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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

<p>Mumbai Indians global head of cricket, Mahela Jayawardene, has defended the franchise's call to replace veteran Rohit Sharma with Hardik Pandya as the new captain ahead of IPL 2024, saying it was tough and emotional at the same time.</p>

<p>Jayawardene addressed the outrage from fans that came with this decision, saying while it was not easy in the first place, this call was necessary&nbsp;to look at the franchise’s future.</p>

<p>Speaking with Jio Cinema in an exclusive chat at the sidelines of the IPL 2024 Auction in Dubai, Jayawardene said, "It was a tough decision. It was emotional, to be honest. It's fair on the fans as well (to react). I think everyone is emotional, and we have to respect that as well. But, at the same time, as a franchise, you have to make those decisions.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Commenting on having Rohit Sharma (as a pure batter) in the dressing room, Mahela said the India great is there to guide the next generation, as he has been brilliant during his captaincy tenure for the franchise.</p>

<p>"Having Rohit in the team, on and off the field to guide the next generation is very important for us. He has been absolutely brilliant. I am sure he will be part of the legacy who will guide that through," Jayawardene affirmed.</p>

<p>Sharing his thoughts on appointing Pandya as the captain, Mahela said this might have come a bit early (for the fans), but this was the decision they had to take at some point.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-level-t20i-series-against-west-indies-as-phil-salt-smashes-records-with-2nd-t20i-ton-671552">England level T20I series against West Indies as Phil Salt smashes records with 2nd T20I ton</a></strong></p>

<p>"Probably, everyone in their eyes will think it is too soon, but it is a decision we had to make at some point," Jayawardene explained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, having played for the Mumbai Indians since his IPL debut before shifting bases to Gujarat Titans for a couple of seasons, Pandya is aware of the dressing room environment at the MI, which would help him gel with the players and create his team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Hardik (Pandya) has been in the dressing room for quite some time, so that's nothing new. We know what he brings in as an all-rounder. It will be something different with his experience of leading the team at Gujarat, so, it is an opportunity to build on that," Jayawardene added.</p>

<h2>MI’s buys at IPL 2024 Auction</h2>

<p>Unlike other teams, Mumbai deployed a conservative approach in picking players at the IPL 2024 Auction in Dubai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among all the buys, the most expensive was South African seamer Gerald Coetzee, bought for INR 5 crore.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="pt">𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐭<br />
T̵E̵Z̵ ̵T̵E̵E̵K̵H̵I̵ ̵M̵I̵R̵C̵H̵ ✅<br />
B̵U̵L̵L̵'̵S̵-̵E̵Y̵E̵ ✅<br />
A̵F̵G̵H̵A̵N̵ ̵J̵A̵L̵E̵B̵I̵ ✅<br />
.<br />
.<br />
.<br />
<br />
And many more. We are ready for 𝐈𝐏𝐋 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OneFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OneFamily</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiIndians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiIndians</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/f63PpSy24x">pic.twitter.com/f63PpSy24x</a></p>
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan/status/1737159694379331918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Besides, new additions to the MI family are - Dilshan Madushanka (INR 4.60 crore), Shreyas Gopal (INR 20 lakh), Nuwan Thushara (INR 4.80 crore), Naman Dhir (INR 20 lakh), Anshul Kamboj (INR 20 lakh), Mohammad Nabi (INR 1.5 crore) and Shivalik Sharma (INR 20 lakh).</p>


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

<p>The uncertainty around Rohit Sharma’s T20I future as a cricketer and captain has kept everyone talking. With the next major ICC event – the 2024 T20 World Cup just seven months away, there is no clarity on who will lead India into the tournament, scheduled in the West Indies and the USA in June next year.</p>

<p>Though some reports have suggested that Pandya – the stand-in T20I captain, could take over the reins from Rohit, others claim that BCCI and re-elected head coach Rahul Dravid want Rohit to continue leading till the 2024 T20 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on the same lines on the sidelines of the WPL 2024 Auction in Mumbai on Saturday, BCCI secretary Jay Shah said there is nothing to confirm yet but shed light on when Hardik Pandya can return to India colours.</p>

<p>“What is the need to have clarity right now? It (T20 World Cup) is starting in June, we have the IPL before that and the series against Afghanistan,” Shah said on the sidelines of the Women’s Premier League auction.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-secretary-jay-shah-confirms-dates-venue-for-2024-womens-premier-league-668228">BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms dates, venue for 2024 Women’s Premier League</a></strong></p>

<p>The ace India all-rounder got injured during the Bangladesh game in the 2023 World Cup and has been out since. With the board and the National Cricket Academy (NCA) planning an 18-week high-performance programme to monitor his workload, Shah revealed Pandya could return as early as during the Afghanistan series in January.</p>

<p>“We are monitoring it on a day-to-day basis. He is at NCA only, he is working very hard, and we will let you know in due course the moment he is fit. He could be fit before the Afghanistan series also,” Shah added.</p>

<h2>India gear for T20 World Cup</h2>

<p>Following the 50-over World Cup at home, which India failed to win (losing to Australia in the final), the Men in Blue have their eyes set on next year’s T20 World Cup. Though who would lead India is probably the discussion for another day, the board and selectors have little time to determine the best players for the shortest format.</p>

<p>With India scheduled to face just South Africa and Afghanistan (six T20Is in total) in the lead-up to the World Cup, concerns within the board about picking the right team are growing with each passing day.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the top T20I batter from India, Suryakumar Yadav, will lead the team in South Africa and KL Rahul will captain in the three-match ODIs. Rohit Sharma will return to captain in the two Tests, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion.&nbsp;</p>


The uncertainty around Rohit Sharma’s T20I future as a cricketer and captain has kept everyone talking. With the next major ICC event – the 2024 T20 World Cup just seven months away, there is no clarity on who will lead India into the tournament, scheduled in the West Indies and the USA in June next year.

