<p>On Thursday (March 21), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) dropped a bomb by revealing that Ruturaj Gaikwad will succeed MS Dhoni as the Chennai captain ahead of the IPL 2024 opener, where the Yellow Army host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Notably, Gaikwad made heads turn when he showed up during the captains' photo shoot before the announcement was made.</p>

<h2><strong>'Be ready, it shouldn't come as a surprise to you'</strong></h2>

<p>Gaikwad revealed that Dhoni had&nbsp;hinted at a&nbsp;captaincy change during IPL 2023 itself. In a video shared on CSK's official handle on X, formerly Twitter, he said, "I don't think so I need to change anything. Last year itself, Mahi bhai had just hinted about captaincy at some point in time. Just hinted that 'be ready, it shouldn't come as a surprise to you.'"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What it means! 🗣️💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yellove?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yellove</a> 🦁💛<br />
<br />
<a href="https://t.co/WCLqVI4xyU">pic.twitter.com/WCLqVI4xyU</a></p>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1771023597454172539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-captaincy-chennai-super-kings-ipl-2024-ruturaj-gaikwad-indian-premier-league-csk-vs-rcb-stephen-fleming-702920">IPL 2024: CSK head coach Stephen Fleming backs MS Dhoni's decision to step down, says 'the timing was good'</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "I remember him posting about the new role on social media. Everybody was just pointing towards me and asking me, 'whether you are the next captain.'&nbsp;I was like maybe it meant something else for social media or something."</p>

<p>"Back of the mind it was there, but then he came in a week ago and said he had decided this. But definitely, now that I am here, I am definitely looking forward to it."</p>

<p>Gaikwad has become a prominent face in the CSK setup since being a part of them in 2020. In four seasons, the right-hander has&nbsp;1,797 runs at a strike rate of&nbsp;135.52, including 14 fifties and a ton. He has a herculean task to take the mantle forward from Dhoni. However, he will have the presence of the legendary figure in the playing XI during the forthcoming season and will hope to make the most of his input.</p>

<p>IPL 2024 kicks off on Friday evening with CSK hosting RCB at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.</p>

<p><strong>CSK squad for IPL 2024:&nbsp;</strong>MS Dhoni&nbsp;(wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha&nbsp;Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly</p>


On Thursday (March 21), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) dropped a bomb by revealing that Ruturaj Gaikwad will succeed MS Dhoni as the Chennai captain ahead of the IPL 2024 opener, where the Yellow Army host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

On Thursday (March 21), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) dropped a bomb by revealing that Ruturaj Gaikwad will succeed MS Dhoni as the Chennai captain ahead of the IPL 2024 opener, where the Yellow Army host Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Notably, Gaikwad made heads turn when he showed up during the captains' photo shoot before the announcement was made. 'Be ready, it shouldn't come as a surprise to you' Gaikwad revealed that Dhoni had hinted at a captaincy change during IPL 2023 itself. In a video shared on CSK's official handle on X, formerly Twitter, he said, "I don't think so I need to change anything. Last year itself, Mahi bhai had just hinted about captaincy at some point in time. Just hinted that 'be ready, it shouldn't come as a surprise to you.'" What it means! 🗣️💛#WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/WCLqVI4xyU — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 22, 2024 × Also read: IPL 2024: CSK head coach Stephen Fleming backs MS Dhoni's decision to step down, says 'the timing was good' He added, "I remember him posting about the new role on social media. Everybody was just pointing towards me and asking me, 'whether you are the next captain.' I was like maybe it meant something else for social media or something." "Back of the mind it was there, but then he came in a week ago and said he had decided this. But definitely, now that I am here, I am definitely looking forward to it." Gaikwad has become a prominent face in the CSK setup since being a part of them in 2020. In four seasons, the right-hander has 1,797 runs at a strike rate of 135.52, including 14 fifties and a ton. He has a herculean task to take the mantle forward from Dhoni. However, he will have the presence of the legendary figure in the playing XI during the forthcoming season and will hope to make the most of his input. IPL 2024 kicks off on Friday evening with CSK hosting RCB at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. CSK squad for IPL 2024: MS Dhoni (wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Matheesha Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly

IPL 2024: Ruturaj Gaikwad reveals MS Dhoni told him to 'be ready' for CSK captaincy in 2023

<p><strong>CSK complete squad 2024:&nbsp;</strong>The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction got done on Tuesday (Dec 19) in Dubai. All the 10 teams planned and strategised to revamp their squads ahead of the next season, which will be held early next year.</p>

<p>Talking about the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who&nbsp;won their fifth title in this year's edition, the team wanted to strengthen the&nbsp;squad with some valuable additions. CSK went big on New Zealand players, buying Daryl Mitchell for a whooping INR 14 core and Rachin Ravindra for INR 1.8 crore. They also bought India bowler Shardul Thakur for INR 4 crore.</p>

<h2><strong>CSK IPL Auction 2023 Buys:</strong></h2>

<p>Rachin Ravindra goes to the Yellow Army for <strong>INR 1.8 crore (180 million).</strong></p>

<p>Shardul Thakur rejoins the CSK setup for <strong>INR 4 crore (400 million).</strong></p>

<p>Daryl Mitchell comes to CSK for INR <strong>14 crore (140 million).</strong></p>

<p>Sameer Rizvi, the first uncapped player of the IPL auction 2024 joins CSK for <strong>INR 8.4Cr (84 million).</strong></p>

<p>Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman is a Super King for <strong>INR 2 Crore.</strong></p>

<p>Uncapped Avinash Rao bought by Chennai Super Kings for <strong>INR 20 lakh.</strong></p>

<p>It is safe to say that CSK have a fairly strong starting XI. However, with the release of Ben Stokes, they will aim for an overseas fast-bowling all-rounder. They will look for someone who can seamlessly fit into that middle order to replace Moeen Ali in games that are not&nbsp;in Chepauk. Similarly, the Chennai setup will also hope for adding more to their pace battery, someone who can bolster their death bowling and ease Matheesha Pathirana's workload (who can be injury prone as well).&nbsp;</p>

<p>CSK's biggest headache will be to look for an able successor of Ambati Rayudu, who retired from all forms of cricket after IPL 2023. They will look for someone who can be their middle-overs enforcer and play spin with comfort. It will be big shoes to fill.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lsg-ipl-auction-2024-live-lucknow-super-giants-captain-batsmen-bowlers-keepers-remaining-purse-squad-670795">LSG IPL Auction 2024 LIVE: Lucknow Super Giants captain, batsmen, bowlers, keepers, remaining purse, squad</a></strong></p>

<p><b>Existing squad breakdown before auction</b></p>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p><b>Top-order batters:&nbsp;</b>Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed</p>
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p><b>Finishers:</b>&nbsp;MS Dhoni</p>
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p><b>Allrounders:</b>&nbsp;Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Moeen Ali, Ajay Mandal, Nishant Sindhu</p>
</section>

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<p><b>Spinners:&nbsp;</b>Mitchell Santner, Maheesh Theekshana, Prashant Solanki</p>
</section>

<section itemprop="articleBody">
<p><b>Fast bowlers:</b>&nbsp;Deepak Chahar, Matheesha Pathirana, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Mukesh Choudhary, Tushar Deshpande, Simarjeet Singh</p>
</section>

<p><strong>CSK squad after the auction</strong></p>

<p>MS Dhoni&nbsp;(c) (wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Maheesh Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly</p>


CSK complete squad 2024: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction got done on Tuesday (Dec 19) in Dubai. All the 10 teams planned and strategised to revamp their squads ahead of the next season, which will be held early next year.

CSK complete squad 2024: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction got done on Tuesday (Dec 19) in Dubai. All the 10 teams planned and strategised to revamp their squads ahead of the next season, which will be held early next year. Talking about the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who won their fifth title in this year's edition, the team wanted to strengthen the squad with some valuable additions. CSK went big on New Zealand players, buying Daryl Mitchell for a whooping INR 14 core and Rachin Ravindra for INR 1.8 crore. They also bought India bowler Shardul Thakur for INR 4 crore. CSK IPL Auction 2023 Buys: Rachin Ravindra goes to the Yellow Army for INR 1.8 crore (180 million). Shardul Thakur rejoins the CSK setup for INR 4 crore (400 million). Daryl Mitchell comes to CSK for INR 14 crore (140 million). Sameer Rizvi, the first uncapped player of the IPL auction 2024 joins CSK for INR 8.4Cr (84 million). Bangladesh bowler Mustafizur Rahman is a Super King for INR 2 Crore. Uncapped Avinash Rao bought by Chennai Super Kings for INR 20 lakh. It is safe to say that CSK have a fairly strong starting XI. However, with the release of Ben Stokes, they will aim for an overseas fast-bowling all-rounder. They will look for someone who can seamlessly fit into that middle order to replace Moeen Ali in games that are not in Chepauk. Similarly, the Chennai setup will also hope for adding more to their pace battery, someone who can bolster their death bowling and ease Matheesha Pathirana's workload (who can be injury prone as well). CSK's biggest headache will be to look for an able successor of Ambati Rayudu, who retired from all forms of cricket after IPL 2023. They will look for someone who can be their middle-overs enforcer and play spin with comfort. It will be big shoes to fill. Also read: LSG IPL Auction 2024 LIVE: Lucknow Super Giants captain, batsmen, bowlers, keepers, remaining purse, squad Existing squad breakdown before auction Top-order batters: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed Finishers: MS Dhoni Allrounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Moeen Ali, Ajay Mandal, Nishant Sindhu Spinners: Mitchell Santner, Maheesh Theekshana, Prashant Solanki Fast bowlers: Deepak Chahar, Matheesha Pathirana, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Mukesh Choudhary, Tushar Deshpande, Simarjeet Singh CSK squad after the auction MS Dhoni (c) (wk), Moeen Ali, Deepak Chahar, Devon Conway (wk), Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Ravindra Jadeja, Ajay Mandal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Ajinkya Rahane, Shaik Rasheed, Mitchell Santner, Simarjeet Singh, Nishant Sindhu, Prashant Solanki, Maheesh Theekshana, Rachin Ravindra, Shardul Thakur, Daryl Mitchell, Sameer Rizvi, Mustafizur Rahman, Avanish Rao Aravelly

CSK 2024 updated squad: IPL 2024, Chennai Super Kings, probable XI, ruled out & replacement, schedule

<p>India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India were 84 for no loss before being reduced to 120-5. An unbroken 72-run sixth-wicket stand between Shubman Gill (52*) and Dhruv Jurel (39 not out) propelled India to a stunning win, also claiming the five-match series 3-1 with a game to spare.</p>

<p>This became India's 17th successive Test series win&nbsp;on home soil (most by any). Their last series loss at home came versus Alastair Cook-led England in 2012/13. Since then, they have beaten the likes of Australia, England, West Indies, South Africa, Bangladesh and New Zealand (with Pakistan being the only non-visiting side due to strained political relations between the two nations).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Often, we tend to overlook the Test series wins at home. While there is no doubt that an away series win is very satisfying, people often underplay the importance of a series win in home conditions. Indian captain Rohit Sharma underlined the importance of a home series win&nbsp;in the post-match presser in Ranchi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Responding to WION's correspondent, Hitman said, "Yeah, I think every series is important for us. Our job is to win the game, the series or tournament. Home and away can be differentiated. If we win at home, it is said that 'India is supposed to win at home' but if we lose, then I know what happens (smiles). Clearly, every series win against any team is crucial. Given where we were at before the series, with a lot of players missing, these young guys have taken the responsibility perfectly."</p>

<p>While home series wins deserve to be celebrated as well, this triumph over England -- a Test team who have been entertaining one and all with their aggressive style of play&nbsp;-- needs to be&nbsp;rated highly. The home side were challenged by England on many occasions and got a 3-1 lead facing many hindrances.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dhruv-jurel-took-the-pressure-off-me-shubman-gill-on-unbeaten-stand-in-tense-ranchi-chase-694027">IND vs ENG: 'Dhruv Jurel took the pressure off me' - Shubman Gill on unbeaten stand in tense Ranchi chase</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>EXPLAINED: Why the England Test series win should be rated highly</strong></h2>

<p>India entered the series without star batter Virat Kohli, who was out for personal reasons (having&nbsp;stepped aside for the birth of his second child). The home team still dominated the first half of the series opener in Hyderabad before an Ollie Pope special blew them away. Despite a whopping 190-run lead, India lost the first Test after Pope's 196 revived England's chances. Chasing 231, India folded for 202, lost&nbsp;by 28 runs and conceded a 1-0 lead.</p>

<p>The troubles increased from the second Test. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja got injured and were sidelined (leading to&nbsp;Rajat Patidar's debut). Moreover, captain Rohit was looking timid with the bat&nbsp;-- grappling with the pressure of missing his key batters. While his struggles continued in Visakhapatnam as well, venue for the second encounter,&nbsp;a young Yashasvi Jaiswal -- who missed out on a ton in the opening game -- came as India's saviour and slammed a majestic 209 in the first innings. After India made 396, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah produced a brilliant bowling spell, with reverse swing on offer, to hand his side a big 143-run lead. In the second essay, 24-year-old Shubman Gill rose to the occasion&nbsp;with an impressive 104, as India setup a 399-run target and won by 106 runs.</p>

<p>The third Test, in Rajkot, saw the return of local boy Jadeja, however, Rahul still remained unfit.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer lost his place&nbsp;after a flurry of low scores. Thus, India brought in two debutants in the form of Sarfaraz Khan and keeper-batter&nbsp;Jurel.&nbsp;Opting to bat first, the hosts were 33-3 when captain Rohit (131) and Jadeja (112) stitched an invaluable 204-run fourth-wicket stand to take the side out of troubled waters. Still, India were 237-4 with inexperienced batters to follow. Nonetheless, both Sarfaraz (62) and Jurel (46) showed enough grit and determination to take India to 445. Senior pros R Ashwin (37) and Bumrah (26) also played a helping hand.</p>

<p>Ben Duckett (153) led England's response and the visitors were marching towards India's 445, being 182-2 in 30 overs. At 224-2, England still looked confident enough to go past India's score but Mohammed Siraj stepped up this time around.&nbsp;His 4 for 84 led to a collapse with Ben Stokes &amp; Co. folding up for 319.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a 126-run lead, India took the game away&nbsp;with their&nbsp;young brigade once again coming to the party. Jaiswal (214*), Gill (91) and Sarfaraz (68 not out) propelled the team's lead to a daunting 556. Chasing 557, the English side managed a paltry 122 with Jadeja shining with 5 for 41.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to the&nbsp;fourth Test, the Indian team were much more confident and took the punt to rest ace pacer Bumrah. They included uncapped Bengal pacer Akash Deep in&nbsp;the playing XI in Ranchi. With England off to a flier, after opting to bat first, it was the 27-year-old debutant&nbsp;who struck thrice in one over to reduce England to 57 for 3. Later,&nbsp;Joe Root's 122* enabled England to 353. In reply, India were on the mat; reeling at 177-7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nonetheless, the 23-year-old Jurel (90) became India's hero in the crisis situation. He stitched a priceless 76-run eighth-wicket stand with Kuldeep Yadav (28). He aced the art of batting with the tail to take the team closer to England's 353. As a result, India posted 307 and handed only a slender 46-run lead, which could have easily been over 100. England then crumbled to Ashwin-Kuldeep's spin web to setup only a 192-run target. In the run-chase, India were made to toil hard for every run but Jurel-Gill ensured they got past the finish line.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurel-gill-and-spinners-help-india-beat-england-in-4th-test-in-ranchi-hosts-clinch-five-match-series-693960">Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi as hosts clinch five-match series</a></strong></p>

<p>India came from behind to win the Test series with a game to spare, mainly due&nbsp;to their young brigade (with the seniors also raising their game). Heaping praise on the&nbsp;youngsters, Rohit said in the post-match PC, "You can take a lot of pride with such performances. Test cricket throws a different kind of challenge and pressure. The way these guys have performed has been superb. It is important to understand the dressing room culture and understand what we want to do as a team. These guys have come with an open mind and have raised their hands. That is important&nbsp;to understand to put the team's need ahead of individual performances. These guys have done all that. I know these are early days but they have responded beautifully and have shown the skills to excel in this format."</p>

<p>Thus, India's Test series triumph deserves accolades for the way the youngsters have stepped up in the absence of the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Bumrah, etc. The inexperienced players have embraced every challenge presented before Team India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Let us be honest. Had this series win come abroad, especially in SENA countries, it&nbsp;would have rightly been hailed by all. There definitely is nothing wrong in celebrating away wins, but home wins deserve appreciation as well. Well, this one certainly does and needs to be rated highly by the countrymen.</p>


India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India were 84 for no loss before being reduced to 120-5.

