Indian opener Mayank Agarwal was a stand out performer for his team with a century and a fifty in the second Test against New Zealand in Mumbai. However, his efforts were outshone by New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel, who bagged a historic ten-wicket haul in the game to become the only third bowler in the world to achieve the massive feat. Patel joined the legendary Anil Kumble and Jim Laker in an elite list of bowlers to have taken all ten wickets in an innings of a Test match.

It was a crucial game for Agarwal, who was struggling with his form in the run-up to the Test match with many suggesting he should be the one making way for returning skipper Virat Kohli in the Mumbai clash. However, Agarwal responded to his critics in style with a terrific display with the willow.&nbsp;

Opening the innings with Shubman Gill in the first innings, he slammed a brilliant knock of 150 runs to help India post a strong total of 325 runs on the board despite Patel's ten-wicket haul. He followed it up with a 62-run-knock in the second innings to continue his purple patch as India registered a big win by 372 runs.

Agarwal recently revealed advice from head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of his heroics in the second Test against the Black Caps. Dravid had asked Agarwal to just manage his emotions and mental energy as the batter had been struggling with his form for a long time.

“He (Dravid) said I know you haven't got a lot of runs but just manage your emotions. Manage your mental energy and your thoughts. Don't dwell too much on it, he helped in the mental aspect," Agarwal was quoted as saying by Sportskeeda in an interview.

“On the technical aspect, he insisted that this is the technique which gave you a lot of runs in the past. Just stick to that, the runs will come. Back the things that have worked for you, and fortunately in the very next innings, the runs came,” he added.

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Despite being outshone by Patel, Agarwal had a memorable outing as he joined an elite list of openers featuring the likes of Sunil Gavaskar&nbsp;to have scored a hundred and a half-century in the same Test match while opening the innings in a Test match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

He will be now seen in action when India take on South Africa in a three-match Test series on their upcoming tour of the country later this month.

Indian opener Mayank Agarwal was a stand out performer for his team with a century and a fifty in the second Test against New Zealand in Mumbai. However, his efforts were outshone by New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel, who bagged a historic ten-wicket haul in the game to become the only third bowler in the world to achieve the massive feat.

Indian opener Mayank Agarwal was a stand out performer for his team with a century and a fifty in the second Test against New Zealand in Mumbai. However, his efforts were outshone by New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel, who bagged a historic ten-wicket haul in the game to become the only third bowler in the world to achieve the massive feat. Patel joined the legendary Anil Kumble and Jim Laker in an elite list of bowlers to have taken all ten wickets in an innings of a Test match. It was a crucial game for Agarwal, who was struggling with his form in the run-up to the Test match with many suggesting he should be the one making way for returning skipper Virat Kohli in the Mumbai clash. However, Agarwal responded to his critics in style with a terrific display with the willow. Opening the innings with Shubman Gill in the first innings, he slammed a brilliant knock of 150 runs to help India post a strong total of 325 runs on the board despite Patel's ten-wicket haul. He followed it up with a 62-run-knock in the second innings to continue his purple patch as India registered a big win by 372 runs. Agarwal recently revealed advice from head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of his heroics in the second Test against the Black Caps. Dravid had asked Agarwal to just manage his emotions and mental energy as the batter had been struggling with his form for a long time. “He (Dravid) said I know you haven't got a lot of runs but just manage your emotions. Manage your mental energy and your thoughts. Don't dwell too much on it, he helped in the mental aspect," Agarwal was quoted as saying by Sportskeeda in an interview. “On the technical aspect, he insisted that this is the technique which gave you a lot of runs in the past. Just stick to that, the runs will come. Back the things that have worked for you, and fortunately in the very next innings, the runs came,” he added. Also Read: 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India Despite being outshone by Patel, Agarwal had a memorable outing as he joined an elite list of openers featuring the likes of Sunil Gavaskar to have scored a hundred and a half-century in the same Test match while opening the innings in a Test match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. He will be now seen in action when India take on South Africa in a three-match Test series on their upcoming tour of the country later this month.

'You haven't got a lot of runs': Mayank Agarwal reveals advice from Rahul Dravid before his heroics vs NZ

After the end of the New Zealand series at home, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal and ace off-spinner R Ashwin made massive gains in the latest ICC Test rankings for batters and bowlers, respectively. Mayank, who was the Player-of-the-Match in the second and final Test in Mumbai, jumped up 30 spots following his masterclass 150 at the Wankhede Stadium versus the Black Caps.

Thus, the right-hander finds himself at the 11th position. In the top ten, Joe Root continues to lead the chart whereas Rohit Sharma (fifth position) and Virat Kohli (at sixth place) are the only two Indians in the top ten. For the bowlers, Ashwin gained&nbsp;43 rating points to reach a total of 883 and be at the second spot, narrowing his gap with Aussie Test captain and pacer Pat Cummins (908 rating points). Josh Hazlewood is at the third spot.

Ashwin, who ended the series with 14 wickets and valuable runs from the willow, also moved up in the list for all-rounders. The 35-year-old occupies the second spot in the list headed by Jason Holder. Ravindra Jadeja, who missed the second Test in Mumbai, slipped to the fourth position.

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After grabbing the Player-of-the-Series award post the NZ Tests, Ashwin had told broadcasters, "I think I've got 10 (Player of the Series awards now). I enjoyed Wankhede honestly, and everyday there was something new, and I could challenge both edges. It was a wonderful performance by Ajaz. It doesn't spin all the time in Wankhede, and he used the seam and put the ball in the right places, and there was a bit of destiny involved in his 10-for too. Jayant and I have trained together, he flew to Chennai from Haryana in 2014 to pick my mind, so we have a good relation. Axar and I have played since Kings XI. I would like to go to South Africa and win a series there, we haven't done that before, and hopefully we can do it this time."

Mumbai Test's star spinner Ajaz Patel, who became only the third bowler to take ten wickets in an innings, also jumped 23 slots to occupy the 38th position. The New Zealander had started the India series at the 62nd position.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-led-india-regain-no-1-spot-in-icc-test-rankings-after-series-win-vs-new-zealand-434531">Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand</a>

Among the teams, Kohli-led India are at the top after the 1-0 series win over World Test champions NZ. The Kiwis, Australia, England and Pakistan follow suit in the top five.

India's next Test assignment is versus South Africa, in the African nation, where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The first Test kicks off on December 26 in Centurion.

After the end of the New Zealand series at home, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal and ace off-spinner R Ashwin made massive gains in the latest ICC Test rankings for batters and bowlers, respectively.

After the end of the New Zealand series at home, Indian opener Mayank Agarwal and ace off-spinner R Ashwin made massive gains in the latest ICC Test rankings for batters and bowlers, respectively. Mayank, who was the Player-of-the-Match in the second and final Test in Mumbai, jumped up 30 spots following his masterclass 150 at the Wankhede Stadium versus the Black Caps. Thus, the right-hander finds himself at the 11th position. In the top ten, Joe Root continues to lead the chart whereas Rohit Sharma (fifth position) and Virat Kohli (at sixth place) are the only two Indians in the top ten. For the bowlers, Ashwin gained 43 rating points to reach a total of 883 and be at the second spot, narrowing his gap with Aussie Test captain and pacer Pat Cummins (908 rating points). Josh Hazlewood is at the third spot. Ashwin, who ended the series with 14 wickets and valuable runs from the willow, also moved up in the list for all-rounders. The 35-year-old occupies the second spot in the list headed by Jason Holder. Ravindra Jadeja, who missed the second Test in Mumbai, slipped to the fourth position. ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series After grabbing the Player-of-the-Series award post the NZ Tests, Ashwin had told broadcasters, "I think I've got 10 (Player of the Series awards now). I enjoyed Wankhede honestly, and everyday there was something new, and I could challenge both edges. It was a wonderful performance by Ajaz. It doesn't spin all the time in Wankhede, and he used the seam and put the ball in the right places, and there was a bit of destiny involved in his 10-for too. Jayant and I have trained together, he flew to Chennai from Haryana in 2014 to pick my mind, so we have a good relation. Axar and I have played since Kings XI. I would like to go to South Africa and win a series there, we haven't done that before, and hopefully we can do it this time." Mumbai Test's star spinner Ajaz Patel, who became only the third bowler to take ten wickets in an innings, also jumped 23 slots to occupy the 38th position. The New Zealander had started the India series at the 62nd position. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand Among the teams, Kohli-led India are at the top after the 1-0 series win over World Test champions NZ. The Kiwis, Australia, England and Pakistan follow suit in the top five. India's next Test assignment is versus South Africa, in the African nation, where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The first Test kicks off on December 26 in Centurion.

ICC Test Rankings: Mayank sees massive jump, R Ashwin narrows gap with No. 1 bowler Pat Cummins

Indian opener Mayank Agarwal's magnificent century on Day 1 of the second and final Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai earned him praises from all corners.

Indian opener Mayank Agarwal's magnificent century on Day 1 of the second and final Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai earned him praises from all corners. He remained unbeaten and his knock lifted India from 80-3 as he smashed 14 boundaries and four sixes. Lauding on Agarwal's knock, New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell said that he wanted to try the template set by the Indian batter. After the end of Day 3 game, Mitchell said: "The way Agarwal played in both innings for India, he put pressure on our spinners and he set the template for how I personally wanted to try and go about, taking on the Indian spinners today." ALSO READ: Harbhajan Singh names replacement for Ajinkya Rahane: He could be India's 'perfect solution' "Disappointing to not still be out there and kick on but it was nice to get a partnership going. It's a pretty challenging surface, the ball's definitely turning there with your name on it. It's just about trying to find ways and put pressure back on the bowlers at certain times and stick within your strengths," he added. In the first innings, Daryl Mitchell scored 8 runs off 11 balls and in the second innings, he scored 60 off 92. At the end of the Day 3 game, Virat Kolhi & Co. were in a dominating position as they require five wickets for the series win at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Sunday. New Zealand batters Mitchell and Henry Nicholls were the only positive for the visitors on Day 3 as Kiwis score read 140/5 at the end of Day 3 of the ongoing second Test against India. Stumps on Day 3 of the 2nd Test.#TeamIndia 5 wickets away from victory. Scorecard - https://t.co/KYV5Z1jAEM #INDvNZ @Paytm pic.twitter.com/C7luRRTwNk — BCCI (@BCCI) December 5, 2021 × .@akshar2026 gets the breakthrough as Daryl Mitchell departs after 60. Live - https://t.co/KYV5Z1jAEM #INDvNZ @Paytm pic.twitter.com/Y8CsK7YhAp — BCCI (@BCCI) December 5, 2021 × (With inputs from agencies)

INDvsNZ: 'I personally wanted to try Mayank Agarwal's template,' says Daryl Mitchell during Mumbai Test

Team India opener Mayank Agarwal continued his purple patch with the willow in India's second innings of the ongoing second Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. Agarwal, who had slammed a magnificent century in the first innings, followed it up with a brilliant fifty in the second innings. However, he missed out on a chance to notch up twin hundreds in the Test match as he fell for 62 in the second innings.

Agarwal was on the verge of becoming the only seventh Indian batter to score a century in both innings of a Test match. He looked in sublime touch and played with great control during the second innings against the Kiwis but was dismissed on 62 by Ajaz Patel in the 32nd over. Nonetheless, he managed to enter an elite list featuring the legendary Sunil Gavaskar.

Agarwal joined the elite list of Indian batters to have scored back-to-back fifty-plus scores as an opener in a Test match at the Wankhede Stadium. He emulated the likes of Gavaskar (205, 73 in 1978), Chetan Chauhan (52, 84 in 1978) and Kris Srikkanth (71, 65 in 1987). His half-century helped India take their lead past the 400-run mark in the Mumbai Test.

With the help of Mayank's 150-run knock, India had posted a strong total of 325 runs on the board in their first innings despite a brilliant spell from spinner Ajaz Patel, who picked up a historic ten-wicket haul, becoming only the third bowler in Test history to take all ten wickets in an innings of a Test match.

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However, New Zealand failed to capitalise as they were bundled out for a paltry 62 in their first innings and ended up conceding a massive lead of 263 runs to the hosts. India have now extended their lead to over 470 runs in their second innings as they look to secure a big win in the second Test.

Team India opener Mayank Agarwal continued his purple patch with the willow in India's second innings of the ongoing second Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday.

