Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has shared his views on KL Rahul's captaincy and stated that he loses his impact as a batter when leading the team. Rahul is currently leading the Indian cricket in the absence of permanent skipper Rohit Sharma in the ongoing three-match ODI series against South Africa.

Manjrekar cited the example of Rahul's numbers from his captaincy stint with Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) where his strike rate went down significantly after becoming the captain of the team. Manjrekar's comments came after Rahul's 79-ball 55 in the second ODI against South Africa on Friday (January 21).

After opting to bat first India rode on Rahul's 55 and Rishabh Pant's quickfire 85 off 71 balls to post a fighting total of 287/5 on the board, batting first in the must-win game. Pant and Rahul added a 115-run stand for the second wicket where the left-hander was going all guns blazing but the Indian skipper adopted a cautious approach and looked a bit sluggish during his innings.

"When he's a captain [for Punjab Kings] he has a strike rate of 133 and when he's not the captain 146. So this is KL Rahul, when he becomes captain, the impact that he makes as a batter gets diminished and that's something that hurts the team in the end and we have seen it hurt Punjab Kings in the IPL,"&nbsp;Mankrekar said on ESPN Cricinfo.

Today, you could say with Rishabh Pant batting there and the kind of overall confidence that the Indian team currently has, he saw potential issues had he got out early, especially with Virat Kohli gone," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-only-one-reason-sunil-gavaskar-explains-why-india-havent-won-an-icc-trophy-since-2013-446508">'There is only one reason': Sunil Gavaskar explains why India haven't won an ICC trophy since 2013</a>

Manjrekar wants Rahul to learn from Kohli and try to be like him as a captain. Kohli enjoyed the pressure of leadership and his performances only got better when he became the captain of the Indian team across formats. Manjrekar wants Rahul to replicate the same and win games for India with his batting.

"So I can understand the innings but going forward, I just want to see KL Rahul [be] the guy who makes an impact with the bat. Like Virat Kohli, for example, when he became the captain didn't lose Virat Kohli the batter who won him a lot of games. I want to see the same with KL Rahul," said Manjrekar.

India lost the first ODI against South Africa by 31 runs under Rahul's captaincy and are on the verge of facing back-to-back defeats as South Africa are well placed to win the second ODI and clinch the three-match series.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has shared his views on KL Rahul's captaincy and stated that he loses his impact as a batter when leading the team. Rahul is currently leading the Indian cricket in the absence of permanent skipper Rohit Sharma in the ongoing three-match ODI series against South Africa.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has shared his views on KL Rahul's captaincy and stated that he loses his impact as a batter when leading the team. Rahul is currently leading the Indian cricket in the absence of permanent skipper Rohit Sharma in the ongoing three-match ODI series against South Africa. Manjrekar cited the example of Rahul's numbers from his captaincy stint with Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) where his strike rate went down significantly after becoming the captain of the team. Manjrekar's comments came after Rahul's 79-ball 55 in the second ODI against South Africa on Friday (January 21). After opting to bat first India rode on Rahul's 55 and Rishabh Pant's quickfire 85 off 71 balls to post a fighting total of 287/5 on the board, batting first in the must-win game. Pant and Rahul added a 115-run stand for the second wicket where the left-hander was going all guns blazing but the Indian skipper adopted a cautious approach and looked a bit sluggish during his innings. "When he's a captain [for Punjab Kings] he has a strike rate of 133 and when he's not the captain 146. So this is KL Rahul, when he becomes captain, the impact that he makes as a batter gets diminished and that's something that hurts the team in the end and we have seen it hurt Punjab Kings in the IPL," Mankrekar said on ESPN Cricinfo. Today, you could say with Rishabh Pant batting there and the kind of overall confidence that the Indian team currently has, he saw potential issues had he got out early, especially with Virat Kohli gone," he added. Also Read: 'There is only one reason': Sunil Gavaskar explains why India haven't won an ICC trophy since 2013 Manjrekar wants Rahul to learn from Kohli and try to be like him as a captain. Kohli enjoyed the pressure of leadership and his performances only got better when he became the captain of the Indian team across formats. Manjrekar wants Rahul to replicate the same and win games for India with his batting. "So I can understand the innings but going forward, I just want to see KL Rahul [be] the guy who makes an impact with the bat. Like Virat Kohli, for example, when he became the captain didn't lose Virat Kohli the batter who won him a lot of games. I want to see the same with KL Rahul," said Manjrekar. India lost the first ODI against South Africa by 31 runs under Rahul's captaincy and are on the verge of facing back-to-back defeats as South Africa are well placed to win the second ODI and clinch the three-match series.

KL Rahul's impact as a batter diminishes when he captains, he should learn from Virat Kohli: Sanjay Manjrekar

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced that he is stepping down as the Indian Test captain. The news shocked one and all as the 33-year-old signed off as India's most successful captain in whites, winning 40 out of 68 Tests. Kohli's decision came just a day after India's three-match Test series loss to Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in the rainbow nation.

Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/way-people-treated-him-ex-bcci-selector-opines-on-virat-kohli-post-his-test-captaincy-resignation-446415">'Way people treated him...': Ex-BCCI selector opines on Virat Kohli post his Test captaincy resignation</a>

Ever since Kohli stepped down as the Test captain, many former cricketers and experts of the game have suggested various names who can succeed the 33-year-old. Some of the top contenders are Rohit Sharma (already the limited-overs captain), Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul whereas some have suggested Rishabh Pant's name as well. Pant, who made his debut in whites in mid-2018, has improved leaps and bounds -- in terms of fitness, keeping skills and batting -- and has&nbsp;1,735 runs with seven half-centuries and four tons. In addition, he has 110 dismissals in the purest format so far.

Speaking to the media recently, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen opined on the Test captaincy debate and shared his views regarding Pant.&nbsp;

"You are spoilt for choice... But Pant not yet, maybe one day... But when you have got Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul you have got some mighty cricketers," Pietersen has said. "I love Rahul Dravid. I'm looking forward to his progress with the national side. He has done wonders for the youngsters. So I'm looking forward to seeing him progress with the senior players," he further asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-are-lucky-they-have-many-options-kevin-pietersen-names-who-should-take-over-as-test-captain-446401">India are lucky they have many options: Kevin Pietersen names who should take over as Test captain</a>

It will be interesting to see if Pant is given the nod. At 24, the swashbuckling left-hander is already touted to captain Team India in the future. However, it&nbsp;remains to be seen if he is given the top job amid the presence of many senior players such as Rohit, Rahul, R Ashwin, Bumrah and the likes.

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced that he is stepping down as the Indian Test captain. The news shocked one and all as the 33-year-old signed off as India's most successful captain in whites, winning 40 out of 68 Tests.

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced that he is stepping down as the Indian Test captain. The news shocked one and all as the 33-year-old signed off as India's most successful captain in whites, winning 40 out of 68 Tests. Kohli's decision came just a day after India's three-match Test series loss to Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in the rainbow nation. Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Way people treated him...': Ex-BCCI selector opines on Virat Kohli post his Test captaincy resignation Ever since Kohli stepped down as the Test captain, many former cricketers and experts of the game have suggested various names who can succeed the 33-year-old. Some of the top contenders are Rohit Sharma (already the limited-overs captain), Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul whereas some have suggested Rishabh Pant's name as well. Pant, who made his debut in whites in mid-2018, has improved leaps and bounds -- in terms of fitness, keeping skills and batting -- and has 1,735 runs with seven half-centuries and four tons. In addition, he has 110 dismissals in the purest format so far. Speaking to the media recently, former England skipper Kevin Pietersen opined on the Test captaincy debate and shared his views regarding Pant. "You are spoilt for choice... But Pant not yet, maybe one day... But when you have got Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul you have got some mighty cricketers," Pietersen has said. "I love Rahul Dravid. I'm looking forward to his progress with the national side. He has done wonders for the youngsters. So I'm looking forward to seeing him progress with the senior players," he further asserted. ALSO READ | India are lucky they have many options: Kevin Pietersen names who should take over as Test captain It will be interesting to see if Pant is given the nod. At 24, the swashbuckling left-hander is already touted to captain Team India in the future. However, it remains to be seen if he is given the top job amid the presence of many senior players such as Rohit, Rahul, R Ashwin, Bumrah and the likes.

Should Rishabh Pant take over from Virat Kohli as India's Test captain? Kevin Pietersen responds

India and South Africa have locked horns with each other in the second and penultimate ODI at Boland Park, Paarl on Friday (January 21). After losing the series opener by 31 runs, KL Rahul-led India are in a must-win scenario to keep the series alive.

After winning the toss, Rahul &amp; Co. opted to bat first and were reduced from 63 for no loss to 64-2. Thus, Rahul and Rishabh Pant came together and stitched a wonderful 115-run third-wicket stand before both the set batters returned after scoring a fifty each. While Rahul went back for a 79-ball 55, Pant registered his highest ODI score (85) but missed out on his maiden century in the 50-over format.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-comedy-of-errors-ensues-between-rahul-pant-before-keshav-maharaj-misses-run-out-chance-446456">WATCH: Comedy of errors ensues between Rahul, Pant before Keshav Maharaj misses run-out chance</a>

During the match proceedings, former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan lauded young Pant and compared his approach towards the game with ex-opener Virender Sehwag. "When you talk about a player who has got the X-Factor, Rishabh Pant comes to mind. He's got versatility that puts him in a different category. If one manages to do things which other players are not able to pull off, expectations tend to rise as well as pressure," Zaheer told&nbsp;Cricbuzz.

"But Pant is a character and he's least bothered about the commentary or outside noise. Virender Sehwag also used to be like that in our times. He used to think about his own game instead of focusing on other things... and Pant also has got a similar approach. You can't judge him on the basis of his stats due to the amount of risk that he takes. He's an impact player."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-creates-unwanted-record-after-5-ball-duck-in-2nd-odi-against-south-africa-446440">Virat Kohli creates unwanted record after 5-ball duck in 2nd ODI against South Africa</a>

Zaheer further opined that Pant's batting position should remain flexible. "I don't think his batting position has affected his performance in limited-overs. India instead expects flexibility from him. They have a player who can come in to bat according to the situation. You can't correlate his form and batting position... these are two completely different things. Pant should be utilized as an impact player rather than alloting a fixed batting spot to him," he added.

Riding on Pant's sublime 85, Rahul's 55 and Shardul Thakur's 40 not out, India have set a competitive 288-run target for the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas in the second and penultimate ODI in Paarl.

India and South Africa have locked horns with each other in the second and penultimate ODI at Boland Park, Paarl on Friday (January 21). After losing the series opener by 31 runs, KL Rahul-led India are in a must-win scenario to keep the series alive.

India and South Africa have locked horns with each other in the second and penultimate ODI at Boland Park, Paarl on Friday (January 21). After losing the series opener by 31 runs, KL Rahul-led India are in a must-win scenario to keep the series alive. After winning the toss, Rahul & Co. opted to bat first and were reduced from 63 for no loss to 64-2. Thus, Rahul and Rishabh Pant came together and stitched a wonderful 115-run third-wicket stand before both the set batters returned after scoring a fifty each. While Rahul went back for a 79-ball 55, Pant registered his highest ODI score (85) but missed out on his maiden century in the 50-over format. ALSO READ | WATCH: Comedy of errors ensues between Rahul, Pant before Keshav Maharaj misses run-out chance During the match proceedings, former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan lauded young Pant and compared his approach towards the game with ex-opener Virender Sehwag. "When you talk about a player who has got the X-Factor, Rishabh Pant comes to mind. He's got versatility that puts him in a different category. If one manages to do things which other players are not able to pull off, expectations tend to rise as well as pressure," Zaheer told Cricbuzz. "But Pant is a character and he's least bothered about the commentary or outside noise. Virender Sehwag also used to be like that in our times. He used to think about his own game instead of focusing on other things... and Pant also has got a similar approach. You can't judge him on the basis of his stats due to the amount of risk that he takes. He's an impact player." ALSO READ | Virat Kohli creates unwanted record after 5-ball duck in 2nd ODI against South Africa Zaheer further opined that Pant's batting position should remain flexible. "I don't think his batting position has affected his performance in limited-overs. India instead expects flexibility from him. They have a player who can come in to bat according to the situation. You can't correlate his form and batting position... these are two completely different things. Pant should be utilized as an impact player rather than alloting a fixed batting spot to him," he added. Riding on Pant's sublime 85, Rahul's 55 and Shardul Thakur's 40 not out, India have set a competitive 288-run target for the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas in the second and penultimate ODI in Paarl.

He also used to be like that: Zaheer Khan compares Indian star's approach with Virender Sehwag

India and South Africa have locked horns with each other in the second and penultimate ODI at Boland Park, Paarl on Friday (January 21). After losing the series opener by 31 runs, KL Rahul-led Team India have to win the second match to keep the series alive in the rainbow nation.

Opting to bat first, Rahul-led side started well. After a fifty-run opening stand between stand-in captain Rahul and Shikhar Dhawan, India lost the plot with back-to-back wickets as former captain Virat Kohli returned back to the pavillion without opening his account. From 63 for no loss, India were 64-2 as Rahul was joined by Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;

In the 15th over of the Indian innings, Pant nudged a delivery from Keshav Maharaj towards the leg-side. While the left-hander looked for a run, he was caught ball watching as he saw Rahul from the non-striker's end reach near him. Hence, both the batters were at the same end, which led to a run-out opportunity.&nbsp;

Amid the communication mishap, bowler Maharaj missed the throw to inflict a run-out. What followed was that there was no one backing the bowler as the mid-wicket fielder was stationed near the boundary line. Hence, by the time the ball came back to Maharaj, Rahul stormed his way back to the non-striker's end to negate any damage for Team India.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-creates-unwanted-record-after-5-ball-duck-in-2nd-odi-against-south-africa-446440">Virat Kohli creates unwanted record after 5-ball duck in 2nd ODI against South Africa</a>

Here's how the comedy of errors ensued between Rahul and Pant:

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-kohli-were-sitting-apart-former-pak-spinner-makes-glaring-remark-after-indias-1st-odi-loss-446377">Rahul, Kohli were sitting apart: Former PAK spinner makes glaring remark after India's 1st ODI loss</a>

After Pant-Rahul's 115-run third-wicket stand, India have have a tough ask to post anything near 300 in the second and penultimate ODI. While Pant missed out on a century, being out for 85, Rahul fell for a 79-ball 55 against the run of play.

India have already lost the first ODI on Wednesday. Chasing 297, the visitors were restricted for 265-8 in their full quota of overs and, hence, need to up their game to level the series.

India and South Africa have locked horns with each other in the second and penultimate ODI at Boland Park, Paarl on Friday (January 21). After losing the series opener by 31 runs, KL Rahul-led Team India have to win the second match to keep the series alive in the rainbow nation.

