Rishabh Pant created history on Day 3 of the first Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park, Centurion on Tuesday (December 28). The 24-year-old youngster became the quickest Indian keeper to 100 Test dismissals, breaking his mentor and former Indian captain MS Dhoni's record (who achieved the feat during his 36th Test appearance).

For the unversed, Pant reached the milestone with the departure of SA's limited-overs captain Temba Bavuma (52) to become the fastest Indian keeper to 100 dismissals. He, thus, attained the feat in his 26th Test (50th innings). Proteas' Quinton de Kock leads the overall list, who reached the landmark during his 22nd Test match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-are-players-who-can-push-him-out-of-xi-former-indian-all-rounder-opines-on-pujaras-struggles-440687">There are players who can push him out of XI: Former Indian all-rounder opines on Pujara's struggles</a>

Overall, Pant became the sixth Indian keeper to have 100, or more, dismissals in the purest format of the game; joining the likes of Dhoni, Syed Kirmani, Nayan Mongia, Kiran More and teammate Wriddhiman Saha. Early this year, Pant had also surpassed Dhoni to become the quickest Indian keeper-batsman to 1,000 runs in whites. He reached the landmark in his 27th innings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-md-siraj-pulls-off-ronaldos-iconic-celebration-after-van-der-dussens-wicket-in-centurion-test-440712">WATCH: Md. Siraj pulls off Ronaldo's iconic celebration after Van der Dussen's wicket in Centurion Test</a>

Pant has had a solid start to his Test career. Debuting during India's tour of England in 2018, the left-hander slammed a hundred in his debut series and already has a ton in Australia as well. During the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, the youngster contributed to India's 2-1 series triumph with two memorable half-centuries and has continued to score vital runs down the order for Virat Kohli &amp; Co. In addition, his keeping skills have improved to a great extend.&nbsp;

Pant will aim to cross Dhoni's overall tally of 294 dismissals in whites (most by an Indian) by the time he ends his Test career. While he has plenty to achieve as of now, the youngster promises a lot more in future with his talent, learning abilities and overall skills.

Rishabh Pant created history on Day 3 of the first Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park, Centurion on Tuesday (December 28). The 24-year-old youngster became the quickest Indian keeper to 100 Test dismissals, breaking his mentor and former Indian captain MS Dhoni's record (who achieved the feat during his 36th Test appearance).

Rishabh Pant created history on Day 3 of the first Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park, Centurion on Tuesday (December 28). The 24-year-old youngster became the quickest Indian keeper to 100 Test dismissals, breaking his mentor and former Indian captain MS Dhoni's record (who achieved the feat during his 36th Test appearance). For the unversed, Pant reached the milestone with the departure of SA's limited-overs captain Temba Bavuma (52) to become the fastest Indian keeper to 100 dismissals. He, thus, attained the feat in his 26th Test (50th innings). Proteas' Quinton de Kock leads the overall list, who reached the landmark during his 22nd Test match. ALSO READ | There are players who can push him out of XI: Former Indian all-rounder opines on Pujara's struggles Overall, Pant became the sixth Indian keeper to have 100, or more, dismissals in the purest format of the game; joining the likes of Dhoni, Syed Kirmani, Nayan Mongia, Kiran More and teammate Wriddhiman Saha. Early this year, Pant had also surpassed Dhoni to become the quickest Indian keeper-batsman to 1,000 runs in whites. He reached the landmark in his 27th innings. ALSO READ | WATCH: Md. Siraj pulls off Ronaldo's iconic celebration after Van der Dussen's wicket in Centurion Test Pant has had a solid start to his Test career. Debuting during India's tour of England in 2018, the left-hander slammed a hundred in his debut series and already has a ton in Australia as well. During the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, the youngster contributed to India's 2-1 series triumph with two memorable half-centuries and has continued to score vital runs down the order for Virat Kohli & Co. In addition, his keeping skills have improved to a great extend. Pant will aim to cross Dhoni's overall tally of 294 dismissals in whites (most by an Indian) by the time he ends his Test career. While he has plenty to achieve as of now, the youngster promises a lot more in future with his talent, learning abilities and overall skills.

Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Rishabh Pant goes past MS Dhoni to become quickest Indian keeper to 100 dismissals

Team India entered the knockouts of every ICC event, following their 2013 Champions Trophy win, but haven't been able to win a major title across formats. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team were touted to be one of the strongest contenders but the Men in Blue didn't even reach the semi-finals and bowed out with heavy defeats at the hands of Pakistan and New Zealand.

The year 2022 and 2023 will see India compete in two ICC tournaments, in the form of the next edition of the T20 World Cup and ODI World Cup, respectively. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has highlighted one area where Rohit Sharma-led Team India have to improve on to win the next two World Cups.&nbsp;

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Gavaskar recalled India's historic 1983 World Cup triumph and wrote in his column for Mid-Day, "It was a squad of 14 players and one manager and we conquered the cricketing world. There were no field restrictions then, no limitations on the number of bouncers too and the red ball in English conditions which hardly stopped moving even after the shine was gone."

"That team were full of all-rounders and that is the key especially in limited overs cricket. Even the 2007 and 2011 teams had batsmen who could bowl and bowlers who were no bunnies with the bat. If India can find two all-rounders, then we will have a better chance in the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022 and in the 50 overs Cup at home in India in 2023."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/had-virat-kohli-been-soft-like-ms-dhoni-he-wouldnt-have-scored-these-many-runs-harbhajan-singh-440599">Had Virat Kohli been soft like MS Dhoni, he wouldn't have scored these many runs: Harbhajan Singh</a>

At present, India's premier all-rounder Hardik Pandya is out of the scene due to injury concerns. The other options for Rohit &amp; Co. are in the form of Krunal Pandya, Shardul Thakur, Venkatesh Iyer, etc. Nonetheless, India will also hope for Hardik to recover soon and return in full flow to strengthen the national side in white-ball formats in the near future.&nbsp;

While India will look to end their ICC-title drought in the upcoming T20 and ODI WCs, they also have a chance to become the World Test champions if they win the ongoing second WTC cycle (which will conclude by early 2023).

Team India entered the knockouts of every ICC event, following their 2013 Champions Trophy win, but haven't been able to win a major title across formats. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team were touted to be one of the strongest contenders but the Men in Blue didn't even reach the semi-finals and bowed out with heavy defeats at the hands of Pakistan and New Zealand.

Team India entered the knockouts of every ICC event, following their 2013 Champions Trophy win, but haven't been able to win a major title across formats. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team were touted to be one of the strongest contenders but the Men in Blue didn't even reach the semi-finals and bowed out with heavy defeats at the hands of Pakistan and New Zealand. The year 2022 and 2023 will see India compete in two ICC tournaments, in the form of the next edition of the T20 World Cup and ODI World Cup, respectively. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has highlighted one area where Rohit Sharma-led Team India have to improve on to win the next two World Cups. ALSO READ | Solid bench strength, IPL 2021, Test dominance to Rahul Dravid's return: Reliving India's 2021 Gavaskar recalled India's historic 1983 World Cup triumph and wrote in his column for Mid-Day, "It was a squad of 14 players and one manager and we conquered the cricketing world. There were no field restrictions then, no limitations on the number of bouncers too and the red ball in English conditions which hardly stopped moving even after the shine was gone." "That team were full of all-rounders and that is the key especially in limited overs cricket. Even the 2007 and 2011 teams had batsmen who could bowl and bowlers who were no bunnies with the bat. If India can find two all-rounders, then we will have a better chance in the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022 and in the 50 overs Cup at home in India in 2023." ALSO READ | Had Virat Kohli been soft like MS Dhoni, he wouldn't have scored these many runs: Harbhajan Singh At present, India's premier all-rounder Hardik Pandya is out of the scene due to injury concerns. The other options for Rohit & Co. are in the form of Krunal Pandya, Shardul Thakur, Venkatesh Iyer, etc. Nonetheless, India will also hope for Hardik to recover soon and return in full flow to strengthen the national side in white-ball formats in the near future. While India will look to end their ICC-title drought in the upcoming T20 and ODI WCs, they also have a chance to become the World Test champions if they win the ongoing second WTC cycle (which will conclude by early 2023).

Sunil Gavaskar mentions one area where Team India need to work on to win next two World Cups

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more. Talking about Indian men's senior cricket team, the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer performed in bilateral series across formats, played the WTC final and ended the year with some glaring changes in the team management.

Here's looking back at the positives for Team India in the year 2021:

Conquering Aussies Down Under

The year started with a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team stunning Australia in their own backyard to win their second successive Test series on Aussies soil in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Contrary to what many would've thought, the heroes for India were Mohammed Siraj (13 wickets), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Rishabh Pant (with two half-centuries), Shubman Gill (equal number of fifties), etc.

India hammer England across formats

After the Australia Tests, India romped past England in all forms of the game while hosting the Three Lions in early 2021. In Tests, India saw young guns such as Axar Patel (27 wickets), Rishabh Pant (second-highest run-getter for India), Washington Sundar (important fifties and 2&nbsp;wickets) perform. In the limited-overs leg, the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Rohit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar rose to the occasion with some success for Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan.

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What a solid bench strength

India's solid bench strength once again came to the fore during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav (Player-of-the-Series in ODIs), Rahul Chahar (taking seven wickets in the tour), Prithvi Shaw (with some attractive knocks in the ODIs) made heads turn whereas Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar led from the front being the experienced ones among the lot.

IPL 2021

This year's IPL was the first-ever season to be played in two halves, in India and the UAE. Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the superstar duo didn't have a great campaign with the bat for their respective franchises but the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad (Orange Cap holder with 635 runs), Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Prithvi Shaw remained in the top 10 for most runs among batters. In the bowling department, Harshal Patel (32 wickets), Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh were among the top-10 wicket-takers.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-ipl-title-or-icc-silverware-captaincy-resignation-and-bcci-row-reliving-virat-kohlis-eventful-2021-439667">No IPL title or ICC silverware, captaincy resignation and BCCI row: Reliving Virat Kohli's eventful 2021</a>

While India's T20 World Cup campaign was a disaster, they returned with an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests versus Joe Root &amp; Co. in the United Kingdom. Bumrah returned with 18 wickets whereas Siraj finished with 15 scalps (second-most among Indians). With the bat, Rohit and KL Rahul led the show with 365 and 318 runs, respectively.&nbsp;

The Dravid-era

The year maybe ending with a controversy in the form of how things folded following the ODI&nbsp;captaincy row, however, Indian cricket fans can hope for things to be stable with an unfazed Rahul Dravid serving as the head coach. Dravid had led India in tumultuous times during the Greg Chappell-era. Hence, he has the calmness and excellent man-management skills to keep things afloat in the Indian camp during testing times as the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in white-ball formats.&nbsp;

In 2022, India will complete their tour of South Africa, which is currently underway, host Sri Lanka, West Indies, Afghanistan along with preparing for the T20 World Cup in Australia under Dravid's guidance. Fasten your seatbelts as India look for more success in 2022.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more. Talking about Indian men's senior cricket team, the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer performed in bilateral series across formats, played the WTC final and ended the year with some glaring changes in the team management. Here's looking back at the positives for Team India in the year 2021: Conquering Aussies Down Under The year started with a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team stunning Australia in their own backyard to win their second successive Test series on Aussies soil in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Contrary to what many would've thought, the heroes for India were Mohammed Siraj (13 wickets), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Rishabh Pant (with two half-centuries), Shubman Gill (equal number of fifties), etc. India hammer England across formats After the Australia Tests, India romped past England in all forms of the game while hosting the Three Lions in early 2021. In Tests, India saw young guns such as Axar Patel (27 wickets), Rishabh Pant (second-highest run-getter for India), Washington Sundar (important fifties and 2 wickets) perform. In the limited-overs leg, the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Rohit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar rose to the occasion with some success for Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan. ALSO READ | Vaughan reacts after Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Englishman amid Joe Root & Co.'s Ashes horrors What a solid bench strength India's solid bench strength once again came to the fore during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav (Player-of-the-Series in ODIs), Rahul Chahar (taking seven wickets in the tour), Prithvi Shaw (with some attractive knocks in the ODIs) made heads turn whereas Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar led from the front being the experienced ones among the lot. IPL 2021 This year's IPL was the first-ever season to be played in two halves, in India and the UAE. Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the superstar duo didn't have a great campaign with the bat for their respective franchises but the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad (Orange Cap holder with 635 runs), Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Prithvi Shaw remained in the top 10 for most runs among batters. In the bowling department, Harshal Patel (32 wickets), Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh were among the top-10 wicket-takers. ALSO READ | No IPL title or ICC silverware, captaincy resignation and BCCI row: Reliving Virat Kohli's eventful 2021 While India's T20 World Cup campaign was a disaster, they returned with an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests versus Joe Root & Co. in the United Kingdom. Bumrah returned with 18 wickets whereas Siraj finished with 15 scalps (second-most among Indians). With the bat, Rohit and KL Rahul led the show with 365 and 318 runs, respectively. The Dravid-era The year maybe ending with a controversy in the form of how things folded following the ODI captaincy row, however, Indian cricket fans can hope for things to be stable with an unfazed Rahul Dravid serving as the head coach. Dravid had led India in tumultuous times during the Greg Chappell-era. Hence, he has the calmness and excellent man-management skills to keep things afloat in the Indian camp during testing times as the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in white-ball formats. In 2022, India will complete their tour of South Africa, which is currently underway, host Sri Lanka, West Indies, Afghanistan along with preparing for the T20 World Cup in Australia under Dravid's guidance. Fasten your seatbelts as India look for more success in 2022.

Solid bench strength, IPL 2021, Test dominance to Rahul Dravid's return: Reliving India's 2021

Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt is very vocal on various aspects of the gentlemen's game and often shares his views on several platforms. After Day 1 of the Centurion Test ended between India and South Africa, on Sunday (December 26), the tainted Pakistani cricketer has called for senior Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara's omission from the Test line-up to make way for 'in-form' Mayank Agarwal once Rohit Sharma returns.

For the unversed, vice-captain Rohit Sharma isn't part of Virat Kohli-led India's three-match Test series versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas, in the rainbow nation, due to a hamstring injury. Mayank, on the other hand, had fallen behind in the pecking order due to Rohit, KL Rahul and Shubman Gill's presence but injury to Rohit and Gill made him the opener for the SA series.

Mayank cashed in the opportunity to score a free-flowing and attractive 123-ball 60 on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park, Centurion. He stitched an impressive 117-run opening stand with centurion KL Rahul (122 not out) and helped India close the day at 272-3. Meanwhile, Pujara's struggles continued as he was dismissed for a golden duck, his second overall, and fourth duck in the calendar year. Pujara's last international ton came in early 2019, hence, his spot is under the scanner.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-ex-india-pacer-ashish-nehra-predicts-a-top-knock-from-virat-kohli-isnt-far-away-440493">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Ex-India pacer Ashish Nehra predicts a top knock from Virat Kohli 'isn't far away'</a>

Butt feels once Rohit is fit and back in the Test setup, Pujara can make way for Mayank. On his Youtube channel, the Pakistani stated, "He (Pujara) is not in form now. So you have to replace him when Rohit Sharma returns because you cannot drop an in-form player. And I was never in favour of that move. They left out Shreyas Iyer despite that performance (against New Zealand). India have always backed their senior players, which is good, but Pujara needs to score runs."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-dravid-gives-a-pat-on-pujaras-back-to-uplift-his-spirits-after-golden-duck-watch-440395">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH</a>

Thus, Pujara needs to be among runs in the remainder of the SA Tests in order to retain his spot in the purest format of the game. Meanwhile, Rohit is expected to be available for the three ODIs versus South Africa, starting early next year.&nbsp;

Talking about the Centurion Test, Day 2 got washed out without a ball being bowled due to rain showers. India will resume third day's play at 272-3 with Rahul and Ajinkya Rahane (unbeaten on 40) in the middle.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt is very vocal on various aspects of the gentlemen's game and often shares his views on several platforms. After Day 1 of the Centurion Test ended between India and South Africa, on Sunday (December 26), the tainted Pakistani cricketer has called for senior Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara's omission from the Test line-up to make way for 'in-form' Mayank Agarwal once Rohit Sharma returns.

Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt is very vocal on various aspects of the gentlemen's game and often shares his views on several platforms. After Day 1 of the Centurion Test ended between India and South Africa, on Sunday (December 26), the tainted Pakistani cricketer has called for senior Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara's omission from the Test line-up to make way for 'in-form' Mayank Agarwal once Rohit Sharma returns. For the unversed, vice-captain Rohit Sharma isn't part of Virat Kohli-led India's three-match Test series versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas, in the rainbow nation, due to a hamstring injury. Mayank, on the other hand, had fallen behind in the pecking order due to Rohit, KL Rahul and Shubman Gill's presence but injury to Rohit and Gill made him the opener for the SA series. Mayank cashed in the opportunity to score a free-flowing and attractive 123-ball 60 on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park, Centurion. He stitched an impressive 117-run opening stand with centurion KL Rahul (122 not out) and helped India close the day at 272-3. Meanwhile, Pujara's struggles continued as he was dismissed for a golden duck, his second overall, and fourth duck in the calendar year. Pujara's last international ton came in early 2019, hence, his spot is under the scanner. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Ex-India pacer Ashish Nehra predicts a top knock from Virat Kohli 'isn't far away' Butt feels once Rohit is fit and back in the Test setup, Pujara can make way for Mayank. On his Youtube channel, the Pakistani stated, "He (Pujara) is not in form now. So you have to replace him when Rohit Sharma returns because you cannot drop an in-form player. And I was never in favour of that move. They left out Shreyas Iyer despite that performance (against New Zealand). India have always backed their senior players, which is good, but Pujara needs to score runs." ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH Thus, Pujara needs to be among runs in the remainder of the SA Tests in order to retain his spot in the purest format of the game. Meanwhile, Rohit is expected to be available for the three ODIs versus South Africa, starting early next year. Talking about the Centurion Test, Day 2 got washed out without a ball being bowled due to rain showers. India will resume third day's play at 272-3 with Rahul and Ajinkya Rahane (unbeaten on 40) in the middle.

Ex-Pak skipper calls for senior batter's omission for 'in-form' Mayank Agarwal on Rohit's Test return

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016. He was touted to become the head coach back then itself but the position went to Anil Kumble. After a year, Shastri got the top post as his tenure officially commenced from mid-2017.

Under Shastri, India achieved sizeable success across all forms of the game. The former Indian all-rounder guided India to success in Sri Lanka, West Indies, two Test series wins in a row in Australia, helped the team take an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the UK early this year, led them to the WTC finals and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In addition, he guided the side to ODI series wins in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and T20I bilateral series triumphs in SENA countries.

At home, India remained a dominant force under Shastri. However, he couldn't guide the side to an ICC title during his four-year-stint as his tenure came to a disappointing end with India's disastrous run in the T20 WC. Recalling Shastri's near-flawless stint as head coach, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar mentioned the biggest highlight of his ex-teammate's coaching career.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-used-to-get-upset-when-his-name-was-not-in-the-xi-ashish-nehra-heaps-praise-on-young-india-pacer-440445">He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer</a>

Gavaskar recalled Shastri's famous words after the defeat in Adelaide to&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;and said, "It obviously has got to be the way India bounced back earlier this year after being dismissed for 36 (in Adelaide Pink Ball Test). Because when something like that happens, the team tends to lose belief in itself, there is a sense of disappointment and there is a sense of giving up.

"And that is where Shastri played a huge role because from what I've read, is that he said that 'you wear this 36 like a badge'. And then Ajinkya Rahane, the way he led the side in the three Tests, and of course everyone stepped up. We played almost like an A team, not even the regular team. But every player who played in that, every replaced player came in and did well. And that is again tells you the kind of influence and input that Ravi Shastri had on the younger players and the fringe players who are waiting for their opportunities," added the Little Master.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/surprised-myself-with-how-calm-i-have-been-kl-rahul-reacts-to-his-truly-special-centurion-ton-vs-sa-440419">Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA</a>

Under Shastri, India were down and out in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy after the 8-wicket drubbing versus Australia in the series opener at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Nonetheless, the Kohli-less Indian side showed great character and fought fire with fire throughout the series to stage a comeback for the ages and eventually win&nbsp;2-1.&nbsp;

Now, Shastri has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach. Dravid-led Indian team is currently involved in the first Test, of the three-match series, versus South Africa in the African nation.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016. He was touted to become the head coach back then itself but the position went to Anil Kumble. After a year, Shastri got the top post as his tenure officially commenced from mid-2017. Under Shastri, India achieved sizeable success across all forms of the game. The former Indian all-rounder guided India to success in Sri Lanka, West Indies, two Test series wins in a row in Australia, helped the team take an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the UK early this year, led them to the WTC finals and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In addition, he guided the side to ODI series wins in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and T20I bilateral series triumphs in SENA countries. At home, India remained a dominant force under Shastri. However, he couldn't guide the side to an ICC title during his four-year-stint as his tenure came to a disappointing end with India's disastrous run in the T20 WC. Recalling Shastri's near-flawless stint as head coach, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar mentioned the biggest highlight of his ex-teammate's coaching career. ALSO READ | He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer Gavaskar recalled Shastri's famous words after the defeat in Adelaide to Star Sports and said, "It obviously has got to be the way India bounced back earlier this year after being dismissed for 36 (in Adelaide Pink Ball Test). Because when something like that happens, the team tends to lose belief in itself, there is a sense of disappointment and there is a sense of giving up. "And that is where Shastri played a huge role because from what I've read, is that he said that 'you wear this 36 like a badge'. And then Ajinkya Rahane, the way he led the side in the three Tests, and of course everyone stepped up. We played almost like an A team, not even the regular team. But every player who played in that, every replaced player came in and did well. And that is again tells you the kind of influence and input that Ravi Shastri had on the younger players and the fringe players who are waiting for their opportunities," added the Little Master. ALSO READ | Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA Under Shastri, India were down and out in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy after the 8-wicket drubbing versus Australia in the series opener at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Nonetheless, the Kohli-less Indian side showed great character and fought fire with fire throughout the series to stage a comeback for the ages and eventually win 2-1. Now, Shastri has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach. Dravid-led Indian team is currently involved in the first Test, of the three-match series, versus South Africa in the African nation.

Gavaskar recalls Shastri's journey as coach, mentions biggest highlight of his 4-year stint with Team India

Virat Kohli-led India ended Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test versus South Africa, in Centurion, on top. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Kohli &amp; Co. rode on opener KL Rahul's 122 not out and Mayank Agarwal's 60 to post 272-3 at stumps on the opening day.

Rahul and Mayank's 117-run opening stand set the tone for Team India. While India lost two wickets in a row, to be reduced to 117/2, Rahul was involved in valuable stands with Captain Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane to close the day on a high for the visitors. Rahul's 7th ton also made him the second Indian opener to cross the three-figure mark in South Africa and become the first-ever opener from the country to have Test centuries in England, SA, Australia and West Indies.

In a video posted by&nbsp;BCCI&nbsp;on Twitter, Rahul reflected on his memorable performance on Day 1 and said, "It is truly special, every hundred really takes something out of you and gives you joy. There are so many emotions you go through when you score a hundred.&nbsp;You bat for 6-7 hours, those are the kind of innings that stand out and as players, we really cherish these."

"This is what is expected out of me. Once I got off to a good start, I started enjoying my batting and I did not think too far ahead," he added.&nbsp;

"Preparation has been really good, all the batters that batted on Day 1 were really focused. I just try to stay in the moment when I am out there in the middle. I have surprised myself with how calm I have been, my focus has always been to stay in the moment and react to the ball that is bowled. Really happy that I could finish the day on a good note," said&nbsp;Rahul.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-dravid-gives-a-pat-on-pujaras-back-to-uplift-his-spirits-after-golden-duck-watch-440395">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH</a>

Watch video here&nbsp;

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Car conversations with 'Centurion' <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@klrahul11</a> 🗣️ 
 
From emotions on scoring ton to forming partnerships &amp; batting mindset . 
 
The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> opener discusses it all after Day 1 of the 1st <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> Test. - By <a href="https://twitter.com/28anand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@28anand</a> 
 
Full interview <a href="https://t.co/d2DooNWtrG">https://t.co/d2DooNWtrG</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y0ONWu5vQ3">pic.twitter.com/Y0ONWu5vQ3</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1475315468386770945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-virat-kohli-goes-past-mohammad-azharuddin-in-unique-list-in-centurion-test-opening-day-440381">India vs SA: Virat Kohli goes past Mohammad Azharuddin in unique list in Centurion Test opening day</a>

The entire second day's play, on Monday (December 27), was washed out without a ball being bowled. Thus, India will hope to make the most of Day 3, go past the 400-run mark and add pressure on South Africa. With an entire day's play being washed out, Indian batters might accelerate a bit after the morning session on Tuesday (December 28) whereas their bowlers will have to be on their toes to dismiss the Proteas line-up twice in the remainder of the three days.

Virat Kohli-led India ended Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test versus South Africa, in Centurion, on top. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Kohli & Co.

Virat Kohli-led India ended Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test versus South Africa, in Centurion, on top. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Kohli & Co. rode on opener KL Rahul's 122 not out and Mayank Agarwal's 60 to post 272-3 at stumps on the opening day. Rahul and Mayank's 117-run opening stand set the tone for Team India. While India lost two wickets in a row, to be reduced to 117/2, Rahul was involved in valuable stands with Captain Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane to close the day on a high for the visitors. Rahul's 7th ton also made him the second Indian opener to cross the three-figure mark in South Africa and become the first-ever opener from the country to have Test centuries in England, SA, Australia and West Indies. In a video posted by BCCI on Twitter, Rahul reflected on his memorable performance on Day 1 and said, "It is truly special, every hundred really takes something out of you and gives you joy. There are so many emotions you go through when you score a hundred. You bat for 6-7 hours, those are the kind of innings that stand out and as players, we really cherish these." "This is what is expected out of me. Once I got off to a good start, I started enjoying my batting and I did not think too far ahead," he added. "Preparation has been really good, all the batters that batted on Day 1 were really focused. I just try to stay in the moment when I am out there in the middle. I have surprised myself with how calm I have been, my focus has always been to stay in the moment and react to the ball that is bowled. Really happy that I could finish the day on a good note," said Rahul. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH Watch video here Car conversations with 'Centurion' @klrahul11 🗣️ From emotions on scoring ton to forming partnerships & batting mindset . The #TeamIndia opener discusses it all after Day 1 of the 1st #SAvIND Test. - By @28anand Full interview https://t.co/d2DooNWtrG pic.twitter.com/Y0ONWu5vQ3 — BCCI (@BCCI) December 27, 2021 × ALSO READ | India vs SA: Virat Kohli goes past Mohammad Azharuddin in unique list in Centurion Test opening day The entire second day's play, on Monday (December 27), was washed out without a ball being bowled. Thus, India will hope to make the most of Day 3, go past the 400-run mark and add pressure on South Africa. With an entire day's play being washed out, Indian batters might accelerate a bit after the morning session on Tuesday (December 28) whereas their bowlers will have to be on their toes to dismiss the Proteas line-up twice in the remainder of the three days.

Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA

Cheteshwar Pujara hasn't scored an international ton since early 2019. While the right-hander continues to be an integral part of India's Test line-up and has played some important knocks in the recent past, a three-figure knock continues to evade the red-ball specialist.&nbsp;

On Day 1 of the first Test between India and South Africa, in Centurion, Pujara came out to bat with India off to a fine start courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. Coming out to bat with India 117/1 after winning the toss, Pujara was expected to take the scoreboard forward and bat throughout the day; tiring the bowlers. However, he fell for a golden duck.

Pujara tried to negate a Lungi Ngidi delivery but got an inside edge and was caught by the short-leg fielder as he walked back to the pavillion for a golden duck. Thus, the right-hander felt dejected as his run of form remains below his own standards. Nonetheless, head coach Rahul Dravid came to his rescue and lifted his spirits in the dressing room.

During the third-wicket stand between Indian captain Virat Kohli and opener KL Rahul, Dravid went past Pujara and gave him a gentle pat on his back which brought a smile on the current No. 3 batter. Here's the video of the same shared on social media platform Twitter:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-virat-kohli-goes-past-mohammad-azharuddin-in-unique-list-in-centurion-test-opening-day-440381">India vs SA: Virat Kohli goes past Mohammad Azharuddin in unique list in Centurion Test opening day</a>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/SpMO6RtccL">pic.twitter.com/SpMO6RtccL</a>
— Ashwin Natarajan (@ash_natarajan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ash_natarajan/status/1475086077023047680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-want-to-say-something-to-the-boys-shastri-recalls-dhonis-test-retirement-and-how-it-shocked-team-india-440356">I want to say something to the boys: Shastri recalls Dhoni's Test retirement and how it shocked Team India</a>

Talking about Day of the Centurion Test, Kohli-led India ended the day's play on top. After the 117-run opening stand between Rahul and Mayank (60), India slipped to 117-2 but an 82-run third-wicket partnership between Kohli-Rahul and unbeaten fourth-wicket stand between Ajinkya Rahane-Rahul (122 not out) took India to 272-3 at stumps.&nbsp;

Day 2 of the first Test has not started yet due to relentless rain showers. Kohli-led India will look to surpass the 400-run mark and pile up a big score when play resumes after the rain break. Dean Elgar-led South Africa will hope to get rid of the rest of the Indian batters in a flash and comeback into the contest.

Cheteshwar Pujara hasn't scored an international ton since early 2019. While the right-hander continues to be an integral part of India's Test line-up and has played some important knocks in the recent past, a three-figure knock continues to evade the red-ball specialist.

Cheteshwar Pujara hasn't scored an international ton since early 2019. While the right-hander continues to be an integral part of India's Test line-up and has played some important knocks in the recent past, a three-figure knock continues to evade the red-ball specialist. On Day 1 of the first Test between India and South Africa, in Centurion, Pujara came out to bat with India off to a fine start courtesy openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. Coming out to bat with India 117/1 after winning the toss, Pujara was expected to take the scoreboard forward and bat throughout the day; tiring the bowlers. However, he fell for a golden duck. Pujara tried to negate a Lungi Ngidi delivery but got an inside edge and was caught by the short-leg fielder as he walked back to the pavillion for a golden duck. Thus, the right-hander felt dejected as his run of form remains below his own standards. Nonetheless, head coach Rahul Dravid came to his rescue and lifted his spirits in the dressing room. During the third-wicket stand between Indian captain Virat Kohli and opener KL Rahul, Dravid went past Pujara and gave him a gentle pat on his back which brought a smile on the current No. 3 batter. Here's the video of the same shared on social media platform Twitter: ALSO READ | India vs SA: Virat Kohli goes past Mohammad Azharuddin in unique list in Centurion Test opening day #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/SpMO6RtccL — Ashwin Natarajan (@ash_natarajan) December 26, 2021 × ALSO READ | I want to say something to the boys: Shastri recalls Dhoni's Test retirement and how it shocked Team India Talking about Day of the Centurion Test, Kohli-led India ended the day's play on top. After the 117-run opening stand between Rahul and Mayank (60), India slipped to 117-2 but an 82-run third-wicket partnership between Kohli-Rahul and unbeaten fourth-wicket stand between Ajinkya Rahane-Rahul (122 not out) took India to 272-3 at stumps. Day 2 of the first Test has not started yet due to relentless rain showers. Kohli-led India will look to surpass the 400-run mark and pile up a big score when play resumes after the rain break. Dean Elgar-led South Africa will hope to get rid of the rest of the Indian batters in a flash and comeback into the contest.

Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH

Virat Kohli-led Team India ended Day 1 of the Centurion Test versus South Africa being at the driver's seat. Riding on KL Rahul's 122 not out and fifty from Mayank Agarwal, India ended the day's play at 272 for the loss of 3 wickets. While Kohli looked good for his 94-ball 35, he once again missed out on a century as he failed to even cross the 50-run mark.&nbsp;

As the 33-year-old Kohli still remains away from his 71st international ton, he surpassed former Indian captain Mohammad Azhaurddin to top a unique list. Winning the toss at SuperSport Park, Centurion, Kohli&nbsp;achieved a huge milestone as he became the Indian captain with the most toss wins in Test cricket. Before the start of the first Test in South Africa, Kohli was at the top with Azharuddin but now has gone past him.&nbsp;

For the unversed, Kohli now has won 30 tosses as captain in the purest format of the game. He already is the most successful Indian Test captain, with 39 victories in 66 Tests. On the other hand, MS Dhoni follows suit at the second spot with 27 wins under his belt.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-want-to-say-something-to-the-boys-shastri-recalls-dhonis-test-retirement-and-how-it-shocked-team-india-440356">I want to say something to the boys: Shastri recalls Dhoni's Test retirement and how it shocked Team India</a>

Talking about the opening day's play, Rahul-Mayank's 117-run opening stand took India to a fine start. While the visitors were soon reduced to 117 for 2, Kohli-Rahul steadied the ship with a fine 82-run stand for the third-wicket before the Indian captain's departure. Rahane and newly-appointed vice-captain KL Rahul (in Rohit Sharma's absence) took India to 272 for 3 at stumps on the first day on December 26 (Sunday).&nbsp;

The second day's play, on Monday (December 27), has been affected due to rain showers with the entire first session being washed out.

Virat Kohli-led Team India ended Day 1 of the Centurion Test versus South Africa being at the driver's seat. Riding on KL Rahul's 122 not out and fifty from Mayank Agarwal, India ended the day's play at 272 for the loss of 3 wickets.

Virat Kohli-led Team India ended Day 1 of the Centurion Test versus South Africa being at the driver's seat. Riding on KL Rahul's 122 not out and fifty from Mayank Agarwal, India ended the day's play at 272 for the loss of 3 wickets. While Kohli looked good for his 94-ball 35, he once again missed out on a century as he failed to even cross the 50-run mark. As the 33-year-old Kohli still remains away from his 71st international ton, he surpassed former Indian captain Mohammad Azhaurddin to top a unique list. Winning the toss at SuperSport Park, Centurion, Kohli achieved a huge milestone as he became the Indian captain with the most toss wins in Test cricket. Before the start of the first Test in South Africa, Kohli was at the top with Azharuddin but now has gone past him. For the unversed, Kohli now has won 30 tosses as captain in the purest format of the game. He already is the most successful Indian Test captain, with 39 victories in 66 Tests. On the other hand, MS Dhoni follows suit at the second spot with 27 wins under his belt. ALSO READ | I want to say something to the boys: Shastri recalls Dhoni's Test retirement and how it shocked Team India Talking about the opening day's play, Rahul-Mayank's 117-run opening stand took India to a fine start. While the visitors were soon reduced to 117 for 2, Kohli-Rahul steadied the ship with a fine 82-run stand for the third-wicket before the Indian captain's departure. Rahane and newly-appointed vice-captain KL Rahul (in Rohit Sharma's absence) took India to 272 for 3 at stumps on the first day on December 26 (Sunday). The second day's play, on Monday (December 27), has been affected due to rain showers with the entire first session being washed out.

India vs SA: Virat Kohli goes past Mohammad Azharuddin in unique list in Centurion Test opening day

India coach Rahul Dravid has urged his players to seize the chance to claim a first ever test series win in South Africa, a moment that could be career defining for many in the team as they prepare for the first test in Pretoria on Sunday.

India have enjoyed recent success in Australia and England, but South Africa remains a mighty challenge for the top ranked test side, though they will arguably never have had a better chance against a home team going through a transition period and with far less experience than in the past.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rishabh-pant-former-head-coach-ravi-shastri-names-2-players-who-can-captain-team-india-in-future-439901">Not Rishabh Pant! Former head coach Ravi Shastri names 2 players who can captain Team India in future</a>

"It is a great challenge and a great opportunity for everyone," Dravid told reporters on Saturday. "It is something you look forward to as a batsman, the chance to play away from home and test yourself against some really good opposition in their home conditions.

"A lot of your career is defined by those sorts of performances, so it is a great opportunity for everyone in the group to put in the performances that are something that they can remember, and people will remember them for."

Dravid played 11 tests in South Africa and averaged under 30, well below his career mark of 52.31, so he is aware of the challenges of adjusting from lower wickets on the sub-continent to the higher bounce of the Highveld.

He said there would be much to consider when selecting a starting XI, and expects those who do not make the cut to be disappointed, something he sees as a positive.

"Most players are professional. Sometimes you have to have difficult conversations. Everyone wants to be part of the playing XI, but they understand situations. As long as you can give them the reasons for it (not being selected).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-held-me-when-i-was-no-one-i-was-someone-when-dhoni-became-captain-harbhajan-singh-439726">Ganguly held me when I was 'no one', I was 'someone' when Dhoni became captain: Harbhajan&nbsp;</a>

"Players will be disappointed, but that is one of the things that makes people succeed at this level, you want to be playing, competing and part of the action, not sitting out."

Virat Kohli will captain India in the first test but decisions around the middle-order batting and how many seamers to pick will be the main conundrum for the selectors.

The second test will be in Johannesburg from Jan. 3-7, with the third in Cape Town from Jan. 11-15.

India coach Rahul Dravid has urged his players to seize the chance to claim a first ever test series win in South Africa, a moment that could be career defining for many in the team as they prepare for the first test in Pretoria on Sunday.

India coach Rahul Dravid has urged his players to seize the chance to claim a first ever test series win in South Africa, a moment that could be career defining for many in the team as they prepare for the first test in Pretoria on Sunday. India have enjoyed recent success in Australia and England, but South Africa remains a mighty challenge for the top ranked test side, though they will arguably never have had a better chance against a home team going through a transition period and with far less experience than in the past. ALSO READ: Not Rishabh Pant! Former head coach Ravi Shastri names 2 players who can captain Team India in future "It is a great challenge and a great opportunity for everyone," Dravid told reporters on Saturday. "It is something you look forward to as a batsman, the chance to play away from home and test yourself against some really good opposition in their home conditions. "A lot of your career is defined by those sorts of performances, so it is a great opportunity for everyone in the group to put in the performances that are something that they can remember, and people will remember them for." Dravid played 11 tests in South Africa and averaged under 30, well below his career mark of 52.31, so he is aware of the challenges of adjusting from lower wickets on the sub-continent to the higher bounce of the Highveld. He said there would be much to consider when selecting a starting XI, and expects those who do not make the cut to be disappointed, something he sees as a positive. "Most players are professional. Sometimes you have to have difficult conversations. Everyone wants to be part of the playing XI, but they understand situations. As long as you can give them the reasons for it (not being selected). ALSO READ: Ganguly held me when I was 'no one', I was 'someone' when Dhoni became captain: Harbhajan "Players will be disappointed, but that is one of the things that makes people succeed at this level, you want to be playing, competing and part of the action, not sitting out." Virat Kohli will captain India in the first test but decisions around the middle-order batting and how many seamers to pick will be the main conundrum for the selectors. The second test will be in Johannesburg from Jan. 3-7, with the third in Cape Town from Jan. 11-15.

'Great challenge': Head coach Rahul Dravid urges India to seize their moment in history against South Africa

India head coach Rahul Dravid recently reacted to the raging row between Virat Kohli and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over ODI captaincy. Kohli was sacked as ODI captain earlier this month with Rohit Sharma taking over. Ever since his sacking, Indian cricket has been engulfed in one of the&nbsp;biggest controversies&nbsp;in recent times.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of India's departure for the South Africa tour, Kohli had contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's comments about his sacking as ODI captain. Kohli debunked Ganguly's claims that the BCCI president had asked him to not give up India's T20 captaincy in October this year. The Indian Test skipper also revealed there was no prior communication from the BCCI about the change in ODI captaincy.

Kohli said he was informed about the decision only 90 minutes before it was made official. Kohli's comments in public put both Ganguly and the BCCI in a spot of bother ahead of India's tour of South Africa. India head coach Dravid broke his silence on the controversy for the first time on Saturday.

Dravid refused to reveal details of his conversations with Kohli in the build-up to the decision and said the move was a call from the selectors. The head coach also said he would not like to discuss his internal conversations in the media.

"To be honest, that's the role of the selectors. Not going to get into conversations I might or might not have had. Not the place or time for that, or for discussing my internal conversations in the media," said Dravid in the presser.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-seems-to-be-in-good-space-rahul-dravid-on-batters-rough-patch-ahead-of-sa-test-series-439913">&nbsp;Rahane seems to be in good space: Rahul Dravid on batter's rough patch ahead of SA Test series</a>

Dravid also lauded Kohli for leading the Indian Test team extremely well. He said the Indian captain has played a massive role in India's recent domination in the longest format and is someone who loves Test cricket. Kohli is India's most successful Test captain of all time with 39 wins in 66 matches as skipper.

"We want to keep improving and Virat has played a huge role in that. He has been fantastic as a captain and leader. He is one of those people who loves test cricket," Dravid said.

.

India head coach Rahul Dravid recently reacted to the raging row between Virat Kohli and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over ODI captaincy. Kohli was sacked as ODI captain earlier this month with Rohit Sharma taking over.

India head coach Rahul Dravid recently reacted to the raging row between Virat Kohli and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) over ODI captaincy. Kohli was sacked as ODI captain earlier this month with Rohit Sharma taking over. Ever since his sacking, Indian cricket has been engulfed in one of the biggest controversies in recent times. Speaking at a press conference ahead of India's departure for the South Africa tour, Kohli had contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's comments about his sacking as ODI captain. Kohli debunked Ganguly's claims that the BCCI president had asked him to not give up India's T20 captaincy in October this year. The Indian Test skipper also revealed there was no prior communication from the BCCI about the change in ODI captaincy. Kohli said he was informed about the decision only 90 minutes before it was made official. Kohli's comments in public put both Ganguly and the BCCI in a spot of bother ahead of India's tour of South Africa. India head coach Dravid broke his silence on the controversy for the first time on Saturday. Dravid refused to reveal details of his conversations with Kohli in the build-up to the decision and said the move was a call from the selectors. The head coach also said he would not like to discuss his internal conversations in the media. "To be honest, that's the role of the selectors. Not going to get into conversations I might or might not have had. Not the place or time for that, or for discussing my internal conversations in the media," said Dravid in the presser. Also Read: Rahane seems to be in good space: Rahul Dravid on batter's rough patch ahead of SA Test series Dravid also lauded Kohli for leading the Indian Test team extremely well. He said the Indian captain has played a massive role in India's recent domination in the longest format and is someone who loves Test cricket. Kohli is India's most successful Test captain of all time with 39 wins in 66 matches as skipper. "We want to keep improving and Virat has played a huge role in that. He has been fantastic as a captain and leader. He is one of those people who loves test cricket," Dravid said. .

'That's the role of selectors': Rahul Dravid reacts to ODI captaincy row between Virat Kohli and BCCI

India head coach Rahul Dravid on Saturday, addressed the pre-match press conference ahead of the team's first Test against South Africa in the upcoming three-match series. The Indian team is gearing up to face the hosts in the Boxing Day Test that gets underway from December 26 (Sunday) at the SuperSport Park in Centurion.&nbsp;

This will be head coach Dravid's first major assignment overseas with the Indian team since replacing Ravi Shastri. Though India are a strong unit heading into the series and are riding high on confidence having defeated New Zealand 1-0 at home recently, the South Africa Test series is going to be a huge challenge for Virat Kohli and his men.

India have never won a Test series against the Proteas in their own backyard and have a woeful record against the hosts. However, India appear&nbsp;favourites this time around with a great balance of youth and experience in their squad and are up against a South African side that is in transition.&nbsp;

Ahead of the first Test, India's biggest concern is the form of senior batters like Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. While Pujara is likely to get the nod in the playing XI, Rahane's recent struggles might see him miss out on a spot in the team. Rahane was recently replaced as the vice-captain of the Test tea by Rohit Sharma, owing to his poor form. However, KL Rahul will be Kohli's deputy in the Test series due to Rohit's injury.

Opening up on Rahane's lean patch, Dravid said he has had positive conversations with the senior batter, who currently seems in a good space ahead of the series. "The conversations with him have been very positive, he's training really well this week. The conversations are no different from actually with most of the players. He seems to be in a really good space," Dravid said in the press conference.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-there-when-virat-kohli-made-his-debut-his-growth-as-a-cricketer-has-been-phenomenal-rahul-dravid-439798">I was there when Virat Kohli made his debut, his growth as a cricketer has been phenomenal: Dravid</a>

When asked about Rahane's chances of featuring in the playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against South Africa, Dravid refused to give out details and said the team combination has already been decided for the Boxing Day encounter.

"In terms of the playing XI, who's going to play you know, I think we're very clear within our group, what the kind of team is going to be leading into the Boxing Day test match," the India head coach added.

It remains to be seen if Rahane will be trusted in the series-opener on a Centurion track which is expected to assist the pacers, or if India will head into the game with Shreyas Iyer, who had a fantastic debut series against New Zealand at home.

India head coach Rahul Dravid on Saturday, addressed the pre-match press conference ahead of the team's first Test against South Africa in the upcoming three-match series.

India head coach Rahul Dravid on Saturday, addressed the pre-match press conference ahead of the team's first Test against South Africa in the upcoming three-match series. The Indian team is gearing up to face the hosts in the Boxing Day Test that gets underway from December 26 (Sunday) at the SuperSport Park in Centurion. This will be head coach Dravid's first major assignment overseas with the Indian team since replacing Ravi Shastri. Though India are a strong unit heading into the series and are riding high on confidence having defeated New Zealand 1-0 at home recently, the South Africa Test series is going to be a huge challenge for Virat Kohli and his men. India have never won a Test series against the Proteas in their own backyard and have a woeful record against the hosts. However, India appear favourites this time around with a great balance of youth and experience in their squad and are up against a South African side that is in transition. Ahead of the first Test, India's biggest concern is the form of senior batters like Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. While Pujara is likely to get the nod in the playing XI, Rahane's recent struggles might see him miss out on a spot in the team. Rahane was recently replaced as the vice-captain of the Test tea by Rohit Sharma, owing to his poor form. However, KL Rahul will be Kohli's deputy in the Test series due to Rohit's injury. Opening up on Rahane's lean patch, Dravid said he has had positive conversations with the senior batter, who currently seems in a good space ahead of the series. "The conversations with him have been very positive, he's training really well this week. The conversations are no different from actually with most of the players. He seems to be in a really good space," Dravid said in the press conference. Also Read: I was there when Virat Kohli made his debut, his growth as a cricketer has been phenomenal: Dravid When asked about Rahane's chances of featuring in the playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against South Africa, Dravid refused to give out details and said the team combination has already been decided for the Boxing Day encounter. "In terms of the playing XI, who's going to play you know, I think we're very clear within our group, what the kind of team is going to be leading into the Boxing Day test match," the India head coach added. It remains to be seen if Rahane will be trusted in the series-opener on a Centurion track which is expected to assist the pacers, or if India will head into the game with Shreyas Iyer, who had a fantastic debut series against New Zealand at home.

Ajinkya Rahane seems to be in good space: Rahul Dravid on batter's rough patch ahead of SA Test series

Rahul Dravid was part of the Indian team when a young Virat Kohli made his Test debut for India in&nbsp;2011. Kohli has since gone on to become one of the best batsmen of the current era and has established his credentials as a modern-day great with his batting heroics across formats.

He has been one of India's most consistent run-getters over the years and is currently one of the most loved sportspersons in the world. Kohli's growth both as a cricketer and as a person has been 'phenomenal' as per head coach Dravid, who has lauded the Test skipper for driving the culture of the current Indian team.

"I was there when he made his debut, batted with him in that match. It's phenomenal 10 years later to see how he has grown as a cricketer and a person," head coach Dravid said in an interview with&nbsp;BCCI.TV.

On his Test debut for India against West Indies in 2011, Kohli had batted with Dravid in the second innings in Kingston, Jamaica. Kohli had scored 4 runs in the first innings and got 15 runs in the second innings. He shared a 43-run stand with Dravid in the second innings.

Kohli has since gone on to become one of India's most successful Test batters and the best Test captain that the country has ever produced. Kohli currently has 7801 runs to his name in 97 Test matches at an average of over 50. He has led India to 39 wins in 66 Tests as captain - the most by an Indian captain.

"Just the kind of performances he has had for India over the last 10 years, with the bat and the way he has led the team, have been terrific. In a lot of ways he has driven the culture of this team whether it be with fitness or energy or ambition. From the outside, it has been fascinating to watch," said Dravid as he lauded the Indian Test skipper.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>'s transformation 
Excitement about SA challenge br&gt;Initial few months as Head Coach 
 
Rahul Dravid discusses it all as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> gear up for the first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> Test in Centurion. 
 
