Rohit Sharma-led India faced England in the first T20I, of the three-match series, on Thursday (July 07) in Southampton. India were without the likes of Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja but the second-stringed side beat England comfortably, by 50 runs, to take a 1-0 lead.&nbsp;

Opting to bat first at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India rode on quickfire knocks from Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Hardik Pandya's 51 to post 198-8. In reply, Hardik rose to the occasion with the ball and returned with a match-winning spell of 4-0-33-4 to guide India to an easy win over Jos Buttler &amp; Co. With his all-round blitz, the 28-year-old Hardik also scripted a massive feat by becoming the first-ever Indian to score a fifty and return with a four-wicket haul in a T20I.

Thus, Hardik&nbsp;joined the list of elite all-rounders such as Dwayne Bravo, Shane Watson, and Mohammed Hafeez to have achieved the same feat earlier. Former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh came close to this record in 2009 when he returned with&nbsp;a half-century and scalped three wickets in India's six-wicket win over Sri Lanka in Mohali in 2009.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-rohit-sharma-scripts-history-becomes-first-captain-to-win-13-successive-t20is-495573">ENG vs IND: Rohit Sharma scripts history, becomes first captain to win 13 successive T20Is</a>

At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Hardik said, "The last time I played a T20 in England, I think I took 4 wickets and scored some 30. So I kind of knew I was the first Indian to score fifty and take 4 wickets. I am enjoying my cricket right now. For me a lot of time goes into the preparation to get my body ready. The kind of break I took before this run of play I want to capitalize on the opportunities. I felt I needed that break. It is about giving your 100% and when you don't do that, there is no point playing. So I needed that break and now I am happy to be in this place right now."

India will now take on England in the second and penultimate T20I in&nbsp;Edgbaston, Birmingham

Rohit Sharma-led India faced England in the first T20I, of the three-match series, on Thursday (July 07) in Southampton. India were without the likes of Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja but the second-stringed side beat England comfortably, by 50 runs, to take a 1-0 lead.

Rohit Sharma-led India faced England in the first T20I, of the three-match series, on Thursday (July 07) in Southampton. India were without the likes of Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja but the second-stringed side beat England comfortably, by 50 runs, to take a 1-0 lead. Opting to bat first at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India rode on quickfire knocks from Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Hardik Pandya's 51 to post 198-8. In reply, Hardik rose to the occasion with the ball and returned with a match-winning spell of 4-0-33-4 to guide India to an easy win over Jos Buttler & Co. With his all-round blitz, the 28-year-old Hardik also scripted a massive feat by becoming the first-ever Indian to score a fifty and return with a four-wicket haul in a T20I. Thus, Hardik joined the list of elite all-rounders such as Dwayne Bravo, Shane Watson, and Mohammed Hafeez to have achieved the same feat earlier. Former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh came close to this record in 2009 when he returned with a half-century and scalped three wickets in India's six-wicket win over Sri Lanka in Mohali in 2009. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND: Rohit Sharma scripts history, becomes first captain to win 13 successive T20Is At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Hardik said, "The last time I played a T20 in England, I think I took 4 wickets and scored some 30. So I kind of knew I was the first Indian to score fifty and take 4 wickets. I am enjoying my cricket right now. For me a lot of time goes into the preparation to get my body ready. The kind of break I took before this run of play I want to capitalize on the opportunities. I felt I needed that break. It is about giving your 100% and when you don't do that, there is no point playing. So I needed that break and now I am happy to be in this place right now." India will now take on England in the second and penultimate T20I in Edgbaston, Birmingham

ENG vs IND, 1st T20I: Hardik Pandya becomes first Indian to achieve MASSIVE feat in series opener

Rohit Sharma returned to the 22-yard cricket strip for Team India when the Men in Blue played the first T20I, of the three-match series, versus hosts England on Thursday (July 07) in Southampton. Hitman's presence worked wonders for a second-stringed Indian team, who defeated Jos Buttler &amp; Co. by 50 runs to take a 1-0 lead.&nbsp;

With this win, Indian captain Rohit also scripted history by becoming the first-ever skipper to record 13 successive wins in the shortest format of the game. BCCI's official Twitter handle shared a post for the 35-year-old Rohit following his massive feat:

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🚨 Milestone Alert 🚨 
 
First captain to win 1⃣3⃣ successive T20Is - Congratulations, <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a>. 👏 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/izEGfIfFTn">pic.twitter.com/izEGfIfFTn</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1545156813837856769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Rohit has not yet lost a single T20I ever since he became the full-time captain after Virat Kohli's resignation following the 2021 T20 World Cup. Since then, India have been on a winning spree under Rohit, beating the likes of New Zealand, West Indies, and Sri Lanka at home before the 1st T20I victory over England, at the Rose Bowl, Southampton.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-brilliance-powers-india-to-win-over-england-in-first-t20i-495430">Hardik Pandya brilliance powers India to win over England in first T20I</a>

Talking about the series opener, played on Thursday, India opted to bat first and rode on quickfire knocks from Deepak Hooda (33), Suryakumar Yadav (39) and Hardik Pandya's 51 to post 198-8. In reply, Hardik starred with the bat to return with 4 for 33 whereas Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh accounted for two scalps each to dismiss England for 148 in 19.3 overs.

At the post-match presentation, Rohit said, "Great performance from ball one. All batters showed intent. Although the pitch was good, we played good shots and never got ahead of the game. You got to make use of those six overs in the powerplay. There is a certain approach we want to take in the powerplay. You got to back yourself in this game, sometimes it comes off, sometimes it doesn't. The whole batting unit needs to understand the direction the team is taking and the guys were spot on today. I was impressed with his (Hardik) bowling. He wants to do that a lot more in the future, bowled quick and used his variations too. Of course his batting is there for us to see. That's the reason we wanted to bat (ball swinging under lights). Sometimes it does swing in the evenings and we wanted to utilize that. Both the new ball bowlers used the swing and stopped their batters. We were sloppy on the field. Those catches should have been taken. Pretty sure we will field pretty well in the coming games."

Rohit Sharma returned to the 22-yard cricket strip for Team India when the Men in Blue played the first T20I, of the three-match series, versus hosts England on Thursday (July 07) in Southampton.

Rohit Sharma returned to the 22-yard cricket strip for Team India when the Men in Blue played the first T20I, of the three-match series, versus hosts England on Thursday (July 07) in Southampton. Hitman's presence worked wonders for a second-stringed Indian team, who defeated Jos Buttler & Co. by 50 runs to take a 1-0 lead. With this win, Indian captain Rohit also scripted history by becoming the first-ever skipper to record 13 successive wins in the shortest format of the game. BCCI's official Twitter handle shared a post for the 35-year-old Rohit following his massive feat: 🚨 Milestone Alert 🚨 First captain to win 1⃣3⃣ successive T20Is - Congratulations, @ImRo45. 👏 👏#TeamIndia | #ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/izEGfIfFTn — BCCI (@BCCI) July 7, 2022 × Rohit has not yet lost a single T20I ever since he became the full-time captain after Virat Kohli's resignation following the 2021 T20 World Cup. Since then, India have been on a winning spree under Rohit, beating the likes of New Zealand, West Indies, and Sri Lanka at home before the 1st T20I victory over England, at the Rose Bowl, Southampton. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya brilliance powers India to win over England in first T20I Talking about the series opener, played on Thursday, India opted to bat first and rode on quickfire knocks from Deepak Hooda (33), Suryakumar Yadav (39) and Hardik Pandya's 51 to post 198-8. In reply, Hardik starred with the bat to return with 4 for 33 whereas Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh accounted for two scalps each to dismiss England for 148 in 19.3 overs. At the post-match presentation, Rohit said, "Great performance from ball one. All batters showed intent. Although the pitch was good, we played good shots and never got ahead of the game. You got to make use of those six overs in the powerplay. There is a certain approach we want to take in the powerplay. You got to back yourself in this game, sometimes it comes off, sometimes it doesn't. The whole batting unit needs to understand the direction the team is taking and the guys were spot on today. I was impressed with his (Hardik) bowling. He wants to do that a lot more in the future, bowled quick and used his variations too. Of course his batting is there for us to see. That's the reason we wanted to bat (ball swinging under lights). Sometimes it does swing in the evenings and we wanted to utilize that. Both the new ball bowlers used the swing and stopped their batters. We were sloppy on the field. Those catches should have been taken. Pretty sure we will field pretty well in the coming games."

ENG vs IND: Rohit Sharma scripts history, becomes first captain to win 13 successive T20Is

All eyes are on the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022. The upcoming mega event will be held in Sri Lanka despite the political and economical unrest in the country. Amid the chaos in the Island nation, Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC)&nbsp;got the green light to host the tournament and it will be played in the T20I format.&nbsp;

This will be the second time that the Asia Cup will be held in the shortest format, as a preparation for the 2022 T20 World Cup. Moreover, this will also be the first time that the Asia Cup will take place after the 2018 edition. In 2018, Rohit Sharma-led India won the tournament, beating Bangladesh in a humdinger of a final, and the Men in Blue will be eager to win the trophy for the third time in a row (which will be seventh overall). Ahead of the official schedule is released, which is expected to be out very soon, many reports have suggested that India will take on arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-prediction-who-will-win-1st-t20i-between-england-and-india-in-southampton-495250">ENG vs IND prediction: Who will win 1st T20I between England and India in Southampton</a>

India and Pakistan are set to be in the same group and, thus, can play with each other more than once before again meeting in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition. Both sides have once again been named in the same group in the ICC event, to be held in Australia, and, hence, will look at the Asia Cup as a dress rehearsal for the showpiece event.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan had met each other last during the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Babar Azam &amp; Co. had beaten Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue by ten wickets to break their World Cup jinx versus the Asian neighbours.&nbsp;

All eyes are on the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022. The upcoming mega event will be held in Sri Lanka despite the political and economical unrest in the country. Amid the chaos in the Island nation, Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) got the green light to host the tournament and it will be played in the T20I format.

All eyes are on the forthcoming Asia Cup 2022. The upcoming mega event will be held in Sri Lanka despite the political and economical unrest in the country. Amid the chaos in the Island nation, Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) got the green light to host the tournament and it will be played in the T20I format. This will be the second time that the Asia Cup will be held in the shortest format, as a preparation for the 2022 T20 World Cup. Moreover, this will also be the first time that the Asia Cup will take place after the 2018 edition. In 2018, Rohit Sharma-led India won the tournament, beating Bangladesh in a humdinger of a final, and the Men in Blue will be eager to win the trophy for the third time in a row (which will be seventh overall). Ahead of the official schedule is released, which is expected to be out very soon, many reports have suggested that India will take on arch-rivals Pakistan on August 28. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND prediction: Who will win 1st T20I between England and India in Southampton India and Pakistan are set to be in the same group and, thus, can play with each other more than once before again meeting in the T20 World Cup 2022 edition. Both sides have once again been named in the same group in the ICC event, to be held in Australia, and, hence, will look at the Asia Cup as a dress rehearsal for the showpiece event. India and Pakistan had met each other last during the 2021 T20 World Cup, where Babar Azam & Co. had beaten Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue by ten wickets to break their World Cup jinx versus the Asian neighbours.

Asia Cup 2022: Rohit Sharma-led India to square off against Pakistan on August 28 - Reports

After the one-off Test between England and India ended with the Ben Stokes-led hosts beating Jasprit Bumrah &amp; Co. by seven wickets, the action now moves onto the white-ball series as Rohit Sharma's Team India face the Jos Buttler-led English line-up in the T20I series opener on Thursday (July 07).

