Ahead of their rescheduled one-off Test versus England, starting on July 01, Rohit Sharma-led Indian players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus&nbsp;Leicestershire,&nbsp;at the Grace Road County Ground in Leicester. As per the pre-game agreement, the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian side allowed four players, such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Prasidh Krishna, to be part of the opposition camp against India.&nbsp;

After winning the toss, Rohit-led India opted to bat first on Thursday (June 23). The Indian skipper, however, couldn't do much and returned for a 47-ball 25, falling to&nbsp;Roman Walker. This also became the first time that Bumrah and Rohit are playing against each other and the latter experienced what many batters go through, regularly, while facing the Indian speedster. Hitman, who completed 15 years in international cricket, copped a nasty blow on the box off Bumrah. It was a fierce delivery from the pacer as it hit Rohit in the groin region and he looked in discomfort. Soon, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and his opening partner Shubman Gill came to check on him before the physio arrived in the middle.&nbsp;

Here's a video of the nasty delivery from Bumrah to Rohit:

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pains-me-to-see-such-a-big-player-kapil-dev-opines-on-superstar-virat-kohlis-century-drought-491013">'Pains me to see such a big player.....': Kapil Dev opines on superstar Virat Kohli's century drought</a>

After Rohit and Gill's departure (21), India were reduced to 81-5 at the end of the first session of the day's play. Virat Kohli and KS Bharat provided some stability in the second session, with a 57-run sixth-wicket stand, but the Indian batters have struggled in the tough batting conditions.&nbsp;

After the four-day practice Test, India will take on England in the one-off match, in Edgbaston, with an aim to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil since 2007. At the time the five-match series between both sides came to a sudden halt last year, due to Covid crisis in the Indian camp, the then Kohli-led Indian side had already attained an unassailable 2-1 lead over the hosts.

Ahead of their rescheduled one-off Test versus England, starting on July 01, Rohit Sharma-led Indian players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire, at the Grace Road County Ground in Leicester.

Ahead of their rescheduled one-off Test versus England, starting on July 01, Rohit Sharma-led Indian players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire, at the Grace Road County Ground in Leicester. As per the pre-game agreement, the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian side allowed four players, such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Prasidh Krishna, to be part of the opposition camp against India. After winning the toss, Rohit-led India opted to bat first on Thursday (June 23). The Indian skipper, however, couldn't do much and returned for a 47-ball 25, falling to Roman Walker. This also became the first time that Bumrah and Rohit are playing against each other and the latter experienced what many batters go through, regularly, while facing the Indian speedster. Hitman, who completed 15 years in international cricket, copped a nasty blow on the box off Bumrah. It was a fierce delivery from the pacer as it hit Rohit in the groin region and he looked in discomfort. Soon, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and his opening partner Shubman Gill came to check on him before the physio arrived in the middle. Here's a video of the nasty delivery from Bumrah to Rohit: pic.twitter.com/AISzUeL2q5 — ParthJindalClub (@ClubJindal) June 23, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'Pains me to see such a big player.....': Kapil Dev opines on superstar Virat Kohli's century drought After Rohit and Gill's departure (21), India were reduced to 81-5 at the end of the first session of the day's play. Virat Kohli and KS Bharat provided some stability in the second session, with a 57-run sixth-wicket stand, but the Indian batters have struggled in the tough batting conditions. After the four-day practice Test, India will take on England in the one-off match, in Edgbaston, with an aim to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil since 2007. At the time the five-match series between both sides came to a sudden halt last year, due to Covid crisis in the Indian camp, the then Kohli-led Indian side had already attained an unassailable 2-1 lead over the hosts.

India vs Leicestershire: Rohit Sharma cops a nasty blow on the box off Jasprit Bumrah  - WATCH

Virat Kohli's form struggles isn't hidden anymore. The 33-year-old has struggled for big knocks since late 2019. In November 2019, Kohli reached his 70th international ton and the wait for his 71st century awaits to date. Since then, he has played some good knocks, especially in white-ball formats, however, he has remained far from his usual best.

In Tests, in 2021, Kohli averaged just over 25 and hasn't struck at a good rate in the last two IPL seasons as well. In fact, the right-hander returned with 341 runs at 115.99&nbsp;with only two fifty-plus scores. Thus, Virat's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma opined on his&nbsp;disciple's form struggles and feels that head coach Rahul Dravid will help in getting the iconic batter out of this rut.

"Virat is working a lot on his basics, putting the hard yards on his batting for a long time. It is a good thing that he is spending time with Rahul Dravid because he was one of the greatest batters of his time."

"The sort of technique he (Dravid) had, it was fantastic and he had a fantastic temperament as well. It is not that Virat Kohli is making a lot of mistakes in his basics but it is required at times that if you are making a small mistake and if you have a coach like Rahul there, he can guide you about how you can improve," Rajkumar told India News.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-happened-because-of-him-ex-pakistan-captain-blames-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohlis-poor-form-490666">'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form</a>

"Virat has been practicing like that only. He has done that (spending time with Dravid) today but he has been working for a long time to regain his batting style and get back into the habit of scoring centuries."

"The way Rahul used to bat in swinging conditions, he got the name 'Wall' because he used to bat very well in conditions other batters used to struggle. So it is a good thing that he is sharing his thoughts with Virat and Virat is learning from him. I have confidence that Virat will definitely gain from this," Rajkumar further opined.

Kohli is currently part of the Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test line-up in England, for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co. on July 01. Prior to that, he will&nbsp;be in action during the four-day warm-up Test against Leicestershire, which is underway at Grace Road, Leicester.

Virat Kohli's form struggles isn't hidden anymore. The 33-year-old has struggled for big knocks since late 2019. In November 2019, Kohli reached his 70th international ton and the wait for his 71st century awaits to date.

Virat Kohli's form struggles isn't hidden anymore. The 33-year-old has struggled for big knocks since late 2019. In November 2019, Kohli reached his 70th international ton and the wait for his 71st century awaits to date. Since then, he has played some good knocks, especially in white-ball formats, however, he has remained far from his usual best. In Tests, in 2021, Kohli averaged just over 25 and hasn't struck at a good rate in the last two IPL seasons as well. In fact, the right-hander returned with 341 runs at 115.99 with only two fifty-plus scores. Thus, Virat's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma opined on his disciple's form struggles and feels that head coach Rahul Dravid will help in getting the iconic batter out of this rut. "Virat is working a lot on his basics, putting the hard yards on his batting for a long time. It is a good thing that he is spending time with Rahul Dravid because he was one of the greatest batters of his time." "The sort of technique he (Dravid) had, it was fantastic and he had a fantastic temperament as well. It is not that Virat Kohli is making a lot of mistakes in his basics but it is required at times that if you are making a small mistake and if you have a coach like Rahul there, he can guide you about how you can improve," Rajkumar told India News. ALSO READ | 'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form "Virat has been practicing like that only. He has done that (spending time with Dravid) today but he has been working for a long time to regain his batting style and get back into the habit of scoring centuries." "The way Rahul used to bat in swinging conditions, he got the name 'Wall' because he used to bat very well in conditions other batters used to struggle. So it is a good thing that he is sharing his thoughts with Virat and Virat is learning from him. I have confidence that Virat will definitely gain from this," Rajkumar further opined. Kohli is currently part of the Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test line-up in England, for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co. on July 01. Prior to that, he will be in action during the four-day warm-up Test against Leicestershire, which is underway at Grace Road, Leicester.

Virat's childhood coach hails Dravid, confident of his disciple regaining form in India legend's presence

Team India's red-ball regulars have arrived in England for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co., set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. India's first batch of Test players had left for England on June 16 whereas the remaining members, along with head coach Rahul Dravid, reached the country a few days back, after the completion of India's home T20Is versus South Africa.

As India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus the hosts England, 'leader' Virat Kohli gave a passionate pep talk in the Team India huddle ahead of the visitors' three-day practice game versus&nbsp;Leicestershire, starting on June 23.

Kohli and head coach Dravid were seen having a chat with the rest of the squad. Here's a video of Kohli's talk:

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Game mode = 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> gives a 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 team talk ahead of a busy day of preparations before <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a>'s Tour Match 🆚 <a href="https://twitter.com/leicsccc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@leicsccc</a>. 
 
🎟️- <a href="https://t.co/uu0mGLEuym">https://t.co/uu0mGLEuym</a> 
 
🦊 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaTourMatch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaTourMatch</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LEIvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LEIvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/zDxP53Slxd">pic.twitter.com/zDxP53Slxd</a>
— Leicestershire Foxes 🏏 (@leicsccc) <a href="https://twitter.com/leicsccc/status/1539244572865400834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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It has been reported that the 33-year-old Kohli&nbsp;spoke about 'closing in on history', with the Indian team chasing its first Test series win on English soil since 2007. Back then, current head coach Dravid was in-charge of the side which created history by winning a three-match series 1-0.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-spent-a-lot-of-time-with-dhoni-virat-but-has-his-own-brand-of-captaincy-ex-india-stumper-490187">Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper</a>

Talking about Kohli, he was the captain of the Indian team when the five-match Test series between India and England took place last year. Before the final Test, which was set to be held in Manchester, the Indian camp was jolted by the Covid-19 crisis and, hence, the series decider was cancelled with the visitors 2-1 up in the series.

This time around, Kohli remains a vital cog in the Indian Test line-up, who is on the cusp of creating history, but Rohit Sharma has succeeded him as all-format captain. Under Rohit, India will be desperate to go for a win or, at least, ensure a draw to return with a Test series win in England.&nbsp;

Team India's red-ball regulars have arrived in England for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co., set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. India's first batch of Test players had left for England on June 16 whereas the remaining members, along with head coach Rahul Dravid, reached the country a few days back, after the completion of India's home T20Is versus South Africa.

Team India's red-ball regulars have arrived in England for the fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co., set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. India's first batch of Test players had left for England on June 16 whereas the remaining members, along with head coach Rahul Dravid, reached the country a few days back, after the completion of India's home T20Is versus South Africa. As India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus the hosts England, 'leader' Virat Kohli gave a passionate pep talk in the Team India huddle ahead of the visitors' three-day practice game versus Leicestershire, starting on June 23. Kohli and head coach Dravid were seen having a chat with the rest of the squad. Here's a video of Kohli's talk: Game mode = 𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒅 💪@imVkohli gives a 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 team talk ahead of a busy day of preparations before @BCCI's Tour Match 🆚 @leicsccc. 🎟️- https://t.co/uu0mGLEuym 🦊 #IndiaTourMatch | #LEIvIND pic.twitter.com/zDxP53Slxd — Leicestershire Foxes 🏏 (@leicsccc) June 21, 2022 × It has been reported that the 33-year-old Kohli spoke about 'closing in on history', with the Indian team chasing its first Test series win on English soil since 2007. Back then, current head coach Dravid was in-charge of the side which created history by winning a three-match series 1-0. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper Talking about Kohli, he was the captain of the Indian team when the five-match Test series between India and England took place last year. Before the final Test, which was set to be held in Manchester, the Indian camp was jolted by the Covid-19 crisis and, hence, the series decider was cancelled with the visitors 2-1 up in the series. This time around, Kohli remains a vital cog in the Indian Test line-up, who is on the cusp of creating history, but Rohit Sharma has succeeded him as all-format captain. Under Rohit, India will be desperate to go for a win or, at least, ensure a draw to return with a Test series win in England.

Watch: Virat gives passionate speech in Team India huddle as Rohit & Co. gear up for 5th Test vs England

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test team is in England for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co., which is set to take place in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. With the incomplete five-match series, which was originally set to end during the 2021 English summer, serving as a huge opportunity for the visitors to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil since 2007, Rohit &amp; Co. will leave no stone unturned to return victories as they already have an unassailable 2-1 lead.

While Rohit, Virat Kohli-starrer Team India is gearing up for their three-day practice game, versus&nbsp;Leicestershire, there is reportedly Covid-19 fear looming large in the Indian camp. According to a report in the Times of India, former captain Virat had tested positive for Covid-19 post his holiday in Maldives. He, however, recovered before joining the team. While he has returned negative, a few more players may have also tested positive for the deadly virus.

"Yes, Virat too was hit by Covid after returning from holidaying in Maldives, but he's recovered now,"&nbsp;a BCCI source told TOI.

"This now means that India's tour game against Leicestershire from June 24 won't be as intense as coach Rahul Dravid wanted it to be, since the medical advice is to not overload the players after they've suffered Covid-19. There could be more Covid cases in the team,"&nbsp;the source added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-gives-passionate-speech-in-team-india-huddle-as-rohit-co-gear-up-for-5th-test-vs-england-490503">Watch: Virat gives passionate speech in Team India huddle as Rohit &amp; Co. gear up for 5th Test vs England</a>

It is to be noted that the incomplete five Tests between India and England had come to a sudden halt, on the day the series decider was to kick off in Manchester, due to the Covid crisis in the Indian camp. The visitors will not like to endure the same fate this time around. They are already without R Ashwin, who has tested positive and hasn't flown to England with both&nbsp;the batches of Indian Test players.

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test team is in England for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co., which is set to take place in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01.

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian Test team is in England for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co., which is set to take place in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. With the incomplete five-match series, which was originally set to end during the 2021 English summer, serving as a huge opportunity for the visitors to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil since 2007, Rohit & Co. will leave no stone unturned to return victories as they already have an unassailable 2-1 lead. While Rohit, Virat Kohli-starrer Team India is gearing up for their three-day practice game, versus Leicestershire, there is reportedly Covid-19 fear looming large in the Indian camp. According to a report in the Times of India, former captain Virat had tested positive for Covid-19 post his holiday in Maldives. He, however, recovered before joining the team. While he has returned negative, a few more players may have also tested positive for the deadly virus. "Yes, Virat too was hit by Covid after returning from holidaying in Maldives, but he's recovered now," a BCCI source told TOI. "This now means that India's tour game against Leicestershire from June 24 won't be as intense as coach Rahul Dravid wanted it to be, since the medical advice is to not overload the players after they've suffered Covid-19. There could be more Covid cases in the team," the source added. ALSO READ | Watch: Virat gives passionate speech in Team India huddle as Rohit & Co. gear up for 5th Test vs England It is to be noted that the incomplete five Tests between India and England had come to a sudden halt, on the day the series decider was to kick off in Manchester, due to the Covid crisis in the Indian camp. The visitors will not like to endure the same fate this time around. They are already without R Ashwin, who has tested positive and hasn't flown to England with both the batches of Indian Test players.

