<p>Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has lavished huge praise on Narendra Modi and India's spirits as the country is ready to extend their support to African countries reeling under the new Covid variant named Omicron.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the world was trying to move on from the COVID-19 pandemic and its severe effects, another new variant has been found, named Omicron by World Health Organisation (WHO).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hence, there is panic worldwide as many countries are looking to impose strict travel restrictions. Amid all this, the first Covid case erupted from the new variant in South Africa as reportedly the African nations are being affected most severely. Hence, India has now geared up to provide help in such a crisis situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/omicron-hits-portugal-as-13-members-of-lisbon-football-club-belenenses-sad-test-positive-432762"><strong>Omicron hits Portugal as 13 members of Lisbon football club Belenenses SAD test positive</strong></a></p>

<p>To this, Pietersen lauded India and tweeted, "That caring spirit once again shown by India! The most fabulous country with so many warm hearted people! Thank you! cc Narendra Modi."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">That caring spirit once again shown by India!<br />
The most fabulous country with so many warm hearted people!<br />
Thank you!<br />
cc <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> 🙏🏽 <a href="https://t.co/r05631jNBD">https://t.co/r05631jNBD</a></p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1465353928816664577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shane-warne-left-baffled-points-out-indias-strange-tactic-during-day-5-of-drawn-kanpur-test-432837"><strong>Shane Warne left baffled, points out India's 'strange tactic' during Day 5 of drawn Kanpur Test</strong></a></p>

<p>India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) have already announced their commitment to supply 'made-in India' vaccines to African nations, who are facing the adverse effects due to the newly-found Covid variant. "Government of India stands ready to support the countries affected in Africa in dealing with the Omicron Variant, including by supplies of Made-in-India vaccines. Supplies can be undertaken through COVAX or bilaterally," said the MEA in a statement as quoted by&nbsp;<em>ANI</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The world dealt with a severe second wave of Covid-19 pandemic early this year. Hence, there is scare in all parts of the globe once again with the advent of the new Covid variant. One would hope that its threat gets minimised as soon as possible and&nbsp;countries doesn't have to deal with another strict set of restrictions.&nbsp;</p>


Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has lavished huge praise on Narendra Modi and India's spirits as the country is ready to extend their support to African countries reeling under the new Covid variant named Omicron.

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has lavished huge praise on Narendra Modi and India's spirits as the country is ready to extend their support to African countries reeling under the new Covid variant named Omicron. As the world was trying to move on from the COVID-19 pandemic and its severe effects, another new variant has been found, named Omicron by World Health Organisation (WHO). Hence, there is panic worldwide as many countries are looking to impose strict travel restrictions. Amid all this, the first Covid case erupted from the new variant in South Africa as reportedly the African nations are being affected most severely. Hence, India has now geared up to provide help in such a crisis situation. ALSO READ | Omicron hits Portugal as 13 members of Lisbon football club Belenenses SAD test positive To this, Pietersen lauded India and tweeted, "That caring spirit once again shown by India! The most fabulous country with so many warm hearted people! Thank you! cc Narendra Modi." That caring spirit once again shown by India! The most fabulous country with so many warm hearted people! Thank you! cc @narendramodi 🙏🏽 https://t.co/r05631jNBD — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) November 29, 2021 × ALSO READ | Shane Warne left baffled, points out India's 'strange tactic' during Day 5 of drawn Kanpur Test India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) have already announced their commitment to supply 'made-in India' vaccines to African nations, who are facing the adverse effects due to the newly-found Covid variant. "Government of India stands ready to support the countries affected in Africa in dealing with the Omicron Variant, including by supplies of Made-in-India vaccines. Supplies can be undertaken through COVAX or bilaterally," said the MEA in a statement as quoted by ANI. The world dealt with a severe second wave of Covid-19 pandemic early this year. Hence, there is scare in all parts of the globe once again with the advent of the new Covid variant. One would hope that its threat gets minimised as soon as possible and countries doesn't have to deal with another strict set of restrictions.

Kevin Pietersen lauds PM Modi as India ready to help African nations amid Omicron scare

<p>Global sporting stars, including legendary tennis player Novak Djokovic and Australian cricketer Glenn Maxwell, took to social media to extend their wishes to Indians celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights on Thursday (November 4). Diwali is a five-day festival that marks the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Happy #Diwali to everyone celebrating! Wishing you Peace, Love, and Light!," Djokovic wrote on his official Twitter handle. On the other hand, Maxwell tweeted, "Happy Diwali everyone!! Let’s celebrate the festival in the true sense by spreading joy, happiness and light up the world for others! Have a safe and happy Diwali!!"&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/brilliant-captain-to-excellent-mentor-selfless-rahul-dravid-continues-to-serve-indian-cricket-426721">Brilliant captain to excellent mentor: Selfless Rahul Dravid continues to serve Indian cricket</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali</a> to everyone celebrating! Wishing you Peace, Love, and Light! 🪔🎇</p>
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole/status/1456279810913669128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Diwali everyone!! Let’s celebrate the festival in the true sense by spreading joy, happiness and light up the world for others! Have a safe and happy Diwali!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lightsfestival?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lightsfestival</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/diwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#diwali</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/spreadlove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#spreadlove</a>❤️ <a href="https://t.co/CzXHireR1V">https://t.co/CzXHireR1V</a></p>
— Glenn Maxwell (@Gmaxi_32) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gmaxi_32/status/1456092901708951553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="tl">Happy Diwali 🎉🎉</p>
— Sam Curran (@CurranSM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CurranSM/status/1456183737922752516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>&nbsp;</h5>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="tl">Happy Diwali to those celebrating!</p>
— Jason Roy (@JasonRoy20) <a href="https://twitter.com/JasonRoy20/status/1456140360518877184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=&lt;blockquote class=twitter-tweet&gt;&lt;p lang=tl dir=ltr&gt;Happy Diwali to those celebrating!&lt;/p&gt;— Jason Roy (@JasonRoy20) &lt;a  data-cke-saved-href=https://twitter.com/JasonRoy20/status/1456140360518877184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw href=https://twitter.com/JasonRoy20/status/1456140360518877184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&gt;November 4, 2021&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; <script async src=https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js charset=utf-8></script>" target="_blank"><i class="fa fa-share">&nbsp;</i></a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">×</a></div>
</div>
</div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">HAPPY <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali</a><br />
💙</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1456182843256737795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A very happy Diwali to everyone celebrating across the world! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali2021</a> 🪔</p>
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1456033752711372807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Diwali to everyone around the World stay blessed spread love ❤️🤗</p>
— Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashidkhan_19/status/1456297916306321414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Diwali to everyone around the world celebrating today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FestivalOfLights?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FestivalOfLights</a> <a href="https://t.co/4cZLY2aPMq">pic.twitter.com/4cZLY2aPMq</a></p>
— David Miller (@DavidMillerSA12) <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidMillerSA12/status/1456128208839987202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="tl">Happy Diwali to all!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lights?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lights</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/colour?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#colour</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/happiness?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#happiness</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/joy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#joy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/laughter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#laughter</a> <a href="https://t.co/reqOkrquic">https://t.co/reqOkrquic</a></p>
— David Warner (@davidwarner31) <a href="https://twitter.com/davidwarner31/status/1456130176794783751?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-diwali-celebrations-across-the-globe-426674">Diwali celebrations across the globe</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, India's northern state Uttar Pradesh's Department of Tourism and Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University jointly entered in Guinness World Records for "largest display of oil lamps" during Deepotsava at Ram ki Paidi ghats in Ayodhya.</p>

<p>"Today we have lit up 9 lakh earthen lamps. I want to extend my greetings to everyone on this Deepotsav program," UP's Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said at an event of Deepotsava celebrations in Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Colourful lights and laser show organised in Ayodhya as part of the Deepotsav celebration on the occasion of Diwali.</p>

<p>The 'Deepotsav' celebrations in Ayodhya last year had set the Guinness World records for 'the largest display of oil lamps' after 5,84,572 earthen lamps were lit on the banks of river Saryu. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Global sporting stars, including legendary tennis player Novak Djokovic and Australian cricketer Glenn Maxwell, took to social media to extend their wishes to Indians celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights on Thursday (November 4).

Global sporting stars, including legendary tennis player Novak Djokovic and Australian cricketer Glenn Maxwell, took to social media to extend their wishes to Indians celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights on Thursday (November 4). Diwali is a five-day festival that marks the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. "Happy #Diwali to everyone celebrating! Wishing you Peace, Love, and Light!," Djokovic wrote on his official Twitter handle. On the other hand, Maxwell tweeted, "Happy Diwali everyone!! Let’s celebrate the festival in the true sense by spreading joy, happiness and light up the world for others! Have a safe and happy Diwali!!" IN PICS | Brilliant captain to excellent mentor: Selfless Rahul Dravid continues to serve Indian cricket Happy #Diwali to everyone celebrating! Wishing you Peace, Love, and Light! 🪔🎇 — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) November 4, 2021 × Happy Diwali everyone!! Let’s celebrate the festival in the true sense by spreading joy, happiness and light up the world for others! Have a safe and happy Diwali!! #lightsfestival #diwali #spreadlove❤️ https://t.co/CzXHireR1V — Glenn Maxwell (@Gmaxi_32) November 4, 2021 × Happy Diwali 🎉🎉 — Sam Curran (@CurranSM) November 4, 2021 × Happy Diwali to those celebrating! — Jason Roy (@JasonRoy20) November 4, 2021 × HAPPY #Diwali 💙 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) November 4, 2021 × A very happy Diwali to everyone celebrating across the world! #Diwali2021 🪔 — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) November 3, 2021 × Happy Diwali to everyone around the World stay blessed spread love ❤️🤗 — Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) November 4, 2021 × Happy Diwali to everyone around the world celebrating today. #FestivalOfLights pic.twitter.com/4cZLY2aPMq — David Miller (@DavidMillerSA12) November 4, 2021 × Happy Diwali to all!! #lights #colour #happiness #joy #laughter https://t.co/reqOkrquic — David Warner (@davidwarner31) November 4, 2021 × IN PICS | Diwali celebrations across the globe Meanwhile, India's northern state Uttar Pradesh's Department of Tourism and Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University jointly entered in Guinness World Records for "largest display of oil lamps" during Deepotsava at Ram ki Paidi ghats in Ayodhya. "Today we have lit up 9 lakh earthen lamps. I want to extend my greetings to everyone on this Deepotsav program," UP's Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said at an event of Deepotsava celebrations in Ayodhya. Colourful lights and laser show organised in Ayodhya as part of the Deepotsav celebration on the occasion of Diwali. The 'Deepotsav' celebrations in Ayodhya last year had set the Guinness World records for 'the largest display of oil lamps' after 5,84,572 earthen lamps were lit on the banks of river Saryu. (With inputs from agencies)

From Novak Djokovic to Glenn Maxwell: Global stars wish India a safe and happy Diwali

<p>Former England captain Kevin Pietersen urged the public on Monday to support the team even if they lose a game. Pietersen's remark came after the Indian cricket team was trolled on social media following their ICC Men's T20 World Cup loss to New Zealand. Virat Kohli has also come under scrutiny for his leadership during the match against New Zealand.</p>

<p>"There is a winner and a loser in the game. No player goes out to lose. It is the greatest honour to represent your country. Please realize that the people in the game are not robots and they need support at all times," tweeted Pietersen in Hindi.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">खेल में एक विजेता और एक हारने वाला होता है। कोई भी खिलाड़ी हारने के लिए बाहर नहीं जाता है। अपने देश का प्रतिनिधित्व करना सबसे बड़ा सम्मान है। कृपया महसूस करें कि खेल के लोग रोबोट नहीं हैं और उन्हें हर समय समर्थन की आवश्यकता है।</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1455066555994230789?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/54-dot-balls-71-deliveries-without-a-boundary-shocking-stats-numbers-from-indias-flop-show-against-nz-425787"><strong>54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats &amp; numbers from India's flop show against NZ</strong></a></p>

<p>Harbhajan Singh, an Indian spinner, urged fans not to be too harsh on the players because they are the ones who suffer the most after a loss.</p>

<p>"Let's not be harsh on our players. Yes, we know them for better cricket. Sabse jyada players ko hurt hota hai after such results. but well done to @BLACKCAPS NZ for winning the match. they were fantastic in all departments," tweeted Harbhajan.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Let’s not be harsh on our players.yes we know them for better cricket.Sabse jyada players ko hurt hota hai after such results.but well done to <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BLACKCAPS</a> NZ for winning th match.they were fantastic in all departments <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StarSportsIndia</a></p>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1454864130683277317?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi impressed with the ball, and Daryl Mitchell hit 49 off 35 balls to help New Zealand thrash India by eight wickets on Sunday. In the allotted twenty overs, India was held to only 110/7 by New Zealand.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-did-rohit-bat-at-3-shoaib-akhtar-questions-indias-game-plan-says-it-was-a-lost-squad-against-nz-425758">'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ</a></strong></p>

<p>No batter was able to stay at the crease for a longer duration, resulting in a dismal display. Kohli and Team India will face Afghanistan at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former England captain Kevin Pietersen urged the public on Monday to support the team even if they lose a game. Pietersen's remark came after the Indian cricket team was trolled on social media following their ICC Men's T20 World Cup loss to New Zealand.

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen urged the public on Monday to support the team even if they lose a game. Pietersen's remark came after the Indian cricket team was trolled on social media following their ICC Men's T20 World Cup loss to New Zealand. Virat Kohli has also come under scrutiny for his leadership during the match against New Zealand. "There is a winner and a loser in the game. No player goes out to lose. It is the greatest honour to represent your country. Please realize that the people in the game are not robots and they need support at all times," tweeted Pietersen in Hindi. खेल में एक विजेता और एक हारने वाला होता है। कोई भी खिलाड़ी हारने के लिए बाहर नहीं जाता है। अपने देश का प्रतिनिधित्व करना सबसे बड़ा सम्मान है। कृपया महसूस करें कि खेल के लोग रोबोट नहीं हैं और उन्हें हर समय समर्थन की आवश्यकता है। — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) November 1, 2021 × ALSO READ | 54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats & numbers from India's flop show against NZ Harbhajan Singh, an Indian spinner, urged fans not to be too harsh on the players because they are the ones who suffer the most after a loss. "Let's not be harsh on our players. Yes, we know them for better cricket. Sabse jyada players ko hurt hota hai after such results. but well done to @BLACKCAPS NZ for winning the match. they were fantastic in all departments," tweeted Harbhajan. Let’s not be harsh on our players.yes we know them for better cricket.Sabse jyada players ko hurt hota hai after such results.but well done to @BLACKCAPS NZ for winning th match.they were fantastic in all departments @BCCI @T20WorldCup @ICC @StarSportsIndia — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) October 31, 2021 × Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi impressed with the ball, and Daryl Mitchell hit 49 off 35 balls to help New Zealand thrash India by eight wickets on Sunday. In the allotted twenty overs, India was held to only 110/7 by New Zealand. ALSO READ | 'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ No batter was able to stay at the crease for a longer duration, resulting in a dismal display. Kohli and Team India will face Afghanistan at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.

T20 WC: Kevin Pietersen, Harbhajan Singh ask fans to support Team India after loss against New Zealand

<p>India is a cricket-crazy nation as the gentlemen's game continues to grow with each passing day. Hence, it is often said that cricketers are literally worshipped in India. The sport remains a big reason for the cricketers' immense fan-following but often their acting skills catches the attention of fans.</p>

<p>Over the years, many Indian cricketers have given fans plenty to cheer for courtesy their acting skills and hilarious chemistry in front of the camera, for various commercials. While many of such ads might be old in today's times, the recall value remains immense due to the Indian cricketers' presence and acting. Here our few compilations of some of the most iconic ads featuring Team India stars, such as Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar along with Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan, etc.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-set-to-replace-ravi-shastri-as-team-indias-new-head-coach-after-t20-world-cup-2021-421166"><strong>Rahul Dravid set to replace Ravi Shastri as team India's new head coach after T20 World Cup 2021</strong></a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CHHbhg7KplA" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/P_o1_li9FCI" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d8r7LlwyPY8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mentor-ms-dhoni-helps-rishabh-pant-with-wicketkeeping-drills-amid-ind-aus-t20-wc-warm-up-tie-422370"><strong>Watch: 'Mentor' MS Dhoni helps Rishabh Pant with wicketkeeping drills amid IND-AUS T20 WC warm-up tie</strong></a></p>

<p>Even in today's times, the likes of Dravid, Neeraj Chopra (CRED advertisements) and many others continue to entertain fans with their acting skills before the camera. While it not only helps them in engaging with the viewers and spreading their fan-following further, it also ensures&nbsp;the product they are advertising get sold in large numbers. Thus, it remains a win-win situation for all involved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the Indian cricket team, the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue are currently gearing up for their T20 World Cup 2021 tournament-opener, versus Pakistan on October 24 (Sunday) at Dubai. The marquee event commenced on October 17 with the qualifying round.</p>


India is a cricket-crazy nation as the gentlemen's game continues to grow with each passing day. Hence, it is often said that cricketers are literally worshipped in India.

