Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj recently offered his take on the freshly minted skipper,&nbsp;KL Rahul, and the&nbsp;style of captaincy that he has adopted of late. He credited&nbsp;Rahul for the amount of freedom being afforded to the Indian bowlers, revealing how it has benefited him personally.

"The atmosphere is extremely good. KL Bhai (Rahul) gives a lot of freedom to the bowlers, so the atmosphere is very good. I am enjoying my bowling a lot because I had the outswing from earlier but I was not too confident about it.

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"Now I have worked more on the seam and I have got the confidence as well, and you must have been seeing that it is releasing nicely from my hand. I was bowling with that rhythm only," exclaimed Mohammed Siraj.

Having racked up 40 wickets over the course of 13 Test matches, Siraj has truly impressed with his skills when it comes to red-ball cricket. However, his form has somewhat dwindled in the realm of white-ball cricket. Siraj was only able to pick up five wickets across five T20Is. As far as the one-day format is concerned, he has managed to accumulate 13 wickets in 10 ODIs.

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When asked whether he's made any changes to his game to suit white-ball cricket, Siraj said, "I just kept belief on myself, because ups and downs are part of everyone's life, so I just kept belief that I can do it no matter if it is a white ball or red ball.

"So just wanted to keep hitting the right areas and bowl dot balls to build up pressure on the opposition. Starting with the new ball, I went for wickets a few times but as you know white ball doesn't swing much, so I was planning to consistently hit one area and bowl maiden overs."

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj recently offered his take on the freshly minted skipper, KL Rahul, and the style of captaincy that he has adopted of late. He credited Rahul for the amount of freedom being afforded to the Indian bowlers, revealing how it has benefited him personally.

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj recently offered his take on the freshly minted skipper, KL Rahul, and the style of captaincy that he has adopted of late. He credited Rahul for the amount of freedom being afforded to the Indian bowlers, revealing how it has benefited him personally. "The atmosphere is extremely good. KL Bhai (Rahul) gives a lot of freedom to the bowlers, so the atmosphere is very good. I am enjoying my bowling a lot because I had the outswing from earlier but I was not too confident about it. ALSO READ: Not Babar or Smith! Shane Watson picks Team India star as the best Test batsman in the world "Now I have worked more on the seam and I have got the confidence as well, and you must have been seeing that it is releasing nicely from my hand. I was bowling with that rhythm only," exclaimed Mohammed Siraj. Having racked up 40 wickets over the course of 13 Test matches, Siraj has truly impressed with his skills when it comes to red-ball cricket. However, his form has somewhat dwindled in the realm of white-ball cricket. Siraj was only able to pick up five wickets across five T20Is. As far as the one-day format is concerned, he has managed to accumulate 13 wickets in 10 ODIs. ALSO READ: Hardik Pandya has improved drastically, his batting gives India more strength: Yuzvendra Chahal When asked whether he's made any changes to his game to suit white-ball cricket, Siraj said, "I just kept belief on myself, because ups and downs are part of everyone's life, so I just kept belief that I can do it no matter if it is a white ball or red ball. "So just wanted to keep hitting the right areas and bowl dot balls to build up pressure on the opposition. Starting with the new ball, I went for wickets a few times but as you know white ball doesn't swing much, so I was planning to consistently hit one area and bowl maiden overs."

'The atmosphere is very good'- Mohammed Siraj offers his take on KL Rahul's style of captaincy

Sanju Samson produced a responsible unbeaten 43 after a clinical bowling display, led by pacer Shardul Thakur, as India sailed to a five-wicket win over Zimbabwe in the second ODI to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series here on Saturday.

It was not quite a domination unlike the first ODI but the paltry 162-run target meant that the KL Rahul-led side did not have to sweat much despite a mid-innings jolt. Sent into bowl, comeback man Thakur (3/38 in seven overs) brilliantly set it up and became the wrecker-in-chief as the Indian bowlers once again came out on top to skittle out Zimbabwe for 161.

In the absence of Deepak Chahar who missed out after his exploits in the last ODI, Thakur made his presence felt and rocked the Zimbabwe top-order with his double blow in the 12th over.

Shikhar Dhawan and Shubman Gill then showed their same flair and authority, even as the duo batted in different positions this time, posting identical scores of 33.

But the duo could not steer the team home this time as India endured some anxious moments in the middle following the departure of Dhawan.

Luke Jongwe (2/33) produced a double blow, dismissing Ishan Kishan (6) and a well-set Shubman Gill in successive overs, to reduce India to 97 for four at the drinks break.

But with just 65 runs needed from 36 overs, Deepak Hooda and Samson produced a sensible stand of 56-run together to virtually seal the fate of the match.

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With nine runs to win, Hooda was yorked by Sikandar Raza but Samson remained unbeaten on 43 (39 balls; 2x4, 4x6) and wrapped it up with a six off legspinner Innocent Kaia in the 26th over.

Having posted a 192-run unbroken stand in their previous win, Dhawan and Gill did not open together this time with the skipper Rahul opting to go alongside the former.

In the first ODI, Rahul, who was returning to action after nearly three months following a sports hernia surgery and a bout of COVID, chose to go with Dhawan and Gill as the two openers.

The duo posted a 192-run unbroken stand to fashion India's 10-wicket win. But Rahul got back to his usual slot on Saturday, only to get out LBW by pacer Victor Nyauchi after missing the line of the ball.

This was Rahul's first International match since his 49-run outing against the West Indies in an ODI in Ahmedabad on February 9. After Rahul's brief stay, it was once again business as usual for Dhawan and Gill as the duo started from where they left in the first ODI here two days' back.

Earlier, Sean Williams played a counter-attacking knock and top-scored for the hosts with a run-a-ball 42 (1x6, 3x4) after his side was reduced to 31/4 in the 13th over.

India brought in part-time off-spinner Deepak Hooda to give the much-needed breakthrough in the form of Williams who went for a pre-meditated pull to be taken at the deep square leg by Shikhar Dhawan.

Ryan Burl made a 47-ball 39 with three boundaries and one six but he ran out of partners as Zimbabwe could not stage a comeback. Their last three wickets fell in just eight balls that included the run-outs of Victor Nyauchi and Tanaka Chivanga.

It would have been worse for the hosts had India were not sloppy on the field as keeper Samson missed one stumping and dropped a difficult catch against Axar Patel, while Kuldeep Yadav missed a sitter off his own bowling.

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Mohammed Siraj (8-2-16-1) and Prasidh Krishna (6.1-1-28-1) troubled the struggling Zimbabwe top-order after KL Rahul opted to field, which denied the batters some much-needed practice ahead of the Asia Cup. But the bowlers did not mind.

On a Harare SC surface with nice carry and bounce, the duo worked up good pace, swing and troubled the openers with some good length deliveries as the hosts managed just one run from the first three overs.

Siraj effected a breakthrough in the eighth over before Thakur and Krishna got into the act. Sikander Raza and Wiliams put on a 40-run partnership before Kuldeep struck. Raza tried to attack, but only managed to slice the ball for Ishan Kishan to complete a well-judged catch to trigger a collapse.

Sanju Samson produced a responsible unbeaten 43 after a clinical bowling display, led by pacer Shardul Thakur, as India sailed to a five-wicket win over Zimbabwe in the second ODI to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series here on Saturday.

Sanju Samson produced a responsible unbeaten 43 after a clinical bowling display, led by pacer Shardul Thakur, as India sailed to a five-wicket win over Zimbabwe in the second ODI to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series here on Saturday. It was not quite a domination unlike the first ODI but the paltry 162-run target meant that the KL Rahul-led side did not have to sweat much despite a mid-innings jolt. Sent into bowl, comeback man Thakur (3/38 in seven overs) brilliantly set it up and became the wrecker-in-chief as the Indian bowlers once again came out on top to skittle out Zimbabwe for 161. In the absence of Deepak Chahar who missed out after his exploits in the last ODI, Thakur made his presence felt and rocked the Zimbabwe top-order with his double blow in the 12th over. Shikhar Dhawan and Shubman Gill then showed their same flair and authority, even as the duo batted in different positions this time, posting identical scores of 33. But the duo could not steer the team home this time as India endured some anxious moments in the middle following the departure of Dhawan. Luke Jongwe (2/33) produced a double blow, dismissing Ishan Kishan (6) and a well-set Shubman Gill in successive overs, to reduce India to 97 for four at the drinks break. But with just 65 runs needed from 36 overs, Deepak Hooda and Samson produced a sensible stand of 56-run together to virtually seal the fate of the match. Also Read: Sachin played me best, all others were scared: Shoaib Akhtar's bold claim about India-Pakistan 1999 WC clash With nine runs to win, Hooda was yorked by Sikandar Raza but Samson remained unbeaten on 43 (39 balls; 2x4, 4x6) and wrapped it up with a six off legspinner Innocent Kaia in the 26th over. Having posted a 192-run unbroken stand in their previous win, Dhawan and Gill did not open together this time with the skipper Rahul opting to go alongside the former. In the first ODI, Rahul, who was returning to action after nearly three months following a sports hernia surgery and a bout of COVID, chose to go with Dhawan and Gill as the two openers. The duo posted a 192-run unbroken stand to fashion India's 10-wicket win. But Rahul got back to his usual slot on Saturday, only to get out LBW by pacer Victor Nyauchi after missing the line of the ball. This was Rahul's first International match since his 49-run outing against the West Indies in an ODI in Ahmedabad on February 9. After Rahul's brief stay, it was once again business as usual for Dhawan and Gill as the duo started from where they left in the first ODI here two days' back. Earlier, Sean Williams played a counter-attacking knock and top-scored for the hosts with a run-a-ball 42 (1x6, 3x4) after his side was reduced to 31/4 in the 13th over. India brought in part-time off-spinner Deepak Hooda to give the much-needed breakthrough in the form of Williams who went for a pre-meditated pull to be taken at the deep square leg by Shikhar Dhawan. Ryan Burl made a 47-ball 39 with three boundaries and one six but he ran out of partners as Zimbabwe could not stage a comeback. Their last three wickets fell in just eight balls that included the run-outs of Victor Nyauchi and Tanaka Chivanga. It would have been worse for the hosts had India were not sloppy on the field as keeper Samson missed one stumping and dropped a difficult catch against Axar Patel, while Kuldeep Yadav missed a sitter off his own bowling. Also Read: Huge blow for Pakistan as Shaheen Shah Afridi ruled out of Asia Cup 2022 due to an injury Mohammed Siraj (8-2-16-1) and Prasidh Krishna (6.1-1-28-1) troubled the struggling Zimbabwe top-order after KL Rahul opted to field, which denied the batters some much-needed practice ahead of the Asia Cup. But the bowlers did not mind. On a Harare SC surface with nice carry and bounce, the duo worked up good pace, swing and troubled the openers with some good length deliveries as the hosts managed just one run from the first three overs. Siraj effected a breakthrough in the eighth over before Thakur and Krishna got into the act. Sikander Raza and Wiliams put on a 40-run partnership before Kuldeep struck. Raza tried to attack, but only managed to slice the ball for Ishan Kishan to complete a well-judged catch to trigger a collapse.

Sanju Samson, Shardul Thakur shine as India beat Zimbabwe by 5 wickets in 2nd ODI to clinch series

Indian cricket fans currently own the bragging rights to being some of the most die-hard fans in the realm of international and domestic cricket. This mania for the sport is often instilled in people at an&nbsp;extremely young age. The same was displayed by a young schoolboy in a recent interaction with Indian cricketing icons KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan.

Team India's skipper for the three-match ODI series with Zimbabwe and Kishan were recently offered a glimpse into the passion that flows within the Indian fans during a recent meet-and-greet, which was filmed by&nbsp;journalist Vimal Kumar and shared on his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCYXFsPureU&amp;t=378s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube channel</a>.

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The cricketers were seen offering fans and spectators the opportunity to click pictures with them and get their merchandise signed when Rahul was approached by a teenaged fan, who claimed he was a massive fan of the duo. When asked by Rahul whether he would be there pitchside,&nbsp;watching the series opener in Harare tomorrow, the boy exclaimed, "Ayenge! School gaya bhaad mein (Of course! To hell with school)."

Rahul, being a proper role model for the younger generation, tried to impart some wisdom&nbsp;to the enthusiastic young fan by asserting the importance of attending school. However, his wisdom fell on deaf ears as the boy subsequently declared,&nbsp;"School mein utna kuch important hai bhi nahi kal (There's nothing much of importance to do at the school tomorrow)."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-cant-compare-myself-to-dhoni-or-rohit-as-a-leader-their-achievements-are-far-greater-kl-rahul-507841" hreflang="en">I can't compare myself to Dhoni or Rohit as a leader, their achievements are far greater: KL Rahul</a>

It is only natural for fans to be expressing such excitement at the prospect of watching their team live and in action on the pitch in Harare considering how the Men in Blue have returned to the Zimbabwean shores after a six-year-long hiatus. In fact, it is interesting to note that the last time team India competed in Zimbabwe, KL Rahul made his ODI debut, etching his name in cricketing folklore by scoring a century.&nbsp;

Indian cricket fans currently own the bragging rights to being some of the most die-hard fans in the realm of international and domestic cricket. This mania for the sport is often instilled in people at an extremely young age.

Indian cricket fans currently own the bragging rights to being some of the most die-hard fans in the realm of international and domestic cricket. This mania for the sport is often instilled in people at an extremely young age. The same was displayed by a young schoolboy in a recent interaction with Indian cricketing icons KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan. Team India's skipper for the three-match ODI series with Zimbabwe and Kishan were recently offered a glimpse into the passion that flows within the Indian fans during a recent meet-and-greet, which was filmed by journalist Vimal Kumar and shared on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ: India playing differently since the last time we played against Pakistan: Rohit Sharma ahead of Asia Cup clash The cricketers were seen offering fans and spectators the opportunity to click pictures with them and get their merchandise signed when Rahul was approached by a teenaged fan, who claimed he was a massive fan of the duo. When asked by Rahul whether he would be there pitchside, watching the series opener in Harare tomorrow, the boy exclaimed, "Ayenge! School gaya bhaad mein (Of course! To hell with school)." Rahul, being a proper role model for the younger generation, tried to impart some wisdom to the enthusiastic young fan by asserting the importance of attending school. However, his wisdom fell on deaf ears as the boy subsequently declared, "School mein utna kuch important hai bhi nahi kal (There's nothing much of importance to do at the school tomorrow)." ALSO READ: I can't compare myself to Dhoni or Rohit as a leader, their achievements are far greater: KL Rahul It is only natural for fans to be expressing such excitement at the prospect of watching their team live and in action on the pitch in Harare considering how the Men in Blue have returned to the Zimbabwean shores after a six-year-long hiatus. In fact, it is interesting to note that the last time team India competed in Zimbabwe, KL Rahul made his ODI debut, etching his name in cricketing folklore by scoring a century.