Virat was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp ahead of ENG Test: Report

Ahead of India's tour of England, wily off-spinner R Ashwin has tested positive for Covid-19. Thus, the 35-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder hasn't left for England along with the rest of the squad and will remain in quarantine for the time being.

After completing his medical protocols, Ashwin will travel to England but might miss Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s three-day practice game versus&nbsp;Leicestershire, ahead of the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes' England.&nbsp;

"Ashwin hasn't travelled with the squad to UK as he has tested positive for Covid-19 before departure," a BCCI source told the news agency&nbsp;PTI.&nbsp; "But we are hopeful that Ashwin will recover well in time before the Test match starts on July 1. However, Ashwin might miss the practice game against Leicestershire,” the source added.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-cheteshwar-pujara-open-against-england-in-kl-rahuls-absence-bccis-post-hints-at-indias-opening-pair-489990">Will Cheteshwar Pujara open against England in KL Rahul's absence? BCCI's post hints at India's opening pair</a>

Ashwin will be eager to recover in time and be a part of India's squad, who have a chance to create history and win their first-ever Test series in England since 2007. In 2021, Virat Kohli-led India had an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match series before the final encounter, in Manchester, was abandoned due to&nbsp;Covid crisis in the Indian camp. Now, Rohit &amp; Co. will be desperate to finish off the incomplete 2021 series in style, by winning the final Test in Edgbaston, which gets underway on July 01.

For the unversed, the first batch of the Indian team had left for England on June 16. They are already in&nbsp;Leicester and practicing under the watchful eyes of bowling coach Paras&nbsp;Mhambrey and batting coach Vikram Rathour. After the initial batch, the likes of Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer and head coach Rahul Dravid left for England on June 20, a day after the completion of the India-South Africa home T20Is (which ended in a 2-2 scoreline).

Meanwhile, Ireland-bound Indian T20I team have been given a three-day rest and will leave for Dublin either on June 23 and 24. Hardik Pandya-led Team India will play two T20Is versus Ireland, on June 26 and 28.
</section>

Ahead of India's tour of England, wily off-spinner R Ashwin has tested positive for Covid-19. Thus, the 35-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder hasn't left for England along with the rest of the squad and will remain in quarantine for the time being.

Ahead of India's tour of England, wily off-spinner R Ashwin has tested positive for Covid-19. Thus, the 35-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder hasn't left for England along with the rest of the squad and will remain in quarantine for the time being. After completing his medical protocols, Ashwin will travel to England but might miss Rohit Sharma & Co.'s three-day practice game versus Leicestershire, ahead of the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes' England. "Ashwin hasn't travelled with the squad to UK as he has tested positive for Covid-19 before departure," a BCCI source told the news agency PTI. "But we are hopeful that Ashwin will recover well in time before the Test match starts on July 1. However, Ashwin might miss the practice game against Leicestershire,” the source added. ALSO READ | Will Cheteshwar Pujara open against England in KL Rahul's absence? BCCI's post hints at India's opening pair Ashwin will be eager to recover in time and be a part of India's squad, who have a chance to create history and win their first-ever Test series in England since 2007. In 2021, Virat Kohli-led India had an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match series before the final encounter, in Manchester, was abandoned due to Covid crisis in the Indian camp. Now, Rohit & Co. will be desperate to finish off the incomplete 2021 series in style, by winning the final Test in Edgbaston, which gets underway on July 01. For the unversed, the first batch of the Indian team had left for England on June 16. They are already in Leicester and practicing under the watchful eyes of bowling coach Paras Mhambrey and batting coach Vikram Rathour. After the initial batch, the likes of Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer and head coach Rahul Dravid left for England on June 20, a day after the completion of the India-South Africa home T20Is (which ended in a 2-2 scoreline). Meanwhile, Ireland-bound Indian T20I team have been given a three-day rest and will leave for Dublin either on June 23 and 24. Hardik Pandya-led Team India will play two T20Is versus Ireland, on June 26 and 28.

India spinner R Ashwin tests positive for COVID-19, does not board flight to England: Report

India and South Africa's five-match T20I series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, after the fifth and final encounter was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Despite the series not determining a winner between both sides, there were a lot of positives for the hosts India, who were without many of their white-ball regulars.

The Rishabh Pant-led Indian team saw top performances from Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who returned with the Player-of-the-Match, Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan and Yuzvendra Chahal. After the series, former SA captain Graeme Smith named two players who are now integral to India's T20I squad and named the X-factor for Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup.

Speaking to&nbsp;cricket.com, batting icon Smith opined that Pandya and Karthik have become somewhat indispensable. In this regard, he opined, "Still a lot of cricket to be played so it is difficult to predict what is going to happen in the next couple of months but you are going to think Hardik and DK are integral to that squad. DK is experienced with that finishing role that he has played Hardik has grown leaps and bounds and is in control of his game."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-spent-a-lot-of-time-with-dhoni-virat-but-has-his-own-brand-of-captaincy-ex-india-stumper-490187">Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper</a>

<section>
On Hardik, Smith added, "Mentally he looks like he has settled. And he is also that all-rounder X Factor that India require to just balance the team with him and Jadeja in the squad which opens up a lot of options. So I can't see that those two not making it to the World Cup squad."

Both Hardik and DK will next be seen in action during India's forthcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.
</section>

India and South Africa's five-match T20I series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, after the fifth and final encounter was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru.

India and South Africa's five-match T20I series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, after the fifth and final encounter was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Despite the series not determining a winner between both sides, there were a lot of positives for the hosts India, who were without many of their white-ball regulars. The Rishabh Pant-led Indian team saw top performances from Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who returned with the Player-of-the-Match, Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan and Yuzvendra Chahal. After the series, former SA captain Graeme Smith named two players who are now integral to India's T20I squad and named the X-factor for Rohit Sharma & Co. heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup. Speaking to cricket.com, batting icon Smith opined that Pandya and Karthik have become somewhat indispensable. In this regard, he opined, "Still a lot of cricket to be played so it is difficult to predict what is going to happen in the next couple of months but you are going to think Hardik and DK are integral to that squad. DK is experienced with that finishing role that he has played Hardik has grown leaps and bounds and is in control of his game." ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper On Hardik, Smith added, "Mentally he looks like he has settled. And he is also that all-rounder X Factor that India require to just balance the team with him and Jadeja in the squad which opens up a lot of options. So I can't see that those two not making it to the World Cup squad." Both Hardik and DK will next be seen in action during India's forthcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.

Graeme Smith names star player as Rohit Sharma-led India's 'X-factor' for 2022 T20 World Cup

India played an intense five-match T20I series versus South Africa at home, which concluded on Sunday evening (June 19). With the series levelled at 2-2, both sides had all to play for before the final encounter, at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, which ended in no-result with only 3.3 overs of play possible due to persistent rain.

Despite the series being shared, India had quite a few positives with the form and performances of Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. as they continue to fix their final combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. While a lot of players are still fighting hard to cement a spot in the final squad, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar was asked about veteran Shikhar Dhawan's chances.

"No. I don't see his name popping up. If it had to pop up, it would have been in this squad. A lot of guys have gone to England and he could have been in this squad. If he is not in this squad, I don't see him ending in the mix (for T20 World Cup)," Gavaskar said in an interaction on&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;during the Bengaluru T20I.

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For the unversed, Dhawan has played 68 T20Is for India, scoring&nbsp;1,759 runs at 126.36. While he has had seven consecutive IPL seasons with over 400-plus runs, his strike rate was deemed to be an issue for the Men in Blue. Even though Dhawan improved his strike rate in IPL, does well for India in&nbsp;ICC events and has has a lot of experience overall, he has fallen behind in the pecking order with the emergence of some young and dashing openers.&nbsp;Thus, he missed being a part of India's squad in the 2021 edition and is likely to remain out of favour for this year's showpiece event as well, which will take place Down Under.

India played an intense five-match T20I series versus South Africa at home, which concluded on Sunday evening (June 19). With the series levelled at 2-2, both sides had all to play for before the final encounter, at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, which ended in no-result with only 3.

India played an intense five-match T20I series versus South Africa at home, which concluded on Sunday evening (June 19). With the series levelled at 2-2, both sides had all to play for before the final encounter, at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, which ended in no-result with only 3.3 overs of play possible due to persistent rain. Despite the series being shared, India had quite a few positives with the form and performances of Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. as they continue to fix their final combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. While a lot of players are still fighting hard to cement a spot in the final squad, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar was asked about veteran Shikhar Dhawan's chances. "No. I don't see his name popping up. If it had to pop up, it would have been in this squad. A lot of guys have gone to England and he could have been in this squad. If he is not in this squad, I don't see him ending in the mix (for T20 World Cup)," Gavaskar said in an interaction on Star Sports during the Bengaluru T20I. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, T20Is: Bhuvneshwar Kumar creates new record for Team India after memorable series vs Proteas For the unversed, Dhawan has played 68 T20Is for India, scoring 1,759 runs at 126.36. While he has had seven consecutive IPL seasons with over 400-plus runs, his strike rate was deemed to be an issue for the Men in Blue. Even though Dhawan improved his strike rate in IPL, does well for India in ICC events and has has a lot of experience overall, he has fallen behind in the pecking order with the emergence of some young and dashing openers. Thus, he missed being a part of India's squad in the 2021 edition and is likely to remain out of favour for this year's showpiece event as well, which will take place Down Under.

Don't see his name popping up: Sunil Gavaskar dismisses India star's chances of making it to T20 WC squad

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series in the former's own backyard, which ended tamely with the fifth and final encounter being abandoned on Sunday (June 19). Due to persistent rain in Bengaluru, the final match of the series led to a no-result, however, Rishabh Pant-led Men in Blue had a lot of takeaways from the series.

The return and form of Dinesh Karthik, who made a comeback in the Team India setup after almost three years, made heads turn. DK returned with a tough 21-ball 30* in the second T20I and was the Player-of-the-Match in the fourth and final encounter, in Rajkot, which helped India level the series 2-2 before the final game resulted in no winner. Thus, calls have intensified for him to be a part of Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad.

DK had a splendid IPL 2022 season as well, returning with 330 runs at a strike rate of 183.33. Thus, he carried his form for India whereas Rishabh Pant fell flat with the bat in the SA series, ending with scores of&nbsp;29, 5, 6, 17 and 1*. He&nbsp;had a decent IPL 15, scoring 340 runs at 151.78 but hardly&nbsp;made match-winning contributions, unlike DK.

Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious 2007 T20 World Cup squad and ended as the Player-of-the-Match in the finale -- picked his ideal XI for Rohit &amp; Co., naming DK over Pant.

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Speaking to&nbsp;Star Sports,&nbsp;Pathan picked star batters KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the top 3 of his World Cup playing XI. “In Australia, you need powerful starts because the ball swings and seams a lot. So you need a player who has a lot of experience,” Pathan said. "Kohli may not have performed well so far but in Australia, he has scored a lot of runs,” he added.

Further, after picking the likes of Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, Irfan chose DK over Pant and mentioned his all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel (who can bat a bit) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar before ending his XI with&nbsp;Yuzvendra Chahal and Jasprit Bumrah.

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Irfan Pathan's India XI for 2022 T20 World Cup:&nbsp;KL Rahul, (C) Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series in the former's own backyard, which ended tamely with the fifth and final encounter being abandoned on Sunday (June 19).

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series in the former's own backyard, which ended tamely with the fifth and final encounter being abandoned on Sunday (June 19). Due to persistent rain in Bengaluru, the final match of the series led to a no-result, however, Rishabh Pant-led Men in Blue had a lot of takeaways from the series. The return and form of Dinesh Karthik, who made a comeback in the Team India setup after almost three years, made heads turn. DK returned with a tough 21-ball 30* in the second T20I and was the Player-of-the-Match in the fourth and final encounter, in Rajkot, which helped India level the series 2-2 before the final game resulted in no winner. Thus, calls have intensified for him to be a part of Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad. DK had a splendid IPL 2022 season as well, returning with 330 runs at a strike rate of 183.33. Thus, he carried his form for India whereas Rishabh Pant fell flat with the bat in the SA series, ending with scores of 29, 5, 6, 17 and 1*. He had a decent IPL 15, scoring 340 runs at 151.78 but hardly made match-winning contributions, unlike DK. Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious 2007 T20 World Cup squad and ended as the Player-of-the-Match in the finale -- picked his ideal XI for Rohit & Co., naming DK over Pant. ALSO READ | WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan picked star batters KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the top 3 of his World Cup playing XI. “In Australia, you need powerful starts because the ball swings and seams a lot. So you need a player who has a lot of experience,” Pathan said. "Kohli may not have performed well so far but in Australia, he has scored a lot of runs,” he added. Further, after picking the likes of Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, Irfan chose DK over Pant and mentioned his all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel (who can bat a bit) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar before ending his XI with Yuzvendra Chahal and Jasprit Bumrah. ALSO READ | Dinesh Karthik: The finisher who is far from finished Irfan Pathan's India XI for 2022 T20 World Cup: KL Rahul, (C) Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.

Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit & Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI

India legend Rahul Dravid has had to work with a number of different captains since taking over as the head coach of the Indian cricket team last year. Dravid was appointed as the coach of the Men in Blue after former head coach Ravi Shastri's contract expired following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. Dravid has seen overseen a huge transition in Indian cricket.

After Shastri's departure, Virat Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Indian T20I team before he was also asked to let go of Test and ODI captaincy paving way for Rohit Sharma to take over as India's captain across all three formats. However, with injuries and COVID-19 still wreaking havoc, Dravid has had to work with not just Kohli and Rohit but many other players leading the side.

Opening up about the regular changes in the leadership of the Indian team, head coach Dravid said it is not something that the team management had planned for but it has been due to COVID, injuries and workload management that a number of captains have had to be installed over the last few months.