India and South Africa have locked horns with each other in the second and penultimate ODI at Boland Park, Paarl on Friday (January 21). After losing the series opener by 31 runs, KL Rahul-led Team India have to win the second match to keep the series alive in the rainbow nation. Opting to bat first, Rahul-led side started well. After a fifty-run opening stand between stand-in captain Rahul and Shikhar Dhawan, India lost the plot with back-to-back wickets as former captain Virat Kohli returned back to the pavillion without opening his account. From 63 for no loss, India were 64-2 as Rahul was joined by Rishabh Pant. In the 15th over of the Indian innings, Pant nudged a delivery from Keshav Maharaj towards the leg-side. While the left-hander looked for a run, he was caught ball watching as he saw Rahul from the non-striker's end reach near him. Hence, both the batters were at the same end, which led to a run-out opportunity. Amid the communication mishap, bowler Maharaj missed the throw to inflict a run-out. What followed was that there was no one backing the bowler as the mid-wicket fielder was stationed near the boundary line. Hence, by the time the ball came back to Maharaj, Rahul stormed his way back to the non-striker's end to negate any damage for Team India. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli creates unwanted record after 5-ball duck in 2nd ODI against South Africa Here's how the comedy of errors ensued between Rahul and Pant: 😂🤣 pic.twitter.com/XbiOphDTar — Hardik (@Hardik_Sedani) January 21, 2022 × ALSO READ | Rahul, Kohli were sitting apart: Former PAK spinner makes glaring remark after India's 1st ODI loss After Pant-Rahul's 115-run third-wicket stand, India have have a tough ask to post anything near 300 in the second and penultimate ODI. While Pant missed out on a century, being out for 85, Rahul fell for a 79-ball 55 against the run of play. India have already lost the first ODI on Wednesday. Chasing 297, the visitors were restricted for 265-8 in their full quota of overs and, hence, need to up their game to level the series.

WATCH: Comedy of errors ensues between Rahul, Pant before Keshav Maharaj misses run-out chance

After the riveting three Tests, India and South Africa will square off with each other in the three-match ODI series opener at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). Team India will play their first-ever series in the 50-over format since July 2021 and following Rahul Dravid's appointment as the head coach.

In 2021, India played two bilateral ODI series, versus England and Sri Lanka respectively. India ended the year winning four games and losing two. Since then, a lot has changed in Indian cricket. Virat Kohli was sacked as the ODI captain, having resigned on his own as T20I and Test captain (recently on January 15). Rohit Sharma was named the limited-overs captain in early December 2021, before being ruled out of the upcoming ODIs due to hamstring injury.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itll-be-an-honour-kl-rahul-on-potentially-taking-over-from-virat-kohli-as-indias-next-test-captain-445678">'It’ll be an honour': KL Rahul on potentially taking over from Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain</a>

Thus, the 29-year-old KL Rahul will take the charge of the side in the SA ODIs in Rohit's absence. Rahul has already led India in the ongoing tour, during the second and penultimate Test at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. It will be interesting to see how he guides the side with veterans such as Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, R Ashwin, etc.

Since July 2021, Dravid has already worked with several captains -- in the form of Dhawan, Rohit, Ajinkya Rahane, Kohli and&nbsp;Rahul. Thus, the national side will be eager to gel well and start the series with a bang after losing the Tests 2-1. The young guns such as Venkatesh Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Md Siraj, Rishabh Pant, etc. will be desperate to make the most of their chances.

On the other hand, Bavuma-led SA aren't pushovers by any means. The likes of Bavuma, Quinton de Kock, Lungi Ngidi, etc. will be bolstered by the presence of white-ball specialists David Miller, Andile Pheklukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-comes-a-stage-where-you-cant-afridi-opines-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-quit-test-captaincy-445655">'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy</a>

Match prediction for India-South Africa encounter:&nbsp;There's not much separating both sides. Expect big runs with small boundaries -- on a pitch known to be slow and flat -- if the weather doesn't play a big role. SA's practice session was abandoned on Tuesday (January 18) due to rain interruption. Thus, the weather can make its presence felt.

Given how much India enjoy playing this format and are well in sync with it, expect the visitors to go 1-0 up. Nonetheless, it will be a close contest.

After the riveting three Tests, India and South Africa will square off with each other in the three-match ODI series opener at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19).

After the riveting three Tests, India and South Africa will square off with each other in the three-match ODI series opener at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). Team India will play their first-ever series in the 50-over format since July 2021 and following Rahul Dravid's appointment as the head coach. In 2021, India played two bilateral ODI series, versus England and Sri Lanka respectively. India ended the year winning four games and losing two. Since then, a lot has changed in Indian cricket. Virat Kohli was sacked as the ODI captain, having resigned on his own as T20I and Test captain (recently on January 15). Rohit Sharma was named the limited-overs captain in early December 2021, before being ruled out of the upcoming ODIs due to hamstring injury. ALSO READ | 'It’ll be an honour': KL Rahul on potentially taking over from Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain Thus, the 29-year-old KL Rahul will take the charge of the side in the SA ODIs in Rohit's absence. Rahul has already led India in the ongoing tour, during the second and penultimate Test at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. It will be interesting to see how he guides the side with veterans such as Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, R Ashwin, etc. Since July 2021, Dravid has already worked with several captains -- in the form of Dhawan, Rohit, Ajinkya Rahane, Kohli and Rahul. Thus, the national side will be eager to gel well and start the series with a bang after losing the Tests 2-1. The young guns such as Venkatesh Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Md Siraj, Rishabh Pant, etc. will be desperate to make the most of their chances. On the other hand, Bavuma-led SA aren't pushovers by any means. The likes of Bavuma, Quinton de Kock, Lungi Ngidi, etc. will be bolstered by the presence of white-ball specialists David Miller, Andile Pheklukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi. ALSO READ | 'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy Match prediction for India-South Africa encounter: There's not much separating both sides. Expect big runs with small boundaries -- on a pitch known to be slow and flat -- if the weather doesn't play a big role. SA's practice session was abandoned on Tuesday (January 18) due to rain interruption. Thus, the weather can make its presence felt. Given how much India enjoy playing this format and are well in sync with it, expect the visitors to go 1-0 up. Nonetheless, it will be a close contest.

IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa?

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has named India's next Test captain after Virat Kohli stepped down as the captain of the red-ball format on January 15. The 33-year-old Kohli surprised one and all with his decision, only a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the rainbow nation.

Kohli shared the news with one and all and tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-ganguly-wanted-to-issue-showcause-notice-to-kohli-following-his-explosive-presser-report-446249">BCCI President Ganguly wanted to issue showcause notice to Kohli following his explosive presser - Report</a>

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Since then, many former cricketers and experts of the game have shared their suggestions regarding who can take over from Kohli in whites. Ex-England cricketer Pietersen also opened up in this regard and feels India have plenty of options to choose from.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-kohli-were-sitting-apart-former-pak-spinner-makes-glaring-remark-after-indias-1st-odi-loss-446377">Rahul, Kohli were sitting apart: Former PAK spinner makes glaring remark after India's 1st ODI loss</a>

“You (India) are so lucky that you have so many options for the captain. I will probably stick with Rohit Sharma. He is a great leader, I love the authority he commands. He makes fabulous decisions and we’ve seen them with Mumbai Indians, he has won so many titles with them. More importantly, I am really looking forward to how Rahul Dravid is with that team – can he do it with the youngsters, can he do it with the big guys,” Pietersen was quoted as saying by&nbsp;India Today.

The national selectors have a tough decision&nbsp;to make in order to choose India's next captain in the purest format. Under Kohli, India dominated at home, played the inaugural WTC final, won a Test series in Australia and have an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, held in mid-2021.

The contenders for the top job are Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pan and&nbsp;Jasprit Bumrah.

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has named India's next Test captain after Virat Kohli stepped down as the captain of the red-ball format on January 15. The 33-year-old Kohli surprised one and all with his decision, only a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the rainbow nation.

Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has named India's next Test captain after Virat Kohli stepped down as the captain of the red-ball format on January 15. The 33-year-old Kohli surprised one and all with his decision, only a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the rainbow nation. Kohli shared the news with one and all and tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." ALSO READ | BCCI President Ganguly wanted to issue showcause notice to Kohli following his explosive presser - Report 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × Since then, many former cricketers and experts of the game have shared their suggestions regarding who can take over from Kohli in whites. Ex-England cricketer Pietersen also opened up in this regard and feels India have plenty of options to choose from. ALSO READ | Rahul, Kohli were sitting apart: Former PAK spinner makes glaring remark after India's 1st ODI loss “You (India) are so lucky that you have so many options for the captain. I will probably stick with Rohit Sharma. He is a great leader, I love the authority he commands. He makes fabulous decisions and we’ve seen them with Mumbai Indians, he has won so many titles with them. More importantly, I am really looking forward to how Rahul Dravid is with that team – can he do it with the youngsters, can he do it with the big guys,” Pietersen was quoted as saying by India Today. The national selectors have a tough decision to make in order to choose India's next captain in the purest format. Under Kohli, India dominated at home, played the inaugural WTC final, won a Test series in Australia and have an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, held in mid-2021. The contenders for the top job are Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pan and Jasprit Bumrah.

India are lucky they have many options: Kevin Pietersen names who should take over as Test captain

KL Rahul-led Team India lost the first ODI, of the three-match series, versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). Opting to bat first, Proteas were reduced to 68 for 3 before Bavuma's 110 and Rassie van der Dussen's 129 not out propelled the home side to 296-4 in 50 overs. In reply, India managed 265-8 courtesy fifties from Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli and Shardul Thakur.

Ahead of the second and penultimate ODI between both sides, on Friday (January 21), former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a glaring remark. Kaneria feels Indian team is divided in two groups, claiming that stand-in captain Rahul and Kohli are not on the same page. Earlier, reports were doing the rounds that there was a rift Kohli and limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma. However, Kohli had tarnished all such reports before the SA tour.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/sports/icc-reveals-full-schedule-for-2022-t20-world-cup-rohit-sharmas-team-india-to-begin-campaign-vs-pakistan-446363">ICC reveals full schedule for 2022 T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma's Team India to begin campaign vs Pakistan</a>

Kaneria told in a video on his Youtube channel, "We saw that the Indian dressing room was divided into two groups. KL Rahul and Virat Kohli were sitting apart. Also, Kohli wasn’t in the same mood as he used to be when he was the captain. But he’s a team man and will come back stronger."

Kaneria's claims make heads turn given Rahul has lavished praise on Kohli ahead of the ODIs. Talking about the former captain Kohli, the 33-year-old took the field for the first time after giving up captaincy altogether -- quitting as T20I and Test captain whereas he was&nbsp;sacked as ODI skipper.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-ganguly-wanted-to-issue-showcause-notice-to-kohli-following-his-explosive-presser-report-446249">BCCI President Ganguly wanted to issue showcause notice to Kohli following his explosive presser - Report</a>

Kaneria feels India will be eager to sign off from South Africa with an ODI series win, losing the Tests 2-1. However, the tainted spinner opines that India need to stand tall after lacking intensity in the series opener. "After losing the Test series, India would be eager to redeem themselves and clinch the ODI rubber. But Rahul hasn’t shown that spark until now. He had led in the Test series but wasn’t able to lift the team to break the South African partnership. At one stage, it didn’t look like the Proteas would put up 296 on the scoreboard. Lack of intensity from the Indian team helped the opposition in scoring such a total. There were also fielding lapses from the visitors," said the former Pakistan spinner.

The second and penultimate ODI is being held at the same venue on Friday.

KL Rahul-led Team India lost the first ODI, of the three-match series, versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). Opting to bat first, Proteas were reduced to 68 for 3 before Bavuma's 110 and Rassie van der Dussen's 129 not out propelled the home side to 296-4 in 50 overs.

KL Rahul-led Team India lost the first ODI, of the three-match series, versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). Opting to bat first, Proteas were reduced to 68 for 3 before Bavuma's 110 and Rassie van der Dussen's 129 not out propelled the home side to 296-4 in 50 overs. In reply, India managed 265-8 courtesy fifties from Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli and Shardul Thakur. Ahead of the second and penultimate ODI between both sides, on Friday (January 21), former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a glaring remark. Kaneria feels Indian team is divided in two groups, claiming that stand-in captain Rahul and Kohli are not on the same page. Earlier, reports were doing the rounds that there was a rift Kohli and limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma. However, Kohli had tarnished all such reports before the SA tour. ALSO READ | ICC reveals full schedule for 2022 T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma's Team India to begin campaign vs Pakistan Kaneria told in a video on his Youtube channel, "We saw that the Indian dressing room was divided into two groups. KL Rahul and Virat Kohli were sitting apart. Also, Kohli wasn’t in the same mood as he used to be when he was the captain. But he’s a team man and will come back stronger." Kaneria's claims make heads turn given Rahul has lavished praise on Kohli ahead of the ODIs. Talking about the former captain Kohli, the 33-year-old took the field for the first time after giving up captaincy altogether -- quitting as T20I and Test captain whereas he was sacked as ODI skipper. ALSO READ | BCCI President Ganguly wanted to issue showcause notice to Kohli following his explosive presser - Report Kaneria feels India will be eager to sign off from South Africa with an ODI series win, losing the Tests 2-1. However, the tainted spinner opines that India need to stand tall after lacking intensity in the series opener. "After losing the Test series, India would be eager to redeem themselves and clinch the ODI rubber. But Rahul hasn’t shown that spark until now. He had led in the Test series but wasn’t able to lift the team to break the South African partnership. At one stage, it didn’t look like the Proteas would put up 296 on the scoreboard. Lack of intensity from the Indian team helped the opposition in scoring such a total. There were also fielding lapses from the visitors," said the former Pakistan spinner. The second and penultimate ODI is being held at the same venue on Friday.

Rahul, Kohli were sitting apart: Former PAK spinner makes glaring remark after India's 1st ODI loss

India and South Africa will square off with each other in the second and penultimate ODI on Friday (January 21). After losing the three-match ODI series opener convincingly, KL Rahul-led India will feel the pressure as they have only a day to regroup and keep the series alive.&nbsp;

Talking about the first ODI, Temba Bavuma-led Proteas won the toss and opted to bat first. Despite the hosts being reduced to 68-3, Bavuma's 110 and Rassie van der Dussen's 129 not out propelled SA to a daunting 296-4 in 50 overs. Bavuma-Rassie's 204-run fourth-wicket stand took the game away from the visitors despite being on the back foot at the start.

In the run-chase, Rahul &amp; Co. rode on an impressive 98-run second-wicket stand between Virat Kohli (51) and Shikhar Dhawan (79). However, the duo's dismissals brought the home side back into the contest as the middle and lower order failed to put up a fight from thereon. Shardul Thakur's 50 not out ensured India played their full quota of overs, to end at 265-8.

For the second and penultimate ODI, India will ring in a few&nbsp;changes in the line-up. Suryakumar Yadav or Ruturaj Gaikwad might get a look-in whereas Deepak Chahar can be considered to bolster the pace department.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-ganguly-wanted-to-issue-showcause-notice-to-kohli-following-his-explosive-presser-report-446249">BCCI President Ganguly wanted to issue showcause notice to Kohli following his explosive presser - Report</a>

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is South Africa vs India 2nd ODI match taking place?

South Africa vs India 2nd ODI is scheduled to take place on January 21, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is South Africa vs India 2nd ODI taking place?

South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will take place at the Boland Park, Paarl in South Africa.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-quinton-de-kock-pulls-off-an-ms-dhoni-esque-stumping-to-get-rid-of-rishabh-pant-in-1st-odi-446191">WATCH: Quinton de Kock pulls off an MS Dhoni-esque stumping to get rid of Rishabh Pant in 1st ODI</a>

At what time South Africa vs India 2nd ODI taking place?

South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will kick off at 2:00pm (IST).

How to watch South Africa vs India 2nd ODI live on TV?

South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada.&nbsp;

How to watch South Africa vs India 2nd ODI live streaming?

