While entire India continues to be in a 21-day lockdown period in a bid to fight back against the dreaded COVID-19, the sporting fraternity has come forward and donated their bit for the noble cause. Indian opener Rohit Sharma was the latest to join the growing list of sportspersons to donate their part to combat the novel coronavirus.

Rohit on Tuesday took to social media platform Twitter to confirm that he has donated Rs 80 lakh. The stylish Indian opener donated Rs 45 lakh to PM CARES Fund, Rs 25 Lakh to CM Relief Fun (Maharashtra), Rs 5 lakh to Feeding India and Rs 5 lakh to Welfare of Stray Dogs.&nbsp;

“We need our country back on feet &amp; the onus is on us. I’ve done my bit to donate 45lakhs to #PMCaresFunds, 25lakhs to #CMReliefFund Maharashtra, 5lakhs to @FeedingIndia and 5lakhs to #WelfareOfStrayDogs.Let’s get behind our leaders and support them @narendramodi @CMOMaharashtra,” Rohit tweeted on Tuesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-i-saw-it-coming-apurvi-chandela-opens-up-on-tokyo-olympics-postponement-and-life-in-lockdown-289643" hreflang="en">Exclusive: 'I saw it coming' - Apurvi Chandela opens up on Tokyo Olympics postponement and life in lockdown</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We need our country back on feet &amp; the onus is on us. I’ve done my bit to donate 45lakhs to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMCaresFunds?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMCaresFunds</a>, 25lakhs to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CMReliefFund?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CMReliefFund</a> Maharashtra, 5lakhs to <a href="https://twitter.com/FeedingIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FeedingIndia</a> and 5lakhs to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelfareOfStrayDogs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelfareOfStrayDogs</a>.Let’s get behind our leaders and support them <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOMaharashtra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOMaharashtra</a>
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1244848509951459328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Rohit has been pretty vocal about the health advisory by the Indian government as he has, several times, urged his fans and followers to remain indoors and adhere to the directives by the government. Even during the Instagram Live sessions with Kevin Pietersen and Yuzvendra Chahal, Rohit had stated that everyone wants to contribute something to their country and it is the right time to do that by simply staying indoors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2020-to-be-postponed-bcci-looking-to-free-august-september-window-for-ipl-2020-289617" hreflang="en">Asia Cup 2020 to be postponed? BCCI looking to free August-September window for IPL 2020</a>

Rohit is the not the first cricketer to step forward and donate his bit with the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Ajinkya Rahane, Suresh Raina, Pathan brothers, among many others, already contributed their part.&nbsp;

While the sporting calendar remains shattered due to COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have been restricted to train at their residence with a countrywide lockdown in place as per the orders by the Indian government. 
&nbsp;

While entire India continues to be in a 21-day lockdown period in a bid to fight back against the dreaded COVID-19, the sporting fraternity has come forward and donated their bit for the noble cause.

While entire India continues to be in a 21-day lockdown period in a bid to fight back against the dreaded COVID-19, the sporting fraternity has come forward and donated their bit for the noble cause. Indian opener Rohit Sharma was the latest to join the growing list of sportspersons to donate their part to combat the novel coronavirus. Rohit on Tuesday took to social media platform Twitter to confirm that he has donated Rs 80 lakh. The stylish Indian opener donated Rs 45 lakh to PM CARES Fund, Rs 25 Lakh to CM Relief Fun (Maharashtra), Rs 5 lakh to Feeding India and Rs 5 lakh to Welfare of Stray Dogs. “We need our country back on feet & the onus is on us. I’ve done my bit to donate 45lakhs to #PMCaresFunds, 25lakhs to #CMReliefFund Maharashtra, 5lakhs to @FeedingIndia and 5lakhs to #WelfareOfStrayDogs.Let’s get behind our leaders and support them @narendramodi @CMOMaharashtra,” Rohit tweeted on Tuesday. ALSO READ: Exclusive: 'I saw it coming' - Apurvi Chandela opens up on Tokyo Olympics postponement and life in lockdown We need our country back on feet & the onus is on us. I’ve done my bit to donate 45lakhs to #PMCaresFunds, 25lakhs to #CMReliefFund Maharashtra, 5lakhs to @FeedingIndia and 5lakhs to #WelfareOfStrayDogs.Let’s get behind our leaders and support them @narendramodi @CMOMaharashtra — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) March 31, 2020 × Rohit has been pretty vocal about the health advisory by the Indian government as he has, several times, urged his fans and followers to remain indoors and adhere to the directives by the government. Even during the Instagram Live sessions with Kevin Pietersen and Yuzvendra Chahal, Rohit had stated that everyone wants to contribute something to their country and it is the right time to do that by simply staying indoors. ALSO READ: Asia Cup 2020 to be postponed? BCCI looking to free August-September window for IPL 2020 Rohit is the not the first cricketer to step forward and donate his bit with the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Ajinkya Rahane, Suresh Raina, Pathan brothers, among many others, already contributed their part. While the sporting calendar remains shattered due to COVID-19 pandemic, sportspersons have been restricted to train at their residence with a countrywide lockdown in place as per the orders by the Indian government.

Rohit Sharma donates Rs 80 lakh to combat COVID-19 pandemic

India's prolific opening batsmen Rohit Sharma has said that the Indian Premier League can wait 'till life gets normal'.&nbsp;

The Mumbai Indian skipper had an Instagram live video chat with Yuzvendra Chahal where he said that the situation has to get normal before the league can begin.&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League was postponed from March 29 to April 15 due to the novel coronavirus spread in the country, but it looks like the league could be further postponed or even get scrapped if the situation gets out of hands.&nbsp;

"Everyone wants to know about IPL. As cricketers, we all want to play. But we should see the situation. I don't decide about the IPL, but we should first think about the country. The situation needs to get better first then we can talk about the IPL. Let life get back to normal first, and for that, all of us have to be disciplined," Rohit said after Chahal asked him about the IPL.

"I haven't seen Bombay like this before," Rohit showed the deserted streets of Mumbai.&nbsp;

"As cricketers, we don't get time with family. So much of tours and cricket is there. This is a time to spend with them and loads of it," he added.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma was set to make his comeback in this edition's IPL after resting in South Africa and New Zealand's half of the series.&nbsp;

Mumbai Indians has won the most number of IPL trophies. They have lifted the coveted trophy four times.&nbsp;

India currently has over 700 cases of the novel coronavirus, whereas the pandemic has killed 17 people across the nation.&nbsp;

India's prolific opening batsmen Rohit Sharma has said that the Indian Premier League can wait 'till life gets normal'. The Mumbai Indian skipper had an Instagram live video chat with Yuzvendra Chahal where he said that the situation has to get normal before the league can begin.

India's prolific opening batsmen Rohit Sharma has said that the Indian Premier League can wait 'till life gets normal'. The Mumbai Indian skipper had an Instagram live video chat with Yuzvendra Chahal where he said that the situation has to get normal before the league can begin. The Indian Premier League was postponed from March 29 to April 15 due to the novel coronavirus spread in the country, but it looks like the league could be further postponed or even get scrapped if the situation gets out of hands. "Everyone wants to know about IPL. As cricketers, we all want to play. But we should see the situation. I don't decide about the IPL, but we should first think about the country. The situation needs to get better first then we can talk about the IPL. Let life get back to normal first, and for that, all of us have to be disciplined," Rohit said after Chahal asked him about the IPL. "I haven't seen Bombay like this before," Rohit showed the deserted streets of Mumbai. "As cricketers, we don't get time with family. So much of tours and cricket is there. This is a time to spend with them and loads of it," he added. Rohit Sharma was set to make his comeback in this edition's IPL after resting in South Africa and New Zealand's half of the series. Mumbai Indians has won the most number of IPL trophies. They have lifted the coveted trophy four times. India currently has over 700 cases of the novel coronavirus, whereas the pandemic has killed 17 people across the nation.

IPL can wait till situation gets normal, says Rohit Sharma as India continues to battle accelerated COVID-19

Rohit Sharma is known to play best shots against the short balls, he is called the 'Pull King' for his signature pull shot sixes. These shots have featured in almost every innings played.&nbsp;

ICC tweeted a picture of four legendary cricketers asking who is the better player in terms of pull shots. Rohit Sharma was missing out in the options. The prolific Indian Batsman took a dig at ICC.&nbsp;

ICC posted this:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Which batsman, past or present, has the best pull shot, in your opinion? 👀 <a href="https://t.co/TAXf8rr3el">pic.twitter.com/TAXf8rr3el</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1241522487055302663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

To which Rohit Sharma responded:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Someone’s missing here ?? Not easy to work from home I guess <a href="https://t.co/sbonEva7AM">https://t.co/sbonEva7AM</a>
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1241670466558812160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the entire sporting world has come to a halt. In India, at least 400 people have been tested positive for the COVID-19 with new cases surfacing with each passing day. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) not only decided to suspend the highly-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 until April 15 while suspending the entire domestic season until further notice.

Rohit Sharma is known to play best shots against the short balls, he is called the 'Pull King' for his signature pull shot sixes. These shots have featured in almost every innings played.

Rohit Sharma is known to play best shots against the short balls, he is called the 'Pull King' for his signature pull shot sixes. These shots have featured in almost every innings played. ICC tweeted a picture of four legendary cricketers asking who is the better player in terms of pull shots. Rohit Sharma was missing out in the options. The prolific Indian Batsman took a dig at ICC. ICC posted this: Which batsman, past or present, has the best pull shot, in your opinion? 👀 pic.twitter.com/TAXf8rr3el — ICC (@ICC) March 22, 2020 × To which Rohit Sharma responded: Someone’s missing here ?? Not easy to work from home I guess https://t.co/sbonEva7AM — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) March 22, 2020 × With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the entire sporting world has come to a halt. In India, at least 400 people have been tested positive for the COVID-19 with new cases surfacing with each passing day. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) not only decided to suspend the highly-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 until April 15 while suspending the entire domestic season until further notice.

'Not easy to work from home' - Rohit Sharma takes sly dig at ICC after 'Best Pull Shot' tweet

There has been a lot of talks surrounding split captaincy in the Indian cricket team. While Virat Kohli has done tremendously well in leading the Men in Blue across formats, there have been calls to make Rohit Sharma the skipper of the T20I side. Former chairman of selectors – MSK Prasad – was of the view that there’s no point in the change of captaincy as leadership brings the best of Kohli. And now Kohli’s childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has responded to the calls that the Indian cricket team should adopt to the split captaincy system which has seen the likes of Australia and England reach greater heights.

Rajkumar opined that split captaincy culture is not there in Indian cricket while adding as long as Kohli is capable of leading the team and is performing well at the same time, then he should continue leading Team India across formats. However, Rajkumar did praise Rohit for his captaincy in the Indian Premier League for Mumbai Indians.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-cant-look-beyond-ms-dhoni-if-he-is-fit-and-firing-wasim-jaffer-287325">Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">"I don't think there is split captaincy culture here"</h2>

“As long as Virat is capable and if the team is doing well in all three formats......I don't think there is split captaincy culture here (Indian cricket). I think that he should continue as long as he is performing well. Rohit Sharma is a brilliant captain. He has won IPL four times and is a brilliant captain in T20 format but as far as captaining India team goes, Virat Kohli is doing well and he should continue as captain,” Rajkumar told a leading media outlet.

Earlier, Prasad had said if the skipper of Indian team is the number one batsman in all formats then there should be no problem in him leading the team while adding that Kohli’s strategies have worked wonders for the Men in Blue in all formats of the game.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-tendulkar-urges-everyone-to-draw-lessons-from-test-cricket-to-tackle-covid-19-287309">Sachin Tendulkar urges everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket to tackle COVID-19</a>

“I don't agree with it (having different captains in different formats). Virat loves captaincy and captaincy brings best out of Virat. His performances haven't dropped because of captaincy. And when our captain is number 1 batsman in all formats......what's the problem? He has been coming up world-class performances across formats. His strategy is working well in all formats,” Prasad had earlier said.

Meanwhile, with the cricketing action coming to an unusual halt due to the novel coronavirus, it remains to be seen when the matches resume in the gentlemen’s game. 
<o:p></o:p>

There has been a lot of talks surrounding split captaincy in the Indian cricket team. While Virat Kohli has done tremendously well in leading the Men in Blue across formats, there have been calls to make Rohit Sharma the skipper of the T20I side.

There has been a lot of talks surrounding split captaincy in the Indian cricket team. While Virat Kohli has done tremendously well in leading the Men in Blue across formats, there have been calls to make Rohit Sharma the skipper of the T20I side. Former chairman of selectors – MSK Prasad – was of the view that there’s no point in the change of captaincy as leadership brings the best of Kohli. And now Kohli’s childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma has responded to the calls that the Indian cricket team should adopt to the split captaincy system which has seen the likes of Australia and England reach greater heights. Rajkumar opined that split captaincy culture is not there in Indian cricket while adding as long as Kohli is capable of leading the team and is performing well at the same time, then he should continue leading Team India across formats. However, Rajkumar did praise Rohit for his captaincy in the Indian Premier League for Mumbai Indians. ALSO READ: Team India can't look beyond MS Dhoni if he is fit and firing: Wasim Jaffer "I don't think there is split captaincy culture here" “As long as Virat is capable and if the team is doing well in all three formats......I don't think there is split captaincy culture here (Indian cricket). I think that he should continue as long as he is performing well. Rohit Sharma is a brilliant captain. He has won IPL four times and is a brilliant captain in T20 format but as far as captaining India team goes, Virat Kohli is doing well and he should continue as captain,” Rajkumar told a leading media outlet. Earlier, Prasad had said if the skipper of Indian team is the number one batsman in all formats then there should be no problem in him leading the team while adding that Kohli’s strategies have worked wonders for the Men in Blue in all formats of the game. ALSO READ: Sachin Tendulkar urges everyone to draw lessons from Test cricket to tackle COVID-19 “I don't agree with it (having different captains in different formats). Virat loves captaincy and captaincy brings best out of Virat. His performances haven't dropped because of captaincy. And when our captain is number 1 batsman in all formats......what's the problem? He has been coming up world-class performances across formats. His strategy is working well in all formats,” Prasad had earlier said. Meanwhile, with the cricketing action coming to an unusual halt due to the novel coronavirus, it remains to be seen when the matches resume in the gentlemen’s game.

'Rohit Sharma is a brilliant skipper but...' - Virat Kohli's childhood coach opines on spit captaincy calls in Indian cricket team

The game of cricket has evolved over time. While the earlier phase of the gentlemen's game used to see players taking their time and patience, the shortened version of the sport has seen matches being extremely fast-paced. With cricket evolving so much, former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has predicted which player will score the first-ever double century in T20 cricket.