"Probably been 6 captains in the last 8 months that I have had to work it. Which wasn't the plan when I first started. But it is the nature of COVID, the nature of the number of games we play, it is about managing the workload of the squad," Dravid said on Star Sports ahead of the start of India's 5th T20I against South Africa in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19)

"Few changes in captaincy means I have had to work with quite a few people over the last few months which in itself has been challenging but great fun too. It's good a lot of guys have got to lead the team and given us the opportunity to create leaders in the group," he added.

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While Rishabh Pant is leading the side in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa after Rohit was rested and KL Rahul got injured ahead of the series-opener, Dravid had worked with Kohli during the South Africa Test series before Rahul led the side in his absence.

Meanwhile, Ajinkya Rahane also led the team in a Test match against New Zealand last year in the absence of both Kohli and Rohit while Dravid had also worked with Shikhar Dhawan during India's tour of Sri Lanka last year before being appointed as India's head coach permanently.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-still-have-some-cricket-left-rohit-sharmas-old-chat-with-dinesh-karthik-goes-viral-after-his-comeback-489664">'You still have some cricket left': Rohit's old chat with Dinesh Karthik goes viral after his comeback</a>

India are currently taking on South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home which is locked at 1-1 after the hosts defeated the Proteas in back-to-back matches following two losses on the trot in the first two games. India will be hoping to clinch the series by winning their third game on the bounce when they take on South Africa in the 5th T20I on Sunday.

India legend Rahul Dravid has had to work with a number of different captains since taking over as the head coach of the Indian cricket team last year. Dravid was appointed as the coach of the Men in Blue after former head coach Ravi Shastri's contract expired following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year.

India legend Rahul Dravid has had to work with a number of different captains since taking over as the head coach of the Indian cricket team last year. Dravid was appointed as the coach of the Men in Blue after former head coach Ravi Shastri's contract expired following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. Dravid has seen overseen a huge transition in Indian cricket. After Shastri's departure, Virat Kohli stepped down as the captain of the Indian T20I team before he was also asked to let go of Test and ODI captaincy paving way for Rohit Sharma to take over as India's captain across all three formats. However, with injuries and COVID-19 still wreaking havoc, Dravid has had to work with not just Kohli and Rohit but many other players leading the side. Opening up about the regular changes in the leadership of the Indian team, head coach Dravid said it is not something that the team management had planned for but it has been due to COVID, injuries and workload management that a number of captains have had to be installed over the last few months. "Probably been 6 captains in the last 8 months that I have had to work it. Which wasn't the plan when I first started. But it is the nature of COVID, the nature of the number of games we play, it is about managing the workload of the squad," Dravid said on Star Sports ahead of the start of India's 5th T20I against South Africa in Bengaluru on Sunday (June 19) "Few changes in captaincy means I have had to work with quite a few people over the last few months which in itself has been challenging but great fun too. It's good a lot of guys have got to lead the team and given us the opportunity to create leaders in the group," he added. Also Read: He has already booked his place in T20 WC 2022 squad: Nehra makes bold claim about Dinesh Karthik While Rishabh Pant is leading the side in the ongoing T20I series against South Africa after Rohit was rested and KL Rahul got injured ahead of the series-opener, Dravid had worked with Kohli during the South Africa Test series before Rahul led the side in his absence. Meanwhile, Ajinkya Rahane also led the team in a Test match against New Zealand last year in the absence of both Kohli and Rohit while Dravid had also worked with Shikhar Dhawan during India's tour of Sri Lanka last year before being appointed as India's head coach permanently. Also Read: 'You still have some cricket left': Rohit's old chat with Dinesh Karthik goes viral after his comeback India are currently taking on South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home which is locked at 1-1 after the hosts defeated the Proteas in back-to-back matches following two losses on the trot in the first two games. India will be hoping to clinch the series by winning their third game on the bounce when they take on South Africa in the 5th T20I on Sunday.

'Wasn't the plan': Rahul Dravid opens up on working with 6 different captains as India head coach

India kept the five-match T20I series alive with a convincing 48-run win over visitors Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday (June 14). On Friday evening (June 17), both sides will square off against each other once again in the fourth and penultimate match of the series at the Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot.&nbsp;

Talking about the third match, Rishabh Pant-led India once again lost the coin toss and were asked to bat first. Riding on half-centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan, India were on course for a total beyond the 200-run mark before South African bowlers bounced back. Hardik Pandya's unbeaten 31 propelled India to 179-5. In reply, Yuzvendra Chahal's 3 for 20 and Harshal Patel's four-fer dismissed SA for 131 all-out.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Will rain play spoilsport in the fourth and penultimate tie?

Ahead of the fourth T20I, there are chances that rain might play spoilsport in Rajkot. The chances of rain are just 5 percent during the day, it can increase to 25 percent during the night. In addition, there are six percent chances of thunderstorms in the city during the night. The match is expected to go on but there can be some delays.&nbsp;

Match prediction for the fourth T20I: The venue has seen big as well as moderate totals being chased or defended. Hence, there is something for both batters and bowlers. Expect a high-scoring affair with India likely to remain unchanged whereas SA can include Quinton de Kock, if fit, for Reeze Hendricks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India kept the five-match T20I series alive with a convincing 48-run win over visitors Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday (June 14). On Friday evening (June 17), both sides will square off against each other once again in the fourth and penultimate match of the series at the Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot.

India kept the five-match T20I series alive with a convincing 48-run win over visitors Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday (June 14). On Friday evening (June 17), both sides will square off against each other once again in the fourth and penultimate match of the series at the Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot. Talking about the third match, Rishabh Pant-led India once again lost the coin toss and were asked to bat first. Riding on half-centuries from Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan, India were on course for a total beyond the 200-run mark before South African bowlers bounced back. Hardik Pandya's unbeaten 31 propelled India to 179-5. In reply, Yuzvendra Chahal's 3 for 20 and Harshal Patel's four-fer dismissed SA for 131 all-out. ALSO READ | 'He's my next captain in-line after Rohit Sharma in white-ball formats': Wasim Jaffer on star India player Will rain play spoilsport in the fourth and penultimate tie? Ahead of the fourth T20I, there are chances that rain might play spoilsport in Rajkot. The chances of rain are just 5 percent during the day, it can increase to 25 percent during the night. In addition, there are six percent chances of thunderstorms in the city during the night. The match is expected to go on but there can be some delays. Match prediction for the fourth T20I: The venue has seen big as well as moderate totals being chased or defended. Hence, there is something for both batters and bowlers. Expect a high-scoring affair with India likely to remain unchanged whereas SA can include Quinton de Kock, if fit, for Reeze Hendricks.

IND vs SA prediction: Who'll win 4th T20I between India and South Africa in Rajkot?

BCCI, on Thursday (June 16), shared some pictures of Virat Kohli and other Indian players boarding the flight for England where India is set to play a rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co. Fans were quick to notice the absence of Rohit Sharma, which led to various speculations.&nbsp;

Now, as per a report in Sports Today, it has been revealed that the Indian captain Rohit is set to depart for England on June 20, along with some other white-ball specialists and Test players. Along with Rohit, the likes of Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, head coach Rahul Dravid and his other coaching staff members are also in India as they are involved in the five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa. Thus, they will only be free from their commitments on June 19 (Sunday), when the final match will be held in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-my-next-captain-in-line-after-rohit-sharma-in-white-ball-formats-wasim-jaffer-on-star-india-player-488815">'He's my next captain in-line after Rohit Sharma in white-ball formats': Wasim Jaffer on star India player</a>

Rohit's absence had led to many fans speculating if the Indian captain had injury concerns. He was last seen in action in IPL 2022, where Mumbai Indians (MI) finished at the bottom, and&nbsp;Hitman had a forgettable run both as captain and batter (returning without a single fifty-plus score). Nonetheless, there is no injury concerns for the 35-year-old and he will head to England early next week, with Dravid &amp; Co.&nbsp;

India's tour of England comprises a one-off Test, in Edgbaston, on July 01 which will also be followed by six white-ball matches (three ODIs and T20Is each) from July 7-17. Before the tour opener, India will play Leicestershire in a practice match, at the Grace Road, from June 24 to 27. At the same time, Hardik Pandya-led Indian T20I team will square off with Ireland, in Dublin, for a two-match series on June 26 and 28.

BCCI, on Thursday (June 16), shared some pictures of Virat Kohli and other Indian players boarding the flight for England where India is set to play a rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co.

BCCI, on Thursday (June 16), shared some pictures of Virat Kohli and other Indian players boarding the flight for England where India is set to play a rescheduled fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes & Co. Fans were quick to notice the absence of Rohit Sharma, which led to various speculations. Now, as per a report in Sports Today, it has been revealed that the Indian captain Rohit is set to depart for England on June 20, along with some other white-ball specialists and Test players. Along with Rohit, the likes of Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, head coach Rahul Dravid and his other coaching staff members are also in India as they are involved in the five-match T20I series versus Temba Bavuma's South Africa. Thus, they will only be free from their commitments on June 19 (Sunday), when the final match will be held in Bengaluru. ALSO READ | 'He's my next captain in-line after Rohit Sharma in white-ball formats': Wasim Jaffer on star India player Rohit's absence had led to many fans speculating if the Indian captain had injury concerns. He was last seen in action in IPL 2022, where Mumbai Indians (MI) finished at the bottom, and Hitman had a forgettable run both as captain and batter (returning without a single fifty-plus score). Nonetheless, there is no injury concerns for the 35-year-old and he will head to England early next week, with Dravid & Co. India's tour of England comprises a one-off Test, in Edgbaston, on July 01 which will also be followed by six white-ball matches (three ODIs and T20Is each) from July 7-17. Before the tour opener, India will play Leicestershire in a practice match, at the Grace Road, from June 24 to 27. At the same time, Hardik Pandya-led Indian T20I team will square off with Ireland, in Dublin, for a two-match series on June 26 and 28.

Team India skipper Rohit Sharma set to leave for England on June 20: Report

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virender Sehwag, here's a look at the top five Indian batsmen with the most international hundreds.

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virender Sehwag: Most int'l 100s by Indian batters

Kuldeep Yadav has had a tough ride in international cricket since the 2019 ODI World Cup. Following his IPL 2022 blitz, where he ended as the fifth-highest wicket while representing the Delhi Capitals (DC), the wrist-spinner is now in the scheme of things for Team India ahead of this year's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia.&nbsp;

Former Indian batter-turned-expert Sanjay Manjrekar has recently called for Kuldeep's inclusion in the Indian team ahead of the showpiece event Down Under. Manjrekar feels the pitches in Australia will assist a spinner like Kuldeep and won't be to the liking of Yuzvendra Chahal.

Speaking on&nbsp;Sports 18,&nbsp;Manjrekar was asked how Chahal, who was the Player-of-the-Match in the third T20I between India and South Africa on Tuesday (June 14), fits in the Men in Blue's plans going ahead. To this, the 56-year-old said, "He will be tested on those pitches in Australia. The pitches won't be the ones that Chahal relishes and that's why I believe Kuldeep Yadav has got to be a part of the squad. There will be bounce for his kind of bowler."

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"The other thing is in a World Cup you play a different team every game, so there will come teams who will not be so good against the kind of deception that a Kuldeep Yadav has," Manjrekar further pointed out.

So far, Kuldeep has played 24 T20Is for India. In Australia, the 27-year-old spinner has played three T20Is, claiming four scalps at an economy of 5.50. He was part of India's ongoing home T20Is versus the Proteas before an injury ruled him out of action.

Kuldeep Yadav has had a tough ride in international cricket since the 2019 ODI World Cup. Following his IPL 2022 blitz, where he ended as the fifth-highest wicket while representing the Delhi Capitals (DC), the wrist-spinner is now in the scheme of things for Team India ahead of this year's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia.

Kuldeep Yadav has had a tough ride in international cricket since the 2019 ODI World Cup. Following his IPL 2022 blitz, where he ended as the fifth-highest wicket while representing the Delhi Capitals (DC), the wrist-spinner is now in the scheme of things for Team India ahead of this year's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia. Former Indian batter-turned-expert Sanjay Manjrekar has recently called for Kuldeep's inclusion in the Indian team ahead of the showpiece event Down Under. Manjrekar feels the pitches in Australia will assist a spinner like Kuldeep and won't be to the liking of Yuzvendra Chahal. Speaking on Sports 18, Manjrekar was asked how Chahal, who was the Player-of-the-Match in the third T20I between India and South Africa on Tuesday (June 14), fits in the Men in Blue's plans going ahead. To this, the 56-year-old said, "He will be tested on those pitches in Australia. The pitches won't be the ones that Chahal relishes and that's why I believe Kuldeep Yadav has got to be a part of the squad. There will be bounce for his kind of bowler." ALSO READ | Yuzvendra Chahal reveals technical changes he made for better returns after India's 3rd T20I win vs SA "The other thing is in a World Cup you play a different team every game, so there will come teams who will not be so good against the kind of deception that a Kuldeep Yadav has," Manjrekar further pointed out. So far, Kuldeep has played 24 T20Is for India. In Australia, the 27-year-old spinner has played three T20Is, claiming four scalps at an economy of 5.50. He was part of India's ongoing home T20Is versus the Proteas before an injury ruled him out of action.

There'll be bounce for his kind of bowler in AUS: Manjrekar feels star spinner needed in India's T20 WC squad

KL Rahul has been in form for Team India, and also in the IPL, whereas he has also raised his stature by becoming Rohit Sharma's deputy across formats since the start of the year. When the Rohit Sharma-less Indian T20I squad was announced by the BCCI, for the ongoing home series versus South Africa, Rahul was set to lead India for the first in the shortest format.

