Indian all-rounder R Ashwin has revealed it was captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid who stepped up big time when he had to leave the Rajkot Test midway to go and tend to his ailing mother.

Indian all-rounder R Ashwin has revealed it was captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid who stepped up big time when he had to leave the Rajkot Test midway to go and tend to his ailing mother. Ashwin said Rohit helped arrange a private plane that took him to Chennai. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said he was waiting for his parents' call after picking up the 500th wicket, earlier in the day. "Around 7 pm, I called my wife before going to shower. My parents did not pick up the calls. And I found my wife's voice was breaking. She asked me to move away from my teammates and then she told me that my mother collapsed after a severe headache." Ashwin said he contemplated returning home but couldn't find a flight as Rajkot Airport shuts down by 6 pm. It was then that Rohit came to his rescue and helped arrange the flight. "Rohit and Rahul bhai (brother) came to my room. Rohit saw me thinking and he said 'what are you thinking about? Just pack your bags and leave now'. He told me that he would try and arrange a charter flight for me," said Ashwin. "A big thank you to Cheteshwar Pujara. He spoke to a lot of people and arranged for the charter flight. I didn't know how I spent 2 hours in that flight back home," he added. Also read | ‘You should go back’: R Ashwin reveals how his hospitalised mother urged him to return to Rajkot Test 'Even Dhoni does that but he takes 10 steps more' Ashwin said Rohit asked team physio Kamlesh to accompany him but he refused as the team only had two physios. "Rohit is like 'That's okay'. But I told Kamlesh to stay back with the team. However, when I went down to the lobby, Kamlesh and a security person were standing there. Rohit was calling Kamlesh and keeping a tab on me throughout the journey back home." Ashwin said he was extremely grateful to Rohit and wished god gave him more. “I’ve played under several captains and leaders, but it is his (Rohit’s) good heart that has made him what he is today – someone with five IPL titles as equal to Dhoni. God doesn’t give it easy. He should get something bigger than all that." "I already had respect for him as a leader, he backs a player without question until the last moment. It’s not an easy thing. Even Dhoni does that. But he takes 10 steps more.” Ashwin returned after the brief visit home and played a major part in the remainder of the series which India won 4-1. (With inputs from agencies)

R Ashwin shares how Rohit Sharma looked after him during his mother’s hospitalisation

Hardik Pandya replaced Rohit Sharma as the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain, in December 2023, ahead of the IPL 2024 edition. The move shocked many as Hardik rejoined his former franchise after being traded by Gujarat Titans (GT), who won the IPL championship under him in&nbsp;their maiden season in 2022. Ahead of the upcoming season, many former cricketers and experts have opined on&nbsp;how Hardik and Rohit will have to work in tandem to ensure MI's success. Now, former England opener Nick Knight also joined the bandwagon and feels Rohit will still be a leader and help Hardik.

Talking on Sports18, Knight said, "I think a lot of it depends on Rohit Sharma's reaction to it, how he feels about it. How do I think he would react to it? Certainly, on the pitch, he would go out and play his best possible game for the team. He would realise how important his contribution is for the team."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-ambati-rayudu-wants-rohit-sharma-to-join-ms-dhonis-csk-in-2025-season-heres-why-698910">IPL 2024: Ambati Rayudu wants Rohit Sharma to join MS Dhoni's CSK in 2025 season! Here's why</a>

"I would also like to think that he would help Hardik, help him do his job as best as he can. We have talked a lot about Rohit, his captaincy and leadership skills. He can still be a leader, in a slightly different way. I would fully expect him to do that," he added.

Rohit took charge of the MI franchise midway through the IPL 2013 season. Since then, he led the team to five IPL titles (in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020). In IPL 2023, Mumbai were off to a poor start but they managed to reach the playoffs where they lost to Hardik-led GT in Qualifier 2.

With captaincy responsibility off his shoulders, Hitman will now focus on his batting as he has had an ordinary run in the IPL since the 2017 season.

For MI, a&nbsp;new chapter will surely commence in their rich history during IPL 2024 with Hardik taking over from Rohit. It&nbsp;will be interesting to see how the two operate with each other and take the franchise forward.

MI squad for IPL 2024:&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, N. Tilak Varma, Tim David, Vishnu Vinod, Arjun Tendulkar, Shams Mulani, Nehal Wadhera, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya, Piyush Chawla, Akash Madhwal, Jason Behrendorff, Romario Shepherd, Hardik Pandya (c), Gerald Coetzee, Dilshan Madushanka, Shreyas Gopal, Nuwan Thushara, Naman Dhir, Anshul Kamboj, Mohammad Nabi, Shivalik Sharma.&nbsp;

Hardik Pandya replaced Rohit Sharma as the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain, in December 2023, ahead of the IPL 2024 edition. The move shocked many as Hardik rejoined his former franchise after being traded by Gujarat Titans (GT), who won the IPL championship under him in their maiden season in 2022.

Hardik Pandya replaced Rohit Sharma as the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain, in December 2023, ahead of the IPL 2024 edition. The move shocked many as Hardik rejoined his former franchise after being traded by Gujarat Titans (GT), who won the IPL championship under him in their maiden season in 2022. Ahead of the upcoming season, many former cricketers and experts have opined on how Hardik and Rohit will have to work in tandem to ensure MI's success. Now, former England opener Nick Knight also joined the bandwagon and feels Rohit will still be a leader and help Hardik. Talking on Sports18, Knight said, "I think a lot of it depends on Rohit Sharma's reaction to it, how he feels about it. How do I think he would react to it? Certainly, on the pitch, he would go out and play his best possible game for the team. He would realise how important his contribution is for the team." Also read: IPL 2024: Ambati Rayudu wants Rohit Sharma to join MS Dhoni's CSK in 2025 season! Here's why "I would also like to think that he would help Hardik, help him do his job as best as he can. We have talked a lot about Rohit, his captaincy and leadership skills. He can still be a leader, in a slightly different way. I would fully expect him to do that," he added. Rohit took charge of the MI franchise midway through the IPL 2013 season. Since then, he led the team to five IPL titles (in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020). In IPL 2023, Mumbai were off to a poor start but they managed to reach the playoffs where they lost to Hardik-led GT in Qualifier 2. With captaincy responsibility off his shoulders, Hitman will now focus on his batting as he has had an ordinary run in the IPL since the 2017 season. For MI, a new chapter will surely commence in their rich history during IPL 2024 with Hardik taking over from Rohit. It will be interesting to see how the two operate with each other and take the franchise forward. MI squad for IPL 2024: Rohit Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, N. Tilak Varma, Tim David, Vishnu Vinod, Arjun Tendulkar, Shams Mulani, Nehal Wadhera, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya, Piyush Chawla, Akash Madhwal, Jason Behrendorff, Romario Shepherd, Hardik Pandya (c), Gerald Coetzee, Dilshan Madushanka, Shreyas Gopal, Nuwan Thushara, Naman Dhir, Anshul Kamboj, Mohammad Nabi, Shivalik Sharma.

IPL 2024: Rohit Sharma can still be a leader at Mumbai Indians, feels former England opener Nick Knight

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ambati Rayudu has wished for Rohit Sharma to join the MS Dhoni-led Yellow Army ahead of the IPL 2025 season. At present, all the ten IPL franchises are gearing up for IPL 2024 which gets underway on March 22 in Chennai. Before the season-opener, Rayudu wished for Rohit to become a part of CSK, MI's arch-rivals, from the 2025 season onwards and win titles with them as well. Rohit was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the MI skipper for IPL 2024, in Dec 2023, and will feature only as a player in the upcoming season.

MI's move to replace Rohit with Hardik raised a lot of eyebrows. It will be interesting to see how he&nbsp;fits under captain Hardik and if the latter can replicate his success in MI,&nbsp;IPL's joint-most successful franchise. After winning four titles with Rohit-led MI, Hardik moved to the Gujarat Titans (GT) and captained them in 2022 and 2023, leading them to the final in successive editions and winning in 2022.

However, it will be interesting to see how Hardik manages a star-studded MI line-up in IPL 2024. Also, all eyes will be on Rohit who will only feature as a batter this time around. Meanwhile, Rayudu -- who has won the IPL both under MI and CSK -- feels Rohit should move to Chennai in the coming years and increase his trophy count. Here's why:

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-delhi-capitals-coach-ricky-ponting-offers-clarity-on-rishabh-pants-role-in-upcoming-season-698857">IPL 2024: Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting offers clarity on Rishabh Pant's role in upcoming season</a>

<h2>'Rohit has earned the right to take that call'</h2>

"I want to see him play for CSK in the near future. He has played so long for Mumbai Indians. It would be nice if he can play for CSK and win there as well. That's (captaincy at CSK) upon him. Rohit has earned the right to take that call. It's his call on whether or not he wants to lead or not," Rayudu told News24 while also mentioning that MI must have informed Rohit of the captaincy change.

At present, there are no talks of Rohit willing to make a move from MI. The IPL 2024 season will give a clear picture of how he still fits into MI's scheme of things, without the leadership tag. He has won the IPL six times, five as MI captain. Hence, he remains a big name in their setup. Nonetheless, if things aren't quite right for him in the dugout, he might make a move elsewhere (which will certainly grab a lot of eyeballs). If he replaces Dhoni as CSK captain going ahead, it will surely be a big development in the IPL and add a new chapter in the MI-CSK rivalry.&nbsp;

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ambati Rayudu has wished for Rohit Sharma to join the MS Dhoni-led Yellow Army ahead of the IPL 2025 season. At present, all the ten IPL franchises are gearing up for IPL 2024 which gets underway on March 22 in Chennai.

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ambati Rayudu has wished for Rohit Sharma to join the MS Dhoni-led Yellow Army ahead of the IPL 2025 season. At present, all the ten IPL franchises are gearing up for IPL 2024 which gets underway on March 22 in Chennai. Before the season-opener, Rayudu wished for Rohit to become a part of CSK, MI's arch-rivals, from the 2025 season onwards and win titles with them as well. Rohit was replaced by Hardik Pandya as the MI skipper for IPL 2024, in Dec 2023, and will feature only as a player in the upcoming season. MI's move to replace Rohit with Hardik raised a lot of eyebrows. It will be interesting to see how he fits under captain Hardik and if the latter can replicate his success in MI, IPL's joint-most successful franchise. After winning four titles with Rohit-led MI, Hardik moved to the Gujarat Titans (GT) and captained them in 2022 and 2023, leading them to the final in successive editions and winning in 2022. However, it will be interesting to see how Hardik manages a star-studded MI line-up in IPL 2024. Also, all eyes will be on Rohit who will only feature as a batter this time around. Meanwhile, Rayudu -- who has won the IPL both under MI and CSK -- feels Rohit should move to Chennai in the coming years and increase his trophy count. Here's why: Also read: IPL 2024: Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting offers clarity on Rishabh Pant's role in upcoming season 'Rohit has earned the right to take that call' "I want to see him play for CSK in the near future. He has played so long for Mumbai Indians. It would be nice if he can play for CSK and win there as well. That's (captaincy at CSK) upon him. Rohit has earned the right to take that call. It's his call on whether or not he wants to lead or not," Rayudu told News24 while also mentioning that MI must have informed Rohit of the captaincy change. At present, there are no talks of Rohit willing to make a move from MI. The IPL 2024 season will give a clear picture of how he still fits into MI's scheme of things, without the leadership tag. He has won the IPL six times, five as MI captain. Hence, he remains a big name in their setup. Nonetheless, if things aren't quite right for him in the dugout, he might make a move elsewhere (which will certainly grab a lot of eyeballs). If he replaces Dhoni as CSK captain going ahead, it will surely be a big development in the IPL and add a new chapter in the MI-CSK rivalry.

IPL 2024: Ambati Rayudu wants Rohit Sharma to join MS Dhoni's CSK in 2025 season! Here's why

India have ascended to the top of ICC Team Rankings in all three formats after claiming the top spot in Test team rankings following their 4-1 series win against England on Saturday (Mar 9). India are also at the top of World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle standing with 74 points and a win percentage of 68.51.

India had lost the first Test in Hyderabad by 28 runs in the recently-concluded five-match series against England before winning the next four matches in a resounding manner.&nbsp;

The hosts won the second Test in Vizag by 106 runs before thrashing England by 434 runs in Rajkot Test and then took an unassailable 3-1 lead with a win in the fourth Test by five wickets in Ranchi. India then wrapped up the series by an innings and 64-run win in Dharamsala inside three days.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/we-need-to-relook-says-india-coach-rahul-dravid-on-domestic-schedule-698516">'We need to relook,' says India coach Rahul Dravid on domestic schedule</a>

India currently have 122 points in Test team ranking, five more than second-placed Australia. Notably, the Aussies are playing a two-Test series in New Zealand and lead it 1-0 after winning the first Test by 172 runs. The Baggy Green, however, won't be able to replace India even if they win the second Test, currently going on in Christchurch.

India were at the top of Test team rankings in December 2023 as well. A drawn two-Test series (1-1) against South Africa in December last year and Australia whitewashing Pakistan 3-2 in January 2024, however, saw India coming down to the second spot for a brief amount of time.

In other formats, India have 121 points and the top spot in the ODI team rankings as well. Australia, the 2023 ODI World Champions, are behind them here as well with 118 points to their name.&nbsp;

In T20I team rankings, India have 266 points at the top spot while England sit behind them on the second spot with 256 points.

India have ascended to the top of ICC Team Rankings in all three formats after claiming the top spot in Test team rankings following their 4-1 series win against England on Saturday (Mar 9).

