BCCI on Wednesday appointed allrounder Hardik Pandya as the captain of the Indian cricket team for the T20I series against Ireland. Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2022 title, will captain India in absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. The 35-year-old Sharma along with Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Md Shami, Rishabh Pant and others will be in England for the rescheduled 5th Test when another Indian squad will play T20Is in Ireland. 
 
The 17-member squad for the series against Ireland, also have a place for Rahul Tripathi, who has done consistently well in IPL. Sanju Samson has also been recalled to the side after being neglected for the series against South Africa. 
 
India will play two T20Is on June 26th and 28th in Dublin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-he-still-playing-cricket-with-same-motivation-afridi-talks-about-attitude-as-he-dwells-on-kohlis-form-488449">'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form</a>

India`s T20I squad: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

BCCI on Wednesday appointed allrounder Hardik Pandya as the captain of the Indian cricket team for the T20I series against Ireland. Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2022 title, will captain India in absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma.

BCCI on Wednesday appointed allrounder Hardik Pandya as the captain of the Indian cricket team for the T20I series against Ireland. Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to the IPL 2022 title, will captain India in absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. The 35-year-old Sharma along with Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Md Shami, Rishabh Pant and others will be in England for the rescheduled 5th Test when another Indian squad will play T20Is in Ireland. The 17-member squad for the series against Ireland, also have a place for Rahul Tripathi, who has done consistently well in IPL. Sanju Samson has also been recalled to the side after being neglected for the series against South Africa. India will play two T20Is on June 26th and 28th in Dublin. ALSO READ | 'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form India`s T20I squad: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wicket-keeper), Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Hardik Pandya appointed Team India skipper for T20Is versus Ireland

KL Rahul was ruled out of the ongoing India-South Africa T20Is at home. Rahul was set to lead India for the first time in the shortest format of the game, in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. However, the talented 30-year-old suffered a huge setback as a groin injury led to his omission from the home series.

While a second-stringed Indian team is set to travel to Ireland for two T20Is, Rahul is expected to be part of the Rohit Sharma-led red-ball side ahead of their one-off Test versus hosts England, starting on July 1. Nonetheless, a report in Cricbuzz recently stated that the vice-captain Rahul has been ruled out of the England Test. Now, another report has emerged saying that he remains in contention but will have to undergo a fitness test on Saturday (June 18).

As per&nbsp;Insidesport.in, Rahul will go through a fitness test later this week&nbsp;and will board the plane to the UK if he is deemed fit.&nbsp;“It’s a slow process. His recovery has been slow and that’s not a good sign. We have 3-4 days before the second batch leaves. There will be a light fitness test on Saturday. If he clears that, he will board the flight. If he doesn’t, we will wait for him to continue recovery process. He is certainly not ruled out at this stage,” a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by&nbsp;InsideSport.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-he-still-playing-cricket-with-same-motivation-afridi-talks-about-attitude-as-he-dwells-on-kohlis-form-488449">'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form</a>

Rahul had been in sublime form during the five-match Test series versus England in 2021. The right-handed opener was India's third-highest run-scorer (315 runs with a hundred and fifty each) before the Covid-19 virus halted the series before the fifth and final Test, which will now be played in&nbsp;Edgbaston, followed by&nbsp;six&nbsp;white-ball matches from July 07-17.
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KL Rahul was ruled out of the ongoing India-South Africa T20Is at home. Rahul was set to lead India for the first time in the shortest format of the game, in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma.

KL Rahul was ruled out of the ongoing India-South Africa T20Is at home. Rahul was set to lead India for the first time in the shortest format of the game, in the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma. However, the talented 30-year-old suffered a huge setback as a groin injury led to his omission from the home series. While a second-stringed Indian team is set to travel to Ireland for two T20Is, Rahul is expected to be part of the Rohit Sharma-led red-ball side ahead of their one-off Test versus hosts England, starting on July 1. Nonetheless, a report in Cricbuzz recently stated that the vice-captain Rahul has been ruled out of the England Test. Now, another report has emerged saying that he remains in contention but will have to undergo a fitness test on Saturday (June 18). As per Insidesport.in, Rahul will go through a fitness test later this week and will board the plane to the UK if he is deemed fit. “It’s a slow process. His recovery has been slow and that’s not a good sign. We have 3-4 days before the second batch leaves. There will be a light fitness test on Saturday. If he clears that, he will board the flight. If he doesn’t, we will wait for him to continue recovery process. He is certainly not ruled out at this stage,” a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by InsideSport. ALSO READ | 'Is he still playing cricket with same motivation?' Afridi talks about 'attitude' as he dwells on Kohli's form Rahul had been in sublime form during the five-match Test series versus England in 2021. The right-handed opener was India's third-highest run-scorer (315 runs with a hundred and fifty each) before the Covid-19 virus halted the series before the fifth and final Test, which will now be played in Edgbaston, followed by six white-ball matches from July 07-17.

Vice-captain KL Rahul set to undergo fitness test on June 18 for one-off red-ball match vs England: Report

Pakistan have left India behind in the ICC Men`s ODI Team Rankings after completing a clean sweep over West Indies in Multan. Babar Azam`s side jumped a spot to No 4 in the latest ICC Men`s ODI Team Rankings after the series win over West Indies in Multan. Team India is currently at the fifth spot. Before the start of the series, Pakistan were placed fifth in the rankings with a rating of 102. But the 3-0 clean sweep over the Windies has boosted them to No 4 with a rating of 106, leaving India behind at 105. Pakistan have enjoyed a brilliant last couple of years in the 50-over format.

Apart from the blip against England away from home, they have taken on all comers and emerged victorious, including 2-1 series wins against Zimbabwe and South Africa. They defeated Australia by the same margin when they came to visit Pakistan for the first time since 1998. West Indies stood no chance against Pakistan as they were rampaged 3-0. This period of upsurgence has come under the captaincy of Babar Azam, who has led by example for Pakistan in all formats of the game. With his recent century in the first match against West Indies, he became the first batter to score three consecutive ODI centuries twice, having previously achieved the feat in 2016 as well. And with a fifty in the second ODI, he broke the world record for most consecutive 50+ scores (9) in men`s international cricket across all formats.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pakistan-penalised-5-runs-after-babar-azam-guilty-of-illegal-fielding-in-2nd-odi-vs-west-indies-487175">WATCH: Pakistan penalised 5 runs after Babar Azam guilty of 'illegal fielding' in 2nd ODI vs West Indies</a>

The top-ranked ODI batter has built a troop of trusted players along the way. One of them is Imam-ul-Haq, who has enjoyed a purple patch of late and has seven scores of 50+ in his last seven ODIs to show for his efforts. ICC Men`s Player of the Year Shaheen Afridi has been the leader of the pack of bowlers that consists of Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Imad Wasim and Shadab Khan, among others.

India, though, will have a chance to climb the rankings as they play England and West Indies (three ODIs each) before Pakistan play their next ODI series in August.&nbsp;

Pakistan have left India behind in the ICC Men`s ODI Team Rankings after completing a clean sweep over West Indies in Multan. Babar Azam`s side jumped a spot to No 4 in the latest ICC Men`s ODI Team Rankings after the series win over West Indies in Multan.

Pakistan have left India behind in the ICC Men`s ODI Team Rankings after completing a clean sweep over West Indies in Multan. Babar Azam`s side jumped a spot to No 4 in the latest ICC Men`s ODI Team Rankings after the series win over West Indies in Multan. Team India is currently at the fifth spot. Before the start of the series, Pakistan were placed fifth in the rankings with a rating of 102. But the 3-0 clean sweep over the Windies has boosted them to No 4 with a rating of 106, leaving India behind at 105. Pakistan have enjoyed a brilliant last couple of years in the 50-over format. Apart from the blip against England away from home, they have taken on all comers and emerged victorious, including 2-1 series wins against Zimbabwe and South Africa. They defeated Australia by the same margin when they came to visit Pakistan for the first time since 1998. West Indies stood no chance against Pakistan as they were rampaged 3-0. This period of upsurgence has come under the captaincy of Babar Azam, who has led by example for Pakistan in all formats of the game. With his recent century in the first match against West Indies, he became the first batter to score three consecutive ODI centuries twice, having previously achieved the feat in 2016 as well. And with a fifty in the second ODI, he broke the world record for most consecutive 50+ scores (9) in men`s international cricket across all formats. ALSO READ | WATCH: Pakistan penalised 5 runs after Babar Azam guilty of 'illegal fielding' in 2nd ODI vs West Indies The top-ranked ODI batter has built a troop of trusted players along the way. One of them is Imam-ul-Haq, who has enjoyed a purple patch of late and has seven scores of 50+ in his last seven ODIs to show for his efforts. ICC Men`s Player of the Year Shaheen Afridi has been the leader of the pack of bowlers that consists of Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Imad Wasim and Shadab Khan, among others. India, though, will have a chance to climb the rankings as they play England and West Indies (three ODIs each) before Pakistan play their next ODI series in August.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan surpass Team India in ICC ODI Team Rankings

Ishan Kishan slammed a sensational half-century as India locked horns with South Africa in the 1st T20I at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday (June 09). Asked to bat first after losing the toss in the series-opener, Ishan and his opening partner Ruturaj Gaikwad got India off to a flying start and added 57 runs for the first wicket. The duo might not have gotten a chance to open in the first game had it not been for an injury to KL Rahul.

India are missing both Rahul and skipper Rohit Sharma in the ongoing five-match T20I series against the Proteas allowing Ishan to open with Gaikwad. While there is no denying the intense competition as far as opening slots are considered in the Indian team, many believe Kishan should be given more chances at the top.

The young explosive left-hander has the ability to take on the bowlers from the word go and can single-handedly destroy bowling attacks on his day. On Thursday, Kishan was in fine form once again as he took the South Africa bowlers to the cleaners wen route to his 48-ball 76 laced with 11 fours and 3 sixes.

The young southpaw was asked if he believes he should be getting regular chances to open for the Indian team going forward. Kishan said he cannot ask the likes of Rohit and Rahul to drop themselves to let him play as an opener for the Men in Blue in T20Is. Kishan said he would like to make the most of opportunities that come his way and leave the rest to the coaches and the Indian team management.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-hardik-pandya-surprisingly-refuses-single-to-dinesh-karthik-in-20th-over-during-ind-sa-1st-t20i-486817">WATCH - Hardik Pandya surprisingly refuses single to Dinesh Karthik in 20th over during 1st T20I</a>

“They are world-class players. I won’t ask for my spot when they are there. My job is to give my best in the practice session. Whenever I get the opportunity, I have to prove myself and do well for the team. So I focus on my process and what I have to do,” Ishan said after his terrific knock in the first T20I against South Africa.

“They have scored so many runs for our country, I cannot ask them to drop themselves and make me play in the first place. I have to keep doing my thing, it’s up to the selectors and the coaches whatever they think, but my job is to give my best whenever I get my chance” he added.

India rode on Kishan's 48-ball 76 and crucial knocks from the likes of skipper Rishabh Pant (29 off 16), Shreyas Iyer (36 off 27) and Hardik Pandya (31 off 12) to post a strong total of 211 runs on the board, batting first. However, South Arica managed to chase down the target comfortably to win the game by seven wickets and take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20i-david-miller-rassie-van-der-dussen-prevent-india-from-achieving-world-record-sa-win-by-7-wickets-486699">1st T20I -&nbsp;Miller, Van der Dussen prevent India from achieving world record, SA win by 7 wickets</a>

David Miller carried on from where he had left for Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2022 to slam a stunning unbeaten 64 off 31 balls while Rassie van de Dussen also punished the Indian bowlers en route to his 75 off 46 balls to help South Africa chase down 212 runs with five balls to spare.

Ishan Kishan slammed a sensational half-century as India locked horns with South Africa in the 1st T20I at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday (June 09).

Ishan Kishan slammed a sensational half-century as India locked horns with South Africa in the 1st T20I at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday (June 09). Asked to bat first after losing the toss in the series-opener, Ishan and his opening partner Ruturaj Gaikwad got India off to a flying start and added 57 runs for the first wicket. The duo might not have gotten a chance to open in the first game had it not been for an injury to KL Rahul. India are missing both Rahul and skipper Rohit Sharma in the ongoing five-match T20I series against the Proteas allowing Ishan to open with Gaikwad. While there is no denying the intense competition as far as opening slots are considered in the Indian team, many believe Kishan should be given more chances at the top. The young explosive left-hander has the ability to take on the bowlers from the word go and can single-handedly destroy bowling attacks on his day. On Thursday, Kishan was in fine form once again as he took the South Africa bowlers to the cleaners wen route to his 48-ball 76 laced with 11 fours and 3 sixes. The young southpaw was asked if he believes he should be getting regular chances to open for the Indian team going forward. Kishan said he cannot ask the likes of Rohit and Rahul to drop themselves to let him play as an opener for the Men in Blue in T20Is. Kishan said he would like to make the most of opportunities that come his way and leave the rest to the coaches and the Indian team management. Also Read: WATCH - Hardik Pandya surprisingly refuses single to Dinesh Karthik in 20th over during 1st T20I “They are world-class players. I won’t ask for my spot when they are there. My job is to give my best in the practice session. Whenever I get the opportunity, I have to prove myself and do well for the team. So I focus on my process and what I have to do,” Ishan said after his terrific knock in the first T20I against South Africa. “They have scored so many runs for our country, I cannot ask them to drop themselves and make me play in the first place. I have to keep doing my thing, it’s up to the selectors and the coaches whatever they think, but my job is to give my best whenever I get my chance” he added. India rode on Kishan's 48-ball 76 and crucial knocks from the likes of skipper Rishabh Pant (29 off 16), Shreyas Iyer (36 off 27) and Hardik Pandya (31 off 12) to post a strong total of 211 runs on the board, batting first. However, South Arica managed to chase down the target comfortably to win the game by seven wickets and take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Also Read: 1st T20I - Miller, Van der Dussen prevent India from achieving world record, SA win by 7 wickets David Miller carried on from where he had left for Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2022 to slam a stunning unbeaten 64 off 31 balls while Rassie van de Dussen also punished the Indian bowlers en route to his 75 off 46 balls to help South Africa chase down 212 runs with five balls to spare.

Can't ask Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul to drop themselves to make me play in Team India: Ishan Kishan

Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks have risen ever since he impressed one and all with his leadership qualities in the IPL 2022 edition. In what was the star all-rounder's first-ever season as captain, the 28-year-old made a huge mark by leading the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden title, beating Rajasthan Royasl (RR) with ease in the final.

Hardik's calm and composed nature on the field, leading the charge in all departments despite additional responsibility and some tactical decisions stood out as many former cricketers and experts of the game are impressed with his game-reading abilities as captain. Ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, where Hardik has been promoted as the vice-captain after Rishabh Pant replaced an injured KL Rahul to become the new stand-in skipper, former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh made a huge claim on Hardik.

"One of the biggest revelations in this year's IPL was the advent of Hardik Pandya as the skipper of the Gujarat Titans and the way he led the team from the front to win the coveted title is definitely praiseworthy. His intent and positive captaincy are signs that he can lead Team India in the future," Harbhajan told PTI in an interview.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-leadership-was-impressive-in-ipl-2022-rahul-dravid-all-praise-for-hardik-pandya-ahead-of-sa-t20is-486132">'His leadership was impressive in IPL 2022' - Rahul Dravid all praise for Hardik Pandya ahead of SA T20Is</a>

Before the SA series opener, head coach Rahul Dravid had also lauded Hardik's captaincy in IPL 15. He told the reporters, "I just met Hardik a couple of hours ago. For the guys who played the final, we gave them an extra day off. But I think his leadership was very impressive right through the IPL. He performed very well. In the sense, you don't have to be designated as a leader to be part of any leadership group. It's not only about Hardik being designated in a position. At this point in time, it's really about it's good from our perspective that he has started bowling again. We know what that does for us, and what his bowling can add to our depth."

Hardik, Pant-starrer India take on South Africa in the five-match T20I series opener on Thursday evening (June 09) in New Delhi, India. Needless to say, Hardik will be eager to fulfill all roles for the Men in Blue, in what is his comeback for the national side after the 2021 T20 World Cup.

Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks have risen ever since he impressed one and all with his leadership qualities in the IPL 2022 edition. In what was the star all-rounder's first-ever season as captain, the 28-year-old made a huge mark by leading the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden title, beating Rajasthan Royasl (RR) with ease in the final.

Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks have risen ever since he impressed one and all with his leadership qualities in the IPL 2022 edition. In what was the star all-rounder's first-ever season as captain, the 28-year-old made a huge mark by leading the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden title, beating Rajasthan Royasl (RR) with ease in the final. Hardik's calm and composed nature on the field, leading the charge in all departments despite additional responsibility and some tactical decisions stood out as many former cricketers and experts of the game are impressed with his game-reading abilities as captain. Ahead of the India-South Africa T20Is, where Hardik has been promoted as the vice-captain after Rishabh Pant replaced an injured KL Rahul to become the new stand-in skipper, former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh made a huge claim on Hardik. "One of the biggest revelations in this year's IPL was the advent of Hardik Pandya as the skipper of the Gujarat Titans and the way he led the team from the front to win the coveted title is definitely praiseworthy. His intent and positive captaincy are signs that he can lead Team India in the future," Harbhajan told PTI in an interview. ALSO READ | 'His leadership was impressive in IPL 2022' - Rahul Dravid all praise for Hardik Pandya ahead of SA T20Is Before the SA series opener, head coach Rahul Dravid had also lauded Hardik's captaincy in IPL 15. He told the reporters, "I just met Hardik a couple of hours ago. For the guys who played the final, we gave them an extra day off. But I think his leadership was very impressive right through the IPL. He performed very well. In the sense, you don't have to be designated as a leader to be part of any leadership group. It's not only about Hardik being designated in a position. At this point in time, it's really about it's good from our perspective that he has started bowling again. We know what that does for us, and what his bowling can add to our depth." Hardik, Pant-starrer India take on South Africa in the five-match T20I series opener on Thursday evening (June 09) in New Delhi, India. Needless to say, Hardik will be eager to fulfill all roles for the Men in Blue, in what is his comeback for the national side after the 2021 T20 World Cup.

