After playing half their games in the league stage of IPL 2023, Rajasthan Royals (RR)&nbsp;occupy the third spot with four wins from seven outings. It isn't a bad start by any means&nbsp;for the one-time winners. Under Sanju Samson, who became their captain since IPL 2021, the Royals have become a formidable force and are eyeing to play their second final on the trot, with a hope to get past the finish line this time around.&nbsp;

In the inaugural edition, in 2008, the Royals ended as the eventual champions when no one gave them&nbsp;a chance. The franchise roped in superstar Shane Warne, serving&nbsp;as the captain-cum-coach, who inspired an inexperienced squad to win the championship. The late Aussie leg-spinner had some international stars, such as Graeme Smith, Mohammed Kaif, etc., but a plethora of unknown names&nbsp;rose to the occasion in his influence.

After Warne-led RR's initial success, there was a period of lull for the Jaipur-based franchise till IPL 2012. In the 2013 edition, the 2008 winners made it to the playoffs, finished third, and even played the final of that year's Champions League (CLT20), a now-defunct tournament. Back then, RR was led by Rahul Dravid, an equally inspiring figure like Warne.&nbsp;

Post Dravid and Warne, the team was led by able readers of the game, such as Shane Watson, Steve Smith, and Ajinkya Rahane, as they enjoyed sporadic success but never came close to winning the title. From the Dravid-era till IPL 2020, Samson remained a part of the Royals' dugout -- barring 2015 and 2016 when the franchise was serving a spot-fixing ban -- and was silently groomed by&nbsp;several eminent leaders in the camp.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-as-soon-as-he-brett-lees-advice-to-mis-arjun-tendulkar-to-bowl-at-140kmph-585864">IPL 2023: 'As soon as he...': Brett Lee's advice to MI's Arjun Tendulkar to bowl at 140kmph</a>

While Samson's batting credentials made heads turn in his debut IPL season in 2013, not much was known about his leadership skills. After a dismal IPL 2020, RR team management appointed Samson as their new captain before the 2021 edition. While his team ended seventh that year, Samson didn't look like a fish out of the water. He improved in IPL 2022 and by now, RR certainly looks like a unit controlled by Samson.

Ingredients of a fabulous leader

Recently, Ravi Shastri -- former India head coach -- said on ESPNCricinfo, "You say you stamp your personality as a leader. You see that with Hardik, he calls the shots, and takes the decisions. You see that with Dhoni. He takes the decisions, there is no two ways about it, he might be right or wrong. Sanju has improved a lot. You can see that quiet confidence in his own ability and he understands his game a lot better."

Leading superstars such as Jos Buttler, R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Trent Boult, etc., can be intimidating. However, Samson has always looked his part and been assertive as captain. He&nbsp;remains calm behind the stumps, uses his bowlers judiciously, and does not shy away from changing plans when required. In addition, he&nbsp;does not overcommunicate; passing too many unnecessary suggestions from behind the stumps.

During RR's clash vs Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in Chennai, Sandeep Sharma was taken to the cleaners by MS Dhoni in the last over. With seven required off&nbsp;three balls, Samson raced from his wicketkeeping spot to just ask Sandeep about his plans.&nbsp;

"After I was hit for two sixes in the last over, Sanju and I discussed the plans on how to bowl the next 3 balls. Sanju is very calm as captain. He did not give any suggestions to me. He simply asked me about my plans for the next ball. I told him about my instincts and he backed me to bowl that. This quality is very rare in a captain in such a pressure situation," said the RR pacer.

Thus, Samson backed his experienced bowler and did not give suggestions. Rather, he just looked for ideas from his bowler and backed him to the hilt.

You will win some, you will lose some but remain unfazed

After RR's loss versus RCB, their second loss on the trot, Samson said in the dressing room, "I think it's very normal in this tournament when you have these couple of losses or you have those couple of wins, you go up and down. But the pattern and the style of our team, the style of our franchise is to stay humble when we're going high, and when we're going low, we believe in ourselves, as simple as that."

He added, "We believe in each and every one of us, believe in yourself and there is no pointing fingers, that's the rule we need to follow. In my experience, from what I've understood, the reason you end up on the losing or the winning side only is because how hungry are you there to win. How badly do you want it? Is it only because of you, is it only because you want to do it or do you want to do it for the team."

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Sanju Samson. 💗💗💗 <a href="https://t.co/fZmuYk4Wyl">pic.twitter.com/fZmuYk4Wyl</a>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-virat-kohli-fined-24-lakhs-other-rcb-players-fined-6-lakhs-for-slow-over-rate-vs-rr-585868">IPL 2023: Virat Kohli fined 24 lakhs, other RCB players fined 6 lakhs for slow over-rate vs RR</a>

Not bogged down by responsibility

Many captains get bogged down by extra responsibility or get too cautious in their primary role. However, this has not been the case with Samson. Ever since he took over as RR skipper, he has amassed over 400 runs every season. In 2021, he made 484 runs, including a ton, at 136.72. His strike rate did dip as compared to the previous edition (where he struck at 158.89) but it was still acceptable. It shot up considerably in 2022, where he scored 458 runs at 146.79. After seven games this year, he is striking at over 150 (158.77).

One does not know what fate has in store for RR in IPL 2023. Irrespective of the outcome, the Royals should be lauded for identifying a rare talent like Samson, grooming him amid several leaders, retaining him, and making him the leader in his late 20s;&nbsp;when a cricketer has matured with enough experience and past mistakes. The right-hander has shown glimpses&nbsp;of his captaincy skills and will only grow leaps and bounds if given a longer rope, which seems likely at this point.

In his book 'Coaching Beyond - My Days with the Indian Cricket Team', R Sridhar -- former India fielding coach -- revealed it was Samson (who was on the bench) who suggested Chahal feature in India's XI as a concussion substitute for Ravindra Jadeja in a T20I versus Australia in Canberra, in late 2020. Chahal ended as the Player-of-the-Match (3 for 25) in India's win.

Thus, Samson always had a knack for reading the game and being tactical. Now, he is only growing with each passing day and is destined for a bright run as captain. Is India captaincy in the reckoning? Well, only time will tell. For now, he certainly looks like a long-serving&nbsp;captain in the IPL.

After playing half their games in the league stage of IPL 2023, Rajasthan Royals (RR) occupy the third spot with four wins from seven outings. It isn't a bad start by any means for the one-time winners.

After playing half their games in the league stage of IPL 2023, Rajasthan Royals (RR) occupy the third spot with four wins from seven outings. It isn't a bad start by any means for the one-time winners. Under Sanju Samson, who became their captain since IPL 2021, the Royals have become a formidable force and are eyeing to play their second final on the trot, with a hope to get past the finish line this time around. In the inaugural edition, in 2008, the Royals ended as the eventual champions when no one gave them a chance. The franchise roped in superstar Shane Warne, serving as the captain-cum-coach, who inspired an inexperienced squad to win the championship. The late Aussie leg-spinner had some international stars, such as Graeme Smith, Mohammed Kaif, etc., but a plethora of unknown names rose to the occasion in his influence. After Warne-led RR's initial success, there was a period of lull for the Jaipur-based franchise till IPL 2012. In the 2013 edition, the 2008 winners made it to the playoffs, finished third, and even played the final of that year's Champions League (CLT20), a now-defunct tournament. Back then, RR was led by Rahul Dravid, an equally inspiring figure like Warne. Post Dravid and Warne, the team was led by able readers of the game, such as Shane Watson, Steve Smith, and Ajinkya Rahane, as they enjoyed sporadic success but never came close to winning the title. From the Dravid-era till IPL 2020, Samson remained a part of the Royals' dugout -- barring 2015 and 2016 when the franchise was serving a spot-fixing ban -- and was silently groomed by several eminent leaders in the camp. Also Read: IPL 2023: 'As soon as he...': Brett Lee's advice to MI's Arjun Tendulkar to bowl at 140kmph While Samson's batting credentials made heads turn in his debut IPL season in 2013, not much was known about his leadership skills. After a dismal IPL 2020, RR team management appointed Samson as their new captain before the 2021 edition. While his team ended seventh that year, Samson didn't look like a fish out of the water. He improved in IPL 2022 and by now, RR certainly looks like a unit controlled by Samson. Ingredients of a fabulous leader Recently, Ravi Shastri -- former India head coach -- said on ESPNCricinfo, "You say you stamp your personality as a leader. You see that with Hardik, he calls the shots, and takes the decisions. You see that with Dhoni. He takes the decisions, there is no two ways about it, he might be right or wrong. Sanju has improved a lot. You can see that quiet confidence in his own ability and he understands his game a lot better." Leading superstars such as Jos Buttler, R Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal, Trent Boult, etc., can be intimidating. However, Samson has always looked his part and been assertive as captain. He remains calm behind the stumps, uses his bowlers judiciously, and does not shy away from changing plans when required. In addition, he does not overcommunicate; passing too many unnecessary suggestions from behind the stumps. During RR's clash vs Chennai Super Kings (CSK), in Chennai, Sandeep Sharma was taken to the cleaners by MS Dhoni in the last over. With seven required off three balls, Samson raced from his wicketkeeping spot to just ask Sandeep about his plans. "After I was hit for two sixes in the last over, Sanju and I discussed the plans on how to bowl the next 3 balls. Sanju is very calm as captain. He did not give any suggestions to me. He simply asked me about my plans for the next ball. I told him about my instincts and he backed me to bowl that. This quality is very rare in a captain in such a pressure situation," said the RR pacer. Thus, Samson backed his experienced bowler and did not give suggestions. Rather, he just looked for ideas from his bowler and backed him to the hilt. You will win some, you will lose some but remain unfazed After RR's loss versus RCB, their second loss on the trot, Samson said in the dressing room, "I think it's very normal in this tournament when you have these couple of losses or you have those couple of wins, you go up and down. But the pattern and the style of our team, the style of our franchise is to stay humble when we're going high, and when we're going low, we believe in ourselves, as simple as that." He added, "We believe in each and every one of us, believe in yourself and there is no pointing fingers, that's the rule we need to follow. In my experience, from what I've understood, the reason you end up on the losing or the winning side only is because how hungry are you there to win. How badly do you want it? Is it only because of you, is it only because you want to do it or do you want to do it for the team." Sanju Samson. 💗💗💗 pic.twitter.com/fZmuYk4Wyl — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) April 23, 2023 × Also Read: IPL 2023: Virat Kohli fined 24 lakhs, other RCB players fined 6 lakhs for slow over-rate vs RR Not bogged down by responsibility Many captains get bogged down by extra responsibility or get too cautious in their primary role. However, this has not been the case with Samson. Ever since he took over as RR skipper, he has amassed over 400 runs every season. In 2021, he made 484 runs, including a ton, at 136.72. His strike rate did dip as compared to the previous edition (where he struck at 158.89) but it was still acceptable. It shot up considerably in 2022, where he scored 458 runs at 146.79. After seven games this year, he is striking at over 150 (158.77). One does not know what fate has in store for RR in IPL 2023. Irrespective of the outcome, the Royals should be lauded for identifying a rare talent like Samson, grooming him amid several leaders, retaining him, and making him the leader in his late 20s; when a cricketer has matured with enough experience and past mistakes. The right-hander has shown glimpses of his captaincy skills and will only grow leaps and bounds if given a longer rope, which seems likely at this point. In his book 'Coaching Beyond - My Days with the Indian Cricket Team', R Sridhar -- former India fielding coach -- revealed it was Samson (who was on the bench) who suggested Chahal feature in India's XI as a concussion substitute for Ravindra Jadeja in a T20I versus Australia in Canberra, in late 2020. Chahal ended as the Player-of-the-Match (3 for 25) in India's win. Thus, Samson always had a knack for reading the game and being tactical. Now, he is only growing with each passing day and is destined for a bright run as captain. Is India captaincy in the reckoning? Well, only time will tell. For now, he certainly looks like a long-serving captain in the IPL.

Explained | IPL 2023: Why Sanju Samson is a great captain in making

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition is churning out nail-biting contests with each passing day. The ongoing season has already become a hit and is on course for more success before its conclusion on May 28. Soon after the end of IPL 2023, Rohit Sharma-led Team India will reassemble and leave for the United Kingdom to lock horns with Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final for the 2021-23 cycle.

After missing out on winning the inaugural WTC cycle, and losing to New Zealand in 2021, India will hope to make the most of this opportunity and&nbsp;end their 10-year-long ICC-title drought. While Indian players have been asked to manage their workload efficiently in IPL 2023, there have already been some injury concerns ahead of the WTC summit clash, on June 07 at The Oval, London. While Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant have already been ruled out, Shreyas Iyer is also out of contention.

With Iyer's back injury resurfacing during India-Australia home Tests, he is out of IPL 2023 and will also miss the high-voltage WTC clash. Thus, India have some tough calls to&nbsp;smartly pack their middle order for the marquee clash, keeping the English conditions in mind.

Many experts have chipped in the idea of KL Rahul to open with Rohit as the duo was a successful pair during India's four Tests in England in the 2021 English summer. However, Rahul's low returns -- in Australia Tests and IPL 2023 so far -- aren't unknown. If&nbsp;the team management still persists&nbsp;with Rahul-Rohit as their openers, this could drop in-form batter Shubman Gill at No. 5 (an alien spot for him);&nbsp;filling in for Iyer. Nonetheless, Ajinkya Rahane's two good outings for his new franchise, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the ongoing IPL season have led to many ardent Indian cricket fans and former cricketers suggesting his inclusion.

Rahane for WTC final?

It is to be noted that Rahane has made scores of 61 (27) and 31 (19), striking at over 200 (225.92) and 150 (163.15) respectively, so far in his two innings for CSK. While many can say that IPL isn't an ideal platform for any batter's&nbsp;return in Tests, that too after two-long years, Rahane has had a good domestic run as well.

Rahane scored 634 runs (with a best of 204)&nbsp;in seven matches, at an average of&nbsp;57.63, with a hundred and two fifties for Mumbai in the 2022/23 Ranji Trophy season. While he could have gone for a County stint (like Cheteshwar Pujara), rather than plying his trade in the IPL, a dearth of middle-order batters with Iyer and Pant's injury has brightened the chances for Rahane.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-it-comes-to-carrying-water-or-helping-out-someone-hes-such-a-team-man-ravi-shastri-hails-csk-batter-581710">'If it comes to carrying water or helping out someone, he's such a team man': Ravi Shastri hails CSK batter</a>

What are the numbers for Rahane?

Now, let's focus on Rahane's numbers in Tests, particularly in England. The right-hander has scored 4,931 Test runs in 82 Tests, with 12 hundreds and 25 half-centuries. In England, he has amassed 729 runs in 15 Tests, at a woeful average of 26.03, with a solitary hundred and five fifties. He has two memorable knocks in English conditions; 103 (Lord's Test, 2014) and 81 (Trent Bridge, 2018).

Meanwhile, Rahane has a total of 1,090 runs versus Australia at an average of 37.58 with two centuries and five half-centuries (only one at home). In addition, he has scored&nbsp;884 of those in Australia, which includes both his tons.

Above all, it is Rahane's experience that the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team will bank up on if he earns a recall. A stage as big as a WTC final and an opposition as formidable as Pat Cummins-led Australia (against whom he scored his last ton -- a memorable 112)&nbsp;can perfectly motivate a senior pro like Rahane.

Given, Rahane has already tasted failure with the Virat Kohli-led Indian side in the inaugural WTC final, where he scored 49 and 15, the 34-year-old will be highly charged in possibly his last ICC final. In the twilight of his career, it goes without saying that the Mumbaikar will be desperate to make the most of any chance presented to him.

Fire to perform is still burning strong!

After his spirited 27-ball 61 in CSK debut, versus Mumbai Indians (MI), at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai,&nbsp;a determined Rahane subtly reminded the critics that it is still early to write him off. At the post-match presentation, he said, "I was just told to focus on my strengths and focus on preparation. I love playing at the Wankhede, I know the ground well. Have not played a Test here, yet." He even smiled when on-air commentators praised his usage of 'yet'.&nbsp;

Later, at the post-match presser, he stated, "Still, a long way to go [WTC final]. Today, I was not sure about my place in the eleven, (and) got to know just before the toss. For me, it is about playing one game at a time and staying in the moment. "Anything can happen. I will never give up. For me it is about playing with enjoyment and passion," Rahane added.