Team India opener Mayank Agarwal continued his purple patch with the willow in India's second innings of the ongoing second Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. Agarwal, who had slammed a magnificent century in the first innings, followed it up with a brilliant fifty in the second innings. However, he missed out on a chance to notch up twin hundreds in the Test match as he fell for 62 in the second innings. Agarwal was on the verge of becoming the only seventh Indian batter to score a century in both innings of a Test match. He looked in sublime touch and played with great control during the second innings against the Kiwis but was dismissed on 62 by Ajaz Patel in the 32nd over. Nonetheless, he managed to enter an elite list featuring the legendary Sunil Gavaskar. Agarwal joined the elite list of Indian batters to have scored back-to-back fifty-plus scores as an opener in a Test match at the Wankhede Stadium. He emulated the likes of Gavaskar (205, 73 in 1978), Chetan Chauhan (52, 84 in 1978) and Kris Srikkanth (71, 65 in 1987). His half-century helped India take their lead past the 400-run mark in the Mumbai Test. With the help of Mayank's 150-run knock, India had posted a strong total of 325 runs on the board in their first innings despite a brilliant spell from spinner Ajaz Patel, who picked up a historic ten-wicket haul, becoming only the third bowler in Test history to take all ten wickets in an innings of a Test match. Also Read: Kohli, Dravid's gesture wins hearts as duo visit NZ dug-out to congratulate Patel for perfect 10 - WATCH However, New Zealand failed to capitalise as they were bundled out for a paltry 62 in their first innings and ended up conceding a massive lead of 263 runs to the hosts. India have now extended their lead to over 470 runs in their second innings as they look to secure a big win in the second Test.

Mayank Agarwal joins Sunil Gavaskar in elite list despite missing twin centuries in Mumbai Test against NZ

Indian opener Mayank Agarwal hit a magnificent century and remained unbeaten on Day 1 of the second and final Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. His gritty knock&nbsp;led&nbsp;India's fightback after NZ spinner Ajaz Patel shattered India's batting order by taking four wickets.&nbsp;

Mayank, who scored his fourth Test ton revealed how a piece of advice from legendary batter Sunil Gavaskar helped him. During a virtual press conference, he said, "He [Gavaskar] told me that I should consider keeping the bat a bit low initially in my innings. I have a tendency to hold it high. I couldn't make that adjustment in this short period of time.&nbsp;

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Mayank also said that how he tried to copy Gavaskar's stance, he said, "When he was saying, I noticed his shoulder position and basically picked up that I need to be more side-on."

During the match, Agarwal lifted India from 80-3 as he smashed 14 boundaries and four sixes including one-off Patel at long-off after being challenged to the shot. Agarwal told reporters there was a conscious decision to attack Patel, who he said had "bowled exceedingly well" during the day.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mayank-agarwal-most-attacking-indian-batter-since-sehwag-in-tests-says-former-india-batting-coach-433915">Mayank Agarwal most attacking Indian batter since Sehwag in Tests, says former India batting coach</a>

On Ajaz Patel's bowling, Mayank said, "He was bowling exceedingly well. But each time anything was in our half (our arc), the plan was to be a bit more attacking. Anything that came a little towards us in length, we were going to go for it."

"He had that phase when he tied us down, so it was a conscious decision to make it count when we could or each time he bowled it in our spot," he explained.&nbsp;

Indian opener Mayank Agarwal hit a magnificent century and remained unbeaten on Day 1 of the second and final Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Indian opener Mayank Agarwal hit a magnificent century and remained unbeaten on Day 1 of the second and final Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. His gritty knock led India's fightback after NZ spinner Ajaz Patel shattered India's batting order by taking four wickets. Mayank, who scored his fourth Test ton revealed how a piece of advice from legendary batter Sunil Gavaskar helped him. During a virtual press conference, he said, "He [Gavaskar] told me that I should consider keeping the bat a bit low initially in my innings. I have a tendency to hold it high. I couldn't make that adjustment in this short period of time. ALSO READ | Commandos, sharpshooters, over 1500 security personnel? PAK's arrangements for WI home series revealed: Report Mayank also said that how he tried to copy Gavaskar's stance, he said, "When he was saying, I noticed his shoulder position and basically picked up that I need to be more side-on." During the match, Agarwal lifted India from 80-3 as he smashed 14 boundaries and four sixes including one-off Patel at long-off after being challenged to the shot. Agarwal told reporters there was a conscious decision to attack Patel, who he said had "bowled exceedingly well" during the day. ALSO READ | Mayank Agarwal most attacking Indian batter since Sehwag in Tests, says former India batting coach On Ajaz Patel's bowling, Mayank said, "He was bowling exceedingly well. But each time anything was in our half (our arc), the plan was to be a bit more attacking. Anything that came a little towards us in length, we were going to go for it." "He had that phase when he tied us down, so it was a conscious decision to make it count when we could or each time he bowled it in our spot," he explained.

INDvsNZ, 2nd Test: Mayank Agarwal reveals how legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar's advice helped him

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has heaped praise on Mayank Agarwal after his brilliant century on the opening day of the ongoing second Test between India and New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Bangar said Agarwal is the most attacking Indian batter against spin since Virender Sehwag when it comes to the longest format of the game.

Agarwal looked in a great rhythm right from the start of India's first innings in the second Test on Friday as he notched up an unbeaten 120-run-knock to help the hosts post 221/4 at stumps. Agarwal combined with his opening partner Shubman Gill (44) to get India off to a great start with an 80-run stand for the first wicket before India lost three wickets in quick succession.

He then combined with Shreyas Iyer (18) to add another 60 runs for the fourth wicket and tackled Azaj Patel really well. The Kiwi spinner was on fire as he picked up all the four wickets that India lost on the first day of the series-opener. Bangar lauded the Indian opener for his terrific strokeplay against spin and called him one of the best Indian batters against spin in Tests since Sehwag.

"In my opinion, Mayank Agarwal is the most attacking batter against spin I have seen since Virender Sehwag for India in Test cricket. Everyone says that he steps out and plays the aerial shots well and targets the straighter boundaries," Bangar said on Star Sports.

"But there was one special thing seen in this knock and it was also because of the extra bounce, that he played so many shots off the back foot. He played very good pull shots when the ball was slightly back of length," he added.

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Agarwal was the top scorer for India on Day 1 as he notched up an unbeaten 120 off 246 balls laced with 14 fours and four sixes. He posted an unbeaten stand of 61 runs for the fourth wicket with Wriddhiman Saha (25), who remained not out on 25 at the end of Day 1's play as India looked in control.

India will be looking to post a big total on the board in their first innings when they resume their batting on Day 2 of the Mumbai Test on Friday.

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has heaped praise on Mayank Agarwal after his brilliant century on the opening day of the ongoing second Test between India and New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has heaped praise on Mayank Agarwal after his brilliant century on the opening day of the ongoing second Test between India and New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Bangar said Agarwal is the most attacking Indian batter against spin since Virender Sehwag when it comes to the longest format of the game. Agarwal looked in a great rhythm right from the start of India's first innings in the second Test on Friday as he notched up an unbeaten 120-run-knock to help the hosts post 221/4 at stumps. Agarwal combined with his opening partner Shubman Gill (44) to get India off to a great start with an 80-run stand for the first wicket before India lost three wickets in quick succession. He then combined with Shreyas Iyer (18) to add another 60 runs for the fourth wicket and tackled Azaj Patel really well. The Kiwi spinner was on fire as he picked up all the four wickets that India lost on the first day of the series-opener. Bangar lauded the Indian opener for his terrific strokeplay against spin and called him one of the best Indian batters against spin in Tests since Sehwag. "In my opinion, Mayank Agarwal is the most attacking batter against spin I have seen since Virender Sehwag for India in Test cricket. Everyone says that he steps out and plays the aerial shots well and targets the straighter boundaries," Bangar said on Star Sports. "But there was one special thing seen in this knock and it was also because of the extra bounce, that he played so many shots off the back foot. He played very good pull shots when the ball was slightly back of length," he added. Also Read: Virat Kohli achieves two unwanted records after failing to open his account on Day 1 of Mumbai Test Agarwal was the top scorer for India on Day 1 as he notched up an unbeaten 120 off 246 balls laced with 14 fours and four sixes. He posted an unbeaten stand of 61 runs for the fourth wicket with Wriddhiman Saha (25), who remained not out on 25 at the end of Day 1's play as India looked in control. India will be looking to post a big total on the board in their first innings when they resume their batting on Day 2 of the Mumbai Test on Friday.

Mayank Agarwal most attacking Indian batter since Sehwag in Tests, says former India batting coach

Mayank Agarwal scored his 4th Test ton as India ended day-1 of the 2nd and final Test at 221/4. Agarwal scored an unbeaten 120 while Wriddhiman Saha was not out on 25. Resuming at 111/3 after tea opener Mayank Agarwal and Shreyas Iyer steadily carried on from where they had left after the fall of three quick wickets.

Ajaz Patel once again jolted India dismissing Kanpur Test centurion Shreyas for just 18 breaking the 80-run partnership between him and Agarwal.

Despite losing partners at the other end Mayank Agarwal looked solid and kept the scoreboard moving and capitalized on the poor deliveries that came his way.

Making a comeback in Kanpur Mayank Agarwal failed to deliver with the bat but in the second Test he ensured that one more opportunity does not go begging.

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Wicket-keeper batsman Wriddhiman Saha joined him at the other end and the duo struck a fifty partnership to take India's total beyond the 200-run mark.

Earlier in the day, Ajaz Patel wreaked havoc with the ball as Virat Kohli opted to bat first after the delayed start due to wet outfield, the openers justified the captain's decision as Shubman Gill continued with his decent run of form with the bat scoring 44 of 71 balls.

Gill once again failed to capitalize after getting a good start as Ajaz Patel got him caught in the first slip to Ross Taylor. The opening pair put on 80-runs and in the same score 3 wickets fell in quick succession, leaving India reeling at 80/3.

Cheteshwar Pujara's poor run of form continued as the Saurashtra lad struggled with the bat falling victim to Patel who cleaned him up for a 5-ball duck.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-said-nothing-about-it-laxman-surprised-with-rahane-jadeja-and-ishants-injuries-for-2nd-test-433773">Kohli said nothing about it: Laxman surprised with Rahane, Jadeja and Ishant's injuries for 2nd Test</a>

Virat Kohli too was dismissed by Ajaz Patel without troubling the scorers. Kohli was out leg before, a decision which could have gone the other way. Skipper survived just 4 balls and even took DRS but the third umpire Virender Sharma still ruled him out.

Undoubtedly Ajaz Patel was New Zealand's star performer with the ball picking up all the wickets that fell on the day. Brief Scores: India 221/4 (Mayank Agarwal 120* Shubman Gill 44; Ajaz Patel 4-73) vs New Zealand&nbsp;

Mayank Agarwal scored his 4th Test ton as India ended day-1 of the 2nd and final Test at 221/4. Agarwal scored an unbeaten 120 while Wriddhiman Saha was not out on 25.

Mayank Agarwal scored his 4th Test ton as India ended day-1 of the 2nd and final Test at 221/4. Agarwal scored an unbeaten 120 while Wriddhiman Saha was not out on 25. Resuming at 111/3 after tea opener Mayank Agarwal and Shreyas Iyer steadily carried on from where they had left after the fall of three quick wickets. Ajaz Patel once again jolted India dismissing Kanpur Test centurion Shreyas for just 18 breaking the 80-run partnership between him and Agarwal. Despite losing partners at the other end Mayank Agarwal looked solid and kept the scoreboard moving and capitalized on the poor deliveries that came his way. Making a comeback in Kanpur Mayank Agarwal failed to deliver with the bat but in the second Test he ensured that one more opportunity does not go begging. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli upset as controversial DRS decision sends him packing on a duck in 2nd Test vs NZ - WATCH Wicket-keeper batsman Wriddhiman Saha joined him at the other end and the duo struck a fifty partnership to take India's total beyond the 200-run mark. Earlier in the day, Ajaz Patel wreaked havoc with the ball as Virat Kohli opted to bat first after the delayed start due to wet outfield, the openers justified the captain's decision as Shubman Gill continued with his decent run of form with the bat scoring 44 of 71 balls. Gill once again failed to capitalize after getting a good start as Ajaz Patel got him caught in the first slip to Ross Taylor. The opening pair put on 80-runs and in the same score 3 wickets fell in quick succession, leaving India reeling at 80/3. Cheteshwar Pujara's poor run of form continued as the Saurashtra lad struggled with the bat falling victim to Patel who cleaned him up for a 5-ball duck. ALSO READ: Kohli said nothing about it: Laxman surprised with Rahane, Jadeja and Ishant's injuries for 2nd Test Virat Kohli too was dismissed by Ajaz Patel without troubling the scorers. Kohli was out leg before, a decision which could have gone the other way. Skipper survived just 4 balls and even took DRS but the third umpire Virender Sharma still ruled him out. Undoubtedly Ajaz Patel was New Zealand's star performer with the ball picking up all the wickets that fell on the day. Brief Scores: India 221/4 (Mayank Agarwal 120* Shubman Gill 44; Ajaz Patel 4-73) vs New Zealand

IND vs NZ: Mayank Agarwal's ton puts India in driver's seat after Ajaz Patel's 4-fer in Mumbai Test

Sunrisers Hyderabad have retained Kane Williamson, Abdul Samad, and Umran Malik in front of the IPL 2022 big auction. Whereas Punjab Kings retained Mayank Agarwal and Arshdeep Singh.

