Team India suffered their first-ever whitewash in Tests at home, comprising three matches or more, when New Zealand beat them by 25 runs in the final match in Mumbai on Sunday (Nov 3). Having already conceded&nbsp;a 2-0 lead, Rohit Sharma-led India were determined to end on a high and needed only 147 for a win. However, the home side&nbsp;collapsed for 121 on Day 3 to suffer a humiliating whitewash. Thus, BCCI is set to discuss the series loss in detail and one of the topics will be the pitches used in the second and third Test, in Pune and Mumbai, respectively.

After the first Test in Bengaluru, which India lost by eight wickets, the pitches used for Pune and Mumbai were spin-friendly (despite Indian batters' spin woes). During current coach Gautam Gambhir's predecessor Rahul Dravid's tenure, India went against making rank turners in home Tests. However, it is reportedly believed that Gambhir went back to the tactic, despite resistance from majority part of the team management comprising senior players, during the NZ series, The move, however,&nbsp;maid&nbsp;India pay a heavy price with twin defeats.

"The decision to go back to rank turners caught a few people in the board by surprise. The new support staff under Gautam Gambhir will be asked about their vision for taking the team forward," the Times of India quoted a source as saying.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sunil-gavaskar-slams-gautam-gambhirs-stint-as-india-coach-makes-bold-claim-on-rohit-kohlis-test-future-773364">Sunil Gavaskar SLAMS Gautam Gambhir's stint as India coach, makes BOLD claim on Rohit, Kohli's Test future</a>

Gambhir became India's coach in July, succeeding Dravid. He has been given a freehand in selecting his support staff, where he brought in several foreigners (which, as per reports,&nbsp;wasn't the BCCI's preference). Moreover, the former Indian opener&nbsp;attained a rare seat at the selection committee meeting for the forthcoming Australia tour.

However, an ODI series loss in Sri Lanka and a home series humiliation versus New Zealand clearly suggests that things aren't looking bright&nbsp;for Gambhir and his team. BCCI will monitor his team's progress closely and several questions can be raised going ahead if India's fortunes do not change starting with the all-important Australia tour.

Team India suffered their first-ever whitewash in Tests at home, comprising three matches or more, when New Zealand beat them by 25 runs in the final match in Mumbai on Sunday (Nov 3).

Team India suffered their first-ever whitewash in Tests at home, comprising three matches or more, when New Zealand beat them by 25 runs in the final match in Mumbai on Sunday (Nov 3). Having already conceded a 2-0 lead, Rohit Sharma-led India were determined to end on a high and needed only 147 for a win. However, the home side collapsed for 121 on Day 3 to suffer a humiliating whitewash. Thus, BCCI is set to discuss the series loss in detail and one of the topics will be the pitches used in the second and third Test, in Pune and Mumbai, respectively. After the first Test in Bengaluru, which India lost by eight wickets, the pitches used for Pune and Mumbai were spin-friendly (despite Indian batters' spin woes). During current coach Gautam Gambhir's predecessor Rahul Dravid's tenure, India went against making rank turners in home Tests. However, it is reportedly believed that Gambhir went back to the tactic, despite resistance from majority part of the team management comprising senior players, during the NZ series, The move, however, maid India pay a heavy price with twin defeats. "The decision to go back to rank turners caught a few people in the board by surprise. The new support staff under Gautam Gambhir will be asked about their vision for taking the team forward," the Times of India quoted a source as saying. Also read: Sunil Gavaskar SLAMS Gautam Gambhir's stint as India coach, makes BOLD claim on Rohit, Kohli's Test future Gambhir became India's coach in July, succeeding Dravid. He has been given a freehand in selecting his support staff, where he brought in several foreigners (which, as per reports, wasn't the BCCI's preference). Moreover, the former Indian opener attained a rare seat at the selection committee meeting for the forthcoming Australia tour. However, an ODI series loss in Sri Lanka and a home series humiliation versus New Zealand clearly suggests that things aren't looking bright for Gambhir and his team. BCCI will monitor his team's progress closely and several questions can be raised going ahead if India's fortunes do not change starting with the all-important Australia tour.

Gautam Gambhir went against team management, defied Rahul Dravid's 'pitch theory' during NZ Tests: Report

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar thrashed India coach Gautam Gambhir following Rohit Sharma-led side's being whitewashed by New Zealand in the just-concluded three Tests at home. Under Gambhir, who took over as the head coach in July, India lost an ODI series to Sri Lanka, after 27 years, before NZ became the first Test team&nbsp;to whitewash India 3-0 in India. Gavaskar also made a bold claim on Rohit and Virat Kohli's Test future as the duo struggled for runs versus the Kiwis.

Speaking to&nbsp;India Today, Gavaskar said, "The results speak for themselves. Even in Sri Lanka, India lost an ODI series after a long time. And now here, it's a loss, it's a terrible loss. So, I think the results speak for themselves."

"Well, I think every team has a think tank. Probably the captain, vice-captain and the coach -- these are the guys who take the decisions. If it doesn't work out, it looks bad. I think these decisions would have been taken by the think tank," Gavaskar further opined.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bcci-wishes-virat-kohli-on-his-36th-birthday-netizens-join-in-to-pour-their-love-773362">BCCI wishes Virat Kohli on his 36th birthday, netizens join in to pour their love</a>

In the NZ series, captain Rohit ended with 91 runs, including a high score of 52. Meanwhile, Kohli amassed 93 runs with a best of 50. While Hitman averaged 15.16, Kohli ended with an average of 15.50. Many have questioned the duo for the lack of domestic cricket, spin woes and inability to trust their defensive game. Gavaskar also claimed that if they don't score in the forthcoming Australia tour, comprising five Tests, it could be the end of Kohli-Rohit in Tests.

Gavaskar added, "Definitely yes. If they (Rohit and Virat) don't score runs in Australia, there will be a clamour for a new-look Indian team to start from the tour of England."

India need a 4-0 win over Australia to qualify for next year's WTC final. If it does not happen, India will have to depend on other results to qualify.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar thrashed India coach Gautam Gambhir following Rohit Sharma-led side's being whitewashed by New Zealand in the just-concluded three Tests at home.

Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar thrashed India coach Gautam Gambhir following Rohit Sharma-led side's being whitewashed by New Zealand in the just-concluded three Tests at home. Under Gambhir, who took over as the head coach in July, India lost an ODI series to Sri Lanka, after 27 years, before NZ became the first Test team to whitewash India 3-0 in India. Gavaskar also made a bold claim on Rohit and Virat Kohli's Test future as the duo struggled for runs versus the Kiwis. Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "The results speak for themselves. Even in Sri Lanka, India lost an ODI series after a long time. And now here, it's a loss, it's a terrible loss. So, I think the results speak for themselves." "Well, I think every team has a think tank. Probably the captain, vice-captain and the coach -- these are the guys who take the decisions. If it doesn't work out, it looks bad. I think these decisions would have been taken by the think tank," Gavaskar further opined. Also read: BCCI wishes Virat Kohli on his 36th birthday, netizens join in to pour their love In the NZ series, captain Rohit ended with 91 runs, including a high score of 52. Meanwhile, Kohli amassed 93 runs with a best of 50. While Hitman averaged 15.16, Kohli ended with an average of 15.50. Many have questioned the duo for the lack of domestic cricket, spin woes and inability to trust their defensive game. Gavaskar also claimed that if they don't score in the forthcoming Australia tour, comprising five Tests, it could be the end of Kohli-Rohit in Tests. Gavaskar added, "Definitely yes. If they (Rohit and Virat) don't score runs in Australia, there will be a clamour for a new-look Indian team to start from the tour of England." India need a 4-0 win over Australia to qualify for next year's WTC final. If it does not happen, India will have to depend on other results to qualify.

Sunil Gavaskar SLAMS Gautam Gambhir's stint as India coach, makes BOLD claim on Rohit, Kohli's Test future

The Indian Cricket team was whitewashed 3-0 by New Zealand, leading to fierce criticism of the Men In Blue. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma struggled in the series and the duo's future in the test team is in doubt. Wion's Eric Njoka gets you the details.

New Zealand Condemn India to 'Embarrassing' Whitewash

After India's humiliating Test series whitewash against New Zealand, captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that he is 'not sure' of his availability for the Australia series opener in Perth. Former cricketer Abhinav Mukund&nbsp;confirmed, on air&nbsp;during the third Test in Mumbai, that Rohit and his wife Ritika are expecting the birth of their second child. After the final Test, Rohit also spoke about his availability and made a big statement.

After the third Test in Mumbai, Rohit told reporters, "Right now, I am not too sure whether I'll be going, but let's see. Fingers crossed." In the recent past, there have been rumours of Rohit missing the Australia Test series opener in Perth due to personal reasons. Mukund, while speaking on Jio Cinema, confirmed Rohit is set to become a father once again and, hence, Hitman is likely to be absent for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-out-bcci-set-to-take-harsh-calls-on-seniors-post-australia-tests-report-773055">Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli out? BCCI set to take harsh calls on seniors post Australia Tests: Report</a>

Jasprit Bumrah to&nbsp;lead?

In Rohit's absence, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will lead the Indian team in the Perth Test, starting on Nov 22. It will be the second instance of the wily pacer leading India in the purest format. In mid-2022, Bumrah led India in the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, which the visitors lost by seven wickets.

At present, Rohit-led India are in a precarious position in the 2023-25 WTC cycle. Following a shocking 0-3 whitewash versus the Kiwis at home, India need to beat Aussies 4-0 in their own backyard to qualify for the WTC final, in June 2025. If this does not happen, they will have to depend on other results to qualify.

India are set to travel to Australia for a five-match Test series. They have beaten the Aussies in their last two Test series Down Under.

India squad for Australia Tests

Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar.

After India's humiliating Test series whitewash against New Zealand, captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that he is 'not sure' of his availability for the Australia series opener in Perth.

After India's humiliating Test series whitewash against New Zealand, captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that he is 'not sure' of his availability for the Australia series opener in Perth. Former cricketer Abhinav Mukund confirmed, on air during the third Test in Mumbai, that Rohit and his wife Ritika are expecting the birth of their second child. After the final Test, Rohit also spoke about his availability and made a big statement. After the third Test in Mumbai, Rohit told reporters, "Right now, I am not too sure whether I'll be going, but let's see. Fingers crossed." In the recent past, there have been rumours of Rohit missing the Australia Test series opener in Perth due to personal reasons. Mukund, while speaking on Jio Cinema, confirmed Rohit is set to become a father once again and, hence, Hitman is likely to be absent for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener. Also read: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli out? BCCI set to take harsh calls on seniors post Australia Tests: Report Jasprit Bumrah to lead? In Rohit's absence, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will lead the Indian team in the Perth Test, starting on Nov 22. It will be the second instance of the wily pacer leading India in the purest format. In mid-2022, Bumrah led India in the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, in Edgbaston, which the visitors lost by seven wickets. At present, Rohit-led India are in a precarious position in the 2023-25 WTC cycle. Following a shocking 0-3 whitewash versus the Kiwis at home, India need to beat Aussies 4-0 in their own backyard to qualify for the WTC final, in June 2025. If this does not happen, they will have to depend on other results to qualify. India are set to travel to Australia for a five-match Test series. They have beaten the Aussies in their last two Test series Down Under. India squad for Australia Tests Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar.

BGT 2024/25: More miseries for India? Rohit Sharma 'not sure' of his participation in Perth Test

India got whitewashed by New Zealand in the three-match Test series following their unsuccessful 147-run chase on Day 3 of the final Test in Mumbai on Sunday (Nov 3). Thus, Kiwis&nbsp;became the first Test team to inflict a 3-0 whitewash over India in India. Following this drubbing, BCCI is expected to take some tough calls with regard to the senior players' Test future after the upcoming Australia tour.

An informal discussion is likely to&nbsp;take place between BCCI bigwigs,&nbsp;chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and skipper Rohit Sharma about the way forward for an ageing team comprising Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja. The trio along with Rohit had an ordinary run in the NZ series, raising questions and, thus, the Australia tour could give a clear picture regarding their Test future.

"Stocks will be taken certainly and it could be of informal nature since the team leaves for Australia on November 10. But this has been a huge debacle but, with Australia series round the corner and the squad already announced, there won't be any tinkering," a senior BCCI source told PTI on the condition of anonymity.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-in-danger-of-missing-wtc-final-after-new-zealand-whitewash-heres-how-they-can-still-make-it-772952">India in danger of missing WTC Final after New Zealand whitewash. Here's how they can still make it</a>

"But if India doesn't qualify for WTC final in England, one can be rest assured that all four super seniors won't be on that flight to UK for the ensuing five-Test series. In any case, all four have likely played their final Test at home together," the source further&nbsp;added.

After the humiliating series whitewash, captain Rohit was&nbsp;asked for his thoughts on India's Test future given the&nbsp;limited time left in his captaincy. He stated,&nbsp;"Look, I don't think we can look that far ahead. It's important to focus on the next series, which is Australia."

"I'm not going to look beyond Australia series. Australia series, for us is now very, very important. We will try and focus on that rather than thinking what happens after," he opined.

India's next Test assignment is a five-match Test series versus Australia, in Australia. The forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) kicks off on Nov 22 in Perth. India need four wins from their remaining five games in the WTC 2023-25 cycle to reach the final (to be held next year in June).

India got whitewashed by New Zealand in the three-match Test series following their unsuccessful 147-run chase on Day 3 of the final Test in Mumbai on Sunday (Nov 3).

India got whitewashed by New Zealand in the three-match Test series following their unsuccessful 147-run chase on Day 3 of the final Test in Mumbai on Sunday (Nov 3). Thus, Kiwis became the first Test team to inflict a 3-0 whitewash over India in India. Following this drubbing, BCCI is expected to take some tough calls with regard to the senior players' Test future after the upcoming Australia tour. An informal discussion is likely to take place between BCCI bigwigs, chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and skipper Rohit Sharma about the way forward for an ageing team comprising Virat Kohli, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja. The trio along with Rohit had an ordinary run in the NZ series, raising questions and, thus, the Australia tour could give a clear picture regarding their Test future. "Stocks will be taken certainly and it could be of informal nature since the team leaves for Australia on November 10. But this has been a huge debacle but, with Australia series round the corner and the squad already announced, there won't be any tinkering," a senior BCCI source told PTI on the condition of anonymity. Also read: India in danger of missing WTC Final after New Zealand whitewash. Here's how they can still make it "But if India doesn't qualify for WTC final in England, one can be rest assured that all four super seniors won't be on that flight to UK for the ensuing five-Test series. In any case, all four have likely played their final Test at home together," the source further added. After the humiliating series whitewash, captain Rohit was asked for his thoughts on India's Test future given the limited time left in his captaincy. He stated, "Look, I don't think we can look that far ahead. It's important to focus on the next series, which is Australia." "I'm not going to look beyond Australia series. Australia series, for us is now very, very important. We will try and focus on that rather than thinking what happens after," he opined. India's next Test assignment is a five-match Test series versus Australia, in Australia. The forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) kicks off on Nov 22 in Perth. India need four wins from their remaining five games in the WTC 2023-25 cycle to reach the final (to be held next year in June).

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli out? BCCI set to take harsh calls on seniors post Australia Tests: Report

India skipper Rohit Sharma thinks Rishabh Pant was given out controversially in the second innings of the third Test against New Zealand on Sunday (Nov 3). India were 40 runs short of the target when Pant was given out as the seventh wicket and team went on to lose the match by 25 runs.

Pant was given bat-pad on Ajaz Patel's bowling. Initially, the on-field umpire gave it not out but New Zealand decided to review it and the third umpire overturned the decision.

