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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BCCI have announced Rohit Sharma as India's new ODI captain ahead of the South Africa tour. On Wednesday (December 8), the Indian cricket board made the formal announcement after there were speculations of Hitman replacing Virat Kohli as the ODI captain.&nbsp;

While announcing India's Test squad for the South Africa tour, BCCI also revealed that Rohit will be succeeding Kohli in the ODI format after becoming the T20I captain post the World Cup, in the UAE. BCCI tweeted saying, "The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI &amp; T20I teams going forward."

Rohit will, thus, try and build a team for the future with the 2023 ODI World Cup in mind, which will be hosted by India. For the unversed, the 34-year-old wasn't part of India's victorious 2011 ODI WC squad and, hence, will be determined to win the 50-over championship as captain of the national side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-yuvraj-singh-lead-tributes-as-cds-general-bipin-rawat-passes-away-in-helicopter-crash-435194">Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh lead tributes as CDS General Bipin Rawat passes away in helicopter crash</a>

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The All-India Senior Selection Committee also decided to name Mr Rohit Sharma as the Captain of the ODI &amp; T20I teams going forward.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> <a href="https://t.co/hcg92sPtCa">pic.twitter.com/hcg92sPtCa</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1468577752953483264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/national-selectors-to-discuss-sensitive-odi-captaincy-issue-with-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-report-435009">National selectors to discuss 'sensitive' ODI captaincy issue with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma: Report</a>

Rohit not only became the Team India captain in the shorter formats but has also replaced Ajinkya Rahane to become the new vice-captain of the Test side. India's Test squad for the SA series is as follows:

Virat Kohli (Capt),Rohit Sharma(vc), KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant(wk), Wriddhiman Saha(wk), R Ashwin, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Md. Siraj.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the standby players are as follows:&nbsp;Navdeep Saini, Saurabh Kumar, Deepak Chahar, Arzan Nagwaswalla.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Team India demolished New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin in the second and final Test to win the series 1-0. After a drawn first Test, Tom Latham-led Black Caps fell like nine pins in the series decider following their no-show with the bat in the first innings.

Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out. NZ spinner Ajaz Patel made heads turn with his ten-wicket haul, being only the third bowler to the milestone, but the Kiwis failed to get going with the willow in their first innings to fold for 62. Courtesy a solid first-innings lead, India declared at 276-7, setting up a daunting 540-run target for the visitors.

In reply, NZ were bundled out for 167 all-out, courtesy R Ashwin and Jayant Yadav's four-fers, as they lost by a huge margin. With this win, India not only won their 14th successive series at home in the longest format but also regained the No. 1 spot in ICC Test Rankings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-india-win-series-vs-new-zealand-at-home-434499">Updated World Test Championship points table after India win series vs New Zealand at home</a>

India, with 124 points,&nbsp;are now three rating points ahead of World Test champions NZ, 121, in the Test Rankings. On the other hand, the Ashes rivals Australia and England are on third and fourth spots respectively.

At the post-match presentation, Kohli opined,&nbsp;"To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. "

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-opines-on-rahul-dravid-led-support-staff-taking-over-from-shastri-co-after-nz-series-win-434487">Virat Kohli opines on Rahul Dravid-led support staff taking over from Shastri &amp; Co. after NZ series win</a>

Dravid, on the other hand, told the broadcasters, "Good to finish the Test series on a winning note, came very close in Kanpur, but couldn't take that last wicket. Credit to the team, they have pulled themselves back from tough situations, and were a bit disappointed at not finishing it off in Kanpur. Good to see the boys step up and take their opportunities, we were missing a few seniors, but the youngsters have taken their chances."

India will now shift their focus to the three Tests versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26, whereas Kane Williamson &amp; Co. will host the Bangla Tigers, later this month, for a two-match Test series.

Team India demolished New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin in the second and final Test to win the series 1-0. After a drawn first Test, Tom Latham-led Black Caps fell like nine pins in the series decider following their no-show with the bat in the first innings.

