On December 8, the BCCI dropped a bomb by removing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain. Many believe it was always on the cards after the 33-year-old had stepped down as the T20I captain, post the World Cup in the UAE, and the Indian cricket board made the official announcement as Kohli got replaced by Rohit Sharma. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain and, thus, will serve as the limited-overs skipper.

Ahead of Team India's departure for South Africa, where they are scheduled to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, Kohli interacted with the media in the customary press conference in Mumbai, on Wednesday (December 15), and opened up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit.

He told, "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."

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>

Earlier, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly had also broken his silence on the ODI captaincy change and told ANI, "“It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together,” Ganguly told ANI. "Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him," he stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-is-bigger-than-the-game-anurag-thakur-reacts-to-alleged-rift-between-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharma-436999">Nobody is bigger than the game: Anurag Thakur reacts to alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma</a>

Kohli also made it clear that he had never asked for skipping the SA ODIs, to start from January 19 in Paarl. He has maintained that he remains available for the 50-over series in the African nation and the team is eyeing success across formats in their tough tour of the African nation.

On December 8, the BCCI dropped a bomb by removing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain. Many believe it was always on the cards after the 33-year-old had stepped down as the T20I captain, post the World Cup in the UAE, and the Indian cricket board made the official announcement as Kohli got replaced by Rohit Sharma.

On December 8, the BCCI dropped a bomb by removing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain. Many believe it was always on the cards after the 33-year-old had stepped down as the T20I captain, post the World Cup in the UAE, and the Indian cricket board made the official announcement as Kohli got replaced by Rohit Sharma. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain and, thus, will serve as the limited-overs skipper. Ahead of Team India's departure for South Africa, where they are scheduled to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, Kohli interacted with the media in the customary press conference in Mumbai, on Wednesday (December 15), and opened up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit. He told, "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." ALSO READ | I was always available: Virat Kohli shuns rumours of missing Proteas ODIs before India's departure for SA Earlier, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly had also broken his silence on the ODI captaincy change and told ANI, "“It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together,” Ganguly told ANI. "Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him," he stated. ALSO READ | Nobody is bigger than the game: Anurag Thakur reacts to alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Kohli also made it clear that he had never asked for skipping the SA ODIs, to start from January 19 in Paarl. He has maintained that he remains available for the 50-over series in the African nation and the team is eyeing success across formats in their tough tour of the African nation.

'There was no communication...' - Virat Kohli opens up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma

On Wednesday (December 15), Virat Kohli answered several questions of the media in BCCI's customary press-conference before Team India's departure to South Africa, where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. Ahead of the SA series, BCCI had removed Kohli as the ODI captain and made Rohit Sharma fully in-charge of the limited-overs setup on December 8.

Thus, this led to several news portals and social media users speculating that things might not be ideal between Kohli and Rohit. Moreover, Rohit got ruled out of the SA Tests, due to injury, whereas Kohli was reportedly keen to miss the ODIs in the African nation. However, Kohli has shunned reports of him asking for leave to miss the ODIs and also opened up on his equation with Hitman.

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>

In the presser, Kohli opined on his relationship with Rohit and said, "I have not won an ICC title. I can understand the logic behind the board's decision.&nbsp;The communication process is something&nbsp;I have already told you about. 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."

He added, "Rohit Sharma is a very able captain, very tactically sound. We have seen for India and IPL as well. Along with Rahul bhai, both of them will have my absolute support."

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>

Moreover, the Indian Test captain Kohli is also keen to lead India to a Test series win on South African soil, something no Indian team has ever achieved so far. "Very motivated to win a series in South Africa. We have not done that before. We will do our absolute best to to make it happen."

"South Africa was really the start of us believing that we can win overseas. We carried it forward in Engalnd and eventually won in Australia. South Africa is a different challenge. We have left ourselves to do a bit too much at times, with sessions going against us. We are very well placed in terms of experience and belief. we can do something special and get the results we want as a team," he added.

For the unversed, India had lost the three Tests to hosts South Africa, by 2-1, during their last trip to the African nation in early 2018. However, they bounced back in style to win the limited-overs leg.

On Wednesday (December 15), Virat Kohli answered several questions of the media in BCCI's customary press-conference before Team India's departure to South Africa, where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs.

On Wednesday (December 15), Virat Kohli answered several questions of the media in BCCI's customary press-conference before Team India's departure to South Africa, where the national side is set to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. Ahead of the SA series, BCCI had removed Kohli as the ODI captain and made Rohit Sharma fully in-charge of the limited-overs setup on December 8. Thus, this led to several news portals and social media users speculating that things might not be ideal between Kohli and Rohit. Moreover, Rohit got ruled out of the SA Tests, due to injury, whereas Kohli was reportedly keen to miss the ODIs in the African nation. However, Kohli has shunned reports of him asking for leave to miss the ODIs and also opened up on his equation with Hitman. ALSO READ | I was always available: Virat Kohli shuns rumours of missing Proteas ODIs before India's departure for SA In the presser, Kohli opined on his relationship with Rohit and said, "I have not won an ICC title. I can understand the logic behind the board's decision. The communication process is something I have already told you about. 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." He added, "Rohit Sharma is a very able captain, very tactically sound. We have seen for India and IPL as well. Along with Rahul bhai, both of them will have my absolute support." ALSO READ | 'There was no communication...' - Virat Kohli opens up on losing ODI captaincy to Rohit Sharma Moreover, the Indian Test captain Kohli is also keen to lead India to a Test series win on South African soil, something no Indian team has ever achieved so far. "Very motivated to win a series in South Africa. We have not done that before. We will do our absolute best to to make it happen." "South Africa was really the start of us believing that we can win overseas. We carried it forward in Engalnd and eventually won in Australia. South Africa is a different challenge. We have left ourselves to do a bit too much at times, with sessions going against us. We are very well placed in terms of experience and belief. we can do something special and get the results we want as a team," he added. For the unversed, India had lost the three Tests to hosts South Africa, by 2-1, during their last trip to the African nation in early 2018. However, they bounced back in style to win the limited-overs leg.

There's no issue: Virat Kohli answers the big question, confirms no rift with Rohit Sharma

Virat Kohli has addressed the media in the press conference, on Wednesday (December 15),&nbsp;before Team India's departure for South Africa, where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs starting from December 26. In the past few days, a number of important developments have taken place in Indian cricket, with Rohit Sharma taking over as the limited-overs captain whereas Kohli remains the Test captain.

Following the ODI captaincy switch, there were reports that Kohli isn't willing to play the South Africa ODIs, starting from January 19. However, the 33-year-old Kohli broke his silence and put all rumours to rest in the presser by saying, "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."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-is-bigger-than-the-game-anurag-thakur-reacts-to-alleged-rift-between-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharma-436999">Nobody is bigger than the game: Anurag Thakur reacts to alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma</a>

Kohli also opened up on the ODI captaincy switch and told the media, "Before the selection call ended, I was told I won't be the captain and I said okay. After the meeting we had a brief chat and that's it. I was not communicated at all (before the meeting)."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-shouldnt-jump-to-conclusions-gavaskar-reacts-as-many-sniff-rift-between-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharma-436932">We shouldn't jump to conclusions: Gavaskar reacts as many sniff rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma</a>

India are set to leave for South Africa on December 16 (Thursday) where they will play the Tests and ODIs whereas return for the T20Is later in 2022. The tour opener will commence in the form of the first Test at Centurion on December 26, i.e. the Boxing Day Test.&nbsp;

The remaining two Tests will be followed by the ODI series, the squad of which is yet to be announced. India's Test squad for the SA series is as follows:

Squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Priyank Panchal, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj.

Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla

Rohit is ruled out of the three Tests due to injury but is expected to be available for the ODIs.

Virat Kohli has addressed the media in the press conference, on Wednesday (December 15), before Team India's departure for South Africa, where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs starting from December 26.

Virat Kohli has addressed the media in the press conference, on Wednesday (December 15), before Team India's departure for South Africa, where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs starting from December 26. In the past few days, a number of important developments have taken place in Indian cricket, with Rohit Sharma taking over as the limited-overs captain whereas Kohli remains the Test captain. Following the ODI captaincy switch, there were reports that Kohli isn't willing to play the South Africa ODIs, starting from January 19. However, the 33-year-old Kohli broke his silence and put all rumours to rest in the presser by saying, "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." ALSO READ | Nobody is bigger than the game: Anurag Thakur reacts to alleged rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Kohli also opened up on the ODI captaincy switch and told the media, "Before the selection call ended, I was told I won't be the captain and I said okay. After the meeting we had a brief chat and that's it. I was not communicated at all (before the meeting)." ALSO READ | We shouldn't jump to conclusions: Gavaskar reacts as many sniff rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma India are set to leave for South Africa on December 16 (Thursday) where they will play the Tests and ODIs whereas return for the T20Is later in 2022. The tour opener will commence in the form of the first Test at Centurion on December 26, i.e. the Boxing Day Test. The remaining two Tests will be followed by the ODI series, the squad of which is yet to be announced. India's Test squad for the SA series is as follows: Squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Priyank Panchal, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj. Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla Rohit is ruled out of the three Tests due to injury but is expected to be available for the ODIs.

I was always available: Virat Kohli shuns rumours of missing Proteas ODIs before India's departure for SA

Team India have seen various changes in the leadership group post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. Ravi Shastri was succeeded by Rahul Dravid as the head coach whereas Rohit Sharma took over as the T20I captain, after Virat Kohli's resignation.&nbsp;

Last week, BCCI replaced Kohli as the ODI captain as Rohit has become the new limited-overs captain of Team India. In addition, Hitman has been promoted as Kohli's deputy in Test cricket; replacing Ajinkya Rahane.&nbsp;

While many have reacted to the above-mentioned changes in the Indian team, there are some who feel things aren't at its best between Rohit and Kohli post the ODI captaincy switch. The speculations increased as reports started flowing in that Kohli is set to skip the India-South Africa ODIs, in the African nation early in 2022, following the recent turn of events.&nbsp;

Kohli's likely unavailability for the ODIs started doing the rounds after news came in that Rohit will miss the preceding three Tests versus South Africa due to injury. Thus, many believe there's a rift between the two superstar cricketers.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hasnt-sent-any-formal-request-to-miss-sa-odis-reveals-bcci-official-436882">Virat Kohli hasn't sent any formal request to miss SA ODIs, reveals BCCI official</a>

Mohammad Azharuddin, former Indian captain, also reacted to the development on social media platform Twitter.&nbsp; Azharuddin wrote:&nbsp;“Virat Kohli has informed that he's not available for the ODI series &amp; Rohit Sharma is unavailable for the upcoming tests. There is no harm in taking a break but the&nbsp;timing has to be better. This just substantiates speculation about the rift. Neither will be giving up the&nbsp;other form of cricket.”

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Virat Kohli has informed that he's not available for the ODI series &amp; Rohit Sharma is unavailable fr d upcoming test. There is no harm in takin a break but d timing has to be better. This just substantiates speculation abt d rift. Neither wil be giving up d other form of cricket.
— Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) <a href="https://twitter.com/azharflicks/status/1470655304194936833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-substantiates-speculation-about-rift-azhar-reacts-as-rohit-set-to-miss-sa-tests-kohli-to-skip-odis-436806">This substantiates speculation about rift: Azhar reacts as Rohit set to miss SA Tests, Kohli to skip ODIs</a>

Now, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has joined the bandwagon.&nbsp;"The question is, 'is there anything simmering at all (between Kohli and Rohit)?' Unless both the players come out with something, we should not jump to conclusions. Yes, Azharuddin has said something but if he has got some inside information about what has happened then he should be coming out and telling us what happened.

"Till then, I will give the benefit of the doubt to both the players. Because both have served Indian cricket brilliantly and I don't think it is fair at all for any one of us, without having exact information, to be pointing fingers at either of them," Gavaskar told India Today.

Reportedly, Kohli is set to address the media in a press conference on Wednesday (December 15). More clarity is expected once the Test captain interacts with the reporters.

At present, India is gearing up for the South Africa tour, comprising three Tests and ODIs each.

Team India have seen various changes in the leadership group post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. Ravi Shastri was succeeded by Rahul Dravid as the head coach whereas Rohit Sharma took over as the T20I captain, after Virat Kohli's resignation.

Team India have seen various changes in the leadership group post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. Ravi Shastri was succeeded by Rahul Dravid as the head coach whereas Rohit Sharma took over as the T20I captain, after Virat Kohli's resignation. Last week, BCCI replaced Kohli as the ODI captain as Rohit has become the new limited-overs captain of Team India. In addition, Hitman has been promoted as Kohli's deputy in Test cricket; replacing Ajinkya Rahane. While many have reacted to the above-mentioned changes in the Indian team, there are some who feel things aren't at its best between Rohit and Kohli post the ODI captaincy switch. The speculations increased as reports started flowing in that Kohli is set to skip the India-South Africa ODIs, in the African nation early in 2022, following the recent turn of events. Kohli's likely unavailability for the ODIs started doing the rounds after news came in that Rohit will miss the preceding three Tests versus South Africa due to injury. Thus, many believe there's a rift between the two superstar cricketers. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli hasn't sent any formal request to miss SA ODIs, reveals BCCI official Mohammad Azharuddin, former Indian captain, also reacted to the development on social media platform Twitter. Azharuddin wrote: “Virat Kohli has informed that he's not available for the ODI series & Rohit Sharma is unavailable for the upcoming tests. There is no harm in taking a break but the timing has to be better. This just substantiates speculation about the rift. Neither will be giving up the other form of cricket.” Virat Kohli has informed that he's not available for the ODI series & Rohit Sharma is unavailable fr d upcoming test. There is no harm in takin a break but d timing has to be better. This just substantiates speculation abt d rift. Neither wil be giving up d other form of cricket. — Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) December 14, 2021 × ALSO READ | This substantiates speculation about rift: Azhar reacts as Rohit set to miss SA Tests, Kohli to skip ODIs Now, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has joined the bandwagon. "The question is, 'is there anything simmering at all (between Kohli and Rohit)?' Unless both the players come out with something, we should not jump to conclusions. Yes, Azharuddin has said something but if he has got some inside information about what has happened then he should be coming out and telling us what happened. "Till then, I will give the benefit of the doubt to both the players. Because both have served Indian cricket brilliantly and I don't think it is fair at all for any one of us, without having exact information, to be pointing fingers at either of them," Gavaskar told India Today. Reportedly, Kohli is set to address the media in a press conference on Wednesday (December 15). More clarity is expected once the Test captain interacts with the reporters. At present, India is gearing up for the South Africa tour, comprising three Tests and ODIs each.

We shouldn't jump to conclusions: Gavaskar reacts as many sniff rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma

Team India are set to travel to South Africa for three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour came under dark clouds following the Omicron threat, however, the national side are now set to leave for the African nation after a few days.&nbsp;

Following the SA tour, India are set to host Sri Lanka for T20Is and Test series. Moreover, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue are also to host Afghanistan in three ODIs in March just before IPL 2022.&nbsp;

According to the FTP released by the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), the Asian team is set to travel to India for three ODIs after their limited-overs tour of Bangladesh in February-March.&nbsp;“The two Boards are regularly in discussion. The exact dates and the venues are being worked on. The Indian team will be playing against Afghanistan in a bilateral ODI series for the first time and it will be a good exposure for the young cricketers,” sources, aware of the development, said.

The India-Afghanistan ODIs will be a part of the ICC Super League, which counts towards the qualification for the next edition of the 50-over World Cup (to be held in India in late 2023).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hasnt-sent-any-formal-request-to-miss-sa-odis-reveals-bcci-official-436882">Virat Kohli hasn't sent any formal request to miss SA ODIs, reveals BCCI official</a>

India and Afghanistan have met in ICC events or multi-nation tournaments -- during the Asia Cup -- however they haven't met each other in bilateral ODIs or T20Is. In 2018, Afghanistan played their first-ever Test with Ajinkya Rahane-led India being their opposition, in Bengaluru. That remains the only bilateral series meet between both sides to date.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-substantiates-speculation-about-rift-azhar-reacts-as-rohit-set-to-miss-sa-tests-kohli-to-skip-odis-436806">This substantiates speculation about rift: Azhar reacts as Rohit set to miss SA Tests, Kohli to skip ODIs</a>

For the unversed, the last time both sides faced each other in senior men's cricket was during the T20 World Cup in the UAE, where Virat Kohli-led India thrashed the Afghans by 63 runs.

Team India are set to travel to South Africa for three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour came under dark clouds following the Omicron threat, however, the national side are now set to leave for the African nation after a few days.