For now, Rahane needs to continue to tick the basics and add runs for CSK. If he continues in the same manner, the batting maestro -- and also a highly acclaimed slip fielder --&nbsp;might be in India's scheme of things&nbsp;to star in the playing XI for the WTC final. 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition is churning out nail-biting contests with each passing day. The ongoing season has already become a hit and is on course for more success before its conclusion on May 28.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition is churning out nail-biting contests with each passing day. The ongoing season has already become a hit and is on course for more success before its conclusion on May 28. Soon after the end of IPL 2023, Rohit Sharma-led Team India will reassemble and leave for the United Kingdom to lock horns with Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final for the 2021-23 cycle. After missing out on winning the inaugural WTC cycle, and losing to New Zealand in 2021, India will hope to make the most of this opportunity and end their 10-year-long ICC-title drought. While Indian players have been asked to manage their workload efficiently in IPL 2023, there have already been some injury concerns ahead of the WTC summit clash, on June 07 at The Oval, London. While Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant have already been ruled out, Shreyas Iyer is also out of contention. With Iyer's back injury resurfacing during India-Australia home Tests, he is out of IPL 2023 and will also miss the high-voltage WTC clash. Thus, India have some tough calls to smartly pack their middle order for the marquee clash, keeping the English conditions in mind. Many experts have chipped in the idea of KL Rahul to open with Rohit as the duo was a successful pair during India's four Tests in England in the 2021 English summer. However, Rahul's low returns -- in Australia Tests and IPL 2023 so far -- aren't unknown. If the team management still persists with Rahul-Rohit as their openers, this could drop in-form batter Shubman Gill at No. 5 (an alien spot for him); filling in for Iyer. Nonetheless, Ajinkya Rahane's two good outings for his new franchise, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the ongoing IPL season have led to many ardent Indian cricket fans and former cricketers suggesting his inclusion. Rahane for WTC final? It is to be noted that Rahane has made scores of 61 (27) and 31 (19), striking at over 200 (225.92) and 150 (163.15) respectively, so far in his two innings for CSK. While many can say that IPL isn't an ideal platform for any batter's return in Tests, that too after two-long years, Rahane has had a good domestic run as well. Rahane scored 634 runs (with a best of 204) in seven matches, at an average of 57.63, with a hundred and two fifties for Mumbai in the 2022/23 Ranji Trophy season. While he could have gone for a County stint (like Cheteshwar Pujara), rather than plying his trade in the IPL, a dearth of middle-order batters with Iyer and Pant's injury has brightened the chances for Rahane. Also Read: 'If it comes to carrying water or helping out someone, he's such a team man': Ravi Shastri hails CSK batter What are the numbers for Rahane? Now, let's focus on Rahane's numbers in Tests, particularly in England. The right-hander has scored 4,931 Test runs in 82 Tests, with 12 hundreds and 25 half-centuries. In England, he has amassed 729 runs in 15 Tests, at a woeful average of 26.03, with a solitary hundred and five fifties. He has two memorable knocks in English conditions; 103 (Lord's Test, 2014) and 81 (Trent Bridge, 2018). Meanwhile, Rahane has a total of 1,090 runs versus Australia at an average of 37.58 with two centuries and five half-centuries (only one at home). In addition, he has scored 884 of those in Australia, which includes both his tons. Above all, it is Rahane's experience that the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team will bank up on if he earns a recall. A stage as big as a WTC final and an opposition as formidable as Pat Cummins-led Australia (against whom he scored his last ton -- a memorable 112) can perfectly motivate a senior pro like Rahane. Given, Rahane has already tasted failure with the Virat Kohli-led Indian side in the inaugural WTC final, where he scored 49 and 15, the 34-year-old will be highly charged in possibly his last ICC final. In the twilight of his career, it goes without saying that the Mumbaikar will be desperate to make the most of any chance presented to him. Fire to perform is still burning strong! After his spirited 27-ball 61 in CSK debut, versus Mumbai Indians (MI), at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, a determined Rahane subtly reminded the critics that it is still early to write him off. At the post-match presentation, he said, "I was just told to focus on my strengths and focus on preparation. I love playing at the Wankhede, I know the ground well. Have not played a Test here, yet." He even smiled when on-air commentators praised his usage of 'yet'. Later, at the post-match presser, he stated, "Still, a long way to go [WTC final]. Today, I was not sure about my place in the eleven, (and) got to know just before the toss. For me, it is about playing one game at a time and staying in the moment. "Anything can happen. I will never give up. For me it is about playing with enjoyment and passion," Rahane added. For now, Rahane needs to continue to tick the basics and add runs for CSK. If he continues in the same manner, the batting maestro -- and also a highly acclaimed slip fielder -- might be in India's scheme of things to star in the playing XI for the WTC final. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: Why Team India may turn back to Ajinkya Rahane for WTC final

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition will start on Friday (March 31) when the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) will take on the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in&nbsp;Ahmedabad. This will be the&nbsp;cash-rich league's 16th edition. It has become a huge brand globally with the presence of superstar cricketers, playing in front of packed stadiums, with huge money involved.&nbsp;

The IPL kicked off for the first time in 2008. Back then, many yesteryear Indian superstars such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag, Sourav Ganguly, Anil Kumble and others were also part of the league. On the other hand, current stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were in the nascent stage of their respective careers, having made a mark in the domestic circuit and at the U-19 level. The Indian cricket fans were thrilled to see their national stars adapt to the shortest format of the game and cheered&nbsp;them on their on-field heroics.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-not-kohli-sky-or-stokes-ex-eng-pacer-says-this-srh-debutant-could-win-player-of-the-tournament-577203">IPL 2023: Not Kohli, SKY or Stokes! Ex-Eng pacer says THIS SRH debutant could win Player of the Tournament</a>

Nonetheless, the Indian fans had to wait for a long time before a national player reached the triple-figure mark in the IPL. Brendon McCullum had slammed the first-ever IPL hundred in the league's maiden encounter while five other batters joined him in the century club in the 2008 edition. AB de Villiers scored a ton in IPL 2009 before Manish Pandey -- an uncapped player back then -- became the first Indian to reach the milestone in the tournament's history. He scored a memorable ton in Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)'s face-off versus eventual winners Deccan Chargers.

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First ipl 100 Manish pandey <a href="https://t.co/tWy9ckwO22">pic.twitter.com/tWy9ckwO22</a>
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It was the 56th game of the IPL 2009 edition, at Cape Town. Opting to bat first, the Kumble-led RCB franchise rode on Pandey's 114, off 73 balls, to post 170 for 4 and restricted Adam Gilchrist &amp; Co. for 158 for 6 to win the clash by 12 runs. Pandey's inning was laced with 10 fours and 4 sixes. He scored at a whopping 156.16 run rate.

In IPL 2023, Pandey will represent the Delhi Capitals (DC) and hope to take his side to their maiden title.&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition will start on Friday (March 31) when the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) will take on the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition will start on Friday (March 31) when the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) will take on the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. This will be the cash-rich league's 16th edition. It has become a huge brand globally with the presence of superstar cricketers, playing in front of packed stadiums, with huge money involved. The IPL kicked off for the first time in 2008. Back then, many yesteryear Indian superstars such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag, Sourav Ganguly, Anil Kumble and others were also part of the league. On the other hand, current stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were in the nascent stage of their respective careers, having made a mark in the domestic circuit and at the U-19 level. The Indian cricket fans were thrilled to see their national stars adapt to the shortest format of the game and cheered them on their on-field heroics. Also Read: IPL 2023: Not Kohli, SKY or Stokes! Ex-Eng pacer says THIS SRH debutant could win Player of the Tournament Nonetheless, the Indian fans had to wait for a long time before a national player reached the triple-figure mark in the IPL. Brendon McCullum had slammed the first-ever IPL hundred in the league's maiden encounter while five other batters joined him in the century club in the 2008 edition. AB de Villiers scored a ton in IPL 2009 before Manish Pandey -- an uncapped player back then -- became the first Indian to reach the milestone in the tournament's history. He scored a memorable ton in Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)'s face-off versus eventual winners Deccan Chargers. First ipl 100 Manish pandey pic.twitter.com/tWy9ckwO22 — Rajeev Mishra (@RajeevM77675925) February 18, 2017 × It was the 56th game of the IPL 2009 edition, at Cape Town. Opting to bat first, the Kumble-led RCB franchise rode on Pandey's 114, off 73 balls, to post 170 for 4 and restricted Adam Gilchrist & Co. for 158 for 6 to win the clash by 12 runs. Pandey's inning was laced with 10 fours and 4 sixes. He scored at a whopping 156.16 run rate. In IPL 2023, Pandey will represent the Delhi Capitals (DC) and hope to take his side to their maiden title.

IPL 2023: Not Kohli, Rohit or Tendulkar! THIS batter was India's first centurion in cash-rich league

Abdul Razzaq is regarded as one of the finest all-rounders for Pakistan. The yesteryear star represented Pakistan in 46 Tests, 265 ODIs and 32 T20Is in his international career, which spanned from 1996 to 2013. During his stellar career, where he scored 1,946,&nbsp;5,080 and 393 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively and claimed a total of 389 wickets. He played alongside several legends of the game such as Sachin Tendulkar, Jacques Kallis, Ricky Ponting, Rahul Dravid, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Waqar Younis, Wasim Akram, etc.

Razzaq had a great run versus Tendulkar, dismissing him on as many as six occasions in ODIs. Even the batting legend Tendulkar has also hailed Razzaq as one of the toughest bowlers he faced during his 24-year-long legendary career. Recently, Razzaq opened up on the 'most dangerous player' for Pakistan during their face-offs versus India in his playing days and it is not Master Blaster Tendulkar.&nbsp;

According to Razzaq, Pakistan used to plot against legendary Indian opener Virender Sehwag, who the former Pakistan all-rounder regarded as the jackpot wicket during Indo-Pak encounters. "Virender Sehwag was the most dangerous player. After that Sachin Tendulkar. Pakistan used to plan against Sehwag and Tendulkar. Our plan used to be like - if we get these two wickets - Sehwag and Tendulkar - we will win the match. In bowling, our batsmen used to plan against Zaheer Khan. Irfan Pathan was there too for some time. Harbhajan Singh was there. These were the big names who played big matches and performed for their country," Razzaq told the Times of India.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-was-cocky-arrogant-ex-rcb-star-de-villiers-shares-first-impression-of-virat-kohli-chris-gayle-reacts-576577">'He was cocky, arrogant': Ex-RCB star De Villiers shares first impression of Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle reacts</a>

“In the middle order, Yuvraj Singh was the one. Sehwag, Tendulkar, Yuvraj were the big big names. When we dismissed them, we used to say yes, we have taken big wickets today. These were the players Pakistan seriously planned against. The plan involved how and what to bowl, certain areas to bowl to them in, field setting, and trying different bowlers and deliveries against these batsmen. Similarly, our batsmen planned against bowlers like Zaheer, Harbhajan, and Irfan,” Razzaq added.

While Tendulkar is India's top-run getter in ODIs versus Pakistan, amassing 2,526 runs in 69 matches, Sehwag scored 1,071 runs in 31 games in the format.&nbsp;However, Sehwag ended his career with more runs against India's Asian neighbours than the Master Blaster in Tests. He ended with 1,276 runs in just nine Tests against Pakistan at an average of 91.14 including a best of 309. Meanwhile, Tendulkar managed&nbsp;1,057 runs in 18 Tests.&nbsp;

Abdul Razzaq is regarded as one of the finest all-rounders for Pakistan. The yesteryear star represented Pakistan in 46 Tests, 265 ODIs and 32 T20Is in his international career, which spanned from 1996 to 2013.

Abdul Razzaq is regarded as one of the finest all-rounders for Pakistan. The yesteryear star represented Pakistan in 46 Tests, 265 ODIs and 32 T20Is in his international career, which spanned from 1996 to 2013. During his stellar career, where he scored 1,946, 5,080 and 393 runs in Tests, ODIs and T20Is respectively and claimed a total of 389 wickets. He played alongside several legends of the game such as Sachin Tendulkar, Jacques Kallis, Ricky Ponting, Rahul Dravid, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Waqar Younis, Wasim Akram, etc. Razzaq had a great run versus Tendulkar, dismissing him on as many as six occasions in ODIs. Even the batting legend Tendulkar has also hailed Razzaq as one of the toughest bowlers he faced during his 24-year-long legendary career. Recently, Razzaq opened up on the 'most dangerous player' for Pakistan during their face-offs versus India in his playing days and it is not Master Blaster Tendulkar. According to Razzaq, Pakistan used to plot against legendary Indian opener Virender Sehwag, who the former Pakistan all-rounder regarded as the jackpot wicket during Indo-Pak encounters. "Virender Sehwag was the most dangerous player. After that Sachin Tendulkar. Pakistan used to plan against Sehwag and Tendulkar. Our plan used to be like - if we get these two wickets - Sehwag and Tendulkar - we will win the match. In bowling, our batsmen used to plan against Zaheer Khan. Irfan Pathan was there too for some time. Harbhajan Singh was there. These were the big names who played big matches and performed for their country," Razzaq told the Times of India. Also Read: 'He was cocky, arrogant': Ex-RCB star De Villiers shares first impression of Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle reacts “In the middle order, Yuvraj Singh was the one. Sehwag, Tendulkar, Yuvraj were the big big names. When we dismissed them, we used to say yes, we have taken big wickets today. These were the players Pakistan seriously planned against. The plan involved how and what to bowl, certain areas to bowl to them in, field setting, and trying different bowlers and deliveries against these batsmen. Similarly, our batsmen planned against bowlers like Zaheer, Harbhajan, and Irfan,” Razzaq added. While Tendulkar is India's top-run getter in ODIs versus Pakistan, amassing 2,526 runs in 69 matches, Sehwag scored 1,071 runs in 31 games in the format. However, Sehwag ended his career with more runs against India's Asian neighbours than the Master Blaster in Tests. He ended with 1,276 runs in just nine Tests against Pakistan at an average of 91.14 including a best of 309. Meanwhile, Tendulkar managed 1,057 runs in 18 Tests.

Not Sachin Tendulkar! Abdul Razzaq names Master Blaster's ICONIC teammate as 'most dangerous player'

Ahead of the third and final ODI between India and Australia, in Chennai on Wednesday (March 22), Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid spilled the beans on the side's preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup at home. Dravid revealed that the team management has already shortlisted 17-18 players for the showpiece event.

In a pre-match presser, Dravid told in Chennai, "Probably not going to get too many more games in our conditions. We had the opportunity to play in these conditions which is great. Yeah, coming out of the IPL to a large extent we are pretty clear about the kind of squad and the players we want. We have narrowed it down to 17-18 players."

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'Within the squad we will like to keep the options. Overall,&nbsp;we are pretty much in good space'

Dravid further opined, "We have some guys who are recovering from injuries and will come into the frame based on their recovery. All in all, we are pretty much in good space. We are able to give those who we have zeroed in on as many playing opportunities.

"There are a couple of different combinations that we would like to try. It is a big tournament, a long tournament in India, we want to have that flexibility in our squad. some times four fast bowlers, sometimes three spinners. Within the squad we will like to keep the options. just to ensure that we have covered all our bases for all conditions," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-likely-to-kick-off-on-october-5-final-on-november-19-in-ahmedabad-report-574549">ODI World Cup likely to kick off on October 5, final on November 19 in Ahmedabad: Report</a>

Rohit Sharma-led India are preparing hard for the marquee event but have several injury concerns. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant are out of action due to injuries. With a lot of cricket to be played in the run-up to the ODI World Cup, in the form of IPL 2023, ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final and Asia Cup 2023, the team management will hope for players to remain fresh and free from injuries. This will be India's biggest challenge heading into the ICC event at home.

As per reports, the ODI World Cup is set to kick off in India on October 05 and the final will be held in Ahmedabad on November 19. At present, India face Australia in the three-match ODI series finale, in Chennai, on Wednesday (March 22) with the series levelled at 1-1.
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Ahead of the third and final ODI between India and Australia, in Chennai on Wednesday (March 22), Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid spilled the beans on the side's preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup at home.

Ahead of the third and final ODI between India and Australia, in Chennai on Wednesday (March 22), Team India's head coach Rahul Dravid spilled the beans on the side's preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup at home. Dravid revealed that the team management has already shortlisted 17-18 players for the showpiece event. In a pre-match presser, Dravid told in Chennai, "Probably not going to get too many more games in our conditions. We had the opportunity to play in these conditions which is great. Yeah, coming out of the IPL to a large extent we are pretty clear about the kind of squad and the players we want. We have narrowed it down to 17-18 players." 'Within the squad we will like to keep the options. Overall, we are pretty much in good space' Dravid further opined, "We have some guys who are recovering from injuries and will come into the frame based on their recovery. All in all, we are pretty much in good space. We are able to give those who we have zeroed in on as many playing opportunities. "There are a couple of different combinations that we would like to try. It is a big tournament, a long tournament in India, we want to have that flexibility in our squad. some times four fast bowlers, sometimes three spinners. Within the squad we will like to keep the options. just to ensure that we have covered all our bases for all conditions," he added. Also Read: ODI World Cup likely to kick off on October 5, final on November 19 in Ahmedabad: Report Rohit Sharma-led India are preparing hard for the marquee event but have several injury concerns. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant are out of action due to injuries. With a lot of cricket to be played in the run-up to the ODI World Cup, in the form of IPL 2023, ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final and Asia Cup 2023, the team management will hope for players to remain fresh and free from injuries. This will be India's biggest challenge heading into the ICC event at home. As per reports, the ODI World Cup is set to kick off in India on October 05 and the final will be held in Ahmedabad on November 19. At present, India face Australia in the three-match ODI series finale, in Chennai, on Wednesday (March 22) with the series levelled at 1-1.

'We have...': Rahul Dravid provides big update on India's 2023 World Cup preparations

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition is keenly awaited. Every team is preparing hard for the marquee event which will be held in India entirely. As per a report, the 50-over marquee tournament is set to kick off in early October and will end by mid-November.&nbsp;

As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, the 2023 ODI WC will commence on&nbsp;October 05 whereas the finale will be held on November 19 at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The same report also suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the host of the ten-team tournament, has finalised as many as a dozen venues for the showpiece event.

Apart from Ahmedabad, the shortlisted cities are&nbsp;Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Dharamsala, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Indore, Rajkot, and Mumbai. It is to be noted that the tournament will be held in the round-robin stage, just like the 2019 edition, and will&nbsp;consist of&nbsp;48 matches including three knockouts across a 46-day period.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-team-india-shreyas-iyer-to-undergo-surgery-likely-to-skip-ipl-2023-wtc-final-and-odi-wc-574544">Big blow to Team India! Shreyas Iyer to undergo surgery, likely to skip IPL 2023, WTC final and ODI WC</a>

Why the delay from BCCI?

The BCCI has not specified venues for any games as of now, nor the two or three cities where the&nbsp;warm-up encounters will take place. It is learned that the delay in finalising the venues has been due to the threat posed by the monsoon season receding at different points across the nation.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) usually&nbsp;shares the World Cup schedules, at least, a year in the run-up to the event. However, much to the surprise of cricket fans worldwide, it hasn't been the case this time around. The wait has been prolonged as the Indian cricket board is&nbsp;yet to&nbsp;get the necessary clearance from the&nbsp;government.

The BCCI needs to get a tax exemption for hosting the mega&nbsp;tournament, and also acquire visa clearance for Team Pakistan. The Asian giants have not played a bilateral series in India since early 2013 and their last visit to their neighbouring country was during the 2016 T20 World Cup in India.

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition is keenly awaited. Every team is preparing hard for the marquee event which will be held in India entirely. As per a report, the 50-over marquee tournament is set to kick off in early October and will end by mid-November.

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition is keenly awaited. Every team is preparing hard for the marquee event which will be held in India entirely. As per a report, the 50-over marquee tournament is set to kick off in early October and will end by mid-November. As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, the 2023 ODI WC will commence on October 05 whereas the finale will be held on November 19 at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. The same report also suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the host of the ten-team tournament, has finalised as many as a dozen venues for the showpiece event. Apart from Ahmedabad, the shortlisted cities are Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Dharamsala, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Indore, Rajkot, and Mumbai. It is to be noted that the tournament will be held in the round-robin stage, just like the 2019 edition, and will consist of 48 matches including three knockouts across a 46-day period. Also Read: Big blow to Team India! Shreyas Iyer to undergo surgery, likely to skip IPL 2023, WTC final and ODI WC Why the delay from BCCI? The BCCI has not specified venues for any games as of now, nor the two or three cities where the warm-up encounters will take place. It is learned that the delay in finalising the venues has been due to the threat posed by the monsoon season receding at different points across the nation. The International Cricket Council (ICC) usually shares the World Cup schedules, at least, a year in the run-up to the event. However, much to the surprise of cricket fans worldwide, it hasn't been the case this time around. The wait has been prolonged as the Indian cricket board is yet to get the necessary clearance from the government. The BCCI needs to get a tax exemption for hosting the mega tournament, and also acquire visa clearance for Team Pakistan. The Asian giants have not played a bilateral series in India since early 2013 and their last visit to their neighbouring country was during the 2016 T20 World Cup in India.

ODI World Cup likely to kick off on October 5, final on November 19 in Ahmedabad: Report

Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI to Australia by ten wickets in the ongoing three-match series at home. Playing the penultimate game, on Sunday (March 18) in Visakhapatnam, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. were bundled out for a paltry 117, courtesy of Mitchell Starc's five-fer, and lost the contest by ten wickets with 234 balls to spare.

After the heavy defeat, India will aim for a quick turnaround and win the series decider at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 22). Ahead of the series finale, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has called for Sanju Samson's inclusion in place of Suryakumar Yadav. It is to be noted that SKY has managed two golden ducks in the series and his place is under threat.

"We have to see if the management sticks with Suryakumar Yadav in the third ODI; otherwise, it’s not a bad option to give Sanju Samson a chance because he has played well when given the opportunity, and he is a good player," Jaffer told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.