India have ascended to the top of ICC Team Rankings in all three formats after claiming the top spot in Test team rankings following their 4-1 series win against England on Saturday (Mar 9). India are also at the top of World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle standing with 74 points and a win percentage of 68.51. India had lost the first Test in Hyderabad by 28 runs in the recently-concluded five-match series against England before winning the next four matches in a resounding manner. The hosts won the second Test in Vizag by 106 runs before thrashing England by 434 runs in Rajkot Test and then took an unassailable 3-1 lead with a win in the fourth Test by five wickets in Ranchi. India then wrapped up the series by an innings and 64-run win in Dharamsala inside three days. Also Read: 'We need to relook,' says India coach Rahul Dravid on domestic schedule India currently have 122 points in Test team ranking, five more than second-placed Australia. Notably, the Aussies are playing a two-Test series in New Zealand and lead it 1-0 after winning the first Test by 172 runs. The Baggy Green, however, won't be able to replace India even if they win the second Test, currently going on in Christchurch. India were at the top of Test team rankings in December 2023 as well. A drawn two-Test series (1-1) against South Africa in December last year and Australia whitewashing Pakistan 3-2 in January 2024, however, saw India coming down to the second spot for a brief amount of time. In other formats, India have 121 points and the top spot in the ODI team rankings as well. Australia, the 2023 ODI World Champions, are behind them here as well with 118 points to their name. In T20I team rankings, India have 266 points at the top spot while England sit behind them on the second spot with 256 points.

India on top of ICC Team Rankings in all three formats after Test series win against England

Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill headlined day two in Dharamsala with twin tons. While Sarfaraz Khan contributed with another fifty, debutant Devdutt Padikkal scored an impressive 65 off 103 balls to keep his team ahead. First-inning hero Kuldeep Yadav remained unbeaten on 27 as India leads by 255 at stumps on day two.

Rohit and Gill began from where they left as the pair went after the English bowlers in the first session. Both right-handed batters completed their respective hundreds before&nbsp;lunch on day two, with Gill notching his second of the series.&nbsp;

With his brilliant 103, Rohit entered an elite list of Indian openers with the most Test tons against England. He now equalled Sunil Gavaskar’s tally of four hundreds while leading the chart for batters with the most tons (6) for India since 2021. It was Rohit’s 48th international ton (43rd as an opener).

<h2>Stokes returns to bowling with a 'Jaffa'&nbsp;</h2>

Just when Rohit got to his hundred, England captain Ben Stokes, bowling for the first time since Ashes last year, clean bowled him off his first delivery. Soon after, James Anderson removed Shubman Gill, clean bowled in the next over on 110.&nbsp;

Padikkal and Sarfaraz added 97 for the fourth wicket before Bashir returned to pick both of them.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🎥 That Maiden Test Fifty Moment! 🙌 
 
Follow the match ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/jnMticF6fc">https://t.co/jnMticF6fc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/devdpd07?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@devdpd07</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/NLSSZ9TjCC">pic.twitter.com/NLSSZ9TjCC</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1766033800645992615?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Ravindra Jadeja and Dhruv Jurel added 15 each to the scorecard before spinners turned the tables around for England. Ravi Ashwin getting out on zero mounted worries for India.

However, an unlikely pair of Kuldeep and Jasprit Bumrah added 45 runs for the ninth wicket to frustrate England and help India add on the lead, which has crossed 250, putting the hosts in a winning position. Tom Hartley and Bashir conceded 126 and 170 runs, respectively.&nbsp;

Stokes and Anderson picked a wicket each, while Hartley finished day two with two wickets to his name.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill headlined day two in Dharamsala with twin tons. While Sarfaraz Khan contributed with another fifty, debutant Devdutt Padikkal scored an impressive 65 off 103 balls to keep his team ahead.

Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill headlined day two in Dharamsala with twin tons. While Sarfaraz Khan contributed with another fifty, debutant Devdutt Padikkal scored an impressive 65 off 103 balls to keep his team ahead. First-inning hero Kuldeep Yadav remained unbeaten on 27 as India leads by 255 at stumps on day two. Rohit and Gill began from where they left as the pair went after the English bowlers in the first session. Both right-handed batters completed their respective hundreds before lunch on day two, with Gill notching his second of the series. With his brilliant 103, Rohit entered an elite list of Indian openers with the most Test tons against England. He now equalled Sunil Gavaskar’s tally of four hundreds while leading the chart for batters with the most tons (6) for India since 2021. It was Rohit’s 48th international ton (43rd as an opener). Stokes returns to bowling with a 'Jaffa' Just when Rohit got to his hundred, England captain Ben Stokes, bowling for the first time since Ashes last year, clean bowled him off his first delivery. Soon after, James Anderson removed Shubman Gill, clean bowled in the next over on 110. Padikkal and Sarfaraz added 97 for the fourth wicket before Bashir returned to pick both of them. 🎥 That Maiden Test Fifty Moment! 🙌 Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/jnMticF6fc #TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @devdpd07 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/NLSSZ9TjCC — BCCI (@BCCI) March 8, 2024 × Ravindra Jadeja and Dhruv Jurel added 15 each to the scorecard before spinners turned the tables around for England. Ravi Ashwin getting out on zero mounted worries for India. However, an unlikely pair of Kuldeep and Jasprit Bumrah added 45 runs for the ninth wicket to frustrate England and help India add on the lead, which has crossed 250, putting the hosts in a winning position. Tom Hartley and Bashir conceded 126 and 170 runs, respectively. Stokes and Anderson picked a wicket each, while Hartley finished day two with two wickets to his name.

Dharamsala Test: Rohit, Gill floor England with twin tons on day two; Bashir shines for visitors

Former England opener-turned-commentator Nick Knight feels Joe Root dropping Rohit Sharma in the first innings of the third Test, in Rajkot, changed the course of the India-England series. Back then, the scoreline was 1-1 and India had lost three early wickets after&nbsp;opting to bat first in Rajkot. Rohit was given a reprieve by Root, at 27, when the former English skipper dropped a catch at slips, off Tom Hartley's bowling, only for the Indian captain to make the most of it and score 131.

Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja (112) stitched a mammoth 204-run fourth-wicket stand, after India were reeling at 33-3, and took India to 445. The home side got a crucial 126-run lead and managed to setup a mammoth 557-run target, winning by a whopping 434-run margin. In the fourth and penultimate Test, both sides had their moments before Rohit &amp; Co. won by five wickets to take an unassailable 3-1 lead.

During the ongoing fifth and final Test in Dharamsala, Knight stated that Root's dropped catch changed the course of the series. While the English cricketer stated that Ben Stokes' underperformance was also a big factor, and Root's catch changed it all.

Knight told Jio Cinemas, "If the captain is feeling under a bit of pressure, he’s been targeted by the opposition, it makes everybody in the dressing room vulnerable. When you look at the two sides, you have Ben Stokes, whose performances individually haven’t been where he wanted them to be."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-rohit-sharma-equals-sunil-gavaskars-elite-feat-with-impressive-ton-on-day-2-of-dharamsala-test-697939">IND vs ENG: Rohit Sharma equals Sunil Gavaskar’s elite feat with impressive ton on Day 2 of Dharamsala Test</a>

He shifted focus on Stokes' counterpart Rohit and said, "About Rohit, I go back to one factor that might have determined the outcome of the series, and it’s Joe Root dropping Rohit in Rajkot. Rohit got an outside edge off Tom Hartley and Root put that down."

He added, "At that point, he was contributing but not big scores. From that moment onwards, he has pushed on. When you look back at the bigger picture of the series, it was quite crucial."

Before his Rajkot hundred, Rohit had got starts in the first two Tests but couldn't make it count. However, Root's reprieve helped him turn it around for himself.

Rohit also slammed a crucial fifty in the Ranchi run-chase and made 103 in India's first innings in Dharamsala, in response to England's 218. Courtesy of Rohit and Shubman Gill (110), India have already taken a 200-plus lead and have a solid chance to end the five Tests series&nbsp;with a 4-1 scoreline.&nbsp;

Former England opener-turned-commentator Nick Knight feels Joe Root dropping Rohit Sharma in the first innings of the third Test, in Rajkot, changed the course of the India-England series.

Former England opener-turned-commentator Nick Knight feels Joe Root dropping Rohit Sharma in the first innings of the third Test, in Rajkot, changed the course of the India-England series. Back then, the scoreline was 1-1 and India had lost three early wickets after opting to bat first in Rajkot. Rohit was given a reprieve by Root, at 27, when the former English skipper dropped a catch at slips, off Tom Hartley's bowling, only for the Indian captain to make the most of it and score 131. Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja (112) stitched a mammoth 204-run fourth-wicket stand, after India were reeling at 33-3, and took India to 445. The home side got a crucial 126-run lead and managed to setup a mammoth 557-run target, winning by a whopping 434-run margin. In the fourth and penultimate Test, both sides had their moments before Rohit & Co. won by five wickets to take an unassailable 3-1 lead. During the ongoing fifth and final Test in Dharamsala, Knight stated that Root's dropped catch changed the course of the series. While the English cricketer stated that Ben Stokes' underperformance was also a big factor, and Root's catch changed it all. Knight told Jio Cinemas, "If the captain is feeling under a bit of pressure, he’s been targeted by the opposition, it makes everybody in the dressing room vulnerable. When you look at the two sides, you have Ben Stokes, whose performances individually haven’t been where he wanted them to be." Also read: IND vs ENG: Rohit Sharma equals Sunil Gavaskar’s elite feat with impressive ton on Day 2 of Dharamsala Test He shifted focus on Stokes' counterpart Rohit and said, "About Rohit, I go back to one factor that might have determined the outcome of the series, and it’s Joe Root dropping Rohit in Rajkot. Rohit got an outside edge off Tom Hartley and Root put that down." He added, "At that point, he was contributing but not big scores. From that moment onwards, he has pushed on. When you look back at the bigger picture of the series, it was quite crucial." Before his Rajkot hundred, Rohit had got starts in the first two Tests but couldn't make it count. However, Root's reprieve helped him turn it around for himself. Rohit also slammed a crucial fifty in the Ranchi run-chase and made 103 in India's first innings in Dharamsala, in response to England's 218. Courtesy of Rohit and Shubman Gill (110), India have already taken a 200-plus lead and have a solid chance to end the five Tests series with a 4-1 scoreline.

IND vs ENG: Root dropping Rohit in Rajkot Test turned around the series, feels former English opener

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had a monumental Day 2 of the Dharamsala Test after he smashed his 12th Test ton against England on Friday (Mar 8). Having made a good start to his innings on Day 1 of the Dharamsala Test, Rohit got to his hundred in the first session on Friday, which saw him&nbsp;level with Rahul Dravid in the third position in the list of&nbsp;most international tons. The Indian skipper was however dismissed immediately after reaching the three-figure mark having been scalped by opposite number Ben Stokes.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Of hundreds and celebrations! 👏 🙌 
 
Rohit Sharma 🤝 Shubman Gill 
 
Follow the match ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/jnMticF6fc">https://t.co/jnMticF6fc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ShubmanGill?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShubmanGill</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/yTZQ4dAoEe">pic.twitter.com/yTZQ4dAoEe</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1765987883670786544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Rohit joins Dravid</h2>

On the final ball of the 58th over, Rohit got a run to bring up his hundred which saw him go level with the current Indian coach for most hundreds at the international level. He now has 48 tons in all three formats with just 12 coming in the red-ball format. His favourite format is the 50-over where he has scored 31&nbsp;while five tons have come in the T20Is.

<h3>Most International tons for India</h3>

100 - Sachin Tendulkar

80 - Virat Kohli

48 - Rahul Dravid

48 - Rohit Sharma

38 - Virender Sehwag

38 - Sourav Ganguly

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-he-isnt-abusing-his-form-former-india-pacer-zaheer-khan-lauds-yashasvi-jaiswal-697923">IND vs ENG: 'He isn't abusing his form' - Former India pacer Zaheer Khan lauds young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal</a>

Unlike Rohit, Dravid’s tons came in the Test and ODI formats only with 36 coming in the red-ball. On 12 occasions Dravid scored hundreds in the ODI format. His only T20I game saw him score 31 runs against England in August 2011. Currently, India’s Sachin Tendulkar leads the chart for most international tons with 100 while Virat comes next on 80.

<h2>What happened in the match so far?</h2>

Alongside Rohit, Shubman Gill also scored his fourth Test ton continuing to impress after a rough patch. He too like Rohit did not last for long and was dismissed soon after getting the three-figure mark. India at the time of writing were 313/3 and are on course for a massive first-innings lead. For England Shoaib Bashir, Ben Stokes and James Anderson were the wicket-takers. Anderson at the time of writing needs one more wicket to reach 700 Test wickets.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had a monumental Day 2 of the Dharamsala Test after he smashed his 12th Test ton against England on Friday (Mar 8). Having made a good start to his innings on Day 1 of the Dharamsala Test, Rohit got to his hundred in the first session on Friday, which saw him level with Rahul Dravid in the third position in the list of most international tons.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had a monumental Day 2 of the Dharamsala Test after he smashed his 12th Test ton against England on Friday (Mar 8). Having made a good start to his innings on Day 1 of the Dharamsala Test, Rohit got to his hundred in the first session on Friday, which saw him level with Rahul Dravid in the third position in the list of most international tons. The Indian skipper was however dismissed immediately after reaching the three-figure mark having been scalped by opposite number Ben Stokes. Of hundreds and celebrations! 👏 🙌 Rohit Sharma 🤝 Shubman Gill Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/jnMticF6fc #TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @ImRo45 | @ShubmanGill | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/yTZQ4dAoEe — BCCI (@BCCI) March 8, 2024 × Rohit joins Dravid On the final ball of the 58th over, Rohit got a run to bring up his hundred which saw him go level with the current Indian coach for most hundreds at the international level. He now has 48 tons in all three formats with just 12 coming in the red-ball format. His favourite format is the 50-over where he has scored 31 while five tons have come in the T20Is. Most International tons for India 100 - Sachin Tendulkar 80 - Virat Kohli 48 - Rahul Dravid 48 - Rohit Sharma 38 - Virender Sehwag 38 - Sourav Ganguly ALSO READ | IND vs ENG: 'He isn't abusing his form' - Former India pacer Zaheer Khan lauds young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal Unlike Rohit, Dravid’s tons came in the Test and ODI formats only with 36 coming in the red-ball. On 12 occasions Dravid scored hundreds in the ODI format. His only T20I game saw him score 31 runs against England in August 2011. Currently, India’s Sachin Tendulkar leads the chart for most international tons with 100 while Virat comes next on 80. What happened in the match so far? Alongside Rohit, Shubman Gill also scored his fourth Test ton continuing to impress after a rough patch. He too like Rohit did not last for long and was dismissed soon after getting the three-figure mark. India at the time of writing were 313/3 and are on course for a massive first-innings lead. For England Shoaib Bashir, Ben Stokes and James Anderson were the wicket-takers. Anderson at the time of writing needs one more wicket to reach 700 Test wickets.