With the T20 World Cup only a few months away, India and England will leave no stone unturned to finalise their playing XI and team combination. The forthcoming series is a good opportunity for both sides will tick few more boxes enroute the road towards the marquee edition Down Under.&nbsp;

For the unversed, India's regulars such as Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja have been rested and will join the team from the next T20I.

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is the England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I taking place?

England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I is scheduled to take place on July 07, 2022 (Thursday).&nbsp;

Where is England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I&nbsp;match taking place?

The England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I will be held at the Rose Bowl, Southampton.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-prediction-who-will-win-1st-t20i-between-england-and-india-in-southampton-495250">ENG vs IND prediction: Who will win 1st T20I between England and India in Southampton</a>

At what time England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I&nbsp;match taking place?

The England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I will kick off at 5 PM&nbsp;GMT (6 PM&nbsp;local time). The IST time is 10:30 pm.

How to watch England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I match live on TV?

The England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network - Sony Six and Sony Six HD.

How to watch England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I live streaming?

The England&nbsp;vs India 1st T20I&nbsp;will be available to watch online/streaming on&nbsp;Sony Liv.

After the one-off Test between England and India ended with the Ben Stokes-led hosts beating Jasprit Bumrah & Co. by seven wickets, the action now moves onto the white-ball series as Rohit Sharma's Team India face the Jos Buttler-led English line-up in the T20I series opener on Thursday (July 07).

After the one-off Test between England and India ended with the Ben Stokes-led hosts beating Jasprit Bumrah & Co. by seven wickets, the action now moves onto the white-ball series as Rohit Sharma's Team India face the Jos Buttler-led English line-up in the T20I series opener on Thursday (July 07). With the T20 World Cup only a few months away, India and England will leave no stone unturned to finalise their playing XI and team combination. The forthcoming series is a good opportunity for both sides will tick few more boxes enroute the road towards the marquee edition Down Under. For the unversed, India's regulars such as Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja have been rested and will join the team from the next T20I. Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is the England vs India 1st T20I taking place? England vs India 1st T20I is scheduled to take place on July 07, 2022 (Thursday). Where is England vs India 1st T20I match taking place? The England vs India 1st T20I will be held at the Rose Bowl, Southampton. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND prediction: Who will win 1st T20I between England and India in Southampton At what time England vs India 1st T20I match taking place? The England vs India 1st T20I will kick off at 5 PM GMT (6 PM local time). The IST time is 10:30 pm. How to watch England vs India 1st T20I match live on TV? The England vs India 1st T20I will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network - Sony Six and Sony Six HD. How to watch England vs India 1st T20I live streaming? The England vs India 1st T20I will be available to watch online/streaming on Sony Liv.

ENG vs IND: When and where to watch England vs India 1st T20I match - IST time and streaming details

After the fifth and final rescheduled Test between England and India ended in a dramatic fashion for the visitors, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, the action shifts to the white-ball series, comprising three T20Is and ODIs each.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma-led India will square off with Jos Buttler's England in the opening T20I of the three-match series, in Southampton, on Thursday (July 07). While India are also without some of its regulars such as Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, England will look upon this series as the commencement of a new era under Buttler after the conclusion of the glorious Eoin Morgan-era. England, however, remains a strong side and will aim to continue in a similar manner in their new phase.&nbsp;

For India, they are now well ahead of this year's T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia. However, the South Africa home series and a near loss to Ireland in the second and final T20I will raise some questions. Does the team comprise the T20 tactical wherewithal to counter big-hitting sides on flat surfaces, which is very likely to be the case in Australia? The England series can answer some questions in this regard. The regulars will also return from the second and penultimate tie as the Men in Blue can now start playing their regular XI more often than not.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-plays-pantomime-villain-but-england-great-lauds-virat-kohlis-gesture-towards-bairstow-root-495227">'He plays pantomime villain but...' - England great lauds Virat Kohli's gesture towards Bairstow, Root</a>

Match prediction for England vs India, 1st T20I: The surface at the Rose Bowl, Southampton has not been very high-scoring in this year's T20 Blast, with the average first-innings total being 165. Moreover, five out of he seven games have been won by sides batting first. Expect a good contest but England will start ahead of India, who are without many key players for the series opener.

After the fifth and final rescheduled Test between England and India ended in a dramatic fashion for the visitors, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, the action shifts to the white-ball series, comprising three T20Is and ODIs each.

After the fifth and final rescheduled Test between England and India ended in a dramatic fashion for the visitors, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, the action shifts to the white-ball series, comprising three T20Is and ODIs each. Rohit Sharma-led India will square off with Jos Buttler's England in the opening T20I of the three-match series, in Southampton, on Thursday (July 07). While India are also without some of its regulars such as Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, England will look upon this series as the commencement of a new era under Buttler after the conclusion of the glorious Eoin Morgan-era. England, however, remains a strong side and will aim to continue in a similar manner in their new phase. For India, they are now well ahead of this year's T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia. However, the South Africa home series and a near loss to Ireland in the second and final T20I will raise some questions. Does the team comprise the T20 tactical wherewithal to counter big-hitting sides on flat surfaces, which is very likely to be the case in Australia? The England series can answer some questions in this regard. The regulars will also return from the second and penultimate tie as the Men in Blue can now start playing their regular XI more often than not. ALSO READ | 'He plays pantomime villain but...' - England great lauds Virat Kohli's gesture towards Bairstow, Root Match prediction for England vs India, 1st T20I: The surface at the Rose Bowl, Southampton has not been very high-scoring in this year's T20 Blast, with the average first-innings total being 165. Moreover, five out of he seven games have been won by sides batting first. Expect a good contest but England will start ahead of India, who are without many key players for the series opener.

ENG vs IND prediction: Who will win 1st T20I between England and India in Southampton

MS Dhoni turned 41 on Thursday (July 07). Dhoni remains a darling of the nation despite retiring from international cricket on August 15, 2020. The 41-year-old former Indian captain is still a favourite among fans and many poured wishes for the former cricketer as he turns a year older.&nbsp;

On Twitter, Dhoni is trending since the start of the day and many former, as well as active cricketers, wished him on his special day. Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, Virender Sehwag, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and many others wished the former Indian stumper. Here are some of the wishes:

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A leader like no other. Thanks for everything you have done for Indian cricket. 🇮🇳 You became more like an elder brother for me. Nothing but love and respect always. 
 
Happy birthday skip 🎂<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/kIxdmrEuGP">pic.twitter.com/kIxdmrEuGP</a>
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/1544931899663007745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Happy Birthday to my big brother. Thank you for being my biggest supporter and mentor in every phase of life, may god bless you and your family with good health always. Much love to you mahi bhai. Wishing you a great year ahead! <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayDhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/3uABWFIlnO">pic.twitter.com/3uABWFIlnO</a>
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1544752338992340995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Till the time full stop doesn't come,a sentence isn't completed. Till the time Dhoni is at the crease,match isn't completed. 
Not all teams have the fortune to have a person like Dhoni, Happy B'day to a gem of a person &amp; player,MS Dhoni. Om Helicopteraya Namaha <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayDhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/qGFhpcP5so">pic.twitter.com/qGFhpcP5so</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1544873943542116352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Very very happy birthday to you <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> 🥳 My best wishes are always with you! Have the most wonderful year ahead. Love always 🤗 <a href="https://t.co/95n92fqeNT">pic.twitter.com/95n92fqeNT</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1544908247458611200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Still remember this day very fondly, thank you for everything Mahi bhai!! 
 
Best wishes to you on your birthday, have a great year ahead <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> 🎂😁 <a href="https://t.co/hZm1QQ571F">pic.twitter.com/hZm1QQ571F</a>
— Ishant Sharma (@ImIshant) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImIshant/status/1544884511284027394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Happy birthday, <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> 🤗 Wish you the very best for the coming year! Keep shining always. <a href="https://t.co/SsfYsf3LUT">pic.twitter.com/SsfYsf3LUT</a>
— cheteshwar pujara (@cheteshwar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1/status/1544909701489561601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Dear Thala, 
 
Here's some Birthday Yellove! 💛 
 
- Anbuden, 
Chennai<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HBDThalaDhoni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HBDThalaDhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> 🦁💛 <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://t.co/QSw43O5sy5">pic.twitter.com/QSw43O5sy5</a>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1544922353272233984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-god-is-not-coming-to-save-you-ms-dhonis-motivational-words-before-indias-ct13-win-494967">THROWBACK: 'God is not coming to save you' - MS Dhoni's motivational words before India's CT'13 win</a>

Dhoni remains an icon and inspiration in Indian cricket. The superstar cricketer made his debut at the international level in late 2004. While he was run-out for a duck in his first ODI, Dhoni gained unprecedented success across formats as a batter, finisher, keeper and captain. In ODIs, he slammed over 10,000 runs whereas he was a very handy batter in Tests, ending with 4,876 runs in 90 matches with 6 hundreds (including a double ton).&nbsp;

Dhoni's numbers in T20Is wasn't extra ordinary but he remained a cameo specialist and finisher, ending with 1,617 runs whereas he is nearing the 5,000-run mark in IPL. He ended his international career with 634 catches, 195 stumpings (most by any) and also led India to all three major ICC titles along with the No. 1 ranking in Tests. To date, Dhoni remains India's second-highest six-hitter (359).

He was last seen in action during IPL 2022 and has confirmed his participation for the next year's edition, where he will again represent the Chennai Super Kings (with whom he has won four IPL titles and two Champions League trophies as captain).

MS Dhoni turned 41 on Thursday (July 07). Dhoni remains a darling of the nation despite retiring from international cricket on August 15, 2020. The 41-year-old former Indian captain is still a favourite among fans and many poured wishes for the former cricketer as he turns a year older.

MS Dhoni turned 41 on Thursday (July 07). Dhoni remains a darling of the nation despite retiring from international cricket on August 15, 2020. The 41-year-old former Indian captain is still a favourite among fans and many poured wishes for the former cricketer as he turns a year older. On Twitter, Dhoni is trending since the start of the day and many former, as well as active cricketers, wished him on his special day. Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, Virender Sehwag, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ishant Sharma and many others wished the former Indian stumper. Here are some of the wishes: A leader like no other. Thanks for everything you have done for Indian cricket. 🇮🇳 You became more like an elder brother for me. Nothing but love and respect always. Happy birthday skip 🎂@msdhoni pic.twitter.com/kIxdmrEuGP — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 7, 2022 × Happy Birthday to my big brother. Thank you for being my biggest supporter and mentor in every phase of life, may god bless you and your family with good health always. Much love to you mahi bhai. Wishing you a great year ahead! @msdhoni #HappyBirthdayDhoni pic.twitter.com/3uABWFIlnO — Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) July 6, 2022 × Till the time full stop doesn't come,a sentence isn't completed. Till the time Dhoni is at the crease,match isn't completed. Not all teams have the fortune to have a person like Dhoni, Happy B'day to a gem of a person & player,MS Dhoni. Om Helicopteraya Namaha #HappyBirthdayDhoni pic.twitter.com/qGFhpcP5so — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) July 7, 2022 × Very very happy birthday to you @msdhoni 🥳 My best wishes are always with you! Have the most wonderful year ahead. Love always 🤗 pic.twitter.com/95n92fqeNT — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) July 7, 2022 × Still remember this day very fondly, thank you for everything Mahi bhai!! Best wishes to you on your birthday, have a great year ahead @msdhoni 🎂😁 pic.twitter.com/hZm1QQ571F — Ishant Sharma (@ImIshant) July 7, 2022 × Happy birthday, @msdhoni 🤗 Wish you the very best for the coming year! Keep shining always. pic.twitter.com/SsfYsf3LUT — cheteshwar pujara (@cheteshwar1) July 7, 2022 × Dear Thala, Here's some Birthday Yellove! 💛 - Anbuden, Chennai#HBDThalaDhoni #WhistlePodu 🦁💛 @msdhoni pic.twitter.com/QSw43O5sy5 — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) July 7, 2022 × ALSO READ | THROWBACK: 'God is not coming to save you' - MS Dhoni's motivational words before India's CT'13 win Dhoni remains an icon and inspiration in Indian cricket. The superstar cricketer made his debut at the international level in late 2004. While he was run-out for a duck in his first ODI, Dhoni gained unprecedented success across formats as a batter, finisher, keeper and captain. In ODIs, he slammed over 10,000 runs whereas he was a very handy batter in Tests, ending with 4,876 runs in 90 matches with 6 hundreds (including a double ton). Dhoni's numbers in T20Is wasn't extra ordinary but he remained a cameo specialist and finisher, ending with 1,617 runs whereas he is nearing the 5,000-run mark in IPL. He ended his international career with 634 catches, 195 stumpings (most by any) and also led India to all three major ICC titles along with the No. 1 ranking in Tests. To date, Dhoni remains India's second-highest six-hitter (359). He was last seen in action during IPL 2022 and has confirmed his participation for the next year's edition, where he will again represent the Chennai Super Kings (with whom he has won four IPL titles and two Champions League trophies as captain).