Watch the full interview <a href="https://t.co/2H0FlKQG7q">https://t.co/2H0FlKQG7q</a> <a href="https://t.co/vrwqz5uQA8">pic.twitter.com/vrwqz5uQA8</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1474610784143491073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-in-awe-of-83-couldnt-have-relived-most-iconic-moment-of-indian-cricket-in-a-better-manner-439791">Virat Kohli in awe of 83: Couldn't have relived most iconic moment of Indian cricket in a better manner</a>

Dravid said he is looking forward to supporting Kohli in the Indian dressing room. The India head coach also called him one player who keeps evolving and has kept getting better with time by producing consistent performances with the bat.

"Coming into this environment, being part of it and supporting him along the way is something I am really looking forward to. He has always improved. I think he is one of those players who keeps evolving, getting better and keeps pushing himself and has had great success wherever he has played," said Dravid.

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Rahul Dravid was part of the Indian team when a young Virat Kohli made his Test debut for India in 2011. Kohli has since gone on to become one of the best batsmen of the current era and has established his credentials as a modern-day great with his batting heroics across formats.

Rahul Dravid was part of the Indian team when a young Virat Kohli made his Test debut for India in 2011. Kohli has since gone on to become one of the best batsmen of the current era and has established his credentials as a modern-day great with his batting heroics across formats. He has been one of India's most consistent run-getters over the years and is currently one of the most loved sportspersons in the world. Kohli's growth both as a cricketer and as a person has been 'phenomenal' as per head coach Dravid, who has lauded the Test skipper for driving the culture of the current Indian team. "I was there when he made his debut, batted with him in that match. It's phenomenal 10 years later to see how he has grown as a cricketer and a person," head coach Dravid said in an interview with BCCI.TV. On his Test debut for India against West Indies in 2011, Kohli had batted with Dravid in the second innings in Kingston, Jamaica. Kohli had scored 4 runs in the first innings and got 15 runs in the second innings. He shared a 43-run stand with Dravid in the second innings. Kohli has since gone on to become one of India's most successful Test batters and the best Test captain that the country has ever produced. Kohli currently has 7801 runs to his name in 97 Test matches at an average of over 50. He has led India to 39 wins in 66 Tests as captain - the most by an Indian captain. "Just the kind of performances he has had for India over the last 10 years, with the bat and the way he has led the team, have been terrific. In a lot of ways he has driven the culture of this team whether it be with fitness or energy or ambition. From the outside, it has been fascinating to watch," said Dravid as he lauded the Indian Test skipper. .@imVkohli's transformation Excitement about SA challenge br>Initial few months as Head Coach Rahul Dravid discusses it all as #TeamIndia gear up for the first #SAvIND Test in Centurion. Watch the full interview https://t.co/2H0FlKQG7q pic.twitter.com/vrwqz5uQA8 — BCCI (@BCCI) December 25, 2021 × Also Read: Virat Kohli in awe of 83: Couldn't have relived most iconic moment of Indian cricket in a better manner Dravid said he is looking forward to supporting Kohli in the Indian dressing room. The India head coach also called him one player who keeps evolving and has kept getting better with time by producing consistent performances with the bat. "Coming into this environment, being part of it and supporting him along the way is something I am really looking forward to. He has always improved. I think he is one of those players who keeps evolving, getting better and keeps pushing himself and has had great success wherever he has played," said Dravid.

I was there when Virat Kohli made his debut, his growth as a cricketer has been phenomenal: Rahul Dravid

Indian cricket hasn't been at ease in the past few weeks. After BCCI appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, it led to widespread reactions. While Kohli addressed the press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, and made it clear that he has no issues with Rohit, he made some glaring remarks.

The 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims that he was never asked to reconsider quitting as T20I captain. Moreover, he revealed that he was told about his ODI captaincy sacking just sometime before the official announcement took place. In addition, he denied claims (made by a board member) that he was looking to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and BCCI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-virat-kohlis-relation-with-rahul-dravid-will-be-good-in-long-run-predicts-danish-kaneria-439563">Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria</a>

Amid all this, there has been several reactions by former cricketers on the ODI captaincy row. Now, former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has also opened up on the whole episode and has acknowledged 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence as head coach in the national setup amid such troubled times.&nbsp;

"Lately, Indian cricket has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. Indian captain Virat Kohli's press conference before leaving for South Africa created a storm and Sourav Ganguly too got dragged into it," Kaif wrote in his column for India.com

"Thankfully for Indian cricket, they had a trouble-shooter in place. We know him by the name of Rahul Dravid, the new Head Coach of the Indian cricket team. Having played with and under Rahul bhai, I can safely tell you that if there was ever a man to handle the ship of the Indian team, it is him."

"I say this with quiet confidence as Dravid himself has seen a lot of ups and downs in his times as a former India cricketer and captain. He was leading India when Greg Chappell was around as a coach. He was captain of Rajasthan Royals when the spot-fixing and match-fixing controversy happened in 2013," mentioned Kaif.&nbsp;

He added, "As captain these phases tested him but he came out on top. His communication skills, patience, ability to handle egos and above all his selflessness worked in his favour."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

Following Kohli's explosive press conference, BCCI President Ganguly made it clear that the board will not react to the former's statements at present as India have plenty of cricketing action in the near future.

It will be interesting to see how Kohli-Dravid take Indian team forward in the forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The three Tests starts on December 26 in Centurion, which will be followed by the three ODIs in early January, 2022.

Indian cricket hasn't been at ease in the past few weeks. After BCCI appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, it led to widespread reactions.

Indian cricket hasn't been at ease in the past few weeks. After BCCI appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, it led to widespread reactions. While Kohli addressed the press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, and made it clear that he has no issues with Rohit, he made some glaring remarks. The 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims that he was never asked to reconsider quitting as T20I captain. Moreover, he revealed that he was told about his ODI captaincy sacking just sometime before the official announcement took place. In addition, he denied claims (made by a board member) that he was looking to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and BCCI. ALSO READ | Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria Amid all this, there has been several reactions by former cricketers on the ODI captaincy row. Now, former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has also opened up on the whole episode and has acknowledged 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence as head coach in the national setup amid such troubled times. "Lately, Indian cricket has been in the news for all the wrong reasons. Indian captain Virat Kohli's press conference before leaving for South Africa created a storm and Sourav Ganguly too got dragged into it," Kaif wrote in his column for India.com "Thankfully for Indian cricket, they had a trouble-shooter in place. We know him by the name of Rahul Dravid, the new Head Coach of the Indian cricket team. Having played with and under Rahul bhai, I can safely tell you that if there was ever a man to handle the ship of the Indian team, it is him." "I say this with quiet confidence as Dravid himself has seen a lot of ups and downs in his times as a former India cricketer and captain. He was leading India when Greg Chappell was around as a coach. He was captain of Rajasthan Royals when the spot-fixing and match-fixing controversy happened in 2013," mentioned Kaif. He added, "As captain these phases tested him but he came out on top. His communication skills, patience, ability to handle egos and above all his selflessness worked in his favour." ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC Following Kohli's explosive press conference, BCCI President Ganguly made it clear that the board will not react to the former's statements at present as India have plenty of cricketing action in the near future. It will be interesting to see how Kohli-Dravid take Indian team forward in the forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. The three Tests starts on December 26 in Centurion, which will be followed by the three ODIs in early January, 2022.

Md Kaif acknowledges 'trouble-shooter' Rahul Dravid's presence in Team India amid Virat Kohli vs BCCI row

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup. On the other hand, BCCI recently sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper.

Ahead of India's tour-opener versus South Africa in Centurion, on December 26, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a big claim on the partnership of Kohli-Dravid, who are the captain-coach in the Test format for the national side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-retires-draws-curtains-to-glorious-23-year-long-international-career-439548">Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career</a>

By now, all the cricket fans are well aware of the rusty relations between Kohli and the BCCI post the ODI captaincy switch. After being sacked as the ODI skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims, who had earlier stated that he had advised the former to continue as the T20I captain. Kohli also revealed that he had no prior communication with the national selectors before his sacking. Hence, the Indian Test captain's relations with Ganguly has gone down. In 2017, he had a fallout with then head coach Anil Kumble as well. Hence, Kaneria feels his relations with Dravid might also not be good in the long run.

"It's been two years, Virat has not made any century, so he needs to focus on his game. Speaking against legends like Sourav Ganguly and anyone else is not going to help him," Kaneria told IANS in an interview.

He further asserted, "Virat had problems with Anil Kumble, now he has problems with Ganguly. Kumble and Ganguly have proved themselves; they are the real ambassadors of the game. Virat is speaking against Ganguly who has changed Indian cricket and then MS Dhoni took it forward. Now Virat's 90-minute jibe is really not needed at this time."

"He is struggling to make runs in Tests and T20s. And as a captain, he has not won any ICC trophy, so everything is going against him. And now this blame game, I don't think this is going to help him as well as Indian cricket," Kaneria further explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

Kaneria added, "As far as Rohit Sharma is concerned, he's been an outstanding ambassador of the game; he has won five IPL trophies. His captaincy is impeccable; his camaraderie with Rahul Dravid is amazing. I don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Dravid will be good in the long run. Virat had a problem with Anil Kumble as well. Both Kumble and Dravid are coming from South India and they have big status in cricket. I played against both of them, and I know what kind of intellectuals they are."

It will be interesting to see how the relation&nbsp;between Kohli and Dravid will pan out going forward. At present, the Dravid-Kohli-led Indian team is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in Centurion, on Sunday (December 26).

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup.

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup. On the other hand, BCCI recently sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper. Ahead of India's tour-opener versus South Africa in Centurion, on December 26, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a big claim on the partnership of Kohli-Dravid, who are the captain-coach in the Test format for the national side. ALSO READ | Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career By now, all the cricket fans are well aware of the rusty relations between Kohli and the BCCI post the ODI captaincy switch. After being sacked as the ODI skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims, who had earlier stated that he had advised the former to continue as the T20I captain. Kohli also revealed that he had no prior communication with the national selectors before his sacking. Hence, the Indian Test captain's relations with Ganguly has gone down. In 2017, he had a fallout with then head coach Anil Kumble as well. Hence, Kaneria feels his relations with Dravid might also not be good in the long run. "It's been two years, Virat has not made any century, so he needs to focus on his game. Speaking against legends like Sourav Ganguly and anyone else is not going to help him," Kaneria told IANS in an interview. He further asserted, "Virat had problems with Anil Kumble, now he has problems with Ganguly. Kumble and Ganguly have proved themselves; they are the real ambassadors of the game. Virat is speaking against Ganguly who has changed Indian cricket and then MS Dhoni took it forward. Now Virat's 90-minute jibe is really not needed at this time." "He is struggling to make runs in Tests and T20s. And as a captain, he has not won any ICC trophy, so everything is going against him. And now this blame game, I don't think this is going to help him as well as Indian cricket," Kaneria further explained. ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC Kaneria added, "As far as Rohit Sharma is concerned, he's been an outstanding ambassador of the game; he has won five IPL trophies. His captaincy is impeccable; his camaraderie with Rahul Dravid is amazing. I don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Dravid will be good in the long run. Virat had a problem with Anil Kumble as well. Both Kumble and Dravid are coming from South India and they have big status in cricket. I played against both of them, and I know what kind of intellectuals they are." It will be interesting to see how the relation between Kohli and Dravid will pan out going forward. At present, the Dravid-Kohli-led Indian team is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in Centurion, on Sunday (December 26).

Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria

India's former head coach Ravi Shastri has lavished huge praise on Test captain Virat Kohli ahead of the national side's three-match series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The No. 1 ranked side have been exceptional while being on the road under Ravi Shastri and will look to carry on in similar stead under Rahul Dravid's coaching.&nbsp;

During Shastri's tenure, Kohli-led India become a daunting line-up while playing away from home. Under the former Indian all-rounder, India won two series in a row in Australia and gained an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom (held early this year) and demolished Sri Lanka and West Indies in their own backyard. Shastri has credited Kohli as a leader and has backed Team India to scale new heights in the African nation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-1st-test-pant-aims-to-break-mentor-dhonis-unique-record-in-series-opener-in-centurion-439363">India vs SA, 1st Test: Pant aims to break mentor Dhoni's unique record in series opener in Centurion</a>

Shastri while speaking in an interview to Star Sports told "There couldn't have been a better time for team India to prove their mettle. Virat has been an impeccable leader and has got a talented team to go along with it. South Africa remains an unconquered bastion."

"Remember, the Proteas are no pushovers in their own backyard, but we have got the firepower and the arsenal to match that. As always, Team India will always have my backing," Shastri mentioned.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-a-quality-indian-team-allan-donald-recalls-virat-kohlis-words-from-2018-ahead-of-centurion-test-439348">This is a quality Indian team: Allan Donald recalls Virat Kohli's words from 2018 ahead of Centurion Test</a>

India have a strong chance to win their first-ever Test series on South African soil with the Proteas not having superstar batters in their line-up whereas India's pace attack is one of the best at present. During their last Test series in SA in early 2018, Kohli &amp; Co. were competitive throughout the three Tests but lost 2-1. It will be interesting to see what the scoreline will be this time around.

The last two Tests will be played in Johannesburg&nbsp;and Cape Town before the action moves to the three ODIs, starting from mid-January 2022.

India's former head coach Ravi Shastri has lavished huge praise on Test captain Virat Kohli ahead of the national side's three-match series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion.

India's former head coach Ravi Shastri has lavished huge praise on Test captain Virat Kohli ahead of the national side's three-match series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The No. 1 ranked side have been exceptional while being on the road under Ravi Shastri and will look to carry on in similar stead under Rahul Dravid's coaching. During Shastri's tenure, Kohli-led India become a daunting line-up while playing away from home. Under the former Indian all-rounder, India won two series in a row in Australia and gained an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom (held early this year) and demolished Sri Lanka and West Indies in their own backyard. Shastri has credited Kohli as a leader and has backed Team India to scale new heights in the African nation. ALSO READ | India vs SA, 1st Test: Pant aims to break mentor Dhoni's unique record in series opener in Centurion Shastri while speaking in an interview to Star Sports told "There couldn't have been a better time for team India to prove their mettle. Virat has been an impeccable leader and has got a talented team to go along with it. South Africa remains an unconquered bastion." "Remember, the Proteas are no pushovers in their own backyard, but we have got the firepower and the arsenal to match that. As always, Team India will always have my backing," Shastri mentioned. ALSO READ | This is a quality Indian team: Allan Donald recalls Virat Kohli's words from 2018 ahead of Centurion Test India have a strong chance to win their first-ever Test series on South African soil with the Proteas not having superstar batters in their line-up whereas India's pace attack is one of the best at present. During their last Test series in SA in early 2018, Kohli & Co. were competitive throughout the three Tests but lost 2-1. It will be interesting to see what the scoreline will be this time around. The last two Tests will be played in Johannesburg and Cape Town before the action moves to the three ODIs, starting from mid-January 2022.

'Virat Kohli has been an impeccable leader' - Ravi Shastri praises Indian Test captain ahead of SA series

Team India are set to commence their tour of South Africa with the first Test to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the three-match Test series, former SA speedster Allan Donald has lavished praise on Kohli-led Indian team and expects a bumper contest between both sides in the forthcoming series in the African nation.&nbsp;

Despite not having the likes of Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Shubman Gill, Indian team is strong enough to challenge the Dean Elgar-led side in their own backyard. The No. 1 ranked Indian team will also be eager to win their first-ever series in whites in South Africa, after losing closely (2-1) during the 2018 tour.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-vs-bcci-dont-know-why-there-was-any-statement-by-sourav-ganguly-says-sanjay-manjrekar-439302">Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar</a>

Donald believes India have been very good while being on the road and can pose a serious threat to the Proteas. "There is no doubt this is one of the marquee series in the world game and we can look forward to an incredible battle over the summer," Donald was quoted as saying by cricket.co.za.

He added, "Kohli's comments a few years ago were that you'll never be classed as a great side if you don't win away from home and that has been something he really worked towards. You saw them win in Australia and also reach the WTC (World Test Championship) Final. This is a quality Indian team that is here. I'm looking forward to it."