South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.&nbsp;

India and South Africa will square off with each other in the second and penultimate ODI on Friday (January 21). After losing the three-match ODI series opener convincingly, KL Rahul-led India will feel the pressure as they have only a day to regroup and keep the series alive.

India and South Africa will square off with each other in the second and penultimate ODI on Friday (January 21). After losing the three-match ODI series opener convincingly, KL Rahul-led India will feel the pressure as they have only a day to regroup and keep the series alive. Talking about the first ODI, Temba Bavuma-led Proteas won the toss and opted to bat first. Despite the hosts being reduced to 68-3, Bavuma's 110 and Rassie van der Dussen's 129 not out propelled SA to a daunting 296-4 in 50 overs. Bavuma-Rassie's 204-run fourth-wicket stand took the game away from the visitors despite being on the back foot at the start. In the run-chase, Rahul & Co. rode on an impressive 98-run second-wicket stand between Virat Kohli (51) and Shikhar Dhawan (79). However, the duo's dismissals brought the home side back into the contest as the middle and lower order failed to put up a fight from thereon. Shardul Thakur's 50 not out ensured India played their full quota of overs, to end at 265-8. For the second and penultimate ODI, India will ring in a few changes in the line-up. Suryakumar Yadav or Ruturaj Gaikwad might get a look-in whereas Deepak Chahar can be considered to bolster the pace department. ALSO READ | BCCI President Ganguly wanted to issue showcause notice to Kohli following his explosive presser - Report Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is South Africa vs India 2nd ODI match taking place? South Africa vs India 2nd ODI is scheduled to take place on January 21, 2022. Where is South Africa vs India 2nd ODI taking place? South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will take place at the Boland Park, Paarl in South Africa. ALSO READ | WATCH: Quinton de Kock pulls off an MS Dhoni-esque stumping to get rid of Rishabh Pant in 1st ODI At what time South Africa vs India 2nd ODI taking place? South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will kick off at 2:00pm (IST). How to watch South Africa vs India 2nd ODI live on TV? South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada. How to watch South Africa vs India 2nd ODI live streaming? South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.

INDvsSA: When and where to watch India vs South Africa 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday (January 20), announced the Men's ODI team of 2021. Pakistan's Babar Azam has been named as the captain of the line-up, which includes no player from India, England and Australia. On Wednesday, the ICC had also shared the Men's T20I team of 2021, which didn't comprise a single Indian and had Babar as the captain.

Talking about the ODI XI, Ireland's Paul Stirling made the cut. He ended the calendar year with&nbsp;885 runs including 3 hundreds. South Africa's Janneman Malan was named the second opener with Babar at No. 3&nbsp;whereas Fakhar Zaman took the No. 4 spot. The rest of the middle-order comprises Rassie van der Dussen, who played a match-winning 129* versus India in the first ODI on Wednesday (January 19), along with Bangladeshi pair Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. Apart from Shakib, Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga and Ireland's Simi Singh are the two all-rounders whereas Mustafizur Rahman and Dushmantha Chameera were the two pacers included.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-t20i-team-of-2021-babar-azam-leads-star-studded-xi-no-team-india-player-makes-the-cut-446012">ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut</a>

Babar had a great run in 2021, being named as the white-ball captain altogether by the ICC. Under Babar, Pakistan won the ODI series in South Africa and also reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE.

The list had no mention of some of the big-ticket players, such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Jos Buttler, David Warner, Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, etc. For the unversed, this was the first time since 2004 that no Indian was named in the Men's ODI Team of the Year.&nbsp;

While no Indian featured in the team, it is to be noted that the senior men's team played only a handful of ODIs in 2021 (same goes for other big teams as well). India played six ODIs -- winning four of them -- with many regulars missing the 50-over leg versus Sri Lanka, in the island nation, in mid-2021.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-test-team-of-2021-rohit-sharma-rishabh-pant-and-r-ashwin-included-in-star-studded-line-up-446190">ICC Men's Test team of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant and R Ashwin included in star-studded line-up</a>

ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year:&nbsp;Babar Azam (captain), Paul Stirling, Janneman Malan, Fakhar Zaman, Rassie van der Dussen, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Wanidu Hasaranga, Mustafizur Rahman, Simi Singh, Dushmantha Chameera.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday (January 20), announced the Men's ODI team of 2021. Pakistan's Babar Azam has been named as the captain of the line-up, which includes no player from India, England and Australia.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday (January 20), announced the Men's ODI team of 2021. Pakistan's Babar Azam has been named as the captain of the line-up, which includes no player from India, England and Australia. On Wednesday, the ICC had also shared the Men's T20I team of 2021, which didn't comprise a single Indian and had Babar as the captain. Talking about the ODI XI, Ireland's Paul Stirling made the cut. He ended the calendar year with 885 runs including 3 hundreds. South Africa's Janneman Malan was named the second opener with Babar at No. 3 whereas Fakhar Zaman took the No. 4 spot. The rest of the middle-order comprises Rassie van der Dussen, who played a match-winning 129* versus India in the first ODI on Wednesday (January 19), along with Bangladeshi pair Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. Apart from Shakib, Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga and Ireland's Simi Singh are the two all-rounders whereas Mustafizur Rahman and Dushmantha Chameera were the two pacers included. ALSO READ | ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut Babar had a great run in 2021, being named as the white-ball captain altogether by the ICC. Under Babar, Pakistan won the ODI series in South Africa and also reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. The list had no mention of some of the big-ticket players, such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Jos Buttler, David Warner, Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, etc. For the unversed, this was the first time since 2004 that no Indian was named in the Men's ODI Team of the Year. While no Indian featured in the team, it is to be noted that the senior men's team played only a handful of ODIs in 2021 (same goes for other big teams as well). India played six ODIs -- winning four of them -- with many regulars missing the 50-over leg versus Sri Lanka, in the island nation, in mid-2021. ALSO READ | ICC Men's Test team of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant and R Ashwin included in star-studded line-up ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year: Babar Azam (captain), Paul Stirling, Janneman Malan, Fakhar Zaman, Rassie van der Dussen, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Wanidu Hasaranga, Mustafizur Rahman, Simi Singh, Dushmantha Chameera.

ICC Men's ODI team of 2021: No Team India player makes the cut in Babar Azam-led XI

Virat Kohli's glorious Test captaincy tenure: Reliving former skipper's inspiring run as leader in whites

KL Rahul-led India lost the three-match ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa on Wednesday (January 19). Being asked to bowl first, India had reduced SA to 68-3 before a match-winning 204-run fourth-wicket stand between centurions Bavuma (110) and Rassie van der Dussen (129 not out) propelled the hosts to 296-4 in 50 overs at Boland Park, Paarl.

In reply, India managed only 265-8 in their full quota of overs to go 1-0 down in the series. There were half-centuries from Shikhar Dhawan (79), former captain Kohli (51) and all-rounder Shardul Thakur (50 not out) but no daddy hundred from the top order and unimpressive returns from the middle and lower order resulted in India's convincing loss.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-virat-kohli-temba-bavuma-involved-in-fiery-exchange-during-1st-odi-in-paarl-watch-446129">India vs SA: Virat Kohli, Temba Bavuma involved in fiery exchange during 1st ODI in Paarl - WATCH</a>

Reviewing India's performance in the ODI series opener, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt feels the energy that Kohli brought on the field as captain was entirely missing under KL Rahul. For the unversed, Rahul is captaining the side in the absence of limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma (out due to hamstring injury).

"The energy that Virat brought to the ground as captain was missing. Maybe the team doesn’t have that vibe with KL. The grip and energy of a team that is attached with its captain as well as that unity was missing. KL didn’t have energy,” Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel.

“It happens with some people. They have a different vibe when given responsibility and another when they do not have it. He didn’t seem like an out-of-the-box thinker. As a captain, you keep on trying and keep the opposition guessing. These things were not evident in his leadership,” the tainted batter explained.

Ahead of the second and penultimate ODI, on Friday (January 21) at the same venue, Butt suggested how India can tweak their team combination a bit. "KL Rahul can keep wickets and India can bring in an extra batter in Gaikwad or Ishan. This will improve the middle order. India should also bring in a genuine pacer in place of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Rishabh Pant is the fifth batter. He is very expressive and talented but you cannot consistently rely on him. He needs to get fit. Lost his balance today. He needs to bring himself back in shape physically. He needs to make some sacrifices in this diet for the team,” Butt added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-virat-kohli-surpasses-sachin-tendulkar-ricky-ponting-to-achieve-elite-feat-during-1st-odi-446022">India vs SA: Virat Kohli surpasses Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting to achieve elite feat during 1st ODI</a>

India will have to regroup and aim for a series-levelling win in the second and penultimate contest on Friday. The series decider will be played at Newlands, Cape Town on Sunday (January 23).

KL Rahul-led India lost the three-match ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa on Wednesday (January 19). Being asked to bowl first, India had reduced SA to 68-3 before a match-winning 204-run fourth-wicket stand between centurions Bavuma (110) and Rassie van der Dussen (129 not out) propelled the hosts to 296-4 in 50 overs at Boland Park, Paarl.

KL Rahul-led India lost the three-match ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa on Wednesday (January 19). Being asked to bowl first, India had reduced SA to 68-3 before a match-winning 204-run fourth-wicket stand between centurions Bavuma (110) and Rassie van der Dussen (129 not out) propelled the hosts to 296-4 in 50 overs at Boland Park, Paarl. In reply, India managed only 265-8 in their full quota of overs to go 1-0 down in the series. There were half-centuries from Shikhar Dhawan (79), former captain Kohli (51) and all-rounder Shardul Thakur (50 not out) but no daddy hundred from the top order and unimpressive returns from the middle and lower order resulted in India's convincing loss. ALSO READ | India vs SA: Virat Kohli, Temba Bavuma involved in fiery exchange during 1st ODI in Paarl - WATCH Reviewing India's performance in the ODI series opener, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt feels the energy that Kohli brought on the field as captain was entirely missing under KL Rahul. For the unversed, Rahul is captaining the side in the absence of limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma (out due to hamstring injury). "The energy that Virat brought to the ground as captain was missing. Maybe the team doesn’t have that vibe with KL. The grip and energy of a team that is attached with its captain as well as that unity was missing. KL didn’t have energy,” Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel. “It happens with some people. They have a different vibe when given responsibility and another when they do not have it. He didn’t seem like an out-of-the-box thinker. As a captain, you keep on trying and keep the opposition guessing. These things were not evident in his leadership,” the tainted batter explained. Ahead of the second and penultimate ODI, on Friday (January 21) at the same venue, Butt suggested how India can tweak their team combination a bit. "KL Rahul can keep wickets and India can bring in an extra batter in Gaikwad or Ishan. This will improve the middle order. India should also bring in a genuine pacer in place of Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Rishabh Pant is the fifth batter. He is very expressive and talented but you cannot consistently rely on him. He needs to get fit. Lost his balance today. He needs to bring himself back in shape physically. He needs to make some sacrifices in this diet for the team,” Butt added. ALSO READ | India vs SA: Virat Kohli surpasses Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting to achieve elite feat during 1st ODI India will have to regroup and aim for a series-levelling win in the second and penultimate contest on Friday. The series decider will be played at Newlands, Cape Town on Sunday (January 23).

'Energy that Kohli brought as captain was missing, team doesn't....' - Salman Butt on India's 1st ODI loss

India and South Africa played out the first ODI, at Boland Park, Paarl, on Wednesday (January 19) after the three-match Test series ended in the African nation. KL Rahul-led India lost the series opener convincingly, by 31 runs, as Temba Bavuma's Proteas have gone 1-0 up in the series.

While winning the toss, SA opted to bat first, they weren't off to a great start and were reduced to 68 for 3. Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen's match-winning 204-run fourth-wicket stand propelled the hosts to 296-4 as Rahul &amp; Co. were restricted foe 265-8 in response.&nbsp;

During centurions Bavuma (110) and Rassie's (129 not out) partnership, the former wasn't pleased with former Indian captain Virat Kohli's efforts on the field as the duo had a fiery exchange. In the 36th over, bowled by Yuzvendra Chahal, Bavuma played a shot towards short covers. Kohli was stationed at that position, who collected the ball and unleashed a powerful throw at the keeper's end. While there was hardly any chance of a run-out, Bavuma felt the throw could've hit him hard. Hence, he made his displeasure known and uttered some words towards Kohli.

To this, the 33-year-old Kohli also didn't remain mum and gave it back to Bavuma. Nonetheless, it didn't escalate any further. Here's the video of the entire episode:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-temba-bavuma-rassie-van-der-dussens-centuries-help-proteas-win-1st-odi-by-31-runs-446032">India vs SA: Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen's centuries help Proteas win 1st ODI by 31 runs</a>

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Words exchange between Virat and Temba Bavuma <a href="https://t.co/YpOCJFzIEC">pic.twitter.com/YpOCJFzIEC</a>
— Rajwardhan (@im_Rajwardhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/im_Rajwardhan/status/1483766416163864578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-virat-kohli-surpasses-sachin-tendulkar-ricky-ponting-to-achieve-elite-feat-during-1st-odi-446022">India vs SA: Virat Kohli surpasses Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting to achieve elite feat during 1st ODI</a>

At the post-match press conference, the South African captain Bavuma labelled his side's performance as a 'perfect game'.

"We played close to a perfect game, that's quite hard in 50-over cricket. We can take a lot of confidence. I struggled throughout the innings, Rassie seemed like batting on another wicket. That partnership was the decider. I tried to partner him as much as I could. Another good debut for him (Jansen), we feel he can take wickets with the new ball. He's growing from strength to strength and it's nice to see,"&nbsp;he opined.

The second and penultimate ODI will also be held at the same venue, on Friday (January 21), before the action moves to the series finale at Newlands, Cape Town on Sunday (January 23).

India and South Africa played out the first ODI, at Boland Park, Paarl, on Wednesday (January 19) after the three-match Test series ended in the African nation. KL Rahul-led India lost the series opener convincingly, by 31 runs, as Temba Bavuma's Proteas have gone 1-0 up in the series.

India and South Africa played out the first ODI, at Boland Park, Paarl, on Wednesday (January 19) after the three-match Test series ended in the African nation. KL Rahul-led India lost the series opener convincingly, by 31 runs, as Temba Bavuma's Proteas have gone 1-0 up in the series. While winning the toss, SA opted to bat first, they weren't off to a great start and were reduced to 68 for 3. Bavuma and Rassie van der Dussen's match-winning 204-run fourth-wicket stand propelled the hosts to 296-4 as Rahul & Co. were restricted foe 265-8 in response. During centurions Bavuma (110) and Rassie's (129 not out) partnership, the former wasn't pleased with former Indian captain Virat Kohli's efforts on the field as the duo had a fiery exchange. In the 36th over, bowled by Yuzvendra Chahal, Bavuma played a shot towards short covers. Kohli was stationed at that position, who collected the ball and unleashed a powerful throw at the keeper's end. While there was hardly any chance of a run-out, Bavuma felt the throw could've hit him hard. Hence, he made his displeasure known and uttered some words towards Kohli. To this, the 33-year-old Kohli also didn't remain mum and gave it back to Bavuma. Nonetheless, it didn't escalate any further. Here's the video of the entire episode: ALSO READ | India vs SA: Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen's centuries help Proteas win 1st ODI by 31 runs Words exchange between Virat and Temba Bavuma pic.twitter.com/YpOCJFzIEC — Rajwardhan (@im_Rajwardhan) January 19, 2022 × ALSO READ | India vs SA: Virat Kohli surpasses Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting to achieve elite feat during 1st ODI At the post-match press conference, the South African captain Bavuma labelled his side's performance as a 'perfect game'. "We played close to a perfect game, that's quite hard in 50-over cricket. We can take a lot of confidence. I struggled throughout the innings, Rassie seemed like batting on another wicket. That partnership was the decider. I tried to partner him as much as I could. Another good debut for him (Jansen), we feel he can take wickets with the new ball. He's growing from strength to strength and it's nice to see," he opined. The second and penultimate ODI will also be held at the same venue, on Friday (January 21), before the action moves to the series finale at Newlands, Cape Town on Sunday (January 23).

