Punjab Kings will take on reigning champions Mumbai Indians tonight, at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

The two sides have confronted each other multiple times in past versions of the league. Punjab Kings have won 12 of those games, while Mumbai Indians have been somewhat better and figured out how to win 14 encounters. PBKS have endured three extensive losses following the restricted win in their competition opener. Then, Mumbai Indians have won two out of their four games and are falling off a misfortune to the Delhi Capitals in which the reigning champs' middle-order unhinged against the trickiness of leg-spinner Amit Mishra.

The wicket at the Chepauk has seen a great deal of action in a limited time and could be dry and worn out. The ball should turn well, so another low-scoring challenge can be anticipated.

 
Punjab Kings 
PBKS' bowlers have had a standard excursion, however, it's their conflicting performances with the bat that have intensified their hardships. While KL Rahul is relied upon to be aggressive and anchor the innings, simultaneously, the reality stays that his dismissals will in general leave the team uncovered.

Thinking about their affinity to slash and change, it will not be a shock if Dawid Malan makes the playing XI for this game, as his essence could permit Rahul to play with somewhat more opportunity at the top. While PBKS will hope to adjust to the conditions at the Chepauk better, they'll likewise hope to misuse MI center middle-order battles at this venue.

Mohammed Shami is the most experienced speed bowler for the Punjab Kings. He has scalped 8 wickets from only 4 innings against the Mumbai Indians. The expert Indian quick bowler began the IPL 2021 season well with 4 wickets from the initial two games yet has seen a dunk in structure from that point forward. Shami will need to rapidly adjust to the line and length and aim for a superior excursion against Mumbai Indians.

Probable XI:&nbsp;KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran, Deepak Hooda, Moises Henriques, Shahrukh Khan, Fabian Allen, M Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh.

Mumbai Indians 
Rohit Sharma has scored 138 runs in four outings at Chepauk this year - the most by any Mumbai Indians batsman. The defending champs would need Suryakumar Yadav and Rohit Sharma, two players who haven't been influenced much by the gradualness of the track, to take care of business against PBKS.&nbsp;

The significant explanation for the accomplishment of the Mumbai Indians in the IPL is their solid bowling center. Jasprit Bumrah stands out against PBKS with 17 scalps from 12 innings. In view of his steady bowling and the varieties he carries with his bouncers and yorkers, he is certainly the one to look out for.&nbsp;

Pollard is the highest run-scorer for the Mumbai Indians against Punjab Kings with 498 runs from 20 innings at an SR of 164.90 and a normal of 38.31. Then, Rahul Chahar has taken eight wickets in four matches at MA Chidambaram Stadium. The in-structure leg-spinner has 4 wickets from only 3 games against the Punjab Kings and will be hoping to add a few more to his count.

Probable XI:&nbsp;Quinton de Kock, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, Rahul Chahar, Jayant Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult

Both Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians will hope to end the Chennai leg of their IPL 2021 mission on a high when they take on one another on Friday.

 
&nbsp;

Punjab Kings will take on reigning champions Mumbai Indians tonight, at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The two sides have confronted each other multiple times in past versions of the league.

Punjab Kings will take on reigning champions Mumbai Indians tonight, at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The two sides have confronted each other multiple times in past versions of the league. Punjab Kings have won 12 of those games, while Mumbai Indians have been somewhat better and figured out how to win 14 encounters. PBKS have endured three extensive losses following the restricted win in their competition opener. Then, Mumbai Indians have won two out of their four games and are falling off a misfortune to the Delhi Capitals in which the reigning champs' middle-order unhinged against the trickiness of leg-spinner Amit Mishra. The wicket at the Chepauk has seen a great deal of action in a limited time and could be dry and worn out. The ball should turn well, so another low-scoring challenge can be anticipated. Punjab Kings PBKS' bowlers have had a standard excursion, however, it's their conflicting performances with the bat that have intensified their hardships. While KL Rahul is relied upon to be aggressive and anchor the innings, simultaneously, the reality stays that his dismissals will in general leave the team uncovered. Thinking about their affinity to slash and change, it will not be a shock if Dawid Malan makes the playing XI for this game, as his essence could permit Rahul to play with somewhat more opportunity at the top. While PBKS will hope to adjust to the conditions at the Chepauk better, they'll likewise hope to misuse MI center middle-order battles at this venue. Mohammed Shami is the most experienced speed bowler for the Punjab Kings. He has scalped 8 wickets from only 4 innings against the Mumbai Indians. The expert Indian quick bowler began the IPL 2021 season well with 4 wickets from the initial two games yet has seen a dunk in structure from that point forward. Shami will need to rapidly adjust to the line and length and aim for a superior excursion against Mumbai Indians. Probable XI: KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran, Deepak Hooda, Moises Henriques, Shahrukh Khan, Fabian Allen, M Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh. Mumbai Indians Rohit Sharma has scored 138 runs in four outings at Chepauk this year - the most by any Mumbai Indians batsman. The defending champs would need Suryakumar Yadav and Rohit Sharma, two players who haven't been influenced much by the gradualness of the track, to take care of business against PBKS. The significant explanation for the accomplishment of the Mumbai Indians in the IPL is their solid bowling center. Jasprit Bumrah stands out against PBKS with 17 scalps from 12 innings. In view of his steady bowling and the varieties he carries with his bouncers and yorkers, he is certainly the one to look out for. Pollard is the highest run-scorer for the Mumbai Indians against Punjab Kings with 498 runs from 20 innings at an SR of 164.90 and a normal of 38.31. Then, Rahul Chahar has taken eight wickets in four matches at MA Chidambaram Stadium. The in-structure leg-spinner has 4 wickets from only 3 games against the Punjab Kings and will be hoping to add a few more to his count. Probable XI: Quinton de Kock, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, Rahul Chahar, Jayant Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult Both Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians will hope to end the Chennai leg of their IPL 2021 mission on a high when they take on one another on Friday.

IPL 2021 - KL Rahul's Punjab Kings to lock horns with Rohit Sharma's Mumbai Indians

IPL 2021- Mumbai Indians top the standings as SRH witness winless start

Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma overtook MS Dhoni on Saturday to become the Indian player with the most number of six in the history of the Indian Premier League. Rohit Sharma struck two sixes in his 32-run knock against SunRisers Hyderabad taking his sixes tally to 217 surpassing MS Dhoni (216).&nbsp;

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-to-rashid-khan-top-7-ipl-2021-stars-and-their-cricketing-idols-378258" hreflang="en">From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols</a>

Sharma is on the third spot in the overall list behind Chris Gayle (351) and AB de Villers (237). Kieron Pollard equalled RCB skipper Virat Kohli for the fifth spot in the overall list with 201 sixes in the tournament after smashing two consecutive six to end the innings.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma won the toss and decided to bat first. The decision proved useful as openers (Rohit Sharma and Quinton de Kock) were off to a flying start. The duo added 55 runs for the opening wicket. Rohit Sharma was dismissed for 32 runs by Vijay Shankar. Quinton de Kock scored 40 runs and was dismissed by Mujeeb Ur Rahman.&nbsp;

Kieron Pollard's last-minute fireworks (including the 105m six, which is the biggest this season) powered Mumbai Indians to 150 runs at the loss of five wickets.&nbsp;

In return, Sunrisers Hyderabad were off to a superb start with the opening batsmen (Jonny Bairstow and David Warner) put up a 67-run partnership to kick start the innings. Jonny Bairstow, however, had an unlucky dismissal as he was hit wicket after scoring a quick-fire 43 runs.&nbsp;

The Briton smacked four sixes and three fours to reduce the deficit.

SRH are 85 for 2 at the end of the 11th over as they need 66 runs in 54 balls.&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma overtook MS Dhoni on Saturday to become the Indian player with the most number of six in the history of the Indian Premier League.

Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma overtook MS Dhoni on Saturday to become the Indian player with the most number of six in the history of the Indian Premier League. Rohit Sharma struck two sixes in his 32-run knock against SunRisers Hyderabad taking his sixes tally to 217 surpassing MS Dhoni (216). IN PICS| From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols Sharma is on the third spot in the overall list behind Chris Gayle (351) and AB de Villers (237). Kieron Pollard equalled RCB skipper Virat Kohli for the fifth spot in the overall list with 201 sixes in the tournament after smashing two consecutive six to end the innings. Rohit Sharma won the toss and decided to bat first. The decision proved useful as openers (Rohit Sharma and Quinton de Kock) were off to a flying start. The duo added 55 runs for the opening wicket. Rohit Sharma was dismissed for 32 runs by Vijay Shankar. Quinton de Kock scored 40 runs and was dismissed by Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Kieron Pollard's last-minute fireworks (including the 105m six, which is the biggest this season) powered Mumbai Indians to 150 runs at the loss of five wickets. In return, Sunrisers Hyderabad were off to a superb start with the opening batsmen (Jonny Bairstow and David Warner) put up a 67-run partnership to kick start the innings. Jonny Bairstow, however, had an unlucky dismissal as he was hit wicket after scoring a quick-fire 43 runs. The Briton smacked four sixes and three fours to reduce the deficit. SRH are 85 for 2 at the end of the 11th over as they need 66 runs in 54 balls.

Rohit Sharma overtakes MS Dhoni to become Indian with most number of sixes in IPL

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced annual player retainership 2020-21 for Team India (Senior Men) for the period from October 2020 to September 2021.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-watch-sanju-samsons-stunning-one-handed-catch-against-delhi-capitals-377802" hreflang="en">IPL 2021- WATCH: Sanju Samson's stunning one-handed catch against Delhi Capitals</a>

A total of 28 cricketers were awarded central contracts in four categories.

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah remain in the highest payment bracket (Grade A+) which is Rs 7 crore.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya was upgraded to Grade A, which is worth Rs 5 crore. Newbies Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj entered the list at Grade C which is worth Rs 1 crore.&nbsp;

Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar was demoted to Grade B (worth Rs 3 crore). Kedar Jadhav was not offered the contract this time.&nbsp;

<h2>COMPLETE LIST:&nbsp;</h2>

GRADE A+ (Rs 7 crore): Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah.

GRADE A (Rs 5 crore): R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya.

GRADE B (Rs 3 crore): Wriddhiman Saha, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Shardul Thakur, Mayank Agarwal.