All the IPL teams&nbsp;had to announce their retained&nbsp;players till November 30. As&nbsp;two additional franchises have been added in IPL 2022, Lucknow and Ahmedabad,&nbsp;a mega auction will take place before of next year's event.

Therefore, each of the existing eight IPL teams was asked to retain&nbsp;a maximum of four players. There can be a maximum of three domestic&nbsp;players and two overseas&nbsp;players among these four players. Teams might decide&nbsp;to keep one, two, three, or four players or even opt for no retentions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-capitals-retention-list-dc-retain-rishabh-pant-axar-patel-anrich-nortje-and-prithvi-shaw-433070">Delhi Capitals retention list: DC retain Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Anrich Nortje and Prithvi Shaw</a>

Sunrisers Hyderabad which had a disappointing&nbsp;last season has surprised the fans once again by not retaining Rashid Khan. Although, it is yet to be known if it was SRH management decision or Rashid Khan's own. David Warner who was removed as team's captain last year after a poor run wasn't retained as expected.

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Presenting the 2️⃣ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Risers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Risers</a> along with Captain Kane who will continue to don the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRH</a> colours in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2022</a> 🧡 
 
We enter the auction with a purse of INR 68 crores. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OrangeArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OrangeArmy</a> <a href="https://t.co/2WwRZMUelO">pic.twitter.com/2WwRZMUelO</a>
— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers/status/1465718620126801920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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However, Sunrisers Mangement has said that they will try to get back many of the players back in the auction.

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We thank the players for their contribution to SRH over the years. This is not a goodbye, as we hope to welcome back some Risers in the auction 🧡<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForeverOrange?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForeverOrange</a> <a href="https://t.co/imZmqNCpIm">pic.twitter.com/imZmqNCpIm</a>
— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers/status/1465611749290229767?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kolkata-knight-riders-complete-retention-list-kkr-retain-andre-russell-venkatesh-iyer-and-two-others-433071">Kolkata Knight Riders complete retention list: KKR retain Andre Russell, Venkatesh Iyer and two others</a>&nbsp;

Punjab Kings, on the other hand, has retained the least number of players among both the teams. Big names like KL Rahul, Ravi Bishnoi, Shahrukh Khan and&nbsp;Nicholas Pooran have been&nbsp;released by the team. Before going in the auction, it'll now have 72 crores, the maximum among all the teams.

Anil Kumble, the head coach appreciated the leadership qualities of Mayank Agarwal, and most probably will be making him the captain in the upcoming season. Arshdeep Singh, who has taken 30 wickets in 23 matches for Punjab and has proved himself with the bowl was the other retained player.

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2️⃣3️⃣ Matches 
3️⃣0️⃣ Wickets 
1️⃣ 5-Wkt Haul 
 
Welcome back the son of our soil, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> da munda, <a href="https://twitter.com/arshdeepsinghh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arshdeepsinghh</a>, we are happy and excited as he will be donning the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBKS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBKS</a> jersey for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2022</a>! 😎<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLRetention?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLRetention</a> <a href="https://t.co/ArjQ3MjmfJ">pic.twitter.com/ArjQ3MjmfJ</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1465718050187923460?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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🥁🥁🥁 
 
The Sher who joined us in 2018, will continue to be an integral part of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaSquad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaSquad</a>! 
 
Show some ❤️s for The Magnificent <a href="https://twitter.com/mayankcricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mayankcricket</a> 😍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PunjabKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PunjabKings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLRetention?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLRetention</a> <a href="https://t.co/3DSJddOq8m">pic.twitter.com/3DSJddOq8m</a>
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabKingsIPL/status/1465717680950820868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Sunrisers Hyderabad have retained Kane Williamson, Abdul Samad, and Umran Malik in front of the IPL 2022 big auction. Whereas Punjab Kings retained Mayank Agarwal and Arshdeep Singh.

Sunrisers Hyderabad have retained Kane Williamson, Abdul Samad, and Umran Malik in front of the IPL 2022 big auction. Whereas Punjab Kings retained Mayank Agarwal and Arshdeep Singh. All the IPL teams had to announce their retained players till November 30. As two additional franchises have been added in IPL 2022, Lucknow and Ahmedabad, a mega auction will take place before of next year's event. Therefore, each of the existing eight IPL teams was asked to retain a maximum of four players. There can be a maximum of three domestic players and two overseas players among these four players. Teams might decide to keep one, two, three, or four players or even opt for no retentions. ALSO READ: Delhi Capitals retention list: DC retain Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Anrich Nortje and Prithvi Shaw Sunrisers Hyderabad which had a disappointing last season has surprised the fans once again by not retaining Rashid Khan. Although, it is yet to be known if it was SRH management decision or Rashid Khan's own. David Warner who was removed as team's captain last year after a poor run wasn't retained as expected. Presenting the 2️⃣ #Risers along with Captain Kane who will continue to don the #SRH colours in #IPL2022 🧡 We enter the auction with a purse of INR 68 crores. #OrangeArmy pic.twitter.com/2WwRZMUelO — SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) November 30, 2021 × However, Sunrisers Mangement has said that they will try to get back many of the players back in the auction. We thank the players for their contribution to SRH over the years. This is not a goodbye, as we hope to welcome back some Risers in the auction 🧡#ForeverOrange pic.twitter.com/imZmqNCpIm — SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) November 30, 2021 × ALSO READ: Kolkata Knight Riders complete retention list: KKR retain Andre Russell, Venkatesh Iyer and two others Punjab Kings, on the other hand, has retained the least number of players among both the teams. Big names like KL Rahul, Ravi Bishnoi, Shahrukh Khan and Nicholas Pooran have been released by the team. Before going in the auction, it'll now have 72 crores, the maximum among all the teams. Anil Kumble, the head coach appreciated the leadership qualities of Mayank Agarwal, and most probably will be making him the captain in the upcoming season. Arshdeep Singh, who has taken 30 wickets in 23 matches for Punjab and has proved himself with the bowl was the other retained player. 2️⃣3️⃣ Matches 3️⃣0️⃣ Wickets 1️⃣ 5-Wkt Haul Welcome back the son of our soil, #SaddaPunjab da munda, @arshdeepsinghh, we are happy and excited as he will be donning the #PBKS jersey for #IPL2022! 😎#PunjabKings #IPLRetention pic.twitter.com/ArjQ3MjmfJ — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) November 30, 2021 × 🥁🥁🥁 The Sher who joined us in 2018, will continue to be an integral part of #SaddaSquad! Show some ❤️s for The Magnificent @mayankcricket 😍#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings #IPLRetention pic.twitter.com/3DSJddOq8m — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) November 30, 2021 ×

Kane Williamson, two uncapped Indian players retained by SRH, PBKS let go off KL Rahul

India and New Zealand were involved in a thrilling first Test at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. Electing to bat first, Ajinkya Rahane-led India posted 345 all-out whereas New Zealand were bundled out for 296 in their first essay. In their second innings, India declared at 234-7, giving the Kiwis a stiff 284-run target. Riding on Tom Latham's 52 and Rachin Ravindra's 18 not out, off 91 balls, the visitors ensured a draw in the last half hour of Day Five.

Ahead of the second and final Test, at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, India have some selection issues to address. With regular captain Virat Kohli set to return for the series finale, on December 3, the Rahul Dravid-led think tank will have to drop a batter from the top or the middle-order. In this regard, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has suggested an 'out-of-the-box' name who can accompany Shubman Gill at the order, if Mayank Agarwal is dropped.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-rachin-ravindra-tom-latham-stand-tall-as-visitors-earn-a-draw-vs-rahane-co-432755">IND vs NZ, 1st Test: Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham stand tall as visitors earn a draw vs Rahane &amp; Co.</a>

“It’s a toss-up between Mayank Agarwal and Ajinkya Rahane. I would think on those two. That’s the toss-up that Virat Kohli has to make. Whether he wants to go with Mayank Agarwal and give him another go or whether [he thinks] Ajinkya Rahane hasn’t got enough runs in the last 10-12 Test matches after that Melbourne Test so he goes out. It’s a tough call, definitely a tough call. It depends on whom the sword falls on,” said Wasim Jaffer in a chat with ESPNCricinfo.

“I think I will open with Saha if at all Mayank Agarwal goes out because then everybody bats out of their position. Pujara will open and then&nbsp;Ajinkya Rahane&nbsp;will bat at some other position… If Saha opens then everyone bats at the same position. And you can do that in Indian conditions with Saha. Is it a long-term call? Definitely not because India will go to South Africa. So, they’ll have to reconsider their top-six for Mumbai,” concluded the meme-specialist.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-should-make-way-for-kohli-ex-all-rounder-names-senior-batter-who-should-be-dropped-for-2nd-test-432739">He should make way for Kohli: Ex all-rounder names senior batter who should be dropped for 2nd Test</a>

Given that spinners have been the go-to-bowlers, India is likely to retain R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. On the other hand, they are most likely to again go ahead with two pacers, hence, the axe will fall on one of the batters. Given that Mayank returned with scores of 13 and 17 in the series opener, the right-hander might lose his spot whereas Saha can be an interesting choice as a makeshift opener.

India and New Zealand were involved in a thrilling first Test at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. Electing to bat first, Ajinkya Rahane-led India posted 345 all-out whereas New Zealand were bundled out for 296 in their first essay.

India and New Zealand were involved in a thrilling first Test at Green Park Stadium, Kanpur. Electing to bat first, Ajinkya Rahane-led India posted 345 all-out whereas New Zealand were bundled out for 296 in their first essay. In their second innings, India declared at 234-7, giving the Kiwis a stiff 284-run target. Riding on Tom Latham's 52 and Rachin Ravindra's 18 not out, off 91 balls, the visitors ensured a draw in the last half hour of Day Five. Ahead of the second and final Test, at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, India have some selection issues to address. With regular captain Virat Kohli set to return for the series finale, on December 3, the Rahul Dravid-led think tank will have to drop a batter from the top or the middle-order. In this regard, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has suggested an 'out-of-the-box' name who can accompany Shubman Gill at the order, if Mayank Agarwal is dropped. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 1st Test: Rachin Ravindra, Tom Latham stand tall as visitors earn a draw vs Rahane & Co. “It’s a toss-up between Mayank Agarwal and Ajinkya Rahane. I would think on those two. That’s the toss-up that Virat Kohli has to make. Whether he wants to go with Mayank Agarwal and give him another go or whether [he thinks] Ajinkya Rahane hasn’t got enough runs in the last 10-12 Test matches after that Melbourne Test so he goes out. It’s a tough call, definitely a tough call. It depends on whom the sword falls on,” said Wasim Jaffer in a chat with ESPNCricinfo. “I think I will open with Saha if at all Mayank Agarwal goes out because then everybody bats out of their position. Pujara will open and then Ajinkya Rahane will bat at some other position… If Saha opens then everyone bats at the same position. And you can do that in Indian conditions with Saha. Is it a long-term call? Definitely not because India will go to South Africa. So, they’ll have to reconsider their top-six for Mumbai,” concluded the meme-specialist. ALSO READ | He should make way for Kohli: Ex all-rounder names senior batter who should be dropped for 2nd Test Given that spinners have been the go-to-bowlers, India is likely to retain R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. On the other hand, they are most likely to again go ahead with two pacers, hence, the axe will fall on one of the batters. Given that Mayank returned with scores of 13 and 17 in the series opener, the right-hander might lose his spot whereas Saha can be an interesting choice as a makeshift opener.

IND vs NZ: Wasim Jaffer shares an 'out-of-the-box' suggestion on who could open with Shubman Gill in 2nd Test

Team India demolished New Zealand in the three T20Is and have now shifted their focus on the two-match Test series, starting from November 25 in Kanpur. The series will give India a chance to not only move forward in the&nbsp;second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), but also take revenge on the Kiwis, who defeated them in the final of the inaugural WTC early this year.

Ahead of the first Test, Ajinkya Rahane-led India have problems of plenty as there are many takers for the opening slots. While KL Rahul is confirmed to open, following his sensational run in the England Tests, he will be accompanied by Shubman Gill or Mayank Agarwal. For the unversed, Mayank did bat in the middle-order in the final Test of the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Gill is also being touted to take the middle-order responsibilities given Rohit Sharma is certain to open with Rahul on his return.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-bans-pork-beef-in-any-form-halal-meat-made-complusory-for-indian-cricket-team-report-431377">BCCI bans pork, beef in any form; Halal meat made complusory for Indian cricket team - Report</a>

Before the series opener, vice-captain Cheteshwar Pujara revealed who among Mayank or Gill will definitely be a part of the team. Pujara told in a virtual press conference that Gill is certain to play. He told while addressing a question, "Can’t reveal that at this stage. But see, he is a talented player and definitely he will be part of the team. So someone like him, you know he doesn’t need to worry too much, he has been playing good cricket for a couple of years since he has made his debut. It was unfortunate that he missed out on England, but he is a talented player, and I don’t think personally I will need to tell him much."

