<p class="MsoNormal">England faced a lot of criticism for holding on to their declaration on Day 4 of the first Test against India. While the visitors decided to set a target for Team India without declaring early or either enforcing the follow-on.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">England went on to set a target of 420 runs for Team India. As the decision to not declare the innings stood right following England’s massive 227-run win against India, Joe Root explained why he decided against declaring the innings early.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Root said that Rishabh Pant’s ability to change the game in one session while adding he didn’t want the England bowlers to be in two minds about the final day of the match.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-kevin-pietersen-tweets-in-hindi-reminds-fans-of-his-warning-following-chennai-test-362478" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen tweets in Hindi, reminds fans of his warning following Chennai Test</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"We could have declared earlier, for sure, we could have. I wanted to make sure that there were only two results possible in this game. I wanted to make sure that we turned up today with the ball still being hard. We wanted to give our bowlers an extra bit of time to be raring to go," Root told reporters at the virtual press conference.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"We wanted to get to 400 and then we wanted to press the accelerator. Actually, it was going to be really important that we had runs on the board as it was a fast outfield," he added.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Rishabh Pant bats for one session and he can make things quite interesting. I did not want the pressure of having to contain and as well as take wickets. I wanted to make sure that the bowlers were concentrating on the ways of finding the wickets on that surface.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-equals-michael-vaughan-as-most-successful-england-captain-in-his-100th-test-362448" hreflang="en">Joe Root equals Michael Vaughan as most successful England captain in his 100th Test</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"We were always going to create ten chances, we just had to be disciplined and take the chances that came our way. We could have declared earlier, I am just glad how it has turned out," he further said.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Root capped off his 100th Test match in style with the England skipper scoring a scintillating double century in the first innings to help his side gain advantage going into the second innings. Eventually, England took a 1-0 lead in the series and will look to continue their winning run when they take the field for the second Test starting from February 13 in Chennai.<br />
<o:p></o:p></p>


England faced a lot of criticism for holding on to their declaration on Day 4 of the first Test against India. While the visitors decided to set a target for Team India without declaring early or either enforcing the follow-on.

England faced a lot of criticism for holding on to their declaration on Day 4 of the first Test against India. While the visitors decided to set a target for Team India without declaring early or either enforcing the follow-on. England went on to set a target of 420 runs for Team India. As the decision to not declare the innings stood right following England’s massive 227-run win against India, Joe Root explained why he decided against declaring the innings early. Root said that Rishabh Pant’s ability to change the game in one session while adding he didn’t want the England bowlers to be in two minds about the final day of the match. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen tweets in Hindi, reminds fans of his warning following Chennai Test "We could have declared earlier, for sure, we could have. I wanted to make sure that there were only two results possible in this game. I wanted to make sure that we turned up today with the ball still being hard. We wanted to give our bowlers an extra bit of time to be raring to go," Root told reporters at the virtual press conference. "We wanted to get to 400 and then we wanted to press the accelerator. Actually, it was going to be really important that we had runs on the board as it was a fast outfield," he added. "Rishabh Pant bats for one session and he can make things quite interesting. I did not want the pressure of having to contain and as well as take wickets. I wanted to make sure that the bowlers were concentrating on the ways of finding the wickets on that surface. ALSO READ: Joe Root equals Michael Vaughan as most successful England captain in his 100th Test "We were always going to create ten chances, we just had to be disciplined and take the chances that came our way. We could have declared earlier, I am just glad how it has turned out," he further said. Root capped off his 100th Test match in style with the England skipper scoring a scintillating double century in the first innings to help his side gain advantage going into the second innings. Eventually, England took a 1-0 lead in the series and will look to continue their winning run when they take the field for the second Test starting from February 13 in Chennai.

Rishabh Pant factor held England back from early declaration: Joe Root

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{afb18846-82b1-4528-bc53-ddb8b073bed6}{56}" paraid="1117725333" >In a heartfelt effort to help the needy, <strong>Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant</strong> on Sunday said that he will donate his match-fee for the rescue efforts following a glacier burst in Uttarakhand. The youngster also urged more people to help out after the glacier burst as he expressed grief over the loss of lives in the calamity. Pant is currently playing in the first Test against England in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{56e7b4a5-6832-468f-9171-50ce428483f8}{116}" paraid="2012383320" >"Deeply pained by the loss of life in Uttarakhand. Would like to donate my match fee for the rescue efforts and would urge more people to help out," Pant tweeted.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Deeply pained by the loss of life in Uttarakhand. Would like to donate my match fee for the rescue efforts and would urge more people to help out.</p>
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1358476781141991426?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Social media users lavished<strong> high praise on Rishabh Pant</strong> following his heartfelt gesture to help in the rescue efforts after the glacier burst in Uttarakhand.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-kyle-mayer-smashes-double-ton-on-debut-shatters-several-records-361977" hreflang="en">West Indies' Kyle Mayers smashes double ton on debut; shatters several records</a></strong></p>

<h2>Here are some of the reactions:</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="et">Winning hearts on and off the field. Ek hi toh dil hai Pant sahab, kitni baar jeetoge.🙏❤️</p>
— Jayesh (@jayeshvk16) <a href="https://twitter.com/jayeshvk16/status/1358480996169969665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Great Gesture Rishabh Pant ❤️<br />
Immense Respect for You 🙌🇮🇳</p>
— ABHI (@DeadlyYorkers) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeadlyYorkers/status/1358485227409084416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Absolute Champion 💎</p>
— R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) <a href="https://twitter.com/LoyalSachinFan/status/1358485572793192448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Pant bhai <a href="https://t.co/0ezoQea9qq">pic.twitter.com/0ezoQea9qq</a></p>
— Prayag (@theprayagtiwari) <a href="https://twitter.com/theprayagtiwari/status/1358478207842803712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Huge Respect Sir🙏🏻 <a href="https://t.co/Fncl4wty1l">pic.twitter.com/Fncl4wty1l</a></p>
— Amit🇮🇳 (@dark__horse007) <a href="https://twitter.com/dark__horse007/status/1358477350485172225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mad respect bro ❤️</p>
— A (@_shortarmjab_) <a href="https://twitter.com/_shortarmjab_/status/1358477634548600833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Pant missed out on his third Test century on Day 3 of the ongoing Test as the southpaw played a blistering knock of 91 runs. The 23-year-old stitched a 119-run partnership with Cheteshwar Pujara (73) for the fifth wicket to help India steady their innings. England had posted a mammoth 578 runs in the first innings, courtesy a fine double century by captain Joe Root.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fourteen people were confirmed dead on Monday after a chunk of glacier dislodged and unleashed a devastating flash flood in India, officials said.</p>

<p>"A total of 15 people have been rescued and 14 bodies have been recovered from different places so far," the state government of&nbsp;<strong>Uttarakhand</strong>, in the country's north, said on Twitter a day after the disaster.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/spirit-of-cricket-stuart-broads-cheeky-comment-on-iccs-post-on-virat-kohlis-gesture-towards-joe-root-361972" hreflang="en">'Spirit of cricket?': Stuart Broad's cheeky comment on ICC's post on Virat Kohli's gesture towards Joe Root</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{bf4f1ed1-dc6a-45bc-9a12-2cb559bd66dd}{125}" paraid="1464509293" >On Sunday, a glacier broke in the&nbsp;Tapovan-Reni area of Chamoli District of Uttarakhand that triggered massive flooding in&nbsp;Dhauliganga&nbsp;and Alaknanda Rivers and damaged housed and the nearby&nbsp;Rishiganga&nbsp;power project.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b2eddaa8-a810-4e4e-9beb-480eebb26467}{97}" paraid="1926277554" >The rescue operations had to be halted in&nbsp;Dhauliganga&nbsp;due to the rise in the water level of the river.&nbsp;Tapovan&nbsp;Hydro-Electric Power Dam was completely washed off following a glacier burst in Chamoli district.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{db79f50c-9885-42ce-a6e5-bce59e15d63c}{125}" paraid="1191922597" >Furthermore, Uttarakhand Chief Minister announced an ex-gratia of INR 4 lakh each to the kin of those who lost their lives due to the glacier burst.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0af89229-e871-4d51-af5a-dfdc290f8527}{154}" paraid="879982055" >"We are assuming that around 125 people are missing. The number can be higher," Rawat said. He added that the government has all the needed assistance to handle the situation for now.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{0af89229-e871-4d51-af5a-dfdc290f8527}{165}" paraid="40458925" >(With ANI inputs)&nbsp;</p>


In a heartfelt effort to help the needy, Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant on Sunday said that he will donate his match-fee for the rescue efforts following a glacier burst in Uttarakhand.

In a heartfelt effort to help the needy, Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant on Sunday said that he will donate his match-fee for the rescue efforts following a glacier burst in Uttarakhand. The youngster also urged more people to help out after the glacier burst as he expressed grief over the loss of lives in the calamity. Pant is currently playing in the first Test against England in Chennai. "Deeply pained by the loss of life in Uttarakhand. Would like to donate my match fee for the rescue efforts and would urge more people to help out," Pant tweeted. Deeply pained by the loss of life in Uttarakhand. Would like to donate my match fee for the rescue efforts and would urge more people to help out. — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) February 7, 2021 × Social media users lavished high praise on Rishabh Pant following his heartfelt gesture to help in the rescue efforts after the glacier burst in Uttarakhand. ALSO READ: West Indies' Kyle Mayers smashes double ton on debut; shatters several records Here are some of the reactions: Winning hearts on and off the field. Ek hi toh dil hai Pant sahab, kitni baar jeetoge.🙏❤️ — Jayesh (@jayeshvk16) February 7, 2021 × Great Gesture Rishabh Pant ❤️ Immense Respect for You 🙌🇮🇳 — ABHI (@DeadlyYorkers) February 7, 2021 × Absolute Champion 💎 — R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) February 7, 2021 × Pant bhai pic.twitter.com/0ezoQea9qq — Prayag (@theprayagtiwari) February 7, 2021 × Huge Respect Sir🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/Fncl4wty1l — Amit🇮🇳 (@dark__horse007) February 7, 2021 × Mad respect bro ❤️ — A (@_shortarmjab_) February 7, 2021 × Pant missed out on his third Test century on Day 3 of the ongoing Test as the southpaw played a blistering knock of 91 runs. The 23-year-old stitched a 119-run partnership with Cheteshwar Pujara (73) for the fifth wicket to help India steady their innings. England had posted a mammoth 578 runs in the first innings, courtesy a fine double century by captain Joe Root. Fourteen people were confirmed dead on Monday after a chunk of glacier dislodged and unleashed a devastating flash flood in India, officials said. "A total of 15 people have been rescued and 14 bodies have been recovered from different places so far," the state government of Uttarakhand, in the country's north, said on Twitter a day after the disaster. ALSO READ 'Spirit of cricket?': Stuart Broad's cheeky comment on ICC's post on Virat Kohli's gesture towards Joe Root On Sunday, a glacier broke in the Tapovan-Reni area of Chamoli District of Uttarakhand that triggered massive flooding in Dhauliganga and Alaknanda Rivers and damaged housed and the nearby Rishiganga power project. The rescue operations had to be halted in Dhauliganga due to the rise in the water level of the river. Tapovan Hydro-Electric Power Dam was completely washed off following a glacier burst in Chamoli district. Furthermore, Uttarakhand Chief Minister announced an ex-gratia of INR 4 lakh each to the kin of those who lost their lives due to the glacier burst. "We are assuming that around 125 people are missing. The number can be higher," Rawat said. He added that the government has all the needed assistance to handle the situation for now. (With ANI inputs)

Rishabh Pant's heartfelt gesture after Uttarakhand glacier burst wins hearts

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday announced the winners of the inaugural ICC Player of the Month Awards which recognise and celebrate the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket throughout the year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India’s Rishabh Pant won the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for January 2021 for his performances in the two Tests against Australia where he scored a 97 at Sydney and an unbeaten 89 at Brisbane that led India to a historic series win against arch-rivals Australia.</p>

<p>South Africa’s Shabnim Ismail was named the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for January 2021 for her performances across three ODIs and two T20Is during the month. Ismail took seven wickets in the victorious ODI series against Pakistan, before taking five wickets in the second T20I against the same opposition.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-time-in-more-than-100-years-r-ashwin-achieves-unique-feat-in-test-cricket-362103" hreflang="en">First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket</a></strong></p>

<p>Fans were treated to some sensational cricket during the month of January making the inaugural player of the month awards a highly competitive affair.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Commenting on Pant being awarded the inaugural ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award, Ramiz Raja representing the ICC Voting Academy said: “Both times Pant played under pressure in two different sets of challenges: to draw a game and to win a game. He showed his versatility of skills in both knocks, the clincher being his temperament.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Commenting on Ismail’s inaugural ICC Women’s Player of the Month Award, Mpumelelo Mbangwa representing the ICC Voting Academy said: “Ismail reached a hundred T20I wickets in their series against Pakistan. She leads the way and is the first South African to reach the milestone. With her pace and aggression, she continues to lead the South African women’s team’s bowling attack admirably. She is a joy to watch in action.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pants-heartfelt-gesture-after-uttarakhand-glacier-burst-wins-hearts-362086" hreflang="en">Rishabh Pant's heartfelt gesture after Uttarakhand glacier burst wins hearts</a></strong></p>

<p>Reacting to her award win, Shabnim Ismail said: “Winning the ICC Women’s Player of the Month in January just shows that all the hard work I put in during the lockdown has paid off for me. This accolade would not have been possible if it were not for my teammates and I am grateful and thankful for all your support. Also, to all my fans and friends all around the world thank you very much for the vote, it really meant a lot to me. And lastly, a special thanks to also my family who have been there for me and supported me all through the way.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Commenting on his award win Rishabh Pant said: “I am delighted to be receiving the inaugural ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award. For any sportsperson, contributing to a team win is the ultimate reward but such initiatives help motivate youngsters such as myself to do better each time. I dedicate this award to every member of Team India that contributed to our victory in Australia and also thank all my fans who voted for me.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fans can continue to vote every month for their favourite male and female cricketers across all formats of international cricket as part of the ICC Player of the Month initiative by registering on the www.icc-cricket.com website.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday announced the winners of the inaugural ICC Player of the Month Awards which recognise and celebrate the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket throughout the year.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday announced the winners of the inaugural ICC Player of the Month Awards which recognise and celebrate the best performances from both male and female cricketers across all forms of international cricket throughout the year. India’s Rishabh Pant won the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for January 2021 for his performances in the two Tests against Australia where he scored a 97 at Sydney and an unbeaten 89 at Brisbane that led India to a historic series win against arch-rivals Australia. South Africa’s Shabnim Ismail was named the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for January 2021 for her performances across three ODIs and two T20Is during the month. Ismail took seven wickets in the victorious ODI series against Pakistan, before taking five wickets in the second T20I against the same opposition. ALSO READ: First time in more than 100 years! R Ashwin achieves unique feat in Test cricket Fans were treated to some sensational cricket during the month of January making the inaugural player of the month awards a highly competitive affair. Commenting on Pant being awarded the inaugural ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award, Ramiz Raja representing the ICC Voting Academy said: “Both times Pant played under pressure in two different sets of challenges: to draw a game and to win a game. He showed his versatility of skills in both knocks, the clincher being his temperament.” Commenting on Ismail’s inaugural ICC Women’s Player of the Month Award, Mpumelelo Mbangwa representing the ICC Voting Academy said: “Ismail reached a hundred T20I wickets in their series against Pakistan. She leads the way and is the first South African to reach the milestone. With her pace and aggression, she continues to lead the South African women’s team’s bowling attack admirably. She is a joy to watch in action.” ALSO READ: Rishabh Pant's heartfelt gesture after Uttarakhand glacier burst wins hearts Reacting to her award win, Shabnim Ismail said: “Winning the ICC Women’s Player of the Month in January just shows that all the hard work I put in during the lockdown has paid off for me. This accolade would not have been possible if it were not for my teammates and I am grateful and thankful for all your support. Also, to all my fans and friends all around the world thank you very much for the vote, it really meant a lot to me. And lastly, a special thanks to also my family who have been there for me and supported me all through the way.” Commenting on his award win Rishabh Pant said: “I am delighted to be receiving the inaugural ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award. For any sportsperson, contributing to a team win is the ultimate reward but such initiatives help motivate youngsters such as myself to do better each time. I dedicate this award to every member of Team India that contributed to our victory in Australia and also thank all my fans who voted for me.” Fans can continue to vote every month for their favourite male and female cricketers across all formats of international cricket as part of the ICC Player of the Month initiative by registering on the www.icc-cricket.com website.

