<p>Veteran batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have returned to the side for the Afghanistan T20Is, as BCCI named a 16-man squad for the three-match series starting on January 11. The board picked a relatively inexperienced team with several top names missing, with Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah being a few.</p>

<h2>Here is India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series –</h2>

<p>Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 NEWS 🚨<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>’s squad for <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> T20I series against Afghanistan announced 🔽<br />
<br />
Rohit Sharma (C), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav,…</p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1743989935747797076?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h3>Top players missing</h3>

<p>In the absence of several top names due to injuries, with Hardik Pandya (out with ankle injury), Suryakumar Yadav (out with ankle&nbsp;injury), and Ruturaj Gaikwad (out with finger injury) among others ruled out, India picked Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal as openers.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unhappy-ab-de-villiers-blames-t20-crickets-rise-for-shorter-south-africa-india-test-series-raises-concerns-677462">‘Unhappy’ AB de Villiers blames T20 cricket’s rise for shorter South Africa-India Test series, raises concerns</a></strong></p>

<p>While Virat will bat at his favourite number 3 position, Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson are set to take up the middle-order spots. With the emergence of a new finisher in the team, Rinku Singh, the lower order looks sorted. The presence of two all-rounders, Shivam Dube and Axar Patel, helps India to tick off the attacker’s role.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington Sundar’s inclusion also adds value to the team, as BCCI named two outright spinners in Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav. Arshdeep, Avesh and Mukesh compile the three-men pace attack, while the hosts have also named Jitesh Sharma as the backup keeper.</p>

<h3>Veterans return after a lengthy time off</h3>

<p>For the first time since the last T20 World Cup semi-final in November 2022, where England thrashed India by 10 wickets in Adelaide, Rohit and Virat have returned to India’s T20I squad.</p>

<p>Given last year’s home 50-over World Cup was the focal point for all teams, including India, both remained unavailable for limited T20Is scheduled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with 2024 being the T20 World Cup year (scheduled in June in the Caribbean and the USA), Rohit and Virat have returned to the final 16.</p>

<p>Their inclusion indicates the sign of things to come despite rumours of BCCI planning to name Hardik Pandya as the T20I captain and replacing Kohli with attacking Ishan Kishan for the number 3 slot for the marquee event.</p>

<p>Moreover, Ravindra Jadeja’s underwhelming show in South Africa prompted BCCI to name Axar Patel ahead of him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will play three T20Is against Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>


Veteran batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have returned to the side for the Afghanistan T20Is, as BCCI named a 16-man squad for the three-match series starting on January 11.

Veteran batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have returned to the side for the Afghanistan T20Is, as BCCI named a 16-man squad for the three-match series starting on January 11. The board picked a relatively inexperienced team with several top names missing, with Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah being a few. Here is India’s T20I squad for the Afghanistan series – Rohit Sharma (captain), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan and Mukesh Kumar 🚨 NEWS 🚨#TeamIndia’s squad for @IDFCFIRSTBank T20I series against Afghanistan announced 🔽 Rohit Sharma (C), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav,… — BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2024 × Top players missing In the absence of several top names due to injuries, with Hardik Pandya (out with ankle injury), Suryakumar Yadav (out with ankle injury), and Ruturaj Gaikwad (out with finger injury) among others ruled out, India picked Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal as openers. ALSO READ: ‘Unhappy’ AB de Villiers blames T20 cricket’s rise for shorter South Africa-India Test series, raises concerns While Virat will bat at his favourite number 3 position, Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson are set to take up the middle-order spots. With the emergence of a new finisher in the team, Rinku Singh, the lower order looks sorted. The presence of two all-rounders, Shivam Dube and Axar Patel, helps India to tick off the attacker’s role. Washington Sundar’s inclusion also adds value to the team, as BCCI named two outright spinners in Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav. Arshdeep, Avesh and Mukesh compile the three-men pace attack, while the hosts have also named Jitesh Sharma as the backup keeper. Veterans return after a lengthy time off For the first time since the last T20 World Cup semi-final in November 2022, where England thrashed India by 10 wickets in Adelaide, Rohit and Virat have returned to India’s T20I squad. Given last year’s home 50-over World Cup was the focal point for all teams, including India, both remained unavailable for limited T20Is scheduled. However, with 2024 being the T20 World Cup year (scheduled in June in the Caribbean and the USA), Rohit and Virat have returned to the final 16. Their inclusion indicates the sign of things to come despite rumours of BCCI planning to name Hardik Pandya as the T20I captain and replacing Kohli with attacking Ishan Kishan for the number 3 slot for the marquee event. Moreover, Ravindra Jadeja’s underwhelming show in South Africa prompted BCCI to name Axar Patel ahead of him. India will play three T20Is against Afghanistan.

Rohit Sharma returns to lead India in Afghanistan T20Is, Kohli included in 16-man squad

<p>With India’s squad selection announcement for the home T20I series against Afghanistan just around the corner, the BCCI selectors face a dilemma over naming a captain and the squad around. Considering both captain candidates (Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav) are recovering from respective injuries, the selection committee is undecided between picking a new skipper (looking at the future) and recalling veteran Rohit Sharma for the upcoming series.</p>

<p>Per the latest reports, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has several factors to consider while picking the squad for Afghanistan T20Is. They have a choice to make between looking at preparing (the final 15) for the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup (in June in the West Indies and the USA) or naming a mix of experienced and younger players for this series and waiting for the IPL 2024 to end to finalise team for the marquee event.</p>

<p>Following the conclusion of the South Africa series, which ended with India winning their maiden Test at the Newlands in Cape Town, Cricbuzz reported that the board’s top brass approached veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli about their plans for the T20Is – to which both have agreed for a return to the side for the first time in more than a year.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-australia-and-england-must-share-its-wealth-with-other-nations-to-save-tests-urges-mike-baird-676829">Cricket's 'Big 3' must share its wealth with other nations to help sustain and grow Tests - Mike Baird</a></strong></p>

<p>While the selection committee’s mood is leaning towards picking a team for the future – with Shubman Gill likely to lead in everyone’s absence, the selectors are aware of Rohit Sharma’s credentials as a captain, especially in the white-ball format.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, as things stand, chief selector Agarkar is in South Africa with colleagues Shiv Sundar Das and Salil Ankola and will join Subrata Banerjee and S Sharath in India to take a final call on this. Rahul Dravid, the head coach, will have a crucial role to play in this.</p>

<h2>Pandya to return during IPL 2024</h2>

<p>The stand-in captain in the T20Is, Hardik Pandya, suffered an ankle injury during the Bangladesh game in the 2023 World Cup and has been out since. Though he was expected to get fit in time for the Afghanistan series, Pandya will now return during IPL 2024, starting on March 22.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the conclusion of the home World Cup, IPL franchise Mumbai Indians roped in Pandya (during the trade) and named him the new captain for the upcoming season.<br />
Pandya’s teammate, Suryakumar Yadav, is also out with an injury and will take around a month to recover.&nbsp;</p>


With India’s squad selection announcement for the home T20I series against Afghanistan just around the corner, the BCCI selectors face a dilemma over naming a captain and the squad around.

With India’s squad selection announcement for the home T20I series against Afghanistan just around the corner, the BCCI selectors face a dilemma over naming a captain and the squad around. Considering both captain candidates (Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav) are recovering from respective injuries, the selection committee is undecided between picking a new skipper (looking at the future) and recalling veteran Rohit Sharma for the upcoming series. Per the latest reports, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has several factors to consider while picking the squad for Afghanistan T20Is. They have a choice to make between looking at preparing (the final 15) for the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup (in June in the West Indies and the USA) or naming a mix of experienced and younger players for this series and waiting for the IPL 2024 to end to finalise team for the marquee event. Following the conclusion of the South Africa series, which ended with India winning their maiden Test at the Newlands in Cape Town, Cricbuzz reported that the board’s top brass approached veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli about their plans for the T20Is – to which both have agreed for a return to the side for the first time in more than a year. ALSO READ: Cricket's 'Big 3' must share its wealth with other nations to help sustain and grow Tests - Mike Baird While the selection committee’s mood is leaning towards picking a team for the future – with Shubman Gill likely to lead in everyone’s absence, the selectors are aware of Rohit Sharma’s credentials as a captain, especially in the white-ball format. Meanwhile, as things stand, chief selector Agarkar is in South Africa with colleagues Shiv Sundar Das and Salil Ankola and will join Subrata Banerjee and S Sharath in India to take a final call on this. Rahul Dravid, the head coach, will have a crucial role to play in this. Pandya to return during IPL 2024 The stand-in captain in the T20Is, Hardik Pandya, suffered an ankle injury during the Bangladesh game in the 2023 World Cup and has been out since. Though he was expected to get fit in time for the Afghanistan series, Pandya will now return during IPL 2024, starting on March 22. Following the conclusion of the home World Cup, IPL franchise Mumbai Indians roped in Pandya (during the trade) and named him the new captain for the upcoming season. Pandya’s teammate, Suryakumar Yadav, is also out with an injury and will take around a month to recover.

IND vs AFG T20Is: BCCI face selection dilemma as captain candidates remain unavailable

<p>Team India is expected to kick off their campaign in the 2024 T20 World Cup on June 5 when they face Ireland. Four days later, they will be taking on arch-rivals Pakistan in New York as the Men in Blue will play their group stage matches in the USA. If they qualify for the Super 8, they will play all their games in the West Indies, according to sources.</p>

<p>India's group stage schedule will see them facing the Irish camp on June 5, followed by a marquee face-off versus Pakistan on June 9. They will then take on co-hosts USA on June 12 before ending their group stage run versus Canada on June 15. All these&nbsp;games will be held in New York whereas their face-off versus Canada will take place in Florida.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-2nd-test-india-hold-the-edge-as-day-1-ends-with-23-wickets-falling-in-cape-town-676294">SA vs IND, 2nd Test: India hold the edge as Day 1 ends with 23 wickets falling in Cape Town</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>T20 World Cup 2024 schedule for India in the group stages:</strong></p>

<p><i>India vs Ireland - June 5 (New York)<br />
India vs Pakistan - June 9 (New York)<br />
India vs USA - June 12 (New York)<br />
India vs Canada - June 15 (Florida)</i></p>

<p>As per sources, India will play all their Super 8 encounters in the West Indies should they reach that far. Their first game is likely to take place on June 20&nbsp;in Barbados, whereas the tournament final is also expected to be held at the same venue&nbsp;on June 29.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will be chasing their second T20 WC title after MS Dhoni-led team's glorious triumph in 2007, during the inaugural edition in South Africa. Since then, they have reached the semi-finals thrice and played the 2014 edition's final as well, where they lost to Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli feature in India's T20 WC squad. The duo have not played the format since India's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide.&nbsp;</p>


Team India is expected to kick off their campaign in the 2024 T20 World Cup on June 5 when they face Ireland. Four days later, they will be taking on arch-rivals Pakistan in New York as the Men in Blue will play their group stage matches in the USA.

Team India is expected to kick off their campaign in the 2024 T20 World Cup on June 5 when they face Ireland. Four days later, they will be taking on arch-rivals Pakistan in New York as the Men in Blue will play their group stage matches in the USA. If they qualify for the Super 8, they will play all their games in the West Indies, according to sources. India's group stage schedule will see them facing the Irish camp on June 5, followed by a marquee face-off versus Pakistan on June 9. They will then take on co-hosts USA on June 12 before ending their group stage run versus Canada on June 15. All these games will be held in New York whereas their face-off versus Canada will take place in Florida. Also read: SA vs IND, 2nd Test: India hold the edge as Day 1 ends with 23 wickets falling in Cape Town T20 World Cup 2024 schedule for India in the group stages: India vs Ireland - June 5 (New York) India vs Pakistan - June 9 (New York) India vs USA - June 12 (New York) India vs Canada - June 15 (Florida) As per sources, India will play all their Super 8 encounters in the West Indies should they reach that far. Their first game is likely to take place on June 20 in Barbados, whereas the tournament final is also expected to be held at the same venue on June 29. India will be chasing their second T20 WC title after MS Dhoni-led team's glorious triumph in 2007, during the inaugural edition in South Africa. Since then, they have reached the semi-finals thrice and played the 2014 edition's final as well, where they lost to Sri Lanka. It will be interesting to see if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli feature in India's T20 WC squad. The duo have not played the format since India's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide.

T20 WC 2024: India to kickoff campaign vs Ireland, set to face Pakistan on June 9, final likely in Barbados

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma blasted the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday (Jan 4) after his side beat hosts South Africa in the second Test match in Cape Town. After the seven-wicket win, the shortest Test match in the history of the format, Rohit took a dig at ICC and its rating policy for pitches. According to the Indian skipper, the Newlands pitch was a nightmare to play while downplaying ICC’s rating for the pitch used in Ahmedabad for the ODI World Cup final in November.</p>

<h2><strong>Rohit blasts ICC</strong></h2>

<p>"I still can't believe that the World Cup final pitch was rated below average. A batsman got a hundred there in the final. How can that be a poor pitch? So these are the things the ICC, the match referees, they need to look into and start rating pitches based on what they see, not based on the countries. I think that's quite important,” Rohit said in the post-match press conference.</p>

<p>Ahmedabad pitch was rated unsatisfactory according to the ICC when India lost to Australia in the World Cup final. Travis Head was declared Player of the Match having scored a hundred while almost 500 runs were scored in the match. However, according to Rohit’s reaction on Thursday, the pitch in Cape Town was a batter’s nightmare and ICC should rework its rating policy.</p>

<p>"Honestly, I would like to see how the pitches are rated. I want to see that. Whatever... that chart, I would love to see it, how they rate the pitches, because Mumbai, Bangalore, Cape Town, Centurion, all different venues, overhead conditions are different. The pitches deteriorate quite fast when the sun is beating down that hard on the pitch,” the skipper added.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened in the match?</strong></h2>

<p>After deciding to bat first on Day 1 on Wednesday, the hosts were bowled out for 55 in their first innings with Mohammed Siraj ending with figures of 15/6. In reply, India were bowled out for 153 after a record six ducks in their innings. Interestingly, India went from 105/2 to 153 all out, losing their last eight wickets for just 48 runs. In reply, South Africa came out to bat again on Day 1 and were 62/3 at Stumps as they trailed by 98 runs in the first innings.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coaches-seniors-used-to-ask-david-warner-to-sledge-opposition-players-reveals-usman-khawaja-676525">Coaches, seniors used to ask David Warner to sledge opposition players, reveals Usman Khawaja</a></p>

<p>Earlier on Day 2, India made sure they were on top but Aiden Markam stood firm to hold one end. Despite being a bowler-dominated contest Markram scored 106 before his side was bowled out for 176. Jasprit Bumrah was the star of the show for India with the ball as he ended with figures of 61/6 in the second innings. Mukesh Kumar ended with two while Siraj and Prashidh Krishna got one wicket each.</p>

<p>In reply India chased down their target in 12 overs, making sure they were part of the history books as the Cape Town Test went down as the shortest in the history of the game. Rohit Sharma scored an unbeaten 17 while Yashasvi Jaiswal was the top scorer with 28 while Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli scored 10 and 12 respectively.</p>


India skipper Rohit Sharma blasted the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday (Jan 4) after his side beat hosts South Africa in the second Test match in Cape Town.

India skipper Rohit Sharma blasted the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday (Jan 4) after his side beat hosts South Africa in the second Test match in Cape Town. After the seven-wicket win, the shortest Test match in the history of the format, Rohit took a dig at ICC and its rating policy for pitches. According to the Indian skipper, the Newlands pitch was a nightmare to play while downplaying ICC’s rating for the pitch used in Ahmedabad for the ODI World Cup final in November. Rohit blasts ICC "I still can't believe that the World Cup final pitch was rated below average. A batsman got a hundred there in the final. How can that be a poor pitch? So these are the things the ICC, the match referees, they need to look into and start rating pitches based on what they see, not based on the countries. I think that's quite important,” Rohit said in the post-match press conference. Ahmedabad pitch was rated unsatisfactory according to the ICC when India lost to Australia in the World Cup final. Travis Head was declared Player of the Match having scored a hundred while almost 500 runs were scored in the match. However, according to Rohit’s reaction on Thursday, the pitch in Cape Town was a batter’s nightmare and ICC should rework its rating policy. "Honestly, I would like to see how the pitches are rated. I want to see that. Whatever... that chart, I would love to see it, how they rate the pitches, because Mumbai, Bangalore, Cape Town, Centurion, all different venues, overhead conditions are different. The pitches deteriorate quite fast when the sun is beating down that hard on the pitch,” the skipper added. What happened in the match? After deciding to bat first on Day 1 on Wednesday, the hosts were bowled out for 55 in their first innings with Mohammed Siraj ending with figures of 15/6. In reply, India were bowled out for 153 after a record six ducks in their innings. Interestingly, India went from 105/2 to 153 all out, losing their last eight wickets for just 48 runs. In reply, South Africa came out to bat again on Day 1 and were 62/3 at Stumps as they trailed by 98 runs in the first innings. ALSO READ | Coaches, seniors used to ask David Warner to sledge opposition players, reveals Usman Khawaja Earlier on Day 2, India made sure they were on top but Aiden Markam stood firm to hold one end. Despite being a bowler-dominated contest Markram scored 106 before his side was bowled out for 176. Jasprit Bumrah was the star of the show for India with the ball as he ended with figures of 61/6 in the second innings. Mukesh Kumar ended with two while Siraj and Prashidh Krishna got one wicket each. In reply India chased down their target in 12 overs, making sure they were part of the history books as the Cape Town Test went down as the shortest in the history of the game. Rohit Sharma scored an unbeaten 17 while Yashasvi Jaiswal was the top scorer with 28 while Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli scored 10 and 12 respectively.