India vs SA: Virat Kohli, Temba Bavuma involved in fiery exchange during 1st ODI in Paarl - WATCH

Virat Kohli moved past Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar to become the Indian batsman with most runs in away games in 50-over format (home of opposition, exclusing neutral venues) during KL Rahul-led India's ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa on Wednesday (January 19) in Paarl.&nbsp;

Kohli's tally was 5,057 before he came out to bat in the series opener, with India chasing 297 at Boland Park, Paarl. By achieving his ninth run, Kohli leapfrogged Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting to occupy the second spot in the overall list. Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara heads the chart, with 5,518 away runs in ODIs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-t20i-team-of-2021-babar-azam-leads-star-studded-xi-no-team-india-player-makes-the-cut-446012">ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut</a>

Kohli, however, couldn't be till the end of India's run-chase, falling for 51 off Tabriaz Shamsi. He mistimed a sweep and was caught at short mid-wicket.&nbsp;

Overall, Kohli has amassed over 12,000 runs in the ODI format in 255* ODIs. The 33-year-old averages 59.07 and has already struck 43 tons. In late 2018, he had broken Tendulkar's record to become the quickest to 10,000 runs in the shorter format.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsa-kl-rahul-becomes-second-indian-to-achieve-unique-captaincy-feat-during-odi-series-opener-445991">IndvSA: KL Rahul becomes second Indian to achieve unique captaincy feat during ODI series opener</a>

Having resigned as the Test captain recently, Kohli's overall captaincy tenure has ended altogether. He will now shift his focus to contributing with the bat in all forms of the game.

Virat Kohli moved past Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar to become the Indian batsman with most runs in away games in 50-over format (home of opposition, exclusing neutral venues) during KL Rahul-led India's ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa on Wednesday (January 19) in Paarl.

Virat Kohli moved past Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar to become the Indian batsman with most runs in away games in 50-over format (home of opposition, exclusing neutral venues) during KL Rahul-led India's ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa on Wednesday (January 19) in Paarl. Kohli's tally was 5,057 before he came out to bat in the series opener, with India chasing 297 at Boland Park, Paarl. By achieving his ninth run, Kohli leapfrogged Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting to occupy the second spot in the overall list. Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara heads the chart, with 5,518 away runs in ODIs. ALSO READ | ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut Kohli, however, couldn't be till the end of India's run-chase, falling for 51 off Tabriaz Shamsi. He mistimed a sweep and was caught at short mid-wicket. Overall, Kohli has amassed over 12,000 runs in the ODI format in 255* ODIs. The 33-year-old averages 59.07 and has already struck 43 tons. In late 2018, he had broken Tendulkar's record to become the quickest to 10,000 runs in the shorter format. ALSO READ | IndvSA: KL Rahul becomes second Indian to achieve unique captaincy feat during ODI series opener Having resigned as the Test captain recently, Kohli's overall captaincy tenure has ended altogether. He will now shift his focus to contributing with the bat in all forms of the game.

India vs SA: Virat Kohli surpasses Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting to achieve elite feat during 1st ODI

No Team India player made the cut in ICC Men's T20I team of 2021. The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Wednesday (January 19), announced the elite XI with Babar Azam named captain. Babar, who led Pakistan to the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup, has two more Men in Green players in the star-studded list.

Babar's opening partner and wicketkeeper Md Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi were a part of the list. Rizwan had a dream run in 2021 in the shortest format, ending with 1,326 runs in 29 matches with his skipper Babar being a distant second (with 939 runs). Shaheen, on the other hand, was impressive throughout the calendar year and ended with 23 wickets. He was also the Player-of-the-Match in Pakistan's first-ever victory over India in a World Cup clash (during the T20 WC).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-are-you-doing-rizwan-recalls-hilarious-chat-with-kohli-during-high-voltage-indo-pak-t20-wc-tie-445969">'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie</a>

Some other big names in the list are England's Jos Buttler (only centurion in the T20 WC), Mitchell Marsh -- who was the Player-of-the-Match in the World Cup final last year, Sri Lanka's find Wanindu Hasaranga, South African trio Aiden Markram, David Miller and Tabriaz Shami (who was also the joint-highest wicket taker in the format in 2021). Shamsi returned with a whopping 36 scalps, along with SL's Hasaranga.

The other players in the list are Bangladesh's Mustafizur Rahman (28 wickets in 2021) and Australia's pacer Josh Hazlewood. The latter played a key role in Aaron Finch-led Australia's maiden T20 WC win, finishing with 11 scalps in 7 games at an average of 15.91.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-falls-to-sixth-virat-kohli-climbs-to-seventh-spot-in-icc-test-rankings-445956">Rohit Sharma falls to sixth, Virat Kohli climbs to seventh spot in ICC Test Rankings</a>

No Team India player made the cut in the elusive list shared by the ICC. None of the Indian batter or bowler managed to finish in the top-ten, for&nbsp;most runs and wickets, respectively. Team India also had a forgettable 2021 in T20Is, being eliminated in the Super 12 round in the World Cup. Though Rohit Sharma did manage some good performances and ended with 424 runs, he wasn't impressive enough to enter the list.

Other big names such as David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, Kagiso Rabada, Quinton de Kock, Nicholas Pooran, Shakib Al Hasan, etc. also didn't feature in the XI. 
&nbsp; 
ICC Men's T20I Team of the Year for 2021

Babar Azan (captain), Jos Buttler, Mohammad Rizwan, Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, David Miller, Tabraiz Shamsi, Josh Hazlewood, Wanidu Hasaranga, Mustafizur Rahman, Shaheen Afridi

No Team India player made the cut in ICC Men's T20I team of 2021. The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Wednesday (January 19), announced the elite XI with Babar Azam named captain.

No Team India player made the cut in ICC Men's T20I team of 2021. The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Wednesday (January 19), announced the elite XI with Babar Azam named captain. Babar, who led Pakistan to the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup, has two more Men in Green players in the star-studded list. Babar's opening partner and wicketkeeper Md Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi were a part of the list. Rizwan had a dream run in 2021 in the shortest format, ending with 1,326 runs in 29 matches with his skipper Babar being a distant second (with 939 runs). Shaheen, on the other hand, was impressive throughout the calendar year and ended with 23 wickets. He was also the Player-of-the-Match in Pakistan's first-ever victory over India in a World Cup clash (during the T20 WC). ALSO READ | 'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie Some other big names in the list are England's Jos Buttler (only centurion in the T20 WC), Mitchell Marsh -- who was the Player-of-the-Match in the World Cup final last year, Sri Lanka's find Wanindu Hasaranga, South African trio Aiden Markram, David Miller and Tabriaz Shami (who was also the joint-highest wicket taker in the format in 2021). Shamsi returned with a whopping 36 scalps, along with SL's Hasaranga. The other players in the list are Bangladesh's Mustafizur Rahman (28 wickets in 2021) and Australia's pacer Josh Hazlewood. The latter played a key role in Aaron Finch-led Australia's maiden T20 WC win, finishing with 11 scalps in 7 games at an average of 15.91. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma falls to sixth, Virat Kohli climbs to seventh spot in ICC Test Rankings No Team India player made the cut in the elusive list shared by the ICC. None of the Indian batter or bowler managed to finish in the top-ten, for most runs and wickets, respectively. Team India also had a forgettable 2021 in T20Is, being eliminated in the Super 12 round in the World Cup. Though Rohit Sharma did manage some good performances and ended with 424 runs, he wasn't impressive enough to enter the list. Other big names such as David Warner, Glenn Maxwell, Kagiso Rabada, Quinton de Kock, Nicholas Pooran, Shakib Al Hasan, etc. also didn't feature in the XI. ICC Men's T20I Team of the Year for 2021 Babar Azan (captain), Jos Buttler, Mohammad Rizwan, Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, David Miller, Tabraiz Shamsi, Josh Hazlewood, Wanidu Hasaranga, Mustafizur Rahman, Shaheen Afridi

ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut

With Rohit Sharma being ruled out of the ongoing three ODIs between India and South Africa, KL Rahul is leading the Men in Blue in the African nation. On Wednesday (January 19), Rahul walked out for the coin toss for the first time ever as India's captain in the 50-over format.

For the unversed, Rahul has already captained India once. During the ongoing SA tour, Rahul had led the Indian team in the second and penultimate Test -- captaining India for the first time in a full match -- which the visitors lost by 7 wickets. On his ODI captaincy debut, the 29-year-old achieved a unique record. Rahul became only the second Indian to captain the side before making 50 appearances in the ODI format.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-are-you-doing-rizwan-recalls-hilarious-chat-with-kohli-during-high-voltage-indo-pak-t20-wc-tie-445969">'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie</a>

Thus, Rahul joined former India batter Mohinder Amarnath in the unique list, who led India on his 35th appearance in ODIs in 1984. At the coin toss, Rahul-led India were asked to bowl first as SA captain Temba Bavuma (110) and Rassie van der Dussen's 129 not out propelled the Proteas to 296-4 in 50 overs.&nbsp;

In reply, India lost stand-in captain Rahul (12) early in the run-chase at Boland Park, Paarl.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-already-set-a-standard-for-india-rahul-speaks-highly-of-former-captain-kohli-ahead-of-sa-odis-445743">He has already set a standard for India: Rahul speaks highly of former captain Kohli ahead of SA ODIs</a>

After losing the three-match Test series, in the rainbow nation, India will be eager to stage a recovery and win the ODI leg. In early 2018, Virat Kohli-led India had won their first-ever bilateral series in the African nation when they beat SA 5-1 in a six-match ODI series.

With Rohit Sharma being ruled out of the ongoing three ODIs between India and South Africa, KL Rahul is leading the Men in Blue in the African nation. On Wednesday (January 19), Rahul walked out for the coin toss for the first time ever as India's captain in the 50-over format.

With Rohit Sharma being ruled out of the ongoing three ODIs between India and South Africa, KL Rahul is leading the Men in Blue in the African nation. On Wednesday (January 19), Rahul walked out for the coin toss for the first time ever as India's captain in the 50-over format. For the unversed, Rahul has already captained India once. During the ongoing SA tour, Rahul had led the Indian team in the second and penultimate Test -- captaining India for the first time in a full match -- which the visitors lost by 7 wickets. On his ODI captaincy debut, the 29-year-old achieved a unique record. Rahul became only the second Indian to captain the side before making 50 appearances in the ODI format. ALSO READ | 'What are you doing' - Rizwan recalls hilarious chat with Kohli during high-voltage Indo-Pak T20 WC tie Thus, Rahul joined former India batter Mohinder Amarnath in the unique list, who led India on his 35th appearance in ODIs in 1984. At the coin toss, Rahul-led India were asked to bowl first as SA captain Temba Bavuma (110) and Rassie van der Dussen's 129 not out propelled the Proteas to 296-4 in 50 overs. In reply, India lost stand-in captain Rahul (12) early in the run-chase at Boland Park, Paarl. ALSO READ | He has already set a standard for India: Rahul speaks highly of former captain Kohli ahead of SA ODIs After losing the three-match Test series, in the rainbow nation, India will be eager to stage a recovery and win the ODI leg. In early 2018, Virat Kohli-led India had won their first-ever bilateral series in the African nation when they beat SA 5-1 in a six-match ODI series.

IndvSA: KL Rahul becomes second Indian to achieve unique captaincy feat during ODI series opener

Virat Kohli stunned the cricketing fraternity by resigning as the Test captain on Saturday (January 15). The 33-year-old Kohli's decision came a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus Dean Elgar's South Africa, in the rainbow nation.

Under Kohli, India achieved sizeable success in the red-ball format. India dominated at home, won a Test series in Australia, have an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom (held mid-2021), won two games in South Africa and played the inaugural WTC final. Kohli-led India ended as the No. 1 ranked side on five consecutive years in ICC rankings after annual updates.

Thus, with Kohli stepping aside as the Test captain, his overall captaincy tenure as also ended. The national selectors have an important decision to make, with regard to choosing Kohli's successor in whites. Limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma is leading the race whereas some have suggested youngsters such as KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant to take over.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-left-indian-test-team-in-good-health-cant-say-gautam-gambhir-on-virat-kohlis-captaincy-tenure-445903">'He left Indian Test team in good health, can’t say...' - Gautam Gambhir on Virat Kohli's captaincy tenure</a>

Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar opened up in this regard and told Gulf News, "If you ask me, it may be a practical idea to have a stop-gap arrangement with Rohit Sharma or even Ravi Ashwin for a year or so and groom someone in the meanwhile."

From his own experience, Vengsarkar revealed how the selection committee had backed Anil Kumble to succeed Rahul Dravid as Test captain, despite many suggesting the then limited-overs captain MS Dhoni's name.&nbsp;

“Interestingly, my committee was faced with a similar situation when Rahul Dravid stepped down from captaincy and we had a demanding Australia tour round the corner. Some felt that MS Dhoni, who was leading in the shorter format, be promoted but we went ahead with Anil Kumble who did a fantastic job,” he recalled.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/seeing-5-6-years-ahead-is-long-time-md-azharuddin-names-virat-kohlis-replacement-as-indias-test-captain-445807">'Seeing 5-6 years ahead is long time': Md. Azharuddin names Virat Kohli's replacement as India's Test captain</a>

Vengsarkar also opined on the reason behind Kohli's sudden resignation as Test captain. Many feel his own form -- having not scored an international ton since late 2019 -- was one of the main reasons for the right-hander's decision. “I don’t agree with this for I feel that Kohli has had a dream run for nearly five years as a batsman and captain. For all the talk about his current lean phase, I feel that Indians are often obsessed with statistics and that’s something that I don’t believe in”, concluded Vengsarkar.

Virat Kohli stunned the cricketing fraternity by resigning as the Test captain on Saturday (January 15). The 33-year-old Kohli's decision came a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus Dean Elgar's South Africa, in the rainbow nation.

