Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced that he is stepping down as Team India's Test captain. This came as a huge shocker for the entire cricketing fraternity. The decision was announced only a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the rainbow nation.

While Kohli had already resigned as the T20I captain and was sacked from the top post in ODIs, the 33-year-old was expected to carry on as the Test skipper for few more years. Under him, India dominated at home, won their maiden Test series on Australian soil, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom last year and also played the inaugural WTC final.&nbsp;

Thus, all eyes are now on the national selectors as they have a huge task to name Kohli's successor in whites. While Rohit Sharma is leading the race, already being in charge of the limited-overs side, his fitness remains a concern. Other candidates are KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant. Recently, star pacer Mohammed Shami also opined on the captaincy debate and said 'who doesn't want to captain India'.

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Speaking to&nbsp;India.com&nbsp;on captaincy, Shami said: "I am not thinking too much about captaincy at the moment. I am ready for whatever responsibility is given to me. To be honest, who doesn’t want to captain the India team but it is not the only thing and I am looking to contribute in whichever manner possible for the team.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shastri-opines-on-kohli-rohit-and-dhonis-personalities-reveals-whose-phone-number-he-doesnt-have-448040">Shastri opines on Kohli, Rohit and Dhoni's personalities, reveals whose phone number he doesn't have</a>

It will be interesting to see if Shami is considered for the top job. Anil Kumble remains the last Indian player to have captained the national side in any format. Kumble led India in Tests for around a year before being succeeded by MS Dhoni. Since then, bowlers have not been preferred to take up the captaincy role.

Will the same happen this time around? Only time will tell...

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced that he is stepping down as Team India's Test captain. This came as a huge shocker for the entire cricketing fraternity. The decision was announced only a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the rainbow nation.

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced that he is stepping down as Team India's Test captain. This came as a huge shocker for the entire cricketing fraternity. The decision was announced only a day after India lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the rainbow nation. While Kohli had already resigned as the T20I captain and was sacked from the top post in ODIs, the 33-year-old was expected to carry on as the Test skipper for few more years. Under him, India dominated at home, won their maiden Test series on Australian soil, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom last year and also played the inaugural WTC final. Thus, all eyes are now on the national selectors as they have a huge task to name Kohli's successor in whites. While Rohit Sharma is leading the race, already being in charge of the limited-overs side, his fitness remains a concern. Other candidates are KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant. Recently, star pacer Mohammed Shami also opined on the captaincy debate and said 'who doesn't want to captain India'. ALSO READ | 'Why can't...' - Harbhajan names Virat Kohli's successor as Test captain if Rohit Sharma declines offer Speaking to India.com on captaincy, Shami said: "I am not thinking too much about captaincy at the moment. I am ready for whatever responsibility is given to me. To be honest, who doesn’t want to captain the India team but it is not the only thing and I am looking to contribute in whichever manner possible for the team.” ALSO READ | Shastri opines on Kohli, Rohit and Dhoni's personalities, reveals whose phone number he doesn't have It will be interesting to see if Shami is considered for the top job. Anil Kumble remains the last Indian player to have captained the national side in any format. Kumble led India in Tests for around a year before being succeeded by MS Dhoni. Since then, bowlers have not been preferred to take up the captaincy role. Will the same happen this time around? Only time will tell...

Who doesn't want to captain Team India, says star India player as Test captaincy spot up for grabs

India's limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma has cleared the fitness test held at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) on Wednesday (January 26). Rohit, who was named the white-ball captain in early December, 2021, had missed the entire South Africa series due to hamstring injury, where India lost the three Tests 2-1 and were whitewashed in the preceding ODIs.

Sources close to the development have already confirmed that members of the All-India Senior Selection Committee are set to conduct a meeting to announce the Indian squad for the upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies on Wednesday. Prior to it,&nbsp;a&nbsp;fitness test was scheduled for Rohit in the afternoon and Hitman has cleared the test with flying colours. As per the latest developments, the 34-year-old is set to return back to the Indian team and lead the national side in the upcoming three ODIs and equal number of T20Is versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies, starting on February 6 in Ahmedabad.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-central-contracts-test-specialists-cheteshwar-pujara-ajinkya-rahane-likely-face-demotion-report-447737">BCCI central contracts: Test specialists Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane likely face demotion - Report</a>

According to the PTI, Rohit is also set to be announced the next Test captain. On January 15, Virat Kohli had stepped down as the Indian Test captain, only a day after India lost the three Tests versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas in the rainbow nation. Hence, Rohit is being touted to be the next red-ball captain and take over captaincy duties altogether for Team India.&nbsp;

KL Rahul is expected to remain Rohit's deputy across all formats. On the other hand, the selectors are expected to rest ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah for the West Indies series. The WI series will be followed by Sri Lanka's tour of India, comprising two Tests and three T20Is.

India's limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma has cleared the fitness test held at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) on Wednesday (January 26). Rohit, who was named the white-ball captain in early December, 2021, had missed the entire South Africa series due to hamstring injury, where India lost the three Tests 2-1 and were whitewashed in the preceding ODIs.

India's limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma has cleared the fitness test held at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) on Wednesday (January 26). Rohit, who was named the white-ball captain in early December, 2021, had missed the entire South Africa series due to hamstring injury, where India lost the three Tests 2-1 and were whitewashed in the preceding ODIs. Sources close to the development have already confirmed that members of the All-India Senior Selection Committee are set to conduct a meeting to announce the Indian squad for the upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies on Wednesday. Prior to it, a fitness test was scheduled for Rohit in the afternoon and Hitman has cleared the test with flying colours. As per the latest developments, the 34-year-old is set to return back to the Indian team and lead the national side in the upcoming three ODIs and equal number of T20Is versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies, starting on February 6 in Ahmedabad. ALSO READ | BCCI central contracts: Test specialists Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane likely face demotion - Report According to the PTI, Rohit is also set to be announced the next Test captain. On January 15, Virat Kohli had stepped down as the Indian Test captain, only a day after India lost the three Tests versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas in the rainbow nation. Hence, Rohit is being touted to be the next red-ball captain and take over captaincy duties altogether for Team India. KL Rahul is expected to remain Rohit's deputy across all formats. On the other hand, the selectors are expected to rest ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah for the West Indies series. The WI series will be followed by Sri Lanka's tour of India, comprising two Tests and three T20Is.

Good news for Team India fans! Rohit Sharma clears fitness test ahead of West Indies series: Report

KL Rahul-led Team India were whitewashed by South Africa in the three ODIs, in the African nation. While India were without their regular limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, they still had many star players in the line-up. However, the national side were left with many questions following their listless performance on the 22-yard cricket strip.

Ahead of India's upcoming white-ball series versus West Indies, former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh feels it is time for the national team to look beyond veteran player R Ashwin. Ashwin was roped in the ODI squad and played his first-ever 50-over series since late 2017. The 35-year-old, however, returned with only a solitary wicket. Thus, Bhajji feels Ashwin can be overlooked for the ODI format.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-central-contracts-test-specialists-cheteshwar-pujara-ajinkya-rahane-likely-face-demotion-report-447737">BCCI central contracts: Test specialists Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane likely face demotion - Report</a>

"I think these two guys (Ishant Sharma and Ashwin) have done really well for Team India, whether you talk about Test cricket or ODIs. With all due respect to R Ashwin, I think he is a champion bowler, but in ODI cricket, I feel, it's time India start looking for an option, maybe someone who can take the ball in as well as out," Harbhajan told Sports Today.

"Someone like Kuldeep Yadav could be a great option. Why don't we go back to Kulcha combination and see what they can bring to the table? They won have games for India. It will be a good thing to go back to them," he added.

Ashwin is reportedly out of action for the upcoming WI ODIs and won't play the 50-over format for nearly six months. He might keep his place in the shortest format, along with being a regular in Tests.

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Kuldeep Yadav, on the other hand, has been out of favour across formats for long. He played his last ODI in mid-2021 (during India's second-stringed side's tour of Sri Lanka) and will be interesting to see if the team management recalls him for the upcoming home assignments in the white-ball formats. Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep have been a daunting spin duo for the Men in Blue till the 2019 ODI World Cup, however, their dip in form and lack of batting depth resulted in the famed partnership being broken.

KL Rahul-led Team India were whitewashed by South Africa in the three ODIs, in the African nation. While India were without their regular limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, they still had many star players in the line-up.

KL Rahul-led Team India were whitewashed by South Africa in the three ODIs, in the African nation. While India were without their regular limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, they still had many star players in the line-up. However, the national side were left with many questions following their listless performance on the 22-yard cricket strip. Ahead of India's upcoming white-ball series versus West Indies, former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh feels it is time for the national team to look beyond veteran player R Ashwin. Ashwin was roped in the ODI squad and played his first-ever 50-over series since late 2017. The 35-year-old, however, returned with only a solitary wicket. Thus, Bhajji feels Ashwin can be overlooked for the ODI format. ALSO READ | BCCI central contracts: Test specialists Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane likely face demotion - Report "I think these two guys (Ishant Sharma and Ashwin) have done really well for Team India, whether you talk about Test cricket or ODIs. With all due respect to R Ashwin, I think he is a champion bowler, but in ODI cricket, I feel, it's time India start looking for an option, maybe someone who can take the ball in as well as out," Harbhajan told Sports Today. "Someone like Kuldeep Yadav could be a great option. Why don't we go back to Kulcha combination and see what they can bring to the table? They won have games for India. It will be a good thing to go back to them," he added. Ashwin is reportedly out of action for the upcoming WI ODIs and won't play the 50-over format for nearly six months. He might keep his place in the shortest format, along with being a regular in Tests. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Neeraj Chopra lead wishes from sports fraternity as India celebrates 73rd Republic Day Kuldeep Yadav, on the other hand, has been out of favour across formats for long. He played his last ODI in mid-2021 (during India's second-stringed side's tour of Sri Lanka) and will be interesting to see if the team management recalls him for the upcoming home assignments in the white-ball formats. Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep have been a daunting spin duo for the Men in Blue till the 2019 ODI World Cup, however, their dip in form and lack of batting depth resulted in the famed partnership being broken.

Harbhajan Singh advises Team India to look beyond star player in ODI format, names his replacement

Indian cricket is not at its best at the moment. Following the Virat Kohli-led Indian team's shambolic performance in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE, many changes took place in the Indian cricket. Kohli had already announced that the T20 WC will be his last as the captain in the shortest format. He was replaced by Rohit Sharma before Hitman was also named the ODI captain following Kohli's sacking in early December, 2021.

The BCCI selectors sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, with a view to have only one white-ball skipper going forward. Following that, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly stated that he had requested Kohli to not quit as T20I captain, however, the latter denied all such claims during his explosive presser before India's tour of South Africa, on December 15.&nbsp;

Kohli also stated that he had no prior communication from the national selectors before being sacked as the ODI captain. While the India-SA Tests ended amid tension between Kohli and the board-national selectors, the 33-year-old went onto resign as the Test captain as well following the red-ball series in the rainbow nation, on January 15.

Thus, the tension between Kohli and the BCCI is evident from the outside. Kapil Dev, India's first World Cup-winning captain, has now joined the bandwagon and reacted to the whole controversy. He feels both sides should talk it out and sort things out, keeping the country and team in mind.

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Speaking to&nbsp;The Week&nbsp;magazine, Kapil pointed out, "They should have sorted out the issues between them. Pick up the phone, talk to each other, put the country and team before yourself. In the beginning, I also got everything I wanted. But sometimes, you may not get it. That should not mean that you leave the captaincy. If he has left it because of that, then I do not know what to say. He is a fabulous player; [I want to] watch him play so much more and score runs, especially in Test cricket.

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Rahul Dravid-led India recently ended their dismal tour of SA. They lost the Tests 2-1 and were whitewashed in the preceding three ODIs. With many blaming the Kohli vs BCCI row for India's downfall in the African nation, the Indian cricket loyalists hope that the matter is sorted out at the earliest to prevent the team's downfall going forward.

Indian cricket is not at its best at the moment. Following the Virat Kohli-led Indian team's shambolic performance in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE, many changes took place in the Indian cricket.

Indian cricket is not at its best at the moment. Following the Virat Kohli-led Indian team's shambolic performance in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE, many changes took place in the Indian cricket. Kohli had already announced that the T20 WC will be his last as the captain in the shortest format. He was replaced by Rohit Sharma before Hitman was also named the ODI captain following Kohli's sacking in early December, 2021. The BCCI selectors sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, with a view to have only one white-ball skipper going forward. Following that, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly stated that he had requested Kohli to not quit as T20I captain, however, the latter denied all such claims during his explosive presser before India's tour of South Africa, on December 15. Kohli also stated that he had no prior communication from the national selectors before being sacked as the ODI captain. While the India-SA Tests ended amid tension between Kohli and the board-national selectors, the 33-year-old went onto resign as the Test captain as well following the red-ball series in the rainbow nation, on January 15. Thus, the tension between Kohli and the BCCI is evident from the outside. Kapil Dev, India's first World Cup-winning captain, has now joined the bandwagon and reacted to the whole controversy. He feels both sides should talk it out and sort things out, keeping the country and team in mind. ALSO READ | 'Playing against India is...': Md Rizwan recalls Pakistan's historic triumph over Men in Blue in 2021 T20WC Speaking to The Week magazine, Kapil pointed out, "They should have sorted out the issues between them. Pick up the phone, talk to each other, put the country and team before yourself. In the beginning, I also got everything I wanted. But sometimes, you may not get it. That should not mean that you leave the captaincy. If he has left it because of that, then I do not know what to say. He is a fabulous player; [I want to] watch him play so much more and score runs, especially in Test cricket. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Is there any real winner in this tussle? Rahul Dravid-led India recently ended their dismal tour of SA. They lost the Tests 2-1 and were whitewashed in the preceding three ODIs. With many blaming the Kohli vs BCCI row for India's downfall in the African nation, the Indian cricket loyalists hope that the matter is sorted out at the earliest to prevent the team's downfall going forward.