<section>
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wouldnt-have-applied-if-virat-kohli-had-not-approached-me-sehwag-recalls-being-offered-india-coach-job-574147">Wouldn’t have applied if Virat Kohli had not approached me: Sehwag recalls being offered India coach job</a>

Samson isn't part of India's ODI squad at present. He last played for the Men in Blue in early 2023 before an injury, during the home T20Is versus Sri Lanka, ruled him out of action. A fit-again Samson hasn't managed to comeback into the Indian squad since then as the team management preferred SKY after Shreyas Iyer, a regular at the No. 4 spot, recently got injured.

After Surya's twin failures in the Australia ODIs, captain Rohit backed him to come good. After the Vizag ODI, Hitman said, "Of course, he knows that he needs to do it while in a slightly longer format of the game as well. I think things are there in his mind as well. As I said, guys with potential will have enough run where you know they should not feel that ‘Okay, You know I wasn’t given enough chances in that particular slot'."

He added, "We don’t know about (Shreyas) Iyer’s return. At this time there is a spot available so we have to play him (Suryakumar). He has obviously shown a lot of potential with white ball and I have said it many times before (that) guys with potential will be given some run."
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Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI to Australia by ten wickets in the ongoing three-match series at home. Playing the penultimate game, on Sunday (March 18) in Visakhapatnam, Rohit Sharma & Co.

Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI to Australia by ten wickets in the ongoing three-match series at home. Playing the penultimate game, on Sunday (March 18) in Visakhapatnam, Rohit Sharma & Co. were bundled out for a paltry 117, courtesy of Mitchell Starc's five-fer, and lost the contest by ten wickets with 234 balls to spare. After the heavy defeat, India will aim for a quick turnaround and win the series decider at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 22). Ahead of the series finale, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has called for Sanju Samson's inclusion in place of Suryakumar Yadav. It is to be noted that SKY has managed two golden ducks in the series and his place is under threat. "We have to see if the management sticks with Suryakumar Yadav in the third ODI; otherwise, it’s not a bad option to give Sanju Samson a chance because he has played well when given the opportunity, and he is a good player," Jaffer told ESPNCricinfo. Also read: Wouldn’t have applied if Virat Kohli had not approached me: Sehwag recalls being offered India coach job Samson isn't part of India's ODI squad at present. He last played for the Men in Blue in early 2023 before an injury, during the home T20Is versus Sri Lanka, ruled him out of action. A fit-again Samson hasn't managed to comeback into the Indian squad since then as the team management preferred SKY after Shreyas Iyer, a regular at the No. 4 spot, recently got injured. After Surya's twin failures in the Australia ODIs, captain Rohit backed him to come good. After the Vizag ODI, Hitman said, "Of course, he knows that he needs to do it while in a slightly longer format of the game as well. I think things are there in his mind as well. As I said, guys with potential will have enough run where you know they should not feel that ‘Okay, You know I wasn’t given enough chances in that particular slot'." He added, "We don’t know about (Shreyas) Iyer’s return. At this time there is a spot available so we have to play him (Suryakumar). He has obviously shown a lot of potential with white ball and I have said it many times before (that) guys with potential will be given some run."

Ind vs Aus, 3rd ODI: Wasim Jaffer calls for Sanju Samson's inclusion after Suryakumar Yadav's twin failures

Former India coach Ravi Shastri has come out in support of current coach Rahul Dravid and said that things take time. Shastri made the comments while reflecting on Dravid's tenure so far. Dravid had taken over from Shastri after the latter spent nearly four and a half years as the head coach of India men's cricket team.

Talking to media outlet Sports Tak, Shastri said, "It takes time. It took me time and it's going to take him time too. But Rahul has an advantage that he was at the NCA, he was with the A team as well and now he's here too. He is experienced with the contemporary cricketer players and with the system. Give him time."

Shastri was also asked about India's lack of trophies, to which the former coach gave a cheeky reply, saying that public memory is short in India.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shahid-afridi-urges-india-to-tour-pakistan-for-2023-asia-cup-says-security-is-not-a-concern-anymore-574027">Shahid Afridi urges India to tour Pakistan for 2023 Asia Cup, says security is not a concern anymore</a>

"In our country, public memory is short. If you have to win, you have to win. During my tenure, we won two Asia Cups, but no one remembers. Has anyone mentioned Asia Cup? We've won it twice. And no one talks about it. But when we lose in Asia Cup, then the tournament comes into the picture. Why? That's why I'm saying, the effort should always be there," he said.

"Everyone wants to win but what's important is to put your best foot forward. And see what happens. Sometimes you don't play your best cricket and still you'll win the game but you're going to have to be extremely lucky for that to win a World Cup. Very few teams win a World Cup by not playing well on that day. Very rare," he further added.

Notably, India have won just one ICC trophy after their 2011 ICC World Cup win - the 2013 Champions Trophy. India, however, have played in the semifinals of 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cup editions and lost the final of 2017 Champion Trophy to Pakistan.

In T20Is, after winning the inaugural ICC T20I World Cup in 2007, India lost in the final of 2014 and were a semifinalist in 2016 and 2022 editions. India also reached the final of inaugural ICC World Test Championship in 2021 but lost of New Zealand.

The Men in Blue, however, will have another shot at the ODI World Cup which is scheduled to be played in India later this year. Before that, they'll also face Australia in their second consecutive WTC Final in June in England.

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Former India coach Ravi Shastri has come out in support of current coach Rahul Dravid and said that things take time. Shastri made the comments while reflecting on Dravid's tenure so far.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri has come out in support of current coach Rahul Dravid and said that things take time. Shastri made the comments while reflecting on Dravid's tenure so far. Dravid had taken over from Shastri after the latter spent nearly four and a half years as the head coach of India men's cricket team. Talking to media outlet Sports Tak, Shastri said, "It takes time. It took me time and it's going to take him time too. But Rahul has an advantage that he was at the NCA, he was with the A team as well and now he's here too. He is experienced with the contemporary cricketer players and with the system. Give him time." Shastri was also asked about India's lack of trophies, to which the former coach gave a cheeky reply, saying that public memory is short in India. Also Read: Shahid Afridi urges India to tour Pakistan for 2023 Asia Cup, says security is not a concern anymore "In our country, public memory is short. If you have to win, you have to win. During my tenure, we won two Asia Cups, but no one remembers. Has anyone mentioned Asia Cup? We've won it twice. And no one talks about it. But when we lose in Asia Cup, then the tournament comes into the picture. Why? That's why I'm saying, the effort should always be there," he said. "Everyone wants to win but what's important is to put your best foot forward. And see what happens. Sometimes you don't play your best cricket and still you'll win the game but you're going to have to be extremely lucky for that to win a World Cup. Very few teams win a World Cup by not playing well on that day. Very rare," he further added. Notably, India have won just one ICC trophy after their 2011 ICC World Cup win - the 2013 Champions Trophy. India, however, have played in the semifinals of 2015 and 2019 ODI World Cup editions and lost the final of 2017 Champion Trophy to Pakistan. In T20Is, after winning the inaugural ICC T20I World Cup in 2007, India lost in the final of 2014 and were a semifinalist in 2016 and 2022 editions. India also reached the final of inaugural ICC World Test Championship in 2021 but lost of New Zealand. The Men in Blue, however, will have another shot at the ODI World Cup which is scheduled to be played in India later this year. Before that, they'll also face Australia in their second consecutive WTC Final in June in England. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ravi Shastri backs Rahul Dravid to come through as coach, gives CHEEKY reply on India's lack of trophies

Rohit Sharma-led India was thrashed by Australia, by ten wickets, in the second and penultimate ODI in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19) as the three-match series is now levelled at 1-1. The series finale will be held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 21) as the No. 1 ranked Indian team will hope to win another bilateral series in the run-up to the ODI World Cup at home, later this year.

Many have questioned Suryakumar Yadav's place in the Indian XI after his twin failures in the Australia ODIs. He has been out on the first ball in both games so far and, hence, is facing the heat. Former Australian white-ball captain Aaron Finch shared some valuable advice for the under-fire batter.

"Suryakumar got two beauties from Mitchell Starc. But he knows where he would have been bowling, he's got to be sharper than that in the first couple of balls," Finch said on Star Sports after the conclusion of the second and penultimate tie in Vizag.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-or-jasprit-bumrah-shane-watson-names-indias-key-player-for-odi-world-cup-574215">Not Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli or Jasprit Bumrah! Shane Watson names India's key player for ODI World Cup</a>

After Surya's two back-to-back golden ducks, captain Rohit continued to back him. After the Vizag ODI, Hitman said, "Of course, he knows that he needs to do it while in a slightly longer format of the game as well. I think things are there in his mind as well. As I said, guys with potential will have enough run where you know they should not feel that ‘Okay, You know I wasn’t given enough chances in that particular slot'."

"We don’t know about (Shreyas) Iyer’s return. At this time there is a spot available so we have to play him (Suryakumar). He has obviously shown a lot of potential with white ball and I have said it many times before (that) guys with potential will be given some run."

Rohit Sharma-led India was thrashed by Australia, by ten wickets, in the second and penultimate ODI in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19) as the three-match series is now levelled at 1-1.

Rohit Sharma-led India was thrashed by Australia, by ten wickets, in the second and penultimate ODI in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19) as the three-match series is now levelled at 1-1. The series finale will be held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday (March 21) as the No. 1 ranked Indian team will hope to win another bilateral series in the run-up to the ODI World Cup at home, later this year. Many have questioned Suryakumar Yadav's place in the Indian XI after his twin failures in the Australia ODIs. He has been out on the first ball in both games so far and, hence, is facing the heat. Former Australian white-ball captain Aaron Finch shared some valuable advice for the under-fire batter. "Suryakumar got two beauties from Mitchell Starc. But he knows where he would have been bowling, he's got to be sharper than that in the first couple of balls," Finch said on Star Sports after the conclusion of the second and penultimate tie in Vizag. Also Read: Not Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli or Jasprit Bumrah! Shane Watson names India's key player for ODI World Cup After Surya's two back-to-back golden ducks, captain Rohit continued to back him. After the Vizag ODI, Hitman said, "Of course, he knows that he needs to do it while in a slightly longer format of the game as well. I think things are there in his mind as well. As I said, guys with potential will have enough run where you know they should not feel that ‘Okay, You know I wasn’t given enough chances in that particular slot'." "We don’t know about (Shreyas) Iyer’s return. At this time there is a spot available so we have to play him (Suryakumar). He has obviously shown a lot of potential with white ball and I have said it many times before (that) guys with potential will be given some run."

IND vs AUS: Aaron Finch shares advice for under-fire Suryakumar Yadav after his successive golden ducks

Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI versus Australia in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19). Mitchell Starc's five-fer bundled out India for a paltry 117 as Australia chased down the target with 234 balls to spare; levelling the series 1-1 before the final game on Wednesday (March 22).&nbsp;

India will be desperate to bounce back to winning ways and clinch the series as they continue their preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India entirely in October-November. Rohit Sharma &amp; Co., the No. 1 ranked ODI side, is one of the favourites for the marquee event, especially with them being the hosts. The last time the 50-over World Cup was held in India was in 2011, with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh also being the co-hosts, when MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the championship.

Although India will be strong contenders, Pakistan's former captain and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez feels the hosts are a strong outfit but lack in one aspect, i.e. of 'not able to perform in the big matches' and will have a point to prove to the world in the 2023 edition.

"Hot favourites are India. India have a big plus point because in the recent past, I feel like it started from the era of Ganguly. They have the mindset of a world-beater. From there, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli carried on. In the recent past, say in the last 10-12 years, wherever India are playing, they are considered as hot favourites. That is special from India," Hafeez said while speaking to Sports Tak on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket.

"And when the tournaments happen in India, when big matches happen in India, in bilateral series, oppositions have very little chance. Their success rate is very high. But, when big tournaments come, I think India are lacking in just one aspect. In the recent past, in ICC events, they are not able to perform in the big matches.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/viral-shahid-afridi-signs-on-indian-flag-for-a-fan-during-legends-league-cricket-watch-573745">Viral: Shahid Afridi signs on Indian flag for a fan during Legends League Cricket - Watch</a>

"You can describe it many ways, but the pressure of playing in knockout matches in ICC events, that is not there in bilateral series. It's quite similar to playing domestic cricket and international cricket. It's difficult to describe the pressure of playing in ICC knockout matches. India have not been able to handle that pressure in major events.

"They have lost crunch matches, against England they lost the semi-final. In 2017, in the Champions Trophy final, they lost. Then also, they were favourites. This is a pinching point as far as India are concerned. India now have a point to prove to the world. They should come and perform well in ICC major events," Hafeez added.

India's last ICC title, in the senior men's category, came in 2013 during the Champions Trophy in England and Wales.

On Babar Azam-led Pakistan's chances, the 42-year-old Hafeez stated, "Pakistan also will have their chances. They have one of the most versatile and lethal bowling attacks in the world. If you look at the fast-bowlers, they are match-winners. If you look at Shaheen Afridi, if he is fit and firing, the entire world wants to watch him in action. When you talk about spin-bowling, there are Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim and Mohammad Nawaz. There is a new young pace-bowling talent in Ihsanullah, he can also bowl in excess of 150 kph and hit the good areas.

"Pakistan playing in India have to also deal with pressure. Playing in India will mean a lot of pressure. A lot will depend on how much momentum Pakistan take into the World Cup and how the dressing room atmosphere is created to deal with pressure," he concluded.

Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI versus Australia in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19). Mitchell Starc's five-fer bundled out India for a paltry 117 as Australia chased down the target with 234 balls to spare; levelling the series 1-1 before the final game on Wednesday (March 22).

Team India lost the second and penultimate ODI versus Australia in Visakhapatnam on Sunday (March 19). Mitchell Starc's five-fer bundled out India for a paltry 117 as Australia chased down the target with 234 balls to spare; levelling the series 1-1 before the final game on Wednesday (March 22). India will be desperate to bounce back to winning ways and clinch the series as they continue their preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup, to be held in India entirely in October-November. Rohit Sharma & Co., the No. 1 ranked ODI side, is one of the favourites for the marquee event, especially with them being the hosts. The last time the 50-over World Cup was held in India was in 2011, with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh also being the co-hosts, when MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the championship. Although India will be strong contenders, Pakistan's former captain and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez feels the hosts are a strong outfit but lack in one aspect, i.e. of 'not able to perform in the big matches' and will have a point to prove to the world in the 2023 edition. "Hot favourites are India. India have a big plus point because in the recent past, I feel like it started from the era of Ganguly. They have the mindset of a world-beater. From there, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli carried on. In the recent past, say in the last 10-12 years, wherever India are playing, they are considered as hot favourites. That is special from India," Hafeez said while speaking to Sports Tak on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket. "And when the tournaments happen in India, when big matches happen in India, in bilateral series, oppositions have very little chance. Their success rate is very high. But, when big tournaments come, I think India are lacking in just one aspect. In the recent past, in ICC events, they are not able to perform in the big matches. Also read: Viral: Shahid Afridi signs on Indian flag for a fan during Legends League Cricket - Watch "You can describe it many ways, but the pressure of playing in knockout matches in ICC events, that is not there in bilateral series. It's quite similar to playing domestic cricket and international cricket. It's difficult to describe the pressure of playing in ICC knockout matches. India have not been able to handle that pressure in major events. "They have lost crunch matches, against England they lost the semi-final. In 2017, in the Champions Trophy final, they lost. Then also, they were favourites. This is a pinching point as far as India are concerned. India now have a point to prove to the world. They should come and perform well in ICC major events," Hafeez added. India's last ICC title, in the senior men's category, came in 2013 during the Champions Trophy in England and Wales. On Babar Azam-led Pakistan's chances, the 42-year-old Hafeez stated, "Pakistan also will have their chances. They have one of the most versatile and lethal bowling attacks in the world. If you look at the fast-bowlers, they are match-winners. If you look at Shaheen Afridi, if he is fit and firing, the entire world wants to watch him in action. When you talk about spin-bowling, there are Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim and Mohammad Nawaz. There is a new young pace-bowling talent in Ihsanullah, he can also bowl in excess of 150 kph and hit the good areas. "Pakistan playing in India have to also deal with pressure. Playing in India will mean a lot of pressure. A lot will depend on how much momentum Pakistan take into the World Cup and how the dressing room atmosphere is created to deal with pressure," he concluded.

'India have a point to prove': Md Hafeez on Rohit Sharma & Co.'s chances at 2023 ODI World Cup

On this day in 2001, India pulled off a historic win in the second and penultimate Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia on home soil. After losing the series opener convincingly, the then Sourav Ganguly-led Indian team were on the mat after being asked to follow-on. Dismissing Steve Waugh's Australia for 445, India only managed 171 and were 232-4 in their second essay.

VVS Laxman (281) and Rahul Dravid (180)&nbsp;joined forces for the fifth-wicket stand, which added a mammoth 376 runs as the two's daddy hundreds propelled India to set a daunting 384-run target for the visitors. Waugh &amp; Co., who were riding high on their 16-match unbeaten streak, fell flat and bundled out for 212 on the final day as Harbhajan Singh's match figures of 13 for 196 took India to a stunning 171-run win.

On Wednesday (March 15), India's former player Hemang Badani shared some interesting and unheard tales from the iconic Kolkata Test. Badani wrote on Twitter, "Not many know that at the end of day 3 we had packed our suitcases, they were to be taken straight to the airport and the team were to go straight to the airport from the ground. And then these two batted like magicians without losing a wicket the entire day."

<section>
"When we got back to the hotel, we didn’t have our suitcases and were stuck with our match gear and tracks until about 9 pm or so. Lot of us ate dinner at the hotel restaurant in our whites," he added.

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Not many know that at the end of day 3 we had packed our suitcases, they were to be taken straight to airport and the team were to go straight to the airport from ground. And then these two batted like magicians without losing a wicket the entire day …cont <a href="https://t.co/jTyuUTD4o9">https://t.co/jTyuUTD4o9</a>
— Hemang Badani (@hemangkbadani) <a href="https://twitter.com/hemangkbadani/status/1635533988453552128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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At the end of Day 3, India were reeling at 254-4 in their second essay before they eventually declared at 657/7 courtesy of Laxman-Dravid's brilliance.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-is-aussie-legend-adam-gilchrist-the-richest-cricketer-in-the-world-heres-the-truth-571877">FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH</a>

An uncapped Badani sledged legend Waugh!

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And here is another story. On day five our keeper Mongia got injured and yours truly was on as a substitute fielder and Sourav knowing that I was one of the few who could speak English well asked me to make it tough for the Aussie’s ..cont 1/2 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/SxgOXKudpO">https://t.co/SxgOXKudpO</a>
— Hemang Badani (@hemangkbadani) <a href="https://twitter.com/hemangkbadani/status/1635859877867454464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Badani further revealed, in reply to another tweet, "And here is another story. On day five our keeper Mongia got injured and yours truly was on as a substitute fielder and Sourav knowing that I was one of the few who could speak English well asked me to make it tough for the Aussie’s .."