Virat Kohli stunned the cricketing fraternity by resigning as the Test captain on Saturday (January 15). The 33-year-old Kohli's decision came a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus Dean Elgar's South Africa, in the rainbow nation. Under Kohli, India achieved sizeable success in the red-ball format. India dominated at home, won a Test series in Australia, have an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom (held mid-2021), won two games in South Africa and played the inaugural WTC final. Kohli-led India ended as the No. 1 ranked side on five consecutive years in ICC rankings after annual updates. Thus, with Kohli stepping aside as the Test captain, his overall captaincy tenure as also ended. The national selectors have an important decision to make, with regard to choosing Kohli's successor in whites. Limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma is leading the race whereas some have suggested youngsters such as KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant to take over. ALSO READ | 'He left Indian Test team in good health, can’t say...' - Gautam Gambhir on Virat Kohli's captaincy tenure Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar opened up in this regard and told Gulf News, "If you ask me, it may be a practical idea to have a stop-gap arrangement with Rohit Sharma or even Ravi Ashwin for a year or so and groom someone in the meanwhile." From his own experience, Vengsarkar revealed how the selection committee had backed Anil Kumble to succeed Rahul Dravid as Test captain, despite many suggesting the then limited-overs captain MS Dhoni's name. “Interestingly, my committee was faced with a similar situation when Rahul Dravid stepped down from captaincy and we had a demanding Australia tour round the corner. Some felt that MS Dhoni, who was leading in the shorter format, be promoted but we went ahead with Anil Kumble who did a fantastic job,” he recalled. ALSO READ | 'Seeing 5-6 years ahead is long time': Md. Azharuddin names Virat Kohli's replacement as India's Test captain Vengsarkar also opined on the reason behind Kohli's sudden resignation as Test captain. Many feel his own form -- having not scored an international ton since late 2019 -- was one of the main reasons for the right-hander's decision. “I don’t agree with this for I feel that Kohli has had a dream run for nearly five years as a batsman and captain. For all the talk about his current lean phase, I feel that Indians are often obsessed with statistics and that’s something that I don’t believe in”, concluded Vengsarkar.

Not Rahul or Pant! Vengsarkar names two senior players who can replace Virat Kohli as Test captain

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced that he is stepping down as the Test captain. The decision came as a huge shock for the entire cricketing fraternity, given his impressive record as the skipper in the red-ball format. With him quitting as the Test captain, Kohli's overall captaincy tenure for the national side also came to an end.&nbsp;

In mid-September 2021, Kohli had announced that he would be stepping down as the T20I captain following the World Cup, in the UAE. Post the mega event, he was sacked as the ODI captain before quitting the top post in Test. As the 33-year-old Kohli will now look to play freely -- without additional responsibilities&nbsp;-- in India's upcoming assignments, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir opined on Kohli's captaincy tenure. He feels that while the red-ball team is in good health at the time of Kohli's captaincy resignation, he cannot say the same about the white-ball sides.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-sure-venkatesh-iyer-is-an-all-rounder-yet-sanjay-manjrekar-on-india-star-ahead-of-south-africa-odis-445816">Not sure Venkatesh Iyer is an all-rounder yet: Sanjay Manjrekar on India star ahead of South Africa ODIs</a>

“Between the last Test and ODI series, the new space has been hogged by Virat resigning from Test captaincy. I think it is an individual’s call and that is how it should be treated. I think Virat left the Indian Test team in good health but I can’t say the same about white-ball cricket. Our bowling resources in Test matches are a neighbor’s envy and owner’s pride. They have shown time and again that they are the engine room for a team’s performance. In limited-overs cricket, I’d have liked to see a more settled middle-order which Virat couldn’t create,” Gambhir wrote in his column for&nbsp;Times of India.

“In my book, Rohit Sharma should lead India across formats with Rahul as his deputy. One captain across formats will ensure consistency in style and approach of the Indian team especially considering that we have another T20 World Cup later this year,” Gambhir asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-comes-a-stage-where-you-cant-afridi-opines-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-quit-test-captaincy-445655">'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy</a>

Rohit Sharma has already replaced Kohli as the white-ball formats' captain. The Test captaincy is now up for grabs following Kohli's resignation, with Rohit, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. in contention for the top job.&nbsp;

At present, Kohli is involved in the three ODIs between India and South Africa in the rainbow nation. Rahul is leading the side in Rohit's absence (due to hamstring injury).

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced that he is stepping down as the Test captain. The decision came as a huge shock for the entire cricketing fraternity, given his impressive record as the skipper in the red-ball format.

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced that he is stepping down as the Test captain. The decision came as a huge shock for the entire cricketing fraternity, given his impressive record as the skipper in the red-ball format. With him quitting as the Test captain, Kohli's overall captaincy tenure for the national side also came to an end. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had announced that he would be stepping down as the T20I captain following the World Cup, in the UAE. Post the mega event, he was sacked as the ODI captain before quitting the top post in Test. As the 33-year-old Kohli will now look to play freely -- without additional responsibilities -- in India's upcoming assignments, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir opined on Kohli's captaincy tenure. He feels that while the red-ball team is in good health at the time of Kohli's captaincy resignation, he cannot say the same about the white-ball sides. ALSO READ | Not sure Venkatesh Iyer is an all-rounder yet: Sanjay Manjrekar on India star ahead of South Africa ODIs “Between the last Test and ODI series, the new space has been hogged by Virat resigning from Test captaincy. I think it is an individual’s call and that is how it should be treated. I think Virat left the Indian Test team in good health but I can’t say the same about white-ball cricket. Our bowling resources in Test matches are a neighbor’s envy and owner’s pride. They have shown time and again that they are the engine room for a team’s performance. In limited-overs cricket, I’d have liked to see a more settled middle-order which Virat couldn’t create,” Gambhir wrote in his column for Times of India. “In my book, Rohit Sharma should lead India across formats with Rahul as his deputy. One captain across formats will ensure consistency in style and approach of the Indian team especially considering that we have another T20 World Cup later this year,” Gambhir asserted. ALSO READ | 'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy Rohit Sharma has already replaced Kohli as the white-ball formats' captain. The Test captaincy is now up for grabs following Kohli's resignation, with Rohit, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. in contention for the top job. At present, Kohli is involved in the three ODIs between India and South Africa in the rainbow nation. Rahul is leading the side in Rohit's absence (due to hamstring injury).

'He left Indian Test team in good health, can’t say...' - Gautam Gambhir on Virat Kohli's captaincy tenure

The search for Virat Kohli's successor as India's next Test captain has already commenced after the latter's shocking announcement last week. Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Indian Test team last week after the visitors lost 2-1 in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa.

Kohli had earlier stepped down as India's T20I captain last year before being replaced by Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the team. After losing white-ball captaincy, Kohli decided to give up the leadership position in Tests as well and will continue playing as a batter for India going forward across all three formats of the game.

Rohit, who is India's present white-ball captain is one of the favourites to take over as the new skipper in Tests while the likes of KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah have also been backed by many to replace Kohli. Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin also shared his views on the debate and backed Rohit to replace Kohli.

When asked to name his captaincy choice in the longest format, Azharuddin said he would not look too far ahead and would give the opportunity to Rohit to lead the team as he is going to be around for the next 2-3 years at least. Rohit is currently 34 and has a lot of cricket left in himself.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-broke-down-when-virat-kohli-revealed-he-cried-after-ms-dhonis-test-retirement-in-2014-445770">'I broke down': When Virat Kohli revealed he cried after MS Dhoni's Test retirement in 2014</a>

Azharuddin also pointed out that the Test captaincy cannot be handed to an inexperienced youngster as it might not be the ideal move. While he backed Rohit, Azharuddin insisted Rohit will have to ensure he is able to up his fitness levels and manage his frequent injuries.

"I feel seeing 5-6 years ahead is a long time. You should definitely look forward but need to see immediate as well. Just to look forward, you cannot give to an inexperienced player, which might cause a problem," Azharuddin said during a discussion on India News.

"I feel Rohit Sharma is a good player and can be a very good captain. He might play cricket for another two or three years, he might play more as well but his fitness will be very important because his hamstring becomes weak repeatedly," added the former India captain.

&nbsp;

The search for Virat Kohli's successor as India's next Test captain has already commenced after the latter's shocking announcement last week. Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Indian Test team last week after the visitors lost 2-1 in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa.

The search for Virat Kohli's successor as India's next Test captain has already commenced after the latter's shocking announcement last week. Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Indian Test team last week after the visitors lost 2-1 in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa. Kohli had earlier stepped down as India's T20I captain last year before being replaced by Rohit Sharma as the ODI captain of the team. After losing white-ball captaincy, Kohli decided to give up the leadership position in Tests as well and will continue playing as a batter for India going forward across all three formats of the game. Rohit, who is India's present white-ball captain is one of the favourites to take over as the new skipper in Tests while the likes of KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah have also been backed by many to replace Kohli. Former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin also shared his views on the debate and backed Rohit to replace Kohli. When asked to name his captaincy choice in the longest format, Azharuddin said he would not look too far ahead and would give the opportunity to Rohit to lead the team as he is going to be around for the next 2-3 years at least. Rohit is currently 34 and has a lot of cricket left in himself. Also Read: 'I broke down': When Virat Kohli revealed he cried after MS Dhoni's Test retirement in 2014 Azharuddin also pointed out that the Test captaincy cannot be handed to an inexperienced youngster as it might not be the ideal move. While he backed Rohit, Azharuddin insisted Rohit will have to ensure he is able to up his fitness levels and manage his frequent injuries. "I feel seeing 5-6 years ahead is a long time. You should definitely look forward but need to see immediate as well. Just to look forward, you cannot give to an inexperienced player, which might cause a problem," Azharuddin said during a discussion on India News. "I feel Rohit Sharma is a good player and can be a very good captain. He might play cricket for another two or three years, he might play more as well but his fitness will be very important because his hamstring becomes weak repeatedly," added the former India captain.

'Seeing 5-6 years ahead is long time': Md. Azharuddin names Virat Kohli's replacement as India's Test captain

After the end of the riveting Test series, India and South Africa will face each other in a three-match ODI series in the African nation, starting on January 19 at Boland Park, Paarl. The series will see India return to the 50-over format after a long time. The last ODI series for the Men in Blue was in Sri Lanka, in July 2021, where a second-stringed Shikhar Dhawan-led side beat the Islanders.&nbsp;

The last time both sides faced each other in ODIs in the rainbow nation led to the visitors winning 5-1. Since then, India and South Africa haven't faced each other in the shorter&nbsp;format. During SA's tour of India in late 2019, the African nation had played three T20Is and equal number of Tests. Their only face-off in the 50-over format was during the 2019 ODI World Cup.

The ODI series will present a huge opportunity for KL Rahul to bolster his chances of taking over as the Test captain, following Kohli's resignation. Rahul is leading the national side in the absence of limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma, ruled out due to injury. He will have the assistance of Kohli, Dhawan, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, etc.

On the other hand, the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas will be bolstered by the presence of white-ball specialists, such as David Miller, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi. They will like to carry on in a similar stead after having won the three Tests, 2-1, despite a 1-0 lead.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-odi-prediction-who-will-win-series-opener-between-kl-rahul-led-india-and-south-africa-445719">IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa?</a>

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is South Africa vs India 1st ODI match taking place?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI is scheduled to take place on January 19, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is South Africa vs India 1st ODI taking place?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI&nbsp;will take place at the Boland Park, Paarl in South Africa.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-already-set-a-standard-for-india-rahul-speaks-highly-of-former-captain-kohli-ahead-of-sa-odis-445743">He has already set a standard for India: Rahul speaks highly of former captain Kohli ahead of SA ODIs</a>

At what time South Africa vs India 1st ODI taking place?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI&nbsp;will kick off at&nbsp;2:00pm (IST).

How to watch South Africa vs India 1st ODI&nbsp;live on TV?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada.&nbsp;

How to watch South Africa vs India 1st ODI live streaming?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.&nbsp;

After the end of the riveting Test series, India and South Africa will face each other in a three-match ODI series in the African nation, starting on January 19 at Boland Park, Paarl.

After the end of the riveting Test series, India and South Africa will face each other in a three-match ODI series in the African nation, starting on January 19 at Boland Park, Paarl. The series will see India return to the 50-over format after a long time. The last ODI series for the Men in Blue was in Sri Lanka, in July 2021, where a second-stringed Shikhar Dhawan-led side beat the Islanders. The last time both sides faced each other in ODIs in the rainbow nation led to the visitors winning 5-1. Since then, India and South Africa haven't faced each other in the shorter format. During SA's tour of India in late 2019, the African nation had played three T20Is and equal number of Tests. Their only face-off in the 50-over format was during the 2019 ODI World Cup. The ODI series will present a huge opportunity for KL Rahul to bolster his chances of taking over as the Test captain, following Kohli's resignation. Rahul is leading the national side in the absence of limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma, ruled out due to injury. He will have the assistance of Kohli, Dhawan, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. On the other hand, the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas will be bolstered by the presence of white-ball specialists, such as David Miller, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi. They will like to carry on in a similar stead after having won the three Tests, 2-1, despite a 1-0 lead. ALSO READ | IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa? Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is South Africa vs India 1st ODI match taking place? South Africa vs India 1st ODI is scheduled to take place on January 19, 2022. Where is South Africa vs India 1st ODI taking place? South Africa vs India 1st ODI will take place at the Boland Park, Paarl in South Africa. ALSO READ | He has already set a standard for India: Rahul speaks highly of former captain Kohli ahead of SA ODIs At what time South Africa vs India 1st ODI taking place? South Africa vs India 1st ODI will kick off at 2:00pm (IST). How to watch South Africa vs India 1st ODI live on TV? South Africa vs India 1st ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada. How to watch South Africa vs India 1st ODI live streaming? South Africa vs India 1st ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.

INDvsSA: When and where to watch India vs South Africa 1st ODI match - IST time and streaming details

KL Rahul will take charge of Team India in the upcoming three ODIs versus South Africa, which gets underway at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Rahul will lead the side for the first time for a full series.

Thus, Rahul will have his fair share of challenges leading the Men in Blue, comprising many veteran players such as former captain Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin, etc. Ahead of the three ODIs, the 29-year-old Rahul lavished huge praise on Kohli's leadership, whose captaincy tenure ended altogether after quitting as the Test captain (on January 15).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-odi-prediction-who-will-win-series-opener-between-kl-rahul-led-india-and-south-africa-445719">IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa?</a>

Speaking in the pre-match press conference about Kohli and his leadership, Rahul opined, "Team India has done some phenomenal things under Virat Kohli’s leadership. We won a series outside of India, which hasn’t been done before. We have gone to every country and won a series. He has done a lot of things right and he has already set a standard for all of us and for Team India."&nbsp;

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"It’s all about for us and as a team to build upon that. We have to take it forward, keep improving as individuals and try to stay as disciplined and determined as we can and go out there and enjoy our cricket. Every series gives us a different opportunity," the versatile batter added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-the-verge-of-surpassing-dravid-ganguly-in-elite-list-ahead-of-odi-series-against-south-africa-445691">Virat Kohli on the verge of surpassing Dravid, Ganguly in elite list ahead of ODI series against South Africa</a>

Rahul also mentioned Kohli's biggest quality as a leader and said, "When it comes to leadership, Virat has this amazing ability to get the best out of everybody. He pushed everybody and made us believe we can do special things and that’s something I’ve learnt from him and hopefully, I can do that with the team as well."

Under Kohli, India excelled particularly in the red-ball format; dominating at home, winning a Test series in Australia and ensuring an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the United Kingdom in 2021's incomplete five-match series. In the white-ball format, Kohli guided India to bilateral ODI series wins in Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and West Indies and the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In T20Is, Kohli-led India won bilateral series&nbsp;in SENA countries.&nbsp;

Currently, India is gearing up for the ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas at Paarl. The second and penultimate ODI will also take place at the same venue before the series finale will be hosted at Newlands, Cape Town.

KL Rahul will take charge of Team India in the upcoming three ODIs versus South Africa, which gets underway at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Rahul will lead the side for the first time for a full series.