Watch: Young fan hilariously stuns KL Rahul by claiming 'to he*l with school'

KL Rahul is all set to make his comeback to international cricket in India's upcoming ODI series against Zimbabwe. He was last seen in action during the qualifier of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 where he was leading Lucknow Super Giants. Rahul underwent surgery for sports hernia post the IPL and missed the South Africa series at home.

He also had to miss India's tour of England amid his recovery and was set to make his return during India's tour of the West Indies. However, he was ruled out after contracting COVID-19 and is now set to make his comeback in the ODI series against Zimbabwe that gets underway on Thursday (August 18).

Rahul was appointed as the captain of the Indian team for the Zimbabwe series in the eleventh hour as he replaced Shikhar Dhawan as the stand-in skipper after his availability was confirmed by the BCCI. It will be Rahul's second series as captain and the star batter is ready for the challenge.

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Rahul might have led India only in a handful of matches so far, but he has plenty of experience as a captain having led for three seasons now in the IPL. Rahul has emerged as a very calm and collective leader, possessing similar traits to the likes of MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, who are known for similar approach.

When asked if he had a similar style to the likes of Dhoni and Rohit, Rahul played down the comparisons and said he can't be put in the same bracket as the duo as he is still young while they have far greater achievements under their belt.

"I don't know. I don't compare, personally. The names (MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma), I can't even compare myself as a leader with these guys because their numbers or achievements are far greater and what they have done for the country, I don't think anyone should be put in the same breath," Rahul said in the pre-match presser ahead of 1st ODI against Zimbabwe.

"For me, I am still young and this is my second series as captain. Obviously, I have played under them and learned a lot from them and as players and as guys in the team, you learn from each other over the years. I have a picked up a few qualities from these guys," he added.

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Rahul's captaincy stint was off to a poor start as he lost all four matches as captain during India's tour of South Africa earlier this year. However, he remains the designated vice-captain in white-ball cricket and is part of India's leadership group. Rahul believes in staying true to himself as a leader and allowing his players to express themselves.

"A captain has to be true to himself, then it spreads to the players. I am a calm person and I can't go out there and try to be something else. I believe that is not fair to myself and to the team and to the game. I try to be myself in the best way possible. You try to let other players be themselves and express themselves," said the stylish batter.

Rahul will be hoping to make a strong comeback for the Indian team in the upcoming three-match series in order to prepare well for the Asia Cup 2022 later this month. He is likely to open the batting with skipper Rohit&nbsp;in Asia Cup which gets underway in the UAE later this month.

KL Rahul is all set to make his comeback to international cricket in India's upcoming ODI series against Zimbabwe. He was last seen in action during the qualifier of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 where he was leading Lucknow Super Giants.

KL Rahul is all set to make his comeback to international cricket in India's upcoming ODI series against Zimbabwe. He was last seen in action during the qualifier of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 where he was leading Lucknow Super Giants. Rahul underwent surgery for sports hernia post the IPL and missed the South Africa series at home. He also had to miss India's tour of England amid his recovery and was set to make his return during India's tour of the West Indies. However, he was ruled out after contracting COVID-19 and is now set to make his comeback in the ODI series against Zimbabwe that gets underway on Thursday (August 18). Rahul was appointed as the captain of the Indian team for the Zimbabwe series in the eleventh hour as he replaced Shikhar Dhawan as the stand-in skipper after his availability was confirmed by the BCCI. It will be Rahul's second series as captain and the star batter is ready for the challenge. Also Read: Virat Kohli's childhood coach shares 'slight concern' for his pupil ahead of Pakistan clash in Asia Cup Rahul might have led India only in a handful of matches so far, but he has plenty of experience as a captain having led for three seasons now in the IPL. Rahul has emerged as a very calm and collective leader, possessing similar traits to the likes of MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, who are known for similar approach. When asked if he had a similar style to the likes of Dhoni and Rohit, Rahul played down the comparisons and said he can't be put in the same bracket as the duo as he is still young while they have far greater achievements under their belt. "I don't know. I don't compare, personally. The names (MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma), I can't even compare myself as a leader with these guys because their numbers or achievements are far greater and what they have done for the country, I don't think anyone should be put in the same breath," Rahul said in the pre-match presser ahead of 1st ODI against Zimbabwe. "For me, I am still young and this is my second series as captain. Obviously, I have played under them and learned a lot from them and as players and as guys in the team, you learn from each other over the years. I have a picked up a few qualities from these guys," he added. Also Read: Deepak Hooda on the cusp of achieveing rare world record as India take on Zimbabwe in 1st ODI Rahul's captaincy stint was off to a poor start as he lost all four matches as captain during India's tour of South Africa earlier this year. However, he remains the designated vice-captain in white-ball cricket and is part of India's leadership group. Rahul believes in staying true to himself as a leader and allowing his players to express themselves. "A captain has to be true to himself, then it spreads to the players. I am a calm person and I can't go out there and try to be something else. I believe that is not fair to myself and to the team and to the game. I try to be myself in the best way possible. You try to let other players be themselves and express themselves," said the stylish batter. Rahul will be hoping to make a strong comeback for the Indian team in the upcoming three-match series in order to prepare well for the Asia Cup 2022 later this month. He is likely to open the batting with skipper Rohit in Asia Cup which gets underway in the UAE later this month.

I can't compare myself to Dhoni or Rohit as a leader, their achievements are far greater: KL Rahul

BCCI surprised one and all by naming KL Rahul as India's captain for the upcoming Zimbabwe tour, which comprises three ODIs. Interestingly, Shikhar Dhawan was assigned the captain's role but Rahul was given the role after he was declared fit and became a part of the squad.

It is to be noted that the BCCI selection committee didn't mention the possibility of Rahul's inclusion -- who is&nbsp;India's regular vice-captain --&nbsp;being subject to fitness test when they had initially annouced&nbsp;the squad. Thus, many former cricketers criticised BCCI's move of demoting Dhawan as the vice-captain and making Rahul in-charge after the initial announcement.

Sharing his thoughts on the same, Dhawan said in the pre-match post conference: "It is a very good news that KL is back and will be leading the side as well. He is one of the main players of this Indian team. It will be a good outing for him before the Asia Cup gets underway. I am sure he will gain a lot from this tour."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-someone-has-been-md-kaif-reacts-to-rahul-replacing-dhawan-as-india-captain-for-zimbabwe-odis-507708">'If someone has been...' - Md Kaif reacts to Rahul replacing Dhawan as India captain for Zimbabwe ODIs</a>

The vice-captain further added, "I quite enjoy sharing my experience with the youngsters in the team. I first came here in 2014 (actually 2013), when Duncan Fletcher was the Indian coach. If they (youngsters) reach out to me for any suggestions, I am (always) there to answer them."

Dhawan, who only plays ODIs for Team India, will be eager to make the most of his opportunities in the three ODIs versus the African nation, which gets underway on August 18.

BCCI surprised one and all by naming KL Rahul as India's captain for the upcoming Zimbabwe tour, which comprises three ODIs. Interestingly, Shikhar Dhawan was assigned the captain's role but Rahul was given the role after he was declared fit and became a part of the squad.

BCCI surprised one and all by naming KL Rahul as India's captain for the upcoming Zimbabwe tour, which comprises three ODIs. Interestingly, Shikhar Dhawan was assigned the captain's role but Rahul was given the role after he was declared fit and became a part of the squad. It is to be noted that the BCCI selection committee didn't mention the possibility of Rahul's inclusion -- who is India's regular vice-captain -- being subject to fitness test when they had initially annouced the squad. Thus, many former cricketers criticised BCCI's move of demoting Dhawan as the vice-captain and making Rahul in-charge after the initial announcement. Sharing his thoughts on the same, Dhawan said in the pre-match post conference: "It is a very good news that KL is back and will be leading the side as well. He is one of the main players of this Indian team. It will be a good outing for him before the Asia Cup gets underway. I am sure he will gain a lot from this tour." ALSO READ | 'If someone has been...' - Md Kaif reacts to Rahul replacing Dhawan as India captain for Zimbabwe ODIs The vice-captain further added, "I quite enjoy sharing my experience with the youngsters in the team. I first came here in 2014 (actually 2013), when Duncan Fletcher was the Indian coach. If they (youngsters) reach out to me for any suggestions, I am (always) there to answer them." Dhawan, who only plays ODIs for Team India, will be eager to make the most of his opportunities in the three ODIs versus the African nation, which gets underway on August 18.

India tour of Zimbabwe: Shikhar Dhawan reacts to being replaced by KL Rahul as captain

BCCI announced a change in captaincy for Team India ahead of their departure for the tour of Zimbabwe when they added KL Rahul in the squad. With the return of the regular vice-captain, Rahul was named the Indian captain, replacing Shikhar Dhawan who was already announced as the leader-in-charge for the short tour of the West Indies.

This change in captaincy hasn't been received well by many former Indian cricketers, such as Saba Karim, Aakash Chopra, etc. Now, former middle-order batter Mohammad Kaif also reacted to the change in captaincy and remains unimpressed.

Speaking in a media interaction with Sony Sports, Kaif said, "The captaincy episode could have been avoided. May be KL Rahul's medical report came in late, and it could be a case of miscommunication as well. If India would have played this series under Dhawan, as initially announced, I don't think it would have bothered KL Rahul.

"But I totally agree, if someone has been announced as captain, he should remain as captain. Dhawan is an easy-going personality, but it isn't right on a player," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-should-succeed-rohit-sharma-as-indias-test-captain-former-indian-opener-shares-his-choice-507442">Who should succeed Rohit Sharma as India's Test captain? Former Indian opener shares his choice</a>

Further, Kaif opined on Dhawan and believes he is still good enough to be an all-format cricketer for India. "There is a lot of cricket left in Shikhar Dhawan as he plays just one format for India. He scores heaps of runs in IPL as well and his call-up in just ODIs sometimes surprises me a bit.

"He is a better player and can play both T20Is and Tests as well. Whenever Dhawan, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have played well together, India have been successful," he further said.

Dhawan led India in the West Indies ODIs, in the Caribbean island, and will gear up for the Zimbabwe ODI series opener, which will be held on August 18. He only plays ODI format for the Men in Blue and, hence, will be desperate to make a mark versus the lowly-ranked hosts.

BCCI announced a change in captaincy for Team India ahead of their departure for the tour of Zimbabwe when they added KL Rahul in the squad. With the return of the regular vice-captain, Rahul was named the Indian captain, replacing Shikhar Dhawan who was already announced as the leader-in-charge for the short tour of the West Indies.

BCCI announced a change in captaincy for Team India ahead of their departure for the tour of Zimbabwe when they added KL Rahul in the squad. With the return of the regular vice-captain, Rahul was named the Indian captain, replacing Shikhar Dhawan who was already announced as the leader-in-charge for the short tour of the West Indies. This change in captaincy hasn't been received well by many former Indian cricketers, such as Saba Karim, Aakash Chopra, etc. Now, former middle-order batter Mohammad Kaif also reacted to the change in captaincy and remains unimpressed. Speaking in a media interaction with Sony Sports, Kaif said, "The captaincy episode could have been avoided. May be KL Rahul's medical report came in late, and it could be a case of miscommunication as well. If India would have played this series under Dhawan, as initially announced, I don't think it would have bothered KL Rahul. "But I totally agree, if someone has been announced as captain, he should remain as captain. Dhawan is an easy-going personality, but it isn't right on a player," he added. ALSO READ | Who should succeed Rohit Sharma as India's Test captain? Former Indian opener shares his choice Further, Kaif opined on Dhawan and believes he is still good enough to be an all-format cricketer for India. "There is a lot of cricket left in Shikhar Dhawan as he plays just one format for India. He scores heaps of runs in IPL as well and his call-up in just ODIs sometimes surprises me a bit. "He is a better player and can play both T20Is and Tests as well. Whenever Dhawan, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have played well together, India have been successful," he further said. Dhawan led India in the West Indies ODIs, in the Caribbean island, and will gear up for the Zimbabwe ODI series opener, which will be held on August 18. He only plays ODI format for the Men in Blue and, hence, will be desperate to make a mark versus the lowly-ranked hosts.

'If someone has been...' - Md Kaif reacts to Rahul replacing Dhawan as India captain for Zimbabwe ODIs

Team India have seen as many as seven players captain the side across formats in 2022. Ever since Virat Kohli relinquished captaincy altogether, being sacked as an ODI skipper and quitting from the role in the other two formats, Rohit Sharma has done well as India's full-time captain but hasn't led a lot in Tests and ODIs (due to rest, Covid or injury concerns).

KL Rahul led India during the South Africa tour, Rishabh Pant led amid the former's injury during a second-stringed Indian team's home T20Is versus the Proteas, Hardik Pandya joined the leadership group and led during the Ireland T20Is in Dublin (also leading in a T20I during the recent West Indies series). In addition, Jasprit Bumrah led in the one-off Test versus England whereas Shikhar Dhawan was in-charge during the Windies ODIs, in the Caribbean island. In between, Kohli had also led in two Tests in SA before giving up the red-ball captaincy. At 35, Rohit is certainly not going to have a long run as a full-time captain. With so many being auditioned in the leadership role, former cricketers and experts continue to predict who will succeed Rohit as full-time captain or captaining in Tests or limited-overs.

In this regard, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Rishabh Pant might just pip KL Rahul -- who is touted to be the next all-format captain -- to become the Test skipper post Rohit's tenure. "There are three other captains. I will talk about KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer, I can talk about Sanju Samson as well. Rishabh Pant may just actually pip Rahul to the post in Test cricket but don't forget Rahul is a class player across the three formats. But you have not understood the clear DNA of their captaincy," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-wasnt-aggressive-under-kohli-but-players-attack-under-rohits-captaincy-feels-aakash-chopra-507368">Team India wasn't aggressive under Kohli, but players attack under Rohit's captaincy, feels Aakash Chopra</a>

While Chopra named Pant as the one to succeed Rohit, he questioned some of his decision-making as India's stand-in captain or while leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL. He stated, "Rishabh Pant, for example, seems to be an aggressive captain in terms of the way he uses the bowlers. But at times an over is left in the end, like Kuldeep picked up four wickets but didn't bowl his four overs. I mean that also has happened very often, or a spinner is bowling the 20th over. So it is a developing story."

Team India have seen as many as seven players captain the side across formats in 2022. Ever since Virat Kohli relinquished captaincy altogether, being sacked as an ODI skipper and quitting from the role in the other two formats, Rohit Sharma has done well as India's full-time captain but hasn't led a lot in Tests and ODIs (due to rest, Covid or injury concerns).