SA vs IND 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma blasts ICC over pitch rating policy after India's win in Cape Town

<p>India beat South Africa by seven wickets on Day Two of the second and final Test, at Newlands, Cape Town, on Thursday (Jan 4) to end the two-match series at a 1-1 stalemate in the African nation. This became India's maiden Test win at the venue and also only their second instance of drawing a red-ball series on South African soil.</p>

<p>With this, India jumped to the top spot in the updated ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table. Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. gained 12 points following their inspiring series-levelling win to replace the Proteas from the top. It is to be noted that India ended 2023 at the sixth spot in the WTC points table after a big loss to South Africa in Centurion. Back then, SA took the top spot but India&nbsp;replaced them on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here is the updated points table of the WTC 2023-25 cycle:</strong></p>

<p><img alt="WTC points table 2023-25" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ab3b3b92-4ad4-4487-a3a6-6830e026d4d7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WTC%2025.png" /></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-cape-town-test-scripts-world-record-after-indias-inspiring-win-676574">SA vs Ind: Cape Town Test scripts WORLD RECORD after India's inspiring win</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the Cape Town Test, SA opted to bat first.&nbsp;India rode on Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15 to dismantle SA's batting order and dismiss them for a paltry 55. In reply, India managed 153 -- taking a vital 98-run lead -- before the hosts ended the day's play at 62 for 3. On Day Two, Jasprit Bumrah's 6 for 61 dismissed the African side for 176 despite opener Aiden Markram's 106. Chasing 79, India achieved&nbsp;the target in 12 overs. Thus, this also became the shortest Test ever, in terms of fewest balls bowled, which produced a result.</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, a jubilant Indian skipper Rohit said, "A great feat. In Centurion, we had to learn from the mistakes. We came back very well, especially our bowlers. Had some plans and the boys got rewarded. We applied ourselves, we batted well to get a 100-run lead, not pleasing to see the last six wickets. We knew that it's going to be a short game, we knew every run matters, to get that lead was very important."</p>

<p>Hitman added, "We would have loved to win the series. South Africa is a great team, they always challenges&nbsp;us, they are such a good team. We can take a lot of pride from this performance."</p>


India beat South Africa by seven wickets on Day Two of the second and final Test, at Newlands, Cape Town, on Thursday (Jan 4) to end the two-match series at a 1-1 stalemate in the African nation.

India beat South Africa by seven wickets on Day Two of the second and final Test, at Newlands, Cape Town, on Thursday (Jan 4) to end the two-match series at a 1-1 stalemate in the African nation. This became India's maiden Test win at the venue and also only their second instance of drawing a red-ball series on South African soil. With this, India jumped to the top spot in the updated ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table. Rohit Sharma & Co. gained 12 points following their inspiring series-levelling win to replace the Proteas from the top. It is to be noted that India ended 2023 at the sixth spot in the WTC points table after a big loss to South Africa in Centurion. Back then, SA took the top spot but India replaced them on Thursday. Here is the updated points table of the WTC 2023-25 cycle: Also read: SA vs Ind: Cape Town Test scripts WORLD RECORD after India's inspiring win Talking about the Cape Town Test, SA opted to bat first. India rode on Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15 to dismantle SA's batting order and dismiss them for a paltry 55. In reply, India managed 153 -- taking a vital 98-run lead -- before the hosts ended the day's play at 62 for 3. On Day Two, Jasprit Bumrah's 6 for 61 dismissed the African side for 176 despite opener Aiden Markram's 106. Chasing 79, India achieved the target in 12 overs. Thus, this also became the shortest Test ever, in terms of fewest balls bowled, which produced a result. At the post-match presentation, a jubilant Indian skipper Rohit said, "A great feat. In Centurion, we had to learn from the mistakes. We came back very well, especially our bowlers. Had some plans and the boys got rewarded. We applied ourselves, we batted well to get a 100-run lead, not pleasing to see the last six wickets. We knew that it's going to be a short game, we knew every run matters, to get that lead was very important." Hitman added, "We would have loved to win the series. South Africa is a great team, they always challenges us, they are such a good team. We can take a lot of pride from this performance."

Updated WTC 2023/25 standings: India claim top spot after historic win in Cape Town vs South Africa

<p>India scripted history on Thursday (Jan 4) after they beat South Africa in the second Test match at the Newlands in Cape Town. The win for India scripted a&nbsp;piece of history as it went down in the record books as the shortest Test match by overs with only 107 played during the two-day affair. After the seven-wicket win India skipper Rohit Sharma credited fast bowlers and narrated that he kept things simple despite his side getting bowled out for 155 in the first innings.</p>

<h2><strong>Rohit praises Indian team after win</strong></h2>

<p>“We came back very well, especially our bowlers. Had some plans and the boys got rewarded. We applied ourselves, we batted well to get a 100-run lead, not pleasing to see the last six wickets. We knew that it was going to be a short game, we knew every run matters, to get that lead was very important. (On Siraj) Very special, something you don't get to see very often. We spoke about keeping things simple and that's what happened. The pitch did the rest. Lot of credit to Siraj, Bumrah, Mukesh and Prasidh. Whenever you come here, it's challenging,” Rohit said after India’s dominating win in Cape Town.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened in the match?</strong></h2>

<p>After deciding to bat first on Day 1 on Wednesday, the hosts were bowled out for 55 in their first innings with Mohammed Siraj ending with figures of 15/6. In reply, India were bowled out for 153 after a record six ducks in their innings. Interestingly, India went from 105/2 to 153 all out, losing their last eight wickets for just 48 runs. In reply, South Africa came out to bat again on Day 1 and were 62/3 at Stumps as they trailed by 98 runs in the first innings.</p>

<p>Earlier on Day 2, India made sure they were on top but Aiden Markam stood firm to hold one end. Despite being a bowler-dominated contest Markram scored 106 before his side was bowled out for 176. Jasprit Bumrah was the star of the show for India with the ball as he ended with figures of 61/6 in the second innings. Mukesh Kumar ended with two while Siraj and Prashidh Krishna got one wicket each.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/coaches-seniors-used-to-ask-david-warner-to-sledge-opposition-players-reveals-usman-khawaja-676525">Coaches, seniors used to ask David Warner to sledge opposition players, reveals Usman Khawaja</a></p>

<p>In reply India chased down the&nbsp;target in 12 overs, making sure they were part of the history books as the Cape Town Test went down as the shortest in the history of the game. Rohit Sharma scored an unbeaten 17 while Yashasvi Jaiswal was the top scorer with 28 while Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli scored 10 and 12 respectively.</p>

<p>The win was also India’s first at the Newlands Cape Town in the Test format. They&nbsp;will now take on Afghanistan in the three-match T20I series starting on Thursday (January 11).</p>


India scripted history on Thursday (Jan 4) after they beat South Africa in the second Test match at the Newlands in Cape Town. The win for India scripted a piece of history as it went down in the record books as the shortest Test match by overs with only 107 played during the two-day affair.

India scripted history on Thursday (Jan 4) after they beat South Africa in the second Test match at the Newlands in Cape Town. The win for India scripted a piece of history as it went down in the record books as the shortest Test match by overs with only 107 played during the two-day affair. After the seven-wicket win India skipper Rohit Sharma credited fast bowlers and narrated that he kept things simple despite his side getting bowled out for 155 in the first innings. Rohit praises Indian team after win “We came back very well, especially our bowlers. Had some plans and the boys got rewarded. We applied ourselves, we batted well to get a 100-run lead, not pleasing to see the last six wickets. We knew that it was going to be a short game, we knew every run matters, to get that lead was very important. (On Siraj) Very special, something you don't get to see very often. We spoke about keeping things simple and that's what happened. The pitch did the rest. Lot of credit to Siraj, Bumrah, Mukesh and Prasidh. Whenever you come here, it's challenging,” Rohit said after India’s dominating win in Cape Town. What happened in the match? After deciding to bat first on Day 1 on Wednesday, the hosts were bowled out for 55 in their first innings with Mohammed Siraj ending with figures of 15/6. In reply, India were bowled out for 153 after a record six ducks in their innings. Interestingly, India went from 105/2 to 153 all out, losing their last eight wickets for just 48 runs. In reply, South Africa came out to bat again on Day 1 and were 62/3 at Stumps as they trailed by 98 runs in the first innings. Earlier on Day 2, India made sure they were on top but Aiden Markam stood firm to hold one end. Despite being a bowler-dominated contest Markram scored 106 before his side was bowled out for 176. Jasprit Bumrah was the star of the show for India with the ball as he ended with figures of 61/6 in the second innings. Mukesh Kumar ended with two while Siraj and Prashidh Krishna got one wicket each. ALSO READ | Coaches, seniors used to ask David Warner to sledge opposition players, reveals Usman Khawaja In reply India chased down the target in 12 overs, making sure they were part of the history books as the Cape Town Test went down as the shortest in the history of the game. Rohit Sharma scored an unbeaten 17 while Yashasvi Jaiswal was the top scorer with 28 while Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli scored 10 and 12 respectively. The win was also India’s first at the Newlands Cape Town in the Test format. They will now take on Afghanistan in the three-match T20I series starting on Thursday (January 11).

SA vs IND, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma reveals 'keeping things simple' helped India clinch Cape Town contest

<p>On Thursday (Jan 4), India ended the second and final Test versus South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, with an impressive seven-wicket win. This marked their first-ever Test win&nbsp;at the venue as Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. ended the two-match series at 1-1. Thus, India ended with a drawn Test series&nbsp;in South Africa for only the second time -- after 2010/11 tour.</p>

<p>The match also scripted a world record of being the shortest Test ever, in terms of fewest balls bowled, which produced a result.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Fewest balls in a Test match (not drawn):</strong><br />
642 - SA v IND at Cape Town, 2024<br />
656 - AUS v SA at Melbourne, 1932<br />
672 - WI v ENG at Bridgetown, 1935</p>

<p>The contest started off on a brilliant note for India on Day One. Being asked to bowl first, India rode on Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15 to dismiss Dean Elgar-led Proteas for a mere 55 in 23.4 overs. Later in the day, India were bundled out for 153, managing a vital 98-run lead in the low-scoring contest. The day's play ended with the home side reeling at 62 for 3.</p>

<p>Despite Aiden Markram's sublime 106, SA were dismissed 176 on Day Two, courtesy of Jasprit Bumrah's six-fer. Chasing 79, India got to the target with seven wickets to spare.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-jasprit-bumrah-siraj-star-in-indias-maiden-win-in-cape-town-end-test-series-at-1-1-676550">SA vs IND: Jasprit Bumrah, Siraj star in India's maiden win in Cape Town, end Test series at 1-1</a></strong></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, winning captain Rohit said, "A great feat. In Centurion, we had to learn from the mistakes. We came back very well, especially our bowlers. Had some plans and the boys got rewarded. We applied ourselves, we batted well to get a 100-run lead, not pleasing to see the last six wickets. We knew that it's going to be a short game, we knew every run matters, to get that lead was very important."</p>

<p>He added, "We would have loved to win the series. South Africa is a great team, they always challenges&nbsp;us, they are such a good team. We can take a lot of pride from this performance."</p>


On Thursday (Jan 4), India ended the second and final Test versus South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, with an impressive seven-wicket win. This marked their first-ever Test win at the venue as Rohit Sharma & Co.

On Thursday (Jan 4), India ended the second and final Test versus South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, with an impressive seven-wicket win. This marked their first-ever Test win at the venue as Rohit Sharma & Co. ended the two-match series at 1-1. Thus, India ended with a drawn Test series in South Africa for only the second time -- after 2010/11 tour. The match also scripted a world record of being the shortest Test ever, in terms of fewest balls bowled, which produced a result. Fewest balls in a Test match (not drawn): 642 - SA v IND at Cape Town, 2024 656 - AUS v SA at Melbourne, 1932 672 - WI v ENG at Bridgetown, 1935 The contest started off on a brilliant note for India on Day One. Being asked to bowl first, India rode on Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15 to dismiss Dean Elgar-led Proteas for a mere 55 in 23.4 overs. Later in the day, India were bundled out for 153, managing a vital 98-run lead in the low-scoring contest. The day's play ended with the home side reeling at 62 for 3. Despite Aiden Markram's sublime 106, SA were dismissed 176 on Day Two, courtesy of Jasprit Bumrah's six-fer. Chasing 79, India got to the target with seven wickets to spare. Also read: SA vs IND: Jasprit Bumrah, Siraj star in India's maiden win in Cape Town, end Test series at 1-1 At the post-match presentation, winning captain Rohit said, "A great feat. In Centurion, we had to learn from the mistakes. We came back very well, especially our bowlers. Had some plans and the boys got rewarded. We applied ourselves, we batted well to get a 100-run lead, not pleasing to see the last six wickets. We knew that it's going to be a short game, we knew every run matters, to get that lead was very important." He added, "We would have loved to win the series. South Africa is a great team, they always challenges us, they are such a good team. We can take a lot of pride from this performance."

SA vs Ind: Cape Town Test scripts WORLD RECORD after India's inspiring win

<p>Day One of the second and final Test between India and South Africa, at Newlands Cape Town, saw as many as 23 wickets falling on Wednesday (Jan 3). Opting to bat first, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas were dismissed for a paltry 55, lowest total by any team against India in the format, courtesy of&nbsp;Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15. After the tea break, India were 153 for 4 before the SA pacers -- Lungi Ngidi (3 for 30), Kagiso Rabada (3 for 30) and Nandre Burger (3 for 42) -- combined to dismiss them at the&nbsp;same score.</p>

<p>Despite a 98-run lead, India weren't too ahead when Proteas came out to bat in the final session. At stumps, the hosts are 62 for 3 with debutant Mukesh Kumar striking twice. Thus, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co., despite an ordinary performance with the bat, are ahead with a slender lead of 36. From SA's perspective, they have opener Aiden Markram (36 not out) in the middle, who&nbsp;will hope to take his side beyond India's lead and setup&nbsp;a stiff target. Needless to say, batting won't be easy on the second day as well.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-test-from-153-for-4-to-153-all-out-india-collapse-in-unimaginable-manner-in-reply-to-sas-55-676273">2nd Test: From 153 for 4 to 153 all-out! India collapse in UNIMAGINABLE manner in reply to SA's 55</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the entire day's play, Siraj wreaked havoc with a six-fer. He&nbsp;removed the likes of Aiden Markram, Elgar, Tony de Zorzi,&nbsp;David Bedingham,&nbsp;Kyle Verreynne and&nbsp;Marco Jansen as Proteas fell for their lowest score since readmission in 1992.&nbsp;</p>

<p ng-bind-html="comm.commText" ng-class="{true: 'cb-col cb-col-90',false: 'cb-col cb-col-100'}[comm.over != null || comm.ballNbr != null]" ng-if="comm.event.indexOf('Plugin') != 0"><b>Lowest all-out totals for South Africa since their readmission</b><br />
55 vs India, Cape Town, 2024<br />
73 vs Sri Lanka, Galle, 2018<br />
79 vs India, Nagpur, 2015<br />
83 vs England, Johannesburg, 2016<br />
84 vs India, Johannesburg, 2006</p>

<p ng-bind-html="comm.commText" ng-class="{true: 'cb-col cb-col-90',false: 'cb-col cb-col-100'}[comm.over != null || comm.ballNbr != null]" ng-if="comm.event.indexOf('Plugin') != 0"><b>Lowest all-out totals vs India in Tests</b><br />
55 - South Africa, Cape Town, 2024<br />
62 - New Zealand, Mumbai WS, 2021<br />
79 - South Africa, Nagpur, 2015<br />
81 - England, Ahmedabad, 2021<br />
82 - Sri Lanka, Chandigarh, 1990</p>

<p ng-bind-html="comm.commText" ng-class="{true: 'cb-col cb-col-90',false: 'cb-col cb-col-100'}[comm.over != null || comm.ballNbr != null]" ng-if="comm.event.indexOf('Plugin') != 0">In reply, India had a decent start and were 71 for 1 at one stage before being reduced to 110 for 4 and eventually&nbsp;falling for 153 --&nbsp;their last six wickets failing to add a single run (first-time ever in Test cricket history).</p>

<p ng-bind-html="comm.commText" ng-class="{true: 'cb-col cb-col-90',false: 'cb-col cb-col-100'}[comm.over != null || comm.ballNbr != null]" ng-if="comm.event.indexOf('Plugin') != 0"><b>Most wickets falling on a particular score in a Test innings</b><br />
6 (153/4 to 153 all-out) - IND vs SA, Cape Town 2024<br />
5 (37/2 to 37/7) - NZ vs AUS, Wellington, 1946<br />
5 (59/4 to 59/9) - NZ vs PAK, Rawalpindi CC, 1965<br />
5 (133/2 to 133/7) - NZ vs SA, Hamilton, 2012<br />
5 (134/5 to 134 all-out) - BAN vs ZIM, Harare, 2013</p>

<p ng-bind-html="comm.commText" ng-class="{true: 'cb-col cb-col-90',false: 'cb-col cb-col-100'}[comm.over != null || comm.ballNbr != null]" ng-if="comm.event.indexOf('Plugin') != 0">In their second essay, SA lost Elgar twice on the day. The left-hander, who is playing his final Test, departed for 12 and received a standing ovation from the crowd. He is also leading the side with regular captain Temba Bavuma injured since Day One of the first Test in Centurion.&nbsp;</p>

<p ng-bind-html="comm.commText" ng-class="{true: 'cb-col cb-col-90',false: 'cb-col cb-col-100'}[comm.over != null || comm.ballNbr != null]" ng-if="comm.event.indexOf('Plugin') != 0"><b>Most wickets on a single day in Tests</b><br />
27 - ENG vs AUS, Lord’s, 1888 (Day 2)<br />
25 - AUS vs ENG, Melbourne, 1902 (Day 1)<br />
24 - ENG vs AUS, The Oval, 1896 (Day 2)<br />
24 - IND vs AFG, Bengaluru, 2018 (Day 2)<br />
23 - SA vs AUS, Cape Town, 2011 (Day 2)<br />
23 - SA vs IND, Cape Town, 2024 (Day 1)</p>

<p ng-bind-html="comm.commText" ng-class="{true: 'cb-col cb-col-90',false: 'cb-col cb-col-100'}[comm.over != null || comm.ballNbr != null]" ng-if="comm.event.indexOf('Plugin') != 0">After an eventful Day One, all eyes are now on how the second day's play shapes up in Cape Town. SA lead the two-match series 1-0 after a big win in the&nbsp;opening Test.</p>


Day One of the second and final Test between India and South Africa, at Newlands Cape Town, saw as many as 23 wickets falling on Wednesday (Jan 3). Opting to bat first, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas were dismissed for a paltry 55, lowest total by any team against India in the format, courtesy of Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15.