India is a cricket-crazy nation as the gentlemen's game continues to grow with each passing day. Hence, it is often said that cricketers are literally worshipped in India. The sport remains a big reason for the cricketers' immense fan-following but often their acting skills catches the attention of fans. Over the years, many Indian cricketers have given fans plenty to cheer for courtesy their acting skills and hilarious chemistry in front of the camera, for various commercials. While many of such ads might be old in today's times, the recall value remains immense due to the Indian cricketers' presence and acting. Here our few compilations of some of the most iconic ads featuring Team India stars, such as Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar along with Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan, etc. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid set to replace Ravi Shastri as team India's new head coach after T20 World Cup 2021 × × × ALSO READ | Watch: 'Mentor' MS Dhoni helps Rishabh Pant with wicketkeeping drills amid IND-AUS T20 WC warm-up tie Even in today's times, the likes of Dravid, Neeraj Chopra (CRED advertisements) and many others continue to entertain fans with their acting skills before the camera. While it not only helps them in engaging with the viewers and spreading their fan-following further, it also ensures the product they are advertising get sold in large numbers. Thus, it remains a win-win situation for all involved. Talking about the Indian cricket team, the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue are currently gearing up for their T20 World Cup 2021 tournament-opener, versus Pakistan on October 24 (Sunday) at Dubai. The marquee event commenced on October 17 with the qualifying round.

From Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni to Sachin Tendulkar: Reliving vintage commercials featuring Indian cricketers

<p>Amid England players expressing doubts over the upcoming Ashes series, the Australian Test captain&nbsp;Tim&nbsp;Paine said the tour will go ahead regardless of talks over strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions.&nbsp; Australia has caps on international arrivals and there is a mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine even for the fully vaccinated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England skipper Joe Root, vice-captain Jos Buttler, pacer Stuart Broad are among players, who have expressed their concerns and sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series, which is scheduled to start in Brisbane on December 8. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-punam-raut-walks-off-despite-being-given-not-out-in-pink-ball-test-against-australia-watch-417426">India's Punam Raut walks off despite being given not-out in Pink-ball Test against Australia - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>"The Ashes are going ahead. The first test is on Dec. 8 -- whether Joe is here or not," Paine told radio station, SEN Hobart.</p>

<p>"It'll be worked out above us and then they’ll have a choice whether to get on that plane or not.</p>

<p>"No one is forcing any England player to come. That's the beauty of the world we live in -- you have a choice. If you don’t want to come, don't come."</p>

<p>Recently, former England batsman Kevin Pietersen said England players should not travel if placed under any restrictions. "There is NO WAY I would go to The Ashes this winter. ZERO chance!" he tweeted.</p>

<p>"Unless, the ridiculous quarantine rules were squashed and my family could travel with zero restrictions."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistans-inability-to-play-bilateral-cricket-against-india-has-cost-them-millions-of-dollars-former-england-captain-417349">Pakistan's inability to play bilateral cricket against India has cost them millions of dollars: Former England captain</a></strong></p>

<p>Responding to the same, Paine said, "If you want to know anything on any topic in the world, you just ask Kevin Pietersen. He is an expert on everything."</p>

<p>"We have not heard one England player come out and say they will not be coming. I think it‘s been beat up and people like Kevin like to get themselves a little bit of exposure in the media," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pietersen again tweeted, saying, "To be fair to @tdpaine36, it is up to the players to make the decisions on The Ashes tour, not ex has-beens! Hopefully there’ll be a positive outcome over the weekend. The Ashes is the greatest rivalry &amp; battle in Test match cricket - and we need Test Match cricket to survive!"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To be fair to <a href="https://twitter.com/tdpaine36?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tdpaine36</a>, it is up to the players to make the decisions on The Ashes tour, not ex has-beens!<br />
Hopefully there’ll be a positive outcome over the weekend. The Ashes is the greatest rivalry &amp; battle in Test match cricket - and we need Test Match cricket to survive! 🙏🏽</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1443875025409527820?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Recently, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison had warned that England's cricketers and their families will be given "no special deals" over quarantine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His remarks came after meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Washington DC, following their trips to the United Nations General Assembly in New York.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although, the England and Wales Cricket Board are "very confident" the Ashes series will go ahead as planned amid Australia's tight border controls.&nbsp;</p>


Amid England players expressing doubts over the upcoming Ashes series, the Australian Test captain Tim Paine said the tour will go ahead regardless of talks over strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions.

Amid England players expressing doubts over the upcoming Ashes series, the Australian Test captain Tim Paine said the tour will go ahead regardless of talks over strict COVID-19 quarantine restrictions. Australia has caps on international arrivals and there is a mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine even for the fully vaccinated. England skipper Joe Root, vice-captain Jos Buttler, pacer Stuart Broad are among players, who have expressed their concerns and sought assurances for their family members to be allowed to join them for the series, which is scheduled to start in Brisbane on December 8. ALSO READ | India's Punam Raut walks off despite being given not-out in Pink-ball Test against Australia - WATCH "The Ashes are going ahead. The first test is on Dec. 8 -- whether Joe is here or not," Paine told radio station, SEN Hobart. "It'll be worked out above us and then they’ll have a choice whether to get on that plane or not. "No one is forcing any England player to come. That's the beauty of the world we live in -- you have a choice. If you don’t want to come, don't come." Recently, former England batsman Kevin Pietersen said England players should not travel if placed under any restrictions. "There is NO WAY I would go to The Ashes this winter. ZERO chance!" he tweeted. "Unless, the ridiculous quarantine rules were squashed and my family could travel with zero restrictions." ALSO READ | Pakistan's inability to play bilateral cricket against India has cost them millions of dollars: Former England captain Responding to the same, Paine said, "If you want to know anything on any topic in the world, you just ask Kevin Pietersen. He is an expert on everything." "We have not heard one England player come out and say they will not be coming. I think it‘s been beat up and people like Kevin like to get themselves a little bit of exposure in the media," he added. Pietersen again tweeted, saying, "To be fair to @tdpaine36, it is up to the players to make the decisions on The Ashes tour, not ex has-beens! Hopefully there’ll be a positive outcome over the weekend. The Ashes is the greatest rivalry & battle in Test match cricket - and we need Test Match cricket to survive!" To be fair to @tdpaine36, it is up to the players to make the decisions on The Ashes tour, not ex has-beens! Hopefully there’ll be a positive outcome over the weekend. The Ashes is the greatest rivalry & battle in Test match cricket - and we need Test Match cricket to survive! 🙏🏽 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) October 1, 2021 × Recently, Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison had warned that England's cricketers and their families will be given "no special deals" over quarantine. His remarks came after meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Washington DC, following their trips to the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Although, the England and Wales Cricket Board are "very confident" the Ashes series will go ahead as planned amid Australia's tight border controls.

Tim Paine says Ashes going ahead, with or without Joe Root, slams 'expert on everything' Kevin Pietersen

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Narhari Amin, Ajay Bhardwaj, Ramilaben Bara and Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil have been elected as Rajya Sabha members from Gujarat.</p>

<p>Counting of votes for four seats in Gujarat began after a delay of four-hours as the Congress demanded that the Election Commission invalidate two BJP votes on different grounds.</p>

<p>As many as 43 first-timers are set to enter the Upper House accounting for 72 per cent of vacancies being filled up, the research division of Rajya Sabha has found.</p>

<p>For the 19 vacancies in Rajya Sabha for which results were announced on Friday, there were 28 candidates in the fray of which 24 were never members of Rajya Sabha.</p>

<p>Friday's contest is between such freshers in Gujarat, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;</em></p>


Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Narhari Amin, Ajay Bhardwaj, Ramilaben Bara and Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil have been elected as Rajya Sabha members from Gujarat.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Narhari Amin, Ajay Bhardwaj, Ramilaben Bara and Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil have been elected as Rajya Sabha members from Gujarat. Counting of votes for four seats in Gujarat began after a delay of four-hours as the Congress demanded that the Election Commission invalidate two BJP votes on different grounds. As many as 43 first-timers are set to enter the Upper House accounting for 72 per cent of vacancies being filled up, the research division of Rajya Sabha has found. For the 19 vacancies in Rajya Sabha for which results were announced on Friday, there were 28 candidates in the fray of which 24 were never members of Rajya Sabha. Friday's contest is between such freshers in Gujarat, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram. (With inputs from PTI)

You can gain momentum through losing as well: Kevin Pietersen slams RCB after disappointing defeat against CSK

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidOhSE6odDhPzE" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The 14th season, which was postponed in May this year in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, is set to resume on Sunday (September 19) in Dubai with a blockbuster clash between the arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings and defending champions Mumbai Indians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the cricket carnival, critics and pundits are predicting the winner of IPL 2021, following the same trend, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen also expressed his opinion as he said that CSK has an opportunity to win another title.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-capitals-looking-to-repeat-our-2020-performance-in-upcoming-ipl-in-uae-says-anrich-nortje-413862">Delhi Capitals: Looking to repeat our 2020 performance in upcoming IPL in UAE, says Anrich Nortje</a></strong></p>

<p>"Everybody wrote off the old boys' army of CSK before the IPL started in April, so seeing them go so well was a bit of a surprise. But I'm not sure how well this four-month absence will have suited them," Kevin Pietersen wrote in his latest column in betway insider.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It could take them a little while to crank back into gear, particularly the older players. If they are ready, it could be a historic few weeks for the franchise. They have a fantastic shot at winning a title that everybody thought was beyond them."</p>

<p>After winning five matches from the seven they have played, CSK is currently placed at the second position of the points table. After the CSK-MI clash, the action will then shift to Abu Dhabi where KKR will square off against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Sharjah will host its first game on September 24 when Royal Challengers Bangalore take on Chennai Super Kings.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-mumbai-indians-suryakumar-yadav-says-it-feels-great-to-be-back-here-413857">IPL 2021: Mumbai Indians' Suryakumar Yadav says, 'It feels great to be back here'</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Full house of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a><br />
<br />
Enroute ➡️ Grind and Shine 🏏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> 💛🦁 <a href="https://t.co/V2zzisbIfd">pic.twitter.com/V2zzisbIfd</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings - Mask P😷du Whistle P🥳du! (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1438882426667900933?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"They tend to lose their first few games and then come good towards the end of the tournament. Well, we’re already towards the end of the tournament now. Mumbai can’t afford to lose three or four games before they start playing because there’s so little time to play catch-up," Pietersen added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If they are to retain their crown, they must be on it from ball one. Clearly, with the talent they have in their side, they are capable of doing it," he added.</p>

<p>In all, 13 matches will be held in Dubai, 10 in Sharjah, and 8 in Abu Dhabi. Meanwhile, IPL will welcome the fans back to the stadiums after a brief hiatus owing to the COVID-19 situation.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The 14th season, which was postponed in May this year in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, is set to resume on Sunday (September 19) in Dubai with a blockbuster clash between the arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings and defending champions Mumbai Indians.

The 14th season, which was postponed in May this year in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, is set to resume on Sunday (September 19) in Dubai with a blockbuster clash between the arch-rivals Chennai Super Kings and defending champions Mumbai Indians. Ahead of the cricket carnival, critics and pundits are predicting the winner of IPL 2021, following the same trend, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen also expressed his opinion as he said that CSK has an opportunity to win another title. ALSO READ | Delhi Capitals: Looking to repeat our 2020 performance in upcoming IPL in UAE, says Anrich Nortje "Everybody wrote off the old boys' army of CSK before the IPL started in April, so seeing them go so well was a bit of a surprise. But I'm not sure how well this four-month absence will have suited them," Kevin Pietersen wrote in his latest column in betway insider. "It could take them a little while to crank back into gear, particularly the older players. If they are ready, it could be a historic few weeks for the franchise. They have a fantastic shot at winning a title that everybody thought was beyond them." After winning five matches from the seven they have played, CSK is currently placed at the second position of the points table. After the CSK-MI clash, the action will then shift to Abu Dhabi where KKR will square off against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Sharjah will host its first game on September 24 when Royal Challengers Bangalore take on Chennai Super Kings. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Mumbai Indians' Suryakumar Yadav says, 'It feels great to be back here' Full house of #Yellove Enroute ➡️ Grind and Shine 🏏#WhistlePodu 💛🦁 pic.twitter.com/V2zzisbIfd — Chennai Super Kings - Mask P😷du Whistle P🥳du! (@ChennaiIPL) September 17, 2021 × "They tend to lose their first few games and then come good towards the end of the tournament. Well, we’re already towards the end of the tournament now. Mumbai can’t afford to lose three or four games before they start playing because there’s so little time to play catch-up," Pietersen added. "If they are to retain their crown, they must be on it from ball one. Clearly, with the talent they have in their side, they are capable of doing it," he added. In all, 13 matches will be held in Dubai, 10 in Sharjah, and 8 in Abu Dhabi. Meanwhile, IPL will welcome the fans back to the stadiums after a brief hiatus owing to the COVID-19 situation. (With inputs from agencies)

Kevin Pietersen tells which team has a 'fantastic shot at winning' IPL 2021 title

<p>Taliban is quickly taking over Afghanistan as they captured the capital city of Kabul on Sunday. Now, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen has revealed that Afghanistan's star spinner Rashid Khan is worried about the situation of the country and is unable to get his family out.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/taliban-have-won-rise-and-fall-of-afghan-president-ashraf-ghani-405867" hreflang="en">'Taliban have won': Rise and fall of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani</a></p>

<p>"There`s a lot of things that are happening at home. We had a long chat here on the boundary talking about it and he`s worried: he can`t get his family out of Afghanistan and there`s a lot of things happening for him," Pietersen said on Sky Sports.</p>

<p>Rashid Khan, who is currently in England playing for Trent Rockets in the inaugural edition of the Hundred, had earlier put out a Tweet urging global leaders to step in and not leave the country in chaos.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He tweeted: "Dear World Leaders! My country is in chaos,thousand of innocent people, including children &amp; women, get martyred everyday, houses &amp; properties being destructed.Thousand families displaced..Don’t leave us in chaos. Stop killing Afghans &amp; destroying of Afghanistan. We want peace."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dear World Leaders! My country is in chaos,thousand of innocent people, including children &amp; women, get martyred everyday, houses &amp; properties being destructed.Thousand families displaced..<br />
Don’t leave us in chaos. Stop killing Afghans &amp; destroying Afghaniatan🇦🇫.<br />
We want peace.🙏</p>
— Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashidkhan_19/status/1425057234300641317?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"There`s a lot of things that are happening at home. We had a long chat here on the boundary talking about it and he`s worried: he can`t get his family out of Afghanistan and there`s a lot of things happening for him," Pietersen said on Sky Sports.</p>

<p>Sports."For him to turn up and put on a performance like this under the pressure that he is currently under... for him to be able to forget that stuff and navigate his story and continue the momentum that he has - I think that`s probably one of the most heart-warming stories of this Hundred so far," he added.</p>


Taliban is quickly taking over Afghanistan as they captured the capital city of Kabul on Sunday. Now, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen has revealed that Afghanistan's star spinner Rashid Khan is worried about the situation of the country and is unable to get his family out.