Team India are set to travel to South Africa for three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour came under dark clouds following the Omicron threat, however, the national side are now set to leave for the African nation after a few days. Following the SA tour, India are set to host Sri Lanka for T20Is and Test series. Moreover, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue are also to host Afghanistan in three ODIs in March just before IPL 2022. According to the FTP released by the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), the Asian team is set to travel to India for three ODIs after their limited-overs tour of Bangladesh in February-March. “The two Boards are regularly in discussion. The exact dates and the venues are being worked on. The Indian team will be playing against Afghanistan in a bilateral ODI series for the first time and it will be a good exposure for the young cricketers,” sources, aware of the development, said. The India-Afghanistan ODIs will be a part of the ICC Super League, which counts towards the qualification for the next edition of the 50-over World Cup (to be held in India in late 2023). ALSO READ | Virat Kohli hasn't sent any formal request to miss SA ODIs, reveals BCCI official India and Afghanistan have met in ICC events or multi-nation tournaments -- during the Asia Cup -- however they haven't met each other in bilateral ODIs or T20Is. In 2018, Afghanistan played their first-ever Test with Ajinkya Rahane-led India being their opposition, in Bengaluru. That remains the only bilateral series meet between both sides to date. ALSO READ | This substantiates speculation about rift: Azhar reacts as Rohit set to miss SA Tests, Kohli to skip ODIs For the unversed, the last time both sides faced each other in senior men's cricket was during the T20 World Cup in the UAE, where Virat Kohli-led India thrashed the Afghans by 63 runs.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India to host Afghanistan for three ODIs before IPL 2022

Team India is in a tricky position. Following the T20 World Cup in the UAE, the senior men's cricket team has undergone several changes within the leadership group. While Ravi Shastri's tenure as the head coach ended and was replaced by Rahul Dravid, Rohit Sharma took over as India's T20I captain after Virat Kohli's resignation.

Last week, Rohit was appointed as India's limited-overs captain, replacing Kohli in the ODI format as well. In addition, Hitman has replaced Ajinkya Rahane to become India's Test vice-captain. After so many changes, it is being reported that Kohli is set to miss the India-South Africa ODIs, to be held early next year, following the three Tests in the African nation.

With Kohli skipping the ODIs, many speculations have risen that all is not well between Kohli and Rohit post the ODI captaincy switch decision by the BCCI. However, a BCCI official has shunned all such reports of Kohli's unavailability and claimed that he hasn't sent any formal request to skip the ODIs versus the Proteas.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-led-csk-topple-kohlis-rcb-as-four-time-winners-adjudged-most-tweeted-about-ipl-team-in-2021-436855">MS Dhoni-led CSK topple Kohli's RCB as four-time winners adjudged most tweeted about IPL team in 2021</a>

"As of now, Kohli hasn't sent any formal request to skip the ODIs to either BCCI president Sourav Ganguly or secretary Jay Shah. If something is decided at a later date or God forbid, he sustains an injury, then it's a different matter," a senior BCCI official privy to developments told&nbsp;PTI&nbsp;on conditions of anonymity.

"As things stand today, he is playing the three ODIs on January 19, 21, 23. The skipper is travelling with his family. But yes, if he feels bubble fatigue after the Test series and wants to take a break, he would definitely inform the chairman of selectors and secretary (Shah), who is the convenor of the selection committee," the source added.

As per reports, Kohli was set to miss the SA ODIs post the captaincy switch and to be with his family to celebrate daughter Vamika's first birthday. Nonetheless, it seems everything were just mere rumours.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-substantiates-speculation-about-rift-azhar-reacts-as-rohit-set-to-miss-sa-tests-kohli-to-skip-odis-436806">This substantiates speculation about rift: Azhar reacts as Rohit set to miss SA Tests, Kohli to skip ODIs</a>

At present, India are set to depart for South Africa in a few days from now. The tour opener will begin on December 26, at Centurion, with the three-match Test series followed by the ODIs. For the unversed, India's tour of South Africa will be followed by Sri Lanka's visit to India for Tests and T20Is.&nbsp;

Team India is in a tricky position. Following the T20 World Cup in the UAE, the senior men's cricket team has undergone several changes within the leadership group.

Team India is in a tricky position. Following the T20 World Cup in the UAE, the senior men's cricket team has undergone several changes within the leadership group. While Ravi Shastri's tenure as the head coach ended and was replaced by Rahul Dravid, Rohit Sharma took over as India's T20I captain after Virat Kohli's resignation. Last week, Rohit was appointed as India's limited-overs captain, replacing Kohli in the ODI format as well. In addition, Hitman has replaced Ajinkya Rahane to become India's Test vice-captain. After so many changes, it is being reported that Kohli is set to miss the India-South Africa ODIs, to be held early next year, following the three Tests in the African nation. With Kohli skipping the ODIs, many speculations have risen that all is not well between Kohli and Rohit post the ODI captaincy switch decision by the BCCI. However, a BCCI official has shunned all such reports of Kohli's unavailability and claimed that he hasn't sent any formal request to skip the ODIs versus the Proteas. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni-led CSK topple Kohli's RCB as four-time winners adjudged most tweeted about IPL team in 2021 "As of now, Kohli hasn't sent any formal request to skip the ODIs to either BCCI president Sourav Ganguly or secretary Jay Shah. If something is decided at a later date or God forbid, he sustains an injury, then it's a different matter," a senior BCCI official privy to developments told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "As things stand today, he is playing the three ODIs on January 19, 21, 23. The skipper is travelling with his family. But yes, if he feels bubble fatigue after the Test series and wants to take a break, he would definitely inform the chairman of selectors and secretary (Shah), who is the convenor of the selection committee," the source added. As per reports, Kohli was set to miss the SA ODIs post the captaincy switch and to be with his family to celebrate daughter Vamika's first birthday. Nonetheless, it seems everything were just mere rumours. ALSO READ | This substantiates speculation about rift: Azhar reacts as Rohit set to miss SA Tests, Kohli to skip ODIs At present, India are set to depart for South Africa in a few days from now. The tour opener will begin on December 26, at Centurion, with the three-match Test series followed by the ODIs. For the unversed, India's tour of South Africa will be followed by Sri Lanka's visit to India for Tests and T20Is.

Virat Kohli hasn't sent any formal request to miss SA ODIs, reveals BCCI official

Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is on a roll. Courtesy his consistency with the bat for Maharashtra in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he is making the headlines at regular intervals. The&nbsp;Maharashtra skipper and opening batsman Gaikwad's outstanding form in the domestic tournament continued on Tuesday (December 14) as the right-hander&nbsp;registered his fourth hundred of the competition, this time coming against Chandigarh.

In pursuit of 310, Maharashtra were off to a flier courtesy Ruturaj and Yash Nahar. Despite their 100-run opening stand, the side slipped from 109 for no loss to 131 for 4. Skipper Ruturaj, who many believe can also lead CSK in the coming years, remained undeterred and continued to add runs to score a whopping 168 and lead his side to an impressive five-wicket win. He also completed 600 runs in the competition courtesy his latest hundred.

With this knock, Ruturaj joined some big names such as Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal and Prithvi Shaw to score four centuries in one season of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Fo the unversed, Shaw had achieved the feat in the previous edition of the domestic tournament.

Ruturaj's innings was laced 12 fours and 6 sixes at a strike-rate of 127.77. The 24-year-old is in the form of his life and his peaking at the right time before India's ODI series versus South Africa, in the African nation, early next year.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/should-we-cancel-sa-tour-aakash-chopra-reacts-after-rohit-sharmas-injury-adds-to-team-indias-woes-436825">Should we cancel SA tour? Aakash Chopra reacts after Rohit Sharma's injury adds to Team India's woes</a>

Many believe Ruturaj should be included in the Rohit Sharma-led Team India limited-overs setup, keeping an eye on the next year's T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup (to be held in India).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ruturaj-gaikwad-is-not-18-19-dilip-vengsarkar-bats-for-csk-stars-selection-in-odi-squad-for-sa-tour-436623">'Ruturaj Gaikwad is not 18-19': Dilip Vengsarkar bats for CSK star's selection in ODI squad for SA tour</a>

Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar called for Ruturaj's inclusion in the Indian team as soon as possible. "You must pick a man in form. How many more runs does he need to score to prove himself? It is high time the selectors pick him straight away and give him a proper opportunity", Vengsarkar told The Times Of India.

"He can bat at No. 3 also. He must be accommodated in the team. It's not like Ruturaj 18 or 19. He's 24 now. There's no point in picking him when he'll be 28," he further added.

Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is on a roll. Courtesy his consistency with the bat for Maharashtra in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he is making the headlines at regular intervals.

Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opener Ruturaj Gaikwad is on a roll. Courtesy his consistency with the bat for Maharashtra in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he is making the headlines at regular intervals. The Maharashtra skipper and opening batsman Gaikwad's outstanding form in the domestic tournament continued on Tuesday (December 14) as the right-hander registered his fourth hundred of the competition, this time coming against Chandigarh. In pursuit of 310, Maharashtra were off to a flier courtesy Ruturaj and Yash Nahar. Despite their 100-run opening stand, the side slipped from 109 for no loss to 131 for 4. Skipper Ruturaj, who many believe can also lead CSK in the coming years, remained undeterred and continued to add runs to score a whopping 168 and lead his side to an impressive five-wicket win. He also completed 600 runs in the competition courtesy his latest hundred. With this knock, Ruturaj joined some big names such as Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal and Prithvi Shaw to score four centuries in one season of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Fo the unversed, Shaw had achieved the feat in the previous edition of the domestic tournament. Ruturaj's innings was laced 12 fours and 6 sixes at a strike-rate of 127.77. The 24-year-old is in the form of his life and his peaking at the right time before India's ODI series versus South Africa, in the African nation, early next year. ALSO READ | Should we cancel SA tour? Aakash Chopra reacts after Rohit Sharma's injury adds to Team India's woes Many believe Ruturaj should be included in the Rohit Sharma-led Team India limited-overs setup, keeping an eye on the next year's T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup (to be held in India). ALSO READ | 'Ruturaj Gaikwad is not 18-19': Dilip Vengsarkar bats for CSK star's selection in ODI squad for SA tour Former Indian cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar called for Ruturaj's inclusion in the Indian team as soon as possible. "You must pick a man in form. How many more runs does he need to score to prove himself? It is high time the selectors pick him straight away and give him a proper opportunity", Vengsarkar told The Times Of India. "He can bat at No. 3 also. He must be accommodated in the team. It's not like Ruturaj 18 or 19. He's 24 now. There's no point in picking him when he'll be 28," he further added.

Team India calling? Ruturaj Gaikwad banging national selectors' doors with 4th ton in Vijay Hazare Trophy

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. While Rohit Sharma succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter had resigned post the T20 WC, Hitman also replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper recently (on December 8).

BCCI named Rohit as Kohli's successor in the limited-overs format whereas the former has also been promoted as the Test vice-captain. Ever since Kohli was entirely removed as the white-ball captain, there have been plenty of reactions on the whole development, on social media platforms and elsewhere.&nbsp;

Recently, Rohit also opened up on taking over from Virat and told on BCCI.tv, "He has put the team in a situation where there is no looking back. Those five years that he led the team, he led from the front every time we stepped on to the park. There was clear grit and determination to win every game. That was the message to the entire squad."

"We had a great time playing under him. I have played a lot of cricket with him and enjoyed each and every moment and I will still continue to do that. We need to keep getting better as a team and as individuals and that will be the focus for not just me but for the entire squad moving forward," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-ruled-out-of-upcoming-test-series-against-south-africa-priyank-panchal-likely-replacement-436590">Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement</a>

Thus, impressed with Hitman's answers and way of handling things calmly, Pakistan's former captain Salman Butt&nbsp; has opened up on the whole captaincy change and lavished praise on Rohit in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel.

Butt said, "Rohit Sharma is countering every point very intelligently. There are all kinds of talks floating on social media w.r.t. to the send-off (from captaincy) given to Kohli. Rohit Sharma has all the credentials (to take over the role); he is an outstanding player and a great captain and he was bound to take over next."

"It makes sense to have only a single captain in white-ball cricket. Somewhere down the line, Virat Kohli will also understand this. They have been the captain and vice-captain for several years. There should be no issue if they back each other. Rohit Sharma is trying to keep everything calm and cool. What he has said is also true as Kohli has raised the bar of Indian cricket with his intensity," he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-heaps-praise-on-virat-kohli-he-led-from-the-front-there-was-determination-to-win-every-game-436442">Rohit Sharma heaps praise on Virat Kohli: He led from the front, there was determination to win every game</a>

Butt, however, also stated that Rohit can be a short-term captain as age is not on his age (being 34 at present). "Sharma could just be a short-term captain. Being 34 years old, the player is expected to play for only the next 3-4 years. I don't think any other player was ready apart from Sharma for the captaincy role at the moment," Butt concluded.

Rohit will take over as India's full-time limited-overs captain with the forthcoming South Africa ODIs, in the African nation. However, the 34-year-old is set to miss the three Tests versus the Proteas due to an injury he suffered recently during training in Mumbai, before India's departure to the African nation.

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. While Rohit Sharma succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter had resigned post the T20 WC, Hitman also replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper recently (on December 8).

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. While Rohit Sharma succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter had resigned post the T20 WC, Hitman also replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper recently (on December 8). BCCI named Rohit as Kohli's successor in the limited-overs format whereas the former has also been promoted as the Test vice-captain. Ever since Kohli was entirely removed as the white-ball captain, there have been plenty of reactions on the whole development, on social media platforms and elsewhere. Recently, Rohit also opened up on taking over from Virat and told on BCCI.tv, "He has put the team in a situation where there is no looking back. Those five years that he led the team, he led from the front every time we stepped on to the park. There was clear grit and determination to win every game. That was the message to the entire squad." "We had a great time playing under him. I have played a lot of cricket with him and enjoyed each and every moment and I will still continue to do that. We need to keep getting better as a team and as individuals and that will be the focus for not just me but for the entire squad moving forward," he added. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement Thus, impressed with Hitman's answers and way of handling things calmly, Pakistan's former captain Salman Butt has opened up on the whole captaincy change and lavished praise on Rohit in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel. Butt said, "Rohit Sharma is countering every point very intelligently. There are all kinds of talks floating on social media w.r.t. to the send-off (from captaincy) given to Kohli. Rohit Sharma has all the credentials (to take over the role); he is an outstanding player and a great captain and he was bound to take over next." "It makes sense to have only a single captain in white-ball cricket. Somewhere down the line, Virat Kohli will also understand this. They have been the captain and vice-captain for several years. There should be no issue if they back each other. Rohit Sharma is trying to keep everything calm and cool. What he has said is also true as Kohli has raised the bar of Indian cricket with his intensity," he said. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma heaps praise on Virat Kohli: He led from the front, there was determination to win every game Butt, however, also stated that Rohit can be a short-term captain as age is not on his age (being 34 at present). "Sharma could just be a short-term captain. Being 34 years old, the player is expected to play for only the next 3-4 years. I don't think any other player was ready apart from Sharma for the captaincy role at the moment," Butt concluded. Rohit will take over as India's full-time limited-overs captain with the forthcoming South Africa ODIs, in the African nation. However, the 34-year-old is set to miss the three Tests versus the Proteas due to an injury he suffered recently during training in Mumbai, before India's departure to the African nation.

Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli

Hardik Pandya hasn't been firing on all cylinders ever since cricket resumed in the post-pandemic era. The 27-year-old lost his place in the Test line-up for not being able to bowl -- due to back issues -- and has managed to contribute with only a handful of overs for the Men in Blue and Mumbai Indians (MI) with the white ball in hand.

Hence, his place in the limited-overs side is also very much up for grabs. On the other hand, Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) wonder boy Venkatesh Iyer's stocks have seen a sharp rise following his breakthrough season in IPL 2021. While he was included in India's T20I line-up for the NZ series at home, the swashbuckling left-hander is delivering at the domestic level as well.

Iyer, who is representing Madhya Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, has been in stellar form and has amassed 348 runs in four outings, including scores of 112, 71 and 151. Thus, he is the second-highest run-getter -- only behind Maharastra's Ruturaj Gaikwad -- and is being considered as a replacement for Hardik in the limited-overs setup for the South Africa tour.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-reveal-babar-azam-responds-to-reporters-question-about-chat-with-virat-kohli-during-t20-world-cup-436542">'Won't reveal': Babar Azam responds to reporter's question about chat with Virat Kohli during T20 World Cup</a>

In this regard, former Indian keeper-batsman and selector Saba Karim has named the KKR opener as Hardik's like-for-like replacement in India's ODI and T20I setup. He has also called for Ruturaj's inclusion in ODIs and Tests. "I believe that Venkatesh Iyer and Ruturaj Gaikwad have almost entered the first-team squad, and I'm talking about white-ball cricket. If we have to start the preparation for the 2023 World Cup, these two players should be part of the squad as soon as possible.