Team India have seen as many as seven players captain the side across formats in 2022. Ever since Virat Kohli relinquished captaincy altogether, being sacked as an ODI skipper and quitting from the role in the other two formats, Rohit Sharma has done well as India's full-time captain but hasn't led a lot in Tests and ODIs (due to rest, Covid or injury concerns). KL Rahul led India during the South Africa tour, Rishabh Pant led amid the former's injury during a second-stringed Indian team's home T20Is versus the Proteas, Hardik Pandya joined the leadership group and led during the Ireland T20Is in Dublin (also leading in a T20I during the recent West Indies series). In addition, Jasprit Bumrah led in the one-off Test versus England whereas Shikhar Dhawan was in-charge during the Windies ODIs, in the Caribbean island. In between, Kohli had also led in two Tests in SA before giving up the red-ball captaincy. At 35, Rohit is certainly not going to have a long run as a full-time captain. With so many being auditioned in the leadership role, former cricketers and experts continue to predict who will succeed Rohit as full-time captain or captaining in Tests or limited-overs. In this regard, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Rishabh Pant might just pip KL Rahul -- who is touted to be the next all-format captain -- to become the Test skipper post Rohit's tenure. "There are three other captains. I will talk about KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer, I can talk about Sanju Samson as well. Rishabh Pant may just actually pip Rahul to the post in Test cricket but don't forget Rahul is a class player across the three formats. But you have not understood the clear DNA of their captaincy," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ | Team India wasn't aggressive under Kohli, but players attack under Rohit's captaincy, feels Aakash Chopra While Chopra named Pant as the one to succeed Rohit, he questioned some of his decision-making as India's stand-in captain or while leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL. He stated, "Rishabh Pant, for example, seems to be an aggressive captain in terms of the way he uses the bowlers. But at times an over is left in the end, like Kuldeep picked up four wickets but didn't bowl his four overs. I mean that also has happened very often, or a spinner is bowling the 20th over. So it is a developing story."

Who should succeed Rohit Sharma as India's Test captain? Former Indian opener shares his choice

Team India is shaping up really well, under Rohit Sharma, for the upcoming 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. Since last year's edition, in the UAE, India have changed their approach with the bat -- with the top-order being more aggressive in their approach -- whereas they have also been blessed with a good balance in the lower-half, especially with the return of Hardik Pandya.

Hardik, who led Gujarat Titans (GT) to IPL 2022 championship, has been firing on all cylinders ever since he made his comeback into the Indian team. He has bowled at regular intervals, accounted for key wickets, brought a sense of calm with the bat and has won games for India with his all-round blitz. Moreover, he is now also being seen as a future captain and has led with aplomb in the limited opportunities so far.&nbsp;

In an interaction with the&nbsp;Times of India, former South Africa all-rounder&nbsp;Lance Klusener lavished huge praise on Pandya and feels Team India is a different outfit in his presence. "A fast-bowling all-rounder like Hardik Pandya adds glue to any white-ball side or to any cricket team. It's so good to have him back and is getting into the form we are accustomed to. The Indian team looks a different side when Hardik Pandya is in full flow."

Klusner, who is currently Zimbabwe's batting coach,&nbsp;also feels a lowly-ranked African team will learn a lot while playing against a second-stringed Indian line-up. The Men in Blue's tour of Zimbabwe kicks off on August 18.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-wasnt-aggressive-under-kohli-but-players-attack-under-rohits-captaincy-feels-aakash-chopra-507368">Team India wasn't aggressive under Kohli, but players attack under Rohit's captaincy, feels Aakash Chopra</a>

In this regard, the former cricketer added, "It will be a great learning curve for a team like Zimbabwe to play against a top side like India. It's a good challenge for us and an opportunity for our players to learn and grow."

India will play Zimbabwe in a bilateral series for the first time since 2016&nbsp;as both teams will lock horns in three ODIs, commencing on August 18. KL Rahul will lead Team India -- who will be without regular captain Rohit, Hardik, Rishabh Pant, Virat Kohli, etc. -- whereas Shikhar Dhawan will serve as his deputy.

Team India is shaping up really well, under Rohit Sharma, for the upcoming 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. Since last year's edition, in the UAE, India have changed their approach with the bat -- with the top-order being more aggressive in their approach -- whereas they have also been blessed with a good balance in the lower-half, especially with the return of Hardik Pandya.

Team India is shaping up really well, under Rohit Sharma, for the upcoming 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia from October-November. Since last year's edition, in the UAE, India have changed their approach with the bat -- with the top-order being more aggressive in their approach -- whereas they have also been blessed with a good balance in the lower-half, especially with the return of Hardik Pandya. Hardik, who led Gujarat Titans (GT) to IPL 2022 championship, has been firing on all cylinders ever since he made his comeback into the Indian team. He has bowled at regular intervals, accounted for key wickets, brought a sense of calm with the bat and has won games for India with his all-round blitz. Moreover, he is now also being seen as a future captain and has led with aplomb in the limited opportunities so far. In an interaction with the Times of India, former South Africa all-rounder Lance Klusener lavished huge praise on Pandya and feels Team India is a different outfit in his presence. "A fast-bowling all-rounder like Hardik Pandya adds glue to any white-ball side or to any cricket team. It's so good to have him back and is getting into the form we are accustomed to. The Indian team looks a different side when Hardik Pandya is in full flow." Klusner, who is currently Zimbabwe's batting coach, also feels a lowly-ranked African team will learn a lot while playing against a second-stringed Indian line-up. The Men in Blue's tour of Zimbabwe kicks off on August 18. ALSO READ | Team India wasn't aggressive under Kohli, but players attack under Rohit's captaincy, feels Aakash Chopra In this regard, the former cricketer added, "It will be a great learning curve for a team like Zimbabwe to play against a top side like India. It's a good challenge for us and an opportunity for our players to learn and grow." India will play Zimbabwe in a bilateral series for the first time since 2016 as both teams will lock horns in three ODIs, commencing on August 18. KL Rahul will lead Team India -- who will be without regular captain Rohit, Hardik, Rishabh Pant, Virat Kohli, etc. -- whereas Shikhar Dhawan will serve as his deputy.

'Team India looks a different side when he is in full flow': Lance Klusner lauds Men in Blue's star player

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. Both India and Pakistan are placed in the same group, and await another team from the qualifiers, as the two Asian giants will lock horns on August 28 before two more possible face-offs, in the Super Four round and the finale.

Ahead of the showpiece event, which will be held after 2018, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt shared his take on whether Rohit Sharma-led India will start as favourites for the Asian championship. The Men in Blue won the last two editions. India had won the 2016 edition, played in the T20I format, and also clinched the 2018 championship which was held in the 50-over format. This time around, the competition will again be played in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (from October-November in Australia).

Answering a question on his&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;channel about whether India start as a favourite, Butt stated,&nbsp;"They definitely can." He jokingly&nbsp;added,&nbsp;"Do they lack vitamins?”

“Any of the competing teams can win. Realistically, India have been playing really well. They have a big pool of players, and most of the guys have gained international experience. That’s why people are terming them favorites," Butt further asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dont-rishabh-pant-reacts-on-stiff-competition-with-dinesh-karthik-for-t20-world-cup-spot-507097">'We don't...' - Rishabh Pant reacts on stiff competition with Dinesh Karthik for T20 World Cup spot</a>

“There is Pakistan. Everybody knows that, on their day, they can beat anybody. T20 cricket is such a format where one good partnership can decide the fate of the game. It all depends on the day. Afghanistan are also a dark horse. Bangladesh, sometimes, plays very good cricket, but on other days they are very bad," the ex-Pakistani opener added.

Talking about India's chances, they comprehensively&nbsp;won bilateral series versus New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka before drawing a five-match T20I series versus South Africa -- all in home conditions -- beating&nbsp;England and West Indies in their own backyards since the 2021 T20 World Cup. Thus, they will certainly start as favourites for Asia Cup.

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. Both India and Pakistan are placed in the same group, and await another team from the qualifiers, as the two Asian giants will lock horns on August 28 before two more possible face-offs, in the Super Four round and the finale.

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will be held in the UAE from August 27-September 11. Both India and Pakistan are placed in the same group, and await another team from the qualifiers, as the two Asian giants will lock horns on August 28 before two more possible face-offs, in the Super Four round and the finale. Ahead of the showpiece event, which will be held after 2018, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt shared his take on whether Rohit Sharma-led India will start as favourites for the Asian championship. The Men in Blue won the last two editions. India had won the 2016 edition, played in the T20I format, and also clinched the 2018 championship which was held in the 50-over format. This time around, the competition will again be played in the shortest format as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (from October-November in Australia). Answering a question on his YouTube channel about whether India start as a favourite, Butt stated, "They definitely can." He jokingly added, "Do they lack vitamins?” “Any of the competing teams can win. Realistically, India have been playing really well. They have a big pool of players, and most of the guys have gained international experience. That’s why people are terming them favorites," Butt further asserted. ALSO READ | 'We don't...' - Rishabh Pant reacts on stiff competition with Dinesh Karthik for T20 World Cup spot “There is Pakistan. Everybody knows that, on their day, they can beat anybody. T20 cricket is such a format where one good partnership can decide the fate of the game. It all depends on the day. Afghanistan are also a dark horse. Bangladesh, sometimes, plays very good cricket, but on other days they are very bad," the ex-Pakistani opener added. Talking about India's chances, they comprehensively won bilateral series versus New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka before drawing a five-match T20I series versus South Africa -- all in home conditions -- beating England and West Indies in their own backyards since the 2021 T20 World Cup. Thus, they will certainly start as favourites for Asia Cup.

Is Team India favourites for Asia Cup 2022? Former Pakistan captain shares his take

Ahead of India's departure for their tour of Zimbabwe, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that KL Rahul will also be part of the trip to the African nation. Rahul, who last played an international match in early 2022, has recovered from sports hernia&nbsp;surgery and Covid-19 and has also been named the captain, replacing Shikhar Dhawan.

This decision hasn't impressed many former Indian cricketers. Aakash Chopra, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator-cum-expert, has now joined the bandwagon and feels that the change in leadership could have been avoided.

"If it was in my hands, I would have avoided that. He (Rahul) was originally not named in the squad for Zimbabwe series," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

"I understand he is the vice-captain for the Asia Cup but there is another truth, that currently there are 8-10 captains in the team. Rishabh Pant is captain, Hardik Pandya is captain, and I do not think Suryakumar is far away from captaincy. Rohit Sharma is the captain, Virat Kohli has been the captain before. It was not important, this thing could have been avoided," Chopra further opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/making-him-captain-or-ex-india-stumper-on-rahul-replacing-dhawan-as-skipper-for-zimbabwe-tour-506419">'Making him captain or....' - Ex-India stumper on Rahul replacing Dhawan as skipper for Zimbabwe tour</a>

"Shikhar Dhawan is a senior guy, how does it matter if he is the captain? KL Rahul can play purely as a batter, it does not matter if he is the captain or not. You could have carried on with it, if you had announced Shikhar Dhawan as captain, you could have let it be. In my opinion, Dhawan should have stayed as the captain," the former opener added.

Dhawan had led Rohit Sharma-less India during the three ODIs versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island, whereas Rahul was then out of action after contracting Covid-19 infection. It will be interesting to see how Rahul performs as captain and batter in the Zimbabwe tour ahead of the Asia Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia.

The Zimbabwe ODIs kicks off on August 18.

Ahead of India's departure for their tour of Zimbabwe, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that KL Rahul will also be part of the trip to the African nation.

Ahead of India's departure for their tour of Zimbabwe, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that KL Rahul will also be part of the trip to the African nation. Rahul, who last played an international match in early 2022, has recovered from sports hernia surgery and Covid-19 and has also been named the captain, replacing Shikhar Dhawan. This decision hasn't impressed many former Indian cricketers. Aakash Chopra, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator-cum-expert, has now joined the bandwagon and feels that the change in leadership could have been avoided. "If it was in my hands, I would have avoided that. He (Rahul) was originally not named in the squad for Zimbabwe series," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel. "I understand he is the vice-captain for the Asia Cup but there is another truth, that currently there are 8-10 captains in the team. Rishabh Pant is captain, Hardik Pandya is captain, and I do not think Suryakumar is far away from captaincy. Rohit Sharma is the captain, Virat Kohli has been the captain before. It was not important, this thing could have been avoided," Chopra further opined. ALSO READ | 'Making him captain or....' - Ex-India stumper on Rahul replacing Dhawan as skipper for Zimbabwe tour "Shikhar Dhawan is a senior guy, how does it matter if he is the captain? KL Rahul can play purely as a batter, it does not matter if he is the captain or not. You could have carried on with it, if you had announced Shikhar Dhawan as captain, you could have let it be. In my opinion, Dhawan should have stayed as the captain," the former opener added. Dhawan had led Rohit Sharma-less India during the three ODIs versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island, whereas Rahul was then out of action after contracting Covid-19 infection. It will be interesting to see how Rahul performs as captain and batter in the Zimbabwe tour ahead of the Asia Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia. The Zimbabwe ODIs kicks off on August 18.

'It could've been avoided': Aakash Chopra on Rahul replacing Dhawan as India captain for Zimbabwe tour

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) roped in KL Rahul in India's squad for the tour of Zimbabwe, where a second-stringed side will play three ODIs. While announcing Rahul's presence for the African tour, BCCI also named him the captain; removing Shikhar Dhawan from the post.

Initially, Dhawan was named in-charge of the second-stringed side for the Zimbabwe series. However, with Rahul regaining fitness -- coming from a&nbsp;sports hernia surgery and Covid-19 -- the board announced the regular white-ball vice-captain as the leader for the Zimbabwe tour. Former Indian stumper Saba Karim has now opened up on this sudden change in leadership and remains unimpressed.

“KL Rahul should have played the series only as a member, making him captain or vice-captain is not that important. He is coming after a long break. Shikhar Dhawan is a senior member of the squad who has delivered in white-ball cricket. You have to give him importance once you make the announcement as captain," Karim was quoted as saying by India News Sports.

“I would like to add that Shikhar led the side very well against West Indies in the ODI series. He was also decent with the bat. India whitewashed the series with a bunch of youngsters. A lot of them performed very well under his captaincy. Dhawan looked in complete control, whether it was the field setup, tactics, or strategy. He inspired the youngsters as a leader," the former chief selector&nbsp;added.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-will-pakistan-make-it-3-0-vs-india-on-facing-them-thrice-babar-azam-answers-journalists-query-506167">Asia Cup: Will Pakistan make it 3-0 vs India on facing them thrice? Babar Azam answers journalist's query</a>

“The kind of change in captaincy trend is strange and questionable. Such decisions need to be taken very cautiously. There is no need to rush as it is associated with a team environment, you need to build the team spirit. A captain begins to think about his plans for upcoming matches and then you suddenly make a change. It affects the morale of the cricketer," said Karim.

Dhawan had led India in the ODIs during their recent tour of West Indies in Rohit Sharma's absence and will now act as Rahul's deputy for the Zimbabwe series, which kicks off on August 18.