Donald pointed out, "Both teams line up really well, both have strong bowling line-ups and that will mean the batting on both sides will be tested. Our batting has lost some key players in the last couple of seasons. There's no hiding from the fact that it’s a young line-up and they will be tested by the Indian attack."

"For me that is where the series will be decided. In the last few seasons, we haven't scored enough runs and that will be the challenge. If we can put the runs on the board, we undoubtedly have the bowlers who can take 20 wickets. There is a really good balance to our attack, and it will be interesting to watch."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-1st-test-msk-prasad-picks-4-pacers-for-kohli-co-as-experienced-campaigner-misses-out-439277">India vs SA, 1st Test: MSK Prasad picks 4 pacers for Kohli &amp; Co. as experienced campaigner misses out</a>

Recently, Kohli had recalled India's 2018 Tests versus SA and said, "South Africa was really the start for us as a team, travelling and starting to belief we can win series overseas. We built it up nicely in England, and Australia was an accumulation of all those efforts."

It will be interesting to see if India can achieve their first-ever Test series in South Africa. They are coming to the African nation on the back of two historic series wins in Australia, reaching the inaugural WTC final and taking an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests held in the United Kingdom early this year.&nbsp;

For India to do well, the likes of Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, Cheteshwar Pujara and Mohammed Shami will have to be on their toes and perform in all cylinders.

Team India are set to commence their tour of South Africa with the first Test to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the three-match Test series, former SA speedster Allan Donald has lavished praise on Kohli-led Indian team and expects a bumper contest between both sides in the forthcoming series in the African nation.

Team India are set to commence their tour of South Africa with the first Test to get underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the three-match Test series, former SA speedster Allan Donald has lavished praise on Kohli-led Indian team and expects a bumper contest between both sides in the forthcoming series in the African nation. Despite not having the likes of Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel and Shubman Gill, Indian team is strong enough to challenge the Dean Elgar-led side in their own backyard. The No. 1 ranked Indian team will also be eager to win their first-ever series in whites in South Africa, after losing closely (2-1) during the 2018 tour. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar Donald believes India have been very good while being on the road and can pose a serious threat to the Proteas. "There is no doubt this is one of the marquee series in the world game and we can look forward to an incredible battle over the summer," Donald was quoted as saying by cricket.co.za. He added, "Kohli's comments a few years ago were that you'll never be classed as a great side if you don't win away from home and that has been something he really worked towards. You saw them win in Australia and also reach the WTC (World Test Championship) Final. This is a quality Indian team that is here. I'm looking forward to it." Donald pointed out, "Both teams line up really well, both have strong bowling line-ups and that will mean the batting on both sides will be tested. Our batting has lost some key players in the last couple of seasons. There's no hiding from the fact that it’s a young line-up and they will be tested by the Indian attack." "For me that is where the series will be decided. In the last few seasons, we haven't scored enough runs and that will be the challenge. If we can put the runs on the board, we undoubtedly have the bowlers who can take 20 wickets. There is a really good balance to our attack, and it will be interesting to watch." ALSO READ | India vs SA, 1st Test: MSK Prasad picks 4 pacers for Kohli & Co. as experienced campaigner misses out Recently, Kohli had recalled India's 2018 Tests versus SA and said, "South Africa was really the start for us as a team, travelling and starting to belief we can win series overseas. We built it up nicely in England, and Australia was an accumulation of all those efforts." It will be interesting to see if India can achieve their first-ever Test series in South Africa. They are coming to the African nation on the back of two historic series wins in Australia, reaching the inaugural WTC final and taking an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests held in the United Kingdom early this year. For India to do well, the likes of Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, Cheteshwar Pujara and Mohammed Shami will have to be on their toes and perform in all cylinders.

This is a quality Indian team: Allan Donald recalls Virat Kohli's words from 2018 ahead of Centurion Test

India is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the series, Virat Kohli-led Indian team have had several injury concerns with the likes of Rohit Sharma (newly-appointed vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel being ruled out.

Thus, Kohli &amp; Co. will have to be on their toes to get the better of Dean Elgar &amp; Co. and attain their first-ever Test series win on South African soil. For that to happen, India will have to start well and hope for Kohli to deliver with the bat. In 2021, the right-hander hasn't been at his best and has amassed only 483 runs in 10 innings, at 28.43, with four half-centuries.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ganguly-had-no-business-to-speak-on-behalf-of-selection-committee-vengsarkar-on-bcci-kohli-captaincy-row-439033">Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row</a>

With no Rohit -- who is India's leading run-getter in whites in 2021 -- former South Africa spinner Omar Henry feels there will be pressure on Kohli both as batter and captain. "Rohit not being there is a big factor. He's been their most prolific of run-getters for a while, so make no mistake, there will be pressure on Kohli. He will be tested as a batsman and captain,” Henry, who is also an ex-chief selector," told Mid-Day in an interview.

Henry still feels India have it in them to beat SA in their own backyard despite the handful of wins (3) in the purest format, overall, in the rainbow nation. "I believe India have a window to break that losing sequence if they utilise their pace department well," he added.

On the other hand, the former cricketer also opined on the ODI captaincy row in Indian cricket, which erupted early this month after BCCI sacked Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit as the new limited-overs skipper. In this regard, he said, "(Rahul) Dravid the coach and the leader in Kohli should able to able to put all of that behind and concentrate on this important assignment. You are playing for your country. Nothing is bigger and personal issues have to come second."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-labuschagne-dethrones-root-to-become-no-1-test-batter-babar-reclaims-top-spot-in-t20is-439022">ICC Rankings: Labuschagne dethrones Root to become No. 1 Test batter, Babar reclaims top spot in T20Is</a>

During India's last Test series in the African nation, Kohli-led team were competitive right throughout but lost the three Tests 2-1 versus the Faf du Plessis-led hosts. Will the scoreline be in India's favour this time around? Only time will tell...

India is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the series, Virat Kohli-led Indian team have had several injury concerns with the likes of Rohit Sharma (newly-appointed vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel being ruled out.

India is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. Ahead of the series, Virat Kohli-led Indian team have had several injury concerns with the likes of Rohit Sharma (newly-appointed vice-captain), Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel being ruled out. Thus, Kohli & Co. will have to be on their toes to get the better of Dean Elgar & Co. and attain their first-ever Test series win on South African soil. For that to happen, India will have to start well and hope for Kohli to deliver with the bat. In 2021, the right-hander hasn't been at his best and has amassed only 483 runs in 10 innings, at 28.43, with four half-centuries. ALSO READ | Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row With no Rohit -- who is India's leading run-getter in whites in 2021 -- former South Africa spinner Omar Henry feels there will be pressure on Kohli both as batter and captain. "Rohit not being there is a big factor. He's been their most prolific of run-getters for a while, so make no mistake, there will be pressure on Kohli. He will be tested as a batsman and captain,” Henry, who is also an ex-chief selector," told Mid-Day in an interview. Henry still feels India have it in them to beat SA in their own backyard despite the handful of wins (3) in the purest format, overall, in the rainbow nation. "I believe India have a window to break that losing sequence if they utilise their pace department well," he added. On the other hand, the former cricketer also opined on the ODI captaincy row in Indian cricket, which erupted early this month after BCCI sacked Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit as the new limited-overs skipper. In this regard, he said, "(Rahul) Dravid the coach and the leader in Kohli should able to able to put all of that behind and concentrate on this important assignment. You are playing for your country. Nothing is bigger and personal issues have to come second." ALSO READ | ICC Rankings: Labuschagne dethrones Root to become No. 1 Test batter, Babar reclaims top spot in T20Is During India's last Test series in the African nation, Kohli-led team were competitive right throughout but lost the three Tests 2-1 versus the Faf du Plessis-led hosts. Will the scoreline be in India's favour this time around? Only time will tell...

With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test

R Ashwin recently reacted to former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri's words of praise for Kuldeep Yadav during the 2018/19 Australia tour. Back then, Ashwin had played a key role in India's 31-run win over Tim Paine-led Aussies in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in Adelaide, with 6 scalps in the match. However, injury ruled him out of the remainder of the series as Kuldeep got a chance in the final Test, in Sydney.

Impressing one and all, Kuldeep achieved a five-fer in the drawn fourth and final Test; a feat not yet achieved by Ashwin in Australia. Thus, then head coach Ravi Shastri had labelled Kuldeep as India's No. 1 overseas spinner.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/felt-crushed-r-ashwin-recalls-ravi-shastris-huge-praise-for-kuldeep-yadav-during-2018-19-australia-tour-438692">Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour</a>

To this, Ashwin recently reacted to Shastri's remark and told in an interview with The&nbsp;Cricket Monthly, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia."

"But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success? I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-contemplated-giving-up-the-sport-r-ashwin-admits-to-have-thought-of-retirement-between-2018-20-438664">I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20</a>

Now, former Indian cricketers Saba Karim and Nikhil Chopra have reacted to Ashwin's remark. Speaking on his YouTube channel&nbsp;Khelneeti, Karim said,&nbsp;"Very difficult to maintain a healthy team environment when such things come out (Ashwin's statement on Shastri). Rahul Dravid's role will be very important. Captain shouldn't feel under pressure because of such developments."

On the other hand, Chopra stated, "Shastri labelled Kuldeep Yadav as the best overseas spinner. While at times you need to say these things to give confidence to a player, you need to ensure you don't disrespect other members of the team. Ashwin must be disappointed. You cannot have different treatments for different players."

At present, Ashwin is gearing up for India's upcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation, starting from December 26 in Centurion. The 35-year-old wily off-spinner, who warmed the bench during the England Tests in the United Kingdom, will be eager to contribute with both bat and ball and guide India to their first-ever Test series win in the rainbow nation.&nbsp;

R Ashwin recently reacted to former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri's words of praise for Kuldeep Yadav during the 2018/19 Australia tour. Back then, Ashwin had played a key role in India's 31-run win over Tim Paine-led Aussies in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in Adelaide, with 6 scalps in the match.

R Ashwin recently reacted to former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri's words of praise for Kuldeep Yadav during the 2018/19 Australia tour. Back then, Ashwin had played a key role in India's 31-run win over Tim Paine-led Aussies in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in Adelaide, with 6 scalps in the match. However, injury ruled him out of the remainder of the series as Kuldeep got a chance in the final Test, in Sydney. Impressing one and all, Kuldeep achieved a five-fer in the drawn fourth and final Test; a feat not yet achieved by Ashwin in Australia. Thus, then head coach Ravi Shastri had labelled Kuldeep as India's No. 1 overseas spinner. ALSO READ | Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour To this, Ashwin recently reacted to Shastri's remark and told in an interview with The Cricket Monthly, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia." "But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success? I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series," he added. ALSO READ | I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20 Now, former Indian cricketers Saba Karim and Nikhil Chopra have reacted to Ashwin's remark. Speaking on his YouTube channel Khelneeti, Karim said, "Very difficult to maintain a healthy team environment when such things come out (Ashwin's statement on Shastri). Rahul Dravid's role will be very important. Captain shouldn't feel under pressure because of such developments." On the other hand, Chopra stated, "Shastri labelled Kuldeep Yadav as the best overseas spinner. While at times you need to say these things to give confidence to a player, you need to ensure you don't disrespect other members of the team. Ashwin must be disappointed. You cannot have different treatments for different players." At present, Ashwin is gearing up for India's upcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation, starting from December 26 in Centurion. The 35-year-old wily off-spinner, who warmed the bench during the England Tests in the United Kingdom, will be eager to contribute with both bat and ball and guide India to their first-ever Test series win in the rainbow nation.

'Difficult to maintain....' - Former Indian cricketers react to R Ashwin's remark on Ravi Shastri

Virat Kohli-led India is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, which will get underway from December 26 in Centurion. India have a big opportunity to win their first-ever Test series on African soil. During their 2018 tour of SA, Kohli &amp; Co. were competitive right throughout the three Tests versus the Faf du Plessis-led Proteas but lost the series 2-1.

This time around, the No. 1 ranked Indian team have a great chance to win their first-ever Test series in South Africa. For that, they will need to start on the right note. Thus, all eyes are on Kohli as the 33-year-old will have to be at his very best with the willow.

For the unversed, Kohli the batter hasn't been in form. In the calendar year, he has amassed 483 runs in 17 innings at an average of 28.41 with 4 fifties. Thus, a lot more is expected from him in the forthcoming Tests. The right-hander will aim to take India off to a flier in the series opener and is also only 199 away from entering the 8,000-run club in the red-ball format. At present, Kohli has 7,801 runs in Tests, at 50.65, with 27 tons.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-may-see-virat-kohli-from-two-years-ago-slamming-centuries-after-centuries-predicts-sunil-gavaskar-437761">We may see Virat Kohli from two years ago slamming centuries after centuries, predicts Sunil Gavaskar</a>

Ahead of the Test series, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar pinned hopes on Kohli to come good with the bat and told Sports Tak, "We may see the Virat from two years ago, slamming centuries after centuries."

During the India-SA series in 2018, in the African nation, Kohli had scored a memorable ton in the second and penultimate Test at the same venue (where the forthcoming series opener will be held). Hence, he will draw some confidence from the memorable outing and look to lead from the front this time around as well.&nbsp;

India-SA three Tests will be followed by equal number of ODIs, in early 2022.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led India is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, which will get underway from December 26 in Centurion. India have a big opportunity to win their first-ever Test series on African soil.

Virat Kohli-led India is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa, which will get underway from December 26 in Centurion. India have a big opportunity to win their first-ever Test series on African soil. During their 2018 tour of SA, Kohli & Co. were competitive right throughout the three Tests versus the Faf du Plessis-led Proteas but lost the series 2-1. This time around, the No. 1 ranked Indian team have a great chance to win their first-ever Test series in South Africa. For that, they will need to start on the right note. Thus, all eyes are on Kohli as the 33-year-old will have to be at his very best with the willow. For the unversed, Kohli the batter hasn't been in form. In the calendar year, he has amassed 483 runs in 17 innings at an average of 28.41 with 4 fifties. Thus, a lot more is expected from him in the forthcoming Tests. The right-hander will aim to take India off to a flier in the series opener and is also only 199 away from entering the 8,000-run club in the red-ball format. At present, Kohli has 7,801 runs in Tests, at 50.65, with 27 tons. ALSO READ | We may see Virat Kohli from two years ago slamming centuries after centuries, predicts Sunil Gavaskar Ahead of the Test series, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar pinned hopes on Kohli to come good with the bat and told Sports Tak, "We may see the Virat from two years ago, slamming centuries after centuries." During the India-SA series in 2018, in the African nation, Kohli had scored a memorable ton in the second and penultimate Test at the same venue (where the forthcoming series opener will be held). Hence, he will draw some confidence from the memorable outing and look to lead from the front this time around as well. India-SA three Tests will be followed by equal number of ODIs, in early 2022.

India vs SA: Virat Kohli on cusp of entering 8,000-run club ahead of Test series opener in Centurion

India's Test captain Virat Kohli's childhood coach has made some bold claims ahead of the team's upcoming Test series against South Africa. India have never managed to win a Test series in South Africa but appear to be favourites this time around with the hosts set to miss a number of key players. While there will be no Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock is set to miss a part of the three-match series and pacer Anrich Nortje has been ruled out due to an injury.

Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has said the Indian team used to have a defensive mindset in Tests during current head coach Rahul Dravid's playing days. Sharma lauded Kohli for bringing in a change in the mindset of the Indian team overseas and helping them gain a winning attitude away from home.

"Indian team had a defensive mindset during Rahul Dravid's playing days. They wanted to ensure they didn't lose the series when they toured abroad. Virat Kohli's approach is to win and hence he plays with 5 bowlers," said Kohli's childhood coach while speaking on YouTube channel&nbsp;Khelneeti.

Dravid, who replaced Ravi Shastri as the head coach of the Indian team in November this year, helped the team bag a 1-0 win against New Zealand at home in his first Test assignment as the head coach of the team. The upcoming Test series against South Africa will be India legend's first major assignment overseas.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-explains-why-kohli-co-have-the-best-chance-of-winning-upcoming-test-series-vs-south-africa-438735">Sunil Gavaskar explains why Kohli &amp; Co. have the best chance of winning upcoming Test series vs South Africa</a>

Sharing his views on Dravid's role in the team, Sharma said the batting legend will be helping Kohli in forming strategies off the field and grooming youngsters while the Test skipper will be the one making all the decisions on the field. He also stated that Dravid's captaincy stint during the infamous Greg Chappell era will also help him as a coach.