Day One of the second and final Test between India and South Africa, at Newlands Cape Town, saw as many as 23 wickets falling on Wednesday (Jan 3). Opting to bat first, the Dean Elgar-led Proteas were dismissed for a paltry 55, lowest total by any team against India in the format, courtesy of Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15. After the tea break, India were 153 for 4 before the SA pacers -- Lungi Ngidi (3 for 30), Kagiso Rabada (3 for 30) and Nandre Burger (3 for 42) -- combined to dismiss them at the same score. Despite a 98-run lead, India weren't too ahead when Proteas came out to bat in the final session. At stumps, the hosts are 62 for 3 with debutant Mukesh Kumar striking twice. Thus, Rohit Sharma & Co., despite an ordinary performance with the bat, are ahead with a slender lead of 36. From SA's perspective, they have opener Aiden Markram (36 not out) in the middle, who will hope to take his side beyond India's lead and setup a stiff target. Needless to say, batting won't be easy on the second day as well. Also read: 2nd Test: From 153 for 4 to 153 all-out! India collapse in UNIMAGINABLE manner in reply to SA's 55 Talking about the entire day's play, Siraj wreaked havoc with a six-fer. He removed the likes of Aiden Markram, Elgar, Tony de Zorzi, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne and Marco Jansen as Proteas fell for their lowest score since readmission in 1992. Lowest all-out totals for South Africa since their readmission 55 vs India, Cape Town, 2024 73 vs Sri Lanka, Galle, 2018 79 vs India, Nagpur, 2015 83 vs England, Johannesburg, 2016 84 vs India, Johannesburg, 2006 Lowest all-out totals vs India in Tests 55 - South Africa, Cape Town, 2024 62 - New Zealand, Mumbai WS, 2021 79 - South Africa, Nagpur, 2015 81 - England, Ahmedabad, 2021 82 - Sri Lanka, Chandigarh, 1990 In reply, India had a decent start and were 71 for 1 at one stage before being reduced to 110 for 4 and eventually falling for 153 -- their last six wickets failing to add a single run (first-time ever in Test cricket history). Most wickets falling on a particular score in a Test innings 6 (153/4 to 153 all-out) - IND vs SA, Cape Town 2024 5 (37/2 to 37/7) - NZ vs AUS, Wellington, 1946 5 (59/4 to 59/9) - NZ vs PAK, Rawalpindi CC, 1965 5 (133/2 to 133/7) - NZ vs SA, Hamilton, 2012 5 (134/5 to 134 all-out) - BAN vs ZIM, Harare, 2013 In their second essay, SA lost Elgar twice on the day. The left-hander, who is playing his final Test, departed for 12 and received a standing ovation from the crowd. He is also leading the side with regular captain Temba Bavuma injured since Day One of the first Test in Centurion. Most wickets on a single day in Tests 27 - ENG vs AUS, Lord’s, 1888 (Day 2) 25 - AUS vs ENG, Melbourne, 1902 (Day 1) 24 - ENG vs AUS, The Oval, 1896 (Day 2) 24 - IND vs AFG, Bengaluru, 2018 (Day 2) 23 - SA vs AUS, Cape Town, 2011 (Day 2) 23 - SA vs IND, Cape Town, 2024 (Day 1) After an eventful Day One, all eyes are now on how the second day's play shapes up in Cape Town. SA lead the two-match series 1-0 after a big win in the opening Test.

SA vs IND, 2nd Test: India hold the edge as Day 1 ends with 23 wickets falling in Cape Town

<p>Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar slammed South Africa's decision to bat first on Day One of the second and final Test versus India at Newlands, Cape Town on Wednesday (Jan 3) after Dean Elgar &amp; Co. were dismissed for a paltry 55 in the opening session. Riding on Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15, Rohit Sharma-led India bundled out the Proteas for 55 (i.e. the lowest&nbsp;total&nbsp;by any team against India in Tests) in 23.2 overs on a pitch with fair amount of grass.</p>

<h2><strong>'I think you've also got to look at the psychology of the Indian team'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar stated, "Well, I tell you what I was a bit surprised by what happened. Because a lot of times, captains and coaches make a deal about what the pitch is gonna be. I think you've also got to look at the psychology of the Indian team, having been defeated in three days, having batted so poorly in the second innings and gonna be batting first on a fresh pitch would have been just a little bit defensive. And I have thought that be South Africans with the fast bowlers that they have in their lineup could look to take advantage of the fact that they have not played any cricket in between and therefore put them put them in."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-siraj-wreaks-havoc-with-ball-as-proteas-get-off-to-poor-start-in-cape-town-676157">WATCH: Mohammed Siraj wreaks havoc with ball as Proteas crumble for 55 in Cape Tow</a>n</strong></p>

<p>Gavaskar cited the example of Australia when they decided to bat first at the MCG, Melbourne in the second Test of the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus India, after winning the series opener by dismissing the visitors for 36 in Adelaide.</p>

<p>In this regard, he said, "Something similar happened in Australia two years ago, Australia dismissed India for 36. The next Test played in Melbourne, where the grass on the pitch was three millimetres more than the one at Adelaide. Australia batted first. India dismissed them for 190 got back in the game&nbsp;and they came into the bat on Day two. Here, it's not Day two. The pitch had eased up considerably."</p>

<p>He added, "I mean, if I was the captain, I would have said 'No, I'm going to try and take advantage of the fact that they are not certain I'd like to insert India in'."</p>

<p>At the time of publishing this report, India have taken the lead over the Proteas and are 101 for 2 with Shubman Gil and former captain Virat Kohli batting in the middle. Rohit &amp; Co. will look for a sizeable lead and add more pressure on the hosts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SA lead the two-match series 1-0 after winning the first Test by an innings and 32 runs in Centurion.</p>


Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar slammed South Africa's decision to bat first on Day One of the second and final Test versus India at Newlands, Cape Town on Wednesday (Jan 3) after Dean Elgar & Co.

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar slammed South Africa's decision to bat first on Day One of the second and final Test versus India at Newlands, Cape Town on Wednesday (Jan 3) after Dean Elgar & Co. were dismissed for a paltry 55 in the opening session. Riding on Mohammed Siraj's 6 for 15, Rohit Sharma-led India bundled out the Proteas for 55 (i.e. the lowest total by any team against India in Tests) in 23.2 overs on a pitch with fair amount of grass. 'I think you've also got to look at the psychology of the Indian team' Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar stated, "Well, I tell you what I was a bit surprised by what happened. Because a lot of times, captains and coaches make a deal about what the pitch is gonna be. I think you've also got to look at the psychology of the Indian team, having been defeated in three days, having batted so poorly in the second innings and gonna be batting first on a fresh pitch would have been just a little bit defensive. And I have thought that be South Africans with the fast bowlers that they have in their lineup could look to take advantage of the fact that they have not played any cricket in between and therefore put them put them in." Also read: WATCH: Mohammed Siraj wreaks havoc with ball as Proteas crumble for 55 in Cape Town Gavaskar cited the example of Australia when they decided to bat first at the MCG, Melbourne in the second Test of the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy versus India, after winning the series opener by dismissing the visitors for 36 in Adelaide. In this regard, he said, "Something similar happened in Australia two years ago, Australia dismissed India for 36. The next Test played in Melbourne, where the grass on the pitch was three millimetres more than the one at Adelaide. Australia batted first. India dismissed them for 190 got back in the game and they came into the bat on Day two. Here, it's not Day two. The pitch had eased up considerably." He added, "I mean, if I was the captain, I would have said 'No, I'm going to try and take advantage of the fact that they are not certain I'd like to insert India in'." At the time of publishing this report, India have taken the lead over the Proteas and are 101 for 2 with Shubman Gil and former captain Virat Kohli batting in the middle. Rohit & Co. will look for a sizeable lead and add more pressure on the hosts. SA lead the two-match series 1-0 after winning the first Test by an innings and 32 runs in Centurion.

I was a bit surprised: Sunil Gavaskar questions SA's call to bat first after being all-out for 55 in 2nd Test

<p>Before India takes on South Africa in the second and final Test, in Cape Town, former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has lashed out at Rohit Sharma &amp; Co., claiming they are 'overrated' in Tests and 'highly overrated' in T20Is. Srikkanth feels India are resting on past laurels in Test cricket, achieved during Virat Kohli's captaincy era, and feels&nbsp;the national side should not read much into the ICC Team Rankings, where they are No. 1 across formats.</p>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said, "In T20 cricket India are highly over-rated. ODI cricket, we are a fantastic team. What happens in ODIs, in the semi-finals, finals, it's just a one-off match. It's a luck factor, a lot depends on luck in these matches. I read Rohit Sharma's statement, for a cricketer, the 50-over World Cup is a huge achievement. We are sometimes underperforming in the knockout matches, into the semi-finals and the final. But we are a gun side in ODI. Regardless of where we play, be it India, Australia or South Africa, we are a gun side."</p>

<h2><strong>'When Virat Kohli was the Test captain...'</strong></h2>

<p>He further stated, "Test cricket, we are over-rated. We have to make sure... I think it was a phase of 2-3 years... when Virat Kohli was the captain of the team, we were outstanding. We dominated in England, we fought hard in South Africa, we won in Australia. We had a good phase for 2-4 years. Yes, we were dominating in England, in Australia."</p>

<p>Srikkanth, however, feels that since then India have been resting on past laurels in the purest format. After Kohli quit&nbsp;Test captaincy, India lost the one-off Test versus England in July 2022, lost the WTC final in June 2023 and failed to win the first Test of the ongoing two-match&nbsp;series versus South Africa in Centurion, last month.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tests-needs-to-be-protected-india-captain-rohit-sharma-ahead-of-cape-town-test-vs-sa-675934">Test cricket is the ultimate challenge: India captain Rohit Sharma ahead of Cape Town Test vs SA</a></strong></p>

<p>The 1983 World Cup-winner urged, "We have to forget ICC ranking. We are always 1-2, 1-2. It's a combination of having over-rated cricketers and people who have not performed up to their potential. Or there are players who have not enough chances like Kuldeeep (Yadav)."</p>

<p>"If you want to be the best team, you should be capable of being the giants in their home grounds. That is what we did when Rishabh Pant was firing. But you can keep on talking that we scored in Australia, we scored in England. You can sing the same song, you won't move forward if you rest on past laurels. You have to just look at how you have performed in the last 2 years, last 18 months," concluded Srikkanth.</p>

<p>India ended 2023 as the No. 1 ranked side across formats. However, they failed to win the WTC final and ended as runners-up even in the home ODI World Cup, which ended on Nov 19 last year.</p>

<p>India's last ICC triumph came in 2013 Champions Trophy, under MS Dhoni. Since then, they have competed very well in all major events but failed to grab hold of the silverware.</p>

<p>At present, Rohit &amp; Co. are gearing up for the two-match Test series finale versus hosts South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, which starts on Jan 3 (Wednesday). The visitors lost the first Test by an innings and 32 runs, in Centurion.</p>


Before India takes on South Africa in the second and final Test, in Cape Town, former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has lashed out at Rohit Sharma & Co.

Before India takes on South Africa in the second and final Test, in Cape Town, former Indian cricketer and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has lashed out at Rohit Sharma & Co., claiming they are 'overrated' in Tests and 'highly overrated' in T20Is. Srikkanth feels India are resting on past laurels in Test cricket, achieved during Virat Kohli's captaincy era, and feels the national side should not read much into the ICC Team Rankings, where they are No. 1 across formats. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said, "In T20 cricket India are highly over-rated. ODI cricket, we are a fantastic team. What happens in ODIs, in the semi-finals, finals, it's just a one-off match. It's a luck factor, a lot depends on luck in these matches. I read Rohit Sharma's statement, for a cricketer, the 50-over World Cup is a huge achievement. We are sometimes underperforming in the knockout matches, into the semi-finals and the final. But we are a gun side in ODI. Regardless of where we play, be it India, Australia or South Africa, we are a gun side." 'When Virat Kohli was the Test captain...' He further stated, "Test cricket, we are over-rated. We have to make sure... I think it was a phase of 2-3 years... when Virat Kohli was the captain of the team, we were outstanding. We dominated in England, we fought hard in South Africa, we won in Australia. We had a good phase for 2-4 years. Yes, we were dominating in England, in Australia." Srikkanth, however, feels that since then India have been resting on past laurels in the purest format. After Kohli quit Test captaincy, India lost the one-off Test versus England in July 2022, lost the WTC final in June 2023 and failed to win the first Test of the ongoing two-match series versus South Africa in Centurion, last month. Also read: Test cricket is the ultimate challenge: India captain Rohit Sharma ahead of Cape Town Test vs SA The 1983 World Cup-winner urged, "We have to forget ICC ranking. We are always 1-2, 1-2. It's a combination of having over-rated cricketers and people who have not performed up to their potential. Or there are players who have not enough chances like Kuldeeep (Yadav)." "If you want to be the best team, you should be capable of being the giants in their home grounds. That is what we did when Rishabh Pant was firing. But you can keep on talking that we scored in Australia, we scored in England. You can sing the same song, you won't move forward if you rest on past laurels. You have to just look at how you have performed in the last 2 years, last 18 months," concluded Srikkanth. India ended 2023 as the No. 1 ranked side across formats. However, they failed to win the WTC final and ended as runners-up even in the home ODI World Cup, which ended on Nov 19 last year. India's last ICC triumph came in 2013 Champions Trophy, under MS Dhoni. Since then, they have competed very well in all major events but failed to grab hold of the silverware. At present, Rohit & Co. are gearing up for the two-match Test series finale versus hosts South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, which starts on Jan 3 (Wednesday). The visitors lost the first Test by an innings and 32 runs, in Centurion.

‘India overrated in Tests and highly overrated in T20Is’: Kris Srikkanth lashes out at Rohit Sharma & Co.

<p>Ever since South Africa announced a second-stringed side for their upcoming two away Tests versus New Zealand, amid SA20's second season, there has been a lot of talk on Test cricket's downfall. The likes of Steve Waugh, Usman Khawaja, Michael Clarke, Australia captain Pat Cummins have spoken at length on Test cricket and how it is being least preferred by many cricket board owing to franchise cricket's popularity.</p>

<p>Ahead of India's second and final Test versus South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, Indian captain Rohit Sharma reacted to SA's second-stringed squad and stressed on the importance of the longer format. Hitman feels 'Test cricket is the ultimate challenge' and needs to be protected' at all costs.</p>

<p>Speaking to the reporters, Rohit said on Tuesday (Jan 2), "Honestly, for me Test cricket is the ultimate challenge and you would want to see the best players playing in that format. Everyone has their own problems to deal with. I am pretty sure there is a reason behind it I don't know what the reason is. Definitely, Test cricket is something where you want to see the best cricket being played, best and top players being available."</p>

<p>“I don't know what the internal talks or what the discussions are in Cricket South Africa. But in my perspective a lot of thought should be given to Test cricket because it is the ultimate challenge you face in this sport and we want to be challenged every day,” Rohit further opined.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-2nd-test-rohit-sharma-aims-to-equal-ms-dhonis-rare-captaincy-feat-in-series-decider-675825">SA vs Ind, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma aims to equal MS Dhoni’s rare captaincy feat in series decider</a></strong></p>

<p>Rohit stressed on the need to collectively protect the format. He stated, "Test cricket is something that we have to protect and give importance to. It's not the responsibility of one or two nations, it is the responsibility of all Test playing countries to make sure that we keep it nice and entertaining."</p>

<p>"If you see around the world, a lot of solid Test cricket is being played. In the last 2-3 years, you've seen results everywhere. It's competitive cricket, we know that and it's everyone's duty to make sure that it stays nice and healthy, and it stays competitive. At the end of the day, that is what people would want to come and watch,” Hitman added.</p>

<p>Talking about India's second and final Test versus the Proteas, they need to stage a comeback and end the series on a high after losing the opening match by an innings and 32 runs in Centurion. So far, India have avoided a Test series loss only once in the African nation, out of the nine series since 1992, when MS Dhoni &amp; Co. returned with a 1-1 scoreline in 2010/11. Rohit-led India will look to emulate that rare feat in the series finale.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India's likely XI for Cape Town Test vs SA</strong></h2>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Abhimanyu Easwaran, KL Rahul (WK), KS Bharat (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Prasidh Krishna, Mukesh Kumar, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Avesh Khan.</p>


Ever since South Africa announced a second-stringed side for their upcoming two away Tests versus New Zealand, amid SA20's second season, there has been a lot of talk on Test cricket's downfall.