Hogg was having a question-answer session on social media platform Twitter where a fan asked him: "@Brad_Hogg who do you think will be the first to make a T20 double-hundred?"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/Brad_Hogg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Brad_Hogg</a> who do you think will be the first to make a T20 double-hundred?
— shivam jaiswal (@shivamj1998) <a href="https://twitter.com/shivamj1998/status/1239078492244856832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The former Aussie spinner was quick to answer to the query as he predicted that Indian opener Rohit Sharma is the only player capable of hitting the double-ton mark in the shortest format of the game. Hogg, while justifying his prediction, said that the 'Hitman' has a good strike-rate, is a superb timer of the ball and plays shorts all over the park.&nbsp;

"Rohit Sharma at presently is the only player I think capable of it. Good strike rate, all timing, and plays cricketing shots finding six options all around the ground," Hogg replied.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rohit Sharma at presently is the only player I think capable of it. Good strike rate, all timing, and plays cricketing shots finding six options all around the ground. <a href="https://t.co/WmHatsrJpO">https://t.co/WmHatsrJpO</a>
— Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) <a href="https://twitter.com/Brad_Hogg/status/1239085012869234689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In total, five batsmen have scored double centuries in men's ODI with Rohit being the player with most double tons in the shorter format of the game – three. While Sachin Tendulkar was the first player ever, in ODIs, to score a double century in 2010, Rohit went on to hammer double centuries in 2013 (vs Australia), 2014 and 2017 (vs Sri Lanka).

While cricketing action is currently at a halt amid coronavirus pandemic, it will be interesting to see whether Rohit achieves the feat when the action resumes after the situation improves.

The game of cricket has evolved over time. While the earlier phase of the gentlemen's game used to see players taking their time and patience, the shortened version of the sport has seen matches being extremely fast-paced.

The game of cricket has evolved over time. While the earlier phase of the gentlemen's game used to see players taking their time and patience, the shortened version of the sport has seen matches being extremely fast-paced. With cricket evolving so much, former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has predicted which player will score the first-ever double century in T20 cricket. Hogg was having a question-answer session on social media platform Twitter where a fan asked him: "@Brad_Hogg who do you think will be the first to make a T20 double-hundred?" @Brad_Hogg who do you think will be the first to make a T20 double-hundred? — shivam jaiswal (@shivamj1998) March 15, 2020 × The former Aussie spinner was quick to answer to the query as he predicted that Indian opener Rohit Sharma is the only player capable of hitting the double-ton mark in the shortest format of the game. Hogg, while justifying his prediction, said that the 'Hitman' has a good strike-rate, is a superb timer of the ball and plays shorts all over the park. "Rohit Sharma at presently is the only player I think capable of it. Good strike rate, all timing, and plays cricketing shots finding six options all around the ground," Hogg replied. Rohit Sharma at presently is the only player I think capable of it. Good strike rate, all timing, and plays cricketing shots finding six options all around the ground. https://t.co/WmHatsrJpO — Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) March 15, 2020 × In total, five batsmen have scored double centuries in men's ODI with Rohit being the player with most double tons in the shorter format of the game – three. While Sachin Tendulkar was the first player ever, in ODIs, to score a double century in 2010, Rohit went on to hammer double centuries in 2013 (vs Australia), 2014 and 2017 (vs Sri Lanka). While cricketing action is currently at a halt amid coronavirus pandemic, it will be interesting to see whether Rohit achieves the feat when the action resumes after the situation improves.

Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg predicts which player will score first double century in T20 cricket

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the entire sporting world has come to a halt. In India, at least 110 person have been tested positive for the COVID-19 with new cases surfacing&nbsp;with each passing day. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) not only decided to suspend the highly-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 until April 15 while suspending the entire domestic season until further notice.

Senior Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma on Monday took to social media platform Twitter to post a heartfelt message for all those infected by the novel coronavirus while also providing precautionary measures for all his fans. Rohit posted a video on Twitter as he captioned it: "Stay safe everyone."

Rohit, in the video, said that only unity can help everyone defeat the novel coronavirus while adding everyone has to be smart in knowing their surroundings. The 'Hitman' further said that if anyone gets any sort of symptoms related to the COVID-19, then he/she should inform the nearest medical authorities on an immediate basis. Rohit concluded by thanking the doctors who have put their lives at risk to battle out the novel coronavirus.

"Hello everyone, Rohit Sharma here. I just wanted to talk about a few things. The last few weeks have been tough times for all of us and the world has come to a standstill which is very very sad to see and the only way we can comeback to normal is by all of us coming together. How we can do this? We can do this by being a little smart, little proactive, knowing our surroundings and when you get any symptoms, inform your nearest medical authorities because we all want kids to go to schools, we all want to go to the malls, we all want to watch movies in the theatres," Rohit said in the video.

"I appreciate the efforts by the doctors, who have put their lives at risk while taking care of the people who have tested positive. Last but not the least, my heart goes out to those who have lost their lives and their families. Take care and be safe," he added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Stay safe everyone. <a href="https://t.co/2ABy1XUeTP">pic.twitter.com/2ABy1XUeTP</a>
— Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1239446865638129664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

With all cricketing action suspended due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, Rohit is likely to be seen in action when IPL 2020 action resumes after April 15. Rohit will be seen captaining Mumbai Indians and the four-time IPL winners will be looking to defend their title.

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the entire sporting world has come to a halt. In India, at least 110 person have been tested positive for the COVID-19 with new cases surfacing with each passing day.

With the novel coronavirus spreading like a wildfire, the entire sporting world has come to a halt. In India, at least 110 person have been tested positive for the COVID-19 with new cases surfacing with each passing day. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) not only decided to suspend the highly-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 until April 15 while suspending the entire domestic season until further notice. Senior Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma on Monday took to social media platform Twitter to post a heartfelt message for all those infected by the novel coronavirus while also providing precautionary measures for all his fans. Rohit posted a video on Twitter as he captioned it: "Stay safe everyone." Rohit, in the video, said that only unity can help everyone defeat the novel coronavirus while adding everyone has to be smart in knowing their surroundings. The 'Hitman' further said that if anyone gets any sort of symptoms related to the COVID-19, then he/she should inform the nearest medical authorities on an immediate basis. Rohit concluded by thanking the doctors who have put their lives at risk to battle out the novel coronavirus. "Hello everyone, Rohit Sharma here. I just wanted to talk about a few things. The last few weeks have been tough times for all of us and the world has come to a standstill which is very very sad to see and the only way we can comeback to normal is by all of us coming together. How we can do this? We can do this by being a little smart, little proactive, knowing our surroundings and when you get any symptoms, inform your nearest medical authorities because we all want kids to go to schools, we all want to go to the malls, we all want to watch movies in the theatres," Rohit said in the video. "I appreciate the efforts by the doctors, who have put their lives at risk while taking care of the people who have tested positive. Last but not the least, my heart goes out to those who have lost their lives and their families. Take care and be safe," he added. Stay safe everyone. pic.twitter.com/2ABy1XUeTP — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) March 16, 2020 × With all cricketing action suspended due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, Rohit is likely to be seen in action when IPL 2020 action resumes after April 15. Rohit will be seen captaining Mumbai Indians and the four-time IPL winners will be looking to defend their title.

WATCH: 'Stay safe everyone' - Rohit Sharma posts heartfelt message as coronavirus wreaks havoc

BCCI, on Tuesday, announced their Test squad for the New Zealand tour. Two-test matches will be played between India and New Zealand. Prithvi Shaw is set to return in Test squad in the absence of India's prolific opener Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-ruled-out-of-new-zealand-tour-due-to-injury-gill-and-agarwal-to-replace-278428">Rohit Sharma ruled out of New Zealand tour due to injury; Gill and Agarwal to replace</a>

Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui. He scored 60 runs off 41 balls, he retired hurt after he pulled his calf muscle while running a quick single.

The squad:&nbsp;

Virat Kolhi (Captain), Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohd. Shami, Navdeep Saini, Ishant Sharma (subject to fitness clearance).

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India’s Test squad: Virat (Capt), Mayank, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman, Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vc), Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohd. Shami, Navdeep Saini, Ishant Sharma (subject to fitness clearance).
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1224518987016331265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

KL Rahul's name was missing from the squad which comes as a shock to many. Pacer spearhead Navdeep Saini has been given a chance to be in the squad and Shubman Gill is also a part of the Indian squad. Ishant Sharma was reported to miss the entire tour before but is now in the squad as a subject to regain his fitness to 100 per cent.&nbsp;

As of now, Mayank Agarwal has come as a replacement for the Indian vice-captain in the ODI series against the Blackcaps. Prithvi Shaw and KL Rahul are most likely to open the innings for India in the following matches.

India will take on New Zealand in the three-match ODI series tomorrow. Kane Williamson has been ruled out from the first two ODI matches following an injury. Mark Chapman will replace the Blackcap skipper. Tom Latham will lead the side for the two ODI matches.

India will be looking to continue their winning run against the Kiwi as they clean swept the T20I series, with this India, have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin.

BCCI, on Tuesday, announced their Test squad for the New Zealand tour. Two-test matches will be played between India and New Zealand. Prithvi Shaw is set to return in Test squad in the absence of India's prolific opener Rohit Sharma.

BCCI, on Tuesday, announced their Test squad for the New Zealand tour. Two-test matches will be played between India and New Zealand. Prithvi Shaw is set to return in Test squad in the absence of India's prolific opener Rohit Sharma. Also read: Rohit Sharma ruled out of New Zealand tour due to injury; Gill and Agarwal to replace Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui. He scored 60 runs off 41 balls, he retired hurt after he pulled his calf muscle while running a quick single. The squad: Virat Kolhi (Captain), Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohd. Shami, Navdeep Saini, Ishant Sharma (subject to fitness clearance). India’s Test squad: Virat (Capt), Mayank, Prithvi Shaw, Shubman, Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane (vc), Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), R. Ashwin, R. Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Mohd. Shami, Navdeep Saini, Ishant Sharma (subject to fitness clearance). — BCCI (@BCCI) February 4, 2020 × KL Rahul's name was missing from the squad which comes as a shock to many. Pacer spearhead Navdeep Saini has been given a chance to be in the squad and Shubman Gill is also a part of the Indian squad. Ishant Sharma was reported to miss the entire tour before but is now in the squad as a subject to regain his fitness to 100 per cent. As of now, Mayank Agarwal has come as a replacement for the Indian vice-captain in the ODI series against the Blackcaps. Prithvi Shaw and KL Rahul are most likely to open the innings for India in the following matches. India will take on New Zealand in the three-match ODI series tomorrow. Kane Williamson has been ruled out from the first two ODI matches following an injury. Mark Chapman will replace the Blackcap skipper. Tom Latham will lead the side for the two ODI matches. India will be looking to continue their winning run against the Kiwi as they clean swept the T20I series, with this India, have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin.

India vs New Zealand Tests: Prithvi Shaw, Navdeep Saini in, Rohit Sharma out

India is set to face New Zealand for the first ODI of the series on Wednesday at Hamilton.&nbsp;

India will look forward to continuing their winning spree over the hosts as they already clean-swept New Zealand in the T20I series (5-0) on Sunday.

The deflated Kiwi side have already faced a setback before the beginning of the match tomorrow. Their in-form batsmen and skipper Kane Williamson has been ruled of the first two ODIs versus India following a shoulder injury. Mark Chapman has been called as the replace meant and Tom Latham has been declared as the Captain of the New Zealand side for first two ODIs.

India's prolific opener Rohit Sharma has also been ruled out for rest of the tour after he was struck by a calf injury.&nbsp;

Mayank Agarwal is set to replace Rohit in the ODIs. This tour will witness the come back of India's young prodigy Prithvi Shaw. The 20-year-old is expected to open the game for India alongside KL Rahul.

Prithvi Shaw has recently come out of 8-month long ban after he failed the doping test. He has been a part of India A and his fertile innings versus the New Zealand A earned him a spot in the team.

Last time these two heavyweights collided in this format was in the semifinal clash of the World Cup in England.

Skies in Hamilton are set to be clear and the opener is set to have a sunny day. Fans will be happy to know that there are no chances of precipitation tomorrow.&nbsp;

The match is scheduled to begin at 7:30 AM (IST).

India's probable XI: KL Rahul (wk), Prithvi Shaw, Virat Kohli (captain), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, R Jadeja/Kuldeep Yadav, Shivam Dube, Shardul Thakur, Navdeep Saini, Jasprit Bumrah.

New Zealand's probable XI: Martin Guptill, Henry Nicholls, Ross Taylor, Tom Latham(wk/captain), Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Hamish Bennett, Ish Sodhi, Scott Kuggeleijn

The ODI squads:

India: Lokesh Rahul(w), Mayank Agarwal, Virat Kohli(c), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Prithvi Shaw, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Kedar Jadhav, Shardul Thakur

New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Henry Nicholls, Ross Taylor, Tom Latham(w/c), Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Hamish Bennett, Ish Sodhi, Tom Blundell, Kyle Jamieson, Scott Kuggeleijn

India is set to face New Zealand for the first ODI of the series on Wednesday at Hamilton. India will look forward to continuing their winning spree over the hosts as they already clean-swept New Zealand in the T20I series (5-0) on Sunday.

