to acknowledge opposition's supremacy but after seeing Kohli and his men play the way they did on Sunday, I'd say they made Sodhi and Co. looked better than they were. From a distance it seemed there was no clear planning, role allocation and proper assessment of the conditions. Clearly, they were searching for a mountain of a score. Lack of understanding of the pitch meant they were in pursuit of a score around 170-180. As a result, Indian batsmen kept hitting in the air like millionaires and folded for 110," Gambhir added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-cricketer-feels-too-much-confusion-in-team-india-with-mentor-ms-dhoni-and-head-coach-shastri-426458"><strong>Former cricketer feels too much 'confusion' in Team India with mentor MS Dhoni and head coach Shastri</strong></a></p>

<p>India are in a must-win position in their remaining three games in the Super 12 round. In addition, they need other results to favour them in order to progress to the semi-finals of the mega event in the UAE. As of now, Kohli &amp; Co. have their back against the wall and need to produce some scintillating performances to march their way back into the tournament.</p>


India played their second game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition against Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

India played their second game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition against Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After losing their tournament-opener versus arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets, the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback in style and get off the mark in the points table. However, nothing of that sort happened as Kohli & Co. lost their second game on the trot, by eight wickets versus the Black Caps. Being asked to bat first, India posted a below-par 110-7 in 20 overs. In reply, the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls in hand and pushed the one-time winners are on the brink of an early exit from the mega event. While nothing has clicked for India in the two games in the T20 WC, many former cricketers and experts of the gentlemen's game has slammed the Kohli-led thinktank for their questionable changes in the playing XI versus New Zealand. Ishan Kishan came in place of injured Suryakumar Yadav and was asked to open as Rohit was demoted to No. 3 whereas Kohli also moved a spot below his usual position. Meanwhile, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was replaced by Shardul Thakur. Many feel India pressed the panic button after one loss. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir feels mentor MS Dhoni had no role behind the knee-jerk changes made by India in their playing XI versus the Kiwis. Gambhir has, meanwhile, slammed Kohli the strategist behind India's poor decision-making. ALSO READ | Watch: Rohit Sharma's special praise for Virat Kohli, says 'his hunger for success is just unbelievable' "Kohli has never impressed me as a strategist. Once again, he was a disappointment on Sunday. For starters, why did he change the team from the one that played against Pakistan? If that was not enough, he also changed the batting order and had Ishan Kishan open in place of Rohit. I have played long enough with MS Dhoni to know that he would have nothing to do with these knee-jerk changes just after one game. And what I also understand is that the other support staff hardly challenge Kohli's calls," Gambhir wrote in his coloumn for TOI. "But the question is whether Sodhi and other New Zealanders bowled well or India batted below par. I am the first one to acknowledge opposition's supremacy but after seeing Kohli and his men play the way they did on Sunday, I'd say they made Sodhi and Co. looked better than they were. From a distance it seemed there was no clear planning, role allocation and proper assessment of the conditions. Clearly, they were searching for a mountain of a score. Lack of understanding of the pitch meant they were in pursuit of a score around 170-180. As a result, Indian batsmen kept hitting in the air like millionaires and folded for 110," Gambhir added. ALSO READ | Former cricketer feels too much 'confusion' in Team India with mentor MS Dhoni and head coach Shastri India are in a must-win position in their remaining three games in the Super 12 round. In addition, they need other results to favour them in order to progress to the semi-finals of the mega event in the UAE. As of now, Kohli & Co. have their back against the wall and need to produce some scintillating performances to march their way back into the tournament.