The uncertainty around Rohit Sharma’s T20I future as a cricketer and captain has kept everyone talking. With the next major ICC event – the 2024 T20 World Cup just seven months away, there is no clarity on who will lead India into the tournament, scheduled in the West Indies and the USA in June next year. Though some reports have suggested that Pandya – the stand-in T20I captain, could take over the reins from Rohit, others claim that BCCI and re-elected head coach Rahul Dravid want Rohit to continue leading till the 2024 T20 World Cup. Speaking on the same lines on the sidelines of the WPL 2024 Auction in Mumbai on Saturday, BCCI secretary Jay Shah said there is nothing to confirm yet but shed light on when Hardik Pandya can return to India colours. “What is the need to have clarity right now? It (T20 World Cup) is starting in June, we have the IPL before that and the series against Afghanistan,” Shah said on the sidelines of the Women’s Premier League auction. ALSO READ: BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms dates, venue for 2024 Women’s Premier League The ace India all-rounder got injured during the Bangladesh game in the 2023 World Cup and has been out since. With the board and the National Cricket Academy (NCA) planning an 18-week high-performance programme to monitor his workload, Shah revealed Pandya could return as early as during the Afghanistan series in January. “We are monitoring it on a day-to-day basis. He is at NCA only, he is working very hard, and we will let you know in due course the moment he is fit. He could be fit before the Afghanistan series also,” Shah added. India gear for T20 World Cup Following the 50-over World Cup at home, which India failed to win (losing to Australia in the final), the Men in Blue have their eyes set on next year’s T20 World Cup. Though who would lead India is probably the discussion for another day, the board and selectors have little time to determine the best players for the shortest format. With India scheduled to face just South Africa and Afghanistan (six T20Is in total) in the lead-up to the World Cup, concerns within the board about picking the right team are growing with each passing day. Meanwhile, the top T20I batter from India, Suryakumar Yadav, will lead the team in South Africa and KL Rahul will captain in the three-match ODIs. Rohit Sharma will return to captain in the two Tests, starting on Boxing Day in Centurion.

No word on Rohit Sharma’s T20I future but Jay Shah confirms Pandya’s likely return date

<p>Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has opened up on the future of skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the T20I format as the Men in Blue take on South Africa. In the absence of big boys like Rohit and Virat, India will start their three-match T20I series against the Proteas on Sunday (Dec 10) in Durban. While fatigue and age are considered crucial factors for team selection in the T20I format, according to Gambhir form should be the only criteria that decides the future of the players.</p>

<h2><strong>Gambhir opens up on Virat, Rohit future</strong></h2>

<p>"See, it all depends on the form. Ultimately, it's the form. Good thing is it's happening after the IPL. 100 per cent. They should be part of the World Cup if they are in good form. For me, form is important. For a T20 World Cup, you want to take players who are in really good form. If Rohit and Virat are in good form, they should absolutely be picked for the World Cup," Gambhir told ANI.</p>

<p>Both Rohit and Virat have not played in the T20I format for India since the conclusion of the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. The match against England in Sydney proved to be the final straw for the duo as they missed the shortest format due to the load management approach of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). However, it is anticipated that both Rohit and Virat are not in the long-term plans of the BCCI in the T20I format as they are considering the next crop of players to carry the baton.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-sit-with-rahul-dravid-and-decide-on-the-tenure-after-south-africa-tour-bcci-secretary-jay-shah-668012">We will sit with Rahul Dravid and decide on the tenure after South Africa tour: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah</a></p>

<h2><strong>Virat, Rohit in good form</strong></h2>

<p>Interestingly, in terms of form, both Virat and Rohit enjoyed a good ODI World Cup with the former being named Player of the Tournament. Virat scored 765 runs in 11 matches at the tournament including nine fifty-plus scores. Rohit was the second-highest run scorer in the tournament with 597 runs in 11 matches. Despite the great form of the duo, India were the second-best team in the World Cup as Australia clinched their sixth title in Ahmedabad with a dominating win.</p>

<p>With the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies on the horizon in 2024, it will be interesting to see if both or either player makes the final squad. The T20 World Cup will be held in West Indies and USA in June with 20 teams participating in the tournament.</p>


Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has opened up on the future of skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the T20I format as the Men in Blue take on South Africa.

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has opened up on the future of skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the T20I format as the Men in Blue take on South Africa. In the absence of big boys like Rohit and Virat, India will start their three-match T20I series against the Proteas on Sunday (Dec 10) in Durban. While fatigue and age are considered crucial factors for team selection in the T20I format, according to Gambhir form should be the only criteria that decides the future of the players. Gambhir opens up on Virat, Rohit future "See, it all depends on the form. Ultimately, it's the form. Good thing is it's happening after the IPL. 100 per cent. They should be part of the World Cup if they are in good form. For me, form is important. For a T20 World Cup, you want to take players who are in really good form. If Rohit and Virat are in good form, they should absolutely be picked for the World Cup," Gambhir told ANI. Both Rohit and Virat have not played in the T20I format for India since the conclusion of the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. The match against England in Sydney proved to be the final straw for the duo as they missed the shortest format due to the load management approach of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). However, it is anticipated that both Rohit and Virat are not in the long-term plans of the BCCI in the T20I format as they are considering the next crop of players to carry the baton. ALSO READ | We will sit with Rahul Dravid and decide on the tenure after South Africa tour: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah Virat, Rohit in good form Interestingly, in terms of form, both Virat and Rohit enjoyed a good ODI World Cup with the former being named Player of the Tournament. Virat scored 765 runs in 11 matches at the tournament including nine fifty-plus scores. Rohit was the second-highest run scorer in the tournament with 597 runs in 11 matches. Despite the great form of the duo, India were the second-best team in the World Cup as Australia clinched their sixth title in Ahmedabad with a dominating win. With the T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies on the horizon in 2024, it will be interesting to see if both or either player makes the final squad. The T20 World Cup will be held in West Indies and USA in June with 20 teams participating in the tournament.