GRADE C (Rs 1 crore): Kuldeep Yadav, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, Shubman Gill, Hanuma Vihari , Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Siraj. 
&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced annual player retainership 2020-21 for Team India (Senior Men) for the period from October 2020 to September 2021.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced annual player retainership 2020-21 for Team India (Senior Men) for the period from October 2020 to September 2021. ALSO READ: IPL 2021- WATCH: Sanju Samson's stunning one-handed catch against Delhi Capitals A total of 28 cricketers were awarded central contracts in four categories. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah remain in the highest payment bracket (Grade A+) which is Rs 7 crore. Hardik Pandya was upgraded to Grade A, which is worth Rs 5 crore. Newbies Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj entered the list at Grade C which is worth Rs 1 crore. Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar was demoted to Grade B (worth Rs 3 crore). Kedar Jadhav was not offered the contract this time. COMPLETE LIST: GRADE A+ (Rs 7 crore): Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah. GRADE A (Rs 5 crore): R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya. GRADE B (Rs 3 crore): Wriddhiman Saha, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Shardul Thakur, Mayank Agarwal. GRADE C (Rs 1 crore): Kuldeep Yadav, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, Shubman Gill, Hanuma Vihari , Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Siraj.

BCCI  announces annual player retainership 2020-21 for Team India: Virat and Rohit retain top spot

Mumbai Indians leg-spinner Rahul Chahar was the pick of the bowler for his side in the 10-run thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by taking four wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

KKR, after restricting Mumbai Indians to 152, were looking comfortable in their chase with openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana stitching a 72-run stand. However, Chahar turned the game by sending the likes of Gill, Rana, Rahul Tripathi and Eoin Morgan back to the dugout in quick succession. <o:p></o:p>

MI worked the window of opportunity well as KKR choked in the final five overs despite Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik being there on the crease. Chahar was named the Man of the Match for his spell.<o:p></o:p>

After the win, Chahar revealed the words of motivation by skipper Rohit Sharma when he came into the bowl in a crunch situation. Rohit motivated the leg-spinner by saying that even he fails to read his variations and asked him to focus and hit the right lengths.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-delhi-capitals-pacer-anrich-nortje-tests-positive-for-covid-19-377494" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19</a>

“Rohit told me that ‘bowl with the confidence and sometimes even I fail to read your ball so how would they. Stay focused and hit the right lengths’. I knew that spinner is going to be a game-changer in this match. I had the confidence that I can do that,” Rahul Chahar said in the post-match press conference.<o:p></o:p>

“I enjoyed Rahul Tripathi’s wicket most as that ball turned well. As a leg-spinner, you want that kind of turn and it was exactly like that,” he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shameful-defeat-sehwag-questions-andre-russell-and-dinesh-karthiks-intent-after-kkr-collapse-377468" hreflang="en">Shameful defeat': Sehwag questions Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik's intent after KKR collapse</a>

Chahar further said that he along with Krunal Pandya will play a vital role for Mumbai Indians in spin-friendly pitches in India.<o:p></o:p>

“We both bowled well. Krunal did not give many runs in his spell. In the last match it was not like this but this time there was help from the wicket for spinners. We will play the main role if we get these kinds of wickets."<o:p></o:p>

When asked about the pressure of bowling against big-name international stars, he said, “I was bowling to Indian players in the nets so there was no such pressure in bowling against international stars. This is my fourth year in MI and in the nets also I bowl to Pollard, Hardik who are among the best hitters in the world.”

<o:p></o:p>

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Mumbai Indians will be next seen in action against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday in Chennai.<o:p></o:p>

Mumbai Indians leg-spinner Rahul Chahar was the pick of the bowler for his side in the 10-run thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by taking four wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday.

Mumbai Indians leg-spinner Rahul Chahar was the pick of the bowler for his side in the 10-run thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by taking four wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday. KKR, after restricting Mumbai Indians to 152, were looking comfortable in their chase with openers Shubman Gill and Nitish Rana stitching a 72-run stand. However, Chahar turned the game by sending the likes of Gill, Rana, Rahul Tripathi and Eoin Morgan back to the dugout in quick succession. MI worked the window of opportunity well as KKR choked in the final five overs despite Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik being there on the crease. Chahar was named the Man of the Match for his spell. After the win, Chahar revealed the words of motivation by skipper Rohit Sharma when he came into the bowl in a crunch situation. Rohit motivated the leg-spinner by saying that even he fails to read his variations and asked him to focus and hit the right lengths. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Delhi Capitals pacer Anrich Nortje tests positive for COVID-19 “Rohit told me that ‘bowl with the confidence and sometimes even I fail to read your ball so how would they. Stay focused and hit the right lengths’. I knew that spinner is going to be a game-changer in this match. I had the confidence that I can do that,” Rahul Chahar said in the post-match press conference. “I enjoyed Rahul Tripathi’s wicket most as that ball turned well. As a leg-spinner, you want that kind of turn and it was exactly like that,” he added. ALSO READ: Shameful defeat': Sehwag questions Andre Russell and Dinesh Karthik's intent after KKR collapse Chahar further said that he along with Krunal Pandya will play a vital role for Mumbai Indians in spin-friendly pitches in India. “We both bowled well. Krunal did not give many runs in his spell. In the last match it was not like this but this time there was help from the wicket for spinners. We will play the main role if we get these kinds of wickets." When asked about the pressure of bowling against big-name international stars, he said, “I was bowling to Indian players in the nets so there was no such pressure in bowling against international stars. This is my fourth year in MI and in the nets also I bowl to Pollard, Hardik who are among the best hitters in the world.” × Mumbai Indians will be next seen in action against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday in Chennai.

Even I fail to read your deliveries: How Rohit Sharma motivated Rahul Chahar vs KKR

Mumbai Indians (MI) on Friday started their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a two-wicket defeat to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Chris Lynn, who made his Mumbai Indians debut in the tournament opener on Friday, was involved in a mix-up with skipper Rohit Sharma which resulted in the latter getting run-out early in the first innings.<o:p></o:p>

After the match, Lynn jokingly said that it is not an ideal scenario running out your captain in the first game while adding that his first game for Mumbai Indians could be his last. Lynn admitted that he was a bit nervous going into the match but cleared out that there were plenty of other factors that led to MI losing the match and not just the run-out. <o:p></o:p>

Lynn further said that he would have sacrificed his wicket instead of running out Rohit if he was able to cross the pitch. <o:p></o:p>

The hard-hitting Australian slashed the ball towards the covers and called for a run before immediately pulling out. However, Rohit was halfway down the track by then and Virat Kohli was quick to get the throw to the non-striker’s end to dismiss the MI captain. While Rohit departed early, Lynn ended up with a 35-ball 49.<o:p></o:p>

"Look, obviously I was a bit nervous, no doubt about it. (It was my) first game for Mumbai and it was the first time I was batting with Rohit as well. It happens in the game of cricket as well. I thought there was a run, and then obviously there wasn't a run. But yeah, if I had been able to run past him and sacrifice my wicket, I definitely would have done that, but it wasn't the case.

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"As I said, it happens, but yeah, I put just a little bit more pressure on myself. It's not ideal, running out your captain in the first game. The first game could be my last, who knows? (laughs). But anyhow, it was a spur-of-the-moment thing, happens in the game. It would have been nice (if the runout didn't happen); he was striking the ball nicely, and we were 10 or 15 runs short in the end. He would have definitely made a difference, but there were plenty of factors in this game tonight, not just the run-out," Chris Lynn answered to WION's query in the post-match press conference.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-australia-pacer-behrendorff-absolutely-pumped-to-join-csk-376511" hreflang="en">IPL 2021: Australia pacer Behrendorff 'absolutely pumped' to join CSK</a>

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Lynn started the match in place of South African Quinton de Kock, who is undergoing the mandatory seven-day quarantine period. He is expected to be back in the MI playing XI in their next match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday in Chennai.

<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Mumbai Indians (MI) on Friday started their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a two-wicket defeat to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Mumbai Indians (MI) on Friday started their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 with a two-wicket defeat to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Chris Lynn, who made his Mumbai Indians debut in the tournament opener on Friday, was involved in a mix-up with skipper Rohit Sharma which resulted in the latter getting run-out early in the first innings. After the match, Lynn jokingly said that it is not an ideal scenario running out your captain in the first game while adding that his first game for Mumbai Indians could be his last. Lynn admitted that he was a bit nervous going into the match but cleared out that there were plenty of other factors that led to MI losing the match and not just the run-out. Lynn further said that he would have sacrificed his wicket instead of running out Rohit if he was able to cross the pitch. The hard-hitting Australian slashed the ball towards the covers and called for a run before immediately pulling out. However, Rohit was halfway down the track by then and Virat Kohli was quick to get the throw to the non-striker’s end to dismiss the MI captain. While Rohit departed early, Lynn ended up with a 35-ball 49. "Look, obviously I was a bit nervous, no doubt about it. (It was my) first game for Mumbai and it was the first time I was batting with Rohit as well. It happens in the game of cricket as well. I thought there was a run, and then obviously there wasn't a run. But yeah, if I had been able to run past him and sacrifice my wicket, I definitely would have done that, but it wasn't the case. IN PICS | IPL 2021- Harshal Patel and ABD shine as RCB beat Mumbai Indians in season opener "As I said, it happens, but yeah, I put just a little bit more pressure on myself. It's not ideal, running out your captain in the first game. The first game could be my last, who knows? (laughs). But anyhow, it was a spur-of-the-moment thing, happens in the game. It would have been nice (if the runout didn't happen); he was striking the ball nicely, and we were 10 or 15 runs short in the end. He would have definitely made a difference, but there were plenty of factors in this game tonight, not just the run-out," Chris Lynn answered to WION's query in the post-match press conference. ALSO READ: IPL 2021: Australia pacer Behrendorff 'absolutely pumped' to join CSK × Lynn started the match in place of South African Quinton de Kock, who is undergoing the mandatory seven-day quarantine period. He is expected to be back in the MI playing XI in their next match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday in Chennai.

First game could be my last: Chris Lynn on running out captain Rohit Sharma in IPL 2021 opener

Indian Premier League is set to kick off with a blockbuster clash between Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rohit Sharma's Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;

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Mumbai Indians head into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as firm favourites to defend their title. Having won the IPL trophy a record five times, the Rohit Sharma-led outfit is looking stronger than ever and are likely to give major headaches to their opposition.