'He can lead Team India in future' - Harbhajan Singh lavishes praise on Hardik Pandya's leadership

On Wednesday (June 08), Pakistan captain Babar Azam continued to be among runs as the Men in Green locked horns with Nicholas Pooran's West Indies in the series opener of the three ODIs, in Multan. Chasing 306, Babar-led hosts went past the finish line courtesy of their captain who scripted a brilliant record with his century against the Windies.

Scoring his 17th ton in the shortest format, Babar scripted history as he&nbsp;became the&nbsp;first batter to score three consecutive hundreds on two separate occasions in ODIs. For the unversed, his earlier three consectuive centuries had come against West Indies in 2016, when he made 120, 123, and 117.

In addition, the 27-year-old Babar surpassed the long-standing record of Virat Kohli, former Indian skipper, to become the quickest to score 1,000 runs as an ODI captain. He&nbsp;got to the milestone in his 13th innings;&nbsp;four innings less than Kohli (who achieved the same in 17 outings).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-captain-babar-azam-breaks-virat-kohlis-reacord-with-brilliant-century-in-1st-odi-against-west-indies-486416">Pakistan captain Babar Azam breaks Virat Kohli's reacord with brilliant century in 1st ODI against West Indies</a>

Talking about the first ODI, Pooran-led Windies opted to bat first and rode on Shai Hope's 127, along with fifty from Shamarh Brooks (70) and vital knocks from Romario Shepherd and&nbsp;Rovman Powell, to post 305-8 as Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi claimed four and two scalps, respectively. In reply, Pakistan chased down the total with five wickets, and four balls, to spare. Apart from Babar, Md Rizwan scored a fifty whereas Khushdil Shah's entertaining 23-ball 41* ensured no further hiccups for the hosts in the final few overs.&nbsp;

At the post-match presentation, Babar said, "I always try to continue my game and work on my strengths. There was a little bit of a problem during the calling when I was batting with Imam. But it got better as the partnership moved on. The wicket was a little double-paced and wasn't that easy. There was heat but that is not an excuse. Credit to the bowlers. Shadab came back and did well. The standards he sets on the field is brilliant as well. Cricket is changing. We have to plan and play with a lot of intensity. Outstanding finish from Khushdil. You have to take it deep so that there is less pressure on the finishers."

On Wednesday (June 08), Pakistan captain Babar Azam continued to be among runs as the Men in Green locked horns with Nicholas Pooran's West Indies in the series opener of the three ODIs, in Multan.

On Wednesday (June 08), Pakistan captain Babar Azam continued to be among runs as the Men in Green locked horns with Nicholas Pooran's West Indies in the series opener of the three ODIs, in Multan. Chasing 306, Babar-led hosts went past the finish line courtesy of their captain who scripted a brilliant record with his century against the Windies. Scoring his 17th ton in the shortest format, Babar scripted history as he became the first batter to score three consecutive hundreds on two separate occasions in ODIs. For the unversed, his earlier three consectuive centuries had come against West Indies in 2016, when he made 120, 123, and 117. In addition, the 27-year-old Babar surpassed the long-standing record of Virat Kohli, former Indian skipper, to become the quickest to score 1,000 runs as an ODI captain. He got to the milestone in his 13th innings; four innings less than Kohli (who achieved the same in 17 outings). ALSO READ | Pakistan captain Babar Azam breaks Virat Kohli's reacord with brilliant century in 1st ODI against West Indies Talking about the first ODI, Pooran-led Windies opted to bat first and rode on Shai Hope's 127, along with fifty from Shamarh Brooks (70) and vital knocks from Romario Shepherd and Rovman Powell, to post 305-8 as Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi claimed four and two scalps, respectively. In reply, Pakistan chased down the total with five wickets, and four balls, to spare. Apart from Babar, Md Rizwan scored a fifty whereas Khushdil Shah's entertaining 23-ball 41* ensured no further hiccups for the hosts in the final few overs. At the post-match presentation, Babar said, "I always try to continue my game and work on my strengths. There was a little bit of a problem during the calling when I was batting with Imam. But it got better as the partnership moved on. The wicket was a little double-paced and wasn't that easy. There was heat but that is not an excuse. Credit to the bowlers. Shadab came back and did well. The standards he sets on the field is brilliant as well. Cricket is changing. We have to plan and play with a lot of intensity. Outstanding finish from Khushdil. You have to take it deep so that there is less pressure on the finishers."

Babar Azam creates history, Pakistan captain becomes 1st batter to score 3 successive ODI tons twice

Indian cricket team's head coach Rahul Dravid explained why it was important for captain Rohit Sharma to take a break from the team's upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. Some experts felt Rohit should have continued playing following the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and have led the side in the five T20Is against the Proteas. Rohit has been rested from the T20I series along with other senior players like&nbsp;Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami.

The Indian players will be returning to action for the first time since the conclusion of IPL 2022 on May 29. The members of the squad got a short break in between before assembling in New Delhi for the series-opener at the Arun Jaitely Stadium on Thursday (June 09). In Rohit's absence, KL Rahul will be leading the side against Temba Bavuma's men.

Explaining why it was crucial for Rohit to get a break, Dravid said the Indian skipper is an all-format player and needs to be provided adequate rest to ensure he is fit and fresh for the challenges ahead. The Indian head coach insisted there will be times when the team will have to rest their best players for a particular series to manage their workload.

&nbsp;“Rohit is our all-format player. It would be unwise to expect everyone to be available all the time. We want them to be fit and fresh as well. There would be times where we would have to rest our big players," Dravid responded to a reporter's query on Rohit at the presser on Tuesday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-sachin-or-dhoni-hardik-pandya-names-his-favourite-cricketer-says-always-placed-him-above-other-legends-485969">Not Sachin or Dhoni! Hardik&nbsp;names his favourite cricketer, says always placed him above other legends</a>

Rahul Dravid on Dinesh Karthik's comeback:

Veteran wicket-keeper batter Dinesh Karthik managed to make a comeback to the Indian team after a long gap of three years on the back of his performances for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. Karthik was phenomenal as a finisher for his team and played a number of crucial knocks down the order.

The veteran batter went on to amass 330 runs in 16 matches at an average of 55 and a brilliant strike rate of 183.33 to impress the selectors and make his return to the Indian team. He last featured for India during the ODI World Cup in 2019. When asked about his return, Dravid said Karthik will have a very clear role in the team of finishing games while batting down the order.

"With Dinesh, it is clear with the role. At the backend of the game, he can make a difference. That's why he has been picked, to bat in those positions and deliver for India as well," said Dravid.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-should-watch-out-michael-vaughan-makes-bold-claim-as-joe-root-breaches-10000-run-mark-in-tests-485960">'Sachin should watch out': Vaughan makes bold claim as Joe Root breaches 10,000-run mark in Tests</a>

India will lock horns with South Africa in the first T20I in Delhi on Thursday before moving to Cuttack for the second game on Sunday (June 12). The next three matches will be played in Vizag, Rajkot and Bengaluru respectively. India are currently on an 11-match unbeaten streak in T20Is and will hope to keep the winning streak intact on Thursday.

&nbsp;

Indian cricket team's head coach Rahul Dravid explained why it was important for captain Rohit Sharma to take a break from the team's upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home.

Indian cricket team's head coach Rahul Dravid explained why it was important for captain Rohit Sharma to take a break from the team's upcoming T20I series against South Africa at home. Some experts felt Rohit should have continued playing following the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and have led the side in the five T20Is against the Proteas. Rohit has been rested from the T20I series along with other senior players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami. The Indian players will be returning to action for the first time since the conclusion of IPL 2022 on May 29. The members of the squad got a short break in between before assembling in New Delhi for the series-opener at the Arun Jaitely Stadium on Thursday (June 09). In Rohit's absence, KL Rahul will be leading the side against Temba Bavuma's men. Explaining why it was crucial for Rohit to get a break, Dravid said the Indian skipper is an all-format player and needs to be provided adequate rest to ensure he is fit and fresh for the challenges ahead. The Indian head coach insisted there will be times when the team will have to rest their best players for a particular series to manage their workload. “Rohit is our all-format player. It would be unwise to expect everyone to be available all the time. We want them to be fit and fresh as well. There would be times where we would have to rest our big players," Dravid responded to a reporter's query on Rohit at the presser on Tuesday. Also Read: Not Sachin or Dhoni! Hardik names his favourite cricketer, says always placed him above other legends Rahul Dravid on Dinesh Karthik's comeback: Veteran wicket-keeper batter Dinesh Karthik managed to make a comeback to the Indian team after a long gap of three years on the back of his performances for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. Karthik was phenomenal as a finisher for his team and played a number of crucial knocks down the order. The veteran batter went on to amass 330 runs in 16 matches at an average of 55 and a brilliant strike rate of 183.33 to impress the selectors and make his return to the Indian team. He last featured for India during the ODI World Cup in 2019. When asked about his return, Dravid said Karthik will have a very clear role in the team of finishing games while batting down the order. "With Dinesh, it is clear with the role. At the backend of the game, he can make a difference. That's why he has been picked, to bat in those positions and deliver for India as well," said Dravid. Also Read: 'Sachin should watch out': Vaughan makes bold claim as Joe Root breaches 10,000-run mark in Tests India will lock horns with South Africa in the first T20I in Delhi on Thursday before moving to Cuttack for the second game on Sunday (June 12). The next three matches will be played in Vizag, Rajkot and Bengaluru respectively. India are currently on an 11-match unbeaten streak in T20Is and will hope to keep the winning streak intact on Thursday.

Rahul Dravid explains Karthik's role in Team India, justifies skipper Rohit's decision to skip SA series

India are gearing up to take on South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home starting from Thursday (June 09). The first T20I of the series will be played at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi. The Indian players are back on national duty after the gruelling season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) which concluded on May 29 last month. The players will be hoping to hit the ground running in the opening game on Thursday.

In the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, KL Rahul will be leading the team. While a number of youngsters have made the cut in the squad after an impressive IPL campaign, the likes of Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik are also back.

Star batter Suryakumar Yadav will also miss the series due to an injury and in his absence, the onus will be on Shreyas Iyer to play a key role for the Men in Blue in the top four. Iyer is likely to bat at number three and will be hoping to continue his fine form with the bat in the five-match T20I series.

Iyer will also be aiming to go past Indian skipper Rohit in an elite list of batters. Iyer is just 191 runs away from completing 1,000 runs in T2OIs for India and can become the 3rd fastest batter to achieve the feat after Virat Kohli (29) and KL Rahul (32). Iyer currently has 809 runs in 36 T20Is at an average of 36.77 and a brilliant strike rate of over 140.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-told-me-i-will-be-in-world-cup-squad-after-3-matches-hardik-panda-recalls-his-team-india-debut-485703">Dhoni told me I will be in World Cup squad after 3 matches: Hardik Pandya recalls his Team India debut</a>

He has a chance to go past Rohit and become the 3rd fastest Indian batter to complete 1,000 runs in T20Is. Rohit had achieved the feat in 47 matches for the Men in Blue.

Fastest Indian batters to 1,000 runs in T20Is:

Virat Kohli - 29 matches

KL Rahul - 32 matches&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma - 47 matches&nbsp;

Iyer is coming off a decent season with the bat for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2022. Leading the side, Iyer scored 401 runs in 14 games at an average of 30.85 and a strike rate of over 134 last season. While it was a decent campaign for him on the personal front, his team struggled and failed to make it to the playoffs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-not-followed-waqar-younis-umran-malik-reveals-his-3-idols-after-comparisons-with-ex-pakistan-pacer-485563">'I have not followed Waqar': Umran Malik reveals his 3 idols after comparisons with ex-Pakistan pacer</a>

Iyer will now return to action for Team India and will hope to make an impact as head coach Rahul Dravid and the team management will be keeping an eye on the performances of each player considering the T20 World Cup 2022 is now just a few months away.

India are gearing up to take on South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home starting from Thursday (June 09). The first T20I of the series will be played at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi.

India are gearing up to take on South Africa in a five-match T20I series at home starting from Thursday (June 09). The first T20I of the series will be played at the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi. The Indian players are back on national duty after the gruelling season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) which concluded on May 29 last month. The players will be hoping to hit the ground running in the opening game on Thursday. In the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma and the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami, KL Rahul will be leading the team. While a number of youngsters have made the cut in the squad after an impressive IPL campaign, the likes of Hardik Pandya and Dinesh Karthik are also back. Star batter Suryakumar Yadav will also miss the series due to an injury and in his absence, the onus will be on Shreyas Iyer to play a key role for the Men in Blue in the top four. Iyer is likely to bat at number three and will be hoping to continue his fine form with the bat in the five-match T20I series. Iyer will also be aiming to go past Indian skipper Rohit in an elite list of batters. Iyer is just 191 runs away from completing 1,000 runs in T2OIs for India and can become the 3rd fastest batter to achieve the feat after Virat Kohli (29) and KL Rahul (32). Iyer currently has 809 runs in 36 T20Is at an average of 36.77 and a brilliant strike rate of over 140. Also Read: Dhoni told me I will be in World Cup squad after 3 matches: Hardik Pandya recalls his Team India debut He has a chance to go past Rohit and become the 3rd fastest Indian batter to complete 1,000 runs in T20Is. Rohit had achieved the feat in 47 matches for the Men in Blue. Fastest Indian batters to 1,000 runs in T20Is: Virat Kohli - 29 matches KL Rahul - 32 matches Rohit Sharma - 47 matches Iyer is coming off a decent season with the bat for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2022. Leading the side, Iyer scored 401 runs in 14 games at an average of 30.85 and a strike rate of over 134 last season. While it was a decent campaign for him on the personal front, his team struggled and failed to make it to the playoffs. Also Read: 'I have not followed Waqar': Umran Malik reveals his 3 idols after comparisons with ex-Pakistan pacer Iyer will now return to action for Team India and will hope to make an impact as head coach Rahul Dravid and the team management will be keeping an eye on the performances of each player considering the T20 World Cup 2022 is now just a few months away.

Shreyas Iyer aims to surpass Rohit Sharma in elite list as India gear up for South Africa T20I series

Team India already have one eye on the forthcoming T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year, after their disastrous run in the last year's edition. Ahead of the showpiece event, former Indian captain, Kapil Dev slammed India's top order's T20 batting approach and asked them to strike at a higher rate.&nbsp;

The 1983 World Cup-winning skipper Kapil feels that Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli have the potential to go at a strike rate of 150-160, however, they restrict themselves and often get out while accelerating at the latter half of the innings, putting pressure on the rest of the batters. Kapil also went on to add that if they can't change their approach in a fast-moving game, they should be replaced by fresh faces.&nbsp;

"They have a big reputation and there's huge pressure on them, which shouldn't be the case. You have to play fearless cricket. All of these are players who can hit at a strike rate of 150-160. Whenever we need them to score runs, they all get out. When it is time to take off (in the innings), they are out. And that adds to pressure. Either you play an anchor or you play striker,” said Kapil on the Youtube channel&nbsp;Uncut.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/need-a-wicketkeeper-who-will-play-dhonis-role-shastri-on-how-karthik-can-cement-his-place-in-indian-team-485322">Need a wicketkeeper who will play Dhoni’s role: Shastri on how Karthik can cement his place in Indian team</a>

Kapil stressed on Rahul and said, "When you talk about KL Rahul, if the team tells him to play the entire 20 overs and you come back with a score of, say 60 not out, you're not doing justice to your team." He added, "

“I think the approach needs to change. And if it doesn't, you have to change the players. A big player is expected to make a big impact. Having a big reputation is not enough, you also have to deliver great performances."

At present, a second-stringed Rahul-led India are gearing up for the home T20Is versus South Africa, starting on June 09. Rohit and Virat have been rested and will return to action during the one-off Test versus England, on July 01.
</section>

Team India already have one eye on the forthcoming T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year, after their disastrous run in the last year's edition.