Rishabh Pant, Shabnim Ismail named ICC Player of the Month for January 2021

<p>India were struggling to avoid follow-on at 257 for six after England amassed a mammoth 578 all out in their first innings on the third day of the series-opening Test here on Sunday.</p>

<p>India, who were 321 behind the England total at stumps, will need to make another 122 runs to avoid the follow-on and make the visitors bat again. Washington Sundar (33) and R Ashwin (8) will resume the proceedings for the hosts on the fourth day morning.</p>

<p>Off-spinner Dom Bess (4/55) led England's bowling performance by dismissing four Indian batsmen, including captain Virat Kohli (11) and his deputy Ajinkya Rahane (1), after fast bowler Jofra Archer's early blows on the hosts.</p>

<p>Rishabh Pant smashed a counterattacking 91 off 88 deliveries while Cheteshwar Pujara compiled 73 off 143 balls to bail India out from a precarious 73 for four.</p>

<p>However, Bess again gave his team the upper hand when he sent back both Pujara and Pant in the day's last session.</p>

<p><strong>Brief scores: England 1st Innings: 578 all out in 190.1 overs (Joe Root, 218, Dominic Sibley 87, Ben Stokes 82; Jasprit Bumrah 3/84, R Ashwin 3/146, Ishant Sharma 2/52). India 1st Innings: 257 for 6 in 74 overs (Rishabh Pant 91, Cheteshwar Pujara 73, Dom Bess 4/55, Jofra Archer 2/52).</strong></p>


India were struggling to avoid follow-on at 257 for six after England amassed a mammoth 578 all out in their first innings on the third day of the series-opening Test here on Sunday.

India were struggling to avoid follow-on at 257 for six after England amassed a mammoth 578 all out in their first innings on the third day of the series-opening Test here on Sunday. India, who were 321 behind the England total at stumps, will need to make another 122 runs to avoid the follow-on and make the visitors bat again. Washington Sundar (33) and R Ashwin (8) will resume the proceedings for the hosts on the fourth day morning. Off-spinner Dom Bess (4/55) led England's bowling performance by dismissing four Indian batsmen, including captain Virat Kohli (11) and his deputy Ajinkya Rahane (1), after fast bowler Jofra Archer's early blows on the hosts. Rishabh Pant smashed a counterattacking 91 off 88 deliveries while Cheteshwar Pujara compiled 73 off 143 balls to bail India out from a precarious 73 for four. However, Bess again gave his team the upper hand when he sent back both Pujara and Pant in the day's last session. Brief scores: England 1st Innings: 578 all out in 190.1 overs (Joe Root, 218, Dominic Sibley 87, Ben Stokes 82; Jasprit Bumrah 3/84, R Ashwin 3/146, Ishant Sharma 2/52). India 1st Innings: 257 for 6 in 74 overs (Rishabh Pant 91, Cheteshwar Pujara 73, Dom Bess 4/55, Jofra Archer 2/52).

IND vs ENG: England's Bess scalps four as India struggles to avoid follow-on

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{72fddfbd-bb37-4738-8f01-6facf79c16de}{93}" paraid="2011070845" >Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side.&nbsp;India&nbsp;have&nbsp;over the past couple of&nbsp;home&nbsp;seasons have preferred&nbsp;Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper&nbsp;due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3548f0f2-b515-491a-8e2b-cd7c6fa99ed9}{164}" paraid="691781848" >However,&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;recent exploits and heroic knocks against Australia&nbsp;have helped the southpaw regain his place in the playing XI when it comes to home Test matches. Interestingly,&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;last home Test was back in 2018, against the West Indies.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c3682cf9-6625-47c6-ab78-5e0851dd2443}{123}" paraid="1776388425" >Kohli, lauding&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;impact against Australia, said that the 23-year-old is in a good headspace and they want to continue with him. The Indian skipper added that the entire&nbsp;Indian team is happy to see Pant flourish.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f3c13f0e-1c1c-4e7f-a996-c15c475039b5}{251}" paraid="881321484" >Pant was India's highest run-scorer in the recently concluded series against Australia despite missing the Adelaide Test. The southpaw accumulated 274 runs in five innings at an average of&nbsp;68.50.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{f3c13f0e-1c1c-4e7f-a996-c15c475039b5}{251}" paraid="881321484" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/3-spinners-and-2-pacers-team-indias-predicted-playing-xi-vs-england-for-1st-test-361313" hreflang="en">3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{72fddfbd-bb37-4738-8f01-6facf79c16de}{102}" paraid="1965813625" >"Yes, Rishabh (Pant) will start tomorrow. He had a massive impact in Australia and is in a good headspace and we want to continue with him. He's come along nicely after the IPL and he's worked hard in his fitness and his game. We were very happy to see him flourish,” said Kohli in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the first Test against India in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{53da06cf-4799-4251-8309-ffe02fc7d2c5}{204}" paraid="1920377312" >Kohli will be back leading the team after missing the last three Tests against Australia to be with his wife on the birth of their first child. Ajinkya Rahane, in Kohli's absence, led the Indian team impeccably well&nbsp;as India won the series 2-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3ac7a9c6-db44-4d06-9c30-518359a20f8c}{121}" paraid="822870713" >Rahane has always lauded Kohli for his leadership qualities and on&nbsp;Wednesday, said that he is happy taking a back seat as Kohli is back leading the team. Praising Rahane for his splendid leadership qualities which he showed in the series against Australia, Kohli said that&nbsp;everyone in the team only wants India to win.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3ac7a9c6-db44-4d06-9c30-518359a20f8c}{121}" paraid="822870713" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-tops-celebrity-brand-valuation-study-for-fourth-consecutive-year-361275" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{53da06cf-4799-4251-8309-ffe02fc7d2c5}{231}" paraid="814440325" >"The fact that Jinks (Rahane) mentioned what he did because the relationship between us and the whole team is one of trust: we only want India to win. He fulfilled his role with flying&nbsp;colours&nbsp;in Australia," Kohli said.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{c3fdfaae-ba9a-4a25-9c3c-f8a9e946f184}{249}" paraid="540410669" >Meanwhile, the Indian team will have an optional practice session before the match starts on Friday in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{df10fa58-e9ed-4d2d-8a65-33f976a4c8c1}{247}" paraid="2055422355" >India last lost a home Test series back in 2012 – against England – and will look to continue their domination on home soil.&nbsp;</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side. India have over the past couple of home seasons have preferred Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rishabh Pant will start the first Test against England as the wicket-keeper of the side. India have over the past couple of home seasons have preferred Wriddhiman Saha over Pant as the specialist wicket-keeper due to the former being one of the finest with the gloves. However, Pant's recent exploits and heroic knocks against Australia have helped the southpaw regain his place in the playing XI when it comes to home Test matches. Interestingly, Pant's last home Test was back in 2018, against the West Indies. Kohli, lauding Pant's impact against Australia, said that the 23-year-old is in a good headspace and they want to continue with him. The Indian skipper added that the entire Indian team is happy to see Pant flourish. Pant was India's highest run-scorer in the recently concluded series against Australia despite missing the Adelaide Test. The southpaw accumulated 274 runs in five innings at an average of 68.50. ALSO READ: 3 spinners and 2 pacers? Team India's predicted playing XI vs England for 1st Test "Yes, Rishabh (Pant) will start tomorrow. He had a massive impact in Australia and is in a good headspace and we want to continue with him. He's come along nicely after the IPL and he's worked hard in his fitness and his game. We were very happy to see him flourish,” said Kohli in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the first Test against India in Chennai. Kohli will be back leading the team after missing the last three Tests against Australia to be with his wife on the birth of their first child. Ajinkya Rahane, in Kohli's absence, led the Indian team impeccably well as India won the series 2-1. Rahane has always lauded Kohli for his leadership qualities and on Wednesday, said that he is happy taking a back seat as Kohli is back leading the team. Praising Rahane for his splendid leadership qualities which he showed in the series against Australia, Kohli said that everyone in the team only wants India to win. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli tops celebrity brand valuation study for fourth consecutive year "The fact that Jinks (Rahane) mentioned what he did because the relationship between us and the whole team is one of trust: we only want India to win. He fulfilled his role with flying colours in Australia," Kohli said. Meanwhile, the Indian team will have an optional practice session before the match starts on Friday in Chennai. India last lost a home Test series back in 2012 – against England – and will look to continue their domination on home soil.

Rishabh Pant to start in first Test against England, confirms Virat Kohli

<p>Team India's batting coach Vikram Rathour was mighty impressed with Rishabh Pant's performance in the Australia series and said that the young wicketkeeper will have an ‘extremely important role’ in the team's future.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/your-profile-picture-vs-the-full-picture-icc-trolls-pakistan-cricketer-hasan-ali-359935" hreflang="en">'Your profile picture vs the full picture': ICC trolls Pakistan cricketer Hasan Ali</a></p>

<p>Pant had a remarkable series in the land down under, his crucial knocks in the SCG and Gabba Test has made him an important part of Team India. In an interview with Hindustan Times, India's batting coach called Pant an 'exceptional player'.</p>

<p>“His role will be extremely important going ahead. We have always believed that he is one of the exceptional players," Rathour said in an interview with Hindustan Times.</p>

<p>The 23-year-old had a tough run at the international level last year and the Delhi-based player worked hard to become a match-winner for India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He had a tough time last year or so. But he has been working hard, training hard. We all believed (that) on his day, he is a match-winner. In the last two games, he proved that. Being a left-hander is definitely an advantage (for the team).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-undergoes-successful-angioplasty-two-more-stents-implanted-359907" hreflang="en">BCCI President Sourav Ganguly undergoes successful angioplasty; two more stents implanted</a></p>

<p>“As far as his entering the XI (purely) as a batsman, the decision will be taken on that particular day when the question arises," Rathour said.</p>

<p>Pant went on to score 97 runs to take the SCG Test closer than anyone expected. The match ended in a draw but India's strategy had worked. During the final day of the Gabba Test, Pant's gritty knock of 89 runs helped India seal a historic win in Brisbane.</p>


Team India's batting coach Vikram Rathour was mighty impressed with Rishabh Pant's performance in the Australia series and said that the young wicketkeeper will have an ‘extremely important role’ in the team's future.

Team India's batting coach Vikram Rathour was mighty impressed with Rishabh Pant's performance in the Australia series and said that the young wicketkeeper will have an ‘extremely important role’ in the team's future. ALSO READ: 'Your profile picture vs the full picture': ICC trolls Pakistan cricketer Hasan Ali Pant had a remarkable series in the land down under, his crucial knocks in the SCG and Gabba Test has made him an important part of Team India. In an interview with Hindustan Times, India's batting coach called Pant an 'exceptional player'. “His role will be extremely important going ahead. We have always believed that he is one of the exceptional players," Rathour said in an interview with Hindustan Times. The 23-year-old had a tough run at the international level last year and the Delhi-based player worked hard to become a match-winner for India. "He had a tough time last year or so. But he has been working hard, training hard. We all believed (that) on his day, he is a match-winner. In the last two games, he proved that. Being a left-hander is definitely an advantage (for the team). ALSO READ: BCCI President Sourav Ganguly undergoes successful angioplasty; two more stents implanted “As far as his entering the XI (purely) as a batsman, the decision will be taken on that particular day when the question arises," Rathour said. Pant went on to score 97 runs to take the SCG Test closer than anyone expected. The match ended in a draw but India's strategy had worked. During the final day of the Gabba Test, Pant's gritty knock of 89 runs helped India seal a historic win in Brisbane.

Indian batting coach feels Pant will have 'extremely important role' in future

<p>Rishabh Pant's promotion in the batting order turned out to be a series-winning gamble against the mighty Australians in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy where Team India beat the hosts to 2-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-career-hit-a-low-after-world-cup-rishabh-pant-reflects-back-on-struggling-phase-359183" hreflang="en">'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase</a></p>

<p>The decision to promote Pant was first taken on the final day of the SCG Test when the Indian wicketkeeper came out to bat after the early dismissal of skipper Ajiknya Rahane.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The promotion did the trick as Pant went on to score 97 runs to take the match closer than anyone expected. The match ended in a draw but India's strategy had worked. Pant was promoted again during the final day of the Gabba Test and his gritty knock of 89 runs helped India seal a historic win in Brisbane. However, the Indian batting coach revealed that it was Virat Kohli's idea to promote Pant up in the batting order.</p>

<p>While speaking to Indian off-spinner R Ashwin in a video on his Youtube channel, Rathour said: &nbsp;“It came from Virat to be honest. He said, ‘in case we play both left-handers, it will be a good idea if we can send Pant at No. 5 so that we can have a left-right combination. We discussed it with Ajinkya also. Then during the match, in the first innings, we decided to let him go at No.6.”</p>

<p>Rathour further revealed why they decided to send him at no. 5 in the 2nd innings at SCG. "Irrespective of when we lose wickets, this is the last innings, and we were going for the runs. The intent was not to draw the Test. Till we can, we were going to go for the win. That was the right time to send him in,” Rathour added.</p>

<p>“Ravi Shastri is a great believer of left-right combination and thought for a long time that Australians don’t bowl that well to the left-handers. And Ajinkya agreed to send him at No.5."</p>

<p>Rathour further revealed that there were even discussions to send Pant at no. 4 if they got a good start.</p>

<p>"I was telling Ajinkya if we get a good start we can send him at No. 4 in the first innings but that didn’t happen,” Rathour added.</p>


Rishabh Pant's promotion in the batting order turned out to be a series-winning gamble against the mighty Australians in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy where Team India beat the hosts to 2-1.

Rishabh Pant's promotion in the batting order turned out to be a series-winning gamble against the mighty Australians in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy where Team India beat the hosts to 2-1. ALSO READ: 'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase The decision to promote Pant was first taken on the final day of the SCG Test when the Indian wicketkeeper came out to bat after the early dismissal of skipper Ajiknya Rahane. The promotion did the trick as Pant went on to score 97 runs to take the match closer than anyone expected. The match ended in a draw but India's strategy had worked. Pant was promoted again during the final day of the Gabba Test and his gritty knock of 89 runs helped India seal a historic win in Brisbane. However, the Indian batting coach revealed that it was Virat Kohli's idea to promote Pant up in the batting order. While speaking to Indian off-spinner R Ashwin in a video on his Youtube channel, Rathour said: “It came from Virat to be honest. He said, ‘in case we play both left-handers, it will be a good idea if we can send Pant at No. 5 so that we can have a left-right combination. We discussed it with Ajinkya also. Then during the match, in the first innings, we decided to let him go at No.6.” Rathour further revealed why they decided to send him at no. 5 in the 2nd innings at SCG. "Irrespective of when we lose wickets, this is the last innings, and we were going for the runs. The intent was not to draw the Test. Till we can, we were going to go for the win. That was the right time to send him in,” Rathour added. “Ravi Shastri is a great believer of left-right combination and thought for a long time that Australians don’t bowl that well to the left-handers. And Ajinkya agreed to send him at No.5." Rathour further revealed that there were even discussions to send Pant at no. 4 if they got a good start. "I was telling Ajinkya if we get a good start we can send him at No. 4 in the first innings but that didn’t happen,” Rathour added.