"About that dismissal, I honestly, I don't know," Rohit opined after the match. "If we say something, it is not accepted well. But if there is not conclusive evidence, it has to stand with the umpire's on-field decision. That is what I have been told. So I don't know how that decision was overturned, since the umpire didn't give him out."

"The bat was clearly close to the pad. So, again, I don't know if it is the right thing for me to talk about. It is something for the umpires to think about. Have the same rules for every team, not keep changing their mind," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-in-danger-of-missing-wtc-final-after-new-zealand-whitewash-heres-how-they-can-still-make-it-772952">India in danger of missing WTC Final after New Zealand whitewash. Here's how they can still make it</a>

India were rocked early in the chase of 147 but Rishabh Pant played another masterful innings of 64 runs in addition to his 60 runs in the first innings to get India on the cusp of win.

Pant's dismissal put the Kiwis on top and Ajaz Patel combined with Glenn Phillips to make sure India don't stage another comeback.

Patel finished the match with 11 wickets - his second 10-wicket haul in Mumbai in as many trips - as India were bundled out for 121 in their second innings.

The Kiwis only put cherry on top of their maiden Test series win against India by winning the third Test where India were bowled out for 121 in pursuit of a 147-run target.

India skipper Rohit Sharma thinks Rishabh Pant was given out controversially in the second innings of the third Test against New Zealand on Sunday (Nov 3). India were 40 runs short of the target when Pant was given out as the seventh wicket and team went on to lose the match by 25 runs.

India skipper Rohit Sharma thinks Rishabh Pant was given out controversially in the second innings of the third Test against New Zealand on Sunday (Nov 3). India were 40 runs short of the target when Pant was given out as the seventh wicket and team went on to lose the match by 25 runs. Pant was given bat-pad on Ajaz Patel's bowling. Initially, the on-field umpire gave it not out but New Zealand decided to review it and the third umpire overturned the decision. "About that dismissal, I honestly, I don't know," Rohit opined after the match. "If we say something, it is not accepted well. But if there is not conclusive evidence, it has to stand with the umpire's on-field decision. That is what I have been told. So I don't know how that decision was overturned, since the umpire didn't give him out." "The bat was clearly close to the pad. So, again, I don't know if it is the right thing for me to talk about. It is something for the umpires to think about. Have the same rules for every team, not keep changing their mind," he added. Also Read: India in danger of missing WTC Final after New Zealand whitewash. Here's how they can still make it India were rocked early in the chase of 147 but Rishabh Pant played another masterful innings of 64 runs in addition to his 60 runs in the first innings to get India on the cusp of win. Pant's dismissal put the Kiwis on top and Ajaz Patel combined with Glenn Phillips to make sure India don't stage another comeback. Patel finished the match with 11 wickets - his second 10-wicket haul in Mumbai in as many trips - as India were bundled out for 121 in their second innings. The Kiwis only put cherry on top of their maiden Test series win against India by winning the third Test where India were bowled out for 121 in pursuit of a 147-run target.

'Umpire didn't give him out...,' India skipper Rohit Sharma on Rishabh Pant being given out in third NZ Test

Rohit Sharma took responsibility for India suffering a whitewash at the hands of New Zealand in the just-concluded Test series at home. Having failed to lead the side over the winning line even once in three Tests this time, more so for not delivering with the bat across six outings, Rohit admitted the final result hurts and that there’s a lot of reflection to do ahead of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts on November 22 in Perth.

Scoring just 91 runs in three Tests, Rohit failed to provide the start India longed for in this series, resulting in them falling behind every time. However, he lamented the collective batting failure behind India&nbsp;losing a Test series at home for the first time in 12 years. The last time a touring team beat India in India was England in 2012 when they won the four-match series 2-1.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-win-mumbai-test-to-claim-series-3-0-becomes-first-team-to-whitewash-india-in-india-772907">New Zealand win Mumbai Test to claim series 3-0, becomes first team to whitewash India in India</a>

"Losing a series, a Test match, is never easy... something that is not easily digestible. We didn't play our best cricket, New Zealand played better throughout the series,” Rohit said after the series loss to New Zealand.

“There were a lot of mistakes we did. The first two Tests we did not put enough runs in the first innings. This game we got the 30 runs [28] lead, and the target was chaseable. We failed as a unit,” he continued.

<h2>Youngsters shone for India</h2>

Although the biggies were far from convincing, several youngsters did the job for India, including a Test great in making Rishabh Pant, all-rounder Washington Sundar and India’s new number three in Tests, Shubman Gill. While Pant impressed with the bat throughout, scoring 261 runs across six outings, Sundar’s handy contribution with the ball in hand impressed everyone.

On the other hand, Gill played a handy knock of 90 in the first innings in Mumbai, cementing his place as Team India’s new number three.&nbsp;

"Pant, Gill, and Washington showed how to bat on those surfaces. You have to be proactive, the last three or four years, we have been playing on pitches like that. This was an unfortunate series where we tried certain things that did not come off. I was not at my best as captain in leading the team as well as with the bat. Collectively, as a unit, we failed to perform,” the Indian captain noted.

Meanwhile, the captain was aware of not justifying his role as a batter and the captain in this series.

“But this series, it didn't come off, certain things (on how to bat in such pitches), which didn't come off, and that's going to hurt. From a personal point of view, I wasn't at my best with both bat, and as a captain, that's something that'll rankle me. But, we didn't perform well collectively and that's the reason for these losses,” Rohit concluded.

(With inputs from agencies)

Rohit Sharma took responsibility for India suffering a whitewash at the hands of New Zealand in the just-concluded Test series at home. Having failed to lead the side over the winning line even once in three Tests this time, more so for not delivering with the bat across six outings, Rohit admitted the final result hurts and that there’s a lot of reflection to do ahead of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts on November 22 in Perth.

Rohit Sharma took responsibility for India suffering a whitewash at the hands of New Zealand in the just-concluded Test series at home. Having failed to lead the side over the winning line even once in three Tests this time, more so for not delivering with the bat across six outings, Rohit admitted the final result hurts and that there’s a lot of reflection to do ahead of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series that starts on November 22 in Perth. Scoring just 91 runs in three Tests, Rohit failed to provide the start India longed for in this series, resulting in them falling behind every time. However, he lamented the collective batting failure behind India losing a Test series at home for the first time in 12 years. The last time a touring team beat India in India was England in 2012 when they won the four-match series 2-1. ALSO READ: New Zealand win Mumbai Test to claim series 3-0, becomes first team to whitewash India in India "Losing a series, a Test match, is never easy... something that is not easily digestible. We didn't play our best cricket, New Zealand played better throughout the series,” Rohit said after the series loss to New Zealand. “There were a lot of mistakes we did. The first two Tests we did not put enough runs in the first innings. This game we got the 30 runs [28] lead, and the target was chaseable. We failed as a unit,” he continued. Youngsters shone for India Although the biggies were far from convincing, several youngsters did the job for India, including a Test great in making Rishabh Pant, all-rounder Washington Sundar and India’s new number three in Tests, Shubman Gill. While Pant impressed with the bat throughout, scoring 261 runs across six outings, Sundar’s handy contribution with the ball in hand impressed everyone. On the other hand, Gill played a handy knock of 90 in the first innings in Mumbai, cementing his place as Team India’s new number three. "Pant, Gill, and Washington showed how to bat on those surfaces. You have to be proactive, the last three or four years, we have been playing on pitches like that. This was an unfortunate series where we tried certain things that did not come off. I was not at my best as captain in leading the team as well as with the bat. Collectively, as a unit, we failed to perform,” the Indian captain noted. Meanwhile, the captain was aware of not justifying his role as a batter and the captain in this series. “But this series, it didn't come off, certain things (on how to bat in such pitches), which didn't come off, and that's going to hurt. From a personal point of view, I wasn't at my best with both bat, and as a captain, that's something that'll rankle me. But, we didn't perform well collectively and that's the reason for these losses,” Rohit concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

‘I wasn’t at my best as captain and with bat’ – Rohit Sharma takes responsibility for series whitewash to NZ

India captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli flopped in the second innings in Mumbai as the hosts lost six wickets in the 147-run chase before lunch on day three. While Rohit got out miscuing the pull shot off Matt Henry, caught at mid-wicket by Glenn Phillips on 11, Ajaz Patel had Kohli’s number on just one.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant completed a remarkable fifty despite wickets tumbling at the other end, with India’s scorecard reading 92/6 at lunch on day three.

India needs 55 runs to win with four wickets remaining.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ball-tampering-allegations-rock-india-a-as-umpires-warn-ishan-kishan-for-showing-dissent-772861">Ball-tampering allegations rock India-A as umpires warn Ishan Kishan for showing dissent</a>

Meanwhile, Rohit’s opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal, departed on a single-digit score (5), trapped in the front of Phillips. Patel then accounted for India's first-inning hero, Shubman Gill, cleaning his off stump on one. For the nth time in his career, Gill got out similarly, with Ajaz’s delivery going straight with the arm and knocking his off-stump.

Patel, who picked a five-for in the first innings at Wankhede this time - where he bagged ten wickets in an inning the last time they played, removed Sarfaraz Khan on one to put India’s back against the wall. The left-arm orthodox also removed Sarfaraz in the first inning, with India’s domestic giant looking clueless against the turning ball.&nbsp;

However, Rishabh Pant’s counterattack and a 42-run stand with Ravindra Jadeja have kept India alive in this run-chase.

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𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐮𝐩 💪 
 
Watch the 3rd <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> Test as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> chase victory, LIVE on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinema</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sports18</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ColorsCineplex?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ColorsCineplex</a> 👈<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinemaSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinemaSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/NPBNUJf5Y7">pic.twitter.com/NPBNUJf5Y7</a>
— JioCinema (@JioCinema) <a href="https://twitter.com/JioCinema/status/1852941860404142139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Jadeja stars with the ball in the hand</h2>

Ravindra Jadeja looked off-colour for most of this series; however, he upped his game during the final Test in Mumbai, returning with ten wickets in the match – five in each innings.&nbsp;

After returning with five for 65 in the first innings with New Zealand getting all out on 235, Jadeja picked as many wickets in the second, accounting for NZ’s final wicket on day three on the second last ball of his first over.

With the Kiwis getting all out on 174, India needed a target of 147 to win the match and save themselves from the embarrassment of getting whitewashed at home in Tests for the first time.

India captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli flopped in the second innings in Mumbai as the hosts lost six wickets in the 147-run chase before lunch on day three.

India captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli flopped in the second innings in Mumbai as the hosts lost six wickets in the 147-run chase before lunch on day three. While Rohit got out miscuing the pull shot off Matt Henry, caught at mid-wicket by Glenn Phillips on 11, Ajaz Patel had Kohli’s number on just one. Rishabh Pant completed a remarkable fifty despite wickets tumbling at the other end, with India’s scorecard reading 92/6 at lunch on day three. India needs 55 runs to win with four wickets remaining. ALSO READ: Ball-tampering allegations rock India-A as umpires warn Ishan Kishan for showing dissent Meanwhile, Rohit’s opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal, departed on a single-digit score (5), trapped in the front of Phillips. Patel then accounted for India's first-inning hero, Shubman Gill, cleaning his off stump on one. For the nth time in his career, Gill got out similarly, with Ajaz’s delivery going straight with the arm and knocking his off-stump. Patel, who picked a five-for in the first innings at Wankhede this time - where he bagged ten wickets in an inning the last time they played, removed Sarfaraz Khan on one to put India’s back against the wall. The left-arm orthodox also removed Sarfaraz in the first inning, with India’s domestic giant looking clueless against the turning ball. However, Rishabh Pant’s counterattack and a 42-run stand with Ravindra Jadeja have kept India alive in this run-chase. 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐮𝐩 💪 Watch the 3rd #INDvNZ Test as #TeamIndia chase victory, LIVE on #JioCinema, #Sports18 and #ColorsCineplex 👈#IDFCFirstBankTestTrophy #JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/NPBNUJf5Y7 — JioCinema (@JioCinema) November 3, 2024 × Jadeja stars with the ball in the hand Ravindra Jadeja looked off-colour for most of this series; however, he upped his game during the final Test in Mumbai, returning with ten wickets in the match – five in each innings. After returning with five for 65 in the first innings with New Zealand getting all out on 235, Jadeja picked as many wickets in the second, accounting for NZ’s final wicket on day three on the second last ball of his first over. With the Kiwis getting all out on 174, India needed a target of 147 to win the match and save themselves from the embarrassment of getting whitewashed at home in Tests for the first time.

IND vs NZ 2024, 3rd Test, Day 3: Rishabh Pant’s counterattack keeps India alive in Mumbai run chase

India have locked horns with Tom Latham-led New Zealand in the third and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (Nov 1). Winning the toss, NZ opted to bat first and have made two changes coming into the series finale, having an unassailable 2-0 lead. India&nbsp;are without Jasprit Bumrah for the final Test. At the coin toss, Indian captain Rohit Sharma explained the reason for no Bumrah in the playing XI.

At the toss, Rohit said, "Unfortunately, Bumrah is not well (viral illness), Siraj comes in for him."

Bumrah, thus, ended the series with three scalps in two games.

Siraj, on the other hand, has a huge task to fill in for the senior pacer. The former struggled&nbsp;in the series opener&nbsp;in Bengaluru, and, thus, he will have to be at his best given there is no Bumrah.

Rohit further said after losing the toss, "We understand and accept that we haven't played well through the series. Gives us another opportunity to try and correct those things. Looks like a good pitch. Hopefully we can restrict them as quickly as possible and then focus with the bat. Our focus is on this Test match. We want to try and play well in this Test match. In the back of your mind, you need to look at what lies ahead (WTC final), but it's important to stay in present, focus on what we need to to today and worry about all those things later."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/not-rishabh-pant-former-aussie-skipper-tim-paine-says-this-batter-helped-india-win-on-last-tour-772060">Not Rishabh Pant! Former Aussie skipper Tim Paine says THIS batter helped India win on last tour</a>

<h2>Playing XIs</h2>

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">New Zealand&nbsp;(Playing XI): Tom Latham(c), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell(w), Glenn Phillips, Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry, Ajaz Patel, William ORourke

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">India&nbsp;(Playing XI): Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant(w), Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj

<p ng-bind-html="comm[ts].comm" ng-class="get_comm_class(comm[ts]) " ng-hide="comm[ts].geo != null &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.length &gt; 0 &amp;&amp; comm[ts].geo.indexOf($root.$GEO.country) == -1" ng-if="comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:news' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:video' &amp;&amp; comm[ts].evt != 'Plugin:comments'">After the series, India's Test team will leave for Australia for a five-match series Down Under. Thus, the home side will be desperate to end the series with a consolation win. NZ, who ended India's unbeaten run in Tests since 2012, is aiming for a 3-0 whitewash.&nbsp;

India have locked horns with Tom Latham-led New Zealand in the third and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (Nov 1). Winning the toss, NZ opted to bat first and have made two changes coming into the series finale, having an unassailable 2-0 lead.

India have locked horns with Tom Latham-led New Zealand in the third and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (Nov 1). Winning the toss, NZ opted to bat first and have made two changes coming into the series finale, having an unassailable 2-0 lead. India are without Jasprit Bumrah for the final Test. At the coin toss, Indian captain Rohit Sharma explained the reason for no Bumrah in the playing XI. At the toss, Rohit said, "Unfortunately, Bumrah is not well (viral illness), Siraj comes in for him." Bumrah, thus, ended the series with three scalps in two games. Siraj, on the other hand, has a huge task to fill in for the senior pacer. The former struggled in the series opener in Bengaluru, and, thus, he will have to be at his best given there is no Bumrah. Rohit further said after losing the toss, "We understand and accept that we haven't played well through the series. Gives us another opportunity to try and correct those things. Looks like a good pitch. Hopefully we can restrict them as quickly as possible and then focus with the bat. Our focus is on this Test match. We want to try and play well in this Test match. In the back of your mind, you need to look at what lies ahead (WTC final), but it's important to stay in present, focus on what we need to to today and worry about all those things later." Also read: Not Rishabh Pant! Former Aussie skipper Tim Paine says THIS batter helped India win on last tour Playing XIs New Zealand (Playing XI): Tom Latham(c), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell(w), Glenn Phillips, Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry, Ajaz Patel, William ORourke India (Playing XI): Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant(w), Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj After the series, India's Test team will leave for Australia for a five-match series Down Under. Thus, the home side will be desperate to end the series with a consolation win. NZ, who ended India's unbeaten run in Tests since 2012, is aiming for a 3-0 whitewash.