"They should be given as much exposure as possible. Both these players provide a different spectrum for the team. Gaikwad can be the backup opener with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul going strong. On the other hand, Iyer has performed really well while batting at No. 5 or No. 6 in the Vijay Hazare trophy. If we are looking at the replacement for Hardik Pandya, we have already found the player," Karim said on the Khelneeti podcast.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-vs-west-indies-t20is-full-schedule-squads-telecast-and-live-streaming-details-436530">Pakistan vs West Indies, T20Is: Full schedule, squads, telecast and live streaming details!</a>

Karim also opined that Indian head coach Rahul Dravid needs to start creating a core set of players in the white-ball formats, with plenty of ICC events lined-up every year.

"Rahul Dravid has seen these players for quite a while now. The way Dravid used to prepare as a player, he must be prepared in the same way as a coach. He must have thought about a core of 23-25 players in the white-ball cricket circuit. He must have started the preparation for the World Cups Venkatesh Iyer should definitely be part of the South Africa tour. He must then be tracked be in the Ranji Trophy as well because I believe he is an all-format player. It is also the time that Gaikwad is in contention for the Test squad," Karim further added.

At present, India is preparing for their departure to South Africa, where they are scheduled to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour opener will commence in Centurion on December 26 with the Test series followed by the ODIs.

Rohit Sharma will lead the limited-overs side whereas Virat Kohli will continue as the Test captain.

Hardik Pandya hasn't been firing on all cylinders ever since cricket resumed in the post-pandemic era. The 27-year-old lost his place in the Test line-up for not being able to bowl -- due to back issues -- and has managed to contribute with only a handful of overs for the Men in Blue and Mumbai Indians (MI) with the white ball in hand.

Hardik Pandya hasn't been firing on all cylinders ever since cricket resumed in the post-pandemic era. The 27-year-old lost his place in the Test line-up for not being able to bowl -- due to back issues -- and has managed to contribute with only a handful of overs for the Men in Blue and Mumbai Indians (MI) with the white ball in hand. Hence, his place in the limited-overs side is also very much up for grabs. On the other hand, Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) wonder boy Venkatesh Iyer's stocks have seen a sharp rise following his breakthrough season in IPL 2021. While he was included in India's T20I line-up for the NZ series at home, the swashbuckling left-hander is delivering at the domestic level as well. Iyer, who is representing Madhya Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, has been in stellar form and has amassed 348 runs in four outings, including scores of 112, 71 and 151. Thus, he is the second-highest run-getter -- only behind Maharastra's Ruturaj Gaikwad -- and is being considered as a replacement for Hardik in the limited-overs setup for the South Africa tour. ALSO READ | 'Won't reveal': Babar Azam responds to reporter's question about chat with Virat Kohli during T20 World Cup In this regard, former Indian keeper-batsman and selector Saba Karim has named the KKR opener as Hardik's like-for-like replacement in India's ODI and T20I setup. He has also called for Ruturaj's inclusion in ODIs and Tests. "I believe that Venkatesh Iyer and Ruturaj Gaikwad have almost entered the first-team squad, and I'm talking about white-ball cricket. If we have to start the preparation for the 2023 World Cup, these two players should be part of the squad as soon as possible. "They should be given as much exposure as possible. Both these players provide a different spectrum for the team. Gaikwad can be the backup opener with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul going strong. On the other hand, Iyer has performed really well while batting at No. 5 or No. 6 in the Vijay Hazare trophy. If we are looking at the replacement for Hardik Pandya, we have already found the player," Karim said on the Khelneeti podcast. ALSO READ | Pakistan vs West Indies, T20Is: Full schedule, squads, telecast and live streaming details! Karim also opined that Indian head coach Rahul Dravid needs to start creating a core set of players in the white-ball formats, with plenty of ICC events lined-up every year. "Rahul Dravid has seen these players for quite a while now. The way Dravid used to prepare as a player, he must be prepared in the same way as a coach. He must have thought about a core of 23-25 players in the white-ball cricket circuit. He must have started the preparation for the World Cups Venkatesh Iyer should definitely be part of the South Africa tour. He must then be tracked be in the Ranji Trophy as well because I believe he is an all-format player. It is also the time that Gaikwad is in contention for the Test squad," Karim further added. At present, India is preparing for their departure to South Africa, where they are scheduled to play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour opener will commence in Centurion on December 26 with the Test series followed by the ODIs. Rohit Sharma will lead the limited-overs side whereas Virat Kohli will continue as the Test captain.

We have already found the player: Saba Karim names Hardik Pandya's replacement before South Africa ODIs

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly recently shared a heartwarming anecdote about India's current head coach Rahul Dravid. Ganguly lauded Dravid for his humble nature despite being one of the legends of the sport. Dravid, who is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time, had taken over as India's head coach in November this year.

Speaking about Dravid's humility despite his glorious achievements in cricket, Ganguly shared an interesting anecdote from the recently-concluded first Test between India and New Zealand in Kanpur. Ganguly revealed Dravid was carrying cones and wickets back to the dressing room after a practice session in Kanpur which reflected his down-to-earth character.

“I wish him (Dravid) all the best. I heard that in Kanpur, after the day’s practice he was picking up the cones and wickets and balls and bringing them back to the dressing room. It must have been a great sight for cameramen and photographers to see Rahul Dravid do that (smiles). But he is that sort of a person," Ganguly said in an interview with News18.

"We will support him and Rohit and Virat in test cricket whichever way they want," added the BCCI president.

Gangly and Dravis shared a number of years together playing for India and represented the team across formats. The two greats share a cordial relationship between them and Ganguly had earlier revealed he had personally convinced the batting legend to take up the India head coach job.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-personally-requested-virat-kohli-not-to-step-down-as-indias-t20-captain-sourav-ganguly-436252">I personally requested Virat Kohli not to step down as India's T20 Captain: Sourav Ganguly</a>

Dravid was heading the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru and was not sure about staying away from his family for the most part of the year as the India head coach job would require him to travel across the globe almost throughout the year.

However, Dravid later agreed to take up the all-important role and replaced Ravi Shastri, whose tenure as the head coach of the team came to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021.

&nbsp;

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly recently shared a heartwarming anecdote about India's current head coach Rahul Dravid. Ganguly lauded Dravid for his humble nature despite being one of the legends of the sport.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly recently shared a heartwarming anecdote about India's current head coach Rahul Dravid. Ganguly lauded Dravid for his humble nature despite being one of the legends of the sport. Dravid, who is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time, had taken over as India's head coach in November this year. Speaking about Dravid's humility despite his glorious achievements in cricket, Ganguly shared an interesting anecdote from the recently-concluded first Test between India and New Zealand in Kanpur. Ganguly revealed Dravid was carrying cones and wickets back to the dressing room after a practice session in Kanpur which reflected his down-to-earth character. “I wish him (Dravid) all the best. I heard that in Kanpur, after the day’s practice he was picking up the cones and wickets and balls and bringing them back to the dressing room. It must have been a great sight for cameramen and photographers to see Rahul Dravid do that (smiles). But he is that sort of a person," Ganguly said in an interview with News18. "We will support him and Rohit and Virat in test cricket whichever way they want," added the BCCI president. Gangly and Dravis shared a number of years together playing for India and represented the team across formats. The two greats share a cordial relationship between them and Ganguly had earlier revealed he had personally convinced the batting legend to take up the India head coach job. Also Read: I personally requested Virat Kohli not to step down as India's T20 Captain: Sourav Ganguly Dravid was heading the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru and was not sure about staying away from his family for the most part of the year as the India head coach job would require him to travel across the globe almost throughout the year. However, Dravid later agreed to take up the all-important role and replaced Ravi Shastri, whose tenure as the head coach of the team came to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021.

'He was picking up cones, wickets': Sourav Ganguly shares anecdote to highlight Rahul Dravid's humility

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments.&nbsp;

Year 2021 had plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. Talking about Team India, the senior men's team had some glorious highs along with two disheartening lows. While the optimists can claim that India maintained their hold in the top-3 in rankings across formats, one reality also remains that national side couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.&nbsp;

Revisiting India's 2021, let us have a look at how Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer line-up performed in the calendar year:

Conquering all odds Down Under

Ajinkya Rahane-led India managed to draw the 2020/22 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the halfway stage before 2021 commenced. Coming to the third and penultimate Test, Rishabh Pant's scintillating 97, Cheteshwar Pujara's lengthy stay at the middle and blockathon from R Ashwin-Hanuna Vihari led to the series being wide open, at 1-1, going into the finale at The Gabba, Brisbane.&nbsp;

The fourth and final Test lived upto expectations. Second-stringed India were jolted further with injuries to Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin, Vihari, Jasprit Bumrah. However, they managed to keep themselves alive on the last day, chasing 328 to break Aussies' proud and unbeaten streak at the venue since 32 years.&nbsp;

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Riding on Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur's fifties in the first essay, Mohammed Siraj's five-fer and Pant-Pujara's fighting knocks in the final innings, India chased down the total with three wickets in hand to win the series 2-1 in a dramatic fashion.&nbsp;

The Test would easily go down as one of the greatest heists pulled off by a second-stringed side in the toughest format.&nbsp;

England tour of India, 2021

Soon after the triumph versus the Aussies, India hosted England in an all-format tour of the Three Lions.&nbsp;

Test series: India 3, England 1

Losing the series opener, being in a tough spot in the second Test in Chennai, hearing several criticism around the Ahmedabad pitch, Kohli-led India won the four-match Test series 3-1 to confirm their slot in the inaugural WTC final.&nbsp;

The top-performers for the home side were Ashwin (32 wickets and a ton), Axar Patel (27 wickets in his debut series), Pant and Rohit Sharma's contributions with the willow.&nbsp;

Beating Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. in white-ball formats&nbsp;

The five T20Is and three ODIs followed suit. The white-ball series was expected to be a tougher assignment for hosts given England's strength in the shorter formats. The T20Is lived upto expectations before India won it 3-2 eventually. The three ODIs saw India go 1-0 up before Morgan-less England turned it around to level it at 1-1. Nonetheless, the series finale was a tough nut to crack for the hosts before finally winning it 2-1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-find-anything-wrong-former-india-player-opines-on-rohit-sharma-replacing-virat-kohli-as-odi-captain-435854">Don't find anything wrong: Former India player opines on Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as ODI captain</a>

WTC final - One Where India Never Turned Up&nbsp;

After the England home series, Indian players featured in the IPL 2021 edition, which was cut-short due to the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in India. Getting a much-needed breather before WTC final, Team India finally reached the United Kingdom in early June (for WTC final and England Tests).

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale was much-awaited. Entering the final as the No. 1 ranked side, having beaten Australia in their own backyard, India were favourites versus the Black Caps. Nonetheless, India's wait for an ICC title, since 2013, extended as Kane Williamson &amp; Co. produced an all-round performance.

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Being asked to bat first, at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India were 70 for no loss before being bundled out for 217. In reply, NZ were dismissed for 249; gaining a vital 32-run. India had no answers to Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson's pace, swing and bounce as they were dismissed for 170 in the second innings, setting up a paltry 139-run target.

Kiwis, thus, closed the match with 8 wickets to spare and become the World Test Champions. Agony continued for India in ICC events.

India vs England, five Tests in the UK

After the shambles of the WTC final, India regrouped for&nbsp;the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Despite coming so close to the WTC title, India missed out in the final hurdle but had to revamp and start from scratch as the second cycle commenced with the England series.

Kohli-led India were up for the challenge. They came close to winning the five-match Test series opener in Edgbaston before rain washed out entire day five's proceedings. The second Test, at Lord's, brought more luck for India as they won their third Test at the venue, first after seven years, with a comprehensive 151-run margin. Jasprit Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's 89-run unbeaten ninth-wicket stand, KL Rahul's first-innings ton, Mohammed Siraj's eight-wicket haul led to India going 1-0 up despite conceding a 27-run lead.

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The third Test was a disaster for the visitors, losing by an innings and 76 runs. The fourth and penultimate Test once again tested Kohli's brigade to the core but they triumphed against all odds. Being asked to bat first, India were dismissed for 190, after reeling at 127-7 at one stage. To add to this, they conceded a 99-run lead before staging a comeback for the ages.

Riding on Rohit's 127 and fifties from Cheteshwar Pujara, Shardul Thakur (twin half-centuries in the match), Rishabh Pant and cameos from the tail, India set up a daunting 368-run target for Root &amp; Co. In reply, the hosts fell like nine pins, for 210, to lose by 151 runs. Thus, England gave an unassailable lead to the tourists.

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The fifth and final Test, in Manchester, got cancelled at the last minute due to Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. The series decider will be held next year as Team India loyalists are desperately waiting for the national side's first-ever Test series win on English soil since 2007.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-being-able-to-win-icc-title-mightve-cost-virat-kohli-the-odi-captaincy-former-indian-wicketkeeper-435848">Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper</a>

T20 World Cup 2021 - India succumb to new low

After the England Tests and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE, the action moved to the Men's T20 World Cup. Starting as one of the strongest contenders, India endured a horrible start. In their opening game, Kohli-led India lost to arch-rivals Pakistan for the first time in World Cup history (both in ODIs and T20Is). Losing by ten wickets, India had a herculean task to stage a comeback.

Nonetheless, more embarrassment awaited the one-time winners. India's losing streak versus New Zealand in ICC events, since 2007, continued as they were hammered by the Black Caps in their second outing. Starring on the brink of an early exit, India gathered themselves to pull off three convincing wins, however, the writing was on the wall long back.

India failed to move past the group stages with three wins from five encounters. Winning against the likes of Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia didn't matter as the Pakistan and New Zealand encounters dented India's campaign severely.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/some-in-bcci-made-sure-i-dont-get-the-job-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-makes-glaring-remark-435719">'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark</a>

New Zealand tour of India: Start of Rahul Dravid-era

Post the disheartening T20 WC, India began a new era under Rahul Dravid. After much hesitation, Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri to become India's head coach as the former all-rounder's tenure ended with the T20 WC campaign. In addition, Kohli stepped aside as the Indian captain in T20Is -- having made the official announcement prior to the mega event -- and was replaced by Rohit.

While Rohit-led India commenced a new journey in the shortest format with the home series versus NZ. Sans Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and the likes, India demolished the Black Caps 3-0. The two-match Test series followed suit.

It wasn't going to be easy versus the World Test champions. Hence, Williamson-led Kiwis held onto a fighting draw in the series opener, which saw Ajinkya Rahane leading the side in Kohli's absence. The second and final Test brought Kohli back in action as the hosts humbled the visitors at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150 and vital contributions from Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav and R Ashwin, India beat New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin (their biggest win by runs).

India still have a Test left in the calendar year. They are scheduled to tour South Africa, comprising three Tests and ODIs each, but the tour-opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test at Centurion.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-era-3-reasons-why-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-captain-can-be-a-good-move-for-team-india-435882">A new era! 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India</a>

The ICC title wait, unearthing of young stars, change in leadership group

Overall, India had a topsy-turvy ride in 2021. While they continued to remain a solid unit across formats, they particularly flourished in bilateral series as an ICC title continues to evade them. Young stars such as Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Ishan Kishan, Pant, etc. made a mark whereas KL Rahul rose in prominence and stature. Kohli lost limited-overs captaincy altogether as Rohit-Dravid-era has commenced in the white-ball formats.