However, Rahul picked up a groin injury and was ruled out. While he was racing against time to be fit for the forthcoming England tour, he is now set to miss the whole trip and will travel to Germany for treatment by end of this month or early July.&nbsp;Confirming the development to Cricbuzz, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah told Cricbuzz, "That is correct, the board is working on his fitness and he will be going to Germany soon."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vice-captain-kl-rahul-set-to-undergo-fitness-test-on-june-18-for-one-off-red-ball-match-vs-england-report-488492">Vice-captain KL Rahul set to undergo fitness test on June 18 for one-off red-ball match vs England: Report</a>

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The obvious implication of the overseas treatment is that the Indian vice-captain Rahul will miss the England tour, where Rohit &amp; Co.&nbsp;are set to play the rescheduled fifth and final Test, from last year's series, and three T20Is and ODIs each. The tour will kick off with the one-off Test, in Edgbaston, on July 01 whereas the white-ball matches will take place from July 07-17. In Rahul's absence, the Indian selectors will have to name Rohit's deputy and there are high chances that the post will go to pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who has&nbsp;served as the vice-captain earlier&nbsp;in Rahul or Rohit's absence.&nbsp;

Rahul's absence will surely hurt the visitors, who also was their second-highest run-getter (third overall) in the four Tests --&nbsp;of the five-match series -- played between India and hosts England last year.
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KL Rahul has been in form for Team India, and also in the IPL, whereas he has also raised his stature by becoming Rohit Sharma's deputy across formats since the start of the year.

KL Rahul has been in form for Team India, and also in the IPL, whereas he has also raised his stature by becoming Rohit Sharma's deputy across formats since the start of the year. When the Rohit Sharma-less Indian T20I squad was announced by the BCCI, for the ongoing home series versus South Africa, Rahul was set to lead India for the first in the shortest format. However, Rahul picked up a groin injury and was ruled out. While he was racing against time to be fit for the forthcoming England tour, he is now set to miss the whole trip and will travel to Germany for treatment by end of this month or early July. Confirming the development to Cricbuzz, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah told Cricbuzz, "That is correct, the board is working on his fitness and he will be going to Germany soon." ALSO READ | Vice-captain KL Rahul set to undergo fitness test on June 18 for one-off red-ball match vs England: Report The obvious implication of the overseas treatment is that the Indian vice-captain Rahul will miss the England tour, where Rohit & Co. are set to play the rescheduled fifth and final Test, from last year's series, and three T20Is and ODIs each. The tour will kick off with the one-off Test, in Edgbaston, on July 01 whereas the white-ball matches will take place from July 07-17. In Rahul's absence, the Indian selectors will have to name Rohit's deputy and there are high chances that the post will go to pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who has served as the vice-captain earlier in Rahul or Rohit's absence. Rahul's absence will surely hurt the visitors, who also was their second-highest run-getter (third overall) in the four Tests -- of the five-match series -- played between India and hosts England last year.

Indian vice-captain KL Rahul to miss England tour, to leave for Germany for treatment: Report

BCCI on Wednesday appointed allrounder Hardik Pandya as the captain of the Indian cricket team for the T20I series against Ireland. Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2022 title, will captain India in absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. The 35-year-old Sharma along with Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Md Shami, Rishabh Pant and others will be in England for the rescheduled 5th Test when another Indian squad will play T20Is in Ireland. 
 
The 17-member squad for the series against Ireland, also have a place for Rahul Tripathi, who has done consistently well in IPL. Sanju Samson has also been recalled to the side after being neglected for the series against South Africa. 
 
India will play two T20Is on June 26th and 28th in Dublin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-he-still-playing-cricket-with-same-motivation-afridi-talks-about-attitude-as-he-dwells-on-kohlis-form-488449">'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form</a>

India`s T20I squad: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

BCCI on Wednesday appointed allrounder Hardik Pandya as the captain of the Indian cricket team for the T20I series against Ireland. Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2022 title, will captain India in absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma.

BCCI on Wednesday appointed allrounder Hardik Pandya as the captain of the Indian cricket team for the T20I series against Ireland. Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2022 title, will captain India in absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. The 35-year-old Sharma along with Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Md Shami, Rishabh Pant and others will be in England for the rescheduled 5th Test when another Indian squad will play T20Is in Ireland. The 17-member squad for the series against Ireland, also have a place for Rahul Tripathi, who has done consistently well in IPL. Sanju Samson has also been recalled to the side after being neglected for the series against South Africa. India will play two T20Is on June 26th and 28th in Dublin. ALSO READ | 'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form India`s T20I squad: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Hardik Pandya appointed Team India skipper for T20Is versus Ireland

KL Rahul was ruled out of the ongoing India-South Africa T20Is at home. Rahul was set to lead India for the first time in the shortest format of the game, in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. However, the talented 30-year-old suffered a huge setback as a groin injury led to his omission from the home series.

While a second-stringed Indian team is set to travel to Ireland for two T20Is, Rahul is expected to be part of the Rohit Sharma-led red-ball side ahead of their one-off Test versus hosts England, starting on July 1. Nonetheless, a report in Cricbuzz recently stated that the vice-captain Rahul has been ruled out of the England Test. Now, another report has emerged saying that he remains in contention but will have to undergo a fitness test on Saturday (June 18).

As per&nbsp;Insidesport.in, Rahul will go through a fitness test later this week&nbsp;and will board the plane to the UK if he is deemed fit.&nbsp;“It’s a slow process. His recovery has been slow and that’s not a good sign. We have 3-4 days before the second batch leaves. There will be a light fitness test on Saturday. If he clears that, he will board the flight. If he doesn’t, we will wait for him to continue recovery process. He is certainly not ruled out at this stage,” a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by&nbsp;InsideSport.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-he-still-playing-cricket-with-same-motivation-afridi-talks-about-attitude-as-he-dwells-on-kohlis-form-488449">'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form</a>

Rahul had been in sublime form during the five-match Test series versus England in 2021. The right-handed opener was India's third-highest run-scorer (315 runs with a hundred and fifty each) before the Covid-19 virus halted the series before the fifth and final Test, which will now be played in&nbsp;Edgbaston, followed by&nbsp;six&nbsp;white-ball matches from July 07-17.
</section>

KL Rahul was ruled out of the ongoing India-South Africa T20Is at home. Rahul was set to lead India for the first time in the shortest format of the game, in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma.

KL Rahul was ruled out of the ongoing India-South Africa T20Is at home. Rahul was set to lead India for the first time in the shortest format of the game, in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. However, the talented 30-year-old suffered a huge setback as a groin injury led to his omission from the home series. While a second-stringed Indian team is set to travel to Ireland for two T20Is, Rahul is expected to be part of the Rohit Sharma-led red-ball side ahead of their one-off Test versus hosts England, starting on July 1. Nonetheless, a report in Cricbuzz recently stated that the vice-captain Rahul has been ruled out of the England Test. Now, another report has emerged saying that he remains in contention but will have to undergo a fitness test on Saturday (June 18). As per Insidesport.in, Rahul will go through a fitness test later this week and will board the plane to the UK if he is deemed fit. “It’s a slow process. His recovery has been slow and that’s not a good sign. We have 3-4 days before the second batch leaves. There will be a light fitness test on Saturday. If he clears that, he will board the flight. If he doesn’t, we will wait for him to continue recovery process. He is certainly not ruled out at this stage,” a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by InsideSport. ALSO READ | 'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form Rahul had been in sublime form during the five-match Test series versus England in 2021. The right-handed opener was India's third-highest run-scorer (315 runs with a hundred and fifty each) before the Covid-19 virus halted the series before the fifth and final Test, which will now be played in Edgbaston, followed by six white-ball matches from July 07-17.

Vice-captain KL Rahul set to undergo fitness test on June 18 for one-off red-ball match vs England: Report

Rishabh Pant-led India beat South Africa by 48 runs in the third T20I to keep the five-match series alive after losing the opening two games. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant-led India was asked to bat first and rode on half-centuries from openers Ruturaj Gaikwad-Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya's 31 not out to post 179-5 in 20 overs in Visakhapatnam.

In reply, Indian bowlers combined to apply the brakes on Temba Bavuma-led South Africa's run-scoring as the visitors were dismissed for&nbsp;131 in 19.1 overs&nbsp;in their full quota of overs, to lose by a convincing margin. Yuzvendra Chahal's 3 for 20 and Harshal Patel's four-fer derailed SA's progress with the bat. Talking about Chahal, the Player-of-the-Match from the third T20I was under pressure after he returned with a solitary wicket in the first two games, where he conceded a total of 75 runs in 6.1 overs.

Thus, Chahal revealed the reason for his success as the wily wrist-spinner stated that he varied his lengths after bowling either too full or too short in the earlier games. In addition, the 31-year-old resorted to his main strength, i.e. bowling the classic leg-spin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/clinical-india-keep-series-alive-with-48-run-win-over-south-africa-488228">Clinical India keep series alive with 48-run win over South Africa</a>

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Chahal said, "I was bowling too many quick ones and quick sliders in the last game. I spoke to Paras sir and coaches about it. So I tried to bowl quick leg breaks, but with a different seam position today. I want to turn and dip the ball, I couldn't do it the last time so they were able to hit through the line."

"I tried to get some turn and change the line of the ball. I was trying to bowl to my strengths today. When you get middle-order batsmen out in the middle overs, the pressure is on them. Batsmen try a lot of sweeps and reverse sweeps these days so we have to be prepared for that too, as bowlers. In the last game too there was some help for spinners but I didn't bowl that well. The ground is big, thankfully in Rajkot,” Chahal said with a chuckle.

<section>After the win, India will shift their focus to the fourth and penultimate match, in Rajkot, on Friday evening (June 17). Meanwhile, Bavuma &amp; Co. continue to lead the series 2-1 and will push for an unassailable lead in the next tie.</section>

Rishabh Pant-led India beat South Africa by 48 runs in the third T20I to keep the five-match series alive after losing the opening two games. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant-led India was asked to bat first and rode on half-centuries from openers Ruturaj Gaikwad-Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya's 31 not out to post 179-5 in 20 overs in Visakhapatnam.

Rishabh Pant-led India beat South Africa by 48 runs in the third T20I to keep the five-match series alive after losing the opening two games. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant-led India was asked to bat first and rode on half-centuries from openers Ruturaj Gaikwad-Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya's 31 not out to post 179-5 in 20 overs in Visakhapatnam. In reply, Indian bowlers combined to apply the brakes on Temba Bavuma-led South Africa's run-scoring as the visitors were dismissed for 131 in 19.1 overs in their full quota of overs, to lose by a convincing margin. Yuzvendra Chahal's 3 for 20 and Harshal Patel's four-fer derailed SA's progress with the bat. Talking about Chahal, the Player-of-the-Match from the third T20I was under pressure after he returned with a solitary wicket in the first two games, where he conceded a total of 75 runs in 6.1 overs. Thus, Chahal revealed the reason for his success as the wily wrist-spinner stated that he varied his lengths after bowling either too full or too short in the earlier games. In addition, the 31-year-old resorted to his main strength, i.e. bowling the classic leg-spin. ALSO READ | Clinical India keep series alive with 48-run win over South Africa Speaking at the post-match presentation, Chahal said, "I was bowling too many quick ones and quick sliders in the last game. I spoke to Paras sir and coaches about it. So I tried to bowl quick leg breaks, but with a different seam position today. I want to turn and dip the ball, I couldn't do it the last time so they were able to hit through the line." "I tried to get some turn and change the line of the ball. I was trying to bowl to my strengths today. When you get middle-order batsmen out in the middle overs, the pressure is on them. Batsmen try a lot of sweeps and reverse sweeps these days so we have to be prepared for that too, as bowlers. In the last game too there was some help for spinners but I didn't bowl that well. The ground is big, thankfully in Rajkot,” Chahal said with a chuckle. After the win, India will shift their focus to the fourth and penultimate match, in Rajkot, on Friday evening (June 17). Meanwhile, Bavuma & Co. continue to lead the series 2-1 and will push for an unassailable lead in the next tie.

Yuzvendra Chahal reveals technical changes he made for better returns after India's 3rd T20I win vs SA

Rishabh Pant-led India will square off with Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the third T20I of the five-match series on Tuesday evening (June 14) at the&nbsp;Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam.&nbsp;

After two defeats on the trot, the Indian team is on the back foot. They are yet to beat the Proteas in any format in the ongoing calendar year and have lost seven back-to-back games versus the African team (after their Centurion Test win in late 2020). Thus, the pressure will be on a young and inexperienced Pant-led side, who have not clicked as a unit in the series so far.

In both the games played so far, Pant &amp; Co. have failed to get wickets in the middle overs whereas the rotation of bowlers could've been better. Moreover, Indian batters struggled to read the pace of the wicket in the Cuttack T20I, falling 12-15 runs short of a challenging score. Talking about the Proteas, they have a well-balanced side at their disposal and are much more confident in all departments. Thus, they will like to close the series with an unassailable lead in the third T20I.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-match-gets-tight-ex-indian-opener-on-rishabh-pants-captaincy-after-india-go-2-0-down-vs-sa-487749">'When match gets tight...' - Ex-Indian opener on Rishabh Pant's captaincy after India go 2-0 down vs SA</a>

Match prediction for the third T20I between India and SA:&nbsp;Expect another two-paced wicket on offer for the decisive match. Pant &amp; Co. would hope to win the coin toss else they have some inexperience in their line-up, contrary to SA's strong bowling line-up, and can falter again. Both teams would fancy batting second, even if the wicket slows down a bit as the match progresses ahead, as dew can be a factor in Vizag. From what has been seen in the opening two games, SA should seal the series but the Indian fans would hope for their side to remain alive after Tuesday's encounter. Another 145-150-plus affair on cards?

Rishabh Pant-led India will square off with Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the third T20I of the five-match series on Tuesday evening (June 14) at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam.

Rishabh Pant-led India will square off with Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the third T20I of the five-match series on Tuesday evening (June 14) at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam. After two defeats on the trot, the Indian team is on the back foot. They are yet to beat the Proteas in any format in the ongoing calendar year and have lost seven back-to-back games versus the African team (after their Centurion Test win in late 2020). Thus, the pressure will be on a young and inexperienced Pant-led side, who have not clicked as a unit in the series so far. In both the games played so far, Pant & Co. have failed to get wickets in the middle overs whereas the rotation of bowlers could've been better. Moreover, Indian batters struggled to read the pace of the wicket in the Cuttack T20I, falling 12-15 runs short of a challenging score. Talking about the Proteas, they have a well-balanced side at their disposal and are much more confident in all departments. Thus, they will like to close the series with an unassailable lead in the third T20I. ALSO READ | 'When match gets tight...' - Ex-Indian opener on Rishabh Pant's captaincy after India go 2-0 down vs SA Match prediction for the third T20I between India and SA: Expect another two-paced wicket on offer for the decisive match. Pant & Co. would hope to win the coin toss else they have some inexperience in their line-up, contrary to SA's strong bowling line-up, and can falter again. Both teams would fancy batting second, even if the wicket slows down a bit as the match progresses ahead, as dew can be a factor in Vizag. From what has been seen in the opening two games, SA should seal the series but the Indian fans would hope for their side to remain alive after Tuesday's encounter. Another 145-150-plus affair on cards?