"Rahul Dravid has seen the Greg Chappell incident. Hence, he knows what the role of a coach is. His job is to make strategies and groom the youngsters. Ultimately it is the captain who has to lead the team," said Rajkumar.&nbsp;

India have been gearing up for the series with the preparations underway in Centurion which is the venue for the first Boxing Day Test from December 26. India will be looking to get off to a winning start and take an early lead in the three-match series with a win in the first Test.

India's Test captain Virat Kohli's childhood coach has made some bold claims ahead of the team's upcoming Test series against South Africa. India have never managed to win a Test series in South Africa but appear to be favourites this time around with the hosts set to miss a number of key players.

India's Test captain Virat Kohli's childhood coach has made some bold claims ahead of the team's upcoming Test series against South Africa. India have never managed to win a Test series in South Africa but appear to be favourites this time around with the hosts set to miss a number of key players. While there will be no Faf du Plessis, Quinton de Kock is set to miss a part of the three-match series and pacer Anrich Nortje has been ruled out due to an injury. Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has said the Indian team used to have a defensive mindset in Tests during current head coach Rahul Dravid's playing days. Sharma lauded Kohli for bringing in a change in the mindset of the Indian team overseas and helping them gain a winning attitude away from home. "Indian team had a defensive mindset during Rahul Dravid's playing days. They wanted to ensure they didn't lose the series when they toured abroad. Virat Kohli's approach is to win and hence he plays with 5 bowlers," said Kohli's childhood coach while speaking on YouTube channel Khelneeti. Dravid, who replaced Ravi Shastri as the head coach of the Indian team in November this year, helped the team bag a 1-0 win against New Zealand at home in his first Test assignment as the head coach of the team. The upcoming Test series against South Africa will be India legend's first major assignment overseas. Also Read: Sunil Gavaskar explains why Kohli & Co. have the best chance of winning upcoming Test series vs South Africa Sharing his views on Dravid's role in the team, Sharma said the batting legend will be helping Kohli in forming strategies off the field and grooming youngsters while the Test skipper will be the one making all the decisions on the field. He also stated that Dravid's captaincy stint during the infamous Greg Chappell era will also help him as a coach. "Rahul Dravid has seen the Greg Chappell incident. Hence, he knows what the role of a coach is. His job is to make strategies and groom the youngsters. Ultimately it is the captain who has to lead the team," said Rajkumar. India have been gearing up for the series with the preparations underway in Centurion which is the venue for the first Boxing Day Test from December 26. India will be looking to get off to a winning start and take an early lead in the three-match series with a win in the first Test.

India had defensive mindset during Dravid's time, Virat's approach is to win: Kohli's childhood coach

Virat Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa and are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The last two Tests will follow suit before the action moves to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19.

Following the ODIs, the tour will come to an end as the four T20Is have been rescheduled&nbsp;from India's current visit to South Africa. The T20Is will be held at a later date in next year. It was mainly done by both BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA) after the tour was under dark clouds due to the Omicron threat in the rainbow nation. While the tour was given the green signal, it meant that the T20Is had to be shifted to a later date from the original plan.

"BCCI has confirmed CSA that the Indian team will travel for three Tests and three ODIs. The remaining four T20Is will be played at a later date,” BCCI secretary Jay Shah was quoted as saying to ANI.

Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra isn't impressed with the four T20Is being rescheduled (to a later date).&nbsp;

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Speaking on his Youtube Channel, Chopra said, "I am with you that the T20Is shouldn't have been cancelled. There were equal number of games - three ODIs and three T20Is. So you could have played the T20Is and not played the ODIs.

But then, I don't know what the permutations and combinations are because the T20 World Cup is there again next year and the ODI World Cup is after another one year. So the more T20s you play now, the better it is," he added.

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However, the former Test opener also conceded that the ODI Super League and South Africa's qualification chances for the 2023 ODI World Cup must have been a deciding factor for the boards to have gone ahead with the ODIs.

"I anyway believe there is no advantage of a bilateral ODI series. But you also need to keep in mind that there is a super league, where you get points. If you don't get points, you won't qualify. India's qualification is certain as hosts but the others need to qualify. So that could be a consideration," said Chopra.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa and are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The last two Tests will follow suit before the action moves to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19.

Virat Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa and are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The last two Tests will follow suit before the action moves to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19. Following the ODIs, the tour will come to an end as the four T20Is have been rescheduled from India's current visit to South Africa. The T20Is will be held at a later date in next year. It was mainly done by both BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA) after the tour was under dark clouds due to the Omicron threat in the rainbow nation. While the tour was given the green signal, it meant that the T20Is had to be shifted to a later date from the original plan. "BCCI has confirmed CSA that the Indian team will travel for three Tests and three ODIs. The remaining four T20Is will be played at a later date,” BCCI secretary Jay Shah was quoted as saying to ANI. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra isn't impressed with the four T20Is being rescheduled (to a later date). ALSO READ | Huge blow for South Africa as pacer Anrich Nortje ruled out of India Test series due to persistent injury Speaking on his Youtube Channel, Chopra said, "I am with you that the T20Is shouldn't have been cancelled. There were equal number of games - three ODIs and three T20Is. So you could have played the T20Is and not played the ODIs. But then, I don't know what the permutations and combinations are because the T20 World Cup is there again next year and the ODI World Cup is after another one year. So the more T20s you play now, the better it is," he added. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA - WATCH However, the former Test opener also conceded that the ODI Super League and South Africa's qualification chances for the 2023 ODI World Cup must have been a deciding factor for the boards to have gone ahead with the ODIs. "I anyway believe there is no advantage of a bilateral ODI series. But you also need to keep in mind that there is a super league, where you get points. If you don't get points, you won't qualify. India's qualification is certain as hosts but the others need to qualify. So that could be a consideration," said Chopra.

T20 World Cup is next year: Aakash Chopra unimpressed as T20Is rescheduled from India's tour of SA

Virat Kohli-BCCI have been at the loggerheads following the recent ODI captaincy switch in Team India. Early this month, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, replacing Kohli as the ODI skipper after he had already resigned as the T20I captain.

Ahead of India's departure for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each, Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference and stated that he had no prior communication with the board and selectors before being removed as the ODI captain. In addition, he claimed that Sourav Ganguly had never approached him to reconsider quitting as T20I skipper, contradicting the BCCI chief's claims. Hence, there is clear tension between Kohli and the BCCI.

While the board hasn't reacted to the statements made by Kohli in the recent presser, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has defended BCCI's silence.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-is-no-1-league-but-akram-opines-on-indias-t20-wc-debacle-explains-why-they-need-to-think-back-438451">IPL is No. 1 league but...: Akram opines on India's T20 WC debacle, explains why 'they need to think back'</a>

“It's a sensible topic and it would have been naïve if there were exchange of words over the matter to the board would have sent a show cause notice. That is not the way. Team in on a tour. Main objective is to play cricket and win matches and play for the country,” Butt said on his Youtube channel.&nbsp;

He added, "I think they have been sensible about it, all of them. And they should keep it under wraps. Better not to give media half-volleys or full tosses or lese you will be hit for boundaries or sixes. Obviously they have had a discussion about it, but it has obviously been all internal. And that is the way to go."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-one-of-my-favourite-captains-when-sourav-ganguly-was-all-praise-for-virat-kohli-438348">THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli</a>

Earlier, Ganguly had reacted to Kohli's presser and told TV reporters, "No statement, no press conference," He added, "We will deal with it. Leave it to BCCI."&nbsp;

Thus, things aren't its best in Indian cricket following the ODI captaincy switch. Meanwhile, Kohli-led India are in South Africa where they are gearing up for the three Tests versus the Proteas, starting from December 26 in Centurion.

Rohit is expected to be available for the three ODIs and take charge of the Men in Blue, in South Africa, in early 2022.

Virat Kohli-BCCI have been at the loggerheads following the recent ODI captaincy switch in Team India. Early this month, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, replacing Kohli as the ODI skipper after he had already resigned as the T20I captain.

Virat Kohli-BCCI have been at the loggerheads following the recent ODI captaincy switch in Team India. Early this month, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, replacing Kohli as the ODI skipper after he had already resigned as the T20I captain. Ahead of India's departure for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each, Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference and stated that he had no prior communication with the board and selectors before being removed as the ODI captain. In addition, he claimed that Sourav Ganguly had never approached him to reconsider quitting as T20I skipper, contradicting the BCCI chief's claims. Hence, there is clear tension between Kohli and the BCCI. While the board hasn't reacted to the statements made by Kohli in the recent presser, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has defended BCCI's silence. ALSO READ | IPL is No. 1 league but...: Akram opines on India's T20 WC debacle, explains why 'they need to think back' “It's a sensible topic and it would have been naïve if there were exchange of words over the matter to the board would have sent a show cause notice. That is not the way. Team in on a tour. Main objective is to play cricket and win matches and play for the country,” Butt said on his Youtube channel. He added, "I think they have been sensible about it, all of them. And they should keep it under wraps. Better not to give media half-volleys or full tosses or lese you will be hit for boundaries or sixes. Obviously they have had a discussion about it, but it has obviously been all internal. And that is the way to go." ALSO READ | THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli Earlier, Ganguly had reacted to Kohli's presser and told TV reporters, "No statement, no press conference," He added, "We will deal with it. Leave it to BCCI." Thus, things aren't its best in Indian cricket following the ODI captaincy switch. Meanwhile, Kohli-led India are in South Africa where they are gearing up for the three Tests versus the Proteas, starting from December 26 in Centurion. Rohit is expected to be available for the three ODIs and take charge of the Men in Blue, in South Africa, in early 2022.

Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row

Virat Kohli-led Team India are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa at Centurion, which will get underway on December 26. Ahead of the three Tests, the onus is on King Kohli. The 33-year-old has been in the news due to his recent presser, before India's departure to SA, where he openly contradicted from Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI's claims regarding the ODI captaincy switch and him resigning as a T20I skipper.

While things aren't at its best between Kohli and BCCI, nothing of that will matter when India take on SA in the upcoming Tests with an aim to win their first-ever series in whites on African soil. For that to happen, Kohli will have to lead from the front with the willow in hand. For the unversed, he hasn't had much success in Tests in 2021 whereas his last international ton came in late 2019. In the calendar year, he averages a mere 28.41 in whites, with a high-score of 72. Hence, it remains to be seen how the right-hander will perform with the bat.

Nonetheless, former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Saba Karim has backed Kohli to come good and deliver with the bat in the South Africa tour. He feels the burden of not being the limited-overs captain will help Kohli in many ways.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-wtc-points-table-after-australia-thrash-england-in-day-night-ashes-test-in-adelaide-438393">Updated WTC points table after Australia thrash England in day-night Ashes Test in Adelaide</a>

Speaking during an interaction on&nbsp;India News, Karim said, "It seems a burden has been removed from Virat Kohli's head. He can play with an open mind now, he can revive his Test career afresh. The expectation is that he will dish out performances like he was doing two years back.

“If he bats with an open mind and approach, he can repeat those performances. I have full belief that the form he has shown in the practice sessions, the same form will be seen in the match as well,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-one-of-my-favourite-captains-when-sourav-ganguly-was-all-praise-for-virat-kohli-438348">THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli</a>

India's last Test series versus South Africa, on African soil, came in early 2018. Back then, Kohli-led India competed very well versus the Proteas but lost 2-1. Will the script change this time around? Only time will tell...

Virat Kohli-led Team India are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa at Centurion, which will get underway on December 26. Ahead of the three Tests, the onus is on King Kohli.

Virat Kohli-led Team India are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus South Africa at Centurion, which will get underway on December 26. Ahead of the three Tests, the onus is on King Kohli. The 33-year-old has been in the news due to his recent presser, before India's departure to SA, where he openly contradicted from Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI's claims regarding the ODI captaincy switch and him resigning as a T20I skipper. While things aren't at its best between Kohli and BCCI, nothing of that will matter when India take on SA in the upcoming Tests with an aim to win their first-ever series in whites on African soil. For that to happen, Kohli will have to lead from the front with the willow in hand. For the unversed, he hasn't had much success in Tests in 2021 whereas his last international ton came in late 2019. In the calendar year, he averages a mere 28.41 in whites, with a high-score of 72. Hence, it remains to be seen how the right-hander will perform with the bat. Nonetheless, former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Saba Karim has backed Kohli to come good and deliver with the bat in the South Africa tour. He feels the burden of not being the limited-overs captain will help Kohli in many ways. ALSO READ | Updated WTC points table after Australia thrash England in day-night Ashes Test in Adelaide Speaking during an interaction on India News, Karim said, "It seems a burden has been removed from Virat Kohli's head. He can play with an open mind now, he can revive his Test career afresh. The expectation is that he will dish out performances like he was doing two years back. “If he bats with an open mind and approach, he can repeat those performances. I have full belief that the form he has shown in the practice sessions, the same form will be seen in the match as well,” he added. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli India's last Test series versus South Africa, on African soil, came in early 2018. Back then, Kohli-led India competed very well versus the Proteas but lost 2-1. Will the script change this time around? Only time will tell...

Former Indian cricketer backs Virat Kohli to come out all guns blazing and revive Test career in SA

The Indian cricket team's preparations are underway ahead of the start of the three-match Test series against South Africa. Virat Kohli &amp; Co. have been undergoing intense training sessions in Centurion ahead of the series-opener as they aim to get off to a winning start against the hosts.

BCCI on Monday shared a video of the Indian players enjoying a training session at the SuperSport Park where head coach Rahul Dravid was seen giving a pep talk to the team.&nbsp;The video started with Dravid encouraging the players for an intense and quality practice session before batting coach Vikram Rathour and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey gave a rundown of the conditions in Centurion.

"Next three days are going to be really important in terms of our preparation and getting ourselves right for the first Test match," Dravid can be heard telling the players in the video shared by BCCI.

"Okay, just quality practice and good intensity," he added.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> had an intense nets session at SuperSport Park in the build up to the first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> Test. 
 
Here's <a href="https://twitter.com/28anand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@28anand</a> taking you closer to all the action from Centurion. 
 
Watch this special feature <a href="https://t.co/Dm6hVDz71w">https://t.co/Dm6hVDz71w</a> <a href="https://t.co/qjxnBszmDa">pic.twitter.com/qjxnBszmDa</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1472788564366684160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Batting coach Rathour then shared details of India's batting practice session ahead of the first Test and said it was a tough day for the batters as the conditions were overcast and they had to bat on the centre wicket. The likes of skipper Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin and others can be seen facing the pacers in the nets amid overcast conditions in Centurion.

"So today was a centre wicket practice session. Unfortunately for us, it was a fresh wicket with overcast conditions, pretty challenging for the batters. So the way they went about it today, extremely happy," said Rathour.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-one-of-my-favourite-captains-when-sourav-ganguly-was-all-praise-for-virat-kohli-438348">THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli</a>

Star batter Shreyas Iyer also made an appearance in the video and spoke about the conditions in Centurion and revealed that there is grass on the pitch which means the pacers are expected to get better assistance throughout the first Test.

The Indian cricket team's preparations are underway ahead of the start of the three-match Test series against South Africa. Virat Kohli & Co. have been undergoing intense training sessions in Centurion ahead of the series-opener as they aim to get off to a winning start against the hosts.

The Indian cricket team's preparations are underway ahead of the start of the three-match Test series against South Africa. Virat Kohli & Co. have been undergoing intense training sessions in Centurion ahead of the series-opener as they aim to get off to a winning start against the hosts. BCCI on Monday shared a video of the Indian players enjoying a training session at the SuperSport Park where head coach Rahul Dravid was seen giving a pep talk to the team. The video started with Dravid encouraging the players for an intense and quality practice session before batting coach Vikram Rathour and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey gave a rundown of the conditions in Centurion. "Next three days are going to be really important in terms of our preparation and getting ourselves right for the first Test match," Dravid can be heard telling the players in the video shared by BCCI. "Okay, just quality practice and good intensity," he added. #TeamIndia had an intense nets session at SuperSport Park in the build up to the first #SAvIND Test. Here's @28anand taking you closer to all the action from Centurion. Watch this special feature https://t.co/Dm6hVDz71w pic.twitter.com/qjxnBszmDa — BCCI (@BCCI) December 20, 2021 × Batting coach Rathour then shared details of India's batting practice session ahead of the first Test and said it was a tough day for the batters as the conditions were overcast and they had to bat on the centre wicket. The likes of skipper Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, R Ashwin and others can be seen facing the pacers in the nets amid overcast conditions in Centurion. "So today was a centre wicket practice session. Unfortunately for us, it was a fresh wicket with overcast conditions, pretty challenging for the batters. So the way they went about it today, extremely happy," said Rathour. Also Read: THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli Star batter Shreyas Iyer also made an appearance in the video and spoke about the conditions in Centurion and revealed that there is grass on the pitch which means the pacers are expected to get better assistance throughout the first Test.