"I hadn’t even made my test debut then and imagine I was going hard at their Skip who had played over a 100 test games and I was lucky enough to be a part of his dismissal. Haven’t been a part of any better cricket match than this.Fabulous cricket and great memories for me," he added.

Ganguly-led India not only levelled the three-match series in Kolkata, but they also went ahead to win the series decider in Chennai by two wickets. Hence, India emerged on top of a daunting Australian unit to win the series 2-1 after trailing 0-1. The Kolkata Test changed Indian cricket completely and is vividly remembered to date as one of the best red-ball games ever.

Currently, hosts Rohit Sharma-led India -- under Dravid's coaching -- defeated Australia 2-1 in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and both sides will meet in this year's ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London in early June.
</section>

On this day in 2001, India pulled off a historic win in the second and penultimate Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia on home soil. After losing the series opener convincingly, the then Sourav Ganguly-led Indian team were on the mat after being asked to follow-on.

On this day in 2001, India pulled off a historic win in the second and penultimate Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus Australia on home soil. After losing the series opener convincingly, the then Sourav Ganguly-led Indian team were on the mat after being asked to follow-on. Dismissing Steve Waugh's Australia for 445, India only managed 171 and were 232-4 in their second essay. VVS Laxman (281) and Rahul Dravid (180) joined forces for the fifth-wicket stand, which added a mammoth 376 runs as the two's daddy hundreds propelled India to set a daunting 384-run target for the visitors. Waugh & Co., who were riding high on their 16-match unbeaten streak, fell flat and bundled out for 212 on the final day as Harbhajan Singh's match figures of 13 for 196 took India to a stunning 171-run win. On Wednesday (March 15), India's former player Hemang Badani shared some interesting and unheard tales from the iconic Kolkata Test. Badani wrote on Twitter, "Not many know that at the end of day 3 we had packed our suitcases, they were to be taken straight to the airport and the team were to go straight to the airport from the ground. And then these two batted like magicians without losing a wicket the entire day." "When we got back to the hotel, we didn’t have our suitcases and were stuck with our match gear and tracks until about 9 pm or so. Lot of us ate dinner at the hotel restaurant in our whites," he added. Not many know that at the end of day 3 we had packed our suitcases, they were to be taken straight to airport and the team were to go straight to the airport from ground. And then these two batted like magicians without losing a wicket the entire day …cont https://t.co/jTyuUTD4o9 — Hemang Badani (@hemangkbadani) March 14, 2023 × At the end of Day 3, India were reeling at 254-4 in their second essay before they eventually declared at 657/7 courtesy of Laxman-Dravid's brilliance. Also read: FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH An uncapped Badani sledged legend Waugh! And here is another story. On day five our keeper Mongia got injured and yours truly was on as a substitute fielder and Sourav knowing that I was one of the few who could speak English well asked me to make it tough for the Aussie’s ..cont 1/2 #INDvsAUS https://t.co/SxgOXKudpO — Hemang Badani (@hemangkbadani) March 15, 2023 × Badani further revealed, in reply to another tweet, "And here is another story. On day five our keeper Mongia got injured and yours truly was on as a substitute fielder and Sourav knowing that I was one of the few who could speak English well asked me to make it tough for the Aussie’s .." "I hadn’t even made my test debut then and imagine I was going hard at their Skip who had played over a 100 test games and I was lucky enough to be a part of his dismissal. Haven’t been a part of any better cricket match than this.Fabulous cricket and great memories for me," he added. Ganguly-led India not only levelled the three-match series in Kolkata, but they also went ahead to win the series decider in Chennai by two wickets. Hence, India emerged on top of a daunting Australian unit to win the series 2-1 after trailing 0-1. The Kolkata Test changed Indian cricket completely and is vividly remembered to date as one of the best red-ball games ever. Currently, hosts Rohit Sharma-led India -- under Dravid's coaching -- defeated Australia 2-1 in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and both sides will meet in this year's ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at The Oval, London in early June.

'Packed our suitcases': Ex-India player shares UNHEARD tale from famous 2001 Kolkata Test win vs Australia

Virat Kohli ended his Test century-drought during the just-concluded fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad. During the drawn Test match, the former Indian captain top-scored with a brilliant 186 as he ensured India took a 91-run lead after Australia posted 480. While the Test ended in a tame draw, Rohit Sharma-led India won the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1 and entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.&nbsp;

After the Test match, Kohli interacted with India's head coach Rahul Dravid in a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) official Twitter handle. In the clip, Dravid asked Kohli if it was 'hard' for him to have not managed to score a hundred in red-ball format since late 2019. To this, Kohli had a brutal yet heartfelt response.

The 34-year-old Kohli said: "To be honest, I've led the complications to grow on me a little bit because of my own shortcomings. I think the desperation to get the 3-figure mark is something that can grow on you as a batsman. We've all experienced that at some stage or the other. I think I led that happen to me to a certain extent."

"But also the flip side to it is that I am not a guy who is happy with 40 or 45 runs. I am someone who always takes pride in performing for the team. It's not like Virat Kohli should stand out. When I am batting on 40, I know I can get a 150 here and that will help my team. That was eating me up a lot. Why am I not able to get that big score for the team because I always took the pride in performing for the team when it needed me, in difficult conditions and difficult situations," he further opined.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fact-check-is-aussie-legend-adam-gilchrist-the-richest-cricketer-in-the-world-heres-the-truth-571877">FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH</a>

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A conversation full of calmness, respect &amp; inspiration written all over it! 😊 🙌 
 
A special post series-win chat with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Head Coach Rahul Dravid &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad 👍 👍 - By <a href="https://twitter.com/RajalArora?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RajalArora</a> 
 
FULL INTERVIEW 🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a><a href="https://t.co/nF0XfltRg2">https://t.co/nF0XfltRg2</a> <a href="https://t.co/iHU1jZ1CKG">pic.twitter.com/iHU1jZ1CKG</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1635491261561044993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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'Everyone is saying we want a hundred. So, it's like, it does play on your mind'

Kohli asserted, "The fact that I wasn't able to do that was bother me. Not so much the milestone as such as I don't play for it. A lot of people ask me this question, 'how do you keep scoring a hundred?'. I always told them, a hundred is something that happens along the way within my goal which is to bat as long as possible for the team and get as many runs as possible. So, the milestone is never my focus. But yes, I have to be brutally honest, it&nbsp;does become a little complicated because the moment you step out of the hotel room, right from the guy outside the room to the guy in the lift to the bus driver, everyone is saying we want a hundred. So, it's like, it does play on your mind."

"But I think that's the beauty of playing so long as well, to have these complications come and over come these challenges. When it comes together, like it did in this game, that gives you an extra gust of air to go beyond, go further and start enjoying cricket a lot more and be excited for what's to come. I am just happy that it happened at the right time, before the World Test Championship final. I will definitely be going there pretty relaxed," concluded the former Indian captain.

Kohli will be eager to score another ton in India's next Test match, which will be the WTC final versus Australia at The Oval, London on June 07. Under him, India lost the inaugural WTC finale to New Zealand and, hence, he will be eager to guide India to the elusive title this time around. Currently, he is gearing up for the home ODIs versus Australia before IPL 2023's commencement.

Virat Kohli ended his Test century-drought during the just-concluded fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad. During the drawn Test match, the former Indian captain top-scored with a brilliant 186 as he ensured India took a 91-run lead after Australia posted 480.

Virat Kohli ended his Test century-drought during the just-concluded fourth and final Test between India and Australia in Ahmedabad. During the drawn Test match, the former Indian captain top-scored with a brilliant 186 as he ensured India took a 91-run lead after Australia posted 480. While the Test ended in a tame draw, Rohit Sharma-led India won the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1 and entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. After the Test match, Kohli interacted with India's head coach Rahul Dravid in a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) official Twitter handle. In the clip, Dravid asked Kohli if it was 'hard' for him to have not managed to score a hundred in red-ball format since late 2019. To this, Kohli had a brutal yet heartfelt response. The 34-year-old Kohli said: "To be honest, I've led the complications to grow on me a little bit because of my own shortcomings. I think the desperation to get the 3-figure mark is something that can grow on you as a batsman. We've all experienced that at some stage or the other. I think I led that happen to me to a certain extent." "But also the flip side to it is that I am not a guy who is happy with 40 or 45 runs. I am someone who always takes pride in performing for the team. It's not like Virat Kohli should stand out. When I am batting on 40, I know I can get a 150 here and that will help my team. That was eating me up a lot. Why am I not able to get that big score for the team because I always took the pride in performing for the team when it needed me, in difficult conditions and difficult situations," he further opined. Also Read: FACT CHECK: Is Aussie legend Adam Gilchrist the richest cricketer in the world? Here's the TRUTH A conversation full of calmness, respect & inspiration written all over it! 😊 🙌 A special post series-win chat with #TeamIndia Head Coach Rahul Dravid & @imVkohli at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad 👍 👍 - By @RajalArora FULL INTERVIEW 🔽 #INDvAUShttps://t.co/nF0XfltRg2 pic.twitter.com/iHU1jZ1CKG — BCCI (@BCCI) March 14, 2023 × 'Everyone is saying we want a hundred. So, it's like, it does play on your mind' Kohli asserted, "The fact that I wasn't able to do that was bother me. Not so much the milestone as such as I don't play for it. A lot of people ask me this question, 'how do you keep scoring a hundred?'. I always told them, a hundred is something that happens along the way within my goal which is to bat as long as possible for the team and get as many runs as possible. So, the milestone is never my focus. But yes, I have to be brutally honest, it does become a little complicated because the moment you step out of the hotel room, right from the guy outside the room to the guy in the lift to the bus driver, everyone is saying we want a hundred. So, it's like, it does play on your mind." "But I think that's the beauty of playing so long as well, to have these complications come and over come these challenges. When it comes together, like it did in this game, that gives you an extra gust of air to go beyond, go further and start enjoying cricket a lot more and be excited for what's to come. I am just happy that it happened at the right time, before the World Test Championship final. I will definitely be going there pretty relaxed," concluded the former Indian captain. Kohli will be eager to score another ton in India's next Test match, which will be the WTC final versus Australia at The Oval, London on June 07. Under him, India lost the inaugural WTC finale to New Zealand and, hence, he will be eager to guide India to the elusive title this time around. Currently, he is gearing up for the home ODIs versus Australia before IPL 2023's commencement.

'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravid's question on century drought - WATCH

India's head coach Rahul Dravid, after the Ahmedabad Test, which ended in a draw, lauded opening batsman Shubman Gill, saying he's a really exciting addition to the Indian team and that he's maturing with the time.

“It’s been a really exciting 4-5 months for Shubman, just sort of breaking into the T20I side and scoring a hundred. Doing the same in one-day cricket and then capping that off with good performances in the last two Test matches. So, obviously, for us, it is really exciting for a young player to come through. He’s maturing and has been around the team for the last few years,” said Dravid.

Gill scored a defining century in the just-drawn Ahmedabad Test, his second in the Tests, which laid a platform for next batsmen to eventually get India a lead of 91 runs in the first innings. Gill scored 128 runs off 235 balls, hitting 12 fours and a six.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-2023-twitterati-go-gaga-as-new-zealand-beat-sri-lanka-on-last-ball-by-2-wickets-taking-india-into-final-571574">WTC 2023: Twitterati go GAGA as New Zealand beat Sri Lanka on last ball by 2 wickets, taking India into final</a>

Dravid also praised Gill for taking responsibility and called it 'a great sign for us.'

“It’s just great to see him taking on that responsibility and putting in the kind of performances that are up to the standards that are in demand. It’s a great sign for us and long may it continue. He’s a lovely player, who works very hard on his skills,” the former India batsman added.

The Border-Gavaskar trophy&nbsp;was retained by India after winning the series&nbsp;2-1 as the players from both sides decided to end the game in a draw, shortly after Tea on Day 5. Both the teams, however, made it to the World Test Championship (WTC) final to be played in England in June.

Australia had booked their berth much earlier than India, who had to either win the Ahmedabad Test or hope for Sri Lanka to lose or draw their two-Test series against New Zealand, currently ongoing in New Zealand.

Much to India's fortune, New Zealand beat Sri Lanka in the first Test on Monday in what was one of the most thrilling Tests of all time as the Kiwis claimed a last-ball win.

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India's head coach Rahul Dravid, after the Ahmedabad Test, which ended in a draw, lauded opening batsman Shubman Gill, saying he's a really exciting addition to the Indian team and that he's maturing with the time.

India's head coach Rahul Dravid, after the Ahmedabad Test, which ended in a draw, lauded opening batsman Shubman Gill, saying he's a really exciting addition to the Indian team and that he's maturing with the time. “It’s been a really exciting 4-5 months for Shubman, just sort of breaking into the T20I side and scoring a hundred. Doing the same in one-day cricket and then capping that off with good performances in the last two Test matches. So, obviously, for us, it is really exciting for a young player to come through. He’s maturing and has been around the team for the last few years,” said Dravid. Gill scored a defining century in the just-drawn Ahmedabad Test, his second in the Tests, which laid a platform for next batsmen to eventually get India a lead of 91 runs in the first innings. Gill scored 128 runs off 235 balls, hitting 12 fours and a six. Also Read: WTC 2023: Twitterati go GAGA as New Zealand beat Sri Lanka on last ball by 2 wickets, taking India into final Dravid also praised Gill for taking responsibility and called it 'a great sign for us.' “It’s just great to see him taking on that responsibility and putting in the kind of performances that are up to the standards that are in demand. It’s a great sign for us and long may it continue. He’s a lovely player, who works very hard on his skills,” the former India batsman added. The Border-Gavaskar trophy was retained by India after winning the series 2-1 as the players from both sides decided to end the game in a draw, shortly after Tea on Day 5. Both the teams, however, made it to the World Test Championship (WTC) final to be played in England in June. Australia had booked their berth much earlier than India, who had to either win the Ahmedabad Test or hope for Sri Lanka to lose or draw their two-Test series against New Zealand, currently ongoing in New Zealand. Much to India's fortune, New Zealand beat Sri Lanka in the first Test on Monday in what was one of the most thrilling Tests of all time as the Kiwis claimed a last-ball win. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Long may it continue...': India coach Rahul Dravid praises THIS exciting young player after Australia Tests

India coach Rahul Dravid, ahead of the fourth Test in Ahmedabad, said that the pitches are becoming challenging all over the world and not only in India. Dravid also defended the Indian batsmen, saying the benchmarks have to be realistic.

"If you look at the last three-four years, all over the world I think wickets have got a lot more challenging, not only here. So you have to be realistic about what the benchmarks are now, what the standards are," Dravid said.

"Just understanding that in these kinds of games, just one good performance can change the game. We saw that with Rohit's performance (Nagpur Century), we've seen that many times over here. It's just being realistic in our assessment of our batsmen, their averages and their numbers, and don't really look so much into it," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-4th-test-record-fans-set-to-attend-india-vs-australia-test-in-ahmedabad-569714">IND vs AUS 4th Test: Record fans set to attend India vs Australia Test in Ahmedabad</a>

The comments come on the back of the first three Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series ending inside three days. The pitch in the last Test in Indore, especially, received a 'poor' rating by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after it started offering turn within first hour of play, which India lost by nine-wickets after managing 107 and 163 in two innings.

There has been much talk about the pitches in the ongoing series even since the first match in Nagpur. Former and current players from Australia, however, have downplayed all the talks around the topic. Notably, Australia folded for 91 in their second innings in Nagpur and 113 in Delhi Test.

Much of it although had to do with the expensive shots played by the batsmen instead of turn on the pitch. The Indore pitch, meanwhile, has gotten the backlash from former players of both countries for not being Test friendly.&nbsp;

Currently, India lead the four-match series 2-1 and a win the Ahmedabad Test would book them a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final which is scheduled to be played in England in June.

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India coach Rahul Dravid, ahead of the fourth Test in Ahmedabad, said that the pitches are becoming challenging all over the world and not only in India.

India coach Rahul Dravid, ahead of the fourth Test in Ahmedabad, said that the pitches are becoming challenging all over the world and not only in India. Dravid also defended the Indian batsmen, saying the benchmarks have to be realistic. "If you look at the last three-four years, all over the world I think wickets have got a lot more challenging, not only here. So you have to be realistic about what the benchmarks are now, what the standards are," Dravid said. "Just understanding that in these kinds of games, just one good performance can change the game. We saw that with Rohit's performance (Nagpur Century), we've seen that many times over here. It's just being realistic in our assessment of our batsmen, their averages and their numbers, and don't really look so much into it," he added. Also Read: IND vs AUS 4th Test: Record fans set to attend India vs Australia Test in Ahmedabad The comments come on the back of the first three Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series ending inside three days. The pitch in the last Test in Indore, especially, received a 'poor' rating by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after it started offering turn within first hour of play, which India lost by nine-wickets after managing 107 and 163 in two innings. There has been much talk about the pitches in the ongoing series even since the first match in Nagpur. Former and current players from Australia, however, have downplayed all the talks around the topic. Notably, Australia folded for 91 in their second innings in Nagpur and 113 in Delhi Test. Much of it although had to do with the expensive shots played by the batsmen instead of turn on the pitch. The Indore pitch, meanwhile, has gotten the backlash from former players of both countries for not being Test friendly. Currently, India lead the four-match series 2-1 and a win the Ahmedabad Test would book them a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final which is scheduled to be played in England in June. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ind vs Aus: Rahul Dravid defends Indian batsmen, says pitches now challenging everywhere

Ahead of the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team celebrated Holi, the festival of colours, in Ahmedabad. The fourth and final Test kicks off at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Thursday (March 9) but before that the home side made sure to enjoy the festival in the dressing room, team bus&nbsp;along with support staff and security personnel.

Captain Rohit led the charge in the celebrations as he started applying colour before Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Cheteshwar Pujara and others joined in. Here's the viral video, shared on BCCI's official Twitter handle, where the Indian players were seen celebrating the joyous occasion:

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-4th-test-team-india-goes-full-of-colours-as-players-staff-celebrate-holi-ahead-of-ahmedabad-clash-569661">IND vs AUS 4th Test: Team India goes full of colours as players, staff celebrate Holi ahead of Ahmedabad clash</a>

BCCI captioned the post, "Colours, smiles &amp; more! Do not miss #TeamIndia's Holi celebration in Ahmedabad". Watch video:

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Colours, smiles &amp; more! 🥳 ☺️ 
 
Do not miss <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>’s Holi celebration in Ahmedabad 🎨 <a href="https://t.co/jOAKsxayBA">pic.twitter.com/jOAKsxayBA</a>
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India lead the four-match series, 2-1, but lost the third and penultimate Test in Indore by nine wickets and the series became alive even though India have already taken an unassailable lead. While Australia, who have already qualified for the WTC final, will aim for a memorable 2-2 scoreline, Rohit &amp; Co. will be desperate to win the series 3-1 and get the ticket to enter the WTC summit clash. If India lose or the series finale ends in a draw, they will hope for New Zealand to not lose both their Tests versus visitors Sri Lanka with their series kicking off on Thursday as well, in Christchurch.

Apart from India, Sri Lanka also have a faint chance of entering the WTC final. Nonetheless, Rohit &amp; Co. can put an end to SL's hopes with a win in Ahmedabad.