Taliban is quickly taking over Afghanistan as they captured the capital city of Kabul on Sunday. Now, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen has revealed that Afghanistan's star spinner Rashid Khan is worried about the situation of the country and is unable to get his family out. IN PICS| 'Taliban have won': Rise and fall of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani "There`s a lot of things that are happening at home. We had a long chat here on the boundary talking about it and he`s worried: he can`t get his family out of Afghanistan and there`s a lot of things happening for him," Pietersen said on Sky Sports. Rashid Khan, who is currently in England playing for Trent Rockets in the inaugural edition of the Hundred, had earlier put out a Tweet urging global leaders to step in and not leave the country in chaos. He tweeted: "Dear World Leaders! My country is in chaos,thousand of innocent people, including children & women, get martyred everyday, houses & properties being destructed.Thousand families displaced..Don’t leave us in chaos. Stop killing Afghans & destroying of Afghanistan. We want peace." Dear World Leaders! My country is in chaos,thousand of innocent people, including children & women, get martyred everyday, houses & properties being destructed.Thousand families displaced.. Don’t leave us in chaos. Stop killing Afghans & destroying Afghaniatan🇦🇫. We want peace.🙏 — Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) August 10, 2021 × "There`s a lot of things that are happening at home. We had a long chat here on the boundary talking about it and he`s worried: he can`t get his family out of Afghanistan and there`s a lot of things happening for him," Pietersen said on Sky Sports. Sports."For him to turn up and put on a performance like this under the pressure that he is currently under... for him to be able to forget that stuff and navigate his story and continue the momentum that he has - I think that`s probably one of the most heart-warming stories of this Hundred so far," he added.

Rashid Khan is worried, can't get his family out of Afghanistan, says Kevin Pietersen

<p>Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Team India does not have enough match practice ahead of the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final clash against New Zealand that will be played at the Rose Bowl.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-youve-got-to-play-the-mind-games-with-virat-says-dale-steyn-392351" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'You've got to play the mind games with Virat', says Dale Steyn</a></p>

<p>According to Pietersen, IPL matches and intra-squad training are not enough to prepare for the Test match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"New Zealand have had fantastic preparation for this World Test Championship final. They've played two Test matches against England, and basically outplayed them in both. You can't prepare for a Test match in England having been involved in an IPL that was called off a month ago and with no proper warm-up matches at all," Pietersen wrote in his blog for Betway Insider.</p>

<p>New Zealand, on the other hand, played two-match Test series against England before contesting for the Test Mace against India. The Men in Blue have failed to beat the BlackCaps in an ICC event since 2003.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/forecast-is-something-we-are-not-focussed-on-virat-kohli-ahead-of-wtc-final-392370" hreflang="en">'Forecast is something we are not focussed on', Virat Kohli ahead of WTC final</a></p>

<p>"Their (New Zealand's) pace bowling against England was fantastic – Tim Southee at Lord’s and then Matt Henry, who probably won’t even play in this match, at Edgbaston. You only get one or two chances in a one-off Test match, and I fear that India may be behind on their preparation," Pietersen added.</p>


Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Team India does not have enough match practice ahead of the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final clash against New Zealand that will be played at the Rose Bowl.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Team India does not have enough match practice ahead of the highly-anticipated World Test Championship final clash against New Zealand that will be played at the Rose Bowl. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'You've got to play the mind games with Virat', says Dale Steyn According to Pietersen, IPL matches and intra-squad training are not enough to prepare for the Test match. "New Zealand have had fantastic preparation for this World Test Championship final. They've played two Test matches against England, and basically outplayed them in both. You can't prepare for a Test match in England having been involved in an IPL that was called off a month ago and with no proper warm-up matches at all," Pietersen wrote in his blog for Betway Insider. New Zealand, on the other hand, played two-match Test series against England before contesting for the Test Mace against India. The Men in Blue have failed to beat the BlackCaps in an ICC event since 2003. ALSO READ: 'Forecast is something we are not focussed on', Virat Kohli ahead of WTC final "Their (New Zealand's) pace bowling against England was fantastic – Tim Southee at Lord’s and then Matt Henry, who probably won’t even play in this match, at Edgbaston. You only get one or two chances in a one-off Test match, and I fear that India may be behind on their preparation," Pietersen added.

Cricket: 'India may be behind on their preparation', reckons Kevin Pietersen

<p>Kevin Pietersen has been mighty impressed with Indian star Ravindra Jadeja and has urged young English cricketers to draw inspiration and copy the prolific all-rounder.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-massive-credit-to-neil-wagner-devon-conway-on-his-double-ton-389380" hreflang="en">Cricket- 'Massive credit to Neil Wagner': Devon Conway on his double ton</a></p>

<p>"It frustrates me that there still isn't an international-standard English left-arm spin bowler who bats. Look at what Ravindra Jadeja has done for India in Test match cricket, one-day cricket, and T20 cricket," Pietersen wrote in his blog for Betway Insider.</p>

<p>He went on to add that the English cricket board must focus on this position.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's the one position that the ECB must be prioritising. They need to invest in somebody because someone of that ilk is priceless across all three formats," the former England captain added. "If you're a kid, an emerging player, or a county cricketer, copy Jadeja. Copy what Jadeja does because he's an absolute superstar. You'll have a long career as a Test match cricketer for England.</p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja has played a crucial role for India in recent years. The cricketer has scalped 220 wickets in Tests and 227 in the limited-overs format. He has also proved his mettle with the bat. The Gujarat-based player has been consistent, both with bat and ball, and will be travelling with the Indian contingent to England for the upcoming World Test Championship finals and five-match Test series against Root and Co.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kevin Pietersen feels that Jack Leach and Dom Bess are not Test match spinners.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Leach is not a Test match spinner and Bess is not a Test match spinner. I wrote nearly two years ago that I hope Leach doesn't get remembered for Specsavers adverts because it’s about winning Test matches," Pietersen pointed out.</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, I was right, because he’s not good enough. He hasn't bowled any teams out, he hasn't bowled England to glory in Tests like Panesar and Swann used to do," he signed off.</p>


Kevin Pietersen has been mighty impressed with Indian star Ravindra Jadeja and has urged young English cricketers to draw inspiration and copy the prolific all-rounder.

Kevin Pietersen has been mighty impressed with Indian star Ravindra Jadeja and has urged young English cricketers to draw inspiration and copy the prolific all-rounder. ALSO READ: Cricket- 'Massive credit to Neil Wagner': Devon Conway on his double ton "It frustrates me that there still isn't an international-standard English left-arm spin bowler who bats. Look at what Ravindra Jadeja has done for India in Test match cricket, one-day cricket, and T20 cricket," Pietersen wrote in his blog for Betway Insider. He went on to add that the English cricket board must focus on this position. "It's the one position that the ECB must be prioritising. They need to invest in somebody because someone of that ilk is priceless across all three formats," the former England captain added. "If you're a kid, an emerging player, or a county cricketer, copy Jadeja. Copy what Jadeja does because he's an absolute superstar. You'll have a long career as a Test match cricketer for England. Ravindra Jadeja has played a crucial role for India in recent years. The cricketer has scalped 220 wickets in Tests and 227 in the limited-overs format. He has also proved his mettle with the bat. The Gujarat-based player has been consistent, both with bat and ball, and will be travelling with the Indian contingent to England for the upcoming World Test Championship finals and five-match Test series against Root and Co. Kevin Pietersen feels that Jack Leach and Dom Bess are not Test match spinners. "Leach is not a Test match spinner and Bess is not a Test match spinner. I wrote nearly two years ago that I hope Leach doesn't get remembered for Specsavers adverts because it’s about winning Test matches," Pietersen pointed out. "Unfortunately, I was right, because he’s not good enough. He hasn't bowled any teams out, he hasn't bowled England to glory in Tests like Panesar and Swann used to do," he signed off.

Cricket- 'He's an absolute superstar': Kevin Pietersen lauds Ravindra Jadeja

<p class="MsoNormal">There are plenty of talks surrounding the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it comes to the availability of overseas players if the T20 tournament resumes later in the year. While managing director of England men’s team, Ashley Giles had hinted that English players might not be available for the remainder of IPL 2021, former skipper Kevin Pietersen feels England players can play in IPL 2021 if they stand together.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The BCCI and IPL Governing Council in an emergency meeting had unanimously decided to postpone IPL 2021 last week and is now working on finding a window for the remainder of the tournament. While BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has already said that it won’t be possible to conduct IPL 2021 in India this year considering the COVID-19 situation in the country, the likes of Sri Lanka, UAE and England have emerged as potential venues.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Taking to social media platform Kevin Pietersen said that it would be interesting to see how the ECB handle the issue and not allow its best players for IPL 2021 while adding if the players stand together, they will go on to play in the remainder of the tournament.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revealed-how-much-australian-players-will-earn-if-they-dont-return-for-ipl-2021-384487" hreflang="en">Revealed: How much Australian players will earn if they don't return for IPL 2021</a></strong><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"It's going to be v interesting to watch how the ECB handle this issue around not allowing its best players to play IPL if it's rescheduled. When I went up against ENG, I was alone. This time, it's all their best-branded players! If they stand together, they'll play IPL," Pietersen tweeted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It’s going to be v interesting to watch how the ECB handle this issue around not allowing it’s best players to play IPL, if it’s rescheduled.<br />
When I went up against ENG, I was alone.<br />
This time, it’s all their best branded players!<br />
If they stand together, they’ll play IPL!</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1392395680853991427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-is-going-on-kuldeep-yadav-talks-about-his-thoughts-after-being-benched-384481" hreflang="en">'What is going on?': Kuldeep Yadav talks about his thoughts after being benched</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed after multiple cases of COVID-19 emerged inside the bio-secure bubble. While there has been no reports of breach of the bubble, reports have pointed towards travelling to be one of the potential reasons for players and staff contracting the dreaded virus.<o:p></o:p></p>


There are plenty of talks surrounding the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it comes to the availability of overseas players if the T20 tournament resumes later in the year.

There are plenty of talks surrounding the postponed Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 when it comes to the availability of overseas players if the T20 tournament resumes later in the year. While managing director of England men’s team, Ashley Giles had hinted that English players might not be available for the remainder of IPL 2021, former skipper Kevin Pietersen feels England players can play in IPL 2021 if they stand together. The BCCI and IPL Governing Council in an emergency meeting had unanimously decided to postpone IPL 2021 last week and is now working on finding a window for the remainder of the tournament. While BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has already said that it won’t be possible to conduct IPL 2021 in India this year considering the COVID-19 situation in the country, the likes of Sri Lanka, UAE and England have emerged as potential venues. Taking to social media platform Kevin Pietersen said that it would be interesting to see how the ECB handle the issue and not allow its best players for IPL 2021 while adding if the players stand together, they will go on to play in the remainder of the tournament. ALSO READ: Revealed: How much Australian players will earn if they don't return for IPL 2021 "It's going to be v interesting to watch how the ECB handle this issue around not allowing its best players to play IPL if it's rescheduled. When I went up against ENG, I was alone. This time, it's all their best-branded players! If they stand together, they'll play IPL," Pietersen tweeted. It’s going to be v interesting to watch how the ECB handle this issue around not allowing it’s best players to play IPL, if it’s rescheduled. When I went up against ENG, I was alone. This time, it’s all their best branded players! If they stand together, they’ll play IPL! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) May 12, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'What is going on?': Kuldeep Yadav talks about his thoughts after being benched IPL 2021 was indefinitely postponed after multiple cases of COVID-19 emerged inside the bio-secure bubble. While there has been no reports of breach of the bubble, reports have pointed towards travelling to be one of the potential reasons for players and staff contracting the dreaded virus.

If England players stand together, they will play in IPL 2021: Kevin Pietersen

<p>Holding IPL 2021 amidst the COVID-19 crisis in India is still a raging debate. While some felt that the tournament should have been suspended earlier itself, whereas others thought of it as the only positive thing going on as citizens were placed under lockdown.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-tim-seifert-tests-positive-for-covid-19-bound-to-miss-charter-flight-to-new-zealand-383609" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Tim Seifert tests positive for COVID-19, bound to miss charter flight to New Zealand</a></p>

<p>However, cases emerged in the bio-secure bubble during the tournament and the cash-rich league had to be suspended indefinitely. The decision was taken by the IPL Governing Council and BCCI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kevin Pietersen, who was a commentator for IPL on Star Sports, felt that the T20 tournament was initially "a positive thing for India".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I definitely bought into the fact that continuing the tournament initially was a positive thing for India. The country is not in a good way but I felt that providing six hours of entertainment each day was certainly a positive thing," Pietersen wrote in his blog on Betway.</p>

<p>"We were doing a job for all of India, creating a show to give people some relief. I thought that the package the players were delivering was fantastic.</p>

<p>"Yes, the wickets were a little slow, certainly in Chennai, but the cricket was still very good.</p>

<p>"Don’t forget that the players and broadcasters are not blind to what was going on in India. There was an awful lot of empathy and desire to help in any way we could, which is why we were so keen to put on the show," he added.</p>

<p>"But once players tested positive then there was going to be an awful lot of pressure on the BCCI to postpone the tournament and I do believe that they had little choice," he signed off.</p>


Holding IPL 2021 amidst the COVID-19 crisis in India is still a raging debate. While some felt that the tournament should have been suspended earlier itself, whereas others thought of it as the only positive thing going on as citizens were placed under lockdown.

Holding IPL 2021 amidst the COVID-19 crisis in India is still a raging debate. While some felt that the tournament should have been suspended earlier itself, whereas others thought of it as the only positive thing going on as citizens were placed under lockdown. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Tim Seifert tests positive for COVID-19, bound to miss charter flight to New Zealand However, cases emerged in the bio-secure bubble during the tournament and the cash-rich league had to be suspended indefinitely. The decision was taken by the IPL Governing Council and BCCI. Kevin Pietersen, who was a commentator for IPL on Star Sports, felt that the T20 tournament was initially "a positive thing for India". "I definitely bought into the fact that continuing the tournament initially was a positive thing for India. The country is not in a good way but I felt that providing six hours of entertainment each day was certainly a positive thing," Pietersen wrote in his blog on Betway. "We were doing a job for all of India, creating a show to give people some relief. I thought that the package the players were delivering was fantastic. "Yes, the wickets were a little slow, certainly in Chennai, but the cricket was still very good. "Don’t forget that the players and broadcasters are not blind to what was going on in India. There was an awful lot of empathy and desire to help in any way we could, which is why we were so keen to put on the show," he added. "But once players tested positive then there was going to be an awful lot of pressure on the BCCI to postpone the tournament and I do believe that they had little choice," he signed off.

