India's head coach Rahul Dravid is not "hurt" by Wriddhiman Saha revealing the "difficult" conversation that the two had about his future as he firmly believes that the veteran keeper-batter "deserved the honesty and clarity" which was provided to him.

Saha, whose India career has come to a halt, recently told the media that Dravid asked him to consider retirement during a private conversation after the South Africa series last month.

Dravid said his intention behind talking to Saha was to ensure he has a clear picture of where he stands and he does not regret it.

"I'm actually not hurt at all. I have deep respect for Wriddhi and his achievements and his contribution to Indian cricket. My conversation came from that place. I think he deserved honesty and clarity," Dravid replied at the end of the T20 series against the West Indies which India won 3-0 on Sunday.

The 37-year-old, who has played 40 Tests for India, was dropped from the squad ahead of the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. He subsequently pulled out of the ongoing Ranji Trophy as well.

Dravid said he will continue having such conversations with players whether they like the discussion or not. 
"It's about conversations I constantly have with players. I don't expect players to always agree with everything I say about them.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/time-for-sourav-ganguly-to-step-in-ravi-shastri-shocked-as-wriddhiman-saha-threatened-by-a-journalist-454956">Time for Sourav Ganguly to step in: Ravi Shastri 'shocked' as Wriddhiman Saha threatened by a journalist</a>

"That's not how it works. You can have difficult conversations with the players, but that doesn't mean you brush it under the carpet and don't have the conversations," Dravid was crystal clear about his approach.

Dravid said that his philosophy is to have discussions with players before every playing XI is picked.

"I always believe in having those conversations before every playing XI is picked and be open to questions such as why they are not playing. It's natural for players to get upset and feel hurt," he said.

Dravid also explained the rationale behind speaking to Saha, saying that it was necessary as Rishabh Pant has already established himself as the new No.1 wicketkeeper across formats and the Bengal man wouldn't have got chances going forward.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dravid-suggested-retirement-ganguly-assured-test-spot-wriddhiman-saha-makes-explosive-revelations-454719">Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot: Wriddhiman Saha makes explosive revelations</a>

"I was just trying to convey that with RP (Pant), having established himself as our No.1 wicketkeeper-batsman, the idea was to say that we are looking to groom a younger wicketkeeper (Kona Bharat).

"This doesn't change my feelings or respect for Wriddhi," he asserted.

For Dravid, telling a harsh truth is better than avoiding a conversation altogether. "Easiest thing for me is to not have these conversations and not speak to players about it. That's not what I am going to do.

"But at some stage, I hope they respect the fact that I was able to front up and have those conversations," he added.&nbsp;

India's head coach Rahul Dravid is not "hurt" by Wriddhiman Saha revealing the "difficult" conversation that the two had about his future as he firmly believes that the veteran keeper-batter "deserved the honesty and clarity" which was provided to him.

India's head coach Rahul Dravid is not "hurt" by Wriddhiman Saha revealing the "difficult" conversation that the two had about his future as he firmly believes that the veteran keeper-batter "deserved the honesty and clarity" which was provided to him. Saha, whose India career has come to a halt, recently told the media that Dravid asked him to consider retirement during a private conversation after the South Africa series last month. Dravid said his intention behind talking to Saha was to ensure he has a clear picture of where he stands and he does not regret it. "I'm actually not hurt at all. I have deep respect for Wriddhi and his achievements and his contribution to Indian cricket. My conversation came from that place. I think he deserved honesty and clarity," Dravid replied at the end of the T20 series against the West Indies which India won 3-0 on Sunday. The 37-year-old, who has played 40 Tests for India, was dropped from the squad ahead of the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka. He subsequently pulled out of the ongoing Ranji Trophy as well. Dravid said he will continue having such conversations with players whether they like the discussion or not. "It's about conversations I constantly have with players. I don't expect players to always agree with everything I say about them. Also Read: Time for Sourav Ganguly to step in: Ravi Shastri 'shocked' as Wriddhiman Saha threatened by a journalist "That's not how it works. You can have difficult conversations with the players, but that doesn't mean you brush it under the carpet and don't have the conversations," Dravid was crystal clear about his approach. Dravid said that his philosophy is to have discussions with players before every playing XI is picked. "I always believe in having those conversations before every playing XI is picked and be open to questions such as why they are not playing. It's natural for players to get upset and feel hurt," he said. Dravid also explained the rationale behind speaking to Saha, saying that it was necessary as Rishabh Pant has already established himself as the new No.1 wicketkeeper across formats and the Bengal man wouldn't have got chances going forward. Also Read: Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot: Wriddhiman Saha makes explosive revelations "I was just trying to convey that with RP (Pant), having established himself as our No.1 wicketkeeper-batsman, the idea was to say that we are looking to groom a younger wicketkeeper (Kona Bharat). "This doesn't change my feelings or respect for Wriddhi," he asserted. For Dravid, telling a harsh truth is better than avoiding a conversation altogether. "Easiest thing for me is to not have these conversations and not speak to players about it. That's not what I am going to do. "But at some stage, I hope they respect the fact that I was able to front up and have those conversations," he added.

Not hurt by Wriddhiman Saha's comments, he deserved honesty and clarity about his position: Rahul Dravid

Wriddhiman Saha was not picked in India's Test squad for the upcoming Sri Lanka series at home. Saha was among four senior players who were dropped from the squad for the two-match series against the visitors. The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel announced India's T20I and Test squad in a virtual press conference on Saturday (February 29).

While Rohit Sharma was appointed India's permanent captain in Tests, the selectors made a bold call by dropping senior players like Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Saha. While chief selector Sharma refused to divulge the details of the reason behind not including Saha in the squad, he also insisted the senior wicket-keeper not playing in the ongoing Ranji Trophy is not a concern for the selectors.

His non-selection has not gone down well with Saha, who has made some explosive revelations after being dropped from the Indian Test squad. The senior wicket-keeper batter revealed that he had received an assurance from BCCI president Sourav Ganguly that his spot in the Indian Test team is secure as long as he is at the helm of the Indian cricket board.

Saha had played a crucial knock of 61 runs in the first Test against New Zealand last year to bail India out of trouble in Kanpur. Saha claimed it was after his unbeaten 61 against the Kiwis that he had received a message from Ganguly, the president of BCCI, assuring him of his spot is safe in the Test team as long as he was there.

“After scoring 61 against New Zealand at Kanpur, Dadi (Ganguly) congratulated me over WhatsApp and mentioned, ‘As long as I’m here (helming the BCCI), you would be in the team’. Such a message from the BCCI president really boosted my confidence. What I’m struggling to understand is that how things have changed so fast,” Saha was quoted as saying by PTI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chief-selector-chetan-sharma-explains-reason-behind-dropping-pujara-rahane-from-indias-test-squad-454610">Chief selector Chetan Sharma explains reason behind dropping Pujara, Rahane from India's Test squad</a>

Rahul Dravid asked me to consider retiring: Wriddhman Saha&nbsp;

After venting his frustration out against BCCI president Ganguly, Saha also made some startling revelations against India's current head coach Rahul Dravid. The senior wicket-keeper batter said he was told by the Indian team management that he will not be considered for selection in the Test side anymore and that he should retire.

"The team management had told me that I would not be considered henceforth. I could not tell this so long as I was part of the India team setup. Even coach Rahul Dravid suggested that I think about taking retirement," PTI quoted Saha as saying.

The Indian team has replaced Saha with the young KS Bharat, who has been churning out great performances in the domestic circuit and is seen as a potential long-term competitor for Rishabh Pant as wicket-keeper in the longest format.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-named-test-captain-as-bcci-announces-squad-for-sri-lanka-series-pujara-rahane-dropped-454583">Rohit&nbsp;named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped</a>

Saha, who is currently not playing the ongoing Ranji Trophy, is unlikely to make a comeback in the Indian Test side if he fails to prove his mettle once again in the domestic circuit. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Wriddhiman Saha was not picked in India's Test squad for the upcoming Sri Lanka series at home. Saha was among four senior players who were dropped from the squad for the two-match series against the visitors.

Wriddhiman Saha was not picked in India's Test squad for the upcoming Sri Lanka series at home. Saha was among four senior players who were dropped from the squad for the two-match series against the visitors. The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel announced India's T20I and Test squad in a virtual press conference on Saturday (February 29). While Rohit Sharma was appointed India's permanent captain in Tests, the selectors made a bold call by dropping senior players like Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and Saha. While chief selector Sharma refused to divulge the details of the reason behind not including Saha in the squad, he also insisted the senior wicket-keeper not playing in the ongoing Ranji Trophy is not a concern for the selectors. His non-selection has not gone down well with Saha, who has made some explosive revelations after being dropped from the Indian Test squad. The senior wicket-keeper batter revealed that he had received an assurance from BCCI president Sourav Ganguly that his spot in the Indian Test team is secure as long as he is at the helm of the Indian cricket board. Saha had played a crucial knock of 61 runs in the first Test against New Zealand last year to bail India out of trouble in Kanpur. Saha claimed it was after his unbeaten 61 against the Kiwis that he had received a message from Ganguly, the president of BCCI, assuring him of his spot is safe in the Test team as long as he was there. “After scoring 61 against New Zealand at Kanpur, Dadi (Ganguly) congratulated me over WhatsApp and mentioned, ‘As long as I’m here (helming the BCCI), you would be in the team’. Such a message from the BCCI president really boosted my confidence. What I’m struggling to understand is that how things have changed so fast,” Saha was quoted as saying by PTI. Also Read: Chief selector Chetan Sharma explains reason behind dropping Pujara, Rahane from India's Test squad Rahul Dravid asked me to consider retiring: Wriddhman Saha After venting his frustration out against BCCI president Ganguly, Saha also made some startling revelations against India's current head coach Rahul Dravid. The senior wicket-keeper batter said he was told by the Indian team management that he will not be considered for selection in the Test side anymore and that he should retire. "The team management had told me that I would not be considered henceforth. I could not tell this so long as I was part of the India team setup. Even coach Rahul Dravid suggested that I think about taking retirement," PTI quoted Saha as saying. The Indian team has replaced Saha with the young KS Bharat, who has been churning out great performances in the domestic circuit and is seen as a potential long-term competitor for Rishabh Pant as wicket-keeper in the longest format. Also Read: Rohit named Test captain as BCCI announces squad for Sri Lanka series; Pujara, Rahane dropped Saha, who is currently not playing the ongoing Ranji Trophy, is unlikely to make a comeback in the Indian Test side if he fails to prove his mettle once again in the domestic circuit.

Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot: Wriddhiman Saha makes explosive revelations

Team India defeated West Indies by 8 runs in a thrilling second and penultimate T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first as they rode on Virat Kohli's 52, Rishabh Pant's 52* and Venkatesh Iyer's 33 to post 186-5 in 20 overs.&nbsp;

In reply, WI were 59-2 before a century-stand between half-centurions Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran steadied the ship but impressive death-over bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel ensured a series win for India. After the series victory, former Indian skipper Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant have reportedly left for their respective homes after being given a bio-bubble break by the BCCI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-know-captain-will-never-ex-india-player-reacts-to-rohit-sharmas-stance-on-virat-kohlis-form-454406">'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form</a>

According to a report filed by news agency PTI, BCCI have given a ten-day break to Kohli, who will now miss the forthcoming Sri Lanka T20Is and return for the two Tests versus the Islanders. On the other hand, Pant -- who was named Rohit's deputy for the ongoing WI T20Is -- will also miss the white-ball series versus the Sri Lankans.

"Yes, Kohli has left home on Saturday morning as India have already won the series. As it has been decided by BCCI, it will be a policy to give all the regular all format players periodic breaks from the bubble to ensure that their workload management and mental health is taken care of," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-pant-and-bhuvneshwar-star-as-india-beat-west-indies-by-8-runs-in-2nd-t20i-clinch-series-454457">Kohli, Pant and Bhuvneshwar star as India beat West Indies by 8 runs in 2nd T20I, clinch series</a>

Both Kohli and Pant were part of the three ODIs and the first two T20Is versus the Men in Maroon. While Kohli regained some form, after a string of low scores in the 50-over series, Pant also contributed well with the bat before being given a break now. Despite the duo's departure, Rohit &amp; Co. have enough options to go for the kill and claim the WI T20Is by a 3-0 margin.

Team India defeated West Indies by 8 runs in a thrilling second and penultimate T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first as they rode on Virat Kohli's 52, Rishabh Pant's 52* and Venkatesh Iyer's 33 to post 186-5 in 20 overs.

Team India defeated West Indies by 8 runs in a thrilling second and penultimate T20I at Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Friday (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first as they rode on Virat Kohli's 52, Rishabh Pant's 52* and Venkatesh Iyer's 33 to post 186-5 in 20 overs. In reply, WI were 59-2 before a century-stand between half-centurions Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran steadied the ship but impressive death-over bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel ensured a series win for India. After the series victory, former Indian skipper Virat Kohli and wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant have reportedly left for their respective homes after being given a bio-bubble break by the BCCI. ALSO READ | 'Players know captain will never...': Ex-India player reacts to Rohit Sharma's stance on Virat Kohli's form According to a report filed by news agency PTI, BCCI have given a ten-day break to Kohli, who will now miss the forthcoming Sri Lanka T20Is and return for the two Tests versus the Islanders. On the other hand, Pant -- who was named Rohit's deputy for the ongoing WI T20Is -- will also miss the white-ball series versus the Sri Lankans. "Yes, Kohli has left home on Saturday morning as India have already won the series. As it has been decided by BCCI, it will be a policy to give all the regular all format players periodic breaks from the bubble to ensure that their workload management and mental health is taken care of," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying. × ALSO READ | Kohli, Pant and Bhuvneshwar star as India beat West Indies by 8 runs in 2nd T20I, clinch series Both Kohli and Pant were part of the three ODIs and the first two T20Is versus the Men in Maroon. While Kohli regained some form, after a string of low scores in the 50-over series, Pant also contributed well with the bat before being given a break now. Despite the duo's departure, Rohit & Co. have enough options to go for the kill and claim the WI T20Is by a 3-0 margin.

Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is

India and West Indies played out a humdinger of a clash in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, Rohit-led Indian team posted a challenging 186-5, riding on half-centuries from Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer's quickire 33.

In reply, WI were 59 for 2 but were kept in the run-chase courtesy Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran's century-stand. The two's third-wicket stand kept Indian team on their toes in defence of 187. During the 16th over, when the chase was wide open and the Windies' batters were going hard, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was brought back into the attack in a bid to break the partnership.

Bhuvi used the short ball to good effect, pitching it outside off stump, as a well-set Powell went hard at it. He didn't get the desired timing&nbsp;as the ball went high up&nbsp;in the air. The pacer reacted late to the catch as he thought wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant was going for it. Thus, in the mixup, he dropped it&nbsp;and captain Rohit showed his frustration by kicking the ball. As a result, the two batters sneaked in another run, due to Rohit's kicking, to rub salt on the wounds of the home side.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-virat-kohli-joins-rohit-sharma-at-the-top-in-elite-list-with-blistering-52-in-2nd-t20i-454516">India vs WI: Virat Kohli joins Rohit Sharma at the top in elite list with blistering 52 in 2nd T20I</a>

Here's the video:

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Eventually, Bhuvi only dismissed Pooran (62) and bowled a game-changing penultimate over, conceding only 9 runs when the required rate was over 14, as India restricted the Kieron Pollard-led Windies for 178-3.&nbsp;

At the post-match presentation, Bhuvi told, "I was just believing in myself, Rohit told me that if I can give just 9-10 runs it will be difficult for them, so I just backed myself with the yorkers. There was a bit of dew, but I still backed myself and it came out well. He (Powell) was hitting it pretty hard, probably 200kmph (chuckles). It's always tough to bowl yorkers with the dew. When we bowled the slower balls it wasn't gripping and I changed my plan not to bowl slower balls, so it totally depends on the wicket. These guys are very powerful and if you bowl in their zone and it gets difficult. (The body)Feels good and don't want to say anything on that."