Pick up the phone and talk: Kapil Dev opines on Virat Kohli vs BCCI row, says 'put country, team before self'

Team India were thrashed in the three-match ODI series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, in the rainbow nation. While the three Tests were extremely competitive, which Virat Kohli's India lost 2-1, the KL Rahul-led Men in Blue were whitewashed in the preceding ODIs.

Rahul &amp; Co. failed to chase down totals on two occasions whereas they also couldn't defend a competitive score in the second and penultimate ODI. With the series loss, India have now lost all their last bilateral ODI series in SENA countries (losing to England 2-1 in mid-2018, 2-1 to Australia in late 2020 and being whitewashed versus New Zealand and the Proteas). Thus, head coach Rahul Dravid opened up on the drubbing versus Bavuma &amp; Co. and hinted at a change of template on cards for Rohit Sharma-led India in the white-ball formats.

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Speaking in the post-match press conference Dravid opined, "We certainly could do better in the middle overs. We understand the template, and a large part of that template is dependent on the balance of your squad. Some of the guys who really help us balance out the squad and give us those all-round options at No. 6, 7 and 8 were not available for the selection. Hopefully, when they come back, it will give us a little more depth, which will allow us to play in a slightly different style."

"Having said that, even South Africa who batted first on two occasions scored 290 [296] and 280 [287]. If I think back to the 30th over [of the second innings] in both these games, we should have actually chased them down. We didn't because we played some poor shots and we didn't play smart cricket at critical situations," he further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/time-we-get-better-and-transform-our-white-ball-cricket-says-rahul-post-indias-listless-performance-vs-sa-447258">Time we get better and transform our white-ball cricket, says Rahul post India's listless performance vs SA</a>

For the unversed, the likes of limited-overs captain Rohit, all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya weren't part of the ODIs versus South Africa. It will be interesting to see the kind of changes in playing style and team combination India goes ahead with in the upcoming white-ball assignments.

Rohit &amp; Co. will now gear up for the limited-overs series versus West Indies at home. They will then host Sri Lanka in three T20Is before the action shifts to the IPL 2022 edition.

Team India were thrashed in the three-match ODI series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, in the rainbow nation. While the three Tests were extremely competitive, which Virat Kohli's India lost 2-1, the KL Rahul-led Men in Blue were whitewashed in the preceding ODIs.

Team India were thrashed in the three-match ODI series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, in the rainbow nation. While the three Tests were extremely competitive, which Virat Kohli's India lost 2-1, the KL Rahul-led Men in Blue were whitewashed in the preceding ODIs. Rahul & Co. failed to chase down totals on two occasions whereas they also couldn't defend a competitive score in the second and penultimate ODI. With the series loss, India have now lost all their last bilateral ODI series in SENA countries (losing to England 2-1 in mid-2018, 2-1 to Australia in late 2020 and being whitewashed versus New Zealand and the Proteas). Thus, head coach Rahul Dravid opened up on the drubbing versus Bavuma & Co. and hinted at a change of template on cards for Rohit Sharma-led India in the white-ball formats. ALSO READ | There is a rift in Indian team, Virat Kohli didn't quit Test captaincy because he wanted to: Shoaib Akhtar Speaking in the post-match press conference Dravid opined, "We certainly could do better in the middle overs. We understand the template, and a large part of that template is dependent on the balance of your squad. Some of the guys who really help us balance out the squad and give us those all-round options at No. 6, 7 and 8 were not available for the selection. Hopefully, when they come back, it will give us a little more depth, which will allow us to play in a slightly different style." "Having said that, even South Africa who batted first on two occasions scored 290 [296] and 280 [287]. If I think back to the 30th over [of the second innings] in both these games, we should have actually chased them down. We didn't because we played some poor shots and we didn't play smart cricket at critical situations," he further added. ALSO READ | Time we get better and transform our white-ball cricket, says Rahul post India's listless performance vs SA For the unversed, the likes of limited-overs captain Rohit, all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya weren't part of the ODIs versus South Africa. It will be interesting to see the kind of changes in playing style and team combination India goes ahead with in the upcoming white-ball assignments. Rohit & Co. will now gear up for the limited-overs series versus West Indies at home. They will then host Sri Lanka in three T20Is before the action shifts to the IPL 2022 edition.

Rahul Dravid hints at change of template for Team India in white-ball cricket post South Africa ODIs

India suffered a heartbreaking 4-run defeat in the third and final ODI of the three-match series against South Africa at the Newlands in Cape Town on Sunday (January 23). India came close to securing a comfortable win but ended up falling short at the end as the hosts completed a 3-0 whitewash in the ODI series. Deepak Chahar's sensational cameo of 54 runs had put India in a closing distance of the target but his dismissal led to India enduring an agonising defeat.

India head coach Rahul Dravid defended stand-in captain KL Rahul after India's 3-0 series loss and said there is&nbsp;scope for him to improve as a leader going forward. Rahul was appointed as the captain of the Indian team in ODIs in the absence of permanent skipper Rohit Sharma, who was ruled out due to a hamstring injury. India failed to even open their account in the ODI series in Rahul's captaincy as they suffered three back-to-back losses in the three games.

Rahul has been facing intense scrutiny over his poor captaincy after India's disappointing show in the series. Dravid came to the rescue of the Indian skipper and extended his support to him. &nbsp;"He did a good job. It's not easy to end on wrong side of the result," Dravid said when asked about Rahul's captaincy.

"He is just starting out and I think he did a very decent job. He will constantly get better as he captains," the India head coach added.

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The India head coach said the whitewash at the hands of South Africa was a 'good eye opener' for the Indian team ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. India lost the first game against the Proteas by 31 runs before suffering a comprehensive seven-wicket defeat in the next game. The Men in Blue came close to bagging a consolation win in the final third encounter but ended up losing by 4 runs.

"This is a good eye-opener but we haven't played a lot of ODI cricket. We last played against England in March (after that second-string side played against Lanka under Dravid's coaching). We will play a lot of white-ball cricket before next year's World Cup. The guys who play at 6, 7, and 8 weren't available for selection and when they come back, the side will have a slightly different look," Dravid said.

India suffered a heartbreaking 4-run defeat in the third and final ODI of the three-match series against South Africa at the Newlands in Cape Town on Sunday (January 23).

India suffered a heartbreaking 4-run defeat in the third and final ODI of the three-match series against South Africa at the Newlands in Cape Town on Sunday (January 23). India came close to securing a comfortable win but ended up falling short at the end as the hosts completed a 3-0 whitewash in the ODI series. Deepak Chahar's sensational cameo of 54 runs had put India in a closing distance of the target but his dismissal led to India enduring an agonising defeat. India head coach Rahul Dravid defended stand-in captain KL Rahul after India's 3-0 series loss and said there is scope for him to improve as a leader going forward. Rahul was appointed as the captain of the Indian team in ODIs in the absence of permanent skipper Rohit Sharma, who was ruled out due to a hamstring injury. India failed to even open their account in the ODI series in Rahul's captaincy as they suffered three back-to-back losses in the three games. Rahul has been facing intense scrutiny over his poor captaincy after India's disappointing show in the series. Dravid came to the rescue of the Indian skipper and extended his support to him. "He did a good job. It's not easy to end on wrong side of the result," Dravid said when asked about Rahul's captaincy. "He is just starting out and I think he did a very decent job. He will constantly get better as he captains," the India head coach added. Also Read: 'Respect their privacy': Netizens react as video of Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma's daughter goes viral The India head coach said the whitewash at the hands of South Africa was a 'good eye opener' for the Indian team ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. India lost the first game against the Proteas by 31 runs before suffering a comprehensive seven-wicket defeat in the next game. The Men in Blue came close to bagging a consolation win in the final third encounter but ended up losing by 4 runs. "This is a good eye-opener but we haven't played a lot of ODI cricket. We last played against England in March (after that second-string side played against Lanka under Dravid's coaching). We will play a lot of white-ball cricket before next year's World Cup. The guys who play at 6, 7, and 8 weren't available for selection and when they come back, the side will have a slightly different look," Dravid said.

'He is just starting out': Rahul Dravid defends KL Rahul's captaincy after 3-0 whitewash against South Africa

Team India ended their disastrous tour of South Africa on Sunday (January 23). While Virat Kohli-led India were 1-0 up after winning the tour opener, i.e. the Centurion Test, everything went downhill from thereon. Kohli &amp; Co. lost the Test series 2-1 and went onto be whitewashed by the Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in the preceding ODIs.

In limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence, KL Rahul led the Men in Blue in the three ODIs. Under Rahul, India remained winless by putting up a listless performance in the 50-over leg. After the tour, Rahul believes India have done many things right in the limited-overs formats in the last few years but their white-ball cricket needs a transformation right now.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-hardik-were-really-happy-watching-me-play-in-t20-wc-pak-pacer-recalls-his-time-as-indias-net-bowler-447247">Rahul, Hardik were really happy watching me play in T20 WC: Pak pacer recalls his time as India's net bowler</a>

Rahul told Sports Today in an exclusive chat, "It's a huge honour and it's a dream come true to represent my country and lead my country. Yes, the results didn't go our way but I think there were massive learning. We are at a stage right now where we have World Cups as the focus and we are working towards getting better as a team. I feel like we have played very good cricket over the last four or five years but it's also time for us to get better and transform our white-ball cricket."

During the three ODIs, Rahul's captaincy was heavily criticised. The 29-year-old's field settings and bowling changes were ineffective, when compared to his South African counterpart Bavuma. The star Indian batter has also not had much success as an IPL captain. Nonetheless, Rahul remains undeterred and feels he is learning and will only get better.

"I don't use that as an excuse for not winning, but I think we are a work in progress as a team. I learned so much while leading. Losses make you so much stronger than starting off with victories. My career has always been that way. I have always got everything slowly. I am confident in my leadership skills and I know that I can bring out the best from my players. I know I can do well for my country and franchise," Rahul added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-stick-your-hand-out-and-hurt-yourself-salman-butt-slams-team-indias-poor-show-in-south-africa-odis-447218">Why stick your hand out and hurt yourself: Salman Butt slams Team India's poor show in South Africa ODIs</a>

After the SA tour, India will prepare for their home season, which starts with a limited-overs series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. It will be followed by two Tests and three T20Is versus Sri Lanka before the action moves to the IPL 2022 edition. It will be interesting to see if Rohit-led India come out with a new approach in the white-ball formats after the SA drubbing.

Team India ended their disastrous tour of South Africa on Sunday (January 23). While Virat Kohli-led India were 1-0 up after winning the tour opener, i.e. the Centurion Test, everything went downhill from thereon.

Team India ended their disastrous tour of South Africa on Sunday (January 23). While Virat Kohli-led India were 1-0 up after winning the tour opener, i.e. the Centurion Test, everything went downhill from thereon. Kohli & Co. lost the Test series 2-1 and went onto be whitewashed by the Temba Bavuma-led South Africa in the preceding ODIs. In limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence, KL Rahul led the Men in Blue in the three ODIs. Under Rahul, India remained winless by putting up a listless performance in the 50-over leg. After the tour, Rahul believes India have done many things right in the limited-overs formats in the last few years but their white-ball cricket needs a transformation right now. ALSO READ | Rahul, Hardik were really happy watching me play in T20 WC: Pak pacer recalls his time as India's net bowler Rahul told Sports Today in an exclusive chat, "It's a huge honour and it's a dream come true to represent my country and lead my country. Yes, the results didn't go our way but I think there were massive learning. We are at a stage right now where we have World Cups as the focus and we are working towards getting better as a team. I feel like we have played very good cricket over the last four or five years but it's also time for us to get better and transform our white-ball cricket." During the three ODIs, Rahul's captaincy was heavily criticised. The 29-year-old's field settings and bowling changes were ineffective, when compared to his South African counterpart Bavuma. The star Indian batter has also not had much success as an IPL captain. Nonetheless, Rahul remains undeterred and feels he is learning and will only get better. "I don't use that as an excuse for not winning, but I think we are a work in progress as a team. I learned so much while leading. Losses make you so much stronger than starting off with victories. My career has always been that way. I have always got everything slowly. I am confident in my leadership skills and I know that I can bring out the best from my players. I know I can do well for my country and franchise," Rahul added. ALSO READ | Why stick your hand out and hurt yourself: Salman Butt slams Team India's poor show in South Africa ODIs After the SA tour, India will prepare for their home season, which starts with a limited-overs series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies. It will be followed by two Tests and three T20Is versus Sri Lanka before the action moves to the IPL 2022 edition. It will be interesting to see if Rohit-led India come out with a new approach in the white-ball formats after the SA drubbing.

Time we get better and transform our white-ball cricket, says Rahul post India's listless performance vs SA

Team India ended a torrid tour of South Africa on Sunday (January 23). While the Test series was evenly-contested, which the visitors lost 2-1, the Men in Blue were expected to beat the rather inexperienced Temba Bavuma-led Proteas in the preceding three ODIs despite missing regular limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma.

Nonetheless, the KL Rahul-led Indian team lost 3-0, repeating the same mistakes in every game to finish off a forgettable ODI series. Talking about the third and final ODI, India won the toss and elected to bowl first. Prasidh Krishna's 3 for 59 and two wickets each from Deepak Chahar and Jasprit Bumrah dismissed the South Africans for 287 in 49.5 overs, courtesy Quinton de Kock's 124.

