Rohit Sharma will begin his captaincy tenure in Tests when India lock horns with Sri Lanka in the series opener of the two-match series, which gets underway on March 04 in Mohali. While Rohit has got off to a fabulous start as the limited-overs skipper, it will be interesting to see how he goes about his business as the Test captain.

Rohit has inherited a solid Test unit from his predecessor Virat Kohli, who led India from 2015 to early 2022. Kohli resigned from the Test captaincy post after India's loss to South Africa, 2-1, in the three-match series held in the African nation early this year. Under Kohli, India achieved sizeable success in whites and also did very well in bilateral series in the white-ball formats but failed to win an ICC title.&nbsp;

Ahead of the India-SL series opener, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar recalled how Kohli wasn't affected by the additional responsibilities and never got bogged down as a batsman despite&nbsp;the captaincy tag.

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During a discussion on Star Sports, Gavaskar recalled that Kohli showed no effects of the burden of captaincy during his successful stint.

"Kohli, when he was captain, he showed that there were no effects of the burden of captaincy. He was reeling off hundreds just every other innings. So don't think captaincy was ever a burden on him," Gavaskar said.&nbsp;

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Gavaskar asserted, "As a captain what happens is that you are concerned about everybody else. It's just a natural thing, you are concerned about your bowlers' forms, maybe there is a slight niggle injury, as a batting unit maybe your No.4 or No.5 are not getting the runs, getting out badly."

"So you might be scoring runs yourselves as a captain but you are always concerned about everybody else in the team. That is where you can't focus on your batting. As not a captain, you can focus entirely on your batting. That is the biggest advantage that you can have," the ex-Indian skipper added.&nbsp;

All eyes are now on the new full-time captain Rohit. It will be interesting to see if he enjoys the same success with the bat as done by his predecessor Kohli.

Rohit Sharma will begin his captaincy tenure in Tests when India lock horns with Sri Lanka in the series opener of the two-match series, which gets underway on March 04 in Mohali.

Rohit Sharma will begin his captaincy tenure in Tests when India lock horns with Sri Lanka in the series opener of the two-match series, which gets underway on March 04 in Mohali. While Rohit has got off to a fabulous start as the limited-overs skipper, it will be interesting to see how he goes about his business as the Test captain. Rohit has inherited a solid Test unit from his predecessor Virat Kohli, who led India from 2015 to early 2022. Kohli resigned from the Test captaincy post after India's loss to South Africa, 2-1, in the three-match series held in the African nation early this year. Under Kohli, India achieved sizeable success in whites and also did very well in bilateral series in the white-ball formats but failed to win an ICC title. Ahead of the India-SL series opener, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar recalled how Kohli wasn't affected by the additional responsibilities and never got bogged down as a batsman despite the captaincy tag. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli on cusp of joining Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid & Co. in elite list in historic 100th Test During a discussion on Star Sports, Gavaskar recalled that Kohli showed no effects of the burden of captaincy during his successful stint. "Kohli, when he was captain, he showed that there were no effects of the burden of captaincy. He was reeling off hundreds just every other innings. So don't think captaincy was ever a burden on him," Gavaskar said. ALSO READ | After intense criticism, BCCI allows 50 percent crowd for Virat Kohli's 100th Test for India Gavaskar asserted, "As a captain what happens is that you are concerned about everybody else. It's just a natural thing, you are concerned about your bowlers' forms, maybe there is a slight niggle injury, as a batting unit maybe your No.4 or No.5 are not getting the runs, getting out badly." "So you might be scoring runs yourselves as a captain but you are always concerned about everybody else in the team. That is where you can't focus on your batting. As not a captain, you can focus entirely on your batting. That is the biggest advantage that you can have," the ex-Indian skipper added. All eyes are now on the new full-time captain Rohit. It will be interesting to see if he enjoys the same success with the bat as done by his predecessor Kohli.

Virat Kohli showed no signs of captaincy burden when he was Team India skipper: Sunil Gavaskar

Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed Sri Lanka in the recently-concluded three T20Is at home. With this, India remain unbeaten in 12 successive games in the shortest format and are yet to concede a single match under Rohit's captaincy.&nbsp;

As the action now shifts to the India-Sri Lanka Tests, Shreyas Iyer has achieved a massive jump in the latest ICC T20I Rankings post the memorable run versus the Islanders. Iyer remained unbeaten throughout the course of the series and ended with scores of 57* (28),&nbsp;74* (44) and 73* (45) to win the Player-of-the-Series award. With this, he has jumped 27 spots to enter the top 20. Meanwhile, former captain Virat Kohli and current skipper Rohit are out of the top ten.

Rohit had an ordinary run versus the Sri Lankans, amassing only 50 runs in 3 T20Is, whereas Kohli was rested for the SL series. KL Rahul, thus, remains the only Indian in the top ten. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan continue to hold the top two spots, respectively.

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ICC T20I Rankings - India batters in top 10

KL Rahul - 10

Rohit Sharma - 13

Virat Kohli -15

Shreyas Iyer - 18

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Among bowlers, Bhuvneshwar Kumar jumped up by three places to occupy the 17th position. He remains the only Indian in the top 20, with Jasprit Bumrah now slipping to the 28th spot.&nbsp;

In then ICC Test rankings, Kagiso Rabada has moved up by three spots to hold the sixth position in the list spearheaded by Australia captain Pat Cummins. On the other hand,&nbsp;Marnus Labuschagne remains the top-ranked batter in the purest format ahead of Aussies' three-match Test series versus hosts Pakistan.

Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed Sri Lanka in the recently-concluded three T20Is at home. With this, India remain unbeaten in 12 successive games in the shortest format and are yet to concede a single match under Rohit's captaincy.

Rohit Sharma-led India thrashed Sri Lanka in the recently-concluded three T20Is at home. With this, India remain unbeaten in 12 successive games in the shortest format and are yet to concede a single match under Rohit's captaincy. As the action now shifts to the India-Sri Lanka Tests, Shreyas Iyer has achieved a massive jump in the latest ICC T20I Rankings post the memorable run versus the Islanders. Iyer remained unbeaten throughout the course of the series and ended with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) to win the Player-of-the-Series award. With this, he has jumped 27 spots to enter the top 20. Meanwhile, former captain Virat Kohli and current skipper Rohit are out of the top ten. Rohit had an ordinary run versus the Sri Lankans, amassing only 50 runs in 3 T20Is, whereas Kohli was rested for the SL series. KL Rahul, thus, remains the only Indian in the top ten. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan continue to hold the top two spots, respectively. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli on cusp of joining Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid & Co. in elite list in historic 100th Test ICC T20I Rankings - India batters in top 10 KL Rahul - 10 Rohit Sharma - 13 Virat Kohli -15 Shreyas Iyer - 18 ALSO READ | Virat Kohli can't be replaced: Gavaskar on in-form Shreyas Iyer's batting position for Team India in T20Is Among bowlers, Bhuvneshwar Kumar jumped up by three places to occupy the 17th position. He remains the only Indian in the top 20, with Jasprit Bumrah now slipping to the 28th spot. In then ICC Test rankings, Kagiso Rabada has moved up by three spots to hold the sixth position in the list spearheaded by Australia captain Pat Cummins. On the other hand, Marnus Labuschagne remains the top-ranked batter in the purest format ahead of Aussies' three-match Test series versus hosts Pakistan.

