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<p>The Virat Kohli-led Team India defeated Afghanistan by 66 runs to keep their hopes of making it to the semi-final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup alive. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul hammered half-centuries to guide India to a mammoth 210 for two in a must-win match on Wednesday (November 3) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In reply to that, Afghanistan could only score 144-7 in 20 overs<strong>&nbsp;</strong>as they lost wickets on regular intervals, with Karim Janat (42) scoring the maximum runs for the team as a disciplined bowling attack kept the match in control with spinner Ravichandran Ashwin taking two wickets and Mohammed Shami taking three crucial wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-appointed-as-team-indias-head-coach-set-to-take-over-from-new-zealand-home-series-426491">Rahul Dravid appointed as Team India's head coach, set to take over from New Zealand home series</a></strong></p>

<p>After being asked to bat first, Sharma (74) and Rahul (69) put on an opening partnership of 140 to lay the foundation for the tournament's highest total so far in the Super 12 match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharma took five balls to get going with a boundary off skipper Mohammad Nabi and then tore into the bowling attack. India raced to 53 in the first six overs of the powerplay to signal their intent in a competition where they need to win all three remaining matches to have any chance of making the semi-finals.</p>

<p>Rohit reached his fifty with a boundary off fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq and then hit a six to bring up the 100 for the opening stand. Sharma, who had scores of zero and 14 in India's two losses, smashed the bowlers all around the park for eight fours and three sixes in his 47-ball knock before losing his wicket to Karim Janat.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-r-ashwin-returns-to-team-indias-xi-vs-afghanistan-know-after-how-many-days-426468">T20 WC: R Ashwin returns to Team India's XI vs Afghanistan, know after how many days</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India are off the mark ✅<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAFG</a> | <a href="https://t.co/ZJL2KKL30i">https://t.co/ZJL2KKL30i</a> <a href="https://t.co/llszZPMNtH">pic.twitter.com/llszZPMNtH</a></p>
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<p>Rahul soon followed his partner to the dugout after being bowled by Gulbadin Naib on a slower yorker.</p>

<p>Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya rode the momentum to smash the bowlers as they put on an unbeaten partnership of 63.</p>

<p>Pandya, who hit 35, the left-handed Pant, who made 27, hit five sixes between them in total domination by the Indian batting.</p>


The Virat Kohli-led Team India defeated Afghanistan by 66 runs to keep their hopes of making it to the semi-final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup alive. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul hammered half-centuries to guide India to a mammoth 210 for two in a must-win match on Wednesday (November 3) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

The Virat Kohli-led Team India defeated Afghanistan by 66 runs to keep their hopes of making it to the semi-final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup alive. Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul hammered half-centuries to guide India to a mammoth 210 for two in a must-win match on Wednesday (November 3) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. In reply to that, Afghanistan could only score 144-7 in 20 overs as they lost wickets on regular intervals, with Karim Janat (42) scoring the maximum runs for the team as a disciplined bowling attack kept the match in control with spinner Ravichandran Ashwin taking two wickets and Mohammed Shami taking three crucial wickets. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid appointed as Team India's head coach, set to take over from New Zealand home series After being asked to bat first, Sharma (74) and Rahul (69) put on an opening partnership of 140 to lay the foundation for the tournament's highest total so far in the Super 12 match. Sharma took five balls to get going with a boundary off skipper Mohammad Nabi and then tore into the bowling attack. India raced to 53 in the first six overs of the powerplay to signal their intent in a competition where they need to win all three remaining matches to have any chance of making the semi-finals. Rohit reached his fifty with a boundary off fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq and then hit a six to bring up the 100 for the opening stand. Sharma, who had scores of zero and 14 in India's two losses, smashed the bowlers all around the park for eight fours and three sixes in his 47-ball knock before losing his wicket to Karim Janat. ALSO READ | T20 WC: R Ashwin returns to Team India's XI vs Afghanistan, know after how many days India are off the mark ✅#T20WorldCup | #INDvAFG | https://t.co/ZJL2KKL30i pic.twitter.com/llszZPMNtH — T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) November 3, 2021 × Rahul soon followed his partner to the dugout after being bowled by Gulbadin Naib on a slower yorker. Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya rode the momentum to smash the bowlers as they put on an unbeaten partnership of 63. Pandya, who hit 35, the left-handed Pant, who made 27, hit five sixes between them in total domination by the Indian batting.

T20 WC: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul propel India to 66-run win against Afghanistan to keep semi-final hopes alive

<p>India played their second game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition against Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After losing their tournament-opener versus arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets, the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback in style and get off the mark in the points table.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, nothing of that sort happened as Kohli &amp; Co. lost their second game on the trot, by eight wickets versus the Black Caps. Being asked to bat first, India posted a below-par 110-7 in 20 overs. In reply, the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls in hand and pushed the one-time winners are on the brink of an early exit from the mega event.</p>

<p>While nothing has clicked for India in the two games in the T20 WC, many former cricketers and experts of the gentlemen's game has slammed the Kohli-led thinktank for their questionable changes in the playing XI versus New Zealand. Ishan Kishan came in place of injured Suryakumar Yadav and was asked to open as Rohit was demoted to No. 3 whereas Kohli also moved a spot below his usual position. Meanwhile, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was replaced by Shardul Thakur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many feel India pressed the panic button after one loss. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir feels mentor MS Dhoni had no role behind the knee-jerk changes made by India in their playing&nbsp;XI versus the Kiwis. Gambhir has, meanwhile,&nbsp;slammed Kohli the strategist behind India's poor decision-making.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-rohit-sharmas-special-praise-for-virat-kohli-says-his-hunger-for-success-is-just-unbelievable-426461"><strong>Watch: Rohit Sharma's special praise for Virat Kohli, says 'his hunger for success is just unbelievable'</strong></a></p>

<p>"Kohli has never impressed me as a strategist. Once again, he was a disappointment on Sunday. For starters, why did he change the team from the one that played against Pakistan? If that was not enough, he also changed the batting order and had Ishan Kishan open in place of Rohit. I have played long enough with MS Dhoni to know that he would have nothing to do with these knee-jerk changes just after one game. And what I also understand is that the other support staff hardly challenge Kohli's calls," Gambhir wrote in his coloumn for <em>TOI</em>.</p>

<p>"But the question is whether Sodhi and other New Zealanders bowled well or India batted below par. I am the first one to acknowledge opposition's supremacy but after seeing Kohli and his men play the way they did on Sunday, I'd say they made Sodhi and Co. looked better than they were. From a distance it seemed there was no clear planning, role allocation and proper assessment of the conditions. Clearly, they were searching for a mountain of a score. Lack of understanding of the pitch meant they were in pursuit of a score around 170-180. As a result, Indian batsmen kept hitting in the air like millionaires and folded for 110," Gambhir added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-cricketer-feels-too-much-confusion-in-team-india-with-mentor-ms-dhoni-and-head-coach-shastri-426458"><strong>Former cricketer feels too much 'confusion' in Team India with mentor MS Dhoni and head coach Shastri</strong></a></p>

<p>India are in a must-win position in their remaining three games in the Super 12 round. In addition, they need other results to favour them in order to progress to the semi-finals of the mega event in the UAE. As of now, Kohli &amp; Co. have their back against the wall and need to produce some scintillating performances to march their way back into the tournament.</p>


India played their second game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition against Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

India played their second game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition against Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. After losing their tournament-opener versus arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets, the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback in style and get off the mark in the points table. However, nothing of that sort happened as Kohli & Co. lost their second game on the trot, by eight wickets versus the Black Caps. Being asked to bat first, India posted a below-par 110-7 in 20 overs. In reply, the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls in hand and pushed the one-time winners are on the brink of an early exit from the mega event. While nothing has clicked for India in the two games in the T20 WC, many former cricketers and experts of the gentlemen's game has slammed the Kohli-led thinktank for their questionable changes in the playing XI versus New Zealand. Ishan Kishan came in place of injured Suryakumar Yadav and was asked to open as Rohit was demoted to No. 3 whereas Kohli also moved a spot below his usual position. Meanwhile, Bhuvneshwar Kumar was replaced by Shardul Thakur. Many feel India pressed the panic button after one loss. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir feels mentor MS Dhoni had no role behind the knee-jerk changes made by India in their playing XI versus the Kiwis. Gambhir has, meanwhile, slammed Kohli the strategist behind India's poor decision-making. ALSO READ | Watch: Rohit Sharma's special praise for Virat Kohli, says 'his hunger for success is just unbelievable' "Kohli has never impressed me as a strategist. Once again, he was a disappointment on Sunday. For starters, why did he change the team from the one that played against Pakistan? If that was not enough, he also changed the batting order and had Ishan Kishan open in place of Rohit. I have played long enough with MS Dhoni to know that he would have nothing to do with these knee-jerk changes just after one game. And what I also understand is that the other support staff hardly challenge Kohli's calls," Gambhir wrote in his coloumn for TOI. "But the question is whether Sodhi and other New Zealanders bowled well or India batted below par. I am the first one to acknowledge opposition's supremacy but after seeing Kohli and his men play the way they did on Sunday, I'd say they made Sodhi and Co. looked better than they were. From a distance it seemed there was no clear planning, role allocation and proper assessment of the conditions. Clearly, they were searching for a mountain of a score. Lack of understanding of the pitch meant they were in pursuit of a score around 170-180. As a result, Indian batsmen kept hitting in the air like millionaires and folded for 110," Gambhir added. ALSO READ | Former cricketer feels too much 'confusion' in Team India with mentor MS Dhoni and head coach Shastri India are in a must-win position in their remaining three games in the Super 12 round. In addition, they need other results to favour them in order to progress to the semi-finals of the mega event in the UAE. As of now, Kohli & Co. have their back against the wall and need to produce some scintillating performances to march their way back into the tournament.

'Played long enough with him...' - Gambhir feels Dhoni had no role behind India's knee-jerk changes vs NZ

<p>After losing to arch-rivals Pakistan and New Zealand in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in as many matches played so far, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team is currently in dire straits with hopes of making it to the semi-final hanging by a thread. The players have been criticised by former cricketers to critics to pundits for their overall show, with the skipper Kohli facing maximum heat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, the Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma has showered praises Virat, with a special mention on how he has evolved as a cricketer. Ahead of India's crunch game against Afghanistan, the International Cricket Council (ICC) posted a video on its social media handle, which featured Rohit, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja and Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-should-be-gavaskar-unimpressed-with-jasprit-bumrahs-bubble-fatigue-remark-post-nz-loss-426435">'Nobody should be.....': Gavaskar unimpressed with Jasprit Bumrah's bubble-fatigue remark post NZ loss</a></strong></p>

<p>Players in the video have talked about all things nice, hailing Virat as a cricketer and his success, but what Rohit has to say, grabbed eyeballs as their relationship has often been shadowed by talks and rumours about rift and rivalry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, Rohit said, "His hunger for success is just unbelievable. It’s not so easy to go out there and do it consistently which he has done, so well."</p>

<p>"When he came in 2008 and he has evolved as a cricketer since then, I mean over the years he has added a little-little cent to his game and he has just evolved every year. All those years as I see, you know, he has put his best foot forward," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-set-to-lose-odi-captaincy-as-india-on-verge-of-early-exit-in-t20-world-cup-reports-426160"><strong>Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-didnt-trust-rohit-sharma-against-trent-boult-sunil-gavaskar-baffled-by-hitmans-demotion-vs-nz-425962"><strong>'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ</strong></a></p>

<p>Although Virat is going through a lean phase, &nbsp;his accomplishments in international cricket are outstanding. In his illustrious career so far, Kohli has played 96 Tests, 254 One-Day Internationals and has scored 7765 and 12169 runs respectively. Kohli has played 92 T20 Internationals, scoring 3225 runs so far and will look to add more&nbsp;to his tally as the T20 World Cup is underway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the above mentioned video, Kohli himself spoke about his journey, as he said, "Just the pride to play for India, getting to play so many games for India, for me that’s the most special thing. And the focal point of my career till now is I want to find ways to win a game of cricket from any place and I’ll give absolutely everything I have to be able to do that."</p>


After losing to arch-rivals Pakistan and New Zealand in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in as many matches played so far, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team is currently in dire straits with hopes of making it to the semi-final hanging by a thread.