India is set to face New Zealand for the first ODI of the series on Wednesday at Hamilton. India will look forward to continuing their winning spree over the hosts as they already clean-swept New Zealand in the T20I series (5-0) on Sunday. The deflated Kiwi side have already faced a setback before the beginning of the match tomorrow. Their in-form batsmen and skipper Kane Williamson has been ruled of the first two ODIs versus India following a shoulder injury. Mark Chapman has been called as the replace meant and Tom Latham has been declared as the Captain of the New Zealand side for first two ODIs. India's prolific opener Rohit Sharma has also been ruled out for rest of the tour after he was struck by a calf injury. Mayank Agarwal is set to replace Rohit in the ODIs. This tour will witness the come back of India's young prodigy Prithvi Shaw. The 20-year-old is expected to open the game for India alongside KL Rahul. Prithvi Shaw has recently come out of 8-month long ban after he failed the doping test. He has been a part of India A and his fertile innings versus the New Zealand A earned him a spot in the team. Last time these two heavyweights collided in this format was in the semifinal clash of the World Cup in England. Skies in Hamilton are set to be clear and the opener is set to have a sunny day. Fans will be happy to know that there are no chances of precipitation tomorrow. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:30 AM (IST). India's probable XI: KL Rahul (wk), Prithvi Shaw, Virat Kohli (captain), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, R Jadeja/Kuldeep Yadav, Shivam Dube, Shardul Thakur, Navdeep Saini, Jasprit Bumrah. New Zealand's probable XI: Martin Guptill, Henry Nicholls, Ross Taylor, Tom Latham(wk/captain), Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Hamish Bennett, Ish Sodhi, Scott Kuggeleijn The ODI squads: India: Lokesh Rahul(w), Mayank Agarwal, Virat Kohli(c), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Prithvi Shaw, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Kedar Jadhav, Shardul Thakur New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Henry Nicholls, Ross Taylor, Tom Latham(w/c), Mark Chapman, James Neesham, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Hamish Bennett, Ish Sodhi, Tom Blundell, Kyle Jamieson, Scott Kuggeleijn

India vs New Zealand 1st ODI: Virat Kohli-led Team India look to continue winning streak against Black Caps

Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui. He scored 60 runs off 41 balls, he retired hurt after he pulled his calf muscle while running a quick single.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-breaks-world-record-bowls-most-maiden-overs-in-t20is-278334" hreflang="en">Jasprit Bumrah breaks world record, bowls most maiden overs in T20Is</a>

As of now, Mayank Agarwal has come as a replacement for the Indian vice-captain in the ODI series against the Blackcaps. Prithvi Shaw and KL Rahul are most likely to open the innings for India in the following matches.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-goes-past-virat-kohli-in-terms-of-most-50-score-in-t20is-278244" hreflang="en">Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli</a>

Agarwal was the first pick as he had replaced Shikhar Dhawan (knee injury) in ODIs against West Indies. &nbsp;

Shubman Gill is set to replace Rohit Sharma in Tests as a third opener, Shaw and Rahul again are predicted to open the game for India.&nbsp;

In the last two-Test series at home (South Africa and Bangladesh), Shubman was a backup for Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal.&nbsp;

The whole Test squad is yet to be announced.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma had recently overtaken the Indian skipper in terms of most 50+ scores in T20Is.&nbsp;

India extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession.

With the clean sweep against the Black Caps, India have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin.

Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui.

Indian cricket team's vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the New Zealand tour following a calf injury. The injury was struck during the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday at Mount Maunganui. He scored 60 runs off 41 balls, he retired hurt after he pulled his calf muscle while running a quick single. Also read: Jasprit Bumrah breaks world record, bowls most maiden overs in T20Is As of now, Mayank Agarwal has come as a replacement for the Indian vice-captain in the ODI series against the Blackcaps. Prithvi Shaw and KL Rahul are most likely to open the innings for India in the following matches. Also read: Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli Agarwal was the first pick as he had replaced Shikhar Dhawan (knee injury) in ODIs against West Indies. Shubman Gill is set to replace Rohit Sharma in Tests as a third opener, Shaw and Rahul again are predicted to open the game for India. In the last two-Test series at home (South Africa and Bangladesh), Shubman was a backup for Rohit Sharma and Mayank Agarwal. The whole Test squad is yet to be announced. Rohit Sharma had recently overtaken the Indian skipper in terms of most 50+ scores in T20Is. India extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession. With the clean sweep against the Black Caps, India have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin.

Rohit Sharma ruled out of New Zealand tour due to injury; Gill and Agarwal to replace

KL Rahul has earned his career-best T20I rankings after displaying an outstanding form for India in the T20I series against New Zealand. He is currently ranked two in the ICC top, 10 batsmen, in T20I list. He scored the highest runs in the 5-match series (224 runs).&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-goes-past-virat-kohli-in-terms-of-most-50-score-in-t20is-278244">Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I freaking love this game🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/iT76YJheIP">pic.twitter.com/iT76YJheIP</a>
— K L Rahul (@klrahul11) <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul11/status/1222488123336036352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Rohit Sharma's World Record of most 50+ scores in T20I helped him jump three ranks, he is currently ranked at number 10. This is Rohit's 25th 50+ score (21 half-centuries, 4 centuries) for team India, it has also helped the prolific Indian opener almost bridge the gap between him and Kohli in terms of T20I career runs. The difference is down to just 21 runs. Kohli still leads in the list of most half-centuries (24 half-centuries).&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
“Everything negative – pressure, challenges – is all an opportunity to rise.” 
. 
. 
Proud of this team. 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MambaMentality?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MambaMentality</a> <a href="https://t.co/14iaWHppOg">pic.twitter.com/14iaWHppOg</a>
— Jasprit Bumrah (@Jaspritbumrah93) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jaspritbumrah93/status/1223938796468817920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Shreyas Iyer (currently ranked 55th) and Manish Pandey (currently ranked 58th) jumped 63 ranks and 12 ranks respectively.&nbsp;

Virat Kolhi retained his ninth rank after a decent performance of 105 runs in four matches.&nbsp;

Three Indian batsmen are in the top 10 ranked batsmen in T20I's list.&nbsp;

India's bowling attack has also earned a massive upgrade after defending modest totals put up by India.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-breaks-world-record-bowls-most-maiden-overs-in-t20is-278334">Jasprit Bumrah</a>'s (currently ranked 11th) unique World Record in the final T20I helped him gain 26 places. He has become the bowler to bowl most maiden overs in T20I history. The 26-year-old has 7 maidens to his name in T20Is.&nbsp;

Yuzvendra Chahal has gone 10 places up and is currently ranked 30th, Shardul Thakur's nail-biting final over in the fourth T20I helped India seal a victory against the Kiwis. Thakur scalped eight wickets in the series and has jumped 34 places to 57th position. Navdeep Saini and Ravindra Jadeja's efficient bowling helped them earn rank no 71 and 76 respectively.&nbsp;

India will be looking to continue their winning run against the Kiwi as they clean swept the T20I series, with this India, have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin. India have extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession.&nbsp;

KL Rahul has earned his career-best T20I rankings after displaying an outstanding form for India in the T20I series against New Zealand. He is currently ranked two in the ICC top, 10 batsmen, in T20I list.

KL Rahul has earned his career-best T20I rankings after displaying an outstanding form for India in the T20I series against New Zealand. He is currently ranked two in the ICC top, 10 batsmen, in T20I list. He scored the highest runs in the 5-match series (224 runs). Also read: Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli I freaking love this game🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/iT76YJheIP — K L Rahul (@klrahul11) January 29, 2020 × Rohit Sharma's World Record of most 50+ scores in T20I helped him jump three ranks, he is currently ranked at number 10. This is Rohit's 25th 50+ score (21 half-centuries, 4 centuries) for team India, it has also helped the prolific Indian opener almost bridge the gap between him and Kohli in terms of T20I career runs. The difference is down to just 21 runs. Kohli still leads in the list of most half-centuries (24 half-centuries). “Everything negative – pressure, challenges – is all an opportunity to rise.” . . Proud of this team. 🇮🇳#MambaMentality pic.twitter.com/14iaWHppOg — Jasprit Bumrah (@Jaspritbumrah93) February 2, 2020 × Shreyas Iyer (currently ranked 55th) and Manish Pandey (currently ranked 58th) jumped 63 ranks and 12 ranks respectively. Virat Kolhi retained his ninth rank after a decent performance of 105 runs in four matches. Three Indian batsmen are in the top 10 ranked batsmen in T20I's list. India's bowling attack has also earned a massive upgrade after defending modest totals put up by India. Jasprit Bumrah's (currently ranked 11th) unique World Record in the final T20I helped him gain 26 places. He has become the bowler to bowl most maiden overs in T20I history. The 26-year-old has 7 maidens to his name in T20Is. Yuzvendra Chahal has gone 10 places up and is currently ranked 30th, Shardul Thakur's nail-biting final over in the fourth T20I helped India seal a victory against the Kiwis. Thakur scalped eight wickets in the series and has jumped 34 places to 57th position. Navdeep Saini and Ravindra Jadeja's efficient bowling helped them earn rank no 71 and 76 respectively. India will be looking to continue their winning run against the Kiwi as they clean swept the T20I series, with this India, have become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin. India have extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession.

India players rise in ICC T20I rankings after clean sweep over New Zealand

Indian opener&nbsp;Rohit Sharma broke&nbsp;another record in the absence of Indian skipper Virat Kohli in the final T20I against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui on Sunday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-whitewash-new-zealand-wins-fifth-t20i-by-seven-runs-278153">India whitewash New Zealand, wins fifth T20I by seven runs</a>

Rohit's 60 runs off 41 balls helped him to surpass Virat&nbsp;Kohli in the list of players with most 50+ scores in T20Is.

This is Rohit's 25th 50+ score (21 half-centuries, 4 centuries) for team India, it has also helped the prolific Indian opener almost bridge the gap between him and Kohli in terms of T20I career runs. The difference is down to just 21 runs. Kohli still leads in the list of most half-centuries (24 half-centuries).&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
FIFTY!<a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> brings up his 21st T20I half-century off 36 deliveries. 
 
Live - <a href="https://t.co/3a7zBdRNm2">https://t.co/3a7zBdRNm2</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/N1nRDSvNjo">pic.twitter.com/N1nRDSvNjo</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1223881275422887936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The list of batsmen with most 50+ scores in T20I:

1). Rohit Sharma (Ind): 25&nbsp; 
2). Virat Kohli (Ind): 24&nbsp; 
3). Paul Stirling (Ireland), Martin Guptill (NZ): 17 
4). David Warner (Aus): 16

Rohit Sharma was retired hurt during the 5th T20I, he was struck by&nbsp;a calf injury. He predicted to be fit in a few days.&nbsp;

India extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession. Chasing a target of 164 runs, New Zealand witnessed a very poor start as three of their batsmen were sent back to the pavilion before the completion of four overs.

With the clean sweep against the Black Caps, India has become the first team to win a T20I series with&nbsp;5-0 margin.

Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke another record in the absence of Indian skipper Virat Kohli in the final T20I against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui on Sunday. Also read: India whitewash New Zealand, wins fifth T20I by seven runs Rohit's 60 runs off 41 balls helped him to surpass Virat Kohli in the list of players with most 50+ scores in T20Is.

Indian opener Rohit Sharma broke another record in the absence of Indian skipper Virat Kohli in the final T20I against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui on Sunday. Also read: India whitewash New Zealand, wins fifth T20I by seven runs Rohit's 60 runs off 41 balls helped him to surpass Virat Kohli in the list of players with most 50+ scores in T20Is. This is Rohit's 25th 50+ score (21 half-centuries, 4 centuries) for team India, it has also helped the prolific Indian opener almost bridge the gap between him and Kohli in terms of T20I career runs. The difference is down to just 21 runs. Kohli still leads in the list of most half-centuries (24 half-centuries). FIFTY!@ImRo45 brings up his 21st T20I half-century off 36 deliveries. Live - https://t.co/3a7zBdRNm2 #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/N1nRDSvNjo — BCCI (@BCCI) February 2, 2020 × The list of batsmen with most 50+ scores in T20I: 1). Rohit Sharma (Ind): 25 2). Virat Kohli (Ind): 24 3). Paul Stirling (Ireland), Martin Guptill (NZ): 17 4). David Warner (Aus): 16 Rohit Sharma was retired hurt during the 5th T20I, he was struck by a calf injury. He predicted to be fit in a few days. India extended their record for most successive T20Is winning eight in succession. Chasing a target of 164 runs, New Zealand witnessed a very poor start as three of their batsmen were sent back to the pavilion before the completion of four overs. With the clean sweep against the Black Caps, India has become the first team to win a T20I series with 5-0 margin.

Rohit Sharma's new record in T20Is outshines Virat Kohli

International Cricket Council (ICC) has fined the&nbsp;Indian cricket team 20 per cent of its match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-whitewash-new-zealand-wins-fifth-t20i-by-seven-runs-278153">New Zealand</a> in the fifth and final Twenty20 International in Mount Maunganui.

The sanction was imposed by Chris Broad of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees after India was&nbsp;ruled to be one over short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-whitewash-new-zealand-wins-fifth-t20i-by-seven-runs-278153">India whitewash New Zealand, wins fifth T20I by seven runs</a>

The team was fined&nbsp;under&nbsp;Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which&nbsp;relates to minimum over-rate offences.

In this case, the team was fined for every over their side failed&nbsp;to bowl in the allotted time.

To avoid a formal hearing, India stand-in captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-whitewash-new-zealand-wins-fifth-t20i-by-seven-runs-278153">Rohit Sharma </a>pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction.

On-field umpires Chris Brown and Shaun Haig and third umpire Ashley Mehrotra levelled the charge.

India won the match by seven runs on Sunday to complete a rare 5-0 series whitewash over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-whitewash-new-zealand-wins-fifth-t20i-by-seven-runs-278153">New Zealand</a> in the shortest format of the game.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-whitewash-new-zealand-wins-fifth-t20i-by-seven-runs-278153">Virat Kohli</a>'s men have been fined for slow over-rate for the second&nbsp;time consecutively.

On Saturday, the Indian team was fined&nbsp;40 per cent of its match fee after falling short of the target by two overs in the fourth T20 International at the Westpack Stadium.

International Cricket Council (ICC) has fined the Indian cricket team 20 per cent of its match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against New Zealand in the fifth and final Twenty20 International in Mount Maunganui.

International Cricket Council (ICC) has fined the Indian cricket team 20 per cent of its match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against New Zealand in the fifth and final Twenty20 International in Mount Maunganui. The sanction was imposed by Chris Broad of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees after India was ruled to be one over short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration. Also read: India whitewash New Zealand, wins fifth T20I by seven runs The team was fined under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences. In this case, the team was fined for every over their side failed to bowl in the allotted time. To avoid a formal hearing, India stand-in captain Rohit Sharma pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction. On-field umpires Chris Brown and Shaun Haig and third umpire Ashley Mehrotra levelled the charge. India won the match by seven runs on Sunday to complete a rare 5-0 series whitewash over New Zealand in the shortest format of the game. Virat Kohli's men have been fined for slow over-rate for the second time consecutively. On Saturday, the Indian team was fined 40 per cent of its match fee after falling short of the target by two overs in the fourth T20 International at the Westpack Stadium.

India fined by International Cricket Council for slow over-rate in T20I final against New Zealand

India's thrilling super over win in Hamilton ensured their first-ever win in T20I series in New Zealand. Kiwis's poor home run continues, earlier, they lost 3-0 in the Test series against Australia. Now they trail 3-0 in the five-match T20I series against India.