'Quality practice, good intensity': Rahul Dravid gives pep talk to Indian players ahead of SA Tests - WATCH

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) appointed the legendary Rahul Dravid as the new head coach of the Indian men's cricket team in November this year. Dravid replaced former head coach Ravi Shastri at the helm and has already guided India to back-to-back series wins against New Zealand at home.

While India clean swept the Black Caps 3-0 in the T20I series, they won the Test series 1-0. Reports of Dravid's likely appointment as the head coach of the team had gone viral months before he took over the role with many believing there was not much competition.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, who has previously spoken about how he managed to convince Dravid to take the India head coach job despite him not being interested initially, has revealed there was another Indian batting legend who was keen on taking the high-profile role.

"We had Rahul in mind for a long period of time, both me and Jay, but he wasn't agreeing because of the time away from home [and] because doing a national team's job is [about being] on the road for about 8-9 months in a year and he has two young children," Ganguly said on chat show Backstage with Boria.

He revealed Indian legend VVS Laxman was one of the former cricketers interested in the India head coach post. Laxman, who has not coached a national side before, has served as the mentor of Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL and has also worked as a batting consultant for Bengal in the domestic circuit.

Ganguly revealed Laxman wanted to work with the Indian team but things didn't work out for him to replace Shastri. The BCCI president also stated that the batting legend will get a chance to work with the national team in the future.

“He (Laxman) was keen on the national team job, but that couldn’t worked out. But somewhere down the line, he would have that opportunity to coach the national team," Ganguly added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-not-happy-with-virat-kohlis-comments-but-unlikely-to-take-hasty-step-ahead-of-south-africa-series-437626">BCCI not happy with Virat Kohli's comments but unlikely to take hasty step ahead of South Africa series</a>

Laxman has givenup his mentor's role at Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL to move to Bangalore and replace Dravid as the new Head of Cricket at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. Dravid was serving as the head of NCA before taking the India head coach role.

&nbsp;

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) appointed the legendary Rahul Dravid as the new head coach of the Indian men's cricket team in November this year. Dravid replaced former head coach Ravi Shastri at the helm and has already guided India to back-to-back series wins against New Zealand at home.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) appointed the legendary Rahul Dravid as the new head coach of the Indian men's cricket team in November this year. Dravid replaced former head coach Ravi Shastri at the helm and has already guided India to back-to-back series wins against New Zealand at home. While India clean swept the Black Caps 3-0 in the T20I series, they won the Test series 1-0. Reports of Dravid's likely appointment as the head coach of the team had gone viral months before he took over the role with many believing there was not much competition. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, who has previously spoken about how he managed to convince Dravid to take the India head coach job despite him not being interested initially, has revealed there was another Indian batting legend who was keen on taking the high-profile role. "We had Rahul in mind for a long period of time, both me and Jay, but he wasn't agreeing because of the time away from home [and] because doing a national team's job is [about being] on the road for about 8-9 months in a year and he has two young children," Ganguly said on chat show Backstage with Boria. He revealed Indian legend VVS Laxman was one of the former cricketers interested in the India head coach post. Laxman, who has not coached a national side before, has served as the mentor of Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL and has also worked as a batting consultant for Bengal in the domestic circuit. Ganguly revealed Laxman wanted to work with the Indian team but things didn't work out for him to replace Shastri. The BCCI president also stated that the batting legend will get a chance to work with the national team in the future. “He (Laxman) was keen on the national team job, but that couldn’t worked out. But somewhere down the line, he would have that opportunity to coach the national team," Ganguly added. Also Read: BCCI not happy with Virat Kohli's comments but unlikely to take hasty step ahead of South Africa series Laxman has givenup his mentor's role at Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL to move to Bangalore and replace Dravid as the new Head of Cricket at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. Dravid was serving as the head of NCA before taking the India head coach role.

Not Rahul Dravid! Sourav Ganguly reveals another batting legend wanted India head coach job

Indian cricket is in a mess at present. BCCI, on December 8, removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain. Following this, several reports claimed that Kohli and Rohit aren't sharing a good equation with each other whereas BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly claimed that he had personally spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I captain.

On Wednesday (December 15), Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the national side's departure for South Africa where they play three Tests and ODIs each. Hence, Kohli rubbished rumours of any rift with Rohit but dropped a bomb by saying that he was never told to reconsider quitting as T20I skipper and was also not informed of his sacking as the ODI captain prior to the official announcement.

"The chief selector discussed the Test team to which we both agreed. Before ending the call, I was told that the five selectors have decided that I will not be the ODI captain to which I replied ‘okay fine'," Kohli claimed.

He further asserted, "When I left the T20I captaincy, I had first approached BCCI and intimated them of my decision and laid down my point of view in front of them (office bearers). I gave the reasons why I wanted to quit T20 captaincy and my view point was received very nicely. There was no offence, no hesitation and not for once was I told that ‘you should not leave T20 captaincy’."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-will-deal-with-it-appropriately-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-remark-on-odi-captaincy-row-437386">BCCI will deal with it appropriately: Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's remark on ODI captaincy row</a>

Thus, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has now urged BCCI President Sourav Ganguly to come out in the open and respond so that the controversy can come to an end. “Ganguly needs to answer this for the betterment of Indian cricket. He is the President of the BCCI and Kohli contradicting him in public is not a small thing. On one hand, Ganguly said he had requested Kohli not to step down from T20 captaincy. But Kohli has now come out and claimed that no one from BCCI ever spoke to him about it. These are two completely contrasting statements. This is unrest," Butt said&nbsp;on his YouTube channel.

He added, "It is not a question of captaincy. Debate is not about Rohit taking over. He is a good captain and has proved himself at the international and IPL level. The procedure to pass on the responsibility from one great to another was not smooth. Unnecessary controversy has been created and there will be trust deficit between Kohli and Ganguly going ahead.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/please-pay-attention-to-sa-tour-kapil-dev-schools-virat-kohli-following-his-explosive-press-conference-437409">Please pay attention to SA tour: Kapil Dev schools Virat Kohli following his explosive press conference</a>

After Kohli contradicted his claims, Ganguly did respond and recently told News18, "I have no comments to make. The BCCI will deal with it appropriately."

The Indian cricket loyalists will hope for the ODI captaincy row to end as soon as possible as it can reflect India's performance in their forthcoming tour of South Africa, starting from December 26. The national side has left for the African nation on Thursday (December 16).

Indian cricket is in a mess at present. BCCI, on December 8, removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain. Following this, several reports claimed that Kohli and Rohit aren't sharing a good equation with each other whereas BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly claimed that he had personally spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I captain.

Indian cricket is in a mess at present. BCCI, on December 8, removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain. Following this, several reports claimed that Kohli and Rohit aren't sharing a good equation with each other whereas BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly claimed that he had personally spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I captain. On Wednesday (December 15), Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the national side's departure for South Africa where they play three Tests and ODIs each. Hence, Kohli rubbished rumours of any rift with Rohit but dropped a bomb by saying that he was never told to reconsider quitting as T20I skipper and was also not informed of his sacking as the ODI captain prior to the official announcement. "The chief selector discussed the Test team to which we both agreed. Before ending the call, I was told that the five selectors have decided that I will not be the ODI captain to which I replied ‘okay fine'," Kohli claimed. He further asserted, "When I left the T20I captaincy, I had first approached BCCI and intimated them of my decision and laid down my point of view in front of them (office bearers). I gave the reasons why I wanted to quit T20 captaincy and my view point was received very nicely. There was no offence, no hesitation and not for once was I told that ‘you should not leave T20 captaincy’." ALSO READ | BCCI will deal with it appropriately: Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's remark on ODI captaincy row Thus, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has now urged BCCI President Sourav Ganguly to come out in the open and respond so that the controversy can come to an end. “Ganguly needs to answer this for the betterment of Indian cricket. He is the President of the BCCI and Kohli contradicting him in public is not a small thing. On one hand, Ganguly said he had requested Kohli not to step down from T20 captaincy. But Kohli has now come out and claimed that no one from BCCI ever spoke to him about it. These are two completely contrasting statements. This is unrest," Butt said on his YouTube channel. He added, "It is not a question of captaincy. Debate is not about Rohit taking over. He is a good captain and has proved himself at the international and IPL level. The procedure to pass on the responsibility from one great to another was not smooth. Unnecessary controversy has been created and there will be trust deficit between Kohli and Ganguly going ahead.” ALSO READ | Please pay attention to SA tour: Kapil Dev schools Virat Kohli following his explosive press conference After Kohli contradicted his claims, Ganguly did respond and recently told News18, "I have no comments to make. The BCCI will deal with it appropriately." The Indian cricket loyalists will hope for the ODI captaincy row to end as soon as possible as it can reflect India's performance in their forthcoming tour of South Africa, starting from December 26. The national side has left for the African nation on Thursday (December 16).

'Kohli contradicting him in public....': Former Pak skipper urges Ganguly to 'answer' amid captaincy row

Team India's Test captain Virat Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the national side left for South Africa, for three Tests and equal number of ODIs. On Wednesday (December 15), the 33-year-old Kohli interacted with the press to clear the air on a number of issues pertaining to Indian cricket.

In recent times, there has been several changes in the men's cricket team with Rohit Sharma being appointed the limited-overs captain, resulting in Kohli's sacking as ODI skipper. Hence, rumours of alleged rift between Rohit and Kohli spread like wildfire before the latter rubbished all such claims in the press conference.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-explosive-presser-ganguly-should-be-asked-why-there-is-this-discrepancy-says-gavaskar-437196">Virat Kohli's explosive presser: Ganguly should be asked why there is this discrepancy, says Gavaskar</a>

Kohli further told the media, "My responsibility is to push the team in the right direction. Rohit is a very able captain and tactically very sound. Along with Rahul bhai, who is a great man manager, they will get my 100 percent support in ODIs and T20Is in whatever vision they set for the team in limited-overs cricket." Here's the video:&nbsp;

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💬 💬 <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> and Rahul Dravid have my absolute support: <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/jXUwZ5W1Dz">pic.twitter.com/jXUwZ5W1Dz</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1471046347021111296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Following Kohli's claims on being hundred percent behind Rohit-Dravid, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar joined the bandwagon and reacted saying, "This is absolutely right. When you play for the Indian team, you dedicate your body and mind to it and thrive for its success. It doesn't matter who is or isn't the captain because you get pride in your own performance and helping the team win... There's no two ways about the fact that whoever plays for the Indian team, does it with all his/her energy. Yes, this is a sport, you can't always be successful. That's why even yesterday I said that don't believe these reports via these sources. Ask the players themselves," the iconic cricketer said on&nbsp;Sports Tak.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-is-a-very-able-captain-virat-kohli-opens-up-on-team-indias-limited-overs-skipper-437109">Rohit Sharma is a very able captain: Virat Kohli opens up on Team India's limited-overs skipper</a>

Gavaskar further came hard on ones spreading fake news and said, "This has been the problem with Indian cricket for years. Whenever there are two players with a bit of up-down regarding captaincy, one captain here and the other there, then the rumors that spread here... I am not saying that media does it but it happens a lot via social media and public media. These rumors that fly out have now been proven as fake news. This is all wrong because all of us need to take Indian cricket forward, whether we are playing or not. What do you get from these rumors?"

On Thursday (December 16), Kohli-led Indian Test team left for South Africa where they will play three Tests, from December 26, before the action moves to the ODI series.

Rohit won't be part of the Test series, due to injury, but Kohli has made it clear that he will be available for the ODIs, contrary to reports claiming that he had asked for a leave during that period.

Team India's Test captain Virat Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the national side left for South Africa, for three Tests and equal number of ODIs.

Team India's Test captain Virat Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the national side left for South Africa, for three Tests and equal number of ODIs. On Wednesday (December 15), the 33-year-old Kohli interacted with the press to clear the air on a number of issues pertaining to Indian cricket. In recent times, there has been several changes in the men's cricket team with Rohit Sharma being appointed the limited-overs captain, resulting in Kohli's sacking as ODI skipper. Hence, rumours of alleged rift between Rohit and Kohli spread like wildfire before the latter rubbished all such claims in the press conference. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's explosive presser: Ganguly should be asked why there is this discrepancy, says Gavaskar Kohli further told the media, "My responsibility is to push the team in the right direction. Rohit is a very able captain and tactically very sound. Along with Rahul bhai, who is a great man manager, they will get my 100 percent support in ODIs and T20Is in whatever vision they set for the team in limited-overs cricket." Here's the video: 💬 💬 @ImRo45 and Rahul Dravid have my absolute support: @imVkohli #TeamIndia #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/jXUwZ5W1Dz — BCCI (@BCCI) December 15, 2021 × Following Kohli's claims on being hundred percent behind Rohit-Dravid, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar joined the bandwagon and reacted saying, "This is absolutely right. When you play for the Indian team, you dedicate your body and mind to it and thrive for its success. It doesn't matter who is or isn't the captain because you get pride in your own performance and helping the team win... There's no two ways about the fact that whoever plays for the Indian team, does it with all his/her energy. Yes, this is a sport, you can't always be successful. That's why even yesterday I said that don't believe these reports via these sources. Ask the players themselves," the iconic cricketer said on Sports Tak. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma is a very able captain: Virat Kohli opens up on Team India's limited-overs skipper Gavaskar further came hard on ones spreading fake news and said, "This has been the problem with Indian cricket for years. Whenever there are two players with a bit of up-down regarding captaincy, one captain here and the other there, then the rumors that spread here... I am not saying that media does it but it happens a lot via social media and public media. These rumors that fly out have now been proven as fake news. This is all wrong because all of us need to take Indian cricket forward, whether we are playing or not. What do you get from these rumors?" On Thursday (December 16), Kohli-led Indian Test team left for South Africa where they will play three Tests, from December 26, before the action moves to the ODI series. Rohit won't be part of the Test series, due to injury, but Kohli has made it clear that he will be available for the ODIs, contrary to reports claiming that he had asked for a leave during that period.

'This is.....' - Sunil Gavaskar reacts as Virat Kohli promises 'absolute support' to Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid

Indian cricket isn't at its best right now. Ever since BCCI removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma in his place as the limited-overs captain, things haven't been very smooth.&nbsp;Many believe lack of proper communication has been the reason for contrasting statements made by Kohli and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, following the ODI captaincy switch.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (December 15), Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before Team India's departure for South Africa. The Indian Test captain opened up on the ODI captaincy switch and also opined on quitting T20I captaincy. He maintained that he wasn't informed about his sacking as the ODI captain in advance and was also not asked to reconsider his decision of leaving T20I captaincy, as stated by Ganguly.&nbsp;

Kohli told the press, "I was communicated one and a half hours before the selection meeting (on Rohit being given the ODI captaincy). I was told that I will not be the ODI captain. There was no communication with me before that. We chatted briefly about it during the selection meet, but no communication about this was made before the selection meeting."

On stepping aside as T20I captain, he said, "I had told BCCI that I want to quit T20I captaincy. I wasn't told to reconsider it. It was received well, without any hesitation; I was told it's a progressive step and it's in the right direction. I had told them that I want to continue ODI and Test captaincy unless the office bearers think otherwise. I had given that option to them."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-was-no-communication-virat-kohli-opens-up-on-losing-odi-captaincy-to-rohit-sharma-437011">'There was no communication...' - Virat Kohli opens up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma</a>

Now, BCCI sources have&nbsp;claimed that Kohli was kept on the loop regarding ODI captaincy switch. A BCCI source told Times Now in complete confidentiality, "A change in captaincy is not a small decision and Virat Kohli was kept in loop before the decision was made."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-wasnt-told-to-virat-kohli-contradicts-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-on-resigning-as-indias-t20i-captain-437148">'I wasn't told to...' - Virat Kohli contradicts BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly on resigning as India's T20I captain</a>

Amid all this, the confusion among Indian cricket fans is at an all-time high due to the contrasting statements and lack of clarity regarding the turn of recent events and developments.&nbsp;Meanwhile, India have left for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each&nbsp;starting from December 26.