Happy Birthday MS Dhoni: Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina lead wishes as former Indian skipper turns 41

Indian cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma has fully recovered from COVID-19 and is raring to go ahead of the start of the T20I series against England. India will lock horns with England in a three-match T20I series which gets underway on Thursday (July 07). Rohit had tested positive for COVID-19 last month and had to miss the recently-concluded Edgbaston Test between India and England.

Jasprit Bumrah led the Indian team in Rohit's absence in the Edgbaston Test which India lost by 7 wickets to miss out on a chance of pulling off a historic series win. However, with Rohit back leading the team, India will be hoping to get off to a winning start in the T20I series.

Ahead of the series-opener, Rohit addressed the pre-match presser on Wednesday where he was asked about the prospects of young pacer Umran Malik playing against England in the upcoming T20I series. Rohit said Umran is very much in India's plans as far as T20Is are concerned with the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/intrigued-to-see-how-long-bazball-lasts-steve-smith-on-englands-new-approach-in-test-cricket-495051">'Intrigued to see how long 'Bazball' lasts': Steve Smith on England's new approach in Test cricket</a>

“He is very much in our plans. We are trying to give him an understanding as to what the team requires from him as well. Yes, there will be times when we want to try out a few guys and Umran is definitely one of those guys,” Rohit said during the presser.

“Keeping one eye on the World Cup, we want to see what he has to offer for us. He is definitely an exciting prospect. During the IPL, we saw that he could bowl fast. It’s about giving him the role, whether we want him to bowl with the new ball or want to use him in the middle overs,” he added.

Umran was one of the rising stars of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and left many in awe with his express pace. The Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer consistently clocked over 150 kmph in almost every game of the season and rattled the best of batters with his fiery pace.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-beyond-fab-4-former-india-opener-lauds-joe-root-for-his-incredible-consistency-in-test-cricket-495000">&nbsp;'He is beyond Fab 4': Former India opener lauds Joe Root for his incredible consistency in Test cricket</a>

Umran picked up 21 wickets in 14 matches for SRH and was their highest wicket-taker of the season. Impressed by his bowling exploits, the Indian selectors handed the youngster his maiden India call-up for the South Africa T20I series at home last month where he failed to make his debut.

He made his India debut in the recently-concluded two-match T20I series against Ireland and played both games. Umran successfully defended 17 runs in the final over of the 2nd T20I to help India win the series 2-0. It remains to be seen if he will get a chance in the playing XI in the upcoming T20I series against England.

Indian cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma has fully recovered from COVID-19 and is raring to go ahead of the start of the T20I series against England. India will lock horns with England in a three-match T20I series which gets underway on Thursday (July 07).

Indian cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma has fully recovered from COVID-19 and is raring to go ahead of the start of the T20I series against England. India will lock horns with England in a three-match T20I series which gets underway on Thursday (July 07). Rohit had tested positive for COVID-19 last month and had to miss the recently-concluded Edgbaston Test between India and England. Jasprit Bumrah led the Indian team in Rohit's absence in the Edgbaston Test which India lost by 7 wickets to miss out on a chance of pulling off a historic series win. However, with Rohit back leading the team, India will be hoping to get off to a winning start in the T20I series. Ahead of the series-opener, Rohit addressed the pre-match presser on Wednesday where he was asked about the prospects of young pacer Umran Malik playing against England in the upcoming T20I series. Rohit said Umran is very much in India's plans as far as T20Is are concerned with the T20 World Cup 2022 in mind. Also Read: 'Intrigued to see how long 'Bazball' lasts': Steve Smith on England's new approach in Test cricket “He is very much in our plans. We are trying to give him an understanding as to what the team requires from him as well. Yes, there will be times when we want to try out a few guys and Umran is definitely one of those guys,” Rohit said during the presser. “Keeping one eye on the World Cup, we want to see what he has to offer for us. He is definitely an exciting prospect. During the IPL, we saw that he could bowl fast. It’s about giving him the role, whether we want him to bowl with the new ball or want to use him in the middle overs,” he added. Umran was one of the rising stars of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and left many in awe with his express pace. The Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer consistently clocked over 150 kmph in almost every game of the season and rattled the best of batters with his fiery pace. Also Read: 'He is beyond Fab 4': Former India opener lauds Joe Root for his incredible consistency in Test cricket Umran picked up 21 wickets in 14 matches for SRH and was their highest wicket-taker of the season. Impressed by his bowling exploits, the Indian selectors handed the youngster his maiden India call-up for the South Africa T20I series at home last month where he failed to make his debut. He made his India debut in the recently-concluded two-match T20I series against Ireland and played both games. Umran successfully defended 17 runs in the final over of the 2nd T20I to help India win the series 2-0. It remains to be seen if he will get a chance in the playing XI in the upcoming T20I series against England.

Umran Malik is very much in our plans: Rohit Sharma hints at playing fiery pacer in T20I series vs England

The BCCI selection committee announced a 16-member Team India squad for the forthcoming three-match ODI series versus West Indies, starting on&nbsp;July 22. Shikhar Dhawan has been named the captain of the second-stringed side as regulars&nbsp;skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul have been rested.

The likes of Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson, Md Siraj, Axar Patel will get opportunities in&nbsp;regulars' absence. Ravindra Jadeja has been named the vice-captain for the upcoming series on the Caribbean island. While Rohit, Kohli &amp; the likes are expected to return for the five T20Is, after the ODIs, former Indian all-rounder-turned-commentator Irfan Pathan&nbsp;took to social media to take a dig at the selection policy. The 37-year-old claimed that&nbsp;players won't return to form with them being rested at regular intervals.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shikhar-dhawan-to-lead-team-india-in-odi-series-against-wi-494954">India tour of WI: Shikhar Dhawan to lead ODI side as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli &amp; other big guns rested</a>

"No one comes back to form while resting', said&nbsp;Pathan&nbsp;in a tweet with many fans also questioning the absence of the star players.

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No one comes back to form while resting…
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Among the rested players, Kohli's form remains a cause of concern for the national side. He only managed 31 runs in the just-concluded Edgbaston Test whereas Rohit has also been out of action since IPL 2022, where he didn't even manage a single fifty-plus score. With the T20 World Cup set to be held later this year, from October-November in Australia, India need their big guns to play regularly,&nbsp;regain form and remain fit.

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India squad for WI ODI series

&nbsp;

Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (vice-captain), Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Arshdeep Singh

The BCCI selection committee announced a 16-member Team India squad for the forthcoming three-match ODI series versus West Indies, starting on July 22. Shikhar Dhawan has been named the captain of the second-stringed side as regulars skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul have been rested.

The BCCI selection committee announced a 16-member Team India squad for the forthcoming three-match ODI series versus West Indies, starting on July 22. Shikhar Dhawan has been named the captain of the second-stringed side as regulars skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul have been rested. The likes of Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson, Md Siraj, Axar Patel will get opportunities in regulars' absence. Ravindra Jadeja has been named the vice-captain for the upcoming series on the Caribbean island. While Rohit, Kohli & the likes are expected to return for the five T20Is, after the ODIs, former Indian all-rounder-turned-commentator Irfan Pathan took to social media to take a dig at the selection policy. The 37-year-old claimed that players won't return to form with them being rested at regular intervals. ALSO READ | India tour of WI: Shikhar Dhawan to lead ODI side as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli & other big guns rested "No one comes back to form while resting', said Pathan in a tweet with many fans also questioning the absence of the star players. No one comes back to form while resting… — Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) July 6, 2022 × Among the rested players, Kohli's form remains a cause of concern for the national side. He only managed 31 runs in the just-concluded Edgbaston Test whereas Rohit has also been out of action since IPL 2022, where he didn't even manage a single fifty-plus score. With the T20 World Cup set to be held later this year, from October-November in Australia, India need their big guns to play regularly, regain form and remain fit. ALSO READ | Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test India squad for WI ODI series Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (vice-captain), Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Arshdeep Singh

'No one comes back to form....' - Irfan Pathan questions Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli's absence from WI ODI squad

India dominated proceedings for most parts in the just-concluded Edgbaston Test before losing the contest by seven wickets as the five-match series, which commenced during 2021 English summer, ended in a 2-2 stalemate on Tuesday (July 06).

In Rohit Sharma's absence, India were led by pacer Jasprit Bumrah whereas Rishabh Pant was his deputy. India were asked to bat first as they posted 416 after centuries from Pant and Ravindra Jadeja. In reply, England posted 284 courtesy of Jonny Bairstow's ton, giving a 132-run healthy lead to Team India. India, however, didn't capitalise and only managed to post 245 in their second essay, setting up a challenging 378-run target. While the target was a stiff one, India had a chance to completely bat England out of the contest by setting up anything over 450, however, they fell flat. In the run-chase, England were 109/3 before tons from Bairstow and Root took India home.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-god-is-not-coming-to-save-you-ms-dhonis-motivational-words-before-indias-ct13-win-494967">THROWBACK: 'God is not coming to save you' - MS Dhoni's motivational words before India's CT'13 win</a>

After the match, former Indian stumper Deep Dasgupta highlighted a glaring issue which has been a big factor in the national side's recent failures.&nbsp;

"It is very important for the team to have a stable captain. The position of the captain had been really [unstable] in the last few months, especially during England Test or Ireland tour," Dasgupta told ANI. "Due to injury and any other reason, we had to shuffle between captains. But now Rohit is fit and is available for the upcoming games," he stated.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-can-team-india-enter-world-test-championship-final-after-losing-edgbaston-test-494937">Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test</a>

"With only 2-3 months left for the T20 World Cup, there are many players who have showcased their spectacular performances. India is left with 20-22 games before the World Cup, so the selectors might have started shortlisting the players for the big tournament. Each and every match will be very important from now on," Dasgupta added.

India have been led by Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Bumrah since September 2021. Thus, they need to have stability in the captaincy role heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia.