Team India demolished New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin in the second and final Test to win the series 1-0. After a drawn first Test, Tom Latham-led Black Caps fell like nine pins in the series decider following their no-show with the bat in the first innings. Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out. NZ spinner Ajaz Patel made heads turn with his ten-wicket haul, being only the third bowler to the milestone, but the Kiwis failed to get going with the willow in their first innings to fold for 62. Courtesy a solid first-innings lead, India declared at 276-7, setting up a daunting 540-run target for the visitors. In reply, NZ were bundled out for 167 all-out, courtesy R Ashwin and Jayant Yadav's four-fers, as they lost by a huge margin. With this win, India not only won their 14th successive series at home in the longest format but also regained the No. 1 spot in ICC Test Rankings. ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India win series vs New Zealand at home India, with 124 points, are now three rating points ahead of World Test champions NZ, 121, in the Test Rankings. On the other hand, the Ashes rivals Australia and England are on third and fourth spots respectively. At the post-match presentation, Kohli opined, "To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. " ALSO READ | Virat Kohli opines on Rahul Dravid-led support staff taking over from Shastri & Co. after NZ series win Dravid, on the other hand, told the broadcasters, "Good to finish the Test series on a winning note, came very close in Kanpur, but couldn't take that last wicket. Credit to the team, they have pulled themselves back from tough situations, and were a bit disappointed at not finishing it off in Kanpur. Good to see the boys step up and take their opportunities, we were missing a few seniors, but the youngsters have taken their chances." India will now shift their focus to the three Tests versus South Africa in the African nation, from December 26, whereas Kane Williamson & Co. will host the Bangla Tigers, later this month, for a two-match Test series.

Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand

India took less than a session on Day 4 to wrap up proceedings and thrash New Zealand by 372 runs in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Setting up a daunting 540-run target, India had claimed five Kiwi wickets and bundled them out for a paltry 167 early this morning to win the series 1-0.&nbsp;

It was a dominating performance from Team India, who were in a spot of bother at 80 for 3 in the first innings but recovered in style and hammered the Black Caps as India won their first-ever Test series in the Rahul Dravid-era.

Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out in the first essay. Ajaz Patel became the third bowler to claim ten wickets in an innings in the purest format but NZ fell like nine pins against India's spin trio -- Jayant Yadav, R Ashwin and Axar Patel -- to be bundled out for&nbsp;62 in their first innings. In reply, India declared at 276/7 courtesy vital knocks from Mayank, Axar, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara. In reply, the NZ batting line-up's struggles continued as they failed to pose any fight.

After the end of the two Tests between India and current Test&nbsp;champions NZ, here's the updated points table of the ongoing second cycle of the WTC:

<img alt="WTC Points Table" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e7a273f1-e3b6-46c1-9b5f-0552f50aca94" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screenshot_2021-12-06-10-33-08-02.jpg" />

(Photo: Screen grab)

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-opines-on-rahul-dravid-led-support-staff-taking-over-from-shastri-co-after-nz-series-win-434487">Virat Kohli opines on Rahul Dravid-led support staff taking over from Shastri &amp; Co. after NZ series win</a>

Kohli&nbsp;opined at the post-match presentation, "To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. "

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-2nd-test-virat-kohli-and-co-beat-kiwis-by-372-runs-to-win-test-series-1-0-434467">India vs New Zealand, 2nd Test: Virat Kohli and Co beat Kiwis by 372 runs to win test series 1-0</a>

Dravid, on the other hand, told the broadcasters, "Good to finish the Test series on a winning note, came very close in Kanpur, but couldn't take that last wicket. Credit to the team, they have pulled themselves back from tough situations, and were a bit disappointed at not finishing it off in Kanpur. Good to see the boys step up and take their opportunities, we were missing a few seniors, but the youngsters have taken their chances."

India will now travel to South Africa for three Tests whereas New Zealand will host Bangladesh in two-match Test series.

India took less than a session on Day 4 to wrap up proceedings and thrash New Zealand by 372 runs in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6).

India took less than a session on Day 4 to wrap up proceedings and thrash New Zealand by 372 runs in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Setting up a daunting 540-run target, India had claimed five Kiwi wickets and bundled them out for a paltry 167 early this morning to win the series 1-0. It was a dominating performance from Team India, who were in a spot of bother at 80 for 3 in the first innings but recovered in style and hammered the Black Caps as India won their first-ever Test series in the Rahul Dravid-era. Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out in the first essay. Ajaz Patel became the third bowler to claim ten wickets in an innings in the purest format but NZ fell like nine pins against India's spin trio -- Jayant Yadav, R Ashwin and Axar Patel -- to be bundled out for 62 in their first innings. In reply, India declared at 276/7 courtesy vital knocks from Mayank, Axar, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara. In reply, the NZ batting line-up's struggles continued as they failed to pose any fight. After the end of the two Tests between India and current Test champions NZ, here's the updated points table of the ongoing second cycle of the WTC: (Photo: Screen grab) ALSO READ | Virat Kohli opines on Rahul Dravid-led support staff taking over from Shastri & Co. after NZ series win Kohli opined at the post-match presentation, "To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. " ALSO READ | India vs New Zealand, 2nd Test: Virat Kohli and Co beat Kiwis by 372 runs to win test series 1-0 Dravid, on the other hand, told the broadcasters, "Good to finish the Test series on a winning note, came very close in Kanpur, but couldn't take that last wicket. Credit to the team, they have pulled themselves back from tough situations, and were a bit disappointed at not finishing it off in Kanpur. Good to see the boys step up and take their opportunities, we were missing a few seniors, but the youngsters have taken their chances." India will now travel to South Africa for three Tests whereas New Zealand will host Bangladesh in two-match Test series.

Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series

Team India beat New Zealand in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming Day 4 with Virat Kohli &amp; Co. requiring 5 more wickets to win the series, the home side didn't waste any time and wrapped up the proceedings within a session to bundle out the Kiwis for 167, in pursuit of 540, and win the Mumbai Test by 372 runs.

Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out. In reply, NZ fell like nine pins for 62 and gave a whopping first-innings lead to the hosts. India then declared their second innings for 276-7 and dismissed the Black Caps for 167 to win the series and regain the top spot in the ICC Test Rankings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-led-india-regain-no-1-spot-in-icc-test-rankings-after-series-win-vs-new-zealand-434531">Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand</a>

In this way, India also went onto win their 14th successive series in the purest format at home.&nbsp;India's last Test series loss as hosts came versus England in late 2012 (under MS Dhoni)

Since then, they have won 14 successive series at home: 
4-0 vs Australia in BG Trophy 2012/13 
2-0 vs West Indies in late 2013 
3-0 vs South Africa in late 2015 
3-0 vs New Zealand in 2016 
4-0 vs England in late 2016 
1-0 vs Bangladesh in early 2017 
2-1 vs Australia in BG Trophy 2016/17 
1-0 vs Sri Lanka in late 2017 
1-0 vs Afghanistan in mid-2018 
2-0 vs West Indies in late 2018 
3-0 vs South Africa in 2019 
2-0 vs Bangladesh in late 2019 
3-1 vs England in early 2021 
1-0 vs New Zealand in 2021*

In the WTC points table, India are now at the third position with 58.33 win percentage. New Zealand, on the other hand, find themselves at the sixth spot.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-india-vs-new-zealand-series-434499">Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series</a>

Kohli told the broadcasters at the post-match presentation, "To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. "

India will now head to South Africa for a three-match Test series, starting from December 26 in Centurion. It will be followed by three ODIs whereas the T20Is will be held later in 2022.

Team India beat New Zealand in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming Day 4 with Virat Kohli & Co. requiring 5 more wickets to win the series, the home side didn't waste any time and wrapped up the proceedings within a session to bundle out the Kiwis for 167, in pursuit of 540, and win the Mumbai Test by 372 runs.

Team India beat New Zealand in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Resuming Day 4 with Virat Kohli & Co. requiring 5 more wickets to win the series, the home side didn't waste any time and wrapped up the proceedings within a session to bundle out the Kiwis for 167, in pursuit of 540, and win the Mumbai Test by 372 runs. Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out. In reply, NZ fell like nine pins for 62 and gave a whopping first-innings lead to the hosts. India then declared their second innings for 276-7 and dismissed the Black Caps for 167 to win the series and regain the top spot in the ICC Test Rankings. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli-led India regain No. 1 spot in ICC Test rankings after series win vs New Zealand In this way, India also went onto win their 14th successive series in the purest format at home. India's last Test series loss as hosts came versus England in late 2012 (under MS Dhoni) Since then, they have won 14 successive series at home: 4-0 vs Australia in BG Trophy 2012/13 2-0 vs West Indies in late 2013 3-0 vs South Africa in late 2015 3-0 vs New Zealand in 2016 4-0 vs England in late 2016 1-0 vs Bangladesh in early 2017 2-1 vs Australia in BG Trophy 2016/17 1-0 vs Sri Lanka in late 2017 1-0 vs Afghanistan in mid-2018 2-0 vs West Indies in late 2018 3-0 vs South Africa in 2019 2-0 vs Bangladesh in late 2019 3-1 vs England in early 2021 1-0 vs New Zealand in 2021* In the WTC points table, India are now at the third position with 58.33 win percentage. New Zealand, on the other hand, find themselves at the sixth spot. ALSO READ | Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series Kohli told the broadcasters at the post-match presentation, "To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. " India will now head to South Africa for a three-match Test series, starting from December 26 in Centurion. It will be followed by three ODIs whereas the T20Is will be held later in 2022.

Virat Kohli's India bag 14th consecutive Test series on home soil after 1-0 scoreline vs NZ

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