'It came from Virat': Indian batting coach reveals the reason behind Pant's promotion in batting order

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b0d9ddcb-84a8-4fe3-8807-0cc9be182967}{195}" paraid="563079459" >Rishabh Pant had gone through a tough&nbsp;last 12 months due to his inconsistent run of form. With MS Dhoni going into a sabbatical after the ICC World Cup 2019, all eyes were on Pant to take the wicket-keeping duties with the additional responsibility of winning matches for India with the willow. However, Pant failed to hit&nbsp;consistent run with both gloves and bat and lost his spot in the playing XI across formats.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b0d9ddcb-84a8-4fe3-8807-0cc9be182967}{204}" paraid="210214592" >Pant was heavily&nbsp;criticised&nbsp;post-lockdown for his lack of fitness and continued to disappoint his fans with the bat.&nbsp;However, the southpaw turned the tables and helped India win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21&nbsp;by scoring the most runs by an Indian batsman in the series (274).&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;aggressive approach and ability to hit the ball all around the park helped him dominate the likes of Nathan Lyon and Aussie pacers.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{630af4e2-8824-4a12-b224-7233d6371b13}{55}" paraid="1538415234" >It was due to&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;smashing 97-run knock that India came close to winning the Sydney Test before drawing it.&nbsp;His 89 not-out then helped India end Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten run at the Gabba in Brisbane as the visitors won the series 2-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{630af4e2-8824-4a12-b224-7233d6371b13}{55}" paraid="1538415234" ><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-are-virat-kohli-ajinkya-rahane-different-as-captains-r-ashwin-gives-his-take-359178" hreflang="en">How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take</a></strong></p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{21129b7d-74a1-4797-8363-068fdab8e6b0}{158}" paraid="858211023" >Pant, after returning back to India, reflected back on the phase where he was struggling to hit form.</p>

<p>"The journey from World Cup 2019 to this has been quite good so far. There have been ups and downs, the World Cup was a massive opportunity because it comes once in every 4 years. But I got out in my 30s, I was very disappointed because that was one of the biggest opportunities for me,” Pant told India Today.</p>

<p>"I was not happy that I couldn't win the game for my team. My career hit a low after the WC, but then slowly I started increasing my focus towards the game because there is always scope for improvement in life. I've realised that there is no limit to how much you can improve, that's what I've got to know in these last 2 years."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/get-him-in-there-brad-hogg-on-rishabh-pant-being-included-for-limited-over-series-359037" hreflang="en">'Get him in there': Brad Hogg on Rishabh Pant being included for limited-over series</a></strong></p>

<p>"I think good things will happen if you keep improving yourself and focus on the things that you want to do," Pant said.</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{20754241-bfb2-4beb-8787-ba74c6aa522e}{208}" paraid="1927409585" >When you're doing well people will write good but when you're not they will&nbsp;criticise&nbsp;you. It's part and parcel of a cricketer's life nowadays.&nbsp;So&nbsp;if you don't focus on the criticism and instead focus on your cricket then that's much&nbsp;better&nbsp;I guess," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{20754241-bfb2-4beb-8787-ba74c6aa522e}{217}" paraid="373001367" >Pant will next feature in India's full-fledged home series against England, starting from February 5.&nbsp;</p>


Rishabh Pant had gone through a tough last 12 months due to his inconsistent run of form. With MS Dhoni going into a sabbatical after the ICC World Cup 2019, all eyes were on Pant to take the wicket-keeping duties with the additional responsibility of winning matches for India with the willow.

Rishabh Pant had gone through a tough last 12 months due to his inconsistent run of form. With MS Dhoni going into a sabbatical after the ICC World Cup 2019, all eyes were on Pant to take the wicket-keeping duties with the additional responsibility of winning matches for India with the willow. However, Pant failed to hit consistent run with both gloves and bat and lost his spot in the playing XI across formats. Pant was heavily criticised post-lockdown for his lack of fitness and continued to disappoint his fans with the bat. However, the southpaw turned the tables and helped India win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 by scoring the most runs by an Indian batsman in the series (274). Pant's aggressive approach and ability to hit the ball all around the park helped him dominate the likes of Nathan Lyon and Aussie pacers. It was due to Pant's smashing 97-run knock that India came close to winning the Sydney Test before drawing it. His 89 not-out then helped India end Australia's 32-year-old unbeaten run at the Gabba in Brisbane as the visitors won the series 2-1. ALSO READ: How are Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane different as captains? R Ashwin gives his take Pant, after returning back to India, reflected back on the phase where he was struggling to hit form. "The journey from World Cup 2019 to this has been quite good so far. There have been ups and downs, the World Cup was a massive opportunity because it comes once in every 4 years. But I got out in my 30s, I was very disappointed because that was one of the biggest opportunities for me,” Pant told India Today. "I was not happy that I couldn't win the game for my team. My career hit a low after the WC, but then slowly I started increasing my focus towards the game because there is always scope for improvement in life. I've realised that there is no limit to how much you can improve, that's what I've got to know in these last 2 years." ALSO READ: 'Get him in there': Brad Hogg on Rishabh Pant being included for limited-over series "I think good things will happen if you keep improving yourself and focus on the things that you want to do," Pant said. When you're doing well people will write good but when you're not they will criticise you. It's part and parcel of a cricketer's life nowadays. So if you don't focus on the criticism and instead focus on your cricket then that's much better I guess," he added. Pant will next feature in India's full-fledged home series against England, starting from February 5.

'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase

<p>Former Aussie spinner Brad Hogg feels India should rope in wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against England after his brave knock in the Gabba Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-decided-that-we-jadeja-reveals-dressing-room-talks-after-adelaide-loss-359006">'We decided that we..': Jadeja reveals dressing room talks after Adelaide loss</a></p>

<p>The southpaw was not included in India's squad for the limited-overs series against Australia after a poor performance in the IPL 2020. In his new video on YouTube, a fan asked the Aussie whether India should consider including Pant in the limited-overs series against England which begins next month. The former Australian cricketer was quick to give an affirmative and suggested that Shreyas Iyer or Sanju Samson can be replaced with Pant.</p>

<p>"I would be putting him there right now because he has got the confidence and the belief. He has proven himself with two match-winning knocks in this Test series," Hogg said.</p>

<p>"You can't get better than that playing for India on Australian soil. Get him in there. I would put him in place of Iyer in the ODI team. Keep your all-round options there for batting and bowling depth. In the T20Is, he can be there for either Iyer or Sanju Samson," he added.</p>

<p>"He is hard to bowl to because he plays a variety of shots that are different to any other batsman. I love him, he is a great entertainer. Get him in there," Hogg further said.</p>

<p>India are set to host England for four Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. The first Test will kick off from February 5 at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.</p>


Former Aussie spinner Brad Hogg feels India should rope in wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against England after his brave knock in the Gabba Test.

Former Aussie spinner Brad Hogg feels India should rope in wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against England after his brave knock in the Gabba Test. ALSO READ: 'We decided that we..': Jadeja reveals dressing room talks after Adelaide loss The southpaw was not included in India's squad for the limited-overs series against Australia after a poor performance in the IPL 2020. In his new video on YouTube, a fan asked the Aussie whether India should consider including Pant in the limited-overs series against England which begins next month. The former Australian cricketer was quick to give an affirmative and suggested that Shreyas Iyer or Sanju Samson can be replaced with Pant. "I would be putting him there right now because he has got the confidence and the belief. He has proven himself with two match-winning knocks in this Test series," Hogg said. "You can't get better than that playing for India on Australian soil. Get him in there. I would put him in place of Iyer in the ODI team. Keep your all-round options there for batting and bowling depth. In the T20Is, he can be there for either Iyer or Sanju Samson," he added. "He is hard to bowl to because he plays a variety of shots that are different to any other batsman. I love him, he is a great entertainer. Get him in there," Hogg further said. India are set to host England for four Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. The first Test will kick off from February 5 at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

'Get him in there': Brad Hogg on Rishabh Pant being included for limited-over series

<p>JSW Sports, the sports arm of the $13 billion JSW Group conglomerate, on Thursday announced the addition of India’s star cricketer, Rishabh Pant, to its growing talent management roster. The&nbsp;multi-year association between the two parties will see JSW Sports manage all commercial interests&nbsp;and marketing rights&nbsp;of the 23-year-old cricketer, who most recently played a starring role in India’s magnificent Test series win in Australia.</p>

<p>As part of the association, JSW Sports will manage the athlete’s image positioning and all his commercial engagements, including brand endorsements and appearances, social media monetisation and business deals.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-hailed-as-immortals-australia-under-fire-after-gabba-stunner-357893" hreflang="en">India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner</a></strong></p>

<p>Ever since its inception in 2012, JSW Sports has worked towards maximizing India’s sporting potential by working with&nbsp;promising&nbsp;Indian talents&nbsp;across&nbsp;Olympic sports, football and kabaddi including Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik and wrestling star Bajrang Punia. Adding an established, yet young cricketer like Rishabh Pant to its Talent Representation Division, JSW Sports aims to kick-start a new part of their business which focuses solely on talent representation and management.</p>

<p>Welcoming Rishabh Pant to the organisation,&nbsp;Mr. Mustafa Ghouse, CEO of JSW Sports, said, “I think what the world has seen Rishabh do at 23 is just the tip of the iceberg. We have always adopted a holistic approach to all our business verticals and we will continue to do that for ‘Brand Rishabh’ through this relationship. He truly is a special talent and we are confident that he has all the ingredients to become a global sporting icon.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-hero-rishabh-pant-hails-dream-series-after-australia-upset-357726" hreflang="en">India hero Rishabh Pant hails 'dream series' after Australia upset</a></strong></p>

<p>Expressing his delight at signing on with JSW Sports, Rishabh Pant said, “I have had a close relationship with the JSW Group and am excited to embark on this new journey with JSW Sports. I have tremendous respect for the work they have been doing to promote sports in India and have seen their dedication towards helping create and sustain a sporting culture in India. After having had a detailed conversation with them, I felt this was the right choice for me at this stage of my career and I am excited to be represented by them.”</p>


JSW Sports, the sports arm of the $13 billion JSW Group conglomerate, on Thursday announced the addition of India’s star cricketer, Rishabh Pant, to its growing talent management roster.

JSW Sports, the sports arm of the $13 billion JSW Group conglomerate, on Thursday announced the addition of India’s star cricketer, Rishabh Pant, to its growing talent management roster. The multi-year association between the two parties will see JSW Sports manage all commercial interests and marketing rights of the 23-year-old cricketer, who most recently played a starring role in India’s magnificent Test series win in Australia. As part of the association, JSW Sports will manage the athlete’s image positioning and all his commercial engagements, including brand endorsements and appearances, social media monetisation and business deals. ALSO READ: India hailed as 'Immortals', Australia under fire after Gabba stunner Ever since its inception in 2012, JSW Sports has worked towards maximizing India’s sporting potential by working with promising Indian talents across Olympic sports, football and kabaddi including Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik and wrestling star Bajrang Punia. Adding an established, yet young cricketer like Rishabh Pant to its Talent Representation Division, JSW Sports aims to kick-start a new part of their business which focuses solely on talent representation and management. Welcoming Rishabh Pant to the organisation, Mr. Mustafa Ghouse, CEO of JSW Sports, said, “I think what the world has seen Rishabh do at 23 is just the tip of the iceberg. We have always adopted a holistic approach to all our business verticals and we will continue to do that for ‘Brand Rishabh’ through this relationship. He truly is a special talent and we are confident that he has all the ingredients to become a global sporting icon.” ALSO READ: India hero Rishabh Pant hails 'dream series' after Australia upset Expressing his delight at signing on with JSW Sports, Rishabh Pant said, “I have had a close relationship with the JSW Group and am excited to embark on this new journey with JSW Sports. I have tremendous respect for the work they have been doing to promote sports in India and have seen their dedication towards helping create and sustain a sporting culture in India. After having had a detailed conversation with them, I felt this was the right choice for me at this stage of my career and I am excited to be represented by them.”

JSW Sports signs cricketer Rishabh Pant on Exclusive Talent Management Contract

<p>England captain Joe Root and India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant have made considerable gains in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings&nbsp;after their match-winning performances in the Galle and Brisbane Tests respectively.</p>

<p>Root, a formerly top-ranked batsman, has returned to the top five with his highest rating points tally (738) in two years after scoring a first-innings 228 to help win the first Test against Sri Lanka by seven wickets. Root has advanced six places, overtaking the likes of Pakistan’s Babar Azam and India’s Cheteshwar Pujara in the process.</p>

<p>Left-hander Pant’s unbeaten 89 on the last day in Brisbane that guided India to a sensational three-wicket victory over Australia, sees him attain a career-best 13th&nbsp;position to become the top-ranked wicketkeeper in the batting rankings. South Africa’s Quinton de Kock is the next wicketkeeper in the list in 15th&nbsp;position.</p>

<p>Performances in the classic Test in Brisbane resulted in quite a few other interesting changes as well.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-thanks-bcci-on-successful-tour-salutes-team-indias-courage-and-skill-357897" hreflang="en">Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill'</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne’s first-innings century took him past Virat Kohli to third position with a career-best 878 rating points, captain Tim Paine moved up three spots to 42nd&nbsp;after scores of 50 and 27 while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood leapfrogged New Zealander Tim Southee to the fourth spot after grabbing six wickets in the match, including a haul of five for 57 in the first innings.</p>

<p>For India, Shubman Gill continued his upward trajectory, moving from 68th&nbsp;to 47th&nbsp;after a crucial 91 in the second innings, Pujara progressed one place to seventh position after his dogged effort and Mohammad Siraj jumped 32 places to 45th&nbsp;position after taking six wickets in the match, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings.</p>

<p>Debutant Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur too had something to cheer about after useful efforts with both bat and ball. Sundar entered the rankings in 82nd&nbsp;(batting) and 97th&nbsp;(bowling) positions, while Thakur reentered the batting list in 113th&nbsp;position and the bowling list in 65th&nbsp;position.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chennai-super-kings-release-harbhajan-singh-ahead-of-ipl-2021-mini-auction-357900" hreflang="en">Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction</a></strong></p>

<p>England spinners Jack Leach and Dominic Bess made notable progress after their five-wicket hauls in Galle. Leach’s second innings return of five for 122 lifted him three places to 40th&nbsp;while Bess’s first innings analysis of five for 30 took him from 67th&nbsp;to 50th. Jonny Bairstow (up five places to 58th&nbsp;in batting) and Sam Curran (up two places to 39th&nbsp;in bowling) also gained.</p>

<p>For Sri Lanka, Lahiru Thirimanne’s second innings century helped him progress 12 places to 87th&nbsp;position while left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya (up six places to 47th) and medium-pace bowler Asitha Fernando (up 11 places to 96th) were the main gainers.</p>


England captain Joe Root and India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant have made considerable gains in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after their match-winning performances in the Galle and Brisbane Tests respectively.

England captain Joe Root and India wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant have made considerable gains in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after their match-winning performances in the Galle and Brisbane Tests respectively. Root, a formerly top-ranked batsman, has returned to the top five with his highest rating points tally (738) in two years after scoring a first-innings 228 to help win the first Test against Sri Lanka by seven wickets. Root has advanced six places, overtaking the likes of Pakistan’s Babar Azam and India’s Cheteshwar Pujara in the process. Left-hander Pant’s unbeaten 89 on the last day in Brisbane that guided India to a sensational three-wicket victory over Australia, sees him attain a career-best 13th position to become the top-ranked wicketkeeper in the batting rankings. South Africa’s Quinton de Kock is the next wicketkeeper in the list in 15th position. Performances in the classic Test in Brisbane resulted in quite a few other interesting changes as well. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia thanks BCCI on successful tour, salutes Team India's 'courage and skill' Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne’s first-innings century took him past Virat Kohli to third position with a career-best 878 rating points, captain Tim Paine moved up three spots to 42nd after scores of 50 and 27 while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood leapfrogged New Zealander Tim Southee to the fourth spot after grabbing six wickets in the match, including a haul of five for 57 in the first innings. For India, Shubman Gill continued his upward trajectory, moving from 68th to 47th after a crucial 91 in the second innings, Pujara progressed one place to seventh position after his dogged effort and Mohammad Siraj jumped 32 places to 45th position after taking six wickets in the match, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings. Debutant Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur too had something to cheer about after useful efforts with both bat and ball. Sundar entered the rankings in 82nd (batting) and 97th (bowling) positions, while Thakur reentered the batting list in 113th position and the bowling list in 65th position. ALSO READ: Chennai Super Kings release Harbhajan Singh ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction England spinners Jack Leach and Dominic Bess made notable progress after their five-wicket hauls in Galle. Leach’s second innings return of five for 122 lifted him three places to 40th while Bess’s first innings analysis of five for 30 took him from 67th to 50th. Jonny Bairstow (up five places to 58th in batting) and Sam Curran (up two places to 39th in bowling) also gained. For Sri Lanka, Lahiru Thirimanne’s second innings century helped him progress 12 places to 87th position while left-arm spinner Lasith Embuldeniya (up six places to 47th) and medium-pace bowler Asitha Fernando (up 11 places to 96th) were the main gainers.