Gautam Gambhir sets THIS parameter for Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma’s exclusion from T20I format

<p>The BCCI top officials recently met India head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, in a marathon meeting held in New Delhi. The meeting was to review the ODI World Cup at home -- where India ended as runners-up, losing to Australia in the final. The squads for the all-format tour of South Africa were also announced. Further, the roadmap going ahead was discussed, with the main focus on the next ICC event; i.e. the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA.</p>

<p>Reportedly, a BCCI official present in the meeting narrated the entire conversation between Rohit and the others, as reported by Dainik Jagran. It is understood that Hitman asked for clarity regarding his T20I career. He asked the officials and selectors if they saw him playing in the forthcoming T20 WC in June.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you want to select me for the T20 World Cup then tell me now how to go about it," asked Rohit, according to the official, as reported by the Hindi daily.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eyes-on-mohammed-shamis-troubling-ankle-as-india-set-to-leave-for-south-africa-tour-666602">Eyes on Mohammed Shami’s troubling ankle as India set to leave for South Africa tour</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I setup post the national side's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide. Since then, the two have focused on the longer formats due to the WTC 2023 final, held in June, and the ODI WC at home. In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya led the T20I side before Suryakumar Yadav took over in the latter's absence due to injury,&nbsp;during the recently-concluded Australia series at home (which Men in Blue won 4-1).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since Hardik was never announced as the T20I captain, doors were always open for Rohit. It is believed that the BCCI officials, Dravid and the selection committee unanimously agreed that Rohit is the right candidate to lead India in next year's T20 WC. He would have been in India's squad for the SA T20Is, starting on Dec 10, but Hitman requested a break from the entire white-ball leg, including the three ODIs. Hence, he will only feature in the two Tests in the African nation.</p>

<p>Rohit attended the meeting via a Zoom call as he was in London enjoying some time off after the heartbreaking end to the ODI WC campaign. In India's upcoming tour of SA, Surya will lead the T20I side whereas KL Rahul has been appointed captain in the ODIs. Rohit will return, along with Kohli, for the two Tests.&nbsp;</p>


The BCCI top officials recently met India head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, in a marathon meeting held in New Delhi.

The BCCI top officials recently met India head coach Rahul Dravid, captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, in a marathon meeting held in New Delhi. The meeting was to review the ODI World Cup at home -- where India ended as runners-up, losing to Australia in the final. The squads for the all-format tour of South Africa were also announced. Further, the roadmap going ahead was discussed, with the main focus on the next ICC event; i.e. the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA. Reportedly, a BCCI official present in the meeting narrated the entire conversation between Rohit and the others, as reported by Dainik Jagran. It is understood that Hitman asked for clarity regarding his T20I career. He asked the officials and selectors if they saw him playing in the forthcoming T20 WC in June. "If you want to select me for the T20 World Cup then tell me now how to go about it," asked Rohit, according to the official, as reported by the Hindi daily. Also read: Eyes on Mohammed Shami’s troubling ankle as India set to leave for South Africa tour It is to be noted that the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I setup post the national side's 2022 T20 WC semi-final loss to eventual winners England, in Adelaide. Since then, the two have focused on the longer formats due to the WTC 2023 final, held in June, and the ODI WC at home. In Rohit's absence, Hardik Pandya led the T20I side before Suryakumar Yadav took over in the latter's absence due to injury, during the recently-concluded Australia series at home (which Men in Blue won 4-1). Since Hardik was never announced as the T20I captain, doors were always open for Rohit. It is believed that the BCCI officials, Dravid and the selection committee unanimously agreed that Rohit is the right candidate to lead India in next year's T20 WC. He would have been in India's squad for the SA T20Is, starting on Dec 10, but Hitman requested a break from the entire white-ball leg, including the three ODIs. Hence, he will only feature in the two Tests in the African nation. Rohit attended the meeting via a Zoom call as he was in London enjoying some time off after the heartbreaking end to the ODI WC campaign. In India's upcoming tour of SA, Surya will lead the T20I side whereas KL Rahul has been appointed captain in the ODIs. Rohit will return, along with Kohli, for the two Tests.

'If you want to pick me for T20 WC 2024...: What Rohit told BCCI officials and selectors - Report

<p>Former India captain and BCCI boss Sourav Ganguly has backed leader Rohit Sharma to continue captaining India across formats till the 2024 T20 World Cup. While the Indian board was contemplating taking a call on Rohit's white-ball future as a skipper post the World Cup final, the latest reports suggest the BCCI plans to back the veteran batter to continue leading till next year's 20-team tournament, to be hosted by West Indies and the USA in June.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ganguly believes Rohit is the right man to lead India in another World Cup, having fared exceptionally well in the marquee events earlier.</p>

<p>“Rohit Sharma should be the captain of India because he's done so well in the World Cup. He's a leader. So I expect, and I presume, that he will continue as captain till the T20 World Cup," Ganguly was quoted as saying to the reporters.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Rohit Sharma should be the captain of India because he's done so well in the World Cup. He's a leader. So I expect, and I presume that he will continue as captain till the T20 World Cup," says former Indian cricket team captain and ex-BCCI president Sourav Ganguly<br />
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(Video: ANI) <a href="https://t.co/rlVaAViELp">pic.twitter.com/rlVaAViELp</a></p>
— WION Sports (@WIONSportsNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONSportsNews/status/1730519258604388687?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rohit was appointed an all-format captain under Ganguly's tutelage as the BCCI president in late 2021.</p>

<p>Under Rohit, India reached the semis of the 2022 T20 World Cup, losing to England eventually. In the 2023 home World Cup, despite being the favourites against Australia in the final, India lost the daddy clash by six wickets.</p>

<p>Besides, Rohit guided India to their second successive World Test Championship Final in June this year, where for the second straight time the Indian Team failed to beat their opponents (Australia this time) and came second.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>New captains appointed for SA's white-ball leg</h2>

<p>The BCCI's men's selection committee named all three squads for the away South Africa tour, starting December 10, picking two separate captains in T20Is and ODIs, respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-vs-india-rohit-virat-to-skip-white-ball-leg-bcci-names-new-captains-for-t20is-odis-664770">South Africa vs India: Rohit, Virat to skip white-ball leg, BCCI names new captains for T20Is, ODIs</a></strong></p>