After losing to arch-rivals Pakistan and New Zealand in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in as many matches played so far, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team is currently in dire straits with hopes of making it to the semi-final hanging by a thread. The players have been criticised by former cricketers to critics to pundits for their overall show, with the skipper Kohli facing maximum heat. Now, the Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma has showered praises Virat, with a special mention on how he has evolved as a cricketer. Ahead of India's crunch game against Afghanistan, the International Cricket Council (ICC) posted a video on its social media handle, which featured Rohit, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja and Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell. ALSO READ | 'Nobody should be.....': Gavaskar unimpressed with Jasprit Bumrah's bubble-fatigue remark post NZ loss Players in the video have talked about all things nice, hailing Virat as a cricketer and his success, but what Rohit has to say, grabbed eyeballs as their relationship has often been shadowed by talks and rumours about rift and rivalry. In the video, Rohit said, "His hunger for success is just unbelievable. It’s not so easy to go out there and do it consistently which he has done, so well." "When he came in 2008 and he has evolved as a cricketer since then, I mean over the years he has added a little-little cent to his game and he has just evolved every year. All those years as I see, you know, he has put his best foot forward," he added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × ALSO READ | 'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ Although Virat is going through a lean phase, his accomplishments in international cricket are outstanding. In his illustrious career so far, Kohli has played 96 Tests, 254 One-Day Internationals and has scored 7765 and 12169 runs respectively. Kohli has played 92 T20 Internationals, scoring 3225 runs so far and will look to add more to his tally as the T20 World Cup is underway. In the above mentioned video, Kohli himself spoke about his journey, as he said, "Just the pride to play for India, getting to play so many games for India, for me that’s the most special thing. And the focal point of my career till now is I want to find ways to win a game of cricket from any place and I’ll give absolutely everything I have to be able to do that."

Watch: Rohit Sharma's special praise for Virat Kohli, says 'his hunger for success is just unbelievable'

<p>Team India are among the top three sides in ICC T20I rankings. The one-time winners were touted to be one of the contenders at the start of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. However, the Men in Blue have fell flat in both their games in the Super 12 round and are on the brink of an early elimination from the marquee tournament.</p>

<p>India's star-studded line-up comprises KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. However, none of them have made a mark in the two encounters. Moreover, they have a strong support staff, comprising MS Dhoni as team mentor, head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun, batting coach Vikram Rathour and fielding coach R Sridhar. Despite having such big names, India have been unimpressive in the T20 WC.</p>

<p>Ahead of India's fixture versus the Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 2), the former Indian cricketer Maninder Singh feels there is too much confusion within Team India due to the presence of some big names in the team management and the leadership group. He told TOI, "You plan things, you just don't go and start hitting out. You don't change the batting order. Rohit Sharma has got runs at number one, opening position, most of the time and he was sent at No. 3. It showed he was prevented from facing Trent Boult. This is not a very good sign. Kohli, who scored most runs at number 3, came to bat number 4. I just felt that there was a lot of confusion. With Dhoni the mentor and Shastri the coach, there was so much khichdi in the dressing room."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nobody-should-be-gavaskar-unimpressed-with-jasprit-bumrahs-bubble-fatigue-remark-post-nz-loss-426435"><strong>'Nobody should be.....': Gavaskar unimpressed with Jasprit Bumrah's bubble-fatigue remark post NZ loss</strong></a></p>

<p>India need to win their remaining three games, by big margins, and hope for other results to favour them in order to reach the semi-finals of the mega event. Kohli &amp; Co.'s leftover games are against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia. Will they make it to the last four? Only time will tell...</p>


Team India are among the top three sides in ICC T20I rankings. The one-time winners were touted to be one of the contenders at the start of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE.

Team India are among the top three sides in ICC T20I rankings. The one-time winners were touted to be one of the contenders at the start of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. However, the Men in Blue have fell flat in both their games in the Super 12 round and are on the brink of an early elimination from the marquee tournament. India's star-studded line-up comprises KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. However, none of them have made a mark in the two encounters. Moreover, they have a strong support staff, comprising MS Dhoni as team mentor, head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun, batting coach Vikram Rathour and fielding coach R Sridhar. Despite having such big names, India have been unimpressive in the T20 WC. Ahead of India's fixture versus the Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 2), the former Indian cricketer Maninder Singh feels there is too much confusion within Team India due to the presence of some big names in the team management and the leadership group. He told TOI, "You plan things, you just don't go and start hitting out. You don't change the batting order. Rohit Sharma has got runs at number one, opening position, most of the time and he was sent at No. 3. It showed he was prevented from facing Trent Boult. This is not a very good sign. Kohli, who scored most runs at number 3, came to bat number 4. I just felt that there was a lot of confusion. With Dhoni the mentor and Shastri the coach, there was so much khichdi in the dressing room." ALSO READ | 'Nobody should be.....': Gavaskar unimpressed with Jasprit Bumrah's bubble-fatigue remark post NZ loss India need to win their remaining three games, by big margins, and hope for other results to favour them in order to reach the semi-finals of the mega event. Kohli & Co.'s leftover games are against Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia. Will they make it to the last four? Only time will tell...

Former cricketer feels too much 'confusion' in Team India with mentor MS Dhoni and head coach Shastri

<p>Team India will face Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan in their third encounter of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. The Men in Blue will have to raise their game in order to keep themselves alive in the competition as another defeat will surely end their campaign in the marquee tournament.</p>

<p>The Virat Kohli-led side have been a pale shadow of themselves with back-to-back defeats in their two encounters so far. Kohli &amp; Co. went down to their arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets in their tournament-opener whereas Kane Williamson-led New Zealand thrashed the one-time winners by eight wickets in their following match. On the other hand, Afghanistan have been a far-better side, having two wins from three encounters. They thrashed Namibia and Scotland whereas lost a close match to Pakistan. With them being serious contenders for the semi-finals, the Afghan side will also like to be on their toes with two big games coming up -- versus India and New Zealand, respectively.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-ind-vs-afg-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-afghanistan-match-426357"><strong>T20 World Cup, IND vs AFG live streaming: When and where to watch India vs Afghanistan match?</strong></a></p>

<p>Both India and Afghanistan have met twice in T20 WC history. India won on both occasions, in 2010 and 2012 editions. However, given how India are faring and how much Afghanistan have improved, things will be pretty tough for the 2007 winners.</p>

<p><strong>Match prediction for India vs Afghanistan face-off:&nbsp;</strong>India will be turning up at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi for the first time in this&nbsp;T20 WC. They will find it tough to adjust to the surfaces here, after playing New Zealand in Dubai only a couple of days ago. Normally, the track offers something to the pacers but run-making isn't very difficult. Expect a 155-plus scoring encounter with chasing side to hold the edge.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-r-ashwin-or-rahul-chahar-for-varun-chakravarthy-predicting-indias-xi-for-afghanistan-clash-426344">T20 WC: R Ashwin or Rahul Chahar for Varun Chakravarthy? Predicting India's XI for Afghanistan clash</a></strong></p>

<p>Afghanistan took a brave call to bat first versus Pakistan, given how much they trust their spinners to strangle oppositions. Will they repeat the same versus India, who also have their own reservations in setting up a target.</p>


Team India will face Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan in their third encounter of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. The Men in Blue will have to raise their game in order to keep themselves alive in the competition as another defeat will surely end their campaign in the marquee tournament.

Team India will face Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan in their third encounter of the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. The Men in Blue will have to raise their game in order to keep themselves alive in the competition as another defeat will surely end their campaign in the marquee tournament. The Virat Kohli-led side have been a pale shadow of themselves with back-to-back defeats in their two encounters so far. Kohli & Co. went down to their arch-rivals Pakistan by ten wickets in their tournament-opener whereas Kane Williamson-led New Zealand thrashed the one-time winners by eight wickets in their following match. On the other hand, Afghanistan have been a far-better side, having two wins from three encounters. They thrashed Namibia and Scotland whereas lost a close match to Pakistan. With them being serious contenders for the semi-finals, the Afghan side will also like to be on their toes with two big games coming up -- versus India and New Zealand, respectively. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup, IND vs AFG live streaming: When and where to watch India vs Afghanistan match? Both India and Afghanistan have met twice in T20 WC history. India won on both occasions, in 2010 and 2012 editions. However, given how India are faring and how much Afghanistan have improved, things will be pretty tough for the 2007 winners. Match prediction for India vs Afghanistan face-off: India will be turning up at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi for the first time in this T20 WC. They will find it tough to adjust to the surfaces here, after playing New Zealand in Dubai only a couple of days ago. Normally, the track offers something to the pacers but run-making isn't very difficult. Expect a 155-plus scoring encounter with chasing side to hold the edge. ALSO READ | T20 WC: R Ashwin or Rahul Chahar for Varun Chakravarthy? Predicting India's XI for Afghanistan clash Afghanistan took a brave call to bat first versus Pakistan, given how much they trust their spinners to strangle oppositions. Will they repeat the same versus India, who also have their own reservations in setting up a target.

IND vs AFG, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between India and Afghanistan?

<p>Team India will lock horns with Afghanistan in their third encounter in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. This will be the second game of the day, with New Zealand taking on the lowly-ranked Scotland in the afternoon clash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India find themselves in a peculiar position after having lost two games on the trot. They started their campaign versus Babar Azam-led Pakistan and were thrashed by the arch-rivals by ten wickets. In their second game, many expected Virat Kohli-led India to stage a comeback, however, they fell like nine pins to lose by 9 wickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hence, India need to win against Afghanistan in order to stay alive in the semi-finals race, where they are in contention only mathematically. On the other hand, Afghanistan have won two and lost one in the Super 12 round. The Mohammad Nabi-led Afghan side will hope to continue to win and straightaway qualify for the semi-finals as they already have a superior net run-rate under their belt. Any slip-up by them will keep New Zealand, and also India, in the hunt for the second semi-final spot from Pool B.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-r-ashwin-or-rahul-chahar-for-varun-chakravarthy-predicting-indias-xi-for-afghanistan-clash-426344"><strong>T20 WC: R Ashwin or Rahul Chahar for Varun Chakravarthy? Predicting India's XI for Afghanistan clash</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match:</strong></p>

<p><strong>Where is the T20 World Cup match between India vs Afghanistan taking place?</strong></p>

<p>The T20 World Cup match between India vs Afghanistan&nbsp;will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi.</p>

<p><strong>What time does the T20 World Cup match between India vs Afghanistan&nbsp;begin?</strong></p>

<p>The T20 World Cup match between India vs Afghanistan&nbsp;begins at 7:30 PM IST on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-wins-hearts-as-they-congratulate-namibia-on-their-inspiring-t20-wc-journey-watch-426316"><strong>Pakistan wins hearts as they congratulate Namibia on their inspiring T20 WC journey - WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup match between India vs Afghanistan?</strong></p>

<p>The T20 World Cup match between India vs Afghanistan&nbsp;will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between ENG vs WI will be available on Hotstar. The T20 World Cup matches will be shown on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports HD, and DD Sports</p>


Team India will lock horns with Afghanistan in their third encounter in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. This will be the second game of the day, with New Zealand taking on the lowly-ranked Scotland in the afternoon clash.

Team India will lock horns with Afghanistan in their third encounter in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. This will be the second game of the day, with New Zealand taking on the lowly-ranked Scotland in the afternoon clash. India find themselves in a peculiar position after having lost two games on the trot. They started their campaign versus Babar Azam-led Pakistan and were thrashed by the arch-rivals by ten wickets. In their second game, many expected Virat Kohli-led India to stage a comeback, however, they fell like nine pins to lose by 9 wickets. Hence, India need to win against Afghanistan in order to stay alive in the semi-finals race, where they are in contention only mathematically. On the other hand, Afghanistan have won two and lost one in the Super 12 round. The Mohammad Nabi-led Afghan side will hope to continue to win and straightaway qualify for the semi-finals as they already have a superior net run-rate under their belt. Any slip-up by them will keep New Zealand, and also India, in the hunt for the second semi-final spot from Pool B. ALSO READ | T20 WC: R Ashwin or Rahul Chahar for Varun Chakravarthy? Predicting India's XI for Afghanistan clash Let's take a look at the means on how to live stream or view the match: Where is the T20 World Cup match between India vs Afghanistan taking place? The T20 World Cup match between India vs Afghanistan will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi. What time does the T20 World Cup match between India vs Afghanistan begin? The T20 World Cup match between India vs Afghanistan begins at 7:30 PM IST on Wednesday. ALSO READ | Pakistan wins hearts as they congratulate Namibia on their inspiring T20 WC journey - WATCH Where and how to watch live coverage of the T20 World Cup match between India vs Afghanistan? The T20 World Cup match between India vs Afghanistan will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports 3 HD. The online streaming of the T20 World Cup match between ENG vs WI will be available on Hotstar. The T20 World Cup matches will be shown on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 3, Star Sports HD, and DD Sports

T20 World Cup, IND vs AFG live streaming: When and where to watch India vs Afghanistan match?