'Played long enough with him...' - Gambhir feels Dhoni had no role behind India's knee-jerk changes vs NZ

<p>Team India were termed as one of the strongest contenders for the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. The Virat Kohli-led side won the two warm-up encounters with ease but have fallen apart since then to lose both their matches in the Super 12 round so far. After being thrashed by Pakistan and New Zealand, the Men in Blue are starring on the brink of an early elimination and need to get their act together if they want to remain alive in the semi-finals race.</p>

<p>The next challenge for Team India is against Afghanistan. The Mohammad Nabi-led Afghan side have been impressive so far in the showpiece event. They won and lost a game each in the warm-up round and now have two wins from three encounters in the Super 12. If they win their remaining two games, versus India and New Zealand respectively, they will qualify for the semi-finals as they already have a superior net run-rate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For India, they are once again dealing with problems of plenty and have failed to manage their resources wisely. The move to drop down Rohit Sharma to No. 3 in order to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top, versus the Black Caps, was heavily criticised. Their batters have to get used to the surfaces in the UAE and need to work on their sluggish strike-rates. On the other hand, the one-time winners will also need to tweak their bowling line-up in the game versus Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-wins-hearts-as-they-congratulate-namibia-on-their-inspiring-t20-wc-journey-watch-426316"><strong>Pakistan wins hearts as they congratulate Namibia on their inspiring T20 WC journey - WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Predicting India's XI versus Afghanistan: </strong>Rohit is expected to return to the top with KL Rahul as his opening partner. Ishan Kishan can take the No. 3 spot, followed by Captain Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja. In the bowling department, it will be interesting to see if India replace Varun Chakravarthy with either R Ashwin or Rahul Chahar. Calls for Ashwin's inclusion is gaining momentum and he might be handy versus the Afghanistan line-up.</p>

<p>India can go ahead with Ashwin/Chahar/Chakravarthy whereas Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Shami can form the pace unit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India's possible XI versus Afghanistan:</strong> Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin/Rahul Chahar/Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami</p>


Team India were termed as one of the strongest contenders for the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. The Virat Kohli-led side won the two warm-up encounters with ease but have fallen apart since then to lose both their matches in the Super 12 round so far.

Team India were termed as one of the strongest contenders for the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. The Virat Kohli-led side won the two warm-up encounters with ease but have fallen apart since then to lose both their matches in the Super 12 round so far. After being thrashed by Pakistan and New Zealand, the Men in Blue are starring on the brink of an early elimination and need to get their act together if they want to remain alive in the semi-finals race. The next challenge for Team India is against Afghanistan. The Mohammad Nabi-led Afghan side have been impressive so far in the showpiece event. They won and lost a game each in the warm-up round and now have two wins from three encounters in the Super 12. If they win their remaining two games, versus India and New Zealand respectively, they will qualify for the semi-finals as they already have a superior net run-rate. For India, they are once again dealing with problems of plenty and have failed to manage their resources wisely. The move to drop down Rohit Sharma to No. 3 in order to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top, versus the Black Caps, was heavily criticised. Their batters have to get used to the surfaces in the UAE and need to work on their sluggish strike-rates. On the other hand, the one-time winners will also need to tweak their bowling line-up in the game versus Afghanistan. ALSO READ | Pakistan wins hearts as they congratulate Namibia on their inspiring T20 WC journey - WATCH Predicting India's XI versus Afghanistan: Rohit is expected to return to the top with KL Rahul as his opening partner. Ishan Kishan can take the No. 3 spot, followed by Captain Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja. In the bowling department, it will be interesting to see if India replace Varun Chakravarthy with either R Ashwin or Rahul Chahar. Calls for Ashwin's inclusion is gaining momentum and he might be handy versus the Afghanistan line-up. India can go ahead with Ashwin/Chahar/Chakravarthy whereas Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Shami can form the pace unit. India's possible XI versus Afghanistan: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin/Rahul Chahar/Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami

T20 WC: R Ashwin or Rahul Chahar for Varun Chakravarthy? Predicting India's XI for Afghanistan clash

<p>Indian skipper Virat Kohli was left bemused in the post-match press conference after the team's ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2021 when a reporter asked if he should consider dropping Rohit Sharma for Ishan Kishan in the playing XI. Kohli was left stumped by the question and told the reporter it was a very 'brave' question.</p>

<p>"Do you think its a mistake to not play Ishan Kishan and he could have done better than Rohit Sharma?" - the journalist asked Kohli after India's loss against Pakistan. Kohli burst into laughter on hearing the question and replied - "That's a very brave question, what do you think sir? I played the team that I thought was the best. What is your opinion." &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am just asking. I am not going to comment," the reporter responded.</p>