IND vs ENG: Rohit joins Dravid in 3rd place for most international centuries following Dharamsala ton

On Day 2 of the fifth and final Test versus England, in Dharamsala, Indian captain Rohit Sharma slammed his second ton of the series.&nbsp;On Friday morning (March 8), Rohit reached his 12th Test century in just 154 balls and equalled Little Master Sunil Gavaskar in the list of&nbsp;most Test hundreds by an Indian opener&nbsp;against England. This was also&nbsp;Rohit's 48th international ton (43rd as an opener overall).

Most Test hundreds by an Indian opener vs England

4 - Sunil Gavaskar 
4 - Rohit Sharma 
3 - Vijay Merchant 
3 - Murali Vijay 
3 - KL Rahul

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-he-isnt-abusing-his-form-former-india-pacer-zaheer-khan-lauds-yashasvi-jaiswal-697923">IND vs ENG: 'He isn't abusing his form' - Former India pacer Zaheer Khan lauds young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal</a>

Rohit is also the leading century-maker for India since the start of 2021. In the past three years, he has slammed as many as six centuries.&nbsp;

Most Test hundreds for India since 2021 
6 - Rohit Sharma 
4 - Shubman Gill 
3 - Ravindra Jadeja 
3 - Yashasvi Jaiswal 
3 - Rishabh Pant 
3 - KL Rahul

On Day 1 of the Dharamsala encounter, Rohit also slammed 1,000 runs as a Test captain. He, thus, became only the third Indian skipper (after MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli) to have&nbsp;1K-plus runs in all formats as captain.

Speaking about the final Test between India and England, the home side is ahead with a lead of over 70&nbsp;at the time of publishing this report, with debutant Devdutt Padikkal and Sarfaraz Khan in the middle. Rohit fell soon after lunch, for 103, whereas Shubman Gill departed for 110.&nbsp;

Rohit-led India already have an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series and are aiming to end with a 4-1 scoreline.

On Day 2 of the fifth and final Test versus England, in Dharamsala, Indian captain Rohit Sharma slammed his second ton of the series. On Friday morning (March 8), Rohit reached his 12th Test century in just 154 balls and equalled Little Master Sunil Gavaskar in the list of most Test hundreds by an Indian opener against England.

On Day 2 of the fifth and final Test versus England, in Dharamsala, Indian captain Rohit Sharma slammed his second ton of the series. On Friday morning (March 8), Rohit reached his 12th Test century in just 154 balls and equalled Little Master Sunil Gavaskar in the list of most Test hundreds by an Indian opener against England. This was also Rohit's 48th international ton (43rd as an opener overall). Most Test hundreds by an Indian opener vs England 4 - Sunil Gavaskar 4 - Rohit Sharma 3 - Vijay Merchant 3 - Murali Vijay 3 - KL Rahul Also read: IND vs ENG: 'He isn't abusing his form' - Former India pacer Zaheer Khan lauds young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal Rohit is also the leading century-maker for India since the start of 2021. In the past three years, he has slammed as many as six centuries. Most Test hundreds for India since 2021 6 - Rohit Sharma 4 - Shubman Gill 3 - Ravindra Jadeja 3 - Yashasvi Jaiswal 3 - Rishabh Pant 3 - KL Rahul On Day 1 of the Dharamsala encounter, Rohit also slammed 1,000 runs as a Test captain. He, thus, became only the third Indian skipper (after MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli) to have 1K-plus runs in all formats as captain. Speaking about the final Test between India and England, the home side is ahead with a lead of over 70 at the time of publishing this report, with debutant Devdutt Padikkal and Sarfaraz Khan in the middle. Rohit fell soon after lunch, for 103, whereas Shubman Gill departed for 110. Rohit-led India already have an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series and are aiming to end with a 4-1 scoreline.

IND vs ENG: Rohit Sharma equals Sunil Gavaskar’s elite feat with impressive ton on Day 2 of Dharamsala Test

Rohit Sharma-led India dominated proceedings on Day 1 of the fifth and final Test versus England at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Thursday (March 7). Being asked to bowl first, the home side rode on Kuldeep Yadav's 5 for 79 and R Ashwin's 4 for 51 to dismiss the English side for a below-par 218. In reply, India ended the day's play at 135 for 1 with skipper Rohit unbeaten on 52. With his second half-century of the series, Rohit also became the tenth Indian skipper to enter the 1,000-run club in Tests.&nbsp;

Thus, Rohit joined an elite list comprising his predecessor Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni and the likes. Here is the list:

Virat Kohli - 5,864 runs 
MS Dhoni - 3,454 runs 
Sunil Gavaskar - 3,449 runs 
Mohammed Azharuddin - 2,856 runs 
Sourav Ganguly - 2,561 runs 
MAK Pataudi - 2,424 runs 
Sachin Tendulkar - 2,054 runs 
Rahul Dravid - 1,736 runs 
Kapil Dev - 1,364 runs 
Rohit Sharma - 1,039 runs

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-rohit-sharma-becomes-1st-ever-to-achieve-all-format-catching-feat-on-day-1-of-dharamsala-test-697642">IND vs ENG: Rohit Sharma becomes 1st-ever to achieve all-format catching feat on Day 1 of Dharamsala Test</a>

In addition, Rohit is now only the third Indian captain to score 1k-plus runs in all formats as captain. He joined Dhoni and Kohli in this elite list:

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Captains</td>
			<td>Tests</td>
			<td>ODIs</td>
			<td>T20Is</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>MS Dhoni</td>
			<td>3,454</td>
			<td>6,641</td>
			<td>1,112</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Virat Kohli</td>
			<td>5,864</td>
			<td>5,449</td>
			<td>1,570</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rohit Sharma</td>
			<td>1,039*</td>
			<td>2047*</td>
			<td>1,648*</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Rohit will look to make the most of his start and take India beyond England's 218 on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test at the picturesque stadium in Dharamsala on Friday (March 8). The hosts will aim for a big lead to dictate terms over Ben Stokes-led England. The five Tests have already been sealed with India taking an unassailable 3-1 lead following their five-wicket win in the previous game in Ranchi. Rohit &amp; Co., however, will aim for a 4-1 scoreline to bolster their chances of playing the final of the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

Rohit Sharma-led India dominated proceedings on Day 1 of the fifth and final Test versus England at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Thursday (March 7). Being asked to bowl first, the home side rode on Kuldeep Yadav's 5 for 79 and R Ashwin's 4 for 51 to dismiss the English side for a below-par 218.

Rohit Sharma-led India dominated proceedings on Day 1 of the fifth and final Test versus England at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Thursday (March 7). Being asked to bowl first, the home side rode on Kuldeep Yadav's 5 for 79 and R Ashwin's 4 for 51 to dismiss the English side for a below-par 218. In reply, India ended the day's play at 135 for 1 with skipper Rohit unbeaten on 52. With his second half-century of the series, Rohit also became the tenth Indian skipper to enter the 1,000-run club in Tests. Thus, Rohit joined an elite list comprising his predecessor Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni and the likes. Here is the list: Virat Kohli - 5,864 runs MS Dhoni - 3,454 runs Sunil Gavaskar - 3,449 runs Mohammed Azharuddin - 2,856 runs Sourav Ganguly - 2,561 runs MAK Pataudi - 2,424 runs Sachin Tendulkar - 2,054 runs Rahul Dravid - 1,736 runs Kapil Dev - 1,364 runs Rohit Sharma - 1,039 runs Also read: IND vs ENG: Rohit Sharma becomes 1st-ever to achieve all-format catching feat on Day 1 of Dharamsala Test In addition, Rohit is now only the third Indian captain to score 1k-plus runs in all formats as captain. He joined Dhoni and Kohli in this elite list: Captains Tests ODIs T20Is MS Dhoni 3,454 6,641 1,112 Virat Kohli 5,864 5,449 1,570 Rohit Sharma 1,039* 2047* 1,648* Rohit will look to make the most of his start and take India beyond England's 218 on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test at the picturesque stadium in Dharamsala on Friday (March 8). The hosts will aim for a big lead to dictate terms over Ben Stokes-led England. The five Tests have already been sealed with India taking an unassailable 3-1 lead following their five-wicket win in the previous game in Ranchi. Rohit & Co., however, will aim for a 4-1 scoreline to bolster their chances of playing the final of the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

IND vs ENG: Rohit Sharma joins Kohli, Dhoni to become 10th Indian captain to score 1k runs in Tests

Indian men's Test team captain Rohit Sharma has hit back at England batter Ben Duckett's recent comments that the hosts had learned from the 'Bazball' style of cricket and changed their gameplay.

Indian men's Test team captain Rohit Sharma has hit back at England batter Ben Duckett's recent comments that the hosts had learned from the 'Bazball' style of cricket and changed their gameplay. Speaking to reporters on the eve of the fifth Test match at Dharamsala, Sharma gave it back to the England opener, reminding him of swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant. “Yashasvi Jaiswal learning from Ben Duckett? There was a guy called Rishabh Pant in our team. Probably Ben Duckett hasn’t seen him play," quipped Sharma. Also read | Explained: Why IPL is cricket equivalent version of English Premier League After Indian batters took an aggressive route against the English bowlers during the Rajkot Test, Duckett made the comment, suggesting that England's flamboyant style of play should be credited for Jaiswal's performance. “When you see players from the opposition playing like that, it almost feels like we should take some credit that they’re playing differently than how other people play Test cricket,” Duckett was quoted as saying. Nasser Hussain's reaction to Duckett's statement Notably, Sharma is not the first cricketer to have reacted to Duckett's rather absurd statement. Former England captain-turned-commentator Nasser Hussain in a passionate monologue said Jaiswal had learned attacking form of cricket after doing the hard yards in the IPL and domestic circuit. "The comment on Jaiswal that he has learned from us, I am going to touch on that. He has not learned from you, he has learned from his upbringing and all the hard yards he has put in while growing up, he has learned from the IPL. If anything, I would look at him and learn from him," Hussain told Michael Atherton on Sky Sports podcast. "So, whatever they are saying in public and in that dressing room, I hope they are going back into their room with self-introspection. I can look at that lad and learn from him. Otherwise, it becomes a cult, doesn’t it? At times, Bazball has been described as a cult where you cannot criticise either within or externally. Even in this regime, there is room for learning and improving," he added. Also read | IND vs ENG, 5th Test: England skipper Ben Stokes shares what's at stake in Dharamsala Despite the hullabaloo surrounding Bazball in the run-up to the series, India managed to comfortably secure an unassailable lead in the series. There were brief aspersions after India's defeat in the Hyderabad Test but the team quickly bounced back and kept Ben Stokes' team at bay. The final test of the series gets underway at Dharamshala on Thursday (Mar 7) with both teams hoping to earn valuable points to keep them in contention for the World Test Championship final. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Duckett hasn’t seen Pant play’: Rohit Sharma schools English opener over absurd Bazball remark

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma lavished huge praise on veteran spinner R Ashwin ahead of his 100th Test appearance. India take on England in the fifth and final Test, in Dharamsala, which gets underway on March 7 (Thursday). It will see Ashwin and English batter Jonny Bairstow making their respective 100th appearances in the red ball format. Rohit, thus,&nbsp;heaped praise on his teammate Ashwin for his impeccable run in Tests for India.

<h2>'It is rare to have players like R Ashwin'</h2>

In the pre-match presser of the Dharamsala Test, Rohit told the reporters, "Big achievement for any player to play 100 Tests. It is a big milestone. He has been a big match winner for us. What he has done for us, no praise is enough. His performances over 5-7 years, every series he has contributed. It is rare to have players like him."

Ashwin has accounted for 507 wickets in 99 Tests, including 35 five-fers. He is the ninth-highest wicket-taker overall, second-most by an Indian, in Tests. In the ongoing home series versus England, he entered the elite 500-wicket club during the third Test in Rajkot.

The 37-year-old, who also has 3,309 runs including five hundreds and 14 fifties in whites, will look to have&nbsp;a memorable outing in his landmark Test, in Dharamsala.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dharamsala-test-r-ashwin-recalls-how-2012-england-series-gave-him-a-wonderful-lesson-696755">IND vs ENG, Dharamsala Test: R Ashwin recalls how 2012 England series taught him a wonderful lesson</a>

Talking about the Dharamsala Test, the picturesque venue has hosted only one game in the format (between India and Australia in 2017). Rohit spoke on the surface and expects a "typical Indian pitch". In this regard, he stated, "I have not&nbsp;played a Test match here in Dharamsala. Both seamers and spinners were played back in the 2017 Test."

“Looking at the pitch; it looks like a good pitch. It will be a typical Indian pitch with some movement at the start and towards the end."

India have already won the five-match series with an unassailable 3-1 lead following their win in the Ranchi Test. They will, however, look to make the scoreline 4-1 and add crucial points in their kitty in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma lavished huge praise on veteran spinner R Ashwin ahead of his 100th Test appearance. India take on England in the fifth and final Test, in Dharamsala, which gets underway on March 7 (Thursday).