<p>Team India were termed as one of the strongest contenders for the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. The Virat Kohli-led side won the two warm-up encounters with ease but have fallen apart since then to lose both their matches in the Super 12 round so far. After being thrashed by Pakistan and New Zealand, the Men in Blue are starring on the brink of an early elimination and need to get their act together if they want to remain alive in the semi-finals race.</p>

<p>The next challenge for Team India is against Afghanistan. The Mohammad Nabi-led Afghan side have been impressive so far in the showpiece event. They won and lost a game each in the warm-up round and now have two wins from three encounters in the Super 12. If they win their remaining two games, versus India and New Zealand respectively, they will qualify for the semi-finals as they already have a superior net run-rate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For India, they are once again dealing with problems of plenty and have failed to manage their resources wisely. The move to drop down Rohit Sharma to No. 3 in order to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top, versus the Black Caps, was heavily criticised. Their batters have to get used to the surfaces in the UAE and need to work on their sluggish strike-rates. On the other hand, the one-time winners will also need to tweak their bowling line-up in the game versus Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-wins-hearts-as-they-congratulate-namibia-on-their-inspiring-t20-wc-journey-watch-426316"><strong>Pakistan wins hearts as they congratulate Namibia on their inspiring T20 WC journey - WATCH</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Predicting India's XI versus Afghanistan: </strong>Rohit is expected to return to the top with KL Rahul as his opening partner. Ishan Kishan can take the No. 3 spot, followed by Captain Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja. In the bowling department, it will be interesting to see if India replace Varun Chakravarthy with either R Ashwin or Rahul Chahar. Calls for Ashwin's inclusion is gaining momentum and he might be handy versus the Afghanistan line-up.</p>

<p>India can go ahead with Ashwin/Chahar/Chakravarthy whereas Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Shami can form the pace unit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India's possible XI versus Afghanistan:</strong> Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin/Rahul Chahar/Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami</p>


Team India were termed as one of the strongest contenders for the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. The Virat Kohli-led side won the two warm-up encounters with ease but have fallen apart since then to lose both their matches in the Super 12 round so far.

Team India were termed as one of the strongest contenders for the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. The Virat Kohli-led side won the two warm-up encounters with ease but have fallen apart since then to lose both their matches in the Super 12 round so far. After being thrashed by Pakistan and New Zealand, the Men in Blue are starring on the brink of an early elimination and need to get their act together if they want to remain alive in the semi-finals race. The next challenge for Team India is against Afghanistan. The Mohammad Nabi-led Afghan side have been impressive so far in the showpiece event. They won and lost a game each in the warm-up round and now have two wins from three encounters in the Super 12. If they win their remaining two games, versus India and New Zealand respectively, they will qualify for the semi-finals as they already have a superior net run-rate. For India, they are once again dealing with problems of plenty and have failed to manage their resources wisely. The move to drop down Rohit Sharma to No. 3 in order to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top, versus the Black Caps, was heavily criticised. Their batters have to get used to the surfaces in the UAE and need to work on their sluggish strike-rates. On the other hand, the one-time winners will also need to tweak their bowling line-up in the game versus Afghanistan. ALSO READ | Pakistan wins hearts as they congratulate Namibia on their inspiring T20 WC journey - WATCH Predicting India's XI versus Afghanistan: Rohit is expected to return to the top with KL Rahul as his opening partner. Ishan Kishan can take the No. 3 spot, followed by Captain Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja. In the bowling department, it will be interesting to see if India replace Varun Chakravarthy with either R Ashwin or Rahul Chahar. Calls for Ashwin's inclusion is gaining momentum and he might be handy versus the Afghanistan line-up. India can go ahead with Ashwin/Chahar/Chakravarthy whereas Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Shami can form the pace unit. India's possible XI versus Afghanistan: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin/Rahul Chahar/Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami

T20 WC: R Ashwin or Rahul Chahar for Varun Chakravarthy? Predicting India's XI for Afghanistan clash

<p>India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets in their second game in the Super 12 round, in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Playing their second match after a gap of seven days, at the same venue -- i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai -- many believed Virat Kohli-led Team India will manage to beat the Black Caps and get back to winning ways. However, they lost their second game on the trot, after losing to Pakistan by ten wickets in their tournament-opener.</p>

<p>While nothing clicked for India versus the Kiwis, the move to demote Rohit Sharma to the No. 3 position was heavily criticised. Ahead of India's upcoming match versus Afghanistan, batting coach Vikram Rathour has opened up on the move and revealed that vice-captain Rohit was part of the decision-making which demoted him down the order.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-set-to-lose-odi-captaincy-as-india-on-verge-of-early-exit-in-t20-world-cup-reports-426160"><strong>Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>Rathour told the reporters on Tuesday (November 2), "Suryakumar Yadav was having some back spasm. He was not fit enough for the match. The whole management took the call to send Ishan as an opener and, of course, Rohit was part of the decision,” Rathour told reporters.</p>

<p>“Ishan has done well as an opener in the IPL as well as in the practice matches, that’s why he has been sent as an opener,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-to-lead-india-in-t20is-against-new-zealand-hardik-bhuvneshwar-likely-to-be-dropped-report-426155"><strong>Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Rohit returned for a 14-ball 14 whereas Ishan managed only a mere 4 runs versus the Black Caps at Dubai. As a result, India posted a paltry 110/7 and failed to defend the total as Kane Williamson-led Kiwis won the game by eight wickets, with 33 balls to spare.</p>

<p>Kohli &amp; Co. need to win against Afghanistan to remain alive in the race for the semi-finals. For now, the one-time winners are in contention mathematically but their chances are bleak with back-to-back defeats.</p>


India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets in their second game in the Super 12 round, in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Playing their second match after a gap of seven days, at the same venue -- i.

India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets in their second game in the Super 12 round, in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition. Playing their second match after a gap of seven days, at the same venue -- i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai -- many believed Virat Kohli-led Team India will manage to beat the Black Caps and get back to winning ways. However, they lost their second game on the trot, after losing to Pakistan by ten wickets in their tournament-opener. While nothing clicked for India versus the Kiwis, the move to demote Rohit Sharma to the No. 3 position was heavily criticised. Ahead of India's upcoming match versus Afghanistan, batting coach Vikram Rathour has opened up on the move and revealed that vice-captain Rohit was part of the decision-making which demoted him down the order. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports Rathour told the reporters on Tuesday (November 2), "Suryakumar Yadav was having some back spasm. He was not fit enough for the match. The whole management took the call to send Ishan as an opener and, of course, Rohit was part of the decision,” Rathour told reporters. “Ishan has done well as an opener in the IPL as well as in the practice matches, that’s why he has been sent as an opener,” he added. ALSO READ | Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report Rohit returned for a 14-ball 14 whereas Ishan managed only a mere 4 runs versus the Black Caps at Dubai. As a result, India posted a paltry 110/7 and failed to defend the total as Kane Williamson-led Kiwis won the game by eight wickets, with 33 balls to spare. Kohli & Co. need to win against Afghanistan to remain alive in the race for the semi-finals. For now, the one-time winners are in contention mathematically but their chances are bleak with back-to-back defeats.

T20 WC: Vikram Rathour reveals Rohit Sharma was part of Virat Kohli & Co.'s decision to demote him vs NZ

<p>Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of early elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After the Men in Blue lost their Super 12 opening fixture versus Pakistan, they were also thrashed by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets as the one-time winners have a tough task to enter the semi-finals in the showpiece event.</p>

<p>Captain Kohli isn't having the best of times at present. While a lot was said when he announced his decision to resign as the T20I captain before the ongoing World Cup, many hoped that he would sign off on a high and finally win his first-ever ICC title as Team India's captain. Nonetheless, India's campaign so far has been disastrous, to say the least.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-to-lead-india-in-t20is-against-new-zealand-hardik-bhuvneshwar-likely-to-be-dropped-report-426155"><strong>Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Now, reports suggest that Kohli might lose ODI captaincy. As per a report in PTI, the BCCI might discuss Kohli's ODI captaincy future.&nbsp;In addition, it will make more sense to have one player as the white-ball captain rather than splitting captaincy in shorter formats.</p>

<p>The report further states that since India have only three 50-over games in the current home season, with all the encounters against West Indies in February. Hence, the Indian cricket board is looking to stitch a two-year master-plan&nbsp;heading into the 2023 World Cup.</p>

<p>For the unversed, India have an ODI series in South Africa. It will be interesting to see&nbsp;whether Kohli would voluntarily step down from the 50-over captaincy or if he will wait for the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI to ask him to vacate the top post. In all likelihood, his leadership days in shorter formats are numbered given how things are shaping up for India in the T20 WC.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/never-seen-captaincy-potential-in-virat-kohli-says-danish-kaneria-as-india-near-elimination-in-t20-wc-426089"><strong>Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC</strong></a></p>

<p>India are set to go through a transition process post the T20 WC. As of now, Rohit Sharma looks like the strongest contender to take up white-ball captaincy whereas Rahul Dravid is more or less confirmed to replace Ravi Shastri as India's head coach.</p>


Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of early elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After the Men in Blue lost their Super 12 opening fixture versus Pakistan, they were also thrashed by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets as the one-time winners have a tough task to enter the semi-finals in the showpiece event.

Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of early elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After the Men in Blue lost their Super 12 opening fixture versus Pakistan, they were also thrashed by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets as the one-time winners have a tough task to enter the semi-finals in the showpiece event. Captain Kohli isn't having the best of times at present. While a lot was said when he announced his decision to resign as the T20I captain before the ongoing World Cup, many hoped that he would sign off on a high and finally win his first-ever ICC title as Team India's captain. Nonetheless, India's campaign so far has been disastrous, to say the least. ALSO READ | Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report Now, reports suggest that Kohli might lose ODI captaincy. As per a report in PTI, the BCCI might discuss Kohli's ODI captaincy future. In addition, it will make more sense to have one player as the white-ball captain rather than splitting captaincy in shorter formats. The report further states that since India have only three 50-over games in the current home season, with all the encounters against West Indies in February. Hence, the Indian cricket board is looking to stitch a two-year master-plan heading into the 2023 World Cup. For the unversed, India have an ODI series in South Africa. It will be interesting to see whether Kohli would voluntarily step down from the 50-over captaincy or if he will wait for the Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI to ask him to vacate the top post. In all likelihood, his leadership days in shorter formats are numbered given how things are shaping up for India in the T20 WC. ALSO READ | Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC India are set to go through a transition process post the T20 WC. As of now, Rohit Sharma looks like the strongest contender to take up white-ball captaincy whereas Rahul Dravid is more or less confirmed to replace Ravi Shastri as India's head coach.