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Ahead of the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team celebrated Holi, the festival of colours, in Ahmedabad.

Ahead of the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team celebrated Holi, the festival of colours, in Ahmedabad. The fourth and final Test kicks off at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Thursday (March 9) but before that the home side made sure to enjoy the festival in the dressing room, team bus along with support staff and security personnel. Captain Rohit led the charge in the celebrations as he started applying colour before Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Cheteshwar Pujara and others joined in. Here's the viral video, shared on BCCI's official Twitter handle, where the Indian players were seen celebrating the joyous occasion: Also read: IND vs AUS 4th Test: Team India goes full of colours as players, staff celebrate Holi ahead of Ahmedabad clash BCCI captioned the post, "Colours, smiles & more! Do not miss #TeamIndia's Holi celebration in Ahmedabad". Watch video: Colours, smiles & more! 🥳 ☺️ Do not miss #TeamIndia’s Holi celebration in Ahmedabad 🎨 pic.twitter.com/jOAKsxayBA — BCCI (@BCCI) March 8, 2023 × India lead the four-match series, 2-1, but lost the third and penultimate Test in Indore by nine wickets and the series became alive even though India have already taken an unassailable lead. While Australia, who have already qualified for the WTC final, will aim for a memorable 2-2 scoreline, Rohit & Co. will be desperate to win the series 3-1 and get the ticket to enter the WTC summit clash. If India lose or the series finale ends in a draw, they will hope for New Zealand to not lose both their Tests versus visitors Sri Lanka with their series kicking off on Thursday as well, in Christchurch. Apart from India, Sri Lanka also have a faint chance of entering the WTC final. Nonetheless, Rohit & Co. can put an end to SL's hopes with a win in Ahmedabad. ×

UNMISSABLE! Rohit Sharma leads the charge as Team India celebrate Holi in Ahmedabad - Watch

Axar Patel has had an interesting run in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. So far, Axar has featured in all three Tests for Team India, versus Australia, on home soil. While he has only managed a solitary wicket in five innings, bowling 39 overs, he has led the charge with the bat -- coming with vital contributions down the order in the opening two games -- and is the second-highest run-getter of the 2022/23 BGT.

Axar is only behind skipper Rohit Sharma, who scored a majestic 120 in the series opener in Nagpur, with&nbsp;185 runs in four outings, at 92.50, including two fifties with a best of 84. He remained not-out in both innings in the Indore Test, where India's main batters fell flat versus the Aussie spinners. Nonetheless, there have been&nbsp;a few who have surprisingly called for his omission, to make way for Kuldeep Yadav in the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad.

Former Indian stumper and BCCI selector Saba Karim has backed Axar and feels his batting contributions have been one of the&nbsp;main reasons for India having an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-match series.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bgt-202223-wont-appreciate-test-matches-finishing-in-25-days-opines-gautam-gambhir-569845">BGT 2022/23: Won't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days, opines Gautam Gambhir</a>

"India should continue playing Axar Patel," Karim said&nbsp;during a discussion on India News Sports. "India have a 2-1 lead in the series because Axar has batted really well. He hasn't had enough opportunities with the ball, as Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, the two prime spinners, have bowled most of the overs."

"He doesn't deserve to sit out. Since Ahmedabad is his home ground, he knows the dimensions of the ground and the conditions very well," added Karim.

Axar will be gearing up to play on his home ground as India host Australia in the series decider, on Thursday (March 09) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. On debut, the left-arm spinner had taken a memorable 11-fer at the same venue in a day-night Test versus England, in 2021. He will be eager to replicate the same feat and lead India to a series win, and take them to the WTC final.

India need a win in the series finale to emerge on top by a 3-1 margin and also confirm their place in the WTC final. Australia already qualified with their nine-wicket win in the third Test in Indore.

Axar Patel has had an interesting run in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. So far, Axar has featured in all three Tests for Team India, versus Australia, on home soil.

Axar Patel has had an interesting run in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. So far, Axar has featured in all three Tests for Team India, versus Australia, on home soil. While he has only managed a solitary wicket in five innings, bowling 39 overs, he has led the charge with the bat -- coming with vital contributions down the order in the opening two games -- and is the second-highest run-getter of the 2022/23 BGT. Axar is only behind skipper Rohit Sharma, who scored a majestic 120 in the series opener in Nagpur, with 185 runs in four outings, at 92.50, including two fifties with a best of 84. He remained not-out in both innings in the Indore Test, where India's main batters fell flat versus the Aussie spinners. Nonetheless, there have been a few who have surprisingly called for his omission, to make way for Kuldeep Yadav in the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad. Former Indian stumper and BCCI selector Saba Karim has backed Axar and feels his batting contributions have been one of the main reasons for India having an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-match series. Also read: BGT 2022/23: Won't appreciate Test matches finishing in 2.5 days, opines Gautam Gambhir "India should continue playing Axar Patel," Karim said during a discussion on India News Sports. "India have a 2-1 lead in the series because Axar has batted really well. He hasn't had enough opportunities with the ball, as Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, the two prime spinners, have bowled most of the overs." "He doesn't deserve to sit out. Since Ahmedabad is his home ground, he knows the dimensions of the ground and the conditions very well," added Karim. Axar will be gearing up to play on his home ground as India host Australia in the series decider, on Thursday (March 09) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. On debut, the left-arm spinner had taken a memorable 11-fer at the same venue in a day-night Test versus England, in 2021. He will be eager to replicate the same feat and lead India to a series win, and take them to the WTC final. India need a win in the series finale to emerge on top by a 3-1 margin and also confirm their place in the WTC final. Australia already qualified with their nine-wicket win in the third Test in Indore.

India have a 2-1 lead because of him: Ex-India stumper backs star player ahead of 4th Test

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Indore Test versus Australia as the visitors kept the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive with hosts leading 2-1, ahead of the final match in Ahmedabad. Rohit &amp; Co. received a setback but will be hungry for success in the series decider, which kicks off on March 09 (Thursday), to not only win the series 3-1 but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.

With Australia having already qualified for the WTC final, following their win in Indore, they will come hard versus the Indian team. Ahead of the Ahmedabad Test, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting has urged the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team to consider making one big change in their batting line-up if they reach the WTC finale, to be held at The Oval, London on June 07-11.

With conditions being different in England, as compared to the sub-continent, Ponting feels India should go ahead with both out-of-form KL Rahul and Shubman Gill. "With someone like KL Rahul having gone out of this side and Shubman Gill having come in, both these guys have played a bit of Test match cricket, and you could potentially have both of those guys in the same team," Ponting told ICC.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nz-vs-sl-explained-how-sri-lanka-can-play-spoilsport-to-indias-wtc-final-chances-569483">NZ vs SL: EXPLAINED! How Sri Lanka can play spoilsport to India's WTC final chances</a>

"Maybe Shubman could start at the top and KL could potentially move down into the middle order, because he's played cricket in those (English) conditions before, albeit at the top of the order," he added.

Gill replaced Rahul in India's playing XI for the third and penultimate Test in Indore versus Australia. Rahul has been in woeful form in whites, managing only 192 runs in last 12 innings, but his replacement Gill also fell flat in both the innings of the Indore Test match. The young right-hander managed scores of 21 anf 5 as India lost by nine wickets in a low-scoring match.

It will be interesting to see if India go back to Rahul or persist with Gill for the final Test. It is highly unlikely that India will go ahead with both of them in the playing XI for the Ahmedabad Test.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Indore Test versus Australia as the visitors kept the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive with hosts leading 2-1, ahead of the final match in Ahmedabad.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the Indore Test versus Australia as the visitors kept the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy alive with hosts leading 2-1, ahead of the final match in Ahmedabad. Rohit & Co. received a setback but will be hungry for success in the series decider, which kicks off on March 09 (Thursday), to not only win the series 3-1 but also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. With Australia having already qualified for the WTC final, following their win in Indore, they will come hard versus the Indian team. Ahead of the Ahmedabad Test, former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting has urged the Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led Indian team to consider making one big change in their batting line-up if they reach the WTC finale, to be held at The Oval, London on June 07-11. With conditions being different in England, as compared to the sub-continent, Ponting feels India should go ahead with both out-of-form KL Rahul and Shubman Gill. "With someone like KL Rahul having gone out of this side and Shubman Gill having come in, both these guys have played a bit of Test match cricket, and you could potentially have both of those guys in the same team," Ponting told ICC. Also read: NZ vs SL: EXPLAINED! How Sri Lanka can play spoilsport to India's WTC final chances "Maybe Shubman could start at the top and KL could potentially move down into the middle order, because he's played cricket in those (English) conditions before, albeit at the top of the order," he added. Gill replaced Rahul in India's playing XI for the third and penultimate Test in Indore versus Australia. Rahul has been in woeful form in whites, managing only 192 runs in last 12 innings, but his replacement Gill also fell flat in both the innings of the Indore Test match. The young right-hander managed scores of 21 anf 5 as India lost by nine wickets in a low-scoring match. It will be interesting to see if India go back to Rahul or persist with Gill for the final Test. It is highly unlikely that India will go ahead with both of them in the playing XI for the Ahmedabad Test.

Ricky Ponting urges Team India to make a big change in batting order if they enter WTC final

India thrashed Australia by six wickets on Day 3 of the second Test, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, to go 2-0 up in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Australia did put up a better show in the Test match, till the first innings, they fell flat in their second essay and gave a paltry 114-run target to Team India. In reply, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. chased down the score with six wickets to spare and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the process.&nbsp;

The likes of Rohit, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Md Shami have been India's top-performers so far but opener KL Rahul has been struggling for runs. The 30-year-old&nbsp;has only managed 198 runs in the last 12 innings. In the ongoing Test series, Rahul has a&nbsp;total of 38 runs in three innings and has looked completely out of form. Thus, many have slammed the Indian batter and former pacer Venkatesh Prasad has been quite vocal in his criticism of Rahul. He has time and again vented out his frustration with Rahul struggling for runs. Amid severe criticism, both captain Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid have backed the underfire opener.&nbsp;

After the Delhi Test win, Dravid told Star Sports, "I&nbsp;think he (Rahul) needs to trust his processes. This is just a phase, he has been one of our most successful overseas openers. He’s got centuries in South Africa and England, we’ll continue to back him. I believe he has the quality and class to come out of this."

Now, Prasad broke the notion of Rahul having a good overseas record and shared a series of tweets -- also comprising the opener's ordinary away numbers. He wrote, "There is a view that KL Rahul has an outstanding overseas Test record. But stats speak otherwise. He has a test avg of 30 overseas in 56 innings. He has scored 6 overseas centuries but followed it up with a string of low scores that’s why averaging 30. Let’s look at a few others. Shikhar Dhawan has the best overseas average amongst recent openers. Avg of nearly 40 with 5 100’s. Though he too hasn’t been consistent in Test but had Outstanding centuries in SL and NZ, plus a much better home record."

Further, Prasad added, "Mayank Agarwal after the brilliant start in Aust did struggle in away test matches. But he has by far the best home record. Avg of nearly 70 in 13 innings,2 double 100’s &amp; a 150 on a Wankhede pitch where everyone else struggled. Great against spin &amp; had a prolific domestic season. Shubhman Gill has had a brief international career and in 14 overseas innings averages 37, with his 91 at Gabba amongst the best overseas 4th innings and has been in outstanding form," he added in a long thread on Monday, February 20.

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There is a view that KL Rahul has an outstanding overseas Test record. But stats speak otherwise. He has a test avg of 30 overseas in 56 innings. He has scored 6 overseas centuries but followed it up with a string of low scores that’s why averaging 30. Let’s look at a few others <a href="https://t.co/MAvHM01TcY">pic.twitter.com/MAvHM01TcY</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627528809720483840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Shikhar Dhawan has the best overseas average amongst recent openers. Avg of nearly 40 with 5 100’s. Though he too hasn’t been consistent in Test but had Outstanding centuries in SL and NZ, plus a much better home record. <a href="https://t.co/rH94R0a3A0">pic.twitter.com/rH94R0a3A0</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627529402614706176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Mayank Agarwal after the brilliant start in Aust did struggle in away test matches.But he has by far the best home record. Avg of nearly 70 in 13 innings,2 double 100’s &amp; a 150 on a Wankhede pitch where everyone else struggled. Great against spin &amp; had a prolific domestic season <a href="https://t.co/EJOsZEbOCP">pic.twitter.com/EJOsZEbOCP</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627530331862745089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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And if overseas performance is a criteria, Ajinkya Rahane despite being out of form and also inconsistent before being dropped had obe of the best overseas Test record, averaging over 40 overseas in 50 test matches. Was out of form and dropped … <a href="https://t.co/2Uj5YZe9Cr">pic.twitter.com/2Uj5YZe9Cr</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627532250714898434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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But with KL being retained for the remaining 2 test matches, if he is picked in the playing 11, Indore is his best chance of coming back to form and silencing critics like me. Else needs to play county cricket, perform well and make a comeback in the Test side.
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1627535177118527488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-revealed-why-kl-rahul-has-been-axed-as-indias-vice-captain-for-remaining-tests-563823">IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests</a>

Speaking about Rahul's Test career, the right-hander has&nbsp;2,642 runs in 47 Tests at an average of&nbsp;33.44 with 7 hundreds. He has two hundreds in England and one each in India, Sri Lanka, South Africa, West Indies and Australia. At home, he averages 40.13 but it goes down drastically in away Tests (30.69).

At the post-match press conference of the Delhi Test, captain Rohit indicated that Rahul will be given a longer rope. "Lately, there has been a lot of talk about Rahul’s batting. As team management, we always look at the potential of any individual, not just KL. I have been asked this in the past about a lot of players. If a guy has potential, he will get that extended run,” Sharma said.

Rahul has lost his vice-captaincy post for the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Hence, he will be desperate for a big knock in the remainder of the Australia Tests.&nbsp;

India thrashed Australia by six wickets on Day 3 of the second Test, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, to go 2-0 up in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Australia did put up a better show in the Test match, till the first innings, they fell flat in their second essay and gave a paltry 114-run target to Team India.

India thrashed Australia by six wickets on Day 3 of the second Test, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, to go 2-0 up in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While Australia did put up a better show in the Test match, till the first innings, they fell flat in their second essay and gave a paltry 114-run target to Team India. In reply, Rohit Sharma & Co. chased down the score with six wickets to spare and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the process. The likes of Rohit, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Md Shami have been India's top-performers so far but opener KL Rahul has been struggling for runs. The 30-year-old has only managed 198 runs in the last 12 innings. In the ongoing Test series, Rahul has a total of 38 runs in three innings and has looked completely out of form. Thus, many have slammed the Indian batter and former pacer Venkatesh Prasad has been quite vocal in his criticism of Rahul. He has time and again vented out his frustration with Rahul struggling for runs. Amid severe criticism, both captain Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid have backed the underfire opener. After the Delhi Test win, Dravid told Star Sports, "I think he (Rahul) needs to trust his processes. This is just a phase, he has been one of our most successful overseas openers. He’s got centuries in South Africa and England, we’ll continue to back him. I believe he has the quality and class to come out of this." Now, Prasad broke the notion of Rahul having a good overseas record and shared a series of tweets -- also comprising the opener's ordinary away numbers. He wrote, "There is a view that KL Rahul has an outstanding overseas Test record. But stats speak otherwise. He has a test avg of 30 overseas in 56 innings. He has scored 6 overseas centuries but followed it up with a string of low scores that’s why averaging 30. Let’s look at a few others. Shikhar Dhawan has the best overseas average amongst recent openers. Avg of nearly 40 with 5 100’s. Though he too hasn’t been consistent in Test but had Outstanding centuries in SL and NZ, plus a much better home record." Further, Prasad added, "Mayank Agarwal after the brilliant start in Aust did struggle in away test matches. But he has by far the best home record. Avg of nearly 70 in 13 innings,2 double 100’s & a 150 on a Wankhede pitch where everyone else struggled. Great against spin & had a prolific domestic season. Shubhman Gill has had a brief international career and in 14 overseas innings averages 37, with his 91 at Gabba amongst the best overseas 4th innings and has been in outstanding form," he added in a long thread on Monday, February 20. There is a view that KL Rahul has an outstanding overseas Test record. But stats speak otherwise. He has a test avg of 30 overseas in 56 innings. He has scored 6 overseas centuries but followed it up with a string of low scores that’s why averaging 30. Let’s look at a few others pic.twitter.com/MAvHM01TcY — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × Shikhar Dhawan has the best overseas average amongst recent openers. Avg of nearly 40 with 5 100’s. Though he too hasn’t been consistent in Test but had Outstanding centuries in SL and NZ, plus a much better home record. pic.twitter.com/rH94R0a3A0 — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × Mayank Agarwal after the brilliant start in Aust did struggle in away test matches.But he has by far the best home record. Avg of nearly 70 in 13 innings,2 double 100’s & a 150 on a Wankhede pitch where everyone else struggled. Great against spin & had a prolific domestic season pic.twitter.com/EJOsZEbOCP — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × And if overseas performance is a criteria, Ajinkya Rahane despite being out of form and also inconsistent before being dropped had obe of the best overseas Test record, averaging over 40 overseas in 50 test matches. Was out of form and dropped … pic.twitter.com/2Uj5YZe9Cr — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × But with KL being retained for the remaining 2 test matches, if he is picked in the playing 11, Indore is his best chance of coming back to form and silencing critics like me. Else needs to play county cricket, perform well and make a comeback in the Test side. — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) February 20, 2023 × Also Read: IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests Speaking about Rahul's Test career, the right-hander has 2,642 runs in 47 Tests at an average of 33.44 with 7 hundreds. He has two hundreds in England and one each in India, Sri Lanka, South Africa, West Indies and Australia. At home, he averages 40.13 but it goes down drastically in away Tests (30.69). At the post-match press conference of the Delhi Test, captain Rohit indicated that Rahul will be given a longer rope. "Lately, there has been a lot of talk about Rahul’s batting. As team management, we always look at the potential of any individual, not just KL. I have been asked this in the past about a lot of players. If a guy has potential, he will get that extended run,” Sharma said. Rahul has lost his vice-captaincy post for the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Hence, he will be desperate for a big knock in the remainder of the Australia Tests.

Venkatesh Prasad once again slams KL Rahul, hits back at 'he has great overseas Test record' claims

Rohit Sharma-led India gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Sunday (February 19), with a six-wicket win on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. With this win, India have strengthened their chances of reaching the ICC World Test Championship final and look set to whitewash the Aussies in the four-match series with Pat Cummins &amp; Co. being clueless in front of the Indian spin trio.&nbsp;

After losing the Nagpur Test by an innings and 132 runs, Australia did put up a better show in the first innings of the Delhi Test. They managed 263 in their first essay and dismissed India for 262, gaining one-run lead, but fell flat in their second innings with their batters playing the sweep shots on a&nbsp;track which kept low, with Jadeja-Ashwin troubling them with spin. After the game, former Pakistan captain and PCB chairman Ramiz Raja feels 'Australia are not prepared' and went on to add that 'it is nearly impossible to beat Team India in India.'