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma lavished huge praise on veteran spinner R Ashwin ahead of his 100th Test appearance. India take on England in the fifth and final Test, in Dharamsala, which gets underway on March 7 (Thursday). It will see Ashwin and English batter Jonny Bairstow making their respective 100th appearances in the red ball format. Rohit, thus, heaped praise on his teammate Ashwin for his impeccable run in Tests for India. 'It is rare to have players like R Ashwin' In the pre-match presser of the Dharamsala Test, Rohit told the reporters, "Big achievement for any player to play 100 Tests. It is a big milestone. He has been a big match winner for us. What he has done for us, no praise is enough. His performances over 5-7 years, every series he has contributed. It is rare to have players like him." Ashwin has accounted for 507 wickets in 99 Tests, including 35 five-fers. He is the ninth-highest wicket-taker overall, second-most by an Indian, in Tests. In the ongoing home series versus England, he entered the elite 500-wicket club during the third Test in Rajkot. The 37-year-old, who also has 3,309 runs including five hundreds and 14 fifties in whites, will look to have a memorable outing in his landmark Test, in Dharamsala. Also read: IND vs ENG, Dharamsala Test: R Ashwin recalls how 2012 England series taught him a wonderful lesson Talking about the Dharamsala Test, the picturesque venue has hosted only one game in the format (between India and Australia in 2017). Rohit spoke on the surface and expects a "typical Indian pitch". In this regard, he stated, "I have not played a Test match here in Dharamsala. Both seamers and spinners were played back in the 2017 Test." “Looking at the pitch; it looks like a good pitch. It will be a typical Indian pitch with some movement at the start and towards the end." India have already won the five-match series with an unassailable 3-1 lead following their win in the Ranchi Test. They will, however, look to make the scoreline 4-1 and add crucial points in their kitty in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle.

IND vs ENG: ‘No praise is enough’ - Rohit Sharma all praise for R Ashwin before spinner’s 100th Test

India skipper Rohit Sharma has equaled former captains Sunil Gavaskar and MAK Pataudi's record of most wins for India in Tests. Rohit now has nine Test wins as captain for India after beating England in fourth Test of the ongoing five-match series. Both, Gavaskar and Pataudi have nine wins in Tests as India skipper but in more games than Rohit. While Sharma reached the mark in 15 games, Gavaskar and Pataudi took 47 and 40 matches, respectively to reach the nine-win mark in Tests as skipper.

Rohit is now fifth most successful India Test captain with Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sourav Ganguly and Mohammad Azharuddin ahead of him. Azhar has 14 wins in 47 Tests, Ganguly managed 21 in 49 games, Dhoni won 27 times in 40 matches and Kohli has a whopping 40 Test wins in 67 games he led Indian in.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dharamsala-test-kl-rahul-unlikely-for-5th-test-leaves-for-london-to-get-expert-opinion-on-injury-694749">Dharamsala Test: KL Rahul unlikely for 5th Test, leaves for London to get expert opinion on injury</a>

Rohit took over the captaincy from Virat Kohli in 2022 and has led India against Sri Lanka and Australia at home apart from leading on tour of West Indies and South Africa as well. In between, Rohit also lead the side in ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2023 against Australia in June last year.&nbsp;

Against Sri Lanka, India won 2-0 while they beat Australia 2-1. On foreign tours, India got better of West Indies 1-0 and drew the series 1-1 against South Africa but lost the WTC final. In the ongoing series, India lead 3-1 with one more Test to be played in Dharamsala from March 7.&nbsp;

As a skipper, Rohit has 987 runs in 26 innings of the 15 Tests he has played at an average of 39. He has also managed three hundreds and three fifties with a highest score of 131.

As non-captain, Rohit has score 3,047 runs in 43 Tests at an average of 47 with eight hundreds and 14 fifties.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has equaled former captains Sunil Gavaskar and MAK Pataudi's record of most wins for India in Tests. Rohit now has nine Test wins as captain for India after beating England in fourth Test of the ongoing five-match series.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has equaled former captains Sunil Gavaskar and MAK Pataudi's record of most wins for India in Tests. Rohit now has nine Test wins as captain for India after beating England in fourth Test of the ongoing five-match series. Both, Gavaskar and Pataudi have nine wins in Tests as India skipper but in more games than Rohit. While Sharma reached the mark in 15 games, Gavaskar and Pataudi took 47 and 40 matches, respectively to reach the nine-win mark in Tests as skipper. Rohit is now fifth most successful India Test captain with Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sourav Ganguly and Mohammad Azharuddin ahead of him. Azhar has 14 wins in 47 Tests, Ganguly managed 21 in 49 games, Dhoni won 27 times in 40 matches and Kohli has a whopping 40 Test wins in 67 games he led Indian in. Also Read: Dharamsala Test: KL Rahul unlikely for 5th Test, leaves for London to get expert opinion on injury Rohit took over the captaincy from Virat Kohli in 2022 and has led India against Sri Lanka and Australia at home apart from leading on tour of West Indies and South Africa as well. In between, Rohit also lead the side in ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2023 against Australia in June last year. Against Sri Lanka, India won 2-0 while they beat Australia 2-1. On foreign tours, India got better of West Indies 1-0 and drew the series 1-1 against South Africa but lost the WTC final. In the ongoing series, India lead 3-1 with one more Test to be played in Dharamsala from March 7. As a skipper, Rohit has 987 runs in 26 innings of the 15 Tests he has played at an average of 39. He has also managed three hundreds and three fifties with a highest score of 131. As non-captain, Rohit has score 3,047 runs in 43 Tests at an average of 47 with eight hundreds and 14 fifties.

India skipper Rohit Sharma equals Sunil Gavaskar and MAK Pataudi's record of most Test wins

Yashasvi Jaiswal continues his merry run as the Indian opener&nbsp;moved three spots higher to attain a career-best 12th spot in the latest batting chart, updated on Wednesday (Feb&nbsp;28). The swashbuckling left-hander, who has been in sublime form in the ongoing five Test&nbsp;series versus England at home, surpassed Indian captain&nbsp;and his opening partner, Rohit Sharma -- who has moved down to No. 13 in the batting list.

Jaiswal has been in top form in India's current home series versus England. Rohit &amp; Co. recently attained an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series after winning the fourth Test, in Ranchi, by five wickets. Jaiswal has been one of the star performers, being the top run-getter with 655 runs in four games. He struck his maiden double ton in the second Test, in Visakhapatnam, and went past the 200-run mark once again in the following Test in Rajkot. Apart from that, he also has two fifties (80 in the first Test in Hyderabad and 73 in Ranchi) under his belt.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lets-not-sunil-gavaskar-opines-on-rishabh-pants-awaited-comeback-during-ipl-2024-694666">'Let's not...': Sunil Gavaskar opines on Rishabh Pant's awaited comeback during IPL 2024</a>

Thus, Jaiswal has reaped rewards for his brilliant run, climbing three spots in the latest ICC Test rankings for batters. In the overall list, New Zealand's Kane Williamson continues to top the chart whereas Virat Kohli -- who&nbsp;withdrew&nbsp;from the first two Tests versus England before eventually pulling away completely to welcome his second child -- remains India's top batter (9th).

<h3>ICC TEST BATTING RANKINGS</h3>

1. Kane Williamson - 893 rating points 
2. Steve Smith - 818 rating points 
3. Joe Root - 799&nbsp;rating points 
4. Daryl Mitchell - 780&nbsp;rating points 
5. Babar Azam - 768 rating points 
6. Usman Khawaja - 765&nbsp;rating points 
7. Dimuth Karunaratne - 750&nbsp;rating points 
8. Marnus Labuschagne - 746&nbsp;rating points 
9. Virat Kohli - 744&nbsp;rating points 
10. Harry Brook - 743&nbsp;rating points

Other Indians in Notable Spots

12. Yashasvi Jaiswal - 727&nbsp;rating points 
13. Rohit Sharma - 720&nbsp;rating points 
14. Rishabh Pant - 699&nbsp;rating points

Jaiswal-starrer India will take on England in the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala which gets underway on March 7. The left-hander -- who equalled Kohli's record for the most runs in a bilateral series against England in Tests -- will aim to finish off on a high with another daddy hundred in the&nbsp;final Test.

Yashasvi Jaiswal continues his merry run as the Indian opener moved three spots higher to attain a career-best 12th spot in the latest batting chart, updated on Wednesday (Feb 28).

Yashasvi Jaiswal continues his merry run as the Indian opener moved three spots higher to attain a career-best 12th spot in the latest batting chart, updated on Wednesday (Feb 28). The swashbuckling left-hander, who has been in sublime form in the ongoing five Test series versus England at home, surpassed Indian captain and his opening partner, Rohit Sharma -- who has moved down to No. 13 in the batting list. Jaiswal has been in top form in India's current home series versus England. Rohit & Co. recently attained an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series after winning the fourth Test, in Ranchi, by five wickets. Jaiswal has been one of the star performers, being the top run-getter with 655 runs in four games. He struck his maiden double ton in the second Test, in Visakhapatnam, and went past the 200-run mark once again in the following Test in Rajkot. Apart from that, he also has two fifties (80 in the first Test in Hyderabad and 73 in Ranchi) under his belt. Also read: 'Let's not...': Sunil Gavaskar opines on Rishabh Pant's awaited comeback during IPL 2024 Thus, Jaiswal has reaped rewards for his brilliant run, climbing three spots in the latest ICC Test rankings for batters. In the overall list, New Zealand's Kane Williamson continues to top the chart whereas Virat Kohli -- who withdrew from the first two Tests versus England before eventually pulling away completely to welcome his second child -- remains India's top batter (9th). ICC TEST BATTING RANKINGS 1. Kane Williamson - 893 rating points 2. Steve Smith - 818 rating points 3. Joe Root - 799 rating points 4. Daryl Mitchell - 780 rating points 5. Babar Azam - 768 rating points 6. Usman Khawaja - 765 rating points 7. Dimuth Karunaratne - 750 rating points 8. Marnus Labuschagne - 746 rating points 9. Virat Kohli - 744 rating points 10. Harry Brook - 743 rating points Other Indians in Notable Spots 12. Yashasvi Jaiswal - 727 rating points 13. Rohit Sharma - 720 rating points 14. Rishabh Pant - 699 rating points Jaiswal-starrer India will take on England in the fifth and final Test in Dharamsala which gets underway on March 7. The left-hander -- who equalled Kohli's record for the most runs in a bilateral series against England in Tests -- will aim to finish off on a high with another daddy hundred in the final Test.

ICC Test Rankings: Yashasvi Jaiswal surpasses Indian captain Rohit Sharma for career-best spot

Rohit Sharma-led India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test to clinch the five-match series 3-1 with a game to spare. After India's triumph over Ben Stokes-led England, former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina heaped praise on captain Rohit. Raina lauded Rohit's leadership and made a big claim, saying Hitman is 'the next MS Dhoni'.

<h2>'He is&nbsp;giving&nbsp;chances to youngsters the way MS Dhoni did'</h2>

Speaking to TOI, Raina said that Rohit has been giving lot of chances to youngsters, just like Dhoni, and has handled the team well in pressure situations. "He is the next MS Dhoni. He has done well. He has been giving a lot of chances to youngsters the way MS Dhoni did. I played a lot of cricket under MS Dhoni. Sourav Ganguly supported his team a lot. Then MS Dhoni came and led from the front. Rohit is going in the right direction. He is a brilliant captain," opined Raina.

He further stated, "I want to give credit to Rohit Sharma. He first gave Sarfaraz the chance and then made Jurel part of the team."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-why-indias-test-series-triumph-over-england-should-be-rated-highly-694385">Explained: Why India's Test series triumph over England should be rated highly</a>

<h2>'Rohit has been handling the pressure and players really well'</h2>

Raina added, "Rohit has been amazing with his planning. He has been giving a lot of chances to the youngsters. The way he is rotating the players is something I have never seen in the last couple of years. Whenever the fast bowlers came in the last couple of years, we have seen injuries. But Rohit has been managing that really well. Being a captain is not easy, especially when you are playing in India. Earlier, we used to have one fast bowler and 3-4 spinners. Now, he is bringing two fast bowlers. He brought in Siraj and Bumrah. He sent Bumrah back and managed his workload well and then handed debut to Akash Deep. Rohit has been handling the pressure and players really well."

India's series triumph over England came on the back of several top performances from young players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal (with over 600 runs in the ongoing series), Shubman Gill (having scores of 104, 91, 52*), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (Player-of-the-Match in Ranchi for his keeping skills along with a priceless 90 and 39*), Akash Deep, etc.

The likes of Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja have also stepped up but the series win has come courtesy of the younger brigade. Meanwhile, Rohit has also led brilliantly despite missing key players like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul.

The fifth and final Test, versus England, kicks off on March 7 in Dharamsala.

Rohit Sharma-led India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test to clinch the five-match series 3-1 with a game to spare. After India's triumph over Ben Stokes-led England, former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina heaped praise on captain Rohit.