<p>"Will you drop Rohit Sharma from T20 internationals? You will drop Rohit Sharma? Do you know what he did in the last game that we played? Yeah? Unbelievable. If you want controversy, please tell me before so I can answer accordingly," Kohli then said while laughing.</p>

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<p>The video of the incident had gone viral on social media with many criticising the reporter for his question. But days after Kohli laughed off his question, the reporter's prediction came partially true on Sunday (October 31) as India locked horns with New Zealand in their second Super 12 game of the T20 World Cup 2021.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-ridiculous-virat-kohli-says-too-long-a-break-as-india-take-on-nz-after-seven-days-in-t20-wc-2021-425628">&nbsp;'It's ridiculous': Virat Kohli says 'too long a break' as India take on NZ after seven days in T20 WC 2021</a></p>

<p>While Rohit was not dropped from the playing XI, he was replaced by young Kishan as an opener. Many were expecting KL Rahul to be demoted after captain Kohli confirmed during the toss that Kishan will open the innings after replacing an injured Suryakumar Yadav in the XI.</p>

<p>However, that was not the case as Kishan opened the batting with KL Rahul against the Black Caps. The move didn't work in India's favour as the young left-hander was dismissed after scoring just 4 runs of 8 balls and failed to make an impact.</p>

<p>India got off to a disatrous start in the must-win game against New Zealand as they lost Kishan cheaply on 4 before Rahul was dismissed after scoring 18 off 16 balls. Rohit, who came out to bat at no.3, was dropped on the very first ball he faced but survived after Adam Milne spilled a seatet to hand him a lifeline.</p>

<p>The Hitman was sent packing by Ish Shodi after scoring on;y 14 runs of 14 balls before the spinner got rid of skipper Kohli on 9 off 17 balls as were reduced to 48/4 inside the first eleven overs.</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli was left bemused in the post-match press conference after the team's ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2021 when a reporter asked if he should consider dropping Rohit Sharma for Ishan Kishan in the playing XI.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli was left bemused in the post-match press conference after the team's ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2021 when a reporter asked if he should consider dropping Rohit Sharma for Ishan Kishan in the playing XI. Kohli was left stumped by the question and told the reporter it was a very 'brave' question. "Do you think its a mistake to not play Ishan Kishan and he could have done better than Rohit Sharma?" - the journalist asked Kohli after India's loss against Pakistan. Kohli burst into laughter on hearing the question and replied - "That's a very brave question, what do you think sir? I played the team that I thought was the best. What is your opinion." "I am just asking. I am not going to comment," the reporter responded. "Will you drop Rohit Sharma from T20 internationals? You will drop Rohit Sharma? Do you know what he did in the last game that we played? Yeah? Unbelievable. If you want controversy, please tell me before so I can answer accordingly," Kohli then said while laughing. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × The video of the incident had gone viral on social media with many criticising the reporter for his question. But days after Kohli laughed off his question, the reporter's prediction came partially true on Sunday (October 31) as India locked horns with New Zealand in their second Super 12 game of the T20 World Cup 2021. Also Read: 'It's ridiculous': Virat Kohli says 'too long a break' as India take on NZ after seven days in T20 WC 2021 While Rohit was not dropped from the playing XI, he was replaced by young Kishan as an opener. Many were expecting KL Rahul to be demoted after captain Kohli confirmed during the toss that Kishan will open the innings after replacing an injured Suryakumar Yadav in the XI. However, that was not the case as Kishan opened the batting with KL Rahul against the Black Caps. The move didn't work in India's favour as the young left-hander was dismissed after scoring just 4 runs of 8 balls and failed to make an impact. India got off to a disatrous start in the must-win game against New Zealand as they lost Kishan cheaply on 4 before Rahul was dismissed after scoring 18 off 16 balls. Rohit, who came out to bat at no.3, was dropped on the very first ball he faced but survived after Adam Milne spilled a seatet to hand him a lifeline. The Hitman was sent packing by Ish Shodi after scoring on;y 14 runs of 14 balls before the spinner got rid of skipper Kohli on 9 off 17 balls as were reduced to 48/4 inside the first eleven overs.