In reply, Rahul &amp; Co. were dismissed for 283 49.2 overs despite fighting fifties from Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli and Chahar. Reflecting on Team India's dismal showing in the three ODIs, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt slammed Rahul &amp; Co. for their ordinary performances, criticising the middle-order batters, team selection, etc.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-batting-on-a-different-planet-dinesh-karthik-backs-indian-star-urges-team-india-to-give-him-a-long-rope-447167">He's batting on a different planet: Dinesh Karthik backs Indian star, urges Team India to give him a long rope</a>

Butt said on his Youtube channel, "This is just sad. Despite being such a good team, losing all three matches to a relatively inexperienced side playing without a couple of their main pacers makes for a really sad scenario. The noise surrounding certain topics will only increase after all this."

Butt pointed out that the&nbsp;decision-making was poor in the entire ODIs and claimed, "Let things go on as they were. Why stick your hand out and hurt yourself? You made unnecessary and unreasonable changes. The team selection has been questionable. On this tour where Pant played some outstanding knocks, he also played some shots that held no logical reasoning."

"The selection of the bowling line-up was also very poor. If you have guys who can clock 140 kph, then what are you doing by playing Bhuvneshwar [Kumar] and Shardul Thakur. Moreover, the keeper was standing up the pacers This is not England where you can trap the batters on a wet pitch by bringing the wicketkeeper up to the medium pacers. These are questions that will have to be answered by the team management and the selectors," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/difficult-journeys-help-you-grow-kl-rahul-pens-emotional-note-after-indias-3-0-series-loss-vs-south-africa-447198">'Difficult journeys help you grow': KL Rahul pens emotional note after India's 3-0 series loss vs South Africa</a>

Butt mentioned few positives for India from the third and final ODI before stating that the middle-order lacks serious depth. "If you look at the good parts then Deepak Chahar bowled and batted well, and he single-handedly brought India close to victory. Before that, Suryakumar Yadav also batted well. He was set and if he continued to play calmly, then India would have won. He also got out to false shot. There was no need to play such an extravagant shot. The shot he got out to was not a good option and India eventually paid the price for it."

"We got to see one fault shot after another at a time when they were least needed. That's the main reason for their downfall. Moreover, batters didn't capitalise after getting set. Not many large scores were made in this series. India has been top-class sin chasing especially when Virat Kohli plays long. But their middle-order does not have depth," he concluded.

Team India ended a torrid tour of South Africa on Sunday (January 23). While the Test series was evenly-contested, which the visitors lost 2-1, the Men in Blue were expected to beat the rather inexperienced Temba Bavuma-led Proteas in the preceding three ODIs despite missing regular limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma.

Team India ended a torrid tour of South Africa on Sunday (January 23). While the Test series was evenly-contested, which the visitors lost 2-1, the Men in Blue were expected to beat the rather inexperienced Temba Bavuma-led Proteas in the preceding three ODIs despite missing regular limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma. Nonetheless, the KL Rahul-led Indian team lost 3-0, repeating the same mistakes in every game to finish off a forgettable ODI series. Talking about the third and final ODI, India won the toss and elected to bowl first. Prasidh Krishna's 3 for 59 and two wickets each from Deepak Chahar and Jasprit Bumrah dismissed the South Africans for 287 in 49.5 overs, courtesy Quinton de Kock's 124. In reply, Rahul & Co. were dismissed for 283 49.2 overs despite fighting fifties from Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli and Chahar. Reflecting on Team India's dismal showing in the three ODIs, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt slammed Rahul & Co. for their ordinary performances, criticising the middle-order batters, team selection, etc. ALSO READ | He's batting on a different planet: Dinesh Karthik backs Indian star, urges Team India to give him a long rope Butt said on his Youtube channel, "This is just sad. Despite being such a good team, losing all three matches to a relatively inexperienced side playing without a couple of their main pacers makes for a really sad scenario. The noise surrounding certain topics will only increase after all this." Butt pointed out that the decision-making was poor in the entire ODIs and claimed, "Let things go on as they were. Why stick your hand out and hurt yourself? You made unnecessary and unreasonable changes. The team selection has been questionable. On this tour where Pant played some outstanding knocks, he also played some shots that held no logical reasoning." "The selection of the bowling line-up was also very poor. If you have guys who can clock 140 kph, then what are you doing by playing Bhuvneshwar [Kumar] and Shardul Thakur. Moreover, the keeper was standing up the pacers This is not England where you can trap the batters on a wet pitch by bringing the wicketkeeper up to the medium pacers. These are questions that will have to be answered by the team management and the selectors," he added. ALSO READ | 'Difficult journeys help you grow': KL Rahul pens emotional note after India's 3-0 series loss vs South Africa Butt mentioned few positives for India from the third and final ODI before stating that the middle-order lacks serious depth. "If you look at the good parts then Deepak Chahar bowled and batted well, and he single-handedly brought India close to victory. Before that, Suryakumar Yadav also batted well. He was set and if he continued to play calmly, then India would have won. He also got out to false shot. There was no need to play such an extravagant shot. The shot he got out to was not a good option and India eventually paid the price for it." "We got to see one fault shot after another at a time when they were least needed. That's the main reason for their downfall. Moreover, batters didn't capitalise after getting set. Not many large scores were made in this series. India has been top-class sin chasing especially when Virat Kohli plays long. But their middle-order does not have depth," he concluded.

Why stick your hand out and hurt yourself: Salman Butt slams Team India's poor show in South Africa ODIs

Team India ended a torrid tour of South Africa on Sunday (January 23). After winning the tour opener, i.e. the Centurion Test, everything went downhill for the visitors. India missed the services of regular captain Virat Kohli for the second and penultimate Test -- at The Wanderers, Johannesburg -- due to upper back spasm and lost the plot from thereon.

Under KL Rahul, India lost their first-ever Test in J'burg. The series was levelled ahead of the Test series finale, where Kohli returned to the playing XI but failed to take India to a maiden series win in whites in the rainbow nation. India lost the Tests 2-1 and went onto lose the preceding three ODIs 3-0. Amid all this, Kohli stepped down as the Test captain -- after having been sacked as the ODI skipper and resigning as T20I captain last year.

Ahead of India's next Test series, i.e. a two-match series versus Sri Lanka at home before IPL 15, the national selectors have a tough ask to name the next captain in the red-ball format. Former Aussie spinner Shane Warne has named who should take over from Kohli in whites.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-makes-bizarre-statement-about-virat-kohli-would-not-have-married-if-i-were-in-his-place-447138">Shoaib Akhtar makes bizarre statement about Virat Kohli: Would not have married if I were in his place</a>

While there are four names doing the rounds&nbsp;for the Test captaincy spot -- KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant -- Warne has ruled out Pant's name. The spin wizard feels Bumrah can be the next Test captain.

“India are very lucky that they have got so many different options and people that could captain the team. For me, Jasprit Bumrah could do it but I think Rohit for the next couple of years and have him (Bumrah) as deputy. I don’t like a wicketkeeper as captain. I think a wicketkeeper makes a good vice-captain and deputies, never captain. So that is how I see it but India have got plenty of options. Rahane would be fantastic but his form just has just slipped a little lately. We saw what a terrific job he did in Australia last season when Virat went home. We know he can do a terrific job in the Test area. He just needs to make sure he is making runs,” Warne told Hindustan Times in an interview arranged by BookMyShow stream, the platform which premiers the spinner's documentary film ‘Shane’.

Warne, however, opened up on Pant and his batting approach. For the unversed, Pant played two good knocks in the just-concluded SA tour -- including a Test ton and a gritty 85 in the second ODI -- but drew criticism for his shot selection in India's second innings of the J''burg Test and the tour finale (i.e. the third ODI). In this regard, Warne said, "Do not change. Do not change, Rishabh Pant. He is my favourite cricketer. Let him keep playing the way he plays. The only statement I would say to Rishabh Pant… ‘All he needs to ask himself all the time is… what does the team need me to do right now? He asks himself that question and he will play the right way. Look, I hope no one changes Rishabh Pant. Just play the way you play because he is exciting and he is great to watch. I love him."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-shastri-feels-pant-should-be-kept-in-mind-for-leadership-goes-ahead-with-senior-pro-as-next-test-captain-447086">Ravi Shastri feels Pant should be kept in mind for leadership, goes ahead with senior pro as next Test captain</a>

While Bumrah is also an option for Test captaincy, Rohit is the strongest contender to be the next skipper. He is already the limited-overs captain and can be asked to take up the same role in whites for a brief period, grooming his successor. As Bumrah doesn't feature in majority of India's home Tests, he might lose the battle to his IPL skipper Rohit.

Team India ended a torrid tour of South Africa on Sunday (January 23). After winning the tour opener, i.e. the Centurion Test, everything went downhill for the visitors.

Team India ended a torrid tour of South Africa on Sunday (January 23). After winning the tour opener, i.e. the Centurion Test, everything went downhill for the visitors. India missed the services of regular captain Virat Kohli for the second and penultimate Test -- at The Wanderers, Johannesburg -- due to upper back spasm and lost the plot from thereon. Under KL Rahul, India lost their first-ever Test in J'burg. The series was levelled ahead of the Test series finale, where Kohli returned to the playing XI but failed to take India to a maiden series win in whites in the rainbow nation. India lost the Tests 2-1 and went onto lose the preceding three ODIs 3-0. Amid all this, Kohli stepped down as the Test captain -- after having been sacked as the ODI skipper and resigning as T20I captain last year. Ahead of India's next Test series, i.e. a two-match series versus Sri Lanka at home before IPL 15, the national selectors have a tough ask to name the next captain in the red-ball format. Former Aussie spinner Shane Warne has named who should take over from Kohli in whites. ALSO READ | Shoaib Akhtar makes bizarre statement about Virat Kohli: Would not have married if I were in his place While there are four names doing the rounds for the Test captaincy spot -- KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant -- Warne has ruled out Pant's name. The spin wizard feels Bumrah can be the next Test captain. “India are very lucky that they have got so many different options and people that could captain the team. For me, Jasprit Bumrah could do it but I think Rohit for the next couple of years and have him (Bumrah) as deputy. I don’t like a wicketkeeper as captain. I think a wicketkeeper makes a good vice-captain and deputies, never captain. So that is how I see it but India have got plenty of options. Rahane would be fantastic but his form just has just slipped a little lately. We saw what a terrific job he did in Australia last season when Virat went home. We know he can do a terrific job in the Test area. He just needs to make sure he is making runs,” Warne told Hindustan Times in an interview arranged by BookMyShow stream, the platform which premiers the spinner's documentary film ‘Shane’. Warne, however, opened up on Pant and his batting approach. For the unversed, Pant played two good knocks in the just-concluded SA tour -- including a Test ton and a gritty 85 in the second ODI -- but drew criticism for his shot selection in India's second innings of the J''burg Test and the tour finale (i.e. the third ODI). In this regard, Warne said, "Do not change. Do not change, Rishabh Pant. He is my favourite cricketer. Let him keep playing the way he plays. The only statement I would say to Rishabh Pant… ‘All he needs to ask himself all the time is… what does the team need me to do right now? He asks himself that question and he will play the right way. Look, I hope no one changes Rishabh Pant. Just play the way you play because he is exciting and he is great to watch. I love him." ALSO READ | Ravi Shastri feels Pant should be kept in mind for leadership, goes ahead with senior pro as next Test captain While Bumrah is also an option for Test captaincy, Rohit is the strongest contender to be the next skipper. He is already the limited-overs captain and can be asked to take up the same role in whites for a brief period, grooming his successor. As Bumrah doesn't feature in majority of India's home Tests, he might lose the battle to his IPL skipper Rohit.

Don’t like wicketkeeper as captain: Not Pant! Shane Warne suggests who should be India's next Test captain

On January 15, Virat Kohli stepped down as the Indian Test captain. This came as a shocker for the whole cricketing fraternity, given the 33-year-old led India with great success in the red-ball format. Kohli's decision came on the following day after India had lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation.

With him stepping down as the Test captain, Kohli's overall captaincy tenure for Team India also came to an end. Talking about Kohli's credentials as a captain in the purest format, he led India to their maiden Test series win in Australia, ensured an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom in mid-2021 and to the inaugural WTC final. In addition, India were dominant at home under his leadership skills.

Kohli's successor, thus, has huge shoes to fill in. Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri feels Rohit Sharma, who is already the limited-overs captain, should take over as the Test captain as well, with wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant being groomed under him.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lot-of-people-wouldnt-have-been-able-to-digest-virat-kohli-reaching-50-60-wins-as-test-captain-ravi-shastri-446945">Lot of people wouldn't have been able to digest Virat Kohli reaching 50-60 wins as Test captain: Ravi Shastri</a>

Former Indian coach Shastri has suggested Rohit's name as the successor and called him the natural choice, with him already being the vice-captain in whites.&nbsp;

"If Rohit is fit, why can't he be the captain in Tests too. He was appointed vice-captain for the South Africa series but he couldn't go there because of injuries. So why not, if he was made the vice-captain, why can't he be promoted to captaincy,"&nbsp;Shastri said to&nbsp;India Today.&nbsp;

"Rohit's vice-captain has to be seen. Rahul Dravid has to see who that person could be because that player has to be a certainty in the playing XI. I think, why name the vice-captain at all? Decide on the tour who is the most experienced player, who is playing well. You announce your vice-captain in advance, and later you realise that your vice-captain doesn't fit in your XI," stated the ex-Indian head coach and all-rounder.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-has-a-big-task-ahead-has-to-prove-he-is-not-an-overrated-coach-shoaib-akhtar-446926">Rahul Dravid has a big task ahead, has to prove he is not an overrated coach: Shoaib Akhtar</a>

Shastri opined on Pant and claimed he can be looked upon as a future captain. "Rishabh is a tremendous young player. As a coach, I was very fond of him, his attitude and the good thing about him was that he would always listen to you. A lot of people say, he always does what he wants but that's not true. He reads the game well and would always put my team effort first than self. So he should always be kept in mind for leadership," said Shastri.&nbsp;

India's next assignment in the red-ball format is versus Sri Lanka at home, in February-March. Before that, the national selectors will have to take a call and name the next Test captain. Some other contenders are Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul or R Ashwin.