<p>In a statement, the board informed that stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma asked for rest for the white-ball series and will return to the side for the two Tests, starting with the Boxing Day Test in Centurion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While India's best T20I batter, Suryakumar Yadav, will lead the team in the shortest format, KL Rahul will captain India in three ODIs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Outside of Kohli and Rohit, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah, all-rounder Hardik Pandya and World Cup hero Mohammed Shami (availability is subject to fitness) are also missing from the T20I and ODI squads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barring Pandya (who is injured) and Shami, who is undergoing treatment, all three of Kohli, Rohit and Bumrah were named in the Test squad.&nbsp;</p>


Former India captain and BCCI boss Sourav Ganguly has backed leader Rohit Sharma to continue captaining India across formats till the 2024 T20 World Cup. While the Indian board was contemplating taking a call on Rohit's white-ball future as a skipper post the World Cup final, the latest reports suggest the BCCI plans to back the veteran batter to continue leading till next year's 20-team tournament, to be hosted by West Indies and the USA in June.

Former India captain and BCCI boss Sourav Ganguly has backed leader Rohit Sharma to continue captaining India across formats till the 2024 T20 World Cup. While the Indian board was contemplating taking a call on Rohit's white-ball future as a skipper post the World Cup final, the latest reports suggest the BCCI plans to back the veteran batter to continue leading till next year's 20-team tournament, to be hosted by West Indies and the USA in June. Ganguly believes Rohit is the right man to lead India in another World Cup, having fared exceptionally well in the marquee events earlier. “Rohit Sharma should be the captain of India because he's done so well in the World Cup. He's a leader. So I expect, and I presume, that he will continue as captain till the T20 World Cup," Ganguly was quoted as saying to the reporters. "Rohit Sharma should be the captain of India because he's done so well in the World Cup. He's a leader. So I expect, and I presume that he will continue as captain till the T20 World Cup," says former Indian cricket team captain and ex-BCCI president Sourav Ganguly (Video: ANI) pic.twitter.com/rlVaAViELp — WION Sports (@WIONSportsNews) December 1, 2023 × Rohit was appointed an all-format captain under Ganguly's tutelage as the BCCI president in late 2021. Under Rohit, India reached the semis of the 2022 T20 World Cup, losing to England eventually. In the 2023 home World Cup, despite being the favourites against Australia in the final, India lost the daddy clash by six wickets. Besides, Rohit guided India to their second successive World Test Championship Final in June this year, where for the second straight time the Indian Team failed to beat their opponents (Australia this time) and came second. New captains appointed for SA's white-ball leg The BCCI's men's selection committee named all three squads for the away South Africa tour, starting December 10, picking two separate captains in T20Is and ODIs, respectively. ALSO READ: South Africa vs India: Rohit, Virat to skip white-ball leg, BCCI names new captains for T20Is, ODIs In a statement, the board informed that stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma asked for rest for the white-ball series and will return to the side for the two Tests, starting with the Boxing Day Test in Centurion. While India's best T20I batter, Suryakumar Yadav, will lead the team in the shortest format, KL Rahul will captain India in three ODIs. Outside of Kohli and Rohit, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah, all-rounder Hardik Pandya and World Cup hero Mohammed Shami (availability is subject to fitness) are also missing from the T20I and ODI squads. Barring Pandya (who is injured) and Shami, who is undergoing treatment, all three of Kohli, Rohit and Bumrah were named in the Test squad.

Ganguly backs 'leader' Rohit Sharma to remain India captain till 2024 T20 World Cup

<p>Several World Cup-bound stars are missing from India’s white-ball squads for the South Africa tour, picked on Thursday (Nov 30) in New Delhi. Ajit Agarkar-led men’s selection committee rested veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli alongside Jasprit Bumrah, while Mohammed Shami’s availability is subject to his fitness. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the new-look T20I side, while KL Rahul will captain the One-Day team.</p>

<p><strong>Here is India’s ODI squad for the three-match series against South Africa –</strong></p>

<p>Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sai Sudharsan, Tilak Varma, Rajat Patidar, Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (C)(wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar</p>

<p><strong>Here is India’s T20I squad for the three-match series against South Africa –</strong></p>

<p>Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (VC), Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Deepak Chahar</p>

<h2>Kohli, Rohit rested for white-ball leg</h2>

<p>Per BCCI’s official statement, stalwarts Virat Kohli and regular captain Rohit Sharma requested rest for the white-ball series, while both, alongside ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah, return for the two-match Tests, starting with the Boxing Day Test in Centurion.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Notes 👇👇<br />
· Mr Rohit Sharma and Mr Virat Kohli had requested the Board for a break from the white-ball leg of the tour.<br />
· Mr Mohd. Shami is currently undergoing medical treatment and his availability is subject to fitness.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvIND</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1730234339911258489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-bcci-announce-16-man-test-squad-rohit-to-lead-with-bumrah-named-deputy-big-stars-missing-664767">SA vs Ind: BCCI announce 16-man Test squad, Rohit to lead with Bumrah named deputy, big stars miss out</a></strong></p>

<p>Due to an ankle injury, all-rounder Hardik Pandya remains out of contention, while keeper-batter Sanju Samson has returned to the ODI team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington Sundar and Yuzvendra Chahal have also made a comeback to the ODI side, with left-handed Sai Sudharsan getting rewarded with a place in the 50-over team for his excellent run in the domestic circuit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tilak Varma and Rinku Singh have earned ODI call-ups, while Deepak Chahar will lead the pace attack. World Cup hero Mohammed Shami is undergoing treatment, and his availability is subject to fitness.</p>

<p>Besides, KL Rahul is the new stand-in captain for the three-match ODIs, while the addition of middle-order batter Rajat Patidar also adds variety to the batting line-up.</p>

<h3>SKY to lead in the shortest format</h3>

<p>India’s best batter in the shortest format, Suryakumar Yadav, will continue to lead India in the three-match T20Is.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami returning to the T20I setup, the BCCI indicated signs of things to come, considering next year’s T20 World Cup. With all of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Ruturaj Gaikwad picked for the T20Is, India will have plenty of options.</p>

<p>Seamers Mukesh Kumar and Deepak are also named in both squads, with Ravi Bishnoi preferred over Chahal in T20Is.&nbsp;</p>


Several World Cup-bound stars are missing from India’s white-ball squads for the South Africa tour, picked on Thursday (Nov 30) in New Delhi. Ajit Agarkar-led men’s selection committee rested veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli alongside Jasprit Bumrah, while Mohammed Shami’s availability is subject to his fitness.