"Rahul bhai is there, he will give the best guidance. So I think he will just have to play his natural game. I can’t reveal the position he will bat at, but he is well prepared and I am sure he is looking forward to this series,” Pujara, who is the vice-captain for the first Test, said in response to a Sportskeeda's query during a virtual presser.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rahul-dravid-applauds-fielding-coach-after-ishan-kishans-direct-hit-dismisses-nzs-mitchell-santner-431369">WATCH: Rahul Dravid applauds fielding coach after Ishan Kishan's direct hit dismisses NZ's Mitchell Santner</a>

Given that Mayank wasn't favoured despite Gill's absence during the England Tests, the latter seems to have an upper hand over the Karnataka-born cricketer for the opening slot. It will be interesting to see if Mayank bats lower down the order in the series opener.

India squad for the 1st Test vs New Zealand

Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna

The big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. are likely to return for the second and final Test in Mumbai, from December 3.

Team India demolished New Zealand in the three T20Is and have now shifted their focus on the two-match Test series, starting from November 25 in Kanpur. The series will give India a chance to not only move forward in the second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), but also take revenge on the Kiwis, who defeated them in the final of the inaugural WTC early this year.

Team India demolished New Zealand in the three T20Is and have now shifted their focus on the two-match Test series, starting from November 25 in Kanpur. The series will give India a chance to not only move forward in the second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), but also take revenge on the Kiwis, who defeated them in the final of the inaugural WTC early this year. Ahead of the first Test, Ajinkya Rahane-led India have problems of plenty as there are many takers for the opening slots. While KL Rahul is confirmed to open, following his sensational run in the England Tests, he will be accompanied by Shubman Gill or Mayank Agarwal. For the unversed, Mayank did bat in the middle-order in the final Test of the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Gill is also being touted to take the middle-order responsibilities given Rohit Sharma is certain to open with Rahul on his return. ALSO READ | BCCI bans pork, beef in any form; Halal meat made complusory for Indian cricket team - Report Before the series opener, vice-captain Cheteshwar Pujara revealed who among Mayank or Gill will definitely be a part of the team. Pujara told in a virtual press conference that Gill is certain to play. He told while addressing a question, "Can’t reveal that at this stage. But see, he is a talented player and definitely he will be part of the team. So someone like him, you know he doesn’t need to worry too much, he has been playing good cricket for a couple of years since he has made his debut. It was unfortunate that he missed out on England, but he is a talented player, and I don’t think personally I will need to tell him much." "Rahul bhai is there, he will give the best guidance. So I think he will just have to play his natural game. I can’t reveal the position he will bat at, but he is well prepared and I am sure he is looking forward to this series,” Pujara, who is the vice-captain for the first Test, said in response to a Sportskeeda's query during a virtual presser. ALSO READ | WATCH: Rahul Dravid applauds fielding coach after Ishan Kishan's direct hit dismisses NZ's Mitchell Santner Given that Mayank wasn't favoured despite Gill's absence during the England Tests, the latter seems to have an upper hand over the Karnataka-born cricketer for the opening slot. It will be interesting to see if Mayank bats lower down the order in the series opener. India squad for the 1st Test vs New Zealand Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara (vice-captain), Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), KS Bharat (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna The big guns such as regular captain Virat Kohli, Rohit, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. are likely to return for the second and final Test in Mumbai, from December 3.

Mayank or Gill? Cheteshwar Pujara reveals which Indian batter will be in playing XI for 1st Test vs NZ

Match 32 of the IPL 2021 edition saw two perennial underachievers of the tournament in Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) and KL Rahul's Punjab Kings (PBKS) lock horns with each other at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday evening (September 21).&nbsp;

While it was expected to be a modest-scoring encounter, the match was a high-scoring affair where Rahul &amp; Co. went down to Rajasthan Royals, by 2 runs, to start their second and final leg, in the UAE, in a disappointing note whereas this is a morale-boosting win for Samson &amp; Co.

Opting to bowl first in Dubai, Rahul &amp; Co.'s bowlers once again didn't start well as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Evin Lewis unleashed their attacking side from the word go. Lewis, who departed for a well-made 21-ball 36, fell with RR 54 for 1 in 5.3 overs. While Samson couldn't do much and fell for 4, Jaiswal continued to attack and kept the scoreboard ticking at a brisk pace.&nbsp;

While Jaiswal fell at the stroke of his maiden IPL fifty, Liam Livingstone and Mahipal Lomror's scintillating cameos, filled with some attractive shots, kept RR ahead. Mohammed Shami's 3-fer and excellent death bowling from youngster Arshdeep Singh, who returned with 5 for 32, however, kept RR below the 200-run mark.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-dc-skipper-rishabh-pant-shares-his-biggest-learning-from-india-legend-and-csk-captain-ms-dhoni-414729">IPL 2021: DC skipper Rishabh Pant shares his biggest learning from India legend and CSK captain MS Dhoni</a>

Chasing 186, PBKS were off to a flier with openers Rahul and Mayank Agarwal timing the run-chase with ease, finding the gaps and running hard between wickets. Another 100-run stand from Mayank-Rahul took Punjab to a perfect start. Personal milestones came in the way for the two openers as Mayank surpassed the 2000-run mark in IPL history whereas Rahul crossed the 3,000-run mark with his sublime form, reclaiming the Orange Cap.

After the two openers left, Aiden Markram and Nicholas Pooran kept Punjab on course for an easy win. The duo took the team to the last over, courtesy some brilliant fielding and death-over bowling from Rajasthan, but Karthik Tyagi kept his nerves to pull off a heist for his side, defending 4 runs and conceding only a single in the final over.

Tyagi finished with 2 for 29 whereas Mustafizur Rahman pulled things back with his economical spell, 0 for 30 (4). RR move to the fifth position whereas PBKS are in the seventh spot. Yet again, they have managed to throw away a game which was theirs to lose.

Match 32 of the IPL 2021 edition saw two perennial underachievers of the tournament in Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) and KL Rahul's Punjab Kings (PBKS) lock horns with each other at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday evening (September 21).

Match 32 of the IPL 2021 edition saw two perennial underachievers of the tournament in Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals (RR) and KL Rahul's Punjab Kings (PBKS) lock horns with each other at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai on Tuesday evening (September 21). While it was expected to be a modest-scoring encounter, the match was a high-scoring affair where Rahul & Co. went down to Rajasthan Royals, by 2 runs, to start their second and final leg, in the UAE, in a disappointing note whereas this is a morale-boosting win for Samson & Co. Opting to bowl first in Dubai, Rahul & Co.'s bowlers once again didn't start well as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Evin Lewis unleashed their attacking side from the word go. Lewis, who departed for a well-made 21-ball 36, fell with RR 54 for 1 in 5.3 overs. While Samson couldn't do much and fell for 4, Jaiswal continued to attack and kept the scoreboard ticking at a brisk pace. While Jaiswal fell at the stroke of his maiden IPL fifty, Liam Livingstone and Mahipal Lomror's scintillating cameos, filled with some attractive shots, kept RR ahead. Mohammed Shami's 3-fer and excellent death bowling from youngster Arshdeep Singh, who returned with 5 for 32, however, kept RR below the 200-run mark. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: DC skipper Rishabh Pant shares his biggest learning from India legend and CSK captain MS Dhoni Chasing 186, PBKS were off to a flier with openers Rahul and Mayank Agarwal timing the run-chase with ease, finding the gaps and running hard between wickets. Another 100-run stand from Mayank-Rahul took Punjab to a perfect start. Personal milestones came in the way for the two openers as Mayank surpassed the 2000-run mark in IPL history whereas Rahul crossed the 3,000-run mark with his sublime form, reclaiming the Orange Cap. After the two openers left, Aiden Markram and Nicholas Pooran kept Punjab on course for an easy win. The duo took the team to the last over, courtesy some brilliant fielding and death-over bowling from Rajasthan, but Karthik Tyagi kept his nerves to pull off a heist for his side, defending 4 runs and conceding only a single in the final over. Tyagi finished with 2 for 29 whereas Mustafizur Rahman pulled things back with his economical spell, 0 for 30 (4). RR move to the fifth position whereas PBKS are in the seventh spot. Yet again, they have managed to throw away a game which was theirs to lose.

IPL 2021: Karthik Tyagi's death-over heroics takes Sanju Samson-led RR to thrilling win over KL Rahul's PBKS

England and India will lock horns in a five-match Test series that is set to get in progress on August 4 at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The two sides are coming into this series subsequent to baffling losses against New Zealand in a home Test series and the World Test Championship Final, individually.

Both the teams will kick start the second edition of the ICC World Test Championship. The Indian cricket team, currently placed at second position in ICC Test rankings, will confront the fourth positioned England.

<h2>As the 3rd&nbsp;T20I is set to be played&nbsp;on July 28, here are all the details about the time, place,&nbsp;live streaming of India vs Sri Lanka, 3rd&nbsp;T20I.&nbsp;</h2>

<h2>When to watch&nbsp;England and India, 1st&nbsp;Test?</h2>

The 1st&nbsp;Test&nbsp;between England and India will begin at 15:30&nbsp;PM IST on August 4th and the toss will take place at 15:00&nbsp;PM IST.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-even-20-30-runs-matter-a-lot-ajinkya-rahane-hopeful-for-contributions-from-tail-enders-402510" hreflang="en">Cricket- 'Even 20-30 runs matter a lot': Ajinkya Rahane hopeful for contributions from tail-enders</a>

<h2>Where to watch England and India, 1st&nbsp;Test?</h2>

The match is set to take place at Trent Bridge ground in Nottingham

<h2>Where will England and India, 1st&nbsp;Test&nbsp;be live-streamed?&nbsp;</h2>

The 1st&nbsp;Test between England and India will be streamed live on SonyLiv.&nbsp;

<h2>Where will&nbsp;England and India, 1st&nbsp;Test&nbsp;be telecasted?</h2>

The 1st&nbsp;Test between England and India will be aired live on Sony Sports Network.

England and India will lock horns in a five-match Test series that is set to get in progress on August 4 at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The two sides are coming into this series subsequent to baffling losses against New Zealand in a home Test series and the World Test Championship Final, individually.

England and India will lock horns in a five-match Test series that is set to get in progress on August 4 at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The two sides are coming into this series subsequent to baffling losses against New Zealand in a home Test series and the World Test Championship Final, individually. Both the teams will kick start the second edition of the ICC World Test Championship. The Indian cricket team, currently placed at second position in ICC Test rankings, will confront the fourth positioned England. As the 3rd T20I is set to be played on July 28, here are all the details about the time, place, live streaming of India vs Sri Lanka, 3rd T20I. When to watch England and India, 1st Test? The 1st Test between England and India will begin at 15:30 PM IST on August 4th and the toss will take place at 15:00 PM IST. ALSO READ: Cricket- 'Even 20-30 runs matter a lot': Ajinkya Rahane hopeful for contributions from tail-enders Where to watch England and India, 1st Test? The match is set to take place at Trent Bridge ground in Nottingham Where will England and India, 1st Test be live-streamed? The 1st Test between England and India will be streamed live on SonyLiv. Where will England and India, 1st Test be telecasted? The 1st Test between England and India will be aired live on Sony Sports Network.

Cricket: 1st Test, Live streaming: When and where to watch India vs England? (not to be publshed)

Indian batsman Mayank Agarwal on Monday was hit on the helmet by a short ball from Mohammed Siraj during a training session ahead of the first Test against England on Wednesday.&nbsp;

While facing Siraj, Agarwal was evidently hit on the back of his head when he took his eyes off a short ball and took a blow on his helmet.&nbsp;

He was in some uneasiness after removing the helmet as he sat on the ground with physio Nitin Patel attending him.&nbsp;

It is expected that he would go through a compulsory concussion test prior to being cleared to play the Test match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australians-name-matthew-wade-skipper-for-bangladesh-t20-series-402396" hreflang="en">Cricket: Australians name Matthew Wade skipper for Bangladesh T20 series</a>

"Opening batsman Mayank Agarwal was hit on the helmet while batting during India’s nets session at Trent Bridge in Nottingham on Monday," a BCCI statement said.

"The BCCI Medical Team assessed him, and a concussion test was conducted. He has shown signs of concussion and is ruled out of the opening Test against England," the statement read.

"The 30-year-old is stable and will remain under close medical observation."

Now that Mayank Agarwal can't play, KL Rahul, who has generally opened in Test coordinates yet leans towards middle-order, could be approached to open the innings. The other alternative is Bengal opener Abhimanyu Easwaran.

Indian batsman Mayank Agarwal on Monday was hit on the helmet by a short ball from Mohammed Siraj during a training session ahead of the first Test against England on Wednesday.