KL Rahul will take charge of Team India in the upcoming three ODIs versus South Africa, which gets underway at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Rahul will lead the side for the first time for a full series. Thus, Rahul will have his fair share of challenges leading the Men in Blue, comprising many veteran players such as former captain Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin, etc. Ahead of the three ODIs, the 29-year-old Rahul lavished huge praise on Kohli's leadership, whose captaincy tenure ended altogether after quitting as the Test captain (on January 15). ALSO READ | IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa? Speaking in the pre-match press conference about Kohli and his leadership, Rahul opined, "Team India has done some phenomenal things under Virat Kohli’s leadership. We won a series outside of India, which hasn’t been done before. We have gone to every country and won a series. He has done a lot of things right and he has already set a standard for all of us and for Team India." × "It’s all about for us and as a team to build upon that. We have to take it forward, keep improving as individuals and try to stay as disciplined and determined as we can and go out there and enjoy our cricket. Every series gives us a different opportunity," the versatile batter added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli on the verge of surpassing Dravid, Ganguly in elite list ahead of ODI series against South Africa Rahul also mentioned Kohli's biggest quality as a leader and said, "When it comes to leadership, Virat has this amazing ability to get the best out of everybody. He pushed everybody and made us believe we can do special things and that’s something I’ve learnt from him and hopefully, I can do that with the team as well." Under Kohli, India excelled particularly in the red-ball format; dominating at home, winning a Test series in Australia and ensuring an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the United Kingdom in 2021's incomplete five-match series. In the white-ball format, Kohli guided India to bilateral ODI series wins in Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and West Indies and the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In T20Is, Kohli-led India won bilateral series in SENA countries. Currently, India is gearing up for the ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas at Paarl. The second and penultimate ODI will also take place at the same venue before the series finale will be hosted at Newlands, Cape Town.

He has already set a standard for India: Rahul speaks highly of former captain Kohli ahead of SA ODIs

Star India batter KL Rahul said it will be an honour for him to lead the Indian team in Tests if given a chance. Rahul was India's vice-captain in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa in the absence of Rohit Sharma. He was Virat Kohli's deputy in the three-match series which India lost 2-1 after losing the final two matches in a row.

Following the series loss, Kohli took to social media last week to announce that he will be stepping down as the Test captain of the Indian team. The announcement left the entire Indian cricket fraternity in shock leading to speculations on who should take over from Kohli as the new captain of the national side in the longest format.

While limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma remains a favourite to take over in Tests as well, the likes of Rahul and Rishabh Pant are also strong contenders for the top job. Rahul, who will be leading India in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa in the absence of Rohit, was on Tuesday (January 18) asked about leading the Test team after Kohli's exit.

Responding to a reporter's query on the prospects of leading in Tests, Rahul said it will be an honour for him and that it will be a huge responsibility as well. "It’ll be an honour if chosen to lead the team. It’s a very exciting prospect and I will try to lead to the best of my abilities. It will be a huge responsibility,” said Rahul in the virtual press conference ahead of the first ODI against South Africa.

Rahul, who is India's designated vice-captain in white-ball cricket, had replaced an injured Rohit as Kohli's deputy in Tests in the recently-concluded Test series. He also led India in the second Test against the Proteas after Kohli was ruled out due to a back spasm.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lucknow-ipl-franchise-set-to-rope-in-kl-rahul-marcus-stoinis-ravi-bishnoi-ahead-of-mega-auction-report-445669">Lucknow IPL franchise set to rope in KL Rahul,&nbsp;Stoinis and&nbsp;Bishnoi ahead of mega auction - Report</a>

With Rohit ruled out of the ODIs as well, Rahul will be leading the team in the upcoming ODI series against the Proteas. He has led Punjab Kings for two seasons in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and is being seen as one of the future leaders in Indian cricket.

After losing the Test series 2-1, Rahul will be looking to inspire India to bounce back and clinch the ODI series against South Africa in their own backyard. The first ODI will be played in Boland Park in Paarl on Wednesday.

&nbsp;

Star India batter KL Rahul said it will be an honour for him to lead the Indian team in Tests if given a chance. Rahul was India's vice-captain in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa in the absence of Rohit Sharma.

Star India batter KL Rahul said it will be an honour for him to lead the Indian team in Tests if given a chance. Rahul was India's vice-captain in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa in the absence of Rohit Sharma. He was Virat Kohli's deputy in the three-match series which India lost 2-1 after losing the final two matches in a row. Following the series loss, Kohli took to social media last week to announce that he will be stepping down as the Test captain of the Indian team. The announcement left the entire Indian cricket fraternity in shock leading to speculations on who should take over from Kohli as the new captain of the national side in the longest format. While limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma remains a favourite to take over in Tests as well, the likes of Rahul and Rishabh Pant are also strong contenders for the top job. Rahul, who will be leading India in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa in the absence of Rohit, was on Tuesday (January 18) asked about leading the Test team after Kohli's exit. Responding to a reporter's query on the prospects of leading in Tests, Rahul said it will be an honour for him and that it will be a huge responsibility as well. "It’ll be an honour if chosen to lead the team. It’s a very exciting prospect and I will try to lead to the best of my abilities. It will be a huge responsibility,” said Rahul in the virtual press conference ahead of the first ODI against South Africa. Rahul, who is India's designated vice-captain in white-ball cricket, had replaced an injured Rohit as Kohli's deputy in Tests in the recently-concluded Test series. He also led India in the second Test against the Proteas after Kohli was ruled out due to a back spasm. Also Read: Lucknow IPL franchise set to rope in KL Rahul, Stoinis and Bishnoi ahead of mega auction - Report With Rohit ruled out of the ODIs as well, Rahul will be leading the team in the upcoming ODI series against the Proteas. He has led Punjab Kings for two seasons in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and is being seen as one of the future leaders in Indian cricket. After losing the Test series 2-1, Rahul will be looking to inspire India to bounce back and clinch the ODI series against South Africa in their own backyard. The first ODI will be played in Boland Park in Paarl on Wednesday.

'It’ll be an honour': KL Rahul on potentially taking over from Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain

India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul has been reportedly roped in by the Lucknow IPL franchise as one of their three draft&nbsp;picks ahead of the Indian Premier League mega auction for the 2022 season. Rahul is Lucknow's first-choice pick in the draft and is all set to lead the side from IPL 2022.

While the existing eight teams have already revealed their final list of retained players, the two new teams - Lucknow and Ahmedabad have the option to pick a maximum of three players each from the draft ahead of the mega auction which is scheduled to take place in Bengaluru next month.&nbsp;

As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, Rahul along with Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis and young Indian spinner Ravi Bishnoi are all set to be roped in by the Lucknow franchise as their three draft picks. While Rahul has been bought for Rs 15 crore (INR 150 million), Stoinis and Bishnoi will join for Rs 11 crore (INR 110 million) and Rs 4 crore (INR 40 million) respectively.

The Lucknow franchise had earlier confirmed the appointment of former Zimbabwe cricketer Andy Flower as their head coach ahead of the new season. Former India batter Gautam Gambhir will be serving as the mentor of the team while Rahul will be leading them in their debut season in the IPL.

Rahul has been one of the most consistent performers in the IPL with the bat and has been among the runs over the last few seasons of the league. He was the third-highest run-getter in IPL 2021 last year with an impressive 626 runs in just 13 matches for his former side Punjab Kings.

Rahul was appointed as the captain of Punjab Kings ahead of IPL 2020 and led the team in two seasons, failing to inspire them to the playoffs even once. He decided to part ways with the franchise ahead of IPL 2022 and will now be in charge of the Lucknow team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-rashid-khan-and-shubman-gill-set-to-join-ahmedabad-franchise-ahead-of-ipl-2022-report-445533">Hardik, Rashid&nbsp;and Shubman set to join Ahmedabad franchise ahead of IPL 2022 - Report</a>

Stoinis was part of the Delhi Capitals squad last year and has been one of the most promising all-rounders in the T20s over the last few years. He has 914 runs and 30 wickets in 56 IPL matches. Bishnoi, who rose to prominence after the U-19 World Cup in 2020, has impressed as a leggy and has 24 wickets to his name in 23 IPL matches.

India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul has been reportedly roped in by the Lucknow IPL franchise as one of their three draft picks ahead of the Indian Premier League mega auction for the 2022 season.

India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul has been reportedly roped in by the Lucknow IPL franchise as one of their three draft picks ahead of the Indian Premier League mega auction for the 2022 season. Rahul is Lucknow's first-choice pick in the draft and is all set to lead the side from IPL 2022. While the existing eight teams have already revealed their final list of retained players, the two new teams - Lucknow and Ahmedabad have the option to pick a maximum of three players each from the draft ahead of the mega auction which is scheduled to take place in Bengaluru next month. As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, Rahul along with Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis and young Indian spinner Ravi Bishnoi are all set to be roped in by the Lucknow franchise as their three draft picks. While Rahul has been bought for Rs 15 crore (INR 150 million), Stoinis and Bishnoi will join for Rs 11 crore (INR 110 million) and Rs 4 crore (INR 40 million) respectively. The Lucknow franchise had earlier confirmed the appointment of former Zimbabwe cricketer Andy Flower as their head coach ahead of the new season. Former India batter Gautam Gambhir will be serving as the mentor of the team while Rahul will be leading them in their debut season in the IPL. Rahul has been one of the most consistent performers in the IPL with the bat and has been among the runs over the last few seasons of the league. He was the third-highest run-getter in IPL 2021 last year with an impressive 626 runs in just 13 matches for his former side Punjab Kings. Rahul was appointed as the captain of Punjab Kings ahead of IPL 2020 and led the team in two seasons, failing to inspire them to the playoffs even once. He decided to part ways with the franchise ahead of IPL 2022 and will now be in charge of the Lucknow team. Also Read: Hardik, Rashid and Shubman set to join Ahmedabad franchise ahead of IPL 2022 - Report Stoinis was part of the Delhi Capitals squad last year and has been one of the most promising all-rounders in the T20s over the last few years. He has 914 runs and 30 wickets in 56 IPL matches. Bishnoi, who rose to prominence after the U-19 World Cup in 2020, has impressed as a leggy and has 24 wickets to his name in 23 IPL matches.

Lucknow IPL franchise set to rope in KL Rahul, Marcus Stoinis & Ravi Bishnoi ahead of mega auction - Report

A lot has changed in Indian cricket in the past few months. Virat Kohli stepped down as the Test captain on Saturday (January 15), after resigning from the post in T20Is -- announcing his decision prior to the World Cup -- and being sacked as the ODI skipper.&nbsp;

In the forthcoming India-South Africa ODIs, in the African nation, KL Rahul will lead the Men in Blue with Kohli in the line-up, sans limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma (out due to hamstring injury). On the other hand, the series will also see Jasprit Bumrah don the vice-captain's hat. Earlier in the SA tour, Bumrah had filled in as vice-captain for the second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, with regular captain Kohli being injured.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;

Ahead of the three ODIs, Bumrah opened up on the prospect of leading Team India in the future, given the Test captaincy spot is now vacant following Kohli's resignation.

Speaking in a pre-match&nbsp;press conference ahead of the the three-match ODI series opener, at Paarl, the 28-year-old Bumrah opined that he can&nbsp;captain the side if given an opportunity. However, the speedster's focus is always to look for ways where he can contribute and do his work as a bowler.

"For me, I am ready to contribute in whatever position and way I can. If given an opportunity to lead India, you will think about it. It is not something that I like to chase, I like to do my work, however, I can do the job. Me having a post or not does not really matter. That has always been my process and what I look to do. If given an opportunity, there is a no bigger honour than this but yeah, I try to focus on how I can contribute," the pacer&nbsp;said.

He further stressed, "For me, the role does not change at all. I have to do my job and I will be helping KL Rahul as much as I can whenever he needs assistance. Even when I am not the vice-captain, I try to help the younger guys and I have a lot of discussions with them regarding having a particular field."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;

Bumrah concluded by saying, "You always want the responsibility. If there is no responsibility or pressure, you would not enjoy the game. I try to manage the responsibility and contribute to the side's cause. I am a keen learner, when I came into the team, I always asked questions. I try to help out the youngsters and eradicate their doubts. Sometimes I also end up learning from them."

The national selectors will have a tough task to name the next Test captain in the coming few weeks. India's next Test series is at home, versus Sri Lanka. For now, they are gearing up for the three ODIs versus Temba Bavuma &amp; Co. after losing the Tests 2-1.

A lot has changed in Indian cricket in the past few months. Virat Kohli stepped down as the Test captain on Saturday (January 15), after resigning from the post in T20Is -- announcing his decision prior to the World Cup -- and being sacked as the ODI skipper.

A lot has changed in Indian cricket in the past few months. Virat Kohli stepped down as the Test captain on Saturday (January 15), after resigning from the post in T20Is -- announcing his decision prior to the World Cup -- and being sacked as the ODI skipper. In the forthcoming India-South Africa ODIs, in the African nation, KL Rahul will lead the Men in Blue with Kohli in the line-up, sans limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma (out due to hamstring injury). On the other hand, the series will also see Jasprit Bumrah don the vice-captain's hat. Earlier in the SA tour, Bumrah had filled in as vice-captain for the second and penultimate Test, at The Wanderers, Johannesburg, with regular captain Kohli being injured. ALSO READ | Ahead of the three ODIs, Bumrah opened up on the prospect of leading Team India in the future, given the Test captaincy spot is now vacant following Kohli's resignation. Speaking in a pre-match press conference ahead of the the three-match ODI series opener, at Paarl, the 28-year-old Bumrah opined that he can captain the side if given an opportunity. However, the speedster's focus is always to look for ways where he can contribute and do his work as a bowler. "For me, I am ready to contribute in whatever position and way I can. If given an opportunity to lead India, you will think about it. It is not something that I like to chase, I like to do my work, however, I can do the job. Me having a post or not does not really matter. That has always been my process and what I look to do. If given an opportunity, there is a no bigger honour than this but yeah, I try to focus on how I can contribute," the pacer said. He further stressed, "For me, the role does not change at all. I have to do my job and I will be helping KL Rahul as much as I can whenever he needs assistance. Even when I am not the vice-captain, I try to help the younger guys and I have a lot of discussions with them regarding having a particular field." ALSO READ | Bumrah concluded by saying, "You always want the responsibility. If there is no responsibility or pressure, you would not enjoy the game. I try to manage the responsibility and contribute to the side's cause. I am a keen learner, when I came into the team, I always asked questions. I try to help out the youngsters and eradicate their doubts. Sometimes I also end up learning from them." The national selectors will have a tough task to name the next Test captain in the coming few weeks. India's next Test series is at home, versus Sri Lanka. For now, they are gearing up for the three ODIs versus Temba Bavuma & Co. after losing the Tests 2-1.

'If given an opportunity to lead India.....' - Jasprit Bumrah opines on prospect of leading Team India

Former Indian opener-turned-social media sensation Wasim Jaffer has lauded Virat Kohli after the latter dropped a bomb recently by stepping down as the Test captain. Kohli took to his official Twitter handle to share the news with one and all, a day after India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar-led South Africa.

Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-might-be-feeling-suffocated-former-indian-wicketkeeper-reacts-to-virat-kohli-quitting-as-test-captain-445423">He might be feeling suffocated: Former Indian wicketkeeper reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain</a>

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Jaffer opened up on Kohli's decision, hailed him for being an exceptional leader in whites and said, "The way he has led India in all three formats has been commendable. Even though we keep saying that he hasn't won a ICC trophy, other than that he has a great record as a leader, whether it's at home where he hasn't lost any series as a captain, he lost only two Test matches. Away from home he has got tremendous success.