Team India will hope to continue their dominance at home and conquer more Test series away from home. However, their biggest aim would be to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments. Year 2021 had plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. Talking about Team India, the senior men's team had some glorious highs along with two disheartening lows. While the optimists can claim that India maintained their hold in the top-3 in rankings across formats, one reality also remains that national side couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Revisiting India's 2021, let us have a look at how Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer line-up performed in the calendar year: Conquering all odds Down Under Ajinkya Rahane-led India managed to draw the 2020/22 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the halfway stage before 2021 commenced. Coming to the third and penultimate Test, Rishabh Pant's scintillating 97, Cheteshwar Pujara's lengthy stay at the middle and blockathon from R Ashwin-Hanuna Vihari led to the series being wide open, at 1-1, going into the finale at The Gabba, Brisbane. The fourth and final Test lived upto expectations. Second-stringed India were jolted further with injuries to Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin, Vihari, Jasprit Bumrah. However, they managed to keep themselves alive on the last day, chasing 328 to break Aussies' proud and unbeaten streak at the venue since 32 years. × Riding on Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur's fifties in the first essay, Mohammed Siraj's five-fer and Pant-Pujara's fighting knocks in the final innings, India chased down the total with three wickets in hand to win the series 2-1 in a dramatic fashion. The Test would easily go down as one of the greatest heists pulled off by a second-stringed side in the toughest format. England tour of India, 2021 Soon after the triumph versus the Aussies, India hosted England in an all-format tour of the Three Lions. Test series: India 3, England 1 Losing the series opener, being in a tough spot in the second Test in Chennai, hearing several criticism around the Ahmedabad pitch, Kohli-led India won the four-match Test series 3-1 to confirm their slot in the inaugural WTC final. The top-performers for the home side were Ashwin (32 wickets and a ton), Axar Patel (27 wickets in his debut series), Pant and Rohit Sharma's contributions with the willow. Beating Eoin Morgan & Co. in white-ball formats The five T20Is and three ODIs followed suit. The white-ball series was expected to be a tougher assignment for hosts given England's strength in the shorter formats. The T20Is lived upto expectations before India won it 3-2 eventually. The three ODIs saw India go 1-0 up before Morgan-less England turned it around to level it at 1-1. Nonetheless, the series finale was a tough nut to crack for the hosts before finally winning it 2-1. ALSO READ | Don't find anything wrong: Former India player opines on Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as ODI captain WTC final - One Where India Never Turned Up After the England home series, Indian players featured in the IPL 2021 edition, which was cut-short due to the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in India. Getting a much-needed breather before WTC final, Team India finally reached the United Kingdom in early June (for WTC final and England Tests). The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale was much-awaited. Entering the final as the No. 1 ranked side, having beaten Australia in their own backyard, India were favourites versus the Black Caps. Nonetheless, India's wait for an ICC title, since 2013, extended as Kane Williamson & Co. produced an all-round performance. × Being asked to bat first, at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India were 70 for no loss before being bundled out for 217. In reply, NZ were dismissed for 249; gaining a vital 32-run. India had no answers to Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson's pace, swing and bounce as they were dismissed for 170 in the second innings, setting up a paltry 139-run target. Kiwis, thus, closed the match with 8 wickets to spare and become the World Test Champions. Agony continued for India in ICC events. India vs England, five Tests in the UK After the shambles of the WTC final, India regrouped for the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Despite coming so close to the WTC title, India missed out in the final hurdle but had to revamp and start from scratch as the second cycle commenced with the England series. Kohli-led India were up for the challenge. They came close to winning the five-match Test series opener in Edgbaston before rain washed out entire day five's proceedings. The second Test, at Lord's, brought more luck for India as they won their third Test at the venue, first after seven years, with a comprehensive 151-run margin. Jasprit Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's 89-run unbeaten ninth-wicket stand, KL Rahul's first-innings ton, Mohammed Siraj's eight-wicket haul led to India going 1-0 up despite conceding a 27-run lead. × The third Test was a disaster for the visitors, losing by an innings and 76 runs. The fourth and penultimate Test once again tested Kohli's brigade to the core but they triumphed against all odds. Being asked to bat first, India were dismissed for 190, after reeling at 127-7 at one stage. To add to this, they conceded a 99-run lead before staging a comeback for the ages. Riding on Rohit's 127 and fifties from Cheteshwar Pujara, Shardul Thakur (twin half-centuries in the match), Rishabh Pant and cameos from the tail, India set up a daunting 368-run target for Root & Co. In reply, the hosts fell like nine pins, for 210, to lose by 151 runs. Thus, England gave an unassailable lead to the tourists. × The fifth and final Test, in Manchester, got cancelled at the last minute due to Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. The series decider will be held next year as Team India loyalists are desperately waiting for the national side's first-ever Test series win on English soil since 2007. ALSO READ | Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper T20 World Cup 2021 - India succumb to new low After the England Tests and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE, the action moved to the Men's T20 World Cup. Starting as one of the strongest contenders, India endured a horrible start. In their opening game, Kohli-led India lost to arch-rivals Pakistan for the first time in World Cup history (both in ODIs and T20Is). Losing by ten wickets, India had a herculean task to stage a comeback. Nonetheless, more embarrassment awaited the one-time winners. India's losing streak versus New Zealand in ICC events, since 2007, continued as they were hammered by the Black Caps in their second outing. Starring on the brink of an early exit, India gathered themselves to pull off three convincing wins, however, the writing was on the wall long back. India failed to move past the group stages with three wins from five encounters. Winning against the likes of Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia didn't matter as the Pakistan and New Zealand encounters dented India's campaign severely. ALSO READ | 'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark New Zealand tour of India: Start of Rahul Dravid-era Post the disheartening T20 WC, India began a new era under Rahul Dravid. After much hesitation, Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri to become India's head coach as the former all-rounder's tenure ended with the T20 WC campaign. In addition, Kohli stepped aside as the Indian captain in T20Is -- having made the official announcement prior to the mega event -- and was replaced by Rohit. While Rohit-led India commenced a new journey in the shortest format with the home series versus NZ. Sans Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and the likes, India demolished the Black Caps 3-0. The two-match Test series followed suit. It wasn't going to be easy versus the World Test champions. Hence, Williamson-led Kiwis held onto a fighting draw in the series opener, which saw Ajinkya Rahane leading the side in Kohli's absence. The second and final Test brought Kohli back in action as the hosts humbled the visitors at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150 and vital contributions from Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav and R Ashwin, India beat New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin (their biggest win by runs). India still have a Test left in the calendar year. They are scheduled to tour South Africa, comprising three Tests and ODIs each, but the tour-opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test at Centurion. ALSO READ | A new era! 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India The ICC title wait, unearthing of young stars, change in leadership group Overall, India had a topsy-turvy ride in 2021. While they continued to remain a solid unit across formats, they particularly flourished in bilateral series as an ICC title continues to evade them. Young stars such as Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Ishan Kishan, Pant, etc. made a mark whereas KL Rahul rose in prominence and stature. Kohli lost limited-overs captaincy altogether as Rohit-Dravid-era has commenced in the white-ball formats. Team India will hope to continue their dominance at home and conquer more Test series away from home. However, their biggest aim would be to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

From conquering Aussies Down Under to T20 World Cup debacle: Team India in 2021

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Hence, Shastri's four-year-long tenure as head coach finally came to an end, which included several highs as well as some big jolts.

For the unversed, Shastri took over as the head coach in mid-2017 after Anil Kumble's unceremonious exit. Under him, India beat Australia twice in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the five Tests in the United Kingdom early this year, reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and ended as runners-up in the inaugural WTC. In addition, India dominated oppositions at home, across formats, and enjoyed wholesome success in limited-overs bilateral series while being on the road.

Nonetheless, the former all-rounder-cum-renowned-commentator's contributions for Indian cricket continued even before he took over as head coach in 2017. In 2014, he was roped in as team director, amid then coach Duncan Fletcher's presence, and continued to perform the role till early 2016. Thus, he was touted to be the ideal candidate to succeed Fletcher (continuing in his role even after Fletcher's departure). However, BCCI went ahead with Kumble before the former Indian spinner's rift with Virat Kohli brought Shastri back into the scheme of things,&nbsp;as the head coach.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-given-2-days-to-resign-as-odi-captain-before-bcci-announced-rohit-as-his-successor-report-435370">Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report</a>

Opining no the time he lost the head coach position in early 2016, Shastri told TOI in a recent interview, "There was this bolt from the blue. In less than two years after I was asked set aside my broadcast career, leave everything else and join the team, I suddenly found myself out for no reason. I had sown the seeds and the fruits were beginning to show and out of nowhere I came to know I was being replaced. Nobody told me why."

On being asked if the decision hurt him, the former cricketer didn't hold back and claimed,&nbsp;"Yes, more than anything, it hurt because of the manner in which it was done. For all that I had contributed, just on one word from the BCCI, there were better ways to let me know 'Oh look we don't want you, we don't like you. We want somebody else'&nbsp;- if that was the case. Anyway, I went back to do what I do best - which is television. Around nine months passed, and I didn't even have a clue that there was anything wrong inside the team. I mean, what could've been wrong? I was told there was a real problem and I said - how can there be a problem in nine months? The team that I had left was in such a good space. How the hell in nine months could something go that drastically wrong?"

Glaring remark by the ex-Indian head coach

He further asserted, "During my second stint, I came after a huge controversy. And it was literally egg on the faces of those who wanted me away. They opted for someone and nine months later, they came back to the very guy they threw out. And I'm not pointing any fingers at people (BCCI) in general. Specific people. I must say an attempt was made to ensure I don't get the job. But such is life."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-overawed-ravi-shastri-gives-his-take-on-captain-rohit-sharma-as-hitman-succeeds-virat-kohli-435518">'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli</a>

Thus, Shastri has pointed fingers at few people in the BCCI who didn't want him as the head coach initially in 2016. At present, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Team India have also gone through several changes post Shastri's exit.&nbsp;

Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as India's limited-overs captain. While the former continues to be in-charge of the Test side, Rohit has been promoted as his deputy in whites.

India are next scheduled to play three Tests and ODIs each versus South Africa, in the African nation, from December 26.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Hence, Shastri's four-year-long tenure as head coach finally came to an end, which included several highs as well as some big jolts.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Hence, Shastri's four-year-long tenure as head coach finally came to an end, which included several highs as well as some big jolts. For the unversed, Shastri took over as the head coach in mid-2017 after Anil Kumble's unceremonious exit. Under him, India beat Australia twice in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the five Tests in the United Kingdom early this year, reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and ended as runners-up in the inaugural WTC. In addition, India dominated oppositions at home, across formats, and enjoyed wholesome success in limited-overs bilateral series while being on the road. Nonetheless, the former all-rounder-cum-renowned-commentator's contributions for Indian cricket continued even before he took over as head coach in 2017. In 2014, he was roped in as team director, amid then coach Duncan Fletcher's presence, and continued to perform the role till early 2016. Thus, he was touted to be the ideal candidate to succeed Fletcher (continuing in his role even after Fletcher's departure). However, BCCI went ahead with Kumble before the former Indian spinner's rift with Virat Kohli brought Shastri back into the scheme of things, as the head coach. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report Opining no the time he lost the head coach position in early 2016, Shastri told TOI in a recent interview, "There was this bolt from the blue. In less than two years after I was asked set aside my broadcast career, leave everything else and join the team, I suddenly found myself out for no reason. I had sown the seeds and the fruits were beginning to show and out of nowhere I came to know I was being replaced. Nobody told me why." On being asked if the decision hurt him, the former cricketer didn't hold back and claimed, "Yes, more than anything, it hurt because of the manner in which it was done. For all that I had contributed, just on one word from the BCCI, there were better ways to let me know 'Oh look we don't want you, we don't like you. We want somebody else' - if that was the case. Anyway, I went back to do what I do best - which is television. Around nine months passed, and I didn't even have a clue that there was anything wrong inside the team. I mean, what could've been wrong? I was told there was a real problem and I said - how can there be a problem in nine months? The team that I had left was in such a good space. How the hell in nine months could something go that drastically wrong?" Glaring remark by the ex-Indian head coach He further asserted, "During my second stint, I came after a huge controversy. And it was literally egg on the faces of those who wanted me away. They opted for someone and nine months later, they came back to the very guy they threw out. And I'm not pointing any fingers at people (BCCI) in general. Specific people. I must say an attempt was made to ensure I don't get the job. But such is life." ALSO READ | 'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli Thus, Shastri has pointed fingers at few people in the BCCI who didn't want him as the head coach initially in 2016. At present, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Team India have also gone through several changes post Shastri's exit. Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as India's limited-overs captain. While the former continues to be in-charge of the Test side, Rohit has been promoted as his deputy in whites. India are next scheduled to play three Tests and ODIs each versus South Africa, in the African nation, from December 26.

'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark

Indian opener Mayank Agarwal was a stand out performer for his team with a century and a fifty in the second Test against New Zealand in Mumbai. However, his efforts were outshone by New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel, who bagged a historic ten-wicket haul in the game to become the only third bowler in the world to achieve the massive feat. Patel joined the legendary Anil Kumble and Jim Laker in an elite list of bowlers to have taken all ten wickets in an innings of a Test match.

It was a crucial game for Agarwal, who was struggling with his form in the run-up to the Test match with many suggesting he should be the one making way for returning skipper Virat Kohli in the Mumbai clash. However, Agarwal responded to his critics in style with a terrific display with the willow.&nbsp;

Opening the innings with Shubman Gill in the first innings, he slammed a brilliant knock of 150 runs to help India post a strong total of 325 runs on the board despite Patel's ten-wicket haul. He followed it up with a 62-run-knock in the second innings to continue his purple patch as India registered a big win by 372 runs.

Agarwal recently revealed advice from head coach Rahul Dravid ahead of his heroics in the second Test against the Black Caps. Dravid had asked Agarwal to just manage his emotions and mental energy as the batter had been struggling with his form for a long time.

“He (Dravid) said I know you haven't got a lot of runs but just manage your emotions. Manage your mental energy and your thoughts. Don't dwell too much on it, he helped in the mental aspect," Agarwal was quoted as saying by Sportskeeda in an interview.

“On the technical aspect, he insisted that this is the technique which gave you a lot of runs in the past. Just stick to that, the runs will come. Back the things that have worked for you, and fortunately in the very next innings, the runs came,” he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-era-3-reasons-why-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-captain-can-be-a-good-move-for-team-india-435882">3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India</a>

Despite being outshone by Patel, Agarwal had a memorable outing as he joined an elite list of openers featuring the likes of Sunil Gavaskar&nbsp;to have scored a hundred and a half-century in the same Test match while opening the innings in a Test match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

He will be now seen in action when India take on South Africa in a three-match Test series on their upcoming tour of the country later this month.

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

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

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

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as India's ODI captain on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit has now replaced Virat Kohli as the new limited-overs captain along with also being promoted as the Test vice-captain.&nbsp;

"The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI &amp; T20I teams going forward,"&nbsp;BCCI said in&nbsp;a statement while announcing the 18-man squad for the upcoming South Africa Tests.

Many believe Kohli's ODI captaincy was always under the radar ever since he decided to step down as the T20I skipper, citing workload issues. Hence, former India international Kirti Azad feels there's nothing wrong in Rohit's appointment as the limited-overs captain.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-being-able-to-win-icc-title-mightve-cost-virat-kohli-the-odi-captaincy-former-indian-wicketkeeper-435848">Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper</a>

"Well, change is constant. This happens Rohit has been doing well and Virat had said that he wanted to be away from the captaincy in limited-overs. So, the right person to get into his place is Rohit Sharma. That's a call by the selectors. Virat wanted it but selectors thought that Rohit Sharma should come in and that's about it. I don't find anything wrong with it," said Azad while speaking to news agency ANI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/easier-to-destroy-a-team-former-india-cricketer-blasts-selectors-for-removing-virat-kohli-as-odi-captain-435851">'Easier to destroy a team': Former India cricketer blasts selectors for removing Virat Kohli as ODI captain</a>

Kirti Azad also opined on Ajinkya Rahane's sacking as the Test vice-captain and said, "Every game that you play is a different game than the other. Yes, when you compare people you show records you say this guy was better and that guy was better. Somebody has got more centuries than the other but that doesn't mean one is better than the other. The importance of a player is not measured by his captaincy. Rahane is a very good player. His form was not good and keeping that in mind selectors have taken away the vice-captaincy. We try to read too much into it."

Coming to Rohit, he has led India whenever Kohli was rested and has already guided the national side to Nidahas Trophy and Asia Cup titles, both in 2018. He is also a proven leader in IPL, being the most-successful captain in the tournament with five titles for Mumbai Indians (MI).&nbsp;

Thus, Rohit-Rahul Dravid are now expected to end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought in the coming years, which is filled with plenty of ICC events in white-ball formats.

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as India's ODI captain on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit has now replaced Virat Kohli as the new limited-overs captain along with also being promoted as the Test vice-captain.

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as India's ODI captain on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit has now replaced Virat Kohli as the new limited-overs captain along with also being promoted as the Test vice-captain. "The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI & T20I teams going forward," BCCI said in a statement while announcing the 18-man squad for the upcoming South Africa Tests. Many believe Kohli's ODI captaincy was always under the radar ever since he decided to step down as the T20I skipper, citing workload issues. Hence, former India international Kirti Azad feels there's nothing wrong in Rohit's appointment as the limited-overs captain. ALSO READ | Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper "Well, change is constant. This happens Rohit has been doing well and Virat had said that he wanted to be away from the captaincy in limited-overs. So, the right person to get into his place is Rohit Sharma. That's a call by the selectors. Virat wanted it but selectors thought that Rohit Sharma should come in and that's about it. I don't find anything wrong with it," said Azad while speaking to news agency ANI. ALSO READ | 'Easier to destroy a team': Former India cricketer blasts selectors for removing Virat Kohli as ODI captain Kirti Azad also opined on Ajinkya Rahane's sacking as the Test vice-captain and said, "Every game that you play is a different game than the other. Yes, when you compare people you show records you say this guy was better and that guy was better. Somebody has got more centuries than the other but that doesn't mean one is better than the other. The importance of a player is not measured by his captaincy. Rahane is a very good player. His form was not good and keeping that in mind selectors have taken away the vice-captaincy. We try to read too much into it." Coming to Rohit, he has led India whenever Kohli was rested and has already guided the national side to Nidahas Trophy and Asia Cup titles, both in 2018. He is also a proven leader in IPL, being the most-successful captain in the tournament with five titles for Mumbai Indians (MI). Thus, Rohit-Rahul Dravid are now expected to end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought in the coming years, which is filled with plenty of ICC events in white-ball formats.