On January 15, Virat Kohli stepped down as the Indian Test captain. This came as a shocker for the whole cricketing fraternity, given the 33-year-old led India with great success in the red-ball format.

On January 15, Virat Kohli stepped down as the Indian Test captain. This came as a shocker for the whole cricketing fraternity, given the 33-year-old led India with great success in the red-ball format. Kohli's decision came on the following day after India had lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. With him stepping down as the Test captain, Kohli's overall captaincy tenure for Team India also came to an end. Talking about Kohli's credentials as a captain in the purest format, he led India to their maiden Test series win in Australia, ensured an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom in mid-2021 and to the inaugural WTC final. In addition, India were dominant at home under his leadership skills. Kohli's successor, thus, has huge shoes to fill in. Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri feels Rohit Sharma, who is already the limited-overs captain, should take over as the Test captain as well, with wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant being groomed under him. ALSO READ | Lot of people wouldn't have been able to digest Virat Kohli reaching 50-60 wins as Test captain: Ravi Shastri Former Indian coach Shastri has suggested Rohit's name as the successor and called him the natural choice, with him already being the vice-captain in whites. "If Rohit is fit, why can't he be the captain in Tests too. He was appointed vice-captain for the South Africa series but he couldn't go there because of injuries. So why not, if he was made the vice-captain, why can't he be promoted to captaincy," Shastri said to India Today. "Rohit's vice-captain has to be seen. Rahul Dravid has to see who that person could be because that player has to be a certainty in the playing XI. I think, why name the vice-captain at all? Decide on the tour who is the most experienced player, who is playing well. You announce your vice-captain in advance, and later you realise that your vice-captain doesn't fit in your XI," stated the ex-Indian head coach and all-rounder. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid has a big task ahead, has to prove he is not an overrated coach: Shoaib Akhtar Shastri opined on Pant and claimed he can be looked upon as a future captain. "Rishabh is a tremendous young player. As a coach, I was very fond of him, his attitude and the good thing about him was that he would always listen to you. A lot of people say, he always does what he wants but that's not true. He reads the game well and would always put my team effort first than self. So he should always be kept in mind for leadership," said Shastri. India's next assignment in the red-ball format is versus Sri Lanka at home, in February-March. Before that, the national selectors will have to take a call and name the next Test captain. Some other contenders are Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul or R Ashwin.

Ravi Shastri feels Pant should be kept in mind for leadership, goes ahead with senior pro as next Test captain

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar feels current India head coach Rahul Dravid has a lot of challenges lying ahead of him amid the difficult phase in Indian cricket. Indian cricket is in turmoil ever since Virat Kohli decided to step down as the captain of the Test side after the team's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa.

While he had himself decided to leave T20I captaincy last year, Kohli was replaced as the ODI captain by Rohit Sharma in December last year before deciding to quit Test captaincy as well. In Rohit's absence, KL Rahul is currently leading the Indian team in the ongoing ODI series against South Africa and there have been questions over his leadership credentials after the Men in Blue suffered back-to-back defeats in the first two games of the series.

After losing the first ODI by 31 runs, India lost the second game by seven wickets on Friday to concede the three-match series as the hosts took an unassailable 2-0 lead. Akhtar said Indian cricket is not going down after Kohli's downfall as the leader of the team but Dravid has a big job as the head coach.

The former Pakistan pacer made a glaring remark on Dravid and said the legendary cricketer will have to prove he is not an overrated coach.&nbsp;

"No, Indian cricket is not going down. You have to take control of the situation. Rahul Dravid has a big job in his hands. I hope people don't say that he's an overrated coach. He has to prove that, and obviously he has big shoes to fill in the place of Ravi Shastri. He has a big task ahead, let's see how he performs," Akhtar told PTI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-dont-you-look-at-fast-bowlers-shoaib-akhtar-backs-jasprit-bumrah-to-become-indias-next-captain-446897">Shoaib Akhtar backs Jasprit Bumrah to become India's next captain</a>

Dravid is working with the Indian senior team for the first time in his coaching career but has been in the BCCI system since 2014. He was the head coach of the Indian U-19 team for four years and inspired the U-19 team to glory at the 2018 U-19 World Cup. He has also worked with the India A team and a couple of IPL franchises.

Dravid was appointed as India's head coach last year after former head coach Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end post the T20 World Cup 2021.

&nbsp;

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar feels current India head coach Rahul Dravid has a lot of challenges lying ahead of him amid the difficult phase in Indian cricket.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar feels current India head coach Rahul Dravid has a lot of challenges lying ahead of him amid the difficult phase in Indian cricket. Indian cricket is in turmoil ever since Virat Kohli decided to step down as the captain of the Test side after the team's 2-1 defeat in the recently-concluded Test series against South Africa. While he had himself decided to leave T20I captaincy last year, Kohli was replaced as the ODI captain by Rohit Sharma in December last year before deciding to quit Test captaincy as well. In Rohit's absence, KL Rahul is currently leading the Indian team in the ongoing ODI series against South Africa and there have been questions over his leadership credentials after the Men in Blue suffered back-to-back defeats in the first two games of the series. After losing the first ODI by 31 runs, India lost the second game by seven wickets on Friday to concede the three-match series as the hosts took an unassailable 2-0 lead. Akhtar said Indian cricket is not going down after Kohli's downfall as the leader of the team but Dravid has a big job as the head coach. The former Pakistan pacer made a glaring remark on Dravid and said the legendary cricketer will have to prove he is not an overrated coach. "No, Indian cricket is not going down. You have to take control of the situation. Rahul Dravid has a big job in his hands. I hope people don't say that he's an overrated coach. He has to prove that, and obviously he has big shoes to fill in the place of Ravi Shastri. He has a big task ahead, let's see how he performs," Akhtar told PTI. Also Read: Shoaib Akhtar backs Jasprit Bumrah to become India's next captain Dravid is working with the Indian senior team for the first time in his coaching career but has been in the BCCI system since 2014. He was the head coach of the Indian U-19 team for four years and inspired the U-19 team to glory at the 2018 U-19 World Cup. He has also worked with the India A team and a couple of IPL franchises. Dravid was appointed as India's head coach last year after former head coach Ravi Shastri's tenure came to an end post the T20 World Cup 2021.

Rahul Dravid has a big task ahead, has to prove he is not an overrated coach: Shoaib Akhtar

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket, especially in the senior men's team in the last four months.&nbsp;In mid-September 2021, Virat Kohli dropped a bomb on social media by announcing his resignation as the T20I captain post the World Cup, in the UAE.

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🇮🇳 ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/Ds7okjhj9J">pic.twitter.com/Ds7okjhj9J</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1438478585518456832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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After India's colossal failure in the showpiece event, a lot of changes were expected. However, none of the connoisseurs of the game would have foreseen the plethora of changes that came into picture since then.&nbsp;

While Rohit Sharma succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain, being rewarded for his envious record as IPL captain, the latter remained the ODI and Test captain (he himself wanted to carry on as skipper in the longer formats as per his T20I captaincy resignation tweet). Nonetheless, a twist in the tale unfolded just before India boarded the flight for the ongoing South Africa trip.&nbsp;

Last year on December 8, BCCI announced Rohit as the limited-overs captain altogether, sacking Kohli from the top job in the 50-over format. The announcement was made courtesy a two-line Twitter post from the board's official handle:

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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>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1468577752953483264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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A thank you post for outgoing captain Kohli followed a day later, i.e. on December 9.&nbsp;

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A leader who led the side with grit, passion &amp; determination. 🇮🇳🔝 
 
Thank you Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>!👏👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/gz7r6KCuWF">pic.twitter.com/gz7r6KCuWF</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1468919777120829441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The lack of prior communication -- in terms of a proper official statement by the BCCI -- and the late Twitter post irked many Indian cricket fans, who&nbsp;remained baffled with the sudden turn of events. What was cooking?&nbsp;

All eyes, thus, shifted to BCCI's customary press conference before Team India's departure for the rainbow nation. On December 15, Kohli spearheaded the presser and dropped few more bombs with his answers in an affirmative tone.&nbsp;

While BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had already conveyed that the board officials and national selectors had requested Kohli to remain the T20I captain,&nbsp;the star Indian batter contradicted from the claims. "I had told BCCI that I want to quit T20I captaincy. I wasn't told to reconsider it. It was received well, without any hesitation; I was told it's a progressive step and it's in the right direction. I had told them that I want to continue ODI and Test captaincy unless the office bearers think otherwise. I had given that option to them," Kohli had stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-ganguly-wanted-to-issue-showcause-notice-to-kohli-following-his-explosive-presser-report-446249">BCCI President Ganguly wanted to issue showcause notice to Kohli following his explosive presser - Report</a>

In addition, Kohli made it clear that he had no prior communication with the national selectors regarding the ODI captaincy switch. He revealed that he came to know about the decision only 90 minutes prior to the official announcement.&nbsp;

Thus, this opened a pandora of box. Kohli's explosive presser exposed the dire straits between the board, selectors and the superstar cricketer.

In response to the presser, Ganguly made it clear that the board will not make any official statement due to ongoing&nbsp;SA tour. "No statements, no press conference. We will deal with it, leave it to (the) BCCI," Ganguly told local mediapersons after the presser.

Nonetheless, chief selector Chetan Sharma made heads turn, stating that Kohli was asked by officials and selectors to remain T20I captain.&nbsp; "When meeting started, it was a surprise for everybody. If the World T20 is round the corner and you hear something like this, what will be your reaction? Everyone present in that meeting had told him that he should rethink his decision (to quit T20 captaincy) and we can talk about it after the World Cup. All selectors felt at that time that this can affect us in the World Cup. It was told to Virat for sake of Indian cricket, please continue as the captain and it was told by everybody present in the meeting. The convenors were there, board officials were there. Sabhi ne bola hai (everyone told him). Who won’t tell? If this news comes to you, you are in a shock. But since we had a World T20 to play, we never wanted it to affect team," the former India pacer told on December 31.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-match-makes-virat-kohli-turned-down-bccis-offer-to-play-farewell-test-as-captain-report-445316">'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report</a>

When the Indian cricket fans were busy trying to make sense of the mysterious turn of events, Kohli dropped another bomb -- probably throwing his last roll of the&nbsp;dice&nbsp;-- by announcing his resignation as the Test captain post India's 2-1 series loss to SA in the African nation.&nbsp;

On January 15, Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."

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🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/huBL6zZ7fZ">pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1482340422987169794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Following Kohli's resignation, ending his Team India captaincy tenure altogether, many reactions came in a flash. Needless to say, Ganguly's response was most awaited. Few hours after Kohli's announcement, Ganguly wrote, "Under Virat's leadership Indian cricket has made rapid strides in all formats of the game... his decision is a personal one and bcci respects it immensely... he will be an important member to take this team to newer heights in the future. A great player. well done... @BCCI @imVkohli."

A battle with no winner but plenty of losers!

So far, there is total chaos surrounding Indian cricket. It reminds the 90s fans of the infamous Greg Chappell-era.&nbsp;

As an Indian cricket loyalist, the cracks became evident on the day BCCI made the ODI captaincy switch. The lack of communication and late tribute for Kohli -- yes, even a timely Twitter post for some big announcements means a lot in the social media-era -- triggered the collapse.&nbsp;

Ganguly statement prior to Kohli's presser was entirely uncalled for (similarly, the latter's T20I captaincy resignation announcement can also be termed 'untimely'; i.e. a month before the World Cup). Being the BCCI chief, he could've shifted the query towards the national selectors. After all, it was their unanimous choice to sack Kohli and have one white-ball captain.

Former India cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar had lashed out at the BCCI chief and told Khaleej Times, "It’s very unfortunate, the whole thing. I think it should have been handled more professionally by the cricket board. The thing is that Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of the selection committee. Ganguly is the president of BCCI. Any issue about selection or captaincy, it’s the chairman of the selection committee who should speak."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-had-no-pressure-from-the-board-selectors-bcci-treasurer-reacts-to-kohli-leaving-test-captaincy-445254">Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy</a>

Further, Kohli's presser fanned the fire. Chetan Sharma's statements led to more questions than answers. The 33-year-old Kohli's Test resignation -- a format where he excelled as captain -- raised more eyebrows; acting as a confirmation to many Indian cricket fans that the superstar batter chose to side away from all the negativity and war of words.&nbsp;

In the ongoing India-SA ODIs, Kohli has scores of 51 and 0 so far. While he didn't dominate entirely in the first outing, he fell for a five-ball duck in the second and penultimate ODI. Fans are already concerned that the BCCI row has taken a lot out of Kohli, who has clearly lacked intensity on the field.&nbsp;

It is NOT looking good

Irrespective of how things have unfolded, Kohli's presence, intensity and contribution remain&nbsp;of utmost importance to Team India across formats.

Thus, one wishes that the tug of war between Kohli and BCCI is over. For now, it is taking a lot out of a talismanic batter and also putting BCCI under the scanner. For the unversed, on&nbsp;Thursday (January 20), reports suggested&nbsp;that Ganguly prevented issuing a show cause notice to Kohli for his explosive presser.&nbsp;A source close to the development was quoted as saying by India Ahead News, "And the board president was all for issuing a show cause notice to Kohli." Hence, the writing is clearly on the wall as the recipe being cooked is surely nothing less than a disaster.&nbsp;

If all this continues, India will lose many battles&nbsp;even before taking&nbsp;on oppositions on the field. People following the India-SA series have already concluded that the national side is looking clueless with each passing game in the African nation.