Mumbai Indians arguably have the most settled and power-packed squad among all IPL franchises.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), on the other hand, have had a strong squad every season only to have witnessed their campaign derail each and every time. While in IPL 2020, RCB made a strong claim for their first IPL trophy, their season ended in the playoffs.

With an aim to break the title jinx, Virat Kohli-led RCB would take the field in IPL 2021 with some new and big-name faces in the squad.

Both teams have faced each other 27 times. With Mumbai Indians dominating the equation by 17 wins, whereas, Royal Challengers won 10 times.&nbsp;

<h2>Probable XI:&nbsp;</h2>

Royal Challengers Bangalore: Virat Kohli(c), Devdutt Padikkal, AB de Villiers(w), Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Daniel Christian, Washington Sundar, Kyle Jamieson, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Siraj

Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma(c), Ishan Kishan(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, James Neesham, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Rahul Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah

Indian Premier League is set to kick off with a blockbuster clash between Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rohit Sharma's Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Indian Premier League is set to kick off with a blockbuster clash between Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rohit Sharma's Mumbai Indians at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. IN PICS| List of five major records RCB captain Virat Kohli can break in IPL 2021 Mumbai Indians head into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as firm favourites to defend their title. Having won the IPL trophy a record five times, the Rohit Sharma-led outfit is looking stronger than ever and are likely to give major headaches to their opposition. Mumbai Indians arguably have the most settled and power-packed squad among all IPL franchises. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), on the other hand, have had a strong squad every season only to have witnessed their campaign derail each and every time. While in IPL 2020, RCB made a strong claim for their first IPL trophy, their season ended in the playoffs. With an aim to break the title jinx, Virat Kohli-led RCB would take the field in IPL 2021 with some new and big-name faces in the squad. Both teams have faced each other 27 times. With Mumbai Indians dominating the equation by 17 wins, whereas, Royal Challengers won 10 times. Probable XI: Royal Challengers Bangalore: Virat Kohli(c), Devdutt Padikkal, AB de Villiers(w), Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Azharuddeen, Daniel Christian, Washington Sundar, Kyle Jamieson, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Siraj Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma(c), Ishan Kishan(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, James Neesham, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Rahul Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah

IPL 2021, MI vs RCB: Virat's Royal Challengers to lock horns with Rohit's Mumbai Indians

Virat Kohli was seen pairing up with Rohit as India's openers in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad. The decision turned out to be a match-winning one as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England.&nbsp;

Virat smashed unbeaten 80 runs in 52 balls powering India to a massive total of 224 runs by the end of the first innings. Former England Michael Vaughan captain was impressed by the opening pair and said that they reminded him of ‘Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar’.

“Sometimes you just need a little bit of luck and stumble across the right batting order. India have done that with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma opening. I’m sure that was not their intention at the start of the series. But today they reminded me of Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar. In a T20 inning, you have 120 balls to spread across your players so if you are India then you want Virat and Rohit to face the maximum amount. The rest of the Indian line up can go for it because they know Virat will play in such a solid way,” Vaughan wrote in an article for Telegraph.

“The other three batsmen around Virat today scored 135 runs in 68 balls. He scored 80 off 52 so it was the perfect T20 innings. India learned from the fourth game when Kohli came in and there was not enough time left in the innings.”

Virat Kohli was seen pairing up with Rohit as India's openers in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad. The decision turned out to be a match-winning one as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England.

Virat Kohli was seen pairing up with Rohit as India's openers in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad. The decision turned out to be a match-winning one as he along with Rohit Sharma gave India a very strong start in the series decider against England. Virat smashed unbeaten 80 runs in 52 balls powering India to a massive total of 224 runs by the end of the first innings. Former England Michael Vaughan captain was impressed by the opening pair and said that they reminded him of ‘Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar’. “Sometimes you just need a little bit of luck and stumble across the right batting order. India have done that with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma opening. I’m sure that was not their intention at the start of the series. But today they reminded me of Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar. In a T20 inning, you have 120 balls to spread across your players so if you are India then you want Virat and Rohit to face the maximum amount. The rest of the Indian line up can go for it because they know Virat will play in such a solid way,” Vaughan wrote in an article for Telegraph. “The other three batsmen around Virat today scored 135 runs in 68 balls. He scored 80 off 52 so it was the perfect T20 innings. India learned from the fourth game when Kohli came in and there was not enough time left in the innings.”

'Reminded me of Sehwag and Tendulkar': Michael Vaughan on Team India openers

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Monday confirmed Team India's opening combination for the three-match ODI series against England, starting from March 23 at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. India tried different opening combinations&nbsp;in the recently concluded five-T20I series but Kohli said when it comes to ODIs, the management is clear about the opening pair.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kohli confirmed that vice-captain Rohit Sharma will be opening with Shikhar Dhawan in the three-match ODI series while also heaping praise on the duo for their&nbsp;consistency over the&nbsp;past few years.&nbsp;

"Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma will definitely open. When it comes to ODI, there are no doubts about that. They've been amazing over the past few years,” Kohli said in the pre-match&nbsp;press conference on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Kohli was seen pairing up with Rohit as India's openers in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad. After the match, Kohli said that the duo may continue to open in T20Is&nbsp;for India in the build-up to the World Cup as it provides stability to the batting line-up. However, on Monday, Kohli said that it is not a guarantee that it may happen in future while adding it will depend on how&nbsp;he reads the opening role in IPL 2021.&nbsp;

"As Rohit mentioned, it was a strategic move but we enjoyed batting together and we saw the effects of batting together. It's not a guarantee that this is going to continue in the future. I am going to open in the IPL to keep all options,” Kohli said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-discuss-about-his-noc-for-ipl-bcbs-akram-khan-lashes-out-at-shakib-al-hasan-372258" hreflang="en">'Will discuss about his NOC for IPL': BCB's Akram Khan lashes out at Shakib Al Hasan</a>

"Now I want to understand my role as an opener as well so that I can open up a slot for someone like Surya. I should be able to play any kind of role that the team requires me to. We'll take a call closer to the World Cup,” Kohli added.&nbsp;

India and England will start their five-ODI series from March 23 in Pune.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Monday confirmed Team India's opening combination for the three-match ODI series against England, starting from March 23 at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Monday confirmed Team India's opening combination for the three-match ODI series against England, starting from March 23 at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. India tried different opening combinations in the recently concluded five-T20I series but Kohli said when it comes to ODIs, the management is clear about the opening pair. Kohli confirmed that vice-captain Rohit Sharma will be opening with Shikhar Dhawan in the three-match ODI series while also heaping praise on the duo for their consistency over the past few years. "Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma will definitely open. When it comes to ODI, there are no doubts about that. They've been amazing over the past few years,” Kohli said in the pre-match press conference on Monday. ALSO READ: 'It all depends on...': Eoin Morgan provides update on Jofra Archer's chances of playing in IPL 2021 Kohli was seen pairing up with Rohit as India's openers in the fifth T20I against England in Ahmedabad. After the match, Kohli said that the duo may continue to open in T20Is for India in the build-up to the World Cup as it provides stability to the batting line-up. However, on Monday, Kohli said that it is not a guarantee that it may happen in future while adding it will depend on how he reads the opening role in IPL 2021. "As Rohit mentioned, it was a strategic move but we enjoyed batting together and we saw the effects of batting together. It's not a guarantee that this is going to continue in the future. I am going to open in the IPL to keep all options,” Kohli said. ALSO READ: 'Will discuss about his NOC for IPL': BCB's Akram Khan lashes out at Shakib Al Hasan "Now I want to understand my role as an opener as well so that I can open up a slot for someone like Surya. I should be able to play any kind of role that the team requires me to. We'll take a call closer to the World Cup,” Kohli added. India and England will start their five-ODI series from March 23 in Pune.

'No doubts about that': Virat Kohli confirms India's opening pair for England ODIs

Indian skipper Virat Kohli lauded his team's batting performance in the series finale against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Saturday.

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Virat led his team from the front after smashing unbeaten 80 runs off 52 balls. Rohit Sharma gave India&nbsp;a great start as he smashed 64 runs in 34 balls. Suryakumar Yadav's cameo of 32 runs in 17 balls powered India to a mammoth score of 225 runs on the board.&nbsp;

"It was a complete game for us. Totally outplayed the opposition. Even with so much dew coming in, like last game we've defended the total again. Today was a complete game. Despite Rishabh and Iyer not getting a chance we put on 225. Testimony to our batting depth," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

"Today Rohit and me were both positive in our intent. We knew we could trust each other and one of us can play second fiddle if one takes off. Today it was classic Rohit Sharma. And then Surya coming in at three and taking the game even further away," he added.

Hardik Pandya's power hitting in the final moments put India in the driver's seat.&nbsp;

"Then Hardik finishing it," Kohli further added.

"I was particularly pleased with Surya. Bhuvi coming back and bowling like that. Still have Jassi to come back. Don't have much in terms of negatives. Pant showed a lot of maturity through the series as well," Kohli went on talking about the positives from the series.

"Confidence level of Thakur after that series in Australia is sky high. With the ball his strength is his belief. He is a proper cricketer," Kohli added.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli lauded his team's batting performance in the series finale against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Saturday. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli leads from front, India clinch T20 series against England Virat led his team from the front after smashing unbeaten 80 runs off 52 balls.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli lauded his team's batting performance in the series finale against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Saturday. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli leads from front, India clinch T20 series against England Virat led his team from the front after smashing unbeaten 80 runs off 52 balls. Rohit Sharma gave India a great start as he smashed 64 runs in 34 balls. Suryakumar Yadav's cameo of 32 runs in 17 balls powered India to a mammoth score of 225 runs on the board. "It was a complete game for us. Totally outplayed the opposition. Even with so much dew coming in, like last game we've defended the total again. Today was a complete game. Despite Rishabh and Iyer not getting a chance we put on 225. Testimony to our batting depth," Kohli said at the post-match presentation ceremony. "Today Rohit and me were both positive in our intent. We knew we could trust each other and one of us can play second fiddle if one takes off. Today it was classic Rohit Sharma. And then Surya coming in at three and taking the game even further away," he added. Hardik Pandya's power hitting in the final moments put India in the driver's seat. "Then Hardik finishing it," Kohli further added. "I was particularly pleased with Surya. Bhuvi coming back and bowling like that. Still have Jassi to come back. Don't have much in terms of negatives. Pant showed a lot of maturity through the series as well," Kohli went on talking about the positives from the series. "Confidence level of Thakur after that series in Australia is sky high. With the ball his strength is his belief. He is a proper cricketer," Kohli added.