It is believed that Rahul was roped in, as soon as he was declared fully fit, as the right-hander hasn't played an international since early 2022. Before the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, the selectors and team management are keen on giving some much-needed game time to the dashing opener.
</section>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) roped in KL Rahul in India's squad for the tour of Zimbabwe, where a second-stringed side will play three ODIs. While announcing Rahul's presence for the African tour, BCCI also named him the captain; removing Shikhar Dhawan from the post.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) roped in KL Rahul in India's squad for the tour of Zimbabwe, where a second-stringed side will play three ODIs. While announcing Rahul's presence for the African tour, BCCI also named him the captain; removing Shikhar Dhawan from the post. Initially, Dhawan was named in-charge of the second-stringed side for the Zimbabwe series. However, with Rahul regaining fitness -- coming from a sports hernia surgery and Covid-19 -- the board announced the regular white-ball vice-captain as the leader for the Zimbabwe tour. Former Indian stumper Saba Karim has now opened up on this sudden change in leadership and remains unimpressed. “KL Rahul should have played the series only as a member, making him captain or vice-captain is not that important. He is coming after a long break. Shikhar Dhawan is a senior member of the squad who has delivered in white-ball cricket. You have to give him importance once you make the announcement as captain," Karim was quoted as saying by India News Sports. “I would like to add that Shikhar led the side very well against West Indies in the ODI series. He was also decent with the bat. India whitewashed the series with a bunch of youngsters. A lot of them performed very well under his captaincy. Dhawan looked in complete control, whether it was the field setup, tactics, or strategy. He inspired the youngsters as a leader," the former chief selector added. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Will Pakistan make it 3-0 vs India on facing them thrice? Babar Azam answers journalist's query “The kind of change in captaincy trend is strange and questionable. Such decisions need to be taken very cautiously. There is no need to rush as it is associated with a team environment, you need to build the team spirit. A captain begins to think about his plans for upcoming matches and then you suddenly make a change. It affects the morale of the cricketer," said Karim. Dhawan had led India in the ODIs during their recent tour of West Indies in Rohit Sharma's absence and will now act as Rahul's deputy for the Zimbabwe series, which kicks off on August 18. It is believed that Rahul was roped in, as soon as he was declared fully fit, as the right-hander hasn't played an international since early 2022. Before the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, the selectors and team management are keen on giving some much-needed game time to the dashing opener.

'Making him captain or....' - Ex-India stumper on Rahul replacing Dhawan as skipper for Zimbabwe tour

From inaugural champions to woeful performers in 2021: Team India at T20 World Cup over the years

The BCCI selection committee announced a 15-member Team India squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition on Monday (August 08). The tournament will be held in the UAE with India, the defending champions, to begin their campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28.

This time around, the Asia Cup will be held in the shortest format — the second time in the tournament's history — as a rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, in October-November. India's squad sees the return of senior pros Virat Kohli and KL Rahul whereas Jasprit Bumrah missed out due to a back injury. Nonetheless, former chief selector and keeper-batter Kiran More was unimpressed seeing R Ashwin hold onto his spot, who was recalled for the West Indies T20Is.

“I was surprised. How can Ashwin even come in this team? And every time. Even in the last World Cup, he was picked in the team and then did not play. Look at his IPL record, it is not that good. I really felt Shami should have taken that role or Axar Patel. And Axar has performed very well. Shami is my player, and he will go to the World Cup. I want wicket-taking bowlers. Shami can pick wickets with the new ball, in the middle overs and in the slog overs as well,” More said on Star Sports.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-only-care-about-those-2-3-games-vs-india-former-pak-pacer-slams-babar-co-ahead-of-asia-cup-505658">'We only care about those 2-3 games vs India' - Former Pak pacer slams Babar &amp; Co. ahead of Asia Cup</a>

Ashwin's case has been a curious one. He was recalled into the T20I squad after a four-year hiatus right&nbsp;before the 2021 T20 World Cup. While he played three games in the showpiece event, he straightaway got his next game in the format during the recently-concluded WI tour. Reportedly, he was not part of the home white-ball series versus the Windies and Sri Lanka, held early this year&nbsp;due to an injury. Further, he also missed out on being&nbsp;part of the squad which&nbsp;won the three T20Is versus hosts England, 2-1, during the recent trip to the United Kingdom.

India's Asia Cup squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal

Stand-by players:&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.
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The BCCI selection committee announced a 15-member Team India squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition on Monday (August 08). The tournament will be held in the UAE with India, the defending champions, to begin their campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28.

The BCCI selection committee announced a 15-member Team India squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition on Monday (August 08). The tournament will be held in the UAE with India, the defending champions, to begin their campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28. This time around, the Asia Cup will be held in the shortest format — the second time in the tournament's history — as a rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, in October-November. India's squad sees the return of senior pros Virat Kohli and KL Rahul whereas Jasprit Bumrah missed out due to a back injury. Nonetheless, former chief selector and keeper-batter Kiran More was unimpressed seeing R Ashwin hold onto his spot, who was recalled for the West Indies T20Is. “I was surprised. How can Ashwin even come in this team? And every time. Even in the last World Cup, he was picked in the team and then did not play. Look at his IPL record, it is not that good. I really felt Shami should have taken that role or Axar Patel. And Axar has performed very well. Shami is my player, and he will go to the World Cup. I want wicket-taking bowlers. Shami can pick wickets with the new ball, in the middle overs and in the slog overs as well,” More said on Star Sports. ALSO READ | 'We only care about those 2-3 games vs India' - Former Pak pacer slams Babar & Co. ahead of Asia Cup Ashwin's case has been a curious one. He was recalled into the T20I squad after a four-year hiatus right before the 2021 T20 World Cup. While he played three games in the showpiece event, he straightaway got his next game in the format during the recently-concluded WI tour. Reportedly, he was not part of the home white-ball series versus the Windies and Sri Lanka, held early this year due to an injury. Further, he also missed out on being part of the squad which won the three T20Is versus hosts England, 2-1, during the recent trip to the United Kingdom. India's Asia Cup squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal Stand-by players: Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

'How can he come in this team?': Ex-chief selector on star player's inclusion in India squad for Asia Cup

Virat Kohli, who was rested for the white-ball tour of West Indies, is all set to return to action for Team India during the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The upcoming showpiece event will be held in the UAE, with Sri Lanka as hosts, and will be played in the shortest format -- for the second time in the tournament history -- as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (from October-November).

The Indian cricket loyalists will be desperate to see Kohli return to form, who has been struggling for quite a while. He didn't score a single half-century in the England tour, had an ordinary run in IPL 2022 and his century-drought continues since late 2019. However, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Kohli will benefit from India's new-found aggressive batting approach in T20Is.

"Doesn’t matter if he (Kohli) scores a 40 or 70 because everybody has a role to play. There’s synergy in every player; regardless of the position he bats at, you are just going hell for leather. If that’s the mindset, then it’s going to be a lot easier for Kohli," said Chopra on Star Sports.

"It’s the perfect set-up. The kind of cricket India is playing at the moment, the team doesn’t expect Kohli to score 70 or a 100 or finish the game. You just come and play your game, that’s more than enough," added Chopra.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhonis-dropping-percentage-was-21-former-pakistan-captains-big-claim-on-india-legends-keeping-skills-505171">'MS Dhoni's dropping percentage was 21' - Former Pakistan captain's big claim on India legend's keeping skills</a>

The 33-year-old Kohli will still be eager to get a big score under his belt to ease some pressure on his shoulders ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia. Meanwhile, India will begin their Asia Cup campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28. The tournament will kick off on August 27 and the finale will be held on September 11.

Squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal

Stand-by players:&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

Virat Kohli, who was rested for the white-ball tour of West Indies, is all set to return to action for Team India during the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The upcoming showpiece event will be held in the UAE, with Sri Lanka as hosts, and will be played in the shortest format -- for the second time in the tournament history -- as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (from October-November).

Virat Kohli, who was rested for the white-ball tour of West Indies, is all set to return to action for Team India during the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition. The upcoming showpiece event will be held in the UAE, with Sri Lanka as hosts, and will be played in the shortest format -- for the second time in the tournament history -- as a dress rehearsal for the 2022 T20 World Cup (from October-November). The Indian cricket loyalists will be desperate to see Kohli return to form, who has been struggling for quite a while. He didn't score a single half-century in the England tour, had an ordinary run in IPL 2022 and his century-drought continues since late 2019. However, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Kohli will benefit from India's new-found aggressive batting approach in T20Is. "Doesn’t matter if he (Kohli) scores a 40 or 70 because everybody has a role to play. There’s synergy in every player; regardless of the position he bats at, you are just going hell for leather. If that’s the mindset, then it’s going to be a lot easier for Kohli," said Chopra on Star Sports. "It’s the perfect set-up. The kind of cricket India is playing at the moment, the team doesn’t expect Kohli to score 70 or a 100 or finish the game. You just come and play your game, that’s more than enough," added Chopra. ALSO READ | 'MS Dhoni's dropping percentage was 21' - Former Pakistan captain's big claim on India legend's keeping skills The 33-year-old Kohli will still be eager to get a big score under his belt to ease some pressure on his shoulders ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia. Meanwhile, India will begin their Asia Cup campaign versus arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28. The tournament will kick off on August 27 and the finale will be held on September 11. Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal Stand-by players: Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

'You are just going hell...' - Aakash Chopra explains how Virat Kohli will benefit from India's new approach

Virat Kohli and vice-captain KL Rahul have returned to the Indian team as the BCCI has announced a 15-member squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will get underway in the UAE from August 27.&nbsp;

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian squad sees the comeback of Kohli, who missed the entire West Indies tour due to rest, whereas opener Rahul has also returned after suffering a groin injury and being infected by Covid-19. Meanwhile, the defending champions have been dealt with a huge blow as their premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out.

In a tweet from the official handle of the BCCI, it wrote, "Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel were not available for selection owing to injuries. They are currently undergoing rehab at the NCA in Bengaluru."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharma-gives-inspiring-speech-after-india-end-west-indies-tour-with-4-1-win-in-t20is-504788">WATCH: Rohit Sharma gives inspiring speech after India end West Indies tour with 4-1 win in T20Is</a>

Thus, India will go with three frontline seamers in the form of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan with all-rounder Hardik Pandya being the fourth pacer. Thus, all the onus will be on Bhuvi's shoulders whereas Rohit &amp; Co. will hope for Hardik to provide regular breakthroughs. Among the main batters, Rohit, Suryakumar Yadav, Rahul, Kohli, wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik and Hardik will spearhead the department.

Hardik, Deepak Hooda, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin are the main all-rounders. The spin department will be headed by Ashwin, Jaddu, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravi Bishnoi whereas Hooda can also chip in with a few overs of spin. There are also three standby players such as Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar and Axar Patel (who had a terrific tour of West Indies).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/where-should-virat-kohli-bat-ex-indian-stumper-shares-his-preferred-slot-for-star-batter-ahead-of-asia-cup-504872">Where should Virat Kohli bat? Ex-Indian stumper shares his preferred slot for star batter ahead of Asia Cup</a>

Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal

Stand-by players:&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

Virat Kohli and vice-captain KL Rahul have returned to the Indian team as the BCCI has announced a 15-member squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will get underway in the UAE from August 27.

Virat Kohli and vice-captain KL Rahul have returned to the Indian team as the BCCI has announced a 15-member squad for the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022 edition, which will get underway in the UAE from August 27. The Rohit Sharma-led Indian squad sees the comeback of Kohli, who missed the entire West Indies tour due to rest, whereas opener Rahul has also returned after suffering a groin injury and being infected by Covid-19. Meanwhile, the defending champions have been dealt with a huge blow as their premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out. In a tweet from the official handle of the BCCI, it wrote, "Jasprit Bumrah and Harshal Patel were not available for selection owing to injuries. They are currently undergoing rehab at the NCA in Bengaluru." ALSO READ | WATCH: Rohit Sharma gives inspiring speech after India end West Indies tour with 4-1 win in T20Is Thus, India will go with three frontline seamers in the form of Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan with all-rounder Hardik Pandya being the fourth pacer. Thus, all the onus will be on Bhuvi's shoulders whereas Rohit & Co. will hope for Hardik to provide regular breakthroughs. Among the main batters, Rohit, Suryakumar Yadav, Rahul, Kohli, wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik and Hardik will spearhead the department. Hardik, Deepak Hooda, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin are the main all-rounders. The spin department will be headed by Ashwin, Jaddu, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravi Bishnoi whereas Hooda can also chip in with a few overs of spin. There are also three standby players such as Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Chahar and Axar Patel (who had a terrific tour of West Indies). ALSO READ | Where should Virat Kohli bat? Ex-Indian stumper shares his preferred slot for star batter ahead of Asia Cup Squad: Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Dinesh Karthik, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal Stand-by players: Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel and Deepak Chahar have been named as standbys.

Virat Kohli, KL Rahul return in Jasprit Bumrah-less Team India squad for Asia Cup 2022

Team India have witnessed several captaincy changes already this year with as many as seven captains leading the team across formats so far in 2022. While Rohit Sharma is India's permanent captain across all three formats, there have been multiple captaincy changes this year due to COVID-19, injuries and giving rest to players.

The Indian team started 2022 with KL Rahul captaining the side in the first Test match of the year against South Africa before Virat Kohli came back to lead the team in the next game. Kohli then quit all three formats as captain allowing Rohit to take over as India's all-format captain. However, Rohit missed India's ODI series against South Africa due to an injury and Rahul again lead&nbsp;the team.

Rohit then made a comeback from injury and led India against West Indies and Sri Lanka at home. Following the conclusion of IPL 2022, Rohit was rested from the five-match T20I series against South Africa at home where Rahul was supposed to lead the side again. However, Rishabh Pant took the captaincy baton due to an injury to Rahul.

India then headed to Ireland for a&nbsp;T20I without a number of senior players, who were busy preparing for the one-off Test against England at the same time. Hardik Pandya led India against Ireland becoming the 5th captain to lead the Indian team in 2022.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-breaks-shahid-afridis-record-becomes-2nd-highest-six-hitter-in-international-cricket-504521">Rohit Sharma breaks Shahid Afridi's record, becomes 2nd highest six hitter in international cricket</a>

Jasprit Bumrah then was asked to captain India in absence of a COVID-positive Rohit in the one-off Test against England before Shikhar Dhawan led the team in the recently-concluded ODI series against West Indies in the absence of the Hitman.