Indian batsman Mayank Agarwal on Monday was hit on the helmet by a short ball from Mohammed Siraj during a training session ahead of the first Test against England on Wednesday. While facing Siraj, Agarwal was evidently hit on the back of his head when he took his eyes off a short ball and took a blow on his helmet. He was in some uneasiness after removing the helmet as he sat on the ground with physio Nitin Patel attending him. It is expected that he would go through a compulsory concussion test prior to being cleared to play the Test match. ALSO READ: Cricket: Australians name Matthew Wade skipper for Bangladesh T20 series "Opening batsman Mayank Agarwal was hit on the helmet while batting during India’s nets session at Trent Bridge in Nottingham on Monday," a BCCI statement said. "The BCCI Medical Team assessed him, and a concussion test was conducted. He has shown signs of concussion and is ruled out of the opening Test against England," the statement read. "The 30-year-old is stable and will remain under close medical observation." Now that Mayank Agarwal can't play, KL Rahul, who has generally opened in Test coordinates yet leans towards middle-order, could be approached to open the innings. The other alternative is Bengal opener Abhimanyu Easwaran.

Cricket: Mayank Agarwal ruled out of first Test against England

Indian opener Shubman Gill suffered a serious injury due to which the young gun has been ruled out of the five-match Test series against England. Gill's injury makes way for one of the benched players.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-england-vs-india-to-kick-off-the-second-wtc-cycle-with-tweaked-points-system-394966" hreflang="en">Cricket: England vs India to kick off the second WTC cycle, with tweaked points system</a>

According to several reports, Mayank Agarwal and Hanuma Vihari are among the top contenders to replace Gill for the series against England. As per Times of India, KL Rahul is more likely to enter the playing XI as a middle-order batsman.&nbsp;

“Rahul’s game against the new ball has not been up to the mark over the last year. He could be a very good option down the order. Vihari has shown he has the ability to play out the new ball,” a source told TOI.

Shubman Gill is reportedly very upset with the situation as the young batsman has been ruled out of what could have been a career-defining series.&nbsp;

“Shubman is very upset right now. The injury looks bad. BCCI is contacting the best professionals to get Shubman treated in England. While the team management wishes that he recovers in time for the series, it looks unrealistic. It needs to be seen if he needs a surgery,” the source said.

The five-match red-ball series will kick off on August 4. The last time Men in Blue played a Test series in English conditions, they suffered a 4-1 loss (in 2017).

The forthcoming five Tests against England will give Team India ostensibly the best chance to put any demons to rest in England. A determined series win would not just recuperate the wounds of the previous few years yet, in addition, clear any questions about the team's future possibilities.

Indian opener Shubman Gill suffered a serious injury due to which the young gun has been ruled out of the five-match Test series against England. Gill's injury makes way for one of the benched players.

Indian opener Shubman Gill suffered a serious injury due to which the young gun has been ruled out of the five-match Test series against England. Gill's injury makes way for one of the benched players. ALSO READ: Cricket: England vs India to kick off the second WTC cycle, with tweaked points system According to several reports, Mayank Agarwal and Hanuma Vihari are among the top contenders to replace Gill for the series against England. As per Times of India, KL Rahul is more likely to enter the playing XI as a middle-order batsman. “Rahul’s game against the new ball has not been up to the mark over the last year. He could be a very good option down the order. Vihari has shown he has the ability to play out the new ball,” a source told TOI. Shubman Gill is reportedly very upset with the situation as the young batsman has been ruled out of what could have been a career-defining series. “Shubman is very upset right now. The injury looks bad. BCCI is contacting the best professionals to get Shubman treated in England. While the team management wishes that he recovers in time for the series, it looks unrealistic. It needs to be seen if he needs a surgery,” the source said. The five-match red-ball series will kick off on August 4. The last time Men in Blue played a Test series in English conditions, they suffered a 4-1 loss (in 2017). The forthcoming five Tests against England will give Team India ostensibly the best chance to put any demons to rest in England. A determined series win would not just recuperate the wounds of the previous few years yet, in addition, clear any questions about the team's future possibilities.

Mayank Agarwal or Hanuma Vihari likely to replace injured Gill for England Tests: Reports

Team India has a respectable break ahead of the five-Test match series against England. Following their loss to New Zealand in the last of the World Test Championship, India have the opportunity to adjust and chip away at the spaces that let them down in Southampton against New Zealand.&nbsp;

Sunil Gavaskar has proposed an adjustment of the opening combination for the Test series against England. He believes that Mayank Agarwal ought to get approval instead of Shubman Gill to open the innings.&nbsp;

India's last three tours through England show that Team India is not very comfortable against the moving Dukes ball in the UK. They last won a Test series in England in 2007 under Rahul Dravid, however have since lost 0-4, 1-3, 1-4 in resulting visits in 2011, 2014, and 2018 separately. '

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-tim-paine-eats-humble-pie-after-predicting-indias-easy-win-in-wtc-final-394089" hreflang="en">Cricket: Tim Paine eats 'humble pie' after predicting India's easy win in WTC Final</a>

In a conversation with SportsTak, Sunil Gavaskar feels it can begin by reshuffling India's opening blend: "Mayank Agarwal has done a really good job for India, twice he's scored a double century opening the innings. It’s a good thing that the BCCI and Jay Shah have taken the initiative to conduct some warm-up matches before the England Tests so there you can decide who between Gill and Agarwal can open for India."

"Make them open the innings together because Rohit Sharma is a certainty and he can be rested for a game. That would give you an idea of who has the better technique for English conditions. And then based on that, they can make a decision whether they want to play Mayank Agarwal or Shubman Gill."

According to him, Shubman Gill's concern lies in his absence of footwork, and Sunil Gavaskar figures it is something that was featured in the WTC final in England however even at home when the batsman's runs evaporated.&nbsp;

"Gill's footwork isn't much. He only goes in front and that's not the case with him only in England. Even in the series in India, there too, he had just one movement which is forward. There's no effort to go on the back foot and that is why he plays across the line" - he said.

"Because once your feet go forward, with that balance, it's tough to get back on the backfoot if the length is slightly short, is tough. So he needs to work hard, there's no doubt about his talent. But if he works a bit hard, he will get the reward."

Mayank Agarwal has remained uninvolved subsequent to encountering two bad games in Australia and since Shubman Gill had a rich series down under. Mayank Agarwal averages a solid 45.74 in 14 Tests by scoring 1052 runs, scoring three centuries. With the BCCI a few warm-up games before the series, the management could offer Mayank Agarwal a few chances in those prior to choosing if he could turn into Shubman Gill's substitution at the top.

Team India has a respectable break ahead of the five-Test match series against England. Following their loss to New Zealand in the last of the World Test Championship, India have the opportunity to adjust and chip away at the spaces that let them down in Southampton against New Zealand.

Team India has a respectable break ahead of the five-Test match series against England. Following their loss to New Zealand in the last of the World Test Championship, India have the opportunity to adjust and chip away at the spaces that let them down in Southampton against New Zealand. Sunil Gavaskar has proposed an adjustment of the opening combination for the Test series against England. He believes that Mayank Agarwal ought to get approval instead of Shubman Gill to open the innings. India's last three tours through England show that Team India is not very comfortable against the moving Dukes ball in the UK. They last won a Test series in England in 2007 under Rahul Dravid, however have since lost 0-4, 1-3, 1-4 in resulting visits in 2011, 2014, and 2018 separately. ' ALSO READ: Cricket: Tim Paine eats 'humble pie' after predicting India's easy win in WTC Final In a conversation with SportsTak, Sunil Gavaskar feels it can begin by reshuffling India's opening blend: "Mayank Agarwal has done a really good job for India, twice he's scored a double century opening the innings. It’s a good thing that the BCCI and Jay Shah have taken the initiative to conduct some warm-up matches before the England Tests so there you can decide who between Gill and Agarwal can open for India." "Make them open the innings together because Rohit Sharma is a certainty and he can be rested for a game. That would give you an idea of who has the better technique for English conditions. And then based on that, they can make a decision whether they want to play Mayank Agarwal or Shubman Gill." According to him, Shubman Gill's concern lies in his absence of footwork, and Sunil Gavaskar figures it is something that was featured in the WTC final in England however even at home when the batsman's runs evaporated. "Gill's footwork isn't much. He only goes in front and that's not the case with him only in England. Even in the series in India, there too, he had just one movement which is forward. There's no effort to go on the back foot and that is why he plays across the line" - he said. "Because once your feet go forward, with that balance, it's tough to get back on the backfoot if the length is slightly short, is tough. So he needs to work hard, there's no doubt about his talent. But if he works a bit hard, he will get the reward." Mayank Agarwal has remained uninvolved subsequent to encountering two bad games in Australia and since Shubman Gill had a rich series down under. Mayank Agarwal averages a solid 45.74 in 14 Tests by scoring 1052 runs, scoring three centuries. With the BCCI a few warm-up games before the series, the management could offer Mayank Agarwal a few chances in those prior to choosing if he could turn into Shubman Gill's substitution at the top.

Cricket: Sunil Gavaskar suggests a potential change for India ahead of England Tests

Indian opener Shubman Gill has shared some stories about his on-field visits with accomplices Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal.&nbsp;

Shubman Gill reviewed how both senior openers gave him the advantage from not taking&nbsp;the strike on the first ball&nbsp;during his debut Test series against Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bangladesh-all-rounder-shakib-al-hasan-suspended-for-three-matches-over-umpire-outburst-391140" hreflang="en">Cricket: Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan suspended for three matches over umpire outburst</a>

He likewise recalled his bungle in the second Test against England, where he, when all is said and done, requested the strike and got out for a three-ball duck. Shubman Gill said he actually doesn't have a clarification for why he did it yet stated that he wouldn't rehash a similar mix-up at any point in the near future.&nbsp;

In a conversation with The Grade Cricketer, Shubman Gill said: "Never! I remember in my debut innings that Mayank was kind enough to say 'Okay, I know you are under pressure so I will take the strike' and he took the strike in both innings. And then in the next match, I was supposed to take the strike but Mayank didn't play, Rohit bhai played."

"Rohit himself said: 'I know you are a youngster, so I will take the strike.' From there on, he took the strike every game until that match against England. I don't know why I told him that I will take the strike and obviously, that didn't work for me, I got out on the 3rd or 4th ball on a duck. But yes, that won't happen again anytime soon."

When asked how well before the game he and Rohit Sharma would choose who takes the strike, Shubman Gill timidly answered that it could happen whenever, even minutes before a game.&nbsp;

"Honestly, it can happen anytime. Like once, I remember we were almost in the middle, we were tapping our bats and I asked Rohit 'Can you please take the strike?'. Because Mitchell Starc was going on his run-up and I was trying to search the non-striker's end,"

Shubman Gill additionally scored a 135-ball 85 in an intra-squad match as of late, hence solidifying his place considerably further for the World Test Championship that will commence on 18th June.

Indian opener Shubman Gill has shared some stories about his on-field visits with accomplices Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal. Shubman Gill reviewed how both senior openers gave him the advantage from not taking the strike on the first ball during his debut Test series against Australia.

Indian opener Shubman Gill has shared some stories about his on-field visits with accomplices Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal. Shubman Gill reviewed how both senior openers gave him the advantage from not taking the strike on the first ball during his debut Test series against Australia. ALSO READ: Cricket: Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan suspended for three matches over umpire outburst He likewise recalled his bungle in the second Test against England, where he, when all is said and done, requested the strike and got out for a three-ball duck. Shubman Gill said he actually doesn't have a clarification for why he did it yet stated that he wouldn't rehash a similar mix-up at any point in the near future. In a conversation with The Grade Cricketer, Shubman Gill said: "Never! I remember in my debut innings that Mayank was kind enough to say 'Okay, I know you are under pressure so I will take the strike' and he took the strike in both innings. And then in the next match, I was supposed to take the strike but Mayank didn't play, Rohit bhai played." "Rohit himself said: 'I know you are a youngster, so I will take the strike.' From there on, he took the strike every game until that match against England. I don't know why I told him that I will take the strike and obviously, that didn't work for me, I got out on the 3rd or 4th ball on a duck. But yes, that won't happen again anytime soon." When asked how well before the game he and Rohit Sharma would choose who takes the strike, Shubman Gill timidly answered that it could happen whenever, even minutes before a game. "Honestly, it can happen anytime. Like once, I remember we were almost in the middle, we were tapping our bats and I asked Rohit 'Can you please take the strike?'. Because Mitchell Starc was going on his run-up and I was trying to search the non-striker's end," Shubman Gill additionally scored a 135-ball 85 in an intra-squad match as of late, hence solidifying his place considerably further for the World Test Championship that will commence on 18th June.

Cricket: Shubman Gill shares stories about his on-field visits with Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal

Mayank Agarwal persevered through a difficult stretch with the bat in the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He scored only 78 runs into the three Tests and was dropped as an opener for the last two Tests. Mayank Agarwal's coach RX Murali uncovered the Indian batsman began 'doubting' himself subsequent to being disregarded.&nbsp;

In his last eight Test innings, Mayank Agarwal has scored just 88 runs. Shubman Gill has apparently gotten out ahead in the unit, particularly after his endeavors in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.&nbsp;

In an interview with InsideSport, Mayank Agarwal's coach spoke about how the opener started to question himself subsequent to being dropped from the Test group.