ICC Test Rankings: Rishabh Pant, Joe Root touch new high after epic shows

<p>Rishabh Pant on Tuesday surpassed the likes of MS Dhoni, Farokh Engineer, Wriddhiman Saha among others to register a new record during the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane. Pant smashed a cracking half-century to raise the hopes of India clinching the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and in the process became the fastest Indian wicket-keeper to register 1000 Test runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pant touched the landmark as soon as he scored his first run in the second innings of the Brisbane Test to become the fastest among Indian wicket-keeper to score 1000 Test runs.</p>

<p>While Pant took just 27 Test innings to register the feat, the likes of Dhoni, Engineer and Saha took 32, 36 and 37 innings respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-style-of-play-allows-the-bowler-tom-moody-on-cheteshwar-pujara-357528" hreflang="en">'His style of play allows the bowler..': Tom Moody on Cheteshwar Pujara</a></strong></p>

<p>Fastest Indian WK to 1000 Test runs (by innings):</p>

<ul>
	<li>27 Rishabh Pant*</li>
	<li>32 MS Dhoni</li>
	<li>36 Farokh Engineer</li>
	<li>37 Wriddhiman Saha</li>
	<li>39 Nayan Mongia</li>
</ul>

<p>Since Dhoni’s retirement, Pant has been touted as the next Indian wicket-keeper to take the charge across formats and the youngster has returned with some impressive numbers and knocks for the Men in Blue.</p>

<p>On Day 5 of the Brisbane Test, Pant has been central to India’s hopes of winning the Test and end Australia’s record of being unbeaten at the Gabba since 1988. While Pant holds an impressive record against Australia on their home soil, the last hour of the play could still bring lot of surprises on the table.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tactics-havent-been-good-enough-shane-warne-questions-tim-paine-357500" hreflang="en">'Tactics haven’t been good enough': Shane Warne questions Tim Paine</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, India still need 50 runs to win the Test whereas Australia require five wickets to seal the series. Pant and Washington Sundar were batting for India at the time this report was published.</p>


Rishabh Pant on Tuesday surpassed the likes of MS Dhoni, Farokh Engineer, Wriddhiman Saha among others to register a new record during the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane.

Rishabh Pant on Tuesday surpassed the likes of MS Dhoni, Farokh Engineer, Wriddhiman Saha among others to register a new record during the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane. Pant smashed a cracking half-century to raise the hopes of India clinching the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and in the process became the fastest Indian wicket-keeper to register 1000 Test runs. Pant touched the landmark as soon as he scored his first run in the second innings of the Brisbane Test to become the fastest among Indian wicket-keeper to score 1000 Test runs. While Pant took just 27 Test innings to register the feat, the likes of Dhoni, Engineer and Saha took 32, 36 and 37 innings respectively. ALSO READ: 'His style of play allows the bowler..': Tom Moody on Cheteshwar Pujara Fastest Indian WK to 1000 Test runs (by innings): 27 Rishabh Pant* 32 MS Dhoni 36 Farokh Engineer 37 Wriddhiman Saha 39 Nayan Mongia Since Dhoni’s retirement, Pant has been touted as the next Indian wicket-keeper to take the charge across formats and the youngster has returned with some impressive numbers and knocks for the Men in Blue. On Day 5 of the Brisbane Test, Pant has been central to India’s hopes of winning the Test and end Australia’s record of being unbeaten at the Gabba since 1988. While Pant holds an impressive record against Australia on their home soil, the last hour of the play could still bring lot of surprises on the table. ALSO READ: 'Tactics haven’t been good enough': Shane Warne questions Tim Paine Meanwhile, India still need 50 runs to win the Test whereas Australia require five wickets to seal the series. Pant and Washington Sundar were batting for India at the time this report was published.

Rishabh Pant surpasses MS Dhoni to become fastest Indian wicket-keeper to register 1000 Test runs

<p>Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant said he was enjoying one of the "biggest moments" of his life after guiding India to a historic win over Australia with a fearless innings on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The 23-year-old hit an attacking 89, including the winning four, to clinch the four-Test series and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1.</p>

<p>Against all odds, injury-weakened India ended Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba with a record run-chase of 328 runs.</p>

<p>"This is one of the biggest moments of my life now," said Pant.</p>

<p>"It's been a dream series. The team management always backs me and tells me, you are a match-winner and you have to go win the match for the team."</p>

<p>Pant had also threatened to inspire an unlikely win in the third Test in Sydney, where he slammed 97 before the tail-enders blocked their way to a vital draw.</p>

<p>"I keep thinking every day that I want to win matches for India, and I did it today," said Pant.</p>

<p>"It was a fifth-day pitch and the ball was turning a bit. I thought I have to be disciplined with my shot selection."</p>


Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant said he was enjoying one of the "biggest moments" of his life after guiding India to a historic win over Australia with a fearless innings on Tuesday.

Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant said he was enjoying one of the "biggest moments" of his life after guiding India to a historic win over Australia with a fearless innings on Tuesday. The 23-year-old hit an attacking 89, including the winning four, to clinch the four-Test series and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. Against all odds, injury-weakened India ended Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba with a record run-chase of 328 runs. "This is one of the biggest moments of my life now," said Pant. "It's been a dream series. The team management always backs me and tells me, you are a match-winner and you have to go win the match for the team." Pant had also threatened to inspire an unlikely win in the third Test in Sydney, where he slammed 97 before the tail-enders blocked their way to a vital draw. "I keep thinking every day that I want to win matches for India, and I did it today," said Pant. "It was a fifth-day pitch and the ball was turning a bit. I thought I have to be disciplined with my shot selection."

India hero Rishabh Pant hails 'dream series' after Australia upset

How swashbuckling Rishabh Pant decimated Australia at the Gabba

<p class="MsoNormal">India on Tuesday scripted history as they became the first team to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil while ending Australia’s record of being unbeaten at the Gabba, Brisbane since 1988. Rishabh Pant was the hero for the visitors as the southpaw smashed an unbeaten 89&nbsp;to take India home and clinch a historic series win against India. With the win, India won the four-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p>This was the first defeat for Australia at their fortress Gabba in 32 years as Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara played incredible knocks in the second innings to guide India to a memorable win and Test series win.</p>

<p>Against all odds, the Indian team defeated a full-strength Australian side. While India had several stars missing since the start of the gruelling tour, more players suffered injuries only for the youngsters to step up and create history.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the Brisbane Test, Australia posted&nbsp;369 runs in the first innings after a fantastic century by Marnus Labuschagne. Indian team, missing their key players, stepped up to the occasion as the inexperienced bowling attack wreaked havoc. The likes of T Natarajan, Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar ended up with three wickets each.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India, in reply, scored 226 after crucial half-centuries from Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur. While a big score was missing in the Indian camp, the visitors hunted together to pile pressure on the Aussies.</p>

<p>Australia, in the second innings, upped the ante and scored 294 runs courtesy a fine half-century by Steve Smith and crucial knocks by David Warner, Cameron Green among others.</p>

<p>However, India defied all the odds on Day 5, as Shubman Gill started the proceedings with a spellbinding 91-run knock before Pujara and Pant took the centre stage. While Pujara scored 56, Pant ended up with an unbeaten 89 as he helped India seal the Test series 2-1.</p>

<p><b>Rishabh Pant | Player of the Match</b>: This one of my biggest days in life. The support the team has given me even when I was not playing has been incredible. It's a dream come true. We've been practising hard after the first Test. The team management always backs me and tells me you are match-winner and you have to go out there and win and I am happy I did it today. It was a fifth-day pitch and the ball was turning.</p>

<p><b>Pat Cummins | Player of the Series:</b>&nbsp;Good hard day of Test cricket today. Rishabh and the rest of India took the game on and deserved to win. I wanted the cracks to do a bit more. If we bowled well I think we could have picked up wickets. In Sydney the game was there to win on Day 5, we just didn't go for it, so yes, overall, quite happy.</p>


India on Tuesday scripted history as they became the first team to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil while ending Australia’s record of being unbeaten at the Gabba, Brisbane since 1988.

India on Tuesday scripted history as they became the first team to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil while ending Australia’s record of being unbeaten at the Gabba, Brisbane since 1988. Rishabh Pant was the hero for the visitors as the southpaw smashed an unbeaten 89 to take India home and clinch a historic series win against India. With the win, India won the four-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. This was the first defeat for Australia at their fortress Gabba in 32 years as Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara played incredible knocks in the second innings to guide India to a memorable win and Test series win. Against all odds, the Indian team defeated a full-strength Australian side. While India had several stars missing since the start of the gruelling tour, more players suffered injuries only for the youngsters to step up and create history. Talking about the Brisbane Test, Australia posted 369 runs in the first innings after a fantastic century by Marnus Labuschagne. Indian team, missing their key players, stepped up to the occasion as the inexperienced bowling attack wreaked havoc. The likes of T Natarajan, Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar ended up with three wickets each. India, in reply, scored 226 after crucial half-centuries from Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur. While a big score was missing in the Indian camp, the visitors hunted together to pile pressure on the Aussies. Australia, in the second innings, upped the ante and scored 294 runs courtesy a fine half-century by Steve Smith and crucial knocks by David Warner, Cameron Green among others. However, India defied all the odds on Day 5, as Shubman Gill started the proceedings with a spellbinding 91-run knock before Pujara and Pant took the centre stage. While Pujara scored 56, Pant ended up with an unbeaten 89 as he helped India seal the Test series 2-1. Rishabh Pant | Player of the Match: This one of my biggest days in life. The support the team has given me even when I was not playing has been incredible. It's a dream come true. We've been practising hard after the first Test. The team management always backs me and tells me you are match-winner and you have to go out there and win and I am happy I did it today. It was a fifth-day pitch and the ball was turning. Pat Cummins | Player of the Series: Good hard day of Test cricket today. Rishabh and the rest of India took the game on and deserved to win. I wanted the cracks to do a bit more. If we bowled well I think we could have picked up wickets. In Sydney the game was there to win on Day 5, we just didn't go for it, so yes, overall, quite happy.

History at the Gabba! India defeat Australia by 3 wickets, seal series 2-1

<p>Rishabh Pant has been a talking point for many reasons at the Gabba Test. However, this time it was his choice in sunglasses he wore during the first session of Day 2 against Australia on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pant's fluorescent rimmed-goggles attracted the attention of Shane Warne and Kerry O’ Keefe, Australian commentators on Fox Sports. “What do you think of those shades that Rishabh Pant is rocking Skull?” Warne asked O’Keeffe.</p>

<p>“Straight out of the service station?”</p>

<p>“They are servos aren’t they?” O’Keeffe replied.</p>

<p>“And he bought flowers as well.</p>

<p>“No they are not getting me. You would want them to get scratched so you can just put them in the bin.</p>

<p>They went on to talk about Shikhar Dhawan, who was wearing sunglasses too. To which, Warne said: “You talk about the bin Skull, but look at Shikhar Dhawan is rocking there goodness me. It looks like something out of the old movie Slapshot. I think he might need windscreen wipers Skull.”</p>

<p>“You could weld in them,” O’Keeffe replied.</p>

<p>However, this chat did not go down well with Twitteratis, as they reminded Shane Warne of the time when he wore a similar kind of goggles. Shane Warne and Fox Cricket too joined the party and shared the Australian spinner's photos with a variety of goggles.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shane Warne having a go at Rishabh Pant’s sunglasses. Also Shane Warne <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/FOXCricketLive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FOXCricketLive</a> <a href="https://t.co/EdJ3zzhhu9">pic.twitter.com/EdJ3zzhhu9</a></p>
— Tom Smirk (@smooka20) <a href="https://twitter.com/smooka20/status/1349896034722304000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shane Warne has called out Rishabh Pant for his sunglasses.<br />
<br />
Also Shane Warne:<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/wV8z3cG1qD">pic.twitter.com/wV8z3cG1qD</a></p>
— bet365_aus (@bet365_aus) <a href="https://twitter.com/bet365_aus/status/1349902912403763202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">And one more pair of servo sunnies <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FoxCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabhPant17</a> hahaha !!! 😳😳😩😩😂 <a href="https://t.co/ZS7tVcQcXY">pic.twitter.com/ZS7tVcQcXY</a></p>
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1350273352523423746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sorry mate it had to be done 😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShaneWarne</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/FqOSGT8vWQ">pic.twitter.com/FqOSGT8vWQ</a></p>
— Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket/status/1350263943554502656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Rishabh Pant has been a talking point for many reasons at the Gabba Test. However, this time it was his choice in sunglasses he wore during the first session of Day 2 against Australia on Saturday.

Rishabh Pant has been a talking point for many reasons at the Gabba Test. However, this time it was his choice in sunglasses he wore during the first session of Day 2 against Australia on Saturday. Pant's fluorescent rimmed-goggles attracted the attention of Shane Warne and Kerry O’ Keefe, Australian commentators on Fox Sports. “What do you think of those shades that Rishabh Pant is rocking Skull?” Warne asked O’Keeffe. “Straight out of the service station?” “They are servos aren’t they?” O’Keeffe replied. “And he bought flowers as well. “No they are not getting me. You would want them to get scratched so you can just put them in the bin. They went on to talk about Shikhar Dhawan, who was wearing sunglasses too. To which, Warne said: “You talk about the bin Skull, but look at Shikhar Dhawan is rocking there goodness me. It looks like something out of the old movie Slapshot. I think he might need windscreen wipers Skull.” “You could weld in them,” O’Keeffe replied. However, this chat did not go down well with Twitteratis, as they reminded Shane Warne of the time when he wore a similar kind of goggles. Shane Warne and Fox Cricket too joined the party and shared the Australian spinner's photos with a variety of goggles. Shane Warne having a go at Rishabh Pant’s sunglasses. Also Shane Warne #AUSvsIND @FOXCricketLive pic.twitter.com/EdJ3zzhhu9 — Tom Smirk (@smooka20) January 15, 2021 × Shane Warne has called out Rishabh Pant for his sunglasses. Also Shane Warne:#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/wV8z3cG1qD — bet365_aus (@bet365_aus) January 15, 2021 × And one more pair of servo sunnies @FoxCricket @RishabhPant17 hahaha !!! 😳😳😩😩😂 pic.twitter.com/ZS7tVcQcXY — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) January 16, 2021 × Sorry mate it had to be done 😂 @ShaneWarne #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/FqOSGT8vWQ — Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) January 16, 2021 ×

Shane Warne trolls Rishabh Pant fluorescent rimmed-goggles; netizens respond

<p>Former India opener Gautam Gambhir praised his fellow Delhi-based batsman Rishabh Pant for his splendid knock at the Sydney Cricket Ground in the third Test against Australia. Pant's quickfire 97 runs brought India back into the game after skipper Rahane was out early on Day 5.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/really-proud-sachin-tendulkar-leads-wishes-for-team-india-after-unforgettable-draw-in-sydney-355962" hreflang="en">'Really proud': Sachin Tendulkar leads wishes for Team India after unforgettable draw in Sydney</a></p>

<p>“Rishabh Pant batted really well. Obviously, he batted the way he should've batted and he backed his strengths and he lived by the sword and you die by it. Yes, people might just say that there was no need to play that shot, but he kept playing and kept India in the game,” Gambhir said on Star Sports' Cricket Connected show.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-dravid-of-indias-bowling-unit-aussie-great-steve-waugh-praises-this-indian-bowler-356446" hreflang="en">'He is Dravid of India's bowling unit': Aussie great Steve Waugh praises this Indian bowler</a></p>

<p>He went on to add that Rishabh provided India with a chance to win and chase a mammoth target of 407.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Had he batted a bit more longer India could have actually gone on to win the Test match, which probably would have been the most historic win ever,” he added.</p>

<p>Cricketer-turned-politician Gambhir also praised Cheteshwar Pujara for actually&nbsp;'play time and session'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“When we talk about Cheteshwar Pujara, you can talk as much as you can and as much as you want about his strike-rate, but there are very few batters going around in world cricket who can actually play time and session and he's one of them. One might just think that you are only been able to draw the Test match, but these kinds of draws are probably as big as winning in Australia,” Gambhir said.</p>

<p>Pujara and Pant's partnership kept India in contention at the SCG.&nbsp;</p>


Former India opener Gautam Gambhir praised his fellow Delhi-based batsman Rishabh Pant for his splendid knock at the Sydney Cricket Ground in the third Test against Australia.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir praised his fellow Delhi-based batsman Rishabh Pant for his splendid knock at the Sydney Cricket Ground in the third Test against Australia. Pant's quickfire 97 runs brought India back into the game after skipper Rahane was out early on Day 5. ALSO READ: 'Really proud': Sachin Tendulkar leads wishes for Team India after unforgettable draw in Sydney “Rishabh Pant batted really well. Obviously, he batted the way he should've batted and he backed his strengths and he lived by the sword and you die by it. Yes, people might just say that there was no need to play that shot, but he kept playing and kept India in the game,” Gambhir said on Star Sports' Cricket Connected show. ALSO READ: 'He is Dravid of India's bowling unit': Aussie great Steve Waugh praises this Indian bowler He went on to add that Rishabh provided India with a chance to win and chase a mammoth target of 407. “Had he batted a bit more longer India could have actually gone on to win the Test match, which probably would have been the most historic win ever,” he added. Cricketer-turned-politician Gambhir also praised Cheteshwar Pujara for actually 'play time and session'. “When we talk about Cheteshwar Pujara, you can talk as much as you can and as much as you want about his strike-rate, but there are very few batters going around in world cricket who can actually play time and session and he's one of them. One might just think that you are only been able to draw the Test match, but these kinds of draws are probably as big as winning in Australia,” Gambhir said. Pujara and Pant's partnership kept India in contention at the SCG.