IND vs SA prediction: Who will win 3rd T20I between India and South Africa in Visakhapatnam

Rishabh Pant-led India came to the second T20I, of the five-match series, versus South Africa with an aim to level the&nbsp;scoreline after a loss in the first encounter. However, the script remained the same for the home side as they conceded the game by four wickets at the Barabati Stadium, Cuttack on Sunday evening (June 12).&nbsp;

Being asked to bat first, India rode on Ishan Kishan's 34, Shreyas Iyer's 40&nbsp;and Dinesh Karthik's unbeaten 30&nbsp;to post a moderate 148-6 in 20 overs on a difficult batting track. In reply, Temba Bavuma-led SA reached the target in 18.2 overs courtesy of Heinrich Klaasen's rapid 81. With the series now on the line, as Proteas are one win away from taking an unassailable lead, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has urged the Rahul Dravid-led thinktank to include Jammu &amp; Kashmir pacer Umran Malik in the playing XI for the decisive third T20I.

"The first player I got excited to see was Sachin Tendulkar. The second player is Umran Malik." Gavaskar said after the match.&nbsp;"He should play," Gavaskar added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-match-gets-tight-ex-indian-opener-on-rishabh-pants-captaincy-after-india-go-2-0-down-vs-sa-487749">'When match gets tight...' - Ex-Indian opener on Rishabh Pant's captaincy after India go 2-0 down vs SA</a>

Talking about the 22-year-old Umran, he impressed one and all in his first full IPL season which was held recently. Playing for the one-time winners Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Umran churned out as many as 22 wickets and was also able to clock over 150kph at regular intervals. Thus, Gavaskar feels his extra pace will come in handy for Pant &amp; Co., who have struggled for wickets in the middle overs. For the unversed, Umran was used extensively in the middle overs by SRH and he was quite successful in that phase of the game for the franchise in IPL 2022. Thus, he can be a valuable addition.

The third T20I will be held in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday evening (June 13).&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant-led India came to the second T20I, of the five-match series, versus South Africa with an aim to level the scoreline after a loss in the first encounter.

Rishabh Pant-led India came to the second T20I, of the five-match series, versus South Africa with an aim to level the scoreline after a loss in the first encounter. However, the script remained the same for the home side as they conceded the game by four wickets at the Barabati Stadium, Cuttack on Sunday evening (June 12). Being asked to bat first, India rode on Ishan Kishan's 34, Shreyas Iyer's 40 and Dinesh Karthik's unbeaten 30 to post a moderate 148-6 in 20 overs on a difficult batting track. In reply, Temba Bavuma-led SA reached the target in 18.2 overs courtesy of Heinrich Klaasen's rapid 81. With the series now on the line, as Proteas are one win away from taking an unassailable lead, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has urged the Rahul Dravid-led thinktank to include Jammu & Kashmir pacer Umran Malik in the playing XI for the decisive third T20I. "The first player I got excited to see was Sachin Tendulkar. The second player is Umran Malik." Gavaskar said after the match. "He should play," Gavaskar added. ALSO READ | 'When match gets tight...' - Ex-Indian opener on Rishabh Pant's captaincy after India go 2-0 down vs SA Talking about the 22-year-old Umran, he impressed one and all in his first full IPL season which was held recently. Playing for the one-time winners Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Umran churned out as many as 22 wickets and was also able to clock over 150kph at regular intervals. Thus, Gavaskar feels his extra pace will come in handy for Pant & Co., who have struggled for wickets in the middle overs. For the unversed, Umran was used extensively in the middle overs by SRH and he was quite successful in that phase of the game for the franchise in IPL 2022. Thus, he can be a valuable addition. The third T20I will be held in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday evening (June 13).

'He should play': Sunil Gavaskar urges India to play Umran Malik in 3rd T20I with series on the line vs SA

Former Indian cricket team skipper Sourav Ganguly is regarded as one of the most successful captains to have led the national team. Ganguly took over the reins of Team India in the aftermath of the match-fixing controversy which had led to the ouster of former captain Mohammad Azharuddin. Ganguly went on to make India a force to reckon with under his leadership and gave the country a number of match-winners in the form of the likes of Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, MS Dhoni and Virender Sehwag among others.

Ganguly managed to instil fighting spirit in the Indian team after taking over as captain and helped the team win some memorable matches both at home and overseas. India also became a great touring side under his leadership and went on to prove its mettle across different conditions.

While Ganguly had become one of the key members of the Indian team across formats himself when he took over as captain, he had a number of senior players to work with in&nbsp;his side during his stint as captain. The likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Azharuddin and Rahul Dravid were some of the big names in the Indian squad back then.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-media-rights-auction-everything-you-need-to-know-about-date-time-bidders-base-price-487144">IPL media rights auction: Everything you need to know about date, time, bidders, base price</a>

Recalling his days as captain of the Indian side, Ganguly explained the difference between being a captain and being a leader. Speaking at the Economic Times India Leadership Council, the current Board of for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief said captaincy to him was leading a team on the pitch while leadership was building a team both on and off the ground.

“There is a difference between being a captain and a leader, in a titular position as a captain, how did you make the seniors, and the youngsters believe in your leadership. Captaincy, to me, is leading a team on the ground, and leadership, to me, is building a team. So, whether I worked with Sachin, Azhar, or Dravid, I didn't compete with them; instead, I collaborated with them as leaders and shared responsibility," said Ganguly.

India achieved numerous feats under Ganguly's captaincy, including the famous Natwest Triumph in 2022 and reaching the final of the ICC ODI World Cup in 2003. India also won the Champions Trophy under Ganguly in 2002.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-shatter-world-record-as-dasun-shanaka-helps-them-pull-off-epic-run-chase-against-australia-487415">Sri Lanka shatter world record as Dasun Shanaka helps them pull off epic run-chase against Australia</a>

Ganguly said there was no dearth of talent in the side when he was the captain but it was important to give the players a fair amount of exposure to showcase their skills. He further stated that for him the career of his teammates were equally valuable as his own as he knew what it took to play for the country.

"But talent without exposure is nothing. I had some great players under me who could have gone on to become captain at any time, and I was fortunate enough to meet those great players, so I saw it not only as an honour but also as an opportunity to change things, to make it an even platform for everyone to express themselves," said the current BCCI chief.

"When you select an individual, you firstly selected them based on their abilities, and second, you selected them to succeed. And for me, their career was as important as mine because I know what it took to get here, to represent India,” he added.

Former Indian cricket team skipper Sourav Ganguly is regarded as one of the most successful captains to have led the national team. Ganguly took over the reins of Team India in the aftermath of the match-fixing controversy which had led to the ouster of former captain Mohammad Azharuddin.

Former Indian cricket team skipper Sourav Ganguly is regarded as one of the most successful captains to have led the national team. Ganguly took over the reins of Team India in the aftermath of the match-fixing controversy which had led to the ouster of former captain Mohammad Azharuddin. Ganguly went on to make India a force to reckon with under his leadership and gave the country a number of match-winners in the form of the likes of Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, MS Dhoni and Virender Sehwag among others. Ganguly managed to instil fighting spirit in the Indian team after taking over as captain and helped the team win some memorable matches both at home and overseas. India also became a great touring side under his leadership and went on to prove its mettle across different conditions. While Ganguly had become one of the key members of the Indian team across formats himself when he took over as captain, he had a number of senior players to work with in his side during his stint as captain. The likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Azharuddin and Rahul Dravid were some of the big names in the Indian squad back then. Also Read: IPL media rights auction: Everything you need to know about date, time, bidders, base price Recalling his days as captain of the Indian side, Ganguly explained the difference between being a captain and being a leader. Speaking at the Economic Times India Leadership Council, the current Board of for Cricket in India (BCCI) chief said captaincy to him was leading a team on the pitch while leadership was building a team both on and off the ground. “There is a difference between being a captain and a leader, in a titular position as a captain, how did you make the seniors, and the youngsters believe in your leadership. Captaincy, to me, is leading a team on the ground, and leadership, to me, is building a team. So, whether I worked with Sachin, Azhar, or Dravid, I didn't compete with them; instead, I collaborated with them as leaders and shared responsibility," said Ganguly. India achieved numerous feats under Ganguly's captaincy, including the famous Natwest Triumph in 2022 and reaching the final of the ICC ODI World Cup in 2003. India also won the Champions Trophy under Ganguly in 2002. Also Read: Sri Lanka shatter world record as Dasun Shanaka helps them pull off epic run-chase against Australia Ganguly said there was no dearth of talent in the side when he was the captain but it was important to give the players a fair amount of exposure to showcase their skills. He further stated that for him the career of his teammates were equally valuable as his own as he knew what it took to play for the country. "But talent without exposure is nothing. I had some great players under me who could have gone on to become captain at any time, and I was fortunate enough to meet those great players, so I saw it not only as an honour but also as an opportunity to change things, to make it an even platform for everyone to express themselves," said the current BCCI chief. "When you select an individual, you firstly selected them based on their abilities, and second, you selected them to succeed. And for me, their career was as important as mine because I know what it took to get here, to represent India,” he added.

'I didn't compete with Sachin, Dravid': Sourav Ganguly on difference between being a captain and a leader

During the ongoing second and penultimate Test between England and New Zealand, at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, Daryl Mitchell made heads turn with his six&nbsp;hitting a spectator's beer glass. For the unversed, this isn't the first time that such an incident took place as India's current head coach Rahul Dravid had once famously destroyed a fan's beer pint.&nbsp;

In the second ODI of the seven-match series between India and England, at County Ground, Bristol, the then captain Dravid smashed James Anderson for an impressive flat six. In what turned out to be a hilarious incident, the ball went onto destroy a spectator's beer pint while the commentators praised the fabulous shot but also took note of the funny episode&nbsp;that followed suit.&nbsp;

Here's the video of Dravid's flat six which led to a fan's beer pint being destroyed:

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Since the video of Daryl Mitchell destroying a cricket fan's beer pint is going viral, here's Rahul Dravid doing it with a flat six.<a href="https://t.co/vL37u8KSzN">pic.twitter.com/vL37u8KSzN</a>
— TheRandomCricketPhotosGuy (@RandomCricketP1) <a href="https://twitter.com/RandomCricketP1/status/1535474693179944961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pakistan-penalised-5-runs-after-babar-azam-guilty-of-illegal-fielding-in-2nd-odi-vs-west-indies-487175">WATCH: Pakistan penalised 5 runs after Babar Azam guilty of 'illegal fielding' in 2nd ODI vs West Indies</a>

Talking about the India-England second ODI, Dravid's 63-ball 92 and Sachin Tendulkar's 99 took India to a mammoth 329/7 in 50 overs, after opting to bat first. In reply, Paul Collingwood-led England gave a tough fight with fifties from Ian Bell and&nbsp;Dimitri Mascarenhas, along with starts from other batters, but were restricted for 320 for 8, with Piyush Chawla and Munaf Patel chipping in with&nbsp;three wickets apiece.&nbsp;

Coming to the England-New Zealand ongoing second Test, Kane Williamson-less Kiwis were 318 for 4 at stumps on the opening day of the match with unbeaten fifties from&nbsp;Mitchell and&nbsp;Tom Blundell.

Indian head coach Dravid, on the other hand, is involved in the Men in Blue's&nbsp;home T20Is versus South Africa.

During the ongoing second and penultimate Test between England and New Zealand, at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, Daryl Mitchell made heads turn with his six hitting a spectator's beer glass.

During the ongoing second and penultimate Test between England and New Zealand, at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, Daryl Mitchell made heads turn with his six hitting a spectator's beer glass. For the unversed, this isn't the first time that such an incident took place as India's current head coach Rahul Dravid had once famously destroyed a fan's beer pint. In the second ODI of the seven-match series between India and England, at County Ground, Bristol, the then captain Dravid smashed James Anderson for an impressive flat six. In what turned out to be a hilarious incident, the ball went onto destroy a spectator's beer pint while the commentators praised the fabulous shot but also took note of the funny episode that followed suit. Here's the video of Dravid's flat six which led to a fan's beer pint being destroyed: Since the video of Daryl Mitchell destroying a cricket fan's beer pint is going viral, here's Rahul Dravid doing it with a flat six.pic.twitter.com/vL37u8KSzN — TheRandomCricketPhotosGuy (@RandomCricketP1) June 11, 2022 × ALSO READ | WATCH: Pakistan penalised 5 runs after Babar Azam guilty of 'illegal fielding' in 2nd ODI vs West Indies Talking about the India-England second ODI, Dravid's 63-ball 92 and Sachin Tendulkar's 99 took India to a mammoth 329/7 in 50 overs, after opting to bat first. In reply, Paul Collingwood-led England gave a tough fight with fifties from Ian Bell and Dimitri Mascarenhas, along with starts from other batters, but were restricted for 320 for 8, with Piyush Chawla and Munaf Patel chipping in with three wickets apiece. Coming to the England-New Zealand ongoing second Test, Kane Williamson-less Kiwis were 318 for 4 at stumps on the opening day of the match with unbeaten fifties from Mitchell and Tom Blundell. Indian head coach Dravid, on the other hand, is involved in the Men in Blue's home T20Is versus South Africa.