“As a white-ball captain, he won T20 trophies in New Zealand, South Africa and Australia. Beating Australia in Australia was the icing on the cake for him as a leader. I think no sub-continent team has gone to Australia and beaten Australia. It was probably the highest point as a captain,” Jaffer added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-match-makes-virat-kohli-turned-down-bccis-offer-to-play-farewell-test-as-captain-report-445316">'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report</a>

Jaffer further went onto mention the one quality brought forward by Kohli during his tenure as the Test captain, from 2014-2021. "The kind of culture he has brought to the Indian team and the fast-bowling firepower that India has become under him is tremendous, something which India never had.

"Now we've got such a high quality bowling attack and I think India has definitely got one of the best bowling attacks going around whether it's seaming conditions or spinning conditions," the 43-year old further said.

Kohli took over from MS Dhoni as the Test captain when the national side occupied the seventh position in ICC Test Rankings. At the time of his resignation, India are the No. 1 side and ended at the top spot for five consecutive years during annual updates of ICC rankings. Under Kohli, India won 40 Tests in 68 matches, winning three games in England, two series on the trot in Australia (one under Ajinkya Rahane), two Tests in South Africa.

Jaffer also suggested that Hitman Rohit should now take over from Kohli whereas named three candidates who can be groomed under him. "Rohit Sharma I feel will be the obvious choice right now for him to lead in all three formats but selectors in a year or two years time look for replacement. Or look for somebody to groom and the obvious name that comes to mind is Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul. And I would also take the name of Shreyas Iyer because I think these three guys have the potential to be Indian captain for the future,” he said.

Former Indian opener-turned-social media sensation Wasim Jaffer has lauded Virat Kohli after the latter dropped a bomb recently by stepping down as the Test captain.

Former Indian opener-turned-social media sensation Wasim Jaffer has lauded Virat Kohli after the latter dropped a bomb recently by stepping down as the Test captain. Kohli took to his official Twitter handle to share the news with one and all, a day after India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar-led South Africa. Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | He might be feeling suffocated: Former Indian wicketkeeper reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain Speaking on his YouTube channel, Jaffer opened up on Kohli's decision, hailed him for being an exceptional leader in whites and said, "The way he has led India in all three formats has been commendable. Even though we keep saying that he hasn't won a ICC trophy, other than that he has a great record as a leader, whether it's at home where he hasn't lost any series as a captain, he lost only two Test matches. Away from home he has got tremendous success. “As a white-ball captain, he won T20 trophies in New Zealand, South Africa and Australia. Beating Australia in Australia was the icing on the cake for him as a leader. I think no sub-continent team has gone to Australia and beaten Australia. It was probably the highest point as a captain,” Jaffer added. ALSO READ | 'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report Jaffer further went onto mention the one quality brought forward by Kohli during his tenure as the Test captain, from 2014-2021. "The kind of culture he has brought to the Indian team and the fast-bowling firepower that India has become under him is tremendous, something which India never had. "Now we've got such a high quality bowling attack and I think India has definitely got one of the best bowling attacks going around whether it's seaming conditions or spinning conditions," the 43-year old further said. Kohli took over from MS Dhoni as the Test captain when the national side occupied the seventh position in ICC Test Rankings. At the time of his resignation, India are the No. 1 side and ended at the top spot for five consecutive years during annual updates of ICC rankings. Under Kohli, India won 40 Tests in 68 matches, winning three games in England, two series on the trot in Australia (one under Ajinkya Rahane), two Tests in South Africa. Jaffer also suggested that Hitman Rohit should now take over from Kohli whereas named three candidates who can be groomed under him. "Rohit Sharma I feel will be the obvious choice right now for him to lead in all three formats but selectors in a year or two years time look for replacement. Or look for somebody to groom and the obvious name that comes to mind is Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul. And I would also take the name of Shreyas Iyer because I think these three guys have the potential to be Indian captain for the future,” he said.

Jaffer mentions quality Kohli developed 'which India never had', suggests ideal candidates as his successor

Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become the major talking point across the Indian cricket fraternity. Kohli announced his surprising decision on social media last week, confirming that his time as the captain of the Indian Test team had come to a halt and that he will not be leading the side anymore.

His announcement came a day after India's 2-1 defeat in the three-match series against South Africa. His decision to relinquish captaincy has led to an ever-rising debate over who should be India's new skipper in the longest format with several former cricketers and experts sharing their views.

Recently former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar backed Rishabh Pant as an ideal candidate to take over the top post. Former India opener and cricket expert Aakash Chopra has also given his take on the raging debate and picked three strong contenders who can replace Kohli as the leader of the Indian team in whites.

As per reports, limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma is likely to take over in all three formats and become India's new Test skipper. However, Chopra believes Rohit's recent injury issues raise serious questions about his fitness. Chopra suggested the Test captaincy burden might prove to be too much for the 34-year-old.

"Rohit Sharma seems to be the most obvious choice because he is the ODI and T20I captain at the moment and the last one year was a watershed event for him in Tests. But there are serious questions about his fitness because the hamstring is troubling him since 2020. In theory, it seems alright but will he be able to remain fit?," Chopra said in a video on his Youtube channel.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-reacts-as-sunil-gavaskar-picks-rishsbh-pant-to-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-new-test-captain-445365">Yuvraj reacts as&nbsp;Gavaskar picks&nbsp;Pant to replace Kohli as India's new Test captain</a>

However, Chopra insisted he would still back Rohit to take over as the new Test captain while also naming KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the other two contenders for the top job. Rahul served as India's designated vice-captain in the Test series against South Africa and also led the team in the second Test against the Proteas in Johannesburg. Both Rahul and Pant have led their respective IPL teams as well.

"My vote is for Rohit Sharma as of now, short-term. Second is KL Rahul - you can go with him. Rishabh Pant is the third, it is a slightly left-field or out-of-the-box selection, you can also look towards him," Chopra said.

With India scheduled to play Sri Lanka in a Test series at home next month, the BCCI and selectors are expected to announce the new captain of the Indian Test team soon.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become the major talking point across the Indian cricket fraternity. Kohli announced his surprising decision on social media last week, confirming that his time as the captain of the Indian Test team had come to a halt and that he will not be leading the side anymore.

Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become the major talking point across the Indian cricket fraternity. Kohli announced his surprising decision on social media last week, confirming that his time as the captain of the Indian Test team had come to a halt and that he will not be leading the side anymore. His announcement came a day after India's 2-1 defeat in the three-match series against South Africa. His decision to relinquish captaincy has led to an ever-rising debate over who should be India's new skipper in the longest format with several former cricketers and experts sharing their views. Recently former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar backed Rishabh Pant as an ideal candidate to take over the top post. Former India opener and cricket expert Aakash Chopra has also given his take on the raging debate and picked three strong contenders who can replace Kohli as the leader of the Indian team in whites. As per reports, limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma is likely to take over in all three formats and become India's new Test skipper. However, Chopra believes Rohit's recent injury issues raise serious questions about his fitness. Chopra suggested the Test captaincy burden might prove to be too much for the 34-year-old. "Rohit Sharma seems to be the most obvious choice because he is the ODI and T20I captain at the moment and the last one year was a watershed event for him in Tests. But there are serious questions about his fitness because the hamstring is troubling him since 2020. In theory, it seems alright but will he be able to remain fit?," Chopra said in a video on his Youtube channel. Also Read: Yuvraj reacts as Gavaskar picks Pant to replace Kohli as India's new Test captain However, Chopra insisted he would still back Rohit to take over as the new Test captain while also naming KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant as the other two contenders for the top job. Rahul served as India's designated vice-captain in the Test series against South Africa and also led the team in the second Test against the Proteas in Johannesburg. Both Rahul and Pant have led their respective IPL teams as well. "My vote is for Rohit Sharma as of now, short-term. Second is KL Rahul - you can go with him. Rishabh Pant is the third, it is a slightly left-field or out-of-the-box selection, you can also look towards him," Chopra said. With India scheduled to play Sri Lanka in a Test series at home next month, the BCCI and selectors are expected to announce the new captain of the Indian Test team soon.

'Serious questions on Rohit Sharma's fitness': Ex-India cricketer picks 3 contenders to captain India in Tests

On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had revealed that the T20 World Cup would be his last assignment as captain in the shortest format whereas in early December, he was removed as the ODI skipper.

Thus, the forthcoming India-South Africa ODI series will see Kohli play solely as a batter&nbsp;given that he has been freed from captaincy duties altogether. As the 33-year-old superstar cricketer hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019, fans are eagerly waiting for King Kohli to return to his best and dominate from the word go, sans&nbsp;captaincy responsibilities.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-match-makes-virat-kohli-turned-down-bccis-offer-to-play-farewell-test-as-captain-report-445316">'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report</a>

Speaking about Kohli's new role in the white-ball series against Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, ex-Indian opener Gautam Gambhir gave legendary captain MS Dhoni a special mention and said on Star Sports, (on being asked about the changes fans can see in Kohli) "What new do you want to see? Captaincy is not anyone's birthright. People like MS Dhoni have given the captaincy baton to Virat Kohli, he has played under Virat Kohli as well. He has won three ICC trophies and four IPL trophies as well," Gambhir said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-had-no-pressure-from-the-board-selectors-bcci-treasurer-reacts-to-kohli-leaving-test-captaincy-445254">Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy</a>

"I think Kohli should look to score runs and that is more important. When you dream of playing for India, you don't dream to become a captain. You dream of winning games for India and nothing changes, except that you are not going out there to do the toss and set the field placement, but your energy and intensity should remain the same because it's an honor playing for the country," Gambhir added. &nbsp;

The India-SA ODIs will commence on January 19 at Paarl. In limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence, due to hamstring injury, KL Rahul will lead the Kohli-starrer Team India in the forthcoming ODI series in the African nation.

On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had revealed that the T20 World Cup would be his last assignment as captain in the shortest format whereas in early December, he was removed as the ODI skipper.

On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had revealed that the T20 World Cup would be his last assignment as captain in the shortest format whereas in early December, he was removed as the ODI skipper. Thus, the forthcoming India-South Africa ODI series will see Kohli play solely as a batter given that he has been freed from captaincy duties altogether. As the 33-year-old superstar cricketer hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019, fans are eagerly waiting for King Kohli to return to his best and dominate from the word go, sans captaincy responsibilities. ALSO READ | 'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report Speaking about Kohli's new role in the white-ball series against Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, ex-Indian opener Gautam Gambhir gave legendary captain MS Dhoni a special mention and said on Star Sports, (on being asked about the changes fans can see in Kohli) "What new do you want to see? Captaincy is not anyone's birthright. People like MS Dhoni have given the captaincy baton to Virat Kohli, he has played under Virat Kohli as well. He has won three ICC trophies and four IPL trophies as well," Gambhir said. ALSO READ | Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy "I think Kohli should look to score runs and that is more important. When you dream of playing for India, you don't dream to become a captain. You dream of winning games for India and nothing changes, except that you are not going out there to do the toss and set the field placement, but your energy and intensity should remain the same because it's an honor playing for the country," Gambhir added. The India-SA ODIs will commence on January 19 at Paarl. In limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence, due to hamstring injury, KL Rahul will lead the Kohli-starrer Team India in the forthcoming ODI series in the African nation.

Captaincy is not anyone's birthright: Gambhir hopes Virat Kohli can be at his dominant best in SA ODIs

Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become one of the major talking points in world cricket. Kohli announced his decision on social media on Saturday (January 15) following India's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa.

Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has named an Indian batter who he feels can replace Kohli as the next skipper of the Indian Test team. Gavaskar snubbed both KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma, who are among strong contenders to replace Kohli as the new Test skipper and backed Rishabh Pant to be handed over the baton.

Gavaskar, who had earlier backed KL Rahul to be the vice-captain in the longest format, feels selectors will have to engage in a long debate on whom to appoint as the next Test skipper of the side. The batting legend feels Pant can be an ideal candidate for captaincy considering he is a regular across all formats and has the leadership qualities.

"It's going to be quite a debate as far as the selection committee is concerned as to who should be taking Indian cricket forward. First of all, it should be someone who is an automatic pick across all formats of the game. Once that happens, it will be a lot easier. If you ask me, I am still staying, I would look at Rishabh Pant as the next India captain,” Gavaskar said on India Today.

Pant has been a consistent performer for India in Tests over the last few years and has scored runs in all sorts of conditions. After being criticised for throwing away his wicket in the second innings of the second Test against South Africa, Pant silenced his critics with a stunning unbeaten century in the recently-concluded third Test. He scored an unbeaten 100 off 139 balls, however, his efforts went in vain as South Africa won the decider by seven wickets to take the series 2-1.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shocked-rohit-sharma-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-surprise-decision-to-quit-indias-test-captaincy-445149">'Shocked': Rohit Sharma reacts to Virat Kohli's surprise decision to quit India's Test captaincy</a>

Pant has been backed by many as a future superstar of the Indian team but has been often criticised for throwing his wicket away with careless batting at crucial junctures. However, Gavaskar believes the added responsibility of captaining the side can help inspire a change in his approach.

"For one reason only, just like Rohit Sharma was given the captaincy of Mumbai Indians when Ricky Ponting stepped down, look at the change in his batting after that. Suddenly the responsibility of being captain made him convert those beautiful cameos of 30s, 40s and 50s into hundreds, 150s and 200s. I think that sense of responsibility given to Rishabh Pant will help him score many more of that wonderful hundred he scored at Newlands," Gavaskar explained.

Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become one of the major talking points in world cricket. Kohli announced his decision on social media on Saturday (January 15) following India's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa.

Virat Kohli's shocking decision to leave India's Test captaincy has become one of the major talking points in world cricket. Kohli announced his decision on social media on Saturday (January 15) following India's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded three-match Test series against South Africa. Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has named an Indian batter who he feels can replace Kohli as the next skipper of the Indian Test team. Gavaskar snubbed both KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma, who are among strong contenders to replace Kohli as the new Test skipper and backed Rishabh Pant to be handed over the baton. Gavaskar, who had earlier backed KL Rahul to be the vice-captain in the longest format, feels selectors will have to engage in a long debate on whom to appoint as the next Test skipper of the side. The batting legend feels Pant can be an ideal candidate for captaincy considering he is a regular across all formats and has the leadership qualities. "It's going to be quite a debate as far as the selection committee is concerned as to who should be taking Indian cricket forward. First of all, it should be someone who is an automatic pick across all formats of the game. Once that happens, it will be a lot easier. If you ask me, I am still staying, I would look at Rishabh Pant as the next India captain,” Gavaskar said on India Today. Pant has been a consistent performer for India in Tests over the last few years and has scored runs in all sorts of conditions. After being criticised for throwing away his wicket in the second innings of the second Test against South Africa, Pant silenced his critics with a stunning unbeaten century in the recently-concluded third Test. He scored an unbeaten 100 off 139 balls, however, his efforts went in vain as South Africa won the decider by seven wickets to take the series 2-1. Also Read: 'Shocked': Rohit Sharma reacts to Virat Kohli's surprise decision to quit India's Test captaincy Pant has been backed by many as a future superstar of the Indian team but has been often criticised for throwing his wicket away with careless batting at crucial junctures. However, Gavaskar believes the added responsibility of captaining the side can help inspire a change in his approach. "For one reason only, just like Rohit Sharma was given the captaincy of Mumbai Indians when Ricky Ponting stepped down, look at the change in his batting after that. Suddenly the responsibility of being captain made him convert those beautiful cameos of 30s, 40s and 50s into hundreds, 150s and 200s. I think that sense of responsibility given to Rishabh Pant will help him score many more of that wonderful hundred he scored at Newlands," Gavaskar explained.