'He batted the way he should've batted': Gautam Gambhir praises Rishabh Pant for his brave knock at the SCG

<p>Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant hit a superb 97 to bring India in fighting distance of Australia's target of 407&nbsp;on the final day of the Sydney Test but the Australians hit back taking the crucial wicket of&nbsp;Pujara.</p>

<p>Pant's 118-ball innings contained 12 boundaries and 2 sixes but he fell 3 runs short of his ton to Nathan Lyon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's middle-order spearhead Cheteshwar Pujara who has been out of form in this series fell on 77 to Hazelwood after&nbsp;batting fluently having played over 205&nbsp;balls with 12 boundaries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India lost their third wicket early on the fifth morning as captain Rahane fell to Lyon with India in deep trouble at 102/3 when Rishab Pant walked in and together as India's wicketkeeper-batsman led from the front.</p>

<p>Pujara and Pant put on a solid 148-run partnership to bring India back in the game even though Australia's 407-run target still looks distant with India having lost 4 wickets with not much batting to come in lower order with Jadeja nursing an injury.</p>

<p>Australian spinner Nathan Lyon was the pick of the bowlers having grabbed the crucial wicket of Pant and Rahane even as Hazelwood and Starc looked lacklustre.</p>

<p>Australia has taken the second new ball hoping to make inroads into the Indian batting lineup. India and Australia are locked 1-1 in the 4 matches Test series with the final set to be played in Brisbane.</p>


Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant hit a superb 97 to bring India in fighting distance of Australia's target of 407 on the final day of the Sydney Test but the Australians hit back taking the crucial wicket of Pujara.

Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant hit a superb 97 to bring India in fighting distance of Australia's target of 407 on the final day of the Sydney Test but the Australians hit back taking the crucial wicket of Pujara. Pant's 118-ball innings contained 12 boundaries and 2 sixes but he fell 3 runs short of his ton to Nathan Lyon. India's middle-order spearhead Cheteshwar Pujara who has been out of form in this series fell on 77 to Hazelwood after batting fluently having played over 205 balls with 12 boundaries. India lost their third wicket early on the fifth morning as captain Rahane fell to Lyon with India in deep trouble at 102/3 when Rishab Pant walked in and together as India's wicketkeeper-batsman led from the front. Pujara and Pant put on a solid 148-run partnership to bring India back in the game even though Australia's 407-run target still looks distant with India having lost 4 wickets with not much batting to come in lower order with Jadeja nursing an injury. Australian spinner Nathan Lyon was the pick of the bowlers having grabbed the crucial wicket of Pant and Rahane even as Hazelwood and Starc looked lacklustre. Australia has taken the second new ball hoping to make inroads into the Indian batting lineup. India and Australia are locked 1-1 in the 4 matches Test series with the final set to be played in Brisbane.

Sydney Test: Pant, Pujara fall as Australia claw their way back on final day

<p>India had a poor day of cricket on Day 3 of the third Test against Australia, however, the visitors suffered another blow as wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and key spinner Ravindra Jadeja sustained injuries while batting against world-class pace attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both players have been taken for a scan after being struck by the ball. Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja were hit on the left elbow and left thumb respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pant and Jadeja both decided to bat further despite being struck, but when India came down to field again Saha donned the wicket keeper's gloves for India.&nbsp;<br />
"Rishabh Pant was hit on the left elbow while batting in the second session on Saturday. He has been taken for scans," the Indian cricket board tweeted.</p>

<p>It was a similar story for Jadeja, who took four wickets in Australia's first innings but did not appear for their second after being hit on the left thumb.</p>

<p>"He has been taken for scans," the cricket board tweeted separately, with Mayank Agarwal on the field as a sub.</p>

<p>They now join the likes of Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav and Ishant Sharma, who have been injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Batsman KL Rahul was ruled out of the rest of the four-Test series ahead of Sydney with a sprained left wrist, while skipper Virat Kohli is on paternity leave.</p>

<p>The series is locked at 1-1 after Australia won in Adelaide and India bounced back in Melbourne.</p>


India had a poor day of cricket on Day 3 of the third Test against Australia, however, the visitors suffered another blow as wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and key spinner Ravindra Jadeja sustained injuries while batting against world-class pace attack.

India had a poor day of cricket on Day 3 of the third Test against Australia, however, the visitors suffered another blow as wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant and key spinner Ravindra Jadeja sustained injuries while batting against world-class pace attack. Both players have been taken for a scan after being struck by the ball. Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja were hit on the left elbow and left thumb respectively. Pant and Jadeja both decided to bat further despite being struck, but when India came down to field again Saha donned the wicket keeper's gloves for India. "Rishabh Pant was hit on the left elbow while batting in the second session on Saturday. He has been taken for scans," the Indian cricket board tweeted. It was a similar story for Jadeja, who took four wickets in Australia's first innings but did not appear for their second after being hit on the left thumb. "He has been taken for scans," the cricket board tweeted separately, with Mayank Agarwal on the field as a sub. They now join the likes of Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav and Ishant Sharma, who have been injured. Batsman KL Rahul was ruled out of the rest of the four-Test series ahead of Sydney with a sprained left wrist, while skipper Virat Kohli is on paternity leave. The series is locked at 1-1 after Australia won in Adelaide and India bounced back in Melbourne.

Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja go for scan after being struck by ball

<p>Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting was concerned about Rishabh Pant's form as a wicketkeeper after the 21-year-old dropped Australia opener Will Pucovski twice in three overs in the third Test at the SCG.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/that-was-loose-shot-mark-waugh-unimpressed-in-the-way-warner-got-out-in-third-test-355140" hreflang="en">'That was loose shot': Mark Waugh unimpressed in the way Warner got out in third Test</a></p>

<p>“The one’s (dropped catches) today are two that should be taken, simple as that. It’s probably lucky for Rishabh that Pucovski didn’t go on and make a big hundred or a double hundred and looking at the wicket, it looks like an unbelievable surface,” Ponting told cricket.com.au.</p>

<p>Pucovski, who was dropped on 26, went on to score 62 before being dismissed by debutant Navdeep Saini. Pant has been a part of 65 dismissals in 14 Test match, however, the wicket-keeper batsman has dropped some crucial catches in the past.</p>

<p>“I’m sure when Rishabh put those catches down, he would have thought the worst and ‘here we go, he’s really going to make me pay’ but (Pucovski) didn’t today,” Ponting added. “I’ve said it all along, the knock-on Rishabh is always going to be on his keeping. Since his debut in Test cricket, he’s dropped more catches than any other keeper in the world. That highlights he has got some work to do with his keeping.”</p>

<p>Ponting praised Pucovski for his crucial 62.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The thing I liked most was his composure. He looked really composed, he didn’t look overawed at all. He looked like he trusted his game, trusted his defence early on against some good fast bowling and just before the tea break started to expand his game a little bit; (he played) some nice cut shots, back-foot punches and some nice pull shots,” Ponting said.</p>

<p>“It’s a great start. He’ll be disappointed, no doubt, that he didn’t really cash in and make a big score. But at the same time, I think he’ll be quite content knowing he’s got a game that can stand up at Test level. We’ll all keep our fingers crossed and hope that he stays fit and healthy because he could potentially be a 10- or 12-year player for Australia.”</p>


Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting was concerned about Rishabh Pant's form as a wicketkeeper after the 21-year-old dropped Australia opener Will Pucovski twice in three overs in the third Test at the SCG.

Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting was concerned about Rishabh Pant's form as a wicketkeeper after the 21-year-old dropped Australia opener Will Pucovski twice in three overs in the third Test at the SCG. ALSO READ: 'That was loose shot': Mark Waugh unimpressed in the way Warner got out in third Test “The one’s (dropped catches) today are two that should be taken, simple as that. It’s probably lucky for Rishabh that Pucovski didn’t go on and make a big hundred or a double hundred and looking at the wicket, it looks like an unbelievable surface,” Ponting told cricket.com.au. Pucovski, who was dropped on 26, went on to score 62 before being dismissed by debutant Navdeep Saini. Pant has been a part of 65 dismissals in 14 Test match, however, the wicket-keeper batsman has dropped some crucial catches in the past. “I’m sure when Rishabh put those catches down, he would have thought the worst and ‘here we go, he’s really going to make me pay’ but (Pucovski) didn’t today,” Ponting added. “I’ve said it all along, the knock-on Rishabh is always going to be on his keeping. Since his debut in Test cricket, he’s dropped more catches than any other keeper in the world. That highlights he has got some work to do with his keeping.” Ponting praised Pucovski for his crucial 62. “The thing I liked most was his composure. He looked really composed, he didn’t look overawed at all. He looked like he trusted his game, trusted his defence early on against some good fast bowling and just before the tea break started to expand his game a little bit; (he played) some nice cut shots, back-foot punches and some nice pull shots,” Ponting said. “It’s a great start. He’ll be disappointed, no doubt, that he didn’t really cash in and make a big score. But at the same time, I think he’ll be quite content knowing he’s got a game that can stand up at Test level. We’ll all keep our fingers crossed and hope that he stays fit and healthy because he could potentially be a 10- or 12-year player for Australia.”

'He’s dropped more catches than any other keeper in world': Ricky Ponting on Rishabh Pant

<p>Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday got emotional as the Indian national anthem boomed at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground ahead of the third Test. Siraj was seen wiping off his tears as both the teams lined up for their respective national anthem. After the end of day’s play, Siraj revealed why he got emotional as he said that he was missing his father, who had passed away around a week after the Indian team landed in Australia. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Siraj, who had the option of heading home to be with his family, stayed with the team in a bid to serve his nation, which was his father’s dream as well. Siraj, who made his debut in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, said his father always wanted me to play Test cricket and would have been proud today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I was missing my dad during the national anthem. My dad always wanted me to play Test cricket and he would have been really proud to see me in whites for India,” Siraj told reporters in a virtual press conference after the end of Day 1’s play in Sydney.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mohammed Siraj on why he got so emotional while the National Anthem was being played at the SCG.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/zo0Wc8h14A">pic.twitter.com/zo0Wc8h14A</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1347121794264678400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/labuschagne-pucovski-half-centuries-give-australia-edge-on-day-1-of-sydney-test-355087" hreflang="en">Labuschagne, Pucovski half-centuries give Australia edge on Day 1 of Sydney Test</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Even if there's little or no crowd to cheer you on, no better motivation than playing for India. As a legend once said "You don't play for the crowd, you play for the country." 🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/qAwIyiUrSI">pic.twitter.com/qAwIyiUrSI</a></p>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1346980790974877696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I just want certain people to remember this picture. He is <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SirajMohammed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SirajMohammed</a> and this is what the national anthem means to him <a href="https://t.co/eJi9Xeww8E">pic.twitter.com/eJi9Xeww8E</a></p>
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohammadKaif/status/1347071717630377984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>India on Thursday toiled hard against Australia in what was Day 1 of the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. On a flat track, the Indian bowlers kept their bowling tight but Australia ended up with 166/2 at stumps. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-siraj-gets-teary-eyed-during-national-anthem-before-sydney-test-355074" hreflang="en">Watch: Mohammed Siraj gets teary-eyed during national anthem before Sydney Test</a></strong></p>

<p>Navdeep Saini made his Test debut for India and Siraj, who was placed at mid-on, was seen talking to the debutant despite being just one Test old. The bonding shows the unity in the Indian team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Navdeep Saini and I have played a lot for India A. I was just telling him to focus on his bowling just like India A days and bowl consistent line and lengths,” Siraj said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Rishabh Pant dropped two catches, both of Will Pucovski, which proved costly as the Aussie Test debutant went on to register a half-century. However, Siraj was not focusing on dropped chances and rather said that they, as a team know how to move quickly from an incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Dropped catches are part of cricket. Obviously, a bowler gets irked after dropped catches but we are a team and know how to move on from an incident quickly,” Siraj said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked what will be India’s plan on Day 2 of the Sydney Test, Siraj said the bowling unit is focusing on putting pressure on the Aussies by bowling tight. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are trying to build pressure by bowling consistent line and lenghts. If we can bowl tight and build presure with dot balls then it can help us,” Siraj said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Day 2 of India vs Australia third Test will start early at 4:30 AM IST.&nbsp;</p>


Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday got emotional as the Indian national anthem boomed at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground ahead of the third Test. Siraj was seen wiping off his tears as both the teams lined up for their respective national anthem.

Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj on Thursday got emotional as the Indian national anthem boomed at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground ahead of the third Test. Siraj was seen wiping off his tears as both the teams lined up for their respective national anthem. After the end of day’s play, Siraj revealed why he got emotional as he said that he was missing his father, who had passed away around a week after the Indian team landed in Australia. Siraj, who had the option of heading home to be with his family, stayed with the team in a bid to serve his nation, which was his father’s dream as well. Siraj, who made his debut in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, said his father always wanted me to play Test cricket and would have been proud today. “I was missing my dad during the national anthem. My dad always wanted me to play Test cricket and he would have been really proud to see me in whites for India,” Siraj told reporters in a virtual press conference after the end of Day 1’s play in Sydney. Mohammed Siraj on why he got so emotional while the National Anthem was being played at the SCG.#TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/zo0Wc8h14A — BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2021 × ALSO READ: Labuschagne, Pucovski half-centuries give Australia edge on Day 1 of Sydney Test Even if there's little or no crowd to cheer you on, no better motivation than playing for India. As a legend once said "You don't play for the crowd, you play for the country." 🇮🇳 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/qAwIyiUrSI — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) January 7, 2021 × I just want certain people to remember this picture. He is #SirajMohammed and this is what the national anthem means to him pic.twitter.com/eJi9Xeww8E — Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) January 7, 2021 × India on Thursday toiled hard against Australia in what was Day 1 of the third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. On a flat track, the Indian bowlers kept their bowling tight but Australia ended up with 166/2 at stumps. ALSO READ: Watch: Mohammed Siraj gets teary-eyed during national anthem before Sydney Test Navdeep Saini made his Test debut for India and Siraj, who was placed at mid-on, was seen talking to the debutant despite being just one Test old. The bonding shows the unity in the Indian team. “Navdeep Saini and I have played a lot for India A. I was just telling him to focus on his bowling just like India A days and bowl consistent line and lengths,” Siraj said. Rishabh Pant dropped two catches, both of Will Pucovski, which proved costly as the Aussie Test debutant went on to register a half-century. However, Siraj was not focusing on dropped chances and rather said that they, as a team know how to move quickly from an incident. “Dropped catches are part of cricket. Obviously, a bowler gets irked after dropped catches but we are a team and know how to move on from an incident quickly,” Siraj said. When asked what will be India’s plan on Day 2 of the Sydney Test, Siraj said the bowling unit is focusing on putting pressure on the Aussies by bowling tight. “We are trying to build pressure by bowling consistent line and lenghts. If we can bowl tight and build presure with dot balls then it can help us,” Siraj said. The Day 2 of India vs Australia third Test will start early at 4:30 AM IST.