India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India were 84 for no loss before being reduced to 120-5. An unbroken 72-run sixth-wicket stand between Shubman Gill (52*) and Dhruv Jurel (39 not out) propelled India to a stunning win, also claiming the five-match series 3-1 with a game to spare. This became India's 17th successive Test series win on home soil (most by any). Their last series loss at home came versus Alastair Cook-led England in 2012/13. Since then, they have beaten the likes of Australia, England, West Indies, South Africa, Bangladesh and New Zealand (with Pakistan being the only non-visiting side due to strained political relations between the two nations). Often, we tend to overlook the Test series wins at home. While there is no doubt that an away series win is very satisfying, people often underplay the importance of a series win in home conditions. Indian captain Rohit Sharma underlined the importance of a home series win in the post-match presser in Ranchi. Responding to WION's correspondent, Hitman said, "Yeah, I think every series is important for us. Our job is to win the game, the series or tournament. Home and away can be differentiated. If we win at home, it is said that 'India is supposed to win at home' but if we lose, then I know what happens (smiles). Clearly, every series win against any team is crucial. Given where we were at before the series, with a lot of players missing, these young guys have taken the responsibility perfectly." While home series wins deserve to be celebrated as well, this triumph over England -- a Test team who have been entertaining one and all with their aggressive style of play -- needs to be rated highly. The home side were challenged by England on many occasions and got a 3-1 lead facing many hindrances. Also read: IND vs ENG: 'Dhruv Jurel took the pressure off me' - Shubman Gill on unbeaten stand in tense Ranchi chase EXPLAINED: Why the England Test series win should be rated highly India entered the series without star batter Virat Kohli, who was out for personal reasons (having stepped aside for the birth of his second child). The home team still dominated the first half of the series opener in Hyderabad before an Ollie Pope special blew them away. Despite a whopping 190-run lead, India lost the first Test after Pope's 196 revived England's chances. Chasing 231, India folded for 202, lost by 28 runs and conceded a 1-0 lead. The troubles increased from the second Test. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja got injured and were sidelined (leading to Rajat Patidar's debut). Moreover, captain Rohit was looking timid with the bat -- grappling with the pressure of missing his key batters. While his struggles continued in Visakhapatnam as well, venue for the second encounter, a young Yashasvi Jaiswal -- who missed out on a ton in the opening game -- came as India's saviour and slammed a majestic 209 in the first innings. After India made 396, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah produced a brilliant bowling spell, with reverse swing on offer, to hand his side a big 143-run lead. In the second essay, 24-year-old Shubman Gill rose to the occasion with an impressive 104, as India setup a 399-run target and won by 106 runs. The third Test, in Rajkot, saw the return of local boy Jadeja, however, Rahul still remained unfit. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer lost his place after a flurry of low scores. Thus, India brought in two debutants in the form of Sarfaraz Khan and keeper-batter Jurel. Opting to bat first, the hosts were 33-3 when captain Rohit (131) and Jadeja (112) stitched an invaluable 204-run fourth-wicket stand to take the side out of troubled waters. Still, India were 237-4 with inexperienced batters to follow. Nonetheless, both Sarfaraz (62) and Jurel (46) showed enough grit and determination to take India to 445. Senior pros R Ashwin (37) and Bumrah (26) also played a helping hand. Ben Duckett (153) led England's response and the visitors were marching towards India's 445, being 182-2 in 30 overs. At 224-2, England still looked confident enough to go past India's score but Mohammed Siraj stepped up this time around. His 4 for 84 led to a collapse with Ben Stokes & Co. folding up for 319. With a 126-run lead, India took the game away with their young brigade once again coming to the party. Jaiswal (214*), Gill (91) and Sarfaraz (68 not out) propelled the team's lead to a daunting 556. Chasing 557, the English side managed a paltry 122 with Jadeja shining with 5 for 41. Prior to the fourth Test, the Indian team were much more confident and took the punt to rest ace pacer Bumrah. They included uncapped Bengal pacer Akash Deep in the playing XI in Ranchi. With England off to a flier, after opting to bat first, it was the 27-year-old debutant who struck thrice in one over to reduce England to 57 for 3. Later, Joe Root's 122* enabled England to 353. In reply, India were on the mat; reeling at 177-7. Nonetheless, the 23-year-old Jurel (90) became India's hero in the crisis situation. He stitched a priceless 76-run eighth-wicket stand with Kuldeep Yadav (28). He aced the art of batting with the tail to take the team closer to England's 353. As a result, India posted 307 and handed only a slender 46-run lead, which could have easily been over 100. England then crumbled to Ashwin-Kuldeep's spin web to setup only a 192-run target. In the run-chase, India were made to toil hard for every run but Jurel-Gill ensured they got past the finish line. Also read: Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi as hosts clinch five-match series India came from behind to win the Test series with a game to spare, mainly due to their young brigade (with the seniors also raising their game). Heaping praise on the youngsters, Rohit said in the post-match PC, "You can take a lot of pride with such performances. Test cricket throws a different kind of challenge and pressure. The way these guys have performed has been superb. It is important to understand the dressing room culture and understand what we want to do as a team. These guys have come with an open mind and have raised their hands. That is important to understand to put the team's need ahead of individual performances. These guys have done all that. I know these are early days but they have responded beautifully and have shown the skills to excel in this format." Thus, India's Test series triumph deserves accolades for the way the youngsters have stepped up in the absence of the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Bumrah, etc. The inexperienced players have embraced every challenge presented before Team India. Let us be honest. Had this series win come abroad, especially in SENA countries, it would have rightly been hailed by all. There definitely is nothing wrong in celebrating away wins, but home wins deserve appreciation as well. Well, this one certainly does and needs to be rated highly by the countrymen.

Explained: Why India’s Test series triumph over England should be rated highly

<p>Ravindra Jadeja has always been a fantastic spinner for India but over the years, especially in last six, he has come of age as a batter as well. His improved abilities with bat since 2017 have not only allowed the side to include an extra bowler in Tests but given India much needed balance at number seven as well.</p>

<p>Having some great years behind him with bat and experience of 70 Tests also allow India to send him up the order if the situation demands - like in currently ongoing Test series against England at home. With Virat Kohli out, KL Rahul injured and Shreyas dropped, he was sent at number five in the third Test and scored a magnificent century - bringing India back from the 33/3 by adding 204 runs with skipper Rohit Sharma.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/afghanistan-spinner-noor-ahmad-banned-by-ilt20-for-12-months-692059">Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmad banned by ILT20 for 12 months</a></p>

<p>Overall, Jadeja now has 3,000+ runs in Tests&nbsp;to go with his 250+ wickets - only the third Indian to achieve the feat after Kapil Dev and Ravi Ashwin. With Jadeja becoming a formidable batter and complete all-rounder, lets have a look at his years in Test cricket and how he's now the perfect all-rounder for India:</p>

<p><strong>From 2012-2014</strong></p>

<p>In the first three years since he made the debut in 2012, Jadeja played in 12 games but could manage only 364 runs in 19 innings at an average of just 21. Jadeja only managed just one fifty in first three years of his debut - but his bowling kept him in the team. Jadeja the bowler took 45 wickets in the first 12 games including two five-wicket hauls.</p>

<p><strong>From 2015-2016</strong></p>

<p>In the next three years, Jadeja played 23 Tests - almost double of what he played in his first three years. The southpaw showed much improved version of him with the bat - scoring 812 runs in 33 innings at an average of 35. He also managed to hit seven fifties but a Test hundred still eluded him.</p>

<p>As for his bowling, he grew leaps and bounds taking 120 wickets in 23 games including seven five-wickets hauls and one 10-wicket haul.</p>

<p><strong>From 2018-2020</strong></p>

<p>Since 2018, Jadeja showed a lot of promise with the bat - offering the balance team needed in the batting department lower down the order. In 2018 he scored the first Test century as well - scoring 100 not out against West Indies in Rajkot. Overall, the all-rounder scored 750 runs in 20 innings of 15 Tests from 2018 to 2020 at a stunning average of 53.5. He also managed to score seven fifties along side a hundred in the same period.</p>

<p>In the bowling department, he took 51 wickets in 29 innings but didn't take a five-wicket haul in the period.</p>

<p><strong>From 2021-2023</strong></p>

<p>Jadeja had a bit of dip in form but still contributed more than handy runs in 17 Tests from 2021 to 2023. He scored 878 runs in the period at an average of 38 with four fifties and two hundreds. In 2022, he also scored his highest score of 175 not out against Sri Lanka at number 7 - the highest for India at that position.</p>

<p>As for his bowling, the all-rounder picked 59 wickets with three five-wicket hauls and one ten-wicket haul and a best of 7/42 in an innings.</p>

<p><strong>Year 2024</strong></p>

<p>This year, Jadeja has started with a bang, scoring a fifty and a hundred in three innings of two Tests he has played. In total, he has scored 201 runs at an average of 50 with a best of 112 against England in Rajkot. In bowling, Jadeja had managed 12 wickets including a five-wicket haul on day 4 of the recently-concluded Rajkot Test against England to help India win by 434 runs.</p>

<p>Talking about his Player of the Match performance of a century and seven wickets in Rajkot, Jadeja said: "We were in a difficult situation, looked to back my strengths, play my shots. Not be too conscious, just watch the ball and play the ball. Batting first, the ball comes on nicely. Once we won the toss, this is what we wanted - bat first, bowl second. You won't get easy wickets [on this surface] you have to work hard. Need to bowl in good areas, can't just bowl and get wickets."</p>

<p>The performances put in by Jadeja over the years have also helped in his rise in ranking as he sits atop the chart of Men's Test all-rounders in ICC's list. In ODIs too, he is at the 10th place - being the only Indian in Top 10.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jadeja has been a crucial player over the years for India with bowling more than the bat. His recent exploits while batting and the sword celebration after that, however, are becoming a more common sight than earlier - making him the perfect all-rounder for India who is capable to bat lower down the order and take wickets as well.</p>


Ravindra Jadeja has always been a fantastic spinner for India but over the years, especially in last six, he has come of age as a batter as well. His improved abilities with bat since 2017 have not only allowed the side to include an extra bowler in Tests but given India much needed balance at number seven as well.

Ravindra Jadeja has always been a fantastic spinner for India but over the years, especially in last six, he has come of age as a batter as well. His improved abilities with bat since 2017 have not only allowed the side to include an extra bowler in Tests but given India much needed balance at number seven as well. Having some great years behind him with bat and experience of 70 Tests also allow India to send him up the order if the situation demands - like in currently ongoing Test series against England at home. With Virat Kohli out, KL Rahul injured and Shreyas dropped, he was sent at number five in the third Test and scored a magnificent century - bringing India back from the 33/3 by adding 204 runs with skipper Rohit Sharma. Also Read: Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmad banned by ILT20 for 12 months Overall, Jadeja now has 3,000+ runs in Tests to go with his 250+ wickets - only the third Indian to achieve the feat after Kapil Dev and Ravi Ashwin. With Jadeja becoming a formidable batter and complete all-rounder, lets have a look at his years in Test cricket and how he's now the perfect all-rounder for India: From 2012-2014 In the first three years since he made the debut in 2012, Jadeja played in 12 games but could manage only 364 runs in 19 innings at an average of just 21. Jadeja only managed just one fifty in first three years of his debut - but his bowling kept him in the team. Jadeja the bowler took 45 wickets in the first 12 games including two five-wicket hauls. From 2015-2016 In the next three years, Jadeja played 23 Tests - almost double of what he played in his first three years. The southpaw showed much improved version of him with the bat - scoring 812 runs in 33 innings at an average of 35. He also managed to hit seven fifties but a Test hundred still eluded him. As for his bowling, he grew leaps and bounds taking 120 wickets in 23 games including seven five-wickets hauls and one 10-wicket haul. From 2018-2020 Since 2018, Jadeja showed a lot of promise with the bat - offering the balance team needed in the batting department lower down the order. In 2018 he scored the first Test century as well - scoring 100 not out against West Indies in Rajkot. Overall, the all-rounder scored 750 runs in 20 innings of 15 Tests from 2018 to 2020 at a stunning average of 53.5. He also managed to score seven fifties along side a hundred in the same period. In the bowling department, he took 51 wickets in 29 innings but didn't take a five-wicket haul in the period. From 2021-2023 Jadeja had a bit of dip in form but still contributed more than handy runs in 17 Tests from 2021 to 2023. He scored 878 runs in the period at an average of 38 with four fifties and two hundreds. In 2022, he also scored his highest score of 175 not out against Sri Lanka at number 7 - the highest for India at that position. As for his bowling, the all-rounder picked 59 wickets with three five-wicket hauls and one ten-wicket haul and a best of 7/42 in an innings. Year 2024 This year, Jadeja has started with a bang, scoring a fifty and a hundred in three innings of two Tests he has played. In total, he has scored 201 runs at an average of 50 with a best of 112 against England in Rajkot. In bowling, Jadeja had managed 12 wickets including a five-wicket haul on day 4 of the recently-concluded Rajkot Test against England to help India win by 434 runs. Talking about his Player of the Match performance of a century and seven wickets in Rajkot, Jadeja said: "We were in a difficult situation, looked to back my strengths, play my shots. Not be too conscious, just watch the ball and play the ball. Batting first, the ball comes on nicely. Once we won the toss, this is what we wanted - bat first, bowl second. You won't get easy wickets [on this surface] you have to work hard. Need to bowl in good areas, can't just bowl and get wickets." The performances put in by Jadeja over the years have also helped in his rise in ranking as he sits atop the chart of Men's Test all-rounders in ICC's list. In ODIs too, he is at the 10th place - being the only Indian in Top 10. Jadeja has been a crucial player over the years for India with bowling more than the bat. His recent exploits while batting and the sword celebration after that, however, are becoming a more common sight than earlier - making him the perfect all-rounder for India who is capable to bat lower down the order and take wickets as well.

Explained: How rise of Ravindra Jadeja with the bat has made him the perfect Test all-rounder for India

<p>Star of the third Test in Rajkot, Yashasvi Jaiswal admits taking inspiration from first-inning centurions Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja for how they played session by session on day one. Jaiswal slammed his second double-century of the series, hitting an incredible 214* in the second innings, helping India post a mammoth total and eventually win the game by 434 runs.</p>

<p>Jaiswal broke several records on his way to completing his second double ton in Tests. While he surpassed Navjot Singh Sidhu on the list of Indian batters with the most sixes in a single Test, Jaiswal equalled Wasim Akram’s unique tally of smashing 12 sixes in a Test innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the highlight of his innings was the three massive sixes he hit off James Anderson on back-to-back balls, becoming the first batter to do it against the England great.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to the broadcaster after the game, which India won by a daunting margin, their biggest in Test history, Jaiswal said he is happy to contribute towards his team’s success. The young left-handed batter said he aims to make it big whenever he is set at the crease, and in this case, despite retiring hurt after completing his hundred, Jaiswal returned to smash the record books.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stoinis-replacement-aaron-hardie-ruled-out-of-new-zealand-t20is-spencer-johnson-added-to-squad-691432">Stoinis' replacement Aaron Hardie ruled out of New Zealand T20Is, Spencer Johnson added to squad</a></strong></p>

<p>“I’m just trying to make it big whenever I’m set,” Jaiswal said.</p>

<p>“In Test cricket, you never know, I try to make sure I play as long as I can when I’m set. It was pretty difficult initially, I was not getting runs, so I had to play the session and play the bowler. Then when I got set, I could score the runs,” he added.</p>

<p>On his injury, Jaiswal said, “I had my plans about where I could play my shots and get runs. After some time, my back was not good. I didn’t want to go out, but I had to go out because it was too much. When I came back, I tried to give myself time and take it as deep as I can,” Jaiswal noted.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>‘Rohit and Jadeja’s knocks inspired me’&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In the first innings, Captain Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja were among the runs for India, hitting 131 and 112, respectively. Taking a leaf out of their books on how to make your chance count, Jaiswal said,</p>

<p>“As all my seniors have said, when you are set, make it big and make it count. The way Rohit (Sharma) bhai and Jaddu (Jadeja) bhai played in the first innings really inspired me. The way they played session by session was incredible, the way they put effort motivated all of us,” he concluded.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, with this win, India took a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.</p>

<p>Ranchi will host the fourth Test starting February 23.&nbsp;</p>


Star of the third Test in Rajkot, Yashasvi Jaiswal admits taking inspiration from first-inning centurions Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja for how they played session by session on day one.

Star of the third Test in Rajkot, Yashasvi Jaiswal admits taking inspiration from first-inning centurions Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja for how they played session by session on day one. Jaiswal slammed his second double-century of the series, hitting an incredible 214* in the second innings, helping India post a mammoth total and eventually win the game by 434 runs. Jaiswal broke several records on his way to completing his second double ton in Tests. While he surpassed Navjot Singh Sidhu on the list of Indian batters with the most sixes in a single Test, Jaiswal equalled Wasim Akram’s unique tally of smashing 12 sixes in a Test innings. However, the highlight of his innings was the three massive sixes he hit off James Anderson on back-to-back balls, becoming the first batter to do it against the England great. Speaking to the broadcaster after the game, which India won by a daunting margin, their biggest in Test history, Jaiswal said he is happy to contribute towards his team’s success. The young left-handed batter said he aims to make it big whenever he is set at the crease, and in this case, despite retiring hurt after completing his hundred, Jaiswal returned to smash the record books. ALSO READ: Stoinis' replacement Aaron Hardie ruled out of New Zealand T20Is, Spencer Johnson added to squad “I’m just trying to make it big whenever I’m set,” Jaiswal said. “In Test cricket, you never know, I try to make sure I play as long as I can when I’m set. It was pretty difficult initially, I was not getting runs, so I had to play the session and play the bowler. Then when I got set, I could score the runs,” he added. On his injury, Jaiswal said, “I had my plans about where I could play my shots and get runs. After some time, my back was not good. I didn’t want to go out, but I had to go out because it was too much. When I came back, I tried to give myself time and take it as deep as I can,” Jaiswal noted. ‘Rohit and Jadeja’s knocks inspired me’ In the first innings, Captain Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja were among the runs for India, hitting 131 and 112, respectively. Taking a leaf out of their books on how to make your chance count, Jaiswal said, “As all my seniors have said, when you are set, make it big and make it count. The way Rohit (Sharma) bhai and Jaddu (Jadeja) bhai played in the first innings really inspired me. The way they played session by session was incredible, the way they put effort motivated all of us,” he concluded. Meanwhile, with this win, India took a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Ranchi will host the fourth Test starting February 23.

IND v ENG: Rohit and Jadeja’s first inning knocks inspired me, says Rajkot Test hero Yashasvi Jaiswal

<p>India beat England by 434&nbsp;runs on day 4 (Feb 18) of the third Test in Rajkot to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Chasing a mammoth 557, England were bowled out for a paltry 122 in their second innings. India's Ravindra Jadeja took 5/41&nbsp;to lead the English collapse which took just more than a session. Apart from Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav also chipped in with two wickets.</p>

<p>England started horribly in the chase with first innings' centurion Ben Duckett being first one to go, thanks to a quick run-out by Mohammed Siraj and Dhruv Jurel. Jasprit Bumrah then trapped Zak Crawley LBW as England went to tea at 18/2.</p>

<p>Jadeja then struck thrice after tea to dismiss Ollie Pope, Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root to dash all hopes for England. England skipper Ben Stokes and Rehan Ahmed were the next to fall off Kuldeep Yadav as England lost three wickets for no runs. Tom Hartley and Ben Foakes then added 32 runs for the eight wicket before Jadeja returned and sent&nbsp;back Foakes.</p>

<p>Ashwin, who joined the team earlier in the day after missing the Test on day 3 (Feb 17) due to medical emergency, clean bowled Hartley to bring England at nine down before 100. Jadeja then took the wicket off Mark Wood, who scored 33 off 15 in vain, to complete his five-for and wrap up the win for India.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-3rd-test-indias-yashasvi-jaiswal-equals-wasim-akrams-record-of-most-sixes-in-an-innings-691416">IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: India's Yashasvi Jaiswal equals Wasim Akram's record of most sixes in an innings</a></p>

<p>Earlier, India started from their overnight score of 196/2 with Shubman Gill and Kuldeep Yadav on the crease. Gill was first to fall on 91 because of a mix-up with Kuldeep. Jaiswal, who had retired on day 3 after scoring 104 due to back spams, came to bat after Gill's departure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kuldeep also departed soon and debutant Sarfaraz Khan joined Jaiswal on the crease. The duo added unbeaten 172 runs for the fifth wicket before skipper Rohit Sharma declared India's second innings on 430/4 shortly before tea on Sunday. Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 214 - his second double ton in as many matches. Meanwhile Sarfaraz, who had scored 62 in first innings, scored 68 not out in second- only the fourth Indian batter to score fifty-plus scores in both innings of his debut match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fourth Test of the series is set to be played in Ranchi from Friday, Feb 23.</p>


India beat England by 434 runs on day 4 (Feb 18) of the third Test in Rajkot to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Chasing a mammoth 557, England were bowled out for a paltry 122 in their second innings.