Rohit Sharma-led India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test to clinch the five-match series 3-1 with a game to spare. After India's triumph over Ben Stokes-led England, former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina heaped praise on captain Rohit. Raina lauded Rohit's leadership and made a big claim, saying Hitman is 'the next MS Dhoni'. 'He is giving chances to youngsters the way MS Dhoni did' Speaking to TOI, Raina said that Rohit has been giving lot of chances to youngsters, just like Dhoni, and has handled the team well in pressure situations. "He is the next MS Dhoni. He has done well. He has been giving a lot of chances to youngsters the way MS Dhoni did. I played a lot of cricket under MS Dhoni. Sourav Ganguly supported his team a lot. Then MS Dhoni came and led from the front. Rohit is going in the right direction. He is a brilliant captain," opined Raina. He further stated, "I want to give credit to Rohit Sharma. He first gave Sarfaraz the chance and then made Jurel part of the team." Also read: Explained: Why India's Test series triumph over England should be rated highly 'Rohit has been handling the pressure and players really well' Raina added, "Rohit has been amazing with his planning. He has been giving a lot of chances to the youngsters. The way he is rotating the players is something I have never seen in the last couple of years. Whenever the fast bowlers came in the last couple of years, we have seen injuries. But Rohit has been managing that really well. Being a captain is not easy, especially when you are playing in India. Earlier, we used to have one fast bowler and 3-4 spinners. Now, he is bringing two fast bowlers. He brought in Siraj and Bumrah. He sent Bumrah back and managed his workload well and then handed debut to Akash Deep. Rohit has been handling the pressure and players really well." India's series triumph over England came on the back of several top performances from young players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal (with over 600 runs in the ongoing series), Shubman Gill (having scores of 104, 91, 52*), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (Player-of-the-Match in Ranchi for his keeping skills along with a priceless 90 and 39*), Akash Deep, etc. The likes of Kuldeep Yadav, R Ashwin, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Rohit and Ravindra Jadeja have also stepped up but the series win has come courtesy of the younger brigade. Meanwhile, Rohit has also led brilliantly despite missing key players like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul. The fifth and final Test, versus England, kicks off on March 7 in Dharamsala.

‘He is the next MS Dhoni’ - Suresh Raina lauds Rohit Sharma after India’s Test series win over England

India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India were 84 for no loss before being reduced to 120-5. An unbroken 72-run sixth-wicket stand between Shubman Gill (52*) and Dhruv Jurel (39 not out) propelled India to a stunning win, also claiming the five-match series 3-1 with a game to spare.

This became India's 17th successive Test series win&nbsp;on home soil (most by any). Their last series loss at home came versus Alastair Cook-led England in 2012/13. Since then, they have beaten the likes of Australia, England, West Indies, South Africa, Bangladesh and New Zealand (with Pakistan being the only non-visiting side due to strained political relations between the two nations).&nbsp;

Often, we tend to overlook the Test series wins at home. While there is no doubt that an away series win is very satisfying, people often underplay the importance of a series win in home conditions. Indian captain Rohit Sharma underlined the importance of a home series win&nbsp;in the post-match presser in Ranchi.&nbsp;

Responding to WION's correspondent, Hitman said, "Yeah, I think every series is important for us. Our job is to win the game, the series or tournament. Home and away can be differentiated. If we win at home, it is said that 'India is supposed to win at home' but if we lose, then I know what happens (smiles). Clearly, every series win against any team is crucial. Given where we were at before the series, with a lot of players missing, these young guys have taken the responsibility perfectly."

While home series wins deserve to be celebrated as well, this triumph over England -- a Test team who have been entertaining one and all with their aggressive style of play&nbsp;-- needs to be&nbsp;rated highly. The home side were challenged by England on many occasions and got a 3-1 lead facing many hindrances.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dhruv-jurel-took-the-pressure-off-me-shubman-gill-on-unbeaten-stand-in-tense-ranchi-chase-694027">IND vs ENG: 'Dhruv Jurel took the pressure off me' - Shubman Gill on unbeaten stand in tense Ranchi chase</a>

<h2>EXPLAINED: Why the England Test series win should be rated highly</h2>

India entered the series without star batter Virat Kohli, who was out for personal reasons (having&nbsp;stepped aside for the birth of his second child). The home team still dominated the first half of the series opener in Hyderabad before an Ollie Pope special blew them away. Despite a whopping 190-run lead, India lost the first Test after Pope's 196 revived England's chances. Chasing 231, India folded for 202, lost&nbsp;by 28 runs and conceded a 1-0 lead.

The troubles increased from the second Test. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja got injured and were sidelined (leading to&nbsp;Rajat Patidar's debut). Moreover, captain Rohit was looking timid with the bat&nbsp;-- grappling with the pressure of missing his key batters. While his struggles continued in Visakhapatnam as well, venue for the second encounter,&nbsp;a young Yashasvi Jaiswal -- who missed out on a ton in the opening game -- came as India's saviour and slammed a majestic 209 in the first innings. After India made 396, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah produced a brilliant bowling spell, with reverse swing on offer, to hand his side a big 143-run lead. In the second essay, 24-year-old Shubman Gill rose to the occasion&nbsp;with an impressive 104, as India setup a 399-run target and won by 106 runs.

The third Test, in Rajkot, saw the return of local boy Jadeja, however, Rahul still remained unfit.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer lost his place&nbsp;after a flurry of low scores. Thus, India brought in two debutants in the form of Sarfaraz Khan and keeper-batter&nbsp;Jurel.&nbsp;Opting to bat first, the hosts were 33-3 when captain Rohit (131) and Jadeja (112) stitched an invaluable 204-run fourth-wicket stand to take the side out of troubled waters. Still, India were 237-4 with inexperienced batters to follow. Nonetheless, both Sarfaraz (62) and Jurel (46) showed enough grit and determination to take India to 445. Senior pros R Ashwin (37) and Bumrah (26) also played a helping hand.

Ben Duckett (153) led England's response and the visitors were marching towards India's 445, being 182-2 in 30 overs. At 224-2, England still looked confident enough to go past India's score but Mohammed Siraj stepped up this time around.&nbsp;His 4 for 84 led to a collapse with Ben Stokes &amp; Co. folding up for 319.&nbsp;

With a 126-run lead, India took the game away&nbsp;with their&nbsp;young brigade once again coming to the party. Jaiswal (214*), Gill (91) and Sarfaraz (68 not out) propelled the team's lead to a daunting 556. Chasing 557, the English side managed a paltry 122 with Jadeja shining with 5 for 41.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prior to the&nbsp;fourth Test, the Indian team were much more confident and took the punt to rest ace pacer Bumrah. They included uncapped Bengal pacer Akash Deep in&nbsp;the playing XI in Ranchi. With England off to a flier, after opting to bat first, it was the 27-year-old debutant&nbsp;who struck thrice in one over to reduce England to 57 for 3. Later,&nbsp;Joe Root's 122* enabled England to 353. In reply, India were on the mat; reeling at 177-7.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, the 23-year-old Jurel (90) became India's hero in the crisis situation. He stitched a priceless 76-run eighth-wicket stand with Kuldeep Yadav (28). He aced the art of batting with the tail to take the team closer to England's 353. As a result, India posted 307 and handed only a slender 46-run lead, which could have easily been over 100. England then crumbled to Ashwin-Kuldeep's spin web to setup only a 192-run target. In the run-chase, India were made to toil hard for every run but Jurel-Gill ensured they got past the finish line.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurel-gill-and-spinners-help-india-beat-england-in-4th-test-in-ranchi-hosts-clinch-five-match-series-693960">Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi as hosts clinch five-match series</a>

India came from behind to win the Test series with a game to spare, mainly due&nbsp;to their young brigade (with the seniors also raising their game). Heaping praise on the&nbsp;youngsters, Rohit said in the post-match PC, "You can take a lot of pride with such performances. Test cricket throws a different kind of challenge and pressure. The way these guys have performed has been superb. It is important to understand the dressing room culture and understand what we want to do as a team. These guys have come with an open mind and have raised their hands. That is important&nbsp;to understand to put the team's need ahead of individual performances. These guys have done all that. I know these are early days but they have responded beautifully and have shown the skills to excel in this format."

Thus, India's Test series triumph deserves accolades for the way the youngsters have stepped up in the absence of the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Bumrah, etc. The inexperienced players have embraced every challenge presented before Team India.&nbsp;

Let us be honest. Had this series win come abroad, especially in SENA countries, it&nbsp;would have rightly been hailed by all. There definitely is nothing wrong in celebrating away wins, but home wins deserve appreciation as well. Well, this one certainly does and needs to be rated highly by the countrymen.

India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India were 84 for no loss before being reduced to 120-5.

India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India were 84 for no loss before being reduced to 120-5. An unbroken 72-run sixth-wicket stand between Shubman Gill (52*) and Dhruv Jurel (39 not out) propelled India to a stunning win, also claiming the five-match series 3-1 with a game to spare. This became India's 17th successive Test series win on home soil (most by any). Their last series loss at home came versus Alastair Cook-led England in 2012/13. Since then, they have beaten the likes of Australia, England, West Indies, South Africa, Bangladesh and New Zealand (with Pakistan being the only non-visiting side due to strained political relations between the two nations). Often, we tend to overlook the Test series wins at home. While there is no doubt that an away series win is very satisfying, people often underplay the importance of a series win in home conditions. Indian captain Rohit Sharma underlined the importance of a home series win in the post-match presser in Ranchi. Responding to WION's correspondent, Hitman said, "Yeah, I think every series is important for us. Our job is to win the game, the series or tournament. Home and away can be differentiated. If we win at home, it is said that 'India is supposed to win at home' but if we lose, then I know what happens (smiles). Clearly, every series win against any team is crucial. Given where we were at before the series, with a lot of players missing, these young guys have taken the responsibility perfectly." While home series wins deserve to be celebrated as well, this triumph over England -- a Test team who have been entertaining one and all with their aggressive style of play -- needs to be rated highly. The home side were challenged by England on many occasions and got a 3-1 lead facing many hindrances. Also read: IND vs ENG: 'Dhruv Jurel took the pressure off me' - Shubman Gill on unbeaten stand in tense Ranchi chase EXPLAINED: Why the England Test series win should be rated highly India entered the series without star batter Virat Kohli, who was out for personal reasons (having stepped aside for the birth of his second child). The home team still dominated the first half of the series opener in Hyderabad before an Ollie Pope special blew them away. Despite a whopping 190-run lead, India lost the first Test after Pope's 196 revived England's chances. Chasing 231, India folded for 202, lost by 28 runs and conceded a 1-0 lead. The troubles increased from the second Test. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja got injured and were sidelined (leading to Rajat Patidar's debut). Moreover, captain Rohit was looking timid with the bat -- grappling with the pressure of missing his key batters. While his struggles continued in Visakhapatnam as well, venue for the second encounter, a young Yashasvi Jaiswal -- who missed out on a ton in the opening game -- came as India's saviour and slammed a majestic 209 in the first innings. After India made 396, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah produced a brilliant bowling spell, with reverse swing on offer, to hand his side a big 143-run lead. In the second essay, 24-year-old Shubman Gill rose to the occasion with an impressive 104, as India setup a 399-run target and won by 106 runs. The third Test, in Rajkot, saw the return of local boy Jadeja, however, Rahul still remained unfit. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer lost his place after a flurry of low scores. Thus, India brought in two debutants in the form of Sarfaraz Khan and keeper-batter Jurel. Opting to bat first, the hosts were 33-3 when captain Rohit (131) and Jadeja (112) stitched an invaluable 204-run fourth-wicket stand to take the side out of troubled waters. Still, India were 237-4 with inexperienced batters to follow. Nonetheless, both Sarfaraz (62) and Jurel (46) showed enough grit and determination to take India to 445. Senior pros R Ashwin (37) and Bumrah (26) also played a helping hand. Ben Duckett (153) led England's response and the visitors were marching towards India's 445, being 182-2 in 30 overs. At 224-2, England still looked confident enough to go past India's score but Mohammed Siraj stepped up this time around. His 4 for 84 led to a collapse with Ben Stokes & Co. folding up for 319. With a 126-run lead, India took the game away with their young brigade once again coming to the party. Jaiswal (214*), Gill (91) and Sarfaraz (68 not out) propelled the team's lead to a daunting 556. Chasing 557, the English side managed a paltry 122 with Jadeja shining with 5 for 41. Prior to the fourth Test, the Indian team were much more confident and took the punt to rest ace pacer Bumrah. They included uncapped Bengal pacer Akash Deep in the playing XI in Ranchi. With England off to a flier, after opting to bat first, it was the 27-year-old debutant who struck thrice in one over to reduce England to 57 for 3. Later, Joe Root's 122* enabled England to 353. In reply, India were on the mat; reeling at 177-7. Nonetheless, the 23-year-old Jurel (90) became India's hero in the crisis situation. He stitched a priceless 76-run eighth-wicket stand with Kuldeep Yadav (28). He aced the art of batting with the tail to take the team closer to England's 353. As a result, India posted 307 and handed only a slender 46-run lead, which could have easily been over 100. England then crumbled to Ashwin-Kuldeep's spin web to setup only a 192-run target. In the run-chase, India were made to toil hard for every run but Jurel-Gill ensured they got past the finish line. Also read: Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi as hosts clinch five-match series India came from behind to win the Test series with a game to spare, mainly due to their young brigade (with the seniors also raising their game). Heaping praise on the youngsters, Rohit said in the post-match PC, "You can take a lot of pride with such performances. Test cricket throws a different kind of challenge and pressure. The way these guys have performed has been superb. It is important to understand the dressing room culture and understand what we want to do as a team. These guys have come with an open mind and have raised their hands. That is important to understand to put the team's need ahead of individual performances. These guys have done all that. I know these are early days but they have responded beautifully and have shown the skills to excel in this format." Thus, India's Test series triumph deserves accolades for the way the youngsters have stepped up in the absence of the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Bumrah, etc. The inexperienced players have embraced every challenge presented before Team India. Let us be honest. Had this series win come abroad, especially in SENA countries, it would have rightly been hailed by all. There definitely is nothing wrong in celebrating away wins, but home wins deserve appreciation as well. Well, this one certainly does and needs to be rated highly by the countrymen.