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket, especially in the senior men's team in the last four months. In mid-September 2021, Virat Kohli dropped a bomb on social media by announcing his resignation as the T20I captain post the World Cup, in the UAE.

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket, especially in the senior men's team in the last four months. In mid-September 2021, Virat Kohli dropped a bomb on social media by announcing his resignation as the T20I captain post the World Cup, in the UAE. 🇮🇳 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Ds7okjhj9J — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) September 16, 2021 × After India's colossal failure in the showpiece event, a lot of changes were expected. However, none of the connoisseurs of the game would have foreseen the plethora of changes that came into picture since then. While Rohit Sharma succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain, being rewarded for his envious record as IPL captain, the latter remained the ODI and Test captain (he himself wanted to carry on as skipper in the longer formats as per his T20I captaincy resignation tweet). Nonetheless, a twist in the tale unfolded just before India boarded the flight for the ongoing South Africa trip. Last year on December 8, BCCI announced Rohit as the limited-overs captain altogether, sacking Kohli from the top job in the 50-over format. The announcement was made courtesy a two-line Twitter post from the board's official handle: 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 × A thank you post for outgoing captain Kohli followed a day later, i.e. on December 9. A leader who led the side with grit, passion & determination. 🇮🇳🔝 Thank you Captain @imVkohli!👏👏#TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/gz7r6KCuWF — BCCI (@BCCI) December 9, 2021 × The lack of prior communication -- in terms of a proper official statement by the BCCI -- and the late Twitter post irked many Indian cricket fans, who remained baffled with the sudden turn of events. What was cooking? All eyes, thus, shifted to BCCI's customary press conference before Team India's departure for the rainbow nation. On December 15, Kohli spearheaded the presser and dropped few more bombs with his answers in an affirmative tone. While BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had already conveyed that the board officials and national selectors had requested Kohli to remain the T20I captain, the star Indian batter contradicted from the claims. "I had told BCCI that I want to quit T20I captaincy. I wasn't told to reconsider it. It was received well, without any hesitation; I was told it's a progressive step and it's in the right direction. I had told them that I want to continue ODI and Test captaincy unless the office bearers think otherwise. I had given that option to them," Kohli had stated. ALSO READ | BCCI President Ganguly wanted to issue showcause notice to Kohli following his explosive presser - Report In addition, Kohli made it clear that he had no prior communication with the national selectors regarding the ODI captaincy switch. He revealed that he came to know about the decision only 90 minutes prior to the official announcement. Thus, this opened a pandora of box. Kohli's explosive presser exposed the dire straits between the board, selectors and the superstar cricketer. In response to the presser, Ganguly made it clear that the board will not make any official statement due to ongoing SA tour. "No statements, no press conference. We will deal with it, leave it to (the) BCCI," Ganguly told local mediapersons after the presser. Nonetheless, chief selector Chetan Sharma made heads turn, stating that Kohli was asked by officials and selectors to remain T20I captain. "When meeting started, it was a surprise for everybody. If the World T20 is round the corner and you hear something like this, what will be your reaction? Everyone present in that meeting had told him that he should rethink his decision (to quit T20 captaincy) and we can talk about it after the World Cup. All selectors felt at that time that this can affect us in the World Cup. It was told to Virat for sake of Indian cricket, please continue as the captain and it was told by everybody present in the meeting. The convenors were there, board officials were there. Sabhi ne bola hai (everyone told him). Who won’t tell? If this news comes to you, you are in a shock. But since we had a World T20 to play, we never wanted it to affect team," the former India pacer told on December 31. ALSO READ | 'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report When the Indian cricket fans were busy trying to make sense of the mysterious turn of events, Kohli dropped another bomb -- probably throwing his last roll of the dice -- by announcing his resignation as the Test captain post India's 2-1 series loss to SA in the African nation. On January 15, Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × Following Kohli's resignation, ending his Team India captaincy tenure altogether, many reactions came in a flash. Needless to say, Ganguly's response was most awaited. Few hours after Kohli's announcement, Ganguly wrote, "Under Virat's leadership Indian cricket has made rapid strides in all formats of the game... his decision is a personal one and bcci respects it immensely... he will be an important member to take this team to newer heights in the future. A great player. well done... @BCCI @imVkohli." A battle with no winner but plenty of losers! So far, there is total chaos surrounding Indian cricket. It reminds the 90s fans of the infamous Greg Chappell-era. As an Indian cricket loyalist, the cracks became evident on the day BCCI made the ODI captaincy switch. The lack of communication and late tribute for Kohli -- yes, even a timely Twitter post for some big announcements means a lot in the social media-era -- triggered the collapse. Ganguly statement prior to Kohli's presser was entirely uncalled for (similarly, the latter's T20I captaincy resignation announcement can also be termed 'untimely'; i.e. a month before the World Cup). Being the BCCI chief, he could've shifted the query towards the national selectors. After all, it was their unanimous choice to sack Kohli and have one white-ball captain. Former India cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar had lashed out at the BCCI chief and told Khaleej Times, "It’s very unfortunate, the whole thing. I think it should have been handled more professionally by the cricket board. The thing is that Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of the selection committee. Ganguly is the president of BCCI. Any issue about selection or captaincy, it’s the chairman of the selection committee who should speak." ALSO READ | Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy Further, Kohli's presser fanned the fire. Chetan Sharma's statements led to more questions than answers. The 33-year-old Kohli's Test resignation -- a format where he excelled as captain -- raised more eyebrows; acting as a confirmation to many Indian cricket fans that the superstar batter chose to side away from all the negativity and war of words. In the ongoing India-SA ODIs, Kohli has scores of 51 and 0 so far. While he didn't dominate entirely in the first outing, he fell for a five-ball duck in the second and penultimate ODI. Fans are already concerned that the BCCI row has taken a lot out of Kohli, who has clearly lacked intensity on the field. It is NOT looking good Irrespective of how things have unfolded, Kohli's presence, intensity and contribution remain of utmost importance to Team India across formats. Thus, one wishes that the tug of war between Kohli and BCCI is over. For now, it is taking a lot out of a talismanic batter and also putting BCCI under the scanner. For the unversed, on Thursday (January 20), reports suggested that Ganguly prevented issuing a show cause notice to Kohli for his explosive presser. A source close to the development was quoted as saying by India Ahead News, "And the board president was all for issuing a show cause notice to Kohli." Hence, the writing is clearly on the wall as the recipe being cooked is surely nothing less than a disaster. If all this continues, India will lose many battles even before taking on oppositions on the field. People following the India-SA series have already concluded that the national side is looking clueless with each passing game in the African nation.

Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Is there any real winner in this tussle?

Rishabh Pant slammed a brilliant knock of 85 runs in the second ODI against South Africa at the Boland Park in Paarl on Friday (January 21) to achieve an elusive milestone. Despite missing out on a well-deserved maiden ODI ton, the Indian wicket-keeper batter wowed fans with some fantastic skills and strokeplay during his entertaining knock.

After opting to bat first in the must-win second ODI, India got off to a good start with openers KL Rahul and Shikhar Dhawan adding 63 runs for the first wicket. The visitors then lost Dhawan (29) and Virat Kohli (0) in quick succession before Rahul and Pant combined to steady the ship.

While Pant played the aggressor and went after the South African bowlers, Rahul played the anchor's role to perfection. Pant slammed a cracking 85 off 71 balls laced with ten fours and two sixes as he achieved an elusive milestone. The left-hander added a 115-run stand for the third wicket with skipper Rahul, who notched up a fine 55 off 79 deliveries.

With his 85-run-knock Pant broke current India head coach Rahul Dravid's record to achieve the milestone of the highest individual score in ODIs by an Indian wicket-keeper batter in South Africa. Pant now has the highest score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an ODI in South Africa, surpassing Dravid's 77 in Durban in 2001.

Highest individual ODI scores&nbsp;by an Indian wicket-keeper in South Africa:

85 &nbsp;Rishabh Pant v SA, Paarl 2022

&nbsp;77 &nbsp;Rahul Dravid v SA,&nbsp; Durban 2001

65 &nbsp;MS Dhoni v SA,&nbsp; Joburg 2013

62 &nbsp;Rahul Dravid v Eng, Durban 2003

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-comedy-of-errors-ensues-between-rahul-pant-before-keshav-maharaj-misses-run-out-chance-446456">WATCH - Comedy of errors ensues between Rahul, Pant before Keshav Maharaj misses run-out chance</a>

Pant also holds the record for the highest individual score by an Indian batter in Tests as he had become the first Indian keeper to score a century in South Africa during the recently-concluded three-match Test series. The left-hander is currently one of the vital cogs in the Indian team across formats and has been delivering consistent performances with the bat.

With the help of fifties from Pant and Rahul, and crucial contributions from R Ashwin (25) and Shradul Thakur (40), India managed to post a fighting total of 287 runs on the board in 50 overs. Having lost the first ODI by 31 runs, the visitors will be hopeful of bouncing back and levelling the three-match series with a win on Friday.

Rishabh Pant slammed a brilliant knock of 85 runs in the second ODI against South Africa at the Boland Park in Paarl on Friday (January 21) to achieve an elusive milestone.

Rishabh Pant slammed a brilliant knock of 85 runs in the second ODI against South Africa at the Boland Park in Paarl on Friday (January 21) to achieve an elusive milestone. Despite missing out on a well-deserved maiden ODI ton, the Indian wicket-keeper batter wowed fans with some fantastic skills and strokeplay during his entertaining knock. After opting to bat first in the must-win second ODI, India got off to a good start with openers KL Rahul and Shikhar Dhawan adding 63 runs for the first wicket. The visitors then lost Dhawan (29) and Virat Kohli (0) in quick succession before Rahul and Pant combined to steady the ship. While Pant played the aggressor and went after the South African bowlers, Rahul played the anchor's role to perfection. Pant slammed a cracking 85 off 71 balls laced with ten fours and two sixes as he achieved an elusive milestone. The left-hander added a 115-run stand for the third wicket with skipper Rahul, who notched up a fine 55 off 79 deliveries. With his 85-run-knock Pant broke current India head coach Rahul Dravid's record to achieve the milestone of the highest individual score in ODIs by an Indian wicket-keeper batter in South Africa. Pant now has the highest score by an Indian wicket-keeper in an ODI in South Africa, surpassing Dravid's 77 in Durban in 2001. Highest individual ODI scores by an Indian wicket-keeper in South Africa: 85 Rishabh Pant v SA, Paarl 2022 77 Rahul Dravid v SA, Durban 2001 65 MS Dhoni v SA, Joburg 2013 62 Rahul Dravid v Eng, Durban 2003 Also Read: WATCH - Comedy of errors ensues between Rahul, Pant before Keshav Maharaj misses run-out chance Pant also holds the record for the highest individual score by an Indian batter in Tests as he had become the first Indian keeper to score a century in South Africa during the recently-concluded three-match Test series. The left-hander is currently one of the vital cogs in the Indian team across formats and has been delivering consistent performances with the bat. With the help of fifties from Pant and Rahul, and crucial contributions from R Ashwin (25) and Shradul Thakur (40), India managed to post a fighting total of 287 runs on the board in 50 overs. Having lost the first ODI by 31 runs, the visitors will be hopeful of bouncing back and levelling the three-match series with a win on Friday.

Rishabh Pant breaks Rahul Dravid's record to achieve elusive feat with cracking 85 in 2nd ODI vs South Africa

After the riveting three Tests, India and South Africa will square off with each other in the three-match ODI series opener at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). Team India will play their first-ever series in the 50-over format since July 2021 and following Rahul Dravid's appointment as the head coach.

In 2021, India played two bilateral ODI series, versus England and Sri Lanka respectively. India ended the year winning four games and losing two. Since then, a lot has changed in Indian cricket. Virat Kohli was sacked as the ODI captain, having resigned on his own as T20I and Test captain (recently on January 15). Rohit Sharma was named the limited-overs captain in early December 2021, before being ruled out of the upcoming ODIs due to hamstring injury.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itll-be-an-honour-kl-rahul-on-potentially-taking-over-from-virat-kohli-as-indias-next-test-captain-445678">'It’ll be an honour': KL Rahul on potentially taking over from Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain</a>

Thus, the 29-year-old KL Rahul will take the charge of the side in the SA ODIs in Rohit's absence. Rahul has already led India in the ongoing tour, during the second and penultimate Test at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. It will be interesting to see how he guides the side with veterans such as Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, R Ashwin, etc.

Since July 2021, Dravid has already worked with several captains -- in the form of Dhawan, Rohit, Ajinkya Rahane, Kohli and&nbsp;Rahul. Thus, the national side will be eager to gel well and start the series with a bang after losing the Tests 2-1. The young guns such as Venkatesh Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Md Siraj, Rishabh Pant, etc. will be desperate to make the most of their chances.

On the other hand, Bavuma-led SA aren't pushovers by any means. The likes of Bavuma, Quinton de Kock, Lungi Ngidi, etc. will be bolstered by the presence of white-ball specialists David Miller, Andile Pheklukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-comes-a-stage-where-you-cant-afridi-opines-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-quit-test-captaincy-445655">'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy</a>

Match prediction for India-South Africa encounter:&nbsp;There's not much separating both sides. Expect big runs with small boundaries -- on a pitch known to be slow and flat -- if the weather doesn't play a big role. SA's practice session was abandoned on Tuesday (January 18) due to rain interruption. Thus, the weather can make its presence felt.

Given how much India enjoy playing this format and are well in sync with it, expect the visitors to go 1-0 up. Nonetheless, it will be a close contest.

After the riveting three Tests, India and South Africa will square off with each other in the three-match ODI series opener at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19).