India dominated proceedings for most parts in the just-concluded Edgbaston Test before losing the contest by seven wickets as the five-match series, which commenced during 2021 English summer, ended in a 2-2 stalemate on Tuesday (July 06).

India dominated proceedings for most parts in the just-concluded Edgbaston Test before losing the contest by seven wickets as the five-match series, which commenced during 2021 English summer, ended in a 2-2 stalemate on Tuesday (July 06). In Rohit Sharma's absence, India were led by pacer Jasprit Bumrah whereas Rishabh Pant was his deputy. India were asked to bat first as they posted 416 after centuries from Pant and Ravindra Jadeja. In reply, England posted 284 courtesy of Jonny Bairstow's ton, giving a 132-run healthy lead to Team India. India, however, didn't capitalise and only managed to post 245 in their second essay, setting up a challenging 378-run target. While the target was a stiff one, India had a chance to completely bat England out of the contest by setting up anything over 450, however, they fell flat. In the run-chase, England were 109/3 before tons from Bairstow and Root took India home. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: 'God is not coming to save you' - MS Dhoni's motivational words before India's CT'13 win After the match, former Indian stumper Deep Dasgupta highlighted a glaring issue which has been a big factor in the national side's recent failures. "It is very important for the team to have a stable captain. The position of the captain had been really [unstable] in the last few months, especially during England Test or Ireland tour," Dasgupta told ANI. "Due to injury and any other reason, we had to shuffle between captains. But now Rohit is fit and is available for the upcoming games," he stated. ALSO READ | Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test "With only 2-3 months left for the T20 World Cup, there are many players who have showcased their spectacular performances. India is left with 20-22 games before the World Cup, so the selectors might have started shortlisting the players for the big tournament. Each and every match will be very important from now on," Dasgupta added. India have been led by Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Bumrah since September 2021. Thus, they need to have stability in the captaincy role heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia.

Important for India to have a stable captain: Former stumper highlights glaring issue after Edgbaston Test

Rishabh Pant endured a difficult patch in the T20I series against South Africa at home where he also led the Indian team in the absence of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul. However, the wicket-keeper batter was quick to bounce back and was among the runs in the recently-concluded Edgbaston Test against England where he notched up a stunning century in India's first innings and followed it up with a fifty in the second.

While he has been dominating in Test cricket over the last few years, Pant, who made his T20I debut for India back in 2017, is yet to establish his credentials for the Men in Blue in the shortest format. Known for his aggressive brand of cricket and swashbuckling style, Pant is arguable one of the best hitters around. However, he has failed to do justice to his talent in T20Is for India.

Former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer believes Pant should be promoted to the top of the order to unlock his potential in T20Is for India. India currently have a number of contenders for the opening slot in T20Is with captain Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul as first-choice pairing and the likes of Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad also in the fray.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/take-up-cage-fighting-england-great-takes-a-dig-at-villain-virat-kohli-over-his-antics-in-edgbaston-test-494956">'Take up cage fighting': England great takes a dig at 'villain' Virat Kohli</a>

However, despite the intense competition for the opening slots in the Indian team, Jaffer has suggested the team management can use Pant as an opener in the upcoming T20I series against England. Jaffer believes Pant can be a game-changer for India at the top of the order.

"Indian think tank should think about opening with Rishabh Pant in T20Is. I think that's the spot where he can blossom," Jaffer said in a tweet.

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Indian think tank should think about opening with Rishabh Pant in T20Is. I think that's the spot where he can blossom. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvIND</a>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1544569338811756545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shikhar-dhawan-to-lead-team-india-in-odi-series-against-wi-494954">Shikhar Dhawan to lead ODI side as Rohit, Kohli rested for ODI series vs West Indies</a>

After losing the one-off Test against England on Tuesday, India will now lock horns with the hosts in a three-match T20I series starting from Thursday (July 07). Pant, who has so far amassed 741 runs in 48 T20Is for India at a strike rate of 123.91 and an average of just over 23. He has been utilised majorly in the middle-order and it remains to be seen if the Indian team management will take a punt on Pant to get the best out of him.

Rishabh Pant endured a difficult patch in the T20I series against South Africa at home where he also led the Indian team in the absence of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul.

Rishabh Pant endured a difficult patch in the T20I series against South Africa at home where he also led the Indian team in the absence of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul. However, the wicket-keeper batter was quick to bounce back and was among the runs in the recently-concluded Edgbaston Test against England where he notched up a stunning century in India's first innings and followed it up with a fifty in the second. While he has been dominating in Test cricket over the last few years, Pant, who made his T20I debut for India back in 2017, is yet to establish his credentials for the Men in Blue in the shortest format. Known for his aggressive brand of cricket and swashbuckling style, Pant is arguable one of the best hitters around. However, he has failed to do justice to his talent in T20Is for India. Former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer believes Pant should be promoted to the top of the order to unlock his potential in T20Is for India. India currently have a number of contenders for the opening slot in T20Is with captain Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul as first-choice pairing and the likes of Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad also in the fray. Also Read: 'Take up cage fighting': England great takes a dig at 'villain' Virat Kohli However, despite the intense competition for the opening slots in the Indian team, Jaffer has suggested the team management can use Pant as an opener in the upcoming T20I series against England. Jaffer believes Pant can be a game-changer for India at the top of the order. "Indian think tank should think about opening with Rishabh Pant in T20Is. I think that's the spot where he can blossom," Jaffer said in a tweet. Indian think tank should think about opening with Rishabh Pant in T20Is. I think that's the spot where he can blossom. #ENGvIND — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) July 6, 2022 × Also Read: Shikhar Dhawan to lead ODI side as Rohit, Kohli rested for ODI series vs West Indies After losing the one-off Test against England on Tuesday, India will now lock horns with the hosts in a three-match T20I series starting from Thursday (July 07). Pant, who has so far amassed 741 runs in 48 T20Is for India at a strike rate of 123.91 and an average of just over 23. He has been utilised majorly in the middle-order and it remains to be seen if the Indian team management will take a punt on Pant to get the best out of him.

Not Kishan or Gaikwad! Wasim Jaffer names star batter who should open with Rohit Sharma in England T20Is

MS Dhoni led Team India&nbsp;from the 2007 T20 World Cup till the end of 2016. He gave up Test captaincy by retiring from the format in late 2014 but continued to call the shots in limited-overs till the end of 2016. Under him, India attained unimaginable success as the national team won every ICC title and were even the No. 1 ranked side from late 2009 to mid-2011.

One of India's famous wins under Dhoni came during the 2013 Champions Trophy, held in England and Wales. Back then, Australia wasn't at its dominant best but still remained competitive, just like other sides such as England, Sri Lanka and South Africa. India were also a contender for the title, however, Dhoni had a young team at his disposal. Nonetheless, India continued to perform as they reached the final without dropping a single game, including the two warm-up encounters, and faced England in the summit clash in Edgbaston, Birmingham on June 23, 2013.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thought-of-quitting-odi-cricket-after-ms-dhoni-dropped-me-reveals-former-indian-opener-virender-sehwag-484124">Thought of quitting ODI cricket after MS Dhoni dropped me, reveals former Indian opener Virender Sehwag</a>

In a rain-hit 20-over aside contest, India struggled to reach 129/7&nbsp;as all hopes were slowly and steadily fading away. However, Indian bowlers upped the ante with a combined show to restrict England to 124/8 and claim the trophy by virtue of a five-run win in the finale.

After the match, Dhoni revealed how he motivated his young troops before their 130-run defence. "The first and foremost thing was don't look up, God is not coming to save you. You have to fight it out. We are the No 1 ranked team, let's play like that. If we lose, they will have to score the runs, we won't make easy for them," Dhoni had told Nasser Hussain in the post-match presentation ceremony.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-rahul-dravids-flat-six-destroyed-a-spectators-beer-pint-in-india-england-odi-watch-487194">THROWBACK: When Rahul Dravid's flat six destroyed a spectator's beer pint in India-England ODI - WATCH</a>

Dhoni, who turns 41 on Thursday (July 07), retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020 with 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 634 catches, 195 stumpings and 359 sixes overall. He remains active in the IPL, where he will represent Chennai Super Kings (CSK) once again in the next year's edition.

MS Dhoni led Team India from the 2007 T20 World Cup till the end of 2016. He gave up Test captaincy by retiring from the format in late 2014 but continued to call the shots in limited-overs till the end of 2016.

MS Dhoni led Team India from the 2007 T20 World Cup till the end of 2016. He gave up Test captaincy by retiring from the format in late 2014 but continued to call the shots in limited-overs till the end of 2016. Under him, India attained unimaginable success as the national team won every ICC title and were even the No. 1 ranked side from late 2009 to mid-2011. One of India's famous wins under Dhoni came during the 2013 Champions Trophy, held in England and Wales. Back then, Australia wasn't at its dominant best but still remained competitive, just like other sides such as England, Sri Lanka and South Africa. India were also a contender for the title, however, Dhoni had a young team at his disposal. Nonetheless, India continued to perform as they reached the final without dropping a single game, including the two warm-up encounters, and faced England in the summit clash in Edgbaston, Birmingham on June 23, 2013. ALSO READ | Thought of quitting ODI cricket after MS Dhoni dropped me, reveals former Indian opener Virender Sehwag In a rain-hit 20-over aside contest, India struggled to reach 129/7 as all hopes were slowly and steadily fading away. However, Indian bowlers upped the ante with a combined show to restrict England to 124/8 and claim the trophy by virtue of a five-run win in the finale. After the match, Dhoni revealed how he motivated his young troops before their 130-run defence. "The first and foremost thing was don't look up, God is not coming to save you. You have to fight it out. We are the No 1 ranked team, let's play like that. If we lose, they will have to score the runs, we won't make easy for them," Dhoni had told Nasser Hussain in the post-match presentation ceremony. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When Rahul Dravid's flat six destroyed a spectator's beer pint in India-England ODI - WATCH Dhoni, who turns 41 on Thursday (July 07), retired from international cricket on August 15, 2020 with 17,266 runs, 16 tons, 634 catches, 195 stumpings and 359 sixes overall. He remains active in the IPL, where he will represent Chennai Super Kings (CSK) once again in the next year's edition.

THROWBACK: 'God is not coming to save you' - MS Dhoni's motivational words before India's CT'13 win

The All-India Senior Selection Committee has picked the squads for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies to be played at the Queen`s Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad. Batter Shikhar Dhawan will be leading Team India in the three-match ODI series, with Ravindra Jadeja as the vice-captain. The Men in Blue will be squaring off against the West Indies for a three-match ODI series and five-match T20I series, from July 22.

Currently, Team India is facing England in the multi-format series, with the last match to be played on July 17. Star batter Virat Kohli, pacer Jasprit Bumrah, and batter Rohit Sharma are among the senior players who have been rested from the ODIs. Kohli, who was known for his blistering batting performances has failed to regain his form. After missing out on the home series against South Africa, the former skipper could manage to score only 31 runs in the fifth Test against England at Edgbaston.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-can-team-india-enter-world-test-championship-final-after-losing-edgbaston-test-494937">Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test</a>

On the other hand, Bumrah led Team India at the Edgbaston and impressed everyone with his pace and fiery knock, where he smashed 35 runs in a single over by Stuart Broad and created a world record.

India`s squad for three ODIs: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (vice-captain), Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.&nbsp;

The All-India Senior Selection Committee has picked the squads for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies to be played at the Queen`s Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad.