'A complete game': Virat Kohli lauds India's batting effort against England in 5th T20I

Virat Kohli led from the front as India prevailed in a high-scoring decider, beating England by 36 runs in the final Twenty20 International to complete a 3-2 series victory on Saturday.

Rohit Sharma smashed 64 and Kohli remained not out on 80 to power India to 224-2, their highest total against England after being put into bat.

Dawid Malan and Jos Buttler struck half-centuries to fuel England's chase before India's seam bowlers took the game away from them.

Earlier, Kohli passed a fitness test and promoted himself to open the innings with deputy Rohit.

One of the game's cleanest strikers of the ball, Rohit looked in sublime form, smashing five sixes in his 34-ball blitz.

Ben Stokes ended the 94-run stand with a leg-cutter which Rohit chopped onto his stumps while attempting a pull-shot.

Suryakumar Yadav belted 32 before Chris Jordan's athleticism and presence of mind sent him back.

Stationed at long on, Jordan sprinted to his right to take a running one-handed catch and threw the ball to a grinning Jason Roy just before momentum took him over the ropes.

Kohli, who had been watching the batting carnage from the other end, accelerated in company of Hardik Pandya who made a quickfire 39.

Roy fell for a duck when England began their chase but Dawid Malan (68) and Jos Buttler (52) launched a spectacular assault to shrug off the setback.

Malan, the top-ranked batsmen in this format, roared back into form, forging a 130-run partnership with Buttler.

Kumar returned to send back Buttler, and Shardul Thakur dismissed Jonny Bairstow and Malan in the same over to turn the match on its head.

T Natarajan dismissed Stokes for 14 in the penultimate over to effectively seal the match in India's favour and England finished on 188-8.

The teams now move to Pune where they will play a three-match one-day series from Tuesday.

Virat Kohli led from the front as India prevailed in a high-scoring decider, beating England by 36 runs in the final Twenty20 International to complete a 3-2 series victory on Saturday.

Virat Kohli led from the front as India prevailed in a high-scoring decider, beating England by 36 runs in the final Twenty20 International to complete a 3-2 series victory on Saturday. Rohit Sharma smashed 64 and Kohli remained not out on 80 to power India to 224-2, their highest total against England after being put into bat. Dawid Malan and Jos Buttler struck half-centuries to fuel England's chase before India's seam bowlers took the game away from them. Earlier, Kohli passed a fitness test and promoted himself to open the innings with deputy Rohit. One of the game's cleanest strikers of the ball, Rohit looked in sublime form, smashing five sixes in his 34-ball blitz. Ben Stokes ended the 94-run stand with a leg-cutter which Rohit chopped onto his stumps while attempting a pull-shot. Suryakumar Yadav belted 32 before Chris Jordan's athleticism and presence of mind sent him back. Stationed at long on, Jordan sprinted to his right to take a running one-handed catch and threw the ball to a grinning Jason Roy just before momentum took him over the ropes. Kohli, who had been watching the batting carnage from the other end, accelerated in company of Hardik Pandya who made a quickfire 39. Roy fell for a duck when England began their chase but Dawid Malan (68) and Jos Buttler (52) launched a spectacular assault to shrug off the setback. Malan, the top-ranked batsmen in this format, roared back into form, forging a 130-run partnership with Buttler. Kumar returned to send back Buttler, and Shardul Thakur dismissed Jonny Bairstow and Malan in the same over to turn the match on its head. T Natarajan dismissed Stokes for 14 in the penultimate over to effectively seal the match in India's favour and England finished on 188-8. The teams now move to Pune where they will play a three-match one-day series from Tuesday.

Virat Kohli leads from front, India clinch T20 series against England

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul will start as the openers for Team India in the impending five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Addressing a pre-match press conference, Kohli said that Rahul and Rohit have been batting well together in the shortest format of the game. The Indian skipper further said that veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan is the back-up to Rohit and Rahul in case of an injury.&nbsp;

When asked whether there are chances of Dhawan, Rohit and Rahul playing together, Kohli said:&nbsp;“I don't think so.”&nbsp;

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The Indian skipper continued:&nbsp;“It's quite simple, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul have done well for us consistently. Shikhar Dhawan is the back-up, our starting composition will be Rohit and KL for this series.”&nbsp;

Kohli further said that India will look to play more expressive cricket in the shortest format of the game while adding new faces have been added in the squad just to address the issue of sometimes being too cautious.&nbsp;

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“We want to play free&nbsp;cricket,&nbsp;we have explosive batsmen in the team now. That's exactly what we are trying to address. This time around you will see players bat more freely. I see us being much&nbsp;freer&nbsp;with our approach from this series onwards,” Kohli said.&nbsp;

The five-T20I series between&nbsp;India and England is set to start from Friday at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad. The four-Test series between the two sides was won by India as they hammered the Joe Root-led outfit 3-1 to continue their home domination.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul will start as the openers for Team India in the impending five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday confirmed that Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul will start as the openers for Team India in the impending five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad. Addressing a pre-match press conference, Kohli said that Rahul and Rohit have been batting well together in the shortest format of the game. The Indian skipper further said that veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan is the back-up to Rohit and Rahul in case of an injury. When asked whether there are chances of Dhawan, Rohit and Rahul playing together, Kohli said: “I don't think so.” TRENDING: Watch: Out or not-out? Danushka Gunathilaka given out for 'obstructing the field' against West Indies The Indian skipper continued: “It's quite simple, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul have done well for us consistently. Shikhar Dhawan is the back-up, our starting composition will be Rohit and KL for this series.” Kohli further said that India will look to play more expressive cricket in the shortest format of the game while adding new faces have been added in the squad just to address the issue of sometimes being too cautious. ALSO READ: To officiate in T20 World Cup and Ashes is my next target: Nitin Menon to WION “We want to play free cricket, we have explosive batsmen in the team now. That's exactly what we are trying to address. This time around you will see players bat more freely. I see us being much freer with our approach from this series onwards,” Kohli said. The five-T20I series between India and England is set to start from Friday at the world’s largest cricket stadium – Narendra Modi Stadium – in Ahmedabad. The four-Test series between the two sides was won by India as they hammered the Joe Root-led outfit 3-1 to continue their home domination.

Dhawan, Rahul or Rohit ? Virat Kohli confirms opening combination for India in T20I series vs England

India opener Rohit Sharma has progressed six places to a career-best eighth position in the&nbsp;ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings&nbsp;after a fine performance in the low-scoring third Test against England in Ahmedabad that the home side won by 10 wickets to take a 2-1 lead in the four-match series.

Rohit top-scored in the first innings with 66 and remained unbeaten on 25 in the second to move ahead of compatriot Cheteshwar Pujara among others. His rating points aggregate is 742, 20 more than his best of 722 in October 2019 when he was ranked 10th.

Player of the match Axar Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin have also made solid gains after helping carve out a crucial win that helped India remain in contention for the ICC World Test Championship final. Left-arm spinner Patel’s 11-wicket match haul has helped him gain 30 slots to reach 38th position while off-spinner Ashwin’s seven wickets have lifted him four places to third position.

England spinner Jack Leach has entered the top 30 for the first time, moving up three places to 28th after taking four wickets. Captain Joe Root’s maiden five-wicket haul has lifted him 16 places to 72nd among bowlers while he is now joint-13th among all-rounders.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2021-to-be-postponed-uae-alternate-venue-for-t20-world-cup-pcb-chairman-eshan-mani-366796" hreflang="en">Asia Cup 2021 to be postponed, UAE alternate venue for T20 World Cup: PCB Chairman Eshan Mani</a>

Opener Zak Crawley’s knock of 53 in the first innings has helped him advance 15 places to 46th in what was the only notable gain for any of their batsmen.

Meanwhile, the&nbsp;ICC Player Rankings&nbsp;move to a weekly updating system from March 2021.

The women’s player rankings will be updated at 08h00 GMT&nbsp;each Tuesday, which will include performances in all ODI and T20I matches completed till the previous day.&nbsp;

Similarly, the men’s player rankings will be updated at 08h00 GMT&nbsp;on Wednesdays across all three formats and will include performances in matches completed by the previous day.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everyone-in-the-world-starts-crying-nathan-lyon-gives-his-verdict-on-ahmedabad-pitch-366756" hreflang="en">'Everyone in the world starts crying': Nathan Lyon gives his verdict on Ahmedabad pitch</a>

So, the first update under the weekly system will be on Tuesday, 2 March for women and Wednesday, 3 March for men.

The change will not impact the way the rankings are calculated but what it means is that instead of rankings being updated at the end of a series (in ODIs and T20Is) or a Test match, they may be updated while a series or match is ongoing without performances in those matches being considered.

The change is being brought about to bring regularity to the ranking updates for both men and women, ensuring that fans know when to expect the latest updates.

India opener Rohit Sharma has progressed six places to a career-best eighth position in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after a fine performance in the low-scoring third Test against England in Ahmedabad that the home side won by 10 wickets to take a 2-1 lead in the four-match series.

India opener Rohit Sharma has progressed six places to a career-best eighth position in the ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings after a fine performance in the low-scoring third Test against England in Ahmedabad that the home side won by 10 wickets to take a 2-1 lead in the four-match series. Rohit top-scored in the first innings with 66 and remained unbeaten on 25 in the second to move ahead of compatriot Cheteshwar Pujara among others. His rating points aggregate is 742, 20 more than his best of 722 in October 2019 when he was ranked 10th. Player of the match Axar Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin have also made solid gains after helping carve out a crucial win that helped India remain in contention for the ICC World Test Championship final. Left-arm spinner Patel’s 11-wicket match haul has helped him gain 30 slots to reach 38th position while off-spinner Ashwin’s seven wickets have lifted him four places to third position. England spinner Jack Leach has entered the top 30 for the first time, moving up three places to 28th after taking four wickets. Captain Joe Root’s maiden five-wicket haul has lifted him 16 places to 72nd among bowlers while he is now joint-13th among all-rounders. ALSO READ: Asia Cup 2021 to be postponed, UAE alternate venue for T20 World Cup: PCB Chairman Eshan Mani Opener Zak Crawley’s knock of 53 in the first innings has helped him advance 15 places to 46th in what was the only notable gain for any of their batsmen. Meanwhile, the ICC Player Rankings move to a weekly updating system from March 2021. The women’s player rankings will be updated at 08h00 GMT each Tuesday, which will include performances in all ODI and T20I matches completed till the previous day. Similarly, the men’s player rankings will be updated at 08h00 GMT on Wednesdays across all three formats and will include performances in matches completed by the previous day. ALSO READ: 'Everyone in the world starts crying': Nathan Lyon gives his verdict on Ahmedabad pitch So, the first update under the weekly system will be on Tuesday, 2 March for women and Wednesday, 3 March for men. The change will not impact the way the rankings are calculated but what it means is that instead of rankings being updated at the end of a series (in ODIs and T20Is) or a Test match, they may be updated while a series or match is ongoing without performances in those matches being considered. The change is being brought about to bring regularity to the ranking updates for both men and women, ensuring that fans know when to expect the latest updates.