'Certainly a positive thing': Kevin Pietersen talks about IPL amidst COVID-19 crisis

<p class="MsoNormal">Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen was full of praise for Mayank Agarwal, who slammed an unbeaten 99 on his captaincy debut for Punjab Kings, in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Delhi Capitals at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">PBKS captain KL Rahul was rushed to the hospital for surgery after the batsman was diagnosed with acute appendicitis and Mayank was named the stand-in captain for the Punjab outfit. Mayank didn’t disappoint as he led his troops from the front and smashed 99 not-out off 58 deliveries to help PBKS post 166/6 in 20 overs. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Mayank’s 99-run knock in 58 balls is the second-best score on a captaincy debut in IPL – next to Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson’s score of 119 which came against Punjab Kings earlier in IPL 2021.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rassie-van-der-dussen-unlikely-to-join-rajasthan-royals-382304" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Rassie van der Dussen unlikely to join Rajasthan Royals</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I think I said on commentary that captaincy can go one of two ways. You can either deal with it, that weight of expectations that clearly is just thrown straight amongst what you got to do for your team. It can create pressure, you start to worry about your players, your team," Pietersen said on Star Sports.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"He also did not play the previous game and KL Rahul did so well so there has been so much pressure leading into this game. Yes, he has been playing so well and he is a quality player. But sometimes you do question yourself," he added.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-class-player-kane-williamson-opens-up-on-david-warners-exclusion-from-srh-playing-xi-382314" hreflang="en">'World-class player': Kane Williamson opens up on David Warner's exclusion from SRH playing XI</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"But I tell you what, he may have questioned himself before the game, but there is no more question to answer. When you go out and play an innings like he has just played here for all of us to see. It is just breathtaking," he signed off.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Punjab Kings have three wins in seven games whereas Delhi Capitals have five wins in seven matches in IPL 2021.<o:p></o:p></p>


Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen was full of praise for Mayank Agarwal, who slammed an unbeaten 99 on his captaincy debut for Punjab Kings, in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Delhi Capitals at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen was full of praise for Mayank Agarwal, who slammed an unbeaten 99 on his captaincy debut for Punjab Kings, in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match against Delhi Capitals at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. PBKS captain KL Rahul was rushed to the hospital for surgery after the batsman was diagnosed with acute appendicitis and Mayank was named the stand-in captain for the Punjab outfit. Mayank didn’t disappoint as he led his troops from the front and smashed 99 not-out off 58 deliveries to help PBKS post 166/6 in 20 overs. Mayank’s 99-run knock in 58 balls is the second-best score on a captaincy debut in IPL – next to Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson’s score of 119 which came against Punjab Kings earlier in IPL 2021. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Rassie van der Dussen unlikely to join Rajasthan Royals "I think I said on commentary that captaincy can go one of two ways. You can either deal with it, that weight of expectations that clearly is just thrown straight amongst what you got to do for your team. It can create pressure, you start to worry about your players, your team," Pietersen said on Star Sports. "He also did not play the previous game and KL Rahul did so well so there has been so much pressure leading into this game. Yes, he has been playing so well and he is a quality player. But sometimes you do question yourself," he added. ALSO READ: 'World-class player': Kane Williamson opens up on David Warner's exclusion from SRH playing XI "But I tell you what, he may have questioned himself before the game, but there is no more question to answer. When you go out and play an innings like he has just played here for all of us to see. It is just breathtaking," he signed off. Punjab Kings have three wins in seven games whereas Delhi Capitals have five wins in seven matches in IPL 2021.

Just breathtaking: Kevin Pietersen lauds Mayank Agarwal's 99-run knock on IPL captaincy debut

<p>Shubman Gill earned the respect of several cricketing stalwarts after his heroics against Australia in the Test series earlier this year. However, the 21-year-old has been unable to continue his sublime form from England series.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-pat-cummins-to-sachin-tendulkar-cricketing-stalwarts-who-donated-in-indias-fight-against-covid-19-381735" hreflang="en">From Pat Cummins to Sachin Tendulkar: Cricketing stalwarts who donated in India's fight against COVID-19</a></p>

<p>Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen also was impressed with Shubman Gill's knocks on Australian soil. However, he has not been impressed with his recent knocks in the ongoing IPL. In the current season, Shubman Gill has had an underwhelming impact.&nbsp;He scored 15, 33, 21, 0, 11, 9 and 43 for KKR in the past seven matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Let's talk a little bit about Shubman Gill because I think that guy is so good. I absolutely love him as a player. I've been watching him quite closely recently and I think Gill needs to get a little busy at the crease. If he can do that, he can then get himself going. He just seems so lazy," Pietersen said on the Star Sports pre-match show.</p>

<p>"Some of his dismissals. Some of his dismissals are really low and it looks like he doesn't really fit the speed of the game. You can get as a batter very lazy and I think he's too lazy at the moment. He's too accommodating. I'd just like him to get a little bit busier and more proactive. Then he won't miss those balls on his legs and start hitting them. I want to see purpose when he bats," the former England captain explained.</p>


Shubman Gill earned the respect of several cricketing stalwarts after his heroics against Australia in the Test series earlier this year. However, the 21-year-old has been unable to continue his sublime form from England series.

Shubman Gill earned the respect of several cricketing stalwarts after his heroics against Australia in the Test series earlier this year. However, the 21-year-old has been unable to continue his sublime form from England series. IN PICS: From Pat Cummins to Sachin Tendulkar: Cricketing stalwarts who donated in India's fight against COVID-19 Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen also was impressed with Shubman Gill's knocks on Australian soil. However, he has not been impressed with his recent knocks in the ongoing IPL. In the current season, Shubman Gill has had an underwhelming impact. He scored 15, 33, 21, 0, 11, 9 and 43 for KKR in the past seven matches. "Let's talk a little bit about Shubman Gill because I think that guy is so good. I absolutely love him as a player. I've been watching him quite closely recently and I think Gill needs to get a little busy at the crease. If he can do that, he can then get himself going. He just seems so lazy," Pietersen said on the Star Sports pre-match show. "Some of his dismissals. Some of his dismissals are really low and it looks like he doesn't really fit the speed of the game. You can get as a batter very lazy and I think he's too lazy at the moment. He's too accommodating. I'd just like him to get a little bit busier and more proactive. Then he won't miss those balls on his legs and start hitting them. I want to see purpose when he bats," the former England captain explained.

IPL 2021- 'He just seems so lazy': Kevin Pietersen on Shubman Gill's underwhelming form

<p class="MsoNormal">Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has said that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be “very competitive” in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. CSK, after suffering their worst-ever IPL season, have started the IPL 2021 campaign strongly with three wins in four matches recorded by the MS Dhoni-led outfit. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Pietersen has now said that Moeen Ali and Faf du Plessis coming into form has changed the perspective of how other teams and fans are looking at the three-time IPL winners. Pietersen further lauded the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja, and ‘master captain’ MS Dhoni for managing to start the IPL 2021 campaign in such a good form. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The former England captain added that people weren’t fancying CSK much ahead of the T20 tournament but their form and experience of most of the players have made people change their opinions about the Yellow Army.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-maxwell-to-dhawan-five-players-who-have-rocked-ipl-2021-so-far-379570" hreflang="en">From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">He told Betway: “In T20 cricket, you only need a couple of players to be in really good form to get you over the line. I know from experience of playing in these teams that if a couple of batsmen are whacking it out of the park and a couple of bowlers are picking up wickets then they can drag everybody else with them. And so, even though Chennai Super Kings weren’t fancied coming into the IPL, guys like Moeen Ali and Faf Du Plessis coming into form was always going to turn that situation around. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Ruturaj Gaikwad looks good, Sam Curran is doing the business and MS Dhoni is a masterful captain. Then they’ve got the superstar Ravi Jadeja who seems to be here, there and everywhere. They’ve got really good players, fantastic T20 players, and it’s only taken a few of them to hit form to get them going. They look very competitive in this IPL now.”</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-ravindra-jadeja-smashes-37-runs-in-an-over-against-harshal-patel-twitterati-go-crazy-380140" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- Ravindra Jadeja smashes 37 runs in an over against Harshal Patel, Twitterati go crazy</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">CSK, if they win against RCB, will have four wins in five matches in what will be their one of the best starts to an IPL campaign. However, RCB pose a real challenge having won all their four games so far.<o:p></o:p></p>


Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has said that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be “very competitive” in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. CSK, after suffering their worst-ever IPL season, have started the IPL 2021 campaign strongly with three wins in four matches recorded by the MS Dhoni-led outfit.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has said that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be “very competitive” in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. CSK, after suffering their worst-ever IPL season, have started the IPL 2021 campaign strongly with three wins in four matches recorded by the MS Dhoni-led outfit. Pietersen has now said that Moeen Ali and Faf du Plessis coming into form has changed the perspective of how other teams and fans are looking at the three-time IPL winners. Pietersen further lauded the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja, and ‘master captain’ MS Dhoni for managing to start the IPL 2021 campaign in such a good form. The former England captain added that people weren’t fancying CSK much ahead of the T20 tournament but their form and experience of most of the players have made people change their opinions about the Yellow Army. ALSO READ: From Maxwell to Dhawan: Five players who have rocked IPL 2021 so far He told Betway: “In T20 cricket, you only need a couple of players to be in really good form to get you over the line. I know from experience of playing in these teams that if a couple of batsmen are whacking it out of the park and a couple of bowlers are picking up wickets then they can drag everybody else with them. And so, even though Chennai Super Kings weren’t fancied coming into the IPL, guys like Moeen Ali and Faf Du Plessis coming into form was always going to turn that situation around. “Ruturaj Gaikwad looks good, Sam Curran is doing the business and MS Dhoni is a masterful captain. Then they’ve got the superstar Ravi Jadeja who seems to be here, there and everywhere. They’ve got really good players, fantastic T20 players, and it’s only taken a few of them to hit form to get them going. They look very competitive in this IPL now.” ALSO READ: IPL 2021- Ravindra Jadeja smashes 37 runs in an over against Harshal Patel, Twitterati go crazy CSK, if they win against RCB, will have four wins in five matches in what will be their one of the best starts to an IPL campaign. However, RCB pose a real challenge having won all their four games so far.

Kevin Pietersen rates Chennai Super Kings' chances of winning IPL 2021

<p>Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen trusts Chris Morris doesn't carry anything extraordinary to the table for his establishment in the IPL. Kevin Pietersen additionally believes that the Rajasthan Royals overpaid for the South African all-rounder at the last sale in February 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chris Morris as of late turned into the most costly part in IPL closeout history when the Rajasthan Royals got his administrations for an astounding Rs 16.25 crore. In any case, Kevin Pietersen isn't intrigued by the all-rounder and featured that the South African isn't even in the retribution for his national team.</p>

<p>In general, Morris has played 74 games in his IPL career, scoring 599 runs at an average of 23.96, while his strike rate peruses a great 157.63.&nbsp;With the ball, Morris has guaranteed 85 wickets in 74 games at an economy of 7.92</p>

<p>"He’s not a first choice for the South African side. So, I think we’re expecting too much. There’s too much talk about him. I don’t think he’s the kind of guy that’s going to consistently deliver. I mean this with the greatest deal of respect, there’s nothing special about what he does, and if he does run-in, he’ll run-in for two games. And then he’ll go missing for a few games and it’s not the kind of thing that you should be seeing. He has the attributes," said, Kevin Pietersen on Star Sports Select Dugout.</p>

<p>Kevin Pietersen likewise believes the Rajasthan Royals overpaid to obtain Chris Morris<br />
"This is going to sound harsh, but he went for a lot more money than I would have ever paid for, to be completely honest. I just don’t think that he’s worth that kind of number. I think there’s pressure on him," he added.</p>

<p>The Rajasthan Royals have lost 3 of their initial 4 games this season. Their most recent loss against the Royal Challengers Bangalore displayed their absence of profundity and expertise in the bowling division as the Bangalore establishment pursued 178 without losing a wicket in 16.3 overs. Chris Morris, in the interim, went for 38 runs in his 3 overs against&nbsp;Royal Challengers Bangalore.</p>

<p>Chris Morris scored a quickfire 36* off 18 balls, off the last over to managed to take his team over the line against the Delhi Capitals. Kevin Pietersen may have descended intensely on Chris Morris however the South African is the reason behind why the Rajasthan Royals have one triumph to their name this season.</p>


Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen trusts Chris Morris doesn't carry anything extraordinary to the table for his establishment in the IPL. Kevin Pietersen additionally believes that the Rajasthan Royals overpaid for the South African all-rounder at the last sale in February 2021.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen trusts Chris Morris doesn't carry anything extraordinary to the table for his establishment in the IPL. Kevin Pietersen additionally believes that the Rajasthan Royals overpaid for the South African all-rounder at the last sale in February 2021. Chris Morris as of late turned into the most costly part in IPL closeout history when the Rajasthan Royals got his administrations for an astounding Rs 16.25 crore. In any case, Kevin Pietersen isn't intrigued by the all-rounder and featured that the South African isn't even in the retribution for his national team. In general, Morris has played 74 games in his IPL career, scoring 599 runs at an average of 23.96, while his strike rate peruses a great 157.63. With the ball, Morris has guaranteed 85 wickets in 74 games at an economy of 7.92 "He’s not a first choice for the South African side. So, I think we’re expecting too much. There’s too much talk about him. I don’t think he’s the kind of guy that’s going to consistently deliver. I mean this with the greatest deal of respect, there’s nothing special about what he does, and if he does run-in, he’ll run-in for two games. And then he’ll go missing for a few games and it’s not the kind of thing that you should be seeing. He has the attributes," said, Kevin Pietersen on Star Sports Select Dugout. Kevin Pietersen likewise believes the Rajasthan Royals overpaid to obtain Chris Morris "This is going to sound harsh, but he went for a lot more money than I would have ever paid for, to be completely honest. I just don’t think that he’s worth that kind of number. I think there’s pressure on him," he added. The Rajasthan Royals have lost 3 of their initial 4 games this season. Their most recent loss against the Royal Challengers Bangalore displayed their absence of profundity and expertise in the bowling division as the Bangalore establishment pursued 178 without losing a wicket in 16.3 overs. Chris Morris, in the interim, went for 38 runs in his 3 overs against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Chris Morris scored a quickfire 36* off 18 balls, off the last over to managed to take his team over the line against the Delhi Capitals. Kevin Pietersen may have descended intensely on Chris Morris however the South African is the reason behind why the Rajasthan Royals have one triumph to their name this season.

IPL 2021:  'I just don't think that he's worth that kind of money' - Kevin Pietersen on Chris Morris

<p>Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen lauded Sanju Samson and his shots and said that he is in the 'awe of the way' the Rajasthan Royals skipper plays.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-hey-i-won-the-toss-rcb-skipper-virat-kohli-involved-in-hilarious-incident-ahead-of-rr-clash-watch-379304" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- 'Hey I won the toss': RCB skipper Virat Kohli involved in hilarious incident ahead of RR clash; WATCH</a></p>

<p>Pietersen was mighty impressed with Samson's knock against &nbsp;Punjab Kings in IPL 2021. RR failed to win the match but Samson’s 119 earned him Enlighman's praise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I just love Sanju Samson every single year. I’m just in absolute awe of the way he plays his shots and the time that he has to play shots. His century against the Punjab Kings was absolutely magnificent and he was very unlucky not to get his side over the line,” Pietersen told Betway.</p>

<p>“I talked about it a lot on commentary last year, but it’s all about consistency with Samson,” Pietersen added. ”He has a tendency to go missing in the middle of the tournament.”</p>

<p>“It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and we don’t want this to be the only innings worth talking about for a few weeks, so we should be wary that he only scored four in Rajasthan’s second match against Delhi Capitals.</p>

<p>“His responsibilities are going to another level now that he is the Royals’ captain, though, and he must also cover the hole left by Ben Stokes in that batting line-up.</p>

<p>“As captain, you start thinking about others as well as yourself, which can go one of two ways. You can lose your basics and go off the boil, but it can also liberate you because you’re not constantly thinking about your own game.</p>

<p>“When you don’t think too much about batting, a free spirit like Samson can go out there and just start tonking it everywhere. It’s yet another reminder that there is no academy in the world like the IPL,” said Pietersen.</p>


Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen lauded Sanju Samson and his shots and said that he is in the 'awe of the way' the Rajasthan Royals skipper plays. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'Hey I won the toss': RCB skipper Virat Kohli involved in hilarious incident ahead of RR clash; WATCH Pietersen was mighty impressed with Samson's knock against Punjab Kings in IPL 2021.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen lauded Sanju Samson and his shots and said that he is in the 'awe of the way' the Rajasthan Royals skipper plays. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- 'Hey I won the toss': RCB skipper Virat Kohli involved in hilarious incident ahead of RR clash; WATCH Pietersen was mighty impressed with Samson's knock against Punjab Kings in IPL 2021. RR failed to win the match but Samson’s 119 earned him Enlighman's praise. “I just love Sanju Samson every single year. I’m just in absolute awe of the way he plays his shots and the time that he has to play shots. His century against the Punjab Kings was absolutely magnificent and he was very unlucky not to get his side over the line,” Pietersen told Betway. “I talked about it a lot on commentary last year, but it’s all about consistency with Samson,” Pietersen added. ”He has a tendency to go missing in the middle of the tournament.” “It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and we don’t want this to be the only innings worth talking about for a few weeks, so we should be wary that he only scored four in Rajasthan’s second match against Delhi Capitals. “His responsibilities are going to another level now that he is the Royals’ captain, though, and he must also cover the hole left by Ben Stokes in that batting line-up. “As captain, you start thinking about others as well as yourself, which can go one of two ways. You can lose your basics and go off the boil, but it can also liberate you because you’re not constantly thinking about your own game. “When you don’t think too much about batting, a free spirit like Samson can go out there and just start tonking it everywhere. It’s yet another reminder that there is no academy in the world like the IPL,” said Pietersen.