"It’s all about the mindset. You suddenly start creating doubts in your mind when it doesn’t match up. It takes you to a different spin altogether and you completely lose out on the mental process that you once created. It takes you to a mode when you start doubting everything. That’s what happened with Mayank," he said.

The eminent coach added that players are getting more restless about their spot in the group with genuine contests for places.&nbsp;

"There is a lot of anxiety in a sportsperson. In sports, there are more failures than successes. When you are anxious about failing and know that there is a lot of competition and if you don’t perform, you are out, that adds up more. One failure adds up to worry and that gets bigger and bigger and you completely lose out on the process. After the

Australia series, he worked on the mental aspect and did well in IPL,"&nbsp;he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-be-yourself-advice-suryakumar-yadav-gave-himself-ahead-of-international-debut-387234" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Be yourself': Advice Suryakumar Yadav gave himself ahead of international debut</a>

Mayank Agarwal has been named in India's 20-man squad for the impending visit through England. In any case, passing by what occurred in the India-England home Test series, the management is probably going to back Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as the openers, at any rate toward the beginning of the visit.&nbsp;

Agarwal showed what he is fit for as the batsman during his amazing run with the bat in the deferred IPL 2021 season.&nbsp;

RX Murali uncovered both of them dealt with the mental side of his game before the T20 competition.

“He already has the technique. All he needs is confidence. IPL performances definitely boosted his confidence massively. Before IPL, we worked on the mental aspects and it succeeded in the tournament. It gave him the template to work on as it is a continuous process," Murali added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-team-india-undergoing-quarantine-in-two-groups-ahead-of-england-tour-387235" hreflang="en">Cricket: Team India undergoing quarantine in two groups ahead of England tour</a>

Mayank Agarwal scored 260 runs at an average of 43.3, while his strike rate was 141.3 in seven games in IPL 2021. It stays not yet clear whether the opener will actually want to transform the impending six Tests against New Zealand and England. 
&nbsp;

Mayank Agarwal persevered through a difficult stretch with the bat in the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He scored only 78 runs into the three Tests and was dropped as an opener for the last two Tests.

Mayank Agarwal persevered through a difficult stretch with the bat in the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He scored only 78 runs into the three Tests and was dropped as an opener for the last two Tests. Mayank Agarwal's coach RX Murali uncovered the Indian batsman began 'doubting' himself subsequent to being disregarded. In his last eight Test innings, Mayank Agarwal has scored just 88 runs. Shubman Gill has apparently gotten out ahead in the unit, particularly after his endeavors in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. In an interview with InsideSport, Mayank Agarwal's coach spoke about how the opener started to question himself subsequent to being dropped from the Test group. "It’s all about the mindset. You suddenly start creating doubts in your mind when it doesn’t match up. It takes you to a different spin altogether and you completely lose out on the mental process that you once created. It takes you to a mode when you start doubting everything. That’s what happened with Mayank," he said. The eminent coach added that players are getting more restless about their spot in the group with genuine contests for places. "There is a lot of anxiety in a sportsperson. In sports, there are more failures than successes. When you are anxious about failing and know that there is a lot of competition and if you don’t perform, you are out, that adds up more. One failure adds up to worry and that gets bigger and bigger and you completely lose out on the process. After the Australia series, he worked on the mental aspect and did well in IPL," he added. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Be yourself': Advice Suryakumar Yadav gave himself ahead of international debut Mayank Agarwal has been named in India's 20-man squad for the impending visit through England. In any case, passing by what occurred in the India-England home Test series, the management is probably going to back Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as the openers, at any rate toward the beginning of the visit. Agarwal showed what he is fit for as the batsman during his amazing run with the bat in the deferred IPL 2021 season. RX Murali uncovered both of them dealt with the mental side of his game before the T20 competition. “He already has the technique. All he needs is confidence. IPL performances definitely boosted his confidence massively. Before IPL, we worked on the mental aspects and it succeeded in the tournament. It gave him the template to work on as it is a continuous process," Murali added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Team India undergoing quarantine in two groups ahead of England tour Mayank Agarwal scored 260 runs at an average of 43.3, while his strike rate was 141.3 in seven games in IPL 2021. It stays not yet clear whether the opener will actually want to transform the impending six Tests against New Zealand and England.

Cricket: Mayank Agarwal began 'doubting' himself after playing XI snub, says childhood coach

IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals humble Punjab Kings with well-constructed chase

Delhi Capitals on Sunday continued their dominating run of form in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as they defeated Punjab Kings by seven wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. DC, with the win, move atop the IPL 2021 standings as they impress yet again under the captaincy of Rishabh Pant.<o:p></o:p>

Batting first, Punjab Kings, without KL Rahul, lost opener Prabhsimran Singh for 12 early in the innings. Chris Gayle, who smashed a six and four, was sent packing by Kagiso Rabada for 13. Making his IPL debut, world number one T20I batsman Dawid Malan struggled during his stay on the pitch and was dismissed by Axar Patel after a watchful 26 off 26 balls. <o:p></o:p>

The middle-order and lower-middle order for PBKS failed with the likes of Deepak Hooda (1), Shahrukh Khan (4), Chris Jordan (2) falling cheaply as DC bowlers ran riot. However, Mayank continued to flourish and scored a breathtaking 99 not-out off 58 deliveries laced by eight boundaries and four sixes, to take Punjab Kings to a competitive total of 166/6 in 20 overs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-breathtaking-kevin-pietersen-lauds-mayank-agarwals-99-run-knock-on-ipl-captaincy-debut-382345" hreflang="en">Just breathtaking: Kevin Pietersen lauds Mayank Agarwal's 99-run knock on IPL captaincy debut</a><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Chasing 169, Delhi Capitals lost Prithvi Shaw after a brisk start with the right-handed batsman continuing his good run of form with a 22-ball 39. Steven Smith, at number 3, scored 24 off 22 before Riley Meredith sent him packing back to the hut. Rishabh Pant looked to finish the chase early and was dismissed looking for a big hit for an 11-ball 14. However, Shikhar Dhawan, now the highest run-scorer in IPL 2021, finished the chase for DC along with Shimron Hetmyer.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-rassie-van-der-dussen-unlikely-to-join-rajasthan-royals-382304" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Rassie van der Dussen unlikely to join Rajasthan Royals</a>

DC now have six wins in eight matches and are sitting atop the IPL 2021 points table whereas PBKS have three wins in eight games in the tournament.<o:p></o:p>

Delhi Capitals on Sunday continued their dominating run of form in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as they defeated Punjab Kings by seven wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Delhi Capitals on Sunday continued their dominating run of form in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as they defeated Punjab Kings by seven wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. DC, with the win, move atop the IPL 2021 standings as they impress yet again under the captaincy of Rishabh Pant. Batting first, Punjab Kings, without KL Rahul, lost opener Prabhsimran Singh for 12 early in the innings. Chris Gayle, who smashed a six and four, was sent packing by Kagiso Rabada for 13. Making his IPL debut, world number one T20I batsman Dawid Malan struggled during his stay on the pitch and was dismissed by Axar Patel after a watchful 26 off 26 balls. The middle-order and lower-middle order for PBKS failed with the likes of Deepak Hooda (1), Shahrukh Khan (4), Chris Jordan (2) falling cheaply as DC bowlers ran riot. However, Mayank continued to flourish and scored a breathtaking 99 not-out off 58 deliveries laced by eight boundaries and four sixes, to take Punjab Kings to a competitive total of 166/6 in 20 overs. ALSO READ: Just breathtaking: Kevin Pietersen lauds Mayank Agarwal's 99-run knock on IPL captaincy debut Chasing 169, Delhi Capitals lost Prithvi Shaw after a brisk start with the right-handed batsman continuing his good run of form with a 22-ball 39. Steven Smith, at number 3, scored 24 off 22 before Riley Meredith sent him packing back to the hut. Rishabh Pant looked to finish the chase early and was dismissed looking for a big hit for an 11-ball 14. However, Shikhar Dhawan, now the highest run-scorer in IPL 2021, finished the chase for DC along with Shimron Hetmyer. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Rassie van der Dussen unlikely to join Rajasthan Royals DC now have six wins in eight matches and are sitting atop the IPL 2021 points table whereas PBKS have three wins in eight games in the tournament.

IPL 2021: Shikhar Dhawan dominates again as Delhi Capitals defeat Punjab Kings

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

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

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

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

In what comes as a huge blow to the injury-plagued Indian cricket team, ace speedster&nbsp;Jasprit&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;is doubtful for the fourth Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 15, due to an&nbsp;abdominal&nbsp;strain.&nbsp;

Even Mayank Agarwal, tipped to be Hanuma Vihari’s replacement in the playing XI for the Brisbane Test,&nbsp;was hit on the hands and there are chances that it could result in a hairline fracture. If confirmed, then Mayank will be ruled out of the Brisbane Test.&nbsp;

Ravichandran Ashwin, who battled back spasm, has aggravated the strain after battling for three hours on Day 5 to save the Sydney Test.&nbsp;

Bumrah&nbsp;sustained the abdominal strain during the third Test in Sydney but continued to bowl to keep India in the game. Reportedly,&nbsp;Bumrah’s&nbsp;scan reports have shown a strain and Indian team management doesn’t want him to aggravate the injury with home series against England&nbsp;lined up.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-test-bruised-and-broken-but-sydney-was-conquered-356068" hreflang="en">Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered'</a>

The Indian team is relieved to know that&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;hasn’t suffered a tear but are in fear that the Indian pacer&nbsp;might break down in the middle of Brisbane Test if he is given the nod to play.&nbsp;

If&nbsp;Bumrah&nbsp;doesn’t start, then two-Test old Mohammed Siraj will lead the Indian bowling attack which is likely to feature Navdeep Saini, Shardul Thakur and T Natarajan in Brisbane Test.&nbsp;

With injured KL Rahul out and Hanuma Vihari suffering a grade 2 hamstring tear, there are no middle-order batsmen left in the reserves.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-captain-tim-paine-apologises-for-sledging-against-ashwin-in-sydney-test-356168" hreflang="en">Australian captain Tim Paine apologises for sledging against Ashwin in Sydney Test</a>

The two available batsmen are Prithvi Shaw and Mayank Agarwal. If Agarwal’s scans reveal that it is a bruise and not a fracture then&nbsp;it could well be Prithvi Shaw batting at number three followed by&nbsp;Cheteshwar&nbsp;Pujara,&nbsp;Ajhinkya&nbsp;Rahane and Agarwal himself at number six.&nbsp;

With series locked at 1-1, India and&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;will take the field at the Gabba in Brisbane for the decider on January 15.&nbsp;

In what comes as a huge blow to the injury-plagued Indian cricket team, ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah is doubtful for the fourth Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 15, due to an abdominal strain.

In what comes as a huge blow to the injury-plagued Indian cricket team, ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah is doubtful for the fourth Test against Australia, scheduled to start from January 15, due to an abdominal strain. Even Mayank Agarwal, tipped to be Hanuma Vihari’s replacement in the playing XI for the Brisbane Test, was hit on the hands and there are chances that it could result in a hairline fracture. If confirmed, then Mayank will be ruled out of the Brisbane Test. Ravichandran Ashwin, who battled back spasm, has aggravated the strain after battling for three hours on Day 5 to save the Sydney Test. Bumrah sustained the abdominal strain during the third Test in Sydney but continued to bowl to keep India in the game. Reportedly, Bumrah’s scan reports have shown a strain and Indian team management doesn’t want him to aggravate the injury with home series against England lined up. ALSO READ: Bruised and broken but Sydney was 'conquered' The Indian team is relieved to know that Bumrah hasn’t suffered a tear but are in fear that the Indian pacer might break down in the middle of Brisbane Test if he is given the nod to play. If Bumrah doesn’t start, then two-Test old Mohammed Siraj will lead the Indian bowling attack which is likely to feature Navdeep Saini, Shardul Thakur and T Natarajan in Brisbane Test. With injured KL Rahul out and Hanuma Vihari suffering a grade 2 hamstring tear, there are no middle-order batsmen left in the reserves. ALSO READ: Australian captain Tim Paine apologises for sledging against Ashwin in Sydney Test The two available batsmen are Prithvi Shaw and Mayank Agarwal. If Agarwal’s scans reveal that it is a bruise and not a fracture then it could well be Prithvi Shaw batting at number three followed by Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajhinkya Rahane and Agarwal himself at number six. With series locked at 1-1, India and Australia will take the field at the Gabba in Brisbane for the decider on January 15.