ICC T20I Rankings: Shreyas Iyer achieves huge jump after SL series; Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma out of top 10

Rohit Sharma is set to start his captaincy tenure in the red-ball format as India is set to take on Sri Lanka in the first of the two-match Test series, starting on March 04 (Friday) in Mohali. So far, Rohit has got off to a flying start as the white-ball captain but it will be the first time that he will lead the national side in whites.

For the unversed, Rohit had&nbsp;led India on numerous occasions in white-ball formats before being the full-time limited-overs skipper, however, he never led in Test matches. He could've led India in the South Africa Tests, held early this year in the African nation, as then captain Virat Kohli had missed a game due to injury. During the SA tour, Hitman was named the vice-captain in whites.&nbsp;However, since he missed the whole tour due to injury, he couldn't lead in whites. Thus, the stage is finally set for the 34-year-old's debut as Test captain with the commencement of the SL series at home.

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Ahead of the series opener, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has backed Rohit to deliver even as the red-ball captain due to his experience. "With the experience that he has had over the years of captaining various teams, that should not be too much of an issue. Yes, this is the longer format, so the tactics will be different, the approach will be different. But he has got the experience, so don't really foresee anything majorly difficult for the captain," Gavaskar told Star Sports ahead of India's meeting with Sri Lanka at Mohali.

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Rohit was appointed India's full-time captain after Kohli resigned as the Test skipper post the SA series, which ended during mid-January 2022. It will be interesting to see how he takes the team forward in the purest format after the national side's highly-successful run under Kohli.&nbsp;

India's squad for SL Test series:

Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Rohit Sharma is set to start his captaincy tenure in the red-ball format as India is set to take on Sri Lanka in the first of the two-match Test series, starting on March 04 (Friday) in Mohali.

Rohit Sharma is set to start his captaincy tenure in the red-ball format as India is set to take on Sri Lanka in the first of the two-match Test series, starting on March 04 (Friday) in Mohali. So far, Rohit has got off to a flying start as the white-ball captain but it will be the first time that he will lead the national side in whites. For the unversed, Rohit had led India on numerous occasions in white-ball formats before being the full-time limited-overs skipper, however, he never led in Test matches. He could've led India in the South Africa Tests, held early this year in the African nation, as then captain Virat Kohli had missed a game due to injury. During the SA tour, Hitman was named the vice-captain in whites. However, since he missed the whole tour due to injury, he couldn't lead in whites. Thus, the stage is finally set for the 34-year-old's debut as Test captain with the commencement of the SL series at home. ALSO READ | Hope Virat Kohli celebrates his 100th Test milestone with a century against Sri Lanka: Sunil Gavaskar Ahead of the series opener, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has backed Rohit to deliver even as the red-ball captain due to his experience. "With the experience that he has had over the years of captaining various teams, that should not be too much of an issue. Yes, this is the longer format, so the tactics will be different, the approach will be different. But he has got the experience, so don't really foresee anything majorly difficult for the captain," Gavaskar told Star Sports ahead of India's meeting with Sri Lanka at Mohali. ALSO READ | Captaincy an added responsibility, Rohit Sharma should not lose focus on his batting: Ex-India selector Rohit was appointed India's full-time captain after Kohli resigned as the Test skipper post the SA series, which ended during mid-January 2022. It will be interesting to see how he takes the team forward in the purest format after the national side's highly-successful run under Kohli. India's squad for SL Test series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Tactics will be different, approach will be different: Sunil Gavaskar on Rohit Sharma's Test captaincy debut

Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka T20Is at home. The right-hander stood tall against the Sri Lankans in all three games and ended the series with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) to remain unbeaten throughout the three-match series and walk away with the Player-of-the-Match and the Player-of-the-Series award.&nbsp;

In a modest 147-run chase in the third and final encounter, Iyer came out in the middle at 6-1 and remained unbeaten on 73, studded with 9 fours and a six at a strike rate of 162.22. Courtesy his memorable run versus the Islanders, Iyer joined Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul in an elite feat. He is&nbsp;now one of the four Indian batters to score 3 consecutive half-centuries in the shortest format.

The former captain Kohli was&nbsp;the first Indian to achieve this milestone. He had first hit 3 back-to-back fifty-plus scores in 2012 and replicated the same in 2014 and 2018. Rohit achieved the elusive feat in 2018 as well whereas current white-ball vice-captain&nbsp;Rahul has attained&nbsp;the&nbsp;milestone twice - in 2020 and 2021. For the unversed, Iyer and Kohli are the only 2 Indian batsmen to score 3 back-to-back half-centuries in a series.

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After the series, Iyer said at the post-match presentation, "All three knocks were special, but yesterday's - coming in at a crucial moment, I'd pick that. Only require one ball to get into form as long as you're keeping your eyes on the ball and playing it on its merit. The wicket was little two paced today compared to yesterday. Was playing on the merit. Outfield is so fast, just had to hit gaps. Been a rollercoster journey after my injury. Real test of you is during rehab sessions."

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The focus will now shift to the India-Sri Lanka two-match Test series, which will get underway on March 04. The first Test will be held in Mohali, behind closed doors, whereas Bengaluru will host the second and final encounter -- with 50% crowd -- from March 12-16.

Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka T20Is at home. The right-hander stood tall against the Sri Lankans in all three games and ended the series with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) to remain unbeaten throughout the three-match series and walk away with the Player-of-the-Match and the Player-of-the-Series award.

Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka T20Is at home. The right-hander stood tall against the Sri Lankans in all three games and ended the series with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) to remain unbeaten throughout the three-match series and walk away with the Player-of-the-Match and the Player-of-the-Series award. In a modest 147-run chase in the third and final encounter, Iyer came out in the middle at 6-1 and remained unbeaten on 73, studded with 9 fours and a six at a strike rate of 162.22. Courtesy his memorable run versus the Islanders, Iyer joined Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul in an elite feat. He is now one of the four Indian batters to score 3 consecutive half-centuries in the shortest format. The former captain Kohli was the first Indian to achieve this milestone. He had first hit 3 back-to-back fifty-plus scores in 2012 and replicated the same in 2014 and 2018. Rohit achieved the elusive feat in 2018 as well whereas current white-ball vice-captain Rahul has attained the milestone twice - in 2020 and 2021. For the unversed, Iyer and Kohli are the only 2 Indian batsmen to score 3 back-to-back half-centuries in a series. ALSO READ | India beat Sri Lanka in 3rd T20I to clinch series 3-0, equal record for most T20I wins on the trot After the series, Iyer said at the post-match presentation, "All three knocks were special, but yesterday's - coming in at a crucial moment, I'd pick that. Only require one ball to get into form as long as you're keeping your eyes on the ball and playing it on its merit. The wicket was little two paced today compared to yesterday. Was playing on the merit. Outfield is so fast, just had to hit gaps. Been a rollercoster journey after my injury. Real test of you is during rehab sessions." ALSO READ | Mayank Agarwal wins captaincy race to be named Punjab Kings' skipper ahead of IPL 2022 The focus will now shift to the India-Sri Lanka two-match Test series, which will get underway on March 04. The first Test will be held in Mohali, behind closed doors, whereas Bengaluru will host the second and final encounter -- with 50% crowd -- from March 12-16.

Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is

Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka three T20Is at home. Iyer got a chance to bat higher up the order, at No. 3, in the absence of Virat Kohli and made the most of the opportunities to remain unbeaten throughout the course of the three T20Is to end with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) as India completed a whitewash over the hapless Islanders.

Thus, Iyer has made a strong case to be a regular in the playing XI in the shortest format, ahead of this year's T20 World Cup. Nonetheless, he still intense competition due to the presence of Suryakumar Yadav&nbsp;and Rishabh Pant (both of whom didn't feature in the SL series) along with currently out-of-favour all-rounder Hardik Pandya.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-joins-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-kl-rahul-in-elite-list-after-dream-run-in-sri-lanka-t20is-457333">Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is</a>

After his memorable series versus the Asian neighbours, Iyer revealed his preferred batting slot amid intense competition for slots in the national side. "I'm not keeping any expectations from myself nor from the team coaches because if you see the competition in our team, it's immense. Every individual is capable of winning you games. Personally I want to enjoy each and every moment and opportunity, which I've been provided with. I like to finish off the games and that's like my mindset whenever I go onto the pitch," he said in the post-match conference.

"Obviously in this format, top-three is the only place where you can pace your innings pretty well. Otherwise if you bat down the order you can't give yourself time you need to start going from ball one. So yeah, if I had to say the best number to bat for me personally, it's obviously No. 3," Iyer added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-cant-be-replaced-gavaskar-on-in-form-shreyas-iyers-batting-position-for-team-india-in-t20is-457412">Virat Kohli can't be replaced: Gavaskar on in-form Shreyas Iyer's batting position for Team India in T20Is</a>

After the SL series, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar also opined on problems of plenty for the Indian team. He suggested a slot for Iyer in the batting line-up and told Star Sports, "It's a great problem to have. Obviously, Virat Kohli can't be replaced. He will probably come in at No.3, there is no question about it. But then you can use somebody like a Shreyas Iyer at No.4 or 5. Suryakumar, the way he has been batting, he is got to be included. It is just the plus, plus as far as the team is concerned."

“There are so many options. And it allows you to go in with pure bowlers and not bowlers who can bat. With a top-batting line-up, you can can go in with someone like Mohammed Siraj or Avesh Khan, who is not known as a batsman. You might think in terms of all-out attack,” he further asserted.

Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka three T20Is at home. Iyer got a chance to bat higher up the order, at No. 3, in the absence of Virat Kohli and made the most of the opportunities to remain unbeaten throughout the course of the three T20Is to end with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) as India completed a whitewash over the hapless Islanders.

Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka three T20Is at home. Iyer got a chance to bat higher up the order, at No. 3, in the absence of Virat Kohli and made the most of the opportunities to remain unbeaten throughout the course of the three T20Is to end with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) as India completed a whitewash over the hapless Islanders. Thus, Iyer has made a strong case to be a regular in the playing XI in the shortest format, ahead of this year's T20 World Cup. Nonetheless, he still intense competition due to the presence of Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant (both of whom didn't feature in the SL series) along with currently out-of-favour all-rounder Hardik Pandya. ALSO READ | Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is After his memorable series versus the Asian neighbours, Iyer revealed his preferred batting slot amid intense competition for slots in the national side. "I'm not keeping any expectations from myself nor from the team coaches because if you see the competition in our team, it's immense. Every individual is capable of winning you games. Personally I want to enjoy each and every moment and opportunity, which I've been provided with. I like to finish off the games and that's like my mindset whenever I go onto the pitch," he said in the post-match conference. "Obviously in this format, top-three is the only place where you can pace your innings pretty well. Otherwise if you bat down the order you can't give yourself time you need to start going from ball one. So yeah, if I had to say the best number to bat for me personally, it's obviously No. 3," Iyer added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli can't be replaced: Gavaskar on in-form Shreyas Iyer's batting position for Team India in T20Is After the SL series, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar also opined on problems of plenty for the Indian team. He suggested a slot for Iyer in the batting line-up and told Star Sports, "It's a great problem to have. Obviously, Virat Kohli can't be replaced. He will probably come in at No.3, there is no question about it. But then you can use somebody like a Shreyas Iyer at No.4 or 5. Suryakumar, the way he has been batting, he is got to be included. It is just the plus, plus as far as the team is concerned." “There are so many options. And it allows you to go in with pure bowlers and not bowlers who can bat. With a top-batting line-up, you can can go in with someone like Mohammed Siraj or Avesh Khan, who is not known as a batsman. You might think in terms of all-out attack,” he further asserted.

'Best number for me is....' - Shreyas Iyer reveals his preferred batting slot after Sri Lanka T20Is

After the three T20Is, India is set to lock horns with Sri Lanka in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which gets underway on March 04. Before the commencement of the Test series, ex-Indian selector&nbsp;Devang Gandhi feels Indian cricket fans will see more of Hanuma Vihari in the playing XI with no Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane.

Ahead of the series, the national selectors had dropped senior pros Pujara and Rahane along with Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha. With room in the middle and lower order, Gandhi feels Vihari 'deserves a fair run'. Gandhi also shared his batting order, which doesn't comprise in-form Shreyas Iyer.

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"Firstly, Vihari has played only one Test at home and he, above everyone, else deserves a fair run. Secondly, if you see for India and India A, he has batted at No.5 abroad but in India, he can come in at No.6 when spinners will be in operation and the 'SG Test' ball becomes relatively old." He asserted, "Vihari has a fantastic record against spinners in Ranji Trophy and that's something the team management can exploit."

“If you see our top-order, Mayank, Rohit, Shubman and Virat are all right-handers. It's better if at No.5 we have a left-hander to get the left-right combination going followed by Vihari at No.6 and Ravindra Jadeja, again a left-hander at No.7. It could be the way forward," added Gandhi.

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In his brief Test career, playing 13 games so far, Vihari has done reasonably well by playing some important and valuable knocks with the willow. He has also chipped in with few handy wickets and his off-spin might be a key factor in the Rohit Sharma-led Team India preferring him in the playing XI.

However, it will be very difficult for the team management to look beyond Iyer, who was the Player-of-the-Series in the SL T20Is and second highest-run getter in the India-NZ Tests last year (his maiden series in whites).

The first Test will be held behind closed doors in Mohali whereas Bengaluru will host the second and final Test with a 50% crowd capacity.

After the three T20Is, India is set to lock horns with Sri Lanka in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which gets underway on March 04. Before the commencement of the Test series, ex-Indian selector Devang Gandhi feels Indian cricket fans will see more of Hanuma Vihari in the playing XI with no Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane.