The experienced pacer returned with 4-0-29-1 as India took an unassailable lead, with one match to go (on Sunday, February 20).

India and West Indies played out a humdinger of a clash in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, Rohit-led Indian team posted a challenging 186-5, riding on half-centuries from Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer's quickire 33.

India and West Indies played out a humdinger of a clash in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18), at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Being asked to bat first, Rohit-led Indian team posted a challenging 186-5, riding on half-centuries from Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer's quickire 33. In reply, WI were 59 for 2 but were kept in the run-chase courtesy Rovman Powell and Nicholas Pooran's century-stand. The two's third-wicket stand kept Indian team on their toes in defence of 187. During the 16th over, when the chase was wide open and the Windies' batters were going hard, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was brought back into the attack in a bid to break the partnership. Bhuvi used the short ball to good effect, pitching it outside off stump, as a well-set Powell went hard at it. He didn't get the desired timing as the ball went high up in the air. The pacer reacted late to the catch as he thought wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant was going for it. Thus, in the mixup, he dropped it and captain Rohit showed his frustration by kicking the ball. As a result, the two batters sneaked in another run, due to Rohit's kicking, to rub salt on the wounds of the home side. ALSO READ | India vs WI: Virat Kohli joins Rohit Sharma at the top in elite list with blistering 52 in 2nd T20I Here's the video: pic.twitter.com/JNYZTNxmmd — Addicric (@addicric) February 18, 2022 × ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant granted bio-bubble break ahead of series finale vs WI; duo to skip SL T20Is Eventually, Bhuvi only dismissed Pooran (62) and bowled a game-changing penultimate over, conceding only 9 runs when the required rate was over 14, as India restricted the Kieron Pollard-led Windies for 178-3. At the post-match presentation, Bhuvi told, "I was just believing in myself, Rohit told me that if I can give just 9-10 runs it will be difficult for them, so I just backed myself with the yorkers. There was a bit of dew, but I still backed myself and it came out well. He (Powell) was hitting it pretty hard, probably 200kmph (chuckles). It's always tough to bowl yorkers with the dew. When we bowled the slower balls it wasn't gripping and I changed my plan not to bowl slower balls, so it totally depends on the wicket. These guys are very powerful and if you bowl in their zone and it gets difficult. (The body)Feels good and don't want to say anything on that." The experienced pacer returned with 4-0-29-1 as India took an unassailable lead, with one match to go (on Sunday, February 20).

2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma loses his cool as pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar drops a catch - WATCH

Team India were clinical in the first T20I of the three-match series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. Opting to bowl first, the Rohit Sharma-led side restricted Windies for 157/7 and chased down the score with seven balls and 6 wickets to spare on Wednesday (February 16).&nbsp;

India were led by Harshal Patel and debutant spinner Ravi Bishnoi's two wickets apiece to restrict the tall West Indian batting line-up before Rohit &amp; Co. chased down the score in the penultimate over. However, it wasn't an easy ride as the Indian batting line-up were challenged towards the end of the run-chase before Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer's unbeaten fifth-wicket stand completed the formalities.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-your-property-heartwarming-tendulkar-reveals-why-he-returned-virat-kohlis-retirement-gift-454035">This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift</a>

During the course of the game, India had some injury concerns. Deepak Chahar got injured while fielding. On the other hand, all-rounder Iyer also incurred a blow on his thumb. While nothing has been confirmed regarding the duo's availability, Shardul Thakur and Avesh Khan or Mohammad Siraj could be drafted into the playing XI in place of Iyer and Chahar, respectively.

India can also bring in Shreyas Iyer or Ruturaj Gaikwad for the KKR opener Venkatesh. However, they might not risk being a bowler short versus a dented WI batting line-up. Hence, Shardul is very likely to replace Iyer if the latter sits out. Rest of the line-up is expected to be unchanged.

The second and penultimate tie will be held at the same venue, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Friday evening (February 18). The final T20I will also be played here.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-1st-t20i-im-saying-it-how-virat-kohli-convinced-skipper-rohit-sharma-to-take-drs-watch-453958">India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch</a>

India's likely playing XI for 2nd T20I:&nbsp;Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Venkatesh Iyer/Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar/Mohammed Siraj/Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal.

Team India were clinical in the first T20I of the three-match series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. Opting to bowl first, the Rohit Sharma-led side restricted Windies for 157/7 and chased down the score with seven balls and 6 wickets to spare on Wednesday (February 16).

Team India were clinical in the first T20I of the three-match series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. Opting to bowl first, the Rohit Sharma-led side restricted Windies for 157/7 and chased down the score with seven balls and 6 wickets to spare on Wednesday (February 16). India were led by Harshal Patel and debutant spinner Ravi Bishnoi's two wickets apiece to restrict the tall West Indian batting line-up before Rohit & Co. chased down the score in the penultimate over. However, it wasn't an easy ride as the Indian batting line-up were challenged towards the end of the run-chase before Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer's unbeaten fifth-wicket stand completed the formalities. ALSO READ | This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift During the course of the game, India had some injury concerns. Deepak Chahar got injured while fielding. On the other hand, all-rounder Iyer also incurred a blow on his thumb. While nothing has been confirmed regarding the duo's availability, Shardul Thakur and Avesh Khan or Mohammad Siraj could be drafted into the playing XI in place of Iyer and Chahar, respectively. India can also bring in Shreyas Iyer or Ruturaj Gaikwad for the KKR opener Venkatesh. However, they might not risk being a bowler short versus a dented WI batting line-up. Hence, Shardul is very likely to replace Iyer if the latter sits out. Rest of the line-up is expected to be unchanged. The second and penultimate tie will be held at the same venue, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Friday evening (February 18). The final T20I will also be played here. ALSO READ | India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch India's likely playing XI for 2nd T20I: Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma (c), Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Venkatesh Iyer/Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar/Mohammed Siraj/Avesh Khan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal.

Will Avesh Khan get a look-in for Deepak Chahar? Predicting India's XI for 2nd T20I vs West Indies

India and West Indies will lock horns with each other in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led India will aim for an unassailable lead in the three-match series after claiming the first game by six wickets.

Opting to bowl first, Rohit-led India restricted the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies line-up for a moderate 157/7. Debutant leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel claimed two wickets each to dent WI's innings and curtail the run-flow. In reply, Rohit's 19-ball 40 and unbeaten innings from Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer took India home with seven balls to spare.

Thus, the West Indies team remain winless in the tour and will press hard for a comeback to keep the series alive. On the other hand, it will be interesting to see if India go unchanged into the encounter or will they try bring in some new faces for Friday evening's clash.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-avesh-khan-get-a-look-in-for-deepak-chahar-predicting-indias-xi-for-2nd-t20i-vs-west-indies-454218">Will Avesh Khan get a look-in for Deepak Chahar? Predicting India's XI for 2nd T20I vs West Indies</a>

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;match taking place?

India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I is scheduled to take place on February 18, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp; taking place?

India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;will take place at the Eden Gardens,&nbsp;in Kolkata.

At what time India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;taking place?

India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;will kick off at 7:00pm (IST).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-your-property-heartwarming-tendulkar-reveals-why-he-returned-virat-kohlis-retirement-gift-454035">This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift</a>

How to watch India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;live on TV?

India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada.&nbsp;

How to watch India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I&nbsp;live streaming?

The India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd T20I will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.&nbsp;

India and West Indies will lock horns with each other in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led India will aim for an unassailable lead in the three-match series after claiming the first game by six wickets.

India and West Indies will lock horns with each other in the second and penultimate T20I on Friday evening (February 18). Rohit Sharma-led India will aim for an unassailable lead in the three-match series after claiming the first game by six wickets. Opting to bowl first, Rohit-led India restricted the Kieron Pollard-led West Indies line-up for a moderate 157/7. Debutant leg spinner Ravi Bishnoi and Harshal Patel claimed two wickets each to dent WI's innings and curtail the run-flow. In reply, Rohit's 19-ball 40 and unbeaten innings from Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer took India home with seven balls to spare. Thus, the West Indies team remain winless in the tour and will press hard for a comeback to keep the series alive. On the other hand, it will be interesting to see if India go unchanged into the encounter or will they try bring in some new faces for Friday evening's clash. ALSO READ | Will Avesh Khan get a look-in for Deepak Chahar? Predicting India's XI for 2nd T20I vs West Indies Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is India vs West Indies 2nd T20I match taking place? India vs West Indies 2nd T20I is scheduled to take place on February 18, 2022. Where is India vs West Indies 2nd T20I taking place? India vs West Indies 2nd T20I will take place at the Eden Gardens, in Kolkata. At what time India vs West Indies 2nd T20I taking place? India vs West Indies 2nd T20I will kick off at 7:00pm (IST). ALSO READ | This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift How to watch India vs West Indies 2nd T20I live on TV? India vs West Indies 2nd T20I will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada. How to watch India vs West Indies 2nd T20I live streaming? The India vs West Indies 2nd T20I will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.

INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd T20I - IST time and streaming details

Team India put on a clinical display in the three-match ODI series versus West Indies, at home, to inflict a whitewash. Ahead of the three T20Is, starting on February 16, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have been dealt with injury concerns with limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel being ruled out.

In Rahul's absence, who suffered a&nbsp;hamstring injury and wasn't part of the third and final ODI, BCCI have named a new vice-captain for the T20I leg. Rishabh Pant has been promoted as Rohit's deputy for the T20I series. This is the first time that Pant has been named as Team India's vice-captain for a series as the left-hander continues to grow in stature.&nbsp;

Pant is being looked upon as a future leader for Team India, especially after the rapid changes that have taken place in the senior men's team post the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. For the unversed, the 24-year-old is also a contender to become the Test captain (or vice-captain) with Virat Kohli's resignation early this year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/avesh-khan-reveals-rishabh-pants-reaction-when-he-was-sold-to-lucknow-super-giants-during-ipl-2022-auction-453303">Avesh Khan reveals Rishabh Pant's reaction when he was sold to Lucknow Super Giants during IPL 2022 auction</a>

The announcement came as BCCI confirmed Kuldeep Yadav to have replaced an injured Sundar for the upcoming T20Is. On the other hand, Deepak Hooda and Ruturaj Gaikwad are now also a part of the squad, with Rahul and Axar being ruled out.

After Pant's elevation as vice-captain, his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals (DC) also congratulated him. He will be leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) once again during the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition. Here's what DC's official Twitter handle wrote:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
You're looking at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s T20I vice-captain for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> series 🤩 
 
Proud of you, <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://t.co/iPZZZZEtDC">pic.twitter.com/iPZZZZEtDC</a>
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1493272115457687552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-mentions-why-team-india-struggled-in-2021-t20-wc-and-tasted-success-between-2007-13-453238">Suresh Raina explains why India struggled in 2021 T20 WC, opines on team's success between 2007-13</a>

India’s T20I squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain) (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda, Kuldeep Yadav

Team India put on a clinical display in the three-match ODI series versus West Indies, at home, to inflict a whitewash. Ahead of the three T20Is, starting on February 16, Rohit Sharma & Co.

Team India put on a clinical display in the three-match ODI series versus West Indies, at home, to inflict a whitewash. Ahead of the three T20Is, starting on February 16, Rohit Sharma & Co. have been dealt with injury concerns with limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel being ruled out. In Rahul's absence, who suffered a hamstring injury and wasn't part of the third and final ODI, BCCI have named a new vice-captain for the T20I leg. Rishabh Pant has been promoted as Rohit's deputy for the T20I series. This is the first time that Pant has been named as Team India's vice-captain for a series as the left-hander continues to grow in stature. Pant is being looked upon as a future leader for Team India, especially after the rapid changes that have taken place in the senior men's team post the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. For the unversed, the 24-year-old is also a contender to become the Test captain (or vice-captain) with Virat Kohli's resignation early this year. ALSO READ | Avesh Khan reveals Rishabh Pant's reaction when he was sold to Lucknow Super Giants during IPL 2022 auction The announcement came as BCCI confirmed Kuldeep Yadav to have replaced an injured Sundar for the upcoming T20Is. On the other hand, Deepak Hooda and Ruturaj Gaikwad are now also a part of the squad, with Rahul and Axar being ruled out. After Pant's elevation as vice-captain, his IPL franchise Delhi Capitals (DC) also congratulated him. He will be leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) once again during the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition. Here's what DC's official Twitter handle wrote: You're looking at #TeamIndia's T20I vice-captain for the #INDvWI series 🤩 Proud of you, @RishabhPant17 💙#YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/iPZZZZEtDC — Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) February 14, 2022 × ALSO READ | Suresh Raina explains why India struggled in 2021 T20 WC, opines on team's success between 2007-13 India’s T20I squad: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (vice-captain) (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda, Kuldeep Yadav

India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence

Hardik Pandya has not been part of Team India's white-ball setup post the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Pandya had already lost his Test spot after not being able to fulfill the all-rounder's duty and is out of the white-ball setup as well&nbsp;in&nbsp;order to regain full fitness.

Ahead of India's three-match T20I series versus West Indies, on Wednesday (February 16), Team India limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opened up on Hardik's possible return and categorially denied having any word with the national selectors on the all-rounder's comeback into the national side. As of now, Hardik hasn't been considered for India's home season, also including Sri Lanka, as he is regaining full fitness to bat and ball in the IPL 2022 edition. Depending on his fitness and performance, he is likely to be considered for national recall post this year's IPL season.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-you-guys-can-keep-quiet-rohit-sharma-tells-reporters-when-asked-about-virat-kohlis-lean-patch-453442">'If you guys can keep quiet..': Rohit Sharma tells reporters when asked about Virat Kohli's lean patch</a>

"Hardik is an important player. He has brings three skills into the team. We have not had any discussion over him playing as a pure batter,"&nbsp;Rohit told reporters on Tuesday (February 15).&nbsp;"It's important for us to have all players available. Since the world cup, we have had many injuries. It is important for us to have all players available first, then we can think about the second step which is analysing opponents, conditions,&nbsp;and players of what skillset would suit."

"Doors are open for everyone. We have not fixated on anyone. In&nbsp;Australia, we'll play in very different conditions. We'll need players of different skillset. We need to prepare players accordingly, be it spin all-rounder, fast all-rounders or lower-order batters.&nbsp; We need to see the bowling options too, new ball, death overs, spinners in powerplays, etc. Right now, we are dealing with the options we have," he further explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-t20is-bcci-name-rishabh-pant-as-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-kl-rahuls-absence-453395">India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence</a>

Hardik will next be seen in action in IPL 2022 edition, to be held in India, where he will lead the new franchise Gujarat Titans (GT). He is expected to bat as well as bowl and not just feature as a pure batter, which had led to his omission from the Test setup and has also put his limited-overs spot in danger.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya has not been part of Team India's white-ball setup post the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Pandya had already lost his Test spot after not being able to fulfill the all-rounder's duty and is out of the white-ball setup as well in order to regain full fitness.