India beat England by 434 runs on day 4 (Feb 18) of the third Test in Rajkot to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Chasing a mammoth 557, England were bowled out for a paltry 122 in their second innings. India's Ravindra Jadeja took 5/41 to lead the English collapse which took just more than a session. Apart from Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav also chipped in with two wickets. England started horribly in the chase with first innings' centurion Ben Duckett being first one to go, thanks to a quick run-out by Mohammed Siraj and Dhruv Jurel. Jasprit Bumrah then trapped Zak Crawley LBW as England went to tea at 18/2. Jadeja then struck thrice after tea to dismiss Ollie Pope, Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root to dash all hopes for England. England skipper Ben Stokes and Rehan Ahmed were the next to fall off Kuldeep Yadav as England lost three wickets for no runs. Tom Hartley and Ben Foakes then added 32 runs for the eight wicket before Jadeja returned and sent back Foakes. Ashwin, who joined the team earlier in the day after missing the Test on day 3 (Feb 17) due to medical emergency, clean bowled Hartley to bring England at nine down before 100. Jadeja then took the wicket off Mark Wood, who scored 33 off 15 in vain, to complete his five-for and wrap up the win for India. Also Read: IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: India's Yashasvi Jaiswal equals Wasim Akram's record of most sixes in an innings Earlier, India started from their overnight score of 196/2 with Shubman Gill and Kuldeep Yadav on the crease. Gill was first to fall on 91 because of a mix-up with Kuldeep. Jaiswal, who had retired on day 3 after scoring 104 due to back spams, came to bat after Gill's departure. Kuldeep also departed soon and debutant Sarfaraz Khan joined Jaiswal on the crease. The duo added unbeaten 172 runs for the fifth wicket before skipper Rohit Sharma declared India's second innings on 430/4 shortly before tea on Sunday. Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 214 - his second double ton in as many matches. Meanwhile Sarfaraz, who had scored 62 in first innings, scored 68 not out in second- only the fourth Indian batter to score fifty-plus scores in both innings of his debut match. The fourth Test of the series is set to be played in Ranchi from Friday, Feb 23.

IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: Jadeja five-for after Jaiswal's unbeaten 214 hand India 434-run win in Rajkot

<p>It was a wonderful opening day for Team India in the Rajkot Test as Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja were at their fluent best with the bat. Both&nbsp;scored impressive&nbsp;tons at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. India and England meeting for the third time in the five-match Test series were out to stamp their authority on the contest but it was the hosts that dominated the day. Riding on Rohit’s 131 and Jadeja’s unbeaten 110, the hosts ended Day 1 on 326/5 with Sarfaraz Khan also scoring 62 in his debut innings.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Centuries from Jadeja (110*) and Rohit Sharma (131) guide <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> to 326/5 at Stumps on Day 1 of the 3rd Test.<br />
<br />
Scorecard - <a href="https://t.co/eYpzVPnUf8">https://t.co/eYpzVPnUf8</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a><a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/KVSDlNKmQG">pic.twitter.com/KVSDlNKmQG</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1758095025940935096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>India of to poor start on Day 1</strong></h2>

<p>Having won the toss, India opted to bat first, a decision which proved to be wrong after a poor start to the innings. India handed debuts to Dhruv Jurel and Sarfaraz while keeping the rest of the pack unchanged after the win in Vizag. However, it was the English change that made the headlines after Mark Wood, coming in place of Shoaib Bashir, scalped three wickets in the opening session.</p>

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<p>However, the hosts then fought back with skipper Rohit and Jadeja&nbsp;steadying&nbsp;the ship with a 204 run&nbsp;partnership&nbsp;for the fourth wicket. Despite a great start with the ball, England failed to consolidate as the duo helped India dominate the rest of the day. Rohit was dismissed on 131, having scored his 11th Test ton, but held his bat high having gone through a tough start on Day 1.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-uniteds-2022-2023-squad-the-most-expensive-ever-assembled-in-europe-uefa-report-690504">Manchester United's 2022-2023 squad the most expensive ever assembled in Europe: UEFA report</a></p>

<p>India then had another brilliant partnership as Jadeja and Sarfaraz put together 77 runs for the fifth wicket. Sarfaraz was aggressive between the two and scored 62 in just 66 deliveries and helped India reach 300 in the final session. However, his innings came to an end after a brilliant run out from Mark Wood.</p>

<p>At Stumps on Day 1 India were 326/5 with Jadeja batting on 110 and Kuldeep Yadav unbeaten on 1. Wood was the most efficient bowler with three wickets and a run out during the day while Tom Hartley scalped one wicket.</p>


It was a wonderful opening day for Team India in the Rajkot Test as Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja were at their fluent best with the bat. Both scored impressive tons at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot.

It was a wonderful opening day for Team India in the Rajkot Test as Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja were at their fluent best with the bat. Both scored impressive tons at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. India and England meeting for the third time in the five-match Test series were out to stamp their authority on the contest but it was the hosts that dominated the day. Riding on Rohit’s 131 and Jadeja’s unbeaten 110, the hosts ended Day 1 on 326/5 with Sarfaraz Khan also scoring 62 in his debut innings. Centuries from Jadeja (110*) and Rohit Sharma (131) guide #TeamIndia to 326/5 at Stumps on Day 1 of the 3rd Test. Scorecard - https://t.co/eYpzVPnUf8 #INDvENG@IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/KVSDlNKmQG — BCCI (@BCCI) February 15, 2024 × India of to poor start on Day 1 Having won the toss, India opted to bat first, a decision which proved to be wrong after a poor start to the innings. India handed debuts to Dhruv Jurel and Sarfaraz while keeping the rest of the pack unchanged after the win in Vizag. However, it was the English change that made the headlines after Mark Wood, coming in place of Shoaib Bashir, scalped three wickets in the opening session. × However, the hosts then fought back with skipper Rohit and Jadeja steadying the ship with a 204 run partnership for the fourth wicket. Despite a great start with the ball, England failed to consolidate as the duo helped India dominate the rest of the day. Rohit was dismissed on 131, having scored his 11th Test ton, but held his bat high having gone through a tough start on Day 1. ALSO READ | Manchester United's 2022-2023 squad the most expensive ever assembled in Europe: UEFA report India then had another brilliant partnership as Jadeja and Sarfaraz put together 77 runs for the fifth wicket. Sarfaraz was aggressive between the two and scored 62 in just 66 deliveries and helped India reach 300 in the final session. However, his innings came to an end after a brilliant run out from Mark Wood. At Stumps on Day 1 India were 326/5 with Jadeja batting on 110 and Kuldeep Yadav unbeaten on 1. Wood was the most efficient bowler with three wickets and a run out during the day while Tom Hartley scalped one wicket.

IND vs ENG Rajkot Test: Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja's tons highlight of Day 1; Sarfaraz scores 62 on debut

<p>Team India got off to a superb start on Day 1 of the Rajkot Test after the hosts recovered from an early setback against visitors England on Thursday (Feb 15). While the story of the day was the tons scored by Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja, debutant Sarfaraz Khan was also on the show after scoring 62 runs in his debut innings. The Mumbai-based batter though was a victim of a poor running between the wickets and was run out when Ravindra Jadeja was batting at the other end, leaving everyone frustrated. However, Sarfaraz came to the defense of the all-rounder and stated such miscommunications are part of the game.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Centuries from Jadeja (110*) and Rohit Sharma (131) guide <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> to 326/5 at Stumps on Day 1 of the 3rd Test.<br />
<br />
Scorecard - <a href="https://t.co/eYpzVPnUf8">https://t.co/eYpzVPnUf8</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a><a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/KVSDlNKmQG">pic.twitter.com/KVSDlNKmQG</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1758095025940935096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Sarfaraz clears air on runout incident</strong></h2>

<p>"Miscommunication is a part of the game. These things happen," Sarfaraz said at the end of Day 1 in Rajkot.</p>

<p>"Jadeja was guiding me through the innings. He told me to spend some time in the crease and said that the runs would follow. He came to me and said that a little bit of miscommunication happened. I was okay with it," Sarfaraz revealed.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uk-club-cricketer-rizwan-javed-handed-17-year-ban-for-match-fixing-attempts-690631">UK club cricketer Rizwan Javed handed 17-year ban for match fixing attempts</a></p>

<h2><strong>What was the incident?</strong></h2>

<p>On the fifth ball of the 82nd over Ravindra Jadeja’s shot traveled to the mid-on fielder with Sarfaraz, batting at non-striker end trying to snatch a run. While the run was never on and bowler James Anderson was not at the non-striking end stumps, Sarfaraz and Jadeja made a small attempt to snatch the run. However, fielder Mark Wood’s presence made Jadeja uncomfortable and he sent Sarfaraz back to the non-striker end.</p>

<p>By the time Sarfaraz was on his way back to the crease, Mark Wood’s direct hit saw England produce a valuable breakthrough.</p>

<p>At Stumps on Day 1 India were 326/5 with Jadeja batting on 110 and Kuldeep Yadav unbeaten on 1. Wood was the most efficient bowler with three wickets and a run out during the day while Tom Hartley scalped one wicket. The Indian side will push for a big total on Day 2 of the match with a flat deck helping the batters.</p>


Team India got off to a superb start on Day 1 of the Rajkot Test after the hosts recovered from an early setback against visitors England on Thursday (Feb 15). While the story of the day was the tons scored by Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja, debutant Sarfaraz Khan was also on the show after scoring 62 runs in his debut innings.

Team India got off to a superb start on Day 1 of the Rajkot Test after the hosts recovered from an early setback against visitors England on Thursday (Feb 15). While the story of the day was the tons scored by Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja, debutant Sarfaraz Khan was also on the show after scoring 62 runs in his debut innings. The Mumbai-based batter though was a victim of a poor running between the wickets and was run out when Ravindra Jadeja was batting at the other end, leaving everyone frustrated. However, Sarfaraz came to the defense of the all-rounder and stated such miscommunications are part of the game. Centuries from Jadeja (110*) and Rohit Sharma (131) guide #TeamIndia to 326/5 at Stumps on Day 1 of the 3rd Test. Scorecard - https://t.co/eYpzVPnUf8 #INDvENG@IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/KVSDlNKmQG — BCCI (@BCCI) February 15, 2024 × Sarfaraz clears air on runout incident "Miscommunication is a part of the game. These things happen," Sarfaraz said at the end of Day 1 in Rajkot. "Jadeja was guiding me through the innings. He told me to spend some time in the crease and said that the runs would follow. He came to me and said that a little bit of miscommunication happened. I was okay with it," Sarfaraz revealed. ALSO READ | UK club cricketer Rizwan Javed handed 17-year ban for match fixing attempts What was the incident? On the fifth ball of the 82nd over Ravindra Jadeja’s shot traveled to the mid-on fielder with Sarfaraz, batting at non-striker end trying to snatch a run. While the run was never on and bowler James Anderson was not at the non-striking end stumps, Sarfaraz and Jadeja made a small attempt to snatch the run. However, fielder Mark Wood’s presence made Jadeja uncomfortable and he sent Sarfaraz back to the non-striker end. By the time Sarfaraz was on his way back to the crease, Mark Wood’s direct hit saw England produce a valuable breakthrough. At Stumps on Day 1 India were 326/5 with Jadeja batting on 110 and Kuldeep Yadav unbeaten on 1. Wood was the most efficient bowler with three wickets and a run out during the day while Tom Hartley scalped one wicket. The Indian side will push for a big total on Day 2 of the match with a flat deck helping the batters.

IND vs ENG: Sarfaraz Khan holds no grudge against Ravindra Jadeja despite runout, says 'he was...'

<p>India captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bat first in the third Test against England in Rajkot. The home team has made several changes to their playing XI with two debutants – Sarfaraz Khan and keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel&nbsp;– coming in, while Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Siraj have also returned to the squad. For England, Mark Wood returns to the playing XI.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Here are the playing XIs of both teams -</h2>

<p><strong>INDIA -</strong> Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel(w), Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj</p>

<p><strong>ENGLAND -</strong> Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes(c), Ben Foakes(w), Rehan Ahmed, Tom Hartley, Mark Wood, James Anderson</p>

<p>Injuries and unavailability of a few players forced India to make as many as four changes to their playing XI from the last game, which they won by 106 runs in Vizag. With Virat Kohli (out of the series due to personal reasons), Shreyas Iyer (out with back stiffness and poor form) and KL Rahul (quadriceps injury) all unavailable for selection for this game, India will play an inexperienced middle order – Rajat Patidar (4), Sarfaraz Khan (debutant) and Dhruv Jurel (at number six).</p>

<p>Seasoned campaigner Ravindra Jadeja also returns after missing the previous match, replacing Axar Patel. While Ravi Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav and seamer Jasprit Bumrah retained their places in the side, India have called in Mohammed Siraj for this game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Per BCCI’s latest statement on Mukesh Kumar, who got replaced by Siraj, the seamer has been&nbsp;released from the squad for Rajkot as he rejoins&nbsp;his Ranji Team (Bengal) and will return to the Indian Team setup for the fourth Test in Ranchi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">UPDATE: Mr Mukesh Kumar has been released from the India squad for the third Test against England in Rajkot.<br />
<br />
He will join his Ranji Trophy team, Bengal, for the team's next fixture before linking up with Team India in Ranchi.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a></p>
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<h3>Stokes playing his 100th Test</h3>

<p>England captain Ben Stokes is playing his 100th Test, while veteran seamer James Anderson is just five wickets away from 700 Test wickets - first pacer and third after Muttiah Muralitharan and late Shane Warne.</p>

<p>Unlike India, England made just one change to their playing XI, with Mark Wood coming into the side for the third Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Without Jack Leach, who got ruled out of the Test series, Stokes sounded convinced of playing with two lesser-experienced spin duo of Rehan Ahmed and Tom Hartley.&nbsp;</p>


India captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bat first in the third Test against England in Rajkot. The home team has made several changes to their playing XI with two debutants – Sarfaraz Khan and keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel – coming in, while Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Siraj have also returned to the squad.

India captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bat first in the third Test against England in Rajkot. The home team has made several changes to their playing XI with two debutants – Sarfaraz Khan and keeper-batter Dhruv Jurel – coming in, while Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Siraj have also returned to the squad. For England, Mark Wood returns to the playing XI. Here are the playing XIs of both teams - INDIA - Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel(w), Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj ENGLAND - Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes(c), Ben Foakes(w), Rehan Ahmed, Tom Hartley, Mark Wood, James Anderson Injuries and unavailability of a few players forced India to make as many as four changes to their playing XI from the last game, which they won by 106 runs in Vizag. With Virat Kohli (out of the series due to personal reasons), Shreyas Iyer (out with back stiffness and poor form) and KL Rahul (quadriceps injury) all unavailable for selection for this game, India will play an inexperienced middle order – Rajat Patidar (4), Sarfaraz Khan (debutant) and Dhruv Jurel (at number six). Seasoned campaigner Ravindra Jadeja also returns after missing the previous match, replacing Axar Patel. While Ravi Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav and seamer Jasprit Bumrah retained their places in the side, India have called in Mohammed Siraj for this game. Per BCCI’s latest statement on Mukesh Kumar, who got replaced by Siraj, the seamer has been released from the squad for Rajkot as he rejoins his Ranji Team (Bengal) and will return to the Indian Team setup for the fourth Test in Ranchi. UPDATE: Mr Mukesh Kumar has been released from the India squad for the third Test against England in Rajkot. He will join his Ranji Trophy team, Bengal, for the team's next fixture before linking up with Team India in Ranchi.#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBank — BCCI (@BCCI) February 15, 2024 × Stokes playing his 100th Test England captain Ben Stokes is playing his 100th Test, while veteran seamer James Anderson is just five wickets away from 700 Test wickets - first pacer and third after Muttiah Muralitharan and late Shane Warne. Unlike India, England made just one change to their playing XI, with Mark Wood coming into the side for the third Test. Without Jack Leach, who got ruled out of the Test series, Stokes sounded convinced of playing with two lesser-experienced spin duo of Rehan Ahmed and Tom Hartley.

Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel debut for India as hosts bat first against England in Rajkot

<p>Rohit Sharma scored an impressive 131 on the opening day of the third Test between India and England on Thursday (Feb 15). After hosts decided to bat first, Rohit-led India were tottering at 33 for 3 before Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja (110 not out) resurrected the Indian innings, with a 204-run fourth-wicket stand, as hosts ended day's play at 326 for 5.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit, who looked in control, played a cautious and mature knock after India lost Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill and Rajat Patidar for cheap. He reached his 11th Test ton, third versus England, and equalled Kapil Dev in an elite list for Indian captains. Rohit is now equal with Kapil (3) in terms of most hundreds by Indian captain in Tests. Virat Kohli leads the list with 20 hundreds as India captain in whites. The list also features some big names such as Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Rahul Dravid, Md Azharuddin, etc.</p>

<p><strong>MOST HUNDREDS AS INDIAN TEST&nbsp;CAPTAIN</strong><br />
Virat Kohli - 20<br />
Sunil Gavaskar - 11<br />
Mohammad Azharuddin - 9<br />
Sachin Tendulkar - 7<br />
MS Dhoni - 5<br />
Sourav Ganguly - 5<br />
MAK Pataudi - 5<br />
Rahul Dravid - 4<br />
Kapil Dev - 3<br />
<strong>Rohit Sharma - 3*</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anil-kumble-not-surprised-with-rohit-sharma-confirmed-to-lead-india-in-t20-world-cup-heres-why-690489">Anil Kumble not 'surprised' with Rohit Sharma confirmed to lead India in T20 World Cup! Here's why -</a></strong></p>

<p>In addition, Rohit, at 36 years and 291 days, became the oldest Indian captain to hit an international hundred, breaking Vijay Hazare's feat attained in 1951.</p>

<p>After Rohit fell for 131, in the final session, Jadeja and debutant Sarfaraz Khan added another 77 runs, for the fifth wicket, before the latter fell for an attacking 62-ball 66. At the end of day's play, Jadeja remains not out -- along with Kuldeep Yadav -- and will be eager to carry on and get a big score for India to cross the 450-run mark.&nbsp;</p>


Rohit Sharma scored an impressive 131 on the opening day of the third Test between India and England on Thursday (Feb 15). After hosts decided to bat first, Rohit-led India were tottering at 33 for 3 before Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja (110 not out) resurrected the Indian innings, with a 204-run fourth-wicket stand, as hosts ended day's play at 326 for 5.