Also read-&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-nz-3rd-t20i-fans-celebrate-as-rohit-sharmas-sixes-torment-black-caps-277350">India vs NZ, 3rd T20I: Fans celebrate as Rohit Sharma's sixes torment Black Caps</a>

India won the first T20I by six wickets in Eden Park, Auckland, they chased New Zealand's 203 in an over to spare.&nbsp;

In the second T20I, India chased a low total of 132 runs in just 17.3 overs. KL Rahul was declared the man of the match. Ravindra Jadeja had the best economy as a bowler.&nbsp;

The third T20I had a thrilling finish to it. Rohit Sharma's 65 in 40 balls studded with six boundaries and three sixes to help India reach 179 for 5.

The hosts looked in control while chasing this modest total until the end but Shami's last overturned the game around for India after he dismissed Taylor and Williamson after being hit for a six off the first ball.

Williamson's valiant 95 wasn't enough for New Zeland to clinch the match.&nbsp;

After the tie, New Zealand scored 17 runs in the super over with Williamson scoring 11. Rohit Sharma came to the party hitting two consecutive sixes in the super over to win India the match and the series.

New Zealand will be hoping to go down with a fight and avoid a clean sweep in the series.&nbsp;

The fourth match will be played in Wellington's Sky Stadium. The boundaries are slightly bigger and the outfield will be faster.&nbsp;

New Zealand's Colin de Grandomme has had a poor run for the Kiwis and is likely to miss out on the fourth T20I. Tom Bruce will come in his spot. Hamish Bennett's 27 runs in the over leaves his position in jeopardy, despite his comeback in the same match where he scalped three important wickets doesn't waive off the chances of being replaced by Blair Tickner or Daryll Mitchell.&nbsp;

Probable XI: Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Kane Williamson (c), Ross Taylor, Tim Seifert (wk), Tom Bruce, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Scott Kuggeleijn, Hamish Bennett/Blair Tickner/Daryl Mitchell

India, on the other hand, would want to experiment with the team now. After a confirming a series win after the third T20I, India might bring in younger players. Shivam Dube might get replaced with Washington Sundar as he was poor with his bat and bowl during the third T20I. Sanju Samson could be in the playing XI. Navdeep Saini could be brought in for Chahal.&nbsp;

Probable XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul (wk), Virat Kohli (c), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Shivam Dube/Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal/Navdeep Saini, Jasprit Bumrah

Squads:&nbsp;

India: Rohit Sharma, Lokesh Rahul(wk), Virat Kohli (captain), Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, Manish Pandey, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Sanju Samson, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Navdeep Saini

New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Kane Williamson(captain), Tom Bruce, Ross Taylor, Tim Seifert(wk), Mitchell Santner, Scott Kuggeleijn, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Hamish Bennett, Daryl Mitchell, Blair Tickner

 
&nbsp;

India's thrilling super over win in Hamilton ensured their first-ever win in T20I series in New Zealand. Kiwis's poor home run continues, earlier, they lost 3-0 in the Test series against Australia.

India's thrilling super over win in Hamilton ensured their first-ever win in T20I series in New Zealand. Kiwis's poor home run continues, earlier, they lost 3-0 in the Test series against Australia. Now they trail 3-0 in the five-match T20I series against India. Also read- India vs NZ, 3rd T20I: Fans celebrate as Rohit Sharma's sixes torment Black Caps India won the first T20I by six wickets in Eden Park, Auckland, they chased New Zealand's 203 in an over to spare. In the second T20I, India chased a low total of 132 runs in just 17.3 overs. KL Rahul was declared the man of the match. Ravindra Jadeja had the best economy as a bowler. The third T20I had a thrilling finish to it. Rohit Sharma's 65 in 40 balls studded with six boundaries and three sixes to help India reach 179 for 5. The hosts looked in control while chasing this modest total until the end but Shami's last overturned the game around for India after he dismissed Taylor and Williamson after being hit for a six off the first ball. Williamson's valiant 95 wasn't enough for New Zeland to clinch the match. After the tie, New Zealand scored 17 runs in the super over with Williamson scoring 11. Rohit Sharma came to the party hitting two consecutive sixes in the super over to win India the match and the series. New Zealand will be hoping to go down with a fight and avoid a clean sweep in the series. The fourth match will be played in Wellington's Sky Stadium. The boundaries are slightly bigger and the outfield will be faster. New Zealand's Colin de Grandomme has had a poor run for the Kiwis and is likely to miss out on the fourth T20I. Tom Bruce will come in his spot. Hamish Bennett's 27 runs in the over leaves his position in jeopardy, despite his comeback in the same match where he scalped three important wickets doesn't waive off the chances of being replaced by Blair Tickner or Daryll Mitchell. Probable XI: Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Kane Williamson (c), Ross Taylor, Tim Seifert (wk), Tom Bruce, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Scott Kuggeleijn, Hamish Bennett/Blair Tickner/Daryl Mitchell India, on the other hand, would want to experiment with the team now. After a confirming a series win after the third T20I, India might bring in younger players. Shivam Dube might get replaced with Washington Sundar as he was poor with his bat and bowl during the third T20I. Sanju Samson could be in the playing XI. Navdeep Saini could be brought in for Chahal. Probable XI: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul (wk), Virat Kohli (c), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Shivam Dube/Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal/Navdeep Saini, Jasprit Bumrah Squads: India: Rohit Sharma, Lokesh Rahul(wk), Virat Kohli (captain), Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube, Manish Pandey, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Sanju Samson, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Navdeep Saini New Zealand: Martin Guptill, Colin Munro, Kane Williamson(captain), Tom Bruce, Ross Taylor, Tim Seifert(wk), Mitchell Santner, Scott Kuggeleijn, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Hamish Bennett, Daryl Mitchell, Blair Tickner

New Zealand vs India, 4th T20I: Virat likely to experiment, Williamson looking to avoid 4th consecutive defeat

Rohit Sharma's last ball six helped India clinch the third T20 international against New Zealand at Hamilton on Wednesday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-news-live-cricket-score-ind-vs-nz-update-india-vs-new-zealand-3rd-t20i-live-score-india-91-1-over-10-rohit-sharma-10000-runs-india-to-bat-first-new-zealand-won-the-toss-elected-to-field-277207">Also Read: India vs New Zealand, 3rd T20I</a>

The Indian opener had earlier scored 65 in 40 balls studded with six boundaries and three sixes to help India reach 179 for 5.

Virat Kohli made a brisk 38 in 31 balls with two boundaries and a six to put a competitive total on the board for the visitors.&nbsp;

After the tie, New Zealand scored 17 runs in the super over with Williamson scoring 11.&nbsp;Rohit Sharma came to the party hitting two consecutive sixes in the super over to win India the match and the series.

Williamson had earlier scored a valiant 95 but it wasn't enough for New Zeland to clinch the match.&nbsp;

The hosts looked in control till the end but Shami's last over turned the game around for India after he dismissed Taylor and Williamson after being hit for a six off the first ball.

New Zealand needed nine runs off the last over from Shami but the Black Caps managed to score just 8 runs.

Indians fans celebrated on Twitter with Rohit's batting exploits stealing everyone's heart.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a> entering dressing room after the Super Over.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/4JUxqlw1fp">pic.twitter.com/4JUxqlw1fp</a>
— Krishna (@Atheist_Krishna) <a href="https://twitter.com/Atheist_Krishna/status/1222480518425370624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Aisa lagta hai apunich Bhagwan hai ! 
So fit for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a> the way he has made impossible tasks possible. 
But defending 2 runs of 4 balls was an unbelievable effort from Shami. 
Yaadgaar hai yeh jeet <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/7HD4qXN4Me">pic.twitter.com/7HD4qXN4Me</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1222482891101417473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I bet You Can't Scroll Down Without Liking &amp; Retweeting This Pic ❤<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hitman?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hitman</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/5Jh05Fdrk5">pic.twitter.com/5Jh05Fdrk5</a>
— Rohit Sharma Fan Club (@Im_Ro45FC) <a href="https://twitter.com/Im_Ro45FC/status/1222476873277435905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
If <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RohitSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RohitSharma</a> is playing like this, For sure this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a> trophy is for Mumbai Indians 😛 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoEvenThisSeason?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoEvenThisSeason</a> <a href="https://t.co/rlz1Wtzeoh">pic.twitter.com/rlz1Wtzeoh</a>
— ashna (@ashnazaveri) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashnazaveri/status/1222480421427896321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma's last ball six helped India clinch the third T20 international against New Zealand at Hamilton on Wednesday. Also Read: India vs New Zealand, 3rd T20I The Indian opener had earlier scored 65 in 40 balls studded with six boundaries and three sixes to help India reach 179 for 5.

Rohit Sharma's last ball six helped India clinch the third T20 international against New Zealand at Hamilton on Wednesday. Also Read: India vs New Zealand, 3rd T20I The Indian opener had earlier scored 65 in 40 balls studded with six boundaries and three sixes to help India reach 179 for 5. Virat Kohli made a brisk 38 in 31 balls with two boundaries and a six to put a competitive total on the board for the visitors. After the tie, New Zealand scored 17 runs in the super over with Williamson scoring 11. Rohit Sharma came to the party hitting two consecutive sixes in the super over to win India the match and the series. Williamson had earlier scored a valiant 95 but it wasn't enough for New Zeland to clinch the match. The hosts looked in control till the end but Shami's last over turned the game around for India after he dismissed Taylor and Williamson after being hit for a six off the first ball. New Zealand needed nine runs off the last over from Shami but the Black Caps managed to score just 8 runs. Indians fans celebrated on Twitter with Rohit's batting exploits stealing everyone's heart. #RohitSharma entering dressing room after the Super Over.#NZvIND pic.twitter.com/4JUxqlw1fp — Krishna (@Atheist_Krishna) January 29, 2020 × Aisa lagta hai apunich Bhagwan hai ! So fit for #RohitSharma the way he has made impossible tasks possible. But defending 2 runs of 4 balls was an unbelievable effort from Shami. Yaadgaar hai yeh jeet #NZvIND pic.twitter.com/7HD4qXN4Me — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) January 29, 2020 × I bet You Can't Scroll Down Without Liking & Retweeting This Pic ❤#RohitSharma #Hitman #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/5Jh05Fdrk5 — Rohit Sharma Fan Club (@Im_Ro45FC) January 29, 2020 × If #RohitSharma is playing like this, For sure this #IPL trophy is for Mumbai Indians 😛 #GoEvenThisSeason pic.twitter.com/rlz1Wtzeoh — ashna (@ashnazaveri) January 29, 2020 ×

India vs NZ, 3rd T20I: Fans celebrate as Rohit Sharma's sixes torment Black Caps

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-scores-most-runs-in-t20i-breaks-kohlis-record-259737">Rohit Sharma</a>, the opening right-handed batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-breaks-don-bradmans-71-year-old-record-257107">achieved the feat</a> of scoring 9,000 runs in the ongoing third ODI against Australia here at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium. Only Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers have achieved the feat faster than Rohit.

<img alt="Rohit Sharma" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="78f06cda-ad08-4079-93f2-a55aec174b47" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2842%29_2.jpg" /> 
[ Rohit Sharma (Courtesy: ANI) ]

Sharma brought up the milestone in the first over of the Indian innings as he clipped Mitchell Starc away for a single. Apart from Sharma, Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, and Sachin Tendulkar have more than 9,000 runs in the 50-over format.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rohit Sharma in ODI cricket: 
 
January 2013: 2000 runs in 82 inns (The then 3rd slowest Indian) 
 
January 2020: 9000 runs in 217 inns (The 3rd fastest in the World)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a>
— Sampath Bandarupalli (@SampathStats) <a href="https://twitter.com/SampathStats/status/1218872376076558336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-breaks-record-for-scoring-most-runs-as-opener-in-calendar-year-269593">Rohit Sharma breaks record for scoring most runs as opener in calendar year</a>

Overall, 20 batsmen have more than 9,000 ODI runs to their name.

In the match between India and Australia, the former won the toss and elected to bat first. Steve Smith played a knock of 131 runs to propel Australia to 286/9 in the allotted fifty overs.

Rohit Sharma, the opening right-handed batsman achieved the feat of scoring 9,000 runs in the ongoing third ODI against Australia here at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Rohit Sharma, the opening right-handed batsman achieved the feat of scoring 9,000 runs in the ongoing third ODI against Australia here at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium. Only Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers have achieved the feat faster than Rohit. [ Rohit Sharma (Courtesy: ANI) ] Sharma brought up the milestone in the first over of the Indian innings as he clipped Mitchell Starc away for a single. Apart from Sharma, Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, and Sachin Tendulkar have more than 9,000 runs in the 50-over format. Rohit Sharma in ODI cricket: January 2013: 2000 runs in 82 inns (The then 3rd slowest Indian) January 2020: 9000 runs in 217 inns (The 3rd fastest in the World)#INDvAUS — Sampath Bandarupalli (@SampathStats) January 19, 2020 × Also Read: Rohit Sharma breaks record for scoring most runs as opener in calendar year Overall, 20 batsmen have more than 9,000 ODI runs to their name. In the match between India and Australia, the former won the toss and elected to bat first. Steve Smith played a knock of 131 runs to propel Australia to 286/9 in the allotted fifty overs.

Rohit Sharma becomes the third-fastest batsman to register 9,000 ODI runs

Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium is set to host the finale of Australia's Tour of India. India's comeback in the second ODI will help reduce performance pressure on the players. They will be looking forward to continuing the winning-run, whereas the Australians will be looking to make some amendments to get back on winning ways.&nbsp;

The men in blue are little sceptical about the top order batting today as Rohit Sharma faced a dislocated shoulder and Shikhar Dhawan not stepping into the field after being hit at the rib cages by Pat Cummins in the previous knock.

Shreyas Iyer and Manish Pandey despite being splendid fielders&nbsp;are yet to find form in with their bats and they should be key elements in the middle-order. India's middle-order at the moment completely relies on KL Rahul. &nbsp;KL Rahul's 80 was crucial for India's high score.&nbsp;

Indian bowlers&nbsp;could not get even a single&nbsp;in the first ODI and managed to bowl out the entire Australian team in the second ODI.