Team India already have one eye on the forthcoming T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year, after their disastrous run in the last year's edition. Ahead of the showpiece event, former Indian captain, Kapil Dev slammed India's top order's T20 batting approach and asked them to strike at a higher rate. The 1983 World Cup-winning skipper Kapil feels that Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli have the potential to go at a strike rate of 150-160, however, they restrict themselves and often get out while accelerating at the latter half of the innings, putting pressure on the rest of the batters. Kapil also went on to add that if they can't change their approach in a fast-moving game, they should be replaced by fresh faces. "They have a big reputation and there's huge pressure on them, which shouldn't be the case. You have to play fearless cricket. All of these are players who can hit at a strike rate of 150-160. Whenever we need them to score runs, they all get out. When it is time to take off (in the innings), they are out. And that adds to pressure. Either you play an anchor or you play striker,” said Kapil on the Youtube channel Uncut. ALSO READ | Need a wicketkeeper who will play Dhoni’s role: Shastri on how Karthik can cement his place in Indian team Kapil stressed on Rahul and said, "When you talk about KL Rahul, if the team tells him to play the entire 20 overs and you come back with a score of, say 60 not out, you're not doing justice to your team." He added, " “I think the approach needs to change. And if it doesn't, you have to change the players. A big player is expected to make a big impact. Having a big reputation is not enough, you also have to deliver great performances." At present, a second-stringed Rahul-led India are gearing up for the home T20Is versus South Africa, starting on June 09. Rohit and Virat have been rested and will return to action during the one-off Test versus England, on July 01.

When we need them to score runs, they get out: Kapil Dev on India's top order's T20 batting approach

Hardik Pandya impressed one and all with his all-round abilities and captaincy in the recently-concluded IPL 2022 edition, leading the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden championship. With Hardik's stunning comeback at the competitive level, the 28-year-old is set to also&nbsp;return for Team India in their forthcoming home T20Is versus South Africa, starting on June 09.

Hardik's fitness and all-round abilities were keenly observed by many during IPL 15. The 15th season was Hardik's return to competitive cricket after a long time, having been on a break following the 2021 T20 World Cup due to fitness concerns. While he did bowl at regular intervals, picking eight wickets, and amassed&nbsp;487 runs for Gujarat, many feel he is now ready to make a comeback in the white-ball formats and slowly reappear in&nbsp;the red-ball side. However, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri wants Hardik to only stick to T20Is till this year's World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year.

"He will walk back into that squad for me either as a batter or as an all-rounder. I don't think he is that badly injured where he cannot bowl you two overs. He has had ample rest and he will continue to have ample rest because that's the only format he should play going into the World Cup. They shouldn't take the risk of making him play ODI cricket," said Shastri in&nbsp;Star Sports'&nbsp;show&nbsp;Game Plan.

Shastri further asserted how a fully fit Hardik is an asset for Team India, as he has the capability of doing two players' jobs.&nbsp;

"Massive, he does the job for two players. A Hardik Pandya playing just as a batter would mean he has to bat in the top four or five, but Hardik Pandya playing as an all-rounder means he can bat at five, six, or four and still bowl those two-three overs for you," said the ex-India&nbsp;coach.

In the last few&nbsp;years, Hardik hasn't bowled a lot -- in the IPL or for India -- due to back concerns. However, he bowled at regular intervals in IPL 15 and also clocked the 140kph mark in the first few matches.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-we-need-them-to-score-runs-they-get-out-kapil-dev-on-indias-top-orders-t20-batting-approach-485465">When we need them to score runs, they get out: Kapil Dev on India's top order's T20 batting approach</a>

Hardik is preparing hard for India's upcoming five-match T20Is versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa. The Indian team will be led by KL Rahul in regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence, who has been rested along with Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah.

India's T20I squad for South Africa series -&nbsp;KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Hardik Pandya impressed one and all with his all-round abilities and captaincy in the recently-concluded IPL 2022 edition, leading the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden championship.

Hardik Pandya impressed one and all with his all-round abilities and captaincy in the recently-concluded IPL 2022 edition, leading the debutants Gujarat Titans (GT) to their maiden championship. With Hardik's stunning comeback at the competitive level, the 28-year-old is set to also return for Team India in their forthcoming home T20Is versus South Africa, starting on June 09. Hardik's fitness and all-round abilities were keenly observed by many during IPL 15. The 15th season was Hardik's return to competitive cricket after a long time, having been on a break following the 2021 T20 World Cup due to fitness concerns. While he did bowl at regular intervals, picking eight wickets, and amassed 487 runs for Gujarat, many feel he is now ready to make a comeback in the white-ball formats and slowly reappear in the red-ball side. However, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri wants Hardik to only stick to T20Is till this year's World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. "He will walk back into that squad for me either as a batter or as an all-rounder. I don't think he is that badly injured where he cannot bowl you two overs. He has had ample rest and he will continue to have ample rest because that's the only format he should play going into the World Cup. They shouldn't take the risk of making him play ODI cricket," said Shastri in Star Sports' show Game Plan. Shastri further asserted how a fully fit Hardik is an asset for Team India, as he has the capability of doing two players' jobs. "Massive, he does the job for two players. A Hardik Pandya playing just as a batter would mean he has to bat in the top four or five, but Hardik Pandya playing as an all-rounder means he can bat at five, six, or four and still bowl those two-three overs for you," said the ex-India coach. In the last few years, Hardik hasn't bowled a lot -- in the IPL or for India -- due to back concerns. However, he bowled at regular intervals in IPL 15 and also clocked the 140kph mark in the first few matches. ALSO READ | When we need them to score runs, they get out: Kapil Dev on India's top order's T20 batting approach Hardik is preparing hard for India's upcoming five-match T20Is versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa. The Indian team will be led by KL Rahul in regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence, who has been rested along with Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah. India's T20I squad for South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

'They shouldn't take risk' - Shastri explains why Hardik Pandya should stick to shortest format till T20WC

Rohit Sharma's childhood coach wants Virat Kohli to break the legendary Sachin Tendulkar's record of 100 centuries in international cricket. Tendulkar holds the record for scoring the most number of centuries in international cricket and is the only batter to have achieved the feat of 100 centuries across formats at the highest level. Regarded as one of the greatest of all time, Tendulkar is also the leading run-getter in international cricket.

India's batting maestro Virat Kohli is the only active batter who is close to breaching Tendulkar's record of 100 tons in international cricket. At one stage in his career, Kohli was absolutely unstoppable with the bat and was slamming centuries for fun. However, he has had to endure a rough patch in the last couple of years.

Kohli, who scored his last century in November 2019, currently has 71 international hundreds to his name. He has scored 27 centuries in Tests and 43 hundreds in ODIs and needs 30 more centuries across all three formats to go past Tendulkar.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gautam-gambhir-on-working-in-ipl-despite-being-an-mp-i-feed-5000-people-every-month-from-my-own-pocket-485062">Gambhir on working in IPL despite being an MP: I feed 5,000 people every month from my own pocket</a>

Despite Kohli's ongoing rough patch, Rohit's childhood coach Dinesh Lad has backed Kohli to go on and break Tendulkar's record of 100 international centuries. Lad said almost all batters have to go through rough patches in their career while backing Kohli to bounce back from his bad form.

"Virat is a wonderful batsman, and I feel he'll make a strong comeback. Almost every cricketer has had to go through a bad patch - even Vivian Richards and Sunil Gavaskar went through a bad patch. I think it's more about mental strength rather than form. He should concentrate on that. Rest he'll bat well, we can't talk much about that. I want him to break Sachin's century record," Dinesh told India TV.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/don-bradmans-son-changed-his-name-legendary-kapil-dev-on-burden-of-expectations-on-arjun-tendulkar-485012">'Don Bradman's son changed his name': Kapil Dev on burden of expectations on Arjun Tendulkar</a>

Kohli, who has been enduring a rough patch with the bat for the last couple of years, is currently on a break after being rested from India's upcoming T20I series against South Africa. The batting maestro will return to action during the one-off Test against England next month.

Rohit Sharma's childhood coach wants Virat Kohli to break the legendary Sachin Tendulkar's record of 100 centuries in international cricket. Tendulkar holds the record for scoring the most number of centuries in international cricket and is the only batter to have achieved the feat of 100 centuries across formats at the highest level.

Rohit Sharma's childhood coach wants Virat Kohli to break the legendary Sachin Tendulkar's record of 100 centuries in international cricket. Tendulkar holds the record for scoring the most number of centuries in international cricket and is the only batter to have achieved the feat of 100 centuries across formats at the highest level. Regarded as one of the greatest of all time, Tendulkar is also the leading run-getter in international cricket. India's batting maestro Virat Kohli is the only active batter who is close to breaching Tendulkar's record of 100 tons in international cricket. At one stage in his career, Kohli was absolutely unstoppable with the bat and was slamming centuries for fun. However, he has had to endure a rough patch in the last couple of years. Kohli, who scored his last century in November 2019, currently has 71 international hundreds to his name. He has scored 27 centuries in Tests and 43 hundreds in ODIs and needs 30 more centuries across all three formats to go past Tendulkar. Also Read: Gambhir on working in IPL despite being an MP: I feed 5,000 people every month from my own pocket Despite Kohli's ongoing rough patch, Rohit's childhood coach Dinesh Lad has backed Kohli to go on and break Tendulkar's record of 100 international centuries. Lad said almost all batters have to go through rough patches in their career while backing Kohli to bounce back from his bad form. "Virat is a wonderful batsman, and I feel he'll make a strong comeback. Almost every cricketer has had to go through a bad patch - even Vivian Richards and Sunil Gavaskar went through a bad patch. I think it's more about mental strength rather than form. He should concentrate on that. Rest he'll bat well, we can't talk much about that. I want him to break Sachin's century record," Dinesh told India TV. Also Read: 'Don Bradman's son changed his name': Kapil Dev on burden of expectations on Arjun Tendulkar Kohli, who has been enduring a rough patch with the bat for the last couple of years, is currently on a break after being rested from India's upcoming T20I series against South Africa. The batting maestro will return to action during the one-off Test against England next month.

Want Virat Kohli to break Sachin's record of 100 international centuries, says Rohit's childhood coach

KL Rahul was criticised by many for failing to change gears in time during his side Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Chasing a big target of 208 runs, Rahul scored 79 off 58 balls for LSG but failed to get them over the line as they lost the game by 14 runs.

While his skills and talent is there to see for everyone, Rahul didn't quite manage to make the best use of his potential for LSG in IPL 2022. He was often scrutinised for being too slow in his approach and was also slammed by fans for not accelerating his strike rate despite the team being under pressure.

Rahul had yet another prolific season with the bat for LSG, amassing 616 runs in 15 matches for his team but failed to inspire them to their maiden title. LSG bowed out of the tournament after losing against RCB in the Eliminator. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif recently shared his views on Rahul's batting.

Latif said there is no doubt that Rahul is a fine batter and a special player but he is not in the same league as the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The former Pakistan skipper explained that Rahul plays a lot of dot balls and needs to work on that to improve his game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-hardik-pandya-to-ravindra-jadeja-how-new-captains-fared-in-ipl-2022-483927">From Hardik Pandya to Ravindra Jadeja: How new captains fared in IPL 2022?</a>

"Wasn't he playing for Punjab Kings before this? He used to bat till the 15th-18th over, while Glenn Maxwell hardly faced 2 balls. The team did not qualify. Even Gayle was there but he played in the end. See, there is no doubt that KL Rahul is a fine player, and the pitches he played on and scored hundreds were the same where Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan struggled. Sometimes when an opener bats, he thinks it is his responsibility to bat through," Latif said on his YouTube channel&nbsp;'Caught Behind'.

"Rahul is not like Rohit Sharma. Rohit and Kohli belong to a different league, but Rahul too is a special player. Having said that he needs to improve a little. He plays a few too many dot balls for his liking. Since the runs he scores are big, the balls faced a lot too. When he was playing for Punjab, I noticed the same," the former Pakistan skipper added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-captains-aakash-chopras-ipl-2022-xi-no-place-for-dk-rashid-khan-and-umran-malik-483865">Hardik Pandya captains Aakash Chopra's IPL 2022 XI, no place for DK, Rashid Khan and Umran Malik</a>

Rahul has been one of the most consistent performers with the willow in the IPL over the last few seasons. He was the highest run-getter in the league in IPL 2020 before finishing third on the list in IPL 2021 last year. He once again went past the 600-run mark this season to continue his purple patch. However, his efforts were not enough to take his side to the final of the season.

KL Rahul was criticised by many for failing to change gears in time during his side Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

KL Rahul was criticised by many for failing to change gears in time during his side Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Eliminator of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Chasing a big target of 208 runs, Rahul scored 79 off 58 balls for LSG but failed to get them over the line as they lost the game by 14 runs. While his skills and talent is there to see for everyone, Rahul didn't quite manage to make the best use of his potential for LSG in IPL 2022. He was often scrutinised for being too slow in his approach and was also slammed by fans for not accelerating his strike rate despite the team being under pressure. Rahul had yet another prolific season with the bat for LSG, amassing 616 runs in 15 matches for his team but failed to inspire them to their maiden title. LSG bowed out of the tournament after losing against RCB in the Eliminator. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif recently shared his views on Rahul's batting. Latif said there is no doubt that Rahul is a fine batter and a special player but he is not in the same league as the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The former Pakistan skipper explained that Rahul plays a lot of dot balls and needs to work on that to improve his game. Also Read: From Hardik Pandya to Ravindra Jadeja: How new captains fared in IPL 2022? "Wasn't he playing for Punjab Kings before this? He used to bat till the 15th-18th over, while Glenn Maxwell hardly faced 2 balls. The team did not qualify. Even Gayle was there but he played in the end. See, there is no doubt that KL Rahul is a fine player, and the pitches he played on and scored hundreds were the same where Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan struggled. Sometimes when an opener bats, he thinks it is his responsibility to bat through," Latif said on his YouTube channel 'Caught Behind'. "Rahul is not like Rohit Sharma. Rohit and Kohli belong to a different league, but Rahul too is a special player. Having said that he needs to improve a little. He plays a few too many dot balls for his liking. Since the runs he scores are big, the balls faced a lot too. When he was playing for Punjab, I noticed the same," the former Pakistan skipper added. Also Read: Hardik Pandya captains Aakash Chopra's IPL 2022 XI, no place for DK, Rashid Khan and Umran Malik Rahul has been one of the most consistent performers with the willow in the IPL over the last few seasons. He was the highest run-getter in the league in IPL 2020 before finishing third on the list in IPL 2021 last year. He once again went past the 600-run mark this season to continue his purple patch. However, his efforts were not enough to take his side to the final of the season.

KL Rahul a special player but Kohli and Rohit belong in a different league, says former Pakistan captain

IPL 2022 edition came to a fitting end on May 29 (Sunday) with the Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) winning their maiden title in their first-ever season. Following the end of the 15th season, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh revealed his 'most shocking moment' of the recently-concluded season.

While the IPL 15 season saw many uncapped players and some debutants make a mark whereas some veteran cricketers also had a good season. On the other hand, some big guns such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Kieron Pollard, Ravindra Jadeja, Glenn Maxwell, etc. didn't have a memorable season. Among the other shocking moments, the defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fell flat whereas the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) ended at the bottom.

Thus, Bhajji picked his 'most shocking moment', citing the struggles of Indian opener and Punjab Kings' (PBKS) skipper Mayank Agarwal. For the unversed, Mayank didn't even lead Punjab to the playoffs whereas he had a below-par season with the bat, amassing only 196 runs with a sole half-century at a strike rate of&nbsp;122.50. His indifferent run and 'suffocated' appearance on the field was most shocking for Bhajji.

"Mayank… I think if we talk about Agarwal, I thought to myself 'What has happened to him? He is such a good player. After getting captaincy, I think it put pressure on him. From opening, he went down to No. 4. He kept soaking everything. He looked suffocated. He should have been given freedom. He was under the radar and surely could have been a little better," Harbhajan told SportsKeeda when asked to pick the 'most shocking moment' of IPL 2022.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2022-roundup-from-ms-dhonis-confirmation-to-gujarat-titans-historic-triumph-483837">IPL 2022 roundup: From MS Dhoni's confirmation to Gujarat Titans' historic triumph</a>

Harbhajan later also picked his 'surprise package of the tournament'. "Wanindu Hasaranga became a match-winner after coming here. He was always a good bowler, we knew he was going to do well. But for me, he was the surprise package because the way he foxed the batters, he showed that he has the skills to succeed. It was fun to see him operate," pointed out the veteran cricketer.

Wanindu ended with 26 wickets, one less than the Purple Cap winner Yuzvendra Chahal, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

IPL 2022 edition came to a fitting end on May 29 (Sunday) with the Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) winning their maiden title in their first-ever season. Following the end of the 15th season, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh revealed his 'most shocking moment' of the recently-concluded season.

IPL 2022 edition came to a fitting end on May 29 (Sunday) with the Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) winning their maiden title in their first-ever season. Following the end of the 15th season, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh revealed his 'most shocking moment' of the recently-concluded season. While the IPL 15 season saw many uncapped players and some debutants make a mark whereas some veteran cricketers also had a good season. On the other hand, some big guns such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Kieron Pollard, Ravindra Jadeja, Glenn Maxwell, etc. didn't have a memorable season. Among the other shocking moments, the defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fell flat whereas the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) ended at the bottom. Thus, Bhajji picked his 'most shocking moment', citing the struggles of Indian opener and Punjab Kings' (PBKS) skipper Mayank Agarwal. For the unversed, Mayank didn't even lead Punjab to the playoffs whereas he had a below-par season with the bat, amassing only 196 runs with a sole half-century at a strike rate of 122.50. His indifferent run and 'suffocated' appearance on the field was most shocking for Bhajji. "Mayank… I think if we talk about Agarwal, I thought to myself 'What has happened to him? He is such a good player. After getting captaincy, I think it put pressure on him. From opening, he went down to No. 4. He kept soaking everything. He looked suffocated. He should have been given freedom. He was under the radar and surely could have been a little better," Harbhajan told SportsKeeda when asked to pick the 'most shocking moment' of IPL 2022. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 roundup: From MS Dhoni's confirmation to Gujarat Titans' historic triumph Harbhajan later also picked his 'surprise package of the tournament'. "Wanindu Hasaranga became a match-winner after coming here. He was always a good bowler, we knew he was going to do well. But for me, he was the surprise package because the way he foxed the batters, he showed that he has the skills to succeed. It was fun to see him operate," pointed out the veteran cricketer. Wanindu ended with 26 wickets, one less than the Purple Cap winner Yuzvendra Chahal, for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Harbhajan Singh mentions his 'most shocking moment' of IPL 2022, citing star Indian batter's struggles

The IPL 2022 edition ended on May 29 (Sunday). There were plenty of memorable performances by uncapped players, veteran stars whereas some big names failed to get going and fell flat. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Kieron Pollard, Glenn Maxwell and many other superstar cricketers failed to live upto expectations and had an ordinary run.

Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked Team India's T20 World Cup squad, for the mega event set to be held in Australia later this year, on the basis of Indian players' IPL 2022 performance. While Chopra named Hardik Pandya -- IPL 15's winning captain -- as India's skipper, he dropped Virat, Rohit, Rishabh Pant and Jadeja.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-a-special-player-but-kohli-and-rohit-belong-in-a-different-league-says-former-pakistan-captain-484006">KL Rahul a special player but Kohli and Rohit belong in a different league, says former Pakistan captain</a>

"The first name I am keeping is KL Rahul. He can play till 15-17 overs, he is a T20 gun batter and scored more than 600 runs this year. I have kept Ishan Kishan along with him. If you see his numbers, you will say it was not that bad a season for Ishan Kishan."

"At No. 3, I have kept Rahul Tripathi. He played very well this, strike rate has been very high and given match-winning performances. At No. 4, I have kept SKY. He has not played all the games but he has played at a different level in the matches he played," Chopra said on his Youtube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-captains-aakash-chopras-ipl-2022-xi-no-place-for-dk-rashid-khan-and-umran-malik-483865">Hardik Pandya captains Aakash Chopra's IPL 2022 XI, no place for DK, Rashid Khan and Umran Malik</a>

He added, "After that, my Player of the Tournament. I have made Hardik Pandya the captain of the team. He can play in the middle and be a finisher as well. After that, I have given a spot to Dinesh Karthik and he is my wicketkeeper as well. He has run at a strike rate of 180-190 and finished a lot of matches."

"At No. 7, I have kept Krunal Pandya because he has had a very good season. He has been very economical as a bowler and scored crucial runs as a batter. He can bat up and down the order. You require a left-hander in the middle."

"After that, Yuzi Chahal has to be in my side. Then I have three fast bowlers and the fourth fast bowler is Hardik Pandya - Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh. I am seeing this as the XI," Chopra opined further.

India's T20 World Cup squad based on IPL 2022 performances: KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Rahul Tripathi, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (c), Dinesh Karthik, Krunal Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Sanju Samson, Deepak Hooda, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshal Patel, Jasprit Bumrah

The IPL 2022 edition ended on May 29 (Sunday). There were plenty of memorable performances by uncapped players, veteran stars whereas some big names failed to get going and fell flat.

The IPL 2022 edition ended on May 29 (Sunday). There were plenty of memorable performances by uncapped players, veteran stars whereas some big names failed to get going and fell flat. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Kieron Pollard, Glenn Maxwell and many other superstar cricketers failed to live upto expectations and had an ordinary run. Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked Team India's T20 World Cup squad, for the mega event set to be held in Australia later this year, on the basis of Indian players' IPL 2022 performance. While Chopra named Hardik Pandya -- IPL 15's winning captain -- as India's skipper, he dropped Virat, Rohit, Rishabh Pant and Jadeja. ALSO READ | KL Rahul a special player but Kohli and Rohit belong in a different league, says former Pakistan captain "The first name I am keeping is KL Rahul. He can play till 15-17 overs, he is a T20 gun batter and scored more than 600 runs this year. I have kept Ishan Kishan along with him. If you see his numbers, you will say it was not that bad a season for Ishan Kishan." "At No. 3, I have kept Rahul Tripathi. He played very well this, strike rate has been very high and given match-winning performances. At No. 4, I have kept SKY. He has not played all the games but he has played at a different level in the matches he played," Chopra said on his Youtube channel. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya captains Aakash Chopra's IPL 2022 XI, no place for DK, Rashid Khan and Umran Malik He added, "After that, my Player of the Tournament. I have made Hardik Pandya the captain of the team. He can play in the middle and be a finisher as well. After that, I have given a spot to Dinesh Karthik and he is my wicketkeeper as well. He has run at a strike rate of 180-190 and finished a lot of matches." "At No. 7, I have kept Krunal Pandya because he has had a very good season. He has been very economical as a bowler and scored crucial runs as a batter. He can bat up and down the order. You require a left-hander in the middle." "After that, Yuzi Chahal has to be in my side. Then I have three fast bowlers and the fourth fast bowler is Hardik Pandya - Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh. I am seeing this as the XI," Chopra opined further. India's T20 World Cup squad based on IPL 2022 performances: KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Rahul Tripathi, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (c), Dinesh Karthik, Krunal Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Sanju Samson, Deepak Hooda, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshal Patel, Jasprit Bumrah

Hardik to lead India in Aakash Chopra's T20 WC squad based on IPL 2022, Virat, Rohit & some big names dropped

The 15th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) concluded recently with Gujarat Titans (GT) lifting the elusive trophy for the first time in their debut campaign. The debutants played some impressive cricket throughout the tournament and emerged as favourites for the title after dominating the proceedings in the league stage. They were one of the most consistent teams during the league stage and deservingly went on to lift the trophy capping off a stunning debut campaign.

Gujarat Titans defeated Rajasthan Royals by 7 wickets in the final on Sunday (May 29) to script history by becoming only the second team to win the IPL in their debut season. From skipper Hardik Pandya to the likes of David Miller and Rashid Khan, several players stepped up for the Titans across the season and won them a few games from almost improbable situations.

Sachin Tendulkar&nbsp;named his best XI from IPL 2022 and picked Hardik as the captain of his side after the Gujarat Titans skipper showed excellent leadership skills this season to inspire his side to their maiden title triumph. The Master Blaster also picked both Miller and Rashid in his team of the tournament.

The cricket legend picked Shikhar Dhawan and Jos Buttler as the two openers in his team. While Dhawan continued his prolific run with the bat for Punjab Kings, amassing 460 runs from 14 matches, Buttle enjoyed a stunning campaign for Rajasthan Royals. The English opener amassed a staggering 863 runs in 17 games and finished as the highest run-getter of the season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/hardik-pandya-to-david-miller-5-heroes-of-gujarat-titans-memorable-maiden-ipl-triumph-483565">Hardik Pandya to David Miller: 5 heroes of Gujarat Titans' memorable maiden IPL triumph</a>

"I would want a left-hand, right-hand combination and hence I am going to play Shikhar Dhawan. He accelerates beautifully and keeps rotating the strike. "One need not discuss who Dhawan's opening partner would be. Jos Buttler - what a season he has had, just fabulous. When Buttler gets going, no one can match him," Tendulkar said in a video on his YouTube channel as he picked his best XI from IPL 2022.

Snubbing superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who both had average seasons with their respective teams, Tendulkar picked Lucknow Super Giants skipper KL Rahul at number 3 and Hardik at number 4. In the middle order, Tendulkar went with the in-form Miller, the dangerous Liam Livingstone and Dinesh Karthik, who was arguably the best finisher in the tournament.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-ms-dhoni-and-virat-kohli-among-least-valuable-players-for-their-franchise-in-ipl-2022-report-483712">Rohit, Dhoni and Kohli among least valuable players for their franchises in IPL 2022 - Report</a>

In his bowling attack, the Master Blaster picked Rashid and Yuzvendra Chahal as the two spinners while Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah were the two pacers in his best XI from the tournament. Chahal was the highest wicket-taker of IPL 2022 with 27 scalps to his name.

"I would have Rashid as he is a dangerous batter and, with the ball, he gets the breakthroughs in the middle overs. His success rate is very high. Chahal was the highest wicket-taker. He always thinks about outsmarting batters," said Sachin.

Sachin Tendulkar’s best XI from&nbsp;IPL 2022: Shikhar Dhawan, Jos Buttler, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya (captain), David Miller, Liam Livingstone, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rashid Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah.

The 15th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) concluded recently with Gujarat Titans (GT) lifting the elusive trophy for the first time in their debut campaign.

The 15th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) concluded recently with Gujarat Titans (GT) lifting the elusive trophy for the first time in their debut campaign. The debutants played some impressive cricket throughout the tournament and emerged as favourites for the title after dominating the proceedings in the league stage. They were one of the most consistent teams during the league stage and deservingly went on to lift the trophy capping off a stunning debut campaign. Gujarat Titans defeated Rajasthan Royals by 7 wickets in the final on Sunday (May 29) to script history by becoming only the second team to win the IPL in their debut season. From skipper Hardik Pandya to the likes of David Miller and Rashid Khan, several players stepped up for the Titans across the season and won them a few games from almost improbable situations. Sachin Tendulkar named his best XI from IPL 2022 and picked Hardik as the captain of his side after the Gujarat Titans skipper showed excellent leadership skills this season to inspire his side to their maiden title triumph. The Master Blaster also picked both Miller and Rashid in his team of the tournament. The cricket legend picked Shikhar Dhawan and Jos Buttler as the two openers in his team. While Dhawan continued his prolific run with the bat for Punjab Kings, amassing 460 runs from 14 matches, Buttle enjoyed a stunning campaign for Rajasthan Royals. The English opener amassed a staggering 863 runs in 17 games and finished as the highest run-getter of the season. Also Read: Hardik Pandya to David Miller: 5 heroes of Gujarat Titans' memorable maiden IPL triumph "I would want a left-hand, right-hand combination and hence I am going to play Shikhar Dhawan. He accelerates beautifully and keeps rotating the strike. "One need not discuss who Dhawan's opening partner would be. Jos Buttler - what a season he has had, just fabulous. When Buttler gets going, no one can match him," Tendulkar said in a video on his YouTube channel as he picked his best XI from IPL 2022. Snubbing superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who both had average seasons with their respective teams, Tendulkar picked Lucknow Super Giants skipper KL Rahul at number 3 and Hardik at number 4. In the middle order, Tendulkar went with the in-form Miller, the dangerous Liam Livingstone and Dinesh Karthik, who was arguably the best finisher in the tournament. Also Read: Rohit, Dhoni and Kohli among least valuable players for their franchises in IPL 2022 - Report In his bowling attack, the Master Blaster picked Rashid and Yuzvendra Chahal as the two spinners while Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah were the two pacers in his best XI from the tournament. Chahal was the highest wicket-taker of IPL 2022 with 27 scalps to his name. "I would have Rashid as he is a dangerous batter and, with the ball, he gets the breakthroughs in the middle overs. His success rate is very high. Chahal was the highest wicket-taker. He always thinks about outsmarting batters," said Sachin. Sachin Tendulkar’s best XI from IPL 2022: Shikhar Dhawan, Jos Buttler, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya (captain), David Miller, Liam Livingstone, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rashid Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah.

No Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma in Sachin Tendulkar's best XI from IPL 2022; Hardik Pandya named captain

The 15th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) saw a number of youngsters once again rise to prominence with their impactful performances for their teams throughout the tournament. While the likes of Umran Malik and Mohsin Khan turned out to be the finds of the tournament, several other young guns like Rajat Patidar, Jitesh Sharma and Ayush Badoni also impressed with their talent and skills. Some of the youngsters turned out to be the most valuable players of the season considering their low buying price and brilliant show on the field.

While the youngsters rose to the occasion yet again, a number of superstars failed to deliver in the recently-concluded season. It was a forgetful season for the 'Big 3' - MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. While Dhoni still managed to dazzle with the bat in patches despite being past his prime at 40, a lot was expected from Kohli and Rohit, who struggled to deliver throughout the season.

As per an analysis by the Times of India, Rohit, Dhoni and Kohli were among the least value money buys in IPL 2022. In a report, TOI analysed players' data and statistics based on their performance and the price they were bought for by their respective teams in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. The players were given points per million INR spent on them and were rated accordingly.

Punjab Kings' wicket-keeper batter Jitesh Sharma turned out to be the most valuable player with 241.8 points. He was bought for a sum of just Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) and scored 234 runs for his franchise at a strike rate of 163.63. Lucknow Super Giants pacer Mohsin Khan finished at the second spot for his 14 wickets in 9 games at a stunning economy of 5.96. Mohsin was bought by LSG for Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million)

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-whopping-cash-prize-for-unsung-heroes-groundsmen-and-curators-for-ipl-2022s-success-483573">BCCI announces whopping cash prize for 'unsung heroes' groundsmen &amp; curators after IPL 2022's success</a>

On the other hand, Kohli, who struggled to get going with the willow throughout the season, was placed at the 157th spot in the overall rankings having managed only 2.6 points per million. The RCB star scored 341 runs in 16 matches and failed to power his team to the final. Dhoni finished at the 161st spot with 232 runs in 14 games while Rohit managed to earn only 1 point per million and got the 178th spot.

Most valuable players in IPL 2022 based on their price:

Rank&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Player&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Team&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Price (INR)&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Points per mn (INR) 
1&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Jitesh Sharma&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; PBKS&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;20 lakh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;241.8 
2&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mohsin Khan&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;LSG&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 21 lakh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;234.2 
3&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Rajat Pat dar&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; RCB&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 22 lakh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;208.4 
4&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mukesh Choudhary&nbsp; CSK&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 23 lakh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 198.8 
5&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ayush Badoni&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; LSG&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;24 lakh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 154.3 
6&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;J Suchith&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;SRH&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;25 lakh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 106.8 
7&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ramandeep Singh&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ml&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;26 lakh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 104.8 
8&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Kuldeep 5en&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; RR&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;27 lakh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 103.5 
9&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;B Sai Sudharsan&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;GT&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 28 lakh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 73.3 
10&nbsp;&nbsp; K Kartikeya&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Ml&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 29 lakh&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 67.5

157&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Virat Kohli&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; RCB&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;15 crore&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2.6 
161&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;MSDhoni&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; CSK&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;12 crore&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2.5 
178&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Rohit Shanna&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Ml&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;16 crore&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;1.0

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/surpassing-dhoni-to-joining-rohit-in-elite-list-list-of-records-created-by-hardik-pandya-in-gts-ipl-triumph-483518">Surpassing Dhoni to joining Rohit in elite list: List of records created by Hardik Pandya in GT's IPL triumph</a>

Mumbai Indians had spent a whoopping Rs 16 crore (INR 160 million) to retain Rohit as their first-choice player ahead of the season while Kohli and Dhoni were retained for a sum of Rs 15 crore (INR 150 million) and Rs 12 crore (INR 120 million) respectively.

Both Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, two of the most successfull teams in IPL history, endured a horrific campaign this season as they failed to make it to the playoffs. CSK and MI finished at the bottom of the table while RCB managed to reach the playoffs but failed to go all the way.

&nbsp;

The 15th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) saw a number of youngsters once again rise to prominence with their impactful performances for their teams throughout the tournament.

The 15th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) saw a number of youngsters once again rise to prominence with their impactful performances for their teams throughout the tournament. While the likes of Umran Malik and Mohsin Khan turned out to be the finds of the tournament, several other young guns like Rajat Patidar, Jitesh Sharma and Ayush Badoni also impressed with their talent and skills. Some of the youngsters turned out to be the most valuable players of the season considering their low buying price and brilliant show on the field. While the youngsters rose to the occasion yet again, a number of superstars failed to deliver in the recently-concluded season. It was a forgetful season for the 'Big 3' - MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. While Dhoni still managed to dazzle with the bat in patches despite being past his prime at 40, a lot was expected from Kohli and Rohit, who struggled to deliver throughout the season. As per an analysis by the Times of India, Rohit, Dhoni and Kohli were among the least value money buys in IPL 2022. In a report, TOI analysed players' data and statistics based on their performance and the price they were bought for by their respective teams in the recently-concluded IPL 2022. The players were given points per million INR spent on them and were rated accordingly. Punjab Kings' wicket-keeper batter Jitesh Sharma turned out to be the most valuable player with 241.8 points. He was bought for a sum of just Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) and scored 234 runs for his franchise at a strike rate of 163.63. Lucknow Super Giants pacer Mohsin Khan finished at the second spot for his 14 wickets in 9 games at a stunning economy of 5.96. Mohsin was bought by LSG for Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) Also Read: BCCI announces whopping cash prize for 'unsung heroes' groundsmen & curators after IPL 2022's success On the other hand, Kohli, who struggled to get going with the willow throughout the season, was placed at the 157th spot in the overall rankings having managed only 2.6 points per million. The RCB star scored 341 runs in 16 matches and failed to power his team to the final. Dhoni finished at the 161st spot with 232 runs in 14 games while Rohit managed to earn only 1 point per million and got the 178th spot. Most valuable players in IPL 2022 based on their price: Rank Player Team Price (INR) Points per mn (INR) 1 Jitesh Sharma PBKS 20 lakh 241.8 2 Mohsin Khan LSG 21 lakh 234.2 3 Rajat Pat dar RCB 22 lakh 208.4 4 Mukesh Choudhary CSK 23 lakh 198.8 5 Ayush Badoni LSG 24 lakh 154.3 6 J Suchith SRH 25 lakh 106.8 7 Ramandeep Singh Ml 26 lakh 104.8 8 Kuldeep 5en RR 27 lakh 103.5 9 B Sai Sudharsan GT 28 lakh 73.3 10 K Kartikeya Ml 29 lakh 67.5 157 Virat Kohli RCB 15 crore 2.6 161 MSDhoni CSK 12 crore 2.5 178 Rohit Shanna Ml 16 crore 1.0 Also Read: Surpassing Dhoni to joining Rohit in elite list: List of records created by Hardik Pandya in GT's IPL triumph Mumbai Indians had spent a whoopping Rs 16 crore (INR 160 million) to retain Rohit as their first-choice player ahead of the season while Kohli and Dhoni were retained for a sum of Rs 15 crore (INR 150 million) and Rs 12 crore (INR 120 million) respectively. Both Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, two of the most successfull teams in IPL history, endured a horrific campaign this season as they failed to make it to the playoffs. CSK and MI finished at the bottom of the table while RCB managed to reach the playoffs but failed to go all the way.

Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli among least valuable players for their franchises in IPL 2022 - Report

Not many had given Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT)a chance ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 earlier this year. The debutants failed to impress many with their tactics at the mega auction and were far from favourites for even a spot in the playoffs. However, Gujarat Titans went on to defy all the odds to beat Rajasthan Royals in the final on Sunday (May 29) and lift the IPL 2022 title. The Titans won their maiden IPL title in their debut season in the league to create history.

Hardik was exceptional as captain throughout the season for the Titans and also delivered a match-winning performance in the final. He stepped with the ball when his side needed him the most ad bowled a terrific spell against the Royals to finish with a three-wicket haul in the final.

Hardik finished with figures of 3/17 in his four overs to help GT restrict RR to a low-key total of 130/9 in 20 overs before scoring crucial 34 runs with the bat in the run chase. Gujarat Titans won the final comfortably after chasing down the target of 131 runs without breaking a sweat as Hardik lifted his fifth IPL trophy as captain.

The Gujarat Titans captain achieved some special feats and created some new records with his heroics in the final and the remainder of the season. The star all-rounder, who finished the season with 8 wickets and 487 runs in 16 matches became only the third captain to win a Man of the Match award in an IPL final and also surpassed MS Dhoni in the list of players with the highest number of IPL trophies.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-hardik-pandya-does-an-ms-dhoni-hands-over-trophy-to-gt-youngsters-after-ipl-2022-win-483511">WATCH -&nbsp;Hardik Pandya does an MS Dhoni, hands over trophy to GT youngsters after IPL 2022 win</a>

Here is a look at some special feats achieved by Hardik Pandya in IPL 2022:

Hardik Pandya overtakes MS Dhoni

MS Dhoni is one of the most successful captains and players in the history of the Indian Premier League. Dhoni has led Chennai Super Kings to four IPL titles as captain. However, Hardik has now surpassed him on the list of most successful players in IPL history. Hardik has now won a total of five IPL titles - 4 with Mumbai Indians and 1 with Gujarat Titans. He is only behind MI skipper Rohit Sharma, who has six IPL titles to his name as a player.

Hardik Pandya 3rd captain to win Man of the Match in an IPL final

Thanks to his all-round heroics, Hardik&nbsp;became only the third captain after Anil Kumble and Rohit Sharma to win the Man of the Match award in an IPL final. Hardik contributed with both the bat and the ball for his side as he picked up three wickets and scored 34 runs against RR in the final to join Rohit and Kumble in the elite list.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/count-myself-lucky-winning-5-finals-hardik-pandya-after-inspiring-gujarat-titans-to-their-maiden-ipl-title-483395">'Count myself lucky winning 5 finals': Hardik&nbsp;after inspiring Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title</a>

2nd youngest captain to lift the&nbsp;IPL trophy

After leading Gujarat Titans to their maiden title triumph on Sunday, Hardik also became the second-youngest captain to achieve the feat. The 28-year-old enjoyed a phenomenal run as the captain of the side in their debut campaign and led them to glory. Rohit Sharma remains the youngest captain to win an IPL trophy at the age of 26 in 2013.

Special feat in T20 cricket&nbsp;

With his all-round effort for the Titans in the final against Rajasthan Royals, Hardik also achieved a special feat in T20 cricket. The star all-rounder became the first captain to score 25+ runs and pick up three wickets in the final of a T20 tournament.

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Not many had given Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT)a chance ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 earlier this year. The debutants failed to impress many with their tactics at the mega auction and were far from favourites for even a spot in the playoffs.

Not many had given Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT)a chance ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 earlier this year. The debutants failed to impress many with their tactics at the mega auction and were far from favourites for even a spot in the playoffs. However, Gujarat Titans went on to defy all the odds to beat Rajasthan Royals in the final on Sunday (May 29) and lift the IPL 2022 title. The Titans won their maiden IPL title in their debut season in the league to create history. Hardik was exceptional as captain throughout the season for the Titans and also delivered a match-winning performance in the final. He stepped with the ball when his side needed him the most ad bowled a terrific spell against the Royals to finish with a three-wicket haul in the final. Hardik finished with figures of 3/17 in his four overs to help GT restrict RR to a low-key total of 130/9 in 20 overs before scoring crucial 34 runs with the bat in the run chase. Gujarat Titans won the final comfortably after chasing down the target of 131 runs without breaking a sweat as Hardik lifted his fifth IPL trophy as captain. The Gujarat Titans captain achieved some special feats and created some new records with his heroics in the final and the remainder of the season. The star all-rounder, who finished the season with 8 wickets and 487 runs in 16 matches became only the third captain to win a Man of the Match award in an IPL final and also surpassed MS Dhoni in the list of players with the highest number of IPL trophies. Also Read: WATCH - Hardik Pandya does an MS Dhoni, hands over trophy to GT youngsters after IPL 2022 win Here is a look at some special feats achieved by Hardik Pandya in IPL 2022: Hardik Pandya overtakes MS Dhoni MS Dhoni is one of the most successful captains and players in the history of the Indian Premier League. Dhoni has led Chennai Super Kings to four IPL titles as captain. However, Hardik has now surpassed him on the list of most successful players in IPL history. Hardik has now won a total of five IPL titles - 4 with Mumbai Indians and 1 with Gujarat Titans. He is only behind MI skipper Rohit Sharma, who has six IPL titles to his name as a player. Hardik Pandya 3rd captain to win Man of the Match in an IPL final Thanks to his all-round heroics, Hardik became only the third captain after Anil Kumble and Rohit Sharma to win the Man of the Match award in an IPL final. Hardik contributed with both the bat and the ball for his side as he picked up three wickets and scored 34 runs against RR in the final to join Rohit and Kumble in the elite list. Also Read: 'Count myself lucky winning 5 finals': Hardik after inspiring Gujarat Titans to their maiden IPL title 2nd youngest captain to lift the IPL trophy After leading Gujarat Titans to their maiden title triumph on Sunday, Hardik also became the second-youngest captain to achieve the feat. The 28-year-old enjoyed a phenomenal run as the captain of the side in their debut campaign and led them to glory. Rohit Sharma remains the youngest captain to win an IPL trophy at the age of 26 in 2013. Special feat in T20 cricket With his all-round effort for the Titans in the final against Rajasthan Royals, Hardik also achieved a special feat in T20 cricket. The star all-rounder became the first captain to score 25+ runs and pick up three wickets in the final of a T20 tournament. ×

Surpassing Dhoni to joining Rohit in elite list: List of records created by Hardik Pandya in GT's IPL triumph

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has lauded Hardik Pandya for his terrific leadership in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Hardik has led his team Gujarat Titans (GT) into the final of the tournament in their debut campaign this season. The Titans made it to the summit clash after playing some brilliant cricket in the group stage and the playoffs and will be hoping to cap off a fairytale run with their maiden IPL trophy.

Hardik has been instrumental both as a leader and as an all-rounder in his franchise's dream run in IPL 2022. The star all-rounder was roped in by Gujarat Titans ahead of the ongoing season after being released by Mumbai Indians (MI). He was also appointed as the captain of the side and has been one of the stand-out leaders in this edition.

Gujarat Titans were the first team to qualify for the playoffs after reaching 18 points this season and the debutants also finished as the table toppers with a total of 20 points from the league stage. They went on to beat Rajasthan Royals in the 1st Qualifier to secure a spot in the final and will now be gunning for the trophy in the final.

Ahead of the final, Akhtar lauded Hardik and made a bold statement claiming that the star all-rounder can be an ideal replacement for Rohit Sharma as India's next captain in the future. Rohit recently took over from Virat Kohli as India's captain across all three formats.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gujarat-titans-vs-rajasthan-royals-ipl-2022-final-shoaib-akhtar-matthew-hayden-pick-their-potential-winners-483226">IPL 2022 final: Shoaib Akhtar, Matthew Hayden pick their potential winners</a>

However, the Hitman is 35 at present and his workload needs to be managed better in order to ensure he can continue playing at the highest level for longer. India will also look to groom new leaders under Rohit with the likes of KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah among&nbsp;great contenders to be the team's captain going forward.

However, Akhtar has backed Hardik to take over as India's captain and said the GT skipper is already knocking at the door for India captaincy with his rise as a leader in IPL 2022.&nbsp;“It is the fact that Hardik Pandya is leaving a mark. He is knocking on the door of Indian captaincy. One is not sure how long Rohit Sharma will continue as captain,” Akhtar said on&nbsp;Sportskeeda.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-rajasthan-royals-break-the-jinx-why-gujarat-titans-are-favourites-to-win-ipl-2022-title-483218">Can Rajasthan Royals break the jinx? Why Gujarat Titans are favourites to win IPL 2022 title</a>

However, Akhtar also insisted that Hardik should focus on his fitness and ensure he can contribute both with the bat and the ball for the Indian team going forward. Hardik will make his comeback for the Men in Blue in the home T20I series against South Africa next month.

“It’s never easy to captain the Indian cricket team. Hardik has proved his point (as a leader) but he still needs to focus on his fitness and bowling. When he was fit as an all-rounder, he was an automatic choice in the Indian team. As a pure batter, though, there is no vacancy in the Indian team,” Akhtar added.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has lauded Hardik Pandya for his terrific leadership in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Hardik has led his team Gujarat Titans (GT) into the final of the tournament in their debut campaign this season.

Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar has lauded Hardik Pandya for his terrific leadership in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Hardik has led his team Gujarat Titans (GT) into the final of the tournament in their debut campaign this season. The Titans made it to the summit clash after playing some brilliant cricket in the group stage and the playoffs and will be hoping to cap off a fairytale run with their maiden IPL trophy. Hardik has been instrumental both as a leader and as an all-rounder in his franchise's dream run in IPL 2022. The star all-rounder was roped in by Gujarat Titans ahead of the ongoing season after being released by Mumbai Indians (MI). He was also appointed as the captain of the side and has been one of the stand-out leaders in this edition. Gujarat Titans were the first team to qualify for the playoffs after reaching 18 points this season and the debutants also finished as the table toppers with a total of 20 points from the league stage. They went on to beat Rajasthan Royals in the 1st Qualifier to secure a spot in the final and will now be gunning for the trophy in the final. Ahead of the final, Akhtar lauded Hardik and made a bold statement claiming that the star all-rounder can be an ideal replacement for Rohit Sharma as India's next captain in the future. Rohit recently took over from Virat Kohli as India's captain across all three formats. Also Read: IPL 2022 final: Shoaib Akhtar, Matthew Hayden pick their potential winners However, the Hitman is 35 at present and his workload needs to be managed better in order to ensure he can continue playing at the highest level for longer. India will also look to groom new leaders under Rohit with the likes of KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah among great contenders to be the team's captain going forward. However, Akhtar has backed Hardik to take over as India's captain and said the GT skipper is already knocking at the door for India captaincy with his rise as a leader in IPL 2022. “It is the fact that Hardik Pandya is leaving a mark. He is knocking on the door of Indian captaincy. One is not sure how long Rohit Sharma will continue as captain,” Akhtar said on Sportskeeda. Also Read: Can Rajasthan Royals break the jinx? Why Gujarat Titans are favourites to win IPL 2022 title However, Akhtar also insisted that Hardik should focus on his fitness and ensure he can contribute both with the bat and the ball for the Indian team going forward. Hardik will make his comeback for the Men in Blue in the home T20I series against South Africa next month. “It’s never easy to captain the Indian cricket team. Hardik has proved his point (as a leader) but he still needs to focus on his fitness and bowling. When he was fit as an all-rounder, he was an automatic choice in the Indian team. As a pure batter, though, there is no vacancy in the Indian team,” Akhtar added.

Hardik to replace Rohit? Shoaib Akhtar feels GT skipper is knocking on the door for India captaincy

A lot pf speculations were there over Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2022 edition. Having not played for Team India since the 2021 T20 World Cup, the star all-rounder was preparing himself for the 15th IPL season, in a bid to showcase his fitness and return to the Indian white-ball squads.

In the ongoing IPL season, the 28-year-old Hardik has stunned one and all with his all-round blitz and captaincy. Leading for the first time, Hardik has led with aplomb to take the debutant franchise Gujarat Titans (GT) to the final. With the bat, he has amassed 453 runs -- his best in any season -- and has bowled some tidy overs and accounted for five scalps. Thus, his stocks as a captain has risen and the all-rounder is in-line to lead India's second-stringed T20I side for the upcoming Ireland tour. It is to be noted that Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid pair will be involved with the Test line-up, at the same time, for the one-off match versus England.

“Hardik has been impressive. What is more satisfying is that he has become a very responsible player as a captain. He is certainly in the scheme of things for the captaincy role for the Ireland tour,”&nbsp;a member of the selection committee was quoted as saying by&nbsp;InsideSport.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-secretary-jay-shah-confirms-vvs-laxman-to-be-in-charge-of-indias-t20i-side-for-ireland-series-482148">BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms VVS Laxman to be in charge of India's T20I side for Ireland series</a>

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Thus, Hardik could lead India for the first time in any format during the Ireland T20Is, which will get underway on June 26. Moreover, BCCI has confirmed that VVS Laxman -- the NCA chief -- will fill in for regular coach Dravid and be in charge of India for the Ireland series. "He will travel with the Indian team to Dublin" said Jay Shah, the BCCI Secretary.
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At present, Hardik-led Gujarat is in the IPL 2022 final and will play the winner of Qualifier 2, which will see Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) face Rajasthan Royals (RR).
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A lot pf speculations were there over Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2022 edition. Having not played for Team India since the 2021 T20 World Cup, the star all-rounder was preparing himself for the 15th IPL season, in a bid to showcase his fitness and return to the Indian white-ball squads.

A lot pf speculations were there over Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2022 edition. Having not played for Team India since the 2021 T20 World Cup, the star all-rounder was preparing himself for the 15th IPL season, in a bid to showcase his fitness and return to the Indian white-ball squads. In the ongoing IPL season, the 28-year-old Hardik has stunned one and all with his all-round blitz and captaincy. Leading for the first time, Hardik has led with aplomb to take the debutant franchise Gujarat Titans (GT) to the final. With the bat, he has amassed 453 runs -- his best in any season -- and has bowled some tidy overs and accounted for five scalps. Thus, his stocks as a captain has risen and the all-rounder is in-line to lead India's second-stringed T20I side for the upcoming Ireland tour. It is to be noted that Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid pair will be involved with the Test line-up, at the same time, for the one-off match versus England. “Hardik has been impressive. What is more satisfying is that he has become a very responsible player as a captain. He is certainly in the scheme of things for the captaincy role for the Ireland tour,” a member of the selection committee was quoted as saying by InsideSport. ALSO READ | BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms VVS Laxman to be in charge of India's T20I side for Ireland series Thus, Hardik could lead India for the first time in any format during the Ireland T20Is, which will get underway on June 26. Moreover, BCCI has confirmed that VVS Laxman -- the NCA chief -- will fill in for regular coach Dravid and be in charge of India for the Ireland series. "He will travel with the Indian team to Dublin" said Jay Shah, the BCCI Secretary. At present, Hardik-led Gujarat is in the IPL 2022 final and will play the winner of Qualifier 2, which will see Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) face Rajasthan Royals (RR).

Hardik Pandya's captaincy stocks on the rise, star player could lead Team India in Ireland T20Is: Report

BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had revealed that his former teammate and Test specialist VVS Laxman was eager to be India's head coach when Ravi Shastri's tenure was set to end in late 2021. However, the position went to Laxman's good friend Rahul Dravid.

Nonetheless, Laxman -- who is now serving as the National Cricket Academy (NCA) -- is set to take charge of India's T20I squad for the upcoming two-match series versus hosts Ireland. The former middle-order batter will fill in for Dravid, who will be with the Indian Test line-up ahead of their fifth and final match versus England in the United Kingdom, set to be held on July 01.