'Was missing my dad': Mohammed Siraj on getting emotional during Indian national anthem

<p>The five Indian players -- Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw and Navdeep Saini -- who are at the centre of an alleged breach of Cricket Australia`s bio-security protocols, are expected to play in the third Test beginning Thursday at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) despite an ongoing investigation by the BCCI.<br />
<br />
The five players, who were put in isolation after both the Australian and Indian cricket boards launched an investigation into a video showing them sitting indoors in a restaurant in Melbourne on Friday, have been asked to train separately from the rest of the squad and it could be possible that they will travel on Monday separately from the squad.<br />
<br />
According to a Sydney Morning Herald (SMH) report, the Board of Control for Cricket in India is expected to take a "pragmatic approach" should it find the quintet had breached the bio-security protocols. Cricket Australia cannot sanction the said players even if their rules are found to have been broken as the quintet are not their employees, the SMH report further stated.<br />
<br />
The Indian side on Sunday boarded two buses to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for a gym session after their practice session was cancelled due to rain.<br />
<br />
Gill boarded a team bus to return to the hotel with several other members of the touring party after training but a spokesman for the Indian side said social distancing requirements were met, the report claimed.<br />
<br />
According to the publication, Friday`s incident was not the first time that Indian players seemingly breached the bio-secure protocols.<br />
<br />
India captain Virat Kohli and limited-overs all-rounder Hardik Pandya were also pictured at a shop in Sydney in early December during the white-ball leg of the tour.<br />
<br />
There have been reports emerging about Team India`s reluctance to play the fourth and final Test of the ongoing series in Brisbane due to harsher bio-security protocols in Queensland.<br />
<br />
However, members of the Queensland government have stated that the Indian team should not enter the state if they are unwilling to coordinate with the protocols that have been laid out.<br />
<br />
The ongoing four-match series is currently tied at 1-1 with Australia winning the first Test in Adelaide while India registering a win in the second in Melbourne.</p>


The five Indian players -- Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw and Navdeep Saini -- who are at the centre of an alleged breach of Cricket Australia`s bio-security protocols, are expected to play in the third Test beginning Thursday at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) despite an ongoing investigation by the BCCI.

The five Indian players -- Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw and Navdeep Saini -- who are at the centre of an alleged breach of Cricket Australia`s bio-security protocols, are expected to play in the third Test beginning Thursday at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) despite an ongoing investigation by the BCCI. The five players, who were put in isolation after both the Australian and Indian cricket boards launched an investigation into a video showing them sitting indoors in a restaurant in Melbourne on Friday, have been asked to train separately from the rest of the squad and it could be possible that they will travel on Monday separately from the squad. According to a Sydney Morning Herald (SMH) report, the Board of Control for Cricket in India is expected to take a "pragmatic approach" should it find the quintet had breached the bio-security protocols. Cricket Australia cannot sanction the said players even if their rules are found to have been broken as the quintet are not their employees, the SMH report further stated. The Indian side on Sunday boarded two buses to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for a gym session after their practice session was cancelled due to rain. Gill boarded a team bus to return to the hotel with several other members of the touring party after training but a spokesman for the Indian side said social distancing requirements were met, the report claimed. According to the publication, Friday`s incident was not the first time that Indian players seemingly breached the bio-secure protocols. India captain Virat Kohli and limited-overs all-rounder Hardik Pandya were also pictured at a shop in Sydney in early December during the white-ball leg of the tour. There have been reports emerging about Team India`s reluctance to play the fourth and final Test of the ongoing series in Brisbane due to harsher bio-security protocols in Queensland. However, members of the Queensland government have stated that the Indian team should not enter the state if they are unwilling to coordinate with the protocols that have been laid out. The ongoing four-match series is currently tied at 1-1 with Australia winning the first Test in Adelaide while India registering a win in the second in Melbourne.

Sharma, Gill, Pant expected to play 3rd Test despite bubble inquiry: report

<p>Five players in Team India have been placed under isolation as Cricket Australia (CA) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are investigating allegations of breach of biosecurity protocols after a video surfaced showing the players eating at a Melbourne restaurant.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-suffers-cardiac-arrest-admitted-in-woodlands-hospital-354021" hreflang="en">BCCI president Sourav Ganguly suffers cardiac arrest; undergoing primary angioplasty</a></p>

<p>Recently a video made rounds on social media where Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Navdeep Saini and Prithvi Shaw can be seen dining together. These allegations come amidst the Border-Gavaskar Trophy where India is scheduled to take on Australia for the third Test of the series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the strict biosecurity protocols set by Cricket Australia, players are allowed to sit outside but not allowed to dine inside restaurants.</p>

<p>"On the advice of the Australian and Indian medical teams, the aforementioned players have been placed in isolation as a precaution. This will include separating the group of players from the broader Indian and Australian squads when travelling and at the training venue," stated a release from Cricket Australia.</p>

<p>"The BCCI and CA are investigating the matter and seeking to determine whether the outing constitutes a breach of biosecurity protocols," Cricket Australia said in a statement.</p>

<p>The third Test is scheduled to take place on January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.&nbsp;</p>


Five players in Team India have been placed under isolation as Cricket Australia (CA) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are investigating allegations of breach of biosecurity protocols after a video surfaced showing the players eating at a Melbourne restaurant.

Five players in Team India have been placed under isolation as Cricket Australia (CA) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are investigating allegations of breach of biosecurity protocols after a video surfaced showing the players eating at a Melbourne restaurant. Also read: BCCI president Sourav Ganguly suffers cardiac arrest; undergoing primary angioplasty Recently a video made rounds on social media where Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Navdeep Saini and Prithvi Shaw can be seen dining together. These allegations come amidst the Border-Gavaskar Trophy where India is scheduled to take on Australia for the third Test of the series. According to the strict biosecurity protocols set by Cricket Australia, players are allowed to sit outside but not allowed to dine inside restaurants. "On the advice of the Australian and Indian medical teams, the aforementioned players have been placed in isolation as a precaution. This will include separating the group of players from the broader Indian and Australian squads when travelling and at the training venue," stated a release from Cricket Australia. "The BCCI and CA are investigating the matter and seeking to determine whether the outing constitutes a breach of biosecurity protocols," Cricket Australia said in a statement. The third Test is scheduled to take place on January 7 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Five players in Team India placed under in precautionary isolation over alleged breach in protocols

<p>The Indian cricket team on Friday announced their playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against Australia, scheduled to start from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, as the visitors brought in the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant while handing debuts to youngsters Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Virat Kohli (paternity leave) and Mohammed Shami (injury) will not be available for the rest of the series as Jadeja and Siraj respectively replaced the duo in the playing XI while Gill replaced out-of-form Prithvi Shaw and Pant came in for Wriddhiman Saha. &nbsp;</p>

<p>India recorded their lowest Test total of 36 runs in the second innings of Adelaide Test where Australia thumped India by eight wickets inside three days to take a 1-0 lead in the series.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paine-wary-of-depleted-india-in-melbourne-352235" hreflang="en">Paine wary of depleted India in Melbourne</a></strong></p>

<p>“Each and every individual in this team is really capable of doing well, so it’s really a challenge for the captain and management to select the 11,” Rahane told a video conference on Friday.</p>

<p>“We had just one bad hour (in Adelaide). It’s about staying positive, backing your own ability and batting in partnerships.”</p>

<p>Earlier on Friday, Rahane’s Australian counterpart Tim Paine said that India, without Kohli and others, were more than capable of turning the tables in their favour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The moment we take our foot off the pedal, and think we’re going all right (performances can slip),” Paine told reporters. “A huge focus of ours ... has been winning after winning.</p>

<p>“We’ve been fantastic in how we’ve prepared for this game.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-will-come-out-and-fight-kris-srikkanth-on-boxing-day-test-352155" hreflang="en">'India will come out and fight': Kris Srikkanth on Boxing Day Test</a></strong></p>

<p>The Melbourne Cricket Ground is normally jam-packed during Boxing Day Tests but due to COVID-19 restrictions, the crowd has been limited to 30,000.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“It’s going to be different isn’t it,” Paine said.</p>

<p>“I think we’re just lucky to be playing a Boxing Day test at the MCG.”</p>


The Indian cricket team on Friday announced their playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against Australia, scheduled to start from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, as the visitors brought in the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant while handing debuts to youngsters Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj.

The Indian cricket team on Friday announced their playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against Australia, scheduled to start from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, as the visitors brought in the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant while handing debuts to youngsters Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj. Virat Kohli (paternity leave) and Mohammed Shami (injury) will not be available for the rest of the series as Jadeja and Siraj respectively replaced the duo in the playing XI while Gill replaced out-of-form Prithvi Shaw and Pant came in for Wriddhiman Saha. India recorded their lowest Test total of 36 runs in the second innings of Adelaide Test where Australia thumped India by eight wickets inside three days to take a 1-0 lead in the series. ALSO READ: Paine wary of depleted India in Melbourne “Each and every individual in this team is really capable of doing well, so it’s really a challenge for the captain and management to select the 11,” Rahane told a video conference on Friday. “We had just one bad hour (in Adelaide). It’s about staying positive, backing your own ability and batting in partnerships.” Earlier on Friday, Rahane’s Australian counterpart Tim Paine said that India, without Kohli and others, were more than capable of turning the tables in their favour. “The moment we take our foot off the pedal, and think we’re going all right (performances can slip),” Paine told reporters. “A huge focus of ours ... has been winning after winning. “We’ve been fantastic in how we’ve prepared for this game.” ALSO READ: 'India will come out and fight': Kris Srikkanth on Boxing Day Test The Melbourne Cricket Ground is normally jam-packed during Boxing Day Tests but due to COVID-19 restrictions, the crowd has been limited to 30,000. “It’s going to be different isn’t it,” Paine said. “I think we’re just lucky to be playing a Boxing Day test at the MCG.”

India announce playing XI for Boxing Day Test vs Australia; Shubman Gill to debut

<p>The Indian cricket team suffered utter humiliation in their eight-wicket defeat to Australia in the Adelaide Test as Australia got off to a perfect start to take an early 1-0 lead into the four-match Border Gavaskar Trophy. For the first time in their history, none of the Indian batsmen got into double figures while registering the lowest Test score for India. And after the Adelaide horror, Indian team is set to make landslide changes into the playing XI for the second Test, which will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26.</p>

<p>According to a report in TOI, Indian team is set to make as many as five changes in the playing XI. Two of the five changes come forced with Virat Kohli leaving for India and Mohammed Shami down and out with a fractured hand. Apart from Kohli and Shami, the likes of Wriddhiman Saha, Prithvi Shaw and Hanuma Vihari are also expected to warm the bench in the Boxing Day Test.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-crickets-bubble-burst-in-2021-351308" hreflang="en">Will cricket's bubble burst in 2021?</a></strong></p>

<p>Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and either of Mohammed Siraj or Navdeep Saini are set to be included in the playing XI as Indian team looks to bounce back after a catastrophic performance in Adelaide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Opener Prithvi Shaw could be replaced by KL Rahul, talented youngster Shubhman Gill will make his Test debut, replacing skipper Virat Kohli at No 4. Hanuma Vihari may make way for the fit-again Ravindra Jadeja. Wriddhiman Saha could lose his wicketkeeper's spot to Rishabh Pant, and either of Mohammed Siraj or Navdeep Saini can replace injured pacer Mohammed Shami," a BCCI source told TOI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/warne-vs-tendulkar-monkeygate-5-classic-australia-vs-india-encounters-349950" hreflang="en">Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters</a></strong></p>

<p>Gill is likely to be slotted in at number four, the spot Virat Kohli bats in Test cricket while Rahul is expected to open the innings with Mayank Agarwal. Pant will come in as a natural replacement for Saha with Jadeja, if fit, likely to get in the team in place of Vihari, whose exclusion will come as a surprise if it happens.</p>

<p>With Siraj and Saini fighting for the third seamer’s spot in Shami’s absence, it would be interesting to see whom the Indian team management picks in the final team.</p>


The Indian cricket team suffered utter humiliation in their eight-wicket defeat to Australia in the Adelaide Test as Australia got off to a perfect start to take an early 1-0 lead into the four-match Border Gavaskar Trophy.

The Indian cricket team suffered utter humiliation in their eight-wicket defeat to Australia in the Adelaide Test as Australia got off to a perfect start to take an early 1-0 lead into the four-match Border Gavaskar Trophy. For the first time in their history, none of the Indian batsmen got into double figures while registering the lowest Test score for India. And after the Adelaide horror, Indian team is set to make landslide changes into the playing XI for the second Test, which will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26. According to a report in TOI, Indian team is set to make as many as five changes in the playing XI. Two of the five changes come forced with Virat Kohli leaving for India and Mohammed Shami down and out with a fractured hand. Apart from Kohli and Shami, the likes of Wriddhiman Saha, Prithvi Shaw and Hanuma Vihari are also expected to warm the bench in the Boxing Day Test. ALSO READ: Will cricket's bubble burst in 2021? Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and either of Mohammed Siraj or Navdeep Saini are set to be included in the playing XI as Indian team looks to bounce back after a catastrophic performance in Adelaide. "Opener Prithvi Shaw could be replaced by KL Rahul, talented youngster Shubhman Gill will make his Test debut, replacing skipper Virat Kohli at No 4. Hanuma Vihari may make way for the fit-again Ravindra Jadeja. Wriddhiman Saha could lose his wicketkeeper's spot to Rishabh Pant, and either of Mohammed Siraj or Navdeep Saini can replace injured pacer Mohammed Shami," a BCCI source told TOI. ALSO READ: Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters Gill is likely to be slotted in at number four, the spot Virat Kohli bats in Test cricket while Rahul is expected to open the innings with Mayank Agarwal. Pant will come in as a natural replacement for Saha with Jadeja, if fit, likely to get in the team in place of Vihari, whose exclusion will come as a surprise if it happens. With Siraj and Saini fighting for the third seamer’s spot in Shami’s absence, it would be interesting to see whom the Indian team management picks in the final team.

AUS vs IND: After Adelaide horror, Indian team set to make 5 changes in playing XI

<p>The Indian team on Thursday announced its playing XI for the first Test of the four-match Border Gavaskar Trophy with a couple of surprising picks. The day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval is set to be played between India and Australia from December 17 in what promises to be a thrilling pink-ball Test. However, some of the fans were irked by the calls taken by the Indian team management after the playing XI for the Adelaide Test was announced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prithvi Shaw and Wriddhiman Saha were picked over Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant and fans were left scratching their heads over the calls. Shaw has been out of form for some time now. Even though it would be harsh on the youngster to mix formats and judge his form, Shaw’s form in the two warm-up matches against Australia A suggested that he is struggling with his technique and confidence. His form in IPL and knack of finding different ways of throwing his wickets away has been questioned by pundits and fans.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-announce-playing-xi-for-adelaide-test-vs-australia-prithvi-shaw-wriddhiman-saha-get-the-nod-350128" hreflang="en">India announce playing XI for Adelaide Test vs Australia; Prithvi Shaw, Wriddhiman Saha get the nod</a></strong></p>