Virat Kohli's 78 after returning to his regular batting slot held the team together. He is looking forward to coming out on the same number in the decider. Chinnaswamy is home to Virat's Royal Challengers Bangalore, the crowd will be expecting to bring up his record-breaking century today.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-panic-kohli-says-india-ready-for-australia-showdown-275111">Don't panic: Virat Kohli says India ready for Australia showdown</a>

KL Rahul will be lethal to Australia and crucial to team India, he is currently the torch-bearer of the middle order. He will be playing on his home ground.&nbsp;

Australia will be looking forward to being efficient with its bowling and consistent with the batting. They will be looking forward to finding depth in their batting lineup.&nbsp;

The Aussies conceded a mammoth of 340 runs, to which their reply was 304-all out. Australia just like India relies on its top order. Steve Smith missed his century by a whisker (98). Marnus Labuschagne did not dissappoint on his debut. The young lad scored 46 off 47 balls.&nbsp;

M Chinnaswamy Stadium is a small ground and the match is expected to be a high-scoring match. Bengaluru will see a cloud cover but no rain is predicted. Team batting second will be in a much favourable position.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Australia return to Bengaluru tonight for a series-deciding ODI against India, buoyed by big victory they achieved at the same venue last year. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/NoIuaTvNki">https://t.co/NoIuaTvNki</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1218700617532657664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan are said to be recovered after inflicting injuries in the previous match. Rishabh Pant is expected to be a part of the playing XI, he might replace Manish Pandey or KL Rahul might continue the role of wicketkeeper-batsman in the Indian team.&nbsp;

Probable XI: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Manish Pandey/Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah

Whereas the Aussies will look forward to replacing Kane Richardson with Josh Hazlewood. Hazlewood has just recovered from a hamstring injury. D'Arcy Short might be a replacement for Ashton Agar, this might strengthen the batting line-up.

Probable XI: Aaron Finch, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Ashton Turner, Alex Carey, Ashton Agar/D'Arcy Short, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson/Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa

Squads:

India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Shreyas Iyer, Lokesh Rahul(w), Manish Pandey, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Kedar Jadhav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Shardul Thakur, Srikar Bharat, Shivam Dube

Australia: David Warner, Aaron Finch(c), Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey(w), Ashton Turner, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb, D Arcy Short

Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium is set to host the finale of Australia's Tour of India. India's comeback in the second ODI will help reduce performance pressure on the players.

Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium is set to host the finale of Australia's Tour of India. India's comeback in the second ODI will help reduce performance pressure on the players. They will be looking forward to continuing the winning-run, whereas the Australians will be looking to make some amendments to get back on winning ways. The men in blue are little sceptical about the top order batting today as Rohit Sharma faced a dislocated shoulder and Shikhar Dhawan not stepping into the field after being hit at the rib cages by Pat Cummins in the previous knock. Shreyas Iyer and Manish Pandey despite being splendid fielders are yet to find form in with their bats and they should be key elements in the middle-order. India's middle-order at the moment completely relies on KL Rahul. KL Rahul's 80 was crucial for India's high score. Indian bowlers could not get even a single in the first ODI and managed to bowl out the entire Australian team in the second ODI. Virat Kohli's 78 after returning to his regular batting slot held the team together. He is looking forward to coming out on the same number in the decider. Chinnaswamy is home to Virat's Royal Challengers Bangalore, the crowd will be expecting to bring up his record-breaking century today. Also read- Don't panic: Virat Kohli says India ready for Australia showdown KL Rahul will be lethal to Australia and crucial to team India, he is currently the torch-bearer of the middle order. He will be playing on his home ground. Australia will be looking forward to being efficient with its bowling and consistent with the batting. They will be looking forward to finding depth in their batting lineup. The Aussies conceded a mammoth of 340 runs, to which their reply was 304-all out. Australia just like India relies on its top order. Steve Smith missed his century by a whisker (98). Marnus Labuschagne did not dissappoint on his debut. The young lad scored 46 off 47 balls. M Chinnaswamy Stadium is a small ground and the match is expected to be a high-scoring match. Bengaluru will see a cloud cover but no rain is predicted. Team batting second will be in a much favourable position. Australia return to Bengaluru tonight for a series-deciding ODI against India, buoyed by big victory they achieved at the same venue last year. #INDvAUS https://t.co/NoIuaTvNki — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 19, 2020 × Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan are said to be recovered after inflicting injuries in the previous match. Rishabh Pant is expected to be a part of the playing XI, he might replace Manish Pandey or KL Rahul might continue the role of wicketkeeper-batsman in the Indian team. Probable XI: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Manish Pandey/Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah Whereas the Aussies will look forward to replacing Kane Richardson with Josh Hazlewood. Hazlewood has just recovered from a hamstring injury. D'Arcy Short might be a replacement for Ashton Agar, this might strengthen the batting line-up. Probable XI: Aaron Finch, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Ashton Turner, Alex Carey, Ashton Agar/D'Arcy Short, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson/Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa Squads: India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Shreyas Iyer, Lokesh Rahul(w), Manish Pandey, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Kedar Jadhav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Shardul Thakur, Srikar Bharat, Shivam Dube Australia: David Warner, Aaron Finch(c), Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey(w), Ashton Turner, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb, D Arcy Short

India vs Australia, 3rd ODI: After dominating display by each side, it comes down to decider

World's top-ranked ODI side thrashed Australia by seven&nbsp;wickets to claim the three-match series in Bengaluru. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli from the bat and Mohammed Shami with the bowl ensured that India won the three-match series comfortably.

Sharma, who also scored his first double-hundred in this ground, hit six sixes to score a stylish hundred that kept visitors at bay. Sharma and Kohli's 137-run partnership was broken by Adam Zampa when he sent back Sharma for 119 runs.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-becomes-the-third-fastest-batsman-to-register-9000-odi-runs-275305">Rohit Sharma becomes the third-fastest batsman to register 9,000 ODI runs</a>

However, Shreyas Iyer did not allow Australia to bounce back and kept scoring at a strike rate over 100. Kohli and Iyer's fireworks snatched the match away from Aussies. Kohli was on course of another hundred but his plans were spoilt by Josh Hazlewood when he was clean-bowled on 89.

<img alt="Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2c896373-e98b-40af-a7a6-59caebff3a15" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/sXgQR43d.jpg" />

(Virat Kohli completed 5000 runs as captain in this match | Courtesy: ICC)

Frontline Australian bowlers, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc were brutally thrashed by Indian batsmen and both failed to claim any wicket. Spinners Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa were only bowlers who restricted the run flow and ended up with figures of 1 for 38 runs and 1 for 44 runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Manish Pandey smashed Hazlewood for a boundary to finish off the proceedings. Iyer remained not out on 44 that included one six and six fours.&nbsp;

Sharma was awared player of the match award for his innings. Kohli grabbed the man of the series trophy for two valuable knocks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, Australia won the toss and this time elected to bat first. Steve Smith once again carried on his impressive form and this time completed the three-figure mark which helped Australia post 286 runs for the loss of nine wickets. Bengaluru is known as a high-scoring venue but wickets at regular interval meant that the visitors were unable to put up an intimidating total.&nbsp;

Shami again proved his worth as he ended up with four wickets for 62 runs. Shami gave India its first breakthrough by dismissing Warner whose unbeaten ton in the first match cost India a humiliating loss. Skipper Aaron Finch was run out after getting a decent start.

Smith and Marnus Labuschagne's partnership was looking threatening but Ravindra Jadeja, like the last match ended their stand and&nbsp;dismissed Labuschagne on 54. In the same over, Jadeja also claimed Mitchell Starc's wicket, who was sent to provide an impetus to Australia's innings.&nbsp;

Indian pacers once again were effective in the death overs and their yorkers not only took wickets but stopped the run-flow.

However, Smith kept holding one end and got out in the 48th over.

Jadeja ended up with two wickets and Jasprit Bumrah, even though did not pick any wicket, but proved his worth at death by restricting the scoring.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

World's top-ranked ODI side thrashed Australia by seven wickets to claim the three-match series in Bengaluru. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli from the bat and Mohammed Shami with the bowl ensured that India won the three-match series comfortably.

World's top-ranked ODI side thrashed Australia by seven wickets to claim the three-match series in Bengaluru. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli from the bat and Mohammed Shami with the bowl ensured that India won the three-match series comfortably. Sharma, who also scored his first double-hundred in this ground, hit six sixes to score a stylish hundred that kept visitors at bay. Sharma and Kohli's 137-run partnership was broken by Adam Zampa when he sent back Sharma for 119 runs. Also read: Rohit Sharma becomes the third-fastest batsman to register 9,000 ODI runs However, Shreyas Iyer did not allow Australia to bounce back and kept scoring at a strike rate over 100. Kohli and Iyer's fireworks snatched the match away from Aussies. Kohli was on course of another hundred but his plans were spoilt by Josh Hazlewood when he was clean-bowled on 89. (Virat Kohli completed 5000 runs as captain in this match | Courtesy: ICC) Frontline Australian bowlers, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc were brutally thrashed by Indian batsmen and both failed to claim any wicket. Spinners Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa were only bowlers who restricted the run flow and ended up with figures of 1 for 38 runs and 1 for 44 runs. Manish Pandey smashed Hazlewood for a boundary to finish off the proceedings. Iyer remained not out on 44 that included one six and six fours. Sharma was awared player of the match award for his innings. Kohli grabbed the man of the series trophy for two valuable knocks. Earlier, Australia won the toss and this time elected to bat first. Steve Smith once again carried on his impressive form and this time completed the three-figure mark which helped Australia post 286 runs for the loss of nine wickets. Bengaluru is known as a high-scoring venue but wickets at regular interval meant that the visitors were unable to put up an intimidating total. Shami again proved his worth as he ended up with four wickets for 62 runs. Shami gave India its first breakthrough by dismissing Warner whose unbeaten ton in the first match cost India a humiliating loss. Skipper Aaron Finch was run out after getting a decent start. Smith and Marnus Labuschagne's partnership was looking threatening but Ravindra Jadeja, like the last match ended their stand and dismissed Labuschagne on 54. In the same over, Jadeja also claimed Mitchell Starc's wicket, who was sent to provide an impetus to Australia's innings. Indian pacers once again were effective in the death overs and their yorkers not only took wickets but stopped the run-flow. However, Smith kept holding one end and got out in the 48th over. Jadeja ended up with two wickets and Jasprit Bumrah, even though did not pick any wicket, but proved his worth at death by restricting the scoring.

India vs Australia 3rd ODI: Rohit Sharma, Shami shine as hosts claim series

India's Board Control of Cricket in India(BCCI) today released the list of players in the annual player retainership of the year for the senior team. The list had renewed contracts for the players.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The BCCI announces the Annual Player Contracts for Team India (Senior Men) for the period from October 2019 to September 2020. 
 
Saini, Mayank, Shreyas, Washington and Deepak Chahar get annual player contracts. 
 
More details here - <a href="https://t.co/84iIn1vs9B">https://t.co/84iIn1vs9B</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/S6ZPq7FBt1">pic.twitter.com/S6ZPq7FBt1</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1217724563271774208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India's World Cup-winning captain MS Dhoni,38,&nbsp;was dropped from the list. According to ANI sources, Dhoni was given a heads up before this decision.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sources: MS Dhoni was informed that he won't be given BCCI's central contact, before the decision was announced today. A player needs to play a minimum of three T20 matches in a particular season to be eligible for BCCI central contract. <a href="https://t.co/FHYfvA1PEc">pic.twitter.com/FHYfvA1PEc</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1217756983203221504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Captain cool"&nbsp;has not played for India since appearing for Team India in the World Cup semi-finals against New Zealand in England last summer.&nbsp;

A few days ago coach Ravi Shastri had spilt&nbsp;the beans regarding Dhoni's future, saying that at his age he should focus on&nbsp;T20Is.&nbsp;He has retired from Test cricket.

Dhoni was in "A category" - players in this bracket earn Rs 5 crore.&nbsp;MS Dhoni has played 90 Tests, 350 ODIs, and &nbsp;98 T20I.&nbsp;

Skipper Virat Kohli, Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma, and top spearhead pacer Jasprit Bumrah have been retained in the highest A+ bracket of Rs 7 crore. Among others, batsman K L Rahul has been promoted from B grade to A.

&nbsp;

BCCI's present List:&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Grade A+ (7 crores): Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah.

Grade A (5 crores): Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, K L Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant.

Grade B (3 crores): Wriddhiman Saha, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Hardik Pandya, Mayank Agarwal.

Grade C (1 crore): Kedar Jadhav, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, Manish Pandey, Hanuma Vihari, Shardul Thakur, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar.

India's Board Control of Cricket in India(BCCI) today released the list of players in the annual player retainership of the year for the senior team. The list had renewed contracts for the players.

India's Board Control of Cricket in India(BCCI) today released the list of players in the annual player retainership of the year for the senior team. The list had renewed contracts for the players. The BCCI announces the Annual Player Contracts for Team India (Senior Men) for the period from October 2019 to September 2020. Saini, Mayank, Shreyas, Washington and Deepak Chahar get annual player contracts. More details here - https://t.co/84iIn1vs9B #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/S6ZPq7FBt1 — BCCI (@BCCI) January 16, 2020 × India's World Cup-winning captain MS Dhoni,38, was dropped from the list. According to ANI sources, Dhoni was given a heads up before this decision. Sources: MS Dhoni was informed that he won't be given BCCI's central contact, before the decision was announced today. A player needs to play a minimum of three T20 matches in a particular season to be eligible for BCCI central contract. pic.twitter.com/FHYfvA1PEc — ANI (@ANI) January 16, 2020 × "Captain cool" has not played for India since appearing for Team India in the World Cup semi-finals against New Zealand in England last summer. A few days ago coach Ravi Shastri had spilt the beans regarding Dhoni's future, saying that at his age he should focus on T20Is. He has retired from Test cricket. Dhoni was in "A category" - players in this bracket earn Rs 5 crore. MS Dhoni has played 90 Tests, 350 ODIs, and 98 T20I. Skipper Virat Kohli, Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma, and top spearhead pacer Jasprit Bumrah have been retained in the highest A+ bracket of Rs 7 crore. Among others, batsman K L Rahul has been promoted from B grade to A. BCCI's present List: Grade A+ (7 crores): Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah. Grade A (5 crores): Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, K L Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant. Grade B (3 crores): Wriddhiman Saha, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Hardik Pandya, Mayank Agarwal. Grade C (1 crore): Kedar Jadhav, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, Manish Pandey, Hanuma Vihari, Shardul Thakur, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar.

BCCI drops Dhoni in central contract list for players

England all-rounder Ben Stokes won the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for becoming the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year after&nbsp;an extraordinary 2019.

Stokes was&nbsp;‘Man of the Match’ in World Cup finals in 2019. England won the World Cup for the first time. They were playing against New Zealand.