THROWBACK: When Rahul Dravid's flat six destroyed a spectator's beer pint in India-England ODI - WATCH

Rishabh Pant-led India faced South Africa in the five-match T20I series opener in New Delhi, India on Thursday evening (June 09). In the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain KL Rahul, former skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and some other key players, Pant &amp; Co. couldn't&nbsp;help India achieve a world record of most successive T20I wins (13) courtesy of David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen's fifties in a run-fest in New Delhi, India.&nbsp;

Being asked to bat first, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, openers Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad took their chances and were lucky enough initially -- being rewarded for their positive intent -- as they put on a 57-run opening stand.&nbsp;

Against the run of play, Ruturaj fell but Ishan continued and hammered the bowlers whereas No. 3 batter Shreyas Iyer took on Tabraiz Shamsi. While Ishan fell for a 48-ball 76, and Iyer followed suit, Pant and Hardik Pandya's cameos (12-ball 31*) took India to 211-4, the highest T20I score at the venue.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-can-lead-team-india-in-future-harbhajan-singh-lavishes-praise-on-hardik-pandyas-leadership-486603">'He can lead Team India in future' - Harbhajan Singh lavishes praise on Hardik Pandya's leadership</a>

In reply, South Africa started with some good strokes before skipper Temba Bavuma fell to Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Quinton de Kock got a start whereas pinch-hitter Dwaine Pretorius went hard from his end as SA remained in the hunt.&nbsp;

Harshal Patel's change of pace completely outfoxed Pretorius (13-ball 29) as the onus&nbsp;quickly fell on in-form finisher David Miller. He was assisted by Rassie van der Dussen (75 not out), who wasn't at his best, but stood firm with Miller to keep Proteas alive.&nbsp;

Miller (unbeaten 64) got more than he could have asked for from Rassie, who was struggling in the middle, as the latter came to his own and smashed Harshal Patel in the 17th over, accumulating 22 runs (all in boundaries). From thereon, there was no looking back for the Proteas who rode on Miller-Rassie's unbroken 131-run fourth-wicket stand. The Harshal over sealed the deal for the visitors and&nbsp;they also&nbsp;prevented India from achieving a world record with the most successive T20I victories. In addition, Bavuma &amp; Co.&nbsp;recorded their highest successful run-chase ever.

Thus, the trio of Afghanistan, Romania and India&nbsp;enjoyed a&nbsp;12-match&nbsp;winning streak, however, the latter couldn't create history on Thursday evening.

Rishabh Pant-led India faced South Africa in the five-match T20I series opener in New Delhi, India on Thursday evening (June 09). In the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain KL Rahul, former skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and some other key players, Pant & Co.

Rishabh Pant-led India faced South Africa in the five-match T20I series opener in New Delhi, India on Thursday evening (June 09). In the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain KL Rahul, former skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and some other key players, Pant & Co. couldn't help India achieve a world record of most successive T20I wins (13) courtesy of David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen's fifties in a run-fest in New Delhi, India. Being asked to bat first, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, openers Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad took their chances and were lucky enough initially -- being rewarded for their positive intent -- as they put on a 57-run opening stand. Against the run of play, Ruturaj fell but Ishan continued and hammered the bowlers whereas No. 3 batter Shreyas Iyer took on Tabraiz Shamsi. While Ishan fell for a 48-ball 76, and Iyer followed suit, Pant and Hardik Pandya's cameos (12-ball 31*) took India to 211-4, the highest T20I score at the venue. ALSO READ | 'He can lead Team India in future' - Harbhajan Singh lavishes praise on Hardik Pandya's leadership In reply, South Africa started with some good strokes before skipper Temba Bavuma fell to Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Quinton de Kock got a start whereas pinch-hitter Dwaine Pretorius went hard from his end as SA remained in the hunt. Harshal Patel's change of pace completely outfoxed Pretorius (13-ball 29) as the onus quickly fell on in-form finisher David Miller. He was assisted by Rassie van der Dussen (75 not out), who wasn't at his best, but stood firm with Miller to keep Proteas alive. Miller (unbeaten 64) got more than he could have asked for from Rassie, who was struggling in the middle, as the latter came to his own and smashed Harshal Patel in the 17th over, accumulating 22 runs (all in boundaries). From thereon, there was no looking back for the Proteas who rode on Miller-Rassie's unbroken 131-run fourth-wicket stand. The Harshal over sealed the deal for the visitors and they also prevented India from achieving a world record with the most successive T20I victories. In addition, Bavuma & Co. recorded their highest successful run-chase ever. Thus, the trio of Afghanistan, Romania and India enjoyed a 12-match winning streak, however, the latter couldn't create history on Thursday evening.

1st T20I: David Miller, Rassie van der Dussen prevent India from achieving world record, SA win by 7 wickets

Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks have risen ever since he impressed one and all with his leadership qualities in the IPL 2022 edition. In what was the star all-rounder's first-ever season as captain, the 28-year-old made a huge mark by leading the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden title, beating Rajasthan Royasl (RR) with ease in the final.

Hardik's calm and composed nature on the field, leading the charge in all departments despite additional responsibility and some tactical decisions stood out as many former cricketers and experts of the game are impressed with his game-reading abilities as captain. Ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, where Hardik has been promoted as the vice-captain after Rishabh Pant replaced an injured KL Rahul to become the new stand-in skipper, former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh made a huge claim on Hardik.

"One of the biggest revelations in this year's IPL was the advent of Hardik Pandya as the skipper of the Gujarat Titans and the way he led the team from the front to win the coveted title is definitely praiseworthy. His intent and positive captaincy are signs that he can lead Team India in the future," Harbhajan told PTI in an interview.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-leadership-was-impressive-in-ipl-2022-rahul-dravid-all-praise-for-hardik-pandya-ahead-of-sa-t20is-486132">'His leadership was impressive in IPL 2022' - Rahul Dravid all praise for Hardik Pandya ahead of SA T20Is</a>

Before the SA series opener, head coach Rahul Dravid had also lauded Hardik's captaincy in IPL 15. He told the reporters, "I just met Hardik a couple of hours ago. For the guys who played the final, we gave them an extra day off. But I think his leadership was very impressive right through the IPL. He performed very well. In the sense, you don't have to be designated as a leader to be part of any leadership group. It's not only about Hardik being designated in a position. At this point in time, it's really about it's good from our perspective that he has started bowling again. We know what that does for us, and what his bowling can add to our depth."

Hardik, Pant-starrer India take on South Africa in the five-match T20I series opener on Thursday evening (June 09) in New Delhi, India. Needless to say, Hardik will be eager to fulfill all roles for the Men in Blue, in what is his comeback for the national side after the 2021 T20 World Cup.

Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks have risen ever since he impressed one and all with his leadership qualities in the IPL 2022 edition. In what was the star all-rounder's first-ever season as captain, the 28-year-old made a huge mark by leading the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden title, beating Rajasthan Royasl (RR) with ease in the final.

Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks have risen ever since he impressed one and all with his leadership qualities in the IPL 2022 edition. In what was the star all-rounder's first-ever season as captain, the 28-year-old made a huge mark by leading the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden title, beating Rajasthan Royasl (RR) with ease in the final. Hardik's calm and composed nature on the field, leading the charge in all departments despite additional responsibility and some tactical decisions stood out as many former cricketers and experts of the game are impressed with his game-reading abilities as captain. Ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, where Hardik has been promoted as the vice-captain after Rishabh Pant replaced an injured KL Rahul to become the new stand-in skipper, former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh made a huge claim on Hardik. "One of the biggest revelations in this year's IPL was the advent of Hardik Pandya as the skipper of the Gujarat Titans and the way he led the team from the front to win the coveted title is definitely praiseworthy. His intent and positive captaincy are signs that he can lead Team India in the future," Harbhajan told PTI in an interview. ALSO READ | 'His leadership was impressive in IPL 2022' - Rahul Dravid all praise for Hardik Pandya ahead of SA T20Is Before the SA series opener, head coach Rahul Dravid had also lauded Hardik's captaincy in IPL 15. He told the reporters, "I just met Hardik a couple of hours ago. For the guys who played the final, we gave them an extra day off. But I think his leadership was very impressive right through the IPL. He performed very well. In the sense, you don't have to be designated as a leader to be part of any leadership group. It's not only about Hardik being designated in a position. At this point in time, it's really about it's good from our perspective that he has started bowling again. We know what that does for us, and what his bowling can add to our depth." Hardik, Pant-starrer India take on South Africa in the five-match T20I series opener on Thursday evening (June 09) in New Delhi, India. Needless to say, Hardik will be eager to fulfill all roles for the Men in Blue, in what is his comeback for the national side after the 2021 T20 World Cup.

'He can lead Team India in future' - Harbhajan Singh lavishes praise on Hardik Pandya's leadership

Injury-hit Team India will face Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in the series opener of the five-match T20Is at home on Thursday evening (June 09), in New Delhi, India. On Wednesday evening (June 08), news broke out that stand-in captain KL Rahul has been injured, along with wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav, hence, Rishabh Pant will lead India in the five&nbsp;T20Is&nbsp;versus the Proteas.

For the unversed, Pant was already named the captain when the BCCI selection committee named a Rohit Sharma-less Indian squad for the SA T20Is. With big names such as Rohit, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah rested, and now with Rahul's absence, Pant has a huge task to keep India's winning run intact in the shortest format (12), who are one victory away from creating a new world record of most successive T20I wins.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-to-lead-india-in-t20i-series-vs-sa-after-kl-rahul-kuldeep-yadav-ruled-out-due-to-injury-486284">Rishabh Pant to lead India in T20I series vs SA after KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav ruled out due to injury</a>

As soon as Pant will enter the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi for the coin toss with Bavuma, he will join an elite list by going past former captains Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni. Suresh Raina, the former all-rounder, is the youngest ever Indian captain in men's&nbsp;T20Is (23 years and 197 days), hence, Pant is all set to join him at the second spot. The 24-year-old Pant will then be followed by MS Dhoni (who captained in T20Is at 26), Virender Sehwag (who was 28 when he led India in their first-ever T20I in 2006) and Virat.&nbsp;

Virat led India for the first time in the shortest format in early 2017, when he was 28 years old. Hence, Pant will join some big players on an elusive list as he is set to lead India for the first time ever on Thursday evening.&nbsp;

It will be interesting to see how Pant marshalls his troops, comprising Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Avesh Khan, Umran Malik and some experienced campaigners such as Hardik Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Hardik will serve as Pant's deputy in the five T20Is.

Injury-hit Team India will face Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in the series opener of the five-match T20Is at home on Thursday evening (June 09), in New Delhi, India.

Injury-hit Team India will face Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in the series opener of the five-match T20Is at home on Thursday evening (June 09), in New Delhi, India. On Wednesday evening (June 08), news broke out that stand-in captain KL Rahul has been injured, along with wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav, hence, Rishabh Pant will lead India in the five T20Is versus the Proteas. For the unversed, Pant was already named the captain when the BCCI selection committee named a Rohit Sharma-less Indian squad for the SA T20Is. With big names such as Rohit, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah rested, and now with Rahul's absence, Pant has a huge task to keep India's winning run intact in the shortest format (12), who are one victory away from creating a new world record of most successive T20I wins. ALSO READ | Rishabh Pant to lead India in T20I series vs SA after KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav ruled out due to injury As soon as Pant will enter the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi for the coin toss with Bavuma, he will join an elite list by going past former captains Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni. Suresh Raina, the former all-rounder, is the youngest ever Indian captain in men's T20Is (23 years and 197 days), hence, Pant is all set to join him at the second spot. The 24-year-old Pant will then be followed by MS Dhoni (who captained in T20Is at 26), Virender Sehwag (who was 28 when he led India in their first-ever T20I in 2006) and Virat. Virat led India for the first time in the shortest format in early 2017, when he was 28 years old. Hence, Pant will join some big players on an elusive list as he is set to lead India for the first time ever on Thursday evening. It will be interesting to see how Pant marshalls his troops, comprising Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Avesh Khan, Umran Malik and some experienced campaigners such as Hardik Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Hardik will serve as Pant's deputy in the five T20Is.

India vs SA: Captain Rishabh Pant set to join elite list during 1st T20I, to go past Virat Kohli & MS Dhoni

Hardik Pandya made heads turn in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. Under him, debutants Gujarat Titans won their maiden championship whereas Hardik impressed with 487 runs and eight wickets overall. His leadership was exemplary as he brought the best out of his teammates and led with aplomb.

Ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, at home, head coach Rahul Dravid was all praise for all-rounder Hardik. Dravid hailed the 28-year-old's leadership skills and is eager to get the best of him&nbsp;in all departments.&nbsp;

"I just met Hardik a couple of hours ago. For the guys who played the final, we gave them an extra day off. But I think his leadership was very impressive right through the IPL. He performed very well. In the sense, you don't have to be designated as a leader to be part of any leadership group. It's not only about Hardik being designated in a position. At this point in time, it's really about it's good from our perspective that he has started bowling again. We know what that does for us, and what his bowling can add to our depth," Dravid told reporters in New Delhi ahead of the India-SA series opener, on Thursday (June 09).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-need-to-be-realistic-rahul-dravid-on-umran-maliks-potential-debut-for-india-in-south-africa-t20i-series-486033">'We need to be realistic': Rahul Dravid on Umran Malik's potential debut for India in South Africa T20I series</a>

"It's about ensuring that we can get the best out of him as a cricketer, in terms of bowling, batting, and fielding, and in terms of what happens ahead, it depends on many factors. The selectors will take that decision, in terms of what happens in the future," Dravid added.

Hardik will be making his return in India jersey during the SA T20Is. He was last seen representing India in the 2021 T20 World Cup and since then, he was out of action in order to fully recover from his back issues. Following a glittering IPL campaign, he will be desperate to carry on with his form for Team India as well.

Hardik Pandya made heads turn in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. Under him, debutants Gujarat Titans won their maiden championship whereas Hardik impressed with 487 runs and eight wickets overall.