<p>On the other hand, Shubman Gill looked classy in the warm-up matches and scored a scintillating half-century in the pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A. Gill’s technique has been praised by many and given the bouncier conditions in Australia, his comfort of playing the ball on the up was seen as an added advantage. However, he will have to wait for his Test cap and is expected to be in the playing XI once Virat Kohli leaves for India after the Adelaide Test.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In the Practice matches against Australia A, Prithvi Shaw scores is 0, 19, 40 and 3 and Shubman Gill scorers 0, 29, 43, and 65. Gill was in excellent form and he looked very good in the Pink Ball Practice match while batting. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a></p>
— CricketMAN2 (@man4_cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/man4_cricket/status/1339126645379067904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I am finding it difficult to understand why KL Rahul and Shubman Gill are sitting outside. Prithvi Shaw was a failure in both practice games.<br />
<br />
This is ridiculous. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/BnervyIosM">pic.twitter.com/BnervyIosM</a></p>
— Aayush Sharma | آیوش شرما 🏳️‍🌈 (@JournalistWFH) <a href="https://twitter.com/JournalistWFH/status/1339126383805571074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shubman Gill should have been in the playing 11. He is much more consistent than Prithvi Shaw. <a href="https://t.co/7WX1afpcqv">https://t.co/7WX1afpcqv</a></p>
— Subrata Panda (@subratapanda) <a href="https://twitter.com/subratapanda/status/1339124003701551105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Terrible.<br />
Shubman Gill having proved his abilities in the warm up matches but still not in the playing 11.<br />
Shubman Gill should've been replaced for Prithvi Shaw. <a href="https://t.co/09UGjJRrGs">pic.twitter.com/09UGjJRrGs</a></p>
— Vishal S (@veee_shaall) <a href="https://twitter.com/veee_shaall/status/1339122352739688448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prithvi Shaw and Wriddhiman Saha over Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill!<br />
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Shocked n surprised at the selection. Last tour in Australia, Rishabh was second highest Indian scorer. Both Gill n him played well in practise match as well! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RaviShastriOfc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a></p>
— Shivam 🇮🇳 |🎸| (@itsShivam18) <a href="https://twitter.com/itsShivam18/status/1339122122463985664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It's just too hard on Shubman Gill. Looked in fine touch in practice match. Even in NZ tour games he scored 83, 204* 136 in first class games still fail to debut . I hope they select him in 2nd Test when kohli leaves. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shubmangill?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shubmangill</a></p>
— Uday (@Udaycric) <a href="https://twitter.com/Udaycric/status/1339122027307945984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tough luck Shubman Gill and KL Rahul! Team Management has gone with a big gamble here with Shaw and Saha!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsIND</a></p>
— Daanveer ↗️ (@daanveers) <a href="https://twitter.com/daanveers/status/1339121128632066049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rishabh Pant should’ve made it in the playing XI<br />
<br />
He had a brilliant practice game he is a busy batsmen would keep the score board ticking over fast. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a></p>
— Qas. (@QAS__786) <a href="https://twitter.com/QAS__786/status/1339129450521382912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Wriddhiman Saha, who is arguably the finest wicket-keeper in the world, has been picked over Rishabh Pant. While Pant’s form is also not the best, the southpaw scored a breathtaking century in the second warm-up match against Australia A.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/warne-vs-tendulkar-monkeygate-5-classic-australia-vs-india-encounters-349950" hreflang="en">Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters</a></strong></p>

<p>If Shaw can get picked due to his previous performances in Test then it was Pant who scored a century on Australian soil the last time India visited Down Under.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While some of the fans are irked by these two decisions, they would be hoping that India start the much-awaited series with a win over Australia.</p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; outline: 0px !important; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><strong>India Playing XI vs Australia for Adelaide Test:</strong></h2>

<ul>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Virat Kohli (C)</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Mayank Agarwal</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Prithvi Shaw</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Cheteshwar Pujara</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Ajinkya Rahane</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Hanuma Vihari</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Wriddhiman Saha (WK)</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Ravichandran Ashwin</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Umesh Yadav</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Mohammed Shami</li>
	<li class="MsoNormal" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: &quot;Noto Serif&quot;, serif; font-weight: 400; line-height: 28px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: 22px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; outline: 0px !important;">Jasprit Bumrah</li>
</ul>


The Indian team on Thursday announced its playing XI for the first Test of the four-match Border Gavaskar Trophy with a couple of surprising picks. The day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval is set to be played between India and Australia from December 17 in what promises to be a thrilling pink-ball Test.

The Indian team on Thursday announced its playing XI for the first Test of the four-match Border Gavaskar Trophy with a couple of surprising picks. The day-night Test at the Adelaide Oval is set to be played between India and Australia from December 17 in what promises to be a thrilling pink-ball Test. However, some of the fans were irked by the calls taken by the Indian team management after the playing XI for the Adelaide Test was announced. Prithvi Shaw and Wriddhiman Saha were picked over Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant and fans were left scratching their heads over the calls. Shaw has been out of form for some time now. Even though it would be harsh on the youngster to mix formats and judge his form, Shaw’s form in the two warm-up matches against Australia A suggested that he is struggling with his technique and confidence. His form in IPL and knack of finding different ways of throwing his wickets away has been questioned by pundits and fans. ALSO READ: India announce playing XI for Adelaide Test vs Australia; Prithvi Shaw, Wriddhiman Saha get the nod On the other hand, Shubman Gill looked classy in the warm-up matches and scored a scintillating half-century in the pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A. Gill’s technique has been praised by many and given the bouncier conditions in Australia, his comfort of playing the ball on the up was seen as an added advantage. However, he will have to wait for his Test cap and is expected to be in the playing XI once Virat Kohli leaves for India after the Adelaide Test. In the Practice matches against Australia A, Prithvi Shaw scores is 0, 19, 40 and 3 and Shubman Gill scorers 0, 29, 43, and 65. Gill was in excellent form and he looked very good in the Pink Ball Practice match while batting. #AUSvsIND — CricketMAN2 (@man4_cricket) December 16, 2020 × I am finding it difficult to understand why KL Rahul and Shubman Gill are sitting outside. Prithvi Shaw was a failure in both practice games. This is ridiculous. #AUSvsIND pic.twitter.com/BnervyIosM — Aayush Sharma | آیوش شرما 🏳️‍🌈 (@JournalistWFH) December 16, 2020 × Shubman Gill should have been in the playing 11. He is much more consistent than Prithvi Shaw. https://t.co/7WX1afpcqv — Subrata Panda (@subratapanda) December 16, 2020 × Terrible. Shubman Gill having proved his abilities in the warm up matches but still not in the playing 11. Shubman Gill should've been replaced for Prithvi Shaw. pic.twitter.com/09UGjJRrGs — Vishal S (@veee_shaall) December 16, 2020 × Prithvi Shaw and Wriddhiman Saha over Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill! Shocked n surprised at the selection. Last tour in Australia, Rishabh was second highest Indian scorer. Both Gill n him played well in practise match as well! #AUSvIND @BCCI @RaviShastriOfc @SGanguly99 — Shivam 🇮🇳 |🎸| (@itsShivam18) December 16, 2020 × It's just too hard on Shubman Gill. Looked in fine touch in practice match. Even in NZ tour games he scored 83, 204* 136 in first class games still fail to debut . I hope they select him in 2nd Test when kohli leaves. #AUSvIND #INDvAUS #Shubmangill — Uday (@Udaycric) December 16, 2020 × Tough luck Shubman Gill and KL Rahul! Team Management has gone with a big gamble here with Shaw and Saha!#AUSvsIND — Daanveer ↗️ (@daanveers) December 16, 2020 × Rishabh Pant should’ve made it in the playing XI He had a brilliant practice game he is a busy batsmen would keep the score board ticking over fast. #AUSvIND — Qas. (@QAS__786) December 16, 2020 × Wriddhiman Saha, who is arguably the finest wicket-keeper in the world, has been picked over Rishabh Pant. While Pant’s form is also not the best, the southpaw scored a breathtaking century in the second warm-up match against Australia A. ALSO READ: Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters If Shaw can get picked due to his previous performances in Test then it was Pant who scored a century on Australian soil the last time India visited Down Under. While some of the fans are irked by these two decisions, they would be hoping that India start the much-awaited series with a win over Australia. India Playing XI vs Australia for Adelaide Test: Virat Kohli (C) Mayank Agarwal Prithvi Shaw Cheteshwar Pujara Ajinkya Rahane Hanuma Vihari Wriddhiman Saha (WK) Ravichandran Ashwin Umesh Yadav Mohammed Shami Jasprit Bumrah

Where are Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant? Fans question Team India playing XI

<p>The All-India Senior Selection Committee on Monday announced the Team India’s squad for the upcoming Australia tour which consists of three T20Is, as many ODIs and four Tests. While some new names featured in three of the squads, a big name in Rohit Sharma was missing from the team sheet. As soon as the squads were announced for the Australia tour, fans and experts started to ask about Rohit Sharma’s fitness.</p>

<p>Rohit, who has blown hot and cold for Mumbai Indians in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 so far, had missed his franchise’s last couple of games where Kieron Pollard was seen leading the Mumbai outfit in Hitman’s absence. While it is understood that Rohit is still recovering from a hamstring strain, the Board of Control for Cricket in Indian (BCCI) in its press release stated: “The BCCI Medical Team will continue to monitor the progress of Rohit Sharma”.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-indias-squad-for-for-tour-of-australia-big-names-missing-338129" hreflang="en">BCCI announces India's squad for Tour of Australia; big names missing</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The All-India Senior Selection Committee met via video-conference on Monday to select the Indian Cricket Team for upcoming Tour of Australia. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> will take part in three T20Is, three ODIs &amp; four Test matches against Australia.<br />
<br />
More - <a href="https://t.co/64DvpFAh3H">https://t.co/64DvpFAh3H</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1320745776838918144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>No proper fitness update has been provided by the Mumbai Indians camp either as fans and media continue to remain in the dark. Even there are many other points that should have been cleared up by the board and selection committee. Why was Suryakumar Yadav overlooked again? Still no place for Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel in shorter formats? Why was Rishabh Pant dropped from the limited-overs squad?</p>

<p>Indian legend Gavaskar, during the Kings XI Punjab vs Kolkata Knight Riders match, called for a bit of transparency and openness as it will help everybody associated with Indian cricket, including the fans. Even Brett Lee, in Star Sports Dugout, assumed that Rohit is ruled out of IPL 2020. Well, that's what unclarity brings to the table.</p>

<p>“We are talking about the Test matches, which are a month and a halfway,” Gavaskar told Star Sports.</p>

<p>“And if he is practising in the nets for Mumbai Indians, then honestly I don’t know what kind of injury it is. I think a little bit of transparency, a little bit of openness about what actually is the problem with him will help everybody,” he added.</p>

<p>“The Indian cricket fan deserves to know, more than anything else. The franchisees, I understand. They don’t want to give their hand away. They don’t want to give the oppositions any psychological advantage. But we are talking about the Indian team here. Even Mayank Agarwal for example. For an Indian cricket fan, they ought to know what happens to two of their key players,” Gavaskar said.</p>

<p>Interestingly, moments later after the BCCI announced the squad for Australia tour, in which Rohit’s name was missing, Mumbai Indians took to social media platform Twitter to post a short clip of Rohit hitting the nets and smashing some delightful strokes as they captioned it: “45 seconds of RO 45 in full flow!” So will it be right to say it's an open war between MI and BCCI? That's what happens when there are so many unanswered questions.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">4️⃣5️⃣ seconds of RO 4️⃣5️⃣ in full flow!🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneFamily</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiIndians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiIndians</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dream11IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dream11IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> <a href="https://t.co/65ajVQcEKc">pic.twitter.com/65ajVQcEKc</a></p>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1320792336683560961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video came as a surprise to many as BCCI had named KL Rahul as vice-captain of ODI and T20I squad as Rohit’s name went missing.</p>

<p>"If Rohit can play during the last week of IPL, that will be a good enough fitness test and then selectors can think of getting him back in the squad," a source close to the cricketer told PTI on conditions of anonymity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Rahul is being looked as India's first-choice white-ball keeper till the 2021 World T20 and beyond. Also he has impressed everyone with his leadership skills and that's why this elevation as vice-captain," the source said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even Rishabh Pant was dropped from the ODI and T20I squad but was named in the Test squad. Speculations are rife that the southpaw was dropped due to poor fitness but doesn’t Test cricket demand a lot more fitness than the shorter formats?</p>

<p>As Sunil Gavaskar said, a bit of transparency from the BCCI would help everybody. No press conference was held despite it being the first squad selection under chief selector Sunil Joshi and that too, for such a major tour.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>India name squad for Australia tour: Questions that went unanswered</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Rohit Sharma missing from all three squads. What's his injury update?</li>
	<li>Hardik Pandya missing from Test squad. Will he bowl?</li>
	<li>KL Rahul - vice-captain in ODI and T20Is. Is it a permanent move for the time being?</li>
	<li>Rishabh Pant dropped from ODI and T20I squad. What is the exact reason?</li>
	<li>Varun Chakravarthy selected in the T20I squad. Were Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel discussed?</li>
	<li>What does Suryakumar Yadav need to do to be in the squad?<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<p>Whatever the case may be with Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant or other players who were not named like Suryakumar Yadav, fans of the sport deserve to know the answer to few questions.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The All-India Senior Selection Committee on Monday announced the Team India’s squad for the upcoming Australia tour which consists of three T20Is, as many ODIs and four Tests.

The All-India Senior Selection Committee on Monday announced the Team India’s squad for the upcoming Australia tour which consists of three T20Is, as many ODIs and four Tests. While some new names featured in three of the squads, a big name in Rohit Sharma was missing from the team sheet. As soon as the squads were announced for the Australia tour, fans and experts started to ask about Rohit Sharma’s fitness. Rohit, who has blown hot and cold for Mumbai Indians in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 so far, had missed his franchise’s last couple of games where Kieron Pollard was seen leading the Mumbai outfit in Hitman’s absence. While it is understood that Rohit is still recovering from a hamstring strain, the Board of Control for Cricket in Indian (BCCI) in its press release stated: “The BCCI Medical Team will continue to monitor the progress of Rohit Sharma”. ALSO READ: BCCI announces India's squad for Tour of Australia; big names missing The All-India Senior Selection Committee met via video-conference on Monday to select the Indian Cricket Team for upcoming Tour of Australia. #TeamIndia will take part in three T20Is, three ODIs & four Test matches against Australia. More - https://t.co/64DvpFAh3H #AUSvIND — BCCI (@BCCI) October 26, 2020 × No proper fitness update has been provided by the Mumbai Indians camp either as fans and media continue to remain in the dark. Even there are many other points that should have been cleared up by the board and selection committee. Why was Suryakumar Yadav overlooked again? Still no place for Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel in shorter formats? Why was Rishabh Pant dropped from the limited-overs squad? Indian legend Gavaskar, during the Kings XI Punjab vs Kolkata Knight Riders match, called for a bit of transparency and openness as it will help everybody associated with Indian cricket, including the fans. Even Brett Lee, in Star Sports Dugout, assumed that Rohit is ruled out of IPL 2020. Well, that's what unclarity brings to the table. “We are talking about the Test matches, which are a month and a halfway,” Gavaskar told Star Sports. “And if he is practising in the nets for Mumbai Indians, then honestly I don’t know what kind of injury it is. I think a little bit of transparency, a little bit of openness about what actually is the problem with him will help everybody,” he added. “The Indian cricket fan deserves to know, more than anything else. The franchisees, I understand. They don’t want to give their hand away. They don’t want to give the oppositions any psychological advantage. But we are talking about the Indian team here. Even Mayank Agarwal for example. For an Indian cricket fan, they ought to know what happens to two of their key players,” Gavaskar said. Interestingly, moments later after the BCCI announced the squad for Australia tour, in which Rohit’s name was missing, Mumbai Indians took to social media platform Twitter to post a short clip of Rohit hitting the nets and smashing some delightful strokes as they captioned it: “45 seconds of RO 45 in full flow!” So will it be right to say it's an open war between MI and BCCI? That's what happens when there are so many unanswered questions. 4️⃣5️⃣ seconds of RO 4️⃣5️⃣ in full flow!🔥#OneFamily #MumbaiIndians #MI #Dream11IPL @ImRo45 pic.twitter.com/65ajVQcEKc — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) October 26, 2020 × The video came as a surprise to many as BCCI had named KL Rahul as vice-captain of ODI and T20I squad as Rohit’s name went missing. "If Rohit can play during the last week of IPL, that will be a good enough fitness test and then selectors can think of getting him back in the squad," a source close to the cricketer told PTI on conditions of anonymity. "Rahul is being looked as India's first-choice white-ball keeper till the 2021 World T20 and beyond. Also he has impressed everyone with his leadership skills and that's why this elevation as vice-captain," the source said. Even Rishabh Pant was dropped from the ODI and T20I squad but was named in the Test squad. Speculations are rife that the southpaw was dropped due to poor fitness but doesn’t Test cricket demand a lot more fitness than the shorter formats? As Sunil Gavaskar said, a bit of transparency from the BCCI would help everybody. No press conference was held despite it being the first squad selection under chief selector Sunil Joshi and that too, for such a major tour. India name squad for Australia tour: Questions that went unanswered Rohit Sharma missing from all three squads. What's his injury update? Hardik Pandya missing from Test squad. Will he bowl? KL Rahul - vice-captain in ODI and T20Is. Is it a permanent move for the time being? Rishabh Pant dropped from ODI and T20I squad. What is the exact reason? Varun Chakravarthy selected in the T20I squad. Were Ravichandran Ashwin and Axar Patel discussed? What does Suryakumar Yadav need to do to be in the squad? Whatever the case may be with Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant or other players who were not named like Suryakumar Yadav, fans of the sport deserve to know the answer to few questions.