Not Rohit or Rahul! Sunil Gavaskar names player who should replace Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain

Day 3 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, was another topsy-turvy battle between both sides in the series finale. As India started the day at 57-2, with an overall lead of 70 runs, Rishabh Pant's unbeaten 100 enabled India to setup a tricky 212-run target for the Dean Elgar-led Proteas.

While SA ended the day's play at 101 for 2, with both the openers Aiden Markram and Captain Elgar back in the pavillion, there was a huge controversy which erupted when Elgar survived a very close LBW call. The Proteas captain was given out by the on-field umpire, Marais Erasmus,&nbsp;after being trapped plumb in front by R Ashwin. However, Elgar took the decision upstairs where replays showed that the ball had hit the left-hander below the knee, however, the hawk-eye displayed that the ball was going above the stumps. Thus,&nbsp;Elgar breathed a sigh of relief by getting a reprieve at that time (he eventually fell for 30 before close of play).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/focus-on-your-team-virat-kohli-vents-out-anger-on-stump-mic-after-dean-elgar-drs-controversy-watch-444641">'Focus on your team..': Virat Kohli vents out anger on stump mic after Dean Elgar DRS controversy - WATCH</a>

Thus, this led to a huge controversy as Indian players -- such as Captain Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Ashwin -- didn't mince their words and showed their frustration&nbsp;in the middle.

"Focus on your team as well and not just the opposition,” Kohli said as he walked up to the stump mic after Ashwin and Rahul also expressed their displeasure over the ball-tracking system.

The 33-year-old Kohli went too far ahead and even mocked the broadcaster 'SuperSport', claiming that they were doing what they could to help the home side.

Thus, former SA batter Daryll&nbsp;Cullinan came down heavily on Captain Kohli. He feels the Indian star batter has for too long got away with his overaggressive behaviour on-field.&nbsp;

“This is the typical Virat&nbsp;untouchable!&nbsp;He behaves the way he wants to behave. The rest of the cricket world just bows down to Virat. The powerhouse is India. I hate to say this but it’s been going on for years. It’s just the big suck up towards India and anybody who plays for India. They are untouchable, so everyone will laugh it off,” the former South African told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.

“I love Virat Kohli, I love his cricket, I love the way he plays. But there has to be a line drawn somewhere to say ‘hang on, you must be severely punished’. If anything, it was a mistake. I just cannot believe that they could think along those sort of lines. For too long Virat has got away with behavior which is unacceptable on a cricket field. But he’s Kohli and I don’t like it, quite frankly," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-is-very-immature-gautam-gambhir-slams-indian-skipper-after-stump-mic-outburst-in-3rd-test-444659">Virat Kohli is very immature: Gautam Gambhir slams Indian skipper after stump-mic outburst in 3rd Test</a>

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar also agreed with Cullinal and feels that the Indian team's comments were extremely serious.

“There was an insinuation from the Indian camp that the host broadcasters were up to some mischief to make sure they were putting their own team at an advantage. That is a serious kind of insinuation. I have a problem with that,” Manjrekar said.

“Virat Kohli is going through one of the most difficult phases of his career. He lost his ODI captaincy, there has been some controversy over that. This is the first time that I am seeing self-doubts have started creeping in. We saw it during the IPL as well. Never thought this guy would be under-confident,” he added.

Many former cricketers and experts of the game have slammed Team India for their approach on the entire DRS controversy. After the DRS incident, India lost the plot on the field during the fag end of Day 3 by leaking runs at will as SA ended the day's play at 101-2, chasing 212.

Day 3 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, was another topsy-turvy battle between both sides in the series finale.

Day 3 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, was another topsy-turvy battle between both sides in the series finale. As India started the day at 57-2, with an overall lead of 70 runs, Rishabh Pant's unbeaten 100 enabled India to setup a tricky 212-run target for the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. While SA ended the day's play at 101 for 2, with both the openers Aiden Markram and Captain Elgar back in the pavillion, there was a huge controversy which erupted when Elgar survived a very close LBW call. The Proteas captain was given out by the on-field umpire, Marais Erasmus, after being trapped plumb in front by R Ashwin. However, Elgar took the decision upstairs where replays showed that the ball had hit the left-hander below the knee, however, the hawk-eye displayed that the ball was going above the stumps. Thus, Elgar breathed a sigh of relief by getting a reprieve at that time (he eventually fell for 30 before close of play). ALSO READ | 'Focus on your team..': Virat Kohli vents out anger on stump mic after Dean Elgar DRS controversy - WATCH Thus, this led to a huge controversy as Indian players -- such as Captain Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Ashwin -- didn't mince their words and showed their frustration in the middle. "Focus on your team as well and not just the opposition,” Kohli said as he walked up to the stump mic after Ashwin and Rahul also expressed their displeasure over the ball-tracking system. The 33-year-old Kohli went too far ahead and even mocked the broadcaster 'SuperSport', claiming that they were doing what they could to help the home side. Thus, former SA batter Daryll Cullinan came down heavily on Captain Kohli. He feels the Indian star batter has for too long got away with his overaggressive behaviour on-field. “This is the typical Virat untouchable! He behaves the way he wants to behave. The rest of the cricket world just bows down to Virat. The powerhouse is India. I hate to say this but it’s been going on for years. It’s just the big suck up towards India and anybody who plays for India. They are untouchable, so everyone will laugh it off,” the former South African told ESPNCricinfo. “I love Virat Kohli, I love his cricket, I love the way he plays. But there has to be a line drawn somewhere to say ‘hang on, you must be severely punished’. If anything, it was a mistake. I just cannot believe that they could think along those sort of lines. For too long Virat has got away with behavior which is unacceptable on a cricket field. But he’s Kohli and I don’t like it, quite frankly," he added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli is very immature: Gautam Gambhir slams Indian skipper after stump-mic outburst in 3rd Test Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar also agreed with Cullinal and feels that the Indian team's comments were extremely serious. “There was an insinuation from the Indian camp that the host broadcasters were up to some mischief to make sure they were putting their own team at an advantage. That is a serious kind of insinuation. I have a problem with that,” Manjrekar said. “Virat Kohli is going through one of the most difficult phases of his career. He lost his ODI captaincy, there has been some controversy over that. This is the first time that I am seeing self-doubts have started creeping in. We saw it during the IPL as well. Never thought this guy would be under-confident,” he added. Many former cricketers and experts of the game have slammed Team India for their approach on the entire DRS controversy. After the DRS incident, India lost the plot on the field during the fag end of Day 3 by leaking runs at will as SA ended the day's play at 101-2, chasing 212.

Kohli must be severely punished: Ex-SA batter shares his take on DRS controversy in Cape Town Test

India lost the third and final Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town on Friday (January 14). Day 4 commenced with South Africa in the driver's seat, at 101-2 in pursuit of 212, as Keegan Petersen, Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma completed the formalities for the home side to win by 7 wickets and claim the series 2-1.

The series had plenty of moments as both sides showed a lot of character, grit and determination to emerge on top. Thus, the three-match Test series was intensely and Day 3 of the final Test was a prove of it. After Rishabh Pant's unbeaten ton propelled India to setup a 212-run target for the home side, Dean Elgar survived a very close lbw call during the fag end of the day's proceedings, off R Ashwin's bowling.&nbsp;

After being given out initially by the on-field umpire, Elgar referred the decision upstairs. While the replays showed that the ball had hit the batter below the knee, the hawk-eye displayed that the ball was going above the stumps. Hence, he managed to survive as Indian players expressed their frustration without mincing their words.

Captain Kohli said on the stump-mic, "Focus on your team as well and not just the opposition, trying to catch people all the time."

Meanwhile, KL Rahul was heard saying, “Whole country playing against XI guys," whereas the 35-year-old Ashwin and said, "You should find better ways to win Supersport (the host broadcaster)."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-are-india-complaining-now-saeed-ajmal-reacts-as-his-wounds-from-2011-world-cup-comes-alive-444720">Why are India complaining now? Saeed Ajmal reacts as his wounds from 2011 World Cup comes alive</a>

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has now commented on the DRS controversy and lashed out at Team India for their rant on-field. He told Fox Sports, “I think that is disgraceful from the Indians personally. Decisions go with you, they go against you, that didn’t go the way they think it should have gone. Virat Kohli is a legend of the game, but that’s not the way to act, that is not the way to act in a game of Test match cricket."

“The ICC have to stamp this down, they have to stamp down on the Indian side, you can’t get away with talking down the stump microphone like Ravi Ashwin has done and the Indian captain has done," added the ex-England skipper.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-must-be-severely-punished-ex-sa-batter-shares-his-take-on-drs-controversy-in-cape-town-test-444689">Kohli must be severely punished: Ex-SA batter shares his take on DRS controversy in Cape Town Test</a>

On Day 4, on Friday, India eventually lost the third Test and the series, 2-1, to miss out on a golden opportunity to win a maiden Test series on South African soil. In the ICC World Test Championship points table, the No. 1 ranked Indian team also slipped below SA to occupy the fifth spot following the series loss.

On being asked what action should the ICC take. he asserted, "He needs to be fined, he needs to be suspended."

India lost the third and final Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town on Friday (January 14). Day 4 commenced with South Africa in the driver's seat, at 101-2 in pursuit of 212, as Keegan Petersen, Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma completed the formalities for the home side to win by 7 wickets and claim the series 2-1.

India lost the third and final Test versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town on Friday (January 14). Day 4 commenced with South Africa in the driver's seat, at 101-2 in pursuit of 212, as Keegan Petersen, Rassie van der Dussen and Temba Bavuma completed the formalities for the home side to win by 7 wickets and claim the series 2-1. The series had plenty of moments as both sides showed a lot of character, grit and determination to emerge on top. Thus, the three-match Test series was intensely and Day 3 of the final Test was a prove of it. After Rishabh Pant's unbeaten ton propelled India to setup a 212-run target for the home side, Dean Elgar survived a very close lbw call during the fag end of the day's proceedings, off R Ashwin's bowling. After being given out initially by the on-field umpire, Elgar referred the decision upstairs. While the replays showed that the ball had hit the batter below the knee, the hawk-eye displayed that the ball was going above the stumps. Hence, he managed to survive as Indian players expressed their frustration without mincing their words. Captain Kohli said on the stump-mic, "Focus on your team as well and not just the opposition, trying to catch people all the time." Meanwhile, KL Rahul was heard saying, “Whole country playing against XI guys," whereas the 35-year-old Ashwin and said, "You should find better ways to win Supersport (the host broadcaster)." ALSO READ | Why are India complaining now? Saeed Ajmal reacts as his wounds from 2011 World Cup comes alive Former England captain Michael Vaughan has now commented on the DRS controversy and lashed out at Team India for their rant on-field. He told Fox Sports, “I think that is disgraceful from the Indians personally. Decisions go with you, they go against you, that didn’t go the way they think it should have gone. Virat Kohli is a legend of the game, but that’s not the way to act, that is not the way to act in a game of Test match cricket." “The ICC have to stamp this down, they have to stamp down on the Indian side, you can’t get away with talking down the stump microphone like Ravi Ashwin has done and the Indian captain has done," added the ex-England skipper. ALSO READ | Kohli must be severely punished: Ex-SA batter shares his take on DRS controversy in Cape Town Test On Day 4, on Friday, India eventually lost the third Test and the series, 2-1, to miss out on a golden opportunity to win a maiden Test series on South African soil. In the ICC World Test Championship points table, the No. 1 ranked Indian team also slipped below SA to occupy the fifth spot following the series loss. On being asked what action should the ICC take. he asserted, "He needs to be fined, he needs to be suspended."

Virat Kohli should be fined or suspended: Michael Vaughan lashes out at Team India over DRS rant

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India and South Africa are involved in a thrilling third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The entire series has been a topsy-turvy ride with both teams leaving no stone unturned and not allowing the other to dictate terms from the word go.

While KL Rahul, Captain Virat Kohli, pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, all-rounder Shardul Thakur and Rishabh Pant have done well during the course of the series for the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, R Ashwin, etc. haven't done anything extra ordinary. Talking about Mayank, the right-hander started the tour with a fine 60 in the first innings of the series opener, however, he couldn't capitalise on any of the following outings to return with scores of&nbsp;9, 17, 3, and 7.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-inspires-indian-dugout-to-relentlessly-cheer-for-pacers-on-day-2-of-3rd-test-444404">WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test</a>

Thus, former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar opened up on Mayank's struggles overseas and said was quoted as saying by News18,&nbsp;"He has wasted a chance because he started the series well. It is not easy when Rabada is in such a good rhythm, the way he was bowling, but he [Mayank] has technical faults. He gets out in the same way and he will get more exposed, especially, in overseas conditions."

"He could have done very little with this ball because it was close to the off-stump on a good length, moved away slightly after pitching, and bounced as well. Mayank Agarwal has not played much in overseas conditions either because he is the third or fourth opener," Agarkar further mentioned.

Given that the likes of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill missed the SA Tests due to injury concerns, Mayank would be gutted to have not made a bigger contribution with the bat in the ongoing series, in the rainbow nation.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-keegan-petersen-takes-a-one-handed-stunner-to-dismiss-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-3-in-cape-town-444377">WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town</a>

After the SA series, India will host Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, which&nbsp;is scheduled to be held on February 25 and March 5, respectively. Thus, the Test specialist Mayank will be eager to make the most of his opportunities versus the Lankans and remain in India's scheme of things&nbsp;in the red-ball format.

India and South Africa are involved in a thrilling third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The entire series has been a topsy-turvy ride with both teams leaving no stone unturned and not allowing the other to dictate terms from the word go.

India and South Africa are involved in a thrilling third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town. The entire series has been a topsy-turvy ride with both teams leaving no stone unturned and not allowing the other to dictate terms from the word go. While KL Rahul, Captain Virat Kohli, pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, all-rounder Shardul Thakur and Rishabh Pant have done well during the course of the series for the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, R Ashwin, etc. haven't done anything extra ordinary. Talking about Mayank, the right-hander started the tour with a fine 60 in the first innings of the series opener, however, he couldn't capitalise on any of the following outings to return with scores of 9, 17, 3, and 7. ALSO READ | WATCH: Virat Kohli inspires Indian dugout to relentlessly cheer for pacers on Day 2 of 3rd Test Thus, former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar opened up on Mayank's struggles overseas and said was quoted as saying by News18, "He has wasted a chance because he started the series well. It is not easy when Rabada is in such a good rhythm, the way he was bowling, but he [Mayank] has technical faults. He gets out in the same way and he will get more exposed, especially, in overseas conditions." "He could have done very little with this ball because it was close to the off-stump on a good length, moved away slightly after pitching, and bounced as well. Mayank Agarwal has not played much in overseas conditions either because he is the third or fourth opener," Agarkar further mentioned. Given that the likes of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill missed the SA Tests due to injury concerns, Mayank would be gutted to have not made a bigger contribution with the bat in the ongoing series, in the rainbow nation. ALSO READ | WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town After the SA series, India will host Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, which is scheduled to be held on February 25 and March 5, respectively. Thus, the Test specialist Mayank will be eager to make the most of his opportunities versus the Lankans and remain in India's scheme of things in the red-ball format.

He has technical faults, will get more exposed in overseas conditions: Agarkar opines on Indian batter

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