Hardik Pandya made heads turn in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. Under him, debutants Gujarat Titans won their maiden championship whereas Hardik impressed with 487 runs and eight wickets overall. His leadership was exemplary as he brought the best out of his teammates and led with aplomb. Ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, at home, head coach Rahul Dravid was all praise for all-rounder Hardik. Dravid hailed the 28-year-old's leadership skills and is eager to get the best of him in all departments. "I just met Hardik a couple of hours ago. For the guys who played the final, we gave them an extra day off. But I think his leadership was very impressive right through the IPL. He performed very well. In the sense, you don't have to be designated as a leader to be part of any leadership group. It's not only about Hardik being designated in a position. At this point in time, it's really about it's good from our perspective that he has started bowling again. We know what that does for us, and what his bowling can add to our depth," Dravid told reporters in New Delhi ahead of the India-SA series opener, on Thursday (June 09). ALSO READ | 'We need to be realistic': Rahul Dravid on Umran Malik's potential debut for India in South Africa T20I series "It's about ensuring that we can get the best out of him as a cricketer, in terms of bowling, batting, and fielding, and in terms of what happens ahead, it depends on many factors. The selectors will take that decision, in terms of what happens in the future," Dravid added. Hardik will be making his return in India jersey during the SA T20Is. He was last seen representing India in the 2021 T20 World Cup and since then, he was out of action in order to fully recover from his back issues. Following a glittering IPL campaign, he will be desperate to carry on with his form for Team India as well.

'His leadership was impressive in IPL 2022' - Rahul Dravid all praise for Hardik Pandya ahead of SA T20Is

Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant was in for a surprise on Wednesday (June 08) as he was named captain of the Indian cricket team just a day ahead of the start of the T20I series against South Africa at home. KL Rahul had been appointed as the captain of the side in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. However, Rahul was ruled out of the five-match series due to an injury on Wednesday paving way for Pant to be named captain.

Pant, who is part of the Indian team's leadership group under captain Rohit, will now geat a chance to lead the team for the first tim in his career. Pant has never captained the Indian team but has been leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) for the past two seasons in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has significant experience behind his back.

Reacting to his appointment as captain of the Indian team, Pant said it was a good feeling overall but he would have liked the announcement to have come under better circumstances. Rahul along with spinner Kuldeep Yadav have been ruled out of the series due to injuries which is a huge blow for the Indian team ahead of the T20I series against the Proteas.

“It is a very good feeling, did not come under very good circumstances but at the same time I am feeling happy. I would like to thank the BCCI for giving me this opportunity to lead the Indian side. I will try to make the most out of it. Thank you to all my well-wishers for supporting me in my journey through the thick and thin of my cricketing career. I will look to make it a base and keep improving and keep making my life better and better each and every day," Pant said during a press conference ahead of the first ODI on Wednesday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/do-you-ask-the-same-question-to-a-male-cricketer-when-mithali-raj-stumped-a-reporter-with-her-response-486312">'Do you ask the same question to a male cricketer': When Mithali&nbsp;stumped a reporter with her response</a>

With Rahul no more in the scheme of things, India have been left with fewer options on top of the order. While Shikhar Dhawan is not part of the squad, Rohit has been rested and Rahul is now ruled out leaving India with only two specialist openers in Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad.&nbsp;

Venkatesh Iyer didn't have a great season with KKR in IPL 2022 as an opener and is unlikely to get a chance at the top against the Proteas. When asked about the change in the batting order in Rahul's absence, Pant admitted India do not have many options at the top and it remains to be seen what combination will be the best for the hosts.

“I think there would not be much change in the batting order as KL would have opened. We do not have many openers, we will discuss about it after some time," said Pant.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-to-lead-india-in-t20i-series-vs-sa-after-kl-rahul-kuldeep-yadav-ruled-out-due-to-injury-486284">Rishabh Pant to lead India in T20I series vs SA after KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav ruled out due to injury</a>

The stand-in skipper also hinted at a change in India's strategy and approach as far as T20 cricket is concerned. Pant said the hosts are looking to play a different brand of cricket with the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia not far away now.

“I think as a team we have thought about certain goals we want to achieve as a team. At the end, we have the World Cup at the back of our head and we are preparing for that. In the coming days, you will see there will be changes and how we play cricket I guess," Pant added.

Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant was in for a surprise on Wednesday (June 08) as he was named captain of the Indian cricket team just a day ahead of the start of the T20I series against South Africa at home.

Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant was in for a surprise on Wednesday (June 08) as he was named captain of the Indian cricket team just a day ahead of the start of the T20I series against South Africa at home. KL Rahul had been appointed as the captain of the side in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. However, Rahul was ruled out of the five-match series due to an injury on Wednesday paving way for Pant to be named captain. Pant, who is part of the Indian team's leadership group under captain Rohit, will now geat a chance to lead the team for the first tim in his career. Pant has never captained the Indian team but has been leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) for the past two seasons in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has significant experience behind his back. Reacting to his appointment as captain of the Indian team, Pant said it was a good feeling overall but he would have liked the announcement to have come under better circumstances. Rahul along with spinner Kuldeep Yadav have been ruled out of the series due to injuries which is a huge blow for the Indian team ahead of the T20I series against the Proteas. “It is a very good feeling, did not come under very good circumstances but at the same time I am feeling happy. I would like to thank the BCCI for giving me this opportunity to lead the Indian side. I will try to make the most out of it. Thank you to all my well-wishers for supporting me in my journey through the thick and thin of my cricketing career. I will look to make it a base and keep improving and keep making my life better and better each and every day," Pant said during a press conference ahead of the first ODI on Wednesday. Also Read: 'Do you ask the same question to a male cricketer': When Mithali stumped a reporter with her response With Rahul no more in the scheme of things, India have been left with fewer options on top of the order. While Shikhar Dhawan is not part of the squad, Rohit has been rested and Rahul is now ruled out leaving India with only two specialist openers in Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad. Venkatesh Iyer didn't have a great season with KKR in IPL 2022 as an opener and is unlikely to get a chance at the top against the Proteas. When asked about the change in the batting order in Rahul's absence, Pant admitted India do not have many options at the top and it remains to be seen what combination will be the best for the hosts. “I think there would not be much change in the batting order as KL would have opened. We do not have many openers, we will discuss about it after some time," said Pant. Also Read: Rishabh Pant to lead India in T20I series vs SA after KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav ruled out due to injury The stand-in skipper also hinted at a change in India's strategy and approach as far as T20 cricket is concerned. Pant said the hosts are looking to play a different brand of cricket with the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia not far away now. “I think as a team we have thought about certain goals we want to achieve as a team. At the end, we have the World Cup at the back of our head and we are preparing for that. In the coming days, you will see there will be changes and how we play cricket I guess," Pant added.

'Didn't come under very good circumstances': Rishabh Pant on captaining India for the first time in his career

Umran Malik had made heads turn throughout the IPL 2022 edition. His raw pace, deadly yorkers and some tidy spells changed the complexion of the game in favour of Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) before the one-time winners' group stage exit.

Umran, however, returned with as many as 22 wickets and was the fourth-highest wicket-taker, overall, in the 15th season of the IPL, which ended with Gujarat Titans (GT) being crowned the eventual winners. Further, the Jammu &amp; Kashmir speedster bowled the fastest ball of the match in every game SRH featured in and held the record for bowling the quickest ball of the season (157 kph) before Lockie Ferguson went past him&nbsp;in the final (by clocking 157.3 kph).&nbsp;

After a memorable IPL 2022 season, Umran is now part of India's T20I squad for the home series versus South Africa, which gets underway on June 09 in New Delhi. Before that, the 22-year-old revealed how SRH's bowling coach and legendary SA pacer Steyn had predicted his India call-up before IPL 2022.

"When I got selected for India, Dale sir (Steyn) was with me in the team bus. We were going for the match. Everyone congratulated me and Dale sir said, 'I told you before the IPL that you will get the India call-up after the season'. And that's exactly what happened, by the grace of god. My goal is to give my best for Team India now,” Malik said in the video shared by BCCI.

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💬 💬 "A dream come true moment to get India call up." 
 
Umran Malik speaks about the excitement on being a part of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> squad, Day 1 at the practice session, his idols and goals ahead. 👍 👍 - By <a href="https://twitter.com/28anand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@28anand</a> 
 
Full interview 🎥 🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://t.co/V9ySL4JKDl">pic.twitter.com/V9ySL4JKDl</a>
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On joining the Indian camp, Umran said, "I was very happy to meet and talk with Rahul sir. He is such a legend of the game. He just told me to keep continuing what I do. Paras sir was also standing behind me and he was guiding me after every ball. It was giving me a lot of confidence."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-need-to-be-realistic-rahul-dravid-on-umran-maliks-potential-debut-for-india-in-south-africa-t20i-series-486033">'We need to be realistic': Rahul Dravid on Umran Malik's potential debut for India in South Africa T20I series</a>

In regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence, KL Rahul will lead the national side in the forthcoming SA T20Is at home. It will be interesting to see if Umran features in the playing XI for the series opener or is made to wait for his chances.

India's T20I squad for South Africa series -&nbsp;KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Umran Malik had made heads turn throughout the IPL 2022 edition. His raw pace, deadly yorkers and some tidy spells changed the complexion of the game in favour of Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) before the one-time winners' group stage exit.

Umran Malik had made heads turn throughout the IPL 2022 edition. His raw pace, deadly yorkers and some tidy spells changed the complexion of the game in favour of Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) before the one-time winners' group stage exit. Umran, however, returned with as many as 22 wickets and was the fourth-highest wicket-taker, overall, in the 15th season of the IPL, which ended with Gujarat Titans (GT) being crowned the eventual winners. Further, the Jammu & Kashmir speedster bowled the fastest ball of the match in every game SRH featured in and held the record for bowling the quickest ball of the season (157 kph) before Lockie Ferguson went past him in the final (by clocking 157.3 kph). After a memorable IPL 2022 season, Umran is now part of India's T20I squad for the home series versus South Africa, which gets underway on June 09 in New Delhi. Before that, the 22-year-old revealed how SRH's bowling coach and legendary SA pacer Steyn had predicted his India call-up before IPL 2022. "When I got selected for India, Dale sir (Steyn) was with me in the team bus. We were going for the match. Everyone congratulated me and Dale sir said, 'I told you before the IPL that you will get the India call-up after the season'. And that's exactly what happened, by the grace of god. My goal is to give my best for Team India now,” Malik said in the video shared by BCCI. 💬 💬 "A dream come true moment to get India call up." Umran Malik speaks about the excitement on being a part of the #TeamIndia squad, Day 1 at the practice session, his idols and goals ahead. 👍 👍 - By @28anand Full interview 🎥 🔽 #INDvSA | @Paytm pic.twitter.com/V9ySL4JKDl — BCCI (@BCCI) June 8, 2022 × On joining the Indian camp, Umran said, "I was very happy to meet and talk with Rahul sir. He is such a legend of the game. He just told me to keep continuing what I do. Paras sir was also standing behind me and he was guiding me after every ball. It was giving me a lot of confidence." ALSO READ | 'We need to be realistic': Rahul Dravid on Umran Malik's potential debut for India in South Africa T20I series In regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence, KL Rahul will lead the national side in the forthcoming SA T20Is at home. It will be interesting to see if Umran features in the playing XI for the series opener or is made to wait for his chances. India's T20I squad for South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Pace sensation Umran Malik reveals how Dale Steyn had predicted his India call-up before IPL 2022

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lavished praise on head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, which gets underway on June 09. Pathan, who has played under Dravid's captaincy, hailed The Wall for his knack for being crystal clear with his players in terms of what he wants from them.

In this regard, Pathan feels Dravid must have given role clarity to a new-looking Indian squad which is gearing up to face Temba Bavuma-led Proteas in the five-match T20I series at home and must have communicated what he wants from KL Rahul the batter and captain (in regular skipper Rohit Sharma's absence).

Speaking on Star Sports, Irfan said, "It is extremely necessary and the clarity would have been given. I have been saying that since Rahul Dravid has come as a coach, I have played under his captaincy, his biggest thing is the clarity of role.

“It is not that the earlier coaches have not done that, Ravi Shastri was there and Virat Kohli was captaining, but he (Dravid) will take it one step ahead. I have full belief the communication would have happened and KL Rahul would have been told that if he is the captain, it means he is the next in line,” he further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-head-coach-rahul-dravid-gives-pep-talk-as-team-india-begin-training-for-south-africa-t20i-series-485649">WATCH: Head coach Rahul Dravid gives pep talk as Team India begin training for South Africa T20I series</a>

The Dravid-Rahul-led Indian team will be eager to get off to a winning start in the five T20Is as they are preparing hard for this year's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in the second half of 2022. For the SA series, Rohit, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested.

India's T20I squad for South Africa series -&nbsp;KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lavished praise on head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, which gets underway on June 09. Pathan, who has played under Dravid's captaincy, hailed The Wall for his knack for being crystal clear with his players in terms of what he wants from them.

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has lavished praise on head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, which gets underway on June 09. Pathan, who has played under Dravid's captaincy, hailed The Wall for his knack for being crystal clear with his players in terms of what he wants from them. In this regard, Pathan feels Dravid must have given role clarity to a new-looking Indian squad which is gearing up to face Temba Bavuma-led Proteas in the five-match T20I series at home and must have communicated what he wants from KL Rahul the batter and captain (in regular skipper Rohit Sharma's absence). Speaking on Star Sports, Irfan said, "It is extremely necessary and the clarity would have been given. I have been saying that since Rahul Dravid has come as a coach, I have played under his captaincy, his biggest thing is the clarity of role. “It is not that the earlier coaches have not done that, Ravi Shastri was there and Virat Kohli was captaining, but he (Dravid) will take it one step ahead. I have full belief the communication would have happened and KL Rahul would have been told that if he is the captain, it means he is the next in line,” he further added. ALSO READ | WATCH: Head coach Rahul Dravid gives pep talk as Team India begin training for South Africa T20I series The Dravid-Rahul-led Indian team will be eager to get off to a winning start in the five T20Is as they are preparing hard for this year's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia in the second half of 2022. For the SA series, Rohit, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested. India's T20I squad for South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

KL Rahul would've been told he's next-in-line: Irfan Pathan on Rahul Dravid's communication with India captain

Umran Malik earned his dream maiden call up in India's T20I squad after an exceptional season with the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Malik, who is gifted with natural pace, showcased his skills after being backed by the SRH team management and consistently clocked over 150 kmph to trouble the batters.&nbsp;

While he bowled with express pace, a rare commodity in Indian cricket, Umran also worked on his line and length to continue improving throughout the season. The 23-year-old finished as SRH's highest wicket-taker with 23 wickets to his name to be deservingly named in India's squad for the upcoming T20I series against the Proteas.