Explained: Why India’s Test series triumph over England should be rated highly

Dhruv Jurel (39*) and Shubman Gill (52*) stitched an unbroken 72-run sixth-wicket stand to help India chase 192 on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test versus England, at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). The day's play started with India being 40-0 and moved to 84 for no loss before English spinners chipped in with regular breakthroughs. However, Jurel (who scored a magnificent 90 in the first innings) and Gill remained unbeaten to take India to a stunning five-wicket win. With the victory, the hosts have&nbsp;clinched the five-match series with&nbsp;an unassailable 3-1 lead.

India started the day on a confident note with skipper Rohit Sharma (55) looking in his elements and constantly guiding his in-form partner Yashasvi Jaiswal (37). The duo added 84 for the opening stand but Joe Root, Shoaib Bashir (who took a five-fer in the first essay) and Tom Hartley made use of the turn and low bounce on offer to dent India. At 120-5, the home team&nbsp;had a job in hand but Jurel and Gill got together and resorted to smart cricket -- playing with soft hands, stepping outside the crease against the spinners&nbsp;and running well between the wickets --&nbsp;to take India to a win.&nbsp;

The Ranchi Test&nbsp;proved to be a hard-fought battle from the word go. Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes-led England got off to a flier on Day 1 before being reduced to 112-5, thanks to debutant pacer Akash Deep's three successive strikes. Nonetheless, Joe Root's 122* helped England post 353. In reply, India were on the backfoot at stumps on Day 2, reeling at 177-7 (despite Jaiswal's 73). The next morning saw India's fightback, led by young keeper-batter Jurel who scored a brilliant 90. The 23-year-old's knock, which included a 76-run eighth-wicket stand with spinner Kuldeep Yadav (28), helped the hosts get close to England's 353 as they managed 307.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-dhruv-jurels-90-a-delightful-saga-on-raising-the-tail-against-the-odds-693668">IND vs ENG: Dhruv Jurel's 90 - a delightful saga on raising the tail against the odds</a>

In their second innings, England were well-placed at 110-3 with Zak Crawley leading the&nbsp;charge. However, R Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav tested the English batters throughout with the former taking 5 for 51 to dismiss the opposition for a paltry 145. Jurel also contributed from&nbsp;behind the stumps with his proactiveness and keeping skills.&nbsp;England fell flat on a tricky surface -- with a tinge of low bounce&nbsp;throughout -- to set up only a 192-run target. The total wasn't daunting but the visitors made India toil hard for every run before Gill and Jurel's unbeaten stand.

Notably, this was the first time when India won a contest chasing over 150 at home since early 2013 (versus Australia -- chasing 155).&nbsp;India have clinched&nbsp;the series 3-1 to remain unbeaten in home Tests since late 2012-13 (when Alastair Cook-led England beat them 2-1).

The fifth and final Test will commence in Dharamsala on March 7.

Dhruv Jurel (39*) and Shubman Gill (52*) stitched an unbroken 72-run sixth-wicket stand to help India chase 192 on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test versus England, at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26).

Dhruv Jurel (39*) and Shubman Gill (52*) stitched an unbroken 72-run sixth-wicket stand to help India chase 192 on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test versus England, at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). The day's play started with India being 40-0 and moved to 84 for no loss before English spinners chipped in with regular breakthroughs. However, Jurel (who scored a magnificent 90 in the first innings) and Gill remained unbeaten to take India to a stunning five-wicket win. With the victory, the hosts have clinched the five-match series with an unassailable 3-1 lead. India started the day on a confident note with skipper Rohit Sharma (55) looking in his elements and constantly guiding his in-form partner Yashasvi Jaiswal (37). The duo added 84 for the opening stand but Joe Root, Shoaib Bashir (who took a five-fer in the first essay) and Tom Hartley made use of the turn and low bounce on offer to dent India. At 120-5, the home team had a job in hand but Jurel and Gill got together and resorted to smart cricket -- playing with soft hands, stepping outside the crease against the spinners and running well between the wickets -- to take India to a win. The Ranchi Test proved to be a hard-fought battle from the word go. Opting to bat first, Ben Stokes-led England got off to a flier on Day 1 before being reduced to 112-5, thanks to debutant pacer Akash Deep's three successive strikes. Nonetheless, Joe Root's 122* helped England post 353. In reply, India were on the backfoot at stumps on Day 2, reeling at 177-7 (despite Jaiswal's 73). The next morning saw India's fightback, led by young keeper-batter Jurel who scored a brilliant 90. The 23-year-old's knock, which included a 76-run eighth-wicket stand with spinner Kuldeep Yadav (28), helped the hosts get close to England's 353 as they managed 307. Also read: IND vs ENG: Dhruv Jurel's 90 - a delightful saga on raising the tail against the odds In their second innings, England were well-placed at 110-3 with Zak Crawley leading the charge. However, R Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav tested the English batters throughout with the former taking 5 for 51 to dismiss the opposition for a paltry 145. Jurel also contributed from behind the stumps with his proactiveness and keeping skills. England fell flat on a tricky surface -- with a tinge of low bounce throughout -- to set up only a 192-run target. The total wasn't daunting but the visitors made India toil hard for every run before Gill and Jurel's unbeaten stand. Notably, this was the first time when India won a contest chasing over 150 at home since early 2013 (versus Australia -- chasing 155). India have clinched the series 3-1 to remain unbeaten in home Tests since late 2012-13 (when Alastair Cook-led England beat them 2-1). The fifth and final Test will commence in Dharamsala on March 7.

Jurel, Gill and spinners help India beat England in 4th Test in Ranchi as hosts clinch five-match series

India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India started the day at 40 for no loss but were reduced to 120 for 5 before Shubman Gill's 52* and Dhruv Jurel (39 not out) ensured&nbsp;no further hiccups to take hosts&nbsp;past the finish line. With the win, India clinched the five-match series 3-1 with the final Test to be held in Dharamsala on March 7.

This became the 17th successive series win for India at home. At the post-match presser, Indian captain Rohit underlined the importance of a series win on home soil.

Responding to WION's correspondent, Hitman said, "Yeah, I think every series is important for us. Our job is to win the game, the series or tournament. Home and away can be differentiated. If we win at home, it is said that 'India is supposed to win at home' but if we lose, then I know what happens (smiles). Clearly, every series win against any team is crucial. Given where we were at before the series, with a lot of players missing, these young guys have taken the responsibility perfectly. "

Rohit then lauded the young and inexperienced players who stood up for India during crucial moments of the series. He added, "You can take a lot of pride with such performances. Test cricket throws a different kind of challenge and pressure. The way these guys have performed has been superb. It is important to understand the dressing room culture and understand what we want to do as a team. These guys have come with an open mind and have raised their hands. That is important&nbsp;to understand to put the team's need ahead of individual performances. These guys have done all that. I know these are early days but they have responded beautifully and have shown the skills to excel in this format."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-couldnt-be-more-proud-says-england-skipper-ben-stokes-after-losing-test-series-to-india-693983">IND vs ENG: 'Couldn't be more proud...,' says England skipper Ben Stokes after losing Test series to India</a>

India handed debut caps to many players -- such as&nbsp;Jurel, Akash Deep, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan -- with Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (who only featured in the first Test), Shreyas Iyer (out of action following the second Test), etc. missing out. Even Ravindra Jadeja missed the Visakhapatnam Test whereas Jasprit Bumrah was rested for the Ranchi encounter. All the newcomers made significant contributions whereas youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal has had a memorable run in the ongoing series (with 655 runs in four Tests). Even Gill has stood tall with a ton and two crucial fifties. Thus, this Test series triumph holds a lot of significance for the hosts.&nbsp;

Talking about the Ranchi Test, Ben Stokes-led England opted to bat first and rode on Joe Root's 122* to post 353. In reply, India were reeling at 177-7 before Jurel's 90 took India to 307. In their second essay, England folded for 145 courtesy of R Ashwin's 5 for 51. Chasing 192, India held their nerves, on Monday, to reach the finish line with five wickets in hand.

India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India started the day at 40 for no loss but were reduced to 120 for 5 before Shubman Gill's 52* and Dhruv Jurel (39 not out) ensured no further hiccups to take hosts past the finish line.

India beat England by five wickets on Day 4 of the fourth and penultimate Test at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi on Monday (Feb 26). Chasing 192, India started the day at 40 for no loss but were reduced to 120 for 5 before Shubman Gill's 52* and Dhruv Jurel (39 not out) ensured no further hiccups to take hosts past the finish line. With the win, India clinched the five-match series 3-1 with the final Test to be held in Dharamsala on March 7. This became the 17th successive series win for India at home. At the post-match presser, Indian captain Rohit underlined the importance of a series win on home soil. Responding to WION's correspondent, Hitman said, "Yeah, I think every series is important for us. Our job is to win the game, the series or tournament. Home and away can be differentiated. If we win at home, it is said that 'India is supposed to win at home' but if we lose, then I know what happens (smiles). Clearly, every series win against any team is crucial. Given where we were at before the series, with a lot of players missing, these young guys have taken the responsibility perfectly. " Rohit then lauded the young and inexperienced players who stood up for India during crucial moments of the series. He added, "You can take a lot of pride with such performances. Test cricket throws a different kind of challenge and pressure. The way these guys have performed has been superb. It is important to understand the dressing room culture and understand what we want to do as a team. These guys have come with an open mind and have raised their hands. That is important to understand to put the team's need ahead of individual performances. These guys have done all that. I know these are early days but they have responded beautifully and have shown the skills to excel in this format." Also read: IND vs ENG: 'Couldn't be more proud...,' says England skipper Ben Stokes after losing Test series to India India handed debut caps to many players -- such as Jurel, Akash Deep, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan -- with Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (who only featured in the first Test), Shreyas Iyer (out of action following the second Test), etc. missing out. Even Ravindra Jadeja missed the Visakhapatnam Test whereas Jasprit Bumrah was rested for the Ranchi encounter. All the newcomers made significant contributions whereas youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal has had a memorable run in the ongoing series (with 655 runs in four Tests). Even Gill has stood tall with a ton and two crucial fifties. Thus, this Test series triumph holds a lot of significance for the hosts. Talking about the Ranchi Test, Ben Stokes-led England opted to bat first and rode on Joe Root's 122* to post 353. In reply, India were reeling at 177-7 before Jurel's 90 took India to 307. In their second essay, England folded for 145 courtesy of R Ashwin's 5 for 51. Chasing 192, India held their nerves, on Monday, to reach the finish line with five wickets in hand.

IND vs ENG: India captain Rohit Sharma underlines importance of home series win after Ranchi Test

India captain Rohit Sharma is keen on picking those players for the Test team who are willing to grind in all conditions, challenging themselves to succeed in cricket's toughest format than those who don’t have that burning desire to play Tests in the first place. Amid reports of BCCI urging centrally contracted players, not picked to play for any Indian team at the moment, to appear for their state sides in the Ranji Trophy, Rohit, without naming anyone, made his intentions clear.

With young Dhruv Jurel making the right noises with his match-winning performance in both innings against England in the Ranchi Test, Rohit complimented him, explaining why such players tend to make it bigger in Tests than those who shy away from committing to this format.

“We will give opportunities to only those who are hungry,” said Rohit after India won the fourth Test in Ranchi. “There's a point in playing those who don't have hunger.”

"I don't see anyone in the team here who is not hungry. All the boys who are here and also those who are not, they all want to play. But the thing with Test cricket is that you get very few opportunities. If you don't utilise them, they go away," Rohit further asserted.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ranji-trophy-hanuma-vihari-blames-political-interference-as-reason-behind-leaving-andhras-captaincy-694062">Ranji Trophy: Hanuma Vihari blames political interference as reason behind leaving Andhra’s captaincy</a>

Meanwhile, Rohit’s remarks have come at a time in Indian cricket when several centrally contracted players – fit and available for selection, opted against featuring for their respective state teams in the Ranji Trophy, with their inclination being towards keeping themselves fit for the Indian Premier League (IPL), whose latest edition begins on March 22 in Chennai.

Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer are two names making headlines for the wrong reasons lately, mainly for disobeying clear directives from the BCCI to play the Ranji Trophy for their respective states.&nbsp;

While both continued to remain silent and overlook BCCI’s warnings, they, alongside Hardik Pandya - another ace India cricketer who has been away from Tests since last playing in this format in 2018, are featuring in a local tournament (DY Patil T20 Cup) in Navi Mumbai ahead of the IPL 2024.

<h2>IPL is good, but Tests are toughest</h2>

Having succeeded at IPL and Test cricket, Rohit knows what Tests do to a cricketer and how tough a format it is.&nbsp;

Speaking on their comparison, Rohit said IPL is a great product for fun and entertainment, but Tests is the format that brings the best out of a player.

"IPL is a very good format for us, but this is the toughest format and difficult to excel. You have to work hard to win...the last three wins didn't come easy, bowlers had to do long spells, batsmen had to grind it out. It's tough," Rohit said of IPL.

Meanwhile, Rohit is no longer the captain of Mumbai Indians as the franchise has picked Hardik Pandya in his place ahead of the upcoming season.&nbsp;

India captain Rohit Sharma is keen on picking those players for the Test team who are willing to grind in all conditions, challenging themselves to succeed in cricket's toughest format than those who don’t have that burning desire to play Tests in the first place.