"A World Cup winner and scorer of one of the greatest Test innings of all time, Ben Stokes is the winner of the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for the world player of the year. #ICCAwards," the ICC tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A World Cup winner and scorer of one of the greatest Test innings of all time, Ben Stokes is the winner of the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for the world player of the year.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/5stP1fqSAP">pic.twitter.com/5stP1fqSAP</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1217325607484305408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Pat Cummins has been awarded 'The Test player of the year 2019' after scalping 59 Test wickets in the year 2019. Pat Cummins is currently World Number 1 Bowler&nbsp;&nbsp;in Tests.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
5️⃣9️⃣ Test wickets in 2019 💪 
 
14 more than any other bowler 👀 
 
Pat Cummins is the 2019 Test Cricketer of the Year 👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/QDC4LW1oHl">pic.twitter.com/QDC4LW1oHl</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1217324343539249152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India's Prolific ODI opener Rohit Sharma won ODI player of the year award. He denied his skipper Virat Kohli a hattrick as the Indian captain&nbsp;has consecutively won the award in 2017 and 2018.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
5️⃣ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> centuries 
7️⃣ ODI centuries in 2019 
 
Your 2019 ODI Cricketer of the Year is Rohit Sharma.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/JYAxBhJcNn">pic.twitter.com/JYAxBhJcNn</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1217323220501696512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Indian Skipper, Virat Kohli has been awarded "ICC Spirit of Cricket 2019" award. He was also made the skipper in Test team of the year and ODI team of the year.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Who remembers this gesture from Virat Kohli during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a>? 
 
The Indian captain is the winner of the 2019 Spirit of Cricket Award 🙌 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z4rVSH8X7x">pic.twitter.com/Z4rVSH8X7x</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1217321828638740481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Australian young gun, Marnus Labushagne wins big in his debut year. The run-machine has just played with 1,104 runs in 17 innings at an average of 64.94 in 2019. He is the highest run-getter in Tests in the year 2019. He was a very well deserved pick for the&nbsp;2019 ICC Men's Emerging Cricketer.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Marnus Labuschagne had a stunning 2019 averaging 64.94 with the bat in Test cricket 🔥 
 
A deserving winner of the 2019 ICC Men's Emerging Cricketer.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICCAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICCAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/OGt1BLqPvy">pic.twitter.com/OGt1BLqPvy</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1217319292120829952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

England all-rounder Ben Stokes won the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for becoming the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year after an extraordinary 2019. Stokes was ‘Man of the Match’ in World Cup finals in 2019.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes won the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for becoming the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year after an extraordinary 2019. Stokes was ‘Man of the Match’ in World Cup finals in 2019. England won the World Cup for the first time. They were playing against New Zealand. "A World Cup winner and scorer of one of the greatest Test innings of all time, Ben Stokes is the winner of the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for the world player of the year. #ICCAwards," the ICC tweeted. A World Cup winner and scorer of one of the greatest Test innings of all time, Ben Stokes is the winner of the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for the world player of the year.#ICCAwards pic.twitter.com/5stP1fqSAP — ICC (@ICC) January 15, 2020 × Pat Cummins has been awarded 'The Test player of the year 2019' after scalping 59 Test wickets in the year 2019. Pat Cummins is currently World Number 1 Bowler in Tests. 5️⃣9️⃣ Test wickets in 2019 💪 14 more than any other bowler 👀 Pat Cummins is the 2019 Test Cricketer of the Year 👏 #ICCAwards pic.twitter.com/QDC4LW1oHl — ICC (@ICC) January 15, 2020 × India's Prolific ODI opener Rohit Sharma won ODI player of the year award. He denied his skipper Virat Kohli a hattrick as the Indian captain has consecutively won the award in 2017 and 2018. 5️⃣ #CWC19 centuries 7️⃣ ODI centuries in 2019 Your 2019 ODI Cricketer of the Year is Rohit Sharma.#ICCAwards pic.twitter.com/JYAxBhJcNn — ICC (@ICC) January 15, 2020 × The Indian Skipper, Virat Kohli has been awarded "ICC Spirit of Cricket 2019" award. He was also made the skipper in Test team of the year and ODI team of the year. Who remembers this gesture from Virat Kohli during #CWC19? The Indian captain is the winner of the 2019 Spirit of Cricket Award 🙌 #ICCAwards pic.twitter.com/Z4rVSH8X7x — ICC (@ICC) January 15, 2020 × Australian young gun, Marnus Labushagne wins big in his debut year. The run-machine has just played with 1,104 runs in 17 innings at an average of 64.94 in 2019. He is the highest run-getter in Tests in the year 2019. He was a very well deserved pick for the 2019 ICC Men's Emerging Cricketer. Marnus Labuschagne had a stunning 2019 averaging 64.94 with the bat in Test cricket 🔥 A deserving winner of the 2019 ICC Men's Emerging Cricketer.#ICCAwards pic.twitter.com/OGt1BLqPvy — ICC (@ICC) January 15, 2020 ×

ICC awards: Ben Stokes, Rohit Sharma and Pat Cummins win the top awards

Ahead of the crucial one-day international(ODI) clash against Australia at the&nbsp;Wankhede&nbsp;Stadium in Mumbai on Tuesday,&nbsp;Indian skipper Virat Kohli said he does not "support people"&nbsp; comparing players within the team.

"All guys in form is a good thing. We will figure out what combination we want to go in with and there is a possibility that all three might play. It will be interesting to see what balance we want to take in on the field. I do not at all support people comparing players within the team," the Indian captain said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-have-the-goods-to-give-virat-kohlis-men-a-run-for-their-money-finch-ahead-of-odi-series-against-india-273363">Australia have the goods to give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money: Finch ahead of ODI series against India</a>

In a press conference, Kohli pointed towards the form of the team and how comparisons within the team make no sense and it does not convey the right message to the team's culture.

India may face a major dilemma in choosing their opening pair for the series. Rohit Sharma was rested in the previous series (against Sri Lanka), Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul performed well in the final T20I against Sri Lanka. Kohli expressed his displeasure on such comparisons.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dominated-the-series-shikhar-dhawan-india-beat-sri-lanka-to-sweep-the-series-273519">'We dominated the series,' says Shikhar Dhawan after India beat Sri Lanka to seal the series</a>

"I want to say this publicly because I see so many features and programs being made about this versus this. We are a team and playing together. I don't find the sense in heat is going up and they are fighting for one spot. It does not send the right message as far as the team culture is concerned," he added.

The 31-year-old talked about the experiments in the batting order during the final T20I versus Sri Lanka and why he came out to bat very low in the order. &nbsp;

"I am not possessive about where I play and I am not insecure about where I bat. Being the captain of the team, it's my job to make sure that the next lot is also ready as well. Your job as a captain is not only to look after the team right now but also to prepare a team that you can leave behind when you eventually pass it on to someone else," he said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> hit some boundaries off Bumrah's bowling in the nets today. 
 
Hear what the Skipper has to say about the same 😅 <a href="https://t.co/g81FTR5jRT">pic.twitter.com/g81FTR5jRT</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1216643266461847553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Virat said that Australia is a stronger side than last time, the series will be exciting and competitive "They are a stronger side than the side that came last time to India but still won the series. You can have the most experienced or most skilled players but if you do not play well as a team in that series, you will not win which happened with us last time and when we went to Australia similar thing happened with them,".

Kohli said that series is short and a five-match series would have been way more exciting.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Gearing up for the challenge against Australia - <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@klrahul11</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/im_manishpandey?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@im_manishpandey</a> train hard before the 1st ODI <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://t.co/opMVuq4qsB">pic.twitter.com/opMVuq4qsB</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1216673393015250944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Virat is close to breaking another world record if the Indian skipper manages to get a hundred at Wankhede, he will become the player with most centuries in international cricket (42) as captain, across all formats. He at the moment is tied with Australian great Ricky Ponting (41).&nbsp;

India and Australia have played 136 ODI matches, with&nbsp;Australia winning&nbsp;77 (29 in India) and India beating the Aussies in&nbsp;49 ODIs(22 in Australia). Ten&nbsp;matches were abandoned with none tied.&nbsp;

Australia has been one of the two teams who have defeated the mighty Indian team at home on more occasions than they have lost.&nbsp;

Since 2010, India has played 21 bilateral series, but have lost against only three teams (South Africa, Pakistan and Australia).&nbsp;

Australia's dominance over India in terms of win ratio has changed since 2013.&nbsp;Both heavyweights clashed have 28 times, in which Australia won 13&nbsp; ODIs and India outlasting the Australian juggernaut in&nbsp;13 ODIs with two games being washed out.&nbsp;

India won away series against Australia in 2018 (2-1), Australia avenged the series defeat in 2019 when they beat India in an away series (3-2) in 2019.&nbsp;

The dangerous Marnus Labuschagne is the player to watch out for the Indians.&nbsp;The 25-year-old is yet to make his ODI debut&nbsp;but has a&nbsp;staggering average of 63.4 in Tests

From the beginning of Ashes, Labuschagne ensured he cemented his name in the playing XI. On his home turf, Labuschagne proved his desire for big hundreds in his first two series (Pakistan, New Zealand). His consistency in scoring centuries was there for all to see with scores of 185, 162, 143, 50, 63, 19, 215, 59.

At home the Australian young gun&nbsp;scored 896 runs, averaging 112 with four&nbsp;centuries, three&nbsp;fifties.&nbsp;Labuschagne was Test cricket's highest run-scorer in 2019 with 1,104 runs in 11 matches averaging 64.94. His teammate Steven Smith was second in the list.&nbsp;

Ahead of the crucial one-day international(ODI) clash against Australia at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Tuesday, Indian skipper Virat Kohli said he does not "support people" comparing players within the team.

Ahead of the crucial one-day international(ODI) clash against Australia at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Tuesday, Indian skipper Virat Kohli said he does not "support people" comparing players within the team. "All guys in form is a good thing. We will figure out what combination we want to go in with and there is a possibility that all three might play. It will be interesting to see what balance we want to take in on the field. I do not at all support people comparing players within the team," the Indian captain said. Also read: Australia have the goods to give Virat Kohli's men a run for their money: Finch ahead of ODI series against India In a press conference, Kohli pointed towards the form of the team and how comparisons within the team make no sense and it does not convey the right message to the team's culture. India may face a major dilemma in choosing their opening pair for the series. Rohit Sharma was rested in the previous series (against Sri Lanka), Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul performed well in the final T20I against Sri Lanka. Kohli expressed his displeasure on such comparisons. Also read: 'We dominated the series,' says Shikhar Dhawan after India beat Sri Lanka to seal the series "I want to say this publicly because I see so many features and programs being made about this versus this. We are a team and playing together. I don't find the sense in heat is going up and they are fighting for one spot. It does not send the right message as far as the team culture is concerned," he added. The 31-year-old talked about the experiments in the batting order during the final T20I versus Sri Lanka and why he came out to bat very low in the order. "I am not possessive about where I play and I am not insecure about where I bat. Being the captain of the team, it's my job to make sure that the next lot is also ready as well. Your job as a captain is not only to look after the team right now but also to prepare a team that you can leave behind when you eventually pass it on to someone else," he said. #TeamIndia Captain @imVkohli hit some boundaries off Bumrah's bowling in the nets today. Hear what the Skipper has to say about the same 😅 pic.twitter.com/g81FTR5jRT — BCCI (@BCCI) January 13, 2020 × Virat said that Australia is a stronger side than last time, the series will be exciting and competitive "They are a stronger side than the side that came last time to India but still won the series. You can have the most experienced or most skilled players but if you do not play well as a team in that series, you will not win which happened with us last time and when we went to Australia similar thing happened with them,". Kohli said that series is short and a five-match series would have been way more exciting. Gearing up for the challenge against Australia - @klrahul11 & @im_manishpandey train hard before the 1st ODI #TeamIndia #INDvAUS @Paytm pic.twitter.com/opMVuq4qsB — BCCI (@BCCI) January 13, 2020 × Virat is close to breaking another world record if the Indian skipper manages to get a hundred at Wankhede, he will become the player with most centuries in international cricket (42) as captain, across all formats. He at the moment is tied with Australian great Ricky Ponting (41). India and Australia have played 136 ODI matches, with Australia winning 77 (29 in India) and India beating the Aussies in 49 ODIs(22 in Australia). Ten matches were abandoned with none tied. Australia has been one of the two teams who have defeated the mighty Indian team at home on more occasions than they have lost. Since 2010, India has played 21 bilateral series, but have lost against only three teams (South Africa, Pakistan and Australia). Australia's dominance over India in terms of win ratio has changed since 2013. Both heavyweights clashed have 28 times, in which Australia won 13 ODIs and India outlasting the Australian juggernaut in 13 ODIs with two games being washed out. India won away series against Australia in 2018 (2-1), Australia avenged the series defeat in 2019 when they beat India in an away series (3-2) in 2019. The dangerous Marnus Labuschagne is the player to watch out for the Indians. The 25-year-old is yet to make his ODI debut but has a staggering average of 63.4 in Tests From the beginning of Ashes, Labuschagne ensured he cemented his name in the playing XI. On his home turf, Labuschagne proved his desire for big hundreds in his first two series (Pakistan, New Zealand). His consistency in scoring centuries was there for all to see with scores of 185, 162, 143, 50, 63, 19, 215, 59. At home the Australian young gun scored 896 runs, averaging 112 with four centuries, three fifties. Labuschagne was Test cricket's highest run-scorer in 2019 with 1,104 runs in 11 matches averaging 64.94. His teammate Steven Smith was second in the list.

India-Australia ODI clash: I do not support people comparing players, says Kohli

Rohit Sharma on Sunday broke the record for scoring the most number of runs as an opening batsman in a calendar year.

He achieved the feat against West Indies in the third ODI of the three-match series at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack, Odisha.

Rohit broke the 22-year-long record of former Sri Lanka's batsman Sanath Jayasuriya.

Prior to the match, Rohit just needed nine runs to break the record, and the batsman managed it with ease against West Indies.

In the second ODI of the series, Rohit had played a knock of 159 runs. As a result, he became the leading run-scorer in ODIs in 2019.

Earlier this year, Rohit had scored five centuries in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. As a result, he became the first batsman to record five 100 plus scores in a single edition of the tournament.

In today's match, West Indies set a target of 316 runs in front of India. Nicholas Pooran and Kieron Pollard played knocks of 89 and 74* respectively. India won the third ODI on Sunday, clinching the series by 2-1.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma on Sunday broke the record for scoring the most number of runs as an opening batsman in a calendar year. He achieved the feat against West Indies in the third ODI of the three-match series at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack, Odisha.