Don't find anything wrong: Former India player opines on Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as ODI captain

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), named Rohit Sharma as Team India's ODI captain. Virat Kohli got replaced as captain in the 50-over format after he had already resigned as the T20I skipper. Thus, Rohit will now be in-charge of the limited-overs sides but Kohli will continue to serve as the Test captain, with Hitman as his deputy.

Under Kohli, India had a great run in ODIs and T20Is with plenty of success in bilateral series, however, the Men in Blue couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. While many believe Kohli was set to be replaced as ODI captain as soon as he had decided to step aside as the T20I skipper, the 33-year-old hadn't mentioned that he is willing to give away the top job in the 50-over format as well.&nbsp;

Thus, former Indian wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim believes Kohli's inability to win an ICC trophy as captain cost him the top post in ODIs as well.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-succeeds-virat-kohli-sourav-ganguly-breaks-silence-as-hitman-named-indias-odi-captain-435527">Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain</a>

"It is right to say that Kohli has been sacked. He made the announcement while leaving the T20I captaincy and could have confirmed that he does not want to continue as ODI captain as well," Karim said on the YouTube show Khelneeti.&nbsp;"This meant he wanted to remain ODI captain. Not being able to win an ICC trophy could have cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy," he added.&nbsp;

"(Rahul) Dravid has often put emphasis on having clear communication with players. So, when it comes to taking such a big decision, I believe someone would have surely talked to Kohli," Karim concluded.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-to-prepare-for-103-situations-rohit-sharma-sets-sight-on-middle-order-to-end-indias-icc-title-drought-435813">Have to prepare for 10/3 situations: Rohit Sharma sets sight on middle-order to end India's ICC-title drought</a>

Recently, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had also opened up on Rohit replacing Kohli as the limited-overs captain. "It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together,"&nbsp;Ganguly told ANI. "Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him," he added.

The onus has, thus, shifted on Rohit to take India to greater heights and add more ICC titles in the shorter formats. The 34-year-old will take charge of the team for the first time, as full-time limited-overs captain, during the forthcoming South Africa ODIs in the African nation, in early 2022.

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), named Rohit Sharma as Team India's ODI captain. Virat Kohli got replaced as captain in the 50-over format after he had already resigned as the T20I skipper.

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), named Rohit Sharma as Team India's ODI captain. Virat Kohli got replaced as captain in the 50-over format after he had already resigned as the T20I skipper. Thus, Rohit will now be in-charge of the limited-overs sides but Kohli will continue to serve as the Test captain, with Hitman as his deputy. Under Kohli, India had a great run in ODIs and T20Is with plenty of success in bilateral series, however, the Men in Blue couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. While many believe Kohli was set to be replaced as ODI captain as soon as he had decided to step aside as the T20I skipper, the 33-year-old hadn't mentioned that he is willing to give away the top job in the 50-over format as well. Thus, former Indian wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim believes Kohli's inability to win an ICC trophy as captain cost him the top post in ODIs as well. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain "It is right to say that Kohli has been sacked. He made the announcement while leaving the T20I captaincy and could have confirmed that he does not want to continue as ODI captain as well," Karim said on the YouTube show Khelneeti. "This meant he wanted to remain ODI captain. Not being able to win an ICC trophy could have cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy," he added. "(Rahul) Dravid has often put emphasis on having clear communication with players. So, when it comes to taking such a big decision, I believe someone would have surely talked to Kohli," Karim concluded. ALSO READ | Have to prepare for 10/3 situations: Rohit Sharma sets sight on middle-order to end India's ICC-title drought Recently, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had also opened up on Rohit replacing Kohli as the limited-overs captain. "It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together," Ganguly told ANI. "Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him," he added. The onus has, thus, shifted on Rohit to take India to greater heights and add more ICC titles in the shorter formats. The 34-year-old will take charge of the team for the first time, as full-time limited-overs captain, during the forthcoming South Africa ODIs in the African nation, in early 2022.

Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's ODI captain on Wednesday (December 8) as Hitman replaced Virat Kohli from the top post. Thus, he has now become India's limited-overs captain&nbsp;having already succeeded Kohli in T20Is.&nbsp;

While Kohli will continue to lead in Tests, Rohit will now be looked upon to end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Under Kohli, India reached the 2017 Champions Trophy final and 2019 ODI World Cup semifinal, however, couldn't return with the mega titles.&nbsp;

In the CT'2017 final, CWC'19 semis and during India's first two games in their horrible 2021 T20 World Cup campaign, their top-order failed and the middle-order couldn't revive their fortunes. Thus, new captain Rohit wants middle-order to prepare for 10/3 kind of situations going forward.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-had-the-character-game-and-personality-to-step-into-ms-dhonis-shoes-says-ravi-shastri-435772">Virat Kohli had the character, game and personality to step into MS Dhoni's shoes, says Ravi Shastri</a>

Rohit was asked on YouTube show&nbsp;Backstage with Boria&nbsp;if he has been able to figure out what went wrong in those games.

To this, Rohit said, "To be honest, not really. I would say it was that initial phase of the game where we lost the game. So that's something I'll keep in mind and see that we prepare for the worst. We have to prepare when the team is 10 for 3. That's how I want to move forward and get the message across to the boys that guys who are batting at No. 3, 4, 5, 6, there's nowhere written that if you are 10 for 2 or 3 [in a T20I], you can't get 180 or you can't get 190, or maybe more.

"I want the guys to prepare in that fashion. Let's say we are playing the semi-final and we are 10 for 2 in the first two overs, what do we do? What is the plan? I want to put ourselves in that situation again and see if we can respond to that. We have got some games before the World Cup to try and test that out. Because if you look there is a similarity between all three games that we lost - two Pakistan games and one New Zealand game in three ICC tournaments," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/havent-seen-someone-throwback-when-virat-kohli-shared-his-first-impression-of-batsman-rohit-sharma-435787">'Haven't seen someone....' - THROWBACK! When Virat Kohli shared his first impression of batsman Rohit Sharma</a>

Rohit further pointed out, "I do understand that the quality of the bowling was exceptional at that point, but it has happened three times. I hope that it doesn't happen for the fourth time. So hopefully we will prepare for that, keeping that situation in mind and move forward and see how we can plan - whether we can just counterattack straight from ball one, whoever batter goes in.

"And then I don't want people to think that, 'Oh, they are 10 for 2, what shot is he playing?' The commentators, the people of India or anywhere else, they need to understand that this is a plan of the team."

Will Dravid-Rohit take India to glory?

Rohit and new head coach Rahul Dravid will look to end India's title-woes as the national side have plenty of ICC events to take part in the future.&nbsp;For the unversed, Rohit has also been promoted as India's Test vice-captain. He has replaced an under-performing Ajinkya Rahane.

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's ODI captain on Wednesday (December 8) as Hitman replaced Virat Kohli from the top post. Thus, he has now become India's limited-overs captain having already succeeded Kohli in T20Is.

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's ODI captain on Wednesday (December 8) as Hitman replaced Virat Kohli from the top post. Thus, he has now become India's limited-overs captain having already succeeded Kohli in T20Is. While Kohli will continue to lead in Tests, Rohit will now be looked upon to end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Under Kohli, India reached the 2017 Champions Trophy final and 2019 ODI World Cup semifinal, however, couldn't return with the mega titles. In the CT'2017 final, CWC'19 semis and during India's first two games in their horrible 2021 T20 World Cup campaign, their top-order failed and the middle-order couldn't revive their fortunes. Thus, new captain Rohit wants middle-order to prepare for 10/3 kind of situations going forward. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli had the character, game and personality to step into MS Dhoni's shoes, says Ravi Shastri Rohit was asked on YouTube show Backstage with Boria if he has been able to figure out what went wrong in those games. To this, Rohit said, "To be honest, not really. I would say it was that initial phase of the game where we lost the game. So that's something I'll keep in mind and see that we prepare for the worst. We have to prepare when the team is 10 for 3. That's how I want to move forward and get the message across to the boys that guys who are batting at No. 3, 4, 5, 6, there's nowhere written that if you are 10 for 2 or 3 [in a T20I], you can't get 180 or you can't get 190, or maybe more. "I want the guys to prepare in that fashion. Let's say we are playing the semi-final and we are 10 for 2 in the first two overs, what do we do? What is the plan? I want to put ourselves in that situation again and see if we can respond to that. We have got some games before the World Cup to try and test that out. Because if you look there is a similarity between all three games that we lost - two Pakistan games and one New Zealand game in three ICC tournaments," he added. ALSO READ | 'Haven't seen someone....' - THROWBACK! When Virat Kohli shared his first impression of batsman Rohit Sharma Rohit further pointed out, "I do understand that the quality of the bowling was exceptional at that point, but it has happened three times. I hope that it doesn't happen for the fourth time. So hopefully we will prepare for that, keeping that situation in mind and move forward and see how we can plan - whether we can just counterattack straight from ball one, whoever batter goes in. "And then I don't want people to think that, 'Oh, they are 10 for 2, what shot is he playing?' The commentators, the people of India or anywhere else, they need to understand that this is a plan of the team." Will Dravid-Rohit take India to glory? Rohit and new head coach Rahul Dravid will look to end India's title-woes as the national side have plenty of ICC events to take part in the future. For the unversed, Rohit has also been promoted as India's Test vice-captain. He has replaced an under-performing Ajinkya Rahane.

Have to prepare for 10/3 situations: Rohit Sharma sets sight on middle-order to end India's ICC-title drought

Team India have gone through rapid changes ever since their disappointing run in the T20 World Cup came to an end. While Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end, he was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach. Rohit Sharma took over as the T20I captain after Virat Kohli had announced that the T20 WC would be his last assignment as the captain in the shortest format.

On Wednesday (December 8), the BCCI announced Rohit as the ODI captain, replacing Kohli, whereas Hitman has also been promoted as the Test vice-captain. Kohli will, however, continue to lead the Test line-up.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/some-in-bcci-made-sure-i-dont-get-the-job-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-makes-glaring-remark-435719">'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark</a>

Speaking on his official YouTube channel in a video, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on the changes taken place in Team India. He said that the team has maintained the difference between red and white-ball cricket with Rohit taking over as ODI captain.&nbsp;

“The day Virat Kohli left his T20 captaincy, it was a foregone conclusion that he will also lose his one-day captaincy. You would always want to go with the captain who leads the T20 team (for the ODI side). In world cricket, you don’t see a player leading the Test and ODI team not captaining the side in T20s. A distinction is always over white-ball cricket and red-ball cricket, and now we have that distinction," he stated.

The former cricketer also sounded optimistic of India's fortunes under Rohit.&nbsp;“What he brings to the table is his tactical acumen. He is very good tactically. Rohit Sharma has always been a lucky captain, so that also helps!", Chopra further added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-succeeds-virat-kohli-sourav-ganguly-breaks-silence-as-hitman-named-indias-odi-captain-435527">Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain</a>

Meanwhile, Chopra also made a valid point that Rohit the batter will have to assist Rohit the captain. "Rohit Sharma the batsman will have to help Rohit Sharma the captain. Indian cricket is a lot about 1-2-3 (top order), so when Rohit, Rahul and Virat Kohli score big, it’s always good for Indian cricket,” he concluded.

Talking about Kohli, India did fairly well in bilateral series in limited-overs but couldn't win an ICC title. The Men in Blue reached the 2017 Champions Trophy final and also played the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup. India will now hope to end their ICC-title drought under new captain Rohit.

Rohit, on the other hand, will have to replicate Kohli's efforts as a batsman while captaining the side. The 33-year-old did a brilliant job while leading from the front with the willow in hand and, hence, his successor will hope to carry on in a similar manner.

Team India have gone through rapid changes ever since their disappointing run in the T20 World Cup came to an end. While Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end, he was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach.

Team India have gone through rapid changes ever since their disappointing run in the T20 World Cup came to an end. While Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end, he was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach. Rohit Sharma took over as the T20I captain after Virat Kohli had announced that the T20 WC would be his last assignment as the captain in the shortest format. On Wednesday (December 8), the BCCI announced Rohit as the ODI captain, replacing Kohli, whereas Hitman has also been promoted as the Test vice-captain. Kohli will, however, continue to lead the Test line-up. ALSO READ | 'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark Speaking on his official YouTube channel in a video, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra opined on the changes taken place in Team India. He said that the team has maintained the difference between red and white-ball cricket with Rohit taking over as ODI captain. “The day Virat Kohli left his T20 captaincy, it was a foregone conclusion that he will also lose his one-day captaincy. You would always want to go with the captain who leads the T20 team (for the ODI side). In world cricket, you don’t see a player leading the Test and ODI team not captaining the side in T20s. A distinction is always over white-ball cricket and red-ball cricket, and now we have that distinction," he stated. The former cricketer also sounded optimistic of India's fortunes under Rohit. “What he brings to the table is his tactical acumen. He is very good tactically. Rohit Sharma has always been a lucky captain, so that also helps!", Chopra further added. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain Meanwhile, Chopra also made a valid point that Rohit the batter will have to assist Rohit the captain. "Rohit Sharma the batsman will have to help Rohit Sharma the captain. Indian cricket is a lot about 1-2-3 (top order), so when Rohit, Rahul and Virat Kohli score big, it’s always good for Indian cricket,” he concluded. Talking about Kohli, India did fairly well in bilateral series in limited-overs but couldn't win an ICC title. The Men in Blue reached the 2017 Champions Trophy final and also played the semi-final of the 2019 ODI World Cup. India will now hope to end their ICC-title drought under new captain Rohit. Rohit, on the other hand, will have to replicate Kohli's efforts as a batsman while captaining the side. The 33-year-old did a brilliant job while leading from the front with the willow in hand and, hence, his successor will hope to carry on in a similar manner.

You'd always go with captain who leads in T20Is: Aakash Chopra reacts to ODI captaincy switch in Team India

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India captain in ODIs on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit is now India's limited-overs captain whereas Virat Kohli remains in-charge of the Test side. Recently, Rohit lavished huge praise on King Kohli, who he believes will remain a leader in the team.

During a recent interaction, when he wasn't officially announced as the ODI captain, Hitman spoke highly of Virat and how the team will continue to benefit having the former captain in the limited-overs format.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-succeeds-virat-kohli-sourav-ganguly-breaks-silence-as-hitman-named-indias-odi-captain-435527">Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain</a>

"A batter of Kohli's quality is always needed in the squad. To have an average of 50 plus in the T20 format, it is crazy and unreal. Obviously, with the experience... he has batted and bailed India out so many times from difficult situations.

"The quality and his kind of batsmanship is required. Plus, he is still a leader of the team. All those things put together, you don’t want to miss out. You don’t want to ignore that kind of stuff. His presence is very important to the team," said Rohit on&nbsp;the show 'Backstage with Boria', organised by veteran sports journalist Boria Majumdar

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-overawed-ravi-shastri-gives-his-take-on-captain-rohit-sharma-as-hitman-succeeds-virat-kohli-435518">'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli</a>

Under Kohli, India dominated the bilateral series -- both in T20Is and ODIs. In the shortest format, India won bilaterals in SENA countries, beat West Indies in the Caribbean island, Sri Lanka in their own backyard and also thrashed oppositions at home. In ODIs, the 33-year-old led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and also won bilateral series in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Nonetheless, India couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

Rohit will now like to make the most of Kohli's presence as a batter and take Indian cricket to greater heights in the shorter formats.&nbsp;

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India captain in ODIs on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit is now India's limited-overs captain whereas Virat Kohli remains in-charge of the Test side.

BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the new Team India captain in ODIs on Wednesday (December 8). Thus, Rohit is now India's limited-overs captain whereas Virat Kohli remains in-charge of the Test side. Recently, Rohit lavished huge praise on King Kohli, who he believes will remain a leader in the team. During a recent interaction, when he wasn't officially announced as the ODI captain, Hitman spoke highly of Virat and how the team will continue to benefit having the former captain in the limited-overs format. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain "A batter of Kohli's quality is always needed in the squad. To have an average of 50 plus in the T20 format, it is crazy and unreal. Obviously, with the experience... he has batted and bailed India out so many times from difficult situations. "The quality and his kind of batsmanship is required. Plus, he is still a leader of the team. All those things put together, you don’t want to miss out. You don’t want to ignore that kind of stuff. His presence is very important to the team," said Rohit on the show 'Backstage with Boria', organised by veteran sports journalist Boria Majumdar ALSO READ | 'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli Under Kohli, India dominated the bilateral series -- both in T20Is and ODIs. In the shortest format, India won bilaterals in SENA countries, beat West Indies in the Caribbean island, Sri Lanka in their own backyard and also thrashed oppositions at home. In ODIs, the 33-year-old led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and also won bilateral series in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Nonetheless, India couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Rohit will now like to make the most of Kohli's presence as a batter and take Indian cricket to greater heights in the shorter formats.

He's still a leader of the team: India's newly-appointed limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma opines on Virat Kohli

BCCI dropped a bomb on Wednesday (December 8) as the board announced Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain. Many believed Virat Kohli was set to lose the top job in the ODI format after he resigned as the T20I skipper.&nbsp;

As per reports, the BCCI had given Kohli 48 hours to announce that he would be stepping aside as the ODI captain. However, when the 33-year-old chose to remain silent, the board went ahead by announcing Rohit as the new captain in the 50-over format. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain and, hence, will now serve as the limited-overs skipper altogether.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-overawed-ravi-shastri-gives-his-take-on-captain-rohit-sharma-as-hitman-succeeds-virat-kohli-435518">'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli</a>

BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly finally reacted to big development and broke his silence on Kohli being replaced by Hitman. “It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together,” Ganguly told ANI.&nbsp;

"Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him," he stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thats-something-that-he-will-be-able-rohit-sharma-opines-on-team-india-head-coach-rahul-dravid-435510">'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid</a>

The BCCI President added, "We have full faith in Rohit Sharma's leadership abilities, and Virat will continue as the Test captain. We as BCCI are confident that Indian cricket is in good hands. We thank Virat Kohli for his contributions as captain in the white-ball format."

Talking about Kohli's run as an ODI captain, he led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and the semi-final of the 2019 ODI WC. He ended with a win percentage of over 70 (70.43), however, couldn't end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

Thus, Indian cricket will start a new era in their forthcoming tour of South Africa, where they will have Kohli serving as the Test captain whereas Rohit will start his journey as the shorter formats' skipper.&nbsp;

India's tour of SA comprises three Tests and ODIs each, which will commence with the Test series on December 26 in Centurion.

BCCI dropped a bomb on Wednesday (December 8) as the board announced Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain. Many believed Virat Kohli was set to lose the top job in the ODI format after he resigned as the T20I skipper.

BCCI dropped a bomb on Wednesday (December 8) as the board announced Rohit Sharma as the new Team India ODI captain. Many believed Virat Kohli was set to lose the top job in the ODI format after he resigned as the T20I skipper. As per reports, the BCCI had given Kohli 48 hours to announce that he would be stepping aside as the ODI captain. However, when the 33-year-old chose to remain silent, the board went ahead by announcing Rohit as the new captain in the 50-over format. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain and, hence, will now serve as the limited-overs skipper altogether. ALSO READ | 'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly finally reacted to big development and broke his silence on Kohli being replaced by Hitman. “It's a call that the BCCI and the selectors took together,” Ganguly told ANI. "Actually, the BCCI had requested Virat to not step down as the T20I skipper but obviously, he did not agree. And the selectors then did not feel it right to have two different captains for two white-ball formats. So it was decided that Virat will continue as Test captain and Rohit will take over as the white-ball captain. I as President personally spoke to Virat Kohli and the chairman of selectors has also spoken to him," he stated. ALSO READ | 'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid The BCCI President added, "We have full faith in Rohit Sharma's leadership abilities, and Virat will continue as the Test captain. We as BCCI are confident that Indian cricket is in good hands. We thank Virat Kohli for his contributions as captain in the white-ball format." Talking about Kohli's run as an ODI captain, he led India to the 2017 Champions Trophy final and the semi-final of the 2019 ODI WC. He ended with a win percentage of over 70 (70.43), however, couldn't end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Thus, Indian cricket will start a new era in their forthcoming tour of South Africa, where they will have Kohli serving as the Test captain whereas Rohit will start his journey as the shorter formats' skipper. India's tour of SA comprises three Tests and ODIs each, which will commence with the Test series on December 26 in Centurion.

Rohit Sharma succeeds Virat Kohli: Sourav Ganguly breaks silence as Hitman named India's ODI captain

Team India got a new ODI captain in the form of Rohit Sharma on Wednesday evening (December 8). The BCCI made the official announcement as there were speculations that Virat Kohli was on the verge of losing ODI captaincy after stepping down as the T20I captain recently.

As per reports, Kohli was given a 48-hours deadline by the BCCI to officially announce him stepping down as the ODI captain. However, the the Indian cricket board went ahead with the decision to name Rohit as Kohli's successor in ODIs after the 33-year-old remained mum and didn't officially step aside. While speculations are rife, Indian cricket is heading into a new era under Rohit Sharma in the shorter formats.

Ravi Shastri, who served as India's team director from 2014-2016 and then as head coach from mid-2017 to late 2021, opened up on Captain Rohit and also spoke highly of both 'superstars' Kohli and Hitman.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thats-something-that-he-will-be-able-rohit-sharma-opines-on-team-india-head-coach-rahul-dravid-435510">'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid</a>

"Rohit is not overawed; he always does what is best for the team. He marshalls all the resources of the team unlike, let's say, in football," Shastri told The Week in an interview.

He added, "In 2014, when I first came in, there was only one big player – MS Dhoni. Who else was there? Who was superstar material? Virat, and maybe Rohit Sharma, in white-ball cricket. To see these two guys come through and become great players in red- and white-ball cricket, to have a great fast-bowling attack, to beat Australia in their backyard – there have been so many firsts with this team. It is overwhelming."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-virat-kohli-had-seen-a-future-team-india-captain-in-rohit-sharma-435458">Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma</a>

Rohit Sharma will now lead Team India in ODIs and T20Is whereas he has also been promoted as the vice-captain in Tests. Kohli, on the other hand, remains in-charge of the Test side but has been relived of leadership duties in the limited-overs format.&nbsp;

At present, India is gearing up to tour South Africa where they will play three Tests and ODIs each. The tour opener will commence on December 26.

Team India got a new ODI captain in the form of Rohit Sharma on Wednesday evening (December 8). The BCCI made the official announcement as there were speculations that Virat Kohli was on the verge of losing ODI captaincy after stepping down as the T20I captain recently.

Team India got a new ODI captain in the form of Rohit Sharma on Wednesday evening (December 8). The BCCI made the official announcement as there were speculations that Virat Kohli was on the verge of losing ODI captaincy after stepping down as the T20I captain recently. As per reports, Kohli was given a 48-hours deadline by the BCCI to officially announce him stepping down as the ODI captain. However, the the Indian cricket board went ahead with the decision to name Rohit as Kohli's successor in ODIs after the 33-year-old remained mum and didn't officially step aside. While speculations are rife, Indian cricket is heading into a new era under Rohit Sharma in the shorter formats. Ravi Shastri, who served as India's team director from 2014-2016 and then as head coach from mid-2017 to late 2021, opened up on Captain Rohit and also spoke highly of both 'superstars' Kohli and Hitman. ALSO READ | 'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid "Rohit is not overawed; he always does what is best for the team. He marshalls all the resources of the team unlike, let's say, in football," Shastri told The Week in an interview. He added, "In 2014, when I first came in, there was only one big player – MS Dhoni. Who else was there? Who was superstar material? Virat, and maybe Rohit Sharma, in white-ball cricket. To see these two guys come through and become great players in red- and white-ball cricket, to have a great fast-bowling attack, to beat Australia in their backyard – there have been so many firsts with this team. It is overwhelming." ALSO READ | Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma Rohit Sharma will now lead Team India in ODIs and T20Is whereas he has also been promoted as the vice-captain in Tests. Kohli, on the other hand, remains in-charge of the Test side but has been relived of leadership duties in the limited-overs format. At present, India is gearing up to tour South Africa where they will play three Tests and ODIs each. The tour opener will commence on December 26.

'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. While Virat Kohli had already announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma was named his successor whereas Rahul Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri as the national side's head coach till 2023 ODI World Cup.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (December 8), Rohit was also named as the ODI captain as Hitman will take charge of the side in limited-overs. Recently, the 34-year-old Indian opener opined on Dravid the coach during a recent interaction in a&nbsp;show 'Backstage with Boria'.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-virat-kohli-had-seen-a-future-team-india-captain-in-rohit-sharma-435458">Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma</a>

Rohit opened up on Dravid's impact on the team and stated what the current coach will be able to create within Team India. Rohit&nbsp;said, "Rahul Bhai was a brilliant cricketer, we all know that without a doubt. We all know how he has played his cricket. He himself has come out and said on so many occasions that he was not so talented. He had to work so hard to get where he is today. I think that is going to reflect on this team as well."

Rohit further asserted, "That nothing is given on a platter to anyone. He will make you work hard. Obviously, when you do that, when you enjoy that process, you feel good about it. Because there is a process that has been put in place."

"And there is a structure as well. So people will enjoy that. Guys that are coming in, going out. They will have so much clarity about why they were out of the team, why they came into the team and all that. That is something that he will be able to create," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-given-2-days-to-resign-as-odi-captain-before-bcci-announced-rohit-as-his-successor-report-435370">Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report</a>

Dravid has a huge task to end India's ICC-title drought, since 2013, and will have to work with Kohli (the Test captain) and Rohit in tandem to take Indian cricket to greater heights. At present, the Indian team is gearing up to leave for South Africa where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26.

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. While Virat Kohli had already announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma was named his successor whereas Rahul Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri as the national side's head coach till 2023 ODI World Cup.

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup in the UAE. While Virat Kohli had already announced his decision to step aside as the T20I captain, Rohit Sharma was named his successor whereas Rahul Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri as the national side's head coach till 2023 ODI World Cup. On Wednesday (December 8), Rohit was also named as the ODI captain as Hitman will take charge of the side in limited-overs. Recently, the 34-year-old Indian opener opined on Dravid the coach during a recent interaction in a show 'Backstage with Boria'. ALSO READ | Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma Rohit opened up on Dravid's impact on the team and stated what the current coach will be able to create within Team India. Rohit said, "Rahul Bhai was a brilliant cricketer, we all know that without a doubt. We all know how he has played his cricket. He himself has come out and said on so many occasions that he was not so talented. He had to work so hard to get where he is today. I think that is going to reflect on this team as well." Rohit further asserted, "That nothing is given on a platter to anyone. He will make you work hard. Obviously, when you do that, when you enjoy that process, you feel good about it. Because there is a process that has been put in place." "And there is a structure as well. So people will enjoy that. Guys that are coming in, going out. They will have so much clarity about why they were out of the team, why they came into the team and all that. That is something that he will be able to create," he added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report Dravid has a huge task to end India's ICC-title drought, since 2013, and will have to work with Kohli (the Test captain) and Rohit in tandem to take Indian cricket to greater heights. At present, the Indian team is gearing up to leave for South Africa where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26.

'That's something that he will be able...' - Rohit Sharma opines on Team India head coach Rahul Dravid

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), announced Rohit Sharma as the new Indian ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Hitman was being considered for the post as soon as he succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the&nbsp;UAE.

Prior to the T20 WC, Kohli had announced that he would step aside as the captain in the shortest format but continue to lead in Tests and ODIs. However, BCCI named Rohit as the only white-ball captain going forward whereas Kohli will continue to call the shots in Tests.

Not many know that during an event in 2013, Kohli had stated that he sees a future Team India captain in Rohit.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-given-2-days-to-resign-as-odi-captain-before-bcci-announced-rohit-as-his-successor-report-435370">Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report</a>

Back then, Kohli had stated, "Rohit has a tremendous cricketing brain. I often take his advice during matches. He has shown his capability while leading Mumbai Indians in the IPL." The right-hander had shared his views when asked about who can lead the team apart from him and MS Dhoni, who was the Indian captain at that time.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-be-rohit-sharmas-deputy-in-odis-kl-rahul-rishabh-pant-in-contention-report-435381">Who will be Rohit Sharma's deputy in ODIs? KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant in contention: Report</a>

It is to be noted that Rohit became a part of India's leadership group in 2017, when he was named Kohli's deputy in the shorter formats. Now being appointed as India's limited-overs captain, the onus is on Rohit to take the team forward and lead them to ICC titles (which has been missing in India's cabinet since 2013).

Talking about Kohli's run as ODI and T20I captain, India won bilateral T20Is in SENA countries and played the final and semi-finals of the 2017 Champions Trophy and 2019 ODI WC, respectively, but couldn't end their ICC-title drought.

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), announced Rohit Sharma as the new Indian ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Hitman was being considered for the post as soon as he succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE.

BCCI, on Wednesday (December 8), announced Rohit Sharma as the new Indian ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. Hitman was being considered for the post as soon as he succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Prior to the T20 WC, Kohli had announced that he would step aside as the captain in the shortest format but continue to lead in Tests and ODIs. However, BCCI named Rohit as the only white-ball captain going forward whereas Kohli will continue to call the shots in Tests. Not many know that during an event in 2013, Kohli had stated that he sees a future Team India captain in Rohit. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report Back then, Kohli had stated, "Rohit has a tremendous cricketing brain. I often take his advice during matches. He has shown his capability while leading Mumbai Indians in the IPL." The right-hander had shared his views when asked about who can lead the team apart from him and MS Dhoni, who was the Indian captain at that time. ALSO READ | Who will be Rohit Sharma's deputy in ODIs? KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant in contention: Report It is to be noted that Rohit became a part of India's leadership group in 2017, when he was named Kohli's deputy in the shorter formats. Now being appointed as India's limited-overs captain, the onus is on Rohit to take the team forward and lead them to ICC titles (which has been missing in India's cabinet since 2013). Talking about Kohli's run as ODI and T20I captain, India won bilateral T20Is in SENA countries and played the final and semi-finals of the 2017 Champions Trophy and 2019 ODI WC, respectively, but couldn't end their ICC-title drought.

Throwback: When Virat Kohli had seen a future Team India captain in Rohit Sharma

Team India is going through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. Well, it was a given following how disappointing the campaign turned out to be for the one-time winners.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI announced Rohit Sharma as the new ODI captain, after he had already taken over as the T20I captain post the World Cup. As per reports, Virat Kohli was given two days to announce his stepping down but since the right-hander didn't respond, BCCI went ahead and made the call themselves.&nbsp;

Not only this, Rohit also got promoted as the vice-captain of the Test side, due to Ajinkya Rahane's low returns. Thus, all eyes are on who will be Rohit's deputy in the ODI format. BCCI haven't revealed the new vice-captain in the 50-over format, hence, another big update will follow suit in the coming days.&nbsp;

As per a report in TOI, KL Rahul is touted to be the new vice-captain in ODI cricket. For the unversed, he is already Rohit's deputy in the shortest format, hence, it will make sense for him to take up the same role in ODIs.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-given-2-days-to-resign-as-odi-captain-before-bcci-announced-rohit-as-his-successor-report-435370">Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report</a>

However, there's another school of thought which is eager to groom Rishabh Pant as a future captain. Hence, he may also be considered to be Rohit's deputy in ODIs.&nbsp;

“It’s important to maintain a balance. The selectors are not for making drastic changes. But the team management and the selectors are keen on giving younger players more important roles going forward. Pant is definitely seen as an important part of the leadership group although Rahul is the frontrunner for the vice-captaincy in ODIs because he is already the deputy to Rohit in T20Is,” a source was quoted as saying by TOI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-drops-a-bomb-rohit-sharma-replaces-virat-kohli-as-indias-odi-captain-ahead-of-sa-series-435208">BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series</a>

As per the reports, Rohit is keen to groom the next leader, hence, Pant can also be an option going forward.&nbsp;

"Rohit needed a clarity on his role. There aren’t many ODIs before India play the 2023 World Cup and he is big on grooming the next generation leader too. Virat Kohli too understood the situation,” a source told the paper.

Things will become crystal clear when BCCI announce India's ODI squad for the South Africa series, in the African nation, regarding the vice-captaincy position.

Team India is going through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. Well, it was a given following how disappointing the campaign turned out to be for the one-time winners.