When asked about the multiple captaincy changes for India so far in 2022, skipper Rohit Sharma said it is important to have leadership in the squad. Rohit said it was a positive sign that India have so many players who can be relied upon for the captaincy position.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arshdeep-singh-avesh-khan-shine-as-india-thrash-west-indies-by-59-runs-in-4th-t20i-seal-series-504483">Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan shine as India thrash West Indies by 59 runs in 4th T20I, seal series</a>

"I think it's very important to have that leadership, but obviously, you know, we play the IPL and it's a 10-team tournament. So, there will be 10 captains who, at some stage, will be a part of the Indian team as well," Rohit said on Star Sports' show "Follow The Blues".

"You know, I think it's fantastic because, honestly, my job is much less as these guys understand everything pretty well. So, it's just about if someone's having a thought, how am I going to back up that thought. For me, as captain, that is my role and that is what I'm trying to do," he added.

Dhawan will lead India once again on their upcoming tour of Zimbabwe later this month as a number of senior players have been rested for the series. Rohit will then be back to captain India at the Asia Cup 2022 in the&nbsp;UAE.

Team India have witnessed several captaincy changes already this year with as many as seven captains leading the team across formats so far in 2022. While Rohit Sharma is India's permanent captain across all three formats, there have been multiple captaincy changes this year due to COVID-19, injuries and giving rest to players.

Team India have witnessed several captaincy changes already this year with as many as seven captains leading the team across formats so far in 2022. While Rohit Sharma is India's permanent captain across all three formats, there have been multiple captaincy changes this year due to COVID-19, injuries and giving rest to players. The Indian team started 2022 with KL Rahul captaining the side in the first Test match of the year against South Africa before Virat Kohli came back to lead the team in the next game. Kohli then quit all three formats as captain allowing Rohit to take over as India's all-format captain. However, Rohit missed India's ODI series against South Africa due to an injury and Rahul again lead the team. Rohit then made a comeback from injury and led India against West Indies and Sri Lanka at home. Following the conclusion of IPL 2022, Rohit was rested from the five-match T20I series against South Africa at home where Rahul was supposed to lead the side again. However, Rishabh Pant took the captaincy baton due to an injury to Rahul. India then headed to Ireland for a T20I without a number of senior players, who were busy preparing for the one-off Test against England at the same time. Hardik Pandya led India against Ireland becoming the 5th captain to lead the Indian team in 2022. Also Read: Rohit Sharma breaks Shahid Afridi's record, becomes 2nd highest six hitter in international cricket Jasprit Bumrah then was asked to captain India in absence of a COVID-positive Rohit in the one-off Test against England before Shikhar Dhawan led the team in the recently-concluded ODI series against West Indies in the absence of the Hitman. When asked about the multiple captaincy changes for India so far in 2022, skipper Rohit Sharma said it is important to have leadership in the squad. Rohit said it was a positive sign that India have so many players who can be relied upon for the captaincy position. Also Read: Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan shine as India thrash West Indies by 59 runs in 4th T20I, seal series "I think it's very important to have that leadership, but obviously, you know, we play the IPL and it's a 10-team tournament. So, there will be 10 captains who, at some stage, will be a part of the Indian team as well," Rohit said on Star Sports' show "Follow The Blues". "You know, I think it's fantastic because, honestly, my job is much less as these guys understand everything pretty well. So, it's just about if someone's having a thought, how am I going to back up that thought. For me, as captain, that is my role and that is what I'm trying to do," he added. Dhawan will lead India once again on their upcoming tour of Zimbabwe later this month as a number of senior players have been rested for the series. Rohit will then be back to captain India at the Asia Cup 2022 in the UAE.

7 captains in 7 months! Rohit Sharma gives his take on India's multiple captaincy changes in 2022

KL Rahul's recent fitness issues have seen him miss a number of matches for India ahead of the T20 World Cup which is scheduled to be played in Australia later this year. While he has not played for India since the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 earlier this year, Rahul's fitness issues can now reportedly see him miss out on vice-captaincy at the T20 World Cup 2022.

As per a report in Insidesport, Hardik Pandya is all set to pip Rahul to be named India's vice-captain for T20 World Cup in Australia this year. Hardik has been enjoying excellent form with the bat and ball ever since making his comeback for the Indian team post IPL 2022 and the all-rounder has become a vital cog in the limited-overs setup once again.

The report claims that Hardik will be named India's vice-captain when the selectors announce the squad for T20 World Cup 2022. He will serve as deputy to captain Rohit Sharma in the showpiece event. Hardik is already part of India's leadership group and had led the team on their tour of Ireland recently.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-becomes-first-indian-player-to-achieve-rare-double-in-mens-t20is-503259">Hardik Pandya becomes first Indian player to achieve rare double in men's T20Is</a>

He showcased terrific leadership skills in IPL 2022 where he led Gujarat Titans to their maiden title in their debut season before making his comeback for Team India in the South Africa series at home. Hardik was then named India's captain for the Ireland tour where he led the team in the absence of senior players. He is currently India's vice-captain in their ongoing T20I series against West Indies.

“Hardik is a world-class player and it’s great to have him back in the team at full fitness. Whether he will be named vice-captain is up to the selectors. But he is already a leader in the group. As an all-rounder, he understands both situations. He has outstanding leadership skills and we saw that in the IPL. He will surely do well,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by Insidesport.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-suryakumar-yadav-wins-over-fans-with-heartwarming-gesture-after-india-beat-wi-in-3rd-t20i-503229">WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav wins over fans with heartwarming gesture after India beat WI in 3rd T20I</a>

Rahul currently remains India's designated vice-captain in white-ball cricket but his fitness issues and recent absence from one series after another might see Hardik pip him as far as T20Is are concerned. As per the report, Rahul is expected to remain India's vice-captain in ODIs and Tests.

While it remains to be seen if Hardik will officially be announced as India's vice-captain for the T20 World Cup 2022, a clear picture will be projected when the selectors announce India's squad for the Asia Cup 2022 later this month. Both Rahul and Hardik are likely to be part of India's squad for the tournament.

KL Rahul's recent fitness issues have seen him miss a number of matches for India ahead of the T20 World Cup which is scheduled to be played in Australia later this year.

KL Rahul's recent fitness issues have seen him miss a number of matches for India ahead of the T20 World Cup which is scheduled to be played in Australia later this year. While he has not played for India since the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 earlier this year, Rahul's fitness issues can now reportedly see him miss out on vice-captaincy at the T20 World Cup 2022. As per a report in Insidesport, Hardik Pandya is all set to pip Rahul to be named India's vice-captain for T20 World Cup in Australia this year. Hardik has been enjoying excellent form with the bat and ball ever since making his comeback for the Indian team post IPL 2022 and the all-rounder has become a vital cog in the limited-overs setup once again. The report claims that Hardik will be named India's vice-captain when the selectors announce the squad for T20 World Cup 2022. He will serve as deputy to captain Rohit Sharma in the showpiece event. Hardik is already part of India's leadership group and had led the team on their tour of Ireland recently. Also Read: Hardik Pandya becomes first Indian player to achieve rare double in men's T20Is He showcased terrific leadership skills in IPL 2022 where he led Gujarat Titans to their maiden title in their debut season before making his comeback for Team India in the South Africa series at home. Hardik was then named India's captain for the Ireland tour where he led the team in the absence of senior players. He is currently India's vice-captain in their ongoing T20I series against West Indies. “Hardik is a world-class player and it’s great to have him back in the team at full fitness. Whether he will be named vice-captain is up to the selectors. But he is already a leader in the group. As an all-rounder, he understands both situations. He has outstanding leadership skills and we saw that in the IPL. He will surely do well,” a BCCI official was quoted as saying by Insidesport. Also Read: WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav wins over fans with heartwarming gesture after India beat WI in 3rd T20I Rahul currently remains India's designated vice-captain in white-ball cricket but his fitness issues and recent absence from one series after another might see Hardik pip him as far as T20Is are concerned. As per the report, Rahul is expected to remain India's vice-captain in ODIs and Tests. While it remains to be seen if Hardik will officially be announced as India's vice-captain for the T20 World Cup 2022, a clear picture will be projected when the selectors announce India's squad for the Asia Cup 2022 later this month. Both Rahul and Hardik are likely to be part of India's squad for the tournament.

Hardik Pandya likely to pip KL Rahul to be named India's vice-captain for T20 World Cup 2022 - Report

Years after the&nbsp;case was filed against Bollywood producer-director Karan Johar along with Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul for their 'misogynist and controversial' comments on an episode of 'Koffee with Karan', Jodhpur High Court has granted relief to the trio. As per the latest reports, the&nbsp;case lodged by DR Meghwal at Jodhpur’s Luni police station&nbsp;has been disposed of in the High Court and all three accused have been found innocent.

A report by Times Now stated that&nbsp;none of them were found guilty and that the case has been dismissed. This comes as a big relief for the filmmaker and the two cricketers as they had been subjected to a lot of hate and trolling on social media for the controversial episode.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya was also under the scanner for his controversial tweet about&nbsp;Dr BR Ambedkar. The cricketer had once tweeted, “Which Ambedkar? The one who drafted a cross law and constitution or the one who spread the disease called reservation in the country.”

Coming back to the 'Koffee with Karan' episode,&nbsp;Hardik Pandya's comments on women left many outraged and as snippets of the episode started doing rounds on social media, many bashed the cricketer for his comments. He later&nbsp;issued an apology on Twitter.&nbsp;

“After reflecting on my comments on Koffee with Karan, I would like to apologise to everyone concerned who I may have hurt in any way. Honestly, I got a bit carried away with the nature of the show. In no way did I mean to disrespect or hurt anyone’s sentiments. Respect," Pandya wrote on his Twitter account in 2019.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-koffee-with-karan-7-katrina-kaif-to-appear-on-kjos-show-with-ishaan-khatter-siddhant-chaturvedi-502814" hreflang="en">'Koffee with Karan 7': Katrina Kaif to appear on KJo's show with Ishaan Khatter, Siddhant Chaturvedi</a>

Meanwhile, popular chat show hosted by Karan Johar&nbsp;is back with its seventh season. Four episodes of the show have already aired. Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh, Sara Ali Khan, Janhvi Kapoor, Samantha, Akshay Kumar, Vijay Deverakonda, and Ananya Panday have already appeared in the latest season of the&nbsp;show.

In the upcoming episodes, we will reportedly see Katrina Kaif, Siddhant Chaturvedi, Ishaan Khatter, Aamir Khan, Vicky Kaushal, Sidharth Malhotra, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Gauri Khan grace the fancy KJo couch.

Watch Live WION channel here!

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&nbsp;

Years after the case was filed against Bollywood producer-director Karan Johar along with Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul for their 'misogynist and controversial' comments on an episode of 'Koffee with Karan', Jodhpur High Court has granted relief to the trio.

Years after the case was filed against Bollywood producer-director Karan Johar along with Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul for their 'misogynist and controversial' comments on an episode of 'Koffee with Karan', Jodhpur High Court has granted relief to the trio. As per the latest reports, the case lodged by DR Meghwal at Jodhpur’s Luni police station has been disposed of in the High Court and all three accused have been found innocent. A report by Times Now stated that none of them were found guilty and that the case has been dismissed. This comes as a big relief for the filmmaker and the two cricketers as they had been subjected to a lot of hate and trolling on social media for the controversial episode. Hardik Pandya was also under the scanner for his controversial tweet about Dr BR Ambedkar. The cricketer had once tweeted, “Which Ambedkar? The one who drafted a cross law and constitution or the one who spread the disease called reservation in the country.” Coming back to the 'Koffee with Karan' episode, Hardik Pandya's comments on women left many outraged and as snippets of the episode started doing rounds on social media, many bashed the cricketer for his comments. He later issued an apology on Twitter. “After reflecting on my comments on Koffee with Karan, I would like to apologise to everyone concerned who I may have hurt in any way. Honestly, I got a bit carried away with the nature of the show. In no way did I mean to disrespect or hurt anyone’s sentiments. Respect," Pandya wrote on his Twitter account in 2019. Also read: 'Koffee with Karan 7': Katrina Kaif to appear on KJo's show with Ishaan Khatter, Siddhant Chaturvedi Meanwhile, popular chat show hosted by Karan Johar is back with its seventh season. Four episodes of the show have already aired. Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh, Sara Ali Khan, Janhvi Kapoor, Samantha, Akshay Kumar, Vijay Deverakonda, and Ananya Panday have already appeared in the latest season of the show. In the upcoming episodes, we will reportedly see Katrina Kaif, Siddhant Chaturvedi, Ishaan Khatter, Aamir Khan, Vicky Kaushal, Sidharth Malhotra, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Gauri Khan grace the fancy KJo couch. Watch Live WION channel here!

Court grants KJo relief for controversial 2018 'Koffee With Karan' episode along with Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul

Senior opener KL Rahul has been left out of the India squad which will travel to Zimbabwe for an ODI series next month after aggravating his hamstring injury, a development which could potentially jeopardise his T20 World Cup chances.

It is understood that Rahul hasn’t yet recovered despite undergoing a successful sports hernia surgery for lower abdominal injury. His hamstring also remains sore. India will play 3 ODIs in Zimbabwe on August 18, 20 and 22.

“I wanted to clarify a couple of things about my health and fitness. My surgery in June was successful and I had begun my training with hope of returning to national duty for the tour of West Indies. Unfortunately as I was returning to full fitness, I tested positive for Covid-19,” he tweeted.

He expressed hope of coming back for Asia Cup in UAE. “This naturally pushes things back by a couple of weeks but I aim to recover as quickly as possible and be available for selection as quickly as I can,” he further wrote. 
 
“To represent the country is highest honour and I cannot wait to get out there back in blue.”

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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-can-stop-him-now-bcci-selector-on-dinesh-karthiks-chances-of-making-it-to-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-501989">'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Dinesh Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad</a>

Off-spinner Washington Sundar, who has made a stellar start to his English county career with Lancashire is back in the squad along with seamer Deepak Chahar after successful completion of his rehabilitation following hamstring and back injuries.

Chahar has not played competitive cricket for five months now and also missed the 2022 IPL season. “KL Rahul has recovered from Covid-19 but his hamstring injury seems to have resurfaced. He was supposed to be picked for Zimbabwe but now one can’t put a date on his comeback,” a senior BCCI source privy to the development told PTI on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli, skipper Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya have all been rested from the tour as ODIs aren’t top priority for the side with less than three months left for the World T20.

“Virat had spoken to selectors that he would be available from the Asia Cup onwards. The first team players will hardly get rest from Asia Cup till end of World T20. Hence this is a two-week window after Windies tour when they can rest,” the source said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dont-need-dravids-thinking-kris-srikanth-criticises-india-for-picking-iyer-over-hooda-in-1st-t20i-502006">'We don't need Dravid's thinking': Kris Srikanth criticises India for picking Iyer over Hooda in 1st T20I</a>

Washington’s comeback was on expected lines as he has had a rough last one year due to a hand injury and contracting Covid-19. He has had a successful rehabilitation at NCA and in the three games that he has played for Lancashire, he has already picked up a five-wicket haul.