India captain Rohit Sharma is keen on picking those players for the Test team who are willing to grind in all conditions, challenging themselves to succeed in cricket's toughest format than those who don’t have that burning desire to play Tests in the first place. Amid reports of BCCI urging centrally contracted players, not picked to play for any Indian team at the moment, to appear for their state sides in the Ranji Trophy, Rohit, without naming anyone, made his intentions clear. With young Dhruv Jurel making the right noises with his match-winning performance in both innings against England in the Ranchi Test, Rohit complimented him, explaining why such players tend to make it bigger in Tests than those who shy away from committing to this format. “We will give opportunities to only those who are hungry,” said Rohit after India won the fourth Test in Ranchi. “There's a point in playing those who don't have hunger.” "I don't see anyone in the team here who is not hungry. All the boys who are here and also those who are not, they all want to play. But the thing with Test cricket is that you get very few opportunities. If you don't utilise them, they go away," Rohit further asserted. ALSO READ: Ranji Trophy: Hanuma Vihari blames political interference as reason behind leaving Andhra’s captaincy Meanwhile, Rohit’s remarks have come at a time in Indian cricket when several centrally contracted players – fit and available for selection, opted against featuring for their respective state teams in the Ranji Trophy, with their inclination being towards keeping themselves fit for the Indian Premier League (IPL), whose latest edition begins on March 22 in Chennai. Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer are two names making headlines for the wrong reasons lately, mainly for disobeying clear directives from the BCCI to play the Ranji Trophy for their respective states. While both continued to remain silent and overlook BCCI’s warnings, they, alongside Hardik Pandya - another ace India cricketer who has been away from Tests since last playing in this format in 2018, are featuring in a local tournament (DY Patil T20 Cup) in Navi Mumbai ahead of the IPL 2024. IPL is good, but Tests are toughest Having succeeded at IPL and Test cricket, Rohit knows what Tests do to a cricketer and how tough a format it is. Speaking on their comparison, Rohit said IPL is a great product for fun and entertainment, but Tests is the format that brings the best out of a player. "IPL is a very good format for us, but this is the toughest format and difficult to excel. You have to work hard to win...the last three wins didn't come easy, bowlers had to do long spells, batsmen had to grind it out. It's tough," Rohit said of IPL. Meanwhile, Rohit is no longer the captain of Mumbai Indians as the franchise has picked Hardik Pandya in his place ahead of the upcoming season.

IND v ENG: There’s no point in playing those who are not hungry to succeed in Tests, says Rohit Sharma

India's ace spinner Ravi Ashwin broke a plethora of records on day 3 (Feb 25) of the ongoing fourth Test against England in Ranchi. First and foremost, he overtook former India skipper Anil Kumble for most Test wickets at home for India. Ashwin now has 354 Test wickets at home, four more than Kumble's 350. Ashwin finished with a five-for in England's second innings - his 35th five-wicket haul in Tests - joint-most with Kumble for India.

Overall, only Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (67), Australia's Shane Warne (37) and New Zealand's Richard Hadlee (36) have more five-for than Ashwin in Tests. At home, Ashwin is third in terms of five-for with 27 five-wicket hauls to his name, behind only Sri Lankans Muralitharan (45) and Rangana Herath (27).

In terms of wickets at home, only Muralitharan (493) has more than Ashwin among spinners while England's James Anderson (434) and Stuart Broad (398) lead him in overall list as well.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-4th-test-ravi-ashwin-reveals-key-to-his-five-wicket-haul-on-day-3-in-ranchi-693730">IND vs ENG, 4th Test: Ravi Ashwin reveals key to his five-wicket haul on day 3 in Ranchi</a>

Apart from Ashwin, India skipper Rohit Sharma also had record day&nbsp;as he&nbsp;reached 4,000 Test runs - becoming only the fourth active India batter to achieve the milestone. Rohit reached the 4K-run mark during his unbeaten innings of 24 in India's second innings.

He now has 4,003&nbsp;runs and counting behind Virat Kohli (8,848 runs), Cheteshwar Pujara (7,195 runs) and Ajinkya Rahane (5,077 runs) among active Indian Test batters.

As for the match, Ashwin (5/51) and Kuldeep Yadav (4/22) shared nine English wickets between them on day 3 to ensure India chase less than 200 to win the match and the series. Thanks to the spinners, England were bowled out for a paltry 145 runs in their second innings, setting India a target of 192 to take a 3-1 lead in the ongoing five-Test series.&nbsp;

In their second innings, Rohit and Yashasvi Jaiswal (16 not out) wiped off almost one fourth runs of the target in the eight overs bowled after England's second innings. The hosts ended the day at 40/0 and require 152 more runs to win with two days left in the match.

India's ace spinner Ravi Ashwin broke a plethora of records on day 3 (Feb 25) of the ongoing fourth Test against England in Ranchi. First and foremost, he overtook former India skipper Anil Kumble for most Test wickets at home for India.

India's ace spinner Ravi Ashwin broke a plethora of records on day 3 (Feb 25) of the ongoing fourth Test against England in Ranchi. First and foremost, he overtook former India skipper Anil Kumble for most Test wickets at home for India. Ashwin now has 354 Test wickets at home, four more than Kumble's 350. Ashwin finished with a five-for in England's second innings - his 35th five-wicket haul in Tests - joint-most with Kumble for India. Overall, only Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (67), Australia's Shane Warne (37) and New Zealand's Richard Hadlee (36) have more five-for than Ashwin in Tests. At home, Ashwin is third in terms of five-for with 27 five-wicket hauls to his name, behind only Sri Lankans Muralitharan (45) and Rangana Herath (27). In terms of wickets at home, only Muralitharan (493) has more than Ashwin among spinners while England's James Anderson (434) and Stuart Broad (398) lead him in overall list as well. Also Read: IND vs ENG, 4th Test: Ravi Ashwin reveals key to his five-wicket haul on day 3 in Ranchi Apart from Ashwin, India skipper Rohit Sharma also had record day as he reached 4,000 Test runs - becoming only the fourth active India batter to achieve the milestone. Rohit reached the 4K-run mark during his unbeaten innings of 24 in India's second innings. He now has 4,003 runs and counting behind Virat Kohli (8,848 runs), Cheteshwar Pujara (7,195 runs) and Ajinkya Rahane (5,077 runs) among active Indian Test batters. As for the match, Ashwin (5/51) and Kuldeep Yadav (4/22) shared nine English wickets between them on day 3 to ensure India chase less than 200 to win the match and the series. Thanks to the spinners, England were bowled out for a paltry 145 runs in their second innings, setting India a target of 192 to take a 3-1 lead in the ongoing five-Test series. In their second innings, Rohit and Yashasvi Jaiswal (16 not out) wiped off almost one fourth runs of the target in the eight overs bowled after England's second innings. The hosts ended the day at 40/0 and require 152 more runs to win with two days left in the match.

IND vs ENG, 4th Test Day 3: India's Ravi Ashwin, Rohit Sharma break multiple records in Ranchi

Bengal pacer Akash Deep debuts for India as the Rohit Sharma-led hosts lock horns with England on Day 1 of the fourth and penultimate Test in Ranchi on Friday (Feb 23). The speedster replaces Jasprit Bumrah -- who is the leading wicket-taker of the series with 17 scalps -- in the playing XI after the senior pro was rested for the Ranchi encounter. England have opted to bat first, in Jharkhand's capital city,&nbsp;as India lead the series 2-1.

Akash&nbsp;impressed the Rohit-led Indian team management with his bowling during India A versus England Lions matches. During the series,&nbsp;he accounted&nbsp;for&nbsp;10 wickets in two red-ball games held in Ahmedabad. While India&nbsp;also had the option to play&nbsp;Mukesh Kumar, who was part of the Visakhapatnam Test, they&nbsp;went ahead with the debutant as Mukesh proved expensive in&nbsp;Vizag.

Notably, 27-year-old Akash has&nbsp;partnered with Mukesh&nbsp;for Bengal in red-ball cricket. He&nbsp;has scalped 104 wickets from 30 first-class games, at an average of 23.58.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-rishabh-pant-will-lead-delhi-capitals-to-play-as-pure-batter-during-1st-half-confirms-co-owner-692955">IPL 2024: Rishabh Pant will lead Delhi Capitals, to play as pure batter during 1st half, confirms co-owner</a>

After losing the toss in Ranchi, the Indian captain told the broadcasters on Friday morning, "We would have batted first as well. Looks a bit dry and has some cracks, but that's the nature of the pitch here. The last two games were good for us and we'll have to play in the same way. Proud of a lot of young guys in the squad, they've taken the responsibility and have taken the challenge head-on. They are confident in their skills, moving forward it's a good thing. One change with Akash Deep making his debut."

India have gone ahead with three spinners and two pacers whereas England, who named their XI on Thursday (Feb 22), have recalled Shoaib Bashir -- with Rehan Ahmed out of the tour -- whereas pacer Ollie Robinson has replaced Mark Wood in their line-up.

Playing XIs:

India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel(w), Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj

England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes(c), Ben Foakes(w), Tom Hartley, Ollie Robinson, Shoaib Bashir, James Anderson

Bengal pacer Akash Deep debuts for India as the Rohit Sharma-led hosts lock horns with England on Day 1 of the fourth and penultimate Test in Ranchi on Friday (Feb 23).

Bengal pacer Akash Deep debuts for India as the Rohit Sharma-led hosts lock horns with England on Day 1 of the fourth and penultimate Test in Ranchi on Friday (Feb 23). The speedster replaces Jasprit Bumrah -- who is the leading wicket-taker of the series with 17 scalps -- in the playing XI after the senior pro was rested for the Ranchi encounter. England have opted to bat first, in Jharkhand's capital city, as India lead the series 2-1. Akash impressed the Rohit-led Indian team management with his bowling during India A versus England Lions matches. During the series, he accounted for 10 wickets in two red-ball games held in Ahmedabad. While India also had the option to play Mukesh Kumar, who was part of the Visakhapatnam Test, they went ahead with the debutant as Mukesh proved expensive in Vizag. Notably, 27-year-old Akash has partnered with Mukesh for Bengal in red-ball cricket. He has scalped 104 wickets from 30 first-class games, at an average of 23.58. Also read: IPL 2024: Rishabh Pant will lead Delhi Capitals, to play as pure batter during 1st half, confirms co-owner After losing the toss in Ranchi, the Indian captain told the broadcasters on Friday morning, "We would have batted first as well. Looks a bit dry and has some cracks, but that's the nature of the pitch here. The last two games were good for us and we'll have to play in the same way. Proud of a lot of young guys in the squad, they've taken the responsibility and have taken the challenge head-on. They are confident in their skills, moving forward it's a good thing. One change with Akash Deep making his debut." India have gone ahead with three spinners and two pacers whereas England, who named their XI on Thursday (Feb 22), have recalled Shoaib Bashir -- with Rehan Ahmed out of the tour -- whereas pacer Ollie Robinson has replaced Mark Wood in their line-up. Playing XIs: India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel(w), Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj England: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes(c), Ben Foakes(w), Tom Hartley, Ollie Robinson, Shoaib Bashir, James Anderson

IND v ENG: Pacer Akash Deep debuts for India as England bat first in Ranchi Test

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly feels the right choice has been made with Rohit Sharma to lead India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition&nbsp;in West Indies and USA. The upcoming ICC event kicks off in early June with India placed in Group A with Ireland, USA, Canada and arch-rivals Pakistan. India will start their campaign on June 5, versus Ireland.

Speaking to Mid Day, Ganguly -- who also served as the BCCI chief -- said, "Rohit Sharma is the right choice as India captain for the T20 World Cup. The way he led the Indian team and won 10 matches in the 50-over World Cup is still fresh in our memory. So, Rohit was the best choice."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-ask-him-why-i-was-dropped-just-retired-manoj-tiwary-questions-ms-dhoni-for-team-india-snub-691908">Want to ask him why was I dropped: Manoj Tiwary questions MS Dhoni on Team India snub</a>

Ahead of the recently-concluded Rajkot Test between India and England, in the ongoing five-match series, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had confirmed that Rohit will lead the national side in the next edition of the T20 WC. There were speculations of Hardik Pandya to lead India in the mega event with Rohit, as well as Virat Kohli, being away from India's T20I setup for 14 months since the 2022 T20 WC semifinal defeat (to eventual winners England). However, Rohit returned to the shortest format early this year during India's T20I series win over Afghanistan. With him, Kohli also made a T20I comeback.&nbsp;

Moreover, Hardik -- who has replaced Rohit as Mumbai Indians (MI) captain ahead of IPL 2024 -- is recovering from an ankle injury, which he suffered during India's ODI WC campaign last year. He will serve as Rohit's deputy in the T20 WC if deemed fully fit by then.

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly feels the right choice has been made with Rohit Sharma to lead India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition in West Indies and USA.

Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly feels the right choice has been made with Rohit Sharma to lead India in the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 edition in West Indies and USA. The upcoming ICC event kicks off in early June with India placed in Group A with Ireland, USA, Canada and arch-rivals Pakistan. India will start their campaign on June 5, versus Ireland. Speaking to Mid Day, Ganguly -- who also served as the BCCI chief -- said, "Rohit Sharma is the right choice as India captain for the T20 World Cup. The way he led the Indian team and won 10 matches in the 50-over World Cup is still fresh in our memory. So, Rohit was the best choice." Also read: Want to ask him why was I dropped: Manoj Tiwary questions MS Dhoni on Team India snub Ahead of the recently-concluded Rajkot Test between India and England, in the ongoing five-match series, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had confirmed that Rohit will lead the national side in the next edition of the T20 WC. There were speculations of Hardik Pandya to lead India in the mega event with Rohit, as well as Virat Kohli, being away from India's T20I setup for 14 months since the 2022 T20 WC semifinal defeat (to eventual winners England). However, Rohit returned to the shortest format early this year during India's T20I series win over Afghanistan. With him, Kohli also made a T20I comeback. Moreover, Hardik -- who has replaced Rohit as Mumbai Indians (MI) captain ahead of IPL 2024 -- is recovering from an ankle injury, which he suffered during India's ODI WC campaign last year. He will serve as Rohit's deputy in the T20 WC if deemed fully fit by then.

Rohit Sharma right choice to lead India in 2024 T20 World Cup: Former captain Sourav Ganguly

India thrashed England by 434 runs on Day 4 of the third Test, in Rajkot, on Sunday (Feb 18). Batting first, India were tottering at 33-3 on the opening day before centuries from skipper Rohit Sharma (131) and Ravindra Jadeja (112) propelled India to 445. In reply, Ben Duckett's 153 stood out for England as they folded for 319 before India set a whopping 557-run target for the visitors, riding on Yashasvi Jaiswal's 214. Eventually, Jadeja's 5-fer enabled India's big win as England got dismissed for a paltry 122.