Team India is going through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. Well, it was a given following how disappointing the campaign turned out to be for the one-time winners. On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI announced Rohit Sharma as the new ODI captain, after he had already taken over as the T20I captain post the World Cup. As per reports, Virat Kohli was given two days to announce his stepping down but since the right-hander didn't respond, BCCI went ahead and made the call themselves. Not only this, Rohit also got promoted as the vice-captain of the Test side, due to Ajinkya Rahane's low returns. Thus, all eyes are on who will be Rohit's deputy in the ODI format. BCCI haven't revealed the new vice-captain in the 50-over format, hence, another big update will follow suit in the coming days. As per a report in TOI, KL Rahul is touted to be the new vice-captain in ODI cricket. For the unversed, he is already Rohit's deputy in the shortest format, hence, it will make sense for him to take up the same role in ODIs. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report However, there's another school of thought which is eager to groom Rishabh Pant as a future captain. Hence, he may also be considered to be Rohit's deputy in ODIs. “It’s important to maintain a balance. The selectors are not for making drastic changes. But the team management and the selectors are keen on giving younger players more important roles going forward. Pant is definitely seen as an important part of the leadership group although Rahul is the frontrunner for the vice-captaincy in ODIs because he is already the deputy to Rohit in T20Is,” a source was quoted as saying by TOI. ALSO READ | BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series As per the reports, Rohit is keen to groom the next leader, hence, Pant can also be an option going forward. "Rohit needed a clarity on his role. There aren’t many ODIs before India play the 2023 World Cup and he is big on grooming the next generation leader too. Virat Kohli too understood the situation,” a source told the paper. Things will become crystal clear when BCCI announce India's ODI squad for the South Africa series, in the African nation, regarding the vice-captaincy position.

Who will be Rohit Sharma's deputy in ODIs? KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant in contention: Report

On Wednesday (December 8), the BCCI announced Rohit Sharma has the new Team India ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. The news came in the form of a tweet from BCCI's official Twitter handle, shocking many. BCCI tweeted saying, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI &amp; T20I teams going forward" after revealing India's 18-man Test squad for the South Africa tour.

Usually a press conference is held for such big announcements. However, the sudden turn of events surprised many. It is now being reported that Kohli was given a 48-hours ultimatum by the Indian cricket board to announce his decision to step aside as ODI captain. Failing to do the same, BCCI made the decision officially with Rohit&nbsp;taking&nbsp;over from Kohli, as per a report in PTI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-drops-a-bomb-rohit-sharma-replaces-virat-kohli-as-indias-odi-captain-ahead-of-sa-series-435208">BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series</a>

Things not ideal between Kohli and his players?&nbsp;

Back in September, when Kohli had announced his decision to leave T20I captaincy, another PTI report had claimed that the talismanic batsman had 'lost respect' as a leader, mainly due to his lack of communication within the team.

"The biggest problem with Virat has always been trust issues. He speaks about clear communication but where he had lost respect as a leader is lack of communication," an unnamed player from Team India had told the news agency a couple of years back.

For the unversed, the 33-year-old Kohli had earlier stepped down as India's T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Since then, many believed his future as ODI captain was also under dark clouds and the inevitable decision was finally taken on Wednesday evening. Under him, India played the final of 2017 Champions Trophy and reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI WC in England and Wales.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-replaces-ajinkya-rahane-as-indias-vice-captain-as-bcci-announce-18-man-squad-for-sa-tests-435209">Rohit Sharma replaces Ajinkya Rahane as India's vice-captain as BCCI announce 18-man squad for SA Tests</a>

It is also being reported that current head coach Rahul Dravid also played a role in promoting Rohit as the captain in white-ball formats. All eyes are now on Rohit, who is India's limited-overs captain (and also promoted as vice-captain in Tests), to succeed Kohli and take the team to greater heights under his leadership.

On Wednesday (December 8), the BCCI announced Rohit Sharma has the new Team India ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. The news came in the form of a tweet from BCCI's official Twitter handle, shocking many.

On Wednesday (December 8), the BCCI announced Rohit Sharma has the new Team India ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli. The news came in the form of a tweet from BCCI's official Twitter handle, shocking many. BCCI tweeted saying, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI & T20I teams going forward" after revealing India's 18-man Test squad for the South Africa tour. Usually a press conference is held for such big announcements. However, the sudden turn of events surprised many. It is now being reported that Kohli was given a 48-hours ultimatum by the Indian cricket board to announce his decision to step aside as ODI captain. Failing to do the same, BCCI made the decision officially with Rohit taking over from Kohli, as per a report in PTI. ALSO READ | BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series Things not ideal between Kohli and his players? Back in September, when Kohli had announced his decision to leave T20I captaincy, another PTI report had claimed that the talismanic batsman had 'lost respect' as a leader, mainly due to his lack of communication within the team. "The biggest problem with Virat has always been trust issues. He speaks about clear communication but where he had lost respect as a leader is lack of communication," an unnamed player from Team India had told the news agency a couple of years back. For the unversed, the 33-year-old Kohli had earlier stepped down as India's T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Since then, many believed his future as ODI captain was also under dark clouds and the inevitable decision was finally taken on Wednesday evening. Under him, India played the final of 2017 Champions Trophy and reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI WC in England and Wales. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma replaces Ajinkya Rahane as India's vice-captain as BCCI announce 18-man squad for SA Tests It is also being reported that current head coach Rahul Dravid also played a role in promoting Rohit as the captain in white-ball formats. All eyes are now on Rohit, who is India's limited-overs captain (and also promoted as vice-captain in Tests), to succeed Kohli and take the team to greater heights under his leadership.

Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report

Virat Kohli stepped aside as India's T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Rohit Sharma has, thus, taken over from Kohli in the shortest format. While split captaincy isn't very common in Indian cricket, Team India have different captains in the white-ball formats at present as Kohli remains the Test and ODI skipper.

As soon as Rohit took over as the T20I captain, many former cricketers and experts are of the view that there should be only one captain in the shorter formats and called for a change in ODI captaincy as well. However, the Chetan Sharma-led national selection committee isn't in any hurry to make any changes in ODI captaincy ahead of the all-important South Africa tour, from December 26.

Nonetheless, the selectors are most likely to discuss the 'sensitive issue' with both Kohli and Rohit before taking a final call.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahanes-vice-captaincy-ishant-sharmas-place-in-doubt-in-indias-test-team-for-south-africa-tour-434937">Ajinkya Rahane's vice captaincy, Ishant Sharma's place in doubt in India's Test team for South Africa tour</a>

As per a report in the&nbsp;Times of India, the matter the selection committee, led by Chetan Sharma, are eager to discuss the issue&nbsp;with both Kohli and Rohit and only then go ahead and make some changes, if at all required.

"The ODI captaincy is a sensitive issue. There is a school of thought that Rohit Sharma should be given charge of all white-ball cricket after being appointed the T20I captain. But for that, the selectors need to sit with Virat Kohli and know where he stands with his batting. The situation will have to be discussed with Rohit too, because he is also seeking clarity on his role," a source close to the selection panel was quoted as saying by&nbsp;TOI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-backs-players-through-thick-and-thin-former-pak-captain-lauds-virat-kohli-for-supporting-ajinkya-rahane-434784">He backs players through thick and thin: Former Pak captain lauds Virat Kohli for supporting Ajinkya Rahane</a>

At present, the ODI World Cup is far away (in late 2023). Hence, the selectors will like to go through the process thoroughly, have detailed talks with Rohit and Kohli before finalising on the captaincy issue. Thus, Kohli is likely to remain the Test and ODI captain, at present, whereas Rohit will continue to be his deputy in the 50-over format and in-charge of the team in T20Is.

India are scheduled to travel to South Africa as the tour-opener is set to take place on December 26 in Centurion. Kohli &amp; Co. will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs whereas&nbsp;the T20Is will be held later.

Virat Kohli stepped aside as India's T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Rohit Sharma has, thus, taken over from Kohli in the shortest format. While split captaincy isn't very common in Indian cricket, Team India have different captains in the white-ball formats at present as Kohli remains the Test and ODI skipper.

Virat Kohli stepped aside as India's T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. Rohit Sharma has, thus, taken over from Kohli in the shortest format. While split captaincy isn't very common in Indian cricket, Team India have different captains in the white-ball formats at present as Kohli remains the Test and ODI skipper. As soon as Rohit took over as the T20I captain, many former cricketers and experts are of the view that there should be only one captain in the shorter formats and called for a change in ODI captaincy as well. However, the Chetan Sharma-led national selection committee isn't in any hurry to make any changes in ODI captaincy ahead of the all-important South Africa tour, from December 26. Nonetheless, the selectors are most likely to discuss the 'sensitive issue' with both Kohli and Rohit before taking a final call. ALSO READ | Ajinkya Rahane's vice captaincy, Ishant Sharma's place in doubt in India's Test team for South Africa tour As per a report in the Times of India, the matter the selection committee, led by Chetan Sharma, are eager to discuss the issue with both Kohli and Rohit and only then go ahead and make some changes, if at all required. "The ODI captaincy is a sensitive issue. There is a school of thought that Rohit Sharma should be given charge of all white-ball cricket after being appointed the T20I captain. But for that, the selectors need to sit with Virat Kohli and know where he stands with his batting. The situation will have to be discussed with Rohit too, because he is also seeking clarity on his role," a source close to the selection panel was quoted as saying by TOI. ALSO READ | He backs players through thick and thin: Former Pak captain lauds Virat Kohli for supporting Ajinkya Rahane At present, the ODI World Cup is far away (in late 2023). Hence, the selectors will like to go through the process thoroughly, have detailed talks with Rohit and Kohli before finalising on the captaincy issue. Thus, Kohli is likely to remain the Test and ODI captain, at present, whereas Rohit will continue to be his deputy in the 50-over format and in-charge of the team in T20Is. India are scheduled to travel to South Africa as the tour-opener is set to take place on December 26 in Centurion. Kohli & Co. will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs whereas the T20Is will be held later.

National selectors to discuss 'sensitive' ODI captaincy issue with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma: Report

Team India are scheduled to tour South Africa for a three-match Test series and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26. After demolishing New Zealand in the second and final Test in Mumbai and claiming the series 1-0, Virat Kohli-led India regained the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings and will now leave for South Africa with their heads held high.

While Kohli-led India have impressed one and all being on the road, with back-to-back series wins in Australia and an unassailable 2-1 lead in England, the national side will have to be a their very best to beat the Proteas in the African nation, where India have never won a Test series.

Harbhajan Singh, India's veteran off-spinner, believes this is India's golden opportunity to win a series in the rainbow nation. "I believe this is India's golden opportunity to win their first Test series in South Africa. If we look at their team, it is not as strong as it used to be. Even in the last tour, players like AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis… those guys never allowed India to win there. Although India have played well there, they have never won a series and this is their best chance because their batting isn't great," Harbhajan said in a video on his YouTube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-replaces-ajinkya-rahane-as-indias-vice-captain-as-bcci-announce-18-man-squad-for-sa-tests-435209">Rohit Sharma replaces Ajinkya Rahane as India's vice-captain as BCCI announce 18-man squad for SA Tests</a>

For the unversed, Bhajji has played two series -- in 2001 and 2010 -- in South Africa and returned with 18 wickets overall. On the other hand, India won their first-ever Test on South African soil&nbsp;under current head coach Rahul Dravid's captaincy, in 2006, but lost the series 2-1. In addition, they drew a three-match Test series in 2010, under MS Dhoni, but have never managed a series win in whites in SA. Will Kohli &amp; Co. turn the tides this time around?

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-drops-a-bomb-rohit-sharma-replaces-virat-kohli-as-indias-odi-captain-ahead-of-sa-series-435208">BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series</a>

India's Test squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj.

Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla

Team India are scheduled to tour South Africa for a three-match Test series and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26. After demolishing New Zealand in the second and final Test in Mumbai and claiming the series 1-0, Virat Kohli-led India regained the No.

Team India are scheduled to tour South Africa for a three-match Test series and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26. After demolishing New Zealand in the second and final Test in Mumbai and claiming the series 1-0, Virat Kohli-led India regained the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test Rankings and will now leave for South Africa with their heads held high. While Kohli-led India have impressed one and all being on the road, with back-to-back series wins in Australia and an unassailable 2-1 lead in England, the national side will have to be a their very best to beat the Proteas in the African nation, where India have never won a Test series. Harbhajan Singh, India's veteran off-spinner, believes this is India's golden opportunity to win a series in the rainbow nation. "I believe this is India's golden opportunity to win their first Test series in South Africa. If we look at their team, it is not as strong as it used to be. Even in the last tour, players like AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis… those guys never allowed India to win there. Although India have played well there, they have never won a series and this is their best chance because their batting isn't great," Harbhajan said in a video on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma replaces Ajinkya Rahane as India's vice-captain as BCCI announce 18-man squad for SA Tests For the unversed, Bhajji has played two series -- in 2001 and 2010 -- in South Africa and returned with 18 wickets overall. On the other hand, India won their first-ever Test on South African soil under current head coach Rahul Dravid's captaincy, in 2006, but lost the series 2-1. In addition, they drew a three-match Test series in 2010, under MS Dhoni, but have never managed a series win in whites in SA. Will Kohli & Co. turn the tides this time around? ALSO READ | BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series India's Test squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj. Standby Players: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla

India tour of Proteas: Harbhajan explains why Kohli & Co. have 'golden opportunity' to win Test series in SA

BCCI have announced Rohit Sharma as India's new ODI captain ahead of the South Africa tour. On Wednesday (December 8), the Indian cricket board made the formal announcement after there were speculations of Hitman replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain.&nbsp;

While announcing India's Test squad for the South Africa tour, BCCI also revealed that Rohit will be succeeding Kohli in the ODI format after becoming the T20I captain post the World Cup, in the UAE. BCCI tweeted saying, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI &amp; T20I teams going forward."

Rohit will, thus, try and build a team for the future with the 2023 ODI World Cup in mind, which will be hosted by India. For the unversed, the 34-year-old wasn't part of India's victorious 2011 ODI WC squad and, hence, will be determined to win the 50-over championship as captain of the national side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-yuvraj-singh-lead-tributes-as-cds-general-bipin-rawat-passes-away-in-helicopter-crash-435194">Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh lead tributes as CDS General Bipin Rawat passes away in helicopter crash</a>

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The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI &amp; T20I teams going forward.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> <a href="https://t.co/hcg92sPtCa">pic.twitter.com/hcg92sPtCa</a>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/national-selectors-to-discuss-sensitive-odi-captaincy-issue-with-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-report-435009">National selectors to discuss 'sensitive' ODI captaincy issue with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma: Report</a>

Rohit not only became the Team India captain in the shorter formats but has also replaced Ajinkya Rahane to become the new vice-captain of the Test side. India's Test squad for the SA series is as follows:

Virat Kohli (Capt),Rohit Sharma(vc), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant(wk), Wriddhiman Saha(wk), R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Md. Siraj.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the standby players are as follows:&nbsp;Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla.

BCCI have announced Rohit Sharma as India's new ODI captain ahead of the South Africa tour. On Wednesday (December 8), the Indian cricket board made the formal announcement after there were speculations of Hitman replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain.

BCCI have announced Rohit Sharma as India's new ODI captain ahead of the South Africa tour. On Wednesday (December 8), the Indian cricket board made the formal announcement after there were speculations of Hitman replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain. While announcing India's Test squad for the South Africa tour, BCCI also revealed that Rohit will be succeeding Kohli in the ODI format after becoming the T20I captain post the World Cup, in the UAE. BCCI tweeted saying, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI & T20I teams going forward." Rohit will, thus, try and build a team for the future with the 2023 ODI World Cup in mind, which will be hosted by India. For the unversed, the 34-year-old wasn't part of India's victorious 2011 ODI WC squad and, hence, will be determined to win the 50-over championship as captain of the national side. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh lead tributes as CDS General Bipin Rawat passes away in helicopter crash The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI & T20I teams going forward.#TeamIndia | @ImRo45 pic.twitter.com/hcg92sPtCa — BCCI (@BCCI) December 8, 2021 × ALSO READ | National selectors to discuss 'sensitive' ODI captaincy issue with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma: Report Rohit not only became the Team India captain in the shorter formats but has also replaced Ajinkya Rahane to become the new vice-captain of the Test side. India's Test squad for the SA series is as follows: Virat Kohli (Capt),Rohit Sharma(vc), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant(wk), Wriddhiman Saha(wk), R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Md. Siraj. On the other hand, the standby players are as follows: Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla.

BCCI drops a bomb! Rohit Sharma replaces Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain ahead of SA series

India demolished New Zealand by a massive 372-run margin on Day 4 of the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday (December 6). Setting up a mammoth 540-run margin for the visitors, India needed only five more wickets to win the match and close the series with a 1-0 scoreline.