Rohit attains career-best 8th position in ICC Men's Test player rankings, Ashwin jumps to 3rd

India completed an eventful Day 1 of the pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the hosts finishing the day at 99/3 after bundling England out for a paltry 112. <o:p></o:p>

Having opted to bat first after winning the toss, England lost opener, Dom Sibley, for a duck as Ishant Sharma, playing his 100th Test match, drew the first blood for India. Jonny Bairstow, who came into the playing XI after missing the first two Tests, had a nightmare start as local boy Axar Patel trapped him plumb, ending his nine-delivery stay at the crease. <o:p></o:p>

While Crawley and Joe Root looked like stitching a partnership for the visitors, veteran Ravichandran Ashwin got the better of the English skipper and sent him packing for a 37-ball 17. Axar, who was playing his second Test, then dismissed Crawley for 53 before dismissing Ben Stokes for six.

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Ashwin and Axar bowling in tandem was too much to handle for England on a hot day in Ahmedabad as the spin duo kept on chipping with wickets and wrapped up the visitors within the first two sessions of Day 1. England could manage just 112 runs in what could be termed as an unforgettable day for them.

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<o:p></o:p>

Just before the sunset, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill walked out to bat for India. With the experience of James Anderson and Stuart Broad into the play in the twilight phase, both Rohit and Gill started their inning on a cautious note. With Anderson swinging the new ball, Gill struggled to get on with his innings and was dismissed for 11 by Jofra Archer. Cheteshwar Pujara was trapped LBW by Jack Leach as the left-arm spinner got into the groove under the lights. <o:p></o:p>

While Virat Kohli looked settled, he was dismissed for 27 by Leach following a poor shot. Rohit Sharma completed his half-century with Ajinkya Rahane also unbeaten at one at the end of Day 1’s play.<o:p></o:p>

India Fall of wickets: 33-1 (Shubman Gill, 14.6), 34-2 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 15.5), 98-3 (Virat Kohli, 32.2)<o:p></o:p>

England Fall of Wickets: 2-1 (D Sibley, 2.3), 27-2 (Bairstow, 6.1), 74-3 (Root, 21.5), 80-4 (Zak Crawley, 24.4), 81-5 (Ollie Pope, 27.4), 81-6 (Stokes, 28.5), 93-7 (Jofra Archer, 34.2), 98-8 (Jack Leach, 37.3), 105-9 (Broad, 46.3), 112-10 (Foakes, 48.4)<o:p></o:p>

India completed an eventful Day 1 of the pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the hosts finishing the day at 99/3 after bundling England out for a paltry 112.

India completed an eventful Day 1 of the pink-ball Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with the hosts finishing the day at 99/3 after bundling England out for a paltry 112. Having opted to bat first after winning the toss, England lost opener, Dom Sibley, for a duck as Ishant Sharma, playing his 100th Test match, drew the first blood for India. Jonny Bairstow, who came into the playing XI after missing the first two Tests, had a nightmare start as local boy Axar Patel trapped him plumb, ending his nine-delivery stay at the crease. While Crawley and Joe Root looked like stitching a partnership for the visitors, veteran Ravichandran Ashwin got the better of the English skipper and sent him packing for a 37-ball 17. Axar, who was playing his second Test, then dismissed Crawley for 53 before dismissing Ben Stokes for six. ALSO READ: Umpire sanitises pink-ball after Ben Stokes applies saliva during 3rd Test vs India The lights are ON & what a spectacle the Narendra Modi Stadium is 👌🏻😍.@GCAMotera @Paytm #INDvENG #TeamIndia #PinkBallTest pic.twitter.com/4rYT7ujOIh — BCCI (@BCCI) February 24, 2021 × Ashwin and Axar bowling in tandem was too much to handle for England on a hot day in Ahmedabad as the spin duo kept on chipping with wickets and wrapped up the visitors within the first two sessions of Day 1. England could manage just 112 runs in what could be termed as an unforgettable day for them. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: Fan breaches security and runs onto ground during pink ball Test Just before the sunset, Indian openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill walked out to bat for India. With the experience of James Anderson and Stuart Broad into the play in the twilight phase, both Rohit and Gill started their inning on a cautious note. With Anderson swinging the new ball, Gill struggled to get on with his innings and was dismissed for 11 by Jofra Archer. Cheteshwar Pujara was trapped LBW by Jack Leach as the left-arm spinner got into the groove under the lights. While Virat Kohli looked settled, he was dismissed for 27 by Leach following a poor shot. Rohit Sharma completed his half-century with Ajinkya Rahane also unbeaten at one at the end of Day 1’s play. India Fall of wickets: 33-1 (Shubman Gill, 14.6), 34-2 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 15.5), 98-3 (Virat Kohli, 32.2) England Fall of Wickets: 2-1 (D Sibley, 2.3), 27-2 (Bairstow, 6.1), 74-3 (Root, 21.5), 80-4 (Zak Crawley, 24.4), 81-5 (Ollie Pope, 27.4), 81-6 (Stokes, 28.5), 93-7 (Jofra Archer, 34.2), 98-8 (Jack Leach, 37.3), 105-9 (Broad, 46.3), 112-10 (Foakes, 48.4)

Axar Patel, Rohit Sharma help India take advantage in pink-ball Test vs England

There were some new faces in the Indian squad&nbsp;for the five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad. Suryakumar Yadav, who has been piling runs in the domestic circuit and IPL, was one of&nbsp;the names who got his maiden Team India call-up for the series. After earning his Team India call-up, Suryakumar Yadav has said that he can’t wait to&nbsp;learn from Indian skipper Virat Kohli and other players from the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Suryakumar has been scoring runs for fun in the domestic arena and had amassed 480 runs for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2020. While fans were left disappointed to not see his name for&nbsp;the Australian tour, the Indian selectors rewarded him&nbsp;with a call-up for the England series.&nbsp;

"I have already started thinking about how I am going to spend time with all the greats over there,” Suryakumar&nbsp;told Sports Today.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/graeme-swann-names-key-player-for-england-in-the-pink-ball-test-365265" hreflang="en">Graeme Swann names key player for England in the pink-ball Test</a>

"I will get to learn so much from our captain Virat Kohli and then there is Rohit Sharma, everyone, A-Z all the players. I am really looking forward to spend quality time, grasp as much as I can," Suryakumar&nbsp;added.&nbsp;

SKY is one of the three maiden call-up earners in the Indian squad along with Mumbai Indians team-mate and Haryana all-rounder Rahul&nbsp;Tewatia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"There were a few instances during the IPL where I used to dream about winning games for India and I think the opportunity for me has come at the right time. It's on me how I take it and how I make full use of it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/focus-on-cricket-not-on-pitch-rohit-sharmas-message-to-experts-365259" hreflang="en">Focus on cricket, not on pitch: Rohit Sharma's message to experts</a>

"Not thinking about too much, I would say, I would go one step at a time, take one game at a time. I have a few&nbsp;plan. Obviously, I would love to go ahead and explore in this series," Surya said.&nbsp;

All five matches of the T20I series against England in Ahmedabad will be hosted by world’s largest stadium – Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

There were some new faces in the Indian squad for the five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad. Suryakumar Yadav, who has been piling runs in the domestic circuit and IPL, was one of the names who got his maiden Team India call-up for the series.

There were some new faces in the Indian squad for the five-match T20I series against England, starting from March 12 in Ahmedabad. Suryakumar Yadav, who has been piling runs in the domestic circuit and IPL, was one of the names who got his maiden Team India call-up for the series. After earning his Team India call-up, Suryakumar Yadav has said that he can’t wait to learn from Indian skipper Virat Kohli and other players from the team. Suryakumar has been scoring runs for fun in the domestic arena and had amassed 480 runs for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2020. While fans were left disappointed to not see his name for the Australian tour, the Indian selectors rewarded him with a call-up for the England series. "I have already started thinking about how I am going to spend time with all the greats over there,” Suryakumar told Sports Today. ALSO READ: Graeme Swann names key player for England in the pink-ball Test "I will get to learn so much from our captain Virat Kohli and then there is Rohit Sharma, everyone, A-Z all the players. I am really looking forward to spend quality time, grasp as much as I can," Suryakumar added. SKY is one of the three maiden call-up earners in the Indian squad along with Mumbai Indians team-mate and Haryana all-rounder Rahul Tewatia. "There were a few instances during the IPL where I used to dream about winning games for India and I think the opportunity for me has come at the right time. It's on me how I take it and how I make full use of it. ALSO READ: Focus on cricket, not on pitch: Rohit Sharma's message to experts "Not thinking about too much, I would say, I would go one step at a time, take one game at a time. I have a few plan. Obviously, I would love to go ahead and explore in this series," Surya said. All five matches of the T20I series against England in Ahmedabad will be hosted by world’s largest stadium – Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.

'Will get to learn from Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma': Suryakumar Yadav on maiden India call-up

Rohit Sharma on Sunday responded to the criticism around Indian pitches after a number of former England and Australian cricketers and experts termed the&nbsp;pitch in Chennai for the second Test as "sub-standard". Rohit, ahead of the much-awaited pink-ball Test against England in Ahmedabad, said that home teams are bound to take advantage of their conditions while adding that the Indian team never complains about conditions when they tour overseas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rohit had a clear message for experts as he said that they should focus on cricket and not the pitches as it is the same for both teams.&nbsp;The limited-overs vice-captain further said that players need to adapt to different conditions and that is the beauty of cricket in the home and away series.&nbsp;

"The pitch is the same for both teams. I don't know why there's so much talk about the pitch. People say that the pitch shouldn't be a certain type of way, but they have been like this in India for years. Every team plays to their strengths at home, and similarly, we do what our team prefers in India,” Rohit said in the virtual press conference.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We need to go with our team's preference. That's the meaning of home advantage. Else, just take it away. The ICC should come up with a uniform rule everywhere for pitches in India and outside India. When we go abroad, people make our life difficult. I don't think pitchers should be debated at all. Debates can be held on players, their performances, and how they are batting or bowling, but don't debate pitches. Both teams play on the same pitch and whoever plays better wins."