Ind vs NZ, 3rd Test: Why is Jasprit Bumrah not part of India's playing XI? Find out

On Thursday (Oct 31), all ten IPL franchises released their list of retained players. For Mumbai Indians (MI), the five-time winners retained Jasprit Bumrah, captain Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma and Tilak Varma. After the retained players list was out, Rohit acknowledged being the fourth retention choice as he feels he is a retired player from T20Is and preference&nbsp;should be given to the top active Indian players.

In an interview with Jio Cinema, Rohit shared his perspective on the retention lineup and said, "Since I have retired from the [T20] format, I think this is the perfect [retention] spot for me,” Sharma explained. “The players who are representing the national team at the highest level should get the preference. That’s what I believe in, and I am quite happy with it."

List of players retained by Mumbai Indians: 
1. Jasprit Bumrah – INR 180 million (INR 18 crore) 
2. Hardik Pandya – INR&nbsp;163.5 million (INR 16.35 crore) 
3.&nbsp;Suryakumar Yadav – INR 163.5 million (INR 16.35 crore) 
4. Rohit Sharma – INR&nbsp;163&nbsp;million (INR 16.30&nbsp;crore) 
5. Tilak Varma – INR 80 million (INR 8 crore)

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-lsg-owner-sanjiv-goenkas-team-over-personal-milestones-remark-goes-viral-after-kl-rahuls-release-772422">IPL 2025: LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka's 'team over personal milestones' remark goes VIRAL after KL Rahul's release</a>

Rohit further stressed&nbsp;the city’s sentimental value by speaking highly&nbsp;of&nbsp;his enduring relationship with Mumbai. In this regard, he stated, "I have played so much cricket in Mumbai; this is where I started my cricket career. This city is very, very special. When you play for such a long time, you create so many memories with the team."

MI have struggled in the 2021-24 IPL cycle, finishing at the bottom twice. Thus, Rohit acknowledged the recent challenges and added, "We haven’t had the best of seasons in the last two or three years, but we are quite determined to change that."

MI have confirmed that Hardik will continue to lead the side despite his failures in IPL 2024, where he was constantly trolled by fans for taking over from Rohit.

On Thursday (Oct 31), all ten IPL franchises released their list of retained players. For Mumbai Indians (MI), the five-time winners retained Jasprit Bumrah, captain Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma and Tilak Varma.

On Thursday (Oct 31), all ten IPL franchises released their list of retained players. For Mumbai Indians (MI), the five-time winners retained Jasprit Bumrah, captain Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma and Tilak Varma. After the retained players list was out, Rohit acknowledged being the fourth retention choice as he feels he is a retired player from T20Is and preference should be given to the top active Indian players. In an interview with Jio Cinema, Rohit shared his perspective on the retention lineup and said, "Since I have retired from the [T20] format, I think this is the perfect [retention] spot for me,” Sharma explained. “The players who are representing the national team at the highest level should get the preference. That’s what I believe in, and I am quite happy with it." List of players retained by Mumbai Indians: 1. Jasprit Bumrah – INR 180 million (INR 18 crore) 2. Hardik Pandya – INR 163.5 million (INR 16.35 crore) 3. Suryakumar Yadav – INR 163.5 million (INR 16.35 crore) 4. Rohit Sharma – INR 163 million (INR 16.30 crore) 5. Tilak Varma – INR 80 million (INR 8 crore) Also read: IPL 2025: LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka's 'team over personal milestones' remark goes VIRAL after KL Rahul's release Rohit further stressed the city’s sentimental value by speaking highly of his enduring relationship with Mumbai. In this regard, he stated, "I have played so much cricket in Mumbai; this is where I started my cricket career. This city is very, very special. When you play for such a long time, you create so many memories with the team." MI have struggled in the 2021-24 IPL cycle, finishing at the bottom twice. Thus, Rohit acknowledged the recent challenges and added, "We haven’t had the best of seasons in the last two or three years, but we are quite determined to change that." MI have confirmed that Hardik will continue to lead the side despite his failures in IPL 2024, where he was constantly trolled by fans for taking over from Rohit.

I have retired: Rohit Sharma acknowledges being MI's fourth retention ahead of IPL 2025 auction

After a chaotic last few days, the lid on player retention was finally lifted on Diwali as all 10 franchises announced their lists with a bang. The retention announced on Thursday (Oct 31) had some surprises, but the majority of the big-name players expected to be retained had their wish fulfilled and won’t enter mega auctions set to take place in the next few weeks. That set of players included the Mumbai Indians’ ‘fab-five’ of Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya. Interestingly, despite rumours, both Rohit and Hardik have been retained, with the latter continuing to serve as skipper.

<h2>Mumbai retain fab-five</h2>

In an announcement made on Thursday, Mumbai retained big-name players like Rohit, Hardik, Tilak, Suryakumar and Bumrah for the IPL 2025 and will have one Right to Match (RTM) card in hand for the mega auctions. Interestingly, excluding Tilak, the rest of the players have led the Indian cricket team which highlights the experience of the side.

<h2>Value of the retained players</h2>

Jasprit Bumrah (₹180mn, $2.14mn)

Suryakumar Yadav (₹163.5mn, $1.94mn)

Hardik Pandya (₹163.5mn, $1.94mn)

Rohit Sharma (₹163mn, $1.94mn)

Tilak Varma (₹80mn, $950,000)

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/full-list-of-ipl-2025-retentions-dhoni-stays-at-csk-as-uncapped-rohit-virat-retained-on-deadline-day-772345">Full list of IPL 2025 retentions: Dhoni stays at CSK as uncapped; Rohit, Virat retained on deadline day</a>

<h2>Hardik Pandya to lead Mumbai</h2>

Despite rumours and a wealth of captaincy material, Mumbai Indians have retained faith in Hardik Pandya to skipper the side. There were rumours of him not getting retained while Suryakumar Yadav could be on his way to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) if he does not get the captaincy. However, this won’t be the case as Sky and Rohit will both remain at the base of Mumbai Indians in Wankhede Stadium. On the other hand, Bumrah is the prize asset of the side with a whopping retention value of $2.14 million.

<h2>Who did Mumbai release?</h2>

With Tilak Varma getting the nod of retention, Ishan Kishan was the biggest name from the franchise that will enter the auctions. However, history suggests that won’t be the end of the road with MI for Ishan. In IPL 2022 mega auctions, while Ishan was released, the franchise paid a big sum to reacquire his services. With RTM in hand as well, Ishan could yet return to Mumbai and don their colours for IPL 2025.

After a chaotic last few days, the lid on player retention was finally lifted on Diwali as all 10 franchises announced their lists with a bang. The retention announced on Thursday (Oct 31) had some surprises, but the majority of the big-name players expected to be retained had their wish fulfilled and won’t enter mega auctions set to take place in the next few weeks.

After a chaotic last few days, the lid on player retention was finally lifted on Diwali as all 10 franchises announced their lists with a bang. The retention announced on Thursday (Oct 31) had some surprises, but the majority of the big-name players expected to be retained had their wish fulfilled and won’t enter mega auctions set to take place in the next few weeks. That set of players included the Mumbai Indians’ ‘fab-five’ of Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya. Interestingly, despite rumours, both Rohit and Hardik have been retained, with the latter continuing to serve as skipper. Mumbai retain fab-five In an announcement made on Thursday, Mumbai retained big-name players like Rohit, Hardik, Tilak, Suryakumar and Bumrah for the IPL 2025 and will have one Right to Match (RTM) card in hand for the mega auctions. Interestingly, excluding Tilak, the rest of the players have led the Indian cricket team which highlights the experience of the side. Value of the retained players Jasprit Bumrah (₹180mn, $2.14mn) Suryakumar Yadav (₹163.5mn, $1.94mn) Hardik Pandya (₹163.5mn, $1.94mn) Rohit Sharma (₹163mn, $1.94mn) Tilak Varma (₹80mn, $950,000) ALSO READ | Full list of IPL 2025 retentions: Dhoni stays at CSK as uncapped; Rohit, Virat retained on deadline day Hardik Pandya to lead Mumbai Despite rumours and a wealth of captaincy material, Mumbai Indians have retained faith in Hardik Pandya to skipper the side. There were rumours of him not getting retained while Suryakumar Yadav could be on his way to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) if he does not get the captaincy. However, this won’t be the case as Sky and Rohit will both remain at the base of Mumbai Indians in Wankhede Stadium. On the other hand, Bumrah is the prize asset of the side with a whopping retention value of $2.14 million. Who did Mumbai release? With Tilak Varma getting the nod of retention, Ishan Kishan was the biggest name from the franchise that will enter the auctions. However, history suggests that won’t be the end of the road with MI for Ishan. In IPL 2022 mega auctions, while Ishan was released, the franchise paid a big sum to reacquire his services. With RTM in hand as well, Ishan could yet return to Mumbai and don their colours for IPL 2025.

IPL 2025: Hardik to continue leadership role as Mumbai Indians retain 'fab-five' including Rohit, Bumrah

New Zealand will eye a historic whitewash of&nbsp;hosts India as they look to keep their World Test Championship (WTC) final qualification hopes alive. The contest will also have bearings for Team India, with the Australian tour and WTC qualification hopes hanging in balance after the latest series defeat. Ahead of the final contest between India and New Zealand, here are all the details of the contest, including live streaming, squads, and others.

<h2>When is the India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match?</h2>

The India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match will start on Friday (Nov 1).

<h2>Which stadium will host the India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match?</h2>

The India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match will be played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

<h2>What time will the India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match start?</h2>

The India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match will start at 9:30 AM local time, with the toss taking place at 9:00 AM local time.

<h2>Where to watch the India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match on TV?</h2>

The India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match will be telecast&nbsp;on Sports 18 Network in India.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-delhi-capitals-rishabh-pant-part-ways-as-star-batter-to-enter-auction-4-players-retained-772240">IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant part ways as star batter to enter auction, 4 players retained</a>

<h2>Where to watch the India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match on OTT?</h2>

The India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match will be live streamed on the Jio Cinema app and website in India.

<h2>Squads:</h2>

India&nbsp;Squad: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (w), Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Dhruv Jurel, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, KL Rahul

New Zealand&nbsp;Squad: Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (w), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel, William ORourke, Jacob Duffy, Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry, Mark Chapman

&nbsp;

New Zealand will eye a historic whitewash of hosts India as they look to keep their World Test Championship (WTC) final qualification hopes alive. The contest will also have bearings for Team India, with the Australian tour and WTC qualification hopes hanging in balance after the latest series defeat.

New Zealand will eye a historic whitewash of hosts India as they look to keep their World Test Championship (WTC) final qualification hopes alive. The contest will also have bearings for Team India, with the Australian tour and WTC qualification hopes hanging in balance after the latest series defeat. Ahead of the final contest between India and New Zealand, here are all the details of the contest, including live streaming, squads, and others. When is the India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match? The India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match will start on Friday (Nov 1). Which stadium will host the India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match? The India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match will be played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. What time will the India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match start? The India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match will start at 9:30 AM local time, with the toss taking place at 9:00 AM local time. Where to watch the India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match on TV? The India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match will be telecast on Sports 18 Network in India. ALSO READ | IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals, Rishabh Pant part ways as star batter to enter auction, 4 players retained Where to watch the India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match on OTT? The India vs New Zealand 3rd Test match will be live streamed on the Jio Cinema app and website in India. Squads: India Squad: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (w), Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Dhruv Jurel, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, KL Rahul New Zealand Squad: Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (w), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ajaz Patel, William ORourke, Jacob Duffy, Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry, Mark Chapman

IND vs NZ, 3rd Test match Live Streaming: When, where & how to watch India vs New Zealand Live on laptop

India's 12-year winning streak at home in test cricket came to an end in stunning fashion against New Zealand. Is it time for India to look beyond captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli?

Do India Need To Hit The Reset Button In Tests?

India skipper Rohit Sharma says that he isn't going to read too much into the performance of Ravi Ashwin and Ravi Jadeja in the two lost Tests against New Zealand but insisted that they knew what they haven't been able to do.

India lost their first ever Test series at home against the Kiwis after they lost the second Test on a spinning pitch in Pune on Saturday (Oct 26). Both the spinners were not up to the mark and failed to create&nbsp;pressure most of the time.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stop-thinking-about-away-ashes-concentrate-on-problems-at-hand-hussain-to-england-after-pak-series-loss-771101">‘Stop thinking about away Ashes, concentrate on problems at hand’ – Hussain to England after PAK series loss</a>

"I mean, see, look, there is too much expectation on those two guys," Rohit said of Ashwin and Jadeja after the loss in Pune.

"Every game they play, they are expected to take wickets, they are expected to run through the team, and they are expected to win Test matches for us. I don't think that's fair, it's the responsibility of all of us to make sure that we get Test match wins, not just the two guys," he added.

Rohit also said that the duo has been incredible over a decade or so and played a huge role in India's winning streak, which started in 2012 until New Zealand stopped it.

"Of course, by their standards, they know where they stand and what they haven't been able to do or what they haven't done really well," Rohit said. "But again, both of them have played so much cricket here and have such huge contributions to our success of having that home streak of 18 series [wins]. These two have played a major role in that. A couple of series, I am not going to look into too much, especially with those two guys," said the skipper.

After the two losses, India have their work cut down to make it to their third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) final as they need to win at least four of their remaining six Tests, with five of them being in Australia.

India skipper Rohit Sharma says that he isn't going to read too much into the performance of Ravi Ashwin and Ravi Jadeja in the two lost Tests against New Zealand but insisted that they knew what they haven't been able to do.

India skipper Rohit Sharma says that he isn't going to read too much into the performance of Ravi Ashwin and Ravi Jadeja in the two lost Tests against New Zealand but insisted that they knew what they haven't been able to do. India lost their first ever Test series at home against the Kiwis after they lost the second Test on a spinning pitch in Pune on Saturday (Oct 26). Both the spinners were not up to the mark and failed to create pressure most of the time. Also Read: ‘Stop thinking about away Ashes, concentrate on problems at hand’ – Hussain to England after PAK series loss "I mean, see, look, there is too much expectation on those two guys," Rohit said of Ashwin and Jadeja after the loss in Pune. "Every game they play, they are expected to take wickets, they are expected to run through the team, and they are expected to win Test matches for us. I don't think that's fair, it's the responsibility of all of us to make sure that we get Test match wins, not just the two guys," he added. Rohit also said that the duo has been incredible over a decade or so and played a huge role in India's winning streak, which started in 2012 until New Zealand stopped it. "Of course, by their standards, they know where they stand and what they haven't been able to do or what they haven't done really well," Rohit said. "But again, both of them have played so much cricket here and have such huge contributions to our success of having that home streak of 18 series [wins]. These two have played a major role in that. A couple of series, I am not going to look into too much, especially with those two guys," said the skipper. After the two losses, India have their work cut down to make it to their third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) final as they need to win at least four of their remaining six Tests, with five of them being in Australia.