The All-India Senior Selection Committee has picked the squads for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies to be played at the Queen`s Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad. Batter Shikhar Dhawan will be leading Team India in the three-match ODI series, with Ravindra Jadeja as the vice-captain. The Men in Blue will be squaring off against the West Indies for a three-match ODI series and five-match T20I series, from July 22. Currently, Team India is facing England in the multi-format series, with the last match to be played on July 17. Star batter Virat Kohli, pacer Jasprit Bumrah, and batter Rohit Sharma are among the senior players who have been rested from the ODIs. Kohli, who was known for his blistering batting performances has failed to regain his form. After missing out on the home series against South Africa, the former skipper could manage to score only 31 runs in the fifth Test against England at Edgbaston. ALSO READ | Explained: How can Team India enter World Test Championship final after losing Edgbaston Test On the other hand, Bumrah led Team India at the Edgbaston and impressed everyone with his pace and fiery knock, where he smashed 35 runs in a single over by Stuart Broad and created a world record. India`s squad for three ODIs: Shikhar Dhawan (Captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Ravindra Jadeja (vice-captain), Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Avesh Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.

India tour of WI: Shikhar Dhawan to lead ODI side as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli & other big guns rested

Rohit Sharma tested Covid positive ahead of the ongoing India-England fifth and final Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Hence, Jasprit Bumrah is leading the side as the visitors have an overall lead of 257 runs at stumps on Day 3 of the rescheduled series-deciding Test.

Despite him testing positive for the infection once again on June 30, a day prior to the final Test versus England, the BCCI selection committee remained confident of his recovery from the deadly virus and named him the skipper for the forthcoming three T20Is and ODIs, each, versus the Three Lions, while revealing the squads on July 01. However, Rohit will have to prove his fitness and is set to undergo a cardiovascular test.&nbsp;

As per a report in&nbsp;Insidesport.in, the 35-year-old Rohit will be undergoing a cardiovascular test on Monday (July 4) to determine his availability for the&nbsp;T20I&nbsp;series opener, set to be held on July 7 in The Rose Bowl, Southampton. If he is fit, he will travel to Southampton and take charge of a second-stringed side for the first T20I as regulars such as Virat Kohli, Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja and&nbsp;Rishabh Pant will join the team from the second and penultimate tie, getting some rest after the Test match.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-wont-be-shutting-up-jonny-bairstow-opens-up-on-verbal-duel-with-virat-kohli-in-edgbaston-test-494256">'We won't be shutting up...' - Jonny Bairstow opens up on verbal duel with Virat Kohli in Edgbaston Test</a>

The second and third T20I will be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham and Trent Bridge, Nottingham, respectively, before the action shifts to the three ODIs, to be held in London and Manchester from July 12-17.

India's squad for 1st T20I:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaekwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

India's squad for 2nd and 3rd T20I:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik

India's squad for 3 ODIs:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, J Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Shami, Mohd Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.

Rohit Sharma tested Covid positive ahead of the ongoing India-England fifth and final Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Hence, Jasprit Bumrah is leading the side as the visitors have an overall lead of 257 runs at stumps on Day 3 of the rescheduled series-deciding Test.

Rohit Sharma tested Covid positive ahead of the ongoing India-England fifth and final Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Hence, Jasprit Bumrah is leading the side as the visitors have an overall lead of 257 runs at stumps on Day 3 of the rescheduled series-deciding Test. Despite him testing positive for the infection once again on June 30, a day prior to the final Test versus England, the BCCI selection committee remained confident of his recovery from the deadly virus and named him the skipper for the forthcoming three T20Is and ODIs, each, versus the Three Lions, while revealing the squads on July 01. However, Rohit will have to prove his fitness and is set to undergo a cardiovascular test. As per a report in Insidesport.in, the 35-year-old Rohit will be undergoing a cardiovascular test on Monday (July 4) to determine his availability for the T20I series opener, set to be held on July 7 in The Rose Bowl, Southampton. If he is fit, he will travel to Southampton and take charge of a second-stringed side for the first T20I as regulars such as Virat Kohli, Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant will join the team from the second and penultimate tie, getting some rest after the Test match. ALSO READ | 'We won't be shutting up...' - Jonny Bairstow opens up on verbal duel with Virat Kohli in Edgbaston Test The second and third T20I will be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham and Trent Bridge, Nottingham, respectively, before the action shifts to the three ODIs, to be held in London and Manchester from July 12-17. India's squad for 1st T20I: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaekwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik India's squad for 2nd and 3rd T20I: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik India's squad for 3 ODIs: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, J Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Shami, Mohd Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.

Rohit to undergo cardiovascular test to determine his availability for T20I series opener vs ENG: Report

Team India were in a spot of bother on Day 1 of the ongoing rescheduled fifth Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Friday (July 01) after losing half their side for 98 runs inside just 28 overs. However, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja turned out to be the saviours for the visitors with a brilliant partnership of 222 runs for the sixth wicket to help India bounce back from a poor start.

Pant was the stand-out performer with the bat for India on Day 1 as he continued his exploits in the whites. The left-hand dasher, who is known for his attacking approach irrespective of the format, slammed the England bowlers to all parts of the ground en route to a stunning knock of 146 runs off 111 balls.

Pant went after the England bowlers right from the start of his innings despite India being under pressure. He notched up his century off just 89 balls to slam the fastest hundred by an Indian wicket-keeper batter in Tests. His 146-run-knock was laced with 20 fours and 4 sixes. While he was sent back by Joe Root on 146, Jadeja remained unbeaten on 83 to help India post 338/7 on Day 1.

Following the conclusion of the day's play, former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer labelled Pant as India's best Test batsman at present. During a discussion on ESPN Cricinfo, Jaffer was asked if he believes Pant is currently India's best batter in the longest format. The former India batter had a firm response.

"Yes definitely. The way he has played some knocks of late, you can definitely call him India's best Test batter at the moment," he said.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-a-league-of-his-own-sachin-sehwag-hail-rishabh-pant-after-magnificent-ton-in-5th-test-against-england-493789">&nbsp;'In a league of his own': Sachin, Sehwag hail&nbsp;Pant after magnificent ton in 5th Test against England</a>

Jaffer also went on to explain how Pant's knock and his 222-run stand with Jadeja has put India ahead in the all-important fifth Test against England. Jaffer said the knock will go down as one of Pant's greatest if India go on to win the game and clinch the series 3-1.

"Yes. Not only his knock but also the partnership with Ravindra Jadeja was incredible. If India wins this Test, I think it will be one of Pant's best Test innings," said Jaffer.&nbsp;

"Especially in conditions like England, where you know the bowler is bowling well, then it becomes important to disturb his (bowler’s) line and length. I keep trying that I do not play in the same manner so that the bowler gets mentally disturbed," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-breaks-ms-dhonis-record-with-stunning-century-in-edgbaston-test-against-england-493771">Rishabh Pant breaks MS Dhoni's record with stunning century in Edgbaston Test against England</a>

India will look to go close to the 400-run mark on Day 2 to ensure they have a strong total on the board for England to chase in their first innings. The Indian bowlers, on the other hand, will be hopeful of bundling out the hosts quickly. If India manage to draw or win the Edgbaston Test, it will be their first series victory in England since 2007.

Team India were in a spot of bother on Day 1 of the ongoing rescheduled fifth Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Friday (July 01) after losing half their side for 98 runs inside just 28 overs.

Team India were in a spot of bother on Day 1 of the ongoing rescheduled fifth Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham on Friday (July 01) after losing half their side for 98 runs inside just 28 overs. However, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja turned out to be the saviours for the visitors with a brilliant partnership of 222 runs for the sixth wicket to help India bounce back from a poor start. Pant was the stand-out performer with the bat for India on Day 1 as he continued his exploits in the whites. The left-hand dasher, who is known for his attacking approach irrespective of the format, slammed the England bowlers to all parts of the ground en route to a stunning knock of 146 runs off 111 balls. Pant went after the England bowlers right from the start of his innings despite India being under pressure. He notched up his century off just 89 balls to slam the fastest hundred by an Indian wicket-keeper batter in Tests. His 146-run-knock was laced with 20 fours and 4 sixes. While he was sent back by Joe Root on 146, Jadeja remained unbeaten on 83 to help India post 338/7 on Day 1. Following the conclusion of the day's play, former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer labelled Pant as India's best Test batsman at present. During a discussion on ESPN Cricinfo, Jaffer was asked if he believes Pant is currently India's best batter in the longest format. The former India batter had a firm response. "Yes definitely. The way he has played some knocks of late, you can definitely call him India's best Test batter at the moment," he said. Also Read: 'In a league of his own': Sachin, Sehwag hail Pant after magnificent ton in 5th Test against England Jaffer also went on to explain how Pant's knock and his 222-run stand with Jadeja has put India ahead in the all-important fifth Test against England. Jaffer said the knock will go down as one of Pant's greatest if India go on to win the game and clinch the series 3-1. "Yes. Not only his knock but also the partnership with Ravindra Jadeja was incredible. If India wins this Test, I think it will be one of Pant's best Test innings," said Jaffer. "Especially in conditions like England, where you know the bowler is bowling well, then it becomes important to disturb his (bowler’s) line and length. I keep trying that I do not play in the same manner so that the bowler gets mentally disturbed," he added. Also Read: Rishabh Pant breaks MS Dhoni's record with stunning century in Edgbaston Test against England India will look to go close to the 400-run mark on Day 2 to ensure they have a strong total on the board for England to chase in their first innings. The Indian bowlers, on the other hand, will be hopeful of bundling out the hosts quickly. If India manage to draw or win the Edgbaston Test, it will be their first series victory in England since 2007.

Not Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma! Wasim Jaffer names India's best Test batsman at present

The All-India Senior Selection Committee has picked the squads for the three-match T20I and ODI series against England to be played after the fifth Test. Rohit Sharma will be leading the side in both series. Virat Kohli also makes his return to the side after the 1st T20I. India and England will lock horns with each other in three T20Is starting from July 7 onwards. Both the teams will play three ODIs starting from July 12.

Meanwhile, India will square off against England in the fifth and final Test from July 1 onwards at Edgbaston. The rescheduled match is a part of last year`s five-match Test series that had to be delayed after the fourth Test due to a COVID-19 outbreak in the Indian camp. India led the series 2-1.

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India`s squad for 1st T20I: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaekwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

India`s squad for 2nd and 3rd T20I: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik

India`s squad for 3 ODIs: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, J Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Shami, Mohd Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.

The All-India Senior Selection Committee has picked the squads for the three-match T20I and ODI series against England to be played after the fifth Test. Rohit Sharma will be leading the side in both series.

The All-India Senior Selection Committee has picked the squads for the three-match T20I and ODI series against England to be played after the fifth Test. Rohit Sharma will be leading the side in both series. Virat Kohli also makes his return to the side after the 1st T20I. India and England will lock horns with each other in three T20Is starting from July 7 onwards. Both the teams will play three ODIs starting from July 12. Meanwhile, India will square off against England in the fifth and final Test from July 1 onwards at Edgbaston. The rescheduled match is a part of last year`s five-match Test series that had to be delayed after the fourth Test due to a COVID-19 outbreak in the Indian camp. India led the series 2-1. ALSO READ | Start of a new era! Jos Buttler replaces Eoin Morgan as England's white-ball captain India`s squad for 1st T20I: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaekwad, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik India`s squad for 2nd and 3rd T20I: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik India`s squad for 3 ODIs: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, J Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Mohd Shami, Mohd Siraj, Arshdeep Singh.