Rohit Sharma scored an impressive 131 on the opening day of the third Test between India and England on Thursday (Feb 15). After hosts decided to bat first, Rohit-led India were tottering at 33 for 3 before Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja (110 not out) resurrected the Indian innings, with a 204-run fourth-wicket stand, as hosts ended day's play at 326 for 5. Rohit, who looked in control, played a cautious and mature knock after India lost Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill and Rajat Patidar for cheap. He reached his 11th Test ton, third versus England, and equalled Kapil Dev in an elite list for Indian captains. Rohit is now equal with Kapil (3) in terms of most hundreds by Indian captain in Tests. Virat Kohli leads the list with 20 hundreds as India captain in whites. The list also features some big names such as Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Rahul Dravid, Md Azharuddin, etc. MOST HUNDREDS AS INDIAN TEST CAPTAIN Virat Kohli - 20 Sunil Gavaskar - 11 Mohammad Azharuddin - 9 Sachin Tendulkar - 7 MS Dhoni - 5 Sourav Ganguly - 5 MAK Pataudi - 5 Rahul Dravid - 4 Kapil Dev - 3 Rohit Sharma - 3* Also read: Anil Kumble not 'surprised' with Rohit Sharma confirmed to lead India in T20 World Cup! Here's why - In addition, Rohit, at 36 years and 291 days, became the oldest Indian captain to hit an international hundred, breaking Vijay Hazare's feat attained in 1951. After Rohit fell for 131, in the final session, Jadeja and debutant Sarfaraz Khan added another 77 runs, for the fifth wicket, before the latter fell for an attacking 62-ball 66. At the end of day's play, Jadeja remains not out -- along with Kuldeep Yadav -- and will be eager to carry on and get a big score for India to cross the 450-run mark.

Rajkot Test: Rohit Sharma emulates Kapil Dev in elite list for Indian captains during 131-run knock

<p>Ahead of the third Test versus England, in Rajkot, Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja feels Ben Stokes &amp; Co. are not 'one of the most difficult teams'. England have given a good account of themselves in the opening two Tests versus hosts India. They won the series opener, in Hyderabad, by 28 runs despite conceding a whopping 190-run lead and gave a tough fight in their chase of 399 in the second Test in Visakhapatnam before losing by 106 runs. The series is currently levelled at 1-1 with the final three Tests expected to be close affairs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a pre-match presser, Jadeja spoke at length on England and said had India not committed 'small mistakes' in the Hyderabad Test, the scoreline could have been 2-0 in hosts' favour. "I won’t term England as one of the most difficult teams. It hasn't been easy for other teams to come to India and play. If it wasn't for small mistakes in second innings of first&nbsp;Test, we wouldn't have lost."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-mark-wood-returns-as-england-name-playing-xi-for-rajkot-test-vs-india-690153">Ind vs Eng: Mark Wood returns as England name playing XI for Rajkot Test vs India</a></strong></p>

<p>Jadeja will be the local boy in the upcoming Rajkot Test. His experience will come in handy for India. Speaking about the pitch and conditions, the veteran all-rounder said, "Here the wicket is flat and hard, but it depends on what they have prepared. Sometimes you get 37 wickets in three matches (days), but this wicket looks good." He added, "The wicket behaves differently in every game. Sometimes it stays flat, sometimes it turns, sometimes it plays well for two days and then turns. I believe it will play well first and then slowly it will break and the ball will turn."</p>

<p>England have already announced their playing XI for the Rajkot Test, with Mark Wood returning in place of Shoaib Bashir. Meanwhile, India will be without the injured duo of Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul whereas Virat Kohli remains out of action as well, citing personal reasons, thus, the home side have a task in hand to remain ahead in the five-match series.&nbsp;</p>


Ahead of the third Test versus England, in Rajkot, Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja feels Ben Stokes & Co. are not 'one of the most difficult teams'. England have given a good account of themselves in the opening two Tests versus hosts India.

Ahead of the third Test versus England, in Rajkot, Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja feels Ben Stokes & Co. are not 'one of the most difficult teams'. England have given a good account of themselves in the opening two Tests versus hosts India. They won the series opener, in Hyderabad, by 28 runs despite conceding a whopping 190-run lead and gave a tough fight in their chase of 399 in the second Test in Visakhapatnam before losing by 106 runs. The series is currently levelled at 1-1 with the final three Tests expected to be close affairs. In a pre-match presser, Jadeja spoke at length on England and said had India not committed 'small mistakes' in the Hyderabad Test, the scoreline could have been 2-0 in hosts' favour. "I won’t term England as one of the most difficult teams. It hasn't been easy for other teams to come to India and play. If it wasn't for small mistakes in second innings of first Test, we wouldn't have lost." Also read: Ind vs Eng: Mark Wood returns as England name playing XI for Rajkot Test vs India Jadeja will be the local boy in the upcoming Rajkot Test. His experience will come in handy for India. Speaking about the pitch and conditions, the veteran all-rounder said, "Here the wicket is flat and hard, but it depends on what they have prepared. Sometimes you get 37 wickets in three matches (days), but this wicket looks good." He added, "The wicket behaves differently in every game. Sometimes it stays flat, sometimes it turns, sometimes it plays well for two days and then turns. I believe it will play well first and then slowly it will break and the ball will turn." England have already announced their playing XI for the Rajkot Test, with Mark Wood returning in place of Shoaib Bashir. Meanwhile, India will be without the injured duo of Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul whereas Virat Kohli remains out of action as well, citing personal reasons, thus, the home side have a task in hand to remain ahead in the five-match series.

Rajkot Test: Won’t term England as one of the most difficult teams, says India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja

<p>Ahead of the third Test versus England, in Rajkot, India's wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav spoke on Ravindra Jadeja's availability for the crucial encounter. Jadeja featured in the first Test, in Hyderabad, but missed the second Test, in Visakhapatnam, due to&nbsp;a hamstring injury. He is now back in the Indian squad after attaining full fitness but it remains to be seen if he will be included in the playing XI straightaway. Given Rohit Sharma-led India have a lot of injury concerns, Jadeja's availability remains crucial for the upcoming Test at the Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing the media in the pre-match presser, spinner Kuldeep opined on Jadeja and said on his availability, "I think so. Ravindra Jadeja did his routine and had a session yesterday too. He is available." Thus, the 29-year-old is confident of the all-rounder's return to the playing XI for the third Test.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-ks-bharat-or-dhruv-jurel-former-indian-opener-makes-his-pick-for-3rd-test-689851">Ind vs Eng: KS Bharat or Dhruv Jurel? Former Indian opener makes his pick for 3rd Test</a></strong></p>

<p>If Jadeja returns, there will be a toss-up between Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. Given R Ashwin will spearhead the spin department, only one among Kuldeep and Axar will be part of the spin trio. For India, they will hope for Jadeja to be part of the playing XI given they are already without Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, with injuries, whereas Virat Kohli remains unavailable for personal reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jadeja accounted for five wickets in the first Test in Hyderabad, along with&nbsp;an impressive 80 in the first innings. His experience on his home ground, in Rajkot, will also come in handy for Rohit &amp; Co.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India’s squad for the final three England Tests&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Sarfaraz Khan, Rajat Patidar, Ravindra Jadeja, Devdutt Padikkal, KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep</p>


Ahead of the third Test versus England, in Rajkot, India's wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav spoke on Ravindra Jadeja's availability for the crucial encounter. Jadeja featured in the first Test, in Hyderabad, but missed the second Test, in Visakhapatnam, due to a hamstring injury.

Ahead of the third Test versus England, in Rajkot, India's wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav spoke on Ravindra Jadeja's availability for the crucial encounter. Jadeja featured in the first Test, in Hyderabad, but missed the second Test, in Visakhapatnam, due to a hamstring injury. He is now back in the Indian squad after attaining full fitness but it remains to be seen if he will be included in the playing XI straightaway. Given Rohit Sharma-led India have a lot of injury concerns, Jadeja's availability remains crucial for the upcoming Test at the Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot. Addressing the media in the pre-match presser, spinner Kuldeep opined on Jadeja and said on his availability, "I think so. Ravindra Jadeja did his routine and had a session yesterday too. He is available." Thus, the 29-year-old is confident of the all-rounder's return to the playing XI for the third Test. Also read: Ind vs Eng: KS Bharat or Dhruv Jurel? Former Indian opener makes his pick for 3rd Test If Jadeja returns, there will be a toss-up between Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. Given R Ashwin will spearhead the spin department, only one among Kuldeep and Axar will be part of the spin trio. For India, they will hope for Jadeja to be part of the playing XI given they are already without Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, with injuries, whereas Virat Kohli remains unavailable for personal reasons. Jadeja accounted for five wickets in the first Test in Hyderabad, along with an impressive 80 in the first innings. His experience on his home ground, in Rajkot, will also come in handy for Rohit & Co. India’s squad for the final three England Tests Rohit Sharma (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Sarfaraz Khan, Rajat Patidar, Ravindra Jadeja, Devdutt Padikkal, KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Axar Patel, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep

Ind vs Eng: 'He is...' - Kuldeep Yadav gives update on Ravindra Jadeja's availability for Rajkot Test

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the squad for the remaining three matches of the five-match Test series against England with Virat Kohli being a prime exclusion. Virat, who missed the opening two matches will continue to miss the rest of the series with BCCI giving full support to the former India captain. While Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul are included in the squad but will have to await medical clearance from the team before stepping back on the field for the third Test in Rajkot which starts on Thursday (Feb 15).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 NEWS 🚨<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>'s Squad for final three Tests against England announced.<br />
<br />
Details 🔽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a><a href="https://t.co/JPXnyD4WBK">https://t.co/JPXnyD4WBK</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1756183500737425906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Virat to miss Test series</strong></h2>

<p>The BCCI on Saturday officially confirmed&nbsp;Virat’s exclusion from the squad for the remainder of the series. The 35-year-old will miss the series due to personal reasons which means he will have to wait longer to complete 2000 Test runs against England. With&nbsp;1991 runs, Virat had a golden opportunity to get into the 2000-run club by scoring 52 runs and make England his favourite Test opponent.</p>

<p>Another exclusion from the squad is&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer. A&nbsp;back strain&nbsp;has put&nbsp;him out of action for the majority of 2022 and 2023. He also missed the World Test Championship (WTC) final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season due to a back problem. He is&nbsp;expected to return to action during the IPL 2024 season.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-bosses-unconvinced-by-blue-card-plan-after-ifab-sets-for-trail-688782">Premier League: Bosses unconvinced by 'blue card' plan after IFAB sets for trail</a></p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul continue to rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru but are included in the squad for the remaining matches. However, their inclusion in the Playing XI will come after a clearance from the medical team. While Jadeja is expected to be fully fit for the fourth Test in Ranchi, Rahul could be available for the Rajkot Test starting&nbsp;Thursday.</p>

<p><strong>Squad:</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul*, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja*, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep&nbsp;</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the squad for the remaining three matches of the five-match Test series against England with Virat Kohli being a prime exclusion.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday (Feb 10) announced the squad for the remaining three matches of the five-match Test series against England with Virat Kohli being a prime exclusion. Virat, who missed the opening two matches will continue to miss the rest of the series with BCCI giving full support to the former India captain. While Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul are included in the squad but will have to await medical clearance from the team before stepping back on the field for the third Test in Rajkot which starts on Thursday (Feb 15). 🚨 NEWS 🚨#TeamIndia's Squad for final three Tests against England announced. Details 🔽 #INDvENG | @IDFCFIRSTBankhttps://t.co/JPXnyD4WBK — BCCI (@BCCI) February 10, 2024 × Virat to miss Test series The BCCI on Saturday officially confirmed Virat’s exclusion from the squad for the remainder of the series. The 35-year-old will miss the series due to personal reasons which means he will have to wait longer to complete 2000 Test runs against England. With 1991 runs, Virat had a golden opportunity to get into the 2000-run club by scoring 52 runs and make England his favourite Test opponent. Another exclusion from the squad is Shreyas Iyer. A back strain has put him out of action for the majority of 2022 and 2023. He also missed the World Test Championship (WTC) final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season due to a back problem. He is expected to return to action during the IPL 2024 season. ALSO READ | Premier League: Bosses unconvinced by 'blue card' plan after IFAB sets for trail Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul continue to rehab at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru but are included in the squad for the remaining matches. However, their inclusion in the Playing XI will come after a clearance from the medical team. While Jadeja is expected to be fully fit for the fourth Test in Ranchi, Rahul could be available for the Rajkot Test starting Thursday. Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul*, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja*, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep

IND vs ENG: Virat to miss remainder of series due to personal reason; Jadeja, Rahul await fitness clearance

<p>The Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) president, Jaydev Shah, announced that they will felicitate Ravindra Jadeja and Cheteshwar Pujara for their contribution to Indian cricket ahead of the third Test between India and England in Rajkot. Pujara and Jadeja have made their state and country proud on countless occasions, with both being the senior members of this decorated Indian Team.</p>

<p>While Pujara is the 13th Indian cricketer to complete 100 plus Tests, Jadeja is a seasoned campaigner and a match-winner across all formats. The left-handed Jadeja holds the number one position in the ICC’s Test all-rounder rankings and is a Champions Trophy winner (in 2013).&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the Rajkot stadium is set to be renamed the Niranjan Shah Stadium, the state association will felicitate both players during the name-announcing ceremony on Thursday (Feb 15) - day one of the third India-England Test.</p>

<p>“We will be felicitating both Pujara and Ravindra during the function for the new name of the stadium,” SCA President Jaydev Shah said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Jadeja and Pujara are not named on the squad list for the remaining three Tests, with Jadeja out with injury and Pujara, despite scoring runs for Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy, being overlooked for younger players.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-unhappy-with-babar-shaheens-latest-interaction-session-with-fans-on-x-to-revisit-social-media-policy-689017">PCB unhappy with Babar, Shaheen’s latest interaction session with fans on X, to revisit social media policy</a></strong></p>

<p>Jaydev said he would have loved to have both playing for India in the third Test but understands the reason behind their omissions, saying it’s all part of the game.</p>

<p>“I can’t say much on that (Pujara not playing) because it’s the team management and selectors’ call, but had he been there, we would have been very proud.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s not that we are not proud now, but we would have been prouder had he played. He has played over 100 Test matches and not many have managed to do that in India. Him playing at Rajkot would have been great, but that’s part of the game. You don’t get everything what you dream. He has worked very hard. He made Saurashtra very proud,” Jaydev added.</p>

<h2>India eyes lead in Rajkot</h2>

<p>After losing the first Test in Hyderabad, India levelled the five-match series by winning the next game in Vizag by 106 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yashasvi Jaiswal slammed his maiden double hundred in the first innings, and the new number three Shubman Gill completed a century in the next.</p>

<p>However, the Man of the Match performance came from Jasprit Bumrah, who picked nine wickets, including a six-for in the first innings.</p>


The Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) president, Jaydev Shah, announced that they will felicitate Ravindra Jadeja and Cheteshwar Pujara for their contribution to Indian cricket ahead of the third Test between India and England in Rajkot.

The Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) president, Jaydev Shah, announced that they will felicitate Ravindra Jadeja and Cheteshwar Pujara for their contribution to Indian cricket ahead of the third Test between India and England in Rajkot. Pujara and Jadeja have made their state and country proud on countless occasions, with both being the senior members of this decorated Indian Team. While Pujara is the 13th Indian cricketer to complete 100 plus Tests, Jadeja is a seasoned campaigner and a match-winner across all formats. The left-handed Jadeja holds the number one position in the ICC’s Test all-rounder rankings and is a Champions Trophy winner (in 2013). As the Rajkot stadium is set to be renamed the Niranjan Shah Stadium, the state association will felicitate both players during the name-announcing ceremony on Thursday (Feb 15) - day one of the third India-England Test. “We will be felicitating both Pujara and Ravindra during the function for the new name of the stadium,” SCA President Jaydev Shah said. Meanwhile, Jadeja and Pujara are not named on the squad list for the remaining three Tests, with Jadeja out with injury and Pujara, despite scoring runs for Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy, being overlooked for younger players. ALSO READ: PCB unhappy with Babar, Shaheen’s latest interaction session with fans on X, to revisit social media policy Jaydev said he would have loved to have both playing for India in the third Test but understands the reason behind their omissions, saying it’s all part of the game. “I can’t say much on that (Pujara not playing) because it’s the team management and selectors’ call, but had he been there, we would have been very proud.” “It’s not that we are not proud now, but we would have been prouder had he played. He has played over 100 Test matches and not many have managed to do that in India. Him playing at Rajkot would have been great, but that’s part of the game. You don’t get everything what you dream. He has worked very hard. He made Saurashtra very proud,” Jaydev added. India eyes lead in Rajkot After losing the first Test in Hyderabad, India levelled the five-match series by winning the next game in Vizag by 106 runs. Yashasvi Jaiswal slammed his maiden double hundred in the first innings, and the new number three Shubman Gill completed a century in the next. However, the Man of the Match performance came from Jasprit Bumrah, who picked nine wickets, including a six-for in the first innings.