IPL 2021- 'I just love Sanju Samson every single year': Kevin Pietersen

<p class="MsoNormal">Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has named his ‘dark horses’ to pip hot favourites Mumbai Indians to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Pietersen has said that Punjab Kings can challenge Mumbai Indians for the coveted trophy following a winning start to the T20 tournament.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Interestingly, Punjab are one of the few franchises that are yet to win the IPL trophy while failing to qualify for the playoffs 11 times in 13 attempts. However, Pietersen opined that the addition of Australian pacer Jhye Richardson and the option of having KL Rahul and Chris Gayle at the top make the Punjab franchise ‘dark horses’ to win their maiden IPL trophy.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“Mumbai Indians will always be the favourites because of their pedigree,” Pietersen told Betway.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-explains-why-modern-cricketers-like-rishabh-pant-and-hardik-pandya-are-fearless-377341" hreflang="en">Sourav Ganguly explains why modern cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya are fearless</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“They have won four of the last six IPLs and come in with some of the best players once again. I’m really interested to see how the Punjab Kings go, though. ‘Last year they lost that one Super Over at the start of the competition and it seemed to set them back, but their form at the end of the season was decent. <o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“KL Rahul and Chris Gayle are very impressive options at the top and they’ve spent lots of money on the Aussie quick Jhye Richardson. I think they might be the dark horses this year.”<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The IPL is back in India for the 14th edition of the tournament after holding it in the United Arab Emirates last year.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brian-lara-gives-his-verdict-on-sanju-samsons-decision-to-refuse-morris-a-single-vs-pbks-377322" hreflang="en">Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS</a></strong><o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Pietersen added: “For the interest of the viewers and everything associated with the brand, it’s crucial for teams to be playing in their own country.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">“The BCCI did brilliantly to get the 2020 IPL on in UAE, but this is where the tournament belongs and it’s brilliant that it’s back. It is a shame that things aren’t quite back to normal yet, though. None of the teams will be playing in their home stadiums and, obviously, there won’t be any fans present at the matches.” <o:p></o:p></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:
EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">Pietersen had earlier said that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) would fail to win the IPL trophy yet again.</span></p>


Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has named his ‘dark horses’ to pip hot favourites Mumbai Indians to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Pietersen has said that Punjab Kings can challenge Mumbai Indians for the coveted trophy following a winning start to the T20 tournament.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has named his ‘dark horses’ to pip hot favourites Mumbai Indians to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Pietersen has said that Punjab Kings can challenge Mumbai Indians for the coveted trophy following a winning start to the T20 tournament. Interestingly, Punjab are one of the few franchises that are yet to win the IPL trophy while failing to qualify for the playoffs 11 times in 13 attempts. However, Pietersen opined that the addition of Australian pacer Jhye Richardson and the option of having KL Rahul and Chris Gayle at the top make the Punjab franchise ‘dark horses’ to win their maiden IPL trophy. “Mumbai Indians will always be the favourites because of their pedigree,” Pietersen told Betway. ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly explains why modern cricketers like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya are fearless “They have won four of the last six IPLs and come in with some of the best players once again. I’m really interested to see how the Punjab Kings go, though. ‘Last year they lost that one Super Over at the start of the competition and it seemed to set them back, but their form at the end of the season was decent. “KL Rahul and Chris Gayle are very impressive options at the top and they’ve spent lots of money on the Aussie quick Jhye Richardson. I think they might be the dark horses this year.” The IPL is back in India for the 14th edition of the tournament after holding it in the United Arab Emirates last year. ALSO READ: Brian Lara gives his verdict on Sanju Samson's decision to refuse Morris a single vs PBKS Pietersen added: “For the interest of the viewers and everything associated with the brand, it’s crucial for teams to be playing in their own country. “The BCCI did brilliantly to get the 2020 IPL on in UAE, but this is where the tournament belongs and it’s brilliant that it’s back. It is a shame that things aren’t quite back to normal yet, though. None of the teams will be playing in their home stadiums and, obviously, there won’t be any fans present at the matches.” Pietersen had earlier said that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) would fail to win the IPL trophy yet again.

Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021

<p>Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Indian Premier League is the "biggest show in town" and other cricket boards should realise that no international game should be scheduled while the cash-T20 league is played.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/english-batsman-ollie-pope-reveals-skipper-virat-kohlis-warning-during-first-test-374978" hreflang="en">English batsman Ollie Pope reveals skipper Virat Kohli's warning during first Test</a></p>

<p>"Cricket boards need to realise that the @IPL is the biggest show in town. DO NOT schedule ANY international games whilst it's on. V v v simple!," Pietersen tweeted.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Cricket boards need to realise that the <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> is the biggest show in town.<br />
<br />
DO NOT schedule ANY international games whilst it’s on.<br />
<br />
V v v simple!</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1377961629187457024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>England Cricket Board (ECB) and New Zealand Cricket have publicly said that they will provide a window for their players so that they could experience pressure situations while playing along with big names in the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>14 english cricketers are set to feature in this year's Indian Premier League. The list includes England skipper Eoin Morgan, Jos Buttler, Stokes, Johnny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Tom Curran, Sam Billings, Liam Livingstone and no.1 T20I batsman Dawid Malan. Jofra Archer is likely to miss half of the season after a serious shoulder injury.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League will kick off on April 9 with defending champions Mumbai Indians facing Royal Challengers Bangalore. Out of the 56 league matches, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata &amp; Bengaluru will host 10 matches each while Ahmedabad and Delhi will host 8 matches each.</p>


Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Indian Premier League is the "biggest show in town" and other cricket boards should realise that no international game should be scheduled while the cash-T20 league is played.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that Indian Premier League is the "biggest show in town" and other cricket boards should realise that no international game should be scheduled while the cash-T20 league is played. ALSO READ: English batsman Ollie Pope reveals skipper Virat Kohli's warning during first Test "Cricket boards need to realise that the @IPL is the biggest show in town. DO NOT schedule ANY international games whilst it's on. V v v simple!," Pietersen tweeted. Cricket boards need to realise that the @IPL is the biggest show in town. DO NOT schedule ANY international games whilst it’s on. V v v simple! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) April 2, 2021 × England Cricket Board (ECB) and New Zealand Cricket have publicly said that they will provide a window for their players so that they could experience pressure situations while playing along with big names in the game. 14 english cricketers are set to feature in this year's Indian Premier League. The list includes England skipper Eoin Morgan, Jos Buttler, Stokes, Johnny Bairstow, Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Tom Curran, Sam Billings, Liam Livingstone and no.1 T20I batsman Dawid Malan. Jofra Archer is likely to miss half of the season after a serious shoulder injury. The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League will kick off on April 9 with defending champions Mumbai Indians facing Royal Challengers Bangalore. Out of the 56 league matches, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata & Bengaluru will host 10 matches each while Ahmedabad and Delhi will host 8 matches each.

'IPL is biggest show in town': Kevin Pietersen urges cricket board not to schedule any international games

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3a30260f-aa52-4953-a99e-99d549076707}{138}" paraid="1304940947" >Kevin Pietersen on Wednesday said that it would be a dream come true to see India and Pakistan engage both on and off the field as the former England captain replied to a tweet by Indian Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi where&nbsp;he wished Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a speedy recovery after contracting COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{52e5703a-de27-4908-8a55-609a4ee2031e}{171}" paraid="358337813" >Imran Khan, a former Pakistan captain and now the Prime Minister of Pakistan, had tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e78f33fc-3afa-4d61-83ec-25707af72bce}{2}" paraid="2075213849" >Pietersen, while quote retweeting PM Modi's tweet, wrote that that the response by the Indian prime minister made him smile while adding that "we all need each other and this year has shown us that".&nbsp;The former England batsman, who was recently in India for the Road Safety World Series, further said that he hopes a healthy friendship is on its way.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a6aa31da-d113-46d1-b12e-2a48d7a3500b}{2}" paraid="48622787" >“This tweet by @narendramodi&nbsp;to&nbsp;@ImranKhanPTI&nbsp;made me smile! It would be a dream come true, to see India &amp; Pak reunited and engaging both on &amp; off the field! We all need each other &amp; this year has shown us that!” Pietersen tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a6aa31da-d113-46d1-b12e-2a48d7a3500b}{5}" paraid="1849928460" >“Let’s all hope a healthy friendship is on its way!”&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a6aa31da-d113-46d1-b12e-2a48d7a3500b}{5}" paraid="1849928460" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-t20i-series-a-possibility-with-a-six-day-window-in-2021-report-372785" hreflang="en">India vs Pakistan T20I series a possibility with a six-day window in 2021: Report</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This tweet by <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> made me smile!<br />
It would be a dream come true, to see India &amp; Pak reunited and engaging both on &amp; off the field!<br />
We all need each other &amp; this year has shown us that!<br />
<br />
Let’s all hope a healthy friendship is on its way!<br />
<br />
🙏🏽 <a href="https://t.co/jECZLQCDlI">https://t.co/jECZLQCDlI</a></p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1374729147109507074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Earlier on March 20, PM Modi had wished Imran Khan a speedy recovery from COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e78f33fc-3afa-4d61-83ec-25707af72bce}{13}" paraid="997061103" >“Best wishes to Prime Minister @ImranKhanPTI for a speedy recovery from COVID-19,” PM Modi tweeted.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9e4ba146-8299-4542-9b46-1e6a8272f24c}{70}" paraid="755661923" >Notably, Pakistan PM Khan had taken his first COVID-19 jab on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{9e4ba146-8299-4542-9b46-1e6a8272f24c}{70}" paraid="755661923" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-out-of-england-odis-likely-to-miss-entire-ipl-2021-372840" hreflang="en">Shreyas Iyer out of England ODIs, likely to miss entire IPL 2021</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4c7860ae-6552-4b38-92a8-116080aeb28f}{235}" paraid="1541063472" >Meanwhile, there have been reports in Pakistan media that there have been talks on resuming bilateral cricket ties between the&nbsp;two countries and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have been told to be prepared for a bilateral&nbsp;series later this year. A six-day window could be opened up for a short T20I series in 2021, according to a report in Jang.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{42424451-84ea-4c66-92a6-e409b2f58349}{137}" paraid="905025880" >India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2012/13.&nbsp;</p>


Kevin Pietersen on Wednesday said that it would be a dream come true to see India and Pakistan engage both on and off the field as the former England captain replied to a tweet by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi where he wished Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a speedy recovery after contracting COVID-19.

Kevin Pietersen on Wednesday said that it would be a dream come true to see India and Pakistan engage both on and off the field as the former England captain replied to a tweet by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi where he wished Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan a speedy recovery after contracting COVID-19. Imran Khan, a former Pakistan captain and now the Prime Minister of Pakistan, had tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday. Pietersen, while quote retweeting PM Modi's tweet, wrote that that the response by the Indian prime minister made him smile while adding that "we all need each other and this year has shown us that". The former England batsman, who was recently in India for the Road Safety World Series, further said that he hopes a healthy friendship is on its way. “This tweet by @narendramodi to @ImranKhanPTI made me smile! It would be a dream come true, to see India & Pak reunited and engaging both on & off the field! We all need each other & this year has shown us that!” Pietersen tweeted. “Let’s all hope a healthy friendship is on its way!” ALSO READ: India vs Pakistan T20I series a possibility with a six-day window in 2021: Report This tweet by @narendramodi to @ImranKhanPTI made me smile! It would be a dream come true, to see India & Pak reunited and engaging both on & off the field! We all need each other & this year has shown us that! Let’s all hope a healthy friendship is on its way! 🙏🏽 https://t.co/jECZLQCDlI — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) March 24, 2021 × Earlier on March 20, PM Modi had wished Imran Khan a speedy recovery from COVID-19. “Best wishes to Prime Minister @ImranKhanPTI for a speedy recovery from COVID-19,” PM Modi tweeted. Notably, Pakistan PM Khan had taken his first COVID-19 jab on Thursday. ALSO READ: Shreyas Iyer out of England ODIs, likely to miss entire IPL 2021 Meanwhile, there have been reports in Pakistan media that there have been talks on resuming bilateral cricket ties between the two countries and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have been told to be prepared for a bilateral series later this year. A six-day window could be opened up for a short T20I series in 2021, according to a report in Jang. India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2012/13.

'Would be a dream come true': Kevin Pietersen replies to PM Modi, backs resumption of India vs Pakistan series

<p>Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that star all-rounder Ben Stokes should be promoted in the batting order in the T20I format as his talent is "completely wasted" batting down the order and being a part-time bowler.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/like-when-sachin-tendulkar-sunil-gavaskar-talks-about-virat-kohli-as-an-opener-372037" hreflang="en">'Like when Sachin Tendulkar...': Sunil Gavaskar talks about Virat Kohli as an opener</a></p>

<p>Stokes came in to bat at No.6 during the fifth T20I match against India. He came in to bat when England were down and out while chasing a mammoth total for 225 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The partnership between Jos Buttler and Dawid Malan gave England hopes of winning the decider. However, Buttler's dismissal led to a batting collapse in England's batting order.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pietersen took to social media and said: "Ben Stokes is completely wasted at 6 as a batter and bowling part-time. Bairstow in T20’s is an opener. If he doesn’t open, Stokes bats 4!"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ben Stokes is completely wasted at 6 as a batter and bowling part time.<br />
<br />
Bairstow in T20’s is an opener.<br />
<br />
If he doesn’t open, Stokes bats 4!</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1373322401778434061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Eoin Morgan revealed that the series was a learning experience for him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Playing against a strong Indian team in their conditions was fantastic. Another fantastic game today. India outplayed us in big moments and deserved to win. We've played some good cricket through the series too. So lots of positives for us," he said at the post-match presentation ceremony.</p>

<p>"We bat quite deep, and we tend to take advantage of that. Big moments in this series came when we weren't able to take advantage of that with our middle order. Always feel we have the talent in the changing room to give it a crack.</p>

<p>"Today wasn't our day. One of our huge plusses has been the powerplay bowling in most games. Have to commend Adil Rashid for taking on the new role. Gives us a new option. Not really (any concerns)," he signed off.</p>


Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that star all-rounder Ben Stokes should be promoted in the batting order in the T20I format as his talent is "completely wasted" batting down the order and being a part-time bowler.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen feels that star all-rounder Ben Stokes should be promoted in the batting order in the T20I format as his talent is "completely wasted" batting down the order and being a part-time bowler. ALSO READ: 'Like when Sachin Tendulkar...': Sunil Gavaskar talks about Virat Kohli as an opener Stokes came in to bat at No.6 during the fifth T20I match against India. He came in to bat when England were down and out while chasing a mammoth total for 225 runs. The partnership between Jos Buttler and Dawid Malan gave England hopes of winning the decider. However, Buttler's dismissal led to a batting collapse in England's batting order. Pietersen took to social media and said: "Ben Stokes is completely wasted at 6 as a batter and bowling part-time. Bairstow in T20’s is an opener. If he doesn’t open, Stokes bats 4!" Ben Stokes is completely wasted at 6 as a batter and bowling part time. Bairstow in T20’s is an opener. If he doesn’t open, Stokes bats 4! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) March 20, 2021 × Eoin Morgan revealed that the series was a learning experience for him. "Playing against a strong Indian team in their conditions was fantastic. Another fantastic game today. India outplayed us in big moments and deserved to win. We've played some good cricket through the series too. So lots of positives for us," he said at the post-match presentation ceremony. "We bat quite deep, and we tend to take advantage of that. Big moments in this series came when we weren't able to take advantage of that with our middle order. Always feel we have the talent in the changing room to give it a crack. "Today wasn't our day. One of our huge plusses has been the powerplay bowling in most games. Have to commend Adil Rashid for taking on the new role. Gives us a new option. Not really (any concerns)," he signed off.