"The Australians used to finish games against sub-continent teams in Perth or Brisbane. The tables have turned," Ramiz Raja said in his YouTube show. "It shows that Australia are not prepared, especially when it comes to playing good Test cricket in India. It's nearly impossible to beat Team India in India. An ordinary performance against spin. Nine wickets were dismissed in one session. Jadeja produced an excellent bowling performance," Raja added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-revealed-why-kl-rahul-has-been-axed-as-indias-vice-captain-for-remaining-tests-563823">IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests</a>

India will be eager to go for a 4-0 whitewash versus the Aussies and storm their way into the WTC final. As of now, it looks certain that both sides will lock horns in the summit clash, to be held in early June at The Oval, London.&nbsp;

India’s Test squad for third and fourth Test against Australia: Rohit Sharma (Captain), K L Rahul, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.

Rohit Sharma-led India gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Sunday (February 19), with a six-wicket win on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.

Rohit Sharma-led India gained an unassailable 2-0 lead in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Sunday (February 19), with a six-wicket win on Day 3 of the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. With this win, India have strengthened their chances of reaching the ICC World Test Championship final and look set to whitewash the Aussies in the four-match series with Pat Cummins & Co. being clueless in front of the Indian spin trio. After losing the Nagpur Test by an innings and 132 runs, Australia did put up a better show in the first innings of the Delhi Test. They managed 263 in their first essay and dismissed India for 262, gaining one-run lead, but fell flat in their second innings with their batters playing the sweep shots on a track which kept low, with Jadeja-Ashwin troubling them with spin. After the game, former Pakistan captain and PCB chairman Ramiz Raja feels 'Australia are not prepared' and went on to add that 'it is nearly impossible to beat Team India in India.' "The Australians used to finish games against sub-continent teams in Perth or Brisbane. The tables have turned," Ramiz Raja said in his YouTube show. "It shows that Australia are not prepared, especially when it comes to playing good Test cricket in India. It's nearly impossible to beat Team India in India. An ordinary performance against spin. Nine wickets were dismissed in one session. Jadeja produced an excellent bowling performance," Raja added. Also Read: IND vs AUS: Revealed! Why KL Rahul has been axed as India's vice-captain for remaining Tests India will be eager to go for a 4-0 whitewash versus the Aussies and storm their way into the WTC final. As of now, it looks certain that both sides will lock horns in the summit clash, to be held in early June at The Oval, London. India’s Test squad for third and fourth Test against Australia: Rohit Sharma (Captain), K L Rahul, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat.

BGT 2022/23: Beating India at home is almost impossible, says Ramiz Raja after Rohit & Co. take 2-0 lead

On Friday (February 17), Chetan Sharma resigned as the BCCI chief selector. After Zee media's TV sting operation, where the former cricketer spoke at length on many controversial topics in Indian cricket, many predicted his sacking but the chief selector&nbsp;resigned himself, which was accepted by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah.&nbsp;

In the TV sting operation, Chetan opened up on Virat Kohli's ODI sacking, how his relationship declined with then BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly, Kohli-Rohit Sharma's alleged rift rumours, and made a&nbsp;stunning claim that Indian players take injections to play with injuries. In addition, he mentioned the likes of Hardik Pandya, Rohit and a few others are in constant touch with him and visit his house. All this wasn't well received and Chetan paid the price for it. After his resignation, a BCCI official revealed that he had lost the trust of head coach Rahul Dravid, and captains Rohit and Hardik and it wasn't possible for him to&nbsp;sit across them in future meetings.

"Coach Rahul Dravid, captains Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya have completely lost faith in him. He couldn't possibly have sat across the table from them for selection committee meetings as he had lost all respect. He paid the price for being a big mouth," a BCCI source told the news agency Press Trust of India.

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Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chetan-sharma-zee-media-tv-sting-former-cricketer-resigns-as-bcci-chief-selector-562930">Chetan Sharma Zee Media TV sting: Former cricketer resigns as BCCI chief selector</a>

It is to be noted that Chetan was appointed as BCCI chief selector in December 2020. He spearheaded the team selection for India's 2021 and 2022 T20 World Cup campaigns, where the Men in Blue bowed out in the Super 12 and the semi-finals respectively. He was sacked as the chief selector post last year's T20 WC campaign but was reappointed last month before the sting operation eventually led to his ouster.&nbsp;
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On Friday (February 17), Chetan Sharma resigned as the BCCI chief selector. After Zee media's TV sting operation, where the former cricketer spoke at length on many controversial topics in Indian cricket, many predicted his sacking but the chief selector resigned himself, which was accepted by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah.

On Friday (February 17), Chetan Sharma resigned as the BCCI chief selector. After Zee media's TV sting operation, where the former cricketer spoke at length on many controversial topics in Indian cricket, many predicted his sacking but the chief selector resigned himself, which was accepted by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah. In the TV sting operation, Chetan opened up on Virat Kohli's ODI sacking, how his relationship declined with then BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly, Kohli-Rohit Sharma's alleged rift rumours, and made a stunning claim that Indian players take injections to play with injuries. In addition, he mentioned the likes of Hardik Pandya, Rohit and a few others are in constant touch with him and visit his house. All this wasn't well received and Chetan paid the price for it. After his resignation, a BCCI official revealed that he had lost the trust of head coach Rahul Dravid, and captains Rohit and Hardik and it wasn't possible for him to sit across them in future meetings. "Coach Rahul Dravid, captains Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya have completely lost faith in him. He couldn't possibly have sat across the table from them for selection committee meetings as he had lost all respect. He paid the price for being a big mouth," a BCCI source told the news agency Press Trust of India. Also Read: Chetan Sharma Zee Media TV sting: Former cricketer resigns as BCCI chief selector It is to be noted that Chetan was appointed as BCCI chief selector in December 2020. He spearheaded the team selection for India's 2021 and 2022 T20 World Cup campaigns, where the Men in Blue bowed out in the Super 12 and the semi-finals respectively. He was sacked as the chief selector post last year's T20 WC campaign but was reappointed last month before the sting operation eventually led to his ouster.

Dravid, Rohit & Hardik lost faith: BCCI official says Chetan Sharma paid price for being a 'big mouth'

India will square off with Australia in the second Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2023 edition, in New Delhi, which will get underway on February 17 (Friday). Ahead of the second Test, India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara is on the cusp of attaining a huge feat. Pujara will become the 13th Indian to play 100 Tests when he takes on the field for Team India in the Delhi Test. Thus, he will join an elite list of players featuring Little Master Sunil Gavaskar, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, etc.&nbsp;

Legendary list of Indian cricketers to have played 100 or more Test matches

Sachin Tendulkar - 200 Tests 
Rahul Dravid - 163 Tests 
VVS Laxman - 134 matches 
Anil Kumble - 132 
Kapil Dev - 131 matches 
Sunil Gavaskar - 125 Tests 
Dilip Vengsarkar - 116 matches 
Sourav Ganguly - 113 Tests 
Virat Kohli - 105 Tests 
Ishant Sharma - 105 matches 
Harbhajan Singh - 103 Tests 
Virender Sehwag - 103 matches

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-2nd-test-rahul-dravid-shares-epic-response-to-reporters-question-on-starc-shaheen-562630">IND vs AUS, 2nd Test: Rahul Dravid shares epic response to reporter's question on Starc and Shaheen</a>

Thus, Pujara will become the 13th Indian to join the elusive list. In 99 Tests, Pujara has amassed&nbsp;7,021 runs, including 19 hundreds and 34 half-centuries, along with a best of 206*. He played a crucial role in India's dominance in the red-ball format under Virat Kohli's captaincy (from 2016 to 2021). He was India's star performer in their maiden Test series win in Australia in the 2018/19 tour.&nbsp;

It goes without saying that Pujara will be eager to make the most of his landmark Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. In the series opener, in Nagpur, he was dismissed for a 14-ball 7. Thus, he will be desperate for a big score in his special Test.&nbsp;

India will square off with Australia in the second Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2023 edition, in New Delhi, which will get underway on February 17 (Friday).

India will square off with Australia in the second Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2023 edition, in New Delhi, which will get underway on February 17 (Friday). Ahead of the second Test, India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara is on the cusp of attaining a huge feat. Pujara will become the 13th Indian to play 100 Tests when he takes on the field for Team India in the Delhi Test. Thus, he will join an elite list of players featuring Little Master Sunil Gavaskar, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, etc. Legendary list of Indian cricketers to have played 100 or more Test matches Sachin Tendulkar - 200 Tests Rahul Dravid - 163 Tests VVS Laxman - 134 matches Anil Kumble - 132 Kapil Dev - 131 matches Sunil Gavaskar - 125 Tests Dilip Vengsarkar - 116 matches Sourav Ganguly - 113 Tests Virat Kohli - 105 Tests Ishant Sharma - 105 matches Harbhajan Singh - 103 Tests Virender Sehwag - 103 matches Also Read: IND vs AUS, 2nd Test: Rahul Dravid shares epic response to reporter's question on Starc and Shaheen Thus, Pujara will become the 13th Indian to join the elusive list. In 99 Tests, Pujara has amassed 7,021 runs, including 19 hundreds and 34 half-centuries, along with a best of 206*. He played a crucial role in India's dominance in the red-ball format under Virat Kohli's captaincy (from 2016 to 2021). He was India's star performer in their maiden Test series win in Australia in the 2018/19 tour. It goes without saying that Pujara will be eager to make the most of his landmark Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. In the series opener, in Nagpur, he was dismissed for a 14-ball 7. Thus, he will be desperate for a big score in his special Test.

IND vs AUS, Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Pujara on cusp of becoming 13th Indian to enter 100-Test club

Rohit Sharma-led India will take on Australia in the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi&nbsp;from February 17. After gaining a 1-0 lead in the Nagpur series opener, India will be eager to strengthen their chances of reaching the WTC final and consolidating their overall lead. Ahead of the match, head coach Rahul Dravid addressed a&nbsp;press conference and was asked to comment on the lack of left-arm pacers in the Indian camp.&nbsp;

At present, India have only Jaydev Unadkat in the&nbsp;Test squad who is a left-arm seamer. However, he has also been released for the ongoing Ranji Trophy final&nbsp;between Saurashtra and Bengal at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Apart from Unadkat, India have tried the likes of T Natarajan, Khaleel Ahmed and Arshdeep Singh but the latter is the only left-arm speedster who has earned a considerable run in recent times. Dravid spoke at length about left-arm pacers and said, "A left arm fast bowler brings a lot of variation. You forgot the name of Zaheer Khan. But selectors and management definitely watch out for these talents. Arshdeep Singh played well in the recent ODIs, he also played Ranji Trophy, where he picked 4-5 wickets. He's young, he's developing."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-wont-be-able-to-do-anything-afridi-reacts-to-bccis-refusal-to-send-india-to-pakistan-for-asia-cup-562564">'ICC won’t be able to do anything': Afridi reacts to BCCI's refusal to send India to Pakistan for Asia Cup</a>

'Only being a left-handed pacer will not help you get into the side'

Dravid further mentioned, "There are other guys who are performing. But only being a left-handed pacer will not help you get into the side, you need to perform as well. We do look at it, we know the importance but if you're only a left-hand fast bowler then you cannot be considered. Be it Zaheer Khan or Ashish Nehra they didn't get a chance just because they were left-hand fast bowler but since they were good."

Just then, Dravid was interrupted by a journalist who mentioned about Mitchell Starc and Shaheen Afridi and&nbsp;how these left-arm seamers have done well against India. To this, the head coach came up with a hilarious reply. "Agar 6 foot 4 inch bowler hain aapke paas toh aap batado&nbsp;(If you know a fast bowler who is 6 foot 4 inch, let us know). You took the names of Mitchell Starc and Shaheen Afridi, but in India, we rarely find someone as tall as 6 foot 5 inches who bowls left hand fast," Dravid added.

&nbsp;

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Rohit Sharma-led India will take on Australia in the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi from February 17. After gaining a 1-0 lead in the Nagpur series opener, India will be eager to strengthen their chances of reaching the WTC final and consolidating their overall lead.

Rohit Sharma-led India will take on Australia in the second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi from February 17. After gaining a 1-0 lead in the Nagpur series opener, India will be eager to strengthen their chances of reaching the WTC final and consolidating their overall lead. Ahead of the match, head coach Rahul Dravid addressed a press conference and was asked to comment on the lack of left-arm pacers in the Indian camp. At present, India have only Jaydev Unadkat in the Test squad who is a left-arm seamer. However, he has also been released for the ongoing Ranji Trophy final between Saurashtra and Bengal at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Apart from Unadkat, India have tried the likes of T Natarajan, Khaleel Ahmed and Arshdeep Singh but the latter is the only left-arm speedster who has earned a considerable run in recent times. Dravid spoke at length about left-arm pacers and said, "A left arm fast bowler brings a lot of variation. You forgot the name of Zaheer Khan. But selectors and management definitely watch out for these talents. Arshdeep Singh played well in the recent ODIs, he also played Ranji Trophy, where he picked 4-5 wickets. He's young, he's developing." Also Read: 'ICC won’t be able to do anything': Afridi reacts to BCCI's refusal to send India to Pakistan for Asia Cup 'Only being a left-handed pacer will not help you get into the side' Dravid further mentioned, "There are other guys who are performing. But only being a left-handed pacer will not help you get into the side, you need to perform as well. We do look at it, we know the importance but if you're only a left-hand fast bowler then you cannot be considered. Be it Zaheer Khan or Ashish Nehra they didn't get a chance just because they were left-hand fast bowler but since they were good." Just then, Dravid was interrupted by a journalist who mentioned about Mitchell Starc and Shaheen Afridi and how these left-arm seamers have done well against India. To this, the head coach came up with a hilarious reply. "Agar 6 foot 4 inch bowler hain aapke paas toh aap batado (If you know a fast bowler who is 6 foot 4 inch, let us know). You took the names of Mitchell Starc and Shaheen Afridi, but in India, we rarely find someone as tall as 6 foot 5 inches who bowls left hand fast," Dravid added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

IND vs AUS, 2nd Test: Rahul Dravid shares epic response to reporter's question on Starc and Shaheen

India has been on a winning spree in Tests at home since the past decade, more so that their record at the Arun Jaitley stadium in Delhi is terrific. India hasn’t lost a Test match at this venue since 1987 while Australia hasn’t won here since 1959. Now ahead of the second Test in&nbsp;the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, head coach Rahul Dravid addressed the media, and when asked about this terrific&nbsp;record at this very venue, Dravid played it down saying a) he wasn’t aware of it, and b) he doesn’t want India to be complacent after Nagpur win.

India had Australia on the mat in the first Test by beating them an innings and 132 runs inside three days. Rohit Sharma starred with the bat scoring his maiden BGT hundred, whereas, spin duo of Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja wreaked havoc with respective five-wicket hauls.

Having played against the mighty Aussies enough to make a judgement about their winning trait, Dravid said the team and players are wary of the touring team's ability to&nbsp;make&nbsp;a comeback in the Test series, and that’s why they haven’t lowered their guards going forward.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-jadeja-jumps-16-places-to-bag-top-position-in-all-rounders-list-bowler-ashwin-retains-2nd-spot-562336">ICC Rankings: Jadeja jumps 16 places to bag top position in all-rounders list, bowler Ashwin retains 2nd spot</a>

"We won’t go too much into history. We want to stay in the moment. By history I mean leave 1987, we are not even resting on the laurels of the Nagpur Test win. That’s in the past. We have now come to Delhi. Whatever has happened has happened in Nagpur. We have to play good Test cricket here," Rahul said.

Dravid said India will continue to play good cricket, like how they did&nbsp;in Nagpur and will come all guns blazing when the second Test gets underway in Delhi on February 17th.

"They would also want to come back well. We know that if we want to win this series, we need to play tough and good cricket," Dravid told reporters in the pre-match presser in Delhi.

"After just one Test, our mindset doesn’t change because we know that in one Test, you can play very well. We also know that Australia will be looking to fight, they would have learned from the Nagpur Test. They will be keen on using the learnings from the Nagpur Test,” he added. "We will also look to continue the good cricket that we displayed in Nagpur.

Meanwhile, India is expected to field the winning XI in the second Test, whereas, we could see a sea of changed taking place in the Australian team that will be desperate for making a comeback in the series.

India has been on a winning spree in Tests at home since the past decade, more so that their record at the Arun Jaitley stadium in Delhi is terrific. India hasn’t lost a Test match at this venue since 1987 while Australia hasn’t won here since 1959.

India has been on a winning spree in Tests at home since the past decade, more so that their record at the Arun Jaitley stadium in Delhi is terrific. India hasn’t lost a Test match at this venue since 1987 while Australia hasn’t won here since 1959. Now ahead of the second Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar series, head coach Rahul Dravid addressed the media, and when asked about this terrific record at this very venue, Dravid played it down saying a) he wasn’t aware of it, and b) he doesn’t want India to be complacent after Nagpur win. India had Australia on the mat in the first Test by beating them an innings and 132 runs inside three days. Rohit Sharma starred with the bat scoring his maiden BGT hundred, whereas, spin duo of Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja wreaked havoc with respective five-wicket hauls. Having played against the mighty Aussies enough to make a judgement about their winning trait, Dravid said the team and players are wary of the touring team's ability to make a comeback in the Test series, and that’s why they haven’t lowered their guards going forward. ALSO READ: ICC Rankings: Jadeja jumps 16 places to bag top position in all-rounders list, bowler Ashwin retains 2nd spot "We won’t go too much into history. We want to stay in the moment. By history I mean leave 1987, we are not even resting on the laurels of the Nagpur Test win. That’s in the past. We have now come to Delhi. Whatever has happened has happened in Nagpur. We have to play good Test cricket here," Rahul said. Dravid said India will continue to play good cricket, like how they did in Nagpur and will come all guns blazing when the second Test gets underway in Delhi on February 17th. "They would also want to come back well. We know that if we want to win this series, we need to play tough and good cricket," Dravid told reporters in the pre-match presser in Delhi. "After just one Test, our mindset doesn’t change because we know that in one Test, you can play very well. We also know that Australia will be looking to fight, they would have learned from the Nagpur Test. They will be keen on using the learnings from the Nagpur Test,” he added. "We will also look to continue the good cricket that we displayed in Nagpur. Meanwhile, India is expected to field the winning XI in the second Test, whereas, we could see a sea of changed taking place in the Australian team that will be desperate for making a comeback in the series.

Unaware of India's Test record in Delhi, coach Rahul Dravid not discounting Australia ahead of 2nd Test

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the toss in the Nagpur Test, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (February 09) but got two early breakthroughs after Australia came out to bat. Mohammed Siraj removed Usman Khawaja, trapping him lbw for 1 whereas Md Shami cleaned bowled David Warner, for identical score, as Indian fans were ecstatic in Nagpur.