Several World Cup-bound stars are missing from India’s white-ball squads for the South Africa tour, picked on Thursday (Nov 30) in New Delhi. Ajit Agarkar-led men’s selection committee rested veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli alongside Jasprit Bumrah, while Mohammed Shami’s availability is subject to his fitness. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the new-look T20I side, while KL Rahul will captain the One-Day team. Here is India’s ODI squad for the three-match series against South Africa – Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sai Sudharsan, Tilak Varma, Rajat Patidar, Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (C)(wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar Here is India’s T20I squad for the three-match series against South Africa – Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (VC), Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Deepak Chahar Kohli, Rohit rested for white-ball leg Per BCCI’s official statement, stalwarts Virat Kohli and regular captain Rohit Sharma requested rest for the white-ball series, while both, alongside ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah, return for the two-match Tests, starting with the Boxing Day Test in Centurion. Notes 👇👇 · Mr Rohit Sharma and Mr Virat Kohli had requested the Board for a break from the white-ball leg of the tour. · Mr Mohd. Shami is currently undergoing medical treatment and his availability is subject to fitness.#SAvIND — BCCI (@BCCI) November 30, 2023 × ALSO READ: SA vs Ind: BCCI announce 16-man Test squad, Rohit to lead with Bumrah named deputy, big stars miss out Due to an ankle injury, all-rounder Hardik Pandya remains out of contention, while keeper-batter Sanju Samson has returned to the ODI team. Washington Sundar and Yuzvendra Chahal have also made a comeback to the ODI side, with left-handed Sai Sudharsan getting rewarded with a place in the 50-over team for his excellent run in the domestic circuit. Tilak Varma and Rinku Singh have earned ODI call-ups, while Deepak Chahar will lead the pace attack. World Cup hero Mohammed Shami is undergoing treatment, and his availability is subject to fitness. Besides, KL Rahul is the new stand-in captain for the three-match ODIs, while the addition of middle-order batter Rajat Patidar also adds variety to the batting line-up. SKY to lead in the shortest format India’s best batter in the shortest format, Suryakumar Yadav, will continue to lead India in the three-match T20Is. With Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammed Shami returning to the T20I setup, the BCCI indicated signs of things to come, considering next year’s T20 World Cup. With all of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Ruturaj Gaikwad picked for the T20Is, India will have plenty of options. Seamers Mukesh Kumar and Deepak are also named in both squads, with Ravi Bishnoi preferred over Chahal in T20Is.

South Africa vs India: Rohit, Virat to skip white-ball leg, BCCI names new captains for T20Is, ODIs

<p>The BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series versus South Africa, to be held in the African nation. Rohit Sharma will lead the side comprising the experience of R Ashwin, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul (who returns in the red-ball setup after his injury) whereas the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane sit out.&nbsp; Bumrah has been named as Rohit's deputy.</p>

<p>Pujara was not part of India's last Test series --&nbsp;where they beat West Indies 1-0 in the Caribbean island early this year. Rahane, who retained his place for the WI series post his impressive comeback in the 2021-23 WTC final, is also out of the squad. His scores in the WI Tests were 3 and 8.</p>

<p>Pujara continues to remain out of contention after his lengthy&nbsp;barren run. He managed to break his four-year-long century drought during the Bangladesh Tests in Dec 2022, but since then only managed one fifty-plus score. In addition,&nbsp;his twin failures in the WTC final, in June, led to his omission.</p>

<p>Youngsters such as Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill and inexperienced pacers namely Mukesh Kumar and Prasidh Krishna have been preferred as the selection committee have one eye on the future.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-t20-world-cup-is-priority-long-term-planning-can-wait-bcci-official-on-dravids-contract-extension-664694">Winning T20 World Cup is priority, long-term planning can wait: BCCI official on Dravid’s contract extension</a></strong></p>

<p>The two Tests hold a lot of significance for India in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. The series, which kicks off with the Boxing Day Test on Dec 26 and have its finale on Jan 3,&nbsp;will also mark the beginning of Rahul Dravid's second stint as India's head coach.</p>

<p>He agreed to BCCI's extension offer after his tenure was officially over post the home ODI World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last time India played Tests in South Africa was in late 2021-early 2022, when they lost 1-2. It led to Kohli's resignation as the Test captain.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">India’s squad for 2 Tests: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh…</p>
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<p><strong>India Test squad for two Tests versus South Africa:</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh Krishna.</p>

<p><em><strong>Note</strong></em>: Shami's availability is subject to fitness. He is currently undergoing medical treatment.</p>


The BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series versus South Africa, to be held in the African nation.

The BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series versus South Africa, to be held in the African nation. Rohit Sharma will lead the side comprising the experience of R Ashwin, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul (who returns in the red-ball setup after his injury) whereas the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane sit out. Bumrah has been named as Rohit's deputy. Pujara was not part of India's last Test series -- where they beat West Indies 1-0 in the Caribbean island early this year. Rahane, who retained his place for the WI series post his impressive comeback in the 2021-23 WTC final, is also out of the squad. His scores in the WI Tests were 3 and 8. Pujara continues to remain out of contention after his lengthy barren run. He managed to break his four-year-long century drought during the Bangladesh Tests in Dec 2022, but since then only managed one fifty-plus score. In addition, his twin failures in the WTC final, in June, led to his omission. Youngsters such as Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill and inexperienced pacers namely Mukesh Kumar and Prasidh Krishna have been preferred as the selection committee have one eye on the future. Also read: Winning T20 World Cup is priority, long-term planning can wait: BCCI official on Dravid’s contract extension The two Tests hold a lot of significance for India in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. The series, which kicks off with the Boxing Day Test on Dec 26 and have its finale on Jan 3, will also mark the beginning of Rahul Dravid's second stint as India's head coach. He agreed to BCCI's extension offer after his tenure was officially over post the home ODI World Cup. The last time India played Tests in South Africa was in late 2021-early 2022, when they lost 1-2. It led to Kohli's resignation as the Test captain. India’s squad for 2 Tests: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh… — BCCI (@BCCI) November 30, 2023 × India Test squad for two Tests versus South Africa: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh Krishna. Note: Shami's availability is subject to fitness. He is currently undergoing medical treatment.

SA vs Ind: BCCI announces 16-man Test squad, Rohit to lead with Bumrah named deputy, big stars miss out

<p>Veteran Indian off-spinner R Ashwin opened up on not being a part of India's playing XI for the ODI World Cup 2023 final, versus Australia, on Nov 19 at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. Ashwin played only one game in India's memorable WC campaign, which ended in a defeat in the final, and many thought he would be considered for the summit clash. However, he continued to sit out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ashwin said he supported Rohit Sharma's move, adding that the Indian captain had no reason to tweak the winning combination heading into the final.</p>

<p>India won 10&nbsp;games on the trot entering the final and Ashwin, who was out of the playing XI after India's tournament opener versus Australia, had little chance of coming in as a replacement.</p>

<h2><strong>'If I had been in Rohit's shoes, I would have thought 100 times...'</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to S Badrinath on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said, "As far as I am concerned, I playing the final, team combination and all that is secondary. Firstly, it's about empathy, I keep stressing it a lot. It's about standing in someone else's shoes and looking at things from his/her viewpoint. If I had been in Rohit's shoes, I would have thought 100 times about changing the combination. It was going very well for the team. Why would I rest a fast bowler and play 3 spinners?"</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-kohli-were-crying-ashwin-recalls-indias-cwc-2023-final-loss-hails-hitmans-leadership-664588">'Rohit &amp; Kohli were crying': Ashwin recalls India's CWC 2023 final loss, hails Hitman's leadership</a></strong></p>

<p>Ashwin added, "Honestly, I was able to understand the thought process of Rohit Sharma. Playing the final is a big opportunity. I was preparing for it for 3 days in the lead-up. I was not replying to a lot of people. I read only the ticker of WhatsApp messages and kept my phone away. I&nbsp;was preparing myself well for the opportunity. At the same time, I was prepared to cheer for the team and run in with electral if I didn't get the opportunity. I was mentally prepared for that too."</p>

<p>Ashwin ended with a solitary wicket&nbsp;having played just one game in the CWC 2023 edition. He is expected to be part of India's two Tests versus hosts South Africa -- to kick off next month.&nbsp;</p>


Veteran Indian off-spinner R Ashwin opened up on not being a part of India's playing XI for the ODI World Cup 2023 final, versus Australia, on Nov 19 at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Veteran Indian off-spinner R Ashwin opened up on not being a part of India's playing XI for the ODI World Cup 2023 final, versus Australia, on Nov 19 at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. Ashwin played only one game in India's memorable WC campaign, which ended in a defeat in the final, and many thought he would be considered for the summit clash. However, he continued to sit out. Ashwin said he supported Rohit Sharma's move, adding that the Indian captain had no reason to tweak the winning combination heading into the final. India won 10 games on the trot entering the final and Ashwin, who was out of the playing XI after India's tournament opener versus Australia, had little chance of coming in as a replacement. 'If I had been in Rohit's shoes, I would have thought 100 times...' Speaking to S Badrinath on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said, "As far as I am concerned, I playing the final, team combination and all that is secondary. Firstly, it's about empathy, I keep stressing it a lot. It's about standing in someone else's shoes and looking at things from his/her viewpoint. If I had been in Rohit's shoes, I would have thought 100 times about changing the combination. It was going very well for the team. Why would I rest a fast bowler and play 3 spinners?" Also read: 'Rohit & Kohli were crying': Ashwin recalls India's CWC 2023 final loss, hails Hitman's leadership Ashwin added, "Honestly, I was able to understand the thought process of Rohit Sharma. Playing the final is a big opportunity. I was preparing for it for 3 days in the lead-up. I was not replying to a lot of people. I read only the ticker of WhatsApp messages and kept my phone away. I was preparing myself well for the opportunity. At the same time, I was prepared to cheer for the team and run in with electral if I didn't get the opportunity. I was mentally prepared for that too." Ashwin ended with a solitary wicket having played just one game in the CWC 2023 edition. He is expected to be part of India's two Tests versus hosts South Africa -- to kick off next month.

Understood Rohit Sharma's decision to not play me in ODI World Cup 2023 final, says R Ashwin

<p>India are set to tour South Africa for an all-format tour, starting on Dec 10. The tour comprises three T20Is and ODIs each and will end with a two-match Test series, early next year. Ahead of the announcement of the squads for the upcoming SA tour, reports have emerged that Suryakumar Yadav is&nbsp;a frontrunner to lead India in T20Is in the African nation. At present, Surya is leading a second-stringed Indian team in the five T20Is versus Australia at home, with the hosts leading 2-1 after three games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a report&nbsp;filed by news agency&nbsp;<i>PTI</i>, Surya is emerging as the top candidate to take charge of the T20I side during the forthcoming tour amid uncertainty over Rohit Sharma&nbsp;and Hardik Pandya's absence due to injury. After India's ODI World Cup final loss, Rohit has been out of action and his continued non-participation from T20Is -- since the last T20 World Cup -- has raised doubts on his future in the format. Certain reports have also indicated that BCCI remains keen to have him as the full-time captain but if he remains reluctant, SKY will lead with no Hardik -- who is still recovering from an ankle injury.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-kohli-were-crying-ashwin-recalls-indias-cwc-2023-final-loss-hails-hitmans-leadership-664588">'Rohit &amp; Kohli were crying': Ashwin recalls India's CWC 2023 final loss, hails Hitman's leadership</a></strong></p>