'They haven't been...,' India skipper Rohit on Jadeja and Ashwin's performance in Test series loss vs NZ

India captain Rohit Sharma said he is proud of his playing unit but vows not to overreact to the first-series defeat at home in 12 years against New Zealand. The Kiwis won the second Test in Pune by 113 runs, claiming their fourth Test and maiden series victory in India, ending India’s unbelievable reign at home. He, however, confirmed to be sitting down with ‘certain individuals’, chatting and reflecting on their performances in this series.

Meanwhile, Rohit’s form remains a huge worry for him and India, especially knowing what’s following next – the daunting tour of Australia. In the second game, the Indian skipper failed to get going across both innings, getting out on a duck and eight, respectively. Although he struck a fifty (52) in the second innings in the first Test in Bengaluru, which India lost by eight wickets, he got out on just two in the first innings.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/not-a-pitch-where-india-skipper-rohit-blames-batters-for-test-series-loss-vs-new-zealand-770937">'Not a pitch where...,' India skipper Rohit blames batters for Test series loss vs New Zealand</a>

Speaking to the reporters after the match, Rohit said he would not react differently because India lost one home series in 12 years. Rohit added India has had more good moments than bad ones and that he wishes to keep the negativity out of the dressing room.

"I just said it because of these three sessions, I am not going to react differently. Look at the number of games we have won in India. I was just watching the television, out of the 54 Test matches, we have won 42, which is nearly 80 per cent.&nbsp;

“There are more good things that have happened than bad things. I don't want to react so much that guys within the team start thinking that something different is happening. I don't want to create that kind of environment where people start doubting themselves,” the Indian captain said after the Pune Test loss.&nbsp;

<h2>‘No excuses, we need to work harder’</h2>

Rohit said he knew the gravity of this loss but insisted on not changing his way of approaching the game or his teammates.

"You don't need to overreact. But you need to have a quiet chat with certain individuals and let them know where they are at and what, as a team, we require from them. I don't think you need to make them sit in a team room on a one-on-one basis, and go through their innings and tell them this is what you should be doing. I don't think this is the right forum to do that.

“Just because we have lost a series, I don't think there is anything that we need to talk differently or do differently. But yeah, we need to find ways to come out of those situations,” Rohit added.

Meanwhile, the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai will host the third and final Test starting November 1st.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India captain Rohit Sharma said he is proud of his playing unit but vows not to overreact to the first-series defeat at home in 12 years against New Zealand. The Kiwis won the second Test in Pune by 113 runs, claiming their fourth Test and maiden series victory in India, ending India’s unbelievable reign at home.

India captain Rohit Sharma said he is proud of his playing unit but vows not to overreact to the first-series defeat at home in 12 years against New Zealand. The Kiwis won the second Test in Pune by 113 runs, claiming their fourth Test and maiden series victory in India, ending India’s unbelievable reign at home. He, however, confirmed to be sitting down with ‘certain individuals’, chatting and reflecting on their performances in this series. Meanwhile, Rohit’s form remains a huge worry for him and India, especially knowing what’s following next – the daunting tour of Australia. In the second game, the Indian skipper failed to get going across both innings, getting out on a duck and eight, respectively. Although he struck a fifty (52) in the second innings in the first Test in Bengaluru, which India lost by eight wickets, he got out on just two in the first innings. ALSO READ: 'Not a pitch where...,' India skipper Rohit blames batters for Test series loss vs New Zealand Speaking to the reporters after the match, Rohit said he would not react differently because India lost one home series in 12 years. Rohit added India has had more good moments than bad ones and that he wishes to keep the negativity out of the dressing room. "I just said it because of these three sessions, I am not going to react differently. Look at the number of games we have won in India. I was just watching the television, out of the 54 Test matches, we have won 42, which is nearly 80 per cent. “There are more good things that have happened than bad things. I don't want to react so much that guys within the team start thinking that something different is happening. I don't want to create that kind of environment where people start doubting themselves,” the Indian captain said after the Pune Test loss. ‘No excuses, we need to work harder’ Rohit said he knew the gravity of this loss but insisted on not changing his way of approaching the game or his teammates. "You don't need to overreact. But you need to have a quiet chat with certain individuals and let them know where they are at and what, as a team, we require from them. I don't think you need to make them sit in a team room on a one-on-one basis, and go through their innings and tell them this is what you should be doing. I don't think this is the right forum to do that. “Just because we have lost a series, I don't think there is anything that we need to talk differently or do differently. But yeah, we need to find ways to come out of those situations,” Rohit added. Meanwhile, the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai will host the third and final Test starting November 1st. (With inputs from agencies)

India captain Rohit Sharma vows to have quiet chat with ‘certain individuals’ after New Zealand series loss

Abhimanyu Easwaran has been rewarded for his heroics in the Ranji Trophy after he made it to India’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad on Friday (Oct 25). Easwaran will be part of the Indian squad for the first time while there was no place for Mohammed Shami despite his recovery from a knee issue. On the other hand, Vyshak Vijay Kumar has also been named in the Indian squad for the T20I series against South Africa which will start in the first week of November.

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🚨 NEWS 🚨 
 
Squads for India’s tour of South Africa &amp; Border-Gavaskar Trophy announced 🔽<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z4eTXlH3u0">pic.twitter.com/Z4eTXlH3u0</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1849852590823178575?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Abhimanyu Easwaran in for Australia tour</h2>

Having been on the selector's radar for a long time, Easwaran finally made the Indian squad for the Australia tour. He has recently scored four first-class hundreds in six innings which had seen him in contention for the BGT series. He was unfortunate to have missed out on a place in the New Zealand and Bangladesh series.

On the other hand, Mohammed Shami will have to wait for his chance as he is not fully fit for the Test series Down Under. Instead, the selectors panel led by Ajit Agarkar has included Akash Deep Singh, Yash Dayal and Mohammed Siraj in the bowling department.

For the South Africa series, the selectors have included uncapped Harshit Rana and Vyshak Vijay Kumar in the Indian side. Suryakumar Yadav will be returning to the captaincy role while Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson continue to feature in the Indian side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-new-zealand-in-pole-position-in-pune-test-after-indian-batters-disappoint-on-day-2-770712">IND vs NZ: Advantage New Zealand in Pune Test after Indian batters disappoint on Day 2</a>

India’s Squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar

India’s Squad for the South Africa tour

Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ramandeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Avesh Khan, Yash Dayal.

Abhimanyu Easwaran has been rewarded for his heroics in the Ranji Trophy after he made it to India’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad on Friday (Oct 25). Easwaran will be part of the Indian squad for the first time while there was no place for Mohammed Shami despite his recovery from a knee issue.

Abhimanyu Easwaran has been rewarded for his heroics in the Ranji Trophy after he made it to India’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad on Friday (Oct 25). Easwaran will be part of the Indian squad for the first time while there was no place for Mohammed Shami despite his recovery from a knee issue. On the other hand, Vyshak Vijay Kumar has also been named in the Indian squad for the T20I series against South Africa which will start in the first week of November. 🚨 NEWS 🚨 Squads for India’s tour of South Africa & Border-Gavaskar Trophy announced 🔽#TeamIndia | #SAvIND | #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/Z4eTXlH3u0 — BCCI (@BCCI) October 25, 2024 × Abhimanyu Easwaran in for Australia tour Having been on the selector's radar for a long time, Easwaran finally made the Indian squad for the Australia tour. He has recently scored four first-class hundreds in six innings which had seen him in contention for the BGT series. He was unfortunate to have missed out on a place in the New Zealand and Bangladesh series. On the other hand, Mohammed Shami will have to wait for his chance as he is not fully fit for the Test series Down Under. Instead, the selectors panel led by Ajit Agarkar has included Akash Deep Singh, Yash Dayal and Mohammed Siraj in the bowling department. For the South Africa series, the selectors have included uncapped Harshit Rana and Vyshak Vijay Kumar in the Indian side. Suryakumar Yadav will be returning to the captaincy role while Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson continue to feature in the Indian side. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ: Advantage New Zealand in Pune Test after Indian batters disappoint on Day 2 India’s Squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar India’s Squad for the South Africa tour Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ramandeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Avesh Khan, Yash Dayal.

Abhimanyu Easwaran included in Rohit Sharma-led India squad for Aussie tour; Vijay Kumar in for SA T20 series

India were rocked in the second Test match against New Zealand in Pune on Saturday (Oct 26) as they conceded their first series defeat on home turf in 12 years. Rohit Sharma’s men now need a miracle to reach the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) final while head coach Gautam Gambhir is feeling the heat. While the 113-run defeat comes as a big loss, the social media did not sit back and has taken a dig at the duo of Gambhir and Rohit. Here are some of the reactions.

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Who is the greatest spinner? Warne or Murali? 
 
Gautam Gambhir: Mitchell Santner <a href="https://t.co/GrtQrmwyL7">pic.twitter.com/GrtQrmwyL7</a>
— Aditya Saha (@Adityakrsaha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Adityakrsaha/status/1850122892635488263?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Gautam Gambhir will now realise that blowing air out of your mouth in front of a camera is way easier than the coaching hat. 
 
He said this when we won in AUS, should we question your career now that you’ve lost a home series, Gautam? <a href="https://t.co/uUFPYFeDPc">pic.twitter.com/uUFPYFeDPc</a>
— Areyyyyy Yaarrrrrr (@A_niche11) <a href="https://twitter.com/A_niche11/status/1850123986987778457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Gautam Gambhir politics after becoming head coach so far 
 
- Sacked Pandya for no reason 
 
- Sidelined Ruturaj from T20I side who was 7th ranked at that time 
 
- Delayed Harshit Rana debut so that KKR retains him as uncapped player <a href="https://t.co/orGJ0bZgdS">pic.twitter.com/orGJ0bZgdS</a>
— Titu (@TituTweets_) <a href="https://twitter.com/TituTweets_/status/1850095909784461449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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KL Rahul to Rohit Sharma &amp; Gautam Gambhir from dugout… <a href="https://t.co/hE15Di7x5u">pic.twitter.com/hE15Di7x5u</a>
— Dennis❤️ (@DenissForReal) <a href="https://twitter.com/DenissForReal/status/1850097711149645846?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Gautam Gambhir becomes the only indian to lose the test series at home as a player and coach. <a href="https://t.co/rgmWCJjaYC">pic.twitter.com/rgmWCJjaYC</a>
— Div🦁 (@div_yumm) <a href="https://twitter.com/div_yumm/status/1850123553485775267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Dear Indian cricket fans💔 
 
After 12 years, 4,331 days, and 18 unbeaten series, the record has finally been broken. 
 
All the credit goes to <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GautamGambhir</a> 
And <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a>. 
 
Tough times ahead, but we will rise again! 💔 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsNZ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/tVBfFlwBPp">pic.twitter.com/tVBfFlwBPp</a>
— 🧢1⃣0⃣ (@CapXSid) <a href="https://twitter.com/CapXSid/status/1850129598840803812?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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India under Gautam Gambhir so far: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsNZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/EngxvrmQqX">pic.twitter.com/EngxvrmQqX</a>
— Cric Uneeb (@cric_uneeb) <a href="https://twitter.com/cric_uneeb/status/1850101377252331623?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Never seen such a clueless and Finished captain!!!💀💔 
 
Indian Cricket Team | Gautam Gambhir| Pant | Gill | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsNZ</a> |<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a> |<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/virat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#virat</a> <a href="https://t.co/IytX0sVBLP">pic.twitter.com/IytX0sVBLP</a>
— Dheeraj Meena (@Dheerajmeenaa) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dheerajmeenaa/status/1849719179399533025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The 113-run defeat has taken its toll on the Indian team’s chances of qualifying for the WTC final. They now face the prospect of winning four Test matches on Australian soil in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The win for New Zealand has also brought them back in the frame for the race to the final.

India were rocked in the second Test match against New Zealand in Pune on Saturday (Oct 26) as they conceded their first series defeat on home turf in 12 years. Rohit Sharma’s men now need a miracle to reach the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) final while head coach Gautam Gambhir is feeling the heat.

India were rocked in the second Test match against New Zealand in Pune on Saturday (Oct 26) as they conceded their first series defeat on home turf in 12 years. Rohit Sharma’s men now need a miracle to reach the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) final while head coach Gautam Gambhir is feeling the heat. While the 113-run defeat comes as a big loss, the social media did not sit back and has taken a dig at the duo of Gambhir and Rohit. Here are some of the reactions. Who is the greatest spinner? Warne or Murali? Gautam Gambhir: Mitchell Santner pic.twitter.com/GrtQrmwyL7 — Aditya Saha (@Adityakrsaha) October 26, 2024 × Gautam Gambhir will now realise that blowing air out of your mouth in front of a camera is way easier than the coaching hat. He said this when we won in AUS, should we question your career now that you’ve lost a home series, Gautam? pic.twitter.com/uUFPYFeDPc — Areyyyyy Yaarrrrrr (@A_niche11) October 26, 2024 × Gautam Gambhir politics after becoming head coach so far - Sacked Pandya for no reason - Sidelined Ruturaj from T20I side who was 7th ranked at that time - Delayed Harshit Rana debut so that KKR retains him as uncapped player pic.twitter.com/orGJ0bZgdS — Titu (@TituTweets_) October 26, 2024 × KL Rahul to Rohit Sharma & Gautam Gambhir from dugout… pic.twitter.com/hE15Di7x5u — Dennis❤️ (@DenissForReal) October 26, 2024 × Gautam Gambhir becomes the only indian to lose the test series at home as a player and coach. pic.twitter.com/rgmWCJjaYC — Div🦁 (@div_yumm) October 26, 2024 × Dear Indian cricket fans💔 After 12 years, 4,331 days, and 18 unbeaten series, the record has finally been broken. All the credit goes to @GautamGambhir And @ImRo45. Tough times ahead, but we will rise again! 💔 #INDvsNZ #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/tVBfFlwBPp — 🧢1⃣0⃣ (@CapXSid) October 26, 2024 × India under Gautam Gambhir so far: #INDvsNZ pic.twitter.com/EngxvrmQqX — Cric Uneeb (@cric_uneeb) October 26, 2024 × Never seen such a clueless and Finished captain!!!💀💔 Indian Cricket Team | Gautam Gambhir| Pant | Gill | #INDvsNZ |#RohitSharma |#virat pic.twitter.com/IytX0sVBLP — Dheeraj Meena (@Dheerajmeenaa) October 25, 2024 × The 113-run defeat has taken its toll on the Indian team’s chances of qualifying for the WTC final. They now face the prospect of winning four Test matches on Australian soil in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The win for New Zealand has also brought them back in the frame for the race to the final.

IND vs NZ: Rohit-Gambhir face social media heat as India drop first Test series on home soil in 12 years

There were more questions than answers inside the Indian team’s dressing room after they lost the Pune Test match against New Zealand on Saturday (Oct 26). The 113-run defeat in Pune also brought to an end India’s more than decade-long unbeaten run on home soil in a Test series. While Rohit Sharma took the bullet in the post-match press conference, a slight murmur has already started against the tactics of head coach Gautam Gambhir. But the big question is will it get any worse for India as the latest defeat was their second under Gambhir ahead of a big Australian tour to come.

<h2>Gambhir in the spotlight</h2>

Not long ago the Indian team and Gambhir were praised for the pro-Bazball approach in the Kanpur Test match against Bangladesh where the hosts won the match despite no play in the opening two days. However, things have gone downward for India in the New Zealand series. What should have been a launching pad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia has now turned out to be a nightmare with one match still to go in the New Zealand series.

Indian batters were heavily exposed against the Kiwi spinners as they gave India a taste of their own medicine. This is the same New Zealand side that lost 0-2 against Sri Lanka in September, making India hot favourites to win the three-match Test series and put one foot into the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

Evident from the early days, Gambhir has a big say in the Indian team selection process and has handpicked players like Shreyas Iyer and Harshit Rana. However, those decisions to promote the youth could go unnoticed if India continues to struggle.