'Ben Stokes is completely wasted at 6 as a batter and bowling part-time': Kevin Pietersen

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{44584cd1-c5a8-45aa-9f65-f60e2a3cfd78}{215}" paraid="1621230787" >The Road Safety World Series T20 has turned the clock back for not only legends of the game but also for all cricket lovers. With teams like India Legends, England Legends, Sri Lanka Legends, South Africa Legends among others participating in the tournament, former cricketers have left no stones unturned to bring their A-game to the field.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{e5bc5c51-dac2-4732-bcd8-1bb1b35d800d}{2}" paraid="834855757" >The much-awaited match between India Legends and England Legends didn’t disappoint the fans as it ended up being a last-over spectacle.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{bd7f6a90-2009-46a8-8f56-e17b9e135c9f}{213}" paraid="103854740" >While the likes of Kevin Pietersen, Monty Panesar, Irfan Pathan and Manpreet&nbsp;Gony&nbsp;stole the show with their performances, there was a sense of Deja-vu as many witnessed legends lock horns in an intense battle. England Legends ended up winning the match by six runs after an onslaught by Irfan and&nbsp;Gony.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deja vu, boys are still buzzing from the amazing game last night. No wonder <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> is the best T20 league in the world. India is the place to be. <a href="https://twitter.com/RSWorldSeries?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RSWorldSeries</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KP24</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BrianLara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrianLara</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RyanSidebottom?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RyanSidebottom</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Hoggy602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Hoggy602</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/jimmyt20?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jimmyt20</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/scho?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@scho</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sonamakapoor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sonamakapoor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/karanjohar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@karanjohar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KapilSharmaK9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KapilSharmaK9</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/IhInhtwUqz">pic.twitter.com/IhInhtwUqz</a></p>
— Monty Panesar (@MontyPanesar) <a href="https://twitter.com/MontyPanesar/status/1369518301420736512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>For England Legends, the star with the ball was Monty Panesar as the left-arm spinner scalped three wickets in his four-over spell while conceding just 15 runs. Panesar's wickets included the likes of&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar, Mohammad Kaif and Yuvraj Singh as the England spinner bamboozled the India Legends.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{29dc39c0-f8d3-4292-b87e-736ec0743bf5}{48}" paraid="1747074513" >Panesar, who had dismissed Tendulkar five times in international cricket&nbsp;(four&nbsp;times in Test cricket&nbsp;and once in ODI cricket), got the better of the Master Blaster once again in the Road Safety&nbsp;World&nbsp;Series T20&nbsp;and ended up silencing the crowd in Raipur.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{29dc39c0-f8d3-4292-b87e-736ec0743bf5}{48}" paraid="1747074513" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-test-championship-final-to-be-held-at-hampshire-bowl-in-southampton-icc-369392" hreflang="en">World Test Championship final to be held at Hampshire Bowl in Southampton: ICC</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{11c229f0-5e34-4f21-afc3-873e45fd3a05}{141}" paraid="117348668" >“It was an absolute pleasure to play against&nbsp;Sachin&nbsp;Tendulkar again. To watch him go about his things is education itself. He is the greatest athlete ever and to get him out one more time was a huge&nbsp;honour. I don’t have many words to explain how I felt bowling at him again. I am still having goosebumps,” Monty Panesar told WION in an exclusive interview.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{11c229f0-5e34-4f21-afc3-873e45fd3a05}{141}" paraid="117348668" ><img alt="Sachin Monty" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a6c20ca-7111-4f07-a6a4-73db11c94ace" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EwDKo4YU8AUtQ97.jpg" /></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b9811373-e617-4dd7-9e1c-fcd2d5c5a03f}{22}" paraid="1129697929" >“The way&nbsp;the crowd started cheering when India Legends&nbsp;were&nbsp;taking the field, it was phenomenal. Even when Kevin Pietersen was smashing it all over the park, the&nbsp;crowd&nbsp;was tremendous. It became a bit silent after early dismissals during India Legends but they&nbsp;found their voice back when Irfan Pathan and Manpreet&nbsp;Gony&nbsp;intensified the run-chase,” Panesar said about the crowd in Raipur.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{239b5d59-a87f-4ea5-ab9b-9a9f19b497a2}{57}" paraid="1554861954" >“To play in India is always great. I always say it is the best place to play cricket. The crowd, the quality and intensity are unparalleled. The pitches here are so good for white-ball cricket. We as a bunch are loving it.”&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f84f847f-d70d-4b4e-8141-bc0c75e1c673}{13}" paraid="1140638901" >Monty's fitness and bowling performances in the ongoing Road Safety World Series have been lauded by many. While in England Legends' first match against Bangladesh Legends, Monty bowled an economical spell of 4 overs and gave away just 15, he looked at his best against India Legends.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f84f847f-d70d-4b4e-8141-bc0c75e1c673}{71}" paraid="1956901040" >“I have to credit our skipper Kevin Pietersen for it. The way he has led the side in a composed manner&nbsp;and allowed me and other bowlers the freedom have to be applauded. I have watched a lot of cricket over the last couple of years and to bring that on the field again was a terrific feeling,” Panesar said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f84f847f-d70d-4b4e-8141-bc0c75e1c673}{71}" paraid="1956901040" ><img alt="England Legends" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ca15f951-d3d1-4acd-9129-6954e954ac32" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EwDMrSQXIAMv4GO.jpg" /></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f84f847f-d70d-4b4e-8141-bc0c75e1c673}{71}" paraid="1956901040" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-turned-to-rahul-dravid-and-asked-sam-billings-recalls-watching-rishabh-pant-for-first-time-369165" hreflang="en">'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{94f446f8-ce2f-4b79-a73a-0a70e8c12e7f}{145}" paraid="260002890" >When asked whether he would be available to play professional cricket again, Panesar said: “Yes, I would. I am fit enough to be part of franchise cricket and I feel I am in good rhythm as well. It would be great if an IPL franchise or some other team in the world pick me up. I am ready to prove myself if given a chance in professional cricket. I would be more than&nbsp;delighted,” Panesar&nbsp;quipped.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{239b5d59-a87f-4ea5-ab9b-9a9f19b497a2}{44}" paraid="1841441486" >The England spinner, who&nbsp;has 167 wickets in Test cricket and in 50 appearances for England, thanked the crowd for coming in and supporting the Legends.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{239b5d59-a87f-4ea5-ab9b-9a9f19b497a2}{44}" paraid="1841441486" >“It has been great to see the fans coming in and supporting us. I would just say keep supporting us but keep the COVID-19 protocols in mind. The fans have been tremendous so far and hopefully, we will keep on getting the love for the remainder of the tournament,” Monty concluded.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f84f847f-d70d-4b4e-8141-bc0c75e1c673}{54}" paraid="1054098348" >&nbsp;</p>


The Road Safety World Series T20 has turned the clock back for not only legends of the game but also for all cricket lovers. With teams like India Legends, England Legends, Sri Lanka Legends, South Africa Legends among others participating in the tournament, former cricketers have left no stones unturned to bring their A-game to the field.

The Road Safety World Series T20 has turned the clock back for not only legends of the game but also for all cricket lovers. With teams like India Legends, England Legends, Sri Lanka Legends, South Africa Legends among others participating in the tournament, former cricketers have left no stones unturned to bring their A-game to the field. The much-awaited match between India Legends and England Legends didn’t disappoint the fans as it ended up being a last-over spectacle. While the likes of Kevin Pietersen, Monty Panesar, Irfan Pathan and Manpreet Gony stole the show with their performances, there was a sense of Deja-vu as many witnessed legends lock horns in an intense battle. England Legends ended up winning the match by six runs after an onslaught by Irfan and Gony. Deja vu, boys are still buzzing from the amazing game last night. No wonder @IPL is the best T20 league in the world. India is the place to be. @RSWorldSeries @sachin_rt @KP24 @BrianLara @RyanSidebottom @Hoggy602 @jimmyt20 @scho @sonamakapoor @karanjohar @KapilSharmaK9 #Cricket pic.twitter.com/IhInhtwUqz — Monty Panesar (@MontyPanesar) March 10, 2021 × For England Legends, the star with the ball was Monty Panesar as the left-arm spinner scalped three wickets in his four-over spell while conceding just 15 runs. Panesar's wickets included the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Mohammad Kaif and Yuvraj Singh as the England spinner bamboozled the India Legends. Panesar, who had dismissed Tendulkar five times in international cricket (four times in Test cricket and once in ODI cricket), got the better of the Master Blaster once again in the Road Safety World Series T20 and ended up silencing the crowd in Raipur. ALSO READ: World Test Championship final to be held at Hampshire Bowl in Southampton: ICC “It was an absolute pleasure to play against Sachin Tendulkar again. To watch him go about his things is education itself. He is the greatest athlete ever and to get him out one more time was a huge honour. I don’t have many words to explain how I felt bowling at him again. I am still having goosebumps,” Monty Panesar told WION in an exclusive interview. “The way the crowd started cheering when India Legends were taking the field, it was phenomenal. Even when Kevin Pietersen was smashing it all over the park, the crowd was tremendous. It became a bit silent after early dismissals during India Legends but they found their voice back when Irfan Pathan and Manpreet Gony intensified the run-chase,” Panesar said about the crowd in Raipur. “To play in India is always great. I always say it is the best place to play cricket. The crowd, the quality and intensity are unparalleled. The pitches here are so good for white-ball cricket. We as a bunch are loving it.” Monty's fitness and bowling performances in the ongoing Road Safety World Series have been lauded by many. While in England Legends' first match against Bangladesh Legends, Monty bowled an economical spell of 4 overs and gave away just 15, he looked at his best against India Legends. “I have to credit our skipper Kevin Pietersen for it. The way he has led the side in a composed manner and allowed me and other bowlers the freedom have to be applauded. I have watched a lot of cricket over the last couple of years and to bring that on the field again was a terrific feeling,” Panesar said. ALSO READ: 'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time When asked whether he would be available to play professional cricket again, Panesar said: “Yes, I would. I am fit enough to be part of franchise cricket and I feel I am in good rhythm as well. It would be great if an IPL franchise or some other team in the world pick me up. I am ready to prove myself if given a chance in professional cricket. I would be more than delighted,” Panesar quipped. The England spinner, who has 167 wickets in Test cricket and in 50 appearances for England, thanked the crowd for coming in and supporting the Legends. “It has been great to see the fans coming in and supporting us. I would just say keep supporting us but keep the COVID-19 protocols in mind. The fans have been tremendous so far and hopefully, we will keep on getting the love for the remainder of the tournament,” Monty concluded.

Monty Panesar: Sachin Tendulkar is the greatest athlete ever, to play against him is huge honour

<p>Joe Root has come under fire for no show with the bat after England's disappointing series loss against India despite scoring a double ton in the first Test. However, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen defended the 30-year-old.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per Pietersen, Root is currently the best player in the English team. Pietersen also reminded Root's critics that the England skipper had scored match-winning centuries in India and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Sometimes, as a captain, you got a lot to deal with. You’ve got a tremendous amount of things to deal with and being the best player in the team, you also need to try and lead by example," Pietersen said during a virtual press conference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Root smashed a record double-ton in the first Test match at Chennai and guided his team to a mammoth win by 227 runs against India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Don’t forget, Joe Root scored a double hundred, then a big hundred (both versus Sri Lanka) and again a double hundred in India. He scored plenty of runs over the last six to eight weeks, so let’s not point a finger at Root. Rather, let’s point a finger at the other batters, as some of them couldn’t even aggregate 100 runs in the six weeks that they have been here," Pietersen added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kevin Pietersen added that Root is a great servant of the game and is a 'fabulous' player who is 'fantastic' both on and off the field. "So let’s just keep calm with him and instead have a look at the technique of the other players,” Pietersen added.&nbsp;</p>


Joe Root has come under fire for no show with the bat after England's disappointing series loss against India despite scoring a double ton in the first Test. However, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen defended the 30-year-old.

Joe Root has come under fire for no show with the bat after England's disappointing series loss against India despite scoring a double ton in the first Test. However, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen defended the 30-year-old. As per Pietersen, Root is currently the best player in the English team. Pietersen also reminded Root's critics that the England skipper had scored match-winning centuries in India and Sri Lanka. “Sometimes, as a captain, you got a lot to deal with. You’ve got a tremendous amount of things to deal with and being the best player in the team, you also need to try and lead by example," Pietersen said during a virtual press conference. Root smashed a record double-ton in the first Test match at Chennai and guided his team to a mammoth win by 227 runs against India. "Don’t forget, Joe Root scored a double hundred, then a big hundred (both versus Sri Lanka) and again a double hundred in India. He scored plenty of runs over the last six to eight weeks, so let’s not point a finger at Root. Rather, let’s point a finger at the other batters, as some of them couldn’t even aggregate 100 runs in the six weeks that they have been here," Pietersen added. Kevin Pietersen added that Root is a great servant of the game and is a 'fabulous' player who is 'fantastic' both on and off the field. "So let’s just keep calm with him and instead have a look at the technique of the other players,” Pietersen added.

'Don’t forget, Joe Root scored a double hundred': Kevin Pietersen defends England skipper

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7f0f25cf-5941-4853-b916-7924b29e46c6}{38}" paraid="1438528534" >Devon Conway on Monday stole the show in the first T20I of the five-match series against Australia at the Hagley Oval as he smashed an unbeaten 99 off just 59 deliveries to help New Zealand post a massive total of 184 runs. Conway, who has been hammering runs in the shortest format of the game consistently, was recently overlooked in the IPL 2021 Auction with no franchise picking up the Kiwi batsman.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{06e85001-6b3e-4a6a-81d4-d90d8eb96b8a}{105}" paraid="592573152" >Following, Conway’s blistering knock, India’s Ravichandran Ashwin took to Twitter as he wrote that his knock came just four days late. Former New Zealand cricketer turned commentator Simon Doull and former England batsman Kevin Pietersen also jumped into the conversation.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4cdbff1f-b98f-4e6e-9668-fc366b08388e}{16}" paraid="1436218069" >While Doull said that New Zealand players have been constantly overlooked for “second rate” Australian cricketers whereas Pietersen said whether Conway is of South African heritage or not. Notably, Pietersen, who played international cricket for England, is of South African heritage.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{4cdbff1f-b98f-4e6e-9668-fc366b08388e}{16}" paraid="1436218069" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-james-anderson-gives-his-verdict-on-motera-stadiums-pitch-ahead-of-pink-ball-test-365455" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: James Anderson gives his verdict on Motera Stadium's pitch ahead of pink-ball Test</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{00b05a96-99c2-46a3-954f-65e23046fac0}{228}" paraid="766994437" >Conway made his T20I debut vs West Indies in November 2020. While the 29-year-old fell just short of his maiden T20I century, his last five innings have 50+ scores in the shortest format of the game. He has scored&nbsp;99*, 93*, 91*, 69* and 50 in his past five innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{53d8bd5f-abbf-4d44-8e3d-509fc2fbbb20}{247}" paraid="1437710890" >Ashwin wrote:&nbsp;&nbsp;"Devon Conway is just 4 days late, but what a knock."&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Devon Conway is just 4 days late, but what a knock 👏👏👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvNZ</a></p>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1363755742247804930?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Is Devon South African?</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1363832069030350848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>However, Conway can still be picked by an IPL franchise if they decide to buy a replacement player.&nbsp;</p>


Devon Conway on Monday stole the show in the first T20I of the five-match series against Australia at the Hagley Oval as he smashed an unbeaten 99 off just 59 deliveries to help New Zealand post a massive total of 184 runs.

Devon Conway on Monday stole the show in the first T20I of the five-match series against Australia at the Hagley Oval as he smashed an unbeaten 99 off just 59 deliveries to help New Zealand post a massive total of 184 runs. Conway, who has been hammering runs in the shortest format of the game consistently, was recently overlooked in the IPL 2021 Auction with no franchise picking up the Kiwi batsman. Following, Conway’s blistering knock, India’s Ravichandran Ashwin took to Twitter as he wrote that his knock came just four days late. Former New Zealand cricketer turned commentator Simon Doull and former England batsman Kevin Pietersen also jumped into the conversation. While Doull said that New Zealand players have been constantly overlooked for “second rate” Australian cricketers whereas Pietersen said whether Conway is of South African heritage or not. Notably, Pietersen, who played international cricket for England, is of South African heritage. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: James Anderson gives his verdict on Motera Stadium's pitch ahead of pink-ball Test Conway made his T20I debut vs West Indies in November 2020. While the 29-year-old fell just short of his maiden T20I century, his last five innings have 50+ scores in the shortest format of the game. He has scored 99*, 93*, 91*, 69* and 50 in his past five innings. Ashwin wrote: "Devon Conway is just 4 days late, but what a knock." Devon Conway is just 4 days late, but what a knock 👏👏👏 #AUSvNZ — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) February 22, 2021 × Is Devon South African? — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) February 22, 2021 × However, Conway can still be picked by an IPL franchise if they decide to buy a replacement player.