“In case of Washington it was never about how but when would he comeback as he has been India’s No. 1 finger spinner. He needed game time which he got,” the source added.

As usual Shikhar Dhawan will lead the side in Rohit, Rahul and Pant’s absence. Most of the players who had been part of set-up have been picked with rookie Rahul Tripathi, after being part of squad in Ireland T20Is, getting maiden call up to the ODI side.

India’s squad for 3 ODIs: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Deepak Chahar. 
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Senior opener KL Rahul has been left out of the India squad which will travel to Zimbabwe for an ODI series next month after aggravating his hamstring injury, a development which could potentially jeopardise his T20 World Cup chances.

Senior opener KL Rahul has been left out of the India squad which will travel to Zimbabwe for an ODI series next month after aggravating his hamstring injury, a development which could potentially jeopardise his T20 World Cup chances. It is understood that Rahul hasn’t yet recovered despite undergoing a successful sports hernia surgery for lower abdominal injury. His hamstring also remains sore. India will play 3 ODIs in Zimbabwe on August 18, 20 and 22. “I wanted to clarify a couple of things about my health and fitness. My surgery in June was successful and I had begun my training with hope of returning to national duty for the tour of West Indies. Unfortunately as I was returning to full fitness, I tested positive for Covid-19,” he tweeted. He expressed hope of coming back for Asia Cup in UAE. “This naturally pushes things back by a couple of weeks but I aim to recover as quickly as possible and be available for selection as quickly as I can,” he further wrote. “To represent the country is highest honour and I cannot wait to get out there back in blue.” pic.twitter.com/2ULENT5Puk — K L Rahul (@klrahul) July 30, 2022 × Also Read: 'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Dinesh Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad Off-spinner Washington Sundar, who has made a stellar start to his English county career with Lancashire is back in the squad along with seamer Deepak Chahar after successful completion of his rehabilitation following hamstring and back injuries. Chahar has not played competitive cricket for five months now and also missed the 2022 IPL season. “KL Rahul has recovered from Covid-19 but his hamstring injury seems to have resurfaced. He was supposed to be picked for Zimbabwe but now one can’t put a date on his comeback,” a senior BCCI source privy to the development told PTI on Saturday. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli, skipper Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya have all been rested from the tour as ODIs aren’t top priority for the side with less than three months left for the World T20. “Virat had spoken to selectors that he would be available from the Asia Cup onwards. The first team players will hardly get rest from Asia Cup till end of World T20. Hence this is a two-week window after Windies tour when they can rest,” the source said. Also Read: 'We don't need Dravid's thinking': Kris Srikanth criticises India for picking Iyer over Hooda in 1st T20I Washington’s comeback was on expected lines as he has had a rough last one year due to a hand injury and contracting Covid-19. He has had a successful rehabilitation at NCA and in the three games that he has played for Lancashire, he has already picked up a five-wicket haul. “In case of Washington it was never about how but when would he comeback as he has been India’s No. 1 finger spinner. He needed game time which he got,” the source added. As usual Shikhar Dhawan will lead the side in Rohit, Rahul and Pant’s absence. Most of the players who had been part of set-up have been picked with rookie Rahul Tripathi, after being part of squad in Ireland T20Is, getting maiden call up to the ODI side. India’s squad for 3 ODIs: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Sanju Samson (wicket-keeper), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Deepak Chahar.

KL Rahul to miss Zimbabwe tour due to delayed recovery; Sundar, Chahar return to ODI squad

Team India has attained a unique record this year with as many as seven players captaining the Men in Blue, due to different reasons, since early 2022. The likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Shikhar Dhawan have led India across formats.&nbsp;

In the ongoing white-ball tour of the West Indies, Dhawan got a chance to lead India once again — after last year's Sri Lanka tour — in the absence of many regulars such as full-time captain Rohit, Rahul, etc. While Rohit has taken charge for the ongoing five T20Is versus Nicholas Pooran-led Men in Maroon, he has now been assigned a new vice-captain in Rahul’s absence (who is Rohit’s deputy across formats).&nbsp;

Though Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja are present in the playing XI for the series opener, in Trinidad, it is Hardik Pandya who has been named the vice-captain for the T20I series. The all-rounder, who led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to victory in IPL 2022, recently captained India during the two-match Ireland T20Is in late June.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/right-up-there-with-rohit-rahul-dhawan-former-nz-all-rounder-all-praise-for-indias-star-batter-501799">‘Right up there with Rohit, Rahul, Dhawan’: Former NZ all-rounder all praise for India's star batter</a>

Ever since Rohit has been appointed as India’s all-format captain, there have been many changes in leadership due to frequent rest, injury or Covid concerns to Rohit-KL. Thus, in this way, the Indian team management is also getting a chance to groom young leaders in the presence of Hitman.

At the coin toss of the first T20I between India and WI, Rohit-led visitors were asked to bat first at the&nbsp;Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad. The one-time winners are still without regulars such as Virat and Bumrah as the duo have been rested for the tour.&nbsp;

India will like to maintain their winning run in the format ahead of this year’s T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in the latter half.

Team India has attained a unique record this year with as many as seven players captaining the Men in Blue, due to different reasons, since early 2022. The likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Shikhar Dhawan have led India across formats.

Team India has attained a unique record this year with as many as seven players captaining the Men in Blue, due to different reasons, since early 2022. The likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah and Shikhar Dhawan have led India across formats. In the ongoing white-ball tour of the West Indies, Dhawan got a chance to lead India once again — after last year's Sri Lanka tour — in the absence of many regulars such as full-time captain Rohit, Rahul, etc. While Rohit has taken charge for the ongoing five T20Is versus Nicholas Pooran-led Men in Maroon, he has now been assigned a new vice-captain in Rahul’s absence (who is Rohit’s deputy across formats). Though Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja are present in the playing XI for the series opener, in Trinidad, it is Hardik Pandya who has been named the vice-captain for the T20I series. The all-rounder, who led the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to victory in IPL 2022, recently captained India during the two-match Ireland T20Is in late June. ALSO READ | ‘Right up there with Rohit, Rahul, Dhawan’: Former NZ all-rounder all praise for India's star batter Ever since Rohit has been appointed as India’s all-format captain, there have been many changes in leadership due to frequent rest, injury or Covid concerns to Rohit-KL. Thus, in this way, the Indian team management is also getting a chance to groom young leaders in the presence of Hitman. At the coin toss of the first T20I between India and WI, Rohit-led visitors were asked to bat first at the Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad. The one-time winners are still without regulars such as Virat and Bumrah as the duo have been rested for the tour. India will like to maintain their winning run in the format ahead of this year’s T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in the latter half.

Not Rishabh nor Jadeja! Rohit Sharma assigned a new vice-captain in KL Rahul's absence for WI T20I

Shubman Gill was on a roll with the bat in the recently-concluded India-West Indies ODI series, in the Caribbean island. Since his international debut, Gill has been in India's scheme of things in the purest format, however, he had not got a lot of chances in the white-ball formats.&nbsp;

In the absence of regulars such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, etc., Gill got a chance to open the innings in the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian team for the WI ODIs. The youngster took the golden opportunity with both hands and ended with 205 runs in three outings (at a strike rate of 102.50), including two half-centuries and a career-best ODI score of 98 not out in the final match.

Thus, Gill ended as the Player-of-the-Series for his consistency batting at the top. Seeing this, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris lavished huge praise on the Gujarat Titans' (GT) opener.

"I still think there are holes in his game. I think there are holes in his technique that the opposition will look to exploit, but he's got all the skills and the other component. What makes a World class player is their mental thought process and their maturity and leadership. And I think he has that as well. And for that reason, yes you're quite right you can keep him up there with the Rohits, KL Rahuls and Shikhars in terms of openers,” Styris said Sports18’s show ‘Sports Over The Top’.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-pandya-pant-or-rahul-former-nz-all-rounder-backs-indias-star-player-as-future-captaincy-candidate-499438">Not Pandya, Pant or Rahul! Former NZ all-rounder backs India's star player as future captaincy candidate</a>

Former India stumper and selector Saba Karim also opined on Gill and stated that the 22-year-old can lead an IPL franchise sooner than later if he continues to grow in the coming years. "I think it's good to get some kind of experience. And I feel one year, two year around the line we may see Shubman elevated to lead one of these on the India T20 league. And I think once he gets that kind of experience, in addition, he can manage to lead Punjab in the domestic level that will really board well for him. So, he will gain experience and as you rightly said, he has shown some leadership skills. So that will really do well for Shubman Gill in future,”&nbsp;Karim stated.

“I look at him as a versatile player because at this stage, one has seen him bat so well for India as an opener. But given the opportunity, I'm sure he can do well at number three, number four and I think mostly in the T20 format, you look at players who can bat number one, number two and number three. So, I think in that kind of a mould, Shubman Gill can fit in quite easily,” he added.

Shubman Gill was on a roll with the bat in the recently-concluded India-West Indies ODI series, in the Caribbean island. Since his international debut, Gill has been in India's scheme of things in the purest format, however, he had not got a lot of chances in the white-ball formats.

Shubman Gill was on a roll with the bat in the recently-concluded India-West Indies ODI series, in the Caribbean island. Since his international debut, Gill has been in India's scheme of things in the purest format, however, he had not got a lot of chances in the white-ball formats. In the absence of regulars such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, etc., Gill got a chance to open the innings in the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian team for the WI ODIs. The youngster took the golden opportunity with both hands and ended with 205 runs in three outings (at a strike rate of 102.50), including two half-centuries and a career-best ODI score of 98 not out in the final match. Thus, Gill ended as the Player-of-the-Series for his consistency batting at the top. Seeing this, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris lavished huge praise on the Gujarat Titans' (GT) opener. "I still think there are holes in his game. I think there are holes in his technique that the opposition will look to exploit, but he's got all the skills and the other component. What makes a World class player is their mental thought process and their maturity and leadership. And I think he has that as well. And for that reason, yes you're quite right you can keep him up there with the Rohits, KL Rahuls and Shikhars in terms of openers,” Styris said Sports18’s show ‘Sports Over The Top’. ALSO READ | Not Pandya, Pant or Rahul! Former NZ all-rounder backs India's star player as future captaincy candidate Former India stumper and selector Saba Karim also opined on Gill and stated that the 22-year-old can lead an IPL franchise sooner than later if he continues to grow in the coming years. "I think it's good to get some kind of experience. And I feel one year, two year around the line we may see Shubman elevated to lead one of these on the India T20 league. And I think once he gets that kind of experience, in addition, he can manage to lead Punjab in the domestic level that will really board well for him. So, he will gain experience and as you rightly said, he has shown some leadership skills. So that will really do well for Shubman Gill in future,” Karim stated. “I look at him as a versatile player because at this stage, one has seen him bat so well for India as an opener. But given the opportunity, I'm sure he can do well at number three, number four and I think mostly in the T20 format, you look at players who can bat number one, number two and number three. So, I think in that kind of a mould, Shubman Gill can fit in quite easily,” he added.

‘Right up there with Rohit, Rahul, Dhawan’: Former NZ all-rounder all praise for India's star batter

India batter KL Rahul will be missing out on the upcoming T20I series against West Indies, after testing positive for COVID-19. India and West Indies are currently playing a three-match ODI series, with the third and final match to be played on Wednesday. The five-match T20I series will start on July 29 and will conclude on August 7.

Last week, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly, after the Board`s Apex Council meeting in Mumbai, had informed about Rahul being COVID positive.

Rahul has now completed his isolation period, but according to ESPNcricinfo, he has been advised one more week`s rest and recuperation by the BCCI`s medical professionals.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-india-spinner-reveals-reason-behind-rahul-dravid-rohit-sharmas-support-for-under-fire-virat-kohli-501094">Former India spinner reveals reason behind Dravid-Rohit's support for under-fire Virat Kohli</a>

Rahul, who underwent surgery recently and had resumed his training at the NCA in Bengaluru, was named in the T20I squad against West Indies and was supposed to take a fitness test in a couple of days.

The T20I squad of Team India arrived in Trinidad on Tuesday ahead of their five-match series against West Indies. The Men in Blue have gained an unassailable lead of 2-0 in the ODI series.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-deafening-silence-speaks-volumes-majid-haq-slams-scotland-players-after-racism-report-501109">The deafening silence speaks volumes: Majid Haq slams Scotland players after racism report</a>

Half-centuries from Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson and Axar Patel helped Team India win the second ODI against West Indies by two wickets at Queens Park Oval stadium in Port of Spain on Sunday. Both teams will be facing each other for the third and final ODI match on Wednesday at Port of Spain.&nbsp;

India batter KL Rahul will be missing out on the upcoming T20I series against West Indies, after testing positive for COVID-19. India and West Indies are currently playing a three-match ODI series, with the third and final match to be played on Wednesday.

India batter KL Rahul will be missing out on the upcoming T20I series against West Indies, after testing positive for COVID-19. India and West Indies are currently playing a three-match ODI series, with the third and final match to be played on Wednesday. The five-match T20I series will start on July 29 and will conclude on August 7. Last week, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly, after the Board`s Apex Council meeting in Mumbai, had informed about Rahul being COVID positive. Rahul has now completed his isolation period, but according to ESPNcricinfo, he has been advised one more week`s rest and recuperation by the BCCI`s medical professionals. Also Read: Former India spinner reveals reason behind Dravid-Rohit's support for under-fire Virat Kohli Rahul, who underwent surgery recently and had resumed his training at the NCA in Bengaluru, was named in the T20I squad against West Indies and was supposed to take a fitness test in a couple of days. The T20I squad of Team India arrived in Trinidad on Tuesday ahead of their five-match series against West Indies. The Men in Blue have gained an unassailable lead of 2-0 in the ODI series. Also Read: The deafening silence speaks volumes: Majid Haq slams Scotland players after racism report Half-centuries from Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson and Axar Patel helped Team India win the second ODI against West Indies by two wickets at Queens Park Oval stadium in Port of Spain on Sunday. Both teams will be facing each other for the third and final ODI match on Wednesday at Port of Spain.

KL Rahul to miss India's T20I series against West Indies after his positive COVID-19 test

Team India is set to play West Indies in three ODIs and five T20Is, in the Caribbean island, with the tour opener to take place on Friday (July 22). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Shikhar Dhawan will take charge of the ODI side whereas Hitman will reclaim his position during the five T20Is.