<h2>Why is the worst yet to come?</h2>

Needing a probable four wins in six remaining Test matches, the majority of those matches will come Down Under in Australia. India will play Australia in a five-match Test series, which could be a ‘make or break’ series for Gambhir. While India remain the last team to beat the Aussies Down Under in a Test series, Pat Cummins and Co have already shown why they are India’s biggest nemesis. They beat India in the WTC final and the ODI World Cup final in 2023.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-2nd-test-mitchell-santner-spins-kiwis-to-maiden-test-series-victory-in-india-770920">IND vs NZ, 2nd Test: Mitchell Santner spins Kiwis to maiden Test series victory in India</a>

If Cummins and his side is at their best and judging from India’s vulnerable last two Tests, a one-sided result for the hosts could be the beginning of the end for Gambhir.

If that is not enough, a poor form in the Champions Trophy 2025 could prove to be vital as Gambhir won’t be left with too much margin for error.

<h2>Big lows for India under Gautam Gambhir</h2>

First series defeat against New Zealand on home soil

First Test series defeat on home turf since 2012

First ODI series defeat against Sri Lanka in 27 years

There were more questions than answers inside the Indian team’s dressing room after they lost the Pune Test match against New Zealand on Saturday (Oct 26). The 113-run defeat in Pune also brought to an end India’s more than decade-long unbeaten run on home soil in a Test series.

There were more questions than answers inside the Indian team’s dressing room after they lost the Pune Test match against New Zealand on Saturday (Oct 26). The 113-run defeat in Pune also brought to an end India’s more than decade-long unbeaten run on home soil in a Test series. While Rohit Sharma took the bullet in the post-match press conference, a slight murmur has already started against the tactics of head coach Gautam Gambhir. But the big question is will it get any worse for India as the latest defeat was their second under Gambhir ahead of a big Australian tour to come. Gambhir in the spotlight Not long ago the Indian team and Gambhir were praised for the pro-Bazball approach in the Kanpur Test match against Bangladesh where the hosts won the match despite no play in the opening two days. However, things have gone downward for India in the New Zealand series. What should have been a launching pad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia has now turned out to be a nightmare with one match still to go in the New Zealand series. Indian batters were heavily exposed against the Kiwi spinners as they gave India a taste of their own medicine. This is the same New Zealand side that lost 0-2 against Sri Lanka in September, making India hot favourites to win the three-match Test series and put one foot into the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Evident from the early days, Gambhir has a big say in the Indian team selection process and has handpicked players like Shreyas Iyer and Harshit Rana. However, those decisions to promote the youth could go unnoticed if India continues to struggle. Why is the worst yet to come? Needing a probable four wins in six remaining Test matches, the majority of those matches will come Down Under in Australia. India will play Australia in a five-match Test series, which could be a ‘make or break’ series for Gambhir. While India remain the last team to beat the Aussies Down Under in a Test series, Pat Cummins and Co have already shown why they are India’s biggest nemesis. They beat India in the WTC final and the ODI World Cup final in 2023. ALSO READ | IND vs NZ, 2nd Test: Mitchell Santner spins Kiwis to maiden Test series victory in India If Cummins and his side is at their best and judging from India’s vulnerable last two Tests, a one-sided result for the hosts could be the beginning of the end for Gambhir. If that is not enough, a poor form in the Champions Trophy 2025 could prove to be vital as Gambhir won’t be left with too much margin for error. Big lows for India under Gautam Gambhir First series defeat against New Zealand on home soil First Test series defeat on home turf since 2012 First ODI series defeat against Sri Lanka in 27 years

Gautam Gambhir era witnesses another low in New Zealand series defeat; is the worst yet to come?

India skipper Rohit Sharma has conceded that his side could not cope with the relentless pressure put by New Zealand bowlers after&nbsp;India lost the second Test on Saturday (Oct 26). With the loss, New Zealand took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-Test series, clinching their maiden Test series win in India.

Rohit acknowledged that batters failed to put up runs on the board despite the bowlers taking all 20 wickets in the match.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-2nd-test-yashasvi-jaiswal-breaks-this-record-amid-poor-show-by-other-batters-770902">IND vs NZ, 2nd Test: Yashasvi Jaiswal breaks THIS record amid poor show by other batters</a>

"Disappointing. It is not what we expected. NZ played better cricket than us. We failed to respond to challenges and we sit here that result. I don't think we batted well enough to get runs on the board," said the skipper.&nbsp;

"You have to take 20 wickets, but the batters have to put runs on the board as well. We did not put enough runs, then conceded a 100-run lead. It was a fightback from us, but it was always going to be challenging. We thought we could chase but the continuous challenges we could not cope. When they started off, they were 200 for 3 and for us to come back and bowl them 259 was great. It was a not a pitch where a lot was happening, but we did not bat well enough. NZ played better," he added.

Chasing 359 runs, India were 81/1 at lunch on day 3 but lost six wickets in the second session and it was just a matter of when after that. India were eventually bowled out for 245 runs in the second innings, losing the match by 113 runs.

The third and final match of the series will be played from Friday (Nov 1) in Mumbai and Rohit said 'we want to show up at Wankhede and win that Test.'

India skipper Rohit Sharma has conceded that his side could not cope with the relentless pressure put by New Zealand bowlers after India lost the second Test on Saturday (Oct 26).

India skipper Rohit Sharma has conceded that his side could not cope with the relentless pressure put by New Zealand bowlers after India lost the second Test on Saturday (Oct 26). With the loss, New Zealand took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-Test series, clinching their maiden Test series win in India. Rohit acknowledged that batters failed to put up runs on the board despite the bowlers taking all 20 wickets in the match. Also Read: IND vs NZ, 2nd Test: Yashasvi Jaiswal breaks THIS record amid poor show by other batters "Disappointing. It is not what we expected. NZ played better cricket than us. We failed to respond to challenges and we sit here that result. I don't think we batted well enough to get runs on the board," said the skipper. "You have to take 20 wickets, but the batters have to put runs on the board as well. We did not put enough runs, then conceded a 100-run lead. It was a fightback from us, but it was always going to be challenging. We thought we could chase but the continuous challenges we could not cope. When they started off, they were 200 for 3 and for us to come back and bowl them 259 was great. It was a not a pitch where a lot was happening, but we did not bat well enough. NZ played better," he added. Chasing 359 runs, India were 81/1 at lunch on day 3 but lost six wickets in the second session and it was just a matter of when after that. India were eventually bowled out for 245 runs in the second innings, losing the match by 113 runs. The third and final match of the series will be played from Friday (Nov 1) in Mumbai and Rohit said 'we want to show up at Wankhede and win that Test.'

'Not a pitch where...,' India skipper Rohit blames batters for Test series loss vs New Zealand

Cheteshwar Pujara is a Test cricket giant all across, let alone for India. The closest thing to the great Rahul Dravid is him, and ironically, his batting position, technique, temperament, style of play and ability to tire the opposition are similar to that of ‘The Wall'. With the new-look Indian Team ready to roar Down Under, they somewhere, and for some reason, need Pujara back playing at number three ahead of Shubman Gill, a Test star in the making.

Gill hasn’t done anything wrong. A fantastic ODI opener has found his mojo in the shortest format lately but has yet to cement his place in the Test side; more so for his new position, with him replacing Pujara at number three since the WTC Final last year, Gill has been far from the threat he possessed as an opener.

However, with the captain Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal certain to take up the opener’s slot for the marquee Test series, Gill’s only chance of playing each of the five Tests is to bat at number three – a position head coach Gautam Gambhir would fancy him to succeed at, but that’s too big a risk to take knowing the stakes – the spot in the 2025 WTC Final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-love-davey-but-hes-retired-pat-cummins-shuns-david-warners-comeback-proposal-for-india-tests-770555">‘We love Davey but he’s retired’ - Pat Cummins shuns David Warner’s comeback proposal for India Tests</a>

So, how can India avoid finding themselves in a position they haven’t been in on the last two tours? The big comeback of Pujara in the Test squad.

The veteran number three batter for India has found his Midas touch in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, whacking a brilliant 234 for Saurashtra – his 18th first-class double hundred, which is the most by an Indian. Since being dropped from the Indian Test Team last year, Pujara returned to the English County, playing for Sussex, for whom he scored two tons this season.

<h2>Pujara – a monster batter in Australia</h2>

Not many have dominated the Aussie pace attack as Pujara did since his first trip Down Under in 2014. However, his best came four years later, when he scored a brilliant 123 in the first innings in Adelaide, helping India put up a fighting total and eventually win the match. His 521-run tally across seven innings – 201 more than the second-best batter (Rishabh Pant), was a testament to his batting prowess.

With the final Test at the SCG ending in a draw, the game in which Pujara hit 193, his best score Down Under, India created history by beating Australia at their home in Tests for the first time.

Two years later, the spirited Indian Team achieved a similar result, winning the four-match series 2-1, becoming the first Indian Team to beat Australia twice Down Under.

Looking beyond his marathon knocks against the Oz all these years, Pujara’s greatest efforts included his innings in the third Test in Sydney, wherein he scored twin fifties, but that’s not even the best part about it. While Pujara batted 176 balls in the first innings, he eventually broke the camel’s back with his gritty 205-ball 77 in the second innings, batting for endless hours and blocking everything coming his way.

What was the cherry on the top? The blows he took hurt him badly, but the Aussies more, who, for the second time in two series, failed to break Pujara’s concentration and defence.

With the stars aligning for Pujara just in time for the Border-Gavaskar series, we could see him return to the Test side for his last tour Down Under.

<h3>What happens to Shubman Gill then?</h3>

For everything that he has done thus far, which is no short of exceptional on several grounds, India must find a way to fit Gill into the XI for the Perth Test. Outside of the top three, which would belong to Rohit, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Pujara should he be picked, Gill’s best chance is probably at lower order, at five or six. That, however, would also depend on KL Rahul’s form heading into the Australian tour.

In an ideal situation, Gill could fit in at five, just after Kohli and before Sarfaraz Khan or Rishabh Pant, though India is unlikely to play Khan so low at seven, putting his spot in jeopardy.

In another scenario, Gill could play ahead of Jaiswal at the top, his preferred position, and having some experience batting there Down Under, Gill could fancy his chances of doing well; with that, he can even press his case for a permanent top-order spot when Rohit bids farewell to this format.

Considering all variables, Gill might have to fight hard for his spot in the XI if the BCCI selectors decide to bring Pujara for the BGT.

However, for now, all eyes would be on Pujara’s selection, and who knows, with that, India could benefit and do an unthinkable – beat Australia thrice at home.

Cheteshwar Pujara is a Test cricket giant all across, let alone for India. The closest thing to the great Rahul Dravid is him, and ironically, his batting position, technique, temperament, style of play and ability to tire the opposition are similar to that of ‘The Wall'.

Cheteshwar Pujara is a Test cricket giant all across, let alone for India. The closest thing to the great Rahul Dravid is him, and ironically, his batting position, technique, temperament, style of play and ability to tire the opposition are similar to that of ‘The Wall'. With the new-look Indian Team ready to roar Down Under, they somewhere, and for some reason, need Pujara back playing at number three ahead of Shubman Gill, a Test star in the making. Gill hasn’t done anything wrong. A fantastic ODI opener has found his mojo in the shortest format lately but has yet to cement his place in the Test side; more so for his new position, with him replacing Pujara at number three since the WTC Final last year, Gill has been far from the threat he possessed as an opener. However, with the captain Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal certain to take up the opener’s slot for the marquee Test series, Gill’s only chance of playing each of the five Tests is to bat at number three – a position head coach Gautam Gambhir would fancy him to succeed at, but that’s too big a risk to take knowing the stakes – the spot in the 2025 WTC Final. ALSO READ: ‘We love Davey but he’s retired’ - Pat Cummins shuns David Warner’s comeback proposal for India Tests So, how can India avoid finding themselves in a position they haven’t been in on the last two tours? The big comeback of Pujara in the Test squad. The veteran number three batter for India has found his Midas touch in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, whacking a brilliant 234 for Saurashtra – his 18th first-class double hundred, which is the most by an Indian. Since being dropped from the Indian Test Team last year, Pujara returned to the English County, playing for Sussex, for whom he scored two tons this season. Pujara – a monster batter in Australia Not many have dominated the Aussie pace attack as Pujara did since his first trip Down Under in 2014. However, his best came four years later, when he scored a brilliant 123 in the first innings in Adelaide, helping India put up a fighting total and eventually win the match. His 521-run tally across seven innings – 201 more than the second-best batter (Rishabh Pant), was a testament to his batting prowess. With the final Test at the SCG ending in a draw, the game in which Pujara hit 193, his best score Down Under, India created history by beating Australia at their home in Tests for the first time. Two years later, the spirited Indian Team achieved a similar result, winning the four-match series 2-1, becoming the first Indian Team to beat Australia twice Down Under. Looking beyond his marathon knocks against the Oz all these years, Pujara’s greatest efforts included his innings in the third Test in Sydney, wherein he scored twin fifties, but that’s not even the best part about it. While Pujara batted 176 balls in the first innings, he eventually broke the camel’s back with his gritty 205-ball 77 in the second innings, batting for endless hours and blocking everything coming his way. What was the cherry on the top? The blows he took hurt him badly, but the Aussies more, who, for the second time in two series, failed to break Pujara’s concentration and defence. With the stars aligning for Pujara just in time for the Border-Gavaskar series, we could see him return to the Test side for his last tour Down Under. What happens to Shubman Gill then? For everything that he has done thus far, which is no short of exceptional on several grounds, India must find a way to fit Gill into the XI for the Perth Test. Outside of the top three, which would belong to Rohit, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Pujara should he be picked, Gill’s best chance is probably at lower order, at five or six. That, however, would also depend on KL Rahul’s form heading into the Australian tour. In an ideal situation, Gill could fit in at five, just after Kohli and before Sarfaraz Khan or Rishabh Pant, though India is unlikely to play Khan so low at seven, putting his spot in jeopardy. In another scenario, Gill could play ahead of Jaiswal at the top, his preferred position, and having some experience batting there Down Under, Gill could fancy his chances of doing well; with that, he can even press his case for a permanent top-order spot when Rohit bids farewell to this format. Considering all variables, Gill might have to fight hard for his spot in the XI if the BCCI selectors decide to bring Pujara for the BGT. However, for now, all eyes would be on Pujara’s selection, and who knows, with that, India could benefit and do an unthinkable – beat Australia thrice at home.

Shubman Gill is a safe bet at no 3 but India still needs Cheteshwar Pujara in Australia. Here's why

As Rohit Sharma-led India gear up for the second and penultimate Test versus New Zealand, in Pune, Hitman won hearts with his gesture for a special fan. The fan was patiently waiting for India's practice session to end, at the MCA Stadium in Pune,&nbsp;and caught hold of Rohit as he was entering the Indian dressing room. On seeing the veteran batter, the female fan asked for an autograph. As Rohit obliged, she also made a special request to convey Virat Kohli that his 'biggest fan' came here. To this, Rohit's response won hearts as the video went viral on social media platforms.