Jasprit Bumrah doubtful for Brisbane Test as injury worries grow for Team India

Team India on Friday announced their playing XI for the second Test against Australia that is scheduled to be played from December 26. The hosts have decided to make four changes including debutants Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stat-alert-team-indias-88-year-old-history-on-line-in-boxing-day-test-vs-australia-352268" hreflang="en">Stat alert! Team India's 88-year-old history on line in Boxing Day Test vs Australia</a>

The netizens can't keep calm after this news and have given mixed reactions. While some are happy with Gill and Siraj been given a chance to showcase their talent under these pressure conditions. Many were disappointed that KL Rahul was not included in the playing XI and why five bowlers were being played.&nbsp;

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Pant.. 😍<a href="https://t.co/sJWYGj1U9d">https://t.co/sJWYGj1U9d</a>
— Cricket Fanatic🏏 (@cric8fanatic) <a href="https://twitter.com/cric8fanatic/status/1342351153586061312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Vihari kyonnn?? Rahul ko laao
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looking fwd to Siraj making debut
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Finally pant is back and gill thanks rahne
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Under Rahane's leadership, Jadeja, Pant, Gill and Siraj have been added to the squad. They will be replacing Virat Kohli, Mohammad Shami (ruled out due to fractured wrist), Wriddhiman Saha, and Prithvi Shaw.&nbsp;

“Each and every individual in this team is really capable of doing well, so it’s really a challenge for the captain and management to select the 11,” Rahane told a video conference on Friday.

“We had just one bad hour (in Adelaide). It’s about staying positive, backing your own ability and batting in partnerships.”

Earlier on Friday, Rahane’s Australia counterpart Paine said even without Kohli and others, the wounded tourists were more than capable of reversing their fortunes.

“The moment we take our foot off the pedal, and think we’re going all right (performances can slip),” Paine told reporters. “A huge focus of ours ... has been winning after winning.

“We’ve been fantastic in how we’ve prepared for this game.”&nbsp;

Team India on Friday announced their playing XI for the second Test against Australia that is scheduled to be played from December 26. The hosts have decided to make four changes including debutants Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj.

Team India on Friday announced their playing XI for the second Test against Australia that is scheduled to be played from December 26. The hosts have decided to make four changes including debutants Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj. ALSO READ: Stat alert! Team India's 88-year-old history on line in Boxing Day Test vs Australia The netizens can't keep calm after this news and have given mixed reactions. While some are happy with Gill and Siraj been given a chance to showcase their talent under these pressure conditions. Many were disappointed that KL Rahul was not included in the playing XI and why five bowlers were being played. Pant.. 😍https://t.co/sJWYGj1U9d — Cricket Fanatic🏏 (@cric8fanatic) December 25, 2020 × Vihari kyonnn?? Rahul ko laao — M (@thebrowwnboyy) December 25, 2020 × looking fwd to Siraj making debut — Admin (@MardanMatch) December 25, 2020 × Finally pant is back and gill thanks rahne — Raj Mrityunjay (@Rajromantic1) December 25, 2020 × Under Rahane's leadership, Jadeja, Pant, Gill and Siraj have been added to the squad. They will be replacing Virat Kohli, Mohammad Shami (ruled out due to fractured wrist), Wriddhiman Saha, and Prithvi Shaw. “Each and every individual in this team is really capable of doing well, so it’s really a challenge for the captain and management to select the 11,” Rahane told a video conference on Friday. “We had just one bad hour (in Adelaide). It’s about staying positive, backing your own ability and batting in partnerships.” Earlier on Friday, Rahane’s Australia counterpart Paine said even without Kohli and others, the wounded tourists were more than capable of reversing their fortunes. “The moment we take our foot off the pedal, and think we’re going all right (performances can slip),” Paine told reporters. “A huge focus of ours ... has been winning after winning. “We’ve been fantastic in how we’ve prepared for this game.”

Netizens give mixed reaction after Team India announce their playing XI

Mayank Agarwal and Hanuma Vihari further consolidated India`s position on the second day of the ongoing day-night practice game against Australia A on Saturday here at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

At the dinner break, Ajinkya Rahane-led India`s score read 222/3, leading the hosts by 308 runs. Vihari and Rahane are batting on 57 and 26 respectively. Resuming the second session on 111/2, Mayank and Hanuma Vihari added 50 more runs to the total, and this saw opening batsman Mayank going past his half-century mark. However, in trying to hit the ball up on the rise, Mayank (61) ended up giving his wicket away to Jack Wildermuth, reducing India to 161/3.

Skipper Rahane then joined Vihari in the middle and the duo mixed caution with aggression to take India to a position of strength. The duo ensured that the side did not lose more wickets before the break on the second day. Earlier, Shubman Gill`s half-century in the first session had put the visitors in a comfortable position. Openers Prithvi Shaw and Mayank Agarwal opened for the visiting team in the second innings and Shaw (3) failed to make a mark again and was sent back to the pavilion in the same fashion as in the first innings.

Gill then joined Mayank in the middle. The duo played cautiously and stitched a 104-run stand for the second wicket. Meanwhile, Gill smashed a half-century in 49 balls with the help of nine boundaries. Mitchell Swepson finally sent Gill back to the pavilion after playing a knock of 65 runs.The show in the second innings was a much-improved one after India was bundled out for 194 in their first innings. The Indian bowlers then came out all guns blazing to bundle out Australia A for 108 to take an important 86-run lead at stumps on an opening day.

Mohammad Shami and Navdeep Saini picked three wickets each, while Jasprit Bumrah backed up his maiden fifty with two wickets. Mohammed Siraj also picked a wicket as he kept bowling a testing line.

Brief Scores: India 194 and 222/3 (Gill 65, Mayank, 61, Vihari 57*); Australia A 108&nbsp;

Mayank Agarwal and Hanuma Vihari further consolidated India`s position on the second day of the ongoing day-night practice game against Australia A on Saturday here at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Mayank Agarwal and Hanuma Vihari further consolidated India`s position on the second day of the ongoing day-night practice game against Australia A on Saturday here at the Sydney Cricket Ground. At the dinner break, Ajinkya Rahane-led India`s score read 222/3, leading the hosts by 308 runs. Vihari and Rahane are batting on 57 and 26 respectively. Resuming the second session on 111/2, Mayank and Hanuma Vihari added 50 more runs to the total, and this saw opening batsman Mayank going past his half-century mark. However, in trying to hit the ball up on the rise, Mayank (61) ended up giving his wicket away to Jack Wildermuth, reducing India to 161/3. Skipper Rahane then joined Vihari in the middle and the duo mixed caution with aggression to take India to a position of strength. The duo ensured that the side did not lose more wickets before the break on the second day. Earlier, Shubman Gill`s half-century in the first session had put the visitors in a comfortable position. Openers Prithvi Shaw and Mayank Agarwal opened for the visiting team in the second innings and Shaw (3) failed to make a mark again and was sent back to the pavilion in the same fashion as in the first innings. Gill then joined Mayank in the middle. The duo played cautiously and stitched a 104-run stand for the second wicket. Meanwhile, Gill smashed a half-century in 49 balls with the help of nine boundaries. Mitchell Swepson finally sent Gill back to the pavilion after playing a knock of 65 runs.The show in the second innings was a much-improved one after India was bundled out for 194 in their first innings. The Indian bowlers then came out all guns blazing to bundle out Australia A for 108 to take an important 86-run lead at stumps on an opening day. Mohammad Shami and Navdeep Saini picked three wickets each, while Jasprit Bumrah backed up his maiden fifty with two wickets. Mohammed Siraj also picked a wicket as he kept bowling a testing line. Brief Scores: India 194 and 222/3 (Gill 65, Mayank, 61, Vihari 57*); Australia A 108

Shubman Gill, Mayank and Vihari put India on top against Australia A

Rohit Sharma's absence has put the Indian team's opening slot in jeopardy. However, Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar feels that Mayank Agarwal should start on Rohit's batting position.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-returned-to-india-from-uae-as-father-contracted-covid-19-report-345271" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma returned to India from UAE as father contracted Covid-19: Report</a>

"Mayank, I know, is a confirmed starter because he has scored big runs and if Rohit is fit and available, then he should be there. Between other guys (Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul), that will be the management’s decision as they would be knowing who’s the form man," said Tendulkar in an interview with the PTI.

Mayank had a splendid IPL season with KXIP, his prolific batting earned him an India call up for a Tour of Australia.&nbsp;

According to Tendulkar, Aussie batting line-up have an edge against India. "Smith, (David) Warner and (Marnus) Labuschagne will be a factor and I am confident that the Indian team will leave no stone unturned as far as preparations are concerned. These two seniors back in the team and also with Labuschangne in there, it makes it a much better batting unit. It will be a bit more competitive series and I am sure India is ready for it," said Tendulkar.

Tendulkar believes that Kohli's absence will leave a huge void in India batting lineup.&nbsp;

"Virat not being there without a doubt is a big void but also, on the other hand, the kind of bench strength that we have and the talent that is available, it is a good opportunity for somebody to establish himself," Tendulkar said.

Rohit Sharma's absence has put the Indian team's opening slot in jeopardy. However, Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar feels that Mayank Agarwal should start on Rohit's batting position.

Rohit Sharma's absence has put the Indian team's opening slot in jeopardy. However, Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar feels that Mayank Agarwal should start on Rohit's batting position. Also read: Rohit Sharma returned to India from UAE as father contracted Covid-19: Report "Mayank, I know, is a confirmed starter because he has scored big runs and if Rohit is fit and available, then he should be there. Between other guys (Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul), that will be the management’s decision as they would be knowing who’s the form man," said Tendulkar in an interview with the PTI. Mayank had a splendid IPL season with KXIP, his prolific batting earned him an India call up for a Tour of Australia. According to Tendulkar, Aussie batting line-up have an edge against India. "Smith, (David) Warner and (Marnus) Labuschagne will be a factor and I am confident that the Indian team will leave no stone unturned as far as preparations are concerned. These two seniors back in the team and also with Labuschangne in there, it makes it a much better batting unit. It will be a bit more competitive series and I am sure India is ready for it," said Tendulkar. Tendulkar believes that Kohli's absence will leave a huge void in India batting lineup. "Virat not being there without a doubt is a big void but also, on the other hand, the kind of bench strength that we have and the talent that is available, it is a good opportunity for somebody to establish himself," Tendulkar said.

'He has scored big runs': Sachin Tendulkar picks this India’s opener for Australia Tests

Rajasthan Royals beat Kings XI Punjab in a high scoring thriller at Sharjah on Sunday. The Royals have broken their previous record of the highest successful run chase after clinching this match in the final overs.&nbsp;

Rajasthan won the toss and chose to field first. But the decision did not go as planned in the beginning after KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal put up 183 runs of opening partnership for KXIP. Agarwal scored a century. Pooran's final over hitting helped KXIP pose a mammoth total of 223.&nbsp;

Rajasthan was off to a shaky start as they lost Buttler on single digit. However, a quick partnership between skipper Smith and Samson helped Rajasthan stay in the game. But Kings XI were relieved after Smith's dismissal. Tewatia came into the strike and was struggling to score runs. Samson's wicket out on some extra pressure on RR. But Tewatia smashed five sixes of Cottrell's over to close into a massive victory. He went on to smash two more sixes in Shami's over. Tewatia was 8 off 19 balls at one stage but he went on to score 50 in just 30 balls.&nbsp;

Samson was adjudged the man of the match for his innings.&nbsp;

Rajasthan are second on the table after the win, whereas, KXIP have slipped to third.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Royals beat Kings XI Punjab in a high scoring thriller at Sharjah on Sunday. The Royals have broken their previous record of the highest successful run chase after clinching this match in the final overs.

Rajasthan Royals beat Kings XI Punjab in a high scoring thriller at Sharjah on Sunday. The Royals have broken their previous record of the highest successful run chase after clinching this match in the final overs. Rajasthan won the toss and chose to field first. But the decision did not go as planned in the beginning after KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal put up 183 runs of opening partnership for KXIP. Agarwal scored a century. Pooran's final over hitting helped KXIP pose a mammoth total of 223. Rajasthan was off to a shaky start as they lost Buttler on single digit. However, a quick partnership between skipper Smith and Samson helped Rajasthan stay in the game. But Kings XI were relieved after Smith's dismissal. Tewatia came into the strike and was struggling to score runs. Samson's wicket out on some extra pressure on RR. But Tewatia smashed five sixes of Cottrell's over to close into a massive victory. He went on to smash two more sixes in Shami's over. Tewatia was 8 off 19 balls at one stage but he went on to score 50 in just 30 balls. Samson was adjudged the man of the match for his innings. Rajasthan are second on the table after the win, whereas, KXIP have slipped to third.