R Ashwin, Simon Doull, Kevin Pietersen react after Devon Conway's 99-run knock

<p>England on Tuesday defeated India by a crushing 227-run margin in the first Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. While the match marked an end to India’s 14-match unbeaten streak at home, former England batsman Kevin Pietersen took to social media platform to tweet in the Hindi language to celebrate and remind Indian fans of what he had said before the series started.</p>

<p>Ahead of the series, Pietersen had warned Indian fans not to celebrate the historic Test series triumph against Australia much. At that time, the former England batsman had said that the real team will arrive in India a few weeks later while adding that a lot can change within a span of two weeks.</p>

<p>England dominated the proceedings against India in Chennai to win the Test 227 runs. While skipper Joe Root celebrated his 100th Test with a cracking double century, the likes of Dom Bess and James Anderson rattled the Indian batsmen with their classy bowling display.</p>

<p>“India , yaad hai maine pehele hi chetawani di thi ke itna jasn na manaye jab aapne Australia ko unke ghar pe haraya tha,” tweeted Pietersen. (India, remember when I warned you before to refrain from celebrating too much when you had beaten Australia in their backyard).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/family-live-streams-india-vs-england-chennai-test-at-wedding-venue-photograph-goes-viral-362460" hreflang="en">Family live-streams India vs England Chennai Test at wedding venue, photograph goes viral</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">India , yaad hai maine pehele hi chetawani di thi ke itna jasn na manaye jab aapne Australia ko unke ghar pe haraya tha 😉</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1359059768082579456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“India - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai (This is a historic win, you must celebrate because it has been achieved despite all obstacles),” the ex-England captain had tweeted.</p>

<p>“LEKIN, ASLI TEAM toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein. Satark rahe, 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen (However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks),” he had written while referring to the England team.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-are-no-regrets-whatsoever-on-that-decision-virat-kohli-on-kuldeep-yadavs-omission-from-playing-xi-362444" hreflang="en">'There are no regrets whatsoever on that decision': Virat Kohli on Kuldeep Yadav's omission from playing XI</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai<br />
<br />
LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein .<br />
<br />
Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1351501549013504001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>England will now look to continue their winning run at the same venue in Chennai in the second Test, scheduled to commence from February 13 whereas India will be gunning to bounce back from the setback and level the series.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>


England on Tuesday defeated India by a crushing 227-run margin in the first Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. While the match marked an end to India’s 14-match unbeaten streak at home, former England batsman Kevin Pietersen took to social media platform to tweet in the Hindi language to celebrate and remind Indian fans of what he had said before the series started.

England on Tuesday defeated India by a crushing 227-run margin in the first Test of the four-match series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. While the match marked an end to India’s 14-match unbeaten streak at home, former England batsman Kevin Pietersen took to social media platform to tweet in the Hindi language to celebrate and remind Indian fans of what he had said before the series started. Ahead of the series, Pietersen had warned Indian fans not to celebrate the historic Test series triumph against Australia much. At that time, the former England batsman had said that the real team will arrive in India a few weeks later while adding that a lot can change within a span of two weeks. England dominated the proceedings against India in Chennai to win the Test 227 runs. While skipper Joe Root celebrated his 100th Test with a cracking double century, the likes of Dom Bess and James Anderson rattled the Indian batsmen with their classy bowling display. “India , yaad hai maine pehele hi chetawani di thi ke itna jasn na manaye jab aapne Australia ko unke ghar pe haraya tha,” tweeted Pietersen. (India, remember when I warned you before to refrain from celebrating too much when you had beaten Australia in their backyard). ALSO READ: Family live-streams India vs England Chennai Test at wedding venue, photograph goes viral India , yaad hai maine pehele hi chetawani di thi ke itna jasn na manaye jab aapne Australia ko unke ghar pe haraya tha 😉 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) February 9, 2021 × “India - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai (This is a historic win, you must celebrate because it has been achieved despite all obstacles),” the ex-England captain had tweeted. “LEKIN, ASLI TEAM toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein. Satark rahe, 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen (However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks),” he had written while referring to the England team. ALSO READ: 'There are no regrets whatsoever on that decision': Virat Kohli on Kuldeep Yadav's omission from playing XI India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 19, 2021 × England will now look to continue their winning run at the same venue in Chennai in the second Test, scheduled to commence from February 13 whereas India will be gunning to bounce back from the setback and level the series.

IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen tweets in Hindi, reminds fans of his warning following Chennai Test

<p>Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen on Tuesday praised India for its gesture of providing vaccine doses to South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lets-remain-united-sachin-tendulkar-urges-people-to-not-fall-for-propaganda-amid-farmers-protest-361115" hreflang="en">Let's remain united: Sachin Tendulkar urges people to not fall for propaganda amid farmers protest</a></p>

<p>India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar took to Twitter to announce that the vaccines have arrived in Johannesburg. He said: "In it together. Made in India vaccines land in Johannesburg, South Africa. &nbsp;#VaccineMaitri"</p>

<p>Pietersen took to social media and thanked India for the gesture and said: "Indian generosity and kindness grows more and more every single day. The beloved country!"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In it together.<br />
Made in India vaccines land in Johannesburg, South Africa. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaccineMaitri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaccineMaitri</a> <a href="https://t.co/O9kWj6qVV9">pic.twitter.com/O9kWj6qVV9</a></p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1356234844850819073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>In another tweet, the English batsman said: "India has taught me so much and also given me so much, throughout my career. I’ve felt the love, passion, energy and hospitality that not many other countries can compare with. The world is seeing its care with the delivery of the vaccine to SA this week."</p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi replied to the English batsman and said: "Glad to see your affection towards India. :) We believe that the world is our family and want to play our role in strengthening the fight against COVID-19."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Glad to see your affection towards India. :)<br />
<br />
We believe that the world is our family and want to play our role in strengthening the fight against COVID-19. <a href="https://t.co/zwpB3CNxLG">https://t.co/zwpB3CNxLG</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1356980689531400192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>As per ‘Vaccine Maitri‘ (vaccine friendship) initiative, India will be delivering doses of COVID-19 vaccine to its neighbours. The country has so far provided vaccines to Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Seychelles, Algeria and Mauritius.</p>


Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen on Tuesday praised India for its gesture of providing vaccine doses to South Africa. ALSO READ: Let's remain united: Sachin Tendulkar urges people to not fall for propaganda amid farmers protest India's External Affairs Minister S.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen on Tuesday praised India for its gesture of providing vaccine doses to South Africa. ALSO READ: Let's remain united: Sachin Tendulkar urges people to not fall for propaganda amid farmers protest India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar took to Twitter to announce that the vaccines have arrived in Johannesburg. He said: "In it together. Made in India vaccines land in Johannesburg, South Africa. #VaccineMaitri" Pietersen took to social media and thanked India for the gesture and said: "Indian generosity and kindness grows more and more every single day. The beloved country!" In it together. Made in India vaccines land in Johannesburg, South Africa. #VaccineMaitri pic.twitter.com/O9kWj6qVV9 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 1, 2021 × In another tweet, the English batsman said: "India has taught me so much and also given me so much, throughout my career. I’ve felt the love, passion, energy and hospitality that not many other countries can compare with. The world is seeing its care with the delivery of the vaccine to SA this week." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi replied to the English batsman and said: "Glad to see your affection towards India. :) We believe that the world is our family and want to play our role in strengthening the fight against COVID-19." Glad to see your affection towards India. :) We believe that the world is our family and want to play our role in strengthening the fight against COVID-19. https://t.co/zwpB3CNxLG — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 3, 2021 × As per ‘Vaccine Maitri‘ (vaccine friendship) initiative, India will be delivering doses of COVID-19 vaccine to its neighbours. The country has so far provided vaccines to Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Seychelles, Algeria and Mauritius.

Kevin Pietersen expresses his gratitude towards India; PM Modi replies

<p>Former cricketer Kevin Pietersen was not pleased by England's possible XI for their upcoming Test series and accused them of 'disrespecting' the Indian side who are set to host the Britons for a four-match series starting from February 5.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-decided-that-we-jadeja-reveals-dressing-room-talks-after-adelaide-loss-359006">'We decided that we..': Jadeja reveals dressing room talks after Adelaide loss</a></p>

<p>England's top-order batsmen have failed to perform well against Sri Lanka in the on-going series and have been tested by the spinners. Dom Sibley and Zak Crawley have failed to leave an impact in the Test series and have found it difficult to adapt to the subcontinent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England's batting lineup is purely depended on Jonny Bairstow and skipper Joe Root. But, Bairstow has been given rest for the first two Test matches against the Indian side. With the return of Chris Woakes and Jofra Archer to the squad, Stuart Broad and James Anderson's spot could be rotated despite prolific run against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pietersen, however, believes England must pick their strongest team from the get-go if they are to stand any chance against a side which has just emerged victorious from their historic series against Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Big debate on whether England have picked their best team to play India in the 1st Test," he wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Winning IN India is as good a feeling as winning in Australia."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The BEST England players will want to play as many games as possible against India, in India.<br />
PICK THEM!<br />
<br />
Then they go to IPL &amp; earn everything they deserve. Cash is king for every sportsman. They’re a business!<br />
<br />
They can have a break after that!</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1353247100507721728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"It’s disrespectful to England fans and also to @BCCI to NOT play your best team. The BEST England players will want to play as many games as possible against India, in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"PICK THEM! Then they go to IPL &amp; earn everything they deserve. Cash is king for every sportsman. They’re a business! They can have a break after that!&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Bairstow has to play! Broad/Anderson have to play!"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Big debate on whether ENG have picked their best team to play India in the 1st Test.<br />
Winning IN India is as good a feeling as winning in Aus.<br />
It’s disrespectful to ENG fans &amp; also <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> to NOT play your best team.<br />
<br />
Bairstow has to play!<br />
Broad/Anderson have to play!</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1353245716295147520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former cricketer Kevin Pietersen was not pleased by England's possible XI for their upcoming Test series and accused them of 'disrespecting' the Indian side who are set to host the Britons for a four-match series starting from February 5.

Former cricketer Kevin Pietersen was not pleased by England's possible XI for their upcoming Test series and accused them of 'disrespecting' the Indian side who are set to host the Britons for a four-match series starting from February 5. ALSO READ: 'We decided that we..': Jadeja reveals dressing room talks after Adelaide loss England's top-order batsmen have failed to perform well against Sri Lanka in the on-going series and have been tested by the spinners. Dom Sibley and Zak Crawley have failed to leave an impact in the Test series and have found it difficult to adapt to the subcontinent. England's batting lineup is purely depended on Jonny Bairstow and skipper Joe Root. But, Bairstow has been given rest for the first two Test matches against the Indian side. With the return of Chris Woakes and Jofra Archer to the squad, Stuart Broad and James Anderson's spot could be rotated despite prolific run against Sri Lanka. Pietersen, however, believes England must pick their strongest team from the get-go if they are to stand any chance against a side which has just emerged victorious from their historic series against Australia. "Big debate on whether England have picked their best team to play India in the 1st Test," he wrote on Twitter. "Winning IN India is as good a feeling as winning in Australia." The BEST England players will want to play as many games as possible against India, in India. PICK THEM! Then they go to IPL & earn everything they deserve. Cash is king for every sportsman. They’re a business! They can have a break after that! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 24, 2021 × "It’s disrespectful to England fans and also to @BCCI to NOT play your best team. The BEST England players will want to play as many games as possible against India, in India. "PICK THEM! Then they go to IPL & earn everything they deserve. Cash is king for every sportsman. They’re a business! They can have a break after that! "Bairstow has to play! Broad/Anderson have to play!" Big debate on whether ENG have picked their best team to play India in the 1st Test. Winning IN India is as good a feeling as winning in Aus. It’s disrespectful to ENG fans & also @BCCI to NOT play your best team. Bairstow has to play! Broad/Anderson have to play! — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 24, 2021 ×

'It’s disrespectful': Kevin Pietersen lashes out on England's possible XI against India

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{10ee811e-8cd7-4871-8e1e-c579ade0a203}{138}" paraid="807324970" >Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. Pietersen took to social media platform Twitter to&nbsp;post in Hindi language as he said that India must celebrate after historic series win against Australia but warned the Virat Kohli-led side that the real challenge will start when England lands in India for the series.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{10ee811e-8cd7-4871-8e1e-c579ade0a203}{20}" paraid="674951944" ><strong>The former England player tweeted:</strong> “India – yeh&nbsp;aitihaasik&nbsp;jeet ka&nbsp;jashn&nbsp;manaye&nbsp;kyuki&nbsp;yeh&nbsp;sabhi&nbsp;baadhao&nbsp;ke&nbsp;khilaap&nbsp;hasil&nbsp;hui&nbsp;hai&nbsp;. LEKIN, ASLI TEAM&nbsp;toh&nbsp;kuch&nbsp;hafto&nbsp;baad&nbsp;a&nbsp;rahi&nbsp;hai&nbsp;jisse&nbsp;aapko&nbsp;harana&nbsp;hoga&nbsp;apne&nbsp;ghar&nbsp;mein&nbsp;.&nbsp;Satark&nbsp;rahe, 2&nbsp;saptaah&nbsp;mein&nbsp;bahut&nbsp;adhik&nbsp;jashn&nbsp;manaane&nbsp;se&nbsp;saavadhaan&nbsp;rahen&nbsp;(This is a historic win and you must celebrate as it has been achieved despite all obstacles. However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks as England are touring, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks.”&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{10ee811e-8cd7-4871-8e1e-c579ade0a203}{20}" paraid="674951944" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-rishabh-pant-joe-root-touch-new-high-after-epic-shows-357905" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai<br />
<br />
LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein .<br />
<br />
Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉</p>
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://twitter.com/KP24/status/1351501549013504001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>India, despite injuries to key players, defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series while also ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba after splendid show by&nbsp;Shubman&nbsp;Gill,&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara and Rishabh Pant in the second innings of the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{99eb5885-7879-4282-8363-e134921d5f26}{85}" paraid="53165240" >While Indian fans are in a celebratory mood, England pose a threat in what will be their&nbsp;full-fledged tour of India starting from February.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1aad4f7a-b505-456a-a7ce-0b045a6967ce}{185}" paraid="1815603093" >England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODI starting from February 5.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{1aad4f7a-b505-456a-a7ce-0b045a6967ce}{185}" paraid="1815603093" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a></strong></p>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{a76e159a-5fce-4c16-8799-e80ec05df82e}{198}" paraid="346901802" >England tour of India – Full Schedule:&nbsp;</h2>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5723d7c9-21f0-4d08-9e97-2cc3fcd1a720}{227}" paraid="1748945095" >India vs England, 1st&nbsp;Test:&nbsp;February&nbsp;5-9 in Chennai&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5baf9679-d192-499b-8b28-7cdc37ef918f}{54}" paraid="1985640383" >India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;Test: February 13-17 in Chennai&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{089fef62-b30a-4930-8640-4a34642ae061}{230}" paraid="1023655906" >India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{488203ea-acde-4736-ad71-f6862a50248e}{169}" paraid="1652164728" >India vs England, 4th&nbsp;Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{01117a82-cb29-4219-afef-c0a577e43a2a}{48}" paraid="412727902" >India vs England, 1st&nbsp;T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{10d00a83-94dc-444d-ba10-38c739f29114}{210}" paraid="303382819" >India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;T20I: March 14 in&nbsp;Ahmedabad&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{537ed2cd-1cf6-49f2-8a52-3aaa0910cc05}{1}" paraid="674144282" >India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{56b88dbf-5bc1-4a27-99ab-33ba573466b9}{160}" paraid="1471930775" >India vs England, 4th&nbsp;T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ed0c0178-6a4f-4893-9ee1-e961d4854992}{201}" paraid="1015028134" >India vs England, 5th&nbsp;T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f7788238-6e2b-46bf-83f9-9c78f000cfb5}{223}" paraid="616152119" >India vs England, 1st&nbsp;ODI: March 2 in Pune&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f95e42f2-f938-40f0-ae69-b395be5ea520}{238}" paraid="1871875115" >India vs England, 2nd&nbsp;ODI: March 26 in Pune&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{ea1bb29f-7b06-403e-9c67-144babe708d8}{186}" paraid="28247233" >India vs England, 3rd&nbsp;ODI: March 28 in Pune&nbsp;</p>


Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5.