During their brief interaction, the fan said as Rohit was giving his autograph, "Tell him (Kohli) his biggest fan came here." To this, the star batter smiled and assured her that the message would reach Virat.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/you-spent-10-minutes-with-a-player-who-is-not-playing-samson-recalls-rohits-gesture-after-t20-wc-final-snub-769699">You spent 10 minutes with a player who is not playing: Samson recalls Rohit's gesture after T20 WC final snub</a>

Here is the viral video:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Rohit Sharma's conversation with a fangirl today.😄💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohithSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohithSharma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/afMBdrGZpV">pic.twitter.com/afMBdrGZpV</a>
— virat_kohli_18_club (@KohliSensation) <a href="https://twitter.com/KohliSensation/status/1848754254183317627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Talking about the India-NZ Test series, Rohit-led hosts lost the three-match Test series opener at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru by eight wickets. After a washed out opening day, India opted to bat first -- in challenging conditions -- and got dismissed for 46 (their lowest-ever score&nbsp;on home soil) courtesy of pacer Matt Henry's 5 for 15. In reply, the Kiwis posted 402 and, thus, took a mammoth 356-run lead, riding on Rachin Ravindra's 134, Devon Conway's 91 and Tim Southee's 65.

While India fought back and posted 462, thanks to Sarfaraz Khan's 150 and Rishabh Pant's 99, they only set a 107-run target for the visitors, who chased it down on the final day on Sunday (Oct 20) to take a 1-0 lead.

The second Test starts on Oct 24 (Thursday) with the home side eager to settle scores and keep the series alive.

As Rohit Sharma-led India gear up for the second and penultimate Test versus New Zealand, in Pune, Hitman won hearts with his gesture for a special fan. The fan was patiently waiting for India's practice session to end, at the MCA Stadium in Pune, and caught hold of Rohit as he was entering the Indian dressing room.

As Rohit Sharma-led India gear up for the second and penultimate Test versus New Zealand, in Pune, Hitman won hearts with his gesture for a special fan. The fan was patiently waiting for India's practice session to end, at the MCA Stadium in Pune, and caught hold of Rohit as he was entering the Indian dressing room. On seeing the veteran batter, the female fan asked for an autograph. As Rohit obliged, she also made a special request to convey Virat Kohli that his 'biggest fan' came here. To this, Rohit's response won hearts as the video went viral on social media platforms. During their brief interaction, the fan said as Rohit was giving his autograph, "Tell him (Kohli) his biggest fan came here." To this, the star batter smiled and assured her that the message would reach Virat. Also read: You spent 10 minutes with a player who is not playing: Samson recalls Rohit's gesture after T20 WC final snub Here is the viral video: Rohit Sharma's conversation with a fangirl today.😄💙#RohithSharma #ViratKohli #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/afMBdrGZpV — virat_kohli_18_club (@KohliSensation) October 22, 2024 × Talking about the India-NZ Test series, Rohit-led hosts lost the three-match Test series opener at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru by eight wickets. After a washed out opening day, India opted to bat first -- in challenging conditions -- and got dismissed for 46 (their lowest-ever score on home soil) courtesy of pacer Matt Henry's 5 for 15. In reply, the Kiwis posted 402 and, thus, took a mammoth 356-run lead, riding on Rachin Ravindra's 134, Devon Conway's 91 and Tim Southee's 65. While India fought back and posted 462, thanks to Sarfaraz Khan's 150 and Rishabh Pant's 99, they only set a 107-run target for the visitors, who chased it down on the final day on Sunday (Oct 20) to take a 1-0 lead. The second Test starts on Oct 24 (Thursday) with the home side eager to settle scores and keep the series alive.

Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: 'I'll tell Virat,' Rohit obliges to fan's SPECIAL request while signing autograph - Watch

Sanju Samson smashed his maiden T20I ton during the home Bangladesh series, early this month. The right-hander was part of the Rohit Sharma-led India squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, co-hosted by West Indies and the USA, eventually won by the Men in Blue. While he warmed the bench during the group stage, Super Sixes and semifinal, he was asked to 'be ready' for the final, versus South Africa in Barbados on June 29. However, India went ahead with an unchanged&nbsp;XI. Samson recently recalled his snub and how captain Rohit spent a lot of time with him, prior to the game, explaining his omission and, thereby, winning his heart.&nbsp;

Samson told journalist Vimal Kumar in an interview, "I had a chance to play the final. I was told to stay ready. I was ready. However, they decided before the toss that we would go with the same team. I was like, no worries. I was in that type of mood."

He&nbsp;mentioned, "During the warm-up, Rohit took me to the side and started to explain to me why he is making that decision. He was like, You understood, na? You know his way, very casual? I told him, 'Let us win the match and then talk.' You focus on the match."

<h2>'I will have a regret to not play a World Cup final with a leader like you'</h2>

Samson then stated, "He (Rohit) came back one minute later and said, 'I know you are cursing me in your mind.' I think you are not happy. I feel like you have something on your mind. Then we had a discussion."

The swashbuckling batter&nbsp;further opined, "I told him, 'As a player, I want to play'. Since childhood, I wanted to come here and do something. Then he was like, 'My pattern is like this' and all that. I said I totally respect that you came and explained me. I said, 'I will have a regret; I could not play a World Cup final with a leader like you.' This will be a regret in my heart that I missed a World Cup final with a leader like Rohit Sharma. That will stay in my life."

The Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper revealed how Hitman won his heart with his gesture just ahead of the big-ticket finale. "After this, I thought, such a big thing like a World Cup final. Before the final, you have changed your decision. You spent 10 minutes with the player that is not playing just before the toss. He gave me 10 minutes before the toss. After that, I got to know this person has some other qualities."

"If I were in their place, I would be thinking about the players who are playing or my batting. I will explain to Sanju later; that is what normally you think. At that point, he thought 'I have to explain to Sanju, why I took that decision.' At that point, he won a place in my heart that will stay for a lifetime," Samson added.

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Instead of Samson, Indian team management trusted Rishabh Pant to do the job behind the stumps despite his ordinary returns with the bat throughout the mega event. Moreover, even Shivam Dube didn't have a fruitful run, hence, many contemplated Samson would get a look-in before the summit clash. However, India didn't tweak their winning combination and it resulted in both Pant and Dube playing key roles in India's win. While Pant smartly halted the game for sometime before the end overs, when the momentum was firmly with South Africa, whereas Dube smashed a vital 16-ball 27 as India posted 178-7 (mainly riding on Virat Kohli's 76 and Axar Patel's 47) after opting to bat first at the Kensington Oval.

In reply, SA were in prime position and only needed 30 off the last five overs before Jasprit Bumrah (2 for 18), Arshdeep Singh (2 for 20) and Hardik Pandya (3 for 20)'s death-overs bowling masterclass took India to a famous seven-run win. Post the historic win, Rohit and Kohli retired from T20Is.

Sanju Samson smashed his maiden T20I ton during the home Bangladesh series, early this month. The right-hander was part of the Rohit Sharma-led India squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, co-hosted by West Indies and the USA, eventually won by the Men in Blue.

Sanju Samson smashed his maiden T20I ton during the home Bangladesh series, early this month. The right-hander was part of the Rohit Sharma-led India squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, co-hosted by West Indies and the USA, eventually won by the Men in Blue. While he warmed the bench during the group stage, Super Sixes and semifinal, he was asked to 'be ready' for the final, versus South Africa in Barbados on June 29. However, India went ahead with an unchanged XI. Samson recently recalled his snub and how captain Rohit spent a lot of time with him, prior to the game, explaining his omission and, thereby, winning his heart. Samson told journalist Vimal Kumar in an interview, "I had a chance to play the final. I was told to stay ready. I was ready. However, they decided before the toss that we would go with the same team. I was like, no worries. I was in that type of mood." He mentioned, "During the warm-up, Rohit took me to the side and started to explain to me why he is making that decision. He was like, You understood, na? You know his way, very casual? I told him, 'Let us win the match and then talk.' You focus on the match." 'I will have a regret to not play a World Cup final with a leader like you' Samson then stated, "He (Rohit) came back one minute later and said, 'I know you are cursing me in your mind.' I think you are not happy. I feel like you have something on your mind. Then we had a discussion." The swashbuckling batter further opined, "I told him, 'As a player, I want to play'. Since childhood, I wanted to come here and do something. Then he was like, 'My pattern is like this' and all that. I said I totally respect that you came and explained me. I said, 'I will have a regret; I could not play a World Cup final with a leader like you.' This will be a regret in my heart that I missed a World Cup final with a leader like Rohit Sharma. That will stay in my life." The Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper revealed how Hitman won his heart with his gesture just ahead of the big-ticket finale. "After this, I thought, such a big thing like a World Cup final. Before the final, you have changed your decision. You spent 10 minutes with the player that is not playing just before the toss. He gave me 10 minutes before the toss. After that, I got to know this person has some other qualities." "If I were in their place, I would be thinking about the players who are playing or my batting. I will explain to Sanju later; that is what normally you think. At that point, he thought 'I have to explain to Sanju, why I took that decision.' At that point, he won a place in my heart that will stay for a lifetime," Samson added. Also read: Los Angeles Olympics 2028 to host cricket matches in New York: Report Instead of Samson, Indian team management trusted Rishabh Pant to do the job behind the stumps despite his ordinary returns with the bat throughout the mega event. Moreover, even Shivam Dube didn't have a fruitful run, hence, many contemplated Samson would get a look-in before the summit clash. However, India didn't tweak their winning combination and it resulted in both Pant and Dube playing key roles in India's win. While Pant smartly halted the game for sometime before the end overs, when the momentum was firmly with South Africa, whereas Dube smashed a vital 16-ball 27 as India posted 178-7 (mainly riding on Virat Kohli's 76 and Axar Patel's 47) after opting to bat first at the Kensington Oval. In reply, SA were in prime position and only needed 30 off the last five overs before Jasprit Bumrah (2 for 18), Arshdeep Singh (2 for 20) and Hardik Pandya (3 for 20)'s death-overs bowling masterclass took India to a famous seven-run win. Post the historic win, Rohit and Kohli retired from T20Is.

You spent 10 minutes with a player who is not playing: Samson recalls Rohit's gesture after T20 WC final snub

Indian captain Rohit Sharma is cautious about the extent of injury to Rishabh Pant after the wicketkeeper-batter did not keep gloves for the hosts in the second innings of the Bengaluru Test match. The contest, which ended in favour of New Zealand on Sunday (Oct 20), saw the Kiwis win by eight wickets despite India’s mini-comeback in the second innings. After the defeat, Rohit claimed the team management is “extra careful” when it comes to Pant, who suffered a serious knee injury in a near-fatal car accident in December 2022.

<h2>Rohit to be ‘extra careful’ on Pant</h2>

"He's had a massive operation on his leg, so we all know what he went through," Rohit said after India went down by eight wickets to New Zealand in Bengaluru on Sunday. "It's just to be a little careful about where he is at and what he is to us. Even when he was batting, he was not comfortably running. He was trying to only put the ball in the stands."

"He's had a lot of minor surgeries [and] one big surgery on his knee and he went through a lot of trauma, to be honest, in the last one-and-a-half years," Rohit said. "So it's just about being extra careful, not [just] careful with him.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-lauds-sarfaraz-pant-for-mature-knocks-backs-india-to-give-it-all-in-remaining-two-tests-vs-nz-769154">Rohit Sharma lauds Sarfaraz, Pant for mature knocks; backs India to give it all in remaining two Tests vs NZ</a>

<h2>India lose Bengaluru Test</h2>

While Pant’s right knee injury on Day 3 was the big talking point, he did return to bat for India on Day 4 as the hosts revived their hopes of drawing and, if not winning, the Test match. Before getting out, Pant scored 99 and gave a good helping hand to Sarfaraz Khan, who scored 150. The innings combined with Rohit’s 52 and Virat’s 71 helped India reach 462 as they overcame a massive deficit of 356 runs from the first innings.

However, the second innings heroics did not prove worthy for India having been bowled out for 46 in the first innings as they lost by eight wickets. The eyes will now be on the second Test match, which starts on Thursday (Oct 24).

Indian captain Rohit Sharma is cautious about the extent of injury to Rishabh Pant after the wicketkeeper-batter did not keep gloves for the hosts in the second innings of the Bengaluru Test match.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma is cautious about the extent of injury to Rishabh Pant after the wicketkeeper-batter did not keep gloves for the hosts in the second innings of the Bengaluru Test match. The contest, which ended in favour of New Zealand on Sunday (Oct 20), saw the Kiwis win by eight wickets despite India’s mini-comeback in the second innings. After the defeat, Rohit claimed the team management is “extra careful” when it comes to Pant, who suffered a serious knee injury in a near-fatal car accident in December 2022. Rohit to be ‘extra careful’ on Pant "He's had a massive operation on his leg, so we all know what he went through," Rohit said after India went down by eight wickets to New Zealand in Bengaluru on Sunday. "It's just to be a little careful about where he is at and what he is to us. Even when he was batting, he was not comfortably running. He was trying to only put the ball in the stands." "He's had a lot of minor surgeries [and] one big surgery on his knee and he went through a lot of trauma, to be honest, in the last one-and-a-half years," Rohit said. "So it's just about being extra careful, not [just] careful with him.” ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma lauds Sarfaraz, Pant for mature knocks; backs India to give it all in remaining two Tests vs NZ India lose Bengaluru Test While Pant’s right knee injury on Day 3 was the big talking point, he did return to bat for India on Day 4 as the hosts revived their hopes of drawing and, if not winning, the Test match. Before getting out, Pant scored 99 and gave a good helping hand to Sarfaraz Khan, who scored 150. The innings combined with Rohit’s 52 and Virat’s 71 helped India reach 462 as they overcame a massive deficit of 356 runs from the first innings. However, the second innings heroics did not prove worthy for India having been bowled out for 46 in the first innings as they lost by eight wickets. The eyes will now be on the second Test match, which starts on Thursday (Oct 24).

IND vs NZ, 1st Test: We have to be extra careful, not just careful with him - Rohit Sharma on Rishabh Pant

India captain Rohit Sharma said the hosts would give it all in the remaining two matches against New Zealand following conceding the Bengaluru game by eight wickets. Speaking to the broadcaster after the first Test that ended with the Kiwis winning it by eight wickets inside the first session on day five, Rohit said it was never easy to come back from getting all out on 46 in the first innings, but Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant’s heroics in the second innings kept them in the game.

The skipper lauded the two run-scores for showing maturity while batting in the third innings, with the team trailing by 356 runs. Although India took the lead with seven wickets remaining (at that time), a late strike from New Zealand seamers dented their momentum, removing their last seven wickets for just 54 runs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-2024-new-zealand-win-in-bengaluru-bags-first-test-victory-in-india-in-36-years-769134">IND v NZ 2024: New Zealand win in Bengaluru, bags first Test victory in India in 36 years</a>

“It was a good effort in the second innings with bat. We knew what lies ahead, get as many as possible. A couple of guys stood out, was great to watch. When you're 350 behind, can't think too much. Just have to try and bat the ball and see where the game goes,” Rohit said after the first Test.

“(It) was exciting to watch partnerships get us into the game. We could've easily been bowled under 350, it's something we're proud of. Everyone's on the edge of the seat when Pant and Sarfaraz bat. Pant's was a mature innings, he's done it for a while, he played his shots too,” the skipper lauded Rishabh Pant for his fabulous 99 in the second innings.

Speaking of Sarfaraz, who came in as the last-minute replacement for injured Shubman Gill, Rohit said how he batted showed maturity and was highly impressive.

“Sarfaraz was very clear and mature in just his third or fourth Test,” Rohit said of the young middle-order batter.

<h2>Rohit credits New Zealand for breaking deadlock</h2>

New Zealand hasn't won a Test in India in the past 36 years, with their last win coming in Mumbai, in 1998; however, after folding India on 46 – their lowest Test total at home and third-lowest overall in the first innings, the Kiwis gave them a real chance of making history, which they eventually did.

“(46 all out) I said it at the press conference after day 1, we knew it'd be a challenge, with overcast conditions and tricky pitch. We didn't think we'll be 46 all out, but due credit to NZ. It set us back and games like this will happen. Gotta take the good things forward. We've been here before, conceding home losses, these things happen. Two Tests to go, we know what it takes and will give it all in the next two Tests,” the India captain noted.