Virat Kohli set to lose ODI captaincy as India on verge of early exit in T20 World Cup: Reports

<p>India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets to go down in their second successive game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup, being held in the UAE. After Pakistan stunned India and produced a master class performance to thrash them, India were expected to come hard at the Black Caps, however, they surrendered to the Kiwis by eight wickets to head towards a possible early elimination in the mega event.</p>

<p>While nothing clicked for India, from the coin toss to posting 110/7 and losing by eight wickets, Virat Kohli-led team management were slammed left, right and centre as they demoted vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, in order to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top. It is interesting to note that Ishan was roped in the playing XI for Suryakumar Yadav, who normally bats at No. 3 or 4.</p>

<p>As India shuffled their batting line-up, to only manage 110 for 7 and lose convincingly, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag compared Rohit's demotion to some glaring mistakes committed by Rahul Dravid-led Team India during their forgettable 2007 ODI World Cup campaign.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sending-jasprit-bumrah-wasnt-right-md-azharuddin-feels-ravi-shastri-should-have-come-for-post-match-pc-426136"><strong>Sending Jasprit Bumrah wasn't right: Md Azharuddin feels Ravi Shastri should have come for post-match PC</strong></a></p>

<p>Sehwag said on Cricbuzz, "In the 2007 World Cup, we had made two mistakes. When we were chasing so well - we won 17 consecutive matches while chasing - but when the World Cup arrived, our coach said 'no, we need batting practice'. I said 'let us win 2 matches first and then we will have 6 matches to improve our batting. But he said 'No'.</p>

<p>"The second mistake was that when the opening pair of Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly were performing so well, so why was that broken? Why was it said that if Tendulkar bats in the middle order, you can control it?"</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/never-seen-captaincy-potential-in-virat-kohli-says-danish-kaneria-as-india-near-elimination-in-t20-wc-426089"><strong>Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC</strong></a></p>

<p>"We had already had three players to control - Yuvraj Singh, Rahul Dravid and MS Dhoni. Why did you need a fourth one? Sachin batted at No. 4 and see what happened. When teams change strategy, that is when they play badly. When there is a proven formula, there is no need to change it. That is the best example I can give," he pointed out.</p>

<p>After India's second successive defeat, Kohli &amp; Co. are starring on the brink of early elimination in the T20 WC. They will next face Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan and need to win to remain alive in the competition. The Men in Blue require some big wins in the remaining games and will also have to hope for other results to favour them if they have to progress ahead in the showpiece event.</p>


India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets to go down in their second successive game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup, being held in the UAE. After Pakistan stunned India and produced a master class performance to thrash them, India were expected to come hard at the Black Caps, however, they surrendered to the Kiwis by eight wickets to head towards a possible early elimination in the mega event.

India lost to New Zealand by eight wickets to go down in their second successive game in the Super 12 round in the T20 World Cup, being held in the UAE. After Pakistan stunned India and produced a master class performance to thrash them, India were expected to come hard at the Black Caps, however, they surrendered to the Kiwis by eight wickets to head towards a possible early elimination in the mega event. While nothing clicked for India, from the coin toss to posting 110/7 and losing by eight wickets, Virat Kohli-led team management were slammed left, right and centre as they demoted vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, in order to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top. It is interesting to note that Ishan was roped in the playing XI for Suryakumar Yadav, who normally bats at No. 3 or 4. As India shuffled their batting line-up, to only manage 110 for 7 and lose convincingly, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Virender Sehwag compared Rohit's demotion to some glaring mistakes committed by Rahul Dravid-led Team India during their forgettable 2007 ODI World Cup campaign. ALSO READ | Sending Jasprit Bumrah wasn't right: Md Azharuddin feels Ravi Shastri should have come for post-match PC Sehwag said on Cricbuzz, "In the 2007 World Cup, we had made two mistakes. When we were chasing so well - we won 17 consecutive matches while chasing - but when the World Cup arrived, our coach said 'no, we need batting practice'. I said 'let us win 2 matches first and then we will have 6 matches to improve our batting. But he said 'No'. "The second mistake was that when the opening pair of Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly were performing so well, so why was that broken? Why was it said that if Tendulkar bats in the middle order, you can control it?" ALSO READ | Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC "We had already had three players to control - Yuvraj Singh, Rahul Dravid and MS Dhoni. Why did you need a fourth one? Sachin batted at No. 4 and see what happened. When teams change strategy, that is when they play badly. When there is a proven formula, there is no need to change it. That is the best example I can give," he pointed out. After India's second successive defeat, Kohli & Co. are starring on the brink of early elimination in the T20 WC. They will next face Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan and need to win to remain alive in the competition. The Men in Blue require some big wins in the remaining games and will also have to hope for other results to favour them if they have to progress ahead in the showpiece event.

'Sachin batted at No. 4': Virender Sehwag compares Rohit's demotion against NZ to India's mistakes in 2007 WC

<p>Rohit Sharma might lead the Indian team in their upcoming T20I series against New Zealand post the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Current skipper Virat Kohli has already announced that he will be stepping down from captaincy in T20Is and will continue playing as a pure batter in the shortest format. While BCCI has not yet confirmed Kohli's successor, Rohit is expected to become India's full-time T20I skipper keeping the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind.</p>

<p>As per a report in PTI, Rohit will lead India in the T20Is series against Black Caps while current skipper Kohli's future in ODIs remains in doubt as well. Kohli has confirmed leaving the T20I captaincy but will continue to lead the Indian team in ODIs and Tests. However, BCCI might ask him to resign from ODI captaincy as well after India's yet another failure in a major ICC tournament.</p>

<p>India have made a woeful start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 with back-to-back losses in their first two matches and stand on the brink of early elimination from the tournament. Kohli's position as India's captain in ODIs is all set to be discussed when BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, secretary Jay Shah and the national selectors meet in the next few days, as per PTI.</p>

<p>While there were reports that seniors might be rested from the T20I series against New Zealand and KL Rahul might get to lead the side, a senior BCCI official told PTI that Rohit hasn't said he would not want to lead the team and the series against the Black Caps can be his first as India's full-time T20I skipper.</p>

<p>"First things first, the squads for the New Zealand series need to be decided. Rohit hasn't yet said that he doesn't want to lead in the T20 Internationals against New Zealand. And why would he not want to lead? It's his first series as full-time T20 captain," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by PTI.</p>

<p><strong>Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar likely to be dropped from the T20 side</strong></p>

<p>All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has been dealing with long-standing fitness issues and senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar are likely to be dropped from the squad for the T20I series against New Zealand, as per PTI. The selectors will be picking the squad keeping the next T20 World Cup in 2022 in mind.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-makes-shocking-claim-theres-divide-in-indian-team-one-camp-with-virat-kohli-other-against-426048">Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against</a></p>

<p>Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ruturaj Gaikwad, who enjoyed a brilliant campaign for the IPL 2021 champions by bagging the Orange Cap, might make the cut along with the likes of other proven IPL performers like Avesh Khan and senior spinner Yuzvendra Chahal.</p>

<p>Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer can also be selected as an all-rounder after impressing in IPL 2021 along with rising fast bowler Umran Malik, who has garnered limelight with his pace. The squad for the New Zealand T20I series is likely to be announced by the end of this week.</p>

<p>India will play three T20Is followed by two Tests against New Zealand at home in November.</p>


Rohit Sharma might lead the Indian team in their upcoming T20I series against New Zealand post the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Current skipper Virat Kohli has already announced that he will be stepping down from captaincy in T20Is and will continue playing as a pure batter in the shortest format.

Rohit Sharma might lead the Indian team in their upcoming T20I series against New Zealand post the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Current skipper Virat Kohli has already announced that he will be stepping down from captaincy in T20Is and will continue playing as a pure batter in the shortest format. While BCCI has not yet confirmed Kohli's successor, Rohit is expected to become India's full-time T20I skipper keeping the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind. As per a report in PTI, Rohit will lead India in the T20Is series against Black Caps while current skipper Kohli's future in ODIs remains in doubt as well. Kohli has confirmed leaving the T20I captaincy but will continue to lead the Indian team in ODIs and Tests. However, BCCI might ask him to resign from ODI captaincy as well after India's yet another failure in a major ICC tournament. India have made a woeful start to their campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021 with back-to-back losses in their first two matches and stand on the brink of early elimination from the tournament. Kohli's position as India's captain in ODIs is all set to be discussed when BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, secretary Jay Shah and the national selectors meet in the next few days, as per PTI. While there were reports that seniors might be rested from the T20I series against New Zealand and KL Rahul might get to lead the side, a senior BCCI official told PTI that Rohit hasn't said he would not want to lead the team and the series against the Black Caps can be his first as India's full-time T20I skipper. "First things first, the squads for the New Zealand series need to be decided. Rohit hasn't yet said that he doesn't want to lead in the T20 Internationals against New Zealand. And why would he not want to lead? It's his first series as full-time T20 captain," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by PTI. Hardik Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar likely to be dropped from the T20 side All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has been dealing with long-standing fitness issues and senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar are likely to be dropped from the squad for the T20I series against New Zealand, as per PTI. The selectors will be picking the squad keeping the next T20 World Cup in 2022 in mind. Also Read: Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ruturaj Gaikwad, who enjoyed a brilliant campaign for the IPL 2021 champions by bagging the Orange Cap, might make the cut along with the likes of other proven IPL performers like Avesh Khan and senior spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer can also be selected as an all-rounder after impressing in IPL 2021 along with rising fast bowler Umran Malik, who has garnered limelight with his pace. The squad for the New Zealand T20I series is likely to be announced by the end of this week. India will play three T20Is followed by two Tests against New Zealand at home in November.

Rohit to lead India in T20Is against New Zealand; Hardik, Bhuvneshwar likely to be dropped - Report

<p>India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE, after going down to Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). After having lost to Pakistan in their opening fixture, by ten wickets, the Virat Kohli-led side were expected to comeback in style and beat the Kiwis. However, India are now on the brink of elimination after losing two consecutive ties by big margins.</p>

<p>After the encounter, Jasprit Bumrah came for the post-match press conference from Team India. While Kohli had come out for the post-match presser after India were thrashed by Pakistan, the 32-year-old chose to skip the post-match meeting after the New Zealand game as Bumrah answered the questions. While the speedster was firm in his replies, former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin feels head coach Ravi Shastri should've come for the post-match press conference, if not Kohli.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youll-have-to-face-the-nation-md-azharuddin-slams-virat-kohli-for-skipping-presser-after-nz-loss-425910"><strong>You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss</strong></a></p>

<p>"In my view the coach should have come for the press conference. If Virat Kohli doesn't want to attend the press conference, that's fine. But, Ravi (Shastri) bhai should've attended the press conference," Azharuddin said during a discussion on ABP News.</p>

<p>"You can't just attend press conferences after victories, you must give an explanation for defeats too. Sending Bumrah for the press conference was not right. Either the captain or the coach should have come for the presser or someone from the coaching staff," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/never-seen-captaincy-potential-in-virat-kohli-says-danish-kaneria-as-india-near-elimination-in-t20-wc-426089"><strong>Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC</strong></a></p>

<p>"If you lose a game or two, there's nothing to be ashamed of. But the captain or the coach must come and explain to the nation why the team lost. How can you expect Bumrah to answer these questions? If you are ready to face the media when the team wins then you should also step forward when your team is going through a rough phase," Azharuddin asserted.</p>

<p>India have their back against the wall in the T20 WC. They need to win their remaining games by big margins and hope for some other results to favour them in order to enter the semi-finals. The Men in Blue will now face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 3) at Abu Dhabi and another defeat will end their campaign in the marquee tournament.</p>

<p>India's group, i.e. Pool B, is topped by Pakistan, who are followed by Afghanistan, New Zealand, Namibia. Kohli &amp; Co. and Scotland occupy the bottom-two spots, respectively.</p>


India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE, after going down to Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31).

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE, after going down to Kane Williamson-led New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). After having lost to Pakistan in their opening fixture, by ten wickets, the Virat Kohli-led side were expected to comeback in style and beat the Kiwis. However, India are now on the brink of elimination after losing two consecutive ties by big margins. After the encounter, Jasprit Bumrah came for the post-match press conference from Team India. While Kohli had come out for the post-match presser after India were thrashed by Pakistan, the 32-year-old chose to skip the post-match meeting after the New Zealand game as Bumrah answered the questions. While the speedster was firm in his replies, former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin feels head coach Ravi Shastri should've come for the post-match press conference, if not Kohli. ALSO READ | You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss "In my view the coach should have come for the press conference. If Virat Kohli doesn't want to attend the press conference, that's fine. But, Ravi (Shastri) bhai should've attended the press conference," Azharuddin said during a discussion on ABP News. "You can't just attend press conferences after victories, you must give an explanation for defeats too. Sending Bumrah for the press conference was not right. Either the captain or the coach should have come for the presser or someone from the coaching staff," he added. ALSO READ | Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC "If you lose a game or two, there's nothing to be ashamed of. But the captain or the coach must come and explain to the nation why the team lost. How can you expect Bumrah to answer these questions? If you are ready to face the media when the team wins then you should also step forward when your team is going through a rough phase," Azharuddin asserted. India have their back against the wall in the T20 WC. They need to win their remaining games by big margins and hope for some other results to favour them in order to enter the semi-finals. The Men in Blue will now face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 3) at Abu Dhabi and another defeat will end their campaign in the marquee tournament. India's group, i.e. Pool B, is topped by Pakistan, who are followed by Afghanistan, New Zealand, Namibia. Kohli & Co. and Scotland occupy the bottom-two spots, respectively.