Ahead of the first ODI between the two sides at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi on Tuesday, India head coach Rahul Dravid spoke about the chances of Umran's potential debut in the South Africa series. Dravid believes Umran is learning and improving but they need to be realistic when it comes to giving the youngster some playing time during the series as he has a big squad at his disposal.

"Obviously, he is learning. He is a young boy and he is getting better, improving. The more he is able to play, the better he is going to get. From our perspective, (we are) very happy to have someone like him in the mix. We have to see how much playing time we can give him, we need to be realistic, we have a large squad, it is not possible to give everyone playing XI time," Dravid said at the pre-match presser in Delhi.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-explains-karthiks-role-in-team-india-justifies-skipper-rohits-decision-to-skip-sa-series-485987">Rahul Dravid explains Karthik's role in Team India, justifies skipper Rohit's decision to skip SA series</a>

Apart from Umran, India have also roped in Arshdeep Singh, who has been impressing for Punjab Kings ovr the last few seasons in the IPL. The young left-arm pacer is known for his consistent yorkers and ability to hit the right areas under pressure in the death overs. Besides the duo, India also have the likes of Harshal Patel and Avesh Khan along with the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar to carry the pace attack.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-should-watch-out-michael-vaughan-makes-bold-claim-as-joe-root-breaches-10000-run-mark-in-tests-485960">'Sachin should watch out': Vaughan makes bold claim as Joe Root breaches 10,000-run mark in Tests</a>

Dravid said he would like to give game time to both Umran and Arshdeep while also ensuring that the likes of Harshal, Avesh and Bhuvneshwar are not in and out of the playing XI too much. Dravid said he would like to give his players time to settle down and not chop and change too much.

"I think I am certainly someone who likes to have that consistency, give people time and let him feel settled in position. It would be interesting to see how much playing time we give to Umran. We also have Arshdeep here, who is brilliant as well. We have experience in the form of guys who have been with us before; Harshal, Bhuvi, Avesh," said Dravid.&nbsp;

"There are certain things we need to look at but it is nice and exciting to have a couple of young guys in the mix as well. It has given an opportunity for us to broaden our pool and see what they can do," added the India head coach.

Umran Malik earned his dream maiden call up in India's T20I squad after an exceptional season with the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

Umran Malik earned his dream maiden call up in India's T20I squad after an exceptional season with the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Malik, who is gifted with natural pace, showcased his skills after being backed by the SRH team management and consistently clocked over 150 kmph to trouble the batters. While he bowled with express pace, a rare commodity in Indian cricket, Umran also worked on his line and length to continue improving throughout the season. The 23-year-old finished as SRH's highest wicket-taker with 23 wickets to his name to be deservingly named in India's squad for the upcoming T20I series against the Proteas. Ahead of the first ODI between the two sides at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi on Tuesday, India head coach Rahul Dravid spoke about the chances of Umran's potential debut in the South Africa series. Dravid believes Umran is learning and improving but they need to be realistic when it comes to giving the youngster some playing time during the series as he has a big squad at his disposal. "Obviously, he is learning. He is a young boy and he is getting better, improving. The more he is able to play, the better he is going to get. From our perspective, (we are) very happy to have someone like him in the mix. We have to see how much playing time we can give him, we need to be realistic, we have a large squad, it is not possible to give everyone playing XI time," Dravid said at the pre-match presser in Delhi. Also Read: Rahul Dravid explains Karthik's role in Team India, justifies skipper Rohit's decision to skip SA series Apart from Umran, India have also roped in Arshdeep Singh, who has been impressing for Punjab Kings ovr the last few seasons in the IPL. The young left-arm pacer is known for his consistent yorkers and ability to hit the right areas under pressure in the death overs. Besides the duo, India also have the likes of Harshal Patel and Avesh Khan along with the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar to carry the pace attack. Also Read: 'Sachin should watch out': Vaughan makes bold claim as Joe Root breaches 10,000-run mark in Tests Dravid said he would like to give game time to both Umran and Arshdeep while also ensuring that the likes of Harshal, Avesh and Bhuvneshwar are not in and out of the playing XI too much. Dravid said he would like to give his players time to settle down and not chop and change too much. "I think I am certainly someone who likes to have that consistency, give people time and let him feel settled in position. It would be interesting to see how much playing time we give to Umran. We also have Arshdeep here, who is brilliant as well. We have experience in the form of guys who have been with us before; Harshal, Bhuvi, Avesh," said Dravid. "There are certain things we need to look at but it is nice and exciting to have a couple of young guys in the mix as well. It has given an opportunity for us to broaden our pool and see what they can do," added the India head coach.

'We need to be realistic': Rahul Dravid on Umran Malik's potential debut for India in South Africa T20I series

Indian cricket team's head coach Rahul Dravid explained why it was important for captain Rohit Sharma to take a break from the team's upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. Some experts felt Rohit should have continued playing following the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and have led the side in the five T20Is against the Proteas. Rohit has been rested from the T20I series along with other senior players like&nbsp;Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami.

The Indian players will be returning to action for the first time since the conclusion of IPL 2022 on May 29. The members of the squad got a short break in between before assembling in New Delhi for the series-opener at the Arun Jaitely Stadium on Thursday (June 09). In Rohit's absence, KL Rahul will be leading the side against Temba Bavuma's men.

Explaining why it was crucial for Rohit to get a break, Dravid said the Indian skipper is an all-format player and needs to be provided adequate rest to ensure he is fit and fresh for the challenges ahead. The Indian head coach insisted there will be times when the team will have to rest their best players for a particular series to manage their workload.

&nbsp;“Rohit is our all-format player. It would be unwise to expect everyone to be available all the time. We want them to be fit and fresh as well. There would be times where we would have to rest our big players," Dravid responded to a reporter's query on Rohit at the presser on Tuesday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-sachin-or-dhoni-hardik-pandya-names-his-favourite-cricketer-says-always-placed-him-above-other-legends-485969">Not Sachin or Dhoni! Hardik&nbsp;names his favourite cricketer, says always placed him above other legends</a>

Rahul Dravid on Dinesh Karthik's comeback:

Veteran wicket-keeper batter Dinesh Karthik managed to make a comeback to the Indian team after a long gap of three years on the back of his performances for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. Karthik was phenomenal as a finisher for his team and played a number of crucial knocks down the order.

The veteran batter went on to amass 330 runs in 16 matches at an average of 55 and a brilliant strike rate of 183.33 to impress the selectors and make his return to the Indian team. He last featured for India during the ODI World Cup in 2019. When asked about his return, Dravid said Karthik will have a very clear role in the team of finishing games while batting down the order.

"With Dinesh, it is clear with the role. At the backend of the game, he can make a difference. That's why he has been picked, to bat in those positions and deliver for India as well," said Dravid.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-should-watch-out-michael-vaughan-makes-bold-claim-as-joe-root-breaches-10000-run-mark-in-tests-485960">'Sachin should watch out': Vaughan makes bold claim as Joe Root breaches 10,000-run mark in Tests</a>

India will lock horns with South Africa in the first T20I in Delhi on Thursday before moving to Cuttack for the second game on Sunday (June 12). The next three matches will be played in Vizag, Rajkot and Bengaluru respectively. India are currently on an 11-match unbeaten streak in T20Is and will hope to keep the winning streak intact on Thursday.

&nbsp;

Indian cricket team's head coach Rahul Dravid explained why it was important for captain Rohit Sharma to take a break from the team's upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home.

Indian cricket team's head coach Rahul Dravid explained why it was important for captain Rohit Sharma to take a break from the team's upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. Some experts felt Rohit should have continued playing following the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and have led the side in the five T20Is against the Proteas. Rohit has been rested from the T20I series along with other senior players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami. The Indian players will be returning to action for the first time since the conclusion of IPL 2022 on May 29. The members of the squad got a short break in between before assembling in New Delhi for the series-opener at the Arun Jaitely Stadium on Thursday (June 09). In Rohit's absence, KL Rahul will be leading the side against Temba Bavuma's men. Explaining why it was crucial for Rohit to get a break, Dravid said the Indian skipper is an all-format player and needs to be provided adequate rest to ensure he is fit and fresh for the challenges ahead. The Indian head coach insisted there will be times when the team will have to rest their best players for a particular series to manage their workload. “Rohit is our all-format player. It would be unwise to expect everyone to be available all the time. We want them to be fit and fresh as well. There would be times where we would have to rest our big players," Dravid responded to a reporter's query on Rohit at the presser on Tuesday. Also Read: Not Sachin or Dhoni! Hardik names his favourite cricketer, says always placed him above other legends Rahul Dravid on Dinesh Karthik's comeback: Veteran wicket-keeper batter Dinesh Karthik managed to make a comeback to the Indian team after a long gap of three years on the back of his performances for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. Karthik was phenomenal as a finisher for his team and played a number of crucial knocks down the order. The veteran batter went on to amass 330 runs in 16 matches at an average of 55 and a brilliant strike rate of 183.33 to impress the selectors and make his return to the Indian team. He last featured for India during the ODI World Cup in 2019. When asked about his return, Dravid said Karthik will have a very clear role in the team of finishing games while batting down the order. "With Dinesh, it is clear with the role. At the backend of the game, he can make a difference. That's why he has been picked, to bat in those positions and deliver for India as well," said Dravid. Also Read: 'Sachin should watch out': Vaughan makes bold claim as Joe Root breaches 10,000-run mark in Tests India will lock horns with South Africa in the first T20I in Delhi on Thursday before moving to Cuttack for the second game on Sunday (June 12). The next three matches will be played in Vizag, Rajkot and Bengaluru respectively. India are currently on an 11-match unbeaten streak in T20Is and will hope to keep the winning streak intact on Thursday.

Rahul Dravid explains Karthik's role in Team India, justifies skipper Rohit's decision to skip SA series

India have begun their preparations for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. KL Rahul will lead the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma in the five-match series against the Proteas. Several youngsters who impressed in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 have made the cut into the squad and will be eager to perform for the Men in Blue.

The five-match series against South Africa is scheduled to get underway from June 09 at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi. Each member of the Indian squad was in action during IPL 2022 which concluded on May 29 and got a much-deserved break before returning for national duty this month.

Apart from skipper Rohit, senior players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami have also been rested from the squad and will return to action in the one-off Test against England next month. In their absence, it will be a litmus test for Rahul as captain in charge of a young team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-will-go-miles-past-my-record-alastair-cook-lauds-joe-root-after-he-goes-past-10000-runs-in-test-cricket-485600">He will go miles past my record: Cook lauds Joe Root after he goes past 10,000 runs in Test cricket</a>

In a video shared by BCCI on Twitter, India head coach Rahul Dravid was seen giving a pep talk to the players as they stood in a huddle during their training session at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi on Monday. The likes of Rahul, Dinesh Karthik, Arshdeep Singh and others were seen listening with attention.

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Back in Blue - Prep mode <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> begin training in Delhi ahead of the 1st T20I against South Africa.<a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/kOr8jsGJwL">pic.twitter.com/kOr8jsGJwL</a>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-not-followed-waqar-younis-umran-malik-reveals-his-3-idols-after-comparisons-with-ex-pakistan-pacer-485563">'I have not followed Waqar Younis': Umran reveals his 3 idols after comparisons with ex-Pakistan pacer</a>

While the likes of Umran and Arshdeep were selected in the squad after their exploits with the ball in the recently-concluded season, veteran Karthik also managed to make his comeback to the team after a gap of 3 years. Karthik, who last featured for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup, was phenomenal for RCB as a finisher in IPL 2022.

In the absence of Bumrah and Shami, Bhuvneshwar will spearhead India's pace attack and will have support from the likes of Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Umran and Arshdeep. India will be hoping to get off to a winning start in the T20I series and gain some momentum for the rest four games. It remains to be seen if Umran will be handed his debut after a stellar season in IPL 2022.

India have begun their preparations for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. KL Rahul will lead the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma in the five-match series against the Proteas.

India have begun their preparations for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. KL Rahul will lead the Indian team in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma in the five-match series against the Proteas. Several youngsters who impressed in the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 have made the cut into the squad and will be eager to perform for the Men in Blue. The five-match series against South Africa is scheduled to get underway from June 09 at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi. Each member of the Indian squad was in action during IPL 2022 which concluded on May 29 and got a much-deserved break before returning for national duty this month. Apart from skipper Rohit, senior players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami have also been rested from the squad and will return to action in the one-off Test against England next month. In their absence, it will be a litmus test for Rahul as captain in charge of a young team. Also Read: He will go miles past my record: Cook lauds Joe Root after he goes past 10,000 runs in Test cricket In a video shared by BCCI on Twitter, India head coach Rahul Dravid was seen giving a pep talk to the players as they stood in a huddle during their training session at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi on Monday. The likes of Rahul, Dinesh Karthik, Arshdeep Singh and others were seen listening with attention. Back in Blue - Prep mode #TeamIndia begin training in Delhi ahead of the 1st T20I against South Africa.@Paytm #INDvSA pic.twitter.com/kOr8jsGJwL — BCCI (@BCCI) June 6, 2022 × Also Read: 'I have not followed Waqar Younis': Umran reveals his 3 idols after comparisons with ex-Pakistan pacer While the likes of Umran and Arshdeep were selected in the squad after their exploits with the ball in the recently-concluded season, veteran Karthik also managed to make his comeback to the team after a gap of 3 years. Karthik, who last featured for India during the 2019 ODI World Cup, was phenomenal for RCB as a finisher in IPL 2022. In the absence of Bumrah and Shami, Bhuvneshwar will spearhead India's pace attack and will have support from the likes of Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Umran and Arshdeep. India will be hoping to get off to a winning start in the T20I series and gain some momentum for the rest four games. It remains to be seen if Umran will be handed his debut after a stellar season in IPL 2022.

WATCH: Head coach Rahul Dravid gives pep talk as Team India begin training for South Africa T20I series

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