"As batsmen, we never think about the pitch. We only think about our plans. If it's a turning pitch, whether we have to play the sweep or come down the track. If it's a seaming pitch, whether we have to leave balls, stand outside the crease or play defensively.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-ashwin-make-a-comeback-in-indias-limited-overs-team-sunil-gavaskar-opines-365187" hreflang="en">Can Ashwin make a comeback in India's limited overs team? Sunil Gavaskar opines</a>

"We need to prepare our mind according to the pitch. You are at this level playing for India because you know how to adjust to the conditions. In these challenging conditions, you need to prove that. Team India loves playing in challenging conditions, where things are against you,” Rohit, who slammed a classic 161 in the second Test against England in Chennai.&nbsp;

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🗣️🗣️ Every team has the right to home advantage, reckons <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZbF7ufj01M">pic.twitter.com/ZbF7ufj01M</a>
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However, the Indian opener gave a slight hint on what to expect from the pitch in Ahmedabad as he said that it is going to be on similar lines to what the cricket world witnessed in Chennai.&nbsp;

"Still, early days to talk about the pitch, I do not see anything changing in the pitch, what we played in the second Test, it is going to be more or less the same, it is going to turn a little, we are preparing according to that, when the day comes, we still need to assess the conditions, it has been a while since a last international game was played here," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-would-have-played-t20-world-cup-in-2020-says-former-team-india-selector-365171" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni would have played T20 World Cup in 2020, says former Team India selector</a>

The third match, the pink-ball Test, is set to played at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad – the world's largest stadium. While both England and Indian players have been lavishly praising the facilities in&nbsp;Motera&nbsp;Stadium, Rohit said he cannot wait to see the spectators flocking into&nbsp;the stadium.&nbsp;

"It is the largest stadium in the world, we were all excited to come down to the ground and see the outfield, we had a couple of good sessions, the facility looks quite good. We have got a gym inside the&nbsp;ground,&nbsp;it looks a pretty good stadium and I cannot wait to see the spectators coming around and seeing the pink-ball Test."&nbsp;&nbsp;

With the series firmly locked at 1-1, the Virat Kohli-led side would be looking to take the lead in the four-Test series when they take the field in Ahmedabad on February 24.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma on Sunday responded to the criticism around Indian pitches after a number of former England and Australian cricketers and experts termed the pitch in Chennai for the second Test as "sub-standard".

Rohit Sharma on Sunday responded to the criticism around Indian pitches after a number of former England and Australian cricketers and experts termed the pitch in Chennai for the second Test as "sub-standard". Rohit, ahead of the much-awaited pink-ball Test against England in Ahmedabad, said that home teams are bound to take advantage of their conditions while adding that the Indian team never complains about conditions when they tour overseas. Rohit had a clear message for experts as he said that they should focus on cricket and not the pitches as it is the same for both teams. The limited-overs vice-captain further said that players need to adapt to different conditions and that is the beauty of cricket in the home and away series. "The pitch is the same for both teams. I don't know why there's so much talk about the pitch. People say that the pitch shouldn't be a certain type of way, but they have been like this in India for years. Every team plays to their strengths at home, and similarly, we do what our team prefers in India,” Rohit said in the virtual press conference. "We need to go with our team's preference. That's the meaning of home advantage. Else, just take it away. The ICC should come up with a uniform rule everywhere for pitches in India and outside India. When we go abroad, people make our life difficult. I don't think pitchers should be debated at all. Debates can be held on players, their performances, and how they are batting or bowling, but don't debate pitches. Both teams play on the same pitch and whoever plays better wins." "As batsmen, we never think about the pitch. We only think about our plans. If it's a turning pitch, whether we have to play the sweep or come down the track. If it's a seaming pitch, whether we have to leave balls, stand outside the crease or play defensively. ALSO READ: Can Ashwin make a comeback in India's limited overs team? Sunil Gavaskar opines "We need to prepare our mind according to the pitch. You are at this level playing for India because you know how to adjust to the conditions. In these challenging conditions, you need to prove that. Team India loves playing in challenging conditions, where things are against you,” Rohit, who slammed a classic 161 in the second Test against England in Chennai. 🗣️🗣️ Every team has the right to home advantage, reckons @ImRo45. @Paytm #INDvENG #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/ZbF7ufj01M — BCCI (@BCCI) February 21, 2021 × However, the Indian opener gave a slight hint on what to expect from the pitch in Ahmedabad as he said that it is going to be on similar lines to what the cricket world witnessed in Chennai. "Still, early days to talk about the pitch, I do not see anything changing in the pitch, what we played in the second Test, it is going to be more or less the same, it is going to turn a little, we are preparing according to that, when the day comes, we still need to assess the conditions, it has been a while since a last international game was played here," he added. ALSO READ: MS Dhoni would have played T20 World Cup in 2020, says former Team India selector The third match, the pink-ball Test, is set to played at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad – the world's largest stadium. While both England and Indian players have been lavishly praising the facilities in Motera Stadium, Rohit said he cannot wait to see the spectators flocking into the stadium. "It is the largest stadium in the world, we were all excited to come down to the ground and see the outfield, we had a couple of good sessions, the facility looks quite good. We have got a gym inside the ground, it looks a pretty good stadium and I cannot wait to see the spectators coming around and seeing the pink-ball Test." With the series firmly locked at 1-1, the Virat Kohli-led side would be looking to take the lead in the four-Test series when they take the field in Ahmedabad on February 24.

Focus on cricket, not on pitch: Rohit Sharma's message to experts

Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin and opener Rohit Sharma jumped several places in the ICC Test Player Rankings after an emphatic win over England in the recently-concluded second Test match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-still-got-long-way-to-become-consistent-keeper-michael-vaughan-on-rishabh-pant-364210" hreflang="en">'He's still got long way to become consistent keeper': Michael Vaughan on Rishabh Pant</a>

Rohit Sharma's 161 runs in the first innings powered India to 329 runs. The prolific opener gained nine places after the gritty knock and is now at 14th position, his best since November 2019.&nbsp;

Local boy Ravichandran Ashwin's all-round magic at Chepauk saw him jump 14 places to 81st in the list of batsmen after scoring a gritty ton in the second innings. However, he remains seventh among bowlers after grabbing eight wickets in the match. Chennai-based Ashwin gained 33 rating points to reach within three points of sixth-ranked Stuart Broad and to within 21 of second-ranked Neil Wagner.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-most-likely-to-be-rested-for-white-ball-series-against-england-reports-364183" hreflang="en">Jasprit Bumrah most likely to be rested for white-ball series against England: Reports</a>

Upward graph for Rishabh Pant continues after young southpaw's 58 not out in the first innings has helped him continue his upward movement and he is now at a career-best 11th position. Kuldeep Yadav returned to 50th rank, whereas, debutant Axar Patel entered the list at 68th place. Patel got a fifer on his maiden Test match.&nbsp;

Losing team England had their share of ups and downs in the updated rankings, spinner Jack Leach gained six places to reach 31st position at a career-best 524 points after grabbing six wickets in the match. However, the remainder slipped down in their rankings, including Ben Stokes, who has lost his top position among all-rounders to West Indies' Jason Holder.

Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin and opener Rohit Sharma jumped several places in the ICC Test Player Rankings after an emphatic win over England in the recently-concluded second Test match.

Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin and opener Rohit Sharma jumped several places in the ICC Test Player Rankings after an emphatic win over England in the recently-concluded second Test match. ALSO READ: 'He's still got long way to become consistent keeper': Michael Vaughan on Rishabh Pant Rohit Sharma's 161 runs in the first innings powered India to 329 runs. The prolific opener gained nine places after the gritty knock and is now at 14th position, his best since November 2019. Local boy Ravichandran Ashwin's all-round magic at Chepauk saw him jump 14 places to 81st in the list of batsmen after scoring a gritty ton in the second innings. However, he remains seventh among bowlers after grabbing eight wickets in the match. Chennai-based Ashwin gained 33 rating points to reach within three points of sixth-ranked Stuart Broad and to within 21 of second-ranked Neil Wagner. ALSO READ: Jasprit Bumrah most likely to be rested for white-ball series against England: Reports Upward graph for Rishabh Pant continues after young southpaw's 58 not out in the first innings has helped him continue his upward movement and he is now at a career-best 11th position. Kuldeep Yadav returned to 50th rank, whereas, debutant Axar Patel entered the list at 68th place. Patel got a fifer on his maiden Test match. Losing team England had their share of ups and downs in the updated rankings, spinner Jack Leach gained six places to reach 31st position at a career-best 524 points after grabbing six wickets in the match. However, the remainder slipped down in their rankings, including Ben Stokes, who has lost his top position among all-rounders to West Indies' Jason Holder.

Ravichandran Ashwin and Rohit Sharma jump in ICC Test Player Rankings after England win

Former England skipper Alastair Cook lauded Indian opener, Rohit Sharma, after a stunning 161-run knock in the ongoing second Test match against England.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohlis-reaction-after-rohit-sharmas-shot-against-stuart-broad-363343" hreflang="en">WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad</a>

Rohit Sharma smashed 18 fours and 2 sixes during his aggressive knock. Cook talked about Sharma's aggression and stated that the prolific opener looked more in control of his innings and attacked when he wanted to.

"He is a little bit more attacking than I was. He is not quite Sehwag in terms of that kind of attack he (Sehwag) is probably is one of the most attacking and successful opening batsmen. Rohit is probably in the next tier of aggressiveness but he looked so controlled. In that innings, he wanted to attack when he wanted, everything looked quite controlled," said Cook on BBC's Test Match Special Podcast.

"The only obvious issue with Rohit is that line outside the off-stump, the way he got out in the first innings of the 1st Test match. His record away from home isn't great. That's where you need to target him but obviously, this pitch doesn't have that pace. In these conditions, he looked absolutely world-class. His stats in India averaging over 50 shows that," Cook added.