Saurashtra Cricket Association to felicitate Ravindra Jadeja and Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of Rajkot Test

<p>On Monday (Jan 29), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and versatile batter KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second Test versus England, Visakhapatnam, due to injury concerns. Thus, the board named three players as replacements including spinner Sourabh Kumar, batter Sarfaraz Khan and spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar. Thus, India's revamped squad for the Vizag Test is quite an inexperienced one and former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh raised his concerns on the injury-hit unit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan raised concerns on India's inexperience and pointed out that frontline spinner R Ashwin is the second-highest run-getter in India's updated squad for the upcoming Test in Visakhapatnam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The team looks decent, but lacks experience. Yes, there is Rohit Sharma, but the next best run-scorer is Ashwin. In terms of batting, the line-up looks weak. And if they play on a turning track, which I feel they will because they have added Washington Sundar while having Kuldeep Yadav, Ashwin and Axar Patel,” Harbhajan said after the squad announcement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;I<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-foakes-stumping-attempt-to-dismiss-bumrah-in-hyderabad-test-raises-eyebrows-on-x-watch-685103">nd vs Eng: Foakes' stumping attempt to dismiss Bumrah in Hyderabad Test raises eyebrows on X - Watch</a></strong></p>

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<p>India are without experienced names such as Virat Kohli, Jadeja, Rahul, etc. for the second Test. Having already conceded 1-0 lead in the first Test in Hyderabad, Rohit-led India have their back against the wall to level the series in Vizag with an inexperienced squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the first Test, India conceded the momentum after taking a 190-run lead. England rode on Ollie Pope's 196 in their second essay to setup a tricky 231-run target for the home side. In reply, the hosts got dismissed for 202 to lose by 28 runs as debutant spinner Tom Hartley ended with a seven-fer.</p>

<p><strong>India squad for 2nd Test vs England</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, Sourabh Kumar.</p>


On Monday (Jan 29), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and versatile batter KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second Test versus England, Visakhapatnam, due to injury concerns.

On Monday (Jan 29), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and versatile batter KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second Test versus England, Visakhapatnam, due to injury concerns. Thus, the board named three players as replacements including spinner Sourabh Kumar, batter Sarfaraz Khan and spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar. Thus, India's revamped squad for the Vizag Test is quite an inexperienced one and former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh raised his concerns on the injury-hit unit. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan raised concerns on India's inexperience and pointed out that frontline spinner R Ashwin is the second-highest run-getter in India's updated squad for the upcoming Test in Visakhapatnam. “The team looks decent, but lacks experience. Yes, there is Rohit Sharma, but the next best run-scorer is Ashwin. In terms of batting, the line-up looks weak. And if they play on a turning track, which I feel they will because they have added Washington Sundar while having Kuldeep Yadav, Ashwin and Axar Patel,” Harbhajan said after the squad announcement. Also read: Ind vs Eng: Foakes' stumping attempt to dismiss Bumrah in Hyderabad Test raises eyebrows on X - Watch × × India are without experienced names such as Virat Kohli, Jadeja, Rahul, etc. for the second Test. Having already conceded 1-0 lead in the first Test in Hyderabad, Rohit-led India have their back against the wall to level the series in Vizag with an inexperienced squad. Talking about the first Test, India conceded the momentum after taking a 190-run lead. England rode on Ollie Pope's 196 in their second essay to setup a tricky 231-run target for the home side. In reply, the hosts got dismissed for 202 to lose by 28 runs as debutant spinner Tom Hartley ended with a seven-fer. India squad for 2nd Test vs England Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, Sourabh Kumar.

R Ashwin is India's second highest run-scorer: Harbhajan Singh on hosts' inexperienced squad for 2nd Test

<p>More miseries follow for the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second Test versus England, which starts on Feb 2 (Friday) in Visakhapatnam. The two are out of action for injury concerns following which the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)&nbsp;named three replacements, including Sarfaraz Khan.</p>

<p>On Monday (Jan 29), the BCCI Secretary Jay Shah said in an official statement, "Mr. Ravindra Jadeja and Mr. KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second IDFC First Bank Test against England in Vizag, starting February 02, 2024. Jadeja sustained a hamstring injury during play on Day 4 of the first Test in Hyderabad while Rahul complained of a right quadriceps pain."</p>

<p>The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring the progress of the duo. The Men's Selection Committee has&nbsp;added Sarfaraz Khan, Sourabh Kumar and Washington Sundar to India's squad.</p>

<p>Saransh Jain has been named as a replacement for Washington Sundar in the India A squad for the third and final multi-day game against England Lions starting February 1, 2024 in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;Avesh Khan will continue to travel with his Ranji Trophy team, Madhya Pradesh and will join the Test squad if required.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2nd-test-rohit-sharma-at-no-3-former-opener-suggests-new-opening-pair-for-india-684784">Ind vs Eng, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma at No. 3? Former opener suggests new opening pair for India</a></strong></p>

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<p>India lost the five-match Test series opener, on Sunday (Jan 28), by 28 runs in Hyderabad. Dominating the Test, following a big 190-run lead, Rohit &amp; Co. struggled to restrict the English line-up despite them reeling at 163 for 5. Ollie Pope's 196 and debutant Tom Hartley's 7 for 62 propped Ben Stokes-led England in the second innings as they staged a remarkable come-from-behind win in defence of 231.</p>

<p>With Jadeja and Rahul ruled out, India are in a spot of bother in the five-match series. It will be interesting to see who replaces them for the Vizag Test.</p>

<p><b>India&nbsp;aquad for the 2nd&nbsp;Test vs England:</b>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, Sourabh Kumar</p>


More miseries follow for the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second Test versus England, which starts on Feb 2 (Friday) in Visakhapatnam.

More miseries follow for the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team as all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second Test versus England, which starts on Feb 2 (Friday) in Visakhapatnam. The two are out of action for injury concerns following which the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) named three replacements, including Sarfaraz Khan. On Monday (Jan 29), the BCCI Secretary Jay Shah said in an official statement, "Mr. Ravindra Jadeja and Mr. KL Rahul have been ruled out of the second IDFC First Bank Test against England in Vizag, starting February 02, 2024. Jadeja sustained a hamstring injury during play on Day 4 of the first Test in Hyderabad while Rahul complained of a right quadriceps pain." The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring the progress of the duo. The Men's Selection Committee has added Sarfaraz Khan, Sourabh Kumar and Washington Sundar to India's squad. Saransh Jain has been named as a replacement for Washington Sundar in the India A squad for the third and final multi-day game against England Lions starting February 1, 2024 in Ahmedabad. Avesh Khan will continue to travel with his Ranji Trophy team, Madhya Pradesh and will join the Test squad if required. Also read: Ind vs Eng, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma at No. 3? Former opener suggests new opening pair for India × India lost the five-match Test series opener, on Sunday (Jan 28), by 28 runs in Hyderabad. Dominating the Test, following a big 190-run lead, Rohit & Co. struggled to restrict the English line-up despite them reeling at 163 for 5. Ollie Pope's 196 and debutant Tom Hartley's 7 for 62 propped Ben Stokes-led England in the second innings as they staged a remarkable come-from-behind win in defence of 231. With Jadeja and Rahul ruled out, India are in a spot of bother in the five-match series. It will be interesting to see who replaces them for the Vizag Test. India aquad for the 2nd Test vs England: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, Sourabh Kumar

Ind vs Eng: Jadeja, Rahul out of Vizag Test with injury concerns, Sarfaraz Khan named among replacements

<p>England skipper Ben Stokes made a sensational 'no-look throw' to dismiss India's Ravindra Jadeja on day 4 (Jan 28) of the ongoing first Test in Hyderabad. Jadeja was the third wicket to fall after tea with India already five down despite being 95/3 at one point in the chase of 231. The Indian all-rounder played a shot towards mid-on off Joe Root and Stokes charged quickly to collect and release the ball.</p>

<p>Stokes stumbled for balance but fired the ball underarm towards the non-striker's end and Jadeja, one of the quickest runners between the wickets, was found short. The first innings top scorer for India could manage only 2 (20) this time, leaving India in a precarious position at 119/6. Have a look at the run-out below:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Stokes hits the bullseye and HOW! 🎯😯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IDFCFirstBankTestSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IDFCFirstBankTestSeries</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinemaSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinemaSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BazBowled?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BazBowled</a> <a href="https://t.co/dWUh2VIdxb">pic.twitter.com/dWUh2VIdxb</a></p>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1751554956820353450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier in the day, England continued from their overnight score of 316/7 and added 104 runs more before being dismissed on 420 at the stroke of lunch. Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the bowlers for India by claiming four wickets. For visitors, Ollie Pope top scored with a magnificent 196 before being bowled by Bumrah to wrap up England's innings.</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/watch-injured-shamar-joseph-takes-seven-wickets-as-west-indies-record-maiden-test-win-in-australia-since-1997-684462">Injured Shamar Joseph takes seven wickets as West Indies record maiden Test win in Australia since 1997</a></p>

<p>Chasing 231, India had a good start with Yashasvi Jaiswal and skipper Rohit Sharma adding 42 runs for the first wicket. Debutant Tom Hartley then took two wickets in space of three balls to send back Jaiswal (15) and Shubman Gill (0). Skipper Sharma also departed soon, again off Hartley, as India promoted Axar Patel at number 5.</p>

<p>The move worked a bit as Patel and KL Rahul added 32 runs for the fourth wicket before Hartley took his fourth to dismiss Patel (17). KL Rahul then was trapped LBW by Joe Root as half of Indian team was&nbsp;back in the dressing room for 107. After Jadeja's run out, Shreyas Iyer was also taken out by injured Jack Leach.</p>

<p>India required 100 runs more to win with three wickets left by the time of writing this report with Ravichandran Ashwin and Srikar Bharat on the crease.</p>


England skipper Ben Stokes made a sensational 'no-look throw' to dismiss India's Ravindra Jadeja on day 4 (Jan 28) of the ongoing first Test in Hyderabad. Jadeja was the third wicket to fall after tea with India already five down despite being 95/3 at one point in the chase of 231.

England skipper Ben Stokes made a sensational 'no-look throw' to dismiss India's Ravindra Jadeja on day 4 (Jan 28) of the ongoing first Test in Hyderabad. Jadeja was the third wicket to fall after tea with India already five down despite being 95/3 at one point in the chase of 231. The Indian all-rounder played a shot towards mid-on off Joe Root and Stokes charged quickly to collect and release the ball. Stokes stumbled for balance but fired the ball underarm towards the non-striker's end and Jadeja, one of the quickest runners between the wickets, was found short. The first innings top scorer for India could manage only 2 (20) this time, leaving India in a precarious position at 119/6. Have a look at the run-out below: Stokes hits the bullseye and HOW! 🎯😯#INDvsENG #IDFCFirstBankTestSeries #JioCinemaSports #BazBowled pic.twitter.com/dWUh2VIdxb — JioCinema (@JioCinema) January 28, 2024 × Earlier in the day, England continued from their overnight score of 316/7 and added 104 runs more before being dismissed on 420 at the stroke of lunch. Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the bowlers for India by claiming four wickets. For visitors, Ollie Pope top scored with a magnificent 196 before being bowled by Bumrah to wrap up England's innings. Also Watch: Injured Shamar Joseph takes seven wickets as West Indies record maiden Test win in Australia since 1997 Chasing 231, India had a good start with Yashasvi Jaiswal and skipper Rohit Sharma adding 42 runs for the first wicket. Debutant Tom Hartley then took two wickets in space of three balls to send back Jaiswal (15) and Shubman Gill (0). Skipper Sharma also departed soon, again off Hartley, as India promoted Axar Patel at number 5. The move worked a bit as Patel and KL Rahul added 32 runs for the fourth wicket before Hartley took his fourth to dismiss Patel (17). KL Rahul then was trapped LBW by Joe Root as half of Indian team was back in the dressing room for 107. After Jadeja's run out, Shreyas Iyer was also taken out by injured Jack Leach. India required 100 runs more to win with three wickets left by the time of writing this report with Ravichandran Ashwin and Srikar Bharat on the crease.

IND vs ENG, 1st Test: Ben Stokes fires 'no-look throw' to run out Ravindra Jadeja on day 4 - WATCH

<p>India grinded touring England side into the ground on day 2 (Jan 26) of the ongoing first Test in Hyderabad. Continuing from the overnight score of 119/1, the home sided ended the day 175&nbsp;runs ahead of England's first innings total of 246. Ravindra Jadeja was batting unbeaten on 81&nbsp;along with Axar Patel (35). India still have three wickets left and were 421/7 at the close of play on the second day.</p>

<p>KL Rahul (86) and Jadeja were the chief contributors with the bat as India amassed 302&nbsp;runs in 87&nbsp;overs bowled in the day. England, however, had a dream start on day 2 as Joe Root caught Yashasvi Jaiswal (80) in the first over of the morning session off his own bowling. Shubman Gill (23) then threw his wicket and England sensed an opening with India at 159/3.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-1st-test-iceland-cricket-takes-cheeky-dig-at-england-after-day-1-683878">IND vs ENG, 1st Test: Iceland Cricket takes CHEEKY DIG at England after day 1</a></p>

<p>Shreyas Iyer (35) and Rahul then added 64 runs for the fourth wicket as India went into lunch at 222/3. England leg spinner Rehan Ahmed broke the partnership in the third over after lunch by sending Iyer back. Rahul also fell 10 overs later with India leading by 42 runs.</p>

<p>Jadeja then added 68 runs for the sixth wicket with Srikar Bharat who scored a handy 41 before being dismissed by Root. England ran out Ravichandran Ashwin quickly after as India lost two wickets in quick succession. Patel then joined his spin partner Jadeja and the duo have added 63&nbsp;runs for the seventh wicket so far and took India past 400.</p>

<p>For England, debutant spinner Tom Hartley and Root took two wickets each. While Hartley managed 2/116, Root was more economical with 2/77. Rehan Ahmed also chipped in with one wicket buy gave away 104 runs in his entire spell.</p>

<p>With three more days left in the Test, India are all set to push for victory after they end their innings on day 3. England, on the other hand, will have a near impossible task of first erasing the huge 160+ runs lead which is still growing and then set a competitive total for&nbsp;India.</p>


India grinded touring England side into the ground on day 2 (Jan 26) of the ongoing first Test in Hyderabad. Continuing from the overnight score of 119/1, the home sided ended the day 175 runs ahead of England's first innings total of 246.

India grinded touring England side into the ground on day 2 (Jan 26) of the ongoing first Test in Hyderabad. Continuing from the overnight score of 119/1, the home sided ended the day 175 runs ahead of England's first innings total of 246. Ravindra Jadeja was batting unbeaten on 81 along with Axar Patel (35). India still have three wickets left and were 421/7 at the close of play on the second day. KL Rahul (86) and Jadeja were the chief contributors with the bat as India amassed 302 runs in 87 overs bowled in the day. England, however, had a dream start on day 2 as Joe Root caught Yashasvi Jaiswal (80) in the first over of the morning session off his own bowling. Shubman Gill (23) then threw his wicket and England sensed an opening with India at 159/3. Also Read: IND vs ENG, 1st Test: Iceland Cricket takes CHEEKY DIG at England after day 1 Shreyas Iyer (35) and Rahul then added 64 runs for the fourth wicket as India went into lunch at 222/3. England leg spinner Rehan Ahmed broke the partnership in the third over after lunch by sending Iyer back. Rahul also fell 10 overs later with India leading by 42 runs. Jadeja then added 68 runs for the sixth wicket with Srikar Bharat who scored a handy 41 before being dismissed by Root. England ran out Ravichandran Ashwin quickly after as India lost two wickets in quick succession. Patel then joined his spin partner Jadeja and the duo have added 63 runs for the seventh wicket so far and took India past 400. For England, debutant spinner Tom Hartley and Root took two wickets each. While Hartley managed 2/116, Root was more economical with 2/77. Rehan Ahmed also chipped in with one wicket buy gave away 104 runs in his entire spell. With three more days left in the Test, India are all set to push for victory after they end their innings on day 3. England, on the other hand, will have a near impossible task of first erasing the huge 160+ runs lead which is still growing and then set a competitive total for India.

IND vs ENG, 1st Test Day 2: Rahul, Jadeja fifties take India 175 ahead of England in 1st innings

<p>Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen has advised the touring English side to be wary of getting LBW or bowled to Indian spinners in the upcoming Test series. The five-Test series starts January 25 in Hyderabad and there are four spinners in the Indian squad. Notably, Pietersen was part of the England squad which had last won a Test series in India back in 2012.</p>

<p>“If you nick it to slip, no problem at all. If you get bowled or lbw that’s a big issue. You have so much time to wait for the ball and then judge length or line and then move,” Pietersen said in an interview to the Times.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/veteran-india-spinner-ravi-ashwin-compares-rinku-singh-to-ms-dhoni-for-this-quality-681811">Veteran India spinner Ravi Ashwin compares Rinku Singh to MS Dhoni for THIS quality</a></p>

<p>“If your feet are good, and you are not planting your front foot and you are playing down the line of the ball, you should be fine. Just make sure you are not getting bowled or lbw,” he added.</p>

<p>India have named Ravi Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel in the squad. Pietersen also shared his experience playing Ashwin and Jadeja from the tour of 2012.</p>

<p>“I picked Ashwin’s ‘doosra’. He used to load the ball at the back of his run-up, and I think he still does that now. He never ran up with the ball in his hand as an off spinner and changed it late for the doosra; you can’t do that. He loaded it up early,” said Pietersen.</p>

<p>“I faced Jadeja a lot. It’s about technique. Jadeja is not Murali and he’s not Shane Warne. He’s a left-arm spinner that bowls it one way and occasionally gets the ball to slide on. If your technique is solid enough to play the ball that skids on, you should be fine,” he added.</p>

<p>After Hyderabad, the second Test will be played in Visakhapatnam from February 2 before the tour moves to Rajkot, Ranchi and Dharamsala for the next three Tests, respectively.</p>


Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen has advised the touring English side to be wary of getting LBW or bowled to Indian spinners in the upcoming Test series. The five-Test series starts January 25 in Hyderabad and there are four spinners in the Indian squad.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen has advised the touring English side to be wary of getting LBW or bowled to Indian spinners in the upcoming Test series. The five-Test series starts January 25 in Hyderabad and there are four spinners in the Indian squad. Notably, Pietersen was part of the England squad which had last won a Test series in India back in 2012. “If you nick it to slip, no problem at all. If you get bowled or lbw that’s a big issue. You have so much time to wait for the ball and then judge length or line and then move,” Pietersen said in an interview to the Times. Also Read: Veteran India spinner Ravi Ashwin compares Rinku Singh to MS Dhoni for THIS quality “If your feet are good, and you are not planting your front foot and you are playing down the line of the ball, you should be fine. Just make sure you are not getting bowled or lbw,” he added. India have named Ravi Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel in the squad. Pietersen also shared his experience playing Ashwin and Jadeja from the tour of 2012. “I picked Ashwin’s ‘doosra’. He used to load the ball at the back of his run-up, and I think he still does that now. He never ran up with the ball in his hand as an off spinner and changed it late for the doosra; you can’t do that. He loaded it up early,” said Pietersen. “I faced Jadeja a lot. It’s about technique. Jadeja is not Murali and he’s not Shane Warne. He’s a left-arm spinner that bowls it one way and occasionally gets the ball to slide on. If your technique is solid enough to play the ball that skids on, you should be fine,” he added. After Hyderabad, the second Test will be played in Visakhapatnam from February 2 before the tour moves to Rajkot, Ranchi and Dharamsala for the next three Tests, respectively.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen shares advice on playing Indian spinners in the upcoming Test series

<p>India great Virat Kohli, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, Australia captain Pat Cummins and star batter Travis Head are the four players nominated for the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2023 award by the ICC. The four players mentioned have had a stunning last year, with everyone unlocking several massive milestones.</p>

<h2>2023 – Kohli’s year with the bat</h2>

<p>Starting with the former India captain and batting great, Virat Kohli, who reached a milestone, not many thought would ever be touched – becoming the first batter to reach 50 ODI hundreds (the moment came during the World Cup semi-final against New Zealand), surpassing his idol Sachin Tendulkar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Having scored 2048 runs in 35 matches (ODIs and Tests), Virat had a stupendous 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although India failed to win the home World Cup, Kohli topped the batting chart with 765 runs – most by any batter in a single World Cup edition, including three centuries.</p>

<p>If Kohli wins this award, he will become the only cricketer ever to win it three times.</p>

<h3>Jadeja – a silver lining</h3>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja enjoyed his 2023, scoring 613 runs and picking 66 wickets across all formats in 35 outings. The left-handed India all-rounder returned with 22 scalps in the Border-Gavaskar series before playing a handy knock (48) with the bat in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-under-19-world-cup-2024-everything-you-need-to-know-677921">ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup 2024: Everything you need to know</a></strong></p>

<p>Jadeja picked 31 wickets in the white-ball formats the past year, with 16 out of them coming in the World Cup 2023, including his career-best of five for 33 against South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.</p>

<h3>Star Aussie duo makes the cut</h3>

<p>Alongside Kohli and Jadeja, two players fighting for his coveted prize are the Australian duo of Captain Pat Cummins and batter Travis Head.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pat Cummins was deservingly the best player last year, winning several accolades both as a captain and a player. After losing the Border-Gavaskar series, Cummins first guided Australia to its maiden WTC trophy (against India), retained the Ashes (2-2) and finally helped the Oz lift their record-sixth World Cup title in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a player, Cummins played a crucial role in helping Australia taste success on every occasion. In 2023, the lanky seamer scored 422 runs and picked 59 wickets across formats in&nbsp;24 matches.</p>

<p>Travis Head is another name that tops the chart for the players who had a successful 2023. With 1698 runs in 31 matches, Head was Australia’s most impactful batter the past year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides his few notable outings, Head’s 163 against India in the WTC Final and his match-winning 137 in the World Cup final in Ahmedabad against the same team stood out as performances of the year.&nbsp;</p>


India great Virat Kohli, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, Australia captain Pat Cummins and star batter Travis Head are the four players nominated for the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2023 award by the ICC.