Ever since South Africa announced a second-stringed side for their upcoming two away Tests versus New Zealand, amid SA20's second season, there has been a lot of talk on Test cricket's downfall. The likes of Steve Waugh, Usman Khawaja, Michael Clarke, Australia captain Pat Cummins have spoken at length on Test cricket and how it is being least preferred by many cricket board owing to franchise cricket's popularity. Ahead of India's second and final Test versus South Africa, at Newlands, Cape Town, Indian captain Rohit Sharma reacted to SA's second-stringed squad and stressed on the importance of the longer format. Hitman feels 'Test cricket is the ultimate challenge' and needs to be protected' at all costs. Speaking to the reporters, Rohit said on Tuesday (Jan 2), "Honestly, for me Test cricket is the ultimate challenge and you would want to see the best players playing in that format. Everyone has their own problems to deal with. I am pretty sure there is a reason behind it I don't know what the reason is. Definitely, Test cricket is something where you want to see the best cricket being played, best and top players being available." “I don't know what the internal talks or what the discussions are in Cricket South Africa. But in my perspective a lot of thought should be given to Test cricket because it is the ultimate challenge you face in this sport and we want to be challenged every day,” Rohit further opined. Also read: SA vs Ind, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma aims to equal MS Dhoni’s rare captaincy feat in series decider Rohit stressed on the need to collectively protect the format. He stated, "Test cricket is something that we have to protect and give importance to. It's not the responsibility of one or two nations, it is the responsibility of all Test playing countries to make sure that we keep it nice and entertaining." "If you see around the world, a lot of solid Test cricket is being played. In the last 2-3 years, you've seen results everywhere. It's competitive cricket, we know that and it's everyone's duty to make sure that it stays nice and healthy, and it stays competitive. At the end of the day, that is what people would want to come and watch,” Hitman added. Talking about India's second and final Test versus the Proteas, they need to stage a comeback and end the series on a high after losing the opening match by an innings and 32 runs in Centurion. So far, India have avoided a Test series loss only once in the African nation, out of the nine series since 1992, when MS Dhoni & Co. returned with a 1-1 scoreline in 2010/11. Rohit-led India will look to emulate that rare feat in the series finale. India's likely XI for Cape Town Test vs SA Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Abhimanyu Easwaran, KL Rahul (WK), KS Bharat (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Prasidh Krishna, Mukesh Kumar, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Avesh Khan.

Test cricket is the ultimate challenge: India captain Rohit Sharma ahead of Cape Town Test vs SA

<p>India will lock horns with South Africa in the second and final Test at&nbsp;Newlands,&nbsp;Cape Town&nbsp;on Tuesday (Jan 3). After losing the series opener, in Centurion, by an innings and 32 runs, India have their task cut out to end the series at 1-1. The visitors have already lost a golden opportunity to win their maiden Test series on African soil&nbsp;but they will hope to end it on a high.</p>

<p>Captain Rohit Sharma is also aiming to equal former Indian skipper MS Dhoni's rare captaincy feat. If India win the second Test, in Cape Town, Rohit will become only the second Indian captain after Dhoni to avoid a Test series loss in South Africa. So far, India have toured the African nation for Test series on nine occasions since 1992. Only once have they managed to draw a red-ball series in the Rainbow nation. Under Dhoni, India achieved the rare feat during their 2010-11 tour of South Africa.</p>

<p>Back then, Dhoni-led India drew a three-match Test series at 1-1. Thus, Rohit will look to become the second Indian captain to achieve this elite feat. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-pak-3rd-test-shaheen-afridi-rested-for-dead-rubber-clash-at-scg-imam-dropped-in-favour-of-saim-ayub-675786">AUS vs PAK, 3rd Test: Shaheen Afridi rested for dead-rubber clash at SCG; Imam dropped in favour of Saim Ayub</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the first Test, South Africa won the toss and opted to field first. They bundled out India for 245 with KL Rahul top-scoring with a majestic 101. Kagiso Rabada ended with 5 for 59. In reply, the Proteas rode on Dean Elgar's impressive 185,&nbsp;Marco Jansen's 84 and&nbsp;David Bedingham's 56 to post 408 all-out. With a lead of 163, the home side dismissed the Indians for a paltry 131 with Nandre Burger, 4 for 33, and Jansen 3 for 36 leading the charge with the ball.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit-led India will look to put up a more clinical performance this time around&nbsp;and end the series at 1-1.</p>


India will lock horns with South Africa in the second and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (Jan 3). After losing the series opener, in Centurion, by an innings and 32 runs, India have their task cut out to end the series at 1-1.

India will lock horns with South Africa in the second and final Test at Newlands, Cape Town on Tuesday (Jan 3). After losing the series opener, in Centurion, by an innings and 32 runs, India have their task cut out to end the series at 1-1. The visitors have already lost a golden opportunity to win their maiden Test series on African soil but they will hope to end it on a high. Captain Rohit Sharma is also aiming to equal former Indian skipper MS Dhoni's rare captaincy feat. If India win the second Test, in Cape Town, Rohit will become only the second Indian captain after Dhoni to avoid a Test series loss in South Africa. So far, India have toured the African nation for Test series on nine occasions since 1992. Only once have they managed to draw a red-ball series in the Rainbow nation. Under Dhoni, India achieved the rare feat during their 2010-11 tour of South Africa. Back then, Dhoni-led India drew a three-match Test series at 1-1. Thus, Rohit will look to become the second Indian captain to achieve this elite feat. Also read: AUS vs PAK, 3rd Test: Shaheen Afridi rested for dead-rubber clash at SCG; Imam dropped in favour of Saim Ayub Talking about the first Test, South Africa won the toss and opted to field first. They bundled out India for 245 with KL Rahul top-scoring with a majestic 101. Kagiso Rabada ended with 5 for 59. In reply, the Proteas rode on Dean Elgar's impressive 185, Marco Jansen's 84 and David Bedingham's 56 to post 408 all-out. With a lead of 163, the home side dismissed the Indians for a paltry 131 with Nandre Burger, 4 for 33, and Jansen 3 for 36 leading the charge with the ball. Rohit-led India will look to put up a more clinical performance this time around and end the series at 1-1.

SA vs Ind, 2nd Test: Rohit Sharma aims to equal MS Dhoni’s rare captaincy feat in series decider

<p>Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has lauded Indian cricket for a successful run in the just-concluded 2023. Talking about the Indian cricket's achievements, the senior men's team won the Asia Cup and ended as runners-up in the home ODI World Cup and WTC final whereas the Harmanpreet Kaur-led women's team clinched gold in Asian Games and ended the year with a Test win each over England and Australia, in Mumbai, in December.</p>

<p>In addition,&nbsp;the Shafali Varma-led Indian team won the U-19 Women's T20 World Cup in South Africa. Thus, Gavaskar heaped praise on Indian cricket's magnificent run but rued Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s ODI WC final loss to Australia in Ahmedabad on Nov 19.</p>

<p>Speaking on Star Sports show 'Follow the Blues', Gavaskar spoke highly of the women's team and said, "I think it's been a fantastic year for both the men's and the women's team, particularly the way the women's team has performed. Those two Test wins towards the year-end, one against England and one against Australia, both teams against whom the Indian women's team have had tough times earlier on."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-had-a-great-2023-in-odis-ex-india-pacer-venkatesh-prasad-wants-batter-to-realise-true-potential-675478">KL Rahul had great run in 2023 ODIs: Ex-India pacer Venkatesh Prasad wants batter to 'realise true potential'</a></strong></p>

<p>He shifted his focus to the ODI WC at home as well. He added, "That's been the most exciting aspect of cricket apart from, of course, what we saw in the World Cup. The 10 straight wins, and, then, just that one bad day, which sadly happened to be the finals of the World Cup. So really some exciting times in 2023."</p>

<p>Harman-led Indian eves won their first Test over Australia&nbsp;since their first meeting back in 1977. Apart from this, the just-concluded year also saw the advent of the Women's Premier League (WPL) in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about the senior men's team, they dominated at home, won their eighth Asia Cup title in September but lost two big finals to Australia, i.e. during the WTC 2021-23 cycle's finale&nbsp;and ODI WC.</p>


Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has lauded Indian cricket for a successful run in the just-concluded 2023. Talking about the Indian cricket's achievements, the senior men's team won the Asia Cup and ended as runners-up in the home ODI World Cup and WTC final whereas the Harmanpreet Kaur-led women's team clinched gold in Asian Games and ended the year with a Test win each over England and Australia, in Mumbai, in December.

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has lauded Indian cricket for a successful run in the just-concluded 2023. Talking about the Indian cricket's achievements, the senior men's team won the Asia Cup and ended as runners-up in the home ODI World Cup and WTC final whereas the Harmanpreet Kaur-led women's team clinched gold in Asian Games and ended the year with a Test win each over England and Australia, in Mumbai, in December. In addition, the Shafali Varma-led Indian team won the U-19 Women's T20 World Cup in South Africa. Thus, Gavaskar heaped praise on Indian cricket's magnificent run but rued Rohit Sharma & Co.'s ODI WC final loss to Australia in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Speaking on Star Sports show 'Follow the Blues', Gavaskar spoke highly of the women's team and said, "I think it's been a fantastic year for both the men's and the women's team, particularly the way the women's team has performed. Those two Test wins towards the year-end, one against England and one against Australia, both teams against whom the Indian women's team have had tough times earlier on." Also read: KL Rahul had great run in 2023 ODIs: Ex-India pacer Venkatesh Prasad wants batter to 'realise true potential' He shifted his focus to the ODI WC at home as well. He added, "That's been the most exciting aspect of cricket apart from, of course, what we saw in the World Cup. The 10 straight wins, and, then, just that one bad day, which sadly happened to be the finals of the World Cup. So really some exciting times in 2023." Harman-led Indian eves won their first Test over Australia since their first meeting back in 1977. Apart from this, the just-concluded year also saw the advent of the Women's Premier League (WPL) in India. Talking about the senior men's team, they dominated at home, won their eighth Asia Cup title in September but lost two big finals to Australia, i.e. during the WTC 2021-23 cycle's finale and ODI WC.

Sunil Gavaskar LAUDS Indian cricket for successful 2023 barring ‘just one bad day’ in ODI World Cup final

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma has defended the bowlers after the humiliating defeat in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa in Centurion. The game lasted just three days, with India losing by an innings and 32 runs. Sharma, speaking at the post-match presentation, said that the bowlers did try their best but it just didn't work.</p>

<p>"Bumrah bowled well," Rohit said. "We all know his quality. All he wanted was a bit of support from the other side, which he didn't get. To be honest, that happens (once in a while).</p>

<p>"All the other three bowlers, they were trying really hard, bending their back, but it just didn't work out. Didn't happen the way we would have wanted to. But again, games like this teach you a lot of things, what you need to do as a group, as a bowling group. Hopefully, they can understand what went wrong, and then try and come back a little stronger from this game," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/haris-rauf-should-have-played-tests-vs-australia-instead-of-bbl-says-former-pak-skipper-shahid-afridi-674540">'Haris Rauf should have played Tests vs Australia instead of BBL,' says former Pak skipper Shahid Afridi</a></p>

<p>India batted decently in the first innings, scoring 245 runs in tricky conditions, thanks largely to KL Rahul's eighth Test century. The bowlers, however, couldn't capitalise despite the conditions being friendly. While Bumrah and Siraj largely looked unplayable, they couldn't draw many edges and the pressure couldn't be built from the other side - especially by Prasidh Krishna.</p>

<p>Rohit, nonetheless, defended Krishna who made his debut for India in the whites but agreed that the inexperience was there.</p>

<p>"Look, a little bit inexperience, of course, but he has got the tools to come out here and play the game," the skipper said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Prasidh has been with the Indian team. Not around the Test team, but he has played a lot of white-ball cricket for us in the last two or three years, and he has shown that he has got a lot of potential. Obviously, it didn't work out well for him playing his first game, but we all were nervous when we played our first game," he added.</p>

<p>The second and final Test between South Africa and India starts on January 3 in Cape Town.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


India skipper Rohit Sharma has defended the bowlers after the humiliating defeat in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa in Centurion. The game lasted just three days, with India losing by an innings and 32 runs.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has defended the bowlers after the humiliating defeat in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa in Centurion. The game lasted just three days, with India losing by an innings and 32 runs. Sharma, speaking at the post-match presentation, said that the bowlers did try their best but it just didn't work. "Bumrah bowled well," Rohit said. "We all know his quality. All he wanted was a bit of support from the other side, which he didn't get. To be honest, that happens (once in a while). "All the other three bowlers, they were trying really hard, bending their back, but it just didn't work out. Didn't happen the way we would have wanted to. But again, games like this teach you a lot of things, what you need to do as a group, as a bowling group. Hopefully, they can understand what went wrong, and then try and come back a little stronger from this game," he added. Also Read: 'Haris Rauf should have played Tests vs Australia instead of BBL,' says former Pak skipper Shahid Afridi India batted decently in the first innings, scoring 245 runs in tricky conditions, thanks largely to KL Rahul's eighth Test century. The bowlers, however, couldn't capitalise despite the conditions being friendly. While Bumrah and Siraj largely looked unplayable, they couldn't draw many edges and the pressure couldn't be built from the other side - especially by Prasidh Krishna. Rohit, nonetheless, defended Krishna who made his debut for India in the whites but agreed that the inexperience was there. "Look, a little bit inexperience, of course, but he has got the tools to come out here and play the game," the skipper said. "Prasidh has been with the Indian team. Not around the Test team, but he has played a lot of white-ball cricket for us in the last two or three years, and he has shown that he has got a lot of potential. Obviously, it didn't work out well for him playing his first game, but we all were nervous when we played our first game," he added. The second and final Test between South Africa and India starts on January 3 in Cape Town.

'Bumrah needed support but didn't get it,' says India skipper Rohit Sharma after loss in first Test vs SA

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma has taken the blame for the embarrassing defeat against South Africa in the first Test match after they lost by an innings and 32 runs. India were bowled out for 131 in their second innings and lost the contest on Day 3 as their wait for a series win on the Proteas soil continues. Dean Elgar was the star of the match with his 185-run knock, while Kagiso Rabada scalped seven wickets, including a five-for in the first innings. The win now sees South Africa lead the two-match series 1-0, making it impossible for India to win the series.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A complete performance from the fast bowlers helps the hosts go 1-0 up in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a> Test series 🎉<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC25</a> 📝: <a href="https://t.co/Rma4l5S0RO">https://t.co/Rma4l5S0RO</a> <a href="https://t.co/BggeNhDkSp">pic.twitter.com/BggeNhDkSp</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1740388641912828037?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Rohit takes blame for defeat</strong></h2>

<p>“We were not good enough to win. Having been put into bat, KL batted well to get us that score but then we didn't exploit the conditions with the ball and then again didn't show up today with the bat. If we have to win Test matches, we have to come together collectively and we didn't do that. Guys have come here before, we know what to expect and everyone has their own plan. Our batters were challenged and we didn't adapt well. This is a boundary scoring ground, we saw them score many but we need to understand the opposition and their strengths as well,” Rohit said in the post-match.</p>

<p>The loss also had heavy ramifications on the World Test Championship (WTC) standings as India slipped to fifth spot while South Africa are top with a win in their first match of the cycle.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-v-pak-play-delayed-after-third-umpire-got-stuck-in-lift-at-mcg-during-boxing-day-test-674226">AUS v PAK: Play delayed after third umpire gets stuck in lift at MCG during Boxing Day Test</a></p>

<h2><strong>India face embarrassing defeat</strong></h2>

<p>After securing a 163-run lead in their first innings, India were called into bat on Day 3 of the Centurion Test needing a good start. However, those plans were dented as the visitors lost the wickets of Rohit Sharma (0) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (5) early. This was Rohit’s fifth Test duck as he suffers from a poor run of form. Rohit was soon joined by Yashasvi Jaiswal (5) as India’s poor Test return continued. The visitors were 13/2 before Shubman Gill (26) and Virat Kohli (76) tried to stitch a partnership.</p>

<p>Later, Gill and Shreyas Iyer were scalped by Marco Jansen as India were 72/4 with KL Rahul and Kohli batting. With wickets falling at regular intervals, Kohli changed gears and tried to get his hundred however his wicket in the 35th over brought curtains to the innings as India lost by an innings and 32 runs. Apart from Virat, only Gill got into double figures for India as they now switch attention to the second Test in Cape Town.</p>


India skipper Rohit Sharma has taken the blame for the embarrassing defeat against South Africa in the first Test match after they lost by an innings and 32 runs.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has taken the blame for the embarrassing defeat against South Africa in the first Test match after they lost by an innings and 32 runs. India were bowled out for 131 in their second innings and lost the contest on Day 3 as their wait for a series win on the Proteas soil continues. Dean Elgar was the star of the match with his 185-run knock, while Kagiso Rabada scalped seven wickets, including a five-for in the first innings. The win now sees South Africa lead the two-match series 1-0, making it impossible for India to win the series. A complete performance from the fast bowlers helps the hosts go 1-0 up in the #SAvIND Test series 🎉#WTC25 📝: https://t.co/Rma4l5S0RO pic.twitter.com/BggeNhDkSp — ICC (@ICC) December 28, 2023 × Rohit takes blame for defeat “We were not good enough to win. Having been put into bat, KL batted well to get us that score but then we didn't exploit the conditions with the ball and then again didn't show up today with the bat. If we have to win Test matches, we have to come together collectively and we didn't do that. Guys have come here before, we know what to expect and everyone has their own plan. Our batters were challenged and we didn't adapt well. This is a boundary scoring ground, we saw them score many but we need to understand the opposition and their strengths as well,” Rohit said in the post-match. The loss also had heavy ramifications on the World Test Championship (WTC) standings as India slipped to fifth spot while South Africa are top with a win in their first match of the cycle. ALSO READ | AUS v PAK: Play delayed after third umpire gets stuck in lift at MCG during Boxing Day Test India face embarrassing defeat After securing a 163-run lead in their first innings, India were called into bat on Day 3 of the Centurion Test needing a good start. However, those plans were dented as the visitors lost the wickets of Rohit Sharma (0) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (5) early. This was Rohit’s fifth Test duck as he suffers from a poor run of form. Rohit was soon joined by Yashasvi Jaiswal (5) as India’s poor Test return continued. The visitors were 13/2 before Shubman Gill (26) and Virat Kohli (76) tried to stitch a partnership. Later, Gill and Shreyas Iyer were scalped by Marco Jansen as India were 72/4 with KL Rahul and Kohli batting. With wickets falling at regular intervals, Kohli changed gears and tried to get his hundred however his wicket in the 35th over brought curtains to the innings as India lost by an innings and 32 runs. Apart from Virat, only Gill got into double figures for India as they now switch attention to the second Test in Cape Town.