Rohit to lead India in white-ball series vs England, Kohli, Bumrah & other regulars to join after 1st T20I

England Men`s selection panel have named squads for the T20I and ODI series against India starting on July 7 at the Ageas Bowl. England and India will be squaring off for three T20Is from July 7 at Ageas Bowl and three ODIs from July 12 at Kia Oval. Jos Buttler will be leading the Three Lions in the entire white-ball series against India. Currently, both the teams are squaring off for the fifth Test at Edgbaston Stadium on Friday.

Rain played a spoilsport in the ongoing fifth Test between India and England, as the Jasprit Bumrah-led side ended the first session at 53/2. At Lunch, India`s score read at 53/2, with Hanuma Vihari (14*) and Virat Kohli (1*) standing unbeaten at the crease.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-to-lead-india-in-white-ball-series-vs-england-kohli-bumrah-other-regulars-to-join-after-1st-t20i-493461">India announces squads for T20I, ODI series against England</a>

England T20I squad: Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Richard Gleeson, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Tymal Mills, Matthew Parkinson, Jason Roy, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, David Willey.

England ODI squad: Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Jonathan Bairstow, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Craig Overton, Matthew Parkinson, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Phil Salt, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey.&nbsp;

England Men`s selection panel have named squads for the T20I and ODI series against India starting on July 7 at the Ageas Bowl. England and India will be squaring off for three T20Is from July 7 at Ageas Bowl and three ODIs from July 12 at Kia Oval.

England Men`s selection panel have named squads for the T20I and ODI series against India starting on July 7 at the Ageas Bowl. England and India will be squaring off for three T20Is from July 7 at Ageas Bowl and three ODIs from July 12 at Kia Oval. Jos Buttler will be leading the Three Lions in the entire white-ball series against India. Currently, both the teams are squaring off for the fifth Test at Edgbaston Stadium on Friday. Rain played a spoilsport in the ongoing fifth Test between India and England, as the Jasprit Bumrah-led side ended the first session at 53/2. At Lunch, India`s score read at 53/2, with Hanuma Vihari (14*) and Virat Kohli (1*) standing unbeaten at the crease. ALSO READ | India announces squads for T20I, ODI series against England England T20I squad: Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Richard Gleeson, Chris Jordan, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Tymal Mills, Matthew Parkinson, Jason Roy, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, David Willey. England ODI squad: Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Jonathan Bairstow, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Craig Overton, Matthew Parkinson, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Phil Salt, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey.

Jos Buttler-led England announce squads for white-ball leg vs Team India

Virat Kohli's century-drought remains a talking point in the cricketing fraternity. It isn't an unknown fact that the 33-year-old former skipper's last international hundred came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era. Since then, the right-hander has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions, especially in shorter formats, but hasn't touched the triple-figure mark.

Ahead of the fifth and final Test between India and England -- which is part of the incomplete five-match series held last year in England -- former Indian opener Aakash Chopra opined whether Kohli will be able to break his century jinx during the series decider, which got underway on Friday (July 01) in Edgbaston, Birmingham.&nbsp;

"Kohli and Pant together will score more than 120 runs. The big question is will Kohli finally get his 71st hundred in this game? I don't think so. Although he got his first Test hundred in England on this ground, I doubt whether he will get a hundred this time. But he and Pant will still be among the runs," the former India batter said on his YouTube channel.

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"Root and Stokes together will score more than 120 runs in the game. Root scored three hundreds last time and&nbsp;Iss Root ki sabhi line vyast hai&nbsp;(all lines on this Root are busy) as he has been in tremendous form. Stokes has done well as captain but hasn't scored many runs. However I think runs will come from his bat too in this game,"&nbsp;added Chopra.

At present, India are 53 for 2 in 20.1 overs after being asked to bat first in the first session of the opening day before rain, and wet outfield, interrupted proceedings. Jasprit Bumrah is leading India in regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence, who is ruled out due to Covid concerns.

Virat Kohli's century-drought remains a talking point in the cricketing fraternity. It isn't an unknown fact that the 33-year-old former skipper's last international hundred came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era.

Virat Kohli's century-drought remains a talking point in the cricketing fraternity. It isn't an unknown fact that the 33-year-old former skipper's last international hundred came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era. Since then, the right-hander has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions, especially in shorter formats, but hasn't touched the triple-figure mark. Ahead of the fifth and final Test between India and England -- which is part of the incomplete five-match series held last year in England -- former Indian opener Aakash Chopra opined whether Kohli will be able to break his century jinx during the series decider, which got underway on Friday (July 01) in Edgbaston, Birmingham. "Kohli and Pant together will score more than 120 runs. The big question is will Kohli finally get his 71st hundred in this game? I don't think so. Although he got his first Test hundred in England on this ground, I doubt whether he will get a hundred this time. But he and Pant will still be among the runs," the former India batter said on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Milestone alert! Virat Kohli needs 40 runs to join Tendulkar, Gavaskar in elite club "Root and Stokes together will score more than 120 runs in the game. Root scored three hundreds last time and Iss Root ki sabhi line vyast hai (all lines on this Root are busy) as he has been in tremendous form. Stokes has done well as captain but hasn't scored many runs. However I think runs will come from his bat too in this game," added Chopra. At present, India are 53 for 2 in 20.1 overs after being asked to bat first in the first session of the opening day before rain, and wet outfield, interrupted proceedings. Jasprit Bumrah is leading India in regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence, who is ruled out due to Covid concerns.

Will Virat Kohli end his century-drought in one-off Test vs England? Former Indian opener gives his verdict

In 1959, as many as five players (Vinoo Mankad, Hemu Adhikari, Datta Gaekwad, Pankaj Roy and Gulabrai Ramchand) led Team India. In 2022, India have broken the 63-year-old record as Jasprit Bumrah became the sixth player to lead the team&nbsp;in the calendar year.&nbsp;

It has been a unique year for India, with captaincy changes happening at regular intervals due to injury and Covid concerns&nbsp;or with two sides playing parallelly. In this regard, the likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and now Bumrah have led India across formats. Kohli led India in a solitary Test, during the third and final match versus hosts South Africa, before resigning from the post. KL Rahul had led in his place in the second and penultimate Test with Kohli out of action due to injury. Rahul also led in the three ODIs in South Africa before Rohit Sharma resumed captaincy duties in the home white-ball&nbsp;series versus West Indies and Sri Lanka, respectively.&nbsp;

Post IPL 2022, Rishabh Pant led India in the five T20Is versus the Proteas at home, as regulars such as Rohit, Kohli, etc. were rested before the one-off Test against England. Hardik led India in the recently-concluded Ireland T20Is as Rohit &amp; Co. were preparing for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus the Three Lions, which got underway on Friday (July 01). With Rohit being ruled out of the England Test due to Covid concerns, Bumrah became the sixth captain of India in 2022.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-5th-test-milestone-alert-virat-kohli-needs-40-runs-to-join-tendulkar-gavaskar-in-elite-club-493488">ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Milestone alert! Virat Kohli needs 40 runs to join Tendulkar, Gavaskar in elite club</a>

Talking about the final Test, Ben Stokes-led England opted to bowl first versus India. Bumrah said at the toss, "It's a good feeling (to be captain) and is a big privilege. Can't get better than this. Excited and looking forward to this." Ahead of the match, head coach Rahul Dravid told the broadcasters, "I think he (Bumrah) is a very thoughtful individual, understands the game very well. Also he commands the respect of the team, which is very important as a leader. Bowling changes, field changes obviously will only get better with time. It's a new challenge. It's not easy for a fast bowler to captain, he's got to think about his own bowling too. Have had a few conversations with him, and told him that we need him more as a bowler. Captaincy is something that you'll get better at as you do it more."

Bumrah became the second pacer to lead India in the purest format after Kapil Dev. He is officially India's 36th Test captain.

In 1959, as many as five players (Vinoo Mankad, Hemu Adhikari, Datta Gaekwad, Pankaj Roy and Gulabrai Ramchand) led Team India. In 2022, India have broken the 63-year-old record as Jasprit Bumrah became the sixth player to lead the team in the calendar year.

In 1959, as many as five players (Vinoo Mankad, Hemu Adhikari, Datta Gaekwad, Pankaj Roy and Gulabrai Ramchand) led Team India. In 2022, India have broken the 63-year-old record as Jasprit Bumrah became the sixth player to lead the team in the calendar year. It has been a unique year for India, with captaincy changes happening at regular intervals due to injury and Covid concerns or with two sides playing parallelly. In this regard, the likes of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and now Bumrah have led India across formats. Kohli led India in a solitary Test, during the third and final match versus hosts South Africa, before resigning from the post. KL Rahul had led in his place in the second and penultimate Test with Kohli out of action due to injury. Rahul also led in the three ODIs in South Africa before Rohit Sharma resumed captaincy duties in the home white-ball series versus West Indies and Sri Lanka, respectively. Post IPL 2022, Rishabh Pant led India in the five T20Is versus the Proteas at home, as regulars such as Rohit, Kohli, etc. were rested before the one-off Test against England. Hardik led India in the recently-concluded Ireland T20Is as Rohit & Co. were preparing for their rescheduled fifth and final Test versus the Three Lions, which got underway on Friday (July 01). With Rohit being ruled out of the England Test due to Covid concerns, Bumrah became the sixth captain of India in 2022. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Milestone alert! Virat Kohli needs 40 runs to join Tendulkar, Gavaskar in elite club Talking about the final Test, Ben Stokes-led England opted to bowl first versus India. Bumrah said at the toss, "It's a good feeling (to be captain) and is a big privilege. Can't get better than this. Excited and looking forward to this." Ahead of the match, head coach Rahul Dravid told the broadcasters, "I think he (Bumrah) is a very thoughtful individual, understands the game very well. Also he commands the respect of the team, which is very important as a leader. Bowling changes, field changes obviously will only get better with time. It's a new challenge. It's not easy for a fast bowler to captain, he's got to think about his own bowling too. Have had a few conversations with him, and told him that we need him more as a bowler. Captaincy is something that you'll get better at as you do it more." Bumrah became the second pacer to lead India in the purest format after Kapil Dev. He is officially India's 36th Test captain.

ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Jasprit Bumrah becomes India's 6th captain in 2022, shatters 63-year-old record

The D-day is finally here. India and England are set to lock horns in the rescheduled fifth and final Test, of the incomplete series from last year, at Edgbaston, Birmingham on Friday (July 01). It has been a long wait for the series to resume after it ended all of a sudden due to the Covid crisis in the then Virat Kohli-led Indian camp after the fourth and penultimate Test at The Oval, London during the 2021 English summer.

Since then, a lot has changed in both Indian and English cricket. For India, Virat Kohli stepped aside as the Test captain and was replaced by Rohit Sharma. Rohit, however, will miss the series decider due to Covid concerns and Jasprit Bumrah will lead the side in the series finale. In 2021, Ravi Shastri was India's head coach whereas Rahul Dravid replaced him at the top post, in the latter stage of the previous calendar year.&nbsp;

England, on the other hand, also saw a plethora of changes. Joe Root resigned as the Test captain as Ben Stokes took over whereas Brendon McCullum is now serving as the head coach, after Chris Silverwood's departure. Their playing style has also changed by miles, being more aggressive in their approach. Hence, a fitting finale is on the cards between both sides with India being up by 2-1.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-bcci-announces-jasprit-bumrah-as-captain-rishabh-pant-named-deputy-for-series-decider-493292">Ind vs Eng: BCCI announces Jasprit Bumrah as captain, Rishabh Pant named deputy for series decider</a>

Ahead of the opening day's play, here's how the weather might play at Edgbaston, Birmingham:

As per the&nbsp;Accuweather, a scattered thunderstorm might affect the game in the opening&nbsp;two sessions on Day 1. Nonetheless, the chances of rain will come down&nbsp;as the game ahead goes. There is a 50 per cent chance of rain during the day, however, it might go&nbsp;drop to 40 per cent during the latter half.