India great Virat Kohli, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, Australia captain Pat Cummins and star batter Travis Head are the four players nominated for the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2023 award by the ICC. The four players mentioned have had a stunning last year, with everyone unlocking several massive milestones. 2023 – Kohli’s year with the bat Starting with the former India captain and batting great, Virat Kohli, who reached a milestone, not many thought would ever be touched – becoming the first batter to reach 50 ODI hundreds (the moment came during the World Cup semi-final against New Zealand), surpassing his idol Sachin Tendulkar. Having scored 2048 runs in 35 matches (ODIs and Tests), Virat had a stupendous 2023. Although India failed to win the home World Cup, Kohli topped the batting chart with 765 runs – most by any batter in a single World Cup edition, including three centuries. If Kohli wins this award, he will become the only cricketer ever to win it three times. Jadeja – a silver lining Ravindra Jadeja enjoyed his 2023, scoring 613 runs and picking 66 wickets across all formats in 35 outings. The left-handed India all-rounder returned with 22 scalps in the Border-Gavaskar series before playing a handy knock (48) with the bat in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval. ALSO READ: ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup 2024: Everything you need to know Jadeja picked 31 wickets in the white-ball formats the past year, with 16 out of them coming in the World Cup 2023, including his career-best of five for 33 against South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Star Aussie duo makes the cut Alongside Kohli and Jadeja, two players fighting for his coveted prize are the Australian duo of Captain Pat Cummins and batter Travis Head. Pat Cummins was deservingly the best player last year, winning several accolades both as a captain and a player. After losing the Border-Gavaskar series, Cummins first guided Australia to its maiden WTC trophy (against India), retained the Ashes (2-2) and finally helped the Oz lift their record-sixth World Cup title in India. As a player, Cummins played a crucial role in helping Australia taste success on every occasion. In 2023, the lanky seamer scored 422 runs and picked 59 wickets across formats in 24 matches. Travis Head is another name that tops the chart for the players who had a successful 2023. With 1698 runs in 31 matches, Head was Australia’s most impactful batter the past year. Besides his few notable outings, Head’s 163 against India in the WTC Final and his match-winning 137 in the World Cup final in Ahmedabad against the same team stood out as performances of the year.

Virat Kohli, World Cup winners nominated for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2023 award

<p>India receives a massive boost ahead of the New Year’s Test against South Africa in Cape Town as all-rounder Shardul Thakur is declared fit and available for selection following an injury scare during an optional training session. Thakur got hit on his left shoulder while facing throwdowns following the end of the Boxing Day Test, which ended within three days, with India losing by an innings and 32 runs.</p>

<p>Per the sources close to the information, Thakur is doing Okay, as the team management opted against recommending him undergo any treatment or scans. Despite suffering the blow during an optional session on Saturday, Thakur continued batting.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, since that was an optional session, only a handful of Indian players outside of Thakur, including captain Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravi Ashwin, Mukesh Kumar, Prasidh Krishna and KS Bharat, took guard, with members of support staff accompanying them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/playing-a-bit-too-aggressively-sunil-gavsakar-highlights-flaw-in-shubman-gills-approach-675232">'Playing a bit too aggressively': Sunil Gavsakar highlights flaw in Shubman Gill's approach</a></strong></p>

<p>The Indian Team will fly from Johannesburg to Cape Town on Sunday for the second Test scheduled to start on January 3. Although several changes for the must-win game for India are expected, there is no word on Bharat replacing KL Rahul as a keeper in the side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The India batter smashed his eighth Test ton in the first innings in Centurion and kept wickets on a tricky track. Despite this new challenge of keeping wickets in Tests, KL fared well and will retain his place as the keeper-batter for the next game.</p>

<h2>Jadeja declared fit for New Year’s Test</h2>

<p>On the morning of day one of the first Test in Centurion, Jadeja pulled up his back and got ruled out, with veteran Ravi Ashwin playing instead. The lanky spinner failed to inspire with both bat and ball, picking just one wicket.</p>

<p>With Jadeja now recovered from the ‘upper back spasm’, the all-rounder returned in contention for a place in the XI for the New Year’s Test. If he gets picked, Ashwin is most likely to sit out.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, following Prasidh Krishna’s below-par Test debut show, the team management is said to be contemplating playing Avesh Khan (roped in as Shami’s replacement) ahead of him, with the team eyeing a win to level-series and share honours.</p>


India receives a massive boost ahead of the New Year’s Test against South Africa in Cape Town as all-rounder Shardul Thakur is declared fit and available for selection following an injury scare during an optional training session.

India receives a massive boost ahead of the New Year’s Test against South Africa in Cape Town as all-rounder Shardul Thakur is declared fit and available for selection following an injury scare during an optional training session. Thakur got hit on his left shoulder while facing throwdowns following the end of the Boxing Day Test, which ended within three days, with India losing by an innings and 32 runs. Per the sources close to the information, Thakur is doing Okay, as the team management opted against recommending him undergo any treatment or scans. Despite suffering the blow during an optional session on Saturday, Thakur continued batting. Meanwhile, since that was an optional session, only a handful of Indian players outside of Thakur, including captain Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravi Ashwin, Mukesh Kumar, Prasidh Krishna and KS Bharat, took guard, with members of support staff accompanying them. ALSO READ: 'Playing a bit too aggressively': Sunil Gavsakar highlights flaw in Shubman Gill's approach The Indian Team will fly from Johannesburg to Cape Town on Sunday for the second Test scheduled to start on January 3. Although several changes for the must-win game for India are expected, there is no word on Bharat replacing KL Rahul as a keeper in the side. The India batter smashed his eighth Test ton in the first innings in Centurion and kept wickets on a tricky track. Despite this new challenge of keeping wickets in Tests, KL fared well and will retain his place as the keeper-batter for the next game. Jadeja declared fit for New Year’s Test On the morning of day one of the first Test in Centurion, Jadeja pulled up his back and got ruled out, with veteran Ravi Ashwin playing instead. The lanky spinner failed to inspire with both bat and ball, picking just one wicket. With Jadeja now recovered from the ‘upper back spasm’, the all-rounder returned in contention for a place in the XI for the New Year’s Test. If he gets picked, Ashwin is most likely to sit out. Meanwhile, following Prasidh Krishna’s below-par Test debut show, the team management is said to be contemplating playing Avesh Khan (roped in as Shami’s replacement) ahead of him, with the team eyeing a win to level-series and share honours.

Boost for India ahead of New Year’s Test as Shardul Thakur declared fit amid injury scare

<p>India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has recovered from the ‘upper back spasm’ he suffered ahead of the start of the first Test and will make his return to the playing XI for India’s second match against South Africa in Cape Town, starting January 3. With Jadeja returning, India will drop Ravi Ashwin or Shardul Thakur for the New Year’s Test.</p>

<p>Jadeja was in line to play the Boxing Day Test in Centurion; however, after complaining of pain in his back before the first day’s play, India rested him, picking Ravi Ashwin in the side. The veteran off-spinner failed to put up an inspiring performance, picking just one wicket for 41 runs in 19 overs. With the bat in hand, Ashwin scored just eight runs across two innings.</p>

<p>India succumbed to an embarrassing inning and a 32-run defeat in the first match, with the game ending inside three days. Although bowlers, mainly pacers, picked nine out of ten wickets, Ashwin’s below-par show with the ball had India on the backfoot in South Africa’s first innings, with centurion Dean Elgar and Marco Jansen scoring easily against India's spinner.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-slaps-india-with-point-deduction-for-slow-over-rate-in-centurion-test-shamis-replacement-named-674728">ICC slaps India with point-deduction for slow over-rate in Centurion Test; Shami’s replacement named</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, those aware of developments surrounding Jadeja revealed the India all-rounder did some warm-ups ahead of the third day’s play. Jadeja was seen completing several short strides of 30m or 40m. He also participated in some fitness drills, showing no discomfort. Besides, Jadeja bowled a bit in the nets too.</p>

<h2>India eye comeback in Cape Town</h2>

<p>Having gone down embarrassingly in Centurion in this two-match Test series, the Rohit Sharma-led side will aim to pull up their socks and get into their element ahead of the next Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While KL Rahul starred with the bat in the first innings, scoring his perhaps the best Test ton to date – 101, former captain Virat Kohli top-scored in the second innings, smashing 76 off 82, including 12 fours and a six.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jasprit Bumrah was India’s best bowler in the first Test, returning with four for 69 inside 25 overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though Shardul Thakur picked the big wicket of Dean Elgar on 185, he was the most expensive bowler, going for 101 runs from 19 overs. Debutant Prasidh Krishna picked a wicket but looked far from convincing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in the absence of seasoned campaigner Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan is added to the squad as his replacement for the next Test.</p>

<p>It remains to be seen if Rohit sticks with the same pace attack or brings another debutant (Avesh) and Jadeja in the XI.&nbsp;</p>


India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has recovered from the ‘upper back spasm’ he suffered ahead of the start of the first Test and will make his return to the playing XI for India’s second match against South Africa in Cape Town, starting January 3.

India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has recovered from the ‘upper back spasm’ he suffered ahead of the start of the first Test and will make his return to the playing XI for India’s second match against South Africa in Cape Town, starting January 3. With Jadeja returning, India will drop Ravi Ashwin or Shardul Thakur for the New Year’s Test. Jadeja was in line to play the Boxing Day Test in Centurion; however, after complaining of pain in his back before the first day’s play, India rested him, picking Ravi Ashwin in the side. The veteran off-spinner failed to put up an inspiring performance, picking just one wicket for 41 runs in 19 overs. With the bat in hand, Ashwin scored just eight runs across two innings. India succumbed to an embarrassing inning and a 32-run defeat in the first match, with the game ending inside three days. Although bowlers, mainly pacers, picked nine out of ten wickets, Ashwin’s below-par show with the ball had India on the backfoot in South Africa’s first innings, with centurion Dean Elgar and Marco Jansen scoring easily against India's spinner. ALSO READ: ICC slaps India with point-deduction for slow over-rate in Centurion Test; Shami’s replacement named Meanwhile, those aware of developments surrounding Jadeja revealed the India all-rounder did some warm-ups ahead of the third day’s play. Jadeja was seen completing several short strides of 30m or 40m. He also participated in some fitness drills, showing no discomfort. Besides, Jadeja bowled a bit in the nets too. India eye comeback in Cape Town Having gone down embarrassingly in Centurion in this two-match Test series, the Rohit Sharma-led side will aim to pull up their socks and get into their element ahead of the next Test. While KL Rahul starred with the bat in the first innings, scoring his perhaps the best Test ton to date – 101, former captain Virat Kohli top-scored in the second innings, smashing 76 off 82, including 12 fours and a six. Jasprit Bumrah was India’s best bowler in the first Test, returning with four for 69 inside 25 overs. Though Shardul Thakur picked the big wicket of Dean Elgar on 185, he was the most expensive bowler, going for 101 runs from 19 overs. Debutant Prasidh Krishna picked a wicket but looked far from convincing. Meanwhile, in the absence of seasoned campaigner Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan is added to the squad as his replacement for the next Test. It remains to be seen if Rohit sticks with the same pace attack or brings another debutant (Avesh) and Jadeja in the XI.

SA v IND: Ravindra Jadeja recovers from back injury, set to return to XI for Cape Town Test

<p>England are set to tour India for a five-match Test series, starting next month. Ahead of the tour, the England Cricket Board (ECB) announced a 16-man squad on Monday (Dec 11). The Ben Stokes-led visitors will be challenged by Indian spinners and it will be interesting to see how their aggressive batters respond to the challenge. Former England captain Michael Vaughan has opened up on the Test series and made a bold prediction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vaughan stated that he expects England to not back off from their aggressive approach, famously known as 'Bazball'. He, however, cautioned that it could all come down crumbling against the spin trio of R Ashiwn, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. Speaking on Fox Cricket, Vaughan stated, "Ultimately, the hardest place to play in the world is India and if you actually go back to the Ashes when Nathan Lyon was fit and bowling nicely, Australia were 2-0 up in the series. Now that's just one spinner, if you look at that five-for he got at Edgbaston and the field was spread and England got out to him by playing ridiculous shots at times."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-2nd-t20i-will-weather-interrupt-second-and-penultimate-tie-in-gqeberha-all-you-need-to-know-668850">SA vs Ind, 2nd T20I: Will weather interrupt second and penultimate tie in Gqeberha? All you need to know</a></strong></p>

<p>He further opined, "If you add in Ashwin, Jadeja and Axar Patel on spinning wickets in India, they may get blown away, they may get absolutely destroyed. They will go out and play exactly the same way, we've already spoken about the impact they are going to try and achieve in India with the way they play." He added, "It will be great watching, but you will have to fancy three quality spinners might do a job on England when one quality spinner in Nathan Lyon did the job in English conditions. It's going to be very tough for them to win in India."</p>

<p><strong>England Test squad for India tour</strong></p>

<p>Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, James Anderson, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Tom Hartley, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root</p>

<p>The first Test gets underway on Jan 25 in Hyderabad.&nbsp;</p>


England are set to tour India for a five-match Test series, starting next month. Ahead of the tour, the England Cricket Board (ECB) announced a 16-man squad on Monday (Dec 11).

England are set to tour India for a five-match Test series, starting next month. Ahead of the tour, the England Cricket Board (ECB) announced a 16-man squad on Monday (Dec 11). The Ben Stokes-led visitors will be challenged by Indian spinners and it will be interesting to see how their aggressive batters respond to the challenge. Former England captain Michael Vaughan has opened up on the Test series and made a bold prediction. Vaughan stated that he expects England to not back off from their aggressive approach, famously known as 'Bazball'. He, however, cautioned that it could all come down crumbling against the spin trio of R Ashiwn, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. Speaking on Fox Cricket, Vaughan stated, "Ultimately, the hardest place to play in the world is India and if you actually go back to the Ashes when Nathan Lyon was fit and bowling nicely, Australia were 2-0 up in the series. Now that's just one spinner, if you look at that five-for he got at Edgbaston and the field was spread and England got out to him by playing ridiculous shots at times." Also read: SA vs Ind, 2nd T20I: Will weather interrupt second and penultimate tie in Gqeberha? All you need to know He further opined, "If you add in Ashwin, Jadeja and Axar Patel on spinning wickets in India, they may get blown away, they may get absolutely destroyed. They will go out and play exactly the same way, we've already spoken about the impact they are going to try and achieve in India with the way they play." He added, "It will be great watching, but you will have to fancy three quality spinners might do a job on England when one quality spinner in Nathan Lyon did the job in English conditions. It's going to be very tough for them to win in India." England Test squad for India tour Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, James Anderson, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Tom Hartley, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root The first Test gets underway on Jan 25 in Hyderabad.

England tour of India 2024: Ben Stokes & Co. may get absolutely destroyed in India, feels Michael Vaughan

<p>While most white-ball-leg bound players landed in South Africa on Wednesday, star players, including Ravindra Jadeja and Shubman Gill, are yet to join the team. Besides, seamer Deepak Chahar is also home due to personal issues, with reports suggesting his father is ill, and it remains unclear if Deepak will fly to South Africa or not.</p>

<p>Jadeja and Gill – part of India’s 2023 World Cup squad, went on vacation following the CWC final on December 19. While Jadeja travelled to Europe to spend time with family, Gill flew to the UK to be away from cricket for some time.</p>

<p>Both are said to join the Indian Team in Durban – the venue for the first T20I on Sunday (Dec 10). Jadeja is the vice-captain for three T20Is.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the fit-again Deepak Chahar has also stayed home owing to illness in the family, with BCCI keeping mum on his chances of joining the team in the Rainbow Nation.</p>

<p>Though the sources close to the information reveal Deepak is likely to fly to South Africa sooner, the board has decided against naming any replacement in case the opposite happens.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-v-pak-we-protect-each-other-a-lot-captain-cummins-on-backing-warner-over-johnsons-criticism-667485">AUS v PAK: ‘We protect each other a lot’ - Captain Cummins on backing Warner over Johnson’s criticism</a></strong></p>

<p>The source added that all three, alongside a member of the support staff, have BCCI’s permission to join India’s white-ball teams in South Africa a bit late.</p>

<p>Besides, two selectors - SS Das and Salil Ankola, will also be with the team in South Africa to monitor performances, considering the packed schedule – including three T20Is, as many ODIs and two Tests, alongside three India A matches.</p>

<p>With the board picking three separate squads for all three formats, a few newcomers, some returnees and a handful of star players are named for the T20Is and ODIs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, all top players, including regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravi Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah, alongside Mohammed Shami (whose selection is subject to fitness), will return to play the Test series, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion.</p>

<p>While top-batter in the shortest format, Suryakumar Yadav will captain the T20I side, keeper-batter KL Rahul will lead Team India in the ODIs. Rohit will be the captain in Tests.&nbsp;</p>


While most white-ball-leg bound players landed in South Africa on Wednesday, star players, including Ravindra Jadeja and Shubman Gill, are yet to join the team. Besides, seamer Deepak Chahar is also home due to personal issues, with reports suggesting his father is ill, and it remains unclear if Deepak will fly to South Africa or not.