SA vs IND 1st Test: Rohit Sharma takes blame for defeat in Centurion, says ‘we were not good enough to win’

<p>Rohit Sharma’s poor Post-World Cup form has continued after the Indian skipper was dismissed for a duck in the second innings on Day 3 of the Centurion Test match. After conceding a 163-run lead, India needed a good start in their second innings but Kagiso Rabada had the 35-year-old’s number which saw India make another poor start as the match slips away from the visitor’s hand. India will need to bring their best out in the second innings after South Africa ended their first innings at 408, getting a 163-run lead in the process.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rohit Sharma dismissed for a duck Rabada nuked him again 😭<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsSA</a> || <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvsIND</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://t.co/eK7stVrpFZ">https://t.co/eK7stVrpFZ</a></p>
— Rishi (@EpicVirat) <a href="https://twitter.com/EpicVirat/status/1740347564904607839?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Rabada gets Rohit’s number</strong></h2>

<p>On the fifth ball of the third over in the Indian innings, Rohit was clean bowled by Rabada as he jolted the innings. Rohit was unable to judge the flight of the delivery and ended up getting stumps castled which resulted in India being 5/1. This is Rohit’s fifth Test duck as he suffers from a poor run of form. Rohit was soon joined by Yashasvi Jaiswal (5) as India’s poor form continued. The visitors were 13/2 before Shubman Gill (26) and Virat Kohli tried to stitch a partnership.</p>

<p>Later, Gill and Shreyas Iyer were scalped by Marco Jansen as India were 72/4 with KL Rahul and Virat Kohli batting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-v-pak-play-delayed-after-third-umpire-got-stuck-in-lift-at-mcg-during-boxing-day-test-674226">AUS v PAK: Play delayed after third umpire gets stuck in lift at MCG during Boxing Day Test</a></p>

<h2><strong>Elgar departs with standing ovation</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Dean Elgar, having scored a hundred on Wednesday continued with his impressive run before he was dismissed for 185. Post his knock, Elgar departed with a heroes salute&nbsp;as the crowd gave him a standing ovation despite missing out on the double hundred. The left-hand batter before the start of the series had announced his retirement from international duty after the conclusion of the second Test in Cape Town.</p>

<p>In the first session, on the fifth ball of the 95th over Elgar was scalped by Shardul Thakur which brought his resolute innings to an end. The Proteas opener helped his side to reach 400 in their first and&nbsp;establish an&nbsp;iron grip on the contest. Elgar’s innings consisted of 28 fours and was scored at a strike rate of 65. His partnership with Marco Jansen was the highlight reel that helped the hosts take a vital lead in the first innings.</p>

<p>South Africa were bowled out for 408 with Temba Bavuma retired hurt while Jansen scored an unbeaten 84 with the bat.</p>


Rohit Sharma’s poor Post-World Cup form has continued after the Indian skipper was dismissed for a duck in the second innings on Day 3 of the Centurion Test match.

Rohit Sharma’s poor Post-World Cup form has continued after the Indian skipper was dismissed for a duck in the second innings on Day 3 of the Centurion Test match. After conceding a 163-run lead, India needed a good start in their second innings but Kagiso Rabada had the 35-year-old’s number which saw India make another poor start as the match slips away from the visitor’s hand. India will need to bring their best out in the second innings after South Africa ended their first innings at 408, getting a 163-run lead in the process. Rohit Sharma dismissed for a duck Rabada nuked him again 😭#INDvsSA || #SAvsIND https://t.co/eK7stVrpFZ — Rishi (@EpicVirat) December 28, 2023 × Rabada gets Rohit’s number On the fifth ball of the third over in the Indian innings, Rohit was clean bowled by Rabada as he jolted the innings. Rohit was unable to judge the flight of the delivery and ended up getting stumps castled which resulted in India being 5/1. This is Rohit’s fifth Test duck as he suffers from a poor run of form. Rohit was soon joined by Yashasvi Jaiswal (5) as India’s poor form continued. The visitors were 13/2 before Shubman Gill (26) and Virat Kohli tried to stitch a partnership. Later, Gill and Shreyas Iyer were scalped by Marco Jansen as India were 72/4 with KL Rahul and Virat Kohli batting. ALSO READ | AUS v PAK: Play delayed after third umpire gets stuck in lift at MCG during Boxing Day Test Elgar departs with standing ovation Earlier, Dean Elgar, having scored a hundred on Wednesday continued with his impressive run before he was dismissed for 185. Post his knock, Elgar departed with a heroes salute as the crowd gave him a standing ovation despite missing out on the double hundred. The left-hand batter before the start of the series had announced his retirement from international duty after the conclusion of the second Test in Cape Town. In the first session, on the fifth ball of the 95th over Elgar was scalped by Shardul Thakur which brought his resolute innings to an end. The Proteas opener helped his side to reach 400 in their first and establish an iron grip on the contest. Elgar’s innings consisted of 28 fours and was scored at a strike rate of 65. His partnership with Marco Jansen was the highlight reel that helped the hosts take a vital lead in the first innings. South Africa were bowled out for 408 with Temba Bavuma retired hurt while Jansen scored an unbeaten 84 with the bat.

WATCH: Kagiso Rabada gets Rohit Sharma's number as Indian skipper departs for duck against South Africa

<p>India captain and batting great Rohit Sharma admits that South Africa, of all touring countries, is the hardest place for the batters. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test at the SuperSport Park in Centurion, Rohit talked in detail about how crucial it is for India to win a series in the Rainbow Nation, given their position in world cricket, and what it could do to boost the nation’s morale following the World Cup final loss.</p>

<p>"It's a very important two Test matches in terms of where we stand as a team," Rohit Sharma told media ahead of the Boxing Day Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"To look back, we have never won a series here as well, that's a big opportunity in itself. We have come pretty close the last two times we toured here, and we come to this place with a lot of confidence trying to achieve what no one has ever achieved in this part of the world,” Rohit added.</p>

<p>Sharma has been part of the Test setup that found tremendous success in Australia and England in the past 5-7 years. Speaking on how fast bowling changed India’s dynamics as a touring team, Rohit admitted that their best pacer in Tests and perhaps on current form, Mohammed Shami’s absence will be felt.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-admits-it-took-time-to-come-out-of-world-cup-final-loss-drops-hints-on-playing-2024-t20-wc-673455">Rohit admits it took time to come out of World Cup final loss, drops hints on playing 2024 T20 WC</a></strong></p>

<p>"Our seamers have earned respect in how they have performed in overseas conditions," Rohit said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the last 5-7 years in fact, we did very well in Australia and England, even in South Africa, we have come close. We won in Centurion and came pretty close in Jo’burg and Cape Town, and the seamers have pulled their weight.</p>

<p>"Shami will be a big miss. His experience and what he has done over the years will be a big miss. Someone will take his place, and it won't be an easy role, but we have a lot of confidence in the guys who might take his place,” the India captain noted.</p>

<h2>Rohit aware of Proteas challenge</h2>

<p>India might have found success in white-ball cricket in this part of the world lately, but the win column in Tests still reads empty. For India to alter that, they will need their batters to weather the South African pace-attack storm and stand tall.</p>

<p>On the batting conditions in South Africa, Rohit said, "As a batter it's always a challenge to come and perform in South Africa, which is probably the hardest place to play for batsmen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I look forward to that challenge. Unfortunately I couldn't be here last time, but I'm looking forward to doing what is required from my side as a batter and see where it takes us."</p>

<p>"At some point, you have to start your career playing in these kind of conditions, so speaking to the people who have not been here before, they're excited and looking forward to the challenge,” he concluded.&nbsp;</p>


India captain and batting great Rohit Sharma admits that South Africa, of all touring countries, is the hardest place for the batters. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test at the SuperSport Park in Centurion, Rohit talked in detail about how crucial it is for India to win a series in the Rainbow Nation, given their position in world cricket, and what it could do to boost the nation’s morale following the World Cup final loss.

India captain and batting great Rohit Sharma admits that South Africa, of all touring countries, is the hardest place for the batters. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test at the SuperSport Park in Centurion, Rohit talked in detail about how crucial it is for India to win a series in the Rainbow Nation, given their position in world cricket, and what it could do to boost the nation’s morale following the World Cup final loss. "It's a very important two Test matches in terms of where we stand as a team," Rohit Sharma told media ahead of the Boxing Day Test. "To look back, we have never won a series here as well, that's a big opportunity in itself. We have come pretty close the last two times we toured here, and we come to this place with a lot of confidence trying to achieve what no one has ever achieved in this part of the world,” Rohit added. Sharma has been part of the Test setup that found tremendous success in Australia and England in the past 5-7 years. Speaking on how fast bowling changed India’s dynamics as a touring team, Rohit admitted that their best pacer in Tests and perhaps on current form, Mohammed Shami’s absence will be felt. ALSO READ: Rohit admits it took time to come out of World Cup final loss, drops hints on playing 2024 T20 WC "Our seamers have earned respect in how they have performed in overseas conditions," Rohit said. "In the last 5-7 years in fact, we did very well in Australia and England, even in South Africa, we have come close. We won in Centurion and came pretty close in Jo’burg and Cape Town, and the seamers have pulled their weight. "Shami will be a big miss. His experience and what he has done over the years will be a big miss. Someone will take his place, and it won't be an easy role, but we have a lot of confidence in the guys who might take his place,” the India captain noted. Rohit aware of Proteas challenge India might have found success in white-ball cricket in this part of the world lately, but the win column in Tests still reads empty. For India to alter that, they will need their batters to weather the South African pace-attack storm and stand tall. On the batting conditions in South Africa, Rohit said, "As a batter it's always a challenge to come and perform in South Africa, which is probably the hardest place to play for batsmen. "I look forward to that challenge. Unfortunately I couldn't be here last time, but I'm looking forward to doing what is required from my side as a batter and see where it takes us." "At some point, you have to start your career playing in these kind of conditions, so speaking to the people who have not been here before, they're excited and looking forward to the challenge,” he concluded.

Boxing Day Test: South Africa is hardest place to play for batters, admits India captain Rohit

<p>Overcoming heartbreak is never easy for anyone, and India captain Rohit Sharma is no different.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to the media ahead of the Boxing Day Test (vs South Africa) and for the first time since the 2023 World Cup final loss to Australia, Rohit admitted taking time to gain strength to overcome the disappointment of failing to win the home World Cup despite coming so close.</p>

<p>Post the 2023 World Cup final, Rohit lost his Mumbai Indians captaincy (in IPL) to Hardik Pandya, while his stance on featuring in yet another T20 World Cup (next year in the West Indies and the USA) remains unclear.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although several reports claimed that BCCI office-bearers and the selection committee had decided his fate heading into the marquee event, Rohit sounded confident about playing in the 2024 T20 World Cup.</p>

<p>"Desperation is to play cricket," Rohit told the media ahead of India’s first Test against the Proteas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Everybody has that desperation. Everybody wants to play. Everybody wants to do well. Wherever you get a chance, you want to do well. I know what you are trying to say, but you will get the answer in good time,” the India captain added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-v-ind-virat-kohli-on-cusp-of-surpassing-dravid-sehwag-on-this-list-during-south-africa-tests-673437">SA v IND: Virat Kohli on cusp of surpassing Dravid, Sehwag on THIS list during South Africa Tests</a></strong></p>

<p>While Rohit remained mum on his captaincy future, mainly in the shortest format, he said, as a batter, he is ready to embrace any challenge that comes his way in the next six months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As a batter, I'm batting as well as I could. So yeah, whatever is in front of me, I would look forward to play whatever is in front of me,” Rohit added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Took strength to overcome World Cup loss</h2>

<p>With India dominating the home World Cup like none other, having won ten straight matches in the lead-up to the final (against Australia), they looked like walking away with the coveted trophy on D-Day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>That, however, did not happen, as Travis Head’s second CWC hundred propelled them to their record sixth World Cup trophy (by six wickets).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit admitted that overcoming that loss took time and strength, thanking the his fans for the much-required support that helped him in his cause.</p>

<p>"Obviously, [moving on] from a loss like that, it is hard. But there's so much happening in life. There's so much cricket happening. You've got to find that strength to move on from that.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It took time for me as well to come out of that. But, you know, you gotta look forward. And honestly, we got a lot of encouragement from the outside world after that finals as well. And that motivated me personally to make sure I get up and start doing my job again,” Rohit Sharma added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Rohit will lead India in the two-match Test series, starting with the Boxing Day Test in Centurion.&nbsp;</p>


Overcoming heartbreak is never easy for anyone, and India captain Rohit Sharma is no different. Speaking to the media ahead of the Boxing Day Test (vs South Africa) and for the first time since the 2023 World Cup final loss to Australia, Rohit admitted taking time to gain strength to overcome the disappointment of failing to win the home World Cup despite coming so close.

Overcoming heartbreak is never easy for anyone, and India captain Rohit Sharma is no different. Speaking to the media ahead of the Boxing Day Test (vs South Africa) and for the first time since the 2023 World Cup final loss to Australia, Rohit admitted taking time to gain strength to overcome the disappointment of failing to win the home World Cup despite coming so close. Post the 2023 World Cup final, Rohit lost his Mumbai Indians captaincy (in IPL) to Hardik Pandya, while his stance on featuring in yet another T20 World Cup (next year in the West Indies and the USA) remains unclear. Although several reports claimed that BCCI office-bearers and the selection committee had decided his fate heading into the marquee event, Rohit sounded confident about playing in the 2024 T20 World Cup. "Desperation is to play cricket," Rohit told the media ahead of India’s first Test against the Proteas. "Everybody has that desperation. Everybody wants to play. Everybody wants to do well. Wherever you get a chance, you want to do well. I know what you are trying to say, but you will get the answer in good time,” the India captain added. ALSO READ: SA v IND: Virat Kohli on cusp of surpassing Dravid, Sehwag on THIS list during South Africa Tests While Rohit remained mum on his captaincy future, mainly in the shortest format, he said, as a batter, he is ready to embrace any challenge that comes his way in the next six months. "As a batter, I'm batting as well as I could. So yeah, whatever is in front of me, I would look forward to play whatever is in front of me,” Rohit added. Took strength to overcome World Cup loss With India dominating the home World Cup like none other, having won ten straight matches in the lead-up to the final (against Australia), they looked like walking away with the coveted trophy on D-Day. That, however, did not happen, as Travis Head’s second CWC hundred propelled them to their record sixth World Cup trophy (by six wickets). Rohit admitted that overcoming that loss took time and strength, thanking the his fans for the much-required support that helped him in his cause. "Obviously, [moving on] from a loss like that, it is hard. But there's so much happening in life. There's so much cricket happening. You've got to find that strength to move on from that. “It took time for me as well to come out of that. But, you know, you gotta look forward. And honestly, we got a lot of encouragement from the outside world after that finals as well. And that motivated me personally to make sure I get up and start doing my job again,” Rohit Sharma added. Meanwhile, Rohit will lead India in the two-match Test series, starting with the Boxing Day Test in Centurion.

Rohit admits it took time to come out of World Cup final loss, drops hints on playing 2024 T20 WC

<p>On Thursday (Dec 14), India's stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav scored his fourth T20I century during the Men in Blue's third and final match versus hosts South Africa, at the New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg. Riding on his 56-ball 100, India posted 201 for 7 in 20 overs and defended it in style after birthday boy Kuldeep Yadav's 5 for 17 dismissed South Africa for a paltry 95 in 13.5 overs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the third over of the Proteas' run-chase, Surya left the field with an ankle injury. After that, vice-captain Ravindra Jadeja led the charge as India won an easy game and ended the series at 1-1. In the post-match presentation, Surya spilt the beans on his injury.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SKY said, "I am good. I am able to walk so it is not that serious." On his knock, he stated, “It was wonderful scoring a hundred, and especially when it comes in a winning cause."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-york-likely-to-host-india-vs-pakistan-2024-t20-world-cup-match-reports-669888">New York likely to host India vs Pakistan 2024 T20 World Cup match - Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>The No. 1 T20I batter, who joined Rohit Sharma and Glenn Maxwell to become only the third in the format with four centuries, is not part of the KL Rahul-led India squad for the upcoming three ODIs, which gets underway on Sunday (Dec 17).&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the T20Is, Surya surpassed Virat Kohli in the list of most sixes for India in T20Is. In addition, he became the joint-fastest Indian -- along with Kohli -- to score 2,000 runs in the format. With the end of the T20Is, his South Africa tour ends with him not being part of the ODI and Test squads. He was in poor form throughout the ODI World Cup, leading to his omission from the three ODIs.</p>


On Thursday (Dec 14), India's stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav scored his fourth T20I century during the Men in Blue's third and final match versus hosts South Africa, at the New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg.