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"He will travel with the Indian team to Dublin" said Jay Shah, the BCCI Secretary, confirming that Laxman will take charge&nbsp;in the absence of&nbsp;Dravid.&nbsp;
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-chief-selector-reacts-to-cheteshwar-pujaras-test-comeback-for-india-england-series-finale-482085">Former chief selector reacts to Cheteshwar Pujara's Test comeback for India-England series finale</a>

The arrangement is similar to the one Team India had last year. During India's tour of the United Kingdom, after&nbsp;the WTC final and prior to the&nbsp;five Tests versus then Joe Root-led England, regular coach Shastri was with Virat Kohli-starrer red-ball team whereas Dravid had stepped in as the stand-in coach of the white-ball side who had travelled to Sri Lanka for three ODIs and T20Is each.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-has-amazing-reflexes-like-f1-driver-and-mind-like-5-star-general-says-team-indias-former-trainer-482128">MS Dhoni has amazing reflexes like F1 driver and mind like 5-star General, says Team India's former trainer</a>

This will be Laxman's first-ever assignment in a coaching role for the senior men's team. Earlier this year, he was a part of the backroom staff of the India U-19 team that lifted the trophy in the Caribbean island, beating England in the final.

The squad for the Ireland T20Is is yet to be announced by the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee.
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BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had revealed that his former teammate and Test specialist VVS Laxman was eager to be India's head coach when Ravi Shastri's tenure was set to end in late 2021.

BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had revealed that his former teammate and Test specialist VVS Laxman was eager to be India's head coach when Ravi Shastri's tenure was set to end in late 2021. However, the position went to Laxman's good friend Rahul Dravid. Nonetheless, Laxman -- who is now serving as the National Cricket Academy (NCA) -- is set to take charge of India's T20I squad for the upcoming two-match series versus hosts Ireland. The former middle-order batter will fill in for Dravid, who will be with the Indian Test line-up ahead of their fifth and final match versus England in the United Kingdom, set to be held on July 01. "He will travel with the Indian team to Dublin" said Jay Shah, the BCCI Secretary, confirming that Laxman will take charge in the absence of Dravid. ALSO READ | Former chief selector reacts to Cheteshwar Pujara's Test comeback for India-England series finale The arrangement is similar to the one Team India had last year. During India's tour of the United Kingdom, after the WTC final and prior to the five Tests versus then Joe Root-led England, regular coach Shastri was with Virat Kohli-starrer red-ball team whereas Dravid had stepped in as the stand-in coach of the white-ball side who had travelled to Sri Lanka for three ODIs and T20Is each. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni has amazing reflexes like F1 driver and mind like 5-star General, says Team India's former trainer This will be Laxman's first-ever assignment in a coaching role for the senior men's team. Earlier this year, he was a part of the backroom staff of the India U-19 team that lifted the trophy in the Caribbean island, beating England in the final. The squad for the Ireland T20Is is yet to be announced by the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirms VVS Laxman to be in charge of India's T20I side for Ireland series

On Sunday (May 22), the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee announced a 17-man squad for Rohit Sharma-led India's fifth and final Test versus England, which will be held in early July at&nbsp;Edgbaston, Birmingham.

Among the four senior players who were dropped for the home series versus Sri Lanka, in March, Cheteshwar Pujara is the only one to have stormed his way back into the squad. Pujara was rewarded for his memorable run for&nbsp;Sussex in the County Championship in England. The right-hander returned with&nbsp;720 runs in 8 innings at an average of 120.0, including two double-tons, to make a comeback into the Test line-up for the series decider versus England, i.e. a part of&nbsp;the incomplete series held last year in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;

Thus, former chief selector MSK Prasad reacted to Pujara's comeback in whites and hailed his commitment. “Unbelievable. Only one word I can say is an unbelievable comeback. This shows the commitment he has towards the sport and himself. It's a wonderful story,” Prasad told NDTV.

<section>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-didnt-want-anyone-to-question-him-virender-sehwag-hails-anil-kumble-for-his-test-comeback-481825">'I didn't want anyone to question him...' - Virender Sehwag hails Anil Kumble for his Test comeback</a>

“Not many people would have believed what he has done. I think credit to him, for the way he performed in the County to stake his claim in the Test team. Because all through his career he has always been a Test cricketer, and had he not been there in this team, I think we would have missed him forever," the former keeper-batter added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cheteshwar-pujara-returns-as-selectors-announce-indias-squad-for-one-off-test-against-england-481256">Cheteshwar Pujara returns as selectors announce India's squad for one-off Test against England</a>

Pujara was unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, following which he went to play the County championship.&nbsp;The decision proved to be a masterstroke for the Test specialist as he made a quick return to the red-ball squad after being dropped following a poor run in the South Africa Tests, held early this year.

Indian cricket team Test squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, R Jadeja, R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Prasidh Krishna
</section>

On Sunday (May 22), the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee announced a 17-man squad for Rohit Sharma-led India's fifth and final Test versus England, which will be held in early July at Edgbaston, Birmingham.

On Sunday (May 22), the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee announced a 17-man squad for Rohit Sharma-led India's fifth and final Test versus England, which will be held in early July at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Among the four senior players who were dropped for the home series versus Sri Lanka, in March, Cheteshwar Pujara is the only one to have stormed his way back into the squad. Pujara was rewarded for his memorable run for Sussex in the County Championship in England. The right-hander returned with 720 runs in 8 innings at an average of 120.0, including two double-tons, to make a comeback into the Test line-up for the series decider versus England, i.e. a part of the incomplete series held last year in the United Kingdom. Thus, former chief selector MSK Prasad reacted to Pujara's comeback in whites and hailed his commitment. “Unbelievable. Only one word I can say is an unbelievable comeback. This shows the commitment he has towards the sport and himself. It's a wonderful story,” Prasad told NDTV. ALSO READ | 'I didn't want anyone to question him...' - Virender Sehwag hails Anil Kumble for his Test comeback “Not many people would have believed what he has done. I think credit to him, for the way he performed in the County to stake his claim in the Test team. Because all through his career he has always been a Test cricketer, and had he not been there in this team, I think we would have missed him forever," the former keeper-batter added. ALSO READ | Cheteshwar Pujara returns as selectors announce India's squad for one-off Test against England Pujara was unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, following which he went to play the County championship. The decision proved to be a masterstroke for the Test specialist as he made a quick return to the red-ball squad after being dropped following a poor run in the South Africa Tests, held early this year. Indian cricket team Test squad: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, R Jadeja, R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Prasidh Krishna

Former chief selector reacts to Cheteshwar Pujara's Test comeback for India-England series finale

Virat, Rohit's barren run to MI-CSK's mighty fall: 5 surprising elements from IPL 2022's league stage

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's struggles with the bat were quite evident in the recently-concluded league stage of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. While Rohit endured his worst ever season with the bat in IPL history as his team Mumbai Indians (MI) were knocked out of the tournament early, Kohli too hasn't managed to score runs consistently for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Their poor form with the willow is also a huge concern for the Indian team going forward.

However, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCC) president Sourav Ganguly is not losing his sweat over Kohli and Rohit's rough patch and has backed the duo to bounce back strongly. Kohli and Rohit have been two of India's best batters across formats and have been among the runs consistently over the years in international cricket.

While they were expected to deliver for the respective sides in the ongoing IPL 2022, both the superstars failed to make an impact. Rohit failed to score even a single half-century throughout the season as he finished with just 268 runs from 14 matches at a poor average of&nbsp;19.14 and a strike rate of over 120.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-keep-such-players-former-india-spinner-backs-virat-kohli-amid-batting-concerns-481804">'You can't keep such players....' - Former India spinner backs Virat Kohli amid batting concerns</a>

Kohli, on the other hand, has been dismissed on golden ducks as many as 3 times in 14 matches so far for RCB this season. The batting maestro has amassed only 309 runs at an average of 23.77 and a strike rate of just over 117. Kohli still has a few games in his hands to end the season on a high as RCB have made it to the playoffs.

"They are very good players. I'm sure they will be back among runs. They play so much of cricket that at times they go out of form. Kohli played very well in the last game, especially when it was required for RCB. That's why he (Kohli) was so happy that RCB qualified," Ganguly said at a promotional event speaking about Kohli and Rohit's rough patch.

"They are all great players, it's a matter of time they will be at their best," the BCCI president added.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rr-vs-gt-yuzvendra-chahal-set-to-script-historic-feat-on-the-brink-of-breaking-an-all-time-record-in-ipl-481807">Yuzvendra Chahal set to script historic feat, on the brink of breaking an all-time record in IPL</a>

Rohit's failure to provide them with good starts at the top resulted in Mumbai Indians' bowling out of the competition early this season. The five-time champions got off to a woeful start in their campaign as they lost as many as eight matches in a row before winning four out of their remaining six games.

Kohli's struggles were undermined at RCB due to the good form of skipper Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik, who has been phenomenal in the role of a finisher for the franchise this season. RCB will take on Lucknow Super Giants in the Eliminator at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Wednesday (May 25).

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's struggles with the bat were quite evident in the recently-concluded league stage of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. While Rohit endured his worst ever season with the bat in IPL history as his team Mumbai Indians (MI) were knocked out of the tournament early, Kohli too hasn't managed to score runs consistently for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's struggles with the bat were quite evident in the recently-concluded league stage of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. While Rohit endured his worst ever season with the bat in IPL history as his team Mumbai Indians (MI) were knocked out of the tournament early, Kohli too hasn't managed to score runs consistently for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Their poor form with the willow is also a huge concern for the Indian team going forward. However, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCC) president Sourav Ganguly is not losing his sweat over Kohli and Rohit's rough patch and has backed the duo to bounce back strongly. Kohli and Rohit have been two of India's best batters across formats and have been among the runs consistently over the years in international cricket. While they were expected to deliver for the respective sides in the ongoing IPL 2022, both the superstars failed to make an impact. Rohit failed to score even a single half-century throughout the season as he finished with just 268 runs from 14 matches at a poor average of 19.14 and a strike rate of over 120. Also Read: 'You can't keep such players....' - Former India spinner backs Virat Kohli amid batting concerns Kohli, on the other hand, has been dismissed on golden ducks as many as 3 times in 14 matches so far for RCB this season. The batting maestro has amassed only 309 runs at an average of 23.77 and a strike rate of just over 117. Kohli still has a few games in his hands to end the season on a high as RCB have made it to the playoffs. "They are very good players. I'm sure they will be back among runs. They play so much of cricket that at times they go out of form. Kohli played very well in the last game, especially when it was required for RCB. That's why he (Kohli) was so happy that RCB qualified," Ganguly said at a promotional event speaking about Kohli and Rohit's rough patch. "They are all great players, it's a matter of time they will be at their best," the BCCI president added. Also Read: Yuzvendra Chahal set to script historic feat, on the brink of breaking an all-time record in IPL Rohit's failure to provide them with good starts at the top resulted in Mumbai Indians' bowling out of the competition early this season. The five-time champions got off to a woeful start in their campaign as they lost as many as eight matches in a row before winning four out of their remaining six games. Kohli's struggles were undermined at RCB due to the good form of skipper Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik, who has been phenomenal in the role of a finisher for the franchise this season. RCB will take on Lucknow Super Giants in the Eliminator at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Wednesday (May 25).

BCCI president Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's rough patch in IPL 2022

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee released an 18-member Team India squad for their upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, which is set to be held in India from June 09. While regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested, KL Rahul has been given the task to lead the side comprising some young and veteran cricketers.

While some uncapped players such as Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh have been rewarded following their performances in IPL 2022, Ishan Kishan managed to hold onto his place despite an ordinary run in the 15th season for the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI). Being the most expensive player in this year's mega auction, the 23-year-old Ishan ended the 15th edition with&nbsp;418 runs at a strike rate of&nbsp;120.11 in&nbsp;14 matches. He wasn't at his consistent best and surely felt the pressure of a heavy price tag.&nbsp;

Thus, many raised concerns about seeing Ishan's name in the 18-man squad, however, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has backed the selection of the MI and India opener. He cited examples of Rohit and Virat's ordinary runs with the bat in the ongoing season and defended Ishan. For the unversed, Rohit ended with not even a single half-century whereas Kohli too struggled for runs but has managed two half-centuries in 14 games with his IPL franchise, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) still alive in the competition with a hard-earned playoffs ticket.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-how-ms-dhonis-csk-and-rohit-sharma-led-mis-debacle-was-always-on-the-cards-481557">IPL 2022: How MS Dhoni's CSK and Rohit Sharma-led MI's debacle was always on the cards</a>

"One IPL season doesn't make a difference. He is a value and utility player. There’s no draft or auction factor involved here while playing for India. When a player goes for ₹15 crore, all 8 franchises are after him. That’s how you calculate his value. Scoring runs in IPL is different. Even Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli haven't scored runs. Ishan Kishan has certainly undergone a chance, because of which he couldn't perform as well as he would have liked to. And that was one big reason why MI struggled this season," Latif said on YouTube show 'Caught Behind'.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-lot-of-people-had-given-up-on-me-dinesh-karthik-reacts-after-his-memorable-team-india-comeback-481413">'A lot of people had given up on me' - Dinesh Karthik reacts after his memorable Team India comeback</a>

India's T20I squad for the South Africa series -&nbsp;KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik
</section>

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee released an 18-member Team India squad for their upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, which is set to be held in India from June 09.

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee released an 18-member Team India squad for their upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, which is set to be held in India from June 09. While regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested, KL Rahul has been given the task to lead the side comprising some young and veteran cricketers. While some uncapped players such as Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh have been rewarded following their performances in IPL 2022, Ishan Kishan managed to hold onto his place despite an ordinary run in the 15th season for the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI). Being the most expensive player in this year's mega auction, the 23-year-old Ishan ended the 15th edition with 418 runs at a strike rate of 120.11 in 14 matches. He wasn't at his consistent best and surely felt the pressure of a heavy price tag. Thus, many raised concerns about seeing Ishan's name in the 18-man squad, however, former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has backed the selection of the MI and India opener. He cited examples of Rohit and Virat's ordinary runs with the bat in the ongoing season and defended Ishan. For the unversed, Rohit ended with not even a single half-century whereas Kohli too struggled for runs but has managed two half-centuries in 14 games with his IPL franchise, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) still alive in the competition with a hard-earned playoffs ticket. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: How MS Dhoni's CSK and Rohit Sharma-led MI's debacle was always on the cards "One IPL season doesn't make a difference. He is a value and utility player. There’s no draft or auction factor involved here while playing for India. When a player goes for ₹15 crore, all 8 franchises are after him. That’s how you calculate his value. Scoring runs in IPL is different. Even Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli haven't scored runs. Ishan Kishan has certainly undergone a chance, because of which he couldn't perform as well as he would have liked to. And that was one big reason why MI struggled this season," Latif said on YouTube show 'Caught Behind'. ALSO READ | 'A lot of people had given up on me' - Dinesh Karthik reacts after his memorable Team India comeback India's T20I squad for the South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Even Rohit, Virat haven't scored runs: Former Pak captain defends Ishan Kishan's selection for SA T20Is

IPL 2022 becomes the first-ever season where both Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) have not qualified for the playoffs. In IPL 2016, both teams were also not part of the playoffs, however, CSK didn't feature&nbsp;back due to their two-year suspension&nbsp;in the spot-fixing scandal. Thus, it surely is the end of a magnificent era.

The MS Dhoni-starrer defending champions CSK ended at the ninth position in the points table. On the other hand, five-time winners and IPL's most successful team Mumbai couldn't avoid the wooden spoon despite a winning end to their forgettable campaign. Both sides returned with four victories and as many as ten defeats each. In fact, this was also the first time both franchises endured nine, or more, defeats in a season. In a nutshell, it can be said that two toppers fell flat and occupied the last two positions in the overall standings as other teams have surely mastered the art of winning big moments against them. However, the bigger question remains -- is MI-CSK's drubbing really a shocker? Well, it was always on the cards.

Many connoisseurs of the game might be quick to point out that the 'law of averages' was always going to bite the two famed sides. However, more than that CSK-MI's muddled approach, questionable team selections, playing styles, strategies, etc. were some notable reasons for their massive downfall.

1) Poor approach to the mega auction: Prior to the season, MI-CSK's team management's approach remained below par. After letting go of some big names in their roster, MI only managed to re-buy Ishan Kishan. Their replacements for the Pandya brothers, Quinton de Kock, Trent Boult, etc. were never really impressive (after including Daniel Sams, Riley Meredith, etc.). The Men in Blue also didn't purchase a solid spinner to spearhead the middle-overs. Murugan Ashwin did impress, however, he was also taken to the cleaners during some high-scorers. CSK, on the other hand, re-bought their core players, who seem to be well past their prime. It was an auction to look ahead, however, CSK's conservative approach sealed their fate then and there.

One might argue that CSK did pick young guns such as Mukesh Choudhary, Maheesh Theeshana, Simranjit Singh, etc., nonetheless, they never cared to properly rebuild their bowling unit. Either they had international bowlers woefully out of form, or only good to chip in with few overs, or it turned out to be too much reliance on youngsters in Deepak Chahar's absence.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ive-only-seen-zaheer-nehra-do-that-during-my-time-virender-sehwag-lavishes-praise-on-punjab-pacer-481437">'I've only seen Zaheer, Nehra do that during my time' - Virender Sehwag lavishes praise on Punjab pacer</a>

2) Captaincy and team management woes:&nbsp;CSK isn't a team that makes headlines for captaincy woes and reports of a rift between a player, or players, and team management. This season saw them tick off both the boxes. Firstly, if Dhoni was sure to give up captaincy to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja much before the season started, Jadeja still looked like a fish out of the water. His&nbsp;approach was half-baked whereas, in some crunch games, he seemed out of the picture with Dhoni leading the charge. Lastly, when Jadeja relinquished captaincy and Dhoni returned to the post officially, reports of a rift between CSK team management and Jadeja took precedence. Even if the reports have been quashed completely, something was surely not right in the way things were handled&nbsp;in the Yellow Army camp.