Hardik Pandya has not been part of Team India's white-ball setup post the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Pandya had already lost his Test spot after not being able to fulfill the all-rounder's duty and is out of the white-ball setup as well in order to regain full fitness. Ahead of India's three-match T20I series versus West Indies, on Wednesday (February 16), Team India limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opened up on Hardik's possible return and categorially denied having any word with the national selectors on the all-rounder's comeback into the national side. As of now, Hardik hasn't been considered for India's home season, also including Sri Lanka, as he is regaining full fitness to bat and ball in the IPL 2022 edition. Depending on his fitness and performance, he is likely to be considered for national recall post this year's IPL season. ALSO READ | 'If you guys can keep quiet..': Rohit Sharma tells reporters when asked about Virat Kohli's lean patch "Hardik is an important player. He has brings three skills into the team. We have not had any discussion over him playing as a pure batter," Rohit told reporters on Tuesday (February 15). "It's important for us to have all players available. Since the world cup, we have had many injuries. It is important for us to have all players available first, then we can think about the second step which is analysing opponents, conditions, and players of what skillset would suit." "Doors are open for everyone. We have not fixated on anyone. In Australia, we'll play in very different conditions. We'll need players of different skillset. We need to prepare players accordingly, be it spin all-rounder, fast all-rounders or lower-order batters. We need to see the bowling options too, new ball, death overs, spinners in powerplays, etc. Right now, we are dealing with the options we have," he further explained. ALSO READ | India vs WI, T20Is: BCCI name Rishabh Pant as Rohit Sharma's deputy in KL Rahul's absence Hardik will next be seen in action in IPL 2022 edition, to be held in India, where he will lead the new franchise Gujarat Titans (GT). He is expected to bat as well as bowl and not just feature as a pure batter, which had led to his omission from the Test setup and has also put his limited-overs spot in danger.

Doors are open for everyone: Rohit Sharma opens up on Team India star Hardik Pandya's possible return

Virat Kohli's batting form has been a topic of discussion of late. While it is well-known by now that the 33-year-old's last international ton came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, the former Indian skipper has been among runs -- especially in the white-ball formats -- but had a forgettable three-match ODI series versus West Indies.&nbsp;

Kohli, who has been succeeded by Rohit Sharma as Team India's white-ball captain, ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus the Men in Maroon, crossing the double-digit mark only once. Ahead of the three-match T20I series between both the teams, in India, batting coach Vikram Rathour played down Kohli's form struggles.

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"I don't think he's going through a lean phase. I understand he had a poor series against the West Indies (in ODIs) but no conversation as such," Rathour said in a media interaction ahead of the 1st T20I between India and the West Indies.

"He's batting really well in the nets and the kind of preparation he's putting in. We are waiting for... I'm certain that in one of these innings he will be back among runs," batting coach Rathour added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-needs-confidence-rohit-sharma-reacts-to-questions-over-kohlis-continued-lean-patch-452522">'Virat needs confidence?' Rohit Sharma reacts to questions over Kohli's continued lean patch</a>

For the unversed, Kohli endured his worst ODI&nbsp;series in 9 years, during Rohit-led India's 3-0 whitewash over West Indies. Thus, he will be eager to turn the tide in the forthcoming three T20Is. He has been in good form in the shortest format, with five fifty-plus scores in last ten innings, and will be desperate to get a big score under his belt.

The three T20Is commence on February 16, in Kolkata.

Virat Kohli's batting form has been a topic of discussion of late. While it is well-known by now that the 33-year-old's last international ton came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, the former Indian skipper has been among runs -- especially in the white-ball formats -- but had a forgettable three-match ODI series versus West Indies.

Virat Kohli's batting form has been a topic of discussion of late. While it is well-known by now that the 33-year-old's last international ton came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era, the former Indian skipper has been among runs -- especially in the white-ball formats -- but had a forgettable three-match ODI series versus West Indies. Kohli, who has been succeeded by Rohit Sharma as Team India's white-ball captain, ended with only 26 runs in the three ODIs versus the Men in Maroon, crossing the double-digit mark only once. Ahead of the three-match T20I series between both the teams, in India, batting coach Vikram Rathour played down Kohli's form struggles. ALSO READ | Royal Challengers Bangalore complete squad for IPL 2022: Faf du Plessis to captain pace-heavy line-up? "I don't think he's going through a lean phase. I understand he had a poor series against the West Indies (in ODIs) but no conversation as such," Rathour said in a media interaction ahead of the 1st T20I between India and the West Indies. "He's batting really well in the nets and the kind of preparation he's putting in. We are waiting for... I'm certain that in one of these innings he will be back among runs," batting coach Rathour added. ALSO READ | 'Virat needs confidence?' Rohit Sharma reacts to questions over Kohli's continued lean patch For the unversed, Kohli endured his worst ODI series in 9 years, during Rohit-led India's 3-0 whitewash over West Indies. Thus, he will be eager to turn the tide in the forthcoming three T20Is. He has been in good form in the shortest format, with five fifty-plus scores in last ten innings, and will be desperate to get a big score under his belt. The three T20Is commence on February 16, in Kolkata.

Don't think he's going through a lean phase: Vikram Rathour expects Virat Kohli to regain form in WI T20Is

Rohit Sharma-led Team India dropped Ishan Kishan for the second and penultimate ODI versus West Indies, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Wednesday (February 8). Ishan, who played the series opener and made 28, made way for KL Rahul as the vice-captain returned to the squad after missing the first ODI.

With Ishan missing out, India promoted Rishabh Pant up the order -- in a bid to maintain the left-right-hand combination and also retain Rahul at No. 5. With Pant opening the innings along with skipper Rohit, veteran wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has heaped praise on Ishan. Despite the competition being intense for the opening slot, with another contender in Pant coming into the scheme of things, Karthik feels Ishan can still make a mark due to his 'tremendous skills'.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-an-experiment-make-no-mistake-sunil-gavaskar-reacts-as-rishabh-pant-opens-in-2nd-odi-451676">This is an experiment, make no mistake: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Rishabh Pant opens in 2nd ODI</a>

"Ishan by now would know that among all the available spots, the one that has the most competition is the opening. There are way too many openers and just two spots. He's going to be aware of that... but the good thing for Ishan is that he's not just a keeper. He's a good fielder as well. You double up as an option on the field. They are going to look at him as a pure opener like they did in the first game against West Indies," said Karthik in the pre-match show on Cricbuzz.

"He's got tremendous skills... he can attack from ball one. That's a skill every player doesn't possess. In the new age, players try and attack a lot from ball one. Teams that have succeeded in doing that consistently have done very well in multi-nation tournaments. So Ishan definitely has a good chance to come into the scheme of things," he further said.

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India also went ahead with Pant as Shikhar Dhawan remains unavailable for selection despite recovering from Covid-19 virus. It is expected that Dhawan will return to the line-up in the series decider, on February 11, and also reclaim his opening slot along with Rohit.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India dropped Ishan Kishan for the second and penultimate ODI versus West Indies, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Wednesday (February 8).

Rohit Sharma-led Team India dropped Ishan Kishan for the second and penultimate ODI versus West Indies, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Wednesday (February 8). Ishan, who played the series opener and made 28, made way for KL Rahul as the vice-captain returned to the squad after missing the first ODI. With Ishan missing out, India promoted Rishabh Pant up the order -- in a bid to maintain the left-right-hand combination and also retain Rahul at No. 5. With Pant opening the innings along with skipper Rohit, veteran wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has heaped praise on Ishan. Despite the competition being intense for the opening slot, with another contender in Pant coming into the scheme of things, Karthik feels Ishan can still make a mark due to his 'tremendous skills'. ALSO READ | This is an experiment, make no mistake: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Rishabh Pant opens in 2nd ODI "Ishan by now would know that among all the available spots, the one that has the most competition is the opening. There are way too many openers and just two spots. He's going to be aware of that... but the good thing for Ishan is that he's not just a keeper. He's a good fielder as well. You double up as an option on the field. They are going to look at him as a pure opener like they did in the first game against West Indies," said Karthik in the pre-match show on Cricbuzz. "He's got tremendous skills... he can attack from ball one. That's a skill every player doesn't possess. In the new age, players try and attack a lot from ball one. Teams that have succeeded in doing that consistently have done very well in multi-nation tournaments. So Ishan definitely has a good chance to come into the scheme of things," he further said. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Hardik Pandya's Ahmedabad franchise named Gujarat Titans, reveals team owner India also went ahead with Pant as Shikhar Dhawan remains unavailable for selection despite recovering from Covid-19 virus. It is expected that Dhawan will return to the line-up in the series decider, on February 11, and also reclaim his opening slot along with Rohit.

India vs WI, 2nd ODI: Dinesh Karthik lauds Indian star, says 'he has got tremendous skills'

Rohit Sharma-led Team India lost the toss in the second and penultimate ODI, versus West Indies, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Wednesday (February 8). Being asked to bat first, Rohit was accompanied by Rishabh Pant at the top, surprising many.

India dropped Ishan Kishan, with the return of vice-captain KL Rahul in the side, but surprised many with Pant coming out to bat with Rohit. Pant usually bats at No. 4, or lower down the order, for the Men in Blue. With Shikhar Dhawan not being available for selection after recovering from Covid-19, Indian team management dropped Ishan to make way for Rahul -- who now bats at No. 5 -- and promoted Pant up the order.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvswi-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-west-indies-2nd-odi-match-ist-time-and-streaming-details-451463">INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details</a>

Reacting to India's experiment with Pant as an opener, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar told Star Sports on-air, "The first 10 overs is where India have been a bit slow in the past. They are looking to take advantage of the field restrictions in the first 10 overs. They are clearly looking to score maybe 60-70. That is what they are looking for. This is an experiment, make no mistake. If it works, that is the template that they will like to carry forward as they go on to the World Cup in India next year."

"It's something that will certainly look at. What it does also, if India are batting first, it will give him some time to recover. If he gets out in the 30th or 40th over, having done his job, he will get a little bit of break when he comes out to keep wickets."

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Gavaskar further asserted, "It's may also they (the team management) is looking to give him a sense of responsibility at the top of the order. We have seen him charge down the pitch and get out in the past. Sending him up the order is a way of maybe telling him, listen we expect more runs from him. We will find out how it all pans out."&nbsp;

"Who is going to be the finisher? I was thinking maybe Pant will get that role with the license to throw his bat around at the end when he comes into bat in the last 10-15 overs, provided the team has got off a very good start," he added.

Talking about the match, Rohit &amp; Co. didn't get off to a good start by losing three quick wickets. The home side's lower order have a lot riding on themselves to take the team score beyond 250.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India lost the toss in the second and penultimate ODI, versus West Indies, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Wednesday (February 8).

Rohit Sharma-led Team India lost the toss in the second and penultimate ODI, versus West Indies, at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Wednesday (February 8). Being asked to bat first, Rohit was accompanied by Rishabh Pant at the top, surprising many. India dropped Ishan Kishan, with the return of vice-captain KL Rahul in the side, but surprised many with Pant coming out to bat with Rohit. Pant usually bats at No. 4, or lower down the order, for the Men in Blue. With Shikhar Dhawan not being available for selection after recovering from Covid-19, Indian team management dropped Ishan to make way for Rahul -- who now bats at No. 5 -- and promoted Pant up the order. ALSO READ | INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details Reacting to India's experiment with Pant as an opener, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar told Star Sports on-air, "The first 10 overs is where India have been a bit slow in the past. They are looking to take advantage of the field restrictions in the first 10 overs. They are clearly looking to score maybe 60-70. That is what they are looking for. This is an experiment, make no mistake. If it works, that is the template that they will like to carry forward as they go on to the World Cup in India next year." "It's something that will certainly look at. What it does also, if India are batting first, it will give him some time to recover. If he gets out in the 30th or 40th over, having done his job, he will get a little bit of break when he comes out to keep wickets." ALSO READ | This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli Gavaskar further asserted, "It's may also they (the team management) is looking to give him a sense of responsibility at the top of the order. We have seen him charge down the pitch and get out in the past. Sending him up the order is a way of maybe telling him, listen we expect more runs from him. We will find out how it all pans out." "Who is going to be the finisher? I was thinking maybe Pant will get that role with the license to throw his bat around at the end when he comes into bat in the last 10-15 overs, provided the team has got off a very good start," he added. Talking about the match, Rohit & Co. didn't get off to a good start by losing three quick wickets. The home side's lower order have a lot riding on themselves to take the team score beyond 250.

This is an experiment, make no mistake: Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Rishabh Pant opens in 2nd ODI

On Sunday (February 6), Team India head coach Rahul Dravid was seen bowling at the nets to mark the&nbsp;23rd anniversary of Anil Kumble's 10-wicket haul, which he claimed in an India-Pakistan Test match at New Delhi, India in 1999. Back then, the former Indian spinner Kumble became only the second bowler overall, and first Indian, to achieve ten wickets in an innings in the purest format.

Courtesy Kumble's 10 for 74, India dismissed Wasim Akram-led Pakistan for 207, in pursuit of 420, to win by 212 runs at the then known as Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium,&nbsp;Delhi. Thus, Dravid also rolled his arms at the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team's net session ahead of their three-match ODI series opener versus West Indies, on February 6 in Ahmedabad.

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has now poked fun at Dravid's bowling. Bhajji hilariously advised Dravid to widen his grip as otherwise the ball won't spin much. Here's what he wrote:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-virat-kohli-to-join-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-yuvraj-singh-in-elite-list-during-2nd-odi-451477">India vs WI: Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh in elite list during 2nd ODI</a>

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Grip is too wide jam .. won’t be able to spin as much you like 😋 <a href="https://t.co/sgjojRXWbK">https://t.co/sgjojRXWbK</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1491021741938049029?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvswi-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-west-indies-2nd-odi-match-ist-time-and-streaming-details-451463">INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details</a>

Talking about the first ODI, Rohit-led India thrashed Kieron Pollard's West Indies by six wickets to go 1-0 up in the series at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. Bowling first, India dismissed the Windies for 176 riding on Yuzvendra Chahal's 4 for 49 and Washington Sundar's 3-fer. In reply, Rohit's 60 and vital unbeaten knocks from Suryakumar Yadav and debutant Deepak Hooda led the hosts to an easy win.

The second and penultimate ODI will be held on Wednesday (February 09) at the same venue in Ahmedabad.

On Sunday (February 6), Team India head coach Rahul Dravid was seen bowling at the nets to mark the 23rd anniversary of Anil Kumble's 10-wicket haul, which he claimed in an India-Pakistan Test match at New Delhi, India in 1999.

On Sunday (February 6), Team India head coach Rahul Dravid was seen bowling at the nets to mark the 23rd anniversary of Anil Kumble's 10-wicket haul, which he claimed in an India-Pakistan Test match at New Delhi, India in 1999. Back then, the former Indian spinner Kumble became only the second bowler overall, and first Indian, to achieve ten wickets in an innings in the purest format. Courtesy Kumble's 10 for 74, India dismissed Wasim Akram-led Pakistan for 207, in pursuit of 420, to win by 212 runs at the then known as Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, Delhi. Thus, Dravid also rolled his arms at the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team's net session ahead of their three-match ODI series opener versus West Indies, on February 6 in Ahmedabad. Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has now poked fun at Dravid's bowling. Bhajji hilariously advised Dravid to widen his grip as otherwise the ball won't spin much. Here's what he wrote: ALSO READ | India vs WI: Virat Kohli to join Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh in elite list during 2nd ODI Grip is too wide jam .. won’t be able to spin as much you like 😋 https://t.co/sgjojRXWbK — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) February 8, 2022 × ALSO READ | INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details Talking about the first ODI, Rohit-led India thrashed Kieron Pollard's West Indies by six wickets to go 1-0 up in the series at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. Bowling first, India dismissed the Windies for 176 riding on Yuzvendra Chahal's 4 for 49 and Washington Sundar's 3-fer. In reply, Rohit's 60 and vital unbeaten knocks from Suryakumar Yadav and debutant Deepak Hooda led the hosts to an easy win. The second and penultimate ODI will be held on Wednesday (February 09) at the same venue in Ahmedabad.

India vs WI: 'Grip is too wide jam' - Harbhajan Singh pokes fun at head coach Rahul Dravid's bowling

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies by six wickets in the three-match ODI series opener on Sunday (February 6) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. With this, India started their home season on a high and also completed their 1000th outing in the 50-over format on an emphatic note.

With a 1-0 lead, Rohit &amp; Co. will not like to lose momentum and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three ODIs as both sides face each other in the second and penultimate match on Wednesday (February 09), at the same venue.