Talking about the final encounter in Mumbai, India opted to bat first at the iconic stadium in Mumbai. Riding on Mayank Agarwal's 150 and Axar Patel's half-century, India posed 325 all-out. In reply, R Ashwin's four-fer and Mohammed Siraj's 3 for 19 bundled out the Kiwis for 62. Surprising many, India didn't enforce the follow-on despite just bowling 28.1 overs.&nbsp;

Thus, India declared their second innings at 276-7 and wrapped up the proceedings in a flash, bowling out the Black Caps for 167 in the final innings, to win by a whopping margin. Despite the big win, former England pacer isn't impressed with Virat Kohli-led India's tactics.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-md-siraj-asks-fans-to-cheer-for-team-india-not-rcb-after-virat-kohli-cos-test-series-win-vs-nz-434895">WATCH: Md Siraj asks fans to cheer for Team India, not RCB, after Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s Test series win vs NZ</a>

Harmison said on talkSPORT's Following On Cricket Podcast, "I honestly don't understand the Virat Kohli non-declaration (follow-on) decision. His bowlers had only bowled 28.1 overs. If it's a commercial decision, that worries me a little bit. But if the Indian selectors are looking at Pujara and Kohli to get some runs going ahead to the South African series, that should be enough telling that they should not go."

"If you are that desperate to let a game drift just because one man can get some runs, I really don't understand what the reason was behind not enforcing follow-on. The team you had lost to in the WTC final, you had a chance to beat them by an innings. For me, that would have been enough to run New Zealand's faces in the dirt. But, it's Virat's prerogative," added Harmison.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-be-a-surprise-if-r-ashwin-doesnt-play-test-series-vs-south-africa-says-former-english-speedster-434821">Won't be a surprise if R Ashwin doesn't play Test series vs South Africa, says former English speedster</a>

On the other hand, head coach Rahul Dravid opened up on India's tactics and told the broadcasters after the match, "Also, a lot of youngsters needed the chance to bat in challenging conditions - to play on red-soil wickets, with this kind of bounce, it'll only help them grow as players, especially when they travel and play in different conditions. We knew we had enough time to bowl them out once again."

India will now head to South Africa for a three-match Test series in the African nation, starting from December 26 in Centurion. The tour will also comprise three ODIs whereas the T20Is will be played at a later date.

India demolished New Zealand by a massive 372-run margin on Day 4 of the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday (December 6). Setting up a mammoth 540-run margin for the visitors, India needed only five more wickets to win the match and close the series with a 1-0 scoreline.

India demolished New Zealand by a massive 372-run margin on Day 4 of the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday (December 6). Setting up a mammoth 540-run margin for the visitors, India needed only five more wickets to win the match and close the series with a 1-0 scoreline. Talking about the final encounter in Mumbai, India opted to bat first at the iconic stadium in Mumbai. Riding on Mayank Agarwal's 150 and Axar Patel's half-century, India posed 325 all-out. In reply, R Ashwin's four-fer and Mohammed Siraj's 3 for 19 bundled out the Kiwis for 62. Surprising many, India didn't enforce the follow-on despite just bowling 28.1 overs. Thus, India declared their second innings at 276-7 and wrapped up the proceedings in a flash, bowling out the Black Caps for 167 in the final innings, to win by a whopping margin. Despite the big win, former England pacer isn't impressed with Virat Kohli-led India's tactics. ALSO READ | WATCH: Md Siraj asks fans to cheer for Team India, not RCB, after Virat Kohli & Co.'s Test series win vs NZ Harmison said on talkSPORT's Following On Cricket Podcast, "I honestly don't understand the Virat Kohli non-declaration (follow-on) decision. His bowlers had only bowled 28.1 overs. If it's a commercial decision, that worries me a little bit. But if the Indian selectors are looking at Pujara and Kohli to get some runs going ahead to the South African series, that should be enough telling that they should not go." "If you are that desperate to let a game drift just because one man can get some runs, I really don't understand what the reason was behind not enforcing follow-on. The team you had lost to in the WTC final, you had a chance to beat them by an innings. For me, that would have been enough to run New Zealand's faces in the dirt. But, it's Virat's prerogative," added Harmison. ALSO READ | Won't be a surprise if R Ashwin doesn't play Test series vs South Africa, says former English speedster On the other hand, head coach Rahul Dravid opened up on India's tactics and told the broadcasters after the match, "Also, a lot of youngsters needed the chance to bat in challenging conditions - to play on red-soil wickets, with this kind of bounce, it'll only help them grow as players, especially when they travel and play in different conditions. We knew we had enough time to bowl them out once again." India will now head to South Africa for a three-match Test series in the African nation, starting from December 26 in Centurion. The tour will also comprise three ODIs whereas the T20Is will be played at a later date.

India let the game drift because one man can get some runs: Ex pacer slams Virat Kohli & Co.'s tactics vs NZ

Virat Kohli-led Team India have plenty of quality bowlers who have stood tall and delivered the goods for the national side, especially in the Test format. India have maintained their dominant run in Tests for quite sometime and maximum credit needs to be given to their current crop of bowlers.

At present, India have senior pacers in the form of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah along with spin duo R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. However, the likes of Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj and Jayant Yadav have also made a mark in their given chances. Hence, all eyes are on them ahead of India's upcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26.

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Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh opined on India's bowling combination for the SA series and lavished praise on Siraj. Stating that Shami and Bumrah will be automatic picks along with Ashwin and Jadeja, Bhajji has his eyes on Siraj and stated that he will be India's&nbsp; No. 1 bowler in near future.

"Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj... what an outstanding bowler. In the time to come, he will be India's No. 1 bowler. With him, I feel Shardul Thakur will return because in South Africa you will require a seamer who can bat as well. Along with them, we shall certainly see R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja playing and perhaps, Axar Patel could also be seen operating with them," Harbhajan said on his YouTube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dravid-will-go-with-tried-and-tested-method-karthik-feels-pujara-rahane-will-feature-in-1st-test-vs-sa-434844">Dravid will go with tried and tested method: Karthik feels Pujara, Rahane will feature in 1st Test vs SA</a>

For the unversed, Siraj has had a dream start to his Test career. He ended as India's leading wicket-taker in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia (with 13 scalps) and also returned with 14 wickets in the four Tests versus England in the United Kingdom. He featured in the second and final Test versus New Zealand recently, where he ended with 3 for 19 in NZ's first essay.

So far, Siraj has accounted for 33 wickets in 10 Tests, at an average of 27.69, and is expected to continue his inspiring run in South Africa.

The three-match Test series versus the Proteas is set to commence on December 26 at Centurion, followed by the remaining two Tests.

Virat Kohli-led Team India have plenty of quality bowlers who have stood tall and delivered the goods for the national side, especially in the Test format. India have maintained their dominant run in Tests for quite sometime and maximum credit needs to be given to their current crop of bowlers.

Virat Kohli-led Team India have plenty of quality bowlers who have stood tall and delivered the goods for the national side, especially in the Test format. India have maintained their dominant run in Tests for quite sometime and maximum credit needs to be given to their current crop of bowlers. At present, India have senior pacers in the form of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah along with spin duo R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. However, the likes of Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj and Jayant Yadav have also made a mark in their given chances. Hence, all eyes are on them ahead of India's upcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26. ALSO READ | Harbhajan Singh likely to announce retirement, set to join support staff of high-profile IPL team - Report Veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh opined on India's bowling combination for the SA series and lavished praise on Siraj. Stating that Shami and Bumrah will be automatic picks along with Ashwin and Jadeja, Bhajji has his eyes on Siraj and stated that he will be India's No. 1 bowler in near future. "Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj... what an outstanding bowler. In the time to come, he will be India's No. 1 bowler. With him, I feel Shardul Thakur will return because in South Africa you will require a seamer who can bat as well. Along with them, we shall certainly see R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja playing and perhaps, Axar Patel could also be seen operating with them," Harbhajan said on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ | Dravid will go with tried and tested method: Karthik feels Pujara, Rahane will feature in 1st Test vs SA For the unversed, Siraj has had a dream start to his Test career. He ended as India's leading wicket-taker in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia (with 13 scalps) and also returned with 14 wickets in the four Tests versus England in the United Kingdom. He featured in the second and final Test versus New Zealand recently, where he ended with 3 for 19 in NZ's first essay. So far, Siraj has accounted for 33 wickets in 10 Tests, at an average of 27.69, and is expected to continue his inspiring run in South Africa. The three-match Test series versus the Proteas is set to commence on December 26 at Centurion, followed by the remaining two Tests.

Not Jasprit Bumrah or R Ashwin! Harbhajan Singh names who could be India's No. 1 bowler in future

India thrashed New Zealand by 372 runs (their biggest win in terms of runs) to win the second and final Test, at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, on Monday morning (December 6). After setting a daunting 540-run target, Virat Kohli-led India needed 5 more wickets to win the Test match when the fourth day's play resumed on Monday. It took the hosts less than a session to topple the Kiwis and win the series 1-0.

Thus, this became India's first-ever Test series win under new coach Rahul Dravid. His predecessor Ravi Shastri, and his outgoing support staff members such as bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, did a splendid job in making India a daunting line-up both at home and away in Tests. The previous support staff members also guided India to wholesome success in white-ball formats. Hence, Dravid and his support staff are expected to deliver in same lines and take the national side to ICC titles as well.

Ending his first-ever series as full-time head coach, Dravid would be pleased on how India thrashed the Black Caps to win the Test series 1-0 (after whitewashing the visitors in the three T20Is). Forming a new partnership with Indian great Dravid, India's Test and ODI skipper Kohli opined on the new set of support staff and told at the post-match presentation, "The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-2nd-test-virat-kohli-and-co-beat-kiwis-by-372-runs-to-win-test-series-1-0-434467">India vs New Zealand, 2nd Test: Virat Kohli and Co beat Kiwis by 372 runs to win test series 1-0</a>

India also moved to the top spot in ICC Test rankings following their domination of the Kiwis in the Mumbai Test. Kohli-led India will now travel to South Africa for three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26.

Kohli-Dravid pair will be eager to lead India to their first-ever Test series win in the African nation. In their 2018 tour, Kohli-Shastri-led India had come close but lost the Test series to hosts South Africa 2-1.

India thrashed New Zealand by 372 runs (their biggest win in terms of runs) to win the second and final Test, at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, on Monday morning (December 6).

India thrashed New Zealand by 372 runs (their biggest win in terms of runs) to win the second and final Test, at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, on Monday morning (December 6). After setting a daunting 540-run target, Virat Kohli-led India needed 5 more wickets to win the Test match when the fourth day's play resumed on Monday. It took the hosts less than a session to topple the Kiwis and win the series 1-0. Thus, this became India's first-ever Test series win under new coach Rahul Dravid. His predecessor Ravi Shastri, and his outgoing support staff members such as bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, did a splendid job in making India a daunting line-up both at home and away in Tests. The previous support staff members also guided India to wholesome success in white-ball formats. Hence, Dravid and his support staff are expected to deliver in same lines and take the national side to ICC titles as well. Ending his first-ever series as full-time head coach, Dravid would be pleased on how India thrashed the Black Caps to win the Test series 1-0 (after whitewashing the visitors in the three T20Is). Forming a new partnership with Indian great Dravid, India's Test and ODI skipper Kohli opined on the new set of support staff and told at the post-match presentation, "The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing." ALSO READ | India vs New Zealand, 2nd Test: Virat Kohli and Co beat Kiwis by 372 runs to win test series 1-0 India also moved to the top spot in ICC Test rankings following their domination of the Kiwis in the Mumbai Test. Kohli-led India will now travel to South Africa for three Tests and equal number of ODIs, starting from December 26. Kohli-Dravid pair will be eager to lead India to their first-ever Test series win in the African nation. In their 2018 tour, Kohli-Shastri-led India had come close but lost the Test series to hosts South Africa 2-1.

Virat Kohli opines on Rahul Dravid-led support staff taking over from Shastri & Co. after NZ series win

Virat Kohli-led Team India beat New Zealand by 372 runs (their biggest win in terms of runs) in the second and final Test at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming Day 4, India needed 5 more wickets for a series win and the home side completed the proceedings in less than a session by bundling out the Kiwis for 167, in pursuit of 540.

Opting to bat first, India made 325 courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150. In reply, NZ lost the plot by being dismissed for 62 as India declared their second innings at 276-7. In return, the Black Caps made 167 all-out on Day 4's morning session to lose the match and series 1-0.

The series decider saw plenty of star performers for Team India, in the form of Mayank, Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, etc. While India will now travel to South Africa for an all-important three-match Test series, from December 26, many former cricketers and experts feel vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane should now be dropped given his poor returns with the bat coupled with the presence of Shreyas Iyer,&nbsp;Hanuma Vihari, etc.

Rahane's scores after his Melbourne ton are as follows:

27* 
22 
4 
37 
24 
1 
0 
67 
10 
7 
DNB 
27 
49 
15 
5 
DNB 
1 
61 
18 
10 
14 
0 
35 
4

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-wishes-fan-happy-birthday-ahead-of-day-4-of-india-vs-new-zealand-mumbai-test-watch-434598">Virat Kohli wishes fan 'happy birthday' ahead of Day 4 of India vs New Zealand Mumbai Test - Watch</a>

However, Captain Kohli has continued to back Rahane and told in the post-match conference. On being asked about under-fire Rahane, Kohli said, "I cannot judge Ajinkya’s form. I think no one can judge it. The individual in question knows the areas of the game he needs to work on. We need to back players who have come up with impact performances for us in the past under difficult circumstances in key Test matches."

“If there is some pressure on an individual and people start creating an environment wherein everyone is asking “what happens next?”, we don’t entertain that as a team. We cannot expect that balance outside. The same people who praise certain players want them out of the team after two months. We have never reacted like that and we never will because we know the amount of effort that goes into it (playing the game). We will support him, whether it is Ajinkya or someone else. We won’t take a decision based on the atmosphere outside,” Kohli further asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-creates-history-becomes-1st-player-to-win-50-international-matches-across-all-formats-434603">Virat Kohli creates history, becomes 1st player to win 50 international matches across all formats</a>

Rahane has managed only two fifty-plus scores since his Melbourne Test ton versus Australia, which came in the previous edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020/21. The senior pro will have all eyes on him in the upcoming three Tests versus the Proteas as many have called for his omission from the Test line-up.

Virat Kohli-led Team India beat New Zealand by 372 runs (their biggest win in terms of runs) in the second and final Test at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6).

Virat Kohli-led Team India beat New Zealand by 372 runs (their biggest win in terms of runs) in the second and final Test at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming Day 4, India needed 5 more wickets for a series win and the home side completed the proceedings in less than a session by bundling out the Kiwis for 167, in pursuit of 540. Opting to bat first, India made 325 courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150. In reply, NZ lost the plot by being dismissed for 62 as India declared their second innings at 276-7. In return, the Black Caps made 167 all-out on Day 4's morning session to lose the match and series 1-0. The series decider saw plenty of star performers for Team India, in the form of Mayank, Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Shubman Gill, Mohammed Siraj, etc. While India will now travel to South Africa for an all-important three-match Test series, from December 26, many former cricketers and experts feel vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane should now be dropped given his poor returns with the bat coupled with the presence of Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, etc. Rahane's scores after his Melbourne ton are as follows: 27* 22 4 37 24 1 0 67 10 7 DNB 27 49 15 5 DNB 1 61 18 10 14 0 35 4 ALSO READ | Virat Kohli wishes fan 'happy birthday' ahead of Day 4 of India vs New Zealand Mumbai Test - Watch However, Captain Kohli has continued to back Rahane and told in the post-match conference. On being asked about under-fire Rahane, Kohli said, "I cannot judge Ajinkya’s form. I think no one can judge it. The individual in question knows the areas of the game he needs to work on. We need to back players who have come up with impact performances for us in the past under difficult circumstances in key Test matches." “If there is some pressure on an individual and people start creating an environment wherein everyone is asking “what happens next?”, we don’t entertain that as a team. We cannot expect that balance outside. The same people who praise certain players want them out of the team after two months. We have never reacted like that and we never will because we know the amount of effort that goes into it (playing the game). We will support him, whether it is Ajinkya or someone else. We won’t take a decision based on the atmosphere outside,” Kohli further asserted. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli creates history, becomes 1st player to win 50 international matches across all formats Rahane has managed only two fifty-plus scores since his Melbourne Test ton versus Australia, which came in the previous edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020/21. The senior pro will have all eyes on him in the upcoming three Tests versus the Proteas as many have called for his omission from the Test line-up.

'Won’t take a decision based....': Virat Kohli continues to back Ajinkya Rahane amid widespread criticism

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