Days after Virat Kohli getting tetchy with journalist, Ishan replaces Rohit as opener against NZ in T20 WC

<p>Skipper Virat Kohli said that "it's ridiculous" that the Indian team is playing twice in 10 days in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup as the break is too long. However, he also added that the team has recovered well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India played their campaign opener against Pakistan on October 24, which they lost by 10 wickets and during the toss of their second match against New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), Virat addressed the long break.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During toss, Virat said, "It's ridiculous, we are playing twice in 10 days. Too long a break, but yeah, the guys have recovered well. Had good practice sessions, are itching to go out on the field, which is a good thing. When you have so many days off you want to get on the park and get into the groove."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/michael-vaughan-names-only-team-which-can-stop-destructive-england-in-t20-world-cup-2021-425604">Michael Vaughan names only team which can stop 'destructive' England in T20 World Cup 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>Virat also said that the game is another opportunity to come out and correct the mistakes and solidify India's position in the showpiece event, which is underway in UAE and Oman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the match, New Zealand opted to bowl against India in an all-important Super 12 match. India made two changes to their playing XI with Ishan Kishan coming in place of Suryakumar Yadav, who is suffering from back spasms while out-of-form Bhuvneshwar Kumar made way for all-rounder Shardul Thakur.</p>

<p>For New Zealand, pacer Adam Milne replaced keeper Tim Seifert with Devon Conway set to don big gloves. Virat also said, "We need a solid start and have wickets in hand to get those extra 20-25 runs are the learnings from the last game."</p>

<p>"We do have the bowling line-up to take wickets, but when you don't have runs on the board one partnership can take the game away from you. We understand that and plans are there to get those extra runs," he added.&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidEzIUPmVr7D7U" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-mohammad-shahzad-becomes-first-afghanistan-player-to-reach-2000-t20i-runs-425609">T20 World Cup: Mohammad Shahzad becomes first Afghanistan player to reach 2000 T20I runs</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kane Williamson has won the toss and elected to field 🏏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j">https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j</a> <a href="https://t.co/aMZFGrCSba">pic.twitter.com/aMZFGrCSba</a></p>
— T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup/status/1454804200232087558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Playing XI:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>India</strong>: Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah</p>

<p><strong>New Zealand</strong>: Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson(c), James Neesham, Devon Conway(w), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Adam Milne, Trent Boult</p>


Skipper Virat Kohli said that "it's ridiculous" that the Indian team is playing twice in 10 days in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup as the break is too long.

Skipper Virat Kohli said that "it's ridiculous" that the Indian team is playing twice in 10 days in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup as the break is too long. However, he also added that the team has recovered well. India played their campaign opener against Pakistan on October 24, which they lost by 10 wickets and during the toss of their second match against New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), Virat addressed the long break. During toss, Virat said, "It's ridiculous, we are playing twice in 10 days. Too long a break, but yeah, the guys have recovered well. Had good practice sessions, are itching to go out on the field, which is a good thing. When you have so many days off you want to get on the park and get into the groove." ALSO READ | Michael Vaughan names only team which can stop 'destructive' England in T20 World Cup 2021 Virat also said that the game is another opportunity to come out and correct the mistakes and solidify India's position in the showpiece event, which is underway in UAE and Oman. In the match, New Zealand opted to bowl against India in an all-important Super 12 match. India made two changes to their playing XI with Ishan Kishan coming in place of Suryakumar Yadav, who is suffering from back spasms while out-of-form Bhuvneshwar Kumar made way for all-rounder Shardul Thakur. For New Zealand, pacer Adam Milne replaced keeper Tim Seifert with Devon Conway set to don big gloves. Virat also said, "We need a solid start and have wickets in hand to get those extra 20-25 runs are the learnings from the last game." "We do have the bowling line-up to take wickets, but when you don't have runs on the board one partnership can take the game away from you. We understand that and plans are there to get those extra runs," he added. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Mohammad Shahzad becomes first Afghanistan player to reach 2000 T20I runs Kane Williamson has won the toss and elected to field 🏏 #T20WorldCup | #INDvNZ | https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j pic.twitter.com/aMZFGrCSba — T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) October 31, 2021 × Playing XI: India: Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson(c), James Neesham, Devon Conway(w), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Adam Milne, Trent Boult