After the three T20Is, India is set to lock horns with Sri Lanka in the forthcoming two-match Test series, which gets underway on March 04. Before the commencement of the Test series, ex-Indian selector Devang Gandhi feels Indian cricket fans will see more of Hanuma Vihari in the playing XI with no Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. Ahead of the series, the national selectors had dropped senior pros Pujara and Rahane along with Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha. With room in the middle and lower order, Gandhi feels Vihari 'deserves a fair run'. Gandhi also shared his batting order, which doesn't comprise in-form Shreyas Iyer. ALSO READ | Captaincy an added responsibility, Rohit Sharma should not lose focus on his batting: Ex-India selector "Firstly, Vihari has played only one Test at home and he, above everyone, else deserves a fair run. Secondly, if you see for India and India A, he has batted at No.5 abroad but in India, he can come in at No.6 when spinners will be in operation and the 'SG Test' ball becomes relatively old." He asserted, "Vihari has a fantastic record against spinners in Ranji Trophy and that's something the team management can exploit." “If you see our top-order, Mayank, Rohit, Shubman and Virat are all right-handers. It's better if at No.5 we have a left-hander to get the left-right combination going followed by Vihari at No.6 and Ravindra Jadeja, again a left-hander at No.7. It could be the way forward," added Gandhi. ALSO READ | 'I wondered how someone could...': Md Shami shares his first reaction on seeing pacer Jasprit Bumrah In his brief Test career, playing 13 games so far, Vihari has done reasonably well by playing some important and valuable knocks with the willow. He has also chipped in with few handy wickets and his off-spin might be a key factor in the Rohit Sharma-led Team India preferring him in the playing XI. However, it will be very difficult for the team management to look beyond Iyer, who was the Player-of-the-Series in the SL T20Is and second highest-run getter in the India-NZ Tests last year (his maiden series in whites). The first Test will be held behind closed doors in Mohali whereas Bengaluru will host the second and final Test with a 50% crowd capacity.

Ex-Indian selector explains why Hanuma Vihari deserves a fair run in Tests after Pujara, Rahane snub

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has had a fabulous start to his tenure as India's full-time captain. Rohit, who too over as the T20I captain of the side in November last year, has led the team to three back-to-back T20I series wins at home against New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka while also winning his first ODI series as full-time captain 3-0 against West Indies.

India have been unstoppable so far in white-ball cricket under Rohit's captaincy. The Men in Blue defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the third and final T20I on Sunday to complete a 3-0 whitewash against the visitors and equal the record for most T20I wins in a row. It was India's 11th consecutive victory in the shortest format.

While India have been a force to reckon with under Rohit's leadership, his personal form has come under the scanner. Rohit failed to score runs consistently in the recently-concluded T20I series against Sri Lanka and his numbers in the last three T20I series have also not been great as per his standards.

Former India selector Saba Karim has urged the Indian skipper to not lose focus on his batting and treat captaincy as only an added responsibility. Karim said Rohit's spot in the playing XI is because of his batting and that the Indian skipper should work on his game ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 where his runs will be crucial for the team.

"Rohit Sharma is in the XI because of his batting. Captaincy is an additional responsibility. He should not lose focus with regards to batting. Lot of times we have seen that captains are not able to perform as well in their primary skill. This should not happen," Karim said on the&nbsp;Khelneeti podcast.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rahul-or-kishan-ex-australia-spinner-names-batter-who-should-open-with-rohit-for-india-in-t20is-457411">Not Rahul or Kishan! Ex-Australia spinner names batter who should open with Rohit for India in T20Is</a>

“This is just the starting phase for Rohit Sharma. He will gradually realize how important his runs are for the team. His performance will be crucial in Australia (during the T20 World Cup), where the grounds are big and the opposition have top-quality bowlers. So yes, Rohit Sharma needs to work on this area," he added.

India will next take on Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series that gets underway from March 04. It will be Rohit's first major assignment as India's Test captain and the Hitman will be hoping to get off to a winning start in the longest format as well.

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Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has had a fabulous start to his tenure as India's full-time captain. Rohit, who too over as the T20I captain of the side in November last year, has led the team to three back-to-back T20I series wins at home against New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka while also winning his first ODI series as full-time captain 3-0 against West Indies.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has had a fabulous start to his tenure as India's full-time captain. Rohit, who too over as the T20I captain of the side in November last year, has led the team to three back-to-back T20I series wins at home against New Zealand, West Indies and Sri Lanka while also winning his first ODI series as full-time captain 3-0 against West Indies. India have been unstoppable so far in white-ball cricket under Rohit's captaincy. The Men in Blue defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets in the third and final T20I on Sunday to complete a 3-0 whitewash against the visitors and equal the record for most T20I wins in a row. It was India's 11th consecutive victory in the shortest format. While India have been a force to reckon with under Rohit's leadership, his personal form has come under the scanner. Rohit failed to score runs consistently in the recently-concluded T20I series against Sri Lanka and his numbers in the last three T20I series have also not been great as per his standards. Former India selector Saba Karim has urged the Indian skipper to not lose focus on his batting and treat captaincy as only an added responsibility. Karim said Rohit's spot in the playing XI is because of his batting and that the Indian skipper should work on his game ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 where his runs will be crucial for the team. "Rohit Sharma is in the XI because of his batting. Captaincy is an additional responsibility. He should not lose focus with regards to batting. Lot of times we have seen that captains are not able to perform as well in their primary skill. This should not happen," Karim said on the Khelneeti podcast. Also Read: Not Rahul or Kishan! Ex-Australia spinner names batter who should open with Rohit for India in T20Is “This is just the starting phase for Rohit Sharma. He will gradually realize how important his runs are for the team. His performance will be crucial in Australia (during the T20 World Cup), where the grounds are big and the opposition have top-quality bowlers. So yes, Rohit Sharma needs to work on this area," he added. India will next take on Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series that gets underway from March 04. It will be Rohit's first major assignment as India's Test captain and the Hitman will be hoping to get off to a winning start in the longest format as well.

Captaincy an added responsibility, Rohit Sharma should not lose focus on his batting: Ex-India selector

India have a very settled top order in T20Is heading into the upcoming edition of the ICC T20 World Cup which is scheduled to take place in Australia this year. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant are all but confirmed to feature in the top four, there is intense competition when it comes to remaining batting positions with a number of star batters in the fray.

The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson and Venkatesh Iyer among others are strong contenders for spots in the middle-order. Iyer, who was in magnificent form in the recently-concluded three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka with three back-to-back unbeaten half-centuries has increased the selection headache for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup.

While the opening combination is all but certain to be that of skipper Rohit and vice-captain KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan has also presented a strong case with his ability to strike the ball from the word go and provide destructive starts at the top of the order. However, former Australia spinner Brad Hogg believes former skipper Virat Kohli should be opening the batting for the team if he part of the XI in T20Is.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-joins-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-kl-rahul-in-elite-list-after-dream-run-in-sri-lanka-t20is-457333">Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is</a>

Open with Kohli, Iyer at 3 and Pant at 4: Hogg

Hogg said Kohli should open the batting with Rohit for India in T20Is while Iyer can bat at number three and Pant can be sent in at number four. The former Australia spinner suggested Rahul be slotted in the middle order while suggesting that Suryakumar, who has been in terrific form over the last few months, can also play at number 5. Hogg said India can then play two all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya at 6 and 7.