After the riveting three Tests, India and South Africa will square off with each other in the three-match ODI series opener at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). Team India will play their first-ever series in the 50-over format since July 2021 and following Rahul Dravid's appointment as the head coach. In 2021, India played two bilateral ODI series, versus England and Sri Lanka respectively. India ended the year winning four games and losing two. Since then, a lot has changed in Indian cricket. Virat Kohli was sacked as the ODI captain, having resigned on his own as T20I and Test captain (recently on January 15). Rohit Sharma was named the limited-overs captain in early December 2021, before being ruled out of the upcoming ODIs due to hamstring injury. ALSO READ | 'It’ll be an honour': KL Rahul on potentially taking over from Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain Thus, the 29-year-old KL Rahul will take the charge of the side in the SA ODIs in Rohit's absence. Rahul has already led India in the ongoing tour, during the second and penultimate Test at The Wanderers, Johannesburg. It will be interesting to see how he guides the side with veterans such as Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, R Ashwin, etc. Since July 2021, Dravid has already worked with several captains -- in the form of Dhawan, Rohit, Ajinkya Rahane, Kohli and Rahul. Thus, the national side will be eager to gel well and start the series with a bang after losing the Tests 2-1. The young guns such as Venkatesh Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Md Siraj, Rishabh Pant, etc. will be desperate to make the most of their chances. On the other hand, Bavuma-led SA aren't pushovers by any means. The likes of Bavuma, Quinton de Kock, Lungi Ngidi, etc. will be bolstered by the presence of white-ball specialists David Miller, Andile Pheklukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi. ALSO READ | 'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy Match prediction for India-South Africa encounter: There's not much separating both sides. Expect big runs with small boundaries -- on a pitch known to be slow and flat -- if the weather doesn't play a big role. SA's practice session was abandoned on Tuesday (January 18) due to rain interruption. Thus, the weather can make its presence felt. Given how much India enjoy playing this format and are well in sync with it, expect the visitors to go 1-0 up. Nonetheless, it will be a close contest.

IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa?

India and South Africa will square off with each other in the second and penultimate ODI on Friday (January 21). After losing the three-match ODI series opener convincingly, KL Rahul-led India will feel the pressure as they have only a day to regroup and keep the series alive.&nbsp;

Talking about the first ODI, Temba Bavuma-led Proteas won the toss and opted to bat first. Despite the hosts being reduced to 68-3, Bavuma's 110 and Rassie van der Dussen's 129 not out propelled SA to a daunting 296-4 in 50 overs. Bavuma-Rassie's 204-run fourth-wicket stand took the game away from the visitors despite being on the back foot at the start.

In the run-chase, Rahul &amp; Co. rode on an impressive 98-run second-wicket stand between Virat Kohli (51) and Shikhar Dhawan (79). However, the duo's dismissals brought the home side back into the contest as the middle and lower order failed to put up a fight from thereon. Shardul Thakur's 50 not out ensured India played their full quota of overs, to end at 265-8.

For the second and penultimate ODI, India will ring in a few&nbsp;changes in the line-up. Suryakumar Yadav or Ruturaj Gaikwad might get a look-in whereas Deepak Chahar can be considered to bolster the pace department.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-ganguly-wanted-to-issue-showcause-notice-to-kohli-following-his-explosive-presser-report-446249">BCCI President Ganguly wanted to issue showcause notice to Kohli following his explosive presser - Report</a>

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is South Africa vs India 2nd ODI match taking place?

South Africa vs India 2nd ODI is scheduled to take place on January 21, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is South Africa vs India 2nd ODI taking place?

South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will take place at the Boland Park, Paarl in South Africa.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-quinton-de-kock-pulls-off-an-ms-dhoni-esque-stumping-to-get-rid-of-rishabh-pant-in-1st-odi-446191">WATCH: Quinton de Kock pulls off an MS Dhoni-esque stumping to get rid of Rishabh Pant in 1st ODI</a>

At what time South Africa vs India 2nd ODI taking place?

South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will kick off at 2:00pm (IST).

How to watch South Africa vs India 2nd ODI live on TV?

South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada.&nbsp;

How to watch South Africa vs India 2nd ODI live streaming?

South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.&nbsp;

India and South Africa will square off with each other in the second and penultimate ODI on Friday (January 21). After losing the three-match ODI series opener convincingly, KL Rahul-led India will feel the pressure as they have only a day to regroup and keep the series alive.

India and South Africa will square off with each other in the second and penultimate ODI on Friday (January 21). After losing the three-match ODI series opener convincingly, KL Rahul-led India will feel the pressure as they have only a day to regroup and keep the series alive. Talking about the first ODI, Temba Bavuma-led Proteas won the toss and opted to bat first. Despite the hosts being reduced to 68-3, Bavuma's 110 and Rassie van der Dussen's 129 not out propelled SA to a daunting 296-4 in 50 overs. Bavuma-Rassie's 204-run fourth-wicket stand took the game away from the visitors despite being on the back foot at the start. In the run-chase, Rahul & Co. rode on an impressive 98-run second-wicket stand between Virat Kohli (51) and Shikhar Dhawan (79). However, the duo's dismissals brought the home side back into the contest as the middle and lower order failed to put up a fight from thereon. Shardul Thakur's 50 not out ensured India played their full quota of overs, to end at 265-8. For the second and penultimate ODI, India will ring in a few changes in the line-up. Suryakumar Yadav or Ruturaj Gaikwad might get a look-in whereas Deepak Chahar can be considered to bolster the pace department. ALSO READ | BCCI President Ganguly wanted to issue showcause notice to Kohli following his explosive presser - Report Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is South Africa vs India 2nd ODI match taking place? South Africa vs India 2nd ODI is scheduled to take place on January 21, 2022. Where is South Africa vs India 2nd ODI taking place? South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will take place at the Boland Park, Paarl in South Africa. ALSO READ | WATCH: Quinton de Kock pulls off an MS Dhoni-esque stumping to get rid of Rishabh Pant in 1st ODI At what time South Africa vs India 2nd ODI taking place? South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will kick off at 2:00pm (IST). How to watch South Africa vs India 2nd ODI live on TV? South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada. How to watch South Africa vs India 2nd ODI live streaming? South Africa vs India 2nd ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.

INDvsSA: When and where to watch India vs South Africa 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details

Virat Kohli moved past Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar to become the Indian batsman with most runs in away games in 50-over format (home of opposition, exclusing neutral venues) during KL Rahul-led India's ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa on Wednesday (January 19) in Paarl.&nbsp;

Kohli's tally was 5,057 before he came out to bat in the series opener, with India chasing 297 at Boland Park, Paarl. By achieving his ninth run, Kohli leapfrogged Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting to occupy the second spot in the overall list. Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara heads the chart, with 5,518 away runs in ODIs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-t20i-team-of-2021-babar-azam-leads-star-studded-xi-no-team-india-player-makes-the-cut-446012">ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut</a>

Kohli, however, couldn't be till the end of India's run-chase, falling for 51 off Tabriaz Shamsi. He mistimed a sweep and was caught at short mid-wicket.&nbsp;

Overall, Kohli has amassed over 12,000 runs in the ODI format in 255* ODIs. The 33-year-old averages 59.07 and has already struck 43 tons. In late 2018, he had broken Tendulkar's record to become the quickest to 10,000 runs in the shorter format.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvsa-kl-rahul-becomes-second-indian-to-achieve-unique-captaincy-feat-during-odi-series-opener-445991">IndvSA: KL Rahul becomes second Indian to achieve unique captaincy feat during ODI series opener</a>

Having resigned as the Test captain recently, Kohli's overall captaincy tenure has ended altogether. He will now shift his focus to contributing with the bat in all forms of the game.

Virat Kohli moved past Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar to become the Indian batsman with most runs in away games in 50-over format (home of opposition, exclusing neutral venues) during KL Rahul-led India's ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa on Wednesday (January 19) in Paarl.

Virat Kohli moved past Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar to become the Indian batsman with most runs in away games in 50-over format (home of opposition, exclusing neutral venues) during KL Rahul-led India's ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa on Wednesday (January 19) in Paarl. Kohli's tally was 5,057 before he came out to bat in the series opener, with India chasing 297 at Boland Park, Paarl. By achieving his ninth run, Kohli leapfrogged Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting to occupy the second spot in the overall list. Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara heads the chart, with 5,518 away runs in ODIs. ALSO READ | ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut Kohli, however, couldn't be till the end of India's run-chase, falling for 51 off Tabriaz Shamsi. He mistimed a sweep and was caught at short mid-wicket. Overall, Kohli has amassed over 12,000 runs in the ODI format in 255* ODIs. The 33-year-old averages 59.07 and has already struck 43 tons. In late 2018, he had broken Tendulkar's record to become the quickest to 10,000 runs in the shorter format. ALSO READ | IndvSA: KL Rahul becomes second Indian to achieve unique captaincy feat during ODI series opener Having resigned as the Test captain recently, Kohli's overall captaincy tenure has ended altogether. He will now shift his focus to contributing with the bat in all forms of the game.

India vs SA: Virat Kohli surpasses Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting to achieve elite feat during 1st ODI

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced that he is stepping down as the Test captain. The decision came as a huge shock for the entire cricketing fraternity, given his impressive record as the skipper in the red-ball format. With him quitting as the Test captain, Kohli's overall captaincy tenure for the national side also came to an end.&nbsp;

In mid-September 2021, Kohli had announced that he would be stepping down as the T20I captain following the World Cup, in the UAE. Post the mega event, he was sacked as the ODI captain before quitting the top post in Test. As the 33-year-old Kohli will now look to play freely -- without additional responsibilities&nbsp;-- in India's upcoming assignments, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir opined on Kohli's captaincy tenure. He feels that while the red-ball team is in good health at the time of Kohli's captaincy resignation, he cannot say the same about the white-ball sides.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-sure-venkatesh-iyer-is-an-all-rounder-yet-sanjay-manjrekar-on-india-star-ahead-of-south-africa-odis-445816">Not sure Venkatesh Iyer is an all-rounder yet: Sanjay Manjrekar on India star ahead of South Africa ODIs</a>

“Between the last Test and ODI series, the new space has been hogged by Virat resigning from Test captaincy. I think it is an individual’s call and that is how it should be treated. I think Virat left the Indian Test team in good health but I can’t say the same about white-ball cricket. Our bowling resources in Test matches are a neighbor’s envy and owner’s pride. They have shown time and again that they are the engine room for a team’s performance. In limited-overs cricket, I’d have liked to see a more settled middle-order which Virat couldn’t create,” Gambhir wrote in his column for&nbsp;Times of India.

“In my book, Rohit Sharma should lead India across formats with Rahul as his deputy. One captain across formats will ensure consistency in style and approach of the Indian team especially considering that we have another T20 World Cup later this year,” Gambhir asserted.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-comes-a-stage-where-you-cant-afridi-opines-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-quit-test-captaincy-445655">'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy</a>

Rohit Sharma has already replaced Kohli as the white-ball formats' captain. The Test captaincy is now up for grabs following Kohli's resignation, with Rohit, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. in contention for the top job.&nbsp;

At present, Kohli is involved in the three ODIs between India and South Africa in the rainbow nation. Rahul is leading the side in Rohit's absence (due to hamstring injury).

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced that he is stepping down as the Test captain. The decision came as a huge shock for the entire cricketing fraternity, given his impressive record as the skipper in the red-ball format.

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced that he is stepping down as the Test captain. The decision came as a huge shock for the entire cricketing fraternity, given his impressive record as the skipper in the red-ball format. With him quitting as the Test captain, Kohli's overall captaincy tenure for the national side also came to an end. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had announced that he would be stepping down as the T20I captain following the World Cup, in the UAE. Post the mega event, he was sacked as the ODI captain before quitting the top post in Test. As the 33-year-old Kohli will now look to play freely -- without additional responsibilities -- in India's upcoming assignments, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir opined on Kohli's captaincy tenure. He feels that while the red-ball team is in good health at the time of Kohli's captaincy resignation, he cannot say the same about the white-ball sides. ALSO READ | Not sure Venkatesh Iyer is an all-rounder yet: Sanjay Manjrekar on India star ahead of South Africa ODIs “Between the last Test and ODI series, the new space has been hogged by Virat resigning from Test captaincy. I think it is an individual’s call and that is how it should be treated. I think Virat left the Indian Test team in good health but I can’t say the same about white-ball cricket. Our bowling resources in Test matches are a neighbor’s envy and owner’s pride. They have shown time and again that they are the engine room for a team’s performance. In limited-overs cricket, I’d have liked to see a more settled middle-order which Virat couldn’t create,” Gambhir wrote in his column for Times of India. “In my book, Rohit Sharma should lead India across formats with Rahul as his deputy. One captain across formats will ensure consistency in style and approach of the Indian team especially considering that we have another T20 World Cup later this year,” Gambhir asserted. ALSO READ | 'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy Rohit Sharma has already replaced Kohli as the white-ball formats' captain. The Test captaincy is now up for grabs following Kohli's resignation, with Rohit, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, etc. in contention for the top job. At present, Kohli is involved in the three ODIs between India and South Africa in the rainbow nation. Rahul is leading the side in Rohit's absence (due to hamstring injury).

'He left Indian Test team in good health, can’t say...' - Gautam Gambhir on Virat Kohli's captaincy tenure

After the end of the riveting Test series, India and South Africa will face each other in a three-match ODI series in the African nation, starting on January 19 at Boland Park, Paarl. The series will see India return to the 50-over format after a long time. The last ODI series for the Men in Blue was in Sri Lanka, in July 2021, where a second-stringed Shikhar Dhawan-led side beat the Islanders.&nbsp;

The last time both sides faced each other in ODIs in the rainbow nation led to the visitors winning 5-1. Since then, India and South Africa haven't faced each other in the shorter&nbsp;format. During SA's tour of India in late 2019, the African nation had played three T20Is and equal number of Tests. Their only face-off in the 50-over format was during the 2019 ODI World Cup.