After India's thumping victory, their biggest Test win in terms of runs, veteran stumper Dinesh Karthik made a big claim. He feels the Rajkot Test is a statement win for captain Rohit, who has been under fire as a red-ball leader of late. Former England batter Kevin Pietersen had recently hit out at Hitman&nbsp;during the first Test in Hyderabad (which the hosts lost by 28 runs)&nbsp;for his relaxed on-field attitude&nbsp;and overall tactics.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I would say that this is a statement victory for Rohit Sharma. They did not have Ashwin when they bowled in the first innings of the Test match. That is a big miss in India. In spite of that, he has made this Test match happen. There were few murmurs in the last two Tests that he had not led the team well and at times he let the game drift," Karthik said on Cricbuzz.

"He made a strong comeback in Vizag. In Rajkot Ben Duckett made it really hard for him in the first innings, but he still found a way to comeback. Now add the others, the Rahuls, the Kohlis, the Shamis, the Pantsl; Rohit has led this team very well and he has found answers to questions that Bazball raised in the first Test match in Vizag," he further added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/a-wake-up-call-former-skipper-michael-vaughan-lashes-out-at-bazball-after-englands-drubbing-in-rajkot-691559">A wake up call: Former skipper Michael Vaughan lashes out at Bazball after England's drubbing in Rajkot</a>

After the massive win in Rajkot, Rohit said at the post-match presentation, "When you&nbsp;are playing Test cricket, it is not played over 2-3 days. We do understand the importance of playing over 5 days. They played well and put us under pressure. We have got class in our&nbsp;bowling, the message was to stay calm and I'm really proud of how we came back the next day. When those things happen, it's a delight."

India's win in Rajkot is being appreciated more because they were without Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, both out of action due to injury concerns, whereas Virat Kohli has not taken part in the series yet due to personal reasons. Moreover, R Ashwin had to withdraw from the Test match after the end of&nbsp;second day's play, due to a family emergency. While he had returned to Rajkot on the fourth day, Jaiswal and Jadeja (ending with match figures of 7 for 92)&nbsp;ensured India did not require his services as they thumped England without dropping much sweat.

India thrashed England by 434 runs on Day 4 of the third Test, in Rajkot, on Sunday (Feb 18). Batting first, India were tottering at 33-3 on the opening day before centuries from skipper Rohit Sharma (131) and Ravindra Jadeja (112) propelled India to 445.

India thrashed England by 434 runs on Day 4 of the third Test, in Rajkot, on Sunday (Feb 18). Batting first, India were tottering at 33-3 on the opening day before centuries from skipper Rohit Sharma (131) and Ravindra Jadeja (112) propelled India to 445. In reply, Ben Duckett's 153 stood out for England as they folded for 319 before India set a whopping 557-run target for the visitors, riding on Yashasvi Jaiswal's 214. Eventually, Jadeja's 5-fer enabled India's big win as England got dismissed for a paltry 122. After India's thumping victory, their biggest Test win in terms of runs, veteran stumper Dinesh Karthik made a big claim. He feels the Rajkot Test is a statement win for captain Rohit, who has been under fire as a red-ball leader of late. Former England batter Kevin Pietersen had recently hit out at Hitman during the first Test in Hyderabad (which the hosts lost by 28 runs) for his relaxed on-field attitude and overall tactics. "I would say that this is a statement victory for Rohit Sharma. They did not have Ashwin when they bowled in the first innings of the Test match. That is a big miss in India. In spite of that, he has made this Test match happen. There were few murmurs in the last two Tests that he had not led the team well and at times he let the game drift," Karthik said on Cricbuzz. "He made a strong comeback in Vizag. In Rajkot Ben Duckett made it really hard for him in the first innings, but he still found a way to comeback. Now add the others, the Rahuls, the Kohlis, the Shamis, the Pantsl; Rohit has led this team very well and he has found answers to questions that Bazball raised in the first Test match in Vizag," he further added. Also read: A wake up call: Former skipper Michael Vaughan lashes out at Bazball after England's drubbing in Rajkot After the massive win in Rajkot, Rohit said at the post-match presentation, "When you are playing Test cricket, it is not played over 2-3 days. We do understand the importance of playing over 5 days. They played well and put us under pressure. We have got class in our bowling, the message was to stay calm and I'm really proud of how we came back the next day. When those things happen, it's a delight." India's win in Rajkot is being appreciated more because they were without Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul, both out of action due to injury concerns, whereas Virat Kohli has not taken part in the series yet due to personal reasons. Moreover, R Ashwin had to withdraw from the Test match after the end of second day's play, due to a family emergency. While he had returned to Rajkot on the fourth day, Jaiswal and Jadeja (ending with match figures of 7 for 92) ensured India did not require his services as they thumped England without dropping much sweat.

Ind vs Eng: Rajkot Test is a statement win for 'under-fire' Rohit Sharma, feels veteran stumper Dinesh Karthik

Former India skipper Anil Kumble wants Yahsasvi Jaiswal to continue with leg spin along side his batting. Kumble made the suggestion to Jaiswal after India's 434-run win in Rajkot on Sunday, Feb 18. Jaiswal had scored a sensational 214 not out in India's second innings before&nbsp;skipper Rohit Sharma declared the innings on 430/4 to set England a target of 557 to win.&nbsp;

"Well done on your batting. But one thing that I have seen which I want you to continue as well is that you have a natural leg spin. Yes, and action. So don't give up on that. Because you never know when that will come in handy. I know you've had a back spasm, but when you're working so much on it, go tell the skipper to give a few overs," Kumble told Jaiswal during an interaction on Jio Cinemas.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-eng-we-can-still-win-this-series-3-2-ben-stokes-after-rajkot-test-loss-691481">IND v ENG - We can still win this series 3-2: Ben Stokes after Rajkot Test loss</a>

"I'm always going and bowling, bowling and bowling. He (Rohit) told me to be ready, and I said yes I am ready," Jaiswal responded.

Thanks to Ravindra Jadeja's five-for after Jaiswal's unbeaten double ton, India now lead the five-match series 2-1.

Stokes wants DRS scraped

England captain Ben <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/drama-over-drs-ben-stokes-calls-for-umpires-call-scrapping-following-crawleys-second-inning-dismissal-691506">Stokes has asked for DRS to scrap</a> the umpire’s call over Zak Crawley’s dismissal in the second innings. During the ninth over of the second innings, Jasprit Bumrah trapped Crawley in front, only for the England opener to take a review immediately and lose it. Following the replays that showed the ball clip the top of the leg stump, resulting in him getting out since the umpire had adjudged it out with the naked eye, Crawley walked away in disbelief while the Indian team celebrated.

While Stokes admitted that such calls are not the reason behind them losing two back-to-back Tests, he said something needs to be changed in the technology, starting from the umpire’s call rule.

Former India skipper Anil Kumble wants Yahsasvi Jaiswal to continue with leg spin along side his batting. Kumble made the suggestion to Jaiswal after India's 434-run win in Rajkot on Sunday, Feb 18.

Former India skipper Anil Kumble wants Yahsasvi Jaiswal to continue with leg spin along side his batting. Kumble made the suggestion to Jaiswal after India's 434-run win in Rajkot on Sunday, Feb 18. Jaiswal had scored a sensational 214 not out in India's second innings before skipper Rohit Sharma declared the innings on 430/4 to set England a target of 557 to win. "Well done on your batting. But one thing that I have seen which I want you to continue as well is that you have a natural leg spin. Yes, and action. So don't give up on that. Because you never know when that will come in handy. I know you've had a back spasm, but when you're working so much on it, go tell the skipper to give a few overs," Kumble told Jaiswal during an interaction on Jio Cinemas. Also Read: IND v ENG - We can still win this series 3-2: Ben Stokes after Rajkot Test loss "I'm always going and bowling, bowling and bowling. He (Rohit) told me to be ready, and I said yes I am ready," Jaiswal responded. Thanks to Ravindra Jadeja's five-for after Jaiswal's unbeaten double ton, India now lead the five-match series 2-1. Stokes wants DRS scraped England captain Ben Stokes has asked for DRS to scrap the umpire’s call over Zak Crawley’s dismissal in the second innings. During the ninth over of the second innings, Jasprit Bumrah trapped Crawley in front, only for the England opener to take a review immediately and lose it. Following the replays that showed the ball clip the top of the leg stump, resulting in him getting out since the umpire had adjudged it out with the naked eye, Crawley walked away in disbelief while the Indian team celebrated. While Stokes admitted that such calls are not the reason behind them losing two back-to-back Tests, he said something needs to be changed in the technology, starting from the umpire’s call rule.

IND vs ENG: 'Go tell skipper...,' Anil Kumble's suggestion to Yashasvi Jaiswal after India's win in Rajkot

Star of the third Test in Rajkot, Yashasvi Jaiswal admits taking inspiration from first-inning centurions Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja for how they played session by session on day one. Jaiswal slammed his second double-century of the series, hitting an incredible 214* in the second innings, helping India post a mammoth total and eventually win the game by 434 runs.

Jaiswal broke several records on his way to completing his second double ton in Tests. While he surpassed Navjot Singh Sidhu on the list of Indian batters with the most sixes in a single Test, Jaiswal equalled Wasim Akram’s unique tally of smashing 12 sixes in a Test innings.&nbsp;

However, the highlight of his innings was the three massive sixes he hit off James Anderson on back-to-back balls, becoming the first batter to do it against the England great.&nbsp;

Speaking to the broadcaster after the game, which India won by a daunting margin, their biggest in Test history, Jaiswal said he is happy to contribute towards his team’s success. The young left-handed batter said he aims to make it big whenever he is set at the crease, and in this case, despite retiring hurt after completing his hundred, Jaiswal returned to smash the record books.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stoinis-replacement-aaron-hardie-ruled-out-of-new-zealand-t20is-spencer-johnson-added-to-squad-691432">Stoinis' replacement Aaron Hardie ruled out of New Zealand T20Is, Spencer Johnson added to squad</a>

“I’m just trying to make it big whenever I’m set,” Jaiswal said.

“In Test cricket, you never know, I try to make sure I play as long as I can when I’m set. It was pretty difficult initially, I was not getting runs, so I had to play the session and play the bowler. Then when I got set, I could score the runs,” he added.

On his injury, Jaiswal said, “I had my plans about where I could play my shots and get runs. After some time, my back was not good. I didn’t want to go out, but I had to go out because it was too much. When I came back, I tried to give myself time and take it as deep as I can,” Jaiswal noted.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Rohit and Jadeja’s knocks inspired me’&nbsp;</h2>

In the first innings, Captain Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja were among the runs for India, hitting 131 and 112, respectively. Taking a leaf out of their books on how to make your chance count, Jaiswal said,

“As all my seniors have said, when you are set, make it big and make it count. The way Rohit (Sharma) bhai and Jaddu (Jadeja) bhai played in the first innings really inspired me. The way they played session by session was incredible, the way they put effort motivated all of us,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, with this win, India took a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.

Ranchi will host the fourth Test starting February 23.&nbsp;

Star of the third Test in Rajkot, Yashasvi Jaiswal admits taking inspiration from first-inning centurions Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja for how they played session by session on day one.

Star of the third Test in Rajkot, Yashasvi Jaiswal admits taking inspiration from first-inning centurions Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja for how they played session by session on day one. Jaiswal slammed his second double-century of the series, hitting an incredible 214* in the second innings, helping India post a mammoth total and eventually win the game by 434 runs. Jaiswal broke several records on his way to completing his second double ton in Tests. While he surpassed Navjot Singh Sidhu on the list of Indian batters with the most sixes in a single Test, Jaiswal equalled Wasim Akram’s unique tally of smashing 12 sixes in a Test innings. However, the highlight of his innings was the three massive sixes he hit off James Anderson on back-to-back balls, becoming the first batter to do it against the England great. Speaking to the broadcaster after the game, which India won by a daunting margin, their biggest in Test history, Jaiswal said he is happy to contribute towards his team’s success. The young left-handed batter said he aims to make it big whenever he is set at the crease, and in this case, despite retiring hurt after completing his hundred, Jaiswal returned to smash the record books. ALSO READ: Stoinis' replacement Aaron Hardie ruled out of New Zealand T20Is, Spencer Johnson added to squad “I’m just trying to make it big whenever I’m set,” Jaiswal said. “In Test cricket, you never know, I try to make sure I play as long as I can when I’m set. It was pretty difficult initially, I was not getting runs, so I had to play the session and play the bowler. Then when I got set, I could score the runs,” he added. On his injury, Jaiswal said, “I had my plans about where I could play my shots and get runs. After some time, my back was not good. I didn’t want to go out, but I had to go out because it was too much. When I came back, I tried to give myself time and take it as deep as I can,” Jaiswal noted. ‘Rohit and Jadeja’s knocks inspired me’ In the first innings, Captain Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja were among the runs for India, hitting 131 and 112, respectively. Taking a leaf out of their books on how to make your chance count, Jaiswal said, “As all my seniors have said, when you are set, make it big and make it count. The way Rohit (Sharma) bhai and Jaddu (Jadeja) bhai played in the first innings really inspired me. The way they played session by session was incredible, the way they put effort motivated all of us,” he concluded. Meanwhile, with this win, India took a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Ranchi will host the fourth Test starting February 23.

IND v ENG: Rohit and Jadeja’s first inning knocks inspired me, says Rajkot Test hero Yashasvi Jaiswal

rohit-sharma

Rohit Sharma, News on Rohit Sharma, stories on Rohit Sharma, articles on Rohit Sharma, Rohit Sharma stories at Wion, Rohit Sharma news, Rohit Sharma latest news

rohit sharma