'It's ridiculous': Virat Kohli says 'too long a break' as India take on NZ after seven days in T20 WC 2021

<p>Indian captain Virat Kohli lost the toss and was asked to bat first as India locked horns with New Zealand in a must-win Super 12 clash in the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). India lost their opening game against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets and will be looking to bounce back to winning ways against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday.</p>

<p>While reports had claimed the Men in Blue are unlikely to make any changes in the playing XI for the New Zealand clash, captain Kohli confirmed two changes for India from their 10-wicket loss against Pakistan. Ishan Kishan will be replacing Suryakumar Yadav while Shardul Thakur has been roped in for Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the eleven.</p>

<p>Kohli confirmed replacing Suryakumar with Ishan was a forced change as the right-hander suffered a back spasm and had to sit out. The Indian skipper also confirmed that Ishan will be opening the batting with KL Rahul while Rohit will bat down the order.</p>

<p>"Two changes. One forced, Surya has a lower back spasm, so Ishan Kishan will replace him and open the batting. Shardul Thakur replaces Bhuvneshwar Kumar," Kohli said at the toss against New Zealand.</p>

<p>There had been many calls for the inclusion of Shardul in the playing XI after the pacer's impressive campaign for IPL 2021 champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK). While many had expected him to replace a struggling Hardik Pandya, Shardul has been brought in for Bhuvneshwar, who has struggled to find his rhythm for a while now.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winless-in-18-years-can-virat-kohli-led-india-break-the-jinx-against-new-zealand-in-icc-events-425532">Winless in 18 years! Can Virat Kohli-led India break the jinx against New Zealand in ICC events</a></strong></p>

<p>Shardul can also come in handy with the bat and will increase India's batting depth against New Zealand as he can take the bowlers to the cleaners on his day. India will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround in Dubai on Sunday and will expect a better show from the bowlers, who went wicket-less in their last game against Pakistan.</p>

<p>India have not won a game against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup so far with two defeats in two meetings and will be looking to bring an end to the losing streak in Dubai.</p>

<p><strong>India's playing XI vs New Zealand:</strong></p>

<p>Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Indian captain Virat Kohli lost the toss and was asked to bat first as India locked horns with New Zealand in a must-win Super 12 clash in the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31).

Indian captain Virat Kohli lost the toss and was asked to bat first as India locked horns with New Zealand in a must-win Super 12 clash in the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). India lost their opening game against arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets and will be looking to bounce back to winning ways against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday. While reports had claimed the Men in Blue are unlikely to make any changes in the playing XI for the New Zealand clash, captain Kohli confirmed two changes for India from their 10-wicket loss against Pakistan. Ishan Kishan will be replacing Suryakumar Yadav while Shardul Thakur has been roped in for Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the eleven. Kohli confirmed replacing Suryakumar with Ishan was a forced change as the right-hander suffered a back spasm and had to sit out. The Indian skipper also confirmed that Ishan will be opening the batting with KL Rahul while Rohit will bat down the order. "Two changes. One forced, Surya has a lower back spasm, so Ishan Kishan will replace him and open the batting. Shardul Thakur replaces Bhuvneshwar Kumar," Kohli said at the toss against New Zealand. There had been many calls for the inclusion of Shardul in the playing XI after the pacer's impressive campaign for IPL 2021 champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK). While many had expected him to replace a struggling Hardik Pandya, Shardul has been brought in for Bhuvneshwar, who has struggled to find his rhythm for a while now. Also Read: Winless in 18 years! Can Virat Kohli-led India break the jinx against New Zealand in ICC events Shardul can also come in handy with the bat and will increase India's batting depth against New Zealand as he can take the bowlers to the cleaners on his day. India will be hopeful of sparking a turnaround in Dubai on Sunday and will expect a better show from the bowlers, who went wicket-less in their last game against Pakistan. India have not won a game against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup so far with two defeats in two meetings and will be looking to bring an end to the losing streak in Dubai. India's playing XI vs New Zealand: Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah

Ishan replaces Suryakumar, Shardul in for Bhuvneshwar as India take on New Zealand in T20 WC 2021

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidC4NMdBDAwa7r" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The Virat Kohli-led side is sweating it out for the upcoming clash against the New Zealand team in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place on Sunday (October 31). India lost their opening match of the Super 12 stage against Pakistan by 10 wickets, which makes the next&nbsp;contest against Kane Williamson's side extremely crucial.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A video posted by the official handle of ICC showcasing the "brilliance" and "glory" of the Indian skipper Kohli, gave a peek into India's training session ahead of the NZ match. More than the video, the adorable reactions of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer have grabbed attention. They are watching Kohli practising in the nets, the way a child looks at his favourite toy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammad-shami-looking-forward-to-next-game-against-new-zealand-shares-image-from-training-session-424848">Mohammad Shami 'looking forward' to next game against New Zealand, shares image from training session</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-auction-hardik-pandya-unlikely-to-be-retained-by-mumbai-indians-reports-424836">IPL auction: Hardik Pandya unlikely to be retained by Mumbai Indians - Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has suggested changes that Kohli can consider making against New Zealand. Gavaskar has suggested that Ishan Kishan can be considered as a replacement for India's star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is not bowling due to injury. The former player then suggested that Shardul Thakur should be added in place of Bhuvneshwar Kumar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If Hardik Pandya is not bowling – due to that shoulder injury he sustained in the match against Pakistan – Ishan Kishan has been in brilliant form so I will surely consider him ahead of Pandya," Gavaskar said on Sports Tak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And perhaps, you can think of Shardul Thakur in place of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. But otherwise, if you make too many changes, then you will show the opposition that you have panicked," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mentor-ms-dhoni-and-billion-cheers-jersey-why-indias-t20-world-cup-2021-campaign-will-be-remembered-forever-422991">Mentor MS Dhoni and Billion Cheers Jersey: Why India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign will be remembered forever</a></strong></p>


The Virat Kohli-led side is sweating it out for the upcoming clash against the New Zealand team in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place on Sunday (October 31).

The Virat Kohli-led side is sweating it out for the upcoming clash against the New Zealand team in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place on Sunday (October 31). India lost their opening match of the Super 12 stage against Pakistan by 10 wickets, which makes the next contest against Kane Williamson's side extremely crucial. A video posted by the official handle of ICC showcasing the "brilliance" and "glory" of the Indian skipper Kohli, gave a peek into India's training session ahead of the NZ match. More than the video, the adorable reactions of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer have grabbed attention. They are watching Kohli practising in the nets, the way a child looks at his favourite toy. ALSO READ | Mohammad Shami 'looking forward' to next game against New Zealand, shares image from training session Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC T20 World Cup (@t20worldcup) × ALSO READ | IPL auction: Hardik Pandya unlikely to be retained by Mumbai Indians - Reports Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has suggested changes that Kohli can consider making against New Zealand. Gavaskar has suggested that Ishan Kishan can be considered as a replacement for India's star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is not bowling due to injury. The former player then suggested that Shardul Thakur should be added in place of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. "If Hardik Pandya is not bowling – due to that shoulder injury he sustained in the match against Pakistan – Ishan Kishan has been in brilliant form so I will surely consider him ahead of Pandya," Gavaskar said on Sports Tak. "And perhaps, you can think of Shardul Thakur in place of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. But otherwise, if you make too many changes, then you will show the opposition that you have panicked," he added. IN PICS | Mentor MS Dhoni and Billion Cheers Jersey: Why India's T20 World Cup 2021 campaign will be remembered forever

T20 World Cup: Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer's reactions to Virat Kohli's 'brilliance' in nets go viral -Watch

<p>On the cricket field, India and Pakistan are arch-rivals, but players from both sides have a strong bond off the field, as evidenced by the Men in Green's 10-wicket victory against Virat Kohli's team at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on October 24.</p>