Indian cricket isn't at its best right now. Ever since BCCI removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma in his place as the limited-overs captain, things haven't been very smooth.

Indian cricket isn't at its best right now. Ever since BCCI removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma in his place as the limited-overs captain, things haven't been very smooth. Many believe lack of proper communication has been the reason for contrasting statements made by Kohli and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, following the ODI captaincy switch. On Wednesday (December 15), Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before Team India's departure for South Africa. The Indian Test captain opened up on the ODI captaincy switch and also opined on quitting T20I captaincy. He maintained that he wasn't informed about his sacking as the ODI captain in advance and was also not asked to reconsider his decision of leaving T20I captaincy, as stated by Ganguly. Kohli told the press, "I was communicated one and a half hours before the selection meeting (on Rohit being given the ODI captaincy). I was told that I will not be the ODI captain. There was no communication with me before that. We chatted briefly about it during the selection meet, but no communication about this was made before the selection meeting." On stepping aside as T20I captain, he said, "I had told BCCI that I want to quit T20I captaincy. I wasn't told to reconsider it. It was received well, without any hesitation; I was told it's a progressive step and it's in the right direction. I had told them that I want to continue ODI and Test captaincy unless the office bearers think otherwise. I had given that option to them." ALSO READ | 'There was no communication...' - Virat Kohli opens up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma Now, BCCI sources have claimed that Kohli was kept on the loop regarding ODI captaincy switch. A BCCI source told Times Now in complete confidentiality, "A change in captaincy is not a small decision and Virat Kohli was kept in loop before the decision was made." ALSO READ | 'I wasn't told to...' - Virat Kohli contradicts BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly on resigning as India's T20I captain Amid all this, the confusion among Indian cricket fans is at an all-time high due to the contrasting statements and lack of clarity regarding the turn of recent events and developments. Meanwhile, India have left for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each starting from December 26.

Virat Kohli was kept in loop: BCCI sources claim ODI captaincy switch was 'collective' decision

Virat Kohli, on Wednesday (December 15), answered several questions from the media in BCCI's customary press conference before Team India's departure for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each.&nbsp;

During the presser, Kohli was asked to react to the ODI captaincy switch in Indian cricket, share his equation with Rohit Sharma, open up on whether he had any communication with the BCCI before quitting as T20I captain and more.&nbsp;

On quitting as T20I captain, Kohli stated, "I had told BCCI that I want to quit T20I captaincy. I wasn't told to reconsider it. It was received well, without any hesitation; I was told it's a progressive step and it's in the right direction. I had told them that I want to continue ODI and Test captaincy unless the office bearers think otherwise. I had given that option to them."

On the other hand, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had revealed that he had a conversation with Kohli and had also requested him to continue as the T20I captain before his resignation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-wasnt-told-to-virat-kohli-contradicts-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-on-resigning-as-indias-t20i-captain-437148">'I wasn't told to...' - Virat Kohli contradicts BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly on resigning as India's T20I captain</a>

Thus, with contradictory claims from Kohli and Ganguly, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has now joined the bandwagon and reacted to the developments.&nbsp;

Gavaskar told India Today, "I think it (Kohli’s comments) actually doesn’t bring the BCCI into the picture. I think it’s the individual who has to be asked where he got the impression he had conveyed such a message to Kohli. So that’s the only thing. Yes, he is the BCCI president and surely he should be asked why there is this discrepancy. He is probably the best person to ask about the discrepancy in what you seem to have to say and what the Indian captain has said."

"Yes, it always helps to have a clear line of communication so that there is no speculation. So from now, from what has happened, there should be a clear line of communication and the chairman of the selection committee can come down and say why he has been picked and why he has not been picked. Sometimes, even if that is not needed, a press release is also good enough. A good press release giving all the reasons makes life a lot easier," Gavaskar added.

Gavaskar further asserted, "As long as it’s not something that he has not found out from the media or as it happened in the past that the commander of a passenger flight announced it, I think he has been told by the chairman of the selection committee that he is not going to be the captain, I think that is absolutely okay."

"I don’t know what these people wanted to do. As long as there has been communication between the chairman of selection and him, it’s the decent thing to do. Over there, what the conversation was, I am not aware. Maybe the chairman of the selection committee also said ‘thank you so much," he concluded.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-no-issue-virat-kohli-answers-the-big-question-confirms-no-rift-with-rohit-sharma-437014">There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma</a>

With Kohli and Ganguly's statements being poles apart, it certainly doesn't clear the picture for fans and the media. Hence, chief selector Chetan Sharma is reportedly expected to clear the air in a press conference in the coming days.&nbsp;

At present, India is gearing up to leave for South Africa, with the tour opener to take place on December 26.

Virat Kohli, on Wednesday (December 15), answered several questions from the media in BCCI's customary press conference before Team India's departure for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each.

Virat Kohli, on Wednesday (December 15), answered several questions from the media in BCCI's customary press conference before Team India's departure for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each. During the presser, Kohli was asked to react to the ODI captaincy switch in Indian cricket, share his equation with Rohit Sharma, open up on whether he had any communication with the BCCI before quitting as T20I captain and more. On quitting as T20I captain, Kohli stated, "I had told BCCI that I want to quit T20I captaincy. I wasn't told to reconsider it. It was received well, without any hesitation; I was told it's a progressive step and it's in the right direction. I had told them that I want to continue ODI and Test captaincy unless the office bearers think otherwise. I had given that option to them." On the other hand, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had revealed that he had a conversation with Kohli and had also requested him to continue as the T20I captain before his resignation. ALSO READ | 'I wasn't told to...' - Virat Kohli contradicts BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly on resigning as India's T20I captain Thus, with contradictory claims from Kohli and Ganguly, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has now joined the bandwagon and reacted to the developments. Gavaskar told India Today, "I think it (Kohli’s comments) actually doesn’t bring the BCCI into the picture. I think it’s the individual who has to be asked where he got the impression he had conveyed such a message to Kohli. So that’s the only thing. Yes, he is the BCCI president and surely he should be asked why there is this discrepancy. He is probably the best person to ask about the discrepancy in what you seem to have to say and what the Indian captain has said." "Yes, it always helps to have a clear line of communication so that there is no speculation. So from now, from what has happened, there should be a clear line of communication and the chairman of the selection committee can come down and say why he has been picked and why he has not been picked. Sometimes, even if that is not needed, a press release is also good enough. A good press release giving all the reasons makes life a lot easier," Gavaskar added. Gavaskar further asserted, "As long as it’s not something that he has not found out from the media or as it happened in the past that the commander of a passenger flight announced it, I think he has been told by the chairman of the selection committee that he is not going to be the captain, I think that is absolutely okay." "I don’t know what these people wanted to do. As long as there has been communication between the chairman of selection and him, it’s the decent thing to do. Over there, what the conversation was, I am not aware. Maybe the chairman of the selection committee also said ‘thank you so much," he concluded. ALSO READ | There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma With Kohli and Ganguly's statements being poles apart, it certainly doesn't clear the picture for fans and the media. Hence, chief selector Chetan Sharma is reportedly expected to clear the air in a press conference in the coming days. At present, India is gearing up to leave for South Africa, with the tour opener to take place on December 26.

Virat Kohli's explosive presser: Ganguly should be asked why there is this discrepancy, says Gavaskar

On Wednesday (December 15), Virat Kohli interacted with the media in BCCI's customary press conference before India's departure to South Africa. Given that there have been some major developments in Indian cricket in the recent past, with not much communication from the board, Kohli's presser was keenly awaited and followed.

During the presser, Kohli opened up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma, opined on Rohit as a limited-overs skipper, his availability for SA ODIs and also whether he had any word with the BCCI before stepping aside as the T20I captain, in mid-September.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-pujara-or-bumrah-indias-experienced-campaigner-frontrunner-to-be-vice-captain-for-sa-tests-report-437134">Not Pujara or Bumrah! India's experienced campaigner frontrunner to be vice-captain for SA Tests: Report</a>

On quitting as the T20I captain, Kohli raised eyebrows as he contradicted BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's statement and said, "I had told BCCI that I want to quit T20I captaincy. I wasn't told to reconsider it. It was received well, without any hesitation; I was told it's a progressive step and it's in the right direction. I had told them that I want to continue ODI and Test captaincy unless the office bearers think otherwise. I had given that option to them."

Speaking to&nbsp;News18&nbsp;a few days ago, Ganguly had said, "I personally requested him (Kohli) not to give up the T20I captaincy. Obviously, he felt the workload. Which is fine, he has been a great cricketer, he has been very intense with his cricket. He has captained for a long period of time and these things happen. Because I have captained for a long period of time; therefore, I know. Also, they wanted only one white-ball captain. And that's why this decision. I don't know what's going to happen in future. But as I said, it's a good team and it has some fantastic players and I hope they will turn it around."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-no-issue-virat-kohli-answers-the-big-question-confirms-no-rift-with-rohit-sharma-437014">There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma</a>

In addition, Kohli commented on the ODI captaincy switch and said in the presser, "I was communicated one and a half hours before the selection meeting. I was told that I will not be the ODI captain. There was no communication with me before that. We chatted briefly about it during the selection meeting, but no communication about this was made before the selection meeting on ODI captaincy."

There remains to be see if the BCCI will share their version or not regarding how things unfolded with regards to Kohli quitting as T20I captain and being removed as the ODI skipper.&nbsp;

At present, India are gearing up to leave for South Africa where they play three Tests and ODIs each in the African nation. The tour will kick off with the first Test at Centurion on December 26.

On Wednesday (December 15), Virat Kohli interacted with the media in BCCI's customary press conference before India's departure to South Africa. Given that there have been some major developments in Indian cricket in the recent past, with not much communication from the board, Kohli's presser was keenly awaited and followed.

On Wednesday (December 15), Virat Kohli interacted with the media in BCCI's customary press conference before India's departure to South Africa. Given that there have been some major developments in Indian cricket in the recent past, with not much communication from the board, Kohli's presser was keenly awaited and followed. During the presser, Kohli opened up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma, opined on Rohit as a limited-overs skipper, his availability for SA ODIs and also whether he had any word with the BCCI before stepping aside as the T20I captain, in mid-September. ALSO READ | Not Pujara or Bumrah! India's experienced campaigner frontrunner to be vice-captain for SA Tests: Report On quitting as the T20I captain, Kohli raised eyebrows as he contradicted BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's statement and said, "I had told BCCI that I want to quit T20I captaincy. I wasn't told to reconsider it. It was received well, without any hesitation; I was told it's a progressive step and it's in the right direction. I had told them that I want to continue ODI and Test captaincy unless the office bearers think otherwise. I had given that option to them." Speaking to News18 a few days ago, Ganguly had said, "I personally requested him (Kohli) not to give up the T20I captaincy. Obviously, he felt the workload. Which is fine, he has been a great cricketer, he has been very intense with his cricket. He has captained for a long period of time and these things happen. Because I have captained for a long period of time; therefore, I know. Also, they wanted only one white-ball captain. And that's why this decision. I don't know what's going to happen in future. But as I said, it's a good team and it has some fantastic players and I hope they will turn it around." ALSO READ | There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma In addition, Kohli commented on the ODI captaincy switch and said in the presser, "I was communicated one and a half hours before the selection meeting. I was told that I will not be the ODI captain. There was no communication with me before that. We chatted briefly about it during the selection meeting, but no communication about this was made before the selection meeting on ODI captaincy." There remains to be see if the BCCI will share their version or not regarding how things unfolded with regards to Kohli quitting as T20I captain and being removed as the ODI skipper. At present, India are gearing up to leave for South Africa where they play three Tests and ODIs each in the African nation. The tour will kick off with the first Test at Centurion on December 26.

'I wasn't told to...' - Virat Kohli contradicts BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly on resigning as India's T20I captain

Virat Kohli, on Wednesday (December 15), addressed the media in a press conference ahead of Team India's departure for South Africa, where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. After the various developments that have taken place in Indian cricket, Kohli's presser was keenly followed where the 33-year-old opened up on various aspects.

Kohli was removed as the ODI captain as the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper. The former will, however, continue to be in-charge of the Test line-up. Kohli, thus, opened up on playing under Rohit and lavished praise on Hitman as a leader.

He told the media, "My responsibility is to push the team in the right direction. Rohit is a very able captain and tactically very sound. Along with Rahul bhai, who is a great man manager, they will get my 100 percent support in ODIs and T20Is in whatever vision they set for the team in limited-overs cricket." Here's the video:&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-no-issue-virat-kohli-answers-the-big-question-confirms-no-rift-with-rohit-sharma-437014">There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
💬 💬 <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> and Rahul Dravid have my absolute support: <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/jXUwZ5W1Dz">pic.twitter.com/jXUwZ5W1Dz</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1471046347021111296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-was-always-available-virat-kohli-shuns-rumours-of-missing-proteas-odis-before-indias-departure-for-sa-437009">I was always available: Virat Kohli shuns rumours of missing Proteas ODIs before India's departure for SA</a>

Kohli also reacted to the rumours of him asking for a leave to skip the ODIs in South Africa and said in this regard, "I am available for selection for ODI series against South Africa. No communication with the BCCI about being rested. This question should be asked to the people who are writing about this, not me. These are lies. I have not asked BCCI to rest me."

On his much-talked about equation with Rohit, Kohli once again confirmed that there is no truth to the alleged rift between the two cricketers. He said, "About me and Rohit, we have no problem with each other. I have been clarifying this for two to three years and honestly, getting tired of it.&nbsp;I can guarantee you that no action of mine or communication will ever be bad for Indian cricket. This is my commitment to Indian cricket."

India will play three Tests and ODIs each in the African nation, with the tour opener taking place on December 26. The first Test will kick off at Centurion followed by the last two matches whereas the three ODIs will commence on January 19 in Paarl.

Virat Kohli, on Wednesday (December 15), addressed the media in a press conference ahead of Team India's departure for South Africa, where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs.

Virat Kohli, on Wednesday (December 15), addressed the media in a press conference ahead of Team India's departure for South Africa, where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. After the various developments that have taken place in Indian cricket, Kohli's presser was keenly followed where the 33-year-old opened up on various aspects. Kohli was removed as the ODI captain as the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper. The former will, however, continue to be in-charge of the Test line-up. Kohli, thus, opened up on playing under Rohit and lavished praise on Hitman as a leader. He told the media, "My responsibility is to push the team in the right direction. Rohit is a very able captain and tactically very sound. Along with Rahul bhai, who is a great man manager, they will get my 100 percent support in ODIs and T20Is in whatever vision they set for the team in limited-overs cricket." Here's the video: ALSO READ | There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma 💬 💬 @ImRo45 and Rahul Dravid have my absolute support: @imVkohli #TeamIndia #SAvIND pic.twitter.com/jXUwZ5W1Dz — BCCI (@BCCI) December 15, 2021 × ALSO READ | I was always available: Virat Kohli shuns rumours of missing Proteas ODIs before India's departure for SA Kohli also reacted to the rumours of him asking for a leave to skip the ODIs in South Africa and said in this regard, "I am available for selection for ODI series against South Africa. No communication with the BCCI about being rested. This question should be asked to the people who are writing about this, not me. These are lies. I have not asked BCCI to rest me." On his much-talked about equation with Rohit, Kohli once again confirmed that there is no truth to the alleged rift between the two cricketers. He said, "About me and Rohit, we have no problem with each other. I have been clarifying this for two to three years and honestly, getting tired of it. I can guarantee you that no action of mine or communication will ever be bad for Indian cricket. This is my commitment to Indian cricket." India will play three Tests and ODIs each in the African nation, with the tour opener taking place on December 26. The first Test will kick off at Centurion followed by the last two matches whereas the three ODIs will commence on January 19 in Paarl.

Rohit Sharma is a very able captain: Virat Kohli opens up on Team India's limited-overs skipper

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