<p>"Yes, there remains a question what happens when Hardik comes back but in BCCI, they feel that if Rohit agrees to lead in T20Is, he will lead in the T20 World Cup. In case Rohit doesn't agree then Surya continues as captain for T20Is in South Africa," a BCCI source told the news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports have also emerged that Virat Kohli, who also remains out of action following the World Cup heartbreak, is considering taking a break from white-ball formats and will join Team India only for the two Tests versus South Africa in the African nation. The squads for the SA tour are likely to be announced on Thursday (Nov 30).</p>


India are set to tour South Africa for an all-format tour, starting on Dec 10. The tour comprises three T20Is and ODIs each and will end with a two-match Test series, early next year.

India are set to tour South Africa for an all-format tour, starting on Dec 10. The tour comprises three T20Is and ODIs each and will end with a two-match Test series, early next year. Ahead of the announcement of the squads for the upcoming SA tour, reports have emerged that Suryakumar Yadav is a frontrunner to lead India in T20Is in the African nation. At present, Surya is leading a second-stringed Indian team in the five T20Is versus Australia at home, with the hosts leading 2-1 after three games. As per a report filed by news agency PTI, Surya is emerging as the top candidate to take charge of the T20I side during the forthcoming tour amid uncertainty over Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya's absence due to injury. After India's ODI World Cup final loss, Rohit has been out of action and his continued non-participation from T20Is -- since the last T20 World Cup -- has raised doubts on his future in the format. Certain reports have also indicated that BCCI remains keen to have him as the full-time captain but if he remains reluctant, SKY will lead with no Hardik -- who is still recovering from an ankle injury. Also read: 'Rohit & Kohli were crying': Ashwin recalls India's CWC 2023 final loss, hails Hitman's leadership "Yes, there remains a question what happens when Hardik comes back but in BCCI, they feel that if Rohit agrees to lead in T20Is, he will lead in the T20 World Cup. In case Rohit doesn't agree then Surya continues as captain for T20Is in South Africa," a BCCI source told the news agency. Reports have also emerged that Virat Kohli, who also remains out of action following the World Cup heartbreak, is considering taking a break from white-ball formats and will join Team India only for the two Tests versus South Africa in the African nation. The squads for the SA tour are likely to be announced on Thursday (Nov 30).

Suryakumar Yadav to lead India in SA T20Is amid uncertainity over Rohit and Hardik's absence - Reports

<p>Veteran Indian off-spinner R Ashwin recently recalled India's ODI World Cup 2023 final loss&nbsp;to Australia on Nov 19 in Ahmedabad. He stated that it broke his heart when he saw captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in tears following their six-wicket defeat. India had a stunning run throughout the home ODI WC, winning ten games on the trot to enter the summit clash, where they eventually came second. Ashwin recalled the campaign and spoke at length about the chemistry between Rohit and Kohli before hailing Hitman's leadership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to S Badrinath on his YouTube channel, Ashwin stated, "Yes, we felt the pain. Rohit and Virat were crying. Seeing that it felt bad. Anyways, not meant to be. This team was an experienced team. Everybody knew what to do. And then, it was professional. Everybody knew their routines, warm-ups. I think two natural leaders gave the team the space to do these two and created a vibe."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-has-been-devalued-michael-hussey-slams-timing-of-india-australia-t20i-series-soon-after-cwc-2023-664558">'It has been devalued': Michael Hussey slams timing of India-Australia T20I series soon after CWC 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>Ashwin lauded Rohit's captaincy as Hitman led from the front, with his blazing starts, ending with 597 runs -- most by a captain in an ODI WC -- and marshalled the troops really well. He further opined, "If you look at Indian cricket, everybody will tell you MS Dhoni is one of the best captains. Rohit Sharma is an outstanding person. He understands every single person in the team, he knows what each one of us likes and dislikes. He has a great understanding. He puts in the effort to know each member personally."</p>

<p>He mentioned, "He puts in a lot of effort. Forgoes sleep and becomes part of meetings, he first puts in the effort. He makes an effort to understand how to explain tactics to each person. That's an advanced level of leadership in Indian cricket."</p>

<p>Ashwin then spoke highly about Rohit's fearless approach with the bat at the top and added, "And also, walking the talk. Telling everyone to play a brand of cricket is one thing, but doing it and showing it on the field is another thing. I have known Rohit for a long time. What he did at the top set the ball rolling. he gave us the confidence. He said 'it's okay if we get out for 150. At least we will set the tone, instil fear'. I think all 11 in the team had a great World Cup."</p>

<p>As per reports, the BCCI is keen to have Rohit as India's all-format skipper at least till the 2024 T20 World Cup in June. On Wednesday (Nov 29), head coach Rahul Dravid agreed to extend his contract, which was to end with the 50-over mega event, till the T20 WC next year.</p>


Veteran Indian off-spinner R Ashwin recently recalled India's ODI World Cup 2023 final loss to Australia on Nov 19 in Ahmedabad. He stated that it broke his heart when he saw captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in tears following their six-wicket defeat.