On Thursday (Dec 14), India's stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav scored his fourth T20I century during the Men in Blue's third and final match versus hosts South Africa, at the New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg. Riding on his 56-ball 100, India posted 201 for 7 in 20 overs and defended it in style after birthday boy Kuldeep Yadav's 5 for 17 dismissed South Africa for a paltry 95 in 13.5 overs. During the third over of the Proteas' run-chase, Surya left the field with an ankle injury. After that, vice-captain Ravindra Jadeja led the charge as India won an easy game and ended the series at 1-1. In the post-match presentation, Surya spilt the beans on his injury. SKY said, "I am good. I am able to walk so it is not that serious." On his knock, he stated, “It was wonderful scoring a hundred, and especially when it comes in a winning cause." Also read: New York likely to host India vs Pakistan 2024 T20 World Cup match - Reports The No. 1 T20I batter, who joined Rohit Sharma and Glenn Maxwell to become only the third in the format with four centuries, is not part of the KL Rahul-led India squad for the upcoming three ODIs, which gets underway on Sunday (Dec 17). During the T20Is, Surya surpassed Virat Kohli in the list of most sixes for India in T20Is. In addition, he became the joint-fastest Indian -- along with Kohli -- to score 2,000 runs in the format. With the end of the T20Is, his South Africa tour ends with him not being part of the ODI and Test squads. He was in poor form throughout the ODI World Cup, leading to his omission from the three ODIs.

SA vs Ind, 3rd T20I: Centurion Suryakumar Yadav shares update on ankle injury ahead of ODI leg

<p>Babar Azam has reclaimed the top spot in the ICC ODI Rankings on Wednesday (Dec 20). Babar, the former Pakistan skipper, was replaced from the No. 1 spot by Indian opener Shubman Gill recently, however, the stylish batter has regained the spot in a flash. It is to be noted that&nbsp;the change in the rankings occurred following&nbsp;Gill's absence from India's ongoing three ODIs&nbsp;against hosts South Africa. Babar holds the top spot with an impressive 824 rating points, while Gill remains a close second with 810 points.</p>

<p>Babar-starrer Pakistan have not played an ODI since their World Cup campaign ended on Nov 11, when they faced England in their last league stage game at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. With the Men in Green not playing an ODI for over a month, Babar's rating point&nbsp;did not drop&nbsp;whereas Gill missing the SA ODIs led to him losing rating points.&nbsp; Meanwhile, India's veteran star duo Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain in the top four in the overall rankings.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-border-gavaskar-trophy-win-to-near-perfect-odi-world-cup-campaign-team-indias-run-in-2023-669970">From Border-Gavaskar Trophy win to near-perfect ODI World Cup campaign: Team India's run in 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>1. Babar Azam (Pakistan) - 824 rating points<br />
2. Shubman Gill (India) - 810 rating points<br />
3. Virat Kohli (India) - 775 rating points<br />
4. Rohit Sharma (India) - 754 rating points<br />
5. David Warner (Australia) - 745 rating points<br />
6. Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand) - 743 rating points<br />
7. Harry Tector (Ireland) - 723 rating points<br />
8. Rassie van der Dussen (South Africa) - 717 rating points<br />
9. Dawid Malan (England) - 707 rating points<br />
10. Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa) - 705 rating points</p>

<p>Kane Williamson and Suryakumar Yadav remain the No. 1 batter in Tests and T20Is, respectively. Among the bowlers, R Ashwin tops the charts in Tests with South Africa's Keshav Maharaj being the No. 1 ODI bowler and Adil Rashid (England) topping the charts in T20Is.&nbsp;</p>


Babar Azam has reclaimed the top spot in the ICC ODI Rankings on Wednesday (Dec 20). Babar, the former Pakistan skipper, was replaced from the No. 1 spot by Indian opener Shubman Gill recently, however, the stylish batter has regained the spot in a flash.

Babar Azam has reclaimed the top spot in the ICC ODI Rankings on Wednesday (Dec 20). Babar, the former Pakistan skipper, was replaced from the No. 1 spot by Indian opener Shubman Gill recently, however, the stylish batter has regained the spot in a flash. It is to be noted that the change in the rankings occurred following Gill's absence from India's ongoing three ODIs against hosts South Africa. Babar holds the top spot with an impressive 824 rating points, while Gill remains a close second with 810 points. Babar-starrer Pakistan have not played an ODI since their World Cup campaign ended on Nov 11, when they faced England in their last league stage game at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata. With the Men in Green not playing an ODI for over a month, Babar's rating point did not drop whereas Gill missing the SA ODIs led to him losing rating points. Meanwhile, India's veteran star duo Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain in the top four in the overall rankings. Also read: From Border-Gavaskar Trophy win to near-perfect ODI World Cup campaign: Team India's run in 2023 1. Babar Azam (Pakistan) - 824 rating points 2. Shubman Gill (India) - 810 rating points 3. Virat Kohli (India) - 775 rating points 4. Rohit Sharma (India) - 754 rating points 5. David Warner (Australia) - 745 rating points 6. Daryl Mitchell (New Zealand) - 743 rating points 7. Harry Tector (Ireland) - 723 rating points 8. Rassie van der Dussen (South Africa) - 717 rating points 9. Dawid Malan (England) - 707 rating points 10. Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa) - 705 rating points Kane Williamson and Suryakumar Yadav remain the No. 1 batter in Tests and T20Is, respectively. Among the bowlers, R Ashwin tops the charts in Tests with South Africa's Keshav Maharaj being the No. 1 ODI bowler and Adil Rashid (England) topping the charts in T20Is.

ICC ODI Rankings: Babar Azam reclaims No. 1 spot from Gill, Indian veterans Kohli and Rohit remain in top 4

<p>Mumbai Indians global head of cricket, Mahela Jayawardene, has defended the franchise's call to replace veteran Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as the new captain ahead of IPL 2024, saying it was tough and emotional at the same time.</p>

<p>Jayawardene addressed the outrage from fans that came with this decision, saying while it was not easy in the first place, this call was necessary&nbsp;to look at the franchise’s future.</p>

<p>Speaking with Jio Cinema in an exclusive chat at the sidelines of the IPL 2024 Auction in Dubai, Jayawardene said, "It was a tough decision. It was emotional, to be honest. It's fair on the fans as well (to react). I think everyone is emotional, and we have to respect that as well. But, at the same time, as a franchise, you have to make those decisions.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Commenting on having Rohit Sharma (as a pure batter) in the dressing room, Mahela said the India great is there to guide the next generation, as he has been brilliant during his captaincy tenure for the franchise.</p>

<p>"Having Rohit in the team, on and off the field to guide the next generation is very important for us. He has been absolutely brilliant. I am sure he will be part of the legacy who will guide that through," Jayawardene affirmed.</p>

<p>Sharing his thoughts on appointing Pandya as the captain, Mahela said this might have come a bit early (for the fans), but this was the decision they had to take at some point.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-level-t20i-series-against-west-indies-as-phil-salt-smashes-records-with-2nd-t20i-ton-671552">England level T20I series against West Indies as Phil Salt smashes records with 2nd T20I ton</a></strong></p>

<p>"Probably, everyone in their eyes will think it is too soon, but it is a decision we had to make at some point," Jayawardene explained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, having played for the Mumbai Indians since his IPL debut before shifting bases to Gujarat Titans for a couple of seasons, Pandya is aware of the dressing room environment at the MI, which would help him gel with the players and create his team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Hardik (Pandya) has been in the dressing room for quite some time, so that's nothing new. We know what he brings in as an all-rounder. It will be something different with his experience of leading the team at Gujarat, so, it is an opportunity to build on that," Jayawardene added.</p>

<h2>MI’s buys at IPL 2024 Auction</h2>

<p>Unlike other teams, Mumbai deployed a conservative approach in picking players at the IPL 2024 Auction in Dubai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among all the buys, the most expensive was South African seamer Gerald Coetzee, bought for INR 5 crore.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="pt">𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐭<br />
T̵E̵Z̵ ̵T̵E̵E̵K̵H̵I̵ ̵M̵I̵R̵C̵H̵ ✅<br />
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A̵F̵G̵H̵A̵N̵ ̵J̵A̵L̵E̵B̵I̵ ✅<br />
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And many more. We are ready for 𝐈𝐏𝐋 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneFamily</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiIndians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiIndians</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/f63PpSy24x">pic.twitter.com/f63PpSy24x</a></p>
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<p>Besides, new additions to the MI family are - Dilshan Madushanka (INR 4.60 crore), Shreyas Gopal (INR 20 lakh), Nuwan Thushara (INR 4.80 crore), Naman Dhir (INR 20 lakh), Anshul Kamboj (INR 20 lakh), Mohammad Nabi (INR 1.5 crore) and Shivalik Sharma (INR 20 lakh).</p>


Mumbai Indians global head of cricket, Mahela Jayawardene, has defended the franchise's call to replace veteran Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as the new captain ahead of IPL 2024, saying it was tough and emotional at the same time.

Mumbai Indians global head of cricket, Mahela Jayawardene, has defended the franchise's call to replace veteran Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as the new captain ahead of IPL 2024, saying it was tough and emotional at the same time. Jayawardene addressed the outrage from fans that came with this decision, saying while it was not easy in the first place, this call was necessary to look at the franchise’s future. Speaking with Jio Cinema in an exclusive chat at the sidelines of the IPL 2024 Auction in Dubai, Jayawardene said, "It was a tough decision. It was emotional, to be honest. It's fair on the fans as well (to react). I think everyone is emotional, and we have to respect that as well. But, at the same time, as a franchise, you have to make those decisions.” Commenting on having Rohit Sharma (as a pure batter) in the dressing room, Mahela said the India great is there to guide the next generation, as he has been brilliant during his captaincy tenure for the franchise. "Having Rohit in the team, on and off the field to guide the next generation is very important for us. He has been absolutely brilliant. I am sure he will be part of the legacy who will guide that through," Jayawardene affirmed. Sharing his thoughts on appointing Pandya as the captain, Mahela said this might have come a bit early (for the fans), but this was the decision they had to take at some point. ALSO READ: England level T20I series against West Indies as Phil Salt smashes records with 2nd T20I ton "Probably, everyone in their eyes will think it is too soon, but it is a decision we had to make at some point," Jayawardene explained. Meanwhile, having played for the Mumbai Indians since his IPL debut before shifting bases to Gujarat Titans for a couple of seasons, Pandya is aware of the dressing room environment at the MI, which would help him gel with the players and create his team. "Hardik (Pandya) has been in the dressing room for quite some time, so that's nothing new. We know what he brings in as an all-rounder. It will be something different with his experience of leading the team at Gujarat, so, it is an opportunity to build on that," Jayawardene added. MI’s buys at IPL 2024 Auction Unlike other teams, Mumbai deployed a conservative approach in picking players at the IPL 2024 Auction in Dubai. Among all the buys, the most expensive was South African seamer Gerald Coetzee, bought for INR 5 crore. 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐭 T̵E̵Z̵ ̵T̵E̵E̵K̵H̵I̵ ̵M̵I̵R̵C̵H̵ ✅ B̵U̵L̵L̵'̵S̵-̵E̵Y̵E̵ ✅ A̵F̵G̵H̵A̵N̵ ̵J̵A̵L̵E̵B̵I̵ ✅ . . . And many more. We are ready for 𝐈𝐏𝐋 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 💙#OneFamily #MumbaiIndians #IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/f63PpSy24x — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) December 19, 2023 × Besides, new additions to the MI family are - Dilshan Madushanka (INR 4.60 crore), Shreyas Gopal (INR 20 lakh), Nuwan Thushara (INR 4.80 crore), Naman Dhir (INR 20 lakh), Anshul Kamboj (INR 20 lakh), Mohammad Nabi (INR 1.5 crore) and Shivalik Sharma (INR 20 lakh).

IPL 2024 - Replacing Rohit with Pandya as Mumbai Indians captain was tough and emotional: Mahela Jayawardene

<p>Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has opined on the change of guard&nbsp;in the Mumbai Indians camp after Hardik Pandya took over the reins as captain on Friday (Dec 15). In a sensational development on Friday, Hardik was announced as the new skipper while Rohit Sharma stepped down after a successful spell as the leader. According to Manjrekar, there should not be too much "sentimental"&nbsp;thinking about the captaincy change ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).</p>

<h2><strong>Manjrekar opines on Pandya’s new role</strong></h2>

<p>“One should not be thinking sentimentally or emotionally about Rohit Sharma. I think it’s a good move as Hardik Pandya is a proven leader and has had a great run. So, he is your in-form T20 captain and player,” Manjrekar said while speaking during the India vs South Africa contest.</p>

<p>“Rohit has been around for a long time. So, it makes a lot of cricketing sense to have somebody like Hardik,” he stated.</p>

<p>The announcement on Friday came as a big surprise for the cricket fraternity after Rohit decided to step down from his role as captain. Pandya, on the flip side, will look to succeed the successful stint of Rohit having led Gujarat Titans in the previous two seasons. Interestingly, his first year with GT saw him lead them to glory after beating Rajasthan Royals in the final of the 2022 tournament. Hardik also acts as deputy to Rohit in the Indian cricket team but is currently nursing an injury.</p>

<p>A<strong>LSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-ishan-kishan-withdraws-from-test-squad-due-to-personal-reasons-ks-bharat-roped-in-as-replacement-670562">SA vs IND: Ishan Kishan withdraws from Test squad due to personal reasons; KS Bharat roped in as replacement</a></p>

<h2><strong>Rohit’s stint as captain</strong></h2>

<p>Rohit took over the captaincy in 2013 from Ricky Ponting at the midway point of the season and led the team to their first IPL title. Later that year, Rohit also helped Mumbai beat Rajasthan Royals in the final of the Champions League with Sachin Tendulkar playing his final competitive match in Delhi. He then led Mumbai to success in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming&nbsp;the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Earlier, MS Dhoni joined Rohit Sharma as the joint-best successful captain in the IPL history with five titles.</p>


Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has opined on the change of guard in the Mumbai Indians camp after Hardik Pandya took over the reins as captain on Friday (Dec 15).

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has opined on the change of guard in the Mumbai Indians camp after Hardik Pandya took over the reins as captain on Friday (Dec 15). In a sensational development on Friday, Hardik was announced as the new skipper while Rohit Sharma stepped down after a successful spell as the leader. According to Manjrekar, there should not be too much "sentimental" thinking about the captaincy change ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Manjrekar opines on Pandya’s new role “One should not be thinking sentimentally or emotionally about Rohit Sharma. I think it’s a good move as Hardik Pandya is a proven leader and has had a great run. So, he is your in-form T20 captain and player,” Manjrekar said while speaking during the India vs South Africa contest. “Rohit has been around for a long time. So, it makes a lot of cricketing sense to have somebody like Hardik,” he stated. The announcement on Friday came as a big surprise for the cricket fraternity after Rohit decided to step down from his role as captain. Pandya, on the flip side, will look to succeed the successful stint of Rohit having led Gujarat Titans in the previous two seasons. Interestingly, his first year with GT saw him lead them to glory after beating Rajasthan Royals in the final of the 2022 tournament. Hardik also acts as deputy to Rohit in the Indian cricket team but is currently nursing an injury. ALSO READ | SA vs IND: Ishan Kishan withdraws from Test squad due to personal reasons; KS Bharat roped in as replacement Rohit’s stint as captain Rohit took over the captaincy in 2013 from Ricky Ponting at the midway point of the season and led the team to their first IPL title. Later that year, Rohit also helped Mumbai beat Rajasthan Royals in the final of the Champions League with Sachin Tendulkar playing his final competitive match in Delhi. He then led Mumbai to success in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Earlier, MS Dhoni joined Rohit Sharma as the joint-best successful captain in the IPL history with five titles.

IPL 2024: 'One should not be thinking sentimentally', Sanjay Manjrekar on Pandya's new role at MI

<p>On Friday (Dec 15), the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise dropped a bomb by announcing Hardik Pandya as the captain, bringing curtains on Rohit Sharma's successful captaincy era (comprising five IPL and one Champions League trophy). Hardik rejoined his first-ever IPL franchise on the IPL retention deadline day on Nov 26. He moved from Gujarat Titans (GT), where he led them to the championship in their inaugural season in 2022 and in the final in the 2023 edition, to his old franchise and many were speculating&nbsp;such a move by MI. However, after the announcement, the franchise has been facing a lot of backlash with many not impressed with the decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many former cricketers have reacted to Hardik replacing Rohit as the MI skipper. Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar recently joined the bandwagon and stated that the decision will only benefit MI.</p>

<p>Speaking to Star Sports, Little Master Gavaskar said,&nbsp;"We shouldn't go into rights and wrongs. But, the decision they have taken is for the benefit of the team. In the last two years, Rohit's contribution, even with the bat, has dipped a little bit. Earlier, he used to score big, but in the last two years&nbsp;they finished No. 9 or No. 10 the year before last year and in the last year they qualified for the playoffs.&nbsp;But we missed seeing the mojo in Rohit Sharma that we used to see in the previous few years. Maybe, he was a little tired because of playing continuous cricket, he was a little tired because of captaincy, leading India and the franchise."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-v-ind-sai-sudharsan-feels-blessed-to-contribute-in-winning-cause-pens-heartfelt-note-after-odi-debut-670758">SA v IND: Sai Sudharsan feels ‘blessed’ to contribute to winning cause, pens heartfelt note after ODI debut</a></strong></p>

<p>He added, "I feel that the decision, they have kept in mind that Hardik is a young captain who has produced results. Hardik has led Gujarat to the finals twice, and he led them to the title in 2022. I think they have made him captain by considering all this.&nbsp;At times, you need fresh thinking. Hardk brings in that fresh thinking. I think the decision will only benefit Mumbai Indians, it will not deter them."</p>

<p>Under Rohit, MI became a force to be reckoned with and won the IPL in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020 whereas they also won the now-defunct CLT20 title in 2013. It will be interesting to see how the Mumbai franchise moves forward under Hardik, who tasted huge success as GT's captain in 2022-23.</p>


On Friday (Dec 15), the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise dropped a bomb by announcing Hardik Pandya as the captain, bringing curtains on Rohit Sharma's successful captaincy era (comprising five IPL and one Champions League trophy).