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has fired a friendly warning to the Indian cricket team as the Men in Blue gear up for a full-fledged home series against England starting from February 5. Pietersen took to social media platform Twitter to post in Hindi language as he said that India must celebrate after historic series win against Australia but warned the Virat Kohli-led side that the real challenge will start when England lands in India for the series. The former England player tweeted: “India – yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai . LEKIN, ASLI TEAM toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . Satark rahe, 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen (This is a historic win and you must celebrate as it has been achieved despite all obstacles. However, the real challenge comes your way in a few weeks as England are touring, and you have to beat them at home. Be careful, refrain from celebrating too much in the coming two weeks.” ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows India 🇮🇳 - yeh aitihaasik jeet ka jashn manaye kyuki yeh sabhi baadhao ke khilaap hasil hui hai LEKIN , ASLI TEAM 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 😉 toh kuch hafto baad a rahi hai jisse aapko harana hoga apne ghar mein . Satark rahe , 2 saptaah mein bahut adhik jashn manaane se saavadhaan rahen 😉 — Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 19, 2021 × India, despite injuries to key players, defeated Australia 2-1 in the four-Test series while also ending Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba after splendid show by Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rishabh Pant in the second innings of the match. While Indian fans are in a celebratory mood, England pose a threat in what will be their full-fledged tour of India starting from February. England will play four Test, five T20Is and three ODI starting from February 5. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' England tour of India – Full Schedule: India vs England, 1st Test: February 5-9 in Chennai India vs England, 2nd Test: February 13-17 in Chennai India vs England, 3rd Test: February 24-28 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th Test: March 4-8 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st T20I: March 12 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 2nd T20I: March 14 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 3rd T20I: March 16 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 4th T20I: March 18 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 5th T20I: March 20 in Ahmedabad India vs England, 1st ODI: March 2 in Pune India vs England, 2nd ODI: March 26 in Pune India vs England, 3rd ODI: March 28 in Pune

Kevin Pietersen warns Team India ahead of England series

<p>Former English batsmen Kevin Pietersen has given his opinion on the young Indian batsman. He feels that the player has not shown any significant growth since his debut.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-rishabh-pant-a-major-asset-for-delhi-capitals-says-brian-lara-334006" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Rishabh Pant a major asset for Delhi Capitals, says Brian Lara</a></p>

<p>According to Pietersen, Rishabh Pant has "disappointed" the former player by not living up to his "expectations".</p>

<p>Pant scored 31, 37*, 28, 38 and 37 in the first five IPL matches for the Delhi Capitals. On Friday against Rajasthan Royals, Pant was dismissed for just 5 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Rishabh Pant is somebody who disappoints. Because he is someone, I expect so much from," Pietersen said on Star Sports. "And, I am yet to consistently see him giving performances with the bat day in and day out. In order to get that Indian tag, and to play international cricket, you need some consistencies. You need to get better. I am seeing the same player I saw a year before, and a year before, and a year before that. As long as he has been playing, he’s been inconsistent."</p>

<p>Pant has been seen as a successor to MS Dhoni behind the stumps after the CSK skipper announced his retirement earlier this year. Sanju Samson has been the other option. And he had an impressive start to this year's IPL. But his form has dropped too since last few matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Pietersen thinks that &nbsp;Samson’s transformation was more impressive than Pant. He said: "Whereas, when I see Sanju Samson, I see completely different. The dedication, the commitment he put in to turning up for this year’s IPL, that impressed me. That actually got him ahead of Rishabh Pant for me, just purely from diet-base, fitness base and from dedication."</p>

<p>"He said I want to go out there and do everything I can to play cricket for India. He’s got runs after runs. He failed a couple of times. But that dedication is what you need to get into international cricket because when the going gets tough, the tougher gets going. And international cricketer is a tough space."</p>


Former English batsmen Kevin Pietersen has given his opinion on the young Indian batsman. He feels that the player has not shown any significant growth since his debut.

Former English batsmen Kevin Pietersen has given his opinion on the young Indian batsman. He feels that the player has not shown any significant growth since his debut. Also read: IPL 2020: Rishabh Pant a major asset for Delhi Capitals, says Brian Lara According to Pietersen, Rishabh Pant has "disappointed" the former player by not living up to his "expectations". Pant scored 31, 37*, 28, 38 and 37 in the first five IPL matches for the Delhi Capitals. On Friday against Rajasthan Royals, Pant was dismissed for just 5 runs. "Rishabh Pant is somebody who disappoints. Because he is someone, I expect so much from," Pietersen said on Star Sports. "And, I am yet to consistently see him giving performances with the bat day in and day out. In order to get that Indian tag, and to play international cricket, you need some consistencies. You need to get better. I am seeing the same player I saw a year before, and a year before, and a year before that. As long as he has been playing, he’s been inconsistent." Pant has been seen as a successor to MS Dhoni behind the stumps after the CSK skipper announced his retirement earlier this year. Sanju Samson has been the other option. And he had an impressive start to this year's IPL. But his form has dropped too since last few matches. However, Pietersen thinks that Samson’s transformation was more impressive than Pant. He said: "Whereas, when I see Sanju Samson, I see completely different. The dedication, the commitment he put in to turning up for this year’s IPL, that impressed me. That actually got him ahead of Rishabh Pant for me, just purely from diet-base, fitness base and from dedication." "He said I want to go out there and do everything I can to play cricket for India. He’s got runs after runs. He failed a couple of times. But that dedication is what you need to get into international cricket because when the going gets tough, the tougher gets going. And international cricketer is a tough space."

'He is somebody who disappoints': Kevin Pietersen lashes out at young Indian batsman

<p>Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to lock horns with Sunrisers Hyderabad in the third match of Indian Premier League at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Also read:&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/srh-vs-rcb-ipl-2020-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-royal-challengers-bangalore-329172" hreflang="en">SRH vs RCB, IPL 2020 Live Streaming: When and where to watch Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bangalore?</a></p>

<p>RCB has one of the strongest batting lineups this season. With Aaron Finch's aggression, Virat Kohli's consistency and AB de Villiers variety, the batting department could win the franchise many matches. However, Kevin Pietersen, a former English and RCB batsman, has pointed out a weak link of the team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Pietersen, RCB lacks quality in their bowling contingent. The team's bowling department consists of Dale Steyn, Adam Zampa, Yuzvendra Chahal, Umesh Yadav, Navdeep Saini and Mohammed Siraj.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-royal-challengers-bangalore-preview-stats-players-to-watchout-for-329134" hreflang="en">IPL 2020- Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bangalore: Preview, stats, players to watchout for</a></p>

<p>“I don’t know how many IPLs I have done now, sitting here and previewing every single one of them. It’s always that question about RCB and can they do it. Now, they are proven performers with the bat, they can bat and are brilliant with the bat. They have the greatest batsman, the greatest modern-day batsman that’s in their team, they’ve got the second greatest modern-day batman that’s in their team as well,” said Pietersen on Star Sports’ Cricket LIVE.</p>

<p>“They form a formidable batting partnership and I stress the batting partnership because what they’ve lacked is bowlers. Last year, when Dale Steyn came over, having lost a number of games in a row, they got a fast bowler and they started to win a couple of games. So, the strength and depth that they would have brought into that, the acquisition of Adam Zampa as well has been good,” he further added.</p>


Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to lock horns with Sunrisers Hyderabad in the third match of Indian Premier League at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday.

Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to lock horns with Sunrisers Hyderabad in the third match of Indian Premier League at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday. Also read: SRH vs RCB, IPL 2020 Live Streaming: When and where to watch Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bangalore? RCB has one of the strongest batting lineups this season. With Aaron Finch's aggression, Virat Kohli's consistency and AB de Villiers variety, the batting department could win the franchise many matches. However, Kevin Pietersen, a former English and RCB batsman, has pointed out a weak link of the team. According to Pietersen, RCB lacks quality in their bowling contingent. The team's bowling department consists of Dale Steyn, Adam Zampa, Yuzvendra Chahal, Umesh Yadav, Navdeep Saini and Mohammed Siraj. Also read: IPL 2020- Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bangalore: Preview, stats, players to watchout for “I don’t know how many IPLs I have done now, sitting here and previewing every single one of them. It’s always that question about RCB and can they do it. Now, they are proven performers with the bat, they can bat and are brilliant with the bat. They have the greatest batsman, the greatest modern-day batsman that’s in their team, they’ve got the second greatest modern-day batman that’s in their team as well,” said Pietersen on Star Sports’ Cricket LIVE. “They form a formidable batting partnership and I stress the batting partnership because what they’ve lacked is bowlers. Last year, when Dale Steyn came over, having lost a number of games in a row, they got a fast bowler and they started to win a couple of games. So, the strength and depth that they would have brought into that, the acquisition of Adam Zampa as well has been good,” he further added.

'They've lacked in..': Kevin Pietersen points out a flaw in RCB's lineup

<p>With just a week to go for IPL 2020, many former cricketers are donning the predicter's hat. Now, Kevin Pietersen, a former English batsman, has predicted his winner for the 13th edition of the league.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lets-go-with-aussie-legend-brett-lee-predicts-the-winner-of-ipl-and-top-four-326482" hreflang="en">'Let's go with...': Aussie legend Brett Lee predicts the winner of IPL and top four</a></p>

<p>Pietersen was a commentator in the T20I series between England and Australia. He left Southampton for Dubai to be a part of the money-rich T20 tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CE__lkgFq6H/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CE__lkgFq6H/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CE__lkgFq6H/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CE__lkgFq6H/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">From a bubble in the UK to a bubble in Dubai...! I love that we have cricket back and as always very excited about working on the @iplt20. Who’s winning? I hope Delhi! 🕺🏽</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kp24/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Kevin Pietersen 🦏</a> (@kp24) on <time datetime="2020-09-11T14:38:50+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Sep 11, 2020 at 7:38am PDT</time></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"From a bubble in the UK to a bubble in Dubai...! I love that we have cricket back and as always very excited about working on the IPL," Pietersen added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-can-help-australian-and-indian-players-with-challenging-practice-before-december-series-chappel-327229" hreflang="en">IPL can help Australian and Indian players with 'challenging' practice before December series: Chappel</a></p>

<p>The first thing Pietersen did before leaving for Dubai was to predict the winner of this year’s IPL. "Who's winning? I hope Delhi," wrote Pietersen on his Instagram handle.</p>

<p>Kevin Pietersen played for Royal Challengers Bangalore, Delhi Daredevils and Rising Pune SuperGiants during his career in IPL.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Delhi Capitals are led by India's young gun Shreyas Iyer. The Capitals are one of three sides in the IPL along with Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kings XI Punjab who are yet to win the tournament. But the Delhi Capitals are the only team to not reach the finals of this tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Aussie legend Brett Lee had predicted his winner for the winners of IPL 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lee landed in Mumbai to be a part of the IPL coverage for the host broadcasters. While isolating, the pacer decided to engage in a Q&amp;A session with his fans on Instagram.</p>

<p>One of his fans asked the Australian to name the possible champions of IPL 2020. Lee replied with: “Hard to say but let’s go with CSK.”</p>


With just a week to go for IPL 2020, many former cricketers are donning the predicter's hat. Now, Kevin Pietersen, a former English batsman, has predicted his winner for the 13th edition of the league.

With just a week to go for IPL 2020, many former cricketers are donning the predicter's hat. Now, Kevin Pietersen, a former English batsman, has predicted his winner for the 13th edition of the league. Also read: 'Let's go with...': Aussie legend Brett Lee predicts the winner of IPL and top four Pietersen was a commentator in the T20I series between England and Australia. He left Southampton for Dubai to be a part of the money-rich T20 tournament. View this post on Instagram From a bubble in the UK to a bubble in Dubai...! I love that we have cricket back and as always very excited about working on the @iplt20. Who’s winning? I hope Delhi! 🕺🏽 A post shared by Kevin Pietersen 🦏 (@kp24) on Sep 11, 2020 at 7:38am PDT × "From a bubble in the UK to a bubble in Dubai...! I love that we have cricket back and as always very excited about working on the IPL," Pietersen added. Also read: IPL can help Australian and Indian players with 'challenging' practice before December series: Chappel The first thing Pietersen did before leaving for Dubai was to predict the winner of this year’s IPL. "Who's winning? I hope Delhi," wrote Pietersen on his Instagram handle. Kevin Pietersen played for Royal Challengers Bangalore, Delhi Daredevils and Rising Pune SuperGiants during his career in IPL. Delhi Capitals are led by India's young gun Shreyas Iyer. The Capitals are one of three sides in the IPL along with Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kings XI Punjab who are yet to win the tournament. But the Delhi Capitals are the only team to not reach the finals of this tournament. Earlier, Aussie legend Brett Lee had predicted his winner for the winners of IPL 2020. Lee landed in Mumbai to be a part of the IPL coverage for the host broadcasters. While isolating, the pacer decided to engage in a Q&A session with his fans on Instagram. One of his fans asked the Australian to name the possible champions of IPL 2020. Lee replied with: “Hard to say but let’s go with CSK.”

'I hope...': Former batsman Kevin Pietersen predicts his IPL 2020 winner

kevin-pietersen

Kevin Pietersen, News on Kevin Pietersen, stories on Kevin Pietersen, articles on Kevin Pietersen, Kevin Pietersen stories at Wion, Kevin Pietersen news, Kevin Pietersen latest news

kevin pietersen

Kevin Pietersen lauds PM Modi as India ready to help African nations amid Omicron scare

From Novak Djokovic to Glenn Maxwell: Global stars wish India a safe and happy Diwali

T20 WC: Kevin Pietersen, Harbhajan Singh ask fans to support Team India after loss against New Zealand

From Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni to Sachin Tendulkar: Reliving vintage commercials featuring Indian cricketers

Tim Paine says Ashes going ahead, with or without Joe Root, slams 'expert on everything' Kevin Pietersen

You can gain momentum through losing as well: Kevin Pietersen slams RCB after disappointing defeat against CSK

Kevin Pietersen tells which team has a 'fantastic shot at winning' IPL 2021 title

Rashid Khan is worried, can't get his family out of Afghanistan, says Kevin Pietersen

Cricket: 'India may be behind on their preparation', reckons Kevin Pietersen

Cricket- 'He's an absolute superstar': Kevin Pietersen lauds Ravindra Jadeja

If England players stand together, they will play in IPL 2021: Kevin Pietersen

'Certainly a positive thing': Kevin Pietersen talks about IPL amidst COVID-19 crisis

Just breathtaking: Kevin Pietersen lauds Mayank Agarwal's 99-run knock on IPL captaincy debut

Just breathtaking: Kevin Pietersen lauds Mayank Agarwal's 99-run knock on IPL captaincy debut

IPL 2021- 'He just seems so lazy': Kevin Pietersen on Shubman Gill's underwhelming form

Kevin Pietersen rates Chennai Super Kings' chances of winning IPL 2021

IPL 2021: 'I just don't think that he's worth that kind of money' - Kevin Pietersen on Chris Morris

IPL 2021- 'I just love Sanju Samson every single year': Kevin Pietersen

Kevin Pietersen names his 'dark horses' to win IPL 2021

'IPL is biggest show in town': Kevin Pietersen urges cricket board not to schedule any international games

'Would be a dream come true': Kevin Pietersen replies to PM Modi, backs resumption of India vs Pakistan series

'Ben Stokes is completely wasted at 6 as a batter and bowling part-time': Kevin Pietersen

Monty Panesar: Sachin Tendulkar is the greatest athlete ever, to play against him is huge honour

'Don’t forget, Joe Root scored a double hundred': Kevin Pietersen defends England skipper