Meanwhile, Pune will host the second Test between India and New Zealand on Thursday (Oct 24).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India captain Rohit Sharma said the hosts would give it all in the remaining two matches against New Zealand following conceding the Bengaluru game by eight wickets.

India captain Rohit Sharma said the hosts would give it all in the remaining two matches against New Zealand following conceding the Bengaluru game by eight wickets. Speaking to the broadcaster after the first Test that ended with the Kiwis winning it by eight wickets inside the first session on day five, Rohit said it was never easy to come back from getting all out on 46 in the first innings, but Sarfaraz Khan and Rishabh Pant’s heroics in the second innings kept them in the game. The skipper lauded the two run-scores for showing maturity while batting in the third innings, with the team trailing by 356 runs. Although India took the lead with seven wickets remaining (at that time), a late strike from New Zealand seamers dented their momentum, removing their last seven wickets for just 54 runs. ALSO READ: IND v NZ 2024: New Zealand win in Bengaluru, bags first Test victory in India in 36 years “It was a good effort in the second innings with bat. We knew what lies ahead, get as many as possible. A couple of guys stood out, was great to watch. When you're 350 behind, can't think too much. Just have to try and bat the ball and see where the game goes,” Rohit said after the first Test. “(It) was exciting to watch partnerships get us into the game. We could've easily been bowled under 350, it's something we're proud of. Everyone's on the edge of the seat when Pant and Sarfaraz bat. Pant's was a mature innings, he's done it for a while, he played his shots too,” the skipper lauded Rishabh Pant for his fabulous 99 in the second innings. Speaking of Sarfaraz, who came in as the last-minute replacement for injured Shubman Gill, Rohit said how he batted showed maturity and was highly impressive. “Sarfaraz was very clear and mature in just his third or fourth Test,” Rohit said of the young middle-order batter. Rohit credits New Zealand for breaking deadlock New Zealand hasn't won a Test in India in the past 36 years, with their last win coming in Mumbai, in 1998; however, after folding India on 46 – their lowest Test total at home and third-lowest overall in the first innings, the Kiwis gave them a real chance of making history, which they eventually did. “(46 all out) I said it at the press conference after day 1, we knew it'd be a challenge, with overcast conditions and tricky pitch. We didn't think we'll be 46 all out, but due credit to NZ. It set us back and games like this will happen. Gotta take the good things forward. We've been here before, conceding home losses, these things happen. Two Tests to go, we know what it takes and will give it all in the next two Tests,” the India captain noted. Meanwhile, Pune will host the second Test between India and New Zealand on Thursday (Oct 24). (With inputs from agencies)

Rohit Sharma lauds Sarfaraz, Pant for mature knocks; backs India to give it all in remaining two Tests vs NZ

The Indian team was left in sixes and sevens at the end of Day 3 of the ongoing Bengaluru Test against New Zealand after they lost Virat Kohli on the final ball of the day. Having laid the foundation of a good partnership and a revival for team India with a handsome score of 231/2, it was the dismissal of Kohli that made the headlines. The wicket left many raising question marks on the former Indian skipper’s concentration, but it was Rohit Sharma’s reaction in the stands that went viral.

<h2>Rohit’s reaction goes viral</h2>

Having been 95/2 and still trailing by 261 runs, the partnership of Virat and Sarfaraz Khan ripped rewards for India as they helped Rohit’s men to narrow down the lead. However, the untimely dismissal led the entire dressing room in sixes and sevens with India closing the day at 231/3. However, Rohit, who himself was unlucky with his dismissal was animated in the pavilion. He was frustrated and looked to hide his face as India now face a race against time to save the Test match.

The hosts still trail by 125 runs in the first innings and will need a real effort to avoid humiliation and defeat in the Bengaluru Test.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/noman-ali-and-sajid-khan-put-up-colossal-effort-to-see-pakistan-through-in-second-test-vs-eng-level-series-768619">Noman Ali and Sajid Khan put up colossal effort to see Pakistan through in second Test vs ENG, level series</a>

<h2>New Zealand extend dominance with bat</h2>

Having closed Day 2 on the front foot, New Zealand lost wickets at constant intervals in the opening session of Day 3. Rachin Ravindra led the charge scoring his latest ton before being shown the pavilion by Kuldeep Yadav on 134. Tim Southee gave him a good hand having amassed 65 off 73 to help New Zealand reach 402 before getting bowled out. This meant the visitors had a massive lead at the end of the first innings.

At Stumps on Day 3, Sarfaraz was batting on 70 with Virat getting dismissed for the same score by Tom Glenn Phillips.

The Indian team was left in sixes and sevens at the end of Day 3 of the ongoing Bengaluru Test against New Zealand after they lost Virat Kohli on the final ball of the day.

The Indian team was left in sixes and sevens at the end of Day 3 of the ongoing Bengaluru Test against New Zealand after they lost Virat Kohli on the final ball of the day. Having laid the foundation of a good partnership and a revival for team India with a handsome score of 231/2, it was the dismissal of Kohli that made the headlines. The wicket left many raising question marks on the former Indian skipper’s concentration, but it was Rohit Sharma’s reaction in the stands that went viral. Rohit’s reaction goes viral Having been 95/2 and still trailing by 261 runs, the partnership of Virat and Sarfaraz Khan ripped rewards for India as they helped Rohit’s men to narrow down the lead. However, the untimely dismissal led the entire dressing room in sixes and sevens with India closing the day at 231/3. However, Rohit, who himself was unlucky with his dismissal was animated in the pavilion. He was frustrated and looked to hide his face as India now face a race against time to save the Test match. The hosts still trail by 125 runs in the first innings and will need a real effort to avoid humiliation and defeat in the Bengaluru Test. ALSO READ | Noman Ali and Sajid Khan put up colossal effort to see Pakistan through in second Test vs ENG, level series New Zealand extend dominance with bat Having closed Day 2 on the front foot, New Zealand lost wickets at constant intervals in the opening session of Day 3. Rachin Ravindra led the charge scoring his latest ton before being shown the pavilion by Kuldeep Yadav on 134. Tim Southee gave him a good hand having amassed 65 off 73 to help New Zealand reach 402 before getting bowled out. This meant the visitors had a massive lead at the end of the first innings. At Stumps on Day 3, Sarfaraz was batting on 70 with Virat getting dismissed for the same score by Tom Glenn Phillips.

IND vs NZ: Rohit's reaction after Virat Kohli's dismissal goes viral as hosts struggle to save Bengaluru Test

Rohit Sharma owned up to misjudging the Bengaluru pitch following the second day’s play, where the Indian batters surrendered to top-notch&nbsp;bowling from the New Zealand seamers in the first session of the first Test. With day one called off due to rain and the pitch remaining covered for the most part since yesterday, India decided to bat first, only for them to register their lowest Test total at home – 46. &nbsp;

The Kiwi seamers made merry on this Bengaluru surface, with all three of Tim Southee (1), Matt Henry (5) and William O'Rourke (4) picking ten wickets among each other. New Zealand reduced India to 13 for three before the first rain interruption, with Rohit, Virat Kohli (0), and Sarfaraz Khan (0) returning to the pavilion.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-1st-test-conway-henry-headline-day-two-in-bengaluru-as-new-zealand-in-drivers-seat-768420">IND v NZ 1st Test: Conway, Henry headline day two in Bengaluru as New Zealand in driver's seat</a>

Soon after the game resumed, the left-handed pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant tried saving the sinking ship but failed, with Henry and rookie pacer O'Rourke tearing into India’s middle order. KL Rahul and the all-rounder pair of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin got out without troubling the scoreboard.

It was about time before New Zealand wrapped up India’s first innings on 46 – their third-lowest Test total.

“You see and you try and make the judgment. Sometimes you make the right call, sometimes you don't, and I was on the other side of it this time around,” Rohit Sharma admitted after the second day's play in Bengaluru.&nbsp;

“I'm hurting a little bit because I made that call. But see, for us as a team, I think these are the challenges.

“So, what if we put ourselves under pressure a little bit? We want to play well. We want to challenge ourselves. This time around, it didn't come off, the challenges that were thrown at us. We didn't respond well, and we found ourselves in a situation where we got bowled out for 46 runs. As a captain, it definitely hurts to see that number, but in 365 days you'll make two or three bad calls. That's okay,” he continued.

<h2>Rohit wants India to fight back</h2>

New Zealand openers were on target in their first innings, adding 67 for the first wicket. Though they lost three wickets before stumps on day two, including their top-scorer Devon Conway on 91, the Kiwis took a lead of 134 runs with seven wickets remaining.

With India on the backfoot as things stand, Rohit admitted India will not let New Zealand get away with the lead or any momentum. He said the hosts would fight back, and with the wicket looking like settling down, they could up the ante and push for a result in their favour.&nbsp;

“I think for us to stay in the game, we want to not let them get away,” he said.&nbsp;

“[They've scored] Way too many runs, clearly they're 180, so that's about 140 runs [134], so [keep them] as less as possible. The wicket seems to be settling down a little bit, so we expect the pitch to play like that. We got to bat really big in the second and try and see if we can make a game out of that,” Rohit continued.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Rohit Sharma owned up to misjudging the Bengaluru pitch following the second day’s play, where the Indian batters surrendered to top-notch bowling from the New Zealand seamers in the first session of the first Test.

Rohit Sharma owned up to misjudging the Bengaluru pitch following the second day’s play, where the Indian batters surrendered to top-notch bowling from the New Zealand seamers in the first session of the first Test. With day one called off due to rain and the pitch remaining covered for the most part since yesterday, India decided to bat first, only for them to register their lowest Test total at home – 46. The Kiwi seamers made merry on this Bengaluru surface, with all three of Tim Southee (1), Matt Henry (5) and William O'Rourke (4) picking ten wickets among each other. New Zealand reduced India to 13 for three before the first rain interruption, with Rohit, Virat Kohli (0), and Sarfaraz Khan (0) returning to the pavilion. ALSO READ: IND v NZ 1st Test: Conway, Henry headline day two in Bengaluru as New Zealand in driver's seat Soon after the game resumed, the left-handed pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant tried saving the sinking ship but failed, with Henry and rookie pacer O'Rourke tearing into India’s middle order. KL Rahul and the all-rounder pair of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin got out without troubling the scoreboard. It was about time before New Zealand wrapped up India’s first innings on 46 – their third-lowest Test total. “You see and you try and make the judgment. Sometimes you make the right call, sometimes you don't, and I was on the other side of it this time around,” Rohit Sharma admitted after the second day's play in Bengaluru. “I'm hurting a little bit because I made that call. But see, for us as a team, I think these are the challenges. “So, what if we put ourselves under pressure a little bit? We want to play well. We want to challenge ourselves. This time around, it didn't come off, the challenges that were thrown at us. We didn't respond well, and we found ourselves in a situation where we got bowled out for 46 runs. As a captain, it definitely hurts to see that number, but in 365 days you'll make two or three bad calls. That's okay,” he continued. Rohit wants India to fight back New Zealand openers were on target in their first innings, adding 67 for the first wicket. Though they lost three wickets before stumps on day two, including their top-scorer Devon Conway on 91, the Kiwis took a lead of 134 runs with seven wickets remaining. With India on the backfoot as things stand, Rohit admitted India will not let New Zealand get away with the lead or any momentum. He said the hosts would fight back, and with the wicket looking like settling down, they could up the ante and push for a result in their favour. “I think for us to stay in the game, we want to not let them get away,” he said. “[They've scored] Way too many runs, clearly they're 180, so that's about 140 runs [134], so [keep them] as less as possible. The wicket seems to be settling down a little bit, so we expect the pitch to play like that. We got to bat really big in the second and try and see if we can make a game out of that,” Rohit continued. (With inputs from agencies)

IND v NZ 1st Test: Rohit Sharma admits ‘misjudging’ Bengaluru pitch after horror show with bat on day 2

India is focused on the three-match Test series versus New Zealand, at home, which got underway on Wednesday (Oct 16). However, they have one eye on the forthcoming five-match Test series in Australia, starting on Nov 22 in Perth. There are reports that Indian captain Rohit Sharma might miss the first Test, in Perth, due to personal reasons. In this case, it will be interesting to see who leads and also opens for India. While they have two good options in the form of Shubman Gill and KL Rahul, former Indian spinner Anil Kumble feels Gill should not be promoted to fill in for Rohit. Starting his Test career as an opener, the right-hander has moved to the No. 3 slot, succeeding Cheteshwar Pujara.

<h2>'There's KL Rahul who&nbsp;is synonymous with change and adapting to whatever the team wants'</h2>

"You know he (Shubman) is exceptionally talented, skilful and he's done that. He's been to Australia before. Like you mentioned, in Brisbane, he got a wonderful fifty there and he knows the conditions," Kumble told the broadcasters during a rain-marred Day 1 of the India-NZ first Test on Wednesday in Bengaluru.

He further opined, "I don't want to change that. I know there's a temptation to push Shubman Gill because Rohit is not available in the first Test. But, there's always KL Rahul, synonymous&nbsp;with change and adapting to whatever the team wants. Whether you want to open the batting or keep wickets, Rahul Dravid did that, now KL Rahul is doing that."

Rahul started his Test career as an opener but has now moved to the lower-order&nbsp;recently.

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Kumble also spoke on&nbsp;how Gill at No. 3 will be crucial for India's success in Australia&nbsp;and stated that his playing style is a lot different than Rahul Dravid and Pujara (who owned that slot for a long period before him).

He mentioned, "You said, for the last 25 years, there have been only two players who have been consistently playing (at one down) and it's a tough role. I mean, both those batsmen, Rahul and Cheteshwar, contributed immensely during that period, and you know you have to balance it out. You could probably be batting the second ball of the test match, or you could be batting much later when the conditions are easier."

"But more often than not, you get in there to control that first session and see off the new ball because we know that the Kookaburra Ball after the 1st 25 hours, the best time to bat is between the 30th over and the 60th over. And that's what these two batters did throughout their careers, ensuring that the team was safe and the four number four, number five and number six batters, came in much later into the lineup so that they could comfortably bat and score the runs.

"So Shubman will have to play that role very specifically in Australia. He may have to change a little bit based on the conditions. He has the ability (to do that) as well," Kumble added.

Gill has played 27 Tests with&nbsp;1,656 runs at an average of&nbsp;36.80, including five hundreds and six fifties.

India is focused on the three-match Test series versus New Zealand, at home, which got underway on Wednesday (Oct 16). However, they have one eye on the forthcoming five-match Test series in Australia, starting on Nov 22 in Perth.