The likes of KL Rahul (limited-overs vice-captain), Shreyas Iyer and Shikhar Dhawan have been added to the squad. Rahul missed the series opener -- reportedly due to personal reasons -- whereas Iyer and opener Dhawan have recovered from Covid-19 and cleared to train on Tuesday (February 08). It is highly unlikely that the Rahul Dravid-led team management will include both Iyer and Dhawan at one go, however, Rahul is expected to return to the playing XI.

It will be interesting to see who misses out if Rahul is included in the XI. For the Windies, they need to address their batting issues at the earliest whereas a lot depends on Jason Holder and Kemar Roach with the ball. While Alzarri Joseph had a decent outing in the series opener, the inexperienced spin duo of Fabien Allen and Akeal Hosein will be tested by the Indian batters.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-dhawan-shreyas-iyer-test-covid-19-negative-cleared-to-train-ahead-of-2nd-odi-vs-west-indies-451450">Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer test COVID-19 negative, cleared to train ahead of 2nd ODI vs West Indies</a>

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd ODI match taking place?

India vs West Indies 2nd ODI is scheduled to take place on February 09, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is India vs West Indies 2nd ODI taking place?

India vs West Indies 2nd ODI&nbsp;will take place at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium,&nbsp;in Ahmedabad.

At what time India vs West Indies 2nd ODI taking place?

India vs West Indies 2nd ODI&nbsp;will kick off at 1:30pm (IST).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-been-happening-for-years-sunil-gavaskar-rubbishes-rift-rumours-between-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-451281">This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli</a>

How to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI live on TV?

India vs West Indies 2nd ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada.&nbsp;

How to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI live streaming?

The India vs West Indies 2nd ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies by six wickets in the three-match ODI series opener on Sunday (February 6) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies by six wickets in the three-match ODI series opener on Sunday (February 6) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. With this, India started their home season on a high and also completed their 1000th outing in the 50-over format on an emphatic note. With a 1-0 lead, Rohit & Co. will not like to lose momentum and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three ODIs as both sides face each other in the second and penultimate match on Wednesday (February 09), at the same venue. The likes of KL Rahul (limited-overs vice-captain), Shreyas Iyer and Shikhar Dhawan have been added to the squad. Rahul missed the series opener -- reportedly due to personal reasons -- whereas Iyer and opener Dhawan have recovered from Covid-19 and cleared to train on Tuesday (February 08). It is highly unlikely that the Rahul Dravid-led team management will include both Iyer and Dhawan at one go, however, Rahul is expected to return to the playing XI. It will be interesting to see who misses out if Rahul is included in the XI. For the Windies, they need to address their batting issues at the earliest whereas a lot depends on Jason Holder and Kemar Roach with the ball. While Alzarri Joseph had a decent outing in the series opener, the inexperienced spin duo of Fabien Allen and Akeal Hosein will be tested by the Indian batters. ALSO READ | Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer test COVID-19 negative, cleared to train ahead of 2nd ODI vs West Indies Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match taking place? India vs West Indies 2nd ODI is scheduled to take place on February 09, 2022. Where is India vs West Indies 2nd ODI taking place? India vs West Indies 2nd ODI will take place at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, in Ahmedabad. At what time India vs West Indies 2nd ODI taking place? India vs West Indies 2nd ODI will kick off at 1:30pm (IST). ALSO READ | This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli How to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI live on TV? India vs West Indies 2nd ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada. How to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI live streaming? The India vs West Indies 2nd ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.

INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details

Following the 2019 ODI World Cup, rift rumours between then skipper Virat Kohli and his white-ball deputy Rohit Sharma intensified.&nbsp;Kohli, however, rubbished all such claims before India's tour of West Indies in August, 2019.&nbsp;

The rift rumours died down for a bit after a few months before it again hit the headlines&nbsp;in early December, 2021. After Rohit took over from Virat as the limited-overs captain, many speculated that all isn't well between the two superstar cricketers. Nonetheless, Kohli once again shunned all such claims in his explosive presser, on December 15,&nbsp;before Team India's trip to South Africa.&nbsp;

After the India-West Indies three-match ODI series opener, held in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 6), Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has slammed all such speculations seeing Rohit-Kohli's on-field chemistry&nbsp;versus Kieron Pollard &amp; Co. Both the senior cricketers were seen discussing strategies&nbsp;and helping each other out in taking DRS calls.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2022-tickets-for-india-pakistan-clash-at-the-mcg-sold-out-in-a-flash-451271">T20 World Cup 2022: Tickets for India-Pakistan clash, at the MCG, SOLD OUT in a flash</a>

Thus, Gavaskar told Star Sports after India's six-wicket win over the Windies, “Why wouldn't they be getting along? They are playing for India. All these talks that you generally hear about two players not gelling and etc. are all speculations. According to reliable sources or allegedly or reportedly. Nobody actually tells you and this has been happening for a years. And these guys don't even bother about it. You wouldn't even bother about these kind of speculations because you yourself know what the truth is. And so there is nothing."

“There are often speculations that the captain who is now a player in the team will not want the new captain to succeed. This is nonsense. Because if he doesn't score runs or a bowler doesn't pick wickets then he is going to be out of the team. He has already lost the captaincy or opted out of captaincy, now you don't contribute with the bat or ball then you are going to be out of the team. So all these talks are mere speculations from people who have nothing better to do and are trying and creating stories. So don't you worry. Today Kohli didn't get runs but he will get runs whether he is playing under Rohit Sharma or any other captain.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shy-players-dont-open-up-pragyan-ojha-differentiates-captaincy-styles-of-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-451198">'Shy players don't open up....' - Pragyan Ojha differentiates captaincy styles of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma</a>

Rohit-led India produced a clinical performance in the first ODI versus West Indies at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Sunday to go 1-0 up in the series. Bowling first, India dismissed the visitors for 176 and chased down the score with six wickets and 22 overs to spare.

The second and penultimate ODI will be held on Wednesday (February 09) at the same venue.

Following the 2019 ODI World Cup, rift rumours between then skipper Virat Kohli and his white-ball deputy Rohit Sharma intensified. Kohli, however, rubbished all such claims before India's tour of West Indies in August, 2019.

Following the 2019 ODI World Cup, rift rumours between then skipper Virat Kohli and his white-ball deputy Rohit Sharma intensified. Kohli, however, rubbished all such claims before India's tour of West Indies in August, 2019. The rift rumours died down for a bit after a few months before it again hit the headlines in early December, 2021. After Rohit took over from Virat as the limited-overs captain, many speculated that all isn't well between the two superstar cricketers. Nonetheless, Kohli once again shunned all such claims in his explosive presser, on December 15, before Team India's trip to South Africa. After the India-West Indies three-match ODI series opener, held in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 6), Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has slammed all such speculations seeing Rohit-Kohli's on-field chemistry versus Kieron Pollard & Co. Both the senior cricketers were seen discussing strategies and helping each other out in taking DRS calls. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2022: Tickets for India-Pakistan clash, at the MCG, SOLD OUT in a flash Thus, Gavaskar told Star Sports after India's six-wicket win over the Windies, “Why wouldn't they be getting along? They are playing for India. All these talks that you generally hear about two players not gelling and etc. are all speculations. According to reliable sources or allegedly or reportedly. Nobody actually tells you and this has been happening for a years. And these guys don't even bother about it. You wouldn't even bother about these kind of speculations because you yourself know what the truth is. And so there is nothing." “There are often speculations that the captain who is now a player in the team will not want the new captain to succeed. This is nonsense. Because if he doesn't score runs or a bowler doesn't pick wickets then he is going to be out of the team. He has already lost the captaincy or opted out of captaincy, now you don't contribute with the bat or ball then you are going to be out of the team. So all these talks are mere speculations from people who have nothing better to do and are trying and creating stories. So don't you worry. Today Kohli didn't get runs but he will get runs whether he is playing under Rohit Sharma or any other captain.” ALSO READ | 'Shy players don't open up....' - Pragyan Ojha differentiates captaincy styles of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma Rohit-led India produced a clinical performance in the first ODI versus West Indies at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Sunday to go 1-0 up in the series. Bowling first, India dismissed the visitors for 176 and chased down the score with six wickets and 22 overs to spare. The second and penultimate ODI will be held on Wednesday (February 09) at the same venue.

This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli

Sourav Ganguly was appointed as the BCCI President in late 2019, after India's ODI World Cup campaign. In September 2022, he will complete three years as the BCCI chief. Under his tenure, BCCI have had a lot to deal with.

With the Covid-19 pandemic leading to various obstacles for hosting the last two IPL seasons, the Virat Kohli captaincy saga, pressure building up&nbsp;to start Women's IPL, etc., the Ganguly-led board has had a lot on their plate. In recent times, the image of the board&nbsp;officials and selectors have also taken a toll following the Kohli captaincy saga. Moreover, many have accused the BCCI chief Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah of interfering in selection meetings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-ipl-should-be-top-priority-michael-vaughan-tells-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-450433">Women's IPL should be top priority: Michael Vaughan tells BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly</a>

In an interview with news agency&nbsp;PTI,&nbsp;Ganguly opened up on all such claims and said,&nbsp;"I don't think I need to answer anybody anything (on this) and dignify any of these baseless accusations. I am the president of BCCI and I do the job of what the president of BCCI should be doing."&nbsp;

"Also just to let you know, I see a picture doing the rounds (of social media) showing me sitting in a selection committee meeting. I want to make it clear, that picture (where Ganguly can be seen sitting with secretary Jay Shah, skipper Virat Kohli and joint secretary Jayesh George) wasn't from a selection committee meeting.&nbsp;Jayesh George isn't a part of selection committee meetings. (I have played) 424 international matches for India. Not a bad idea at times to remind people about it, isn't it? (laughs)," added Ganguly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/upto-you-all-to-judge-my-legacy-sourav-ganguly-on-his-tenure-as-bcci-president-450365">'Upto you all to judge my legacy' - Sourav Ganguly on his tenure as BCCI President</a>

In addition, Ganguly dwelled on the&nbsp;fantastic relationship with Secretary Jay Shah as well as the other office bearers of the BCCI. "I share a fantastic relationship with Jay. He is a very dear friend and a trusted colleague. Me, Jay, Arun (Dhumal) and Jayesh (George), we have all been working together to get the board going in these difficult times especially with COVID-19 in these two years. To make sure that cricket happens. I would say it has been a fantastic two years. We have all done it as a team," further asserted the&nbsp;BCCI chief.&nbsp;

Sourav Ganguly was appointed as the BCCI President in late 2019, after India's ODI World Cup campaign. In September 2022, he will complete three years as the BCCI chief.

Sourav Ganguly was appointed as the BCCI President in late 2019, after India's ODI World Cup campaign. In September 2022, he will complete three years as the BCCI chief. Under his tenure, BCCI have had a lot to deal with. With the Covid-19 pandemic leading to various obstacles for hosting the last two IPL seasons, the Virat Kohli captaincy saga, pressure building up to start Women's IPL, etc., the Ganguly-led board has had a lot on their plate. In recent times, the image of the board officials and selectors have also taken a toll following the Kohli captaincy saga. Moreover, many have accused the BCCI chief Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah of interfering in selection meetings. ALSO READ | Women's IPL should be top priority: Michael Vaughan tells BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly In an interview with news agency PTI, Ganguly opened up on all such claims and said, "I don't think I need to answer anybody anything (on this) and dignify any of these baseless accusations. I am the president of BCCI and I do the job of what the president of BCCI should be doing." "Also just to let you know, I see a picture doing the rounds (of social media) showing me sitting in a selection committee meeting. I want to make it clear, that picture (where Ganguly can be seen sitting with secretary Jay Shah, skipper Virat Kohli and joint secretary Jayesh George) wasn't from a selection committee meeting. Jayesh George isn't a part of selection committee meetings. (I have played) 424 international matches for India. Not a bad idea at times to remind people about it, isn't it? (laughs)," added Ganguly. ALSO READ | 'Upto you all to judge my legacy' - Sourav Ganguly on his tenure as BCCI President In addition, Ganguly dwelled on the fantastic relationship with Secretary Jay Shah as well as the other office bearers of the BCCI. "I share a fantastic relationship with Jay. He is a very dear friend and a trusted colleague. Me, Jay, Arun (Dhumal) and Jayesh (George), we have all been working together to get the board going in these difficult times especially with COVID-19 in these two years. To make sure that cricket happens. I would say it has been a fantastic two years. We have all done it as a team," further asserted the BCCI chief.

I've played 424 internationals: Sourav Ganguly slams accusations of him interfering in selections

After the disastrous tour of South Africa, Team India return to familiar conditions as they get ready to host Kieron Pollard-led West Indies in the three-match ODI series, starting on February 6. Being whitewashed 3-0 in the ODIs in South Africa, India will be eager to return to winning ways in the 50-over format.

Rohit Sharma will also officially start his tenure as the full-time white-ball captain of the Men in Blue during the series. In early December 2021, Rohit was appointed as the limited-overs skipper by the BCCI selectors. After missing the SA ODIs, due to a hamstring injury, Rohit will have a stern test to start his tenure with a win.

Ahead of the India-WI ODI series, the Covid-19 crisis has hit the Indian camp. Shreyas Iyer, Shikhar Dhawan,&nbsp;Navdeep Saini,&nbsp;Ruturaj Gaikwad and a few other support staff members have tested positive. Thus, the likes of Mayank Agarwal, Ishan Kishan, etc. have been added to the squad before the series opener.

Here's everything to know about the squads, streaming, schedule and telecast details before the ODI series

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-covid-19-scares-rohit-sharma-led-indian-camp-before-windies-odis-450056">India vs West Indies: COVID-19 scares Rohit Sharma-led Indian camp before Windies ODIs</a>

Squads

India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Surya Kumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Ishan Kishan, Mayank Agarwal

WI: Kieron Pollard (c), Darren Bravo, Shamarh Brooks, Brandon King, Fabian Allen, Nkrumah Bonner, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Nicholas Pooran, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Kemar Roach, Romario Shepherd, Odean Smith, Hayden Walsh.

Schedule

India will host West Indies in the three ODIs at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad before the action moves to the three T20Is (in Kolkata).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-rohit-led-india-squad-for-wi-series-jasprit-bumrah-md-shami-rested-jadeja-misses-out-447930">BCCI announces Rohit-led India squad for WI series; Jasprit Bumrah, Md Shami rested, Jadeja misses out</a>

Telecast and live streaming

The three ODIs'&nbsp;live telecast will be on Star Sports 1/1HD/1 and Star Sports Hindi/1HD Hindi from 1:30 PM IST. In addition, the&nbsp;fixtures will be streamed live on the Disney+Hotstar app.

After the disastrous tour of South Africa, Team India return to familiar conditions as they get ready to host Kieron Pollard-led West Indies in the three-match ODI series, starting on February 6.

After the disastrous tour of South Africa, Team India return to familiar conditions as they get ready to host Kieron Pollard-led West Indies in the three-match ODI series, starting on February 6. Being whitewashed 3-0 in the ODIs in South Africa, India will be eager to return to winning ways in the 50-over format. Rohit Sharma will also officially start his tenure as the full-time white-ball captain of the Men in Blue during the series. In early December 2021, Rohit was appointed as the limited-overs skipper by the BCCI selectors. After missing the SA ODIs, due to a hamstring injury, Rohit will have a stern test to start his tenure with a win. Ahead of the India-WI ODI series, the Covid-19 crisis has hit the Indian camp. Shreyas Iyer, Shikhar Dhawan, Navdeep Saini, Ruturaj Gaikwad and a few other support staff members have tested positive. Thus, the likes of Mayank Agarwal, Ishan Kishan, etc. have been added to the squad before the series opener. Here's everything to know about the squads, streaming, schedule and telecast details before the ODI series ALSO READ | India vs West Indies: COVID-19 scares Rohit Sharma-led Indian camp before Windies ODIs Squads India: Rohit Sharma (Captain), KL Rahul (Vice-captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Surya Kumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Ishan Kishan, Mayank Agarwal WI: Kieron Pollard (c), Darren Bravo, Shamarh Brooks, Brandon King, Fabian Allen, Nkrumah Bonner, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Nicholas Pooran, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Kemar Roach, Romario Shepherd, Odean Smith, Hayden Walsh. Schedule India will host West Indies in the three ODIs at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad before the action moves to the three T20Is (in Kolkata). ALSO READ | BCCI announces Rohit-led India squad for WI series; Jasprit Bumrah, Md Shami rested, Jadeja misses out Telecast and live streaming The three ODIs' live telecast will be on Star Sports 1/1HD/1 and Star Sports Hindi/1HD Hindi from 1:30 PM IST. In addition, the fixtures will be streamed live on the Disney+Hotstar app.