<p>Pakistani cricketers were spotted conversing with former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who is now Team India's consultant, just after the match finished.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pakistan team players having a chat with MS Dhoni after the match ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MSDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://t.co/rlR2NCUYo9">pic.twitter.com/rlR2NCUYo9</a></p>
— DHONI Trends™ 🏆 (@TrendsDhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrendsDhoni/status/1452331614839652372?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Also, despite a devastating setback in Team India's T20 World Cup opener, skipper Virat Kohli remained composed and demonstrated the "Spirit of Cricket" in his post-match interactions with the opposition.</p>

<p>The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shared a snapshot of Kohli chatting with Rizwan Azam on social media with the message "Spirit of Cricket! #WeHaveWeWill."&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Pakistani players also snapped photographs with Dhoni, who is the first captain in white-ball cricket history to win all three ICC titles.</p>

<p>Several photographs of Dhoni talking with the players were shared on social media.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fanboy moment of Young Pakistan Bowler Shahnawaz Dahani ❤<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MSDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/Sx4oZS3k4P">pic.twitter.com/Sx4oZS3k4P</a></p>
— Dhoni Army TN™ (@DhoniArmyTN) <a href="https://twitter.com/DhoniArmyTN/status/1452332731942248462?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>It was Pakistan's first-ever 10-wicket triumph over any opponent in a T20, while India also suffered the humiliation of losing by such a large margin.<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | T20 World Cup: Pakistan beat India by 10 wickets, John Buchanan gives insight</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/t20-world-cup-pakistan-beat-india-by-10-wickets-john-buchanan-gives-insight-423684/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Pakistan won their first T20 World Cup match against India since 2007, when India won the first event by defeating Pakistan in the final.</p>

<p>Pakistan took first place in the 2009 edition.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On the cricket field, India and Pakistan are arch-rivals, but players from both sides have a strong bond off the field, as evidenced by the Men in Green's 10-wicket victory against Virat Kohli's team at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on October 24.

On the cricket field, India and Pakistan are arch-rivals, but players from both sides have a strong bond off the field, as evidenced by the Men in Green's 10-wicket victory against Virat Kohli's team at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on October 24. Pakistani cricketers were spotted conversing with former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who is now Team India's consultant, just after the match finished. Pakistan team players having a chat with MS Dhoni after the match ❤️@MSDhoni | #MSDhoni | #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/rlR2NCUYo9 — DHONI Trends™ 🏆 (@TrendsDhoni) October 24, 2021 × Also, despite a devastating setback in Team India's T20 World Cup opener, skipper Virat Kohli remained composed and demonstrated the "Spirit of Cricket" in his post-match interactions with the opposition. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shared a snapshot of Kohli chatting with Rizwan Azam on social media with the message "Spirit of Cricket! #WeHaveWeWill." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pakistan Cricket (@therealpcb) × Pakistani players also snapped photographs with Dhoni, who is the first captain in white-ball cricket history to win all three ICC titles. Several photographs of Dhoni talking with the players were shared on social media. Fanboy moment of Young Pakistan Bowler Shahnawaz Dahani ❤#TeamIndia | @MSDhoni | #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/Sx4oZS3k4P — Dhoni Army TN™ (@DhoniArmyTN) October 24, 2021 × It was Pakistan's first-ever 10-wicket triumph over any opponent in a T20, while India also suffered the humiliation of losing by such a large margin. Watch | T20 World Cup: Pakistan beat India by 10 wickets, John Buchanan gives insight Pakistan won their first T20 World Cup match against India since 2007, when India won the first event by defeating Pakistan in the final. Pakistan took first place in the 2009 edition. (With inputs from agencies)

Heartwarming gesture: Pakistani players chat with Dhoni and Kohli after the match, take selfies

<p>Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh wants young batter Ishan Kishan to open for Team India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Harbhajan feels it's high time for Ishan to get into the playing XI and open the batting with Rohit Sharma. Harbhajan's comments come after India's crushing ten-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in their opening game on Sunday (October 24).</p>

<p>Indian openers Rohit (0) and KL Rahul (3) failed to deliver as a top-order collapse saw India post a moderate total of 151 runs on the board against Pakistan in Dubai. Pakistan chased down the target comfortably with the help of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan's unbeaten fifties to register a comprehensive win by ten wickets.</p>