IPL 2020: RR beat KXIP to highest successful run chase in IPL history

IPL 2020: High scoring thriller between Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals in pictures

Delhi Capitals on Sunday defeated the Kings XI Punjab in a super over the finale. Marcus Stoinis played a vital role with bat and bowl to assure that Delhi Capitals begin their campaign with a victory.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dc-vs-kxip-highlights-dc-beat-kxip-in-super-over-328914">IPL 2020, DC vs KXIP Highlights: DC beat KXIP in Super Over</a>

Young captains KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer came out for the toss, and KXIP won it and chose to bowl first.&nbsp;

Kings XI were off to a great start. They removed DC openers (Dhawan and Shaw) in the second over itself. However, Skipper Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant tried having a partnership to stabilise innings for Delhi Capitals. The only batsman to perform well for Delhi Capitals was Marcus Stoinis. He smashed 53 runs off 21 balls. And his performance in the final over helo DC pose a decent target. By the end of the innings, Delhi Capitals were 157/8.&nbsp;

In the second innings, KXIP returned the favour to Delhi Capitals by giving away vital wickets. However, Mayank Agarwal stayed on the pitch and almost took the match home. He posed his highest individual score in IPL and scored 89 runs. The match had to be taken into the super over after Agarwal and Jordan both were removed by Marcus Stoinis, who again saved the Delhi Capitals but this time with the ball.&nbsp;

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2020-action-in-pictures-as-grand-festival-of-cricket-starts-in-uae-328877" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Action in pictures as 'grand festival' of cricket starts in UAE</a>

KXIP skipper KL Rahul and Nicholas Pooran came out to bat for the super over and Kagiso Rabada was ready to bowl. KXIP just managed to play the first three balls and scored just two runs off it. It is the lowest a team made in the Super Over in IPL. Previous lowest being six each by Mitchell Johnson (vs RR in 2015) and Jasprit Bumrah (vs GL in 2017).

Marcus Stoinis was adjudged the man of the match for his stunning performance with both bat and bowl.&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals on Sunday defeated the Kings XI Punjab in a super over the finale. Marcus Stoinis played a vital role with bat and bowl to assure that Delhi Capitals begin their campaign with a victory.

Delhi Capitals on Sunday defeated the Kings XI Punjab in a super over the finale. Marcus Stoinis played a vital role with bat and bowl to assure that Delhi Capitals begin their campaign with a victory. Also read: IPL 2020, DC vs KXIP Highlights: DC beat KXIP in Super Over Young captains KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer came out for the toss, and KXIP won it and chose to bowl first. Kings XI were off to a great start. They removed DC openers (Dhawan and Shaw) in the second over itself. However, Skipper Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant tried having a partnership to stabilise innings for Delhi Capitals. The only batsman to perform well for Delhi Capitals was Marcus Stoinis. He smashed 53 runs off 21 balls. And his performance in the final over helo DC pose a decent target. By the end of the innings, Delhi Capitals were 157/8. In the second innings, KXIP returned the favour to Delhi Capitals by giving away vital wickets. However, Mayank Agarwal stayed on the pitch and almost took the match home. He posed his highest individual score in IPL and scored 89 runs. The match had to be taken into the super over after Agarwal and Jordan both were removed by Marcus Stoinis, who again saved the Delhi Capitals but this time with the ball. IN PICS| IPL 2020: Action in pictures as 'grand festival' of cricket starts in UAE KXIP skipper KL Rahul and Nicholas Pooran came out to bat for the super over and Kagiso Rabada was ready to bowl. KXIP just managed to play the first three balls and scored just two runs off it. It is the lowest a team made in the Super Over in IPL. Previous lowest being six each by Mitchell Johnson (vs RR in 2015) and Jasprit Bumrah (vs GL in 2017). Marcus Stoinis was adjudged the man of the match for his stunning performance with both bat and bowl.

IPL 2020: Rabada and Stoinis shine as Delhi Capitals beat Kings XI Punjab in super over

Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui. He scored 60 runs off 41 balls, he retired hurt after he pulled his calf muscle while running a quick single.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-breaks-world-record-bowls-most-maiden-overs-in-t20is-278334" hreflang="en">Jasprit Bumrah breaks world record, bowls most maiden overs in T20Is</a>

As of now, Mayank Agarwal has come as a replacement for the Indian vice-captain in the ODI series against the Blackcaps. Prithvi Shaw and KL Rahul are most likely to open the innings for India in the following matches.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-goes-past-virat-kohli-in-terms-of-most-50-score-in-t20is-278244" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli</a>

Agarwal was the first pick as he had replaced Shikhar Dhawan (knee injury) in ODIs against West Indies. &nbsp;

Shubman Gill is set to replace Rohit Sharma in Tests as a third opener, Shaw and Rahul again are predicted to open the game for India.&nbsp;

In the last two-Test series at home (South Africa and Bangladesh), Shubman was a backup for Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal.&nbsp;

The whole Test squad is yet to be announced.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma had recently overtaken the Indian skipper in terms of most 50+ scores in T20Is.&nbsp;

India extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession.

With the clean sweep against the Black Caps, India have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin.

Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui.

Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui. He scored 60 runs off 41 balls, he retired hurt after he pulled his calf muscle while running a quick single. Also read: Jasprit Bumrah breaks world record, bowls most maiden overs in T20Is As of now, Mayank Agarwal has come as a replacement for the Indian vice-captain in the ODI series against the Blackcaps. Prithvi Shaw and KL Rahul are most likely to open the innings for India in the following matches. Also read: Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli Agarwal was the first pick as he had replaced Shikhar Dhawan (knee injury) in ODIs against West Indies. Shubman Gill is set to replace Rohit Sharma in Tests as a third opener, Shaw and Rahul again are predicted to open the game for India. In the last two-Test series at home (South Africa and Bangladesh), Shubman was a backup for Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal. The whole Test squad is yet to be announced. Rohit Sharma had recently overtaken the Indian skipper in terms of most 50+ scores in T20Is. India extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession. With the clean sweep against the Black Caps, India have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin.

Rohit Sharma ruled out of New Zealand tour due to injury; Gill and Agarwal to replace

India's Test opener Mayank Agarwal is likely to make his debut in One-Day international after being named a replacement for Shikhar Dhawan for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies.

Shikhar Dhawan was ruled out after he suffered &nbsp;"deep cut" to his left knee.

"The BCCI medical team feels that while Dhawan's stitches are off and his wound is healing gradually, he still needs some more time before he regains full match fitness," India's cricket body said.

Dhawan's stitches have come off but the BCCI medical team has ruled that more time is needed for the wound to completely heal.

Agarwal had incidentally replaced Dhawan in India's world cup squad earlier this year but did not get to play a game, with KL Rahul fielded as the first-choice backup.

Agarwal has had a fantastic initiation into international cricket with 872 runs in 9 Tests since making his debut in Australia last year.

India's&nbsp;all-rounder Hardik Pandya meanwhile is targeting a return to international cricket during the tour of New Zealand in February.

Pandya underwent back surgery in September to fix a long-standing problem with the medical team deciding on the timeline to ensure he was in peak condition for the T-20 World Cup next year in Australia.

India's Test opener Mayank Agarwal is likely to make his debut in One-Day international after being named a replacement for Shikhar Dhawan for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies.

India's Test opener Mayank Agarwal is likely to make his debut in One-Day international after being named a replacement for Shikhar Dhawan for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies. Shikhar Dhawan was ruled out after he suffered "deep cut" to his left knee. "The BCCI medical team feels that while Dhawan's stitches are off and his wound is healing gradually, he still needs some more time before he regains full match fitness," India's cricket body said. Dhawan's stitches have come off but the BCCI medical team has ruled that more time is needed for the wound to completely heal. Agarwal had incidentally replaced Dhawan in India's world cup squad earlier this year but did not get to play a game, with KL Rahul fielded as the first-choice backup. Agarwal has had a fantastic initiation into international cricket with 872 runs in 9 Tests since making his debut in Australia last year. India's all-rounder Hardik Pandya meanwhile is targeting a return to international cricket during the tour of New Zealand in February. Pandya underwent back surgery in September to fix a long-standing problem with the medical team deciding on the timeline to ensure he was in peak condition for the T-20 World Cup next year in Australia.

Mayank Agarwal set to make ODI debut as Hardik Pandya eyes comeback against New Zealand

India batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-virat-kohli-closes-in-as-steve-smith-maintains-top-spot-mayank-agarwal-enters-top-10-264654">Mayank Agarwal </a>on Wednesday replaced injured <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-four-year-gap-sanju-samson-finally-makes-it-to-the-playing-xi-chance-to-play-for-the-upcoming-t20-series-against-west-indies-replaces-injured-dhawan-264869">Shikhar Dhawan</a> in the ODI squad which will compete against West Indies. 
Dhawan suffered a deep cut on his left knee during a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy game against Maharashtra in Surat. The batsman was also replaced in the T20I squad by Sanju Samson.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-to-play-at-least-one-pink-ball-match-in-every-series-indian-cricket-board-chief-sourav-ganguly-265921">BCCI</a>) said Dhawan needs some time before he regains full fitness.

"The BCCI Medical Team feels that while Dhawan's stitches are off and his wound is healing gradually, he still needs some more time before he regains full match fitness," BCCI said in a statement.

India is currently playing a three-match T20I series against West Indies which will be followed by a three-match ODI series.

India's squad for<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/muttiah-muralitharan-appointed-governor-of-sri-lankas-northern-province-264925"> ODI </a>series: Virat Kohli (C), Rohit Sharma (VC), Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (WK), Shivam Dube, Kedar Jadhav, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Deepak Chahar, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

India won the first T20I while faced a defeat in the second match against West Indies. The series-decider will be played today at the Wankhede Stadium.

India batsman Mayank Agarwal on Wednesday replaced injured Shikhar Dhawan in the ODI squad which will compete against West Indies. Dhawan suffered a deep cut on his left knee during a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy game against Maharashtra in Surat.

India batsman Mayank Agarwal on Wednesday replaced injured Shikhar Dhawan in the ODI squad which will compete against West Indies. Dhawan suffered a deep cut on his left knee during a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy game against Maharashtra in Surat. The batsman was also replaced in the T20I squad by Sanju Samson. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said Dhawan needs some time before he regains full fitness. "The BCCI Medical Team feels that while Dhawan's stitches are off and his wound is healing gradually, he still needs some more time before he regains full match fitness," BCCI said in a statement. India is currently playing a three-match T20I series against West Indies which will be followed by a three-match ODI series. India's squad for ODI series: Virat Kohli (C), Rohit Sharma (VC), Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (WK), Shivam Dube, Kedar Jadhav, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Deepak Chahar, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar. India won the first T20I while faced a defeat in the second match against West Indies. The series-decider will be played today at the Wankhede Stadium.

Mayank Agarwal replaces Shikhar Dhawan for ODI series against West Indies

After the conclusion of the recent historic Day-Night Test match between India and Bangladesh, India swept the home test series against the Bangladesh.&nbsp;

India became the first team to win a test match by an inning's margins for the fourth consecutive time after defeating Bangladesh by an inning and 46 runs.

The conclusion of such a dominating series, it has brought a major rise in the ICC rankings of the Indian Players.

A dominating display by both bat and bowl has paid off for the Indian Team. Virat Kohli (ICC Test Rank No.2) manages to bridge the gap between Steve Smith (ICC Test Rank No. 1), after scoring a century in the last Test against Bangladesh in Eden Gardens, Kolkata. The career points between these two have come down to 3 points (Before it was 25 points).

Mayank Agarwal after being the highest scorer (257) with an average of 128.50 in the Test series against Bangladesh has entered the Top Ten and is now ranked 10th.

Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav are on career-high points tallies after the series. Ravichandran Ashwin moves one rank is now ranked 9, whereas Jasprit Bumrah slips to Rank No&nbsp;5 (previously Rank No.4) after missing out on series against Bangladesh.

India tops the World Test Championship (WTC) Table with 360 points. A series win against New Zealand next year will book a spot in one of the top two spots on the table.

The top two teams at the end of the league will play the finals in the UK in 2021 and will be crowned World Test Champions.

After the conclusion of the recent historic Day-Night Test match between India and Bangladesh, India swept the home test series against the Bangladesh. India became the first team to win a test match by an inning's margins for the fourth consecutive time after defeating Bangladesh by an inning and 46 runs.

After the conclusion of the recent historic Day-Night Test match between India and Bangladesh, India swept the home test series against the Bangladesh. India became the first team to win a test match by an inning's margins for the fourth consecutive time after defeating Bangladesh by an inning and 46 runs. The conclusion of such a dominating series, it has brought a major rise in the ICC rankings of the Indian Players. A dominating display by both bat and bowl has paid off for the Indian Team. Virat Kohli (ICC Test Rank No.2) manages to bridge the gap between Steve Smith (ICC Test Rank No. 1), after scoring a century in the last Test against Bangladesh in Eden Gardens, Kolkata. The career points between these two have come down to 3 points (Before it was 25 points). Mayank Agarwal after being the highest scorer (257) with an average of 128.50 in the Test series against Bangladesh has entered the Top Ten and is now ranked 10th. Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav are on career-high points tallies after the series. Ravichandran Ashwin moves one rank is now ranked 9, whereas Jasprit Bumrah slips to Rank No 5 (previously Rank No.4) after missing out on series against Bangladesh. India tops the World Test Championship (WTC) Table with 360 points. A series win against New Zealand next year will book a spot in one of the top two spots on the table. The top two teams at the end of the league will play the finals in the UK in 2021 and will be crowned World Test Champions.

ICC Test rankings: Virat Kohli closes in as Steve Smith maintains top spot, Mayank Agarwal enters top 10

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