India vs WI, ODIs: Everything to know about squads, schedule, telecast, streaming details

On January 15, Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his resignation as Team India's Test captain. This came as a huge shock to the entire cricketing fraternity. Kohli's decision came a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in the rainbow nation.

The 33-year-old tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."

Under Kohli, India became a more confident and aggressive force in home Tests and started winning more regularly in away series as well. During his tenure as the Test captain, India won their maiden Test series in Australia, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom in mid-2021, played the inaugural WTC final and ended as the No. 1 ranked side in the format for five successive years in the annual updates of the ICC Rankings. Following his resignation, all-rounder Shardul Thakur has now opened up on Kohli's decision.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/upto-you-all-to-judge-my-legacy-sourav-ganguly-on-his-tenure-as-bcci-president-450365">&nbsp;'Upto you all to judge my legacy' - Sourav Ganguly on his tenure as BCCI President</a>

“It was an emotional moment for everyone. No one expected that he would resign from Test captaincy," Thakur told Indian Express in a chat.&nbsp;

“We did well under his captaincy, especially overseas. Those series we lost overseas were close ones. The team was doing well under him and no one expected this. However, now that he has made his decision, everyone should respect it,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/didnt-know-anyone-in-bcci-harbhajan-singh-opines-on-not-being-considered-for-india-captaincy-450232">Didn't know anyone in BCCI: Harbhajan Singh opines on not being considered for India captaincy</a>

After Kohli's sudden resignation as the Test captain, the BCCI selectors have a tough job to name his successor. The contenders are Rohit Sharma (already the Test vice-captain and limited-overs skipper), KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant. The selectors will have to take a call and finalise the next captain before India's upcoming two-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, at home, in February-March.&nbsp;

On January 15, Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his resignation as Team India's Test captain. This came as a huge shock to the entire cricketing fraternity.

On January 15, Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his resignation as Team India's Test captain. This came as a huge shock to the entire cricketing fraternity. Kohli's decision came a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in the rainbow nation. The 33-year-old tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." Under Kohli, India became a more confident and aggressive force in home Tests and started winning more regularly in away series as well. During his tenure as the Test captain, India won their maiden Test series in Australia, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom in mid-2021, played the inaugural WTC final and ended as the No. 1 ranked side in the format for five successive years in the annual updates of the ICC Rankings. Following his resignation, all-rounder Shardul Thakur has now opened up on Kohli's decision. ALSO READ | 'Upto you all to judge my legacy' - Sourav Ganguly on his tenure as BCCI President “It was an emotional moment for everyone. No one expected that he would resign from Test captaincy," Thakur told Indian Express in a chat. “We did well under his captaincy, especially overseas. Those series we lost overseas were close ones. The team was doing well under him and no one expected this. However, now that he has made his decision, everyone should respect it,” he added. ALSO READ | Didn't know anyone in BCCI: Harbhajan Singh opines on not being considered for India captaincy After Kohli's sudden resignation as the Test captain, the BCCI selectors have a tough job to name his successor. The contenders are Rohit Sharma (already the Test vice-captain and limited-overs skipper), KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant. The selectors will have to take a call and finalise the next captain before India's upcoming two-match Test series versus Sri Lanka, at home, in February-March.

No one expected Virat Kohli to resign as India's Test captain, reveals all-rounder Shardul Thakur

Harbhajan Singh dropped a bomb by announcing his international retirement before the end of 2021. Bhajji represented Team India for 18 years, with his career spanning from 1998-2016 (when he last represented India). The veteran spinner made a big name in world cricket, ending with 711 wickets at the highest level.

During his glorious run for Team India, the 41-year-old played under various captains. He started under Mohammad Azharuddin and was led by the likes of Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli (along with also being captained by Virender Sehwag and Anil Kumble for a brief period). In the IPL, Bhajji played under Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, Eoin Morgan, Dhoni whereas he himself captained the Mumbai Indians (MI) -- where he played for 10 years -- and led them to the 2011 Champions League title.

Despite him being in the leadership group for Team India and the Mumbai-based IPL franchise, he was never considered for captaining India. Before the 2007 T20 World Cup, he was being considered as one of the contenders for leading the Men in Blue in the showpiece event before Dhoni got the top post. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-i-was-scared-of-short-balls-i-wouldnt-have-scored-fifty-in-lords-test-vs-england-md-shami-slams-critics-450217">If I was scared of short balls, I wouldn’t have scored fifty in Lord's Test vs England: Md Shami slams critics</a>

As per the former India spinner, those who aren't favourites don't get the captaincy honour. "Oh yes! That is also an achievement that no one talks about - my captaincy. I didn’t know anyone in the BCCI; someone who could push my case because it is required (for national captaincy). If you are not among the favourites of someone (powerful), you don’t get such honours. But, let’s leave that topic. I know I was capable enough (to lead) as we used to guide a lot of captains. No big deal if I was an India captain or not. No regrets either if I didn’t become the captain for my country. I was always happy to serve the nation as a player," he told Cricketnext.com.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-married-to-him-harbhajan-singh-gives-cheeky-response-clears-air-on-rumoured-rift-with-ms-dhoni-449222">'I am not married to him': Harbhajan Singh gives cheeky response, clears air on rumoured rift with MS Dhoni</a>

Harbhajan's last international appearance came during the 2016 Asia Cup. He was part of India's victorious run in the 2007 T20 WC, 2011 ODI World Cup, Asia Cup win in 2010 and many other significant wins across the globe. He signed off being the fourth-highest Test wicket-taker in the purest format (417 scalps).&nbsp;

Harbhajan Singh dropped a bomb by announcing his international retirement before the end of 2021. Bhajji represented Team India for 18 years, with his career spanning from 1998-2016 (when he last represented India).

Harbhajan Singh dropped a bomb by announcing his international retirement before the end of 2021. Bhajji represented Team India for 18 years, with his career spanning from 1998-2016 (when he last represented India). The veteran spinner made a big name in world cricket, ending with 711 wickets at the highest level. During his glorious run for Team India, the 41-year-old played under various captains. He started under Mohammad Azharuddin and was led by the likes of Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli (along with also being captained by Virender Sehwag and Anil Kumble for a brief period). In the IPL, Bhajji played under Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, Eoin Morgan, Dhoni whereas he himself captained the Mumbai Indians (MI) -- where he played for 10 years -- and led them to the 2011 Champions League title. Despite him being in the leadership group for Team India and the Mumbai-based IPL franchise, he was never considered for captaining India. Before the 2007 T20 World Cup, he was being considered as one of the contenders for leading the Men in Blue in the showpiece event before Dhoni got the top post. ALSO READ | If I was scared of short balls, I wouldn’t have scored fifty in Lord's Test vs England: Md Shami slams critics As per the former India spinner, those who aren't favourites don't get the captaincy honour. "Oh yes! That is also an achievement that no one talks about - my captaincy. I didn’t know anyone in the BCCI; someone who could push my case because it is required (for national captaincy). If you are not among the favourites of someone (powerful), you don’t get such honours. But, let’s leave that topic. I know I was capable enough (to lead) as we used to guide a lot of captains. No big deal if I was an India captain or not. No regrets either if I didn’t become the captain for my country. I was always happy to serve the nation as a player," he told Cricketnext.com. ALSO READ | 'I am not married to him': Harbhajan Singh gives cheeky response, clears air on rumoured rift with MS Dhoni Harbhajan's last international appearance came during the 2016 Asia Cup. He was part of India's victorious run in the 2007 T20 WC, 2011 ODI World Cup, Asia Cup win in 2010 and many other significant wins across the globe. He signed off being the fourth-highest Test wicket-taker in the purest format (417 scalps).

Didn't know anyone in BCCI: Harbhajan Singh opines on not being considered for India captaincy

Ravi Shastri ended his four-year-long stint as Team India's head coach following the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue's disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Under Shastri, India achieved considerable success across formats.

Shastri took over from former Indian captain and spinner Anil Kumble, who occupied the head coach's position for a year. After the 2017 Champions Trophy, Shastri took over the reins and formed a lethal pair with former captain Virat Kohli. Under Kohli-Shastri, India developed into a ruthless unit in Tests, dominated bilateral series worldwide in ODIs and T20Is but failed to lead the national side to an ICC title.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/let-him-play-for-that-many-years-md-shami-on-babar-azams-comparison-with-virat-kohli-steve-smith-449269">'Let him play for that many years': Md. Shami on Babar Azam's comparison with Virat Kohli, Steve Smith</a>

During a recent interview with India.com, pace spearhead Mohammed Shami mentioned the stand-out quality of ex-head coach Shastri. “Everybody knows about Ravi Shastri’s pep talk and he speaks just like you see him in the commentary box. There is not an iota of negativity in Ravi Shastri. His positivity rubbed on to the team and that is something that stood out for me,” Shami opined.

Under Shastri's guidance, and the presence of ex-bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, Shami's fitness improved leaps and bounds. As a result, he took an ODI World Cup hat-trick, remained a regular in whites and sruck at regular intervals&nbsp;in the purest format.

Shami also praised Bharat Arun and said,&nbsp;"It was great working with Bharat Arun when he was the bowling coach of India. At the international level, there is not much to learn in terms of the basics. It was all about discussing bowling plans and he shared his views and it worked really well for us and the team."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itll-do-him-a-world-of-good-ex-head-coach-ravi-shastri-suggests-how-virat-kohli-can-rejuvenate-his-form-448400">It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form</a>

Shami has been rested for the white-ball series between India and West Indies, which gets underway on February 6 in Ahmedabad. Shastri, meanwhile, has revealed that he will enjoy his break time before stepping onto any new role.&nbsp;

Shastri has been replaced by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach, till the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.

Ravi Shastri ended his four-year-long stint as Team India's head coach following the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue's disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

Ravi Shastri ended his four-year-long stint as Team India's head coach following the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue's disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Under Shastri, India achieved considerable success across formats. Shastri took over from former Indian captain and spinner Anil Kumble, who occupied the head coach's position for a year. After the 2017 Champions Trophy, Shastri took over the reins and formed a lethal pair with former captain Virat Kohli. Under Kohli-Shastri, India developed into a ruthless unit in Tests, dominated bilateral series worldwide in ODIs and T20Is but failed to lead the national side to an ICC title. ALSO READ | 'Let him play for that many years': Md. Shami on Babar Azam's comparison with Virat Kohli, Steve Smith During a recent interview with India.com, pace spearhead Mohammed Shami mentioned the stand-out quality of ex-head coach Shastri. “Everybody knows about Ravi Shastri’s pep talk and he speaks just like you see him in the commentary box. There is not an iota of negativity in Ravi Shastri. His positivity rubbed on to the team and that is something that stood out for me,” Shami opined. Under Shastri's guidance, and the presence of ex-bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, Shami's fitness improved leaps and bounds. As a result, he took an ODI World Cup hat-trick, remained a regular in whites and sruck at regular intervals in the purest format. Shami also praised Bharat Arun and said, "It was great working with Bharat Arun when he was the bowling coach of India. At the international level, there is not much to learn in terms of the basics. It was all about discussing bowling plans and he shared his views and it worked really well for us and the team." ALSO READ | It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form Shami has been rested for the white-ball series between India and West Indies, which gets underway on February 6 in Ahmedabad. Shastri, meanwhile, has revealed that he will enjoy his break time before stepping onto any new role. Shastri has been replaced by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach, till the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.

'There's not an iota of....': Md Shami mentions India's ex-head coach Ravi Shastri's stand-out quality

BCCI President Sourav Ganguly has revealed that Bengaluru is set to host the upcoming pink-ball Test between India and Sri Lanka. Currently, the Indian team is gearing up for their white-ball series versus West Indies, at home, before Sri Lanka will turn up in India&nbsp;for two Tests and three T20Is.

Thus, Ganguly confirmed that Bengaluru will host the day-night Test between India and Sri Lanka, however, the rest of the venus haven't been finalised yet.&nbsp;“Yes, the pink-ball Test will be happening in Bengaluru. We have not decided on all the venues for the Sri Lanka series yet, but it will be announced shortly,” Ganguly told Sportstar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hopefully-theyll-go-back-sourav-ganguly-opines-on-under-fire-duo-cheteshwar-pujara-ajinkya-rahane-450083">'Hopefully, they'll go back...' - Sourav Ganguly opines on under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane</a>

For the unversed, Sri Lanka will travel to India for three T20Is and two Tests. Earlier, the two-match Test series was set to be held before the T20Is but BCCI have reportedly accepted Sri Lanka Cricket Board's (SLC) request to tweak the itinerary a bit to ensure a smooth bubble to bubble transfer. Further, Sri Lanka will come to India following a five-match T20I series versus Australia, Down Under, whereas Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will end their WI series with the shortest format, hence, the same format will kickoff the Islanders' tour before the action moves to the two Tests.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-maharashtra-to-host-league-stage-call-on-playoffs-venues-not-taken-says-sourav-ganguly-450052">IPL 2022: Maharashtra to host league stage, call on playoffs' venues not taken, says Sourav Ganguly</a>

Dharamshala is likely to host the first two India-SL T20Is before the series finale and the Test series opener will take place in Mohali. Bengaluru will, thus, host the tour finale; i.e. a day-night Test between the two Asian sides.

This means Virat Kohli will miss out on playing his 100th Test in Bengaluru, where he enjoys a massive fanbase for representing the city's IPL side since 2008. The former captain is one shy of playing his 100th Test and will most likely see it happen in Mohali (unless injury or other reasons force his unavailability).

BCCI President Sourav Ganguly has revealed that Bengaluru is set to host the upcoming pink-ball Test between India and Sri Lanka. Currently, the Indian team is gearing up for their white-ball series versus West Indies, at home, before Sri Lanka will turn up in India for two Tests and three T20Is.

BCCI President Sourav Ganguly has revealed that Bengaluru is set to host the upcoming pink-ball Test between India and Sri Lanka. Currently, the Indian team is gearing up for their white-ball series versus West Indies, at home, before Sri Lanka will turn up in India for two Tests and three T20Is. Thus, Ganguly confirmed that Bengaluru will host the day-night Test between India and Sri Lanka, however, the rest of the venus haven't been finalised yet. “Yes, the pink-ball Test will be happening in Bengaluru. We have not decided on all the venues for the Sri Lanka series yet, but it will be announced shortly,” Ganguly told Sportstar. ALSO READ | 'Hopefully, they'll go back...' - Sourav Ganguly opines on under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane For the unversed, Sri Lanka will travel to India for three T20Is and two Tests. Earlier, the two-match Test series was set to be held before the T20Is but BCCI have reportedly accepted Sri Lanka Cricket Board's (SLC) request to tweak the itinerary a bit to ensure a smooth bubble to bubble transfer. Further, Sri Lanka will come to India following a five-match T20I series versus Australia, Down Under, whereas Rohit Sharma & Co. will end their WI series with the shortest format, hence, the same format will kickoff the Islanders' tour before the action moves to the two Tests. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Maharashtra to host league stage, call on playoffs' venues not taken, says Sourav Ganguly Dharamshala is likely to host the first two India-SL T20Is before the series finale and the Test series opener will take place in Mohali. Bengaluru will, thus, host the tour finale; i.e. a day-night Test between the two Asian sides. This means Virat Kohli will miss out on playing his 100th Test in Bengaluru, where he enjoys a massive fanbase for representing the city's IPL side since 2008. The former captain is one shy of playing his 100th Test and will most likely see it happen in Mohali (unless injury or other reasons force his unavailability).

BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly confirms India's pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka to be held in Bengaluru

Team India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul is not part of the three-match ODI series opener versus Kieron Pollard's West Indies, in the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. When BCCI announced the 18-member Rohit Sharma-led ODI and T20I squad for the West Indies series at home, Rahul was named in the strong line-up but will be available from the second ODI.

While BCCI didn't reveal any details into Rahul missing the series opener, as per reports in ESPNCricinfo, it has now been learned that the 29-year-old decided to give the first match, on Sunday (February 6)&nbsp;a miss due to his sister's wedding.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-covid-19-scares-rohit-sharma-led-indian-camp-before-windies-odis-450056">India vs West Indies: COVID-19 scares Rohit Sharma-led Indian camp before Windies ODIs</a>

On Wednesday (February 2), Team India have been dealt with a major blow ahead of the ODI series opener. As many as four India players and three members of their support staff have tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of Sunday's tour opener.&nbsp;

"The BCCI Medical team is handling the positive cases and they will remain in isolation till complete recovery is attained," BCCI secretary Jay Shah said in a statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hopefully-theyll-go-back-sourav-ganguly-opines-on-under-fire-duo-cheteshwar-pujara-ajinkya-rahane-450083">'Hopefully, they'll go back...' - Sourav Ganguly opines on under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane</a>

India will be eager to get back to winning ways, having not won a single game in 2022 so far, after a disastrous tour of South Africa. In SA, India started with a bang -- winning the tour opener -- before everything went downhill from thereon to lose the three Tests 2-1 and get whitewashed in the three ODIs.

India host West Indies in three ODIs and an equal number of T20Is. Sri Lanka will turn up next in India, for two Tests and three T20Is.

Team India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul is not part of the three-match ODI series opener versus Kieron Pollard's West Indies, in the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.

Team India's limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul is not part of the three-match ODI series opener versus Kieron Pollard's West Indies, in the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. When BCCI announced the 18-member Rohit Sharma-led ODI and T20I squad for the West Indies series at home, Rahul was named in the strong line-up but will be available from the second ODI. While BCCI didn't reveal any details into Rahul missing the series opener, as per reports in ESPNCricinfo, it has now been learned that the 29-year-old decided to give the first match, on Sunday (February 6) a miss due to his sister's wedding. ALSO READ | India vs West Indies: COVID-19 scares Rohit Sharma-led Indian camp before Windies ODIs On Wednesday (February 2), Team India have been dealt with a major blow ahead of the ODI series opener. As many as four India players and three members of their support staff have tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of Sunday's tour opener. "The BCCI Medical team is handling the positive cases and they will remain in isolation till complete recovery is attained," BCCI secretary Jay Shah said in a statement. ALSO READ | 'Hopefully, they'll go back...' - Sourav Ganguly opines on under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane India will be eager to get back to winning ways, having not won a single game in 2022 so far, after a disastrous tour of South Africa. In SA, India started with a bang -- winning the tour opener -- before everything went downhill from thereon to lose the three Tests 2-1 and get whitewashed in the three ODIs. India host West Indies in three ODIs and an equal number of T20Is. Sri Lanka will turn up next in India, for two Tests and three T20Is.

India vs WI ODIs: Here's why KL Rahul is not part of series opener in Ahmedabad

Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are having a tough ride in international cricket for quite sometime. Before the South Africa Tests, in the rainbow nation early this year, Rahane-Pujara were already under the scanner for their dismal runs in the longest format of the game.

For Rahane, the senior pro had not scored a hundred since his flawless 112-run knock in the India-Australia MCG Test in late 2020. On the other hand, Pujara's century drought continues since early 2019. While Pujara has remained a vital cog with some half-centuries at regular intervals, much more is expected of him. Meanwhile, Rahane also lost his vice-captaincy position in whites owing to his dismal run with the bat.

The two senior batters had a chance to revamp in the India-SA Tests, however, both didn't have a great run in the three-match series. Both returned with a half-century each in six outings. For the unversed, Rahane returned with&nbsp;136 runs at 22.66 in the SA Tests whereas the No. 3 batter Pujara ended with&nbsp;124 runs at 20.66. Thus,&nbsp;calls for their omissions have intensified.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-maharashtra-to-host-league-stage-call-on-playoffs-venues-not-taken-says-sourav-ganguly-450052">IPL 2022: Maharashtra to host league stage, call on playoffs' venues not taken, says Sourav Ganguly</a>

In this regard, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has shared some advice for the under-fire pair. He told Sportstar,&nbsp;"Yeah, they are very good players. Hopefully, they will go back to Ranji Trophy and score a lot of runs, which I am sure they will. I don’t see any problem [for them to go back to domestic cricket after playing so much international cricket]. Ranji Trophy is a huge tournament, and we have all played the tournament."

"So, they, too, will go back there and perform. They have played the tournament in the past when they were only playing Test cricket and were not part of the ODI or limited-overs team. So, that won’t be a problem," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-opens-up-on-cheteshwar-pujara-ajinkya-rahanes-future-after-flop-show-in-sa-test-series-444795">Virat Kohli opens up on Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane's future after flop show in SA Test series</a>

India's next Test assignment will be a two-match series versus Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka, at home, in February-March. It will be interesting to see if Rahane and Pujara hold onto their respective spots -- despite intense competition with the presence of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, etc. -- or not.&nbsp;

The BCCI selectors will also have to name Virat Kohli's successor in Tests after he resigned as the red-ball captain following the SA Tests.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are having a tough ride in international cricket for quite sometime. Before the South Africa Tests, in the rainbow nation early this year, Rahane-Pujara were already under the scanner for their dismal runs in the longest format of the game.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane are having a tough ride in international cricket for quite sometime. Before the South Africa Tests, in the rainbow nation early this year, Rahane-Pujara were already under the scanner for their dismal runs in the longest format of the game. For Rahane, the senior pro had not scored a hundred since his flawless 112-run knock in the India-Australia MCG Test in late 2020. On the other hand, Pujara's century drought continues since early 2019. While Pujara has remained a vital cog with some half-centuries at regular intervals, much more is expected of him. Meanwhile, Rahane also lost his vice-captaincy position in whites owing to his dismal run with the bat. The two senior batters had a chance to revamp in the India-SA Tests, however, both didn't have a great run in the three-match series. Both returned with a half-century each in six outings. For the unversed, Rahane returned with 136 runs at 22.66 in the SA Tests whereas the No. 3 batter Pujara ended with 124 runs at 20.66. Thus, calls for their omissions have intensified. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Maharashtra to host league stage, call on playoffs' venues not taken, says Sourav Ganguly In this regard, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has shared some advice for the under-fire pair. He told Sportstar, "Yeah, they are very good players. Hopefully, they will go back to Ranji Trophy and score a lot of runs, which I am sure they will. I don’t see any problem [for them to go back to domestic cricket after playing so much international cricket]. Ranji Trophy is a huge tournament, and we have all played the tournament." "So, they, too, will go back there and perform. They have played the tournament in the past when they were only playing Test cricket and were not part of the ODI or limited-overs team. So, that won’t be a problem," he added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli opens up on Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane's future after flop show in SA Test series India's next Test assignment will be a two-match series versus Dimuth Karunaratne-led Sri Lanka, at home, in February-March. It will be interesting to see if Rahane and Pujara hold onto their respective spots -- despite intense competition with the presence of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, etc. -- or not. The BCCI selectors will also have to name Virat Kohli's successor in Tests after he resigned as the red-ball captain following the SA Tests.

'Hopefully, they'll go back...' -  Sourav Ganguly opines on under-fire duo Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane

Rahul Dravid has served Indian cricket probably like no other cricketer. Over the years, the 49-year-old has&nbsp;donned various roles; i.e. being a&nbsp;makeshift opener, middle-order batter to a finisher, part-time keeper, taking over as captain, coaching U-19 and India A side, heading the NCA before taking over as the senior men's cricket team's head coach in late 2021. Apart from 13,288 and 10,889 runs in Tests and ODIs, respectively, Dravid has done a lot for Indian cricket and continues to be a role model for many aspiring cricketers worldwide.

Thus, Dravid -- known as The Wall -- has never been short of fans and followers worldwide. During an interaction with Vikram Sathaye, in 2016, the current head coach Dravid revealed a hilarious, or rather 'scary', interaction with a female fan who turned up at his house in Bengaluru and refused to leave.

In an interaction with cricket humorist Vikram Sathaye in his show What The Duck, in 2016, Dravid had revealed an interesting episode of how a female fan surprised him by entering his house and refusing&nbsp;to leave.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-an-internal-battle-gautam-gambhir-doesnt-mince-his-words-on-virat-kohli-vs-bcci-row-449610">It was an internal battle: Gautam Gambhir doesn't mince his words on Virat Kohli vs BCCI row</a>

'I will stay here only' - I was taken back

Dravid spilled the beans on the entire incident and said, "I had just come from a tour and I was sleeping in the afternoon. When I woke up, my parents told me to go and meet this fan who had come all the way from Hyderabad. She was waiting there for an hour and a half. At first, I thought it would be a simple taking autograph or photograph thing."

"She said, ‘no I am not going to leave. I have left my home and come. I will stay here only’ and I was taken aback. It ended quite well but it was a wake-up call for my parents that you don’t let anyone in just like that," the legendary cricketer revealed while laughing.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-you-get-older-you-dont-know-what-to-feel-says-rahul-dravid-as-team-india-head-coach-turns-49-443931">As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49</a>

At present, the Dravid-led Team India is gearing up to face West Indies in a white-ball series at home. After the disastrous tour of South Africa, the Men in Blue will be eager to revamp and get back to winning ways under Dravid's guidance. The ODI series will get underway on February 6, in Ahmedabad, whereas Kolkata will host the three T20Is.

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Rahul Dravid has served Indian cricket probably like no other cricketer. Over the years, the 49-year-old has donned various roles; i.e. being a makeshift opener, middle-order batter to a finisher, part-time keeper, taking over as captain, coaching U-19 and India A side, heading the NCA before taking over as the senior men's cricket team's head coach in late 2021.

Rahul Dravid has served Indian cricket probably like no other cricketer. Over the years, the 49-year-old has donned various roles; i.e. being a makeshift opener, middle-order batter to a finisher, part-time keeper, taking over as captain, coaching U-19 and India A side, heading the NCA before taking over as the senior men's cricket team's head coach in late 2021. Apart from 13,288 and 10,889 runs in Tests and ODIs, respectively, Dravid has done a lot for Indian cricket and continues to be a role model for many aspiring cricketers worldwide. Thus, Dravid -- known as The Wall -- has never been short of fans and followers worldwide. During an interaction with Vikram Sathaye, in 2016, the current head coach Dravid revealed a hilarious, or rather 'scary', interaction with a female fan who turned up at his house in Bengaluru and refused to leave. In an interaction with cricket humorist Vikram Sathaye in his show What The Duck, in 2016, Dravid had revealed an interesting episode of how a female fan surprised him by entering his house and refusing to leave. ALSO READ | It was an internal battle: Gautam Gambhir doesn't mince his words on Virat Kohli vs BCCI row 'I will stay here only' - I was taken back Dravid spilled the beans on the entire incident and said, "I had just come from a tour and I was sleeping in the afternoon. When I woke up, my parents told me to go and meet this fan who had come all the way from Hyderabad. She was waiting there for an hour and a half. At first, I thought it would be a simple taking autograph or photograph thing." "She said, ‘no I am not going to leave. I have left my home and come. I will stay here only’ and I was taken aback. It ended quite well but it was a wake-up call for my parents that you don’t let anyone in just like that," the legendary cricketer revealed while laughing. ALSO READ | As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49 At present, the Dravid-led Team India is gearing up to face West Indies in a white-ball series at home. After the disastrous tour of South Africa, the Men in Blue will be eager to revamp and get back to winning ways under Dravid's guidance. The ODI series will get underway on February 6, in Ahmedabad, whereas Kolkata will host the three T20Is.

I'm not going to leave: When Rahul Dravid was gobsmacked after a female fan refused to leave his house

Virat Kohli gave up Team India captaincy altogether when he resigned as the Test skipper early this year. The 33-year-old had already lost the limited-overs captaincy when he was sacked as the ODI captain, after having already stepped down from T20I skipper with India's end of campaign in the 2021 World Cup, in the UAE.

Having been released of additional responsibilities, Kohli will now look to rediscover his form with the bat, having not scored an international hundred in over two years. While Kohli isn't short of runs, with fifty-plus scores still coming off his blade across formats at regular intervals, a big knock has deprived the former Indian captain since late 2019. Hence, he will be eager to come at his usual best in the forthcoming home series, versus West Indies and Sri Lanka.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-warner-or-dhawan-chopra-predicts-indian-youngster-as-most-expensive-opener-in-ipl-2022-auction-449533">Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction</a>

Ahead of the India-WI ODIs, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra reflected on the lack of big scores from Kohli's willow.

Talking on&nbsp;Star Sports, Chopra said, "From a personal and individual standpoint, you want to convert those 50s into 100s because you’ve got to save something for the rainy days as well. He’s not going through a bad patch of form, so to speak, in terms of runs, but when you see him bat, you don’t see the same Virat Kohli."

"He’s not imposing, he’s not dominating, he’s still scratching around, he’s scoring those runs and that’s what all great players do – we saw Sachin, Rahul – we’ve seen them&nbsp;accumulate runs, but he’s (Virat Kohli) not an accumulator, he’s an enforcer but he’s not there yet," added the ex-Indian opener.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/warner-iyer-rabada-and-7-others-part-of-marquee-set-at-ipl-2022-mega-auction-see-full-list-449521">Warner, Iyer, Rabada and 7 others part of marquee set at IPL 2022 mega auction, see full list</a>

In addition, the cricketer-turned-commentator further emphasised on how Kohli will have to adapt to new white-ball skipper Rohit Sharma's brand of cricket. The former Test opener&nbsp;feels&nbsp;that could work in favour of King Kohli and liberate him.

"But the one thing I actually want to see, is now Rohit Sharma will have his stamp of authority and the brand of cricket that he wants to play. Virat Kohli has to be apart of the same philosophy. And once you have a different philosophy in place, sometimes it just liberates you, because you are not really thinking about, ‘Ok, I need to score or I need to do this. This is what all of us have to do together.’

"And that is what I am waiting to see, whether it unleashes and liberates Virat Kohli, no matter you get out on 50 but score that 50 off 55 balls, don’t worry about scoring a century, finishing games off, as a captain, you’ve done it all this while. It’s no longer your only job, your job description has changed a little," Chopra&nbsp;concluded.

Virat Kohli gave up Team India captaincy altogether when he resigned as the Test skipper early this year. The 33-year-old had already lost the limited-overs captaincy when he was sacked as the ODI captain, after having already stepped down from T20I skipper with India's end of campaign in the 2021 World Cup, in the UAE.