Talking about the first wicket, Siraj trapped in-form Khawaja with the ball moving in the air and after pitching on the leg-side, it straightened a bit&nbsp;to trap the left-hander. After the umpire turned down the appeal, skipper Rohit decided to take the decision upstairs. As the review turned out to be successful, Rohit &amp; Co. were on cloud nine. Nonetheless, head coach Rahul Dravid was also all pumped up and his reaction went viral. Here's the video:

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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-you-dont-want-to-play-just-dont-pakistan-great-javed-miandad-clarifies-his-india-can-go-to-hell-remark-560202">If you don’t want to play just don’t: Pakistan great Javed Miandad clarifies his 'India can go to hell' remark</a>

After claiming two quick wickets, India created quite a few chances but Marnus Labuschagne-Steve Smith added 74 runs for the third-wicket as Australia went to lunch at 76 for 2. Post lunch, Ravindra Jadeja stuck twice, on successive deliveries, to bring India back into the contest.&nbsp;

Pat Cummins-led Australia will hope to post anything over 350 in the first innings, however, it won't be easy against the current Indian bowling line-up.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the toss in the Nagpur Test, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (February 09) but got two early breakthroughs after Australia came out to bat.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the toss in the Nagpur Test, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Thursday (February 09) but got two early breakthroughs after Australia came out to bat. Mohammed Siraj removed Usman Khawaja, trapping him lbw for 1 whereas Md Shami cleaned bowled David Warner, for identical score, as Indian fans were ecstatic in Nagpur. Talking about the first wicket, Siraj trapped in-form Khawaja with the ball moving in the air and after pitching on the leg-side, it straightened a bit to trap the left-hander. After the umpire turned down the appeal, skipper Rohit decided to take the decision upstairs. As the review turned out to be successful, Rohit & Co. were on cloud nine. Nonetheless, head coach Rahul Dravid was also all pumped up and his reaction went viral. Here's the video: Gooood Morning 🔥 🎥: @StarSportsIndia pic.twitter.com/bQP3yFEHa1 — Washington Sundar (@Sundarwashi5) February 9, 2023 × Also Read: If you don’t want to play just don’t: Pakistan great Javed Miandad clarifies his 'India can go to hell' remark After claiming two quick wickets, India created quite a few chances but Marnus Labuschagne-Steve Smith added 74 runs for the third-wicket as Australia went to lunch at 76 for 2. Post lunch, Ravindra Jadeja stuck twice, on successive deliveries, to bring India back into the contest. Pat Cummins-led Australia will hope to post anything over 350 in the first innings, however, it won't be easy against the current Indian bowling line-up.

WATCH: Rahul Dravid all fired up after Rohit Sharma & Co. get early breakthrough in Nagpur Test

The most-awaited cricketing&nbsp;battle&nbsp;of the year is upon us as it’s time for the 2023 Border-Gavaskar series. With both India and Australia preparing hard for the slated four Tests that will determine the finalists of the 2023 World Test Championship, team India head coach gave some insights on how the hosts are gearing up for the big contest. In his recent interaction with the media, Dravid said the players are looking in good touch in&nbsp;the net sessions while the focus will remain on close-in catches as spinners will play a huge role in deciding the fate of this series.

Talks of the Australian team using the services of an ‘Ashwin-like’ spinner during their pre-series camp scheduled in Bengaluru clearly shows the visiting team doesn’t want to leave a stone untuned in their efforts to reclaim the prize. Whereas, the Indian team is currently training at the VCA Stadium in Civil Lines, Nagpur. Dravid, who is closely following team India’s preparation said to have all the players back is good, and that for some to switch from white-ball format to red was also the need of the hour.

"Everyone looks in really good shape. It's nice to get the Test team together again. We had a lot of white-ball cricket over the last month or so," coach Dravid said in a video posted by the BCCI on Twitter. "Some of those boys, shifting from white-ball to red-ball, it's nice for them to just have that extended period in the nets. The surfaces have been really good as well," he added.

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Preps in full swing 👌 👌 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> hit the ground running for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> Test series opener in Nagpur 👍 👍 <a href="https://t.co/LwJUGZ5hPp">pic.twitter.com/LwJUGZ5hPp</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1622082602516770819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-enjoy-my-cricketing-battles-with-australia-says-cheteshwar-pujara-ahead-of-2023-border-gavaskar-series-558937">I enjoy my cricketing battles with Australia, says Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of 2023 Border-Gavaskar series</a>

With a lot is at stake from both sides, the spin-heavy Indian bowling line-up have some tricks up their sleeves, and for them to be successful they want the close-in fielders to remain attentive and active at the same time. Stressing on having quick hands right beside the batters during the series, head coach said,

"Fielding side of things as well, that has been really important as well. The close-in catching which we think is going to become a really important part of the series. There's a lot of emphasis and focus on close-in catching, slip fielding, things like that when you are on the road all the time and don't get time to build and work on those things," Rahul said.

As everyone from returning KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja to captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli are having longer sessions in nets, Dravid opined that players are looking in good touch and are raring to go.

"It's been really fruitful and the boys are looking good. Hopefully two or three days more into the Test match and then we can take it from there," Dravid added.

The first Test of the Border-Gavaskar series will begin on February 9th in Nagpur while Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmedabad will host the remaining three Tests.

The most-awaited cricketing battle of the year is upon us as it’s time for the 2023 Border-Gavaskar series. With both India and Australia preparing hard for the slated four Tests that will determine the finalists of the 2023 World Test Championship, team India head coach gave some insights on how the hosts are gearing up for the big contest.

The most-awaited cricketing battle of the year is upon us as it’s time for the 2023 Border-Gavaskar series. With both India and Australia preparing hard for the slated four Tests that will determine the finalists of the 2023 World Test Championship, team India head coach gave some insights on how the hosts are gearing up for the big contest. In his recent interaction with the media, Dravid said the players are looking in good touch in the net sessions while the focus will remain on close-in catches as spinners will play a huge role in deciding the fate of this series. Talks of the Australian team using the services of an ‘Ashwin-like’ spinner during their pre-series camp scheduled in Bengaluru clearly shows the visiting team doesn’t want to leave a stone untuned in their efforts to reclaim the prize. Whereas, the Indian team is currently training at the VCA Stadium in Civil Lines, Nagpur. Dravid, who is closely following team India’s preparation said to have all the players back is good, and that for some to switch from white-ball format to red was also the need of the hour. "Everyone looks in really good shape. It's nice to get the Test team together again. We had a lot of white-ball cricket over the last month or so," coach Dravid said in a video posted by the BCCI on Twitter. "Some of those boys, shifting from white-ball to red-ball, it's nice for them to just have that extended period in the nets. The surfaces have been really good as well," he added. Preps in full swing 👌 👌 #TeamIndia hit the ground running for the #INDvAUS Test series opener in Nagpur 👍 👍 pic.twitter.com/LwJUGZ5hPp — BCCI (@BCCI) February 5, 2023 × ALSO READ: I enjoy my cricketing battles with Australia, says Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of 2023 Border-Gavaskar series With a lot is at stake from both sides, the spin-heavy Indian bowling line-up have some tricks up their sleeves, and for them to be successful they want the close-in fielders to remain attentive and active at the same time. Stressing on having quick hands right beside the batters during the series, head coach said, "Fielding side of things as well, that has been really important as well. The close-in catching which we think is going to become a really important part of the series. There's a lot of emphasis and focus on close-in catching, slip fielding, things like that when you are on the road all the time and don't get time to build and work on those things," Rahul said. As everyone from returning KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja to captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli are having longer sessions in nets, Dravid opined that players are looking in good touch and are raring to go. "It's been really fruitful and the boys are looking good. Hopefully two or three days more into the Test match and then we can take it from there," Dravid added. The first Test of the Border-Gavaskar series will begin on February 9th in Nagpur while Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmedabad will host the remaining three Tests.

Boys are looking good to go, says Rahul Dravid ahead of the Nagpur Test against Australia

On Wednesday (February 01), Hardik Pandya-led India thumped New Zealand by a whopping 168&nbsp;runs in the third and final T20I at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to clinch the series 2-1. After losing the series opener in Ranchi, the Men in Blue won a low-scoring thriller in Lucknow before wrapping up the series without dropping any sweat following Shubman Gill's record-breaking ton. Gill continued his rich vein of form versus the Kiwis -- having already scored a double hundred in the three ODIs -- to score his maiden ton in the format and take India to 234/4. During the NZ run-chase, early wickets and Suryakumar Yadav's stunning catches dented Mitchell Santner &amp; Co.&nbsp;as the fate of the contest was out in no time.

Winning the toss, India opted to bat first with Umran Malik coming in place of Yuvzendra Chahal. Gill's first fifty came off 35 balls and the next off mere 19 deliveries as he created havoc in front of a jam-packed stadium in Ahmedabad. Rahul Tripathi's 22-ball 44 set the tone for the Indian innings and allowed Gill to take some time before he launched onto the poor deliveries. He remained unbeaten on 126, off 63 balls, striking at a whopping 200 along with 12 fours and 7 sixes. He was immaculate against the pacers, with his timely pulls, drives, flicks, etc., as India reached a mammoth total in 20 overs.&nbsp;

Indians with T20I hundreds

Suresh Raina 
Rohit Sharma 
KL Rahul 
Deepak Hooda 
Suryakumar Yadav 
Virat Kohli 
Shubman Gill

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tendulkar-bcci-present-india-u19-womens-team-a-fat-cheque-for-t20-wc-win-before-ind-nz-3rd-t20i-557993">Tendulkar, BCCI present India U19 Women’s team a fat cheque for T20 WC win before IND-NZ 3rd T20I</a>

Gill also ended with the highest individual score by an Indian batter in the format (126*) surpassing Kohli's 122* during the 2022 Asia Cup. In addition, he is only the fifth Indian to log a hundred in all three formats of men's cricket.

Indians to score a hundred in all formats:

Suresh Raina 
Rohit Sharma 
KL Rahul 
Virat Kohli 
Shubman Gill

In reply, NZ's run-chase never got going. Hardik removed dangerman Finn Allen with an edge as SKY completed a good catch. Arshdeep Singh joined in and claimed two quick wickets with Hardik and Umran Malik adding to Kiwis' miseries. Surya accounted for another brilliant catch (ending with three overall) in the slip cordon as the match was well and truly over in a flash. The first six overs were set to give a clear indication of how the match will proceed but the visitors were 21 for 5 in less than five overs. Eventually, India finished the formalities with the Black Caps managing only a paltry 66 in 12.1 overs to win by a big margin;&nbsp;their biggest-ever win in the format. Overall,&nbsp;this is the biggest margin of win&nbsp;in a contest held between&nbsp;two full member nations.

With the series win, the Men in Blue maintain their No. 1 position in T20Is. India will now return to the 22-yard cricket strip for the much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on home soil, starting on February 09.

On Wednesday (February 01), Hardik Pandya-led India thumped New Zealand by a whopping 168 runs in the third and final T20I at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to clinch the series 2-1.

On Wednesday (February 01), Hardik Pandya-led India thumped New Zealand by a whopping 168 runs in the third and final T20I at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to clinch the series 2-1. After losing the series opener in Ranchi, the Men in Blue won a low-scoring thriller in Lucknow before wrapping up the series without dropping any sweat following Shubman Gill's record-breaking ton. Gill continued his rich vein of form versus the Kiwis -- having already scored a double hundred in the three ODIs -- to score his maiden ton in the format and take India to 234/4. During the NZ run-chase, early wickets and Suryakumar Yadav's stunning catches dented Mitchell Santner & Co. as the fate of the contest was out in no time. Winning the toss, India opted to bat first with Umran Malik coming in place of Yuvzendra Chahal. Gill's first fifty came off 35 balls and the next off mere 19 deliveries as he created havoc in front of a jam-packed stadium in Ahmedabad. Rahul Tripathi's 22-ball 44 set the tone for the Indian innings and allowed Gill to take some time before he launched onto the poor deliveries. He remained unbeaten on 126, off 63 balls, striking at a whopping 200 along with 12 fours and 7 sixes. He was immaculate against the pacers, with his timely pulls, drives, flicks, etc., as India reached a mammoth total in 20 overs. Indians with T20I hundreds Suresh Raina Rohit Sharma KL Rahul Deepak Hooda Suryakumar Yadav Virat Kohli Shubman Gill Also read: Tendulkar, BCCI present India U19 Women’s team a fat cheque for T20 WC win before IND-NZ 3rd T20I Gill also ended with the highest individual score by an Indian batter in the format (126*) surpassing Kohli's 122* during the 2022 Asia Cup. In addition, he is only the fifth Indian to log a hundred in all three formats of men's cricket. Indians to score a hundred in all formats: Suresh Raina Rohit Sharma KL Rahul Virat Kohli Shubman Gill In reply, NZ's run-chase never got going. Hardik removed dangerman Finn Allen with an edge as SKY completed a good catch. Arshdeep Singh joined in and claimed two quick wickets with Hardik and Umran Malik adding to Kiwis' miseries. Surya accounted for another brilliant catch (ending with three overall) in the slip cordon as the match was well and truly over in a flash. The first six overs were set to give a clear indication of how the match will proceed but the visitors were 21 for 5 in less than five overs. Eventually, India finished the formalities with the Black Caps managing only a paltry 66 in 12.1 overs to win by a big margin; their biggest-ever win in the format. Overall, this is the biggest margin of win in a contest held between two full member nations. With the series win, the Men in Blue maintain their No. 1 position in T20Is. India will now return to the 22-yard cricket strip for the much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on home soil, starting on February 09.

Shubman Gill's record-breaking hundred takes India to 168-run win over NZ, clinch T20I series 2-1

Indian team’s head coach Rahul Dravid said the management is prioritising certain tournaments like the Border-Gavaskar series and World Test Championship while managing the workload of seniors like&nbsp;Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. In this cricket-heavy calendar, Dravid stressed on picking right players for particular series as they don’t want pile of injured players just before the start of any important tournament. Speaking to the media ahead of the final ODI against New Zealand in Indore, the former captain addressed this issue.

“We need to give certain priorities to certain white-ball tournaments due to the amount of cricket that we’re playing. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the World Test Championship are very important for us. There are certain white-ball tournaments that we have to prioritize,” said Dravid.

The former India captain&nbsp;also said rest to Rohit and Kohli following the ODI series was the need of the hour as the management wants them to turn up fresh ahead of the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia that begins on February 9th in Nagpur.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-3rd-odi-live-streaming-for-free-how-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-3rd-odi-live-for-free-in-india-555169">IND vs NZ 3rd ODI Live streaming for free: how to Watch India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI live for free in India</a>

“The priority after the T20 World Cup has been these six games and Virat has played all these six games. He will get a break, along with Rohit and a few other guys in the next week so that they come refreshed on the 2nd for a good one week camp before we play Australia. So we just have to prioritize certain formats,” the head coach added.

Sharing his thoughts on having outright wicketkeepers in the squad nowadays, Rahul said the time has gone when keepers were picked on their singular ability; now for any keeper to get picked in the squad, he must be a very good batter first. Adding India’s pool depth gives them this leverage of having multiple keeper-batters across formats Dravid had some encouraging words for the newly-picked Jitesh Sharma as well.

“The days of a specialist wicket-keeper are gone unfortunately. We’re lucky that all the guys in contention have done well as batters. Be it Ishan Kishan or KS Bharath or KL Rahul, unfortunately Rishabh Pant is injured. But all these guys are wicket-keeping batters, and in this day you have to contribute with the bat significantly. Even Jitesh Sharma in the T20 format, he has the ability to bat at a very good pace as he’s shown in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the IPL,” said Dravid.

After the ODI series, India and New Zealand will face off in the three-match T20Is.

Indian team’s head coach Rahul Dravid said the management is prioritising certain tournaments like the Border-Gavaskar series and World Test Championship while managing the workload of seniors like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Indian team’s head coach Rahul Dravid said the management is prioritising certain tournaments like the Border-Gavaskar series and World Test Championship while managing the workload of seniors like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. In this cricket-heavy calendar, Dravid stressed on picking right players for particular series as they don’t want pile of injured players just before the start of any important tournament. Speaking to the media ahead of the final ODI against New Zealand in Indore, the former captain addressed this issue. “We need to give certain priorities to certain white-ball tournaments due to the amount of cricket that we’re playing. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the World Test Championship are very important for us. There are certain white-ball tournaments that we have to prioritize,” said Dravid. The former India captain also said rest to Rohit and Kohli following the ODI series was the need of the hour as the management wants them to turn up fresh ahead of the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. ALSO READ: IND vs NZ 3rd ODI Live streaming for free: how to Watch India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI live for free in India “The priority after the T20 World Cup has been these six games and Virat has played all these six games. He will get a break, along with Rohit and a few other guys in the next week so that they come refreshed on the 2nd for a good one week camp before we play Australia. So we just have to prioritize certain formats,” the head coach added. Sharing his thoughts on having outright wicketkeepers in the squad nowadays, Rahul said the time has gone when keepers were picked on their singular ability; now for any keeper to get picked in the squad, he must be a very good batter first. Adding India’s pool depth gives them this leverage of having multiple keeper-batters across formats Dravid had some encouraging words for the newly-picked Jitesh Sharma as well. “The days of a specialist wicket-keeper are gone unfortunately. We’re lucky that all the guys in contention have done well as batters. Be it Ishan Kishan or KS Bharath or KL Rahul, unfortunately Rishabh Pant is injured. But all these guys are wicket-keeping batters, and in this day you have to contribute with the bat significantly. Even Jitesh Sharma in the T20 format, he has the ability to bat at a very good pace as he’s shown in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the IPL,” said Dravid. After the ODI series, India and New Zealand will face off in the three-match T20Is.

Rahul Dravid on managing workload of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma - 'We have to priortise certain tournaments'

On January 11 (Wednesday), Rahul Dravid celebrated his 50th birthday ahead of India's second and penultimate ODI versus Sri Lanka. After winning the series opener by 67 runs, in Guwahati, Indian players reached Kolkata -- venue for the second ODI -- and celebrated head coach Dravid's birthday in the team hotel. On Thursday (January 12), Rohit Sharma-led India gave a perfect gift to Dravid by beating the Lankans by four wickets, in pursuit of 216, but there is sad news from the Indian camp.&nbsp;

As per reports,&nbsp;coach&nbsp;Dravid is reportedly unwell and hasn't travelled with the team to Thiruvananthapuram for the third and final ODI. According to India.com, he left for his hometown&nbsp;Bengaluru after he felt uneasy in the hotel&nbsp;as his BP shot up. While the former Indian captain stayed through the match at Kolkata, after having medicines, it isn't clear if he will join the Indian team in time for the inconsequential ODI.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-rishabh-i-dont-want-to-r-sridhar-narrates-unheard-story-about-ms-dhonis-retirement-552274">'No, Rishabh, I don't want to...': R Sridhar narrates unheard story about MS Dhoni's retirement</a>

No official update regarding Dravid's health has been shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Indian fans will hope that the 50-year-old recovers in time and joins the team ahead of their upcoming home assignments, against New Zealand and Australia.

Talking about the second and penultimate ODI between India and Sri Lanka, Dasun Shanaka &amp; Co. opted to bat first but only managed 215 in 39.4 overs after being well-placed at 102 for 1. In reply, India was tottering at 86 for 4 before KL Rahul's 64 not out propelled them to a four-wicket win, with 40 balls to spare.