On Friday (Dec 15), the Mumbai Indians (MI) franchise dropped a bomb by announcing Hardik Pandya as the captain, bringing curtains on Rohit Sharma's successful captaincy era (comprising five IPL and one Champions League trophy). Hardik rejoined his first-ever IPL franchise on the IPL retention deadline day on Nov 26. He moved from Gujarat Titans (GT), where he led them to the championship in their inaugural season in 2022 and in the final in the 2023 edition, to his old franchise and many were speculating such a move by MI. However, after the announcement, the franchise has been facing a lot of backlash with many not impressed with the decision. Many former cricketers have reacted to Hardik replacing Rohit as the MI skipper. Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar recently joined the bandwagon and stated that the decision will only benefit MI. Speaking to Star Sports, Little Master Gavaskar said, "We shouldn't go into rights and wrongs. But, the decision they have taken is for the benefit of the team. In the last two years, Rohit's contribution, even with the bat, has dipped a little bit. Earlier, he used to score big, but in the last two years they finished No. 9 or No. 10 the year before last year and in the last year they qualified for the playoffs. But we missed seeing the mojo in Rohit Sharma that we used to see in the previous few years. Maybe, he was a little tired because of playing continuous cricket, he was a little tired because of captaincy, leading India and the franchise." Also read: SA v IND: Sai Sudharsan feels ‘blessed’ to contribute to winning cause, pens heartfelt note after ODI debut He added, "I feel that the decision, they have kept in mind that Hardik is a young captain who has produced results. Hardik has led Gujarat to the finals twice, and he led them to the title in 2022. I think they have made him captain by considering all this. At times, you need fresh thinking. Hardk brings in that fresh thinking. I think the decision will only benefit Mumbai Indians, it will not deter them." Under Rohit, MI became a force to be reckoned with and won the IPL in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020 whereas they also won the now-defunct CLT20 title in 2013. It will be interesting to see how the Mumbai franchise moves forward under Hardik, who tasted huge success as GT's captain in 2022-23.

IPL 2024: Hardik replacing Rohit as MI captain will benefit franchise, feels Little Master Sunil Gavaskar

<p>India's stand-in T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav scored a record breaking ton on Thursday (Dec. 14) in third T20I against South Africa in Johannesburg. The hundred was Surya's fourth - joint most in the in T20Is along with Rohit Sharma and Australia's Glenn Maxwell. Surya has&nbsp;also hit all these hundreds in four different countries - first cricketer to do so in the T20I history.</p>

<p>Surya's first three hundreds were: 117 against England in Nottingham (July 2022), 111 not out against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui (November 2022) and 112 not out against Sri Lanka in Rajkot (January 2023).</p>

<p>Rohit, on the other hand, scored two of his hundreds in India, one in England and one in Sri Lanka while Glenn Maxwell also scored two of his tons in India, one in Sri Lanka and one in home country of Australia.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-women-create-history-with-410-runs-on-day-1-of-only-test-against-england-669756">India women create history with 410 runs on day 1 of only Test against England</a></p>

<p>On Thursday, Surya scored exact 100 off 56 balls that included seven four and eight sixes. With his third six of the innings, Surya also left behind Virat Kohli for most sixes for India in T20Is. Surya now has 123 sixes in the shortest format - six more than Kohli's 117. Leading the list is Rohit who has 182 sixes in the T20Is - also the most for any batter in the world.</p>

<p>Thanks to Surya's blitzkrieg, India posed a huge total of 201/7 in their quota of 20 overs. Apart from Surya, Yashasvi Jaiswal also scored 60 runs of 41 balls. Apart from these two, only Rinku Singh scored in double figures - 14 runs - as rest of the India batters faltered.</p>

<p>For South Africa, Keshav Maharaj was the pick of the bowlers with 2/26 in his four overs. Apart from him Lizzad Williams also took 2/46 while debutant Nandre Burger and Tabraiz Shamsi took one wicket each.</p>

<p>South Africa currently lead the three-match series 1-0 with their win in the second match after the first match was washed out.</p>


India's stand-in T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav scored a record breaking ton on Thursday (Dec. 14) in third T20I against South Africa in Johannesburg. The hundred was Surya's fourth - joint most in the in T20Is along with Rohit Sharma and Australia's Glenn Maxwell.

India's stand-in T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav scored a record breaking ton on Thursday (Dec. 14) in third T20I against South Africa in Johannesburg. The hundred was Surya's fourth - joint most in the in T20Is along with Rohit Sharma and Australia's Glenn Maxwell. Surya has also hit all these hundreds in four different countries - first cricketer to do so in the T20I history. Surya's first three hundreds were: 117 against England in Nottingham (July 2022), 111 not out against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui (November 2022) and 112 not out against Sri Lanka in Rajkot (January 2023). Rohit, on the other hand, scored two of his hundreds in India, one in England and one in Sri Lanka while Glenn Maxwell also scored two of his tons in India, one in Sri Lanka and one in home country of Australia. Also Read: India women create history with 410 runs on day 1 of only Test against England On Thursday, Surya scored exact 100 off 56 balls that included seven four and eight sixes. With his third six of the innings, Surya also left behind Virat Kohli for most sixes for India in T20Is. Surya now has 123 sixes in the shortest format - six more than Kohli's 117. Leading the list is Rohit who has 182 sixes in the T20Is - also the most for any batter in the world. Thanks to Surya's blitzkrieg, India posed a huge total of 201/7 in their quota of 20 overs. Apart from Surya, Yashasvi Jaiswal also scored 60 runs of 41 balls. Apart from these two, only Rinku Singh scored in double figures - 14 runs - as rest of the India batters faltered. For South Africa, Keshav Maharaj was the pick of the bowlers with 2/26 in his four overs. Apart from him Lizzad Williams also took 2/46 while debutant Nandre Burger and Tabraiz Shamsi took one wicket each. South Africa currently lead the three-match series 1-0 with their win in the second match after the first match was washed out.

Suryakumar Yadav equals Rohit Sharma, goes past Virat Kohli with record ton vs South Africa in 3rd T20I

<p>Indian Premier League (IPL) giants Mumbai Indians paid a fitting tribute to Rohit Sharma as he stepped down from his captaincy role on Friday (Dec 15). In a sensational announcement made by the franchise on Friday, Rohit was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the new skipper with the auctions for the new season around the corner. Rohit had a successful stint as the captain of the franchise and led them to five IPL titles and one Champions League title.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ro,<br />
In 2013 you took over as captain of MI. You asked us to 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞. In victories &amp; defeats, you asked us to 𝘚𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘦. 10 years &amp; 6 trophies later, here we are. Our 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧, your legacy will be etched in Blue &amp; Gold. Thank you, 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐎💙 <a href="https://t.co/KDIPCkIVop">pic.twitter.com/KDIPCkIVop</a></p>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1735647575552770379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>MI’s tribute to Rohit Sharma</strong></h2>

<p>“Ro, In 2013 you took over as captain of MI. You asked us to believe. In victories &amp; defeats, you asked us to smile. 10 years &amp; 6 trophies later, here we are. Our forever captain, your legacy will be etched in Blue &amp; Gold. Thank you, captain RO,” Mumbai Indians’ social media handle read.</p>

<p>The 35-year-old joined MI in 2011 when he was up for auction having been released by Deccan Charges. His move to MI proved to be one of the most successful stories in the history of IPL.&nbsp;Adding to his 2009 IPL success with Deccan, Rohit went on to win five more titles with the Mumbai-based franchise. He was the most decorated player in history with six titles until Ambati Rayudu joined him in 2023 with six titles.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tier-2-tournament-similar-to-ipl-set-for-launch-in-2024-bcci-outlines-window-for-proposed-t10-league-669987">‘Tier 2’ tournament similar to IPL set for launch in 2024, BCCI outlines window for proposed T10 league</a></p>

<h2><strong>Rohit’s tenure as captain of MI</strong></h2>

<p>Rohit took over the captaincy reigns in 2013 from Ricky Ponting in the middle of the season and led the team to their first IPL title.&nbsp;He then led Mumbai to victories in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Later, MS Dhoni 2023 helped his team Chennai Super Kings bag the title for the fifth time and joined Rohit Sharma to achieve this feat.</p>

<p>Hardik will now have a tough task in taking the captaincy baton as he follows in the footsteps of Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh and Ricky Ponting. He, however, comes with a proven pedigree having led Gujarat Titans to back-to-back finals in 2022 and 2023 respectively. His first year saw him lead GT to the IPL title in their debut season and will now be tasked to repeat the achievement.</p>


Indian Premier League (IPL) giants Mumbai Indians paid a fitting tribute to Rohit Sharma as he stepped down from his captaincy role on Friday (Dec 15). In a sensational announcement made by the franchise on Friday, Rohit was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the new skipper with the auctions for the new season around the corner.

Indian Premier League (IPL) giants Mumbai Indians paid a fitting tribute to Rohit Sharma as he stepped down from his captaincy role on Friday (Dec 15). In a sensational announcement made by the franchise on Friday, Rohit was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the new skipper with the auctions for the new season around the corner. Rohit had a successful stint as the captain of the franchise and led them to five IPL titles and one Champions League title. Ro, In 2013 you took over as captain of MI. You asked us to 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞. In victories & defeats, you asked us to 𝘚𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘦. 10 years & 6 trophies later, here we are. Our 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧, your legacy will be etched in Blue & Gold. Thank you, 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐎💙 pic.twitter.com/KDIPCkIVop — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) December 15, 2023 × MI’s tribute to Rohit Sharma “Ro, In 2013 you took over as captain of MI. You asked us to believe. In victories & defeats, you asked us to smile. 10 years & 6 trophies later, here we are. Our forever captain, your legacy will be etched in Blue & Gold. Thank you, captain RO,” Mumbai Indians’ social media handle read. The 35-year-old joined MI in 2011 when he was up for auction having been released by Deccan Charges. His move to MI proved to be one of the most successful stories in the history of IPL. Adding to his 2009 IPL success with Deccan, Rohit went on to win five more titles with the Mumbai-based franchise. He was the most decorated player in history with six titles until Ambati Rayudu joined him in 2023 with six titles. ALSO READ | ‘Tier 2’ tournament similar to IPL set for launch in 2024, BCCI outlines window for proposed T10 league Rohit’s tenure as captain of MI Rohit took over the captaincy reigns in 2013 from Ricky Ponting in the middle of the season and led the team to their first IPL title. He then led Mumbai to victories in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Later, MS Dhoni 2023 helped his team Chennai Super Kings bag the title for the fifth time and joined Rohit Sharma to achieve this feat. Hardik will now have a tough task in taking the captaincy baton as he follows in the footsteps of Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh and Ricky Ponting. He, however, comes with a proven pedigree having led Gujarat Titans to back-to-back finals in 2022 and 2023 respectively. His first year saw him lead GT to the IPL title in their debut season and will now be tasked to repeat the achievement.

Watch: Mumbai Indians pay tribute to Rohit Sharma after successful stint as skipper

<p>Hardik Pandya is all set to lead Mumbai Indians in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in a major overhaul of the franchise. Hardik, who returned to Mumbai on the deadline day of the trade window, will take over from Rohit Sharma, who successfully led the franchise to five IPL titles during his stint as the skipper of the side. He now joins the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh and Ricky Ponting to lead the record IPL champions.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To new beginnings. Good luck, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CaptainPandya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CaptainPandya</a> 💙 <a href="https://t.co/qRH9ABz1PY">pic.twitter.com/qRH9ABz1PY</a></p>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1735643112159031604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Panyda's reign at Mumbai Indians</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement on Friday (Dec 15) came as a big surprise for the cricket fraternity after Rohit decided to step down from his role as captain. While Pandya having led Gujarat Titans (GT) in the previous two seasons will now look help his new team,&nbsp;Mumbai Indians, clinch the title.</p>

<p>Interestingly, Pandaya's&nbsp;first year with GT saw him lead them to glory after beating Rajasthan Royals in the final of the 2022 tournament. Pandaya also acts as deputy to Rohit on the Indian cricket team but is currently nursing an injury.</p>

<p>“It is part of legacy building and staying true to the MI philosophy of being future-ready. Mumbai Indians have always been blessed with exceptional leadership right from Sachin to Harbhajan and Ricky to Rohit, who while contributing to the immediate success have always had an eye on strengthening the team for the future. It is in keeping with this philosophy that Hardik Pandya will assume captaincy of Mumbai Indians for the IPL 2024 season.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We express our gratitude to Rohit Sharma for his exceptional leadership; his tenure as the captain of the Mumbai Indians since 2013 has been nothing short of extraordinary. His leadership has not only brought unparalleled success to the team but has also solidified his place as one of the finest captains in the history of the IPL,” Mahela Jayawardene, Global Head of Performance, Mumbai Indians said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tier-2-tournament-similar-to-ipl-set-for-launch-in-2024-bcci-outlines-window-for-proposed-t10-league-669987">‘Tier 2’ tournament similar to IPL set for launch in 2024, BCCI outlines window for proposed T10 league</a></p>

<h2><strong>Rohit’s stint as captain</strong></h2>

<p>Rohit took over the captaincy reigns in 2013 from Ricky Ponting in the middle of the season and led the team to their first IPL title.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He then lead Mumbai to victories in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Later, MS Dhoni&nbsp;in 2023 helped his team Chennai Super Kings bag the title for the fifth&nbsp;time and joined Rohit Sharma to achieve this feat</p>


Hardik Pandya is all set to lead Mumbai Indians in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in a major overhaul of the franchise. Hardik, who returned to Mumbai on the deadline day of the trade window, will take over from Rohit Sharma, who successfully led the franchise to five IPL titles during his stint as the skipper of the side.

Hardik Pandya is all set to lead Mumbai Indians in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in a major overhaul of the franchise. Hardik, who returned to Mumbai on the deadline day of the trade window, will take over from Rohit Sharma, who successfully led the franchise to five IPL titles during his stint as the skipper of the side. He now joins the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh and Ricky Ponting to lead the record IPL champions. To new beginnings. Good luck, #CaptainPandya 💙 pic.twitter.com/qRH9ABz1PY — Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) December 15, 2023 × Panyda's reign at Mumbai Indians The announcement on Friday (Dec 15) came as a big surprise for the cricket fraternity after Rohit decided to step down from his role as captain. While Pandya having led Gujarat Titans (GT) in the previous two seasons will now look help his new team, Mumbai Indians, clinch the title. Interestingly, Pandaya's first year with GT saw him lead them to glory after beating Rajasthan Royals in the final of the 2022 tournament. Pandaya also acts as deputy to Rohit on the Indian cricket team but is currently nursing an injury. “It is part of legacy building and staying true to the MI philosophy of being future-ready. Mumbai Indians have always been blessed with exceptional leadership right from Sachin to Harbhajan and Ricky to Rohit, who while contributing to the immediate success have always had an eye on strengthening the team for the future. It is in keeping with this philosophy that Hardik Pandya will assume captaincy of Mumbai Indians for the IPL 2024 season. “We express our gratitude to Rohit Sharma for his exceptional leadership; his tenure as the captain of the Mumbai Indians since 2013 has been nothing short of extraordinary. His leadership has not only brought unparalleled success to the team but has also solidified his place as one of the finest captains in the history of the IPL,” Mahela Jayawardene, Global Head of Performance, Mumbai Indians said in a statement. ALSO READ | ‘Tier 2’ tournament similar to IPL set for launch in 2024, BCCI outlines window for proposed T10 league Rohit’s stint as captain Rohit took over the captaincy reigns in 2013 from Ricky Ponting in the middle of the season and led the team to their first IPL title. He then lead Mumbai to victories in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Later, MS Dhoni in 2023 helped his team Chennai Super Kings bag the title for the fifth time and joined Rohit Sharma to achieve this feat

IPL 2024: Hardik Pandya to take over captaincy from Rohit Sharma of Mumbai Indians in major overhaul

<p>On Wednesday (Dec 13), Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Team India's ODI World Cup final loss, where they went down to Australia by six wickets in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Being on a 10-match winning streak, hosts India entered the 10-team competition's finale as the red-hot favourites but lost to Pat Cummins-led Aussies.</p>

<p>Being asked to bat first at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, Rohit &amp; Co. only managed 240 for 9 before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58 not-out guided Australia to their sixth ODI WC triumph overall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the heartbreaking loss, the majority of the Indian cricketers have stayed away from international cricket to revamp and return to the field. Before Rohit's return to the 22-yard cricket strip, during the forthcoming two Tests versus South Africa in the African nation, the Indian captain shared an emotional message acknowledging the fan support.</p>

<p>He further shared the challenges and emotions experienced during the entire tournament and how everyone's pure love has motivated him to keep going ahead.</p>

<h2><strong>'I feel for all of them. They all, along with us, were dreaming of lifting that World Cup'</strong></h2>

<p>Rohit said in a video shared on Instagram, "After the final, it was very hard to get back and start moving on, which is why I decided that I need to get my mind out of this. But then, wherever I was, I realised that people were coming up to me and they were appreciating everyone’s effort, and how well we played. I feel for all of them. They all, along with us, were dreaming of lifting that World Cup, along with us."</p>

<p>He further opined, “Everywhere we went during this entire campaign, there was so much support from everyone who came to the stadium firstly and people who were watching it from home as well. I want to appreciate what the people have done for us, in that one and half month period. But again, if I think more and more about that I feel quite disappointed that we were not able to go all the way.”</p>

<p>“For me to see, you know, people coming up to me, telling me that they were proud of the team, you know made me feel good. Along with them, I was healing as well. I felt, okay these are the kind of things you want to hear,” Rohit mentioned.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-is-the-vegetarian-chicken-virat-kohli-shared-on-social-media-to-leave-netizens-bemused-669167">What is the VEGETARIAN 'chicken' Virat Kohli shared on social media to leave netizens BEMUSED</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'Seeing everyone's pure love motivates you to look for another ultimate prize'</strong></h2>

<p>Hitman then stated, “People, when they understand what the player must be going through and when they know these kinds of things and not to bring out that frustration, that anger, it means a lot for us, me it meant a lot because there was no anger, it was just pure love from people that I met and it was wonderful to see that. So it gives you motivation to get back and start working again and look for another ultimate prize.”</p>

<p>“I’ve always grown up watching the 50-over World Cup. To me, that was the ultimate prize, the 50-over World Cup. We’ve worked all these years, for that World Cup. And it is disappointing, right? If you don’t get through it, don’t get what you want, what you’ve been looking for all this while, what you were dreaming of. You get disappointed. &nbsp;You get frustrated as well at times,” Rohit added during the chat.</p>

<p>At present, Rohit is gearing up for India's upcoming two Tests versus South Africa, starting on Dec 26. He is expected to lead India in the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and USA, which will kick off in early June. However, nothing is official regarding his T20I comeback. He last played in the format during India's semi-final defeat in the 2022 T20 World Cup, to eventual winners England.&nbsp;</p>


On Wednesday (Dec 13), Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Team India's ODI World Cup final loss, where they went down to Australia by six wickets in Ahmedabad on Nov 19.