While most white-ball-leg bound players landed in South Africa on Wednesday, star players, including Ravindra Jadeja and Shubman Gill, are yet to join the team. Besides, seamer Deepak Chahar is also home due to personal issues, with reports suggesting his father is ill, and it remains unclear if Deepak will fly to South Africa or not. Jadeja and Gill – part of India’s 2023 World Cup squad, went on vacation following the CWC final on December 19. While Jadeja travelled to Europe to spend time with family, Gill flew to the UK to be away from cricket for some time. Both are said to join the Indian Team in Durban – the venue for the first T20I on Sunday (Dec 10). Jadeja is the vice-captain for three T20Is. Meanwhile, the fit-again Deepak Chahar has also stayed home owing to illness in the family, with BCCI keeping mum on his chances of joining the team in the Rainbow Nation. Though the sources close to the information reveal Deepak is likely to fly to South Africa sooner, the board has decided against naming any replacement in case the opposite happens. ALSO READ: AUS v PAK: ‘We protect each other a lot’ - Captain Cummins on backing Warner over Johnson’s criticism The source added that all three, alongside a member of the support staff, have BCCI’s permission to join India’s white-ball teams in South Africa a bit late. Besides, two selectors - SS Das and Salil Ankola, will also be with the team in South Africa to monitor performances, considering the packed schedule – including three T20Is, as many ODIs and two Tests, alongside three India A matches. With the board picking three separate squads for all three formats, a few newcomers, some returnees and a handful of star players are named for the T20Is and ODIs. On the other hand, all top players, including regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravi Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah, alongside Mohammed Shami (whose selection is subject to fitness), will return to play the Test series, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion. While top-batter in the shortest format, Suryakumar Yadav will captain the T20I side, keeper-batter KL Rahul will lead Team India in the ODIs. Rohit will be the captain in Tests.

SA v IND: World Cup-bound star players yet to join team in South Africa; Deepak Chahar doubtful

<p>It has been a mixed day with the bat for Team India in the ODI World Cup final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad after half of the side was dismissed for 178. The wicket of Ravindra Jadeja was the latest spanner in the work for the Indian team as he departed for 9, moments after he was favoured by a Decision Review System (DRS) call. However, he did not survive for long and added more misery to the Indian side’s batting woes. No batter scored a big knock till the time of writing.</p>

<h2><strong>Jadeja’s freak wicket</strong></h2>

<p>On the fourth ball of the 36th over, bowler Josh Hazlewood and wicketkeeper Josh Inglis&nbsp;appealed for a caught behind for Jadeja. However, the appeal was turned down by stand-in umpire Richard Illingworth to favour Jadeja. However, Australia used the DRS to challenge the call but ultimately the decision stood in Jadeja’s favour as he did not nick the ball.</p>

<p>However, in an action replay of the situation Jadeja then nicked the ball on the fifth delivery of the over and was caught by wicketkeeper Josh Inglis. He looked frustrated after the wicket and looked angry. His dismissal paved the way for Australia to strike another blow to the Indian batting line-up with top players failing to convert starts into big innings.</p>

<p>At the time of writing, India were 211/7 after 43.4 overs with Suryakumar Yadav (11) and Mohammed Shami (5) in the middle. Earlier, It was a double jolt for Team India after Australia jolted the Men in Blue in quick succession. India lost Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer in quick succession as the Aussies stamped their authority on the contest. Rohit was dismissed on 47 after a superb catch by Travis Head while Shreyas was dismissed on 4 by opposition skipper Pat Cummins. This resulted in India being 81/3 after 10.2 overs at one stage.</p>

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<p>While Shubman Gill was dismissed for 4, Virat Kohli followed moments after he scored his ninth fifty in the World Cup. KL Rahul departed for 66 as India were in a vulnerable position and looked destined for a score much below 300.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened at toss?</strong></h2>

<p>Australia skipper Cummins won the toss and opted to field first in front of 130, 000 people at the stadium. India famously lost the toss in the 2011 World Cup final as well but later went on to win the contest. They will be hoping for the same on Sunday as well.</p>


It has been a mixed day with the bat for Team India in the ODI World Cup final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad after half of the side was dismissed for 178.

It has been a mixed day with the bat for Team India in the ODI World Cup final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad after half of the side was dismissed for 178. The wicket of Ravindra Jadeja was the latest spanner in the work for the Indian team as he departed for 9, moments after he was favoured by a Decision Review System (DRS) call. However, he did not survive for long and added more misery to the Indian side’s batting woes. No batter scored a big knock till the time of writing. Jadeja’s freak wicket On the fourth ball of the 36th over, bowler Josh Hazlewood and wicketkeeper Josh Inglis appealed for a caught behind for Jadeja. However, the appeal was turned down by stand-in umpire Richard Illingworth to favour Jadeja. However, Australia used the DRS to challenge the call but ultimately the decision stood in Jadeja’s favour as he did not nick the ball. However, in an action replay of the situation Jadeja then nicked the ball on the fifth delivery of the over and was caught by wicketkeeper Josh Inglis. He looked frustrated after the wicket and looked angry. His dismissal paved the way for Australia to strike another blow to the Indian batting line-up with top players failing to convert starts into big innings. At the time of writing, India were 211/7 after 43.4 overs with Suryakumar Yadav (11) and Mohammed Shami (5) in the middle. Earlier, It was a double jolt for Team India after Australia jolted the Men in Blue in quick succession. India lost Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer in quick succession as the Aussies stamped their authority on the contest. Rohit was dismissed on 47 after a superb catch by Travis Head while Shreyas was dismissed on 4 by opposition skipper Pat Cummins. This resulted in India being 81/3 after 10.2 overs at one stage. ALSO READ | 140 crore Indians are cheering for you: PM Modi wishes Team India ahead of CWC 2023 final vs Australia While Shubman Gill was dismissed for 4, Virat Kohli followed moments after he scored his ninth fifty in the World Cup. KL Rahul departed for 66 as India were in a vulnerable position and looked destined for a score much below 300. What happened at toss? Australia skipper Cummins won the toss and opted to field first in front of 130, 000 people at the stadium. India famously lost the toss in the 2011 World Cup final as well but later went on to win the contest. They will be hoping for the same on Sunday as well.

ODI World Cup Final: Ravindra Jadeja falls prey to Josh Hazlewood moments after favoured DRS call

<p>Starting from Australia to Pakistan, from the Kiwis to the defending champions England and to South Africa, the Indian Team has made a mockery of each opposition they crossed paths with in this World Cup 2023. If England or Sri Lanka bashing were not enough to blow everyone’s mind, a 243-run win over dominant South Africa at the Eden Gardens would do. With the Sunday match, India has now won back-to-back all the eight matches they played in this campaign.</p>

<p>The pundits, fans, experts and commentators are going gaga over the ruthlessness of the Indian Team, with which they have defeated each opponent. Be it in batting, bowling, or even fielding, the Men in Blue have done excessively well, and the results are there for everyone to see.</p>

<p>Against South Africans, the ranked-two side in this competition, India batted first, posting a mammoth 326 for five, thanks to a second CWC 2023 hundred by birthday boy Virat Kohli – his 49th overall in ODIs. Shreyas Iyer also contributed with a stunning 77.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-virat-kohli-overshadows-jadejas-bowling-salvo-as-india-crush-south-africa-to-clinch-top-spot-655463">ODI World Cup: Virat Kohli overshadows Jadeja's bowling salvo as India crush South Africa to seal top spot</a></strong></p>

<p>During the chase, for the nth time in this World Cup, India got a wicket upfront, and then the Proteas fell like the pack of cards.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Mohammed Shami again hogged the limelight with two to his name, making it 16 from just four matches this time, left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja returned with his maiden five-for in this World Cup, helping India wrap up South Africa’s innings on a mere 83.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here's how X reacted to India’s famous win over South Africa -</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India could have declared at the end of the powerplay and still won by eight runs</p>
— Ben Gardner (@Ben_Wisden) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ben_Wisden/status/1721183652418068707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian fans to Indian Team: So beautiful, so elegant, just looking like a wow, just looking like a wow 🇮🇳🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsSA</a></p>
— Vikrant Gupta (@vikrantgupta73) <a href="https://twitter.com/vikrantgupta73/status/1721184132842061972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What an incredible performance by Team India.<br />
Great start by Rohit, wonderful contribution from Shreyas Iyer and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> on his birthday giving a great gift to all his admirer’s. A great day to reach his 49th ODI 100. And then the Indian bowlers led by Ravindra Jadeja were… <a href="https://t.co/IpQqLb9QuF">pic.twitter.com/IpQqLb9QuF</a></p>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1721182086609133806?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Our cricket team is triumphant yet again! Congratulations to the team for a splendid performance against South Africa. Great teamwork.<br />
<br />
They have also given a great birthday gift to Virat Kohli, who played a lovely innings today. <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1721184777443909983?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Team INDIA on a roll 🇮🇳<br />
<br />
Congratulations to the Men in Blue for yet another emphatic victory.<br />
<br />
And a truly special day for Virat, who has been superb throughout the tournament, to equal the ODI centuries record. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/CPOdSZHXGD">pic.twitter.com/CPOdSZHXGD</a></p>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1721187492215308584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India are too good .. that’s my summarisation of this World Cup .. bizarrely the only team so far that has had them slightly worried has been England when they bowled them out for 229 .. Then they Batted though .. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC2023</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a></p>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1721163024453833053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What a Day !<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KingKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KingKohli</a> on his birthday scoring a wonderful 100.<br />
Jadeja and the bowlers blowing South Africa in style.<br />
The atmosphere in the team looks great and a joybto watch everyone enjoy each other’s success. <a href="https://t.co/0mMiJYvjIn">pic.twitter.com/0mMiJYvjIn</a></p>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1721184046938755307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>India's next match is against the Netherlands on Sunday (Nov 12) in Bengaluru.</p>


Starting from Australia to Pakistan, from the Kiwis to the defending champions England and to South Africa, the Indian Team has made a mockery of each opposition they crossed paths with in this World Cup 2023.

Starting from Australia to Pakistan, from the Kiwis to the defending champions England and to South Africa, the Indian Team has made a mockery of each opposition they crossed paths with in this World Cup 2023. If England or Sri Lanka bashing were not enough to blow everyone’s mind, a 243-run win over dominant South Africa at the Eden Gardens would do. With the Sunday match, India has now won back-to-back all the eight matches they played in this campaign. The pundits, fans, experts and commentators are going gaga over the ruthlessness of the Indian Team, with which they have defeated each opponent. Be it in batting, bowling, or even fielding, the Men in Blue have done excessively well, and the results are there for everyone to see. Against South Africans, the ranked-two side in this competition, India batted first, posting a mammoth 326 for five, thanks to a second CWC 2023 hundred by birthday boy Virat Kohli – his 49th overall in ODIs. Shreyas Iyer also contributed with a stunning 77. ALSO READ: ODI World Cup: Virat Kohli overshadows Jadeja's bowling salvo as India crush South Africa to seal top spot During the chase, for the nth time in this World Cup, India got a wicket upfront, and then the Proteas fell like the pack of cards. While Mohammed Shami again hogged the limelight with two to his name, making it 16 from just four matches this time, left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja returned with his maiden five-for in this World Cup, helping India wrap up South Africa’s innings on a mere 83. Here's how X reacted to India’s famous win over South Africa - India could have declared at the end of the powerplay and still won by eight runs — Ben Gardner (@Ben_Wisden) November 5, 2023 × Indian fans to Indian Team: So beautiful, so elegant, just looking like a wow, just looking like a wow 🇮🇳🇮🇳#INDvsSA — Vikrant Gupta (@vikrantgupta73) November 5, 2023 × What an incredible performance by Team India. Great start by Rohit, wonderful contribution from Shreyas Iyer and #ViratKohli on his birthday giving a great gift to all his admirer’s. A great day to reach his 49th ODI 100. And then the Indian bowlers led by Ravindra Jadeja were… pic.twitter.com/IpQqLb9QuF — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) November 5, 2023 × Our cricket team is triumphant yet again! Congratulations to the team for a splendid performance against South Africa. Great teamwork. They have also given a great birthday gift to Virat Kohli, who played a lovely innings today. @imVkohli — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 5, 2023 × Team INDIA on a roll 🇮🇳 Congratulations to the Men in Blue for yet another emphatic victory. And a truly special day for Virat, who has been superb throughout the tournament, to equal the ODI centuries record. #INDvsSA pic.twitter.com/CPOdSZHXGD — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 5, 2023 × India are too good .. that’s my summarisation of this World Cup .. bizarrely the only team so far that has had them slightly worried has been England when they bowled them out for 229 .. Then they Batted though .. #CWC2023 #India — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) November 5, 2023 × What a Day !#KingKohli on his birthday scoring a wonderful 100. Jadeja and the bowlers blowing South Africa in style. The atmosphere in the team looks great and a joybto watch everyone enjoy each other’s success. pic.twitter.com/0mMiJYvjIn — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) November 5, 2023 × India's next match is against the Netherlands on Sunday (Nov 12) in Bengaluru.

CWC: Jadeja, Kohli star in one-sided affair as India crush South Africa by 243 runs, here's how X reacted

<p>India’s Virat Kohli reached the promised land on Sunday (Nov 5) as he brought up his 49th ODI ton in the World Cup contest against South Africa. The day was already a special occasion as the former India captain was celebrating his 35th birthday when equaling Sachin Tendulkar’s tally for most ODI hundreds.</p>

<p>After the match, he opened up on his recent journey and the form he is enjoying, as India now prepare for the World Cup semifinal.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A record century helps Virat Kohli take home the <a href="https://twitter.com/aramco?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aramco</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/POTM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#POTM</a> 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/Xx27SaiAo5">pic.twitter.com/Xx27SaiAo5</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1721184262672585154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Kohli opens up on record-equaling day</strong></h2>

<p>“I’m enjoying myself, playing cricket all over again, that is more important to me than phases. I’m just happy that God has blessed me with that enjoyment. I’m just happy that I’m being able to do what I have done over all these years. (On Sachin's message) It is all too much for me to take in now, to equal my hero’s record is something special for me. He is perfection when it comes to batting. It’s a very emotional moment for me. I know where I come from, I know the days I have watched him on TV. Just to get that appreciation from him means a lot to me,” Virat said during the Player of the Match presentation.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-virat-kohli-marks-special-day-with-record-equaling-knock-joins-tendulkar-for-most-odi-tons-655403">World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli marks special day with record-equalling knock, joins Tendulkar for most ODI tons</a></p>

<h2><strong>Spinners run riot</strong></h2>

<p>Tasked to chase 327, the Proteas were never in the contest after they were bowled out for 83 runs with India on top throughout the contest.</p>

<p>Ravindra Jadeja was the star of the show with five wickets before Virat had taken the spotlight with his 49th ODI hundred, which saw him go level with Sachin Tendulkar.</p>

<p>South Africa’s batting line-up had no answers to India’s dominance as bowlers wiped the floor on the Proteas. Only four batters chalked in double figures for South Africa as Marco Jansen top-scored with 14 on a dull day.</p>

<p>India’s eyes are now on the semifinals but are still unsure of where they will play as permutations could still see them return to Eden Gardens.</p>

<p>If India play Pakistan in the semifinal, they will come back to play at the Eden Gardens with the Netherlands awaiting their final game in Bengaluru. However, if India play any other team, they will travel to Mumbai for a place in the final. South Africa on the flip side will also play in the semifinals before they face Afghanistan in their final league game.&nbsp;</p>


India’s Virat Kohli reached the promised land on Sunday (Nov 5) as he brought up his 49th ODI ton in the World Cup contest against South Africa. The day was already a special occasion as the former India captain was celebrating his 35th birthday when equaling Sachin Tendulkar’s tally for most ODI hundreds.

India’s Virat Kohli reached the promised land on Sunday (Nov 5) as he brought up his 49th ODI ton in the World Cup contest against South Africa. The day was already a special occasion as the former India captain was celebrating his 35th birthday when equaling Sachin Tendulkar’s tally for most ODI hundreds. After the match, he opened up on his recent journey and the form he is enjoying, as India now prepare for the World Cup semifinal. A record century helps Virat Kohli take home the @aramco #POTM 👏#CWC23 | #INDvSA pic.twitter.com/Xx27SaiAo5 — ICC (@ICC) November 5, 2023 × Kohli opens up on record-equaling day “I’m enjoying myself, playing cricket all over again, that is more important to me than phases. I’m just happy that God has blessed me with that enjoyment. I’m just happy that I’m being able to do what I have done over all these years. (On Sachin's message) It is all too much for me to take in now, to equal my hero’s record is something special for me. He is perfection when it comes to batting. It’s a very emotional moment for me. I know where I come from, I know the days I have watched him on TV. Just to get that appreciation from him means a lot to me,” Virat said during the Player of the Match presentation. ALSO READ | World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli marks special day with record-equalling knock, joins Tendulkar for most ODI tons Spinners run riot Tasked to chase 327, the Proteas were never in the contest after they were bowled out for 83 runs with India on top throughout the contest. Ravindra Jadeja was the star of the show with five wickets before Virat had taken the spotlight with his 49th ODI hundred, which saw him go level with Sachin Tendulkar. South Africa’s batting line-up had no answers to India’s dominance as bowlers wiped the floor on the Proteas. Only four batters chalked in double figures for South Africa as Marco Jansen top-scored with 14 on a dull day. India’s eyes are now on the semifinals but are still unsure of where they will play as permutations could still see them return to Eden Gardens. If India play Pakistan in the semifinal, they will come back to play at the Eden Gardens with the Netherlands awaiting their final game in Bengaluru. However, if India play any other team, they will travel to Mumbai for a place in the final. South Africa on the flip side will also play in the semifinals before they face Afghanistan in their final league game.