"For me, if you're going to have Kohli in the team, he should be opening the batting with Rohit. I'd like to have Shreyas Iyer coming in at No.3 and Pant at No.4. Have to try to get KL Rahul in there as well at some stage. If Pandya is fit, he and Jadeja can feature at No.6 and 7," Hogg said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-siraj-harshal-and-avesh-in-the-mix-indias-pace-attack-shaping-up-well-for-t20-world-cup-2022-457207">With Siraj, Harshal and Avesh in the mix, India's pace attack shaping up well for T20 World Cup 2022</a>

The former Australia spinner also gave his take on what should India's bowling attack look like heading into the T20 World Cup Down Under this year.

&nbsp;"I'd have Siraj, Bumrah and Shami are the quicks. Chahal will be the lead spinner. Suryakumar Yadav coming in at No.5. If Pandya is not fit, then Venkatesh Iyer coming in at No.6," Hogg added. 
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India have a very settled top order in T20Is heading into the upcoming edition of the ICC T20 World Cup which is scheduled to take place in Australia this year. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant are all but confirmed to feature in the top four, there is intense competition when it comes to remaining batting positions with a number of star batters in the fray.

India have a very settled top order in T20Is heading into the upcoming edition of the ICC T20 World Cup which is scheduled to take place in Australia this year. While the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rishabh Pant are all but confirmed to feature in the top four, there is intense competition when it comes to remaining batting positions with a number of star batters in the fray. The likes of Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson and Venkatesh Iyer among others are strong contenders for spots in the middle-order. Iyer, who was in magnificent form in the recently-concluded three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka with three back-to-back unbeaten half-centuries has increased the selection headache for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup. While the opening combination is all but certain to be that of skipper Rohit and vice-captain KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan has also presented a strong case with his ability to strike the ball from the word go and provide destructive starts at the top of the order. However, former Australia spinner Brad Hogg believes former skipper Virat Kohli should be opening the batting for the team if he part of the XI in T20Is. Also Read: Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is Open with Kohli, Iyer at 3 and Pant at 4: Hogg Hogg said Kohli should open the batting with Rohit for India in T20Is while Iyer can bat at number three and Pant can be sent in at number four. The former Australia spinner suggested Rahul be slotted in the middle order while suggesting that Suryakumar, who has been in terrific form over the last few months, can also play at number 5. Hogg said India can then play two all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya at 6 and 7. "For me, if you're going to have Kohli in the team, he should be opening the batting with Rohit. I'd like to have Shreyas Iyer coming in at No.3 and Pant at No.4. Have to try to get KL Rahul in there as well at some stage. If Pandya is fit, he and Jadeja can feature at No.6 and 7," Hogg said. Also Read: With Siraj, Harshal and Avesh in the mix, India's pace attack shaping up well for T20 World Cup 2022 The former Australia spinner also gave his take on what should India's bowling attack look like heading into the T20 World Cup Down Under this year. "I'd have Siraj, Bumrah and Shami are the quicks. Chahal will be the lead spinner. Suryakumar Yadav coming in at No.5. If Pandya is not fit, then Venkatesh Iyer coming in at No.6," Hogg added.

Not Rahul or Kishan! Ex-Australia spinner names batter who should open with Rohit for India in T20Is

Team India completed 3-0 T20I series whitewash against Sri Lanka on Sunday here at HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala.

India captured the final T20I match by six wickets. For hosts, Shreyas Iyer starred with an unbeaten 73* as the Men in Blue chased the target of 146 within 16.5 overs.&nbsp;

Earlier, Indian bowlers restricted Sri Lanka to the score of 146/5 in the 20 overs. For Sri Lanka, Dasun Shanaka again played a captain inning of 74* and took visitors to a respectable total while Dinesh Chandimal scored 25.

Avesh Khan scalped two wickets, while Mohammed Siraj, Harshal Patel, and Ravi Bishnoi grabbed one apiece. India never found themselves in trouble while chasing the underwhelming target of 146.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-siraj-harshal-and-avesh-in-the-mix-indias-pace-attack-shaping-up-well-for-t20-world-cup-2022-457207">With Siraj, Harshal and Avesh in the mix, India's pace attack shaping up well for T20 World Cup 2022</a>

Shreyas trumped the chase with 73* off 45 balls - his third successive half-century.

Hosts dominated from the word go and chased down the target with six wickets and 19 balls to spare.

Opting to bat first, visitors had the worst possible start as they lost both their openers inside the first two overs of the innings.

Siraj sent Danushka Gunathilaka back to the pavilion in the final ball of the first over while Avesh in the very next over dismissed Pathum Nissanka.

In the fourth over, Avesh struck again as Sanju Samson caught Charith Asalanka with a half-dive. After the powerplay, the visitors score read 18/3. With SL in trouble, hosts dictated the pace of the innings.&nbsp;

In the 9th over, Bishnoi bowled Janith Liyanage to create more trouble for Lankans. In the 13th over Patel dismissed dangerously looking Dinesh Chandimal on the score of 25 to pile more misery on visitors.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/two-bullet-shells-recovered-from-bus-ferrying-sri-lankan-cricket-team-chandigarh-police-to-investigate-457153">Two bullet shells recovered from bus ferrying Sri Lankan cricket team, Chandigarh police to investigate</a>

After that setback, captain Dasun Shanaka took matters into his own hand and with Chamika Karunaratne he assured that Lankans don't lose any more wickets and took the team's score to 146/5.&nbsp;

Brief Scores: Sri Lanka 146/5 (Dasun Shanaka 74*, Dinesh Chandimal 25; Avesh Khan 2-23) vs India 148/4 (Shreyas Iyer 73*, Deepak Hooda 21; Lahiru Kumara 2/39) (ANI)

Team India completed 3-0 T20I series whitewash against Sri Lanka on Sunday here at HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala. India captured the final T20I match by six wickets.

Team India completed 3-0 T20I series whitewash against Sri Lanka on Sunday here at HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala. India captured the final T20I match by six wickets. For hosts, Shreyas Iyer starred with an unbeaten 73* as the Men in Blue chased the target of 146 within 16.5 overs. Earlier, Indian bowlers restricted Sri Lanka to the score of 146/5 in the 20 overs. For Sri Lanka, Dasun Shanaka again played a captain inning of 74* and took visitors to a respectable total while Dinesh Chandimal scored 25. Avesh Khan scalped two wickets, while Mohammed Siraj, Harshal Patel, and Ravi Bishnoi grabbed one apiece. India never found themselves in trouble while chasing the underwhelming target of 146. ALSO READ: With Siraj, Harshal and Avesh in the mix, India's pace attack shaping up well for T20 World Cup 2022 Shreyas trumped the chase with 73* off 45 balls - his third successive half-century. Hosts dominated from the word go and chased down the target with six wickets and 19 balls to spare. Opting to bat first, visitors had the worst possible start as they lost both their openers inside the first two overs of the innings. Siraj sent Danushka Gunathilaka back to the pavilion in the final ball of the first over while Avesh in the very next over dismissed Pathum Nissanka. In the fourth over, Avesh struck again as Sanju Samson caught Charith Asalanka with a half-dive. After the powerplay, the visitors score read 18/3. With SL in trouble, hosts dictated the pace of the innings. In the 9th over, Bishnoi bowled Janith Liyanage to create more trouble for Lankans. In the 13th over Patel dismissed dangerously looking Dinesh Chandimal on the score of 25 to pile more misery on visitors. ALSO READ: Two bullet shells recovered from bus ferrying Sri Lankan cricket team, Chandigarh police to investigate After that setback, captain Dasun Shanaka took matters into his own hand and with Chamika Karunaratne he assured that Lankans don't lose any more wickets and took the team's score to 146/5. Brief Scores: Sri Lanka 146/5 (Dasun Shanaka 74*, Dinesh Chandimal 25; Avesh Khan 2-23) vs India 148/4 (Shreyas Iyer 73*, Deepak Hooda 21; Lahiru Kumara 2/39) (ANI)

India beat Sri Lanka in 3rd T20I to clinch series 3-0, equal record for most T20I wins on the trot

Rohit Sharma-led Team India will be aiming to pull off their third successive T20 series clean sweep in a row when they take on Sri Lanka in the third and final T20I of the three-match series on Sunday (February 27). India defeated Sri Lanka by seven wickets in the second T20I at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala on Saturday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series with back-to-back wins.

Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson were the stars of India's victory as the trio played brilliant knocks with the bat to power India to a comprehensive win. Asked to chase down the target of 184 runs in 20 overs, India rode on Iyer's 44-ball 74 and crucial knocks of 39 and 45 runs from Samson and Jadeja respectively to wrap up the run chase with 17 balls to spare.

India will be looking to continue their winning run in the third T20I. However, the hosts have received a major setback ahead of the final game as wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan suffered a head injury while batting during the second T20I and is likely to miss the clash.

Kishan was hot on the helmet by a vicious bouncer from Lahiru Kumara while batting and suffered a head injury. He was taken to hospital for scans and is unlikely to take the field in the 3rd T20I. In his absence, backup opener Mayank Agarwal can be asked to open the innings with Rohit in the third T20I. Samson will keep the wickets and will continue to bat at number four.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-achieves-new-milestone-as-captain-after-india-hammer-sri-lanka-in-2nd-t20i-457071">Rohit Sharma achieves new milestone as captain after India hammer Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I</a>

With Jadeja back in the squad and finding his groove, he will continue to bat up the order while all-rounders Venkatesh Iyer and Deepak Hooda will continue to don the finisher's role for the team.&nbsp;There is no change expected in the bowling department with Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel comprising the pace attack. Yuzvendra Chahal will keep his spot as the lone spinner in the side.

India's predicted XI for 3rd T20I against Sri Lanka:

Rohit Sharma (c), Mayank Agarwal, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravi Bishnoi.

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Rohit Sharma-led Team India will be aiming to pull off their third successive T20 series clean sweep in a row when they take on Sri Lanka in the third and final T20I of the three-match series on Sunday (February 27).

Rohit Sharma-led Team India will be aiming to pull off their third successive T20 series clean sweep in a row when they take on Sri Lanka in the third and final T20I of the three-match series on Sunday (February 27). India defeated Sri Lanka by seven wickets in the second T20I at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala on Saturday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series with back-to-back wins. Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson were the stars of India's victory as the trio played brilliant knocks with the bat to power India to a comprehensive win. Asked to chase down the target of 184 runs in 20 overs, India rode on Iyer's 44-ball 74 and crucial knocks of 39 and 45 runs from Samson and Jadeja respectively to wrap up the run chase with 17 balls to spare. India will be looking to continue their winning run in the third T20I. However, the hosts have received a major setback ahead of the final game as wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan suffered a head injury while batting during the second T20I and is likely to miss the clash. Kishan was hot on the helmet by a vicious bouncer from Lahiru Kumara while batting and suffered a head injury. He was taken to hospital for scans and is unlikely to take the field in the 3rd T20I. In his absence, backup opener Mayank Agarwal can be asked to open the innings with Rohit in the third T20I. Samson will keep the wickets and will continue to bat at number four. Also Read: Rohit Sharma achieves new milestone as captain after India hammer Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I With Jadeja back in the squad and finding his groove, he will continue to bat up the order while all-rounders Venkatesh Iyer and Deepak Hooda will continue to don the finisher's role for the team. There is no change expected in the bowling department with Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel comprising the pace attack. Yuzvendra Chahal will keep his spot as the lone spinner in the side. India's predicted XI for 3rd T20I against Sri Lanka: Rohit Sharma (c), Mayank Agarwal, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravi Bishnoi.

Ishan Kishan to miss out? Rohit Sharma-led India's predicted playing XI for 3rd T20I against Sri Lanka

Fit-again India allrounder&nbsp;Ravindra Jadeja&nbsp;is relishing his new role of batting in the middle-order and thanked skipper&nbsp;Rohit Sharma&nbsp;for showing faith and promoting him up the order.

The left-arm spin all-rounder returned to action after recovering from a knee injury, and in the second T20I against Sri Lanka he blasted his way to a 18-ball 45 not out batting at No 5 to help India notch up a series-clinching seven-wicket win here on Saturday.

“Yes, I’m enjoying batting at number five. I can take my time and I can pace my innings according to the situation,” Jadeja said at the post-match media interaction.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-achieves-new-milestone-as-captain-after-india-hammer-sri-lanka-in-2nd-t20i-457071">Rohit Sharma achieves new milestone as captain after India hammer Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I</a>

“I would like to thank Rohit because he trusts me and he believes in me that I can go out there and score runs for my team.

“So hopefully whenever I get an opportunity in future I’ll try and do my best, play according to the situation and be in the game for my team.” The 33-year-old missed the last two series against South Africa and the West Indies as he was undergoing rehab for his knee injury.

In his comeback match in the first T20I on Thursday, Jadeja was promoted to No 4 where he scored 3 not out from four balls as India posted 199 for 2 en route to a 62-run win.

Justifying his decision, skipper Rohit has said they “wanted more” from the “vastly-improved batter” Jadeja.

In the second T20I, India lost both Rohit (1) and Ishan Kishan (16) cheaply inside the powerplay, while Sanju Samson (39 from 25 balls) could not convert his start as they were in a tricky position at 128 for 3, needing 56 runs in the last seven overs when Jadeja walked in.

Jadeja looked in full flow and along with the in-form&nbsp;Shreyas Iyer&nbsp;(74 not out) put up an exceptional batting display to seal the chase with 17 balls to spare.

“I am feeling better, I am confident and I am good to go. I am glad that I played a good innings for my team. Hopefully, I will continue in the same in the upcoming games,” he said.

He said the wicket also helped a lot as the ball was coming nicely to the bat.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anything-he-touches-turns-to-gold-md-kaif-praises-rohit-sharma-after-india-beat-sri-lanka-in-2nd-t20i-457048">'Anything he touches turns to gold': Md. Kaif praises Rohit Sharma after India beat Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I</a>

“Wicket was so good, the ball was coming on nicely and I was just looking to time the ball. I was not trying too hard. I was just looking to play normal cricketing shots. Shreyas has been batting really well. We tried to play till the end,” he said about their 58-run unbroken stand from 25 balls.

Jadeja also praised comeback man Samson, who played a good innings before getting out in the 13th over.

“He played brilliantly. When you play after a long time and score runs, you feel confident. Hopefully, he continues in the upcoming games.”

Fit-again India allrounder Ravindra Jadeja is relishing his new role of batting in the middle-order and thanked skipper Rohit Sharma for showing faith and promoting him up the order.