The ODI series will present a huge opportunity for KL Rahul to bolster his chances of taking over as the Test captain, following Kohli's resignation. Rahul is leading the national side in the absence of limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma, ruled out due to injury. He will have the assistance of Kohli, Dhawan, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, etc.

On the other hand, the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas will be bolstered by the presence of white-ball specialists, such as David Miller, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi. They will like to carry on in a similar stead after having won the three Tests, 2-1, despite a 1-0 lead.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-odi-prediction-who-will-win-series-opener-between-kl-rahul-led-india-and-south-africa-445719">IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa?</a>

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is South Africa vs India 1st ODI match taking place?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI is scheduled to take place on January 19, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is South Africa vs India 1st ODI taking place?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI&nbsp;will take place at the Boland Park, Paarl in South Africa.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-already-set-a-standard-for-india-rahul-speaks-highly-of-former-captain-kohli-ahead-of-sa-odis-445743">He has already set a standard for India: Rahul speaks highly of former captain Kohli ahead of SA ODIs</a>

At what time South Africa vs India 1st ODI taking place?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI&nbsp;will kick off at&nbsp;2:00pm (IST).

How to watch South Africa vs India 1st ODI&nbsp;live on TV?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada.&nbsp;

How to watch South Africa vs India 1st ODI live streaming?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.&nbsp;

After the end of the riveting Test series, India and South Africa will face each other in a three-match ODI series in the African nation, starting on January 19 at Boland Park, Paarl.

After the end of the riveting Test series, India and South Africa will face each other in a three-match ODI series in the African nation, starting on January 19 at Boland Park, Paarl. The series will see India return to the 50-over format after a long time. The last ODI series for the Men in Blue was in Sri Lanka, in July 2021, where a second-stringed Shikhar Dhawan-led side beat the Islanders. The last time both sides faced each other in ODIs in the rainbow nation led to the visitors winning 5-1. Since then, India and South Africa haven't faced each other in the shorter format. During SA's tour of India in late 2019, the African nation had played three T20Is and equal number of Tests. Their only face-off in the 50-over format was during the 2019 ODI World Cup. The ODI series will present a huge opportunity for KL Rahul to bolster his chances of taking over as the Test captain, following Kohli's resignation. Rahul is leading the national side in the absence of limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma, ruled out due to injury. He will have the assistance of Kohli, Dhawan, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. On the other hand, the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas will be bolstered by the presence of white-ball specialists, such as David Miller, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi. They will like to carry on in a similar stead after having won the three Tests, 2-1, despite a 1-0 lead. ALSO READ | IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa? Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is South Africa vs India 1st ODI match taking place? South Africa vs India 1st ODI is scheduled to take place on January 19, 2022. Where is South Africa vs India 1st ODI taking place? South Africa vs India 1st ODI will take place at the Boland Park, Paarl in South Africa. ALSO READ | He has already set a standard for India: Rahul speaks highly of former captain Kohli ahead of SA ODIs At what time South Africa vs India 1st ODI taking place? South Africa vs India 1st ODI will kick off at 2:00pm (IST). How to watch South Africa vs India 1st ODI live on TV? South Africa vs India 1st ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada. How to watch South Africa vs India 1st ODI live streaming? South Africa vs India 1st ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.

INDvsSA: When and where to watch India vs South Africa 1st ODI match - IST time and streaming details

KL Rahul will take charge of Team India in the upcoming three ODIs versus South Africa, which gets underway at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Rahul will lead the side for the first time for a full series.

Thus, Rahul will have his fair share of challenges leading the Men in Blue, comprising many veteran players such as former captain Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin, etc. Ahead of the three ODIs, the 29-year-old Rahul lavished huge praise on Kohli's leadership, whose captaincy tenure ended altogether after quitting as the Test captain (on January 15).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-odi-prediction-who-will-win-series-opener-between-kl-rahul-led-india-and-south-africa-445719">IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa?</a>

Speaking in the pre-match press conference about Kohli and his leadership, Rahul opined, "Team India has done some phenomenal things under Virat Kohli’s leadership. We won a series outside of India, which hasn’t been done before. We have gone to every country and won a series. He has done a lot of things right and he has already set a standard for all of us and for Team India."&nbsp;

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"It’s all about for us and as a team to build upon that. We have to take it forward, keep improving as individuals and try to stay as disciplined and determined as we can and go out there and enjoy our cricket. Every series gives us a different opportunity," the versatile batter added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-the-verge-of-surpassing-dravid-ganguly-in-elite-list-ahead-of-odi-series-against-south-africa-445691">Virat Kohli on the verge of surpassing Dravid, Ganguly in elite list ahead of ODI series against South Africa</a>

Rahul also mentioned Kohli's biggest quality as a leader and said, "When it comes to leadership, Virat has this amazing ability to get the best out of everybody. He pushed everybody and made us believe we can do special things and that’s something I’ve learnt from him and hopefully, I can do that with the team as well."

Under Kohli, India excelled particularly in the red-ball format; dominating at home, winning a Test series in Australia and ensuring an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the United Kingdom in 2021's incomplete five-match series. In the white-ball format, Kohli guided India to bilateral ODI series wins in Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and West Indies and the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In T20Is, Kohli-led India won bilateral series&nbsp;in SENA countries.&nbsp;

Currently, India is gearing up for the ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas at Paarl. The second and penultimate ODI will also take place at the same venue before the series finale will be hosted at Newlands, Cape Town.

KL Rahul will take charge of Team India in the upcoming three ODIs versus South Africa, which gets underway at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Rahul will lead the side for the first time for a full series.

KL Rahul will take charge of Team India in the upcoming three ODIs versus South Africa, which gets underway at Boland Park, Paarl on Wednesday (January 19). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Rahul will lead the side for the first time for a full series. Thus, Rahul will have his fair share of challenges leading the Men in Blue, comprising many veteran players such as former captain Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, R Ashwin, etc. Ahead of the three ODIs, the 29-year-old Rahul lavished huge praise on Kohli's leadership, whose captaincy tenure ended altogether after quitting as the Test captain (on January 15). ALSO READ | IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa? Speaking in the pre-match press conference about Kohli and his leadership, Rahul opined, "Team India has done some phenomenal things under Virat Kohli’s leadership. We won a series outside of India, which hasn’t been done before. We have gone to every country and won a series. He has done a lot of things right and he has already set a standard for all of us and for Team India." × "It’s all about for us and as a team to build upon that. We have to take it forward, keep improving as individuals and try to stay as disciplined and determined as we can and go out there and enjoy our cricket. Every series gives us a different opportunity," the versatile batter added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli on the verge of surpassing Dravid, Ganguly in elite list ahead of ODI series against South Africa Rahul also mentioned Kohli's biggest quality as a leader and said, "When it comes to leadership, Virat has this amazing ability to get the best out of everybody. He pushed everybody and made us believe we can do special things and that’s something I’ve learnt from him and hopefully, I can do that with the team as well." Under Kohli, India excelled particularly in the red-ball format; dominating at home, winning a Test series in Australia and ensuring an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the United Kingdom in 2021's incomplete five-match series. In the white-ball format, Kohli guided India to bilateral ODI series wins in Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and West Indies and the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In T20Is, Kohli-led India won bilateral series in SENA countries. Currently, India is gearing up for the ODI series opener versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas at Paarl. The second and penultimate ODI will also take place at the same venue before the series finale will be hosted at Newlands, Cape Town.

He has already set a standard for India: Rahul speaks highly of former captain Kohli ahead of SA ODIs

Virat Kohli shocked the entire cricketing world after dropping the captaincy bomb on social media last week. He confirmed that he will no more be leading India in Tests and will now continue playing as only a batter in all three formats of the game for the Men in Blue. Kohli will be looking to make the most of the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, which will be his first international assignment after giving up captaincy across all formats.

All eyes will be on Kohli the batter when India will lock horns with the Proteas in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Boland Park in Paarl on Thursday (January 19). The batting maestro will be looking to achieve a few milestones in the upcoming ODI series against the Proteas in their own backyard and is on the verge of surpassing Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid in an elite list.

Kohli currently has 1287 runs in ODIs against South Africa and will be just a few runs away from surpassing both Dravid and Ganguly in the elite list of Indian batters with the most runs against the Proteas in ODIs when he walks out to bat in the 1st ODI in Paarl on Wednesday.

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly (1313 runs) and current India head coach Rahul Dravid (1309 runs) are currently placed second and third&nbsp;respectively in the elite list of highest run-getters for India in ODIs against South Africa. Kohli needs just 27 runs to surpass the two greats and go second only behind Sachin Tendulkar.

Tendulkar is leading the elite list with 2001 runs in 57 ODIs against South Africa. Sachin is also the leading run-getter against South Africa overall and is followed by former Australia captain Ricky Ponting (1879 runs) at the second spot. Kohli is 8th on the overall list.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itll-be-an-honour-kl-rahul-on-potentially-taking-over-from-virat-kohli-as-indias-next-test-captain-445678">&nbsp;'It’ll be an honour': KL Rahul on potentially taking over from Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain</a>

<h3>Virat Kohli has a sublime record against South Africa:</h3>

Kohli has an exceptional record against South Africa in ODIs with his 1287 runs in just 27 matches at a stunning average of 64.35 including four centuries and six fifties. He also has a brilliant strike rate of 86.90 against the Proteas in ODIs so far in his career.

With the burden of captaincy off his shoulders now, Kohli will be hopeful of making an impact as a batter and returning to his old form. The former India skipper will be also hoping to bring an end to his long-standing century drought during the ODI series against South Africa.

<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

&nbsp;

Virat Kohli shocked the entire cricketing world after dropping the captaincy bomb on social media last week. He confirmed that he will no more be leading India in Tests and will now continue playing as only a batter in all three formats of the game for the Men in Blue.

Virat Kohli shocked the entire cricketing world after dropping the captaincy bomb on social media last week. He confirmed that he will no more be leading India in Tests and will now continue playing as only a batter in all three formats of the game for the Men in Blue. Kohli will be looking to make the most of the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, which will be his first international assignment after giving up captaincy across all formats. All eyes will be on Kohli the batter when India will lock horns with the Proteas in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Boland Park in Paarl on Thursday (January 19). The batting maestro will be looking to achieve a few milestones in the upcoming ODI series against the Proteas in their own backyard and is on the verge of surpassing Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid in an elite list. Kohli currently has 1287 runs in ODIs against South Africa and will be just a few runs away from surpassing both Dravid and Ganguly in the elite list of Indian batters with the most runs against the Proteas in ODIs when he walks out to bat in the 1st ODI in Paarl on Wednesday. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly (1313 runs) and current India head coach Rahul Dravid (1309 runs) are currently placed second and third respectively in the elite list of highest run-getters for India in ODIs against South Africa. Kohli needs just 27 runs to surpass the two greats and go second only behind Sachin Tendulkar. Tendulkar is leading the elite list with 2001 runs in 57 ODIs against South Africa. Sachin is also the leading run-getter against South Africa overall and is followed by former Australia captain Ricky Ponting (1879 runs) at the second spot. Kohli is 8th on the overall list. Also Read: 'It’ll be an honour': KL Rahul on potentially taking over from Virat Kohli as India's next Test captain Virat Kohli has a sublime record against South Africa: Kohli has an exceptional record against South Africa in ODIs with his 1287 runs in just 27 matches at a stunning average of 64.35 including four centuries and six fifties. He also has a brilliant strike rate of 86.90 against the Proteas in ODIs so far in his career. With the burden of captaincy off his shoulders now, Kohli will be hopeful of making an impact as a batter and returning to his old form. The former India skipper will be also hoping to bring an end to his long-standing century drought during the ODI series against South Africa.

Virat Kohli on the verge of surpassing Dravid, Ganguly in elite list ahead of ODI series against South Africa

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced his decision to step aside as the Indian Test captain. The 33-year-old stunned one and all with his sudden decision, which came only a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa.

Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now."

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-will-always-be-my-captain-king-siraj-gets-emotional-shares-heartfelt-post-for-superhero-virat-kohli-445630">You will always be my captain, King: Siraj gets emotional, shares heartfelt post for 'superhero' Virat Kohli</a>

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Kohli's decision shocked the entire cricketing fraternity. Under him, India rose to the No. 1 rankings and ended at the top spot for five consecutive years in ICC's rankings after annual updates. Kohli led India to their maiden Test series win on Australian soil, an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, plenty of wins at home and the final of the inaugural ICC WTC cycle.

As many former cricketers and experts of the game have reacted to Kohli's latest revelation, former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi also joined the bandwagon.

"It's fine in my opinion. Virat has played enough cricket and led the team well. And I believe this is the correct decision. There comes a stage where you can't handle pressure, and because of it, your own performances get affected. So, I think he has captained for a long time and at a great level. As a batsman, it's time he enjoys his cricket," Afridi said on the show ‘Game Set Match’ on&nbsp;Samaa

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-here-to-give-a-judgment-jasprit-bumrah-reacts-to-virat-kohli-quitting-as-test-captain-445472">I am not here to give a judgment: Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain</a>

Kohli had already stepped aside as the T20I captain, post the World Cup in the UAE last year, and was removed as the ODI captain in late 2021. He will now shift his focus to return to his very best as a batter -- having not scored an international ton since late 2019 -- in India's upcoming assignments.&nbsp;

Currently, KL Rahul-led India are gearing up for the three ODIs versus South Africa, in the African nation, which gets underway on January 19 at Paarl. Limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out due to hamstring injury.

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced his decision to step aside as the Indian Test captain. The 33-year-old stunned one and all with his sudden decision, which came only a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa.