At the post-match presentation, Rohit was asked if India will tinker with their winning combination and give a chance to the benched players. To this, he said, "We haven't thought about it yet, once we get there we'll have a look at the pitch and have a look at some of our guys. There are 3 ODIs coming up against New Zealand as well, so we need to keep the guys fresh. We've got a long season now and we need to keep everything in mind. If needed, we'll make some changes."

On January 11 (Wednesday), Rahul Dravid celebrated his 50th birthday ahead of India's second and penultimate ODI versus Sri Lanka. After winning the series opener by 67 runs, in Guwahati, Indian players reached Kolkata -- venue for the second ODI -- and celebrated head coach Dravid's birthday in the team hotel.

On January 11 (Wednesday), Rahul Dravid celebrated his 50th birthday ahead of India's second and penultimate ODI versus Sri Lanka. After winning the series opener by 67 runs, in Guwahati, Indian players reached Kolkata -- venue for the second ODI -- and celebrated head coach Dravid's birthday in the team hotel. On Thursday (January 12), Rohit Sharma-led India gave a perfect gift to Dravid by beating the Lankans by four wickets, in pursuit of 216, but there is sad news from the Indian camp. As per reports, coach Dravid is reportedly unwell and hasn't travelled with the team to Thiruvananthapuram for the third and final ODI. According to India.com, he left for his hometown Bengaluru after he felt uneasy in the hotel as his BP shot up. While the former Indian captain stayed through the match at Kolkata, after having medicines, it isn't clear if he will join the Indian team in time for the inconsequential ODI. Also read: 'No, Rishabh, I don't want to...': R Sridhar narrates unheard story about MS Dhoni's retirement No official update regarding Dravid's health has been shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Indian fans will hope that the 50-year-old recovers in time and joins the team ahead of their upcoming home assignments, against New Zealand and Australia. Talking about the second and penultimate ODI between India and Sri Lanka, Dasun Shanaka & Co. opted to bat first but only managed 215 in 39.4 overs after being well-placed at 102 for 1. In reply, India was tottering at 86 for 4 before KL Rahul's 64 not out propelled them to a four-wicket win, with 40 balls to spare. At the post-match presentation, Rohit was asked if India will tinker with their winning combination and give a chance to the benched players. To this, he said, "We haven't thought about it yet, once we get there we'll have a look at the pitch and have a look at some of our guys. There are 3 ODIs coming up against New Zealand as well, so we need to keep the guys fresh. We've got a long season now and we need to keep everything in mind. If needed, we'll make some changes."

IND vs SL: Rahul Dravid unwell, head coach likely to miss 3rd ODI due to health issues

On Wednesday (January 11), India's current head coach Rahul Dravid is celebrating his 50th birthday. Dravid, known as 'The Wall', is one of the finest batters of all-time and a legend of the game. Representing India in 164 Tests, 344 ODIs and a solitary T20I, he returned with 24,208 international runs including 48 hundreds. After a stellar run at the international level, Dravid is currently serving as the head coach of the Indian senior men's team till the 2023 ODI World Cup.&nbsp;

Over the years, Dravid entertained fans with his blazing knocks. One of his most special innings came during India's historic Kolkata Test win over Australia during the 2000-01 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India. Back then, the Sourav Ganguly-led Indian team were up against a daunting Steve Waugh-led Australia. Losing the series opener in Mumbai by ten wickets, India were on the back foot in the second and penultimate Test in Kolkata. After Australia posted 445 and dismissed India for a paltry 171, the hosts were following-on and seemed down and out at 232/4. Just then, VVS Laxman (281) and Dravid (180) stitched a mammoth 376-run fifth-wicket stand as India declared at 651/7; setting an improbable 384-run target for the visitors.

Harbhajan Singh, who claimed a hat-trick in the first essay, returned with 6 for 73 and Sachin Tendulkar chipped in with three scalps as Australia were dismissed for 212 to lose by 171 runs. This remains one of India's best wins in whites. After the victory, Dravid, Tendulkar &amp; Co. went bonkers and poured champagne on teammates in the dressing room to celebrate the special win. Here's the video:

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Here's a flashback of the epic celebration in the Indian camp after the 2001 Kolkata Test win over Australia. Watch out for Dravid's celebration here. The man who was mostly poker faced on the field it is quite amazing to see how much this win meant to him. 
 
Well done DD Sports <a href="https://t.co/XcnnvqVJbu">pic.twitter.com/XcnnvqVJbu</a>
— Mainak Sinha🏏📽️ (@cric_archivist) <a href="https://twitter.com/cric_archivist/status/1249683436333223937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-stares-at-hardik-pandya-after-he-turns-down-second-run-in-1st-odi-vs-sri-lanka-551488">WATCH: Virat Kohli stares at Hardik Pandya after he turns down second run in 1st ODI vs Sri Lanka</a>

Dravid, who remained focussed on the field and hardly displayed his emotions on the field, led the charge in India's celebrations after an emphatic win. The Test match remains one of the most special games in the format. Currently, head coach Dravid is involved in India's three ODIs versus Sri Lanka at home. Soon, India will gear up to host Australia at home in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting next month. Coach Dravid will hope for the national team to pull off another historic series triumph over Australia.

On Wednesday (January 11), India's current head coach Rahul Dravid is celebrating his 50th birthday. Dravid, known as 'The Wall', is one of the finest batters of all-time and a legend of the game.

On Wednesday (January 11), India's current head coach Rahul Dravid is celebrating his 50th birthday. Dravid, known as 'The Wall', is one of the finest batters of all-time and a legend of the game. Representing India in 164 Tests, 344 ODIs and a solitary T20I, he returned with 24,208 international runs including 48 hundreds. After a stellar run at the international level, Dravid is currently serving as the head coach of the Indian senior men's team till the 2023 ODI World Cup. Over the years, Dravid entertained fans with his blazing knocks. One of his most special innings came during India's historic Kolkata Test win over Australia during the 2000-01 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India. Back then, the Sourav Ganguly-led Indian team were up against a daunting Steve Waugh-led Australia. Losing the series opener in Mumbai by ten wickets, India were on the back foot in the second and penultimate Test in Kolkata. After Australia posted 445 and dismissed India for a paltry 171, the hosts were following-on and seemed down and out at 232/4. Just then, VVS Laxman (281) and Dravid (180) stitched a mammoth 376-run fifth-wicket stand as India declared at 651/7; setting an improbable 384-run target for the visitors. Harbhajan Singh, who claimed a hat-trick in the first essay, returned with 6 for 73 and Sachin Tendulkar chipped in with three scalps as Australia were dismissed for 212 to lose by 171 runs. This remains one of India's best wins in whites. After the victory, Dravid, Tendulkar & Co. went bonkers and poured champagne on teammates in the dressing room to celebrate the special win. Here's the video: Here's a flashback of the epic celebration in the Indian camp after the 2001 Kolkata Test win over Australia. Watch out for Dravid's celebration here. The man who was mostly poker faced on the field it is quite amazing to see how much this win meant to him. Well done DD Sports pic.twitter.com/XcnnvqVJbu — Mainak Sinha🏏📽️ (@cric_archivist) April 13, 2020 × Also read: WATCH: Virat Kohli stares at Hardik Pandya after he turns down second run in 1st ODI vs Sri Lanka Dravid, who remained focussed on the field and hardly displayed his emotions on the field, led the charge in India's celebrations after an emphatic win. The Test match remains one of the most special games in the format. Currently, head coach Dravid is involved in India's three ODIs versus Sri Lanka at home. Soon, India will gear up to host Australia at home in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting next month. Coach Dravid will hope for the national team to pull off another historic series triumph over Australia.

Happy B'day, Rahul Dravid: When ex-India batter poured champagne on teammates after Kolkata Test win - WATCH

Ahead of the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka on Tuesday evening (January 10), captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that Shubman Gill will continue to be persisted as his opening partner, with no room for Ishan Kishan. Kishan had replaced an injured Rohit in the third and inconsequential ODI versus Bangladesh, in early December, and made the most of his opportunity to score a double ton. Many believed that Kishan had done enough to cement his spot as an opener, with Shikhar Dhawan dropped, but the Indian team management want to persist with Shubman.&nbsp;

Speaking on his opening partner, Rohit said in the pre-match presser on Monday (January 09),&nbsp;"Both openers (Gill and Kishan) have done really well. But looking at how both have gone through, I think it is fair that we give Gill a chance to have a fair run because in the last games Gill got a lot of runs as well. I am not going to take anything from Ishan. He has been&nbsp;wonderful for us. He got a double hundred and I know what it takes to get a double hundred, it is a great achievement. But just to be honest and be fair to the guys who have done really well before that we need to give those guys enough chances as well."

Rohit added on Kishan, "It is unfortunate that we won't be able to play Ishan but looking at how things have panned out for us in the last 8-9 months, looking at how the ODIs have gone through for us, it is fair to give Gill that run and he has done extremely well in that position. We will definitely try out and keep Ishan in the mix and see how things pan out for us as we play lot of games ahead." In Gill's defence, he has been&nbsp;among runs in the West Indies, Zimbabwe and New Zealand tour but wasn't part of the Indian squad for the Bangladesh series, with the return of the key players. Hence, when Kishan was in the squad and scored a double ton when he got a chance in the playing XI, many believed he would pip Gill to open versus SL.

Thus, former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad reacted to Kishan's omission. He tweeted, replying to a cricket portal's post, and wrote, "Think fair would have been to give chance to a man who scored a double hundred in India’s last ODI, and in a series where India lost two games and the series. Have all the time in the world for Gill, but no way you drop a player for scoring a double ton."

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Think fair would have been to give chance to a man who scored a double hundred in India’s last ODI, and in a series where India lost two games and the series. 
Have all the time in the world for Gill, but no way you drop a player for scoring a double ton. <a href="https://t.co/LbzKKH8ynw">https://t.co/LbzKKH8ynw</a>
— Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/venkateshprasad/status/1612451607114911745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-young-fan-in-tears-after-seeing-rohit-sharma-team-india-captains-reaction-goes-viral-watch-550975">IND vs SL: Young fan in tears after seeing Rohit Sharma, Team India captain's reaction goes viral - WATCH</a>

In the ongoing first ODI between India and SL, Rohit &amp; Co. lost the toss and were opted to bat first. Rohit and Gill stitched an impressive 143-run first-wicket stand with the youngster returning with a sublime 60-ball 73, studded with 11 fours. For him to cement his place as the second opener, Gill has been consistent but will hope to score some daddy hundreds.&nbsp;

For Kishan, he will surely feel unlucky&nbsp;to have missed out despite scoring the fourth double ton by an Indian in ODIs. However, India have a lot of white-ball cricket to play en route the IPL 2023 edition. Hence, he will aim to once again make the most of his opportunities.

Ahead of the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka on Tuesday evening (January 10), captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that Shubman Gill will continue to be persisted as his opening partner, with no room for Ishan Kishan.

Ahead of the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka on Tuesday evening (January 10), captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that Shubman Gill will continue to be persisted as his opening partner, with no room for Ishan Kishan. Kishan had replaced an injured Rohit in the third and inconsequential ODI versus Bangladesh, in early December, and made the most of his opportunity to score a double ton. Many believed that Kishan had done enough to cement his spot as an opener, with Shikhar Dhawan dropped, but the Indian team management want to persist with Shubman. Speaking on his opening partner, Rohit said in the pre-match presser on Monday (January 09), "Both openers (Gill and Kishan) have done really well. But looking at how both have gone through, I think it is fair that we give Gill a chance to have a fair run because in the last games Gill got a lot of runs as well. I am not going to take anything from Ishan. He has been wonderful for us. He got a double hundred and I know what it takes to get a double hundred, it is a great achievement. But just to be honest and be fair to the guys who have done really well before that we need to give those guys enough chances as well." Rohit added on Kishan, "It is unfortunate that we won't be able to play Ishan but looking at how things have panned out for us in the last 8-9 months, looking at how the ODIs have gone through for us, it is fair to give Gill that run and he has done extremely well in that position. We will definitely try out and keep Ishan in the mix and see how things pan out for us as we play lot of games ahead." In Gill's defence, he has been among runs in the West Indies, Zimbabwe and New Zealand tour but wasn't part of the Indian squad for the Bangladesh series, with the return of the key players. Hence, when Kishan was in the squad and scored a double ton when he got a chance in the playing XI, many believed he would pip Gill to open versus SL. Thus, former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad reacted to Kishan's omission. He tweeted, replying to a cricket portal's post, and wrote, "Think fair would have been to give chance to a man who scored a double hundred in India’s last ODI, and in a series where India lost two games and the series. Have all the time in the world for Gill, but no way you drop a player for scoring a double ton." Think fair would have been to give chance to a man who scored a double hundred in India’s last ODI, and in a series where India lost two games and the series. Have all the time in the world for Gill, but no way you drop a player for scoring a double ton. https://t.co/LbzKKH8ynw — Venkatesh Prasad (@venkateshprasad) January 9, 2023 × Also read: IND vs SL: Young fan in tears after seeing Rohit Sharma, Team India captain's reaction goes viral - WATCH In the ongoing first ODI between India and SL, Rohit & Co. lost the toss and were opted to bat first. Rohit and Gill stitched an impressive 143-run first-wicket stand with the youngster returning with a sublime 60-ball 73, studded with 11 fours. For him to cement his place as the second opener, Gill has been consistent but will hope to score some daddy hundreds. For Kishan, he will surely feel unlucky to have missed out despite scoring the fourth double ton by an Indian in ODIs. However, India have a lot of white-ball cricket to play en route the IPL 2023 edition. Hence, he will aim to once again make the most of his opportunities.

'No way you...': Former Indian speedster blasts Rahul Dravid-Rohit Sharma for dropping Ishan Kishan

India and Sri Lanka met in the second and penultimate T20I on Thursday evening (January 05) at the MCA Stadium, Pune. In a high-scoring thriller, Hardik Pandya &amp; Co. lost by 16 runs as Sri Lanka levelled the series with the final encounter on Saturday (January 07). Dasun Shanaka's 22-ball 56 and two wickets along with handy contributions from Kusal Mendis (52),&nbsp;Dilshan Madushanka, and Kasun Rajitha (two scalps each) led to the Islanders' win.

India did put up a good fight, after reeling at 57 for 5, courtesy of&nbsp;Suryakumar Yadav's (51) and Axar Patel's (31-ball 65 not out) 91-run sixth-wicket stand but their bowlers' ordinary show and loss of early wickets in a steep chase put them behind. Arshdeep Singh, who didn't play the series opener due to illness, made heads turn with the ball by&nbsp;returning with 2-0-37-0; comprising five no-balls (three on the trot). Thus, he has now bowled the&nbsp;joint most no-balls by any bowler from a Full Member side in the format&nbsp;and most by an Indian. After the match, fingers were pointed at Arshdeep but head coach Rahul Dravid has backed the 23-year-old youngster, who was India's star&nbsp;performer in the T20 World Cup last year.&nbsp;

“Nobody wants to bowl wides (no-balls) in any format. Especially in T20s, they can hurt you. We need to be patient with lot of these young kids. There are a lot of youngsters playing in this team, especially our bowling attack. They are young kids; they will have games like these at times. We all need to be patient with them and understanding. Of course, they are working hard, and we keep trying to help them, support them technically, and also just create the right environment for them to be able to get the best out of their skills,” Dravid said in the post-match conference.

Dravid added, "It’s tough. It’s not easy learning in international cricket and you have to learn on the job. The good thing is, with the focus on the ODI World Cup and the World Test Championship, at least in the T20Is, it gives us an opportunity to try out a lot of the younger guys."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-needs-to-go-back-hardik-pandya-has-advice-for-this-bowler-after-loss-against-sri-lanka-549870">'He needs to go back...': Hardik Pandya has advice for this bowler after loss against Sri Lanka</a>

After the closely-fought second T20I, captain Hardik told in the post-match presentation, "Going for runs is fine but no balls aren't. Not blaming or being hard but he (Arshdeep) needs to go back and make sure these basic errors don't happen at this level. It's not about blaming but no ball is a crime."&nbsp;

"Both bowling and batting - powerplay hurt us. We made basic errors which we shouldn't do at this level. Learning should be the basics we can control. You can have a bad day but shouldn't be going away from basics," added the 29-year-old Hardik.&nbsp;

Overall, India gave away 12 runs in extras, including four wides and seven no-balls, as SL have levelled the series. The third and final match will be held at the&nbsp;Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot on Saturday evening.

India and Sri Lanka met in the second and penultimate T20I on Thursday evening (January 05) at the MCA Stadium, Pune. In a high-scoring thriller, Hardik Pandya & Co.

India and Sri Lanka met in the second and penultimate T20I on Thursday evening (January 05) at the MCA Stadium, Pune. In a high-scoring thriller, Hardik Pandya & Co. lost by 16 runs as Sri Lanka levelled the series with the final encounter on Saturday (January 07). Dasun Shanaka's 22-ball 56 and two wickets along with handy contributions from Kusal Mendis (52), Dilshan Madushanka, and Kasun Rajitha (two scalps each) led to the Islanders' win. India did put up a good fight, after reeling at 57 for 5, courtesy of Suryakumar Yadav's (51) and Axar Patel's (31-ball 65 not out) 91-run sixth-wicket stand but their bowlers' ordinary show and loss of early wickets in a steep chase put them behind. Arshdeep Singh, who didn't play the series opener due to illness, made heads turn with the ball by returning with 2-0-37-0; comprising five no-balls (three on the trot). Thus, he has now bowled the joint most no-balls by any bowler from a Full Member side in the format and most by an Indian. After the match, fingers were pointed at Arshdeep but head coach Rahul Dravid has backed the 23-year-old youngster, who was India's star performer in the T20 World Cup last year. “Nobody wants to bowl wides (no-balls) in any format. Especially in T20s, they can hurt you. We need to be patient with lot of these young kids. There are a lot of youngsters playing in this team, especially our bowling attack. They are young kids; they will have games like these at times. We all need to be patient with them and understanding. Of course, they are working hard, and we keep trying to help them, support them technically, and also just create the right environment for them to be able to get the best out of their skills,” Dravid said in the post-match conference. Dravid added, "It’s tough. It’s not easy learning in international cricket and you have to learn on the job. The good thing is, with the focus on the ODI World Cup and the World Test Championship, at least in the T20Is, it gives us an opportunity to try out a lot of the younger guys." Also read: 'He needs to go back...': Hardik Pandya has advice for this bowler after loss against Sri Lanka After the closely-fought second T20I, captain Hardik told in the post-match presentation, "Going for runs is fine but no balls aren't. Not blaming or being hard but he (Arshdeep) needs to go back and make sure these basic errors don't happen at this level. It's not about blaming but no ball is a crime." "Both bowling and batting - powerplay hurt us. We made basic errors which we shouldn't do at this level. Learning should be the basics we can control. You can have a bad day but shouldn't be going away from basics," added the 29-year-old Hardik. Overall, India gave away 12 runs in extras, including four wides and seven no-balls, as SL have levelled the series. The third and final match will be held at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot on Saturday evening.

'We all need to be...' - Rahul Dravid backs Arshdeep Singh after pacer's horror show in India-SL 2nd T20I

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