<img alt="Weather Update - Day 1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fdf8d199-08a4-4bf7-98ca-dab923124e44" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Weather%20Day%201%2C%20Edgbaston%2C%20Birmingham.jpg" />

India haven't released their playing XI whereas Stokes &amp; Co. announced their line-up on Thursday. It will be interesting to see if India win their first-ever Test series on English soil after 2007 or if the Three Lions will secure a 2-2 scoreline.

The D-day is finally here. India and England are set to lock horns in the rescheduled fifth and final Test, of the incomplete series from last year, at Edgbaston, Birmingham on Friday (July 01).

The D-day is finally here. India and England are set to lock horns in the rescheduled fifth and final Test, of the incomplete series from last year, at Edgbaston, Birmingham on Friday (July 01). It has been a long wait for the series to resume after it ended all of a sudden due to the Covid crisis in the then Virat Kohli-led Indian camp after the fourth and penultimate Test at The Oval, London during the 2021 English summer. Since then, a lot has changed in both Indian and English cricket. For India, Virat Kohli stepped aside as the Test captain and was replaced by Rohit Sharma. Rohit, however, will miss the series decider due to Covid concerns and Jasprit Bumrah will lead the side in the series finale. In 2021, Ravi Shastri was India's head coach whereas Rahul Dravid replaced him at the top post, in the latter stage of the previous calendar year. England, on the other hand, also saw a plethora of changes. Joe Root resigned as the Test captain as Ben Stokes took over whereas Brendon McCullum is now serving as the head coach, after Chris Silverwood's departure. Their playing style has also changed by miles, being more aggressive in their approach. Hence, a fitting finale is on the cards between both sides with India being up by 2-1. ALSO READ | Ind vs Eng: BCCI announces Jasprit Bumrah as captain, Rishabh Pant named deputy for series decider Ahead of the opening day's play, here's how the weather might play at Edgbaston, Birmingham: As per the Accuweather, a scattered thunderstorm might affect the game in the opening two sessions on Day 1. Nonetheless, the chances of rain will come down as the game ahead goes. There is a 50 per cent chance of rain during the day, however, it might go drop to 40 per cent during the latter half. India haven't released their playing XI whereas Stokes & Co. announced their line-up on Thursday. It will be interesting to see if India win their first-ever Test series on English soil after 2007 or if the Three Lions will secure a 2-2 scoreline.

England vs India, weather update: Will rain play spoilsport on opening day of series decider in Edgbaston?

After much hullabaloo, BCCI finally named the captain for Team India ahead of their one-off Test versus England, which gets underway on July 01 (Friday) in Edgbaston. Ahead of the fifth and final Test, Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19 and has now been ruled out after several rounds of testing. Thus, Jasprit Bumrah is all set to lead India in their rescheduled Test match.

Bumrah will achieve a huge feat when he steps onto the field as the Indian captain on Friday. Bumrah will now become only the second pacer to lead India in Tests after the great Kapil Dev. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been named Bumrah's deputy. For the unversed, regular vice-captain KL Rahul was already out of action due to injury and is recovering in Germany at present.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-fit-again-james-anderson-returns-as-ben-stokes-co-announce-playing-xi-for-series-decider-493280">Eng vs Ind: Fit-again James Anderson returns as Ben Stokes &amp; Co. announce playing XI for series decider</a>

Bumrah will become India's 36th Test captain. He made his Test debut for India in early 2018 and, so far, has accounted for 123 scalps in 29 Tests, at an average of&nbsp;21.73 along with eight five-fers. He first joined the leadership group during India's 2-1 Test series loss versus hosts South Africa, held early this year. Back then, he had filled in as the vice-captain when then captain Virat Kohli was injured during the second and penultimate tie. KL Rahul was named the captain with Bumrah as his deputy. Bumrah was also named the vice-captain for the three ODIs versus SA. Even during the India-Sri Lanka Tests at home, the 28-year-old served as Rohit's deputy in Rahul's absence.&nbsp;

India have an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five Tests, which came to a sudden halt last year prior to the series finale due to the Covid-19 crisis in the then Virat Kohli-led Indian camp. Thus, Bumrah has a huge responsibility to lead India to their first-ever Test series win in England since 2007.

After much hullabaloo, BCCI finally named the captain for Team India ahead of their one-off Test versus England, which gets underway on July 01 (Friday) in Edgbaston.

After much hullabaloo, BCCI finally named the captain for Team India ahead of their one-off Test versus England, which gets underway on July 01 (Friday) in Edgbaston. Ahead of the fifth and final Test, Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19 and has now been ruled out after several rounds of testing. Thus, Jasprit Bumrah is all set to lead India in their rescheduled Test match. Bumrah will achieve a huge feat when he steps onto the field as the Indian captain on Friday. Bumrah will now become only the second pacer to lead India in Tests after the great Kapil Dev. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been named Bumrah's deputy. For the unversed, regular vice-captain KL Rahul was already out of action due to injury and is recovering in Germany at present. ALSO READ | Eng vs Ind: Fit-again James Anderson returns as Ben Stokes & Co. announce playing XI for series decider Bumrah will become India's 36th Test captain. He made his Test debut for India in early 2018 and, so far, has accounted for 123 scalps in 29 Tests, at an average of 21.73 along with eight five-fers. He first joined the leadership group during India's 2-1 Test series loss versus hosts South Africa, held early this year. Back then, he had filled in as the vice-captain when then captain Virat Kohli was injured during the second and penultimate tie. KL Rahul was named the captain with Bumrah as his deputy. Bumrah was also named the vice-captain for the three ODIs versus SA. Even during the India-Sri Lanka Tests at home, the 28-year-old served as Rohit's deputy in Rahul's absence. India have an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five Tests, which came to a sudden halt last year prior to the series finale due to the Covid-19 crisis in the then Virat Kohli-led Indian camp. Thus, Bumrah has a huge responsibility to lead India to their first-ever Test series win in England since 2007.

Ind vs Eng: BCCI announces Jasprit Bumrah as captain, Rishabh Pant named deputy for series decider

After whitewashing the World Test champions New Zealand, Ben Stokes-led England are all set to lock horns with Team India in the rescheduled fifth and final match of the incomplete five-match series, which took place last year, on Friday (July 01) in Edgbaston, Birmingham.&nbsp;

On Thursday (June 30), the England Cricket's official Twitter handle shared the hosts' playing XI. It is a star-studded line-up which also sees the return of premier pacer James Anderson. For the unversed, the 39-year-old speedster had missed the third and final Test between England and New Zealand, in Headingley, Leeds, due to ankle injury. He replaces Craig Overton, who was playing in the swing bowler's place and scored a magnificent 97 in the first innings of the final Test versus the Kiwis.

Further, wicketkeeper-batter Ben Foakes is also ruled out after having not yet recovered from Covid-19. The Englishman had also missed the second half of the series finale between the Three Lions and Black Caps last week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-names-3-batters-who-could-open-for-india-if-rohit-sharma-gets-ruled-out-of-5th-test-vs-england-493209">Rahul Dravid names 3 batters who could open for India if Rohit Sharma gets ruled out of 5th Test vs England</a>

England stunned one and all with their gung-ho approach during the NZ series at home. Under Stokes and new head coach Brendon McCullum, the hosts are expected to come hard versus India in order to end the series in a 2-2 stalemate. India already have an unassailable lead, however, England would be desperate to not lose the series and, thus, will rely on their new and exciting style of play.

For India, they are yet to name their playing XI. However, regular captain Rohit Sharma is set to miss the one-off Test due to Covid-19 virus. In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah is likely to lead the side.

England's playing XI for 5th Test against India:

Alex Lees, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (c), Sam Billings (w), Matthew Potts, Stuart Broad, Jack Leach, James Anderson.

After whitewashing the World Test champions New Zealand, Ben Stokes-led England are all set to lock horns with Team India in the rescheduled fifth and final match of the incomplete five-match series, which took place last year, on Friday (July 01) in Edgbaston, Birmingham.

After whitewashing the World Test champions New Zealand, Ben Stokes-led England are all set to lock horns with Team India in the rescheduled fifth and final match of the incomplete five-match series, which took place last year, on Friday (July 01) in Edgbaston, Birmingham. On Thursday (June 30), the England Cricket's official Twitter handle shared the hosts' playing XI. It is a star-studded line-up which also sees the return of premier pacer James Anderson. For the unversed, the 39-year-old speedster had missed the third and final Test between England and New Zealand, in Headingley, Leeds, due to ankle injury. He replaces Craig Overton, who was playing in the swing bowler's place and scored a magnificent 97 in the first innings of the final Test versus the Kiwis. Further, wicketkeeper-batter Ben Foakes is also ruled out after having not yet recovered from Covid-19. The Englishman had also missed the second half of the series finale between the Three Lions and Black Caps last week. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid names 3 batters who could open for India if Rohit Sharma gets ruled out of 5th Test vs England England stunned one and all with their gung-ho approach during the NZ series at home. Under Stokes and new head coach Brendon McCullum, the hosts are expected to come hard versus India in order to end the series in a 2-2 stalemate. India already have an unassailable lead, however, England would be desperate to not lose the series and, thus, will rely on their new and exciting style of play. For India, they are yet to name their playing XI. However, regular captain Rohit Sharma is set to miss the one-off Test due to Covid-19 virus. In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah is likely to lead the side. England's playing XI for 5th Test against India: Alex Lees, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (c), Sam Billings (w), Matthew Potts, Stuart Broad, Jack Leach, James Anderson.

Eng vs Ind: Fit-again James Anderson returns as Ben Stokes & Co. announce playing XI for series decider

Team India are in a spot of bother ahead of the fifth and final Test versus England, which will get underway on July 01 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. On Sunday (June 26), the regular captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19 and went into isolation since then. As per a report in PTI, Rohit tested positive for the deadly virus once again on Wednesday (June 29) and was scheduled to undergo another&nbsp;test in the evening, followed by another on Thursday (June 30)&nbsp;on the eve of the final Test.&nbsp;

Addressing the media during a press conference, head coach Rahul Dravid spoke on Rohit's availability, whether Jasprit Bumrah will captain in Hitman's absence, and also made heads turn by stating that the team has plenty of options regarding who will open with Shubman Gill if Rohit misses out.&nbsp;

In this regard, Dravid said during a press conference, "We'll make a decision. We will weigh a lot of factors. Obviously, Mayank is a regular opener. someone who opens regularly. We have other options too; (KS) Bharat himself has opened in a lot of games for Andhra and showed in that side game that he is batting superbly at the moment. He scored a 70 and a 40 (43) after opening the batting. We got him to open in that innings keeping a lot of things in mind."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-5th-test-is-rohit-sharma-ruled-out-will-jasprit-bumrah-lead-visitors-dravid-gives-updates-493066">India vs England, 5th Test: Is Rohit Sharma ruled out? Will Jasprit Bumrah lead visitors? Dravid gives updates</a>

Dravid also added No. 3 batter Cheteshwar Pujara's name in the mix and said, "Pujara has got a lot of great quality. He has opened for India as well in the past. So I would not want to give things away, but like I said, in our minds, we are clear on the direction we are going. We will see what happens to Rohit, but I am not at liberty to disclose the playing XI. But we have clarity."