Fit-again India allrounder Ravindra Jadeja is relishing his new role of batting in the middle-order and thanked skipper Rohit Sharma for showing faith and promoting him up the order. The left-arm spin all-rounder returned to action after recovering from a knee injury, and in the second T20I against Sri Lanka he blasted his way to a 18-ball 45 not out batting at No 5 to help India notch up a series-clinching seven-wicket win here on Saturday. “Yes, I’m enjoying batting at number five. I can take my time and I can pace my innings according to the situation,” Jadeja said at the post-match media interaction. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma achieves new milestone as captain after India hammer Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I “I would like to thank Rohit because he trusts me and he believes in me that I can go out there and score runs for my team. “So hopefully whenever I get an opportunity in future I’ll try and do my best, play according to the situation and be in the game for my team.” The 33-year-old missed the last two series against South Africa and the West Indies as he was undergoing rehab for his knee injury. In his comeback match in the first T20I on Thursday, Jadeja was promoted to No 4 where he scored 3 not out from four balls as India posted 199 for 2 en route to a 62-run win. Justifying his decision, skipper Rohit has said they “wanted more” from the “vastly-improved batter” Jadeja. In the second T20I, India lost both Rohit (1) and Ishan Kishan (16) cheaply inside the powerplay, while Sanju Samson (39 from 25 balls) could not convert his start as they were in a tricky position at 128 for 3, needing 56 runs in the last seven overs when Jadeja walked in. Jadeja looked in full flow and along with the in-form Shreyas Iyer (74 not out) put up an exceptional batting display to seal the chase with 17 balls to spare. “I am feeling better, I am confident and I am good to go. I am glad that I played a good innings for my team. Hopefully, I will continue in the same in the upcoming games,” he said. He said the wicket also helped a lot as the ball was coming nicely to the bat. ALSO READ: 'Anything he touches turns to gold': Md. Kaif praises Rohit Sharma after India beat Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I “Wicket was so good, the ball was coming on nicely and I was just looking to time the ball. I was not trying too hard. I was just looking to play normal cricketing shots. Shreyas has been batting really well. We tried to play till the end,” he said about their 58-run unbroken stand from 25 balls. Jadeja also praised comeback man Samson, who played a good innings before getting out in the 13th over. “He played brilliantly. When you play after a long time and score runs, you feel confident. Hopefully, he continues in the upcoming games.”

Ind vs SL: Ravindra Jadeja enjoying batting higher up for India, thanks skipper Rohit Sharma

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has had an exceptional run so far as the captain of the Indian cricket team in limited-overs formats. After beating New Zealand and West Indies in their last T20I series, India on Saturday clinched the ongoing three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka with a comprehensive seven-wicket win in the second T20I.

India chased down the target of 184 runs with ease as the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson fired all cylinders with the bat. With back-to-back wins in the first two games, India have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series and will be aiming for a 3-0 clean sweep when they lock horns with Sri Lanka in the third and final T20I on Sunday.

After India's seven-wicket win in the second T20I on Saturday, skipper Rohit achieved a new milestone in the shortest format as captain. Rohit has now created the record for most T20I wins at home as captain. He has led India to 16 victories in 17 T20I matches at home to surpass England captain Eoin Morgan and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-ravindra-jadeja-keep-indias-winning-streak-alive-men-in-blue-win-t20i-series-vs-sri-lanka-456892">Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja keep India's winning streak alive, Men in Blue win T20I series vs Sri Lanka</a>

Rohit has three more wins than both MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli as captain in T20Is at home. The current Indian skipper has lost just one T20I so far in his career as a captain at home. Rohit overall too has a terrific record as captain in T20Is with 23 wins in 25 matches.

The seven-wicket victory on Saturday was India's 11th successive Twin under his captaincy in T20Is and a third consecutive T20I series win since he was appointed as the full-time captain in November last year. India have not lost a single T20I game ever since their disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup 2021 last year.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishan-kishan-admitted-to-hospital-after-being-hit-on-head-by-a-nasty-bouncer-during-2nd-t20i-against-sl-457011">Ishan Kishan admitted to hospital after being hit on head by a nasty bouncer during 2nd T20I against SL</a>

On Saturday, Sri Lanka rode on brilliant knocks from openers Pathum Nissanka (75) and Danushka Gunathilaka (38) to post a strong total of 183 runs on the board. However, Indian batters were up for the challenge despite a poor start from the hosts.

Shreyas Iyer continued his fabulous run with a cracking 74 off 44 balls while Ravindra Jadeja played a sensational cameo of 18-ball 45 along with Sanju Samson (39 off 25) to take India over the line comfortably.

&nbsp;

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has had an exceptional run so far as the captain of the Indian cricket team in limited-overs formats. After beating New Zealand and West Indies in their last T20I series, India on Saturday clinched the ongoing three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka with a comprehensive seven-wicket win in the second T20I.

Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has had an exceptional run so far as the captain of the Indian cricket team in limited-overs formats. After beating New Zealand and West Indies in their last T20I series, India on Saturday clinched the ongoing three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka with a comprehensive seven-wicket win in the second T20I. India chased down the target of 184 runs with ease as the likes of Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson fired all cylinders with the bat. With back-to-back wins in the first two games, India have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series and will be aiming for a 3-0 clean sweep when they lock horns with Sri Lanka in the third and final T20I on Sunday. After India's seven-wicket win in the second T20I on Saturday, skipper Rohit achieved a new milestone in the shortest format as captain. Rohit has now created the record for most T20I wins at home as captain. He has led India to 16 victories in 17 T20I matches at home to surpass England captain Eoin Morgan and New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson. Also Read: Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja keep India's winning streak alive, Men in Blue win T20I series vs Sri Lanka Rohit has three more wins than both MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli as captain in T20Is at home. The current Indian skipper has lost just one T20I so far in his career as a captain at home. Rohit overall too has a terrific record as captain in T20Is with 23 wins in 25 matches. The seven-wicket victory on Saturday was India's 11th successive Twin under his captaincy in T20Is and a third consecutive T20I series win since he was appointed as the full-time captain in November last year. India have not lost a single T20I game ever since their disappointing exit from the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. Also Read: Ishan Kishan admitted to hospital after being hit on head by a nasty bouncer during 2nd T20I against SL On Saturday, Sri Lanka rode on brilliant knocks from openers Pathum Nissanka (75) and Danushka Gunathilaka (38) to post a strong total of 183 runs on the board. However, Indian batters were up for the challenge despite a poor start from the hosts. Shreyas Iyer continued his fabulous run with a cracking 74 off 44 balls while Ravindra Jadeja played a sensational cameo of 18-ball 45 along with Sanju Samson (39 off 25) to take India over the line comfortably.

Rohit Sharma achieves new milestone as captain after India hammer Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I

Former India batter Mohammad Kaif on Sunday praised Rohit Sharma's captaincy, saying that everything the right-handed batter is touching, is turning to gold.

Kaif hailed Rohit's moves of shifting Shreyas Iyer to No.3 in the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka in the absence of Virat Kohli.