Sending Jasprit Bumrah wasn't right: Md Azharuddin feels Ravi Shastri should have come for post-match PC

<p>Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE. While the Men in Blue have lost both their games in the Super 12 round by huge margins, they remain in contention mathematically but need a monstrous effort to enter the last four.</p>

<p>As of now, the fight for the last four looks very much like a lost battle for the one-time winners. Ahead of their must-win clash versus Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 3) at Abu Dhabi, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made heads turn with his views on Captain Kohli.</p>

<p>Speaking on India's debacle in the T20 WC, Kaneria said on his Youtube channel, "There are a lot of reasons. The first one is Virat Kohli - he has been an unsuccessful captain. He made wrong team selections for the WTC final. Until he was there in Australia, India lost and then Ajinkya Rahane became the captain and led his team to a win. No doubt Virat Kohli is a big player but I have never seen captaincy potential in him. He has a lot of aggression but the decision-making ability as a captain is missing in him."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-akhtar-makes-shocking-claim-theres-divide-in-indian-team-one-camp-with-virat-kohli-other-against-426048"><strong>Shoaib Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against</strong></a></p>

<p>"Another reason is Ravi Shastri who has just disappeared. It seems as though he feels 'My time is up, the World Cup is the last in my tenure. I won't be there post this. So whatever happens let it happen' and he too has stepped aside. I won't blame MS Dhoni too much since he has just come into the side. Yet, he was part of the management and cricket involves all the 11 players as well as the management. So everybody is responsible. It's not an individual sport but a team sport so the entire team is responsible."</p>

<p>"I cannot understand this conflict - Virat Kohli opens for RCB and stated that he will open in the World Cup as well. Once the World Cup comes closer he says that there aren't better openers than KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma and they will open. Then where did Ishan Kishan come from during the New Zealand game? No doubt Rohit Sharma is the vice-captain but they ended up feeling that Trent Boult is ahead of him so they should try something different. They would be assuming that Rohit and Rahul will come out to open so if we sent Ishan Kishan to open their plans would flop,"&nbsp;added Kaneria.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-didnt-trust-rohit-sharma-against-trent-boult-sunil-gavaskar-baffled-by-hitmans-demotion-vs-nz-425962"><strong>'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ</strong></a></p>

<p>With back-to-back defeats, Kohli is under serious pressure to keep India alive in the T20 WC. The national side lost their opening fixture to Pakistan by 10 wickets and were hammered by New Zealand, by 8 wickets, as they will now step on the field to take on a competitive Afghanistan line-up, who have two wins from three games and also boost of a healthy net run-rate.</p>

<p>Another loss will end India's campaign in the T20 WC, which will be Kohli's last tournament as the Men in Blue's T20I captain.</p>


Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE. While the Men in Blue have lost both their games in the Super 12 round by huge margins, they remain in contention mathematically but need a monstrous effort to enter the last four.

Virat Kohli-led Team India are on the brink of elimination in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE. While the Men in Blue have lost both their games in the Super 12 round by huge margins, they remain in contention mathematically but need a monstrous effort to enter the last four. As of now, the fight for the last four looks very much like a lost battle for the one-time winners. Ahead of their must-win clash versus Afghanistan, on Wednesday (November 3) at Abu Dhabi, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made heads turn with his views on Captain Kohli. Speaking on India's debacle in the T20 WC, Kaneria said on his Youtube channel, "There are a lot of reasons. The first one is Virat Kohli - he has been an unsuccessful captain. He made wrong team selections for the WTC final. Until he was there in Australia, India lost and then Ajinkya Rahane became the captain and led his team to a win. No doubt Virat Kohli is a big player but I have never seen captaincy potential in him. He has a lot of aggression but the decision-making ability as a captain is missing in him." ALSO READ | Shoaib Akhtar makes shocking claim: There's divide in Indian team, one camp with Virat Kohli, other against "Another reason is Ravi Shastri who has just disappeared. It seems as though he feels 'My time is up, the World Cup is the last in my tenure. I won't be there post this. So whatever happens let it happen' and he too has stepped aside. I won't blame MS Dhoni too much since he has just come into the side. Yet, he was part of the management and cricket involves all the 11 players as well as the management. So everybody is responsible. It's not an individual sport but a team sport so the entire team is responsible." "I cannot understand this conflict - Virat Kohli opens for RCB and stated that he will open in the World Cup as well. Once the World Cup comes closer he says that there aren't better openers than KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma and they will open. Then where did Ishan Kishan come from during the New Zealand game? No doubt Rohit Sharma is the vice-captain but they ended up feeling that Trent Boult is ahead of him so they should try something different. They would be assuming that Rohit and Rahul will come out to open so if we sent Ishan Kishan to open their plans would flop," added Kaneria. ALSO READ | 'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ With back-to-back defeats, Kohli is under serious pressure to keep India alive in the T20 WC. The national side lost their opening fixture to Pakistan by 10 wickets and were hammered by New Zealand, by 8 wickets, as they will now step on the field to take on a competitive Afghanistan line-up, who have two wins from three games and also boost of a healthy net run-rate. Another loss will end India's campaign in the T20 WC, which will be Kohli's last tournament as the Men in Blue's T20I captain.

Never seen captaincy potential in Virat Kohli, says Danish Kaneria as India near elimination in T20 WC

<p>Team India squared off with New Zealand in their second Super 12 encounter in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After losing to Babar Azam-led Pakistan by ten wickets, the pressure was on Virat Kohli &amp; Co. to bounce back and keep themselves alive in the semi-finals race.</p>

<p>However, the one-time winners India fell flat in their face-off versus Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday evening (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Being asked to bat first, the Men in Blue were restricted to 110/7, courtesy Trent Boult's 3-fer and Ish Sodhi's 2 for 17. In reply, the Black Caps completed the run-chase with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare.</p>

<p>With another heavy defeat, India are on the brink of elimination. While nothing has clicked for India in the main draw of the competition so far, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has lashed out at Kohli &amp; Co. for demoting vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/your-biggest-match-winner-aakash-chopra-slams-virat-kohli-led-india-for-rohit-sharmas-demotion-425944"><strong>'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar&nbsp;said, "Ishan Kishan is a hit-or-miss player and it is better if a batsman like him walks in No.4 or No.5. He could then play according to the situation of the game. Now what has happened is that Rohit Sharma has been told that we don't trust you to face the left-arm fast bowling of Trent Boult."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you do that to a player who has been playing at a position for so many years, he himself will think that maybe he doesn't have the ability. If Ishan Kishan had made 70-odd runs we would have applauded. But when the ploy doesn't work, you are going to be criticised," he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/high-time-bcci-looks-into-scheduling-former-india-captain-comes-in-support-of-underfire-virat-kohli-co-425931"><strong>High time BCCI looks into scheduling: Former India captain comes in support of underfire Virat Kohli &amp; Co.</strong></a></p>

<p>"I don't know if it is a fear of failure but I know that whatever changes they made to the batting order today did not work. Rohit Sharma is such a great batsman and he has been sent in at No.3. Kohli himself, who has made so many runs at No.3 demotes himself to No.4. A young player like Ishan Kishan has been given the responsibility of opening the batting," Gavaskar signed off.</p>

<p>India's big guns with both the bat and ball haven't clicked in the tournament so far. They will face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 3) and have to win to remain alive in the semi-finals race by a whisker. As of now, India already are on the cusp of an early exit.</p>


Team India squared off with New Zealand in their second Super 12 encounter in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After losing to Babar Azam-led Pakistan by ten wickets, the pressure was on Virat Kohli & Co.

Team India squared off with New Zealand in their second Super 12 encounter in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, being held in the UAE. After losing to Babar Azam-led Pakistan by ten wickets, the pressure was on Virat Kohli & Co. to bounce back and keep themselves alive in the semi-finals race. However, the one-time winners India fell flat in their face-off versus Kane Williamson-led New Zealand, on Sunday evening (October 31) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Being asked to bat first, the Men in Blue were restricted to 110/7, courtesy Trent Boult's 3-fer and Ish Sodhi's 2 for 17. In reply, the Black Caps completed the run-chase with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. With another heavy defeat, India are on the brink of elimination. While nothing has clicked for India in the main draw of the competition so far, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar has lashed out at Kohli & Co. for demoting vice-captain Rohit Sharma to No. 3, to accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top. ALSO READ | 'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "Ishan Kishan is a hit-or-miss player and it is better if a batsman like him walks in No.4 or No.5. He could then play according to the situation of the game. Now what has happened is that Rohit Sharma has been told that we don't trust you to face the left-arm fast bowling of Trent Boult." "If you do that to a player who has been playing at a position for so many years, he himself will think that maybe he doesn't have the ability. If Ishan Kishan had made 70-odd runs we would have applauded. But when the ploy doesn't work, you are going to be criticised," he added. ALSO READ | High time BCCI looks into scheduling: Former India captain comes in support of underfire Virat Kohli & Co. "I don't know if it is a fear of failure but I know that whatever changes they made to the batting order today did not work. Rohit Sharma is such a great batsman and he has been sent in at No.3. Kohli himself, who has made so many runs at No.3 demotes himself to No.4. A young player like Ishan Kishan has been given the responsibility of opening the batting," Gavaskar signed off. India's big guns with both the bat and ball haven't clicked in the tournament so far. They will face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 3) and have to win to remain alive in the semi-finals race by a whisker. As of now, India already are on the cusp of an early exit.

'India didn't trust Rohit Sharma against Trent Boult' - Sunil Gavaskar baffled by Hitman's demotion vs NZ

<p>India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). Playing their second game, at the same venue i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Men in Blue fell like nine pins as they managed only a paltry 110/7 in 20 overs -- being asked to bat first -- before the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls to spare.</p>

<p>While nothing clicked for Team India, the move to demote their biggest match-opener Rohit Sharma, at No. 3, and accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top raised quite a few eyebrows. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has slammed Virat Kohli &amp; Co. to shift Hitman to the No. 3 position after the drubbing versus the Black Caps.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-looked-jaded-dilip-vengsarkar-slams-kohli-co-feels-r-ashwins-snub-is-a-matter-of-investigation-425929"><strong>India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli &amp; Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation'</strong></a></p>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra opined, "You played Ishan Kishan because Suryakumar Yadav was not fit and made him open. In order to play the left-right combination, you made your biggest match-winner come down in the order. You changed your set batting order (1,2,3) after just one loss and that is fundamentally wrong. I don’t think that can be justified."</p>

<p>"This thing (opening with Kishan) in turn exposed the selection procedure. The team you had picked had only one extra batsman. The team had several spinners but only one extra batter and that too an opener. If a middle-order batter gets unfit, you are left with no option but to play that opener. That throws the batting line-up out of order. The team already had three openers (Rohit, KL Rahul, Kishan). Even Sky could have opened but there were no middle-order batters as back-up. This was a two-way problem and just dismantling the opening combination was not the right thing to do. India's hands were tied in the end," he stated.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youll-have-to-face-the-nation-md-azharuddin-slams-virat-kohli-for-skipping-presser-after-nz-loss-425910"><strong>You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss</strong></a></p>

<p>After the loss against the NZ, India are on the brink of elimination. They need to win versus the Afghanistan cricket team, on Wednesday (November 3), to stay alive in the semi-finals race. Another defeat will end their campaign versus the Men in Blue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, nothing has clicked for Team India. Their mainstays with the bat have struggled for runs, the bowlers haven't looked daunting (although they didn't have much to defend versus the Kiwis) whereas the team selection and tactics have also been questionable.</p>


India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31).