"He has only just started opening. He has batted a lot in the middle order. Only in the last little bit he has taken his one-day opening role, he has obviously opened a lot in one-day, into the red-ball (format)," said Cook.

"He is here to stay for a while. They like having him in the squad and he is in the team for that all-round package -- Clearly his runs and the manner he gets his runs, if he gets in, he is going to do what he has done today," he added.

Former England skipper Alastair Cook lauded Indian opener, Rohit Sharma, after a stunning 161-run knock in the ongoing second Test match against England. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad Rohit Sharma smashed 18 fours and 2 sixes during his aggressive knock.

Former England skipper Alastair Cook lauded Indian opener, Rohit Sharma, after a stunning 161-run knock in the ongoing second Test match against England. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad Rohit Sharma smashed 18 fours and 2 sixes during his aggressive knock. Cook talked about Sharma's aggression and stated that the prolific opener looked more in control of his innings and attacked when he wanted to. "He is a little bit more attacking than I was. He is not quite Sehwag in terms of that kind of attack he (Sehwag) is probably is one of the most attacking and successful opening batsmen. Rohit is probably in the next tier of aggressiveness but he looked so controlled. In that innings, he wanted to attack when he wanted, everything looked quite controlled," said Cook on BBC's Test Match Special Podcast. "The only obvious issue with Rohit is that line outside the off-stump, the way he got out in the first innings of the 1st Test match. His record away from home isn't great. That's where you need to target him but obviously, this pitch doesn't have that pace. In these conditions, he looked absolutely world-class. His stats in India averaging over 50 shows that," Cook added. "He has only just started opening. He has batted a lot in the middle order. Only in the last little bit he has taken his one-day opening role, he has obviously opened a lot in one-day, into the red-ball (format)," said Cook. "He is here to stay for a while. They like having him in the squad and he is in the team for that all-round package -- Clearly his runs and the manner he gets his runs, if he gets in, he is going to do what he has done today," he added.

'Probably in the next tier': Alastair Cook lauds Rohit Sharma's aggressive knock

India opening batsman Rohit Sharma, who played a sensational knock on the opening day of the second Test, said he knew about the turning nature of the wicket and was mentally prepared to face the bowlers on the track.

Rohit hit a brilliant 161 studded with 18 fours and two sixes and stitched a crucial partnership with vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane. The duo added 162 runs for the fourth wicket before Moeen dismissed Rohit in the 73rd over.

The right-handed batsman said dominating the bowler was his plan on this turning track in Chennai.

"We knew about how the pitch was prepared. We knew it was gonna turn and so we had a good few training sessions before the game began and we trained according to what we were going to expect in the middle," said Rohit in the virtual press conference on Saturday.

"So basically using you feat a lot more, making sure you sweep the ball and those kinds of things when you play on turning pitches. You gotta be proactive. You should be on top of the bowler making sure you are ahead of him was very crucial," he added.

India lost three wickets in the first session but Rohit displayed a solid batting performance hammering bowlers all around the ground for boundaries.

"So little adjustment based on that and understanding if the ball is turning how big is the turn whether it is bouncing or whether it is keeping low. Those were the things that I was thinking about before playing any shot," said Rohit.

"So yeah, mentally before the game I was prepared of what I will be facing the ones I get in and I think the preparation really helped in terms of getting out there and playing shots," he added.

Three Indian wickets in the final hour of play tipped the opening day of the second Test slightly in favour of England after Rohit`s sensational knock had set the India innings up on Saturday. India lost Rohit (161), Ajinkya Rahane (67), and Ravichandran Ashwin (15) in the final hour of the play. At stumps, India`s score reads 300/6 with Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel unbeaten at 33 and five runs respectively.

India opening batsman Rohit Sharma, who played a sensational knock on the opening day of the second Test, said he knew about the turning nature of the wicket and was mentally prepared to face the bowlers on the track.

India opening batsman Rohit Sharma, who played a sensational knock on the opening day of the second Test, said he knew about the turning nature of the wicket and was mentally prepared to face the bowlers on the track. Rohit hit a brilliant 161 studded with 18 fours and two sixes and stitched a crucial partnership with vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane. The duo added 162 runs for the fourth wicket before Moeen dismissed Rohit in the 73rd over. The right-handed batsman said dominating the bowler was his plan on this turning track in Chennai. "We knew about how the pitch was prepared. We knew it was gonna turn and so we had a good few training sessions before the game began and we trained according to what we were going to expect in the middle," said Rohit in the virtual press conference on Saturday. "So basically using you feat a lot more, making sure you sweep the ball and those kinds of things when you play on turning pitches. You gotta be proactive. You should be on top of the bowler making sure you are ahead of him was very crucial," he added. India lost three wickets in the first session but Rohit displayed a solid batting performance hammering bowlers all around the ground for boundaries. "So little adjustment based on that and understanding if the ball is turning how big is the turn whether it is bouncing or whether it is keeping low. Those were the things that I was thinking about before playing any shot," said Rohit. "So yeah, mentally before the game I was prepared of what I will be facing the ones I get in and I think the preparation really helped in terms of getting out there and playing shots," he added. Three Indian wickets in the final hour of play tipped the opening day of the second Test slightly in favour of England after Rohit`s sensational knock had set the India innings up on Saturday. India lost Rohit (161), Ajinkya Rahane (67), and Ravichandran Ashwin (15) in the final hour of the play. At stumps, India`s score reads 300/6 with Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel unbeaten at 33 and five runs respectively.

Ind vs Eng: Knew pitch was going to turn, was mentally prepared, says Rohit

The 162-run stand between the Indian vice-captains (of different formats) gave hosts a much-needed edge over England by the end of Day 1 of the second Test at the Chepauk stadium.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ball-of-the-century-virat-kohli-left-stunned-by-moeen-ali-ripper-363338" hreflang="en">Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper</a>

Opener Rohit Sharma's 161 runs powered India to a healthy total and his partnership with vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane took the hosts from 86/3 to 248/4. Rishabh Pant (33 runs) and debutant Axar Patel (5 runs) remained on the crease when India were on 300 before the bails were off.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli won an important toss and decided to bat first. However, the hosts suffered a major setback in the first over as Shubman Gill was out on a duck in the very first over.&nbsp;

The 86-run stand between Pujara and Sharma tried stabilising Indian innings. But Moeen Ali's ripper removed Pujara and skipper Kohli in one over putting immense pressure on hosts.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohlis-reaction-after-rohit-sharmas-shot-against-stuart-broad-363343" hreflang="en">WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad</a>

However, Rohit and Rahane attacked England's spinners to build a 162-run partnership put India on top. Leach got the better of Rohit and the opener was out after scoring 161 runs, whereas, Moeen Ali cleaned up Ajinkya Rahane, who was playing at 67.&nbsp;

Pant added some finishing touch as India ended their day with 300 runs on-board.&nbsp;

Moeen Ali and Jack Leach took two wickets each. Olly Stone and skipper Joe Root got one wicket apiece.&nbsp;

India will look to build on this mammoth score and will hope the pitch deteriorates so that spinners could trouble the English batting line up.&nbsp;

The 162-run stand between the Indian vice-captains (of different formats) gave hosts a much-needed edge over England by the end of Day 1 of the second Test at the Chepauk stadium.

The 162-run stand between the Indian vice-captains (of different formats) gave hosts a much-needed edge over England by the end of Day 1 of the second Test at the Chepauk stadium. ALSO READ: Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper Opener Rohit Sharma's 161 runs powered India to a healthy total and his partnership with vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane took the hosts from 86/3 to 248/4. Rishabh Pant (33 runs) and debutant Axar Patel (5 runs) remained on the crease when India were on 300 before the bails were off. Indian skipper Virat Kohli won an important toss and decided to bat first. However, the hosts suffered a major setback in the first over as Shubman Gill was out on a duck in the very first over. The 86-run stand between Pujara and Sharma tried stabilising Indian innings. But Moeen Ali's ripper removed Pujara and skipper Kohli in one over putting immense pressure on hosts. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad However, Rohit and Rahane attacked England's spinners to build a 162-run partnership put India on top. Leach got the better of Rohit and the opener was out after scoring 161 runs, whereas, Moeen Ali cleaned up Ajinkya Rahane, who was playing at 67. Pant added some finishing touch as India ended their day with 300 runs on-board. Moeen Ali and Jack Leach took two wickets each. Olly Stone and skipper Joe Root got one wicket apiece. India will look to build on this mammoth score and will hope the pitch deteriorates so that spinners could trouble the English batting line up.

IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Indian vice-captains keep hosts on top after Day 1

Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke several records after scoring a gritty ton against England on the first Day of the second Test match.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ball-of-the-century-virat-kohli-left-stunned-by-moeen-ali-ripper-363338" hreflang="en">Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper</a>

The Mumbaikar silenced his critics after smashing seventh Test hundered in just 130 balls after playing his natural aggressive game throughout the innings. His ton was crucial for Team India as they lost their three top batsmen cheaply (Kohli, Pujara Gill).

However, with this ton, Rohit became the first cricketer in the history of the game to slam centuries against four countries in all the formats of the game. Rohit scored centuries against Sri Lanka, West Indies, South Africa and England in all the formats (ODIs, T20Is and Tests) of the game.&nbsp;

The prolific opener overtook Mohammad Azharuddin to become the first Indian to score first seven centuries at home. The previous record was six centuries, held by former skipper Azharuddin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohlis-reaction-after-rohit-sharmas-shot-against-stuart-broad-363343" hreflang="en">WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad</a>

This was Rohit Sharma's fourth ton in the World Test Championship, which is the highest by an Indian batsman. He is now behind Marnus Labuschagne, who has five.&nbsp;

Despite losing three big wickets, Rahane and Sharma's 100 run-stand powered India to 189 runs by the end of second session.&nbsp;

Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke several records after scoring a gritty ton against England on the first Day of the second Test match. ALSO READ: Watch: Ball of the century?

Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke several records after scoring a gritty ton against England on the first Day of the second Test match. ALSO READ: Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper The Mumbaikar silenced his critics after smashing seventh Test hundered in just 130 balls after playing his natural aggressive game throughout the innings. His ton was crucial for Team India as they lost their three top batsmen cheaply (Kohli, Pujara Gill). However, with this ton, Rohit became the first cricketer in the history of the game to slam centuries against four countries in all the formats of the game. Rohit scored centuries against Sri Lanka, West Indies, South Africa and England in all the formats (ODIs, T20Is and Tests) of the game. The prolific opener overtook Mohammad Azharuddin to become the first Indian to score first seven centuries at home. The previous record was six centuries, held by former skipper Azharuddin. ALSO READ: WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad This was Rohit Sharma's fourth ton in the World Test Championship, which is the highest by an Indian batsman. He is now behind Marnus Labuschagne, who has five. Despite losing three big wickets, Rahane and Sharma's 100 run-stand powered India to 189 runs by the end of second session.

IND vs ENG, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma shatters records after scoring brisk century

After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara were under pressure to stabilise the Indian innings in the second Test against England. However, Rohit Sharma put India off-the-mark with a majestic drive through the extra cover boundary in the first ball of the second over, off Stuart Broad.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ball-of-the-century-virat-kohli-left-stunned-by-moeen-ali-ripper-363338" hreflang="en">Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper</a>

Kohli, who was all padded up in the dressing room, was overjoyed by the shot and cheered for Rohit Sharma.

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Yes boy ! : Virat Kohli 
applauding Rohit Sharma 's glorious cover drive.💙 
 
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— 🄿 ♚ (@Rarefieed) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rarefieed/status/1360472078265192450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Despite Kohli's&nbsp;dismissal, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma's 100-run stand helped India to 189 runs at the loss of three wickets by the end of the second session.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/way-to-go-batting-legend-vivian-richards-bats-for-freedomfortibet-363321" hreflang="en">'Way to go': Batting legend Vivian Richards bats for #FreedomForTibet</a>

Rohit Sharma scored his 7th Test century after 9 innings (15 Months) and is going strong with Rahane.

Virat Kohli opted to bat after winning the toss. Virat and Co. currently trail 0-1 in the four-match series, and a loss in the second Test will rule the side out of the qualification race for the final of the World Test Championship.

Team India have made three changes ahead of the match, they have rested Jasprit Bumrah and brought in Mohammed Siraj. Left-arm spinner Axar Patel, who is making his Test debut, and Chinaman Kuldeep Yadav replace left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem and off-spinner Washington Sundar, respectively.

After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara were under pressure to stabilise the Indian innings in the second Test against England. However, Rohit Sharma put India off-the-mark with a majestic drive through the extra cover boundary in the first ball of the second over, off Stuart Broad.

After Shubman Gill's dismissal, Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara were under pressure to stabilise the Indian innings in the second Test against England. However, Rohit Sharma put India off-the-mark with a majestic drive through the extra cover boundary in the first ball of the second over, off Stuart Broad. ALSO READ: Watch: Ball of the century? Virat Kohli left stunned by Moeen Ali ripper Kohli, who was all padded up in the dressing room, was overjoyed by the shot and cheered for Rohit Sharma. Yes boy ! : Virat Kohli applauding Rohit Sharma 's glorious cover drive.💙 #RohitSharma #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/4v7CAYz4KI — 🄿 ♚ (@Rarefieed) February 13, 2021 × Despite Kohli's dismissal, vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma's 100-run stand helped India to 189 runs at the loss of three wickets by the end of the second session. ALSO READ: 'Way to go': Batting legend Vivian Richards bats for #FreedomForTibet Rohit Sharma scored his 7th Test century after 9 innings (15 Months) and is going strong with Rahane. Virat Kohli opted to bat after winning the toss. Virat and Co. currently trail 0-1 in the four-match series, and a loss in the second Test will rule the side out of the qualification race for the final of the World Test Championship. Team India have made three changes ahead of the match, they have rested Jasprit Bumrah and brought in Mohammed Siraj. Left-arm spinner Axar Patel, who is making his Test debut, and Chinaman Kuldeep Yadav replace left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem and off-spinner Washington Sundar, respectively.

WATCH: Virat Kohli's reaction after Rohit Sharma's shot against Stuart Broad

Former Indian batsman VVS Laxman has urged vice-captain Ajikya Rahane and opener, Rohit Sharma, to show more "commitment" in the second Test match against England. The match will be played on Saturday at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Both batsmen&nbsp;failed to leave an impact with the bat in the first Test against the visitors that resulted in India's 227-run loss. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-india-skipper-virat-kohli-slips-to-fifth-spot-as-joe-root-enters-top-3-362638" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: Virat Kohli slips to fifth spot as Joe Root enters top 3</a>

“I want to see commitment from Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane in the next match, that they should win or save the match,” said Laxman on Star Sports.

Ajinkya Rahane contributed just one run in both innings. Rahane fell for one run in the first innings after Joe Root's single-handed catch and in the second innings, he was out on duck as he had no answer to James Anderson's reverse swing that crashed the stumps.&nbsp;

“The way Ajinkya Rahane got out in the second innings, I didn't feel he was ready for the fight. It was known that Anderson will be reversing the ball; you can get out to a good ball, but if your footwork is not correct, and you don't come into the right position, that too at the start of the innings, it makes you feel sad. So, the way Ajinkya Rahane got out, he will be disappointed,” he added.

Rohit Sharma was dismissed after scoring just six runs after finding a thick edge to Jofra Archer's delivery giving an easy catch Jos Buttler. In the second innings, Rohit was off to a promising start but Jack Leach's clinical spin bowled the Indian opener.&nbsp;

Laxman suggested that the opening batsman should be more careful while dealing with deliveries bowled outside off.

“Rohit Sharma will be disappointed the way he got in the first innings. As a batsman you know where the bowlers are going to attack you, what is not your strength. We know Rohit Sharma has to play a little more carefully outside off-stump at the start of his innings,” said Laxman.

Former Indian batsman VVS Laxman has urged vice-captain Ajikya Rahane and opener, Rohit Sharma, to show more "commitment" in the second Test match against England.

Former Indian batsman VVS Laxman has urged vice-captain Ajikya Rahane and opener, Rohit Sharma, to show more "commitment" in the second Test match against England. The match will be played on Saturday at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Both batsmen failed to leave an impact with the bat in the first Test against the visitors that resulted in India's 227-run loss. ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: Virat Kohli slips to fifth spot as Joe Root enters top 3 “I want to see commitment from Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane in the next match, that they should win or save the match,” said Laxman on Star Sports. Ajinkya Rahane contributed just one run in both innings. Rahane fell for one run in the first innings after Joe Root's single-handed catch and in the second innings, he was out on duck as he had no answer to James Anderson's reverse swing that crashed the stumps. “The way Ajinkya Rahane got out in the second innings, I didn't feel he was ready for the fight. It was known that Anderson will be reversing the ball; you can get out to a good ball, but if your footwork is not correct, and you don't come into the right position, that too at the start of the innings, it makes you feel sad. So, the way Ajinkya Rahane got out, he will be disappointed,” he added. Rohit Sharma was dismissed after scoring just six runs after finding a thick edge to Jofra Archer's delivery giving an easy catch Jos Buttler. In the second innings, Rohit was off to a promising start but Jack Leach's clinical spin bowled the Indian opener. Laxman suggested that the opening batsman should be more careful while dealing with deliveries bowled outside off. “Rohit Sharma will be disappointed the way he got in the first innings. As a batsman you know where the bowlers are going to attack you, what is not your strength. We know Rohit Sharma has to play a little more carefully outside off-stump at the start of his innings,” said Laxman.

VVS Laxman urges for more 'commitment' from Ajinkya Rahane and Rohit Sharma

Thunderstorm played a spoiled sport as the third session of Day 2 was abandoned due to wet outfield, with India 62 for two in reply to Australia's first innings 369 in the series-decider at the Gabba on Saturday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/happening-since-1932-sunil-gavaskar-points-out-main-issue-with-indias-bowling-unit-356928" hreflang="en">'Happening since 1932': Sunil Gavaskar points out main issue with India's bowling unit</a>

Australians began the day on high with skipper Tim Paine scoring a half-century and taking the team past 300-mark. However, Indian bowlers bounced back and reduced the host to 315/8. But, a quickfire 49-run partnership between Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc powered Australia to 369. T Natarajan, Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar got three wickets apiece, whereas, Mohammed Siraj got a sole wicket of dangerman David Warner.&nbsp;

In reply, Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma opened the innings for India. However, the hosts faced a quick setback as Gill lost his wicket to Pat Cummins. Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara stitched a 49-run partnership to stabilise the innings. Sharma then got out to Nathan Lyon, handing the spinner 397th Test wicket. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Pujara remained on the crease till tea was called. However, the session was delayed due to heavy thunderstorm resulting in the wet outfield which forced the umpires to conclude the day. India are 307 runs behind the Aussies and are need to long innings to be in the match.&nbsp;

India will begin the Day 3 with eight wickets in hand with the team's most set batsmen on the crease.&nbsp;

The series is currently levelled at 1-1 and the match will decide the fate of the Border-Gavaskar trophy.

Thunderstorm played a spoiled sport as the third session of Day 2 was abandoned due to wet outfield, with India 62 for two in reply to Australia's first innings 369 in the series-decider at the Gabba on Saturday.

Thunderstorm played a spoiled sport as the third session of Day 2 was abandoned due to wet outfield, with India 62 for two in reply to Australia's first innings 369 in the series-decider at the Gabba on Saturday. ALSO READ: 'Happening since 1932': Sunil Gavaskar points out main issue with India's bowling unit Australians began the day on high with skipper Tim Paine scoring a half-century and taking the team past 300-mark. However, Indian bowlers bounced back and reduced the host to 315/8. But, a quickfire 49-run partnership between Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc powered Australia to 369. T Natarajan, Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar got three wickets apiece, whereas, Mohammed Siraj got a sole wicket of dangerman David Warner. In reply, Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma opened the innings for India. However, the hosts faced a quick setback as Gill lost his wicket to Pat Cummins. Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara stitched a 49-run partnership to stabilise the innings. Sharma then got out to Nathan Lyon, handing the spinner 397th Test wicket. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Pujara remained on the crease till tea was called. However, the session was delayed due to heavy thunderstorm resulting in the wet outfield which forced the umpires to conclude the day. India are 307 runs behind the Aussies and are need to long innings to be in the match. India will begin the Day 3 with eight wickets in hand with the team's most set batsmen on the crease. The series is currently levelled at 1-1 and the match will decide the fate of the Border-Gavaskar trophy.

Ind vs Aus, 4th Test: Thunderstorm plays spoilsport as India end Day 2 at 62/2

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