ODI World Cup 2023: I’m enjoying myself - Virat Kohli opens up after record-equaling ton on 35th birthday

<p>Former India captain and World Cup winner Sunil Gavaskar is in awe of Team India after another dominating performance in the ODI World Cup on Sunday (Nov 5). Riding on the record-equaling ton from Virat Kohli and a fifer from Ravindra Jadeja, India won by 243 runs and sealed the top spot in the league structure. After the win, Gavaskar was full of praise for Rahul Dravid’s army as they now stand two knockout stage wins away from clinching the ODI World Cup in their homeland.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Indian juggernaut rolls on in Kolkata 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSA</a> 📝: <a href="https://t.co/a4PZYqmQxY">https://t.co/a4PZYqmQxY</a> <a href="https://t.co/IqQDYPEE7z">pic.twitter.com/IqQDYPEE7z</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1721181823357653388?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Gavaskar in awe of Team India</strong></h2>

<p>“You want to be the champions, you want to make sure that you win big. You want to show that you are the best team in the competition by a long distance, and that's exactly what the Indian team is doing at the moment. There is a match against the Netherlands which might be inconsequential because India is only now number one. But they don't want to stumble anywhere once it comes to the knock-out stages,” Gavaskar said while speaking to the broadcasters in the post-match.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-virat-kohli-marks-special-day-with-record-equaling-knock-joins-tendulkar-for-most-odi-tons-655403">World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli marks special day with record-equalling knock, joins Tendulkar for most ODI tons</a></p>

<h2><strong>Spinners run riot</strong></h2>

<p>Tasked to chase 327, the Proteas were never in the contest after they were bowled out for 83 runs with India on top throughout the contest. Ravindra Jadeja was the star of the show with five wickets before Virat had taken the spotlight with his 49th ODI hundred which saw him go level with Sachin Tendulkar. South Africa’s batting line-up had no answers to India’s dominance as bowlers wiped the floor on the Proteas. Only four batters got in double figures for South Africa as Marco Jansen top-scored with 14 on a dull day.</p>

<p>India’s eyes are now on the semifinals but are still unsure of where they will play as permutations could still see them return to Eden Gardens. If India play Pakistan in the semifinal, they will come back to play at the Eden Gardens with the Netherlands awaiting their final game in Bengaluru. However, if India play any other team, they will travel to Mumbai for a place in the final. South Africa on the flip side will also play in the semifinals before they face Afghanistan in their final league game.</p>


Former India captain and World Cup winner Sunil Gavaskar is in awe of Team India after another dominating performance in the ODI World Cup on Sunday (Nov 5). Riding on the record-equaling ton from Virat Kohli and a fifer from Ravindra Jadeja, India won by 243 runs and sealed the top spot in the league structure.

Former India captain and World Cup winner Sunil Gavaskar is in awe of Team India after another dominating performance in the ODI World Cup on Sunday (Nov 5). Riding on the record-equaling ton from Virat Kohli and a fifer from Ravindra Jadeja, India won by 243 runs and sealed the top spot in the league structure. After the win, Gavaskar was full of praise for Rahul Dravid’s army as they now stand two knockout stage wins away from clinching the ODI World Cup in their homeland. The Indian juggernaut rolls on in Kolkata 🔥#CWC23 | #INDvSA 📝: https://t.co/a4PZYqmQxY pic.twitter.com/IqQDYPEE7z — ICC (@ICC) November 5, 2023 × Gavaskar in awe of Team India “You want to be the champions, you want to make sure that you win big. You want to show that you are the best team in the competition by a long distance, and that's exactly what the Indian team is doing at the moment. There is a match against the Netherlands which might be inconsequential because India is only now number one. But they don't want to stumble anywhere once it comes to the knock-out stages,” Gavaskar said while speaking to the broadcasters in the post-match. ALSO READ | World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli marks special day with record-equalling knock, joins Tendulkar for most ODI tons Spinners run riot Tasked to chase 327, the Proteas were never in the contest after they were bowled out for 83 runs with India on top throughout the contest. Ravindra Jadeja was the star of the show with five wickets before Virat had taken the spotlight with his 49th ODI hundred which saw him go level with Sachin Tendulkar. South Africa’s batting line-up had no answers to India’s dominance as bowlers wiped the floor on the Proteas. Only four batters got in double figures for South Africa as Marco Jansen top-scored with 14 on a dull day. India’s eyes are now on the semifinals but are still unsure of where they will play as permutations could still see them return to Eden Gardens. If India play Pakistan in the semifinal, they will come back to play at the Eden Gardens with the Netherlands awaiting their final game in Bengaluru. However, if India play any other team, they will travel to Mumbai for a place in the final. South Africa on the flip side will also play in the semifinals before they face Afghanistan in their final league game.

ODI World Cup 2023: Sunil Gavaskar in awe of Team India after ruthless win against South Africa in Kolkata

<p>Regarded as the best outfielder of modern-day cricket, India’s Ravindra Jadeja has said he does not take anything for granted, especially his fielding.</p>

<p>Although not for any catch or a direct throw, Jadeja made headlines for picking his maiden World Cup five-wicket haul against South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, helping India win the high-octane clash by 243 runs.</p>

<p>"Fielding I never take for granted. I still feel I can drop a catch. I am always prepared on the field. I never relax. And that's all: I keep trying to do my best," Jadeja said after his match-winning performance against South Africa in World Cup 2023.</p>

<p>"Sometimes I succeed, sometimes I don't, but I keep trying all the time."<br />
<br />
The star all-rounder had an outing to remember, smashing an unbeaten 29 off 15 balls while batting and returning with figures of five for 33 in nine overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-be-surprised-if-tables-are-turned-around-next-time-walter-on-sa-facing-india-in-world-cup-knockouts-655611">Don’t be surprised if tables are turned around next time: Walter on SA facing India in World Cup knockouts</a></strong></p>

<p>Justifying his role as an all-round player in the side, Jadeja said he would have had a player like him in every line-up, adding he thinks as a skipper throughout the match.</p>

<p>"I would be very happy [to have myself]," Jadeja said.</p>

<p>"And you asked me to think like a captain? I have been thinking like the captain from the first match, it's a different matter that I haven't become one.</p>

<p>"As an all-rounder, my role is to make an impact in tough situations. When you need the crucial 30-40 runs or when there is a partnership going on, and you need a wicket. Change the game. I always try to give an impactful performance and be there whenever the team needs me,” he added.</p>

<h2>Jadeja aware of alternate result in crucial ties</h2>

<p>India is on a winning spree, standing tall in eight straight matches in this World Cup edition.</p>

<p>But Jadeja is aware of the home side suffering alternate outcomes in the knockout matches, given how quickly the situation can change in this game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Commenting on how he managed to pick wickets despite the pitch playing better under the lights as compared to how it behaved in the first innings, Jadeja said, "It was almost like challenging ourselves."<br />
<br />
"There could have been dew later in the night. If we get caught in such a situation in a knockout match, we should know how to handle it."</p>

<p>India will face the Netherlands in their last league game on Sunday (Nov 12) in Bengaluru.&nbsp;</p>


Regarded as the best outfielder of modern-day cricket, India’s Ravindra Jadeja has said he does not take anything for granted, especially his fielding. Although not for any catch or a direct throw, Jadeja made headlines for picking his maiden World Cup five-wicket haul against South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, helping India win the high-octane clash by 243 runs.

Regarded as the best outfielder of modern-day cricket, India’s Ravindra Jadeja has said he does not take anything for granted, especially his fielding. Although not for any catch or a direct throw, Jadeja made headlines for picking his maiden World Cup five-wicket haul against South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, helping India win the high-octane clash by 243 runs. "Fielding I never take for granted. I still feel I can drop a catch. I am always prepared on the field. I never relax. And that's all: I keep trying to do my best," Jadeja said after his match-winning performance against South Africa in World Cup 2023. "Sometimes I succeed, sometimes I don't, but I keep trying all the time." The star all-rounder had an outing to remember, smashing an unbeaten 29 off 15 balls while batting and returning with figures of five for 33 in nine overs. ALSO READ: Don’t be surprised if tables are turned around next time: Walter on SA facing India in World Cup knockouts Justifying his role as an all-round player in the side, Jadeja said he would have had a player like him in every line-up, adding he thinks as a skipper throughout the match. "I would be very happy [to have myself]," Jadeja said. "And you asked me to think like a captain? I have been thinking like the captain from the first match, it's a different matter that I haven't become one. "As an all-rounder, my role is to make an impact in tough situations. When you need the crucial 30-40 runs or when there is a partnership going on, and you need a wicket. Change the game. I always try to give an impactful performance and be there whenever the team needs me,” he added. Jadeja aware of alternate result in crucial ties India is on a winning spree, standing tall in eight straight matches in this World Cup edition. But Jadeja is aware of the home side suffering alternate outcomes in the knockout matches, given how quickly the situation can change in this game. Commenting on how he managed to pick wickets despite the pitch playing better under the lights as compared to how it behaved in the first innings, Jadeja said, "It was almost like challenging ourselves." "There could have been dew later in the night. If we get caught in such a situation in a knockout match, we should know how to handle it." India will face the Netherlands in their last league game on Sunday (Nov 12) in Bengaluru.

World Cup - I don't take my fielding for granted, I never relax: Jadeja after Eden heroics against Proteas

<p>The Indian cricket team continued their impressive run of form at the ongoing ODI World Cup as the Men in Blue sealed the top spot after beating South Africa on Sunday (Nov 5). In a contest highlighted by Virat Kohli’s record-equaling 49th ODI ton, India won by staggering 243&nbsp;runs despite the Proteas&nbsp;in top form. Ravindra Jadeja was the bowling star having ended with figures of 33/5. India will now take on the Netherlands in their last league match next Sunday before playing the semifinal.</p>

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<h2><strong>Spinners run riot on Kohli-Day</strong></h2>

<p>Tasked to chase 327, the Proteas were never in the contest and were bowled out for 83&nbsp;runs with India on top throughout the game. Jadeja was the star bowler having bagged five wickets after Virat had hogged the spotlight with his 49th ODI hundred which saw him go level with Sachin Tendulkar. South Africa’s batting line-up had no answers to India’s dominance. Only four batters got in double figures for South Africa and Marco Jansen top-scored with 14 on a dull day.</p>

<p>Alongside Jadeja, Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav also ended with two wickets while Mohammed Siraj got the remaining wicket.</p>

<h2><strong>Kohli excels with special knock&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Kohli marked his 35th birthday with a special knock as he equaled Tendulkar’s record for most ODI hundreds at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Having missed out on the ton against New Zealand and Sri Lanka, the former India captain chose his birthday to score his 49th ODI ton which is also his 79th at the international level. The day also saw him become the third-highest scorer in the ODI World Cup history.</p>

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma (40) and Shubman Gill (23) started on a positive note as they stitched a 62-run stand for the opening wicket. After both openers departed, Virat and Shreyas Iyer took the initiative in their hands to set a perfect platform for a big score. The latter again missed out on a hundred and was dismissed for 77,&nbsp;scalped by Lungi Ngidi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-virat-kohli-marks-special-day-with-record-equaling-knock-joins-tendulkar-for-most-odi-tons-655403">World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli marks special day with record-equalling knock, joins Tendulkar for most ODI tons</a></p>

<p>Later KL Rahul (8) and Suryakumar Yadav (22) joined Virat to help him get the ton. Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten on 29 as India reached the big total of 326/5 in their 50 overs.</p>

<p>India’s eyes are now on the semifinals but are still unsure of where they will play as permutations could still see them return to Eden Gardens. If India play Pakistan in the semifinal, they will come back to play at the Eden Gardens after playing against Netherlands in&nbsp;their last league game at&nbsp;Bengaluru. However, if India play any other team, they will travel to Mumbai for a place in the final. South Africa will also play in the semifinals after facing&nbsp;Afghanistan in their final league game.&nbsp;</p>


The Indian cricket team continued their impressive run of form at the ongoing ODI World Cup as the Men in Blue sealed the top spot after beating South Africa on Sunday (Nov 5).

The Indian cricket team continued their impressive run of form at the ongoing ODI World Cup as the Men in Blue sealed the top spot after beating South Africa on Sunday (Nov 5). In a contest highlighted by Virat Kohli’s record-equaling 49th ODI ton, India won by staggering 243 runs despite the Proteas in top form. Ravindra Jadeja was the bowling star having ended with figures of 33/5. India will now take on the Netherlands in their last league match next Sunday before playing the semifinal. The Indian juggernaut rolls on in Kolkata 🔥#CWC23 | #INDvSA 📝: https://t.co/a4PZYqmQxY pic.twitter.com/IqQDYPEE7z — ICC (@ICC) November 5, 2023 × Spinners run riot on Kohli-Day Tasked to chase 327, the Proteas were never in the contest and were bowled out for 83 runs with India on top throughout the game. Jadeja was the star bowler having bagged five wickets after Virat had hogged the spotlight with his 49th ODI hundred which saw him go level with Sachin Tendulkar. South Africa’s batting line-up had no answers to India’s dominance. Only four batters got in double figures for South Africa and Marco Jansen top-scored with 14 on a dull day. Alongside Jadeja, Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav also ended with two wickets while Mohammed Siraj got the remaining wicket. Kohli excels with special knock Earlier, Kohli marked his 35th birthday with a special knock as he equaled Tendulkar’s record for most ODI hundreds at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Having missed out on the ton against New Zealand and Sri Lanka, the former India captain chose his birthday to score his 49th ODI ton which is also his 79th at the international level. The day also saw him become the third-highest scorer in the ODI World Cup history. India skipper Rohit Sharma (40) and Shubman Gill (23) started on a positive note as they stitched a 62-run stand for the opening wicket. After both openers departed, Virat and Shreyas Iyer took the initiative in their hands to set a perfect platform for a big score. The latter again missed out on a hundred and was dismissed for 77, scalped by Lungi Ngidi. ALSO READ | World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli marks special day with record-equalling knock, joins Tendulkar for most ODI tons Later KL Rahul (8) and Suryakumar Yadav (22) joined Virat to help him get the ton. Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten on 29 as India reached the big total of 326/5 in their 50 overs. India’s eyes are now on the semifinals but are still unsure of where they will play as permutations could still see them return to Eden Gardens. If India play Pakistan in the semifinal, they will come back to play at the Eden Gardens after playing against Netherlands in their last league game at Bengaluru. However, if India play any other team, they will travel to Mumbai for a place in the final. South Africa will also play in the semifinals after facing Afghanistan in their final league game.

ODI World Cup: Kohli's record ton, Jadeja's five-wicket haul help India crush South Africa, seal top spot

<p>Team India is on a roll in the ODI World Cup 2023 edition at home. They remain the only unbeaten team after winning their first five games. Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will next lock horns with England at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow. Ahead of the much-awaited encounter on Sunday (Oct 29), former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh feels the home side can play three spinners in the playing XI for the Lucknow tie.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan said, "England do not play spin well. As it is, England are not playing well in the World Cup, and if the ball starts spinning, I don’t think they will be able to do much better. Playing three spinners might not be a bad option." He further suggested that Mohammed Siraj -- who has six wickets in five games in World Cup 2023 -- can be rested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bhajji opined, "Siraj can be rested. He has played back-to-back games. Shami has just come into the playing XI and has claimed a five-fer. If a pitch is a normal one and is not expected to offer a lot of turn, then I do not see too many changes in the team."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-are-trusting-their-top-five-india-are-smith-lauds-in-form-teams-after-australia-thrash-netherlands-651458">'SA are trusting their top five, India are...': Smith lauds in-form teams after Australia thrash Netherlands</a></strong></p>

<p>Harbhajan stated that big players are those who shine in high-pressure games and lauded the efforts of Virat Kohli, Rohit, Mohammed Shami, etc. in the ongoing ten-team tournament. "From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, everyone has looked good. In the bowling, Shami came in and claimed five wickets. Big players are those that perform in big tournaments,” he added.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that India are looking to clinch their third ODI World Cup title and first-ever ICC trophy since 2013. After five games, they have ticked most of the boxes and will be confident taking on defending champions England, who have just one win from four games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, Hardik Pandya is set to miss the England game. It is likely that he might not return to the group-stage matches after sustaining&nbsp;an ankle injury during the Bangladesh game on Oct 19 in Pune.</p>


Team India is on a roll in the ODI World Cup 2023 edition at home. They remain the only unbeaten team after winning their first five games. Rohit Sharma & Co. will next lock horns with England at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow.

Team India is on a roll in the ODI World Cup 2023 edition at home. They remain the only unbeaten team after winning their first five games. Rohit Sharma & Co. will next lock horns with England at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow. Ahead of the much-awaited encounter on Sunday (Oct 29), former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh feels the home side can play three spinners in the playing XI for the Lucknow tie. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan said, "England do not play spin well. As it is, England are not playing well in the World Cup, and if the ball starts spinning, I don’t think they will be able to do much better. Playing three spinners might not be a bad option." He further suggested that Mohammed Siraj -- who has six wickets in five games in World Cup 2023 -- can be rested. Bhajji opined, "Siraj can be rested. He has played back-to-back games. Shami has just come into the playing XI and has claimed a five-fer. If a pitch is a normal one and is not expected to offer a lot of turn, then I do not see too many changes in the team." Also read: 'SA are trusting their top five, India are...': Smith lauds in-form teams after Australia thrash Netherlands Harbhajan stated that big players are those who shine in high-pressure games and lauded the efforts of Virat Kohli, Rohit, Mohammed Shami, etc. in the ongoing ten-team tournament. "From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, everyone has looked good. In the bowling, Shami came in and claimed five wickets. Big players are those that perform in big tournaments,” he added. It is to be noted that India are looking to clinch their third ODI World Cup title and first-ever ICC trophy since 2013. After five games, they have ticked most of the boxes and will be confident taking on defending champions England, who have just one win from four games. As per reports, Hardik Pandya is set to miss the England game. It is likely that he might not return to the group-stage matches after sustaining an ankle injury during the Bangladesh game on Oct 19 in Pune.

CWC '23: 'Playing 3 spinners not a bad option' - Harbhajan Singh on India's playing XI for England tie

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