India lost their second game on the trot in the Super 12 round of the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, in the UAE, after going down to New Zealand by eight wickets on Sunday (October 31). Playing their second game, at the same venue i.e. the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai, the Men in Blue fell like nine pins as they managed only a paltry 110/7 in 20 overs -- being asked to bat first -- before the Kiwis completed the run-chase with 33 balls to spare. While nothing clicked for Team India, the move to demote their biggest match-opener Rohit Sharma, at No. 3, and accommodate Ishan Kishan at the top raised quite a few eyebrows. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has slammed Virat Kohli & Co. to shift Hitman to the No. 3 position after the drubbing versus the Black Caps. ALSO READ | India looked jaded: Dilip Vengsarkar slams Kohli & Co., feels R Ashwin's snub is a 'matter of investigation' Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra opined, "You played Ishan Kishan because Suryakumar Yadav was not fit and made him open. In order to play the left-right combination, you made your biggest match-winner come down in the order. You changed your set batting order (1,2,3) after just one loss and that is fundamentally wrong. I don’t think that can be justified." "This thing (opening with Kishan) in turn exposed the selection procedure. The team you had picked had only one extra batsman. The team had several spinners but only one extra batter and that too an opener. If a middle-order batter gets unfit, you are left with no option but to play that opener. That throws the batting line-up out of order. The team already had three openers (Rohit, KL Rahul, Kishan). Even Sky could have opened but there were no middle-order batters as back-up. This was a two-way problem and just dismantling the opening combination was not the right thing to do. India's hands were tied in the end," he stated. ALSO READ | You'll have to face the nation: Md Azharuddin slams Virat Kohli for skipping presser after NZ loss After the loss against the NZ, India are on the brink of elimination. They need to win versus the Afghanistan cricket team, on Wednesday (November 3), to stay alive in the semi-finals race. Another defeat will end their campaign versus the Men in Blue. So far, nothing has clicked for Team India. Their mainstays with the bat have struggled for runs, the bowlers haven't looked daunting (although they didn't have much to defend versus the Kiwis) whereas the team selection and tactics have also been questionable.

'Your biggest match-winner...' - Aakash Chopra slams Virat Kohli-led India for Rohit Sharma's demotion

T20 World Cup: Here's what went wrong as India lost crucial match against New Zealand

<p>After India shockingly lost to Pakistan in their Super 12 opening fixture in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback hard against New Zealand, their second opposition in the marquee event.</p>

<p>India and New Zealand locked horns with each other on Sunday evening (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai as many expected the one-time winners to move past the Black Caps. However, India do not have a good record versus the Kiwis in ICC events and it once again got exposed as Kohli &amp; Co. lost to Kane Williamson-led Black Caps by 8 wickets at Dubai.</p>

<p>Being asked to bat first, India managed a below-par 110/7 as none of their batters got going whereas Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi starred for Kiwis with the ball. In reply, New Zealand ended the match with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. With this, India have&nbsp;only a solitary victory over the New Zealanders in ICC events, which came during&nbsp;the 2003 ODI World Cup, in South Africa.</p>

<p>After the match, former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi has made a bold claim on India's chances going ahead. He tweeted saying, "India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. @T20WorldCup."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sometimes-you-need-a-break-jasprit-bumrah-feels-bubble-fatigue-behind-team-indias-t20-wc-struggles-425804"><strong>'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles</strong></a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@T20WorldCup</a></p>
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial/status/1454858664075046914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-sl-t20-world-cup-2021-prediction-who-will-win-todays-match-between-england-and-sri-lanka-425830"><strong>ENG vs SL, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between England and Sri Lanka?</strong></a></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "To be brutal upfront, I don't think we were brave enough with bat/ball. We obviously didn't have much to play with the ball. We were just not brave enough in our body language when we entered the field and NZ had better intensity, body language. Every time we took a chance, we lost a wicket. It's most often a result of hesitation of whether you should go for a shot or not. When you play for India, there are loads of expectations. We are watched, people come to the stadium and everyone who plays for India needs to embrace that and cope with it. We haven't done that in these two games, and that's why we haven't won."</p>

<p>India need to win their next game, versus Afghanistan (November 3), at Abu Dhabi as another defeat will lead to their early exit from the marquee tournament.</p>


After India shockingly lost to Pakistan in their Super 12 opening fixture in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback hard against New Zealand, their second opposition in the marquee event.

After India shockingly lost to Pakistan in their Super 12 opening fixture in the T20 World Cup 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue were expected to comeback hard against New Zealand, their second opposition in the marquee event. India and New Zealand locked horns with each other on Sunday evening (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai as many expected the one-time winners to move past the Black Caps. However, India do not have a good record versus the Kiwis in ICC events and it once again got exposed as Kohli & Co. lost to Kane Williamson-led Black Caps by 8 wickets at Dubai. Being asked to bat first, India managed a below-par 110/7 as none of their batters got going whereas Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi starred for Kiwis with the ball. In reply, New Zealand ended the match with 8 wickets and 33 balls to spare. With this, India have only a solitary victory over the New Zealanders in ICC events, which came during the 2003 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. After the match, former Pakistan all-rounder and captain Shahid Afridi has made a bold claim on India's chances going ahead. He tweeted saying, "India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. @T20WorldCup." ALSO READ | 'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles India still have an outside chance of qualifying for semis but with how they have played their two big games in the event, it will be nothing but a miracle to see them qualify. @T20WorldCup — Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) October 31, 2021 × ALSO READ | ENG vs SL, T20 World Cup 2021 prediction: Who will win today's match between England and Sri Lanka? At the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "To be brutal upfront, I don't think we were brave enough with bat/ball. We obviously didn't have much to play with the ball. We were just not brave enough in our body language when we entered the field and NZ had better intensity, body language. Every time we took a chance, we lost a wicket. It's most often a result of hesitation of whether you should go for a shot or not. When you play for India, there are loads of expectations. We are watched, people come to the stadium and everyone who plays for India needs to embrace that and cope with it. We haven't done that in these two games, and that's why we haven't won." India need to win their next game, versus Afghanistan (November 3), at Abu Dhabi as another defeat will lead to their early exit from the marquee tournament.

Will be a miracle to see them qualify: Shahid Afridi predicts India's fortunes after NZ loss in T20 WC

<p>After being thrashed by Pakistan in their T20 World Cup 2021 opener, Virat Kohli-led Team India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in their second game in Super 12.</p>

<p>Being asked to bat first, nothing clicked for India as they managed a below-par 110/7 in 20 overs. In reply, New Zealand sailed past the Men in Blue by 8 wickets courtesy vital knocks from Daryl Mitchell and Captain Williamson. With another defeat, the one-time winners India are almost on the verge of being eliminated from the marquee tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With several experts and former cricketers questioning India's poor run and their tactics, Jasprit Bumrah pointed out that the bubble-life has taken a toll on the Indian cricketers. In their defence, Team India have been on the road since mid-May, 2021 and have played regular cricket since then. To move from one bio-bubble to the other isn't easy by any means and it has started to affect the players.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/54-dot-balls-71-deliveries-without-a-boundary-shocking-stats-numbers-from-indias-flop-show-against-nz-425787"><strong>54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats &amp; numbers from India's flop show against NZ</strong></a></p>

<p>Bumrah told reporters post India's thrashing versus New Zealand, "Absolutely, sometimes you need a break. You miss your family. You've been on the road for six months. So all of that sometimes play on the back of your mind. But when you're on the field, you don't think of all those things .. Obviously staying in a bubble and staying away from your family for such a long period of time does play a role.</p>

<p>"The BCCI also tried their best to make us feel comfortable .. It's a difficult time. There's a pandemic going on, so we try to adapt but sometimes bubble fatigue, mental fatigue also creeps in."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-did-rohit-bat-at-3-shoaib-akhtar-questions-indias-game-plan-says-it-was-a-lost-squad-against-nz-425758">'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ</a></strong></p>

<p>India need a miracle now to progress to the semi-finals from Pool B. At present, Pakistan look certain to top the group whereas the fight for the second spot is between the Black Caps and Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan.</p>


After being thrashed by Pakistan in their T20 World Cup 2021 opener, Virat Kohli-led Team India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in their second game in Super 12.

After being thrashed by Pakistan in their T20 World Cup 2021 opener, Virat Kohli-led Team India were hammered by Kane Williamson-led New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in their second game in Super 12. Being asked to bat first, nothing clicked for India as they managed a below-par 110/7 in 20 overs. In reply, New Zealand sailed past the Men in Blue by 8 wickets courtesy vital knocks from Daryl Mitchell and Captain Williamson. With another defeat, the one-time winners India are almost on the verge of being eliminated from the marquee tournament. With several experts and former cricketers questioning India's poor run and their tactics, Jasprit Bumrah pointed out that the bubble-life has taken a toll on the Indian cricketers. In their defence, Team India have been on the road since mid-May, 2021 and have played regular cricket since then. To move from one bio-bubble to the other isn't easy by any means and it has started to affect the players. ALSO READ | 54 dot balls, 71 deliveries without a boundary: Shocking stats & numbers from India's flop show against NZ Bumrah told reporters post India's thrashing versus New Zealand, "Absolutely, sometimes you need a break. You miss your family. You've been on the road for six months. So all of that sometimes play on the back of your mind. But when you're on the field, you don't think of all those things .. Obviously staying in a bubble and staying away from your family for such a long period of time does play a role. "The BCCI also tried their best to make us feel comfortable .. It's a difficult time. There's a pandemic going on, so we try to adapt but sometimes bubble fatigue, mental fatigue also creeps in." ALSO READ | 'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ India need a miracle now to progress to the semi-finals from Pool B. At present, Pakistan look certain to top the group whereas the fight for the second spot is between the Black Caps and Mohammad Nabi-led Afghanistan.

'Sometimes you need a break: Jasprit Bumrah feels bubble-fatigue behind Team India's T20 WC struggles

<p>Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar criticised India's game plan against New Zealand as he was left disappointed by Virat Kohli &amp; Co.'s timid show in their 8-wicket defeat in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). India's batting line-up was left exposed once again while the bowlers failed to deliver as a unit.</p>

<p>After a humiliating ten-wicket defeat against Pakistan in their opening game of the Super 12, India were expected to dish out a better performance against New Zealand but were completely outclassed by the Kiwis. Invited to bat first, India could only manage a paltry 110 runs on the board in their quota of 20 overs after the likes of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli failed to deliver.</p>

<p>The move to promote Ishan Kishan as an opener and demote Rohit at no. 3 raised many eyebrows and was questioned by many including Akhtar, who said he didn't know what mindset and attitude were India playing with against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After restricting India on 110 runs, New Zealand comfortably chased down the target in 14.3 overs and registered their first win in the tournament. Speaking on his YouTube channel while analysing India's loss, Akhtar questioned India's game plan and the decisions to open with Ishan and bowling Hardik Pandya last in the game among others.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/time-for-serious-introspection-virender-sehwag-disappointed-as-nz-virtually-knock-india-out-of-t20-wc-2021-425745">Time for serious introspection: Sehwag disappointed as NZ virtually knock India out of T20 WC 2021</a></p>

<p>"I don't know with what mindset and attitude they were playing. Why did Rohit bat at 3, why did they open with Ishan Kishan? Hardik Pandya, bowling pretty late in the innings, should've bowled earlier. I have no idea whatsoever about India's gameplan. It was a completely lost Indian squad," Akhtar said in a video on his YouTube channel.</p>

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<p>"It never seemed as if India turned up for this game or not. Average performance by team India. After all the hype and pressure from the Indian media, I knew that the team would struggle. Again, the team proved to be a weak bowling side," the former Pakistan pacer added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-lack-mental-toughness-for-big-matches-gautam-gambhir-slams-virat-kohli-co-after-nz-debacle-425752">India lack mental toughness for big matches: Gautam Gambhir slams Virat Kohli &amp; Co. after NZ debacle</a></p>

<p>While the defeat has done significant damage to India's hope for finishing in the top four, they still stand a outside chance depending on the results of the other teams if they can manage to win their remaining three matches by big margins. India will next face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 03).</p>


Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar criticised India's game plan against New Zealand as he was left disappointed by Virat Kohli & Co.'s timid show in their 8-wicket defeat in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31).