Rohit Sharma on Sunday broke the record for scoring the most number of runs as an opening batsman in a calendar year. He achieved the feat against West Indies in the third ODI of the three-match series at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack, Odisha. Rohit broke the 22-year-long record of former Sri Lanka's batsman Sanath Jayasuriya. Prior to the match, Rohit just needed nine runs to break the record, and the batsman managed it with ease against West Indies. In the second ODI of the series, Rohit had played a knock of 159 runs. As a result, he became the leading run-scorer in ODIs in 2019. Earlier this year, Rohit had scored five centuries in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. As a result, he became the first batsman to record five 100 plus scores in a single edition of the tournament. In today's match, West Indies set a target of 316 runs in front of India. Nicholas Pooran and Kieron Pollard played knocks of 89 and 74* respectively. India won the third ODI on Sunday, clinching the series by 2-1.

Rohit Sharma breaks record for scoring most runs as opener in calendar year

India beat West Indies by 107 runs in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/west-indies-beat-india-by-8-wickets-in-first-odi-268411">second one-day international</a> to level the series at Visakhapatnam on Wednesday.

Batsmen Rohit Sharma(159) and KL Rahul(102) were the stars of the show putting on a record breaking 227-run opening partnership followed by Kuldeep Yadav who took a hat-trick as the visitor's crashed to defeat.

Earlier, West Indies opted to field first for the second game in succession but unlike the first ODI there was no Indian top-order collapse instead Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul shared a mammoth 227-run partnership for the first wicket at better than a run-a-ball despite largely batting within themselves.

Rahul was the aggressor early on, but Rohit caught up - as he usually does - later in the innings and brought up his 28th one-day century from 108 balls. Two overs later, Rahul got to his third one-day ton to continue a rich recent vein of form but was dismissed by al-zari Joseph for 102.

Captain Virat Kohli then fell to a rare first-ball duck to the bowling of his opposite number Keiron Pollard - but it did not dent India's momentum.

The hosts scored 137 runs in the last 10 overs, 93 of them in the last 6 as Rishabh Pant and half-centurion Shreyas Iyer smacked the Windies bowlers all over the park to lead India to 387 for 5.

West Indies started well, reaching 56 for no loss after the first 10 overs, but fell away after Evin Lewis fell to Thakur. Hope(78) and Pooran(75) were the only stand-out batsmen along with Paul who scored 46 as the West Indian innings folded at 280 in just 43.3 overs.

Kuldeep Yadav's hat-trick propped up the hosts as India closed the match on a high. Rohit Sharma was declared the man of the match.&nbsp;

India beat West Indies by 107 runs in the second one-day international to level the series at Visakhapatnam on Wednesday. Batsmen Rohit Sharma(159) and KL Rahul(102) were the stars of the show putting on a record breaking 227-run opening partnership followed by Kuldeep Yadav who took a hat-trick as the visitor's crashed to defeat.

India beat West Indies by 107 runs in the second one-day international to level the series at Visakhapatnam on Wednesday. Batsmen Rohit Sharma(159) and KL Rahul(102) were the stars of the show putting on a record breaking 227-run opening partnership followed by Kuldeep Yadav who took a hat-trick as the visitor's crashed to defeat. Earlier, West Indies opted to field first for the second game in succession but unlike the first ODI there was no Indian top-order collapse instead Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul shared a mammoth 227-run partnership for the first wicket at better than a run-a-ball despite largely batting within themselves. Rahul was the aggressor early on, but Rohit caught up - as he usually does - later in the innings and brought up his 28th one-day century from 108 balls. Two overs later, Rahul got to his third one-day ton to continue a rich recent vein of form but was dismissed by al-zari Joseph for 102. Captain Virat Kohli then fell to a rare first-ball duck to the bowling of his opposite number Keiron Pollard - but it did not dent India's momentum. The hosts scored 137 runs in the last 10 overs, 93 of them in the last 6 as Rishabh Pant and half-centurion Shreyas Iyer smacked the Windies bowlers all over the park to lead India to 387 for 5. West Indies started well, reaching 56 for no loss after the first 10 overs, but fell away after Evin Lewis fell to Thakur. Hope(78) and Pooran(75) were the only stand-out batsmen along with Paul who scored 46 as the West Indian innings folded at 280 in just 43.3 overs. Kuldeep Yadav's hat-trick propped up the hosts as India closed the match on a high. Rohit Sharma was declared the man of the match.

2nd ODI: India thrash West Indies, level series

Rohit Sharma achieved became the leading run-scorer in the 50-over format in 2019 against West Indies in the ongoing second ODI of the three-match series at&nbsp;Vishakapatnam.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/play-without-fear-ganguly-hails-indias-fearless-batting-267836">Sharma</a> went on to register his seventh century in this calendar year and as a result, he surpassed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-want-to-get-the-job-done-than-play-slam-bang-cricket-virat-kohli-266796">Virat Kohli</a> to achieve the feat.

The 32-year-old Sharma so far has 1382 runs in the ODI format in 2019 while Kohli has 1292 runs to his credit.

Earlier this year, Sharma had scored five centuries in the ICC Men's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-rohit-sharma-is-the-best-odi-player-says-virat-kohli-234035">Cricket World Cup</a>. As a result, he became the first batsman to record five 100 plus scores in a single edition of the tournament.

During the innings, he also went past 11,000 List A runs.

While filing this report, India had reached the score of 225/0 with both Rohit and KL Rahul still at the crease.

Rohit Sharma achieved became the leading run-scorer in the 50-over format in 2019 against West Indies in the ongoing second ODI of the three-match series at Vishakapatnam.

Rohit Sharma achieved became the leading run-scorer in the 50-over format in 2019 against West Indies in the ongoing second ODI of the three-match series at Vishakapatnam. Sharma went on to register his seventh century in this calendar year and as a result, he surpassed Virat Kohli to achieve the feat. The 32-year-old Sharma so far has 1382 runs in the ODI format in 2019 while Kohli has 1292 runs to his credit. Earlier this year, Sharma had scored five centuries in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. As a result, he became the first batsman to record five 100 plus scores in a single edition of the tournament. During the innings, he also went past 11,000 List A runs. While filing this report, India had reached the score of 225/0 with both Rohit and KL Rahul still at the crease.

Rohit Sharma becomes leading run-scorer in ODIs in 2019

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-to-play-at-least-one-pink-ball-match-in-every-series-indian-cricket-board-chief-sourav-ganguly-265921">Board of Control for Cricket in India</a> (BCCI) president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-sourav-ganguly-on-delhis-chances-of-lifting-ipl-2019-trophy-216087">Sourav Ganguly</a> on Thursday hailed team India's 'fearless batting' in the series decider against West Indies.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli batted in an aggressive manner throughout and as a result, he brought up his half-century in just 21 balls.

The skipper also became the first Indian batsman to score 1,000 T20I runs on home soil.

Rohit Sharma brought up his 400th maximum in his 354th international match for India.

"Not many expected India to lose a series win was not a surprise what will stand out is the fearless batting which all will see in T20 now play without fear no one plays for his place but plays to win well-done India," Ganguly tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Not many expected india to lose a series .. win was not a surprise .. what will stand out is the fearless batting which all will see in T20 now ..play without fear .. no one plays for his place but plays to win ..well done india <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JayShah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a>
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1204873871041662976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India defeated West Indies by 67 runs in the third T20I at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai to win the series 2-1. India posted a mammoth score of 240 runs for the loss of three wickets. KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli all registered half-centuries.

Both teams will next lock horns with each other in the three-match ODI series. The first ODI will be played in Chennai on Sunday, December 15.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Thursday hailed team India's 'fearless batting' in the series decider against West Indies.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly on Thursday hailed team India's 'fearless batting' in the series decider against West Indies. Indian skipper Virat Kohli batted in an aggressive manner throughout and as a result, he brought up his half-century in just 21 balls. The skipper also became the first Indian batsman to score 1,000 T20I runs on home soil. Rohit Sharma brought up his 400th maximum in his 354th international match for India. "Not many expected India to lose a series win was not a surprise what will stand out is the fearless batting which all will see in T20 now play without fear no one plays for his place but plays to win well-done India," Ganguly tweeted. Not many expected india to lose a series .. win was not a surprise .. what will stand out is the fearless batting which all will see in T20 now ..play without fear .. no one plays for his place but plays to win ..well done india @BCCI @imVkohli @JayShah @ImRo45 — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) December 11, 2019 × India defeated West Indies by 67 runs in the third T20I at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai to win the series 2-1. India posted a mammoth score of 240 runs for the loss of three wickets. KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli all registered half-centuries. Both teams will next lock horns with each other in the three-match ODI series. The first ODI will be played in Chennai on Sunday, December 15.

Play without fear: Ganguly hails India's fearless batting

India's captain Virat Kohli says his priority is to help India win matches than just play 'slam-bang cricket' for the sake of entertaining the crowd in the Twenty20 game.

Kohli produced a batting masterclass in Friday's Twenty20 match against West Indies, smashing a career-best 94 not out to help India chase a 200-plus target with eight balls to spare.

The elegant right-hander, who clobbered six sixes, went run-a-ball in his first 20 deliveries before exploding to plunder 74 off the last 30.

"I'm not someone who comes to the stadium wanting to entertain people hitting the ball in the air. I want to get the job done," Kohli told broadcaster Star Sports after India won the series opener in Hyderabad by six wickets.

"Within that, if I get an opportunity to hit sixes, I will. But the aim is not to play slam-bang cricket.

"I think my role in this team is to bat long. Myself or Rohit (Sharma), one of the guys has to play till the end because our strength is usually striking in the later half of the innings, and our strike rate goes up."

Kohli relies more on his timing than muscle power to hit those sixes and the 31-year-old sees no reason to try and overhaul his technique.

"The basic funda is that I don't want to change my game too much because I play all three formats and I want to contribute in all three formats. I don't want to be a format specialist.

"It's about contributing to your team and making the team win."

Kohli's knock was an innings of two halves with the right-hander trying to hit too hard initially before rediscovering the sublime timing which makes him the top-ranked batsman both in tests and one-dayers.

"I thought I'm not a guy who slogs the ball. I'm more of a timer, so I'm going to rely on my timing. And then the pitch was good enough for me to go through the line of the ball and just play my shots."

Despite his assertions, Kohli's knock was not totally devoid of entertainment, and at one point he mimicked Kesrick Williams' box-ticking celebration after hitting the bowler for a six.

"It happened to me in Jamaica when he got me out, so I thought I'll tick a few in the notebook as well," Kohli said.

India's captain Virat Kohli says his priority is to help India win matches than just play 'slam-bang cricket' for the sake of entertaining the crowd in the Twenty20 game.

India's captain Virat Kohli says his priority is to help India win matches than just play 'slam-bang cricket' for the sake of entertaining the crowd in the Twenty20 game. Kohli produced a batting masterclass in Friday's Twenty20 match against West Indies, smashing a career-best 94 not out to help India chase a 200-plus target with eight balls to spare. The elegant right-hander, who clobbered six sixes, went run-a-ball in his first 20 deliveries before exploding to plunder 74 off the last 30. "I'm not someone who comes to the stadium wanting to entertain people hitting the ball in the air. I want to get the job done," Kohli told broadcaster Star Sports after India won the series opener in Hyderabad by six wickets. "Within that, if I get an opportunity to hit sixes, I will. But the aim is not to play slam-bang cricket. "I think my role in this team is to bat long. Myself or Rohit (Sharma), one of the guys has to play till the end because our strength is usually striking in the later half of the innings, and our strike rate goes up." Kohli relies more on his timing than muscle power to hit those sixes and the 31-year-old sees no reason to try and overhaul his technique. "The basic funda is that I don't want to change my game too much because I play all three formats and I want to contribute in all three formats. I don't want to be a format specialist. "It's about contributing to your team and making the team win." Kohli's knock was an innings of two halves with the right-hander trying to hit too hard initially before rediscovering the sublime timing which makes him the top-ranked batsman both in tests and one-dayers. "I thought I'm not a guy who slogs the ball. I'm more of a timer, so I'm going to rely on my timing. And then the pitch was good enough for me to go through the line of the ball and just play my shots." Despite his assertions, Kohli's knock was not totally devoid of entertainment, and at one point he mimicked Kesrick Williams' box-ticking celebration after hitting the bowler for a six. "It happened to me in Jamaica when he got me out, so I thought I'll tick a few in the notebook as well," Kohli said.

I want to get the job done than play slam-bang cricket: Virat Kohli

Critics of India's Rishabh Pant must leave the young wicketkeeper-batsman alone and let him play with freedom, stand-in captain Rohit Sharma said on Saturday.

The 22-year-old has received lots of flak lately from India's coaching staff, pundits and the media after losing his wicket through loose shots and his position in the India test side has been taken by fit-again Wriddhiman Saha.

Former Australia batsman Dean Jones told Reuters this week that Pant needs to improve his off-side game if he wants to graduate from being a one-trick pony.

"There is a lot of talk happening about Rishabh Pant every day, every minute," Rohit, who is leading the hosts in place of rested regular captain Virat Kohli, told reporters ahead of Sunday's deciding final Twenty20 international against Bangladesh at Nagpur.

"I just feel that he needs to be allowed to do what he wants to do on the field. I would request everyone to just keep their eyes away from Rishabh Pant for a while."

Pant was perceived as Mahendra Singh Dhoni's natural successor in limited-overs cricket for India when the former captain eventually hangs up his gloves and till recently was the preferred choice behind the stumps in all three formats.

He played 11 tests in the absence of the injured Saha and used his chances well, hitting a century in an Oval test against England last year while smashing an unbeaten 159 versus Australia in Sydney in January.

His six-hitting ability makes him a limited-overs asset, but India head coach Ravi Shastri and batting coach Vikram Rathour said in recent interviews that the left-hander's shot selection has occasionally let the team down.

Pant played within himself and seemed to curb his natural instincts in his 26-ball knock of 27 during India's loss to Bangladesh in the first T20 in Delhi while he did not get a chance to bat during the series-levelling win at Rajkot.

He, however, handed a reprieve to Bangladesh opener Liton Das, who was stumped off Yuzvendra Chahal but replays confirmed Pant did not collect the ball behind the stumps, with part of his gloves jutting ahead of the line.

Pant nearly repeated the mistake when effecting a similar dismissal to send back Soumya Sarkar for 30 off Chahal.

"He is a young guy ... trying to make his mark in international cricket. Every move he makes on the field, people start talking about him. It is not fair," Rohit said.

"Focus on him a lot more when he is doing good things also, not just the bad things. He is a fearless cricketer and we want him to have that freedom. And if you guys keep your eyes little bit off him, it will allow him to perform even better."

Critics of India's Rishabh Pant must leave the young wicketkeeper-batsman alone and let him play with freedom, stand-in captain Rohit Sharma said on Saturday. The 22-year-old has received lots of flak lately from India's coaching staff, pundits and the media after losing his wicket through loose shots and his position in the India test side has been taken by fit-again Wriddhiman Saha.