Virat Kohli gave up Team India captaincy altogether when he resigned as the Test skipper early this year. The 33-year-old had already lost the limited-overs captaincy when he was sacked as the ODI captain, after having already stepped down from T20I skipper with India's end of campaign in the 2021 World Cup, in the UAE. Having been released of additional responsibilities, Kohli will now look to rediscover his form with the bat, having not scored an international hundred in over two years. While Kohli isn't short of runs, with fifty-plus scores still coming off his blade across formats at regular intervals, a big knock has deprived the former Indian captain since late 2019. Hence, he will be eager to come at his usual best in the forthcoming home series, versus West Indies and Sri Lanka. ALSO READ | Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction Ahead of the India-WI ODIs, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra reflected on the lack of big scores from Kohli's willow. Talking on Star Sports, Chopra said, "From a personal and individual standpoint, you want to convert those 50s into 100s because you’ve got to save something for the rainy days as well. He’s not going through a bad patch of form, so to speak, in terms of runs, but when you see him bat, you don’t see the same Virat Kohli." "He’s not imposing, he’s not dominating, he’s still scratching around, he’s scoring those runs and that’s what all great players do – we saw Sachin, Rahul – we’ve seen them accumulate runs, but he’s (Virat Kohli) not an accumulator, he’s an enforcer but he’s not there yet," added the ex-Indian opener. ALSO READ | Warner, Iyer, Rabada and 7 others part of marquee set at IPL 2022 mega auction, see full list In addition, the cricketer-turned-commentator further emphasised on how Kohli will have to adapt to new white-ball skipper Rohit Sharma's brand of cricket. The former Test opener feels that could work in favour of King Kohli and liberate him. "But the one thing I actually want to see, is now Rohit Sharma will have his stamp of authority and the brand of cricket that he wants to play. Virat Kohli has to be apart of the same philosophy. And once you have a different philosophy in place, sometimes it just liberates you, because you are not really thinking about, ‘Ok, I need to score or I need to do this. This is what all of us have to do together.’ "And that is what I am waiting to see, whether it unleashes and liberates Virat Kohli, no matter you get out on 50 but score that 50 off 55 balls, don’t worry about scoring a century, finishing games off, as a captain, you’ve done it all this while. It’s no longer your only job, your job description has changed a little," Chopra concluded.

Don't see the same Virat Kohli: Former opener feels ex-captain 'not dominating' with the bat

On January 15, Virat Kohli gave up Test captaincy. This came a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa 2-1, in the rainbow nation. While Kohli had already resigned as the T20I captain and was sacked as the ODI skipper, he was expected to carry on as the leader in whites for a few more years.

Thus, Team India is set to enter a new phase in the upcoming white-ball home series versus West Indies where Rohit Sharma will completely take over as the limited-overs&nbsp;skipper. Many eyes will still be on Kohli, who will play his first-ever home series without captaincy responsibilities on his shoulders. Ahead of the India-WI ODIs, which gets underway on February 6, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir opined on Kohli the player. The 2011 World Cup-winning member Gambhir feels nothing changes for Kohli and the Rahul Dravid-led team management's approach towards him following his captaincy tenure.

"Nothing changes," Gambhir told Sports Today. He opined, "When you are growing up as a kid you want to try and win games for the country and that is all that matters. You don't dream of captaining the side from day one so for me nothing changes. If it does then there is something seriously wrong. Captaincy is just a honour and responsibility and I'm sure Virat would be thinking the same way."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/quicker-virat-kohli-discovers-his-form-easier-it-will-be-for-rohit-sharma-says-former-india-pacer-449267">Quicker Virat Kohli discovers his form, easier it will be for Rohit Sharma, says former India pacer</a>

Meanwhile, Team India have a lot to do in the white-ball formats with recent disastrous performances in the 2021 T20 World Cup -- in the UAE -- and the 3-0 whitewash at the hands of Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in the ODI series. Many have called for India to change their playing style and adopt a new and aggressive template in the shorter formats.&nbsp;

However, Gambhir doesn't feel a change of template is required and stated that they are very 'overrated'.&nbsp;&nbsp;He said, "I've always thought of only one template which is to score the last run if you are chasing and take the last wicket if your defending. As simple as that, there is no other template that makes sense to me. All these are created by the media, the finisher, opener, death bowler and all."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-ms-dhoni-was-in-the-team-it-was-not-like-virat-kohli-on-giving-up-team-india-captaincy-449252">'When MS Dhoni was in the team, it was not like.....': Virat Kohli on giving up Team India captaincy</a>

"Cricket is a very simple game. All of us would want that when we are chasing a total, we should score the last run and if we are defending, we should take the last wicket and take the points in our kitty. That is all that matters and the only template. Templates are very overrated," the ex-cricketer added.

Rohit-led India are gearing up for the three-match ODI series versus the Caribbean team, starting on February 6.

On January 15, Virat Kohli gave up Test captaincy. This came a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa 2-1, in the rainbow nation. While Kohli had already resigned as the T20I captain and was sacked as the ODI skipper, he was expected to carry on as the leader in whites for a few more years.

On January 15, Virat Kohli gave up Test captaincy. This came a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa 2-1, in the rainbow nation. While Kohli had already resigned as the T20I captain and was sacked as the ODI skipper, he was expected to carry on as the leader in whites for a few more years. Thus, Team India is set to enter a new phase in the upcoming white-ball home series versus West Indies where Rohit Sharma will completely take over as the limited-overs skipper. Many eyes will still be on Kohli, who will play his first-ever home series without captaincy responsibilities on his shoulders. Ahead of the India-WI ODIs, which gets underway on February 6, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir opined on Kohli the player. The 2011 World Cup-winning member Gambhir feels nothing changes for Kohli and the Rahul Dravid-led team management's approach towards him following his captaincy tenure. "Nothing changes," Gambhir told Sports Today. He opined, "When you are growing up as a kid you want to try and win games for the country and that is all that matters. You don't dream of captaining the side from day one so for me nothing changes. If it does then there is something seriously wrong. Captaincy is just a honour and responsibility and I'm sure Virat would be thinking the same way." ALSO READ | Quicker Virat Kohli discovers his form, easier it will be for Rohit Sharma, says former India pacer Meanwhile, Team India have a lot to do in the white-ball formats with recent disastrous performances in the 2021 T20 World Cup -- in the UAE -- and the 3-0 whitewash at the hands of Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in the ODI series. Many have called for India to change their playing style and adopt a new and aggressive template in the shorter formats. However, Gambhir doesn't feel a change of template is required and stated that they are very 'overrated'. He said, "I've always thought of only one template which is to score the last run if you are chasing and take the last wicket if your defending. As simple as that, there is no other template that makes sense to me. All these are created by the media, the finisher, opener, death bowler and all." ALSO READ | 'When MS Dhoni was in the team, it was not like.....': Virat Kohli on giving up Team India captaincy "Cricket is a very simple game. All of us would want that when we are chasing a total, we should score the last run and if we are defending, we should take the last wicket and take the points in our kitty. That is all that matters and the only template. Templates are very overrated," the ex-cricketer added. Rohit-led India are gearing up for the three-match ODI series versus the Caribbean team, starting on February 6.

It is just an honour: Gautam Gambhir feels nothing changes for Virat Kohli post captaincy tenure

Team India is set to start a new era in the forthcoming white-ball series versus West Indies, at home. Rohit Sharma-led India will be eager to move past the horrific ODI series versus South Africa, in the African nation, where they were whitwashed 3-0 and will now look to come to their very best on home soil.

The upcoming India-West Indies series will also be of great significance to Virat Kohli, who will play his first-ever series at home after giving up captaincy altogether. While he had resigned as the T20I captain in mid-2021 and sacked as the ODI skipper in December, he gave up Test captaincy early this year.

The 33-year-old Kohli will have all eyes on him as the former captain has had an indifferent run with the bat since late 2019. He hasn't scored an international hundred since India's first day-night Test in late November, 2019. While his form in white-ball cricket still remains decent, it isn't as per the standards set by him. Thus, former India all-rounder Ajit Agarkar opined in this regard and feels the quicker Kohli rediscovers his form, the better it would be for newly-appointed white-ball captain Rohit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-ms-dhoni-was-in-the-team-it-was-not-like-virat-kohli-on-giving-up-team-india-captaincy-449252">'When MS Dhoni was in the team, it was not like.....': Virat Kohli on giving up Team India captaincy</a>

Speaking on Star Sports' show Game Plan ahead of the India-WI ODIs, Agarkar pointed out saying, "At the end of the day you’re only successful as successful your team is and if you don’t win, it eventually doesn’t matter how great a player you are out on the field, it’s not enjoyable playing in the team."

“We talk about different combinations before - Virat Kohli would be a key factor because of the kind of the player that he is but at the moment he isn’t at his best, which is a fact and the quicker he discovers his form it’s going to be that much easier for Rohit Sharma to then manage that thing because of what he can do on his own, Virat Kohli. Virat Kohli’s form is a concern, but we all know what a player he is. So, hopefully, he discovers his form sooner rather than later,” quipped Agarkar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-cherished-that-post-so-much-ponting-reflects-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-resign-as-indias-test-captain-449161">He cherished that post so much: Ponting reflects on Virat Kohli's decision to resign as India's Test captain</a>

Recently, Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma had told India News, "I have always said that he (Kohli) does not run after records. He does not know most times what record he has created, and I tell him what record he has created. So he has a fight with himself only, that is what he probably means that he wants to improve his performance because lately, it has not been up to the benchmark he has set."

While Kohli has still contributed with vital knocks across formats, he will be eager to score a hundred in the upcoming ODIs versus WI, a team against whom he averages&nbsp;58.92 in the 50-over format.

The ODI series opener will get underway on February 6 in Ahmedabad.

Team India is set to start a new era in the forthcoming white-ball series versus West Indies, at home. Rohit Sharma-led India will be eager to move past the horrific ODI series versus South Africa, in the African nation, where they were whitwashed 3-0 and will now look to come to their very best on home soil.

Team India is set to start a new era in the forthcoming white-ball series versus West Indies, at home. Rohit Sharma-led India will be eager to move past the horrific ODI series versus South Africa, in the African nation, where they were whitwashed 3-0 and will now look to come to their very best on home soil. The upcoming India-West Indies series will also be of great significance to Virat Kohli, who will play his first-ever series at home after giving up captaincy altogether. While he had resigned as the T20I captain in mid-2021 and sacked as the ODI skipper in December, he gave up Test captaincy early this year. The 33-year-old Kohli will have all eyes on him as the former captain has had an indifferent run with the bat since late 2019. He hasn't scored an international hundred since India's first day-night Test in late November, 2019. While his form in white-ball cricket still remains decent, it isn't as per the standards set by him. Thus, former India all-rounder Ajit Agarkar opined in this regard and feels the quicker Kohli rediscovers his form, the better it would be for newly-appointed white-ball captain Rohit. ALSO READ | 'When MS Dhoni was in the team, it was not like.....': Virat Kohli on giving up Team India captaincy Speaking on Star Sports' show Game Plan ahead of the India-WI ODIs, Agarkar pointed out saying, "At the end of the day you’re only successful as successful your team is and if you don’t win, it eventually doesn’t matter how great a player you are out on the field, it’s not enjoyable playing in the team." “We talk about different combinations before - Virat Kohli would be a key factor because of the kind of the player that he is but at the moment he isn’t at his best, which is a fact and the quicker he discovers his form it’s going to be that much easier for Rohit Sharma to then manage that thing because of what he can do on his own, Virat Kohli. Virat Kohli’s form is a concern, but we all know what a player he is. So, hopefully, he discovers his form sooner rather than later,” quipped Agarkar. ALSO READ | He cherished that post so much: Ponting reflects on Virat Kohli's decision to resign as India's Test captain Recently, Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma had told India News, "I have always said that he (Kohli) does not run after records. He does not know most times what record he has created, and I tell him what record he has created. So he has a fight with himself only, that is what he probably means that he wants to improve his performance because lately, it has not been up to the benchmark he has set." While Kohli has still contributed with vital knocks across formats, he will be eager to score a hundred in the upcoming ODIs versus WI, a team against whom he averages 58.92 in the 50-over format. The ODI series opener will get underway on February 6 in Ahmedabad.

Quicker Virat Kohli discovers his form, easier it will be for Rohit Sharma, says former India pacer

Virat Kohli gave up Team India captaincy altogether when he stepped down as the Test captain post India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar-led South Africa, early this year. Earlier, BCCI had already sacked Kohli as the ODI captain whereas he had himself announced -- in mid-September 2021 -- of stepping down as the&nbsp;shortest format's captain after the World Cup in the UAE, in October-November.&nbsp;

A lot has been said and written on Kohli giving up India captaincy altogether. His decision to quit as the Test captain shocked many as his record as a leader in whites is second to none (among&nbsp;India skippers). The 33-year-old spilled the beans on his decision and cited an example of his predecessor MS Dhoni.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-cherished-that-post-so-much-ponting-reflects-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-resign-as-indias-test-captain-449161">He cherished that post so much: Ponting reflects on Virat Kohli's decision to resign as India's Test captain</a>

"See, I think firstly you need to have a complete understanding of what you set out to achieve and whether you have achieved those targets or not. Everything has a tenure and time period, so you have to be aware of it. As a batter, you might be able to give more to the team, so take pride in that," said Kohli on an episode of 'Fireside Chat with VK'.&nbsp;

He further opined, "You do not need to be a captain to be the leader. When MS Dhoni was in the team, it was not like he was not the leader, he was still the guy from whom we wanted to have input. To win or not win is not in your hands, the striving for excellence and to be better every day, is not something you can do short term. When it comes to a culture, it will last beyond your playing years and your responsibility."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-married-to-him-harbhajan-singh-gives-cheeky-response-clears-air-on-rumoured-rift-with-ms-dhoni-449222">'I am not married to him': Harbhajan Singh gives cheeky response, clears air on rumoured rift with MS Dhoni</a>

Kohli added, "To add to that, moving on is also a part of leadership, to understand the right time to do that. I think one has to embrace all kinds of roles and opportunities. I have played under MS Dhoni for a while and then I became the captain, my mindset has been the same all this while. I always thought like a captain when I was just a player in the team."

While Rohit Sharma has taken over India's limited-overs captain, Kohli's successor is yet to be named in the red-ball format. As of now, Rohit leads the race to become the all-format skipper whereas KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant&nbsp;are the other contenders.

Virat Kohli gave up Team India captaincy altogether when he stepped down as the Test captain post India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar-led South Africa, early this year.

Virat Kohli gave up Team India captaincy altogether when he stepped down as the Test captain post India's 2-1 series loss to Dean Elgar-led South Africa, early this year. Earlier, BCCI had already sacked Kohli as the ODI captain whereas he had himself announced -- in mid-September 2021 -- of stepping down as the shortest format's captain after the World Cup in the UAE, in October-November. A lot has been said and written on Kohli giving up India captaincy altogether. His decision to quit as the Test captain shocked many as his record as a leader in whites is second to none (among India skippers). The 33-year-old spilled the beans on his decision and cited an example of his predecessor MS Dhoni. ALSO READ | He cherished that post so much: Ponting reflects on Virat Kohli's decision to resign as India's Test captain "See, I think firstly you need to have a complete understanding of what you set out to achieve and whether you have achieved those targets or not. Everything has a tenure and time period, so you have to be aware of it. As a batter, you might be able to give more to the team, so take pride in that," said Kohli on an episode of 'Fireside Chat with VK'. He further opined, "You do not need to be a captain to be the leader. When MS Dhoni was in the team, it was not like he was not the leader, he was still the guy from whom we wanted to have input. To win or not win is not in your hands, the striving for excellence and to be better every day, is not something you can do short term. When it comes to a culture, it will last beyond your playing years and your responsibility." ALSO READ | 'I am not married to him': Harbhajan Singh gives cheeky response, clears air on rumoured rift with MS Dhoni Kohli added, "To add to that, moving on is also a part of leadership, to understand the right time to do that. I think one has to embrace all kinds of roles and opportunities. I have played under MS Dhoni for a while and then I became the captain, my mindset has been the same all this while. I always thought like a captain when I was just a player in the team." While Rohit Sharma has taken over India's limited-overs captain, Kohli's successor is yet to be named in the red-ball format. As of now, Rohit leads the race to become the all-format skipper whereas KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant are the other contenders.