In the year 2022, India have had several captains such as Rohit, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah whereas Dhawan will also join the list, having already captained a second-stringed side during the Sri Lanka tour last year. Ahead of the WI series, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris feels Shreyas Iyer is also a future captaincy candidate provided he cashes in on his opportunities and gets rid of his short-ball struggles.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pant-or-karthik-ricky-ponting-names-his-choice-for-indias-wicketkeepers-slot-for-2022-t20-wc-499428">Pant or Karthik: Ricky Ponting names his choice for India's wicketkeeper's slot for 2022 T20 WC</a>

Styris agreed&nbsp;that the forthcoming WI tour can be a do-or-die condition for Iyer, who hasn't done anything extraordinary since his return in India colours after IPL 2022. The New Zealander also&nbsp;termed the star batter as a captaincy choice and told Sports 18, "One hundred percent, what I really like about Shreyas Iyer is the leadership quality that he possesses. I think he is a real possibility to be a captain as well for India. For that reason, I would like to see him in and even given more and more opportunities around this squad."

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"What I don't like is that there is no secret about Shreyas Iyer now. He has real problems with the short ball. I think you will see a lot of teams attack him with their quick bowlers, attack him at the body with the bouncers, under the armpit, if you like, because I am not sure he has found a way," the former cricketer added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-shikhar-dhawan-to-jasprit-bumrah-7-captains-rahul-dravid-has-worked-with-as-indias-head-coach-498546">From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: 7 captains Rahul Dravid has worked with as India's head coach</a>

Iyer is part of India's ODI and T20I squad for the WI tour and will be eager to come up with consistent performances to cement his place in the white-ball setup. With the T20 World Cup to be held later this year, in Australia, the middle-order batter needs to be on his toes or he will miss being part of the squad for the trip Down Under.
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Team India is set to play West Indies in three ODIs and five T20Is, in the Caribbean island, with the tour opener to take place on Friday (July 22). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Shikhar Dhawan will take charge of the ODI side whereas Hitman will reclaim his position during the five T20Is.

Team India is set to play West Indies in three ODIs and five T20Is, in the Caribbean island, with the tour opener to take place on Friday (July 22). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Shikhar Dhawan will take charge of the ODI side whereas Hitman will reclaim his position during the five T20Is. In the year 2022, India have had several captains such as Rohit, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah whereas Dhawan will also join the list, having already captained a second-stringed side during the Sri Lanka tour last year. Ahead of the WI series, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris feels Shreyas Iyer is also a future captaincy candidate provided he cashes in on his opportunities and gets rid of his short-ball struggles. ALSO READ | Pant or Karthik: Ricky Ponting names his choice for India's wicketkeeper's slot for 2022 T20 WC Styris agreed that the forthcoming WI tour can be a do-or-die condition for Iyer, who hasn't done anything extraordinary since his return in India colours after IPL 2022. The New Zealander also termed the star batter as a captaincy choice and told Sports 18, "One hundred percent, what I really like about Shreyas Iyer is the leadership quality that he possesses. I think he is a real possibility to be a captain as well for India. For that reason, I would like to see him in and even given more and more opportunities around this squad." "What I don't like is that there is no secret about Shreyas Iyer now. He has real problems with the short ball. I think you will see a lot of teams attack him with their quick bowlers, attack him at the body with the bouncers, under the armpit, if you like, because I am not sure he has found a way," the former cricketer added. ALSO READ | From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: 7 captains Rahul Dravid has worked with as India's head coach Iyer is part of India's ODI and T20I squad for the WI tour and will be eager to come up with consistent performances to cement his place in the white-ball setup. With the T20 World Cup to be held later this year, in Australia, the middle-order batter needs to be on his toes or he will miss being part of the squad for the trip Down Under.

Not Pandya, Pant or Rahul! Former NZ all-rounder backs India's star player as future captaincy candidate

From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: 7 captains Rahul Dravid has worked with as India's head coach

Rishabh Pant has once again stunned world cricket. While Pant has been a huge hit for India in Test cricket, he has not lived upto expectations in the white-ball formats. However, when Rohit Sharma-led India faced England in the three-match ODI series decider, in Manchester on Sunday (July 17), the swashbuckling left-hander came to his best and delivered when the chips were down for the Men in Blue.

After dismissing Jos Buttler-led England for 259 in 45.5 overs, courtesy of Hardik Pandya's 4/24, India were in a spot of bother and reduced to 72/4 when Pant and Hardik joined forces. While Hardik played the aggressor's knock, with a 55-ball 71, the left-hander stayed till the end to smash his maiden ODI ton -- 125 not out off 113 balls -- and took India to a 2-1 series win over the 50-over world champions. Seeing Pant rise to the occasion in a high-pressure situation, former Indian batter and former Bengal coach Arun Lal has lavished huge praise on Pant. In addition, he feels he is the future captain after Rohit.

“Yes, absolutely (when&nbsp;asked if&nbsp;Pant is the future captain after Hitman). Lal told Jagran TV. "I always feel that the captain must deserve his place among the top three in the team. He (Pant) is someone who is not afraid to play his game, can handle pressure well, can take the team out of tough situations and such a player can be a great leader. It will be good for Indian cricket if we can have an aggressive player like Pant as captain of the side," he further asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-jasprit-bumrah-or-rishabh-pant-aakash-chopra-picks-team-indias-most-valuable-white-ball-player-498873">Not Jasprit Bumrah or Rishabh Pant! Aakash Chopra picks Team India's most valuable white-ball player</a>

"If Pant can play consistently, he will be a hero for the Indian team. If you play well in red-ball format, there are chances that you will do well in white-ball format too with a little bit of adjustment. However, it’s not necessary that if you play well in the white-ball format, you will be able to perform the same way in the red-ball format because in Test cricket, you need a different set of skills, the ability to handle different kind of pressure, physical fitness to sustain five-day cricket. I have seen Rishabh Pant changing the tides both in Tests and limited-overs formats. It is not about scoring centuries, but a century that comes under difficult circumstances and helps to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat," added&nbsp;the former Bengal coach.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-completely-sanjay-manjrekar-heaps-praise-on-rishabh-pant-hardik-pandya-after-england-odis-498851">'I was completely....' - Sanjay Manjrekar heaps praise on Rishabh Pant-Hardik Pandya after England ODIs</a>

Pant has now been given some breather and he won't be part of the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian ODI side, which is gearing up to face West Indies on the Caribbean island from July 22. The series will be followed by five T20Is versus the two-time winners, where Rohit, Pant and the likes will mark their return from a short break after the England tour.

Rishabh Pant has once again stunned world cricket. While Pant has been a huge hit for India in Test cricket, he has not lived upto expectations in the white-ball formats.

Rishabh Pant has once again stunned world cricket. While Pant has been a huge hit for India in Test cricket, he has not lived upto expectations in the white-ball formats. However, when Rohit Sharma-led India faced England in the three-match ODI series decider, in Manchester on Sunday (July 17), the swashbuckling left-hander came to his best and delivered when the chips were down for the Men in Blue. After dismissing Jos Buttler-led England for 259 in 45.5 overs, courtesy of Hardik Pandya's 4/24, India were in a spot of bother and reduced to 72/4 when Pant and Hardik joined forces. While Hardik played the aggressor's knock, with a 55-ball 71, the left-hander stayed till the end to smash his maiden ODI ton -- 125 not out off 113 balls -- and took India to a 2-1 series win over the 50-over world champions. Seeing Pant rise to the occasion in a high-pressure situation, former Indian batter and former Bengal coach Arun Lal has lavished huge praise on Pant. In addition, he feels he is the future captain after Rohit. “Yes, absolutely (when asked if Pant is the future captain after Hitman). Lal told Jagran TV. "I always feel that the captain must deserve his place among the top three in the team. He (Pant) is someone who is not afraid to play his game, can handle pressure well, can take the team out of tough situations and such a player can be a great leader. It will be good for Indian cricket if we can have an aggressive player like Pant as captain of the side," he further asserted. ALSO READ | Not Jasprit Bumrah or Rishabh Pant! Aakash Chopra picks Team India's most valuable white-ball player "If Pant can play consistently, he will be a hero for the Indian team. If you play well in red-ball format, there are chances that you will do well in white-ball format too with a little bit of adjustment. However, it’s not necessary that if you play well in the white-ball format, you will be able to perform the same way in the red-ball format because in Test cricket, you need a different set of skills, the ability to handle different kind of pressure, physical fitness to sustain five-day cricket. I have seen Rishabh Pant changing the tides both in Tests and limited-overs formats. It is not about scoring centuries, but a century that comes under difficult circumstances and helps to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat," added the former Bengal coach. ALSO READ | 'I was completely....' - Sanjay Manjrekar heaps praise on Rishabh Pant-Hardik Pandya after England ODIs Pant has now been given some breather and he won't be part of the Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian ODI side, which is gearing up to face West Indies on the Caribbean island from July 22. The series will be followed by five T20Is versus the two-time winners, where Rohit, Pant and the likes will mark their return from a short break after the England tour.

Is Rishabh Pant the future captain after Rohit Sharma? Former India batter shares his take

Rohit Sharma-led India ended a very successful tour of England on Sunday (July 17). After India lost a golden opportunity to win the rescheduled fifth and final Test, from 2021, versus Ben Stokes-led England, the visitors turned it around in the white-ball leg, beating Jos Buttler &amp; Co. in T20Is as well as in ODIs (by 2-1 margin).

While the T20Is was easily pocketed by India, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead before losing the finale by 17 runs, the 50-over series lived upto expectations and went to the final ODI with the scoreline 1-1. In the third and final match, India dismissed England for 259 in 45.5 overs -- riding on Hardik Pandya's 4/24 -- before Hardik's 71 (55) and Rishabh Pant's 125 not out rescued India from 72/4 to take them to a stunning five-wicket series win in the tour finale.

After the end of the England tour, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked India's most valuable white-ball player. The white-ball sides comprises several stars such as Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Pant, Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja Hardik, etc., however, Chopra picked the latter.

"Hardik Pandya - he has been absolutely stellar. One thing is getting proved that he is India's most valuable player in white-ball cricket. I don't think there is going to be anyone who is going to come close to him," Chopra said on his Youtube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-completely-sanjay-manjrekar-heaps-praise-on-rishabh-pant-hardik-pandya-after-england-odis-498851">'I was completely....' - Sanjay Manjrekar heaps praise on Rishabh Pant-Hardik Pandya after England ODIs</a>

"If Hardik Pandya is fit, his replacement is not available. You will get many spin-bowling all-rounders in India, you get them easily, in different formats, but you don't get a fast-bowling all-rounder at all, it is not possible at all," Chopra added.

Hardik has been in sensational form since his return to competitive cricket, starting from IPL 2022. In the 15th IPL season, he led debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to the mega title, with 487 runs and eight scalps overall, contributed with the bat in the home T20Is versus South Africa, led India for the first time during their 2-0&nbsp;series whitewash over Ireland in the shortest format, in Dublin, won the Player-of-the-Match in the India-England first T20I and ended as the Player-of-the-Series in the ODis versus the Three Lions.

Rohit Sharma-led India ended a very successful tour of England on Sunday (July 17). After India lost a golden opportunity to win the rescheduled fifth and final Test, from 2021, versus Ben Stokes-led England, the visitors turned it around in the white-ball leg, beating Jos Buttler & Co.

Rohit Sharma-led India ended a very successful tour of England on Sunday (July 17). After India lost a golden opportunity to win the rescheduled fifth and final Test, from 2021, versus Ben Stokes-led England, the visitors turned it around in the white-ball leg, beating Jos Buttler & Co. in T20Is as well as in ODIs (by 2-1 margin). While the T20Is was easily pocketed by India, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead before losing the finale by 17 runs, the 50-over series lived upto expectations and went to the final ODI with the scoreline 1-1. In the third and final match, India dismissed England for 259 in 45.5 overs -- riding on Hardik Pandya's 4/24 -- before Hardik's 71 (55) and Rishabh Pant's 125 not out rescued India from 72/4 to take them to a stunning five-wicket series win in the tour finale. After the end of the England tour, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked India's most valuable white-ball player. The white-ball sides comprises several stars such as Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav, Pant, Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja Hardik, etc., however, Chopra picked the latter. "Hardik Pandya - he has been absolutely stellar. One thing is getting proved that he is India's most valuable player in white-ball cricket. I don't think there is going to be anyone who is going to come close to him," Chopra said on his Youtube channel. ALSO READ | 'I was completely....' - Sanjay Manjrekar heaps praise on Rishabh Pant-Hardik Pandya after England ODIs "If Hardik Pandya is fit, his replacement is not available. You will get many spin-bowling all-rounders in India, you get them easily, in different formats, but you don't get a fast-bowling all-rounder at all, it is not possible at all," Chopra added. Hardik has been in sensational form since his return to competitive cricket, starting from IPL 2022. In the 15th IPL season, he led debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to the mega title, with 487 runs and eight scalps overall, contributed with the bat in the home T20Is versus South Africa, led India for the first time during their 2-0 series whitewash over Ireland in the shortest format, in Dublin, won the Player-of-the-Match in the India-England first T20I and ended as the Player-of-the-Series in the ODis versus the Three Lions.

Not Jasprit Bumrah or Rishabh Pant! Aakash Chopra picks Team India's most valuable white-ball player

After the one-off Test between England and India ended with the Ben Stokes-led hosts beating Jasprit Bumrah &amp; Co. by seven wickets, the action now moves onto the white-ball series as Rohit Sharma's Team India face the Jos Buttler-led English line-up in the T20I series opener on Thursday (July 07).

With the T20 World Cup only a few months away, India and England will leave no stone unturned to finalise their playing XI and team combination. The forthcoming series is a good opportunity for both sides will tick few more boxes enroute the road towards the marquee edition Down Under.&nbsp;

For the unversed, India's regulars such as Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja have been rested and will join the team from the next T20I.

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is the England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I taking place?

England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I is scheduled to take place on July 07, 2022 (Thursday).&nbsp;

Where is England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I&nbsp;match taking place?

The England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I will be held at the Rose Bowl, Southampton.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-prediction-who-will-win-1st-t20i-between-england-and-india-in-southampton-495250">ENG vs IND prediction: Who will win 1st T20I between England and India in Southampton</a>

At what time England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I&nbsp;match taking place?

The England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I will kick off at 5 PM&nbsp;GMT (6 PM&nbsp;local time). The IST time is 10:30 pm.

How to watch England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I match live on TV?

The England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network - Sony Six and Sony Six HD.

How to watch England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I live streaming?

The England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I&nbsp;will be available to watch online/streaming on&nbsp;Sony Liv.

After the one-off Test between England and India ended with the Ben Stokes-led hosts beating Jasprit Bumrah & Co. by seven wickets, the action now moves onto the white-ball series as Rohit Sharma's Team India face the Jos Buttler-led English line-up in the T20I series opener on Thursday (July 07).