Critics of India's Rishabh Pant must leave the young wicketkeeper-batsman alone and let him play with freedom, stand-in captain Rohit Sharma said on Saturday. The 22-year-old has received lots of flak lately from India's coaching staff, pundits and the media after losing his wicket through loose shots and his position in the India test side has been taken by fit-again Wriddhiman Saha. Former Australia batsman Dean Jones told Reuters this week that Pant needs to improve his off-side game if he wants to graduate from being a one-trick pony. "There is a lot of talk happening about Rishabh Pant every day, every minute," Rohit, who is leading the hosts in place of rested regular captain Virat Kohli, told reporters ahead of Sunday's deciding final Twenty20 international against Bangladesh at Nagpur. "I just feel that he needs to be allowed to do what he wants to do on the field. I would request everyone to just keep their eyes away from Rishabh Pant for a while." Pant was perceived as Mahendra Singh Dhoni's natural successor in limited-overs cricket for India when the former captain eventually hangs up his gloves and till recently was the preferred choice behind the stumps in all three formats. He played 11 tests in the absence of the injured Saha and used his chances well, hitting a century in an Oval test against England last year while smashing an unbeaten 159 versus Australia in Sydney in January. His six-hitting ability makes him a limited-overs asset, but India head coach Ravi Shastri and batting coach Vikram Rathour said in recent interviews that the left-hander's shot selection has occasionally let the team down. Pant played within himself and seemed to curb his natural instincts in his 26-ball knock of 27 during India's loss to Bangladesh in the first T20 in Delhi while he did not get a chance to bat during the series-levelling win at Rajkot. He, however, handed a reprieve to Bangladesh opener Liton Das, who was stumped off Yuzvendra Chahal but replays confirmed Pant did not collect the ball behind the stumps, with part of his gloves jutting ahead of the line. Pant nearly repeated the mistake when effecting a similar dismissal to send back Soumya Sarkar for 30 off Chahal. "He is a young guy ... trying to make his mark in international cricket. Every move he makes on the field, people start talking about him. It is not fair," Rohit said. "Focus on him a lot more when he is doing good things also, not just the bad things. He is a fearless cricketer and we want him to have that freedom. And if you guys keep your eyes little bit off him, it will allow him to perform even better."

Leave Pant alone, implores India's stand-in captain Rohit

As India prepares to take on Bangladesh after suffering a stunning defeat in the Delhi T20 International, stand-in Indian skipper Rohit Sharma said that the team is looking to provide opportunities to younger players in order to make them ready for other formats.&nbsp;

"You have seen many players who have emerged from T20I format and then they have gone on to play ODIs and Tests, " Sharma told reporters ahead of the second T20 against Bangladesh. He added that this move doesn't mean that the team is not looking to win matches.

"Winning games is our top-most priority," the stand-in captain asserted.

On Sunday, Bangladesh tasted their first-ever T20 success against India when they comprehensively defeated India by seven wickets.&nbsp;

Sharma added that the team is not focussing on any one department and the idea is to perform "collectively".&nbsp;

"We will make a little change to our approach. We were playing according to the pitch in the first T20I, but if the pitch is better in the next match, then our approach would be different in the next two T20Is, Sharma said.

The skipper also hoped for a better track at&nbsp;Rajkot. &nbsp;

The second encounter of the three-match series will be held in Rajkot on November 7.

As India prepares to take on Bangladesh after suffering a stunning defeat in the Delhi T20 International, stand-in Indian skipper Rohit Sharma said that the team is looking to provide opportunities to younger players in order to make them ready for other formats.

As India prepares to take on Bangladesh after suffering a stunning defeat in the Delhi T20 International, stand-in Indian skipper Rohit Sharma said that the team is looking to provide opportunities to younger players in order to make them ready for other formats. "You have seen many players who have emerged from T20I format and then they have gone on to play ODIs and Tests, " Sharma told reporters ahead of the second T20 against Bangladesh. He added that this move doesn't mean that the team is not looking to win matches. "Winning games is our top-most priority," the stand-in captain asserted. On Sunday, Bangladesh tasted their first-ever T20 success against India when they comprehensively defeated India by seven wickets. Sharma added that the team is not focussing on any one department and the idea is to perform "collectively". "We will make a little change to our approach. We were playing according to the pitch in the first T20I, but if the pitch is better in the next match, then our approach would be different in the next two T20Is, Sharma said. The skipper also hoped for a better track at Rajkot. The second encounter of the three-match series will be held in Rajkot on November 7.

T20I: India trying youngsters to get them ready for other formats, says Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma on Sunday surpassed Virat Kohli's record to become the highest run-getter in the T20I format of the game. 
 
Sharma played a knock of nine runs in the first T20I against Bangladesh at the Arun Jaitley stadium. 
 
By doing so, he took his run tally to 2,452 runs, going two runs ahead of Kohli's total. 
 
Sharma also became the most capped player for India in the shortest format of the game. He has now played 99 matches for the Men in Blue, breaking MS Dhoni's record of 98 appearances. 
 
India is&nbsp;currently playing on 75/3 after the conclusion of 12 overs after they were sent to bat first.

Rohit Sharma on Sunday surpassed Virat Kohli's record to become the highest run-getter in the T20I format of the game. Sharma played a knock of nine runs in the first T20I against Bangladesh at the Arun Jaitley stadium.

Rohit Sharma on Sunday surpassed Virat Kohli's record to become the highest run-getter in the T20I format of the game. Sharma played a knock of nine runs in the first T20I against Bangladesh at the Arun Jaitley stadium. By doing so, he took his run tally to 2,452 runs, going two runs ahead of Kohli's total. Sharma also became the most capped player for India in the shortest format of the game. He has now played 99 matches for the Men in Blue, breaking MS Dhoni's record of 98 appearances. India is currently playing on 75/3 after the conclusion of 12 overs after they were sent to bat first.

Rohit Sharma scores most runs in T20I, breaks Kohli's record

As India and Bangladesh get ready to lock horns in the first T20I of the three-match series, skipper Rohit Sharma on Saturday said that the side wants to focus on setting targets and defending them ahead of the T20 World Cup in 2020. 
 
"We have looked at certain number of stats on how we chase and set target. Our numbers are great when we chase down the total. We want to focus on setting targets and defending them. The last T20I we played at Bengaluru against South Africa, we batted first on a sticky wicket as we wanted to challenge ourselves before T20 World Cup next year," Sharma told reporters. 
 
"At the same time, we want to win games as well. We have not done well in the T20 format recently, probably we are ranked at number five in the ICC T20I rankings. We want to be at the top in all three formats of the game," he added. 
 
Sharma also said that Rishabh Pant is a match-winner in the T20I format and needs to be given a consistent run as he can take the game forward on his day.

Both wicket-keepers (Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson) that we have in our squad are pretty talented. We have stuck with Pant, this is the format that gave him recognition. We have to stick with him for a while, we know how well he can take the game forward if he has his day," Sharma said.

The 32-year-old also said that the side has a lot of options and they need to be a given a number of games to get the best out of them. He also opined that both the Indian Premier League (IPL) and international cricket are different and have different challenges.

''We have a lot of options. They just need to have a number of games behind them. This is the best time for us to try all the guys that are in the squad. When they play in the IPL, that is a different ball game, when you play international cricket, it is a different situation. In international cricket, there are limited opportunities and you have to make the most of it," Sharma said.

India will take on Bangladesh in the first T20I of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-bangladesh-t20i-to-be-held-as-planned-despite-poor-air-quality-258458">three-match series </a>tomorrow at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

As India and Bangladesh get ready to lock horns in the first T20I of the three-match series, skipper Rohit Sharma on Saturday said that the side wants to focus on setting targets and defending them ahead of the T20 World Cup in 2020.

As India and Bangladesh get ready to lock horns in the first T20I of the three-match series, skipper Rohit Sharma on Saturday said that the side wants to focus on setting targets and defending them ahead of the T20 World Cup in 2020. "We have looked at certain number of stats on how we chase and set target. Our numbers are great when we chase down the total. We want to focus on setting targets and defending them. The last T20I we played at Bengaluru against South Africa, we batted first on a sticky wicket as we wanted to challenge ourselves before T20 World Cup next year," Sharma told reporters. "At the same time, we want to win games as well. We have not done well in the T20 format recently, probably we are ranked at number five in the ICC T20I rankings. We want to be at the top in all three formats of the game," he added. Sharma also said that Rishabh Pant is a match-winner in the T20I format and needs to be given a consistent run as he can take the game forward on his day. Both wicket-keepers (Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson) that we have in our squad are pretty talented. We have stuck with Pant, this is the format that gave him recognition. We have to stick with him for a while, we know how well he can take the game forward if he has his day," Sharma said. The 32-year-old also said that the side has a lot of options and they need to be a given a number of games to get the best out of them. He also opined that both the Indian Premier League (IPL) and international cricket are different and have different challenges. ''We have a lot of options. They just need to have a number of games behind them. This is the best time for us to try all the guys that are in the squad. When they play in the IPL, that is a different ball game, when you play international cricket, it is a different situation. In international cricket, there are limited opportunities and you have to make the most of it," Sharma said. India will take on Bangladesh in the first T20I of the three-match series tomorrow at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

Want to focus on setting targets and defending them, says Rohit Sharma

Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma on Sunday surpassed former Australia cricketer Don Bradman`s record of highest average in Test cricket on home soil.

He achieved the feat on day two of the third Test match between India and South Africa.

The right-handed batsman broke the 71-year-old record previously held by Bradman.&nbsp;

The legendary cricketer had an average of 98.22 at home soil in Test Cricket.

Rohit`s average rose to 99.84 after the batsman smashed his first double hundred in the longest format of the game today.

A minimum of ten innings has been kept as the benchmark for the record.

Yesterday Rohit also broke the record for registering the most number of sixes in a bilateral Test series.

The right-handed batsman went past West Indies` batsman Shimron Hetmyer who had registered 15 sixes in the series against Bangladesh in 2018-19.

Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma on Sunday surpassed former Australia cricketer Don Bradman`s record of highest average in Test cricket on home soil. He achieved the feat on day two of the third Test match between India and South Africa.

Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma on Sunday surpassed former Australia cricketer Don Bradman`s record of highest average in Test cricket on home soil. He achieved the feat on day two of the third Test match between India and South Africa. The right-handed batsman broke the 71-year-old record previously held by Bradman. The legendary cricketer had an average of 98.22 at home soil in Test Cricket. Rohit`s average rose to 99.84 after the batsman smashed his first double hundred in the longest format of the game today. A minimum of ten innings has been kept as the benchmark for the record. Yesterday Rohit also broke the record for registering the most number of sixes in a bilateral Test series. The right-handed batsman went past West Indies` batsman Shimron Hetmyer who had registered 15 sixes in the series against Bangladesh in 2018-19.

Rohit Sharma breaks Don Bradman's 71-year-old record

Rohit Sharma struck his maiden double Test century Sunday as India declared on 497 for nine on day two of the third Test against South Africa.

The in-form opener reached the milestone with a six off paceman Lungi Ngidi in the third over after lunch to a standing ovation from the raucous home crowd in Ranchi.

He hit another six off Ngidi before falling to paceman Kagiso Rabada for 212 and returned to the pavilion with handshakes from the South African side.

The left-handed Ravindra Jadeja then took control to hit his 13th Test half-century before falling to debutant spinner George Linde for 51.

Linde returned figures of 4-133 with his left-arm spin.

Number nine Umesh Yadav played a useful cameo of 31, hitting five sixes during his 10-ball blitz.

Mohammed Shami, on 10, and debutant Shahbaz Nadeem, on one, was batting when skipper Virat Kohli called them back at the stroke of tea.

Sharma, who hit twin centuries in his debut as Test opener at the start of the series, pulled India out of early trouble with his 267-run fourth-wicket stand with Ajinkya Rahane, who made 115.

The senior batsman, playing his 30th Test, surpassed his previous best of 177 on his debut against the West Indies in 2013.

Sharma, who has three double centuries in his already illustrious one-day career, smashed the ball all around the park as he hit 28 fours and six sixes in his 255-ball stay.

He successfully reviewed an lbw decision on seven and survived a dropped catch on 28 on day one.

Rahane, who started Sunday on 83, became Linde's first Test victim and the only Indian wicket to fall in the morning session.

Rabada struck twice to reduce India to 39 for three after the hosts elected to bat first on Saturday.

Bad light and rain forced an early end to the opening day with only 58 overs after play was called off.

India is aiming for a whitewash after taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Rohit Sharma struck his maiden double Test century Sunday as India declared on 497 for nine on day two of the third Test against South Africa. The in-form opener reached the milestone with a six off paceman Lungi Ngidi in the third over after lunch to a standing ovation from the raucous home crowd in Ranchi.

Rohit Sharma struck his maiden double Test century Sunday as India declared on 497 for nine on day two of the third Test against South Africa. The in-form opener reached the milestone with a six off paceman Lungi Ngidi in the third over after lunch to a standing ovation from the raucous home crowd in Ranchi. He hit another six off Ngidi before falling to paceman Kagiso Rabada for 212 and returned to the pavilion with handshakes from the South African side. The left-handed Ravindra Jadeja then took control to hit his 13th Test half-century before falling to debutant spinner George Linde for 51. Linde returned figures of 4-133 with his left-arm spin. Number nine Umesh Yadav played a useful cameo of 31, hitting five sixes during his 10-ball blitz. Mohammed Shami, on 10, and debutant Shahbaz Nadeem, on one, was batting when skipper Virat Kohli called them back at the stroke of tea. Sharma, who hit twin centuries in his debut as Test opener at the start of the series, pulled India out of early trouble with his 267-run fourth-wicket stand with Ajinkya Rahane, who made 115. The senior batsman, playing his 30th Test, surpassed his previous best of 177 on his debut against the West Indies in 2013. Sharma, who has three double centuries in his already illustrious one-day career, smashed the ball all around the park as he hit 28 fours and six sixes in his 255-ball stay. He successfully reviewed an lbw decision on seven and survived a dropped catch on 28 on day one. Rahane, who started Sunday on 83, became Linde's first Test victim and the only Indian wicket to fall in the morning session. Rabada struck twice to reduce India to 39 for three after the hosts elected to bat first on Saturday. Bad light and rain forced an early end to the opening day with only 58 overs after play was called off. India is aiming for a whitewash after taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Rohit Sharma hits double ton as India declare on 497-9

rohit-sharma

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

rohit sharma