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar criticised India's game plan against New Zealand as he was left disappointed by Virat Kohli & Co.'s timid show in their 8-wicket defeat in the T20 World Cup 2021 on Sunday (October 31). India's batting line-up was left exposed once again while the bowlers failed to deliver as a unit. After a humiliating ten-wicket defeat against Pakistan in their opening game of the Super 12, India were expected to dish out a better performance against New Zealand but were completely outclassed by the Kiwis. Invited to bat first, India could only manage a paltry 110 runs on the board in their quota of 20 overs after the likes of Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli failed to deliver. The move to promote Ishan Kishan as an opener and demote Rohit at no. 3 raised many eyebrows and was questioned by many including Akhtar, who said he didn't know what mindset and attitude were India playing with against New Zealand in Dubai on Sunday. After restricting India on 110 runs, New Zealand comfortably chased down the target in 14.3 overs and registered their first win in the tournament. Speaking on his YouTube channel while analysing India's loss, Akhtar questioned India's game plan and the decisions to open with Ishan and bowling Hardik Pandya last in the game among others. Also Read: Time for serious introspection: Sehwag disappointed as NZ virtually knock India out of T20 WC 2021 "I don't know with what mindset and attitude they were playing. Why did Rohit bat at 3, why did they open with Ishan Kishan? Hardik Pandya, bowling pretty late in the innings, should've bowled earlier. I have no idea whatsoever about India's gameplan. It was a completely lost Indian squad," Akhtar said in a video on his YouTube channel. × "It never seemed as if India turned up for this game or not. Average performance by team India. After all the hype and pressure from the Indian media, I knew that the team would struggle. Again, the team proved to be a weak bowling side," the former Pakistan pacer added. Also Read: India lack mental toughness for big matches: Gautam Gambhir slams Virat Kohli & Co. after NZ debacle While the defeat has done significant damage to India's hope for finishing in the top four, they still stand a outside chance depending on the results of the other teams if they can manage to win their remaining three matches by big margins. India will next face Afghanistan on Wednesday (November 03).

'Why did Rohit bat at 3?': Shoaib Akhtar questions India's game plan, says it was a lost squad against NZ

<p>Indian skipper Virat Kohli was left bemused in the post-match press conference after the team's ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2021 when a reporter asked if he should consider dropping Rohit Sharma for Ishan Kishan in the playing XI. Kohli was left stumped by the question and told the reporter it was a very 'brave' question.</p>

<p>"Do you think its a mistake to not play Ishan Kishan and he could have done better than Rohit Sharma?" - the journalist asked Kohli after India's loss against Pakistan. Kohli burst into laughter on hearing the question and replied - "That's a very brave question, what do you think sir? I played the team that I thought was the best. What is your opinion." &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am just asking. I am not going to comment," the reporter responded.</p>

<p>"Will you drop Rohit Sharma from T20 internationals? You will drop Rohit Sharma? Do you know what he did in the last game that we played? Yeah? Unbelievable. If you want controversy, please tell me before so I can answer accordingly," Kohli then said while laughing.</p>

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<p>The video of the incident had gone viral on social media with many criticising the reporter for his question. But days after Kohli laughed off his question, the reporter's prediction came partially true on Sunday (October 31) as India locked horns with New Zealand in their second Super 12 game of the T20 World Cup 2021.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-ridiculous-virat-kohli-says-too-long-a-break-as-india-take-on-nz-after-seven-days-in-t20-wc-2021-425628">&nbsp;'It's ridiculous': Virat Kohli says 'too long a break' as India take on NZ after seven days in T20 WC 2021</a></p>

<p>While Rohit was not dropped from the playing XI, he was replaced by young Kishan as an opener. Many were expecting KL Rahul to be demoted after captain Kohli confirmed during the toss that Kishan will open the innings after replacing an injured Suryakumar Yadav in the XI.</p>

<p>However, that was not the case as Kishan opened the batting with KL Rahul against the Black Caps. The move didn't work in India's favour as the young left-hander was dismissed after scoring just 4 runs of 8 balls and failed to make an impact.</p>

<p>India got off to a disatrous start in the must-win game against New Zealand as they lost Kishan cheaply on 4 before Rahul was dismissed after scoring 18 off 16 balls. Rohit, who came out to bat at no.3, was dropped on the very first ball he faced but survived after Adam Milne spilled a seatet to hand him a lifeline.</p>

<p>The Hitman was sent packing by Ish Shodi after scoring on;y 14 runs of 14 balls before the spinner got rid of skipper Kohli on 9 off 17 balls as were reduced to 48/4 inside the first eleven overs.</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli was left bemused in the post-match press conference after the team's ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2021 when a reporter asked if he should consider dropping Rohit Sharma for Ishan Kishan in the playing XI.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli was left bemused in the post-match press conference after the team's ten-wicket loss against Pakistan in their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2021 when a reporter asked if he should consider dropping Rohit Sharma for Ishan Kishan in the playing XI. Kohli was left stumped by the question and told the reporter it was a very 'brave' question. "Do you think its a mistake to not play Ishan Kishan and he could have done better than Rohit Sharma?" - the journalist asked Kohli after India's loss against Pakistan. Kohli burst into laughter on hearing the question and replied - "That's a very brave question, what do you think sir? I played the team that I thought was the best. What is your opinion." "I am just asking. I am not going to comment," the reporter responded. "Will you drop Rohit Sharma from T20 internationals? You will drop Rohit Sharma? Do you know what he did in the last game that we played? Yeah? Unbelievable. If you want controversy, please tell me before so I can answer accordingly," Kohli then said while laughing. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × The video of the incident had gone viral on social media with many criticising the reporter for his question. But days after Kohli laughed off his question, the reporter's prediction came partially true on Sunday (October 31) as India locked horns with New Zealand in their second Super 12 game of the T20 World Cup 2021. Also Read: 'It's ridiculous': Virat Kohli says 'too long a break' as India take on NZ after seven days in T20 WC 2021 While Rohit was not dropped from the playing XI, he was replaced by young Kishan as an opener. Many were expecting KL Rahul to be demoted after captain Kohli confirmed during the toss that Kishan will open the innings after replacing an injured Suryakumar Yadav in the XI. However, that was not the case as Kishan opened the batting with KL Rahul against the Black Caps. The move didn't work in India's favour as the young left-hander was dismissed after scoring just 4 runs of 8 balls and failed to make an impact. India got off to a disatrous start in the must-win game against New Zealand as they lost Kishan cheaply on 4 before Rahul was dismissed after scoring 18 off 16 balls. Rohit, who came out to bat at no.3, was dropped on the very first ball he faced but survived after Adam Milne spilled a seatet to hand him a lifeline. The Hitman was sent packing by Ish Shodi after scoring on;y 14 runs of 14 balls before the spinner got rid of skipper Kohli on 9 off 17 balls as were reduced to 48/4 inside the first eleven overs.

Days after Virat Kohli getting tetchy with journalist, Ishan replaces Rohit as opener against NZ in T20 WC

<p>Skipper Virat Kohli said that "it's ridiculous" that the Indian team is playing twice in 10 days in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup as the break is too long. However, he also added that the team has recovered well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India played their campaign opener against Pakistan on October 24, which they lost by 10 wickets and during the toss of their second match against New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), Virat addressed the long break.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During toss, Virat said, "It's ridiculous, we are playing twice in 10 days. Too long a break, but yeah, the guys have recovered well. Had good practice sessions, are itching to go out on the field, which is a good thing. When you have so many days off you want to get on the park and get into the groove."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/michael-vaughan-names-only-team-which-can-stop-destructive-england-in-t20-world-cup-2021-425604">Michael Vaughan names only team which can stop 'destructive' England in T20 World Cup 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>Virat also said that the game is another opportunity to come out and correct the mistakes and solidify India's position in the showpiece event, which is underway in UAE and Oman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the match, New Zealand opted to bowl against India in an all-important Super 12 match. India made two changes to their playing XI with Ishan Kishan coming in place of Suryakumar Yadav, who is suffering from back spasms while out-of-form Bhuvneshwar Kumar made way for all-rounder Shardul Thakur.</p>

<p>For New Zealand, pacer Adam Milne replaced keeper Tim Seifert with Devon Conway set to don big gloves. Virat also said, "We need a solid start and have wickets in hand to get those extra 20-25 runs are the learnings from the last game."</p>

<p>"We do have the bowling line-up to take wickets, but when you don't have runs on the board one partnership can take the game away from you. We understand that and plans are there to get those extra runs," he added.&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidEzIUPmVr7D7U" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-mohammad-shahzad-becomes-first-afghanistan-player-to-reach-2000-t20i-runs-425609">T20 World Cup: Mohammad Shahzad becomes first Afghanistan player to reach 2000 T20I runs</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kane Williamson has won the toss and elected to field 🏏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j">https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j</a> <a href="https://t.co/aMZFGrCSba">pic.twitter.com/aMZFGrCSba</a></p>
— T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/T20WorldCup/status/1454804200232087558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Playing XI:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>India</strong>: Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah</p>

<p><strong>New Zealand</strong>: Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson(c), James Neesham, Devon Conway(w), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Adam Milne, Trent Boult</p>


Skipper Virat Kohli said that "it's ridiculous" that the Indian team is playing twice in 10 days in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup as the break is too long.

Skipper Virat Kohli said that "it's ridiculous" that the Indian team is playing twice in 10 days in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup as the break is too long. However, he also added that the team has recovered well. India played their campaign opener against Pakistan on October 24, which they lost by 10 wickets and during the toss of their second match against New Zealand on Sunday (October 31), Virat addressed the long break. During toss, Virat said, "It's ridiculous, we are playing twice in 10 days. Too long a break, but yeah, the guys have recovered well. Had good practice sessions, are itching to go out on the field, which is a good thing. When you have so many days off you want to get on the park and get into the groove." ALSO READ | Michael Vaughan names only team which can stop 'destructive' England in T20 World Cup 2021 Virat also said that the game is another opportunity to come out and correct the mistakes and solidify India's position in the showpiece event, which is underway in UAE and Oman. In the match, New Zealand opted to bowl against India in an all-important Super 12 match. India made two changes to their playing XI with Ishan Kishan coming in place of Suryakumar Yadav, who is suffering from back spasms while out-of-form Bhuvneshwar Kumar made way for all-rounder Shardul Thakur. For New Zealand, pacer Adam Milne replaced keeper Tim Seifert with Devon Conway set to don big gloves. Virat also said, "We need a solid start and have wickets in hand to get those extra 20-25 runs are the learnings from the last game." "We do have the bowling line-up to take wickets, but when you don't have runs on the board one partnership can take the game away from you. We understand that and plans are there to get those extra runs," he added. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Mohammad Shahzad becomes first Afghanistan player to reach 2000 T20I runs Kane Williamson has won the toss and elected to field 🏏 #T20WorldCup | #INDvNZ | https://t.co/dJpWyk0E0j pic.twitter.com/aMZFGrCSba — T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) October 31, 2021 × Playing XI: India: Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli(c), Rishabh Pant(w), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson(c), James Neesham, Devon Conway(w), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Adam Milne, Trent Boult

'It's ridiculous': Virat Kohli says 'too long a break' as India take on NZ after seven days in T20 WC 2021

<p>The star all-rounder Hardik Pandya of the Mumbai Indians might not get retained by his current franchise as he is likely to be sent back into the Indian Premier League auction pool, media reports have suggested. The five-time champions will have to make some difficult choices to make in the upcoming mega auction that is likely to happen in December. A recent report has also suggested that teams will be able to retain a maximum of four players.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the addition of two new teams — Lucknow and Ahmedabad — the narratives of the tournament has been changed. The two new franchises reportedly can acquire three players from the rest of the player pool before the 2022 auction.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-be-retained-by-srh-david-warner-looking-for-fresh-start-to-put-his-name-in-ipl-2022-auction-424812">'Won’t be retained by SRH' - David Warner looking for 'fresh start', to put his name in IPL 2022 auction</a></strong></p>

<p>Now, talking about the Mumbai Indians team, the news is not good if reports are to be believed as it has been stated that MI will not retain him. As per the report, the top three players who will be retained are skipper Rohit Sharma, India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrsh and West Indies star Kieron Pollard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think BCCI will have three-player retention formula with one Right to Match card. If RTM is not there, there could be four retention," PTI reported citing a senior IPL official, who is tracking the retention market of franchises. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Rohit Sharma and India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrsh are automatic picks. Kieron Pollard will be third retention. MI's strength is their continuity as these three are pillars of MI," the official added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-wc-ajay-jadeja-disappointed-with-kohlis-remarks-post-pakistan-clash-says-it-shows-indias-approach-424768">T20 WC: Ajay Jadeja 'disappointed' with Kohli's remarks post Pakistan clash, says 'It shows India's approach'</a></strong></p>

<p>"At this point in time, there is less than 10 per cent chance that Hardik will be retained by MI. Yes, he might just outperform everybody in the next few T20 World Cup games but even then, chances are dim. If there are four retention or 1 RTM, then Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan are the contenders for that slot," the official added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 NEWS 🚨: BCCI announces the successful bidders for two new Indian Premier League Franchises<br />
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More Details 🔽<a href="https://t.co/FSU4LsAxzj">https://t.co/FSU4LsAxzj</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1452653569467817986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Hardik might still be picked by MI from the auction if he comes within the budget earmarked for him. "Yes, obviously there is a market dynamics and if required MI will pick him from the auction, provided he fits within a specific budget. In order of preference, the first five MI players are Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Kieron Pollard, Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan," the IPL insider stated.&nbsp;</p>


The star all-rounder Hardik Pandya of the Mumbai Indians might not get retained by his current franchise as he is likely to be sent back into the Indian Premier League auction pool, media reports have suggested.