India is focused on the three-match Test series versus New Zealand, at home, which got underway on Wednesday (Oct 16). However, they have one eye on the forthcoming five-match Test series in Australia, starting on Nov 22 in Perth. There are reports that Indian captain Rohit Sharma might miss the first Test, in Perth, due to personal reasons. In this case, it will be interesting to see who leads and also opens for India. While they have two good options in the form of Shubman Gill and KL Rahul, former Indian spinner Anil Kumble feels Gill should not be promoted to fill in for Rohit. Starting his Test career as an opener, the right-hander has moved to the No. 3 slot, succeeding Cheteshwar Pujara. 'There's KL Rahul who is synonymous with change and adapting to whatever the team wants' "You know he (Shubman) is exceptionally talented, skilful and he's done that. He's been to Australia before. Like you mentioned, in Brisbane, he got a wonderful fifty there and he knows the conditions," Kumble told the broadcasters during a rain-marred Day 1 of the India-NZ first Test on Wednesday in Bengaluru. He further opined, "I don't want to change that. I know there's a temptation to push Shubman Gill because Rohit is not available in the first Test. But, there's always KL Rahul, synonymous with change and adapting to whatever the team wants. Whether you want to open the batting or keep wickets, Rahul Dravid did that, now KL Rahul is doing that." Rahul started his Test career as an opener but has now moved to the lower-order recently. Also read: Cricket Australia announces Ashes 2025-26 fixtures, Gabba to host day-night Test match Kumble also spoke on how Gill at No. 3 will be crucial for India's success in Australia and stated that his playing style is a lot different than Rahul Dravid and Pujara (who owned that slot for a long period before him). He mentioned, "You said, for the last 25 years, there have been only two players who have been consistently playing (at one down) and it's a tough role. I mean, both those batsmen, Rahul and Cheteshwar, contributed immensely during that period, and you know you have to balance it out. You could probably be batting the second ball of the test match, or you could be batting much later when the conditions are easier." "But more often than not, you get in there to control that first session and see off the new ball because we know that the Kookaburra Ball after the 1st 25 hours, the best time to bat is between the 30th over and the 60th over. And that's what these two batters did throughout their careers, ensuring that the team was safe and the four number four, number five and number six batters, came in much later into the lineup so that they could comfortably bat and score the runs. "So Shubman will have to play that role very specifically in Australia. He may have to change a little bit based on the conditions. He has the ability (to do that) as well," Kumble added. Gill has played 27 Tests with 1,656 runs at an average of 36.80, including five hundreds and six fifties.

Ind vs Aus: Anil Kumble feels Shubman Gill should not open in Rohit Sharma's absence, names his pick

India skipper Rohit Sharma says that the team is taking Harshit Rana, Nitish Reddy and Mayank Yadav as travelling reserve in upcoming New Zealand Tests to build up the bench strength. India play three Tests against New Zealand starting Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru.

"We want to create a bench strength where tomorrow if anything happens to anyone, we are not worried, and we don't want to be worried or too heavily reliant on a few individuals. That's not the right thing to do," Rohit said at the pre-match press conference on Tuesday (Oct 15).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/hope-he-continues-india-skipper-rohit-backs-yashasvi-jaiswal-to-become-all-format-batter-767734">'Hope he continues...,' India skipper Rohit backs Yashasvi Jaiswal to become all-format batter</a>

"We want to look at the future at the same time, try and make sure that we get the right guys in as well. We want to create guys where even if there are injuries, we have got someone to quickly step in and take that role," he added.

The skipper also revealed that the team is thinking to take Mayank, Nitish and Rana to upcoming tour of Australia as well.

"You know, the reason we wanted to keep them close to us was because we are thinking of them to take them to Australia," Rohit said.&nbsp;

"We just want to monitor them and see their workload. We have seen some talent in them. I understand that they have not played a lot of red-ball cricket, but when you see a talent, you want to try and groom them," he added.

The five-Test Border-Gavaskar series starts November 22 next month in Australia and India are most likely to be without premier pacer Mohammed Shami.

Shami is still nursing the injury he suffered during the ODI World Cup 2023 where he emerged as the highest wicket-taker.

Rohit revealed that Shami suffered from knee soreness while in recovery and might not make it to the tour Down Under.

India skipper Rohit Sharma says that the team is taking Harshit Rana, Nitish Reddy and Mayank Yadav as travelling reserve in upcoming New Zealand Tests to build up the bench strength.

India skipper Rohit Sharma says that the team is taking Harshit Rana, Nitish Reddy and Mayank Yadav as travelling reserve in upcoming New Zealand Tests to build up the bench strength. India play three Tests against New Zealand starting Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru. "We want to create a bench strength where tomorrow if anything happens to anyone, we are not worried, and we don't want to be worried or too heavily reliant on a few individuals. That's not the right thing to do," Rohit said at the pre-match press conference on Tuesday (Oct 15). Also Read: 'Hope he continues...,' India skipper Rohit backs Yashasvi Jaiswal to become all-format batter "We want to look at the future at the same time, try and make sure that we get the right guys in as well. We want to create guys where even if there are injuries, we have got someone to quickly step in and take that role," he added. The skipper also revealed that the team is thinking to take Mayank, Nitish and Rana to upcoming tour of Australia as well. "You know, the reason we wanted to keep them close to us was because we are thinking of them to take them to Australia," Rohit said. "We just want to monitor them and see their workload. We have seen some talent in them. I understand that they have not played a lot of red-ball cricket, but when you see a talent, you want to try and groom them," he added. The five-Test Border-Gavaskar series starts November 22 next month in Australia and India are most likely to be without premier pacer Mohammed Shami. Shami is still nursing the injury he suffered during the ODI World Cup 2023 where he emerged as the highest wicket-taker. Rohit revealed that Shami suffered from knee soreness while in recovery and might not make it to the tour Down Under.

India skipper Rohit Sharma 'thinking about taking Mayank Yadav, Nitish Reddy and Harshit Rana' to Australia

India skipper Rohit Sharma believes youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal has the talent to become an all-format player for the team. The comments come on the eve of the first Test against New Zealand which starts Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru.

"I am not surprised at all, because the guy has real talent. He has the game to succeed in all sorts of conditions. He’s still new to international cricket, so it’s hard to judge right now, but he’s got all the ingredients for success at this level. It’s just about how he manages himself in the next couple of years. In this brief period, he has already shown that you can bet on him to do wonders for the team," Rohit said at the pre-match conference.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-rohit-sharma-drops-huge-update-on-md-shami-admits-pacer-uncertain-for-australia-tour-767589">Rohit Sharma drops HUGE update on Mohammed Shami, admits pacer uncertain for Australia tour</a>

"He has come through the ranks, playing a lot of domestic cricket and Under-19 cricket, and succeeded at every level. That’s why he’s playing for India now. So far, he has shown what he’s capable of, and that bodes well for our team. Being a left-hander and an aggressive batter is great for the team, and I hope he continues to perform like this," the skipper added.

Most recently, Jaiswal played against Bangladesh in the two-Test series and scored three fifties in the four innings he batted. He made his Test debut against West Indies last year and has played in 11 Tests since.

In the 20 Test innings batted, Jaiswal already has scored 1,217 runs at an average of 64 and a strike rate of 71. He also has three hundreds and seven fifties to his name with a highest of 214 not out.

Jaiswal also is the second-fastest Indian to score 1000 Test runs. He achieved the milestone in 16 innings, two more than record holder Vinod Kambli, who scored 1000 Test runs in just 14 Test innings.

India skipper Rohit Sharma believes youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal has the talent to become an all-format player for the team. The comments come on the eve of the first Test against New Zealand which starts Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru.

India skipper Rohit Sharma believes youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal has the talent to become an all-format player for the team. The comments come on the eve of the first Test against New Zealand which starts Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru. "I am not surprised at all, because the guy has real talent. He has the game to succeed in all sorts of conditions. He’s still new to international cricket, so it’s hard to judge right now, but he’s got all the ingredients for success at this level. It’s just about how he manages himself in the next couple of years. In this brief period, he has already shown that you can bet on him to do wonders for the team," Rohit said at the pre-match conference. Also Read: Rohit Sharma drops HUGE update on Mohammed Shami, admits pacer uncertain for Australia tour "He has come through the ranks, playing a lot of domestic cricket and Under-19 cricket, and succeeded at every level. That’s why he’s playing for India now. So far, he has shown what he’s capable of, and that bodes well for our team. Being a left-hander and an aggressive batter is great for the team, and I hope he continues to perform like this," the skipper added. Most recently, Jaiswal played against Bangladesh in the two-Test series and scored three fifties in the four innings he batted. He made his Test debut against West Indies last year and has played in 11 Tests since. In the 20 Test innings batted, Jaiswal already has scored 1,217 runs at an average of 64 and a strike rate of 71. He also has three hundreds and seven fifties to his name with a highest of 214 not out. Jaiswal also is the second-fastest Indian to score 1000 Test runs. He achieved the milestone in 16 innings, two more than record holder Vinod Kambli, who scored 1000 Test runs in just 14 Test innings.

'Hope he continues...,' India skipper Rohit backs Yashasvi Jaiswal to become all-format batter

Ahead of the New Zealand Test series opener, on Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru, India captain Rohit Sharma addressed the rumours surrounding his&nbsp;captaincy takeover for the first Test versus Australia, in the upcoming five-match Test series Down Under, in Perth. It is being reported that Rohit might miss the Australia series opener, due to personal reasons, and, thus, Bumrah can lead the side in his absence. The pacer is the vice-captain for the home series versus the Kiwis. Rohit stated that Bumrah has a good head on his shoulder and is someone who understands the game well.&nbsp;

<h2>'When you are in a situation where you need a leader to step up, I think Bumrah will be one of them'</h2>

Rohit said during the pre-match press conference, for the Bengaluru Test, on Tuesday (Oct 15), "Bumrah has played a lot of cricket. I have played a lot of cricket with him. He understands the game pretty well. He has got a good head on his shoulder. Tactically, I can't say much, because he has not captained much. He has captained one Test and a couple of Tests. But, when you talk to him, he understands the game, understands what is required. When you are in a situation where you need a leader to step up, I think Bumrah will be one of them."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-rohit-sharma-drops-huge-update-on-md-shami-admits-pacer-uncertain-for-australia-tour-767589">Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Rohit Sharma drops HUGE update on Md Shami, admits pacer uncertain for Australia tour</a>

Hitman added, "He has always been in our leadership group – whether it is speaking to the young bowlers or taking the lead to discuss about how to move forward. He is experienced as well. It's probably the right thing to have him around and speak to the bowlers and internally discuss how to take the team forward."

At present, Rohit is focused on leading India in the three-match Test series versus the Black Caps. Soon after, India's Test team will leave for Australia for five Tests. As per reports, the veteran batter&nbsp;conveyed to the chief selector Ajit Agarkar and top officials of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he could miss the Perth Test, starting November 22, due to personal reasons.&nbsp;The 37-year-old is reportedly dealing with a personal matter, and he might opt out&nbsp;if the issue persists. However, BCCI is&nbsp;yet to receive an official confirmation from him.

Ahead of the New Zealand Test series opener, on Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru, India captain Rohit Sharma addressed the rumours surrounding his captaincy takeover for the first Test versus Australia, in the upcoming five-match Test series Down Under, in Perth.

Ahead of the New Zealand Test series opener, on Wednesday (Oct 16) in Bengaluru, India captain Rohit Sharma addressed the rumours surrounding his captaincy takeover for the first Test versus Australia, in the upcoming five-match Test series Down Under, in Perth. It is being reported that Rohit might miss the Australia series opener, due to personal reasons, and, thus, Bumrah can lead the side in his absence. The pacer is the vice-captain for the home series versus the Kiwis. Rohit stated that Bumrah has a good head on his shoulder and is someone who understands the game well. 'When you are in a situation where you need a leader to step up, I think Bumrah will be one of them' Rohit said during the pre-match press conference, for the Bengaluru Test, on Tuesday (Oct 15), "Bumrah has played a lot of cricket. I have played a lot of cricket with him. He understands the game pretty well. He has got a good head on his shoulder. Tactically, I can't say much, because he has not captained much. He has captained one Test and a couple of Tests. But, when you talk to him, he understands the game, understands what is required. When you are in a situation where you need a leader to step up, I think Bumrah will be one of them." Also read: Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Rohit Sharma drops HUGE update on Md Shami, admits pacer uncertain for Australia tour Hitman added, "He has always been in our leadership group – whether it is speaking to the young bowlers or taking the lead to discuss about how to move forward. He is experienced as well. It's probably the right thing to have him around and speak to the bowlers and internally discuss how to take the team forward." At present, Rohit is focused on leading India in the three-match Test series versus the Black Caps. Soon after, India's Test team will leave for Australia for five Tests. As per reports, the veteran batter conveyed to the chief selector Ajit Agarkar and top officials of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he could miss the Perth Test, starting November 22, due to personal reasons. The 37-year-old is reportedly dealing with a personal matter, and he might opt out if the issue persists. However, BCCI is yet to receive an official confirmation from him.

Ind vs NZ: Bumrah always part of leadership group - Rohit on rumours of captaincy takeover for Perth Test

Ahead of India's home Tests versus New Zealand, which kicks off on Wednesday (Oct 16), Rohit Sharma addressed the media and spoke at length about Mohammed Shami's injury status. Shami has not played for India since the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he ended as the leading wicket-taker (24). The pacer was in the recovery process but has suffered swelling in his knees, missing the NZ series. On Tuesday (Oct 15), Hitman admitted that the experienced speedster is uncertain about the five-match Test series versus Australia, in Australia, later this year.

<h2>'It is difficult to make a call on him for the Australia series'</h2>

Before the opening day of the first Test versus the Kiwis, in Bengaluru,&nbsp;India captain Rohit discussed Shami in the pre-match presser. He said, "To be honest, it is difficult to make a call on him for the Australia series. He had a setback and had swelling in his knees. That put him back a little bit and had to start again. He’s at the NCA with doctors and physios. We don’t want to bring undercooked Shami to Australia. We are keeping our fingers crossed."

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-opening-day-all-you-need-to-know-767546"> Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Will rain play spoilsport on opening day in Bengaluru? All you need to know</a>

Shami played the ODI WC despite having ankle issues. Since then, he has missed a plethora of cricket due to an ankle and knee injury. He wasn't part of India's tour of South Africa, which happened soon after the home ODI WC. Further, the 34-year-old also missed the England home Tests, the T20 World Cup, the Sri Lanka white-ball tour and the Bangladesh series, where hosts India whitewashed the Bangla Tigers in two Tests. He is out of the NZ series and his participation in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 edition remains under dark clouds.

After hosting NZ in three Tests, India's next red-ball assignment is in Australia, which kicks off on Nov 22 in Perth. It will be interesting to see if Shami features in the latter half of the series. The wily pacer has 229, 195 and 24 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively.

Ahead of India's home Tests versus New Zealand, which kicks off on Wednesday (Oct 16), Rohit Sharma addressed the media and spoke at length about Mohammed Shami's injury status.

Ahead of India's home Tests versus New Zealand, which kicks off on Wednesday (Oct 16), Rohit Sharma addressed the media and spoke at length about Mohammed Shami's injury status. Shami has not played for India since the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he ended as the leading wicket-taker (24). The pacer was in the recovery process but has suffered swelling in his knees, missing the NZ series. On Tuesday (Oct 15), Hitman admitted that the experienced speedster is uncertain about the five-match Test series versus Australia, in Australia, later this year. 'It is difficult to make a call on him for the Australia series' Before the opening day of the first Test versus the Kiwis, in Bengaluru, India captain Rohit discussed Shami in the pre-match presser. He said, "To be honest, it is difficult to make a call on him for the Australia series. He had a setback and had swelling in his knees. That put him back a little bit and had to start again. He’s at the NCA with doctors and physios. We don’t want to bring undercooked Shami to Australia. We are keeping our fingers crossed." Also read: Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Will rain play spoilsport on opening day in Bengaluru? All you need to know Shami played the ODI WC despite having ankle issues. Since then, he has missed a plethora of cricket due to an ankle and knee injury. He wasn't part of India's tour of South Africa, which happened soon after the home ODI WC. Further, the 34-year-old also missed the England home Tests, the T20 World Cup, the Sri Lanka white-ball tour and the Bangladesh series, where hosts India whitewashed the Bangla Tigers in two Tests. He is out of the NZ series and his participation in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 edition remains under dark clouds. After hosting NZ in three Tests, India's next red-ball assignment is in Australia, which kicks off on Nov 22 in Perth. It will be interesting to see if Shami features in the latter half of the series. The wily pacer has 229, 195 and 24 wickets in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, respectively.

Rohit Sharma drops HUGE update on Mohammed Shami, admits pacer uncertain for Australia tour

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