Virat Kohli, on January 15, announced his decision to step aside as the Indian Test captain. The 33-year-old stunned one and all with his sudden decision, which came only a day after India's three-match Test series loss to hosts Dean Elgar-led South Africa. Kohli tweeted saying, "Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test captain of India, it’s now. It’s been 7 years of hard work, toil and relentless perseverance every day to take the team in the right direction. I’ve done the job with absolute honesty and left nothing out there. Everything has to come to a halt at some stage and for me as Test Captain of India, it’s now." 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/huBL6zZ7fZ — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | You will always be my captain, King: Siraj gets emotional, shares heartfelt post for 'superhero' Virat Kohli × Kohli's decision shocked the entire cricketing fraternity. Under him, India rose to the No. 1 rankings and ended at the top spot for five consecutive years in ICC's rankings after annual updates. Kohli led India to their maiden Test series win on Australian soil, an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, plenty of wins at home and the final of the inaugural ICC WTC cycle. As many former cricketers and experts of the game have reacted to Kohli's latest revelation, former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi also joined the bandwagon. "It's fine in my opinion. Virat has played enough cricket and led the team well. And I believe this is the correct decision. There comes a stage where you can't handle pressure, and because of it, your own performances get affected. So, I think he has captained for a long time and at a great level. As a batsman, it's time he enjoys his cricket," Afridi said on the show ‘Game Set Match’ on Samaa ALSO READ | I am not here to give a judgment: Jasprit Bumrah reacts to Virat Kohli quitting as Test captain Kohli had already stepped aside as the T20I captain, post the World Cup in the UAE last year, and was removed as the ODI captain in late 2021. He will now shift his focus to return to his very best as a batter -- having not scored an international ton since late 2019 -- in India's upcoming assignments. Currently, KL Rahul-led India are gearing up for the three ODIs versus South Africa, in the African nation, which gets underway on January 19 at Paarl. Limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out due to hamstring injury.

'There comes a stage where you can't...': Afridi opines on Virat Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy

On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had revealed that the T20 World Cup would be his last assignment as captain in the shortest format whereas in early December, he was removed as the ODI skipper.

Thus, the forthcoming India-South Africa ODI series will see Kohli play solely as a batter&nbsp;given that he has been freed from captaincy duties altogether. As the 33-year-old superstar cricketer hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019, fans are eagerly waiting for King Kohli to return to his best and dominate from the word go, sans&nbsp;captaincy responsibilities.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-match-makes-virat-kohli-turned-down-bccis-offer-to-play-farewell-test-as-captain-report-445316">'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report</a>

Speaking about Kohli's new role in the white-ball series against Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, ex-Indian opener Gautam Gambhir gave legendary captain MS Dhoni a special mention and said on Star Sports, (on being asked about the changes fans can see in Kohli) "What new do you want to see? Captaincy is not anyone's birthright. People like MS Dhoni have given the captaincy baton to Virat Kohli, he has played under Virat Kohli as well. He has won three ICC trophies and four IPL trophies as well," Gambhir said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-had-no-pressure-from-the-board-selectors-bcci-treasurer-reacts-to-kohli-leaving-test-captaincy-445254">Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy</a>

"I think Kohli should look to score runs and that is more important. When you dream of playing for India, you don't dream to become a captain. You dream of winning games for India and nothing changes, except that you are not going out there to do the toss and set the field placement, but your energy and intensity should remain the same because it's an honor playing for the country," Gambhir added. &nbsp;

The India-SA ODIs will commence on January 19 at Paarl. In limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence, due to hamstring injury, KL Rahul will lead the Kohli-starrer Team India in the forthcoming ODI series in the African nation.

On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had revealed that the T20 World Cup would be his last assignment as captain in the shortest format whereas in early December, he was removed as the ODI skipper.

On Saturday (January 15), Virat Kohli dropped a bomb by announcing his decision to step aside as the Test captain. In mid-September 2021, Kohli had revealed that the T20 World Cup would be his last assignment as captain in the shortest format whereas in early December, he was removed as the ODI skipper. Thus, the forthcoming India-South Africa ODI series will see Kohli play solely as a batter given that he has been freed from captaincy duties altogether. As the 33-year-old superstar cricketer hasn't scored an international ton since late 2019, fans are eagerly waiting for King Kohli to return to his best and dominate from the word go, sans captaincy responsibilities. ALSO READ | 'One match makes...': Virat Kohli turned down BCCI's offer to play farewell Test as captain - Report Speaking about Kohli's new role in the white-ball series against Temba Bavuma-led South Africa, ex-Indian opener Gautam Gambhir gave legendary captain MS Dhoni a special mention and said on Star Sports, (on being asked about the changes fans can see in Kohli) "What new do you want to see? Captaincy is not anyone's birthright. People like MS Dhoni have given the captaincy baton to Virat Kohli, he has played under Virat Kohli as well. He has won three ICC trophies and four IPL trophies as well," Gambhir said. ALSO READ | Virat had no pressure from the board, selectors: BCCI treasurer reacts to Kohli leaving Test captaincy "I think Kohli should look to score runs and that is more important. When you dream of playing for India, you don't dream to become a captain. You dream of winning games for India and nothing changes, except that you are not going out there to do the toss and set the field placement, but your energy and intensity should remain the same because it's an honor playing for the country," Gambhir added. The India-SA ODIs will commence on January 19 at Paarl. In limited-overs captain Rohit Sharma's absence, due to hamstring injury, KL Rahul will lead the Kohli-starrer Team India in the forthcoming ODI series in the African nation.

Captaincy is not anyone's birthright: Gambhir hopes Virat Kohli can be at his dominant best in SA ODIs

Day 2 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa was lived upto expectations on Wednesday (January 12). The opening day, on Tuesday,&nbsp;saw Virat Kohli-led India get dismissed for 223 before Dean Elgar-led South Africa went to stumps at 13-1. The second day's play started with Jasprit Bumrah quickly removing Aiden Markram and his 5 for 42 restricted the Proteas for 210, enabling a slender 13-run lead for the visitors.

During the course of the first two sessions, Captain Virat Kohli was on a roll with his field placements, bowling changes and catches. The 33-year-old Kohli, whose century-drought with the bat has still not ended, completed a unique ton by plucking his 100th catch with his effort to remove Temba Bavuma&nbsp;off Mohammed Shami's bowling. With this, Kohli joined an elite list spearheaded by current Team India head coach Rahul Dravid.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pics-team-india-players-celebrate-head-coach-rahul-dravids-49th-birthday-after-day-1-of-3rd-test-444162">[PICS] Team India players celebrate head coach Rahul Dravid's 49th birthday after Day 1 of 3rd Test</a>

For the unversed, Dravid has most catches among fielders in Tests (210). The other Indians in the list are VVS Laxman (135), Sachin Tendulkar (115), Sunil Gavaskar (108) and Mohammad&nbsp;Azharuddin (105). Kohli has now taken the 6th spot among Indians whereas his former Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane follows suit (with 99 catches).

The overall list also includes yesteryear superstars such as Mahela Jayawardene, Mark Waugh, Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming, Graeme Smith, Alastair Cook, Jacques Kallis, etc.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-entertaining-but-brad-hogg-opines-on-pant-advises-dravid-to-not-have-a-word-with-him-444102">'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him</a>

On Day 1 of the series decider, at Newlands, Cape Town, Kohli's gritty 79 also stood tall as India managed only 223 in the first innings. With a 13-run lead, Kohli &amp; Co. will now look to go for the kill by setting up a target in excess of 250 to challenge the Dean Elgar-led side in their own backyard.&nbsp;

India are on the cusp of winning their maiden Test series on South African soil as the three-match series is currently tied at 1-1.

Day 2 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa was lived upto expectations on Wednesday (January 12). The opening day, on Tuesday, saw Virat Kohli-led India get dismissed for 223 before Dean Elgar-led South Africa went to stumps at 13-1.

Day 2 of the third and final Test between India and South Africa was lived upto expectations on Wednesday (January 12). The opening day, on Tuesday, saw Virat Kohli-led India get dismissed for 223 before Dean Elgar-led South Africa went to stumps at 13-1. The second day's play started with Jasprit Bumrah quickly removing Aiden Markram and his 5 for 42 restricted the Proteas for 210, enabling a slender 13-run lead for the visitors. During the course of the first two sessions, Captain Virat Kohli was on a roll with his field placements, bowling changes and catches. The 33-year-old Kohli, whose century-drought with the bat has still not ended, completed a unique ton by plucking his 100th catch with his effort to remove Temba Bavuma off Mohammed Shami's bowling. With this, Kohli joined an elite list spearheaded by current Team India head coach Rahul Dravid. ALSO READ | [PICS] Team India players celebrate head coach Rahul Dravid's 49th birthday after Day 1 of 3rd Test For the unversed, Dravid has most catches among fielders in Tests (210). The other Indians in the list are VVS Laxman (135), Sachin Tendulkar (115), Sunil Gavaskar (108) and Mohammad Azharuddin (105). Kohli has now taken the 6th spot among Indians whereas his former Test deputy Ajinkya Rahane follows suit (with 99 catches). The overall list also includes yesteryear superstars such as Mahela Jayawardene, Mark Waugh, Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming, Graeme Smith, Alastair Cook, Jacques Kallis, etc. ALSO READ | 'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him On Day 1 of the series decider, at Newlands, Cape Town, Kohli's gritty 79 also stood tall as India managed only 223 in the first innings. With a 13-run lead, Kohli & Co. will now look to go for the kill by setting up a target in excess of 250 to challenge the Dean Elgar-led side in their own backyard. India are on the cusp of winning their maiden Test series on South African soil as the three-match series is currently tied at 1-1.

India vs SA, Cape Town Test: Kohli achieves unique ton, joins stalwarts Tendulkar, Dravid in elite list

Team India locked horns with South Africa on Day 1 of the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). The opening day was also head coach Rahul Dravid's birthday as the former Indian captain turned 49.&nbsp;

On Dravid's birthday, Virat Kohli-led India won the toss and opted to bat first in Cape Town. Riding on skipper Kohli's gritty 79, the visitors managed only a below-par 223 in the first innings before the Dean Elgar-led hosts went to stumps at 13-1, trailing the Indian team by 210 runs. While the day wasn't an ideal one for Team India, with the batters once again failing to capitalise on starts and score big, the atmosphere in the dressing room was jubilant as the national side's players celebrated Dravid's birthday in style after end of proceedings.

Pictures of Dravid cutting his birthday cake and the likes of Rishabh Pant, Cheteshwar Pujara, Umesh Yadav, batting coach Vikram Rathour, etc. being around the birthday man went viral. Pacer Mohammed Shami shared images of the celebration on his official Twitter handle.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-you-get-older-you-dont-know-what-to-feel-says-rahul-dravid-as-team-india-head-coach-turns-49-443931">As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49</a>

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Birthday wishes to our very own Head Coach Rahul Dravid 
 
Here's to many more smiles in the future <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/2VsrBTs4mJ">pic.twitter.com/2VsrBTs4mJ</a>
— Mohammad Shami (@MdShami11) <a href="https://twitter.com/MdShami11/status/1480959373342040073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-entertaining-but-brad-hogg-opines-on-pant-advises-dravid-to-not-have-a-word-with-him-444102">'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him</a>

Ahead of the start of the third and final Test, on Tuesday, Dravid was wished by commentator&nbsp;Pommie Mbangwa on-air to which the former Indian skipper said, "As you get older you don’t know what to feel when it’s your birthday. You are a year older. But it’s nice, some nice wishes from friends, family, and fans. So very grateful for all of that."

At present, the third and final Test is interestingly poised as the Indian pacers haven't allowed SA batters to run away with the game in response to India's 223.&nbsp;At tea on Day 2, SA are 176-7, trailing India by 47 runs.

Team India locked horns with South Africa on Day 1 of the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). The opening day was also head coach Rahul Dravid's birthday as the former Indian captain turned 49.

Team India locked horns with South Africa on Day 1 of the third and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (January 11). The opening day was also head coach Rahul Dravid's birthday as the former Indian captain turned 49. On Dravid's birthday, Virat Kohli-led India won the toss and opted to bat first in Cape Town. Riding on skipper Kohli's gritty 79, the visitors managed only a below-par 223 in the first innings before the Dean Elgar-led hosts went to stumps at 13-1, trailing the Indian team by 210 runs. While the day wasn't an ideal one for Team India, with the batters once again failing to capitalise on starts and score big, the atmosphere in the dressing room was jubilant as the national side's players celebrated Dravid's birthday in style after end of proceedings. Pictures of Dravid cutting his birthday cake and the likes of Rishabh Pant, Cheteshwar Pujara, Umesh Yadav, batting coach Vikram Rathour, etc. being around the birthday man went viral. Pacer Mohammed Shami shared images of the celebration on his official Twitter handle. ALSO READ | As you get older you don’t know what to feel, says Rahul Dravid as Team India head coach turns 49 Birthday wishes to our very own Head Coach Rahul Dravid Here's to many more smiles in the future #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/2VsrBTs4mJ — Mohammad Shami (@MdShami11) January 11, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'He’s entertaining but...' - Brad Hogg opines on Pant, advises Dravid to not have a word with him Ahead of the start of the third and final Test, on Tuesday, Dravid was wished by commentator Pommie Mbangwa on-air to which the former Indian skipper said, "As you get older you don’t know what to feel when it’s your birthday. You are a year older. But it’s nice, some nice wishes from friends, family, and fans. So very grateful for all of that." At present, the third and final Test is interestingly poised as the Indian pacers haven't allowed SA batters to run away with the game in response to India's 223. At tea on Day 2, SA are 176-7, trailing India by 47 runs.

[PICS] Team India players celebrate head coach Rahul Dravid's 49th birthday after Day 1 of 3rd Test

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