<p>The opening partnership of Rohit and Rahul lasted only four deliveries as Rohit was the first one to depart in the very first over bowled by Shaheen Afridi, who later got rid of Rahul in his second over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have been saying for a long time, it's high time, Ishan Kishan needs to get a game. He should open with Rohit Sharma, Kohli comes in at No.3 and KL can bat at 4. This will be a very, very solid batting lineup till No.4," Harbhajan was quoted as saying by<em> India Today</em>.</p>

<p>All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is unlikely to bowl and is currently nursing an injury suffered during the Pakistan game, might sit out in the next encounter against New Zealand. Harbhajan believes Shardul Thakur should be roped in if Hardik is not fit and Rahul should be asked to bat at no.4.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/do-you-still-want-a-walkover-shoaib-akhtar-taunts-harbhajan-singh-after-pakistan-beat-india-in-t20-wc-423900">'Do you still want a walkover?': Shoaib Akhtar taunts Harbhajan Singh after Pakistan beat India in T20 WC</a></p>

<p>Harbhajan wants Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant to bat at no. 5 and six respectively with Ravindra Jadeja coming in at no.7 in case of Hardik's absence.</p>

<p>"At No.5, Rishabh Pant can come and at six, Hardik if he is available. If he is ok I would still playing because he is a match-winner for team India. If he is not fit then Suryakumar Yadav plays at No.5, Rishabh at six and (Ravindra) Jadeja at seven. At No.8, Shardul Thakur. He can bat, bowl and field, he has been performing really well. He just won a championship with CSK, riding high on confidence and we should look to utilise his confidence. Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy and Shami will be the next three," said Harbhajan.</p>

<p>India will next take on New Zealand in their second game of the league stage on October 31 and will be hoping to bounce back to winnings ways against the Kiwis.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
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Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh wants young batter Ishan Kishan to open for Team India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Harbhajan feels it's high time for Ishan to get into the playing XI and open the batting with Rohit Sharma.

Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh wants young batter Ishan Kishan to open for Team India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Harbhajan feels it's high time for Ishan to get into the playing XI and open the batting with Rohit Sharma. Harbhajan's comments come after India's crushing ten-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in their opening game on Sunday (October 24). Indian openers Rohit (0) and KL Rahul (3) failed to deliver as a top-order collapse saw India post a moderate total of 151 runs on the board against Pakistan in Dubai. Pakistan chased down the target comfortably with the help of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan's unbeaten fifties to register a comprehensive win by ten wickets. The opening partnership of Rohit and Rahul lasted only four deliveries as Rohit was the first one to depart in the very first over bowled by Shaheen Afridi, who later got rid of Rahul in his second over. "I have been saying for a long time, it's high time, Ishan Kishan needs to get a game. He should open with Rohit Sharma, Kohli comes in at No.3 and KL can bat at 4. This will be a very, very solid batting lineup till No.4," Harbhajan was quoted as saying by India Today. All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is unlikely to bowl and is currently nursing an injury suffered during the Pakistan game, might sit out in the next encounter against New Zealand. Harbhajan believes Shardul Thakur should be roped in if Hardik is not fit and Rahul should be asked to bat at no.4. Also Read: 'Do you still want a walkover?': Shoaib Akhtar taunts Harbhajan Singh after Pakistan beat India in T20 WC Harbhajan wants Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant to bat at no. 5 and six respectively with Ravindra Jadeja coming in at no.7 in case of Hardik's absence. "At No.5, Rishabh Pant can come and at six, Hardik if he is available. If he is ok I would still playing because he is a match-winner for team India. If he is not fit then Suryakumar Yadav plays at No.5, Rishabh at six and (Ravindra) Jadeja at seven. At No.8, Shardul Thakur. He can bat, bowl and field, he has been performing really well. He just won a championship with CSK, riding high on confidence and we should look to utilise his confidence. Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy and Shami will be the next three," said Harbhajan. India will next take on New Zealand in their second game of the league stage on October 31 and will be hoping to bounce back to winnings ways against the Kiwis.

T20 WC 2021: High time Ishan Kishan got a game, should open with Rohit Sharma - Harbhajan Singh

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