In Pujara's absence, when he was dropped for the Sri Lanka home series early this year, Hanuma Vihari had been slotted at the No. 3 position. Even Hanuma has opened for India in the MCG Test in 2018-19. Hence, India have a lot of options if Rohit misses out. For the unversed, regular opener KL Rahul is also out of action due to injury. Thus, India is without their two openers who commenced the innings in the four Tests of the incomplete five-match series versus England, which ended abruptly last year due to the Covid crisis in the then Virat Kohli-led Indian camp.

India is ahead by 2-1&nbsp;in the series and, thus, have an unassailable lead. Hence, they have a solid chance to win a Test series on English soil for the first time since 2007.

Team India are in a spot of bother ahead of the fifth and final Test versus England, which will get underway on July 01 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. On Sunday (June 26), the regular captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19 and went into isolation since then.

Team India are in a spot of bother ahead of the fifth and final Test versus England, which will get underway on July 01 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. On Sunday (June 26), the regular captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19 and went into isolation since then. As per a report in PTI, Rohit tested positive for the deadly virus once again on Wednesday (June 29) and was scheduled to undergo another test in the evening, followed by another on Thursday (June 30) on the eve of the final Test. Addressing the media during a press conference, head coach Rahul Dravid spoke on Rohit's availability, whether Jasprit Bumrah will captain in Hitman's absence, and also made heads turn by stating that the team has plenty of options regarding who will open with Shubman Gill if Rohit misses out. In this regard, Dravid said during a press conference, "We'll make a decision. We will weigh a lot of factors. Obviously, Mayank is a regular opener. someone who opens regularly. We have other options too; (KS) Bharat himself has opened in a lot of games for Andhra and showed in that side game that he is batting superbly at the moment. He scored a 70 and a 40 (43) after opening the batting. We got him to open in that innings keeping a lot of things in mind." ALSO READ | India vs England, 5th Test: Is Rohit Sharma ruled out? Will Jasprit Bumrah lead visitors? Dravid gives updates Dravid also added No. 3 batter Cheteshwar Pujara's name in the mix and said, "Pujara has got a lot of great quality. He has opened for India as well in the past. So I would not want to give things away, but like I said, in our minds, we are clear on the direction we are going. We will see what happens to Rohit, but I am not at liberty to disclose the playing XI. But we have clarity." In Pujara's absence, when he was dropped for the Sri Lanka home series early this year, Hanuma Vihari had been slotted at the No. 3 position. Even Hanuma has opened for India in the MCG Test in 2018-19. Hence, India have a lot of options if Rohit misses out. For the unversed, regular opener KL Rahul is also out of action due to injury. Thus, India is without their two openers who commenced the innings in the four Tests of the incomplete five-match series versus England, which ended abruptly last year due to the Covid crisis in the then Virat Kohli-led Indian camp. India is ahead by 2-1 in the series and, thus, have an unassailable lead. Hence, they have a solid chance to win a Test series on English soil for the first time since 2007.

Rahul Dravid names 3 batters who could open for India if Rohit Sharma gets ruled out of 5th Test vs England

Ahead of India's fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the visiting side was dealt with a major blow on Sunday (June 26) when regular captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19. Since then, he has isolated himself and is running against time to recover and become fully fit for the series decider, i.e, a spillover of the incomplete 2021 five-match series.

As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, it suggested that Rohit tested positive once again on Wednesday morning (June 29) and will undergo two more rounds of testing, one later in the day and the other on Thursday (June 30), before a final call is taken on his availability. In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah is being considered to lead India. If this happens, the 28-year-old speedster will become only the second pacer to captain India in whites after the legend Kapil Dev.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-to-captain-team-india-in-5th-test-vs-england-if-rohit-sharma-misses-out-report-492965">Jasprit Bumrah to captain Team India in 5th Test vs England if Rohit Sharma misses out: Report</a>

Amid all the uncertainity over Rohit and if Bumrah will lead in Hitman's absence, head coach Rahul Dravid spoke at&nbsp;the traditional press conference&nbsp;on Wednesday to share some vital updates. He spoke on Rohit's chances to play the series finale and if Bumrah will lead in case the former is ruled out.

"So the update on Rohit is that he is being monitored by our medical team, he is not yet been ruled out. Obviously, he needs to get the negative test to be available. We will keep monitoring him, we have still got close to 36 hours to go so he will have a test later tonight and one maybe tomorrow morning as well. We will see, it is really up to the medical team and sports science team to decide on that. We will keep monitoring,” Dravid told reporters ahead of the 5th Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-to-lead-india-in-1st-t20i-vs-england-regulars-rohit-kohli-and-bumrah-to-return-from-2nd-tie-report-493058">Hardik to lead India in 1st T20I vs England; regulars Rohit, Kohli and Bumrah to return from 2nd tie: Report</a>

On Bumrah, Dravid pointed out, "It's not fair for me to say it. You'll have to wait for official communication (through the selectors and the BCCI)."

For the unversed, India have an unassailable 2-1 lead in the incomplete series from last year. Ahead of the final Test, which will set to be held in Manchester in the last English summer, Covid crisis in the then Virat Kohli-led Indian camp led to the series decider being pushed by a year. Thus, India have a good chance to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil. However, it won't be an easy task without Rohit and an&nbsp;already injured KL Rahul (two of their best batters from the incomplete series).&nbsp;
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Ahead of India's fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the visiting side was dealt with a major blow on Sunday (June 26) when regular captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19.

Ahead of India's fifth and final Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the visiting side was dealt with a major blow on Sunday (June 26) when regular captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19. Since then, he has isolated himself and is running against time to recover and become fully fit for the series decider, i.e, a spillover of the incomplete 2021 five-match series. As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, it suggested that Rohit tested positive once again on Wednesday morning (June 29) and will undergo two more rounds of testing, one later in the day and the other on Thursday (June 30), before a final call is taken on his availability. In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah is being considered to lead India. If this happens, the 28-year-old speedster will become only the second pacer to captain India in whites after the legend Kapil Dev. ALSO READ | Jasprit Bumrah to captain Team India in 5th Test vs England if Rohit Sharma misses out: Report Amid all the uncertainity over Rohit and if Bumrah will lead in Hitman's absence, head coach Rahul Dravid spoke at the traditional press conference on Wednesday to share some vital updates. He spoke on Rohit's chances to play the series finale and if Bumrah will lead in case the former is ruled out. "So the update on Rohit is that he is being monitored by our medical team, he is not yet been ruled out. Obviously, he needs to get the negative test to be available. We will keep monitoring him, we have still got close to 36 hours to go so he will have a test later tonight and one maybe tomorrow morning as well. We will see, it is really up to the medical team and sports science team to decide on that. We will keep monitoring,” Dravid told reporters ahead of the 5th Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham. ALSO READ | Hardik to lead India in 1st T20I vs England; regulars Rohit, Kohli and Bumrah to return from 2nd tie: Report On Bumrah, Dravid pointed out, "It's not fair for me to say it. You'll have to wait for official communication (through the selectors and the BCCI)." For the unversed, India have an unassailable 2-1 lead in the incomplete series from last year. Ahead of the final Test, which will set to be held in Manchester in the last English summer, Covid crisis in the then Virat Kohli-led Indian camp led to the series decider being pushed by a year. Thus, India have a good chance to win their first-ever red-ball series on English soil. However, it won't be an easy task without Rohit and an already injured KL Rahul (two of their best batters from the incomplete series).

India vs England, 5th Test: Is Rohit Sharma ruled out? Will Jasprit Bumrah lead visitors? Dravid gives updates

India and England are all set to lock horns in the fifth and final Test, part of&nbsp;the incomplete 2021 red-ball series, on July 1 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. As the series finale&nbsp;will take place from July 01 to 05, the white-ball regulars from the Test line-up won't get enough time to rest and prepare for the three-match T20I series, which commences on July 07.

Thus, Hardik Pandya -- who led India to a 2-0 series whitewash over Ireland in the shortest format on Tuesday (June 28) -- will lead the Men in Blue in the T20I series opener versus England. As per a report in PTI, the players who were part of the Ireland series will play the opening T20I whereas regulars such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja will turn up for India from the second and penultimate tie, to be held on July 10. The third and final T20I will take place on July 10, followed by three ODIs.

"The squad that played T20I series in Ireland will remain in the first T20I and then from the second T20I, all the stars (Rohit, if fit, Kohli, Bumrah, Pant, Jadeja) will make a comeback. Once, they are well rested, all of them will be a part of the regular white ball side but most of the players in Ireland will remain till the end of T20I series," a source was quoted as saying by PTI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-captain-hardik-pandya-abuses-teammates-after-india-waste-a-review-during-2nd-t20i-vs-ireland-492889">WATCH: Captain Hardik Pandya abuses teammates after India waste a review during 2nd T20I vs Ireland</a>

The Indian team management is keen on rotating players and resting them at regular intervals with the T20 World Cup set to be held in Australia, later this year. Thus, with not much gap between the fifth Test and three T20Is, Rohit &amp; Co. will get some days off before the white-ball series versus England.

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Meanwhile, the&nbsp;Pandya-led side will also play the two practice matches, against Derbyshire (July 01) and Northamptonshire (July 03) respectively. With Rahul Dravid and other members of his coaching staff busy with the Test squad at that time, VVS Laxman and his staff -- who were in-charge of Hardik &amp; Co. in Ireland -- are expected&nbsp;to travel to England as well.
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India and England are all set to lock horns in the fifth and final Test, part of the incomplete 2021 red-ball series, on July 1 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. As the series finale will take place from July 01 to 05, the white-ball regulars from the Test line-up won't get enough time to rest and prepare for the three-match T20I series, which commences on July 07.

India and England are all set to lock horns in the fifth and final Test, part of the incomplete 2021 red-ball series, on July 1 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. As the series finale will take place from July 01 to 05, the white-ball regulars from the Test line-up won't get enough time to rest and prepare for the three-match T20I series, which commences on July 07. Thus, Hardik Pandya -- who led India to a 2-0 series whitewash over Ireland in the shortest format on Tuesday (June 28) -- will lead the Men in Blue in the T20I series opener versus England. As per a report in PTI, the players who were part of the Ireland series will play the opening T20I whereas regulars such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja will turn up for India from the second and penultimate tie, to be held on July 10. The third and final T20I will take place on July 10, followed by three ODIs. "The squad that played T20I series in Ireland will remain in the first T20I and then from the second T20I, all the stars (Rohit, if fit, Kohli, Bumrah, Pant, Jadeja) will make a comeback. Once, they are well rested, all of them will be a part of the regular white ball side but most of the players in Ireland will remain till the end of T20I series," a source was quoted as saying by PTI. ALSO READ | WATCH: Captain Hardik Pandya abuses teammates after India waste a review during 2nd T20I vs Ireland The Indian team management is keen on rotating players and resting them at regular intervals with the T20 World Cup set to be held in Australia, later this year. Thus, with not much gap between the fifth Test and three T20Is, Rohit & Co. will get some days off before the white-ball series versus England. Meanwhile, the Pandya-led side will also play the two practice matches, against Derbyshire (July 01) and Northamptonshire (July 03) respectively. With Rahul Dravid and other members of his coaching staff busy with the Test squad at that time, VVS Laxman and his staff -- who were in-charge of Hardik & Co. in Ireland -- are expected to travel to England as well.

Hardik to lead India in 1st T20I vs England; regulars Rohit, Kohli and Bumrah to return from 2nd tie: Report

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