The star all-rounder Hardik Pandya of the Mumbai Indians might not get retained by his current franchise as he is likely to be sent back into the Indian Premier League auction pool, media reports have suggested. The five-time champions will have to make some difficult choices to make in the upcoming mega auction that is likely to happen in December. A recent report has also suggested that teams will be able to retain a maximum of four players. After the addition of two new teams — Lucknow and Ahmedabad — the narratives of the tournament has been changed. The two new franchises reportedly can acquire three players from the rest of the player pool before the 2022 auction. ALSO READ | 'Won’t be retained by SRH' - David Warner looking for 'fresh start', to put his name in IPL 2022 auction Now, talking about the Mumbai Indians team, the news is not good if reports are to be believed as it has been stated that MI will not retain him. As per the report, the top three players who will be retained are skipper Rohit Sharma, India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrsh and West Indies star Kieron Pollard. "I think BCCI will have three-player retention formula with one Right to Match card. If RTM is not there, there could be four retention," PTI reported citing a senior IPL official, who is tracking the retention market of franchises. "Rohit Sharma and India's pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrsh are automatic picks. Kieron Pollard will be third retention. MI's strength is their continuity as these three are pillars of MI," the official added. ALSO READ | T20 WC: Ajay Jadeja 'disappointed' with Kohli's remarks post Pakistan clash, says 'It shows India's approach' "At this point in time, there is less than 10 per cent chance that Hardik will be retained by MI. Yes, he might just outperform everybody in the next few T20 World Cup games but even then, chances are dim. If there are four retention or 1 RTM, then Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan are the contenders for that slot," the official added. 🚨 NEWS 🚨: BCCI announces the successful bidders for two new Indian Premier League Franchises More Details 🔽https://t.co/FSU4LsAxzj — BCCI (@BCCI) October 25, 2021 × Hardik might still be picked by MI from the auction if he comes within the budget earmarked for him. "Yes, obviously there is a market dynamics and if required MI will pick him from the auction, provided he fits within a specific budget. In order of preference, the first five MI players are Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Kieron Pollard, Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan," the IPL insider stated.

IPL auction: Hardik Pandya unlikely to be retained by Mumbai Indians - Reports

<p>On the cricket field, India and Pakistan are arch-rivals, but players from both sides have a strong bond off the field, as evidenced by the Men in Green's 10-wicket victory against Virat Kohli's team at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on October 24.</p>

<p>Pakistani cricketers were spotted conversing with former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who is now Team India's consultant, just after the match finished.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pakistan team players having a chat with MS Dhoni after the match ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MSDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://t.co/rlR2NCUYo9">pic.twitter.com/rlR2NCUYo9</a></p>
— DHONI Trends™ 🏆 (@TrendsDhoni) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrendsDhoni/status/1452331614839652372?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Also, despite a devastating setback in Team India's T20 World Cup opener, skipper Virat Kohli remained composed and demonstrated the "Spirit of Cricket" in his post-match interactions with the opposition.</p>

<p>The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shared a snapshot of Kohli chatting with Rizwan Azam on social media with the message "Spirit of Cricket! #WeHaveWeWill."&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Pakistani players also snapped photographs with Dhoni, who is the first captain in white-ball cricket history to win all three ICC titles.</p>

<p>Several photographs of Dhoni talking with the players were shared on social media.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fanboy moment of Young Pakistan Bowler Shahnawaz Dahani ❤<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MSDhoni</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvPAK</a> <a href="https://t.co/Sx4oZS3k4P">pic.twitter.com/Sx4oZS3k4P</a></p>
— Dhoni Army TN™ (@DhoniArmyTN) <a href="https://twitter.com/DhoniArmyTN/status/1452332731942248462?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>It was Pakistan's first-ever 10-wicket triumph over any opponent in a T20, while India also suffered the humiliation of losing by such a large margin.<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | T20 World Cup: Pakistan beat India by 10 wickets, John Buchanan gives insight</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/t20-world-cup-pakistan-beat-india-by-10-wickets-john-buchanan-gives-insight-423684/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Pakistan won their first T20 World Cup match against India since 2007, when India won the first event by defeating Pakistan in the final.</p>

<p>Pakistan took first place in the 2009 edition.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On the cricket field, India and Pakistan are arch-rivals, but players from both sides have a strong bond off the field, as evidenced by the Men in Green's 10-wicket victory against Virat Kohli's team at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on October 24.

On the cricket field, India and Pakistan are arch-rivals, but players from both sides have a strong bond off the field, as evidenced by the Men in Green's 10-wicket victory against Virat Kohli's team at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on October 24. Pakistani cricketers were spotted conversing with former Indian captain MS Dhoni, who is now Team India's consultant, just after the match finished. Pakistan team players having a chat with MS Dhoni after the match ❤️@MSDhoni | #MSDhoni | #WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/rlR2NCUYo9 — DHONI Trends™ 🏆 (@TrendsDhoni) October 24, 2021 × Also, despite a devastating setback in Team India's T20 World Cup opener, skipper Virat Kohli remained composed and demonstrated the "Spirit of Cricket" in his post-match interactions with the opposition. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shared a snapshot of Kohli chatting with Rizwan Azam on social media with the message "Spirit of Cricket! #WeHaveWeWill." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pakistan Cricket (@therealpcb) × Pakistani players also snapped photographs with Dhoni, who is the first captain in white-ball cricket history to win all three ICC titles. Several photographs of Dhoni talking with the players were shared on social media. Fanboy moment of Young Pakistan Bowler Shahnawaz Dahani ❤#TeamIndia | @MSDhoni | #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/Sx4oZS3k4P — Dhoni Army TN™ (@DhoniArmyTN) October 24, 2021 × It was Pakistan's first-ever 10-wicket triumph over any opponent in a T20, while India also suffered the humiliation of losing by such a large margin. Watch | T20 World Cup: Pakistan beat India by 10 wickets, John Buchanan gives insight Pakistan won their first T20 World Cup match against India since 2007, when India won the first event by defeating Pakistan in the final. Pakistan took first place in the 2009 edition. (With inputs from agencies)

Heartwarming gesture: Pakistani players chat with Dhoni and Kohli after the match, take selfies

<p>Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh wants young batter Ishan Kishan to open for Team India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Harbhajan feels it's high time for Ishan to get into the playing XI and open the batting with Rohit Sharma. Harbhajan's comments come after India's crushing ten-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in their opening game on Sunday (October 24).</p>

<p>Indian openers Rohit (0) and KL Rahul (3) failed to deliver as a top-order collapse saw India post a moderate total of 151 runs on the board against Pakistan in Dubai. Pakistan chased down the target comfortably with the help of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan's unbeaten fifties to register a comprehensive win by ten wickets.</p>

<p>The opening partnership of Rohit and Rahul lasted only four deliveries as Rohit was the first one to depart in the very first over bowled by Shaheen Afridi, who later got rid of Rahul in his second over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have been saying for a long time, it's high time, Ishan Kishan needs to get a game. He should open with Rohit Sharma, Kohli comes in at No.3 and KL can bat at 4. This will be a very, very solid batting lineup till No.4," Harbhajan was quoted as saying by<em> India Today</em>.</p>

<p>All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is unlikely to bowl and is currently nursing an injury suffered during the Pakistan game, might sit out in the next encounter against New Zealand. Harbhajan believes Shardul Thakur should be roped in if Hardik is not fit and Rahul should be asked to bat at no.4.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/do-you-still-want-a-walkover-shoaib-akhtar-taunts-harbhajan-singh-after-pakistan-beat-india-in-t20-wc-423900">'Do you still want a walkover?': Shoaib Akhtar taunts Harbhajan Singh after Pakistan beat India in T20 WC</a></p>

<p>Harbhajan wants Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant to bat at no. 5 and six respectively with Ravindra Jadeja coming in at no.7 in case of Hardik's absence.</p>

<p>"At No.5, Rishabh Pant can come and at six, Hardik if he is available. If he is ok I would still playing because he is a match-winner for team India. If he is not fit then Suryakumar Yadav plays at No.5, Rishabh at six and (Ravindra) Jadeja at seven. At No.8, Shardul Thakur. He can bat, bowl and field, he has been performing really well. He just won a championship with CSK, riding high on confidence and we should look to utilise his confidence. Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy and Shami will be the next three," said Harbhajan.</p>

<p>India will next take on New Zealand in their second game of the league stage on October 31 and will be hoping to bounce back to winnings ways against the Kiwis.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh wants young batter Ishan Kishan to open for Team India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Harbhajan feels it's high time for Ishan to get into the playing XI and open the batting with Rohit Sharma.

Veteran Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh wants young batter Ishan Kishan to open for Team India in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021. Harbhajan feels it's high time for Ishan to get into the playing XI and open the batting with Rohit Sharma. Harbhajan's comments come after India's crushing ten-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in their opening game on Sunday (October 24). Indian openers Rohit (0) and KL Rahul (3) failed to deliver as a top-order collapse saw India post a moderate total of 151 runs on the board against Pakistan in Dubai. Pakistan chased down the target comfortably with the help of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan's unbeaten fifties to register a comprehensive win by ten wickets. The opening partnership of Rohit and Rahul lasted only four deliveries as Rohit was the first one to depart in the very first over bowled by Shaheen Afridi, who later got rid of Rahul in his second over. "I have been saying for a long time, it's high time, Ishan Kishan needs to get a game. He should open with Rohit Sharma, Kohli comes in at No.3 and KL can bat at 4. This will be a very, very solid batting lineup till No.4," Harbhajan was quoted as saying by India Today. All-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is unlikely to bowl and is currently nursing an injury suffered during the Pakistan game, might sit out in the next encounter against New Zealand. Harbhajan believes Shardul Thakur should be roped in if Hardik is not fit and Rahul should be asked to bat at no.4. Also Read: 'Do you still want a walkover?': Shoaib Akhtar taunts Harbhajan Singh after Pakistan beat India in T20 WC Harbhajan wants Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant to bat at no. 5 and six respectively with Ravindra Jadeja coming in at no.7 in case of Hardik's absence. "At No.5, Rishabh Pant can come and at six, Hardik if he is available. If he is ok I would still playing because he is a match-winner for team India. If he is not fit then Suryakumar Yadav plays at No.5, Rishabh at six and (Ravindra) Jadeja at seven. At No.8, Shardul Thakur. He can bat, bowl and field, he has been performing really well. He just won a championship with CSK, riding high on confidence and we should look to utilise his confidence. Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy and Shami will be the next three," said Harbhajan. India will next take on New Zealand in their second game of the league stage on October 31 and will be hoping to bounce back to winnings ways against the Kiwis.

T20 WC 2021: High time Ishan Kishan got a game, should open with Rohit Sharma - Harbhajan Singh

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