'When MS Dhoni was in the team, it was not like.....': Virat Kohli on giving up Team India captaincy

A day after India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step down as the captain in the purest format. By then, Kohli was already sacked as the ODI captain whereas he had resigned as the T20I skipper after the World Cup.

Kohli had tweeted saying, on January 15, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."

Recently, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting reflected on Kohli's sudden announcement of stepping down as the Test captain.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-aim-is-to-be-at-my-peak-in-2023-odi-world-cup-team-india-star-hardik-pandya-sets-sight-on-future-449137">My aim is to be at my peak in 2023 ODI World Cup: Team India star Hardik Pandya sets sight on future</a>

Reacting to Kohli's&nbsp;decision, Ponting said in the first episode of 'The ICC Review', "Yes, it did actually (surprise me). Probably the main reason why is, I had a chat and good catch-up with Virat during the first part of the IPL (2021) before it got postponed. He was talking then about stepping away (from captaincy) from white-ball cricket and how passionate he was to continue on to be Test match captain. He just loved and cherished that job and that post so much. Obviously, the Indian Test team had achieved a lot under his leadership. When I heard it, I was really, really surprised."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-rishabh-pant-top-5-contenders-who-can-succeed-virat-kohli-as-indias-test-captain-448152">From Rohit Sharma to Rishabh Pant: Top 5 contenders who can succeed Virat Kohli as India's Test captain</a>

"You only have to watch him on the field for an hour of the day's play to realize how passionate he is about that job and the role, and how much he wants the team to win and how much he wants the best for Indian cricket. I was shocked, but then I started thinking about other things, even my own time as captain. I have gone on record and said that I probably think I played a couple of years longer than I should have in hindsight. I think I might have been captain for a couple of years longer than I should have," he added.

Talking about Kohli's Test captaincy tenure, the 33-year-old led India to their maiden Test series triumph in Australia, guided the side to an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom in mid-2021 and took them to the finale of the inaugural WTC cycle.

A day after India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step down as the captain in the purest format.

A day after India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step down as the captain in the purest format. By then, Kohli was already sacked as the ODI captain whereas he had resigned as the T20I skipper after the World Cup. Kohli had tweeted saying, on January 15, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." Recently, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting reflected on Kohli's sudden announcement of stepping down as the Test captain. ALSO READ | My aim is to be at my peak in 2023 ODI World Cup: Team India star Hardik Pandya sets sight on future Reacting to Kohli's decision, Ponting said in the first episode of 'The ICC Review', "Yes, it did actually (surprise me). Probably the main reason why is, I had a chat and good catch-up with Virat during the first part of the IPL (2021) before it got postponed. He was talking then about stepping away (from captaincy) from white-ball cricket and how passionate he was to continue on to be Test match captain. He just loved and cherished that job and that post so much. Obviously, the Indian Test team had achieved a lot under his leadership. When I heard it, I was really, really surprised." ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Rishabh Pant: Top 5 contenders who can succeed Virat Kohli as India's Test captain "You only have to watch him on the field for an hour of the day's play to realize how passionate he is about that job and the role, and how much he wants the team to win and how much he wants the best for Indian cricket. I was shocked, but then I started thinking about other things, even my own time as captain. I have gone on record and said that I probably think I played a couple of years longer than I should have in hindsight. I think I might have been captain for a couple of years longer than I should have," he added. Talking about Kohli's Test captaincy tenure, the 33-year-old led India to their maiden Test series triumph in Australia, guided the side to an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom in mid-2021 and took them to the finale of the inaugural WTC cycle.

He cherished that post so much: Ponting reflects on Virat Kohli's decision to resign as India's Test captain

Hardik Pandya has had a tough ride in competitive cricket ever since the gentlemen's game resumed in the Covid-19 era. Before the pandemic struck, Hardik was already battling a tough back injury and underwent a surgey, missing India's tour of New Zealand in early 2020.

Since then, Hardik was part of Mumbai Indians' (MI) IPL 2020 win but couldn't do much with the bat whereas&nbsp;didn't bowl a single over in the entire season. While he had a good run with the willow in India's tour of Australia which followed suit, everything slipped from thereon for the star all-rounder. He has&nbsp;bowled very few overs for Team India, didn't bowl in entire IPL 2021 as well, saw a dip in&nbsp;form with the bat and also lost the Test spot for not fulfilling the all-rounder's role. In addition, he&nbsp;is still not fully fit to regain his spot in the national side ahead of Rohit Sharma-led India's home season in white-ball formats.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-to-continue-leading-csk-in-ipl-2022-amid-rumours-of-ravindra-jadeja-taking-over-as-captain-448991">MS Dhoni to continue leading CSK in IPL 2022 amid rumours of Ravindra Jadeja taking over as captain</a>

Speaking to&nbsp;Economic Times, the 28-year old Hardik, however, remains undeterred and shared his plans for the future, revealing that he already has 2023 ODI World Cup in mind during preparations. "Yes, that’s the plan. My main aim is to be at my peak when the World Cup happens."

Hardik added, “All my training, planning, preparation is keeping the World Cup in mind. I want to win the World Cup for the country. It will make me really happy and proud. It is like an obsession with me. IPL will give me a very good preparatory platform for the World Cup but all the hard work ultimately is for the Indian team and the World Cup.''

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-always-worked-hard-in-silence-and-will-continue-to-do-so-hardik-pandya-on-his-return-from-injury-449009">I have always worked hard in silence and will continue to do so: Hardik Pandya on his return from injury</a>

Hardik has lost his place to Venkatesh Iyer, who is being groomed&nbsp;to fulfill the all-rounder's role in the shortest format. However, the Rahul Dravid-led Indian team thinktank are desperate to see the return of Hardik into the national side&nbsp;due to the balance and versatality he brings with him.&nbsp;

Hardik will next be seen in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, where the local boy will lead his home franchise Ahmedabad.

Hardik Pandya has had a tough ride in competitive cricket ever since the gentlemen's game resumed in the Covid-19 era. Before the pandemic struck, Hardik was already battling a tough back injury and underwent a surgey, missing India's tour of New Zealand in early 2020.

Hardik Pandya has had a tough ride in competitive cricket ever since the gentlemen's game resumed in the Covid-19 era. Before the pandemic struck, Hardik was already battling a tough back injury and underwent a surgey, missing India's tour of New Zealand in early 2020. Since then, Hardik was part of Mumbai Indians' (MI) IPL 2020 win but couldn't do much with the bat whereas didn't bowl a single over in the entire season. While he had a good run with the willow in India's tour of Australia which followed suit, everything slipped from thereon for the star all-rounder. He has bowled very few overs for Team India, didn't bowl in entire IPL 2021 as well, saw a dip in form with the bat and also lost the Test spot for not fulfilling the all-rounder's role. In addition, he is still not fully fit to regain his spot in the national side ahead of Rohit Sharma-led India's home season in white-ball formats. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni to continue leading CSK in IPL 2022 amid rumours of Ravindra Jadeja taking over as captain Speaking to Economic Times, the 28-year old Hardik, however, remains undeterred and shared his plans for the future, revealing that he already has 2023 ODI World Cup in mind during preparations. "Yes, that’s the plan. My main aim is to be at my peak when the World Cup happens." Hardik added, “All my training, planning, preparation is keeping the World Cup in mind. I want to win the World Cup for the country. It will make me really happy and proud. It is like an obsession with me. IPL will give me a very good preparatory platform for the World Cup but all the hard work ultimately is for the Indian team and the World Cup.'' ALSO READ | I have always worked hard in silence and will continue to do so: Hardik Pandya on his return from injury Hardik has lost his place to Venkatesh Iyer, who is being groomed to fulfill the all-rounder's role in the shortest format. However, the Rahul Dravid-led Indian team thinktank are desperate to see the return of Hardik into the national side due to the balance and versatality he brings with him. Hardik will next be seen in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, where the local boy will lead his home franchise Ahmedabad.

My aim is to be at my peak in 2023 ODI World Cup: Team India star Hardik Pandya sets sight on future

The Indian cricket team is going through a transition period after a change in leadership post Virat Kohli's exit as captain across all formats. While Rohit Sharma has taken over the charge in limited-overs formats, the selectors are yet to take a call on who will be India's next Test captain.

Kohli's decision to step down as Test captain came after the team's 2-1 defeat against South Africa away from home. Ever since his shocking announcement, there have been rumours of all not being well inside the Indian dressing room. Questions have also been raised on the body language of the players and the relationship between Kohli and Rohit.

Former India cricketer and national selector Saba Karim recently shared his views on the change in leadership and the environment in the Indian dressing room at present. Karim believes both head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma need to discuss the team's culture and expectations that they have from Kohli going forward.

The former selector also stated that both Rohit and Kohli need to sort out their differences, if there are any and focus on the bigger picture. As per him, the duo needs to work together towards achieving the ultimate goals of the Indian team and take Indian cricket forward.

"Virat Kohli will need to make extra efforts. He must be having some regrets, I am sure, but time heals wounds. I think Virat is experienced enough and mature to deal with it. We should see it on the ground soon," Karim said on the Khelneeti podcast.

“Being captain, Rohit Sharma will need to take that extra step. He and Rahul Dravid will need to explain to Kohli the thought process and culture they want to bring in. They can seek inputs from Kohli over the same. At the end of the day, both Kohli and Rohit need to look at the big picture and think about the ultimate team goals," he added.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-pacer-mohammed-shami-names-2-teammates-who-can-replace-virat-kohli-as-next-test-captain-448679">&nbsp;Indian pacer Mohammed Shami names 2 teammates who can replace Virat Kohli as next Test captain</a>

Karim believes the Indian dressing room can fall apart pretty quickly if&nbsp;Rohit and Kohli are not on the same page. He urged the duo to work together and focus on the greater good of the team.

“If both players are on the same page, things will become very easy. If issues crop up between them, the dressing room environment will go down quickly. So it is very important for both of them to work together," Karim said.

 
&nbsp;

The Indian cricket team is going through a transition period after a change in leadership post Virat Kohli's exit as captain across all formats. While Rohit Sharma has taken over the charge in limited-overs formats, the selectors are yet to take a call on who will be India's next Test captain.

The Indian cricket team is going through a transition period after a change in leadership post Virat Kohli's exit as captain across all formats. While Rohit Sharma has taken over the charge in limited-overs formats, the selectors are yet to take a call on who will be India's next Test captain. Kohli's decision to step down as Test captain came after the team's 2-1 defeat against South Africa away from home. Ever since his shocking announcement, there have been rumours of all not being well inside the Indian dressing room. Questions have also been raised on the body language of the players and the relationship between Kohli and Rohit. Former India cricketer and national selector Saba Karim recently shared his views on the change in leadership and the environment in the Indian dressing room at present. Karim believes both head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma need to discuss the team's culture and expectations that they have from Kohli going forward. The former selector also stated that both Rohit and Kohli need to sort out their differences, if there are any and focus on the bigger picture. As per him, the duo needs to work together towards achieving the ultimate goals of the Indian team and take Indian cricket forward. "Virat Kohli will need to make extra efforts. He must be having some regrets, I am sure, but time heals wounds. I think Virat is experienced enough and mature to deal with it. We should see it on the ground soon," Karim said on the Khelneeti podcast. “Being captain, Rohit Sharma will need to take that extra step. He and Rahul Dravid will need to explain to Kohli the thought process and culture they want to bring in. They can seek inputs from Kohli over the same. At the end of the day, both Kohli and Rohit need to look at the big picture and think about the ultimate team goals," he added. Also Read: Indian pacer Mohammed Shami names 2 teammates who can replace Virat Kohli as next Test captain Karim believes the Indian dressing room can fall apart pretty quickly if Rohit and Kohli are not on the same page. He urged the duo to work together and focus on the greater good of the team. “If both players are on the same page, things will become very easy. If issues crop up between them, the dressing room environment will go down quickly. So it is very important for both of them to work together," Karim said.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli need to look at the big picture and think about the team goals: Ex-India selector

Team India is going through a transition phase at the moment. After Virat Kohli stepped down as the T20I captain, announcing it before the World Cup in the UAE, and was sacked as the ODI skipper, Rohit Sharma has succeeded him in the white-ball formats and remains a top contender to become the all-format leader following Kohli's Test resignation.

At present, India are gearing up for a white-ball series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies at home. Ahead of the series, which gets underway on February 6 in Ahmedabad, former WI skipper Daren Sammy lavished huge praise on Rohit and feels Indian cricket is in good hands despite the white-ball captaincy baton being passed from Kohli to Hitman.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cant-have-someone-who-gets-injured-at-the-start-of-series-ex-india-selector-on-rohit-sharma-as-test-captain-448504">Can't have someone who gets injured at the start of series: Ex-India selector on Rohit Sharma as Test captain</a>

Sammy told PTI, "Kohli has been exceptional with his performances on the field. I don't think it will affect the team.&nbsp;Rohit has been an excellent captain (with Mumbai Indians), a good motivational leader. I've watched him captaining Mumbai in the IPL. He's among the captains who have won like MS Dhoni, (Gautam) Gambhir...”

The former West Indies skipper further said that he's “not worried about Indian cricket. All these guys can manage to get performances from their teammates. These captains normally get results and win trophies. I'm not worried about Indian cricket. It's in good hands."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itll-do-him-a-world-of-good-ex-head-coach-ravi-shastri-suggests-how-virat-kohli-can-rejuvenate-his-form-448400">It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form</a>

The 38-year-old Sammy also opened up on Pollard-led visitors chances against India in their own backyard. Currently, the Caribbean team is involved in a five-match T20I series versus England at home. “I believe Pollard will definitely fancy his chances (against India). He has been playing in India for so long, he knows the conditions well. At the (ongoing) England series, we have unearthed some new talents. I think West Indies could go out there (India) and do well."

Team India is going through a transition phase at the moment. After Virat Kohli stepped down as the T20I captain, announcing it before the World Cup in the UAE, and was sacked as the ODI skipper, Rohit Sharma has succeeded him in the white-ball formats and remains a top contender to become the all-format leader following Kohli's Test resignation.

Team India is going through a transition phase at the moment. After Virat Kohli stepped down as the T20I captain, announcing it before the World Cup in the UAE, and was sacked as the ODI skipper, Rohit Sharma has succeeded him in the white-ball formats and remains a top contender to become the all-format leader following Kohli's Test resignation. At present, India are gearing up for a white-ball series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies at home. Ahead of the series, which gets underway on February 6 in Ahmedabad, former WI skipper Daren Sammy lavished huge praise on Rohit and feels Indian cricket is in good hands despite the white-ball captaincy baton being passed from Kohli to Hitman. ALSO READ | Can't have someone who gets injured at the start of series: Ex-India selector on Rohit Sharma as Test captain Sammy told PTI, "Kohli has been exceptional with his performances on the field. I don't think it will affect the team. Rohit has been an excellent captain (with Mumbai Indians), a good motivational leader. I've watched him captaining Mumbai in the IPL. He's among the captains who have won like MS Dhoni, (Gautam) Gambhir...” The former West Indies skipper further said that he's “not worried about Indian cricket. All these guys can manage to get performances from their teammates. These captains normally get results and win trophies. I'm not worried about Indian cricket. It's in good hands." ALSO READ | It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form The 38-year-old Sammy also opened up on Pollard-led visitors chances against India in their own backyard. Currently, the Caribbean team is involved in a five-match T20I series versus England at home. “I believe Pollard will definitely fancy his chances (against India). He has been playing in India for so long, he knows the conditions well. At the (ongoing) England series, we have unearthed some new talents. I think West Indies could go out there (India) and do well."

Rohit Sharma has won like MS Dhoni: Former WI skipper heaps praise on India's white-ball captain

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