Where is Rohit Sharma? Why is transparency missing from BCCI?

<p>Former English batsmen Kevin Pietersen has given his opinion on the young Indian batsman. He feels that the player has not shown any significant growth since his debut.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-rishabh-pant-a-major-asset-for-delhi-capitals-says-brian-lara-334006" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Rishabh Pant a major asset for Delhi Capitals, says Brian Lara</a></p>

<p>According to Pietersen, Rishabh Pant has "disappointed" the former player by not living up to his "expectations".</p>

<p>Pant scored 31, 37*, 28, 38 and 37 in the first five IPL matches for the Delhi Capitals. On Friday against Rajasthan Royals, Pant was dismissed for just 5 runs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Rishabh Pant is somebody who disappoints. Because he is someone, I expect so much from," Pietersen said on Star Sports. "And, I am yet to consistently see him giving performances with the bat day in and day out. In order to get that Indian tag, and to play international cricket, you need some consistencies. You need to get better. I am seeing the same player I saw a year before, and a year before, and a year before that. As long as he has been playing, he’s been inconsistent."</p>

<p>Pant has been seen as a successor to MS Dhoni behind the stumps after the CSK skipper announced his retirement earlier this year. Sanju Samson has been the other option. And he had an impressive start to this year's IPL. But his form has dropped too since last few matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Pietersen thinks that &nbsp;Samson’s transformation was more impressive than Pant. He said: "Whereas, when I see Sanju Samson, I see completely different. The dedication, the commitment he put in to turning up for this year’s IPL, that impressed me. That actually got him ahead of Rishabh Pant for me, just purely from diet-base, fitness base and from dedication."</p>

<p>"He said I want to go out there and do everything I can to play cricket for India. He’s got runs after runs. He failed a couple of times. But that dedication is what you need to get into international cricket because when the going gets tough, the tougher gets going. And international cricketer is a tough space."</p>


Former English batsmen Kevin Pietersen has given his opinion on the young Indian batsman. He feels that the player has not shown any significant growth since his debut.

Former English batsmen Kevin Pietersen has given his opinion on the young Indian batsman. He feels that the player has not shown any significant growth since his debut. Also read: IPL 2020: Rishabh Pant a major asset for Delhi Capitals, says Brian Lara According to Pietersen, Rishabh Pant has "disappointed" the former player by not living up to his "expectations". Pant scored 31, 37*, 28, 38 and 37 in the first five IPL matches for the Delhi Capitals. On Friday against Rajasthan Royals, Pant was dismissed for just 5 runs. "Rishabh Pant is somebody who disappoints. Because he is someone, I expect so much from," Pietersen said on Star Sports. "And, I am yet to consistently see him giving performances with the bat day in and day out. In order to get that Indian tag, and to play international cricket, you need some consistencies. You need to get better. I am seeing the same player I saw a year before, and a year before, and a year before that. As long as he has been playing, he’s been inconsistent." Pant has been seen as a successor to MS Dhoni behind the stumps after the CSK skipper announced his retirement earlier this year. Sanju Samson has been the other option. And he had an impressive start to this year's IPL. But his form has dropped too since last few matches. However, Pietersen thinks that Samson’s transformation was more impressive than Pant. He said: "Whereas, when I see Sanju Samson, I see completely different. The dedication, the commitment he put in to turning up for this year’s IPL, that impressed me. That actually got him ahead of Rishabh Pant for me, just purely from diet-base, fitness base and from dedication." "He said I want to go out there and do everything I can to play cricket for India. He’s got runs after runs. He failed a couple of times. But that dedication is what you need to get into international cricket because when the going gets tough, the tougher gets going. And international cricketer is a tough space."

'He is somebody who disappoints': Kevin Pietersen lashes out at young Indian batsman

<p>West Indies legend Brian Lara has lavished high praise on Delhi Capitals wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant as the former Windies skipper said the southpaw has “vastly” improved his overall game while adding that his off-side game has gone a notch above and Pant now has the ability to score runs in all parts of the ground.</p>

<p>Pant has played a vital role in providing Delhi Capitals a rampaging start in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> and has scored: 31, 37*, 28, 38, 37 in IPL 2020. Interestingly, he seems more cautious of playing his lofted strokes and is valuing his wicket more.</p>

<p>"I think he is a major asset for the Delhi Capitals, but today he has also vastly improved his game. I am talking about his batting and the improvements he made in that department," Brian Lara told Star Sports.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-mid-season-transfer-window-players-list-eligibility-criteria-rules-and-more-333959" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 mid-season transfer window: Players list, eligibility criteria, rules and more</a></strong></p>

<p>"On what is immediately noticeable is his propensity to try and get everything to the leg-side. Also, look at his run-scoring chart and that's quite a proof of that fascination he has with the on-side. I think he has come to the realization that this is not working and he went away and worked on improving his off-side play.</p>

<p>Lara further said that Pant has tweaked his game-style and doesn’t loses his balance to create strokes towards the leg-side of the field while adding the youngster has a long-long way to go.</p>

<p>"Now look at the changes he made. Now he has the ability to score runs in all parts of the ground. His scoring charts are looking impressive, and yes, more worry for the bowlers.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-apex-council-meeting-on-october-17-domestic-season-home-series-against-england-on-agenda-333977" hreflang="en">BCCI Apex Council meeting on October 17: Domestic season, home series against England on agenda</a></strong></p>

<p>"He is now very well balanced and he is looking to score in key areas that he is not accustomed to scoring over extra cover, over point, in front of the point and his balance and his weight is staying there, he is not falling over to the off-side to create shots on the leg side.</p>

<p>"That is a vast improvement that he has made, which obviously going to help his all-round batting. I believe, this young lad has a long-long way to go," Lara added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Pant has accumulated as many as 1907 runs in 59 IPL matches, which includes a century and 11 half-centuries for Delhi Capitals. He will be seen in action against Rajasthan Royals on Friday in Sharjah.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


West Indies legend Brian Lara has lavished high praise on Delhi Capitals wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant as the former Windies skipper said the southpaw has “vastly” improved his overall game while adding that his off-side game has gone a notch above and Pant now has the ability to score runs in all parts of the ground.

West Indies legend Brian Lara has lavished high praise on Delhi Capitals wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant as the former Windies skipper said the southpaw has “vastly” improved his overall game while adding that his off-side game has gone a notch above and Pant now has the ability to score runs in all parts of the ground. Pant has played a vital role in providing Delhi Capitals a rampaging start in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 and has scored: 31, 37*, 28, 38, 37 in IPL 2020. Interestingly, he seems more cautious of playing his lofted strokes and is valuing his wicket more. "I think he is a major asset for the Delhi Capitals, but today he has also vastly improved his game. I am talking about his batting and the improvements he made in that department," Brian Lara told Star Sports. ALSO READ: IPL 2020 mid-season transfer window: Players list, eligibility criteria, rules and more "On what is immediately noticeable is his propensity to try and get everything to the leg-side. Also, look at his run-scoring chart and that's quite a proof of that fascination he has with the on-side. I think he has come to the realization that this is not working and he went away and worked on improving his off-side play. Lara further said that Pant has tweaked his game-style and doesn’t loses his balance to create strokes towards the leg-side of the field while adding the youngster has a long-long way to go. "Now look at the changes he made. Now he has the ability to score runs in all parts of the ground. His scoring charts are looking impressive, and yes, more worry for the bowlers. ALSO READ: BCCI Apex Council meeting on October 17: Domestic season, home series against England on agenda "He is now very well balanced and he is looking to score in key areas that he is not accustomed to scoring over extra cover, over point, in front of the point and his balance and his weight is staying there, he is not falling over to the off-side to create shots on the leg side. "That is a vast improvement that he has made, which obviously going to help his all-round batting. I believe, this young lad has a long-long way to go," Lara added. Meanwhile, Pant has accumulated as many as 1907 runs in 59 IPL matches, which includes a century and 11 half-centuries for Delhi Capitals. He will be seen in action against Rajasthan Royals on Friday in Sharjah.

IPL 2020: Rishabh Pant a major asset for Delhi Capitals, says Brian Lara

<p>There has been a lot of talks around the form and future of Rishabh Pant. While the southpaw has been backed by the Indian team management and most of the experts to be the face of Indian cricket for a long time, there are others who have asked Pant to be dropped from the Indian team given his inconsistency with the willow and gloves. Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has opined that Pant has got “too much talent to know what to do with” while adding the youngster will be better with a coach who will see him through his troubles.</p>

<p>"Definitely, I turn on my television when Rishabh Pant comes to the crease, the entertainer," said Hogg.</p>

<p>"His issue is he has got too much talent to know what to do with. He could do with a mind coach, a lot of great sportsmen use them. It is all in the mind for him," Hogg added.</p>

<p>Hogg’s take on Pant came during an interactive session with fans on Twitter on Wednesday where the chinaman bowler was asked whether the Indian wicket-keeper can become one of the best wicket-keepers in the world.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-uses-mankad-incident-with-jos-buttler-to-aware-everyone-of-covid-19-threat-rajasthan-royals-respond-288463">Ravichandran Ashwin uses 'Mankad' incident with Jos Buttler to aware everyone of COVID-19 threat; Rajasthan Royals respond</a></strong></p>

<p>Pant’s inconsistent run of form has seen him lose the gloves and place to the in-form KL Rahul in white-ball cricket. While he was preferred over Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series against New Zealand, Pant returned with scores of 19, 25, 12 and 4.</p>

<p>Earlier, former Australian wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist had urged Pant to not follow what Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been doing and make an identity for himself.</p>

<p>There has been a lot of talks around the form and future of Rishabh Pant. While the southpaw has been backed by the Indian team management and most of the experts to be the face of Indian cricket for a long time, there are others who have asked Pant to be dropped from the Indian team given his inconsistency with the willow and gloves. Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has opined that Pant has got “too much talent to know what to do with” while adding the youngster will be better with a coach who will see him through his troubles.</p>

<p>"Definitely, I turn on my television when Rishabh Pant comes to the crease, the entertainer," said Hogg.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-fate-of-ipl-2020-hangs-by-thin-thread-with-no-preparations-and-talks-288424">The fate of IPL 2020 hangs by thin thread with no preparations and talks</a></strong></p>

<p>"His issue is he has got too much talent to know what to do with. He could do with a mind coach, a lot of great sportsmen use them. It is all in the mind for him," Hogg added.</p>

<p>Hogg’s take on Pant came during an interactive session with fans on Twitter on Wednesday where the chinaman bowler was asked whether the Indian wicket-keeper can become one of the best wicket-keepers in the world.</p>

<p>Pant’s inconsistent run of form has seen him lose the gloves and place to the in-form KL Rahul in white-ball cricket. While he was preferred over Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series against New Zealand, Pant returned with scores of 19, 25, 12 and 4.</p>

<p>Earlier, former Australian wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist had urged Pant to not follow what Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been doing and make an identity for himself.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


There has been a lot of talks around the form and future of Rishabh Pant. While the southpaw has been backed by the Indian team management and most of the experts to be the face of Indian cricket for a long time, there are others who have asked Pant to be dropped from the Indian team given his inconsistency with the willow and gloves.

There has been a lot of talks around the form and future of Rishabh Pant. While the southpaw has been backed by the Indian team management and most of the experts to be the face of Indian cricket for a long time, there are others who have asked Pant to be dropped from the Indian team given his inconsistency with the willow and gloves. Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has opined that Pant has got “too much talent to know what to do with” while adding the youngster will be better with a coach who will see him through his troubles. "Definitely, I turn on my television when Rishabh Pant comes to the crease, the entertainer," said Hogg. "His issue is he has got too much talent to know what to do with. He could do with a mind coach, a lot of great sportsmen use them. It is all in the mind for him," Hogg added. Hogg’s take on Pant came during an interactive session with fans on Twitter on Wednesday where the chinaman bowler was asked whether the Indian wicket-keeper can become one of the best wicket-keepers in the world. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin uses 'Mankad' incident with Jos Buttler to aware everyone of COVID-19 threat; Rajasthan Royals respond Pant’s inconsistent run of form has seen him lose the gloves and place to the in-form KL Rahul in white-ball cricket. While he was preferred over Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series against New Zealand, Pant returned with scores of 19, 25, 12 and 4. Earlier, former Australian wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist had urged Pant to not follow what Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been doing and make an identity for himself. There has been a lot of talks around the form and future of Rishabh Pant. While the southpaw has been backed by the Indian team management and most of the experts to be the face of Indian cricket for a long time, there are others who have asked Pant to be dropped from the Indian team given his inconsistency with the willow and gloves. Former Australia spinner Brad Hogg has opined that Pant has got “too much talent to know what to do with” while adding the youngster will be better with a coach who will see him through his troubles. "Definitely, I turn on my television when Rishabh Pant comes to the crease, the entertainer," said Hogg. ALSO READ: The fate of IPL 2020 hangs by thin thread with no preparations and talks "His issue is he has got too much talent to know what to do with. He could do with a mind coach, a lot of great sportsmen use them. It is all in the mind for him," Hogg added. Hogg’s take on Pant came during an interactive session with fans on Twitter on Wednesday where the chinaman bowler was asked whether the Indian wicket-keeper can become one of the best wicket-keepers in the world. Pant’s inconsistent run of form has seen him lose the gloves and place to the in-form KL Rahul in white-ball cricket. While he was preferred over Wriddhiman Saha in the Test series against New Zealand, Pant returned with scores of 19, 25, 12 and 4. Earlier, former Australian wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist had urged Pant to not follow what Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been doing and make an identity for himself.

'His issue is...' - Brad Hogg evaluates how Rishabh Pant can become the best for Team India

<p>Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli's name was among the six Indian players set to play for the Asia XI against World XI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also see:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/donald-trump-lauds-virat-kohli-and-sachin-tendulkar-as-great-cricketers-282387">Donald Trump lauds Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar as 'great cricketers</a></p>

<p>The two-match T20I series is set to take place in Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Dhaka. The first match will take place on March 18 and the second match will take place on March 21.&nbsp;The series is called Mujibur Rahman Centenary series.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-first-indian-to-cross-50-million-mark-on-instagram-281292">&nbsp;</a></strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-first-indian-to-cross-50-million-mark-on-instagram-281292">Virat Kohli: First Indian to cross 50 million mark on Instagram</a></p>

<p>Other Indian cricketers in the squad are Rishabh Pant, Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav.</p>

<p>Virat Kohli is yet to decide if he will be a part of these matches or not as hectic schedule lined up for the skipper. India will be facing the Proteas for a three-match ODI series after the end of New Zealand tour and an IPL season after the South African series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>KL Rahul has confirmed that he will play at least one of the two matches.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli will be missing out the first match of the series on March 18 as he will be playing the final ODI match of the series against South Africa on the same day in Kolkata.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asia XI: KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Tamim Iqbal, Virat Kohli, Liton Das, Rishabh Pant, Mushfiqur Rahim, Thisara Perera, Rashid Khan, Mustafizur Rahman, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lasith Malinga, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Mujeeb Ur Rahman</p>


Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli's name was among the six Indian players set to play for the Asia XI against World XI. Also see: Donald Trump lauds Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar as 'great cricketers The two-match T20I series is set to take place in Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Dhaka.

Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli's name was among the six Indian players set to play for the Asia XI against World XI. Also see: Donald Trump lauds Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar as 'great cricketers The two-match T20I series is set to take place in Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Dhaka. The first match will take place on March 18 and the second match will take place on March 21. The series is called Mujibur Rahman Centenary series. Also read: Virat Kohli: First Indian to cross 50 million mark on Instagram Other Indian cricketers in the squad are Rishabh Pant, Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami and Kuldeep Yadav. Virat Kohli is yet to decide if he will be a part of these matches or not as hectic schedule lined up for the skipper. India will be facing the Proteas for a three-match ODI series after the end of New Zealand tour and an IPL season after the South African series. KL Rahul has confirmed that he will play at least one of the two matches. Kohli will be missing out the first match of the series on March 18 as he will be playing the final ODI match of the series against South Africa on the same day in Kolkata. Asia XI: KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Tamim Iqbal, Virat Kohli, Liton Das, Rishabh Pant, Mushfiqur Rahim, Thisara Perera, Rashid Khan, Mustafizur Rahman, Sandeep Lamichhane, Lasith Malinga, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Virat Kohli named in Asia XI, yet to decide if he will play or not

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