On Wednesday (Dec 13), Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Team India's ODI World Cup final loss, where they went down to Australia by six wickets in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Being on a 10-match winning streak, hosts India entered the 10-team competition's finale as the red-hot favourites but lost to Pat Cummins-led Aussies. Being asked to bat first at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, Rohit & Co. only managed 240 for 9 before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58 not-out guided Australia to their sixth ODI WC triumph overall. After the heartbreaking loss, the majority of the Indian cricketers have stayed away from international cricket to revamp and return to the field. Before Rohit's return to the 22-yard cricket strip, during the forthcoming two Tests versus South Africa in the African nation, the Indian captain shared an emotional message acknowledging the fan support. He further shared the challenges and emotions experienced during the entire tournament and how everyone's pure love has motivated him to keep going ahead. 'I feel for all of them. They all, along with us, were dreaming of lifting that World Cup' Rohit said in a video shared on Instagram, "After the final, it was very hard to get back and start moving on, which is why I decided that I need to get my mind out of this. But then, wherever I was, I realised that people were coming up to me and they were appreciating everyone’s effort, and how well we played. I feel for all of them. They all, along with us, were dreaming of lifting that World Cup, along with us." He further opined, “Everywhere we went during this entire campaign, there was so much support from everyone who came to the stadium firstly and people who were watching it from home as well. I want to appreciate what the people have done for us, in that one and half month period. But again, if I think more and more about that I feel quite disappointed that we were not able to go all the way.” “For me to see, you know, people coming up to me, telling me that they were proud of the team, you know made me feel good. Along with them, I was healing as well. I felt, okay these are the kind of things you want to hear,” Rohit mentioned. Also read: What is the VEGETARIAN 'chicken' Virat Kohli shared on social media to leave netizens BEMUSED 'Seeing everyone's pure love motivates you to look for another ultimate prize' Hitman then stated, “People, when they understand what the player must be going through and when they know these kinds of things and not to bring out that frustration, that anger, it means a lot for us, me it meant a lot because there was no anger, it was just pure love from people that I met and it was wonderful to see that. So it gives you motivation to get back and start working again and look for another ultimate prize.” “I’ve always grown up watching the 50-over World Cup. To me, that was the ultimate prize, the 50-over World Cup. We’ve worked all these years, for that World Cup. And it is disappointing, right? If you don’t get through it, don’t get what you want, what you’ve been looking for all this while, what you were dreaming of. You get disappointed. You get frustrated as well at times,” Rohit added during the chat. At present, Rohit is gearing up for India's upcoming two Tests versus South Africa, starting on Dec 26. He is expected to lead India in the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and USA, which will kick off in early June. However, nothing is official regarding his T20I comeback. He last played in the format during India's semi-final defeat in the 2022 T20 World Cup, to eventual winners England.

VIDEO: Rohit Sharma shares heartfelt message on ODI WC loss, acknowledges fan support - Watch

<p>Former South Africa player AB de Villiers thinks that India batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be willing to play the ICC T20 World Cup next year and win. The tournament is scheduled to be played in June 2024 and will be co-hosted by USA and Caribbean.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We just have to see them there (Rohit &amp; Virat). It's all about their hunger. Do they have the hunger to go there and win the T20 World Cup? I think so. I cannot speak on their behalf but I think they will want to go there and win," said de Villiers on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/shreyas-iyer-to-lead-kkr-in-ipl-2024-nitish-rana-named-vice-captain-669674">Shreyas Iyer to lead KKR in IPL 2024, Nitish Rana named vice-captain</a></p>

<p>India are currently in South Africa for a full-format tour which comprises three T20Is, three ODIs and two Tests. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, however, have decided not to be a part of white-ball leg of the tour. Their non-participation gave air to speculations of both batters not going to be part of India's T20 World Cup squad next year.</p>

<p>De Villiers, however, believes that the duo is going to be there as it is a short tournament.</p>

<p>"T20 World Cup is a short tournament and you do set yourselves up to have another chance of winning a World Cup. So I do see them going there," he said.</p>

<p>Notably, India recently reached the final of ODI World Cup 2023 under Rohit's captaincy and the semifinal of 2021 T20 World Cup as well. He had taken over the leadership role from Virat Kohli, who had quite in 2021 from the position in T20I to manage workload.</p>

<p>As for the tour of South Africa, Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as the T20I skipper while KL Rahul has been given the role for ODIs which will follow after.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rohit and Kohli are expected to be back in the squad for Tests which start from December 26.</p>


Former South Africa player AB de Villiers thinks that India batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be willing to play the ICC T20 World Cup next year and win.

Former South Africa player AB de Villiers thinks that India batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be willing to play the ICC T20 World Cup next year and win. The tournament is scheduled to be played in June 2024 and will be co-hosted by USA and Caribbean. "We just have to see them there (Rohit & Virat). It's all about their hunger. Do they have the hunger to go there and win the T20 World Cup? I think so. I cannot speak on their behalf but I think they will want to go there and win," said de Villiers on his YouTube channel. Also Read: Shreyas Iyer to lead KKR in IPL 2024, Nitish Rana named vice-captain India are currently in South Africa for a full-format tour which comprises three T20Is, three ODIs and two Tests. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, however, have decided not to be a part of white-ball leg of the tour. Their non-participation gave air to speculations of both batters not going to be part of India's T20 World Cup squad next year. De Villiers, however, believes that the duo is going to be there as it is a short tournament. "T20 World Cup is a short tournament and you do set yourselves up to have another chance of winning a World Cup. So I do see them going there," he said. Notably, India recently reached the final of ODI World Cup 2023 under Rohit's captaincy and the semifinal of 2021 T20 World Cup as well. He had taken over the leadership role from Virat Kohli, who had quite in 2021 from the position in T20I to manage workload. As for the tour of South Africa, Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as the T20I skipper while KL Rahul has been given the role for ODIs which will follow after. Rohit and Kohli are expected to be back in the squad for Tests which start from December 26.

AB de Villiers makes BOLD PREDICTION on Rohit Sharma & Virat Kohli's participation in T20 World Cup next year

<p>On Wednesday (Dec 13), Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Team India's ODI World Cup final loss, where they went down to Australia by six wickets in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Being on a ten-match winning streak, hosts India entered the ten-team competition's finale as the favourites but lost to Pat Cummins-led Aussies. Being asked to bat first&nbsp;at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, Rohit &amp; Co. only managed 240 for 9 before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58 not out guided Australia to their sixth ODI WC triumph overall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the heartbreaking loss, a majority of&nbsp;Indian cricketers have stayed away from international cricket to revamp and return to the field. Before Rohit's return to the 22-yard cricket strip&nbsp;during the forthcoming two Tests versus South Africa in the African nation, the Indian captain shared an emotional message acknowledging the fan support, sharing&nbsp;the challenges and emotions experienced during the entire tournament and how everyone's pure love has motivated him going ahead.</p>

<h2><strong>"I feel for all of them," says Rohit</strong></h2>

<p>Rohit said in a video shared on Instagram, "After the final, it was very hard to get back and start moving on, which is why I decided that I need to get my mind out of this. But then, wherever I was, I realised that people were coming up to me and they were appreciating everyone’s effort, how well we played. I feel for all of them. They all, along with us, were dreaming of lifting that World Cup, along with us."</p>

<p>He further opined, “Everywhere we went during this entire campaign, there was so much support from everyone who came to the stadium firstly and people who were watching it from home as well. I want to appreciate what the people have done for us, in that one and half month period. But again, if I think more and more about that I feel quite disappointed that we were not able to go all the way.”</p>

<p>“For me to see, you know, people coming up to me, telling me that they were proud of the team, you know made me feel good. Along with them, I was healing as well. I felt, okay these are the kind of things you want to hear,” Rohit mentioned.</p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-is-the-vegetarian-chicken-virat-kohli-shared-on-social-media-to-leave-netizens-bemused-669167">What is the VEGETARIAN 'chicken' Virat Kohli shared on social media to leave netizens BEMUSED</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'Seeing everyone's pure love motivates you to look for another ultimate prize'</strong></h2>

<p>Hitman then stated, “People, when they understand what the player must be going through and when they know these kind of things and not to bring out that frustration, that anger, it means a lot for us, for me definitely it meant a lot because there was no anger, it was just pure love from people that I met and it was wonderful to see that. So it gives you motivation to get back and start working again and look for another ultimate prize.”</p>

<p>“I’ve always grown up watching the 50-over World Cup. To me that was the ultimate prize, the 50-over World Cup. We’ve worked all these years, for that World Cup. And it is disappointing, right? If you don’t get through it, don’t get what you want, what you’ve been looking for all this while, what you were dreaming of. You get disappointed. &nbsp;You get frustrated as well at times,” Rohit added during the chat.</p>

<p>At present, Rohit is gearing up for India's upcoming two Tests versus South Africa, starting on Dec 26. He is expected to lead India in the 2024 T20 World Cup&nbsp;in the West Indies and the USA, which will kick off in early June. However, nothing is official regarding his T20I comeback. He last played in the format during India's semi-final defeat in the 2022 T20 World Cup&nbsp;to eventual winners England.&nbsp;</p>


On Wednesday (Dec 13), Rohit Sharma broke his silence on Team India's ODI World Cup final loss, where they went down to Australia by six wickets in Ahmedabad on Nov 19. Being on a ten-match winning streak, hosts India entered the ten-team competition's finale as the favourites but lost to Pat Cummins-led Aussies. Being asked to bat first at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, Rohit & Co. only managed 240 for 9 before Travis Head's 137 and Marnus Labuschagne's 58 not out guided Australia to their sixth ODI WC triumph overall. After the heartbreaking loss, a majority of Indian cricketers have stayed away from international cricket to revamp and return to the field. Before Rohit's return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the forthcoming two Tests versus South Africa in the African nation, the Indian captain shared an emotional message acknowledging the fan support, sharing the challenges and emotions experienced during the entire tournament and how everyone's pure love has motivated him going ahead. "I feel for all of them," says Rohit Rohit said in a video shared on Instagram, "After the final, it was very hard to get back and start moving on, which is why I decided that I need to get my mind out of this. But then, wherever I was, I realised that people were coming up to me and they were appreciating everyone’s effort, how well we played. I feel for all of them. They all, along with us, were dreaming of lifting that World Cup, along with us." He further opined, “Everywhere we went during this entire campaign, there was so much support from everyone who came to the stadium firstly and people who were watching it from home as well. I want to appreciate what the people have done for us, in that one and half month period. But again, if I think more and more about that I feel quite disappointed that we were not able to go all the way.” “For me to see, you know, people coming up to me, telling me that they were proud of the team, you know made me feel good. Along with them, I was healing as well. I felt, okay these are the kind of things you want to hear,” Rohit mentioned. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Team Ro (@team45ro) × Also read: What is the VEGETARIAN 'chicken' Virat Kohli shared on social media to leave netizens BEMUSED 'Seeing everyone's pure love motivates you to look for another ultimate prize' Hitman then stated, “People, when they understand what the player must be going through and when they know these kind of things and not to bring out that frustration, that anger, it means a lot for us, for me definitely it meant a lot because there was no anger, it was just pure love from people that I met and it was wonderful to see that. So it gives you motivation to get back and start working again and look for another ultimate prize.” “I’ve always grown up watching the 50-over World Cup. To me that was the ultimate prize, the 50-over World Cup. We’ve worked all these years, for that World Cup. And it is disappointing, right? If you don’t get through it, don’t get what you want, what you’ve been looking for all this while, what you were dreaming of. You get disappointed. You get frustrated as well at times,” Rohit added during the chat. At present, Rohit is gearing up for India's upcoming two Tests versus South Africa, starting on Dec 26. He is expected to lead India in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA, which will kick off in early June. However, nothing is official regarding his T20I comeback. He last played in the format during India's semi-final defeat in the 2022 T20 World Cup to eventual winners England.

VIDEO: Rohit Sharma shares heartfelt message on ODI WC loss, acknowledges fan support

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


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

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

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

<p>Two of India’s star players, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, are mentioned in the same breath on ability parameters, if not on the same fitness levels. Breaking the ice around this notion, the Indian Team’s strength and conditioning coach, Ankit Kaliyar, had an astonishing revelation about the current India captain. Ankit said though Rohit appears to be bulkier than Virat, he is among the fittest cricketers around.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The coach said Rohit is as fit a cricketer on the field as anyone in the team, with his mobility and agility working as standout traits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Rohit Sharma is a fit player. He has good fitness. He looks a bit bulky, but he always passes the Yo-Yo test. He is as fit as Virat Kohli. He looks like he is bulky, but we have seen him on the field. His agility and mobility are amazing. He is among the fittest cricketers," Kaliyar told the Times of India in an exclusive chat.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/soon-to-be-pakistan-selector-asad-shafiq-retires-from-professional-cricket-668530">Soon to be Pakistan selector, Asad Shafiq retires from professional cricket</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, under Virat and Ravi Shastri, the Indian Team did exceedingly well in overseas conditions, with fitness, outside of star performances, being the prime parameter to success. The introduction of the yo-yo Test did wonders for the Men in Blue as the selection of fit players began making all the difference.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Considering how fitness impacted the modern-day game, selection criteria changed with time. Speaking on the same lines, Ankit praised the mighty Virat Kohli for the change that he brought to Indian cricket, saying he is religious about his regime and routine and that he takes care of his nutrition and supplements well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Virat Kohli is the fittest player in the Indian team and the world. The reason behind that is that he's following a strict schedule. Whether he's playing or not, he follows or takes care of his nutrition, training, supplementation, and conditioning part really well. He is very religious about his regime and routine. He's the fittest athlete in India and throughout the world," added Kaliyar.</p>

<h2>Virat created a fitness culture in the team</h2>

<p>Heaping praises on Virat for leading as an example and creating a fitness culture in the team over the years, Ankit said,</p>

<p>"Virat is a leading example when it comes to fitness. He has created a culture of fitness in the team. When your top player is so fit, then you become an example for others. He injects confidence in others. When he was the captain, he ensured everyone remained fit. Fitness was his top parameter in the team. He has created that culture and discipline in the team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That atmosphere was created by Virat bhai and it's a commendable thing. He is the reason why all the Indian players are so fit,” Ankit added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Virat and Rohit decided against playing the white-ball leg against South Africa and will return during the two Tests, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion.&nbsp;</p>


Two of India’s star players, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, are mentioned in the same breath on ability parameters, if not on the same fitness levels. Breaking the ice around this notion, the Indian Team’s strength and conditioning coach, Ankit Kaliyar, had an astonishing revelation about the current India captain.

Two of India’s star players, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, are mentioned in the same breath on ability parameters, if not on the same fitness levels. Breaking the ice around this notion, the Indian Team’s strength and conditioning coach, Ankit Kaliyar, had an astonishing revelation about the current India captain. Ankit said though Rohit appears to be bulkier than Virat, he is among the fittest cricketers around. The coach said Rohit is as fit a cricketer on the field as anyone in the team, with his mobility and agility working as standout traits. "Rohit Sharma is a fit player. He has good fitness. He looks a bit bulky, but he always passes the Yo-Yo test. He is as fit as Virat Kohli. He looks like he is bulky, but we have seen him on the field. His agility and mobility are amazing. He is among the fittest cricketers," Kaliyar told the Times of India in an exclusive chat. ALSO READ: Soon to be Pakistan selector, Asad Shafiq retires from professional cricket Meanwhile, under Virat and Ravi Shastri, the Indian Team did exceedingly well in overseas conditions, with fitness, outside of star performances, being the prime parameter to success. The introduction of the yo-yo Test did wonders for the Men in Blue as the selection of fit players began making all the difference. Considering how fitness impacted the modern-day game, selection criteria changed with time. Speaking on the same lines, Ankit praised the mighty Virat Kohli for the change that he brought to Indian cricket, saying he is religious about his regime and routine and that he takes care of his nutrition and supplements well. "Virat Kohli is the fittest player in the Indian team and the world. The reason behind that is that he's following a strict schedule. Whether he's playing or not, he follows or takes care of his nutrition, training, supplementation, and conditioning part really well. He is very religious about his regime and routine. He's the fittest athlete in India and throughout the world," added Kaliyar. Virat created a fitness culture in the team Heaping praises on Virat for leading as an example and creating a fitness culture in the team over the years, Ankit said, "Virat is a leading example when it comes to fitness. He has created a culture of fitness in the team. When your top player is so fit, then you become an example for others. He injects confidence in others. When he was the captain, he ensured everyone remained fit. Fitness was his top parameter in the team. He has created that culture and discipline in the team. "That atmosphere was created by Virat bhai and it's a commendable thing. He is the reason why all the Indian players are so fit,” Ankit added. Meanwhile, Virat and Rohit decided against playing the white-ball leg against South Africa and will return during the two Tests, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion.

‘Bulky’ Rohit Sharma is among the fittest cricketers, says India’s strength and conditioning coach

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