3) Dubious selections and strategies:&nbsp;Both MI and CSK have been successful as they follow a similar template, i.e. backing their group of players and accomodating a change in strategy when needed. However, IPL 2022 saw both teams make some surprising calls in terms of team selection and erring in strategies. While CSK admitted to have not read the pitch properly on a few occasions (read Dhoni's post-match comments after their second loss to Gujarat Titans), they didn't back Devon Conway after his failure on debut. MI, on the other hand, dropped Tim David -- who was roped in for INR 82.5 million -- after a few flop shows. Similarly, MI didn't go all-out in the usage of Jasprit Bumrah with him not opening the bowling in several matches. Meanwhile,&nbsp;CSK's rotation of bowlers and top order's timid approach never saw them coming to their usual best. During Jadeja's captaincy, the rotation of bowlers was also not up to the mark.

These factors led to both CSK and MI failing to emerge on top in several close encounters (versus Lucknow Super Giants, Gujarat, Kolkata Knight Riders, Punjab Kings, etc.). There was utter chaos, a lack of role clarity and imbalance among batters and bowlers, especially at the initial stages, to confirm both sides' early exit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-playoffs-all-you-need-to-know-about-schedule-timings-and-venues-481387">IPL 2022 playoffs: All you need to know about schedule, timings and venues</a>

4) Lack of form, injury to key players ruining it all:&nbsp;To add salt to their wounds, Chennai and Mumbai's star players never really stood tall. The likes of Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Kieron Pollard, Ruturaj Gaikwad, etc. never&nbsp;threatened opposition camps with their consistency or form. Bumrah wasn't among wickets at regular intervals, barring a game where he ended with a five-fer, whereas Dhoni, Ambati Rayudu, Dwayne Bravo, and Robin Uthappa did their best but it wasn't enough.

MI and CSK's big buys also underperformed. While Ishan, the most expensive&nbsp;player of this year's mega auction, ended with 400-plus runs, he struck at 121.11. On the other hand, CSK missed the services of Chahar, who remains injured and out of action. Injuries to Jadeja-Suryakumar Yadav in the fag end of the league stage also hurt the wounded CSK and MI line-up.&nbsp;

Hence, both CSK and MI are deservingly out of the playoffs race. As the two are highly successful in IPL, expect them to bounce back sooner than later. However, both MI and CSK need to go back to the drawing board to rethink their approach, and playing style, revamp next year and be more ruthless as the tournament is now much more difficult to crack with the addition of two new teams.

IPL 2022 becomes the first-ever season where both Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) have not qualified for the playoffs. In IPL 2016, both teams were also not part of the playoffs, however, CSK didn't feature back due to their two-year suspension in the spot-fixing scandal.

IPL 2022 becomes the first-ever season where both Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) have not qualified for the playoffs. In IPL 2016, both teams were also not part of the playoffs, however, CSK didn't feature back due to their two-year suspension in the spot-fixing scandal. Thus, it surely is the end of a magnificent era. The MS Dhoni-starrer defending champions CSK ended at the ninth position in the points table. On the other hand, five-time winners and IPL's most successful team Mumbai couldn't avoid the wooden spoon despite a winning end to their forgettable campaign. Both sides returned with four victories and as many as ten defeats each. In fact, this was also the first time both franchises endured nine, or more, defeats in a season. In a nutshell, it can be said that two toppers fell flat and occupied the last two positions in the overall standings as other teams have surely mastered the art of winning big moments against them. However, the bigger question remains -- is MI-CSK's drubbing really a shocker? Well, it was always on the cards. Many connoisseurs of the game might be quick to point out that the 'law of averages' was always going to bite the two famed sides. However, more than that CSK-MI's muddled approach, questionable team selections, playing styles, strategies, etc. were some notable reasons for their massive downfall. 1) Poor approach to the mega auction: Prior to the season, MI-CSK's team management's approach remained below par. After letting go of some big names in their roster, MI only managed to re-buy Ishan Kishan. Their replacements for the Pandya brothers, Quinton de Kock, Trent Boult, etc. were never really impressive (after including Daniel Sams, Riley Meredith, etc.). The Men in Blue also didn't purchase a solid spinner to spearhead the middle-overs. Murugan Ashwin did impress, however, he was also taken to the cleaners during some high-scorers. CSK, on the other hand, re-bought their core players, who seem to be well past their prime. It was an auction to look ahead, however, CSK's conservative approach sealed their fate then and there. One might argue that CSK did pick young guns such as Mukesh Choudhary, Maheesh Theeshana, Simranjit Singh, etc., nonetheless, they never cared to properly rebuild their bowling unit. Either they had international bowlers woefully out of form, or only good to chip in with few overs, or it turned out to be too much reliance on youngsters in Deepak Chahar's absence. ALSO READ | 'I've only seen Zaheer, Nehra do that during my time' - Virender Sehwag lavishes praise on Punjab pacer 2) Captaincy and team management woes: CSK isn't a team that makes headlines for captaincy woes and reports of a rift between a player, or players, and team management. This season saw them tick off both the boxes. Firstly, if Dhoni was sure to give up captaincy to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja much before the season started, Jadeja still looked like a fish out of the water. His approach was half-baked whereas, in some crunch games, he seemed out of the picture with Dhoni leading the charge. Lastly, when Jadeja relinquished captaincy and Dhoni returned to the post officially, reports of a rift between CSK team management and Jadeja took precedence. Even if the reports have been quashed completely, something was surely not right in the way things were handled in the Yellow Army camp. 3) Dubious selections and strategies: Both MI and CSK have been successful as they follow a similar template, i.e. backing their group of players and accomodating a change in strategy when needed. However, IPL 2022 saw both teams make some surprising calls in terms of team selection and erring in strategies. While CSK admitted to have not read the pitch properly on a few occasions (read Dhoni's post-match comments after their second loss to Gujarat Titans), they didn't back Devon Conway after his failure on debut. MI, on the other hand, dropped Tim David -- who was roped in for INR 82.5 million -- after a few flop shows. Similarly, MI didn't go all-out in the usage of Jasprit Bumrah with him not opening the bowling in several matches. Meanwhile, CSK's rotation of bowlers and top order's timid approach never saw them coming to their usual best. During Jadeja's captaincy, the rotation of bowlers was also not up to the mark. These factors led to both CSK and MI failing to emerge on top in several close encounters (versus Lucknow Super Giants, Gujarat, Kolkata Knight Riders, Punjab Kings, etc.). There was utter chaos, a lack of role clarity and imbalance among batters and bowlers, especially at the initial stages, to confirm both sides' early exit. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 playoffs: All you need to know about schedule, timings and venues 4) Lack of form, injury to key players ruining it all: To add salt to their wounds, Chennai and Mumbai's star players never really stood tall. The likes of Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Kieron Pollard, Ruturaj Gaikwad, etc. never threatened opposition camps with their consistency or form. Bumrah wasn't among wickets at regular intervals, barring a game where he ended with a five-fer, whereas Dhoni, Ambati Rayudu, Dwayne Bravo, and Robin Uthappa did their best but it wasn't enough. MI and CSK's big buys also underperformed. While Ishan, the most expensive player of this year's mega auction, ended with 400-plus runs, he struck at 121.11. On the other hand, CSK missed the services of Chahar, who remains injured and out of action. Injuries to Jadeja-Suryakumar Yadav in the fag end of the league stage also hurt the wounded CSK and MI line-up. Hence, both CSK and MI are deservingly out of the playoffs race. As the two are highly successful in IPL, expect them to bounce back sooner than later. However, both MI and CSK need to go back to the drawing board to rethink their approach, and playing style, revamp next year and be more ruthless as the tournament is now much more difficult to crack with the addition of two new teams.

IPL 2022: How MS Dhoni's CSK and Rohit Sharma-led MI's debacle was always on the cards

Team India's squad for the five T20Is versus South Africa was announced on Sunday (May 22). While the regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested and Ravindra Jadeja-Suryakumar Yadav are injured, BCCI's selection committee announced a strong 18-member squad which will be led by all-format vice-captain KL Rahul.

In the Rahul-led India squad, many young guns and uncapped players have been included for the series versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas. Among them, Dinesh Karthik's comeback has been highly-talked about. At 36, not many would've given him a chance to return to the national team, who last played in 2019. However, Karthik's magnificent run in IPL 2022 has changed the script in his favour.

In 14 games, Karthik has so far amassed 287 runs&nbsp;at an average of 57.40 and a strike rate of 191 playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Thus, he is expected to come good even in the playoffs for RCB and then feature in India's playing XI for the SA series. Nonetheless, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra snubbed DK and Kuldeep Yadav from his probable line-up for the upcoming home series.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-lot-of-people-had-given-up-on-me-dinesh-karthik-reacts-after-his-memorable-team-india-comeback-481413">'A lot of people had given up on me' - Dinesh Karthik reacts after his memorable Team India comeback</a>

On his Youtube channel, Chopra said, "What is the composition of the XI you are going to see? I feel you might see Ishan Kishan opening alongside KL Rahul. But there are a lot of keepers, so he might not open, you can open with Ruturaj Gaikwad and not Ishan Kishan, that's a choice." Chopra then named vice-captain Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya as automatic starters in the middle-order and called for Shreyas Iyer as well as Deepak Hooda's inclusion.

He added, "After that, you will keep Axar Patel in the team because you want a little depth in the batting. So Axar as a left-arm spinner and a batter. If you play Axar, you will only be able to play Yuzi Chahal." His pace department comprises Bhuvneshwar Kumar, one among Arshdeep Singh and Harshal Patel and either of Umran Malik or Avesh Khan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-rested-as-india-announce-squad-for-t20i-series-against-south-africa-481249">Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma rested as India announce squad for T20I series against South Africa</a>

Aakash Chopra probable Team India XI for SA T20Is:

KL Rahul (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad/Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh/Harshal Patel, Umran Malik/Avesh Khan.

Team India's squad for the five T20Is versus South Africa was announced on Sunday (May 22). While the regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested and Ravindra Jadeja-Suryakumar Yadav are injured, BCCI's selection committee announced a strong 18-member squad which will be led by all-format vice-captain KL Rahul.

Team India's squad for the five T20Is versus South Africa was announced on Sunday (May 22). While the regular captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested and Ravindra Jadeja-Suryakumar Yadav are injured, BCCI's selection committee announced a strong 18-member squad which will be led by all-format vice-captain KL Rahul. In the Rahul-led India squad, many young guns and uncapped players have been included for the series versus Temba Bavuma-led Proteas. Among them, Dinesh Karthik's comeback has been highly-talked about. At 36, not many would've given him a chance to return to the national team, who last played in 2019. However, Karthik's magnificent run in IPL 2022 has changed the script in his favour. In 14 games, Karthik has so far amassed 287 runs at an average of 57.40 and a strike rate of 191 playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Thus, he is expected to come good even in the playoffs for RCB and then feature in India's playing XI for the SA series. Nonetheless, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra snubbed DK and Kuldeep Yadav from his probable line-up for the upcoming home series. ALSO READ | 'A lot of people had given up on me' - Dinesh Karthik reacts after his memorable Team India comeback On his Youtube channel, Chopra said, "What is the composition of the XI you are going to see? I feel you might see Ishan Kishan opening alongside KL Rahul. But there are a lot of keepers, so he might not open, you can open with Ruturaj Gaikwad and not Ishan Kishan, that's a choice." Chopra then named vice-captain Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya as automatic starters in the middle-order and called for Shreyas Iyer as well as Deepak Hooda's inclusion. He added, "After that, you will keep Axar Patel in the team because you want a little depth in the batting. So Axar as a left-arm spinner and a batter. If you play Axar, you will only be able to play Yuzi Chahal." His pace department comprises Bhuvneshwar Kumar, one among Arshdeep Singh and Harshal Patel and either of Umran Malik or Avesh Khan. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma rested as India announce squad for T20I series against South Africa Aakash Chopra probable Team India XI for SA T20Is: KL Rahul (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad/Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh/Harshal Patel, Umran Malik/Avesh Khan.

India vs SA T20Is: Former Indian opener snubs Dinesh Karthik in his probable XI for KL Rahul & Co.

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee announced an 18-member Team India squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, starting from June 09. While the big guns such as regular captain Rohit Sharma, former skipper Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested, KL Rahul will lead the line-up, which also sees the comeback of Dinesh Karthik.

Karthik, who had donned the commentator's hat last year, has seen his career getting revived in IPL 2022, where he is representing the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Karthik got a new lease of life at the RCB, where he has made heads turn being a fantastic finisher for the three-time runners-up and rescuing them from several precarious situations. In 14 games, Karthik has amassed 287 runs&nbsp;at an average of 57.40 and a strike rate of 191.

Thus, Karthik's IPL 15 knocks have helped him make a comeback in Team India setup. In a video shared by RCB, the veteran keeper-batter thanked Bengaluru's top brass&nbsp;Sanjay Bangar, Mike Hesson and Indian captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid for instilling faith on him.

"Very happy. Very very very satisfying. I must say this has been my most memorable comeback because a lot of people had given up on me and for me to do what I did, practice with the way I did with my coach Nayar. So many special things in the lead to the auction and how I practiced post that. I lot of credit also to Sanjay Bangar and Mike Hesson. The clarity that they gave me to execute the role that I wanted to, in many ways I am indebted to RCB for picking me and believing in me," said Karthik who was roped in by the francse&nbsp;for 5.50 crore at IPL mega auction.

"A lot of credit must go to the selectors, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid because these days with so many young boys putting their names for selection, to see the skillset that is there and then to believe that this is the guy we need for the World Cup, it is a very very humbling feeling. I know the journey is still there to the World Cup but to be a part of the scheme of things and giving me an opportunity to showcase my skills and I am very proud of it," Karthik added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-rested-as-india-announce-squad-for-t20i-series-against-south-africa-481249">Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma rested as India announce squad for T20I series against South Africa</a>

"I started believing but people around me gave me a feeling saying I should not dream too much. I took up the role of a commentator and that made it look like I am no more interested in trying to come back to the Indian team but I have always said that for me, playing for the Indian team is the priority, because I had time I did it. I am very excited overall," he signed off.

India's T20I squad for South Africa series -&nbsp;KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee announced an 18-member Team India squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, starting from June 09.

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee announced an 18-member Team India squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, starting from June 09. While the big guns such as regular captain Rohit Sharma, former skipper Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested, KL Rahul will lead the line-up, which also sees the comeback of Dinesh Karthik. Karthik, who had donned the commentator's hat last year, has seen his career getting revived in IPL 2022, where he is representing the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Karthik got a new lease of life at the RCB, where he has made heads turn being a fantastic finisher for the three-time runners-up and rescuing them from several precarious situations. In 14 games, Karthik has amassed 287 runs at an average of 57.40 and a strike rate of 191. Thus, Karthik's IPL 15 knocks have helped him make a comeback in Team India setup. In a video shared by RCB, the veteran keeper-batter thanked Bengaluru's top brass Sanjay Bangar, Mike Hesson and Indian captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid for instilling faith on him. "Very happy. Very very very satisfying. I must say this has been my most memorable comeback because a lot of people had given up on me and for me to do what I did, practice with the way I did with my coach Nayar. So many special things in the lead to the auction and how I practiced post that. I lot of credit also to Sanjay Bangar and Mike Hesson. The clarity that they gave me to execute the role that I wanted to, in many ways I am indebted to RCB for picking me and believing in me," said Karthik who was roped in by the francse for 5.50 crore at IPL mega auction. "A lot of credit must go to the selectors, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid because these days with so many young boys putting their names for selection, to see the skillset that is there and then to believe that this is the guy we need for the World Cup, it is a very very humbling feeling. I know the journey is still there to the World Cup but to be a part of the scheme of things and giving me an opportunity to showcase my skills and I am very proud of it," Karthik added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma rested as India announce squad for T20I series against South Africa "I started believing but people around me gave me a feeling saying I should not dream too much. I took up the role of a commentator and that made it look like I am no more interested in trying to come back to the Indian team but I have always said that for me, playing for the Indian team is the priority, because I had time I did it. I am very excited overall," he signed off. India's T20I squad for South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

'A lot of people had given up on me' - Dinesh Karthik reacts after his memorable Team India comeback

It was not a good outing for Rishabh Pant on Saturday as a couple of errors from the Delhi Capitals skipper led to his team’s defeat against Mumbai Indians in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 encounter. DC needed a win against the lowest ranked side in the tournament to book their playoff berth, but they were beaten by five wickets thanks to brilliant performances from Tim David and Jasprit Bumrah.

After posting a modest total on a tricky pitch, Pant dropped a sitter to dismiss the dangerous Dewald Brevis and then, he did not opt for a review after the DC players were convinced that Tim David was caught behind. The replay showed a clear edge and it proved to be the costliest mistake in the match.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-rested-as-india-announce-squad-for-t20i-series-against-south-africa-481249">Kohli, Rohit rested as India announce squad for T20I series vs South Africa</a>

In the post-match press conference, Rohit Sharma was asked about Pant’s captaincy and the Indian cricket team skipper said that ‘little fumbles can happen’ and called him a ‘quality captain’.