After the one-off Test between England and India ended with the Ben Stokes-led hosts beating Jasprit Bumrah & Co. by seven wickets, the action now moves onto the white-ball series as Rohit Sharma's Team India face the Jos Buttler-led English line-up in the T20I series opener on Thursday (July 07). With the T20 World Cup only a few months away, India and England will leave no stone unturned to finalise their playing XI and team combination. The forthcoming series is a good opportunity for both sides will tick few more boxes enroute the road towards the marquee edition Down Under. For the unversed, India's regulars such as Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja have been rested and will join the team from the next T20I. Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is the England vs India 1st T20I taking place? England vs India 1st T20I is scheduled to take place on July 07, 2022 (Thursday). Where is England vs India 1st T20I match taking place? The England vs India 1st T20I will be held at the Rose Bowl, Southampton. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND prediction: Who will win 1st T20I between England and India in Southampton At what time England vs India 1st T20I match taking place? The England vs India 1st T20I will kick off at 5 PM GMT (6 PM local time). The IST time is 10:30 pm. How to watch England vs India 1st T20I match live on TV? The England vs India 1st T20I will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network - Sony Six and Sony Six HD. How to watch England vs India 1st T20I live streaming? The England vs India 1st T20I will be available to watch online/streaming on Sony Liv.

ENG vs IND: When and where to watch England vs India 1st T20I match - IST time and streaming details

India dominated proceedings for most parts in the just-concluded Edgbaston Test before losing the contest by seven wickets as the five-match series, which commenced during 2021 English summer, ended in a 2-2 stalemate on Tuesday (July 06).

In Rohit Sharma's absence, India were led by pacer Jasprit Bumrah whereas Rishabh Pant was his deputy. India were asked to bat first as they posted 416 after centuries from Pant and Ravindra Jadeja. In reply, England posted 284 courtesy of Jonny Bairstow's ton, giving a 132-run healthy lead to Team India. India, however, didn't capitalise and only managed to post 245 in their second essay, setting up a challenging 378-run target. While the target was a stiff one, India had a chance to completely bat England out of the contest by setting up anything over 450, however, they fell flat. In the run-chase, England were 109/3 before tons from Bairstow and Root took India home.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-god-is-not-coming-to-save-you-ms-dhonis-motivational-words-before-indias-ct13-win-494967">THROWBACK: 'God is not coming to save you' - MS Dhoni's motivational words before India's CT'13 win</a>

After the match, former Indian stumper Deep Dasgupta highlighted a glaring issue which has been a big factor in the national side's recent failures.&nbsp;

"It is very important for the team to have a stable captain. The position of the captain had been really [unstable] in the last few months, especially during England Test or Ireland tour," Dasgupta told ANI. "Due to injury and any other reason, we had to shuffle between captains. But now Rohit is fit and is available for the upcoming games," he stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-can-team-india-enter-world-test-championship-final-after-losing-edgbaston-test-494937">Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test</a>

"With only 2-3 months left for the T20 World Cup, there are many players who have showcased their spectacular performances. India is left with 20-22 games before the World Cup, so the selectors might have started shortlisting the players for the big tournament. Each and every match will be very important from now on," Dasgupta added.

India have been led by Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Bumrah since September 2021. Thus, they need to have stability in the captaincy role heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia.

India dominated proceedings for most parts in the just-concluded Edgbaston Test before losing the contest by seven wickets as the five-match series, which commenced during 2021 English summer, ended in a 2-2 stalemate on Tuesday (July 06).

India dominated proceedings for most parts in the just-concluded Edgbaston Test before losing the contest by seven wickets as the five-match series, which commenced during 2021 English summer, ended in a 2-2 stalemate on Tuesday (July 06). In Rohit Sharma's absence, India were led by pacer Jasprit Bumrah whereas Rishabh Pant was his deputy. India were asked to bat first as they posted 416 after centuries from Pant and Ravindra Jadeja. In reply, England posted 284 courtesy of Jonny Bairstow's ton, giving a 132-run healthy lead to Team India. India, however, didn't capitalise and only managed to post 245 in their second essay, setting up a challenging 378-run target. While the target was a stiff one, India had a chance to completely bat England out of the contest by setting up anything over 450, however, they fell flat. In the run-chase, England were 109/3 before tons from Bairstow and Root took India home. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: 'God is not coming to save you' - MS Dhoni's motivational words before India's CT'13 win After the match, former Indian stumper Deep Dasgupta highlighted a glaring issue which has been a big factor in the national side's recent failures. "It is very important for the team to have a stable captain. The position of the captain had been really [unstable] in the last few months, especially during England Test or Ireland tour," Dasgupta told ANI. "Due to injury and any other reason, we had to shuffle between captains. But now Rohit is fit and is available for the upcoming games," he stated. ALSO READ | Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test "With only 2-3 months left for the T20 World Cup, there are many players who have showcased their spectacular performances. India is left with 20-22 games before the World Cup, so the selectors might have started shortlisting the players for the big tournament. Each and every match will be very important from now on," Dasgupta added. India have been led by Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Bumrah since September 2021. Thus, they need to have stability in the captaincy role heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia.

Important for India to have a stable captain: Former stumper highlights glaring issue after Edgbaston Test

The All-India Senior Selection Committee has picked the squads for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies to be played at the Queen`s Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad. Batter Shikhar Dhawan will be leading Team India in the three-match ODI series, with Ravindra Jadeja as the vice-captain. The Men in Blue will be squaring off against the West Indies for a three-match ODI series and five-match T20I series, from July 22.

Currently, Team India is facing England in the multi-format series, with the last match to be played on July 17. Star batter Virat Kohli, pacer Jasprit Bumrah, and batter Rohit Sharma are among the senior players who have been rested from the ODIs. Kohli, who was known for his blistering batting performances has failed to regain his form. After missing out on the home series against South Africa, the former skipper could manage to score only 31 runs in the fifth Test against England at Edgbaston.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-can-team-india-enter-world-test-championship-final-after-losing-edgbaston-test-494937">Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test</a>

On the other hand, Bumrah led Team India at the Edgbaston and impressed everyone with his pace and fiery knock, where he smashed 35 runs in a single over by Stuart Broad and created a world record.

India`s squad for three ODIs: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (vice-captain), Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.&nbsp;

The All-India Senior Selection Committee has picked the squads for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies to be played at the Queen`s Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad.

The All-India Senior Selection Committee has picked the squads for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies to be played at the Queen`s Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad. Batter Shikhar Dhawan will be leading Team India in the three-match ODI series, with Ravindra Jadeja as the vice-captain. The Men in Blue will be squaring off against the West Indies for a three-match ODI series and five-match T20I series, from July 22. Currently, Team India is facing England in the multi-format series, with the last match to be played on July 17. Star batter Virat Kohli, pacer Jasprit Bumrah, and batter Rohit Sharma are among the senior players who have been rested from the ODIs. Kohli, who was known for his blistering batting performances has failed to regain his form. After missing out on the home series against South Africa, the former skipper could manage to score only 31 runs in the fifth Test against England at Edgbaston. ALSO READ | Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test On the other hand, Bumrah led Team India at the Edgbaston and impressed everyone with his pace and fiery knock, where he smashed 35 runs in a single over by Stuart Broad and created a world record. India`s squad for three ODIs: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (vice-captain), Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.

India tour of WI: Shikhar Dhawan to lead ODI side as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli & other big guns rested

Virat Kohli's century-drought remains a talking point in the cricketing fraternity. It isn't an unknown fact that the 33-year-old former skipper's last international hundred came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era. Since then, the right-hander has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions, especially in shorter formats, but hasn't touched the triple-figure mark.

Ahead of the fifth and final Test between India and England -- which is part of the incomplete five-match series held last year in England -- former Indian opener Aakash Chopra opined whether Kohli will be able to break his century jinx during the series decider, which got underway on Friday (July 01) in Edgbaston, Birmingham.&nbsp;

"Kohli and Pant together will score more than 120 runs. The big question is will Kohli finally get his 71st hundred in this game? I don't think so. Although he got his first Test hundred in England on this ground, I doubt whether he will get a hundred this time. But he and Pant will still be among the runs," the former India batter said on his YouTube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-5th-test-milestone-alert-virat-kohli-needs-40-runs-to-join-tendulkar-gavaskar-in-elite-club-493488">ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Milestone alert! Virat Kohli needs 40 runs to join Tendulkar, Gavaskar in elite club</a>

"Root and Stokes together will score more than 120 runs in the game. Root scored three hundreds last time and&nbsp;Iss Root ki sabhi line vyast hai&nbsp;(all lines on this Root are busy) as he has been in tremendous form. Stokes has done well as captain but hasn't scored many runs. However I think runs will come from his bat too in this game,"&nbsp;added Chopra.

At present, India are 53 for 2 in 20.1 overs after being asked to bat first in the first session of the opening day before rain, and wet outfield, interrupted proceedings. Jasprit Bumrah is leading India in regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence, who is ruled out due to Covid concerns.

Virat Kohli's century-drought remains a talking point in the cricketing fraternity. It isn't an unknown fact that the 33-year-old former skipper's last international hundred came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era.

Virat Kohli's century-drought remains a talking point in the cricketing fraternity. It isn't an unknown fact that the 33-year-old former skipper's last international hundred came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era. Since then, the right-hander has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions, especially in shorter formats, but hasn't touched the triple-figure mark. Ahead of the fifth and final Test between India and England -- which is part of the incomplete five-match series held last year in England -- former Indian opener Aakash Chopra opined whether Kohli will be able to break his century jinx during the series decider, which got underway on Friday (July 01) in Edgbaston, Birmingham. "Kohli and Pant together will score more than 120 runs. The big question is will Kohli finally get his 71st hundred in this game? I don't think so. Although he got his first Test hundred in England on this ground, I doubt whether he will get a hundred this time. But he and Pant will still be among the runs," the former India batter said on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Milestone alert! Virat Kohli needs 40 runs to join Tendulkar, Gavaskar in elite club "Root and Stokes together will score more than 120 runs in the game. Root scored three hundreds last time and Iss Root ki sabhi line vyast hai (all lines on this Root are busy) as he has been in tremendous form. Stokes has done well as captain but hasn't scored many runs. However I think runs will come from his bat too in this game," added Chopra. At present, India are 53 for 2 in 20.1 overs after being asked to bat first in the first session of the opening day before rain, and wet outfield, interrupted proceedings. Jasprit Bumrah is leading India in regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence, who is ruled out due to Covid concerns.

Will Virat Kohli end his century-drought in one-off Test vs England? Former Indian opener gives his verdict

In 1959, as many as five players (Vinoo Mankad, Hemu Adhikari, Datta Gaekwad, Pankaj Roy and Gulabrai Ramchand) led Team India. In 2022, India have broken the 63-year-old record as Jasprit Bumrah became the sixth player to lead the team&nbsp;in the calendar year.&nbsp;

It has been a unique year for India, with captaincy changes happening at regular intervals due to injury and Covid concerns&nbsp;or with two sides playing parallelly. In this regard, the likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and now Bumrah have led India across formats. Kohli led India in a solitary Test, during the third and final match versus hosts South Africa, before resigning from the post. KL Rahul had led in his place in the second and penultimate Test with Kohli out of action due to injury. Rahul also led in the three ODIs in South Africa before Rohit Sharma resumed captaincy duties in the home white-ball&nbsp;series versus West Indies and Sri Lanka, respectively.&nbsp;

Post IPL 2022, Rishabh Pant led India in the five T20Is versus the Proteas at home, as regulars such as Rohit, Kohli, etc. were rested before the one-off Test against England. Hardik led India in the recently-concluded Ireland T20Is as Rohit &amp; Co. were preparing for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus the Three Lions, which got underway on Friday (July 01). With Rohit being ruled out of the England Test due to Covid concerns, Bumrah became the sixth captain of India in 2022.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-5th-test-milestone-alert-virat-kohli-needs-40-runs-to-join-tendulkar-gavaskar-in-elite-club-493488">ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Milestone alert! Virat Kohli needs 40 runs to join Tendulkar, Gavaskar in elite club</a>

Talking about the final Test, Ben Stokes-led England opted to bowl first versus India. Bumrah said at the toss, "It's a good feeling (to be captain) and is a big privilege. Can't get better than this. Excited and looking forward to this." Ahead of the match, head coach Rahul Dravid told the broadcasters, "I think he (Bumrah) is a very thoughtful individual, understands the game very well. Also he commands the respect of the team, which is very important as a leader. Bowling changes, field changes obviously will only get better with time. It's a new challenge. It's not easy for a fast bowler to captain, he's got to think about his own bowling too. Have had a few conversations with him, and told him that we need him more as a bowler. Captaincy is something that you'll get better at as you do it more."

Bumrah became the second pacer to lead India in the purest format after Kapil Dev. He is officially India's 36th Test captain.

In 1959, as many as five players (Vinoo Mankad, Hemu Adhikari, Datta Gaekwad, Pankaj Roy and Gulabrai Ramchand) led Team India. In 2022, India have broken the 63-year-old record as Jasprit Bumrah became the sixth player to lead the team in the calendar year.

In 1959, as many as five players (Vinoo Mankad, Hemu Adhikari, Datta Gaekwad, Pankaj Roy and Gulabrai Ramchand) led Team India. In 2022, India have broken the 63-year-old record as Jasprit Bumrah became the sixth player to lead the team in the calendar year. It has been a unique year for India, with captaincy changes happening at regular intervals due to injury and Covid concerns or with two sides playing parallelly. In this regard, the likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and now Bumrah have led India across formats. Kohli led India in a solitary Test, during the third and final match versus hosts South Africa, before resigning from the post. KL Rahul had led in his place in the second and penultimate Test with Kohli out of action due to injury. Rahul also led in the three ODIs in South Africa before Rohit Sharma resumed captaincy duties in the home white-ball series versus West Indies and Sri Lanka, respectively. Post IPL 2022, Rishabh Pant led India in the five T20Is versus the Proteas at home, as regulars such as Rohit, Kohli, etc. were rested before the one-off Test against England. Hardik led India in the recently-concluded Ireland T20Is as Rohit & Co. were preparing for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus the Three Lions, which got underway on Friday (July 01). With Rohit being ruled out of the England Test due to Covid concerns, Bumrah became the sixth captain of India in 2022. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Milestone alert! Virat Kohli needs 40 runs to join Tendulkar, Gavaskar in elite club Talking about the final Test, Ben Stokes-led England opted to bowl first versus India. Bumrah said at the toss, "It's a good feeling (to be captain) and is a big privilege. Can't get better than this. Excited and looking forward to this." Ahead of the match, head coach Rahul Dravid told the broadcasters, "I think he (Bumrah) is a very thoughtful individual, understands the game very well. Also he commands the respect of the team, which is very important as a leader. Bowling changes, field changes obviously will only get better with time. It's a new challenge. It's not easy for a fast bowler to captain, he's got to think about his own bowling too. Have had a few conversations with him, and told him that we need him more as a bowler. Captaincy is something that you'll get better at as you do it more." Bumrah became the second pacer to lead India in the purest format after Kapil Dev. He is officially India's 36th Test captain.

ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Jasprit Bumrah becomes India's 6th captain in 2022, shatters 63-year-old record

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