Veteran Indian off-spinner R Ashwin recently recalled India's ODI World Cup 2023 final loss to Australia on Nov 19 in Ahmedabad. He stated that it broke his heart when he saw captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in tears following their six-wicket defeat. India had a stunning run throughout the home ODI WC, winning ten games on the trot to enter the summit clash, where they eventually came second. Ashwin recalled the campaign and spoke at length about the chemistry between Rohit and Kohli before hailing Hitman's leadership. Speaking to S Badrinath on his YouTube channel, Ashwin stated, "Yes, we felt the pain. Rohit and Virat were crying. Seeing that it felt bad. Anyways, not meant to be. This team was an experienced team. Everybody knew what to do. And then, it was professional. Everybody knew their routines, warm-ups. I think two natural leaders gave the team the space to do these two and created a vibe." Also Read: 'It has been devalued': Michael Hussey slams timing of India-Australia T20I series soon after CWC 2023 Ashwin lauded Rohit's captaincy as Hitman led from the front, with his blazing starts, ending with 597 runs -- most by a captain in an ODI WC -- and marshalled the troops really well. He further opined, "If you look at Indian cricket, everybody will tell you MS Dhoni is one of the best captains. Rohit Sharma is an outstanding person. He understands every single person in the team, he knows what each one of us likes and dislikes. He has a great understanding. He puts in the effort to know each member personally." He mentioned, "He puts in a lot of effort. Forgoes sleep and becomes part of meetings, he first puts in the effort. He makes an effort to understand how to explain tactics to each person. That's an advanced level of leadership in Indian cricket." Ashwin then spoke highly about Rohit's fearless approach with the bat at the top and added, "And also, walking the talk. Telling everyone to play a brand of cricket is one thing, but doing it and showing it on the field is another thing. I have known Rohit for a long time. What he did at the top set the ball rolling. he gave us the confidence. He said 'it's okay if we get out for 150. At least we will set the tone, instil fear'. I think all 11 in the team had a great World Cup." As per reports, the BCCI is keen to have Rohit as India's all-format skipper at least till the 2024 T20 World Cup in June. On Wednesday (Nov 29), head coach Rahul Dravid agreed to extend his contract, which was to end with the 50-over mega event, till the T20 WC next year.

'Rohit & Kohli were crying': Ashwin recalls India's CWC 2023 final loss, hails Hitman's leadership

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) selection committee is likely to approach Rohit Sharma to lead in the upcoming T20I series against South Africa as the Men in Blue prepare for the tour. The Indian team set to play three T20Is during the tour is likely to call back Rohit in the T20I set-up having not played in the shortest format since November 2022. However, with Hardik Pandya not available and other players lacking experience to lead the side, Rohit remains the only player that the Ajit Agarkar-led committee could approach.</p>

<h2><strong>Rohit to lead India in T20Is?</strong></h2>

<p>"Yes, there remains a question of what happens when Hardik comes back but in BCCI, they feel that if Rohit agrees to lead in T20Is, he will lead in the T20 World Cup. In case Rohit doesn't agree then Surya continues as captain for T20Is in South Africa," a BCCI source privy to the development told PTI on the condition of anonymity.</p>

<p>The selection committee will announce the squad for the South Africa tour on Thursday as plenty of players keeping their fingers crossed. Apart from Rohit, Virat Kohli has also stayed away from the T20I set-up with his last game also coming in the excruciating defeat against England in the semifinal of the 2022 T20 World Cup. Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for the T20I series is still in question which sees Suryakumar Yadav as the only captaincy material in the side.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-4th-t20-weather-and-pitch-report-from-raipur-ahead-of-india-vs-australia-4th-t20-match-664280">IND vs AUS 4th T20: Weather and pitch report from Raipur ahead of India vs Australia 4th T20 match</a></p>

<p>As things stand, the board is looking for temporary stability having also offered contract extension to coach Rahul Dravid. Rohit handling the T20I side could also see him being considered to lead the 2024 T20 World Cup side, despite few reports stating he is not keen on leading in the shortest format. However, considering the pecking order, Rohit is still the best option India could have rather than handing the reins to Suryakumar Yadav or young talents like Shreyas Iyer or Shubman Gill.</p>

<p>The committee is likely to focus on the Test side as well with Ajinkya Rahane being the big topic of debate. His inclusion could hinge on the availability of players as he remains down the pecking order with Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul and Iyer being the first team players to return. This could also mean Cheteshwar Pujara will have to sit out of the squad with him unlikely to feature for the national side any time soon with the England tour also approaching.</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) selection committee is likely to approach Rohit Sharma to lead in the upcoming T20I series against South Africa as the Men in Blue prepare for the tour.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) selection committee is likely to approach Rohit Sharma to lead in the upcoming T20I series against South Africa as the Men in Blue prepare for the tour. The Indian team set to play three T20Is during the tour is likely to call back Rohit in the T20I set-up having not played in the shortest format since November 2022. However, with Hardik Pandya not available and other players lacking experience to lead the side, Rohit remains the only player that the Ajit Agarkar-led committee could approach. Rohit to lead India in T20Is? "Yes, there remains a question of what happens when Hardik comes back but in BCCI, they feel that if Rohit agrees to lead in T20Is, he will lead in the T20 World Cup. In case Rohit doesn't agree then Surya continues as captain for T20Is in South Africa," a BCCI source privy to the development told PTI on the condition of anonymity. The selection committee will announce the squad for the South Africa tour on Thursday as plenty of players keeping their fingers crossed. Apart from Rohit, Virat Kohli has also stayed away from the T20I set-up with his last game also coming in the excruciating defeat against England in the semifinal of the 2022 T20 World Cup. Jasprit Bumrah’s availability for the T20I series is still in question which sees Suryakumar Yadav as the only captaincy material in the side. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS 4th T20: Weather and pitch report from Raipur ahead of India vs Australia 4th T20 match As things stand, the board is looking for temporary stability having also offered contract extension to coach Rahul Dravid. Rohit handling the T20I side could also see him being considered to lead the 2024 T20 World Cup side, despite few reports stating he is not keen on leading in the shortest format. However, considering the pecking order, Rohit is still the best option India could have rather than handing the reins to Suryakumar Yadav or young talents like Shreyas Iyer or Shubman Gill. The committee is likely to focus on the Test side as well with Ajinkya Rahane being the big topic of debate. His inclusion could hinge on the availability of players as he remains down the pecking order with Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul and Iyer being the first team players to return. This could also mean Cheteshwar Pujara will have to sit out of the squad with him unlikely to feature for the national side any time soon with the England tour also approaching.

BCCI likely to ask Rohit Sharma to lead in South Africa T20I series: Reports

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