"He is a quality captain, there's no doubt about it. In the past seasons we have seen how he has led his team. Sometimes things don't go your way, it is as simple as that. I have been through these kind of situations before and I was just telling him about the same thing. These kinds of things happen on the ground, sometimes it just doesn't go your way. So, there is nothing wrong in it," Rohit said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/google-doodle-celebrates-gama-pehlwan-everything-you-need-to-know-about-indias-legendary-wrestler-481238" hreflang="en">Google Doodle celebrates Gama Pehlwan - Everything you need to know</a>

"You can take a lot of learnings from all of this and try and keep things simple. He's got a great mind; he reads the game well from behind. It's a high-pressure tournament and those little fumbles can happen. But it is important not to lose confidence and not to start doubting yourself. That is something I spoke to him about. He's a confident guy, he'll come back strong next season," he added.

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It was not a good outing for Rishabh Pant on Saturday as a couple of errors from the Delhi Capitals skipper led to his team’s defeat against Mumbai Indians in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 encounter.

It was not a good outing for Rishabh Pant on Saturday as a couple of errors from the Delhi Capitals skipper led to his team’s defeat against Mumbai Indians in a crucial Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 encounter. DC needed a win against the lowest ranked side in the tournament to book their playoff berth, but they were beaten by five wickets thanks to brilliant performances from Tim David and Jasprit Bumrah. After posting a modest total on a tricky pitch, Pant dropped a sitter to dismiss the dangerous Dewald Brevis and then, he did not opt for a review after the DC players were convinced that Tim David was caught behind. The replay showed a clear edge and it proved to be the costliest mistake in the match. Also read | Kohli, Rohit rested as India announce squad for T20I series vs South Africa In the post-match press conference, Rohit Sharma was asked about Pant’s captaincy and the Indian cricket team skipper said that ‘little fumbles can happen’ and called him a ‘quality captain’. "He is a quality captain, there's no doubt about it. In the past seasons we have seen how he has led his team. Sometimes things don't go your way, it is as simple as that. I have been through these kind of situations before and I was just telling him about the same thing. These kinds of things happen on the ground, sometimes it just doesn't go your way. So, there is nothing wrong in it," Rohit said. Also read | Google Doodle celebrates Gama Pehlwan - Everything you need to know "You can take a lot of learnings from all of this and try and keep things simple. He's got a great mind; he reads the game well from behind. It's a high-pressure tournament and those little fumbles can happen. But it is important not to lose confidence and not to start doubting yourself. That is something I spoke to him about. He's a confident guy, he'll come back strong next season," he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Fumbles can happen': Rohit Sharma has his say on Rishabh Pant's captaincy errors against MI

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Team India's squad for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa on Sunday (May 22). A number of senior players have been rested from the series which will be played following the conclusion of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

Captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah have all been rested from the T20I series and will be travelling to England for the one-off Test against the hosts. In Rohit's absence, KL Rahul has been appointed as the captain of the Indian team for the T20I series against the Proteas.

While the senior players have been rested, star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is all set to make his comeback post a big layoff following India's disappointing show at the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. Hardik has been excellent as captain for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2022 and has also started bowling regularly which made his return to the team inevitable.

Apart from Hardik, veteran wicket-keeper batter Dinesh Karthik will also be making his comeback for the Indian team for the first time since 2019. Karthik has been in the form of his life for RCB this season and has played numerous finishing cameos for his team to earn a recall to India's T20I squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thank-you-mumbai-kohli-du-plessis-others-go-berserk-as-mi-help-rcb-qualify-for-ipl-2022-playoffs-watch-481132">'Thank you Mumbai': Kohli, Du Plessis &amp; others go berserk as MI help RCB qualify for&nbsp;playoffs - WATCH</a>

Maiden call up&nbsp;for Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh

Umran Malik has been one of the finds of IPL 2022. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) speedster has impressed many with his raw pace and ability to trouble the best of the batters. Umran has been consistently clocking over 150 kmph this season and also holds the record for bowling the fastest delivery in IPL 2022.

He was touted by many to make the cut in India's squad for the South Africa T20Is and has deservingly made the cut along with Punjab Kings (PBKS) pacer Arshdeep Singh, who has also been impressive throughout the season. The left-arm fast bowler has been excellent in death and has been garnering praise with his performances in the IPL&nbsp;for quite some time now.

While Umran has 21 wickets in 13 matches for SRH this season, Arshdeep has managed 10 wickets in 13 games for Punjab Kings so far this season. There were reports that Lucknow Super Giants pacer Mohsin Khan can also be in the fray for selection after his impressive show but he has not been picked by the Chetan Sharma-led selection panel.

Along with skipper Rahul, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan are the other two openers in the side. Hardik and Venkatesh Iyer are the all-rounders along with in-form Deepak Hooda, who has been among the runs for Lucknow in IPL 2022. Bhuvneshwar Kumar will spearhead the pace attack and will have the likes of Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Umran and Arshdeep for support in the absence of Bumrah.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-torments-delhi-capitals-becomes-1st-indian-to-achieve-staggering-feat-in-ipl-481152">Jasprit Bumrah torments Delhi Capitals, becomes 1st Indian to achieve staggering feat in IPL</a>

India's T20I squad for South Africa series -&nbsp;KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Team India's squad for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa on Sunday (May 22). A number of senior players have been rested from the series which will be played following the conclusion of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Team India's squad for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa on Sunday (May 22). A number of senior players have been rested from the series which will be played following the conclusion of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah have all been rested from the T20I series and will be travelling to England for the one-off Test against the hosts. In Rohit's absence, KL Rahul has been appointed as the captain of the Indian team for the T20I series against the Proteas. While the senior players have been rested, star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is all set to make his comeback post a big layoff following India's disappointing show at the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. Hardik has been excellent as captain for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2022 and has also started bowling regularly which made his return to the team inevitable. Apart from Hardik, veteran wicket-keeper batter Dinesh Karthik will also be making his comeback for the Indian team for the first time since 2019. Karthik has been in the form of his life for RCB this season and has played numerous finishing cameos for his team to earn a recall to India's T20I squad. Also Read: 'Thank you Mumbai': Kohli, Du Plessis & others go berserk as MI help RCB qualify for playoffs - WATCH Maiden call up for Umran Malik and Arshdeep Singh Umran Malik has been one of the finds of IPL 2022. The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) speedster has impressed many with his raw pace and ability to trouble the best of the batters. Umran has been consistently clocking over 150 kmph this season and also holds the record for bowling the fastest delivery in IPL 2022. He was touted by many to make the cut in India's squad for the South Africa T20Is and has deservingly made the cut along with Punjab Kings (PBKS) pacer Arshdeep Singh, who has also been impressive throughout the season. The left-arm fast bowler has been excellent in death and has been garnering praise with his performances in the IPL for quite some time now. While Umran has 21 wickets in 13 matches for SRH this season, Arshdeep has managed 10 wickets in 13 games for Punjab Kings so far this season. There were reports that Lucknow Super Giants pacer Mohsin Khan can also be in the fray for selection after his impressive show but he has not been picked by the Chetan Sharma-led selection panel. Along with skipper Rahul, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan are the other two openers in the side. Hardik and Venkatesh Iyer are the all-rounders along with in-form Deepak Hooda, who has been among the runs for Lucknow in IPL 2022. Bhuvneshwar Kumar will spearhead the pace attack and will have the likes of Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Umran and Arshdeep for support in the absence of Bumrah. Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah torments Delhi Capitals, becomes 1st Indian to achieve staggering feat in IPL India's T20I squad for South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma rested as India announce squad for T20I series against South Africa

Delhi Capitals will be looking to book their spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 playoffs while Mumbai Indians aim to finish the competition with a win as the two sides face each other on Saturday.

Head-to-head

The encounter between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals has been an extremely close affair with the five-time champions enjoying a narrow 16-15 advantage in the 31 matches against DC.

Stats

There will be interesting player battles on both ends as the duo of Khaleel Ahmed and Axar Patel have troubled Rohit Sharma in the past as they have dismissed him three times and have not conceded more than run-a-ball. On the other end, Jasprit Bumrah will be looking forward to facing Rishabh Pant – a batsman he has dismissed six times with just 47 runs conceded in 42 deliveries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/our-malinga-ms-dhoni-heaps-praise-on-matheesha-pathirana-says-he-will-contribute-for-csk-in-a-big-way-480968" hreflang="en">'Our Malinga': MS Dhoni heaps praise on CSK pacer Matheesha Pathirana</a>

Trivia

It has been a contrasting story for both side when it comes to opening partnerships as the pair of Ishan Kishan and Rohit Sharma have the second-best record in the tournament while DC’s opening pairs have produced just 21 runs in the last five matches for the first wicket. However, there is some good news as David Warner enjoys facing MI and with six fifties and a strike rate of 138.87 against the five-time champions, the Australia batsman will be a key asset for DC in their playoff race.

Predicted XIs

Mumbai Indians: Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Tilak Varma, Tristan Stubbs, Tim David, Ramandeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya, Arjun Tendulkar, Riley Meredith

Delhi Capitals: Sarfaraz Khan, David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant, Lalit Yadav, Rovman Powell, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Anrich Nortje, Khaleel Ahmed

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hints-at-taking-a-break-from-cricket-amid-poor-form-will-talk-to-india-head-coach-rahul-dravid-480953" hreflang="en">Kohli hints at taking a break from cricket amid poor form, will talk to Dravid</a>

Complete squads

Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Daniel Sams, Tilak Varma, Tim David, Tristan Stubbs, Ramandeep Singh, Sanjay Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Riley Meredith, Mayank Markande, Kieron Pollard, Jaydev Unadkat, Murugan Ashwin, Fabian Allen, Basil Thampi, Anmolpreet Singh, Aryan Juyal, Arjun Tendulkar, Kumar Kartikeya, Hrithik Shokeen, Akash Madhwal, Rahul Buddhi, Dewald Brevis

Delhi Capitals: David Warner, Sarfaraz Khan, Mitchell Marsh, Lalit Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Rovman Powell, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Anrich Nortje, Khaleel Ahmed, Mandeep Singh, Srikar Bharat, Tim Seifert, Lungi Ngidi, Mustafizur Rahman, Ashwin Hebbar, Praveen Dubey, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Chetan Sakariya, Ripal Patel, Yash Dhull, Vicky Ostwal

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Delhi Capitals will be looking to book their spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 playoffs while Mumbai Indians aim to finish the competition with a win as the two sides face each other on Saturday.

Delhi Capitals will be looking to book their spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 playoffs while Mumbai Indians aim to finish the competition with a win as the two sides face each other on Saturday. Head-to-head The encounter between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals has been an extremely close affair with the five-time champions enjoying a narrow 16-15 advantage in the 31 matches against DC. Stats There will be interesting player battles on both ends as the duo of Khaleel Ahmed and Axar Patel have troubled Rohit Sharma in the past as they have dismissed him three times and have not conceded more than run-a-ball. On the other end, Jasprit Bumrah will be looking forward to facing Rishabh Pant – a batsman he has dismissed six times with just 47 runs conceded in 42 deliveries. Also read | 'Our Malinga': MS Dhoni heaps praise on CSK pacer Matheesha Pathirana Trivia It has been a contrasting story for both side when it comes to opening partnerships as the pair of Ishan Kishan and Rohit Sharma have the second-best record in the tournament while DC’s opening pairs have produced just 21 runs in the last five matches for the first wicket. However, there is some good news as David Warner enjoys facing MI and with six fifties and a strike rate of 138.87 against the five-time champions, the Australia batsman will be a key asset for DC in their playoff race. Predicted XIs Mumbai Indians: Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Tilak Varma, Tristan Stubbs, Tim David, Ramandeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Kumar Kartikeya, Arjun Tendulkar, Riley Meredith Delhi Capitals: Sarfaraz Khan, David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant, Lalit Yadav, Rovman Powell, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Anrich Nortje, Khaleel Ahmed Also read | Kohli hints at taking a break from cricket amid poor form, will talk to Dravid Complete squads Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Daniel Sams, Tilak Varma, Tim David, Tristan Stubbs, Ramandeep Singh, Sanjay Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Riley Meredith, Mayank Markande, Kieron Pollard, Jaydev Unadkat, Murugan Ashwin, Fabian Allen, Basil Thampi, Anmolpreet Singh, Aryan Juyal, Arjun Tendulkar, Kumar Kartikeya, Hrithik Shokeen, Akash Madhwal, Rahul Buddhi, Dewald Brevis Delhi Capitals: David Warner, Sarfaraz Khan, Mitchell Marsh, Lalit Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Rovman Powell, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Anrich Nortje, Khaleel Ahmed, Mandeep Singh, Srikar Bharat, Tim Seifert, Lungi Ngidi, Mustafizur Rahman, Ashwin Hebbar, Praveen Dubey, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Chetan Sakariya, Ripal Patel, Yash Dhull, Vicky Ostwal You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals, IPL 2022: Head-to-head, stats, trivia and predicted XIs

Many had their doubts over Rishabh Pant and whether he would be able to replace MS Dhoni across formats, after the veteran's retirement. While Pant took some time to take off in all forms of the game, the 24-year-old has now come to his own and made the wicketkeeper's slot his own in every format.

Filling in for Dhoni can never be easy for anyone, be it in IPL or for Team India, however, Pant is slowly making his own identity as an explosive middle-order batter for the national side (and also for his IPL franchise, i.e. the Delhi Capitals). Ahead of India's next assignment, which will be a five-match T20I series at home versus South Africa in early June, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag feels Pant can be more successful as an opener.

Sehwag told&nbsp;Sports 18, "We don’t play limited-overs to score 50 or 100 but to score at a brisk pace, no matter the situation or the opposition,” Sehwag told Sports 18, “At no. 4 or 5, he will find himself in situations that demand greater responsibility, but if he opens, he will be far more successful."

Pant has 1,920 runs in 30 Tests and has been more successful in whites. In limited-overs, he has 715 and 683 runs in ODIs and T20Is, respectively.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/prithvi-shaw-rishabh-pant-can-help-india-rule-test-cricket-and-win-world-test-championship-virender-sehwag-480705">Prithvi Shaw, Rishabh Pant can help India rule Test cricket and win World Test Championship: Virender Sehwag</a>

Sehwag also opined that Prithvi Shaw and Pant will form a daunting par for India in Tests and can help the team dominate the red-ball format. In this regard, he stated, "He (Prithvi Shaw) is a player who can bring back the excitement in Test cricket." Sehwag added, "Opposition will have to think if 400 would be enough with Shaw and Pant in our ranks. Shaw and Pant in one team could help India rule Test cricket and win the World Test Championship."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricketers-must-ensure-harmony-between-india-pakistan-akhtar-on-sehwags-chucking-allegations-480737">'Cricketers must ensure harmony between India-Pakistan' - Akhtar on Sehwag's 'chucking' allegation</a>

Currently, Pant and Shaw are part of the DC franchise in the IPL 2022 edition. Pant &amp; Co. are alive in the playoffs race and need to win against Mumbai Indians (MI) in their last league stage encounter to confirm a spot in the playoffs.&nbsp;

Many had their doubts over Rishabh Pant and whether he would be able to replace MS Dhoni across formats, after the veteran's retirement. While Pant took some time to take off in all forms of the game, the 24-year-old has now come to his own and made the wicketkeeper's slot his own in every format.

Many had their doubts over Rishabh Pant and whether he would be able to replace MS Dhoni across formats, after the veteran's retirement. While Pant took some time to take off in all forms of the game, the 24-year-old has now come to his own and made the wicketkeeper's slot his own in every format. Filling in for Dhoni can never be easy for anyone, be it in IPL or for Team India, however, Pant is slowly making his own identity as an explosive middle-order batter for the national side (and also for his IPL franchise, i.e. the Delhi Capitals). Ahead of India's next assignment, which will be a five-match T20I series at home versus South Africa in early June, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag feels Pant can be more successful as an opener. Sehwag told Sports 18, "We don’t play limited-overs to score 50 or 100 but to score at a brisk pace, no matter the situation or the opposition,” Sehwag told Sports 18, “At no. 4 or 5, he will find himself in situations that demand greater responsibility, but if he opens, he will be far more successful." Pant has 1,920 runs in 30 Tests and has been more successful in whites. In limited-overs, he has 715 and 683 runs in ODIs and T20Is, respectively. ALSO READ | Prithvi Shaw, Rishabh Pant can help India rule Test cricket and win World Test Championship: Virender Sehwag Sehwag also opined that Prithvi Shaw and Pant will form a daunting par for India in Tests and can help the team dominate the red-ball format. In this regard, he stated, "He (Prithvi Shaw) is a player who can bring back the excitement in Test cricket." Sehwag added, "Opposition will have to think if 400 would be enough with Shaw and Pant in our ranks. Shaw and Pant in one team could help India rule Test cricket and win the World Test Championship." ALSO READ | 'Cricketers must ensure harmony between India-Pakistan' - Akhtar on Sehwag's 'chucking' allegation Currently, Pant and Shaw are part of the DC franchise in the IPL 2022 edition. Pant & Co. are alive in the playoffs race and need to win against Mumbai Indians (MI) in their last league stage encounter to confirm a spot in the playoffs.

'If he opens, he'll be more successful: Virender Sehwag rates Rishabh Pant's chances as Team India opener

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