"Be careful to shake hands with Rohit Sharma these days. Anything he touches turns to gold. Shreyas at No.3, rotation of players, bowling changed. Every move, a masterstroke. #Goldentouch @ImRo45," tweeted Kaif.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishan-kishan-admitted-to-hospital-after-being-hit-on-head-by-a-nasty-bouncer-during-2nd-t20i-against-sl-457011">Ishan Kishan admitted to hospital after being hit on head by a nasty bouncer during 2nd T20I against SL</a>

India has now gone 11 matches without being defeated in the shortest format, and they are just one more win away from equalling the world record.

Shreyas Iyer smashed a stylish fifty before Jadeja slammed 45 in 18 balls to help India defeat Sri Lanka in the second T20I by seven wickets on Saturday.

With this win, India also sealed the two-match T20I series (2-0) with a game to go.

The third T20I between both sides will be played on Sunday.

Former India batter Mohammad Kaif on Sunday praised Rohit Sharma's captaincy, saying that everything the right-handed batter is touching, is turning to gold. Kaif hailed Rohit's moves of shifting Shreyas Iyer to No.

Former India batter Mohammad Kaif on Sunday praised Rohit Sharma's captaincy, saying that everything the right-handed batter is touching, is turning to gold. Kaif hailed Rohit's moves of shifting Shreyas Iyer to No.3 in the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka in the absence of Virat Kohli. "Be careful to shake hands with Rohit Sharma these days. Anything he touches turns to gold. Shreyas at No.3, rotation of players, bowling changed. Every move, a masterstroke. #Goldentouch @ImRo45," tweeted Kaif. ALSO READ: Ishan Kishan admitted to hospital after being hit on head by a nasty bouncer during 2nd T20I against SL India has now gone 11 matches without being defeated in the shortest format, and they are just one more win away from equalling the world record. Shreyas Iyer smashed a stylish fifty before Jadeja slammed 45 in 18 balls to help India defeat Sri Lanka in the second T20I by seven wickets on Saturday. With this win, India also sealed the two-match T20I series (2-0) with a game to go. The third T20I between both sides will be played on Sunday.

'Anything he touches turns to gold': Md. Kaif praises Rohit Sharma after India beat Sri Lanka in 2nd T20I

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat Sri Lanka by seven&nbsp;wickets to win the second and penultimate T20I, in Dharamshala, on Saturday evening (February 26) and clinch the series with an unassailable 2-0 lead.&nbsp;

Opting to bowl first, Rohit-led India bowlers didn't have an easy ride versus the Islanders. Pathum Nissanka, who fell for a golden duck in the series opener, and Danushka Gunathilaka's opening stand (67 runs) ensured a good start for the visitors. While they did survive some close calls initially, the duo found their rhythm as the innings progressed. Against the run of play, Ravindra Jadeja struck to remove Gunathilaka for 38.&nbsp;

When it seemed Indian bowlers had managed to restrict the Lankans, skipper Dasun Shanaka's 19-ball 47 and Nissanka's calculative and well-compiled 53-ball 75 propelled SL to 183-5. Among Indian bowlers, Jadeja, Harshal Patel and Bhuvneshwar Kumar remained expensive.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-were-standing-there-for-me-ishan-kishan-credits-rohit-dravid-for-backing-him-despite-poor-form-456502">They were standing there for me: Ishan Kishan credits Rohit, Dravid for backing him despite poor form</a>

In reply, India's chase started with Rohit departing for 1. Ishan Kishan also failed to get going to be dismissed for cheap. The onus, this, shifted on in-form Shreyas Iyer and Sanju Samson. While Samson took some time before launching some biggies, Iyer played a sensational inning&nbsp;-- with a flurry of boundaries at regular intervals along with smart rotation of strike.&nbsp;

While India lost Samson, courtesy a blinder by B Fernando, Jadeja-Iyer completed the formalities as Lankans continued to be sloppy on the field and gave plenty of boundary-balls. Jadeja dominated the unbroken fourth-wicket stand with Iyer (74 not out) to return with an 18-ball 45* (at a whopping strike-rate of 250).

With this win, India's best-ever winning streak in the format has now stretched to 11. Among Test-playing nations, Afghanistan top the list holding the first two spots. Now, India have joined the Afghans in the second position with 11 successive wins. If India inflict a clean sweep versus the Sri Lankans, they will come at par with Afghanistan at the top spot (12).

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat Sri Lanka by seven wickets to win the second and penultimate T20I, in Dharamshala, on Saturday evening (February 26) and clinch the series with an unassailable 2-0 lead.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat Sri Lanka by seven wickets to win the second and penultimate T20I, in Dharamshala, on Saturday evening (February 26) and clinch the series with an unassailable 2-0 lead. Opting to bowl first, Rohit-led India bowlers didn't have an easy ride versus the Islanders. Pathum Nissanka, who fell for a golden duck in the series opener, and Danushka Gunathilaka's opening stand (67 runs) ensured a good start for the visitors. While they did survive some close calls initially, the duo found their rhythm as the innings progressed. Against the run of play, Ravindra Jadeja struck to remove Gunathilaka for 38. When it seemed Indian bowlers had managed to restrict the Lankans, skipper Dasun Shanaka's 19-ball 47 and Nissanka's calculative and well-compiled 53-ball 75 propelled SL to 183-5. Among Indian bowlers, Jadeja, Harshal Patel and Bhuvneshwar Kumar remained expensive. ALSO READ | They were standing there for me: Ishan Kishan credits Rohit, Dravid for backing him despite poor form In reply, India's chase started with Rohit departing for 1. Ishan Kishan also failed to get going to be dismissed for cheap. The onus, this, shifted on in-form Shreyas Iyer and Sanju Samson. While Samson took some time before launching some biggies, Iyer played a sensational inning -- with a flurry of boundaries at regular intervals along with smart rotation of strike. While India lost Samson, courtesy a blinder by B Fernando, Jadeja-Iyer completed the formalities as Lankans continued to be sloppy on the field and gave plenty of boundary-balls. Jadeja dominated the unbroken fourth-wicket stand with Iyer (74 not out) to return with an 18-ball 45* (at a whopping strike-rate of 250). With this win, India's best-ever winning streak in the format has now stretched to 11. Among Test-playing nations, Afghanistan top the list holding the first two spots. Now, India have joined the Afghans in the second position with 11 successive wins. If India inflict a clean sweep versus the Sri Lankans, they will come at par with Afghanistan at the top spot (12).

Shreyas Iyer, Ravindra Jadeja keep India's winning streak alive, Men in Blue win T20I series vs Sri Lanka

Jasprit Bumrah has grown in stature significantly with each passing year. He debuted in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2013 but hardly got regular appearances. In his first two seasons, Bumrah didn't play a massive role in Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians' (MI) campaign but slowly and steadily moved up the ladder, with good performances in domestic circuit and following his international debut in early 2016.

To date, Bumrah remains one of the most important players for the MI franchise. He has helped the Mumbai-based franchise win plenty of close encounters, and trophies,&nbsp;picking up 130 wickets in 106 matches at an impressive average of 23.03. Recently, in a conversation with R Ashwin on the wily spinner's Youtube channel, Bumrah spilled the beans on his relationship with Rohit and revealed how Hitman helped him in his growth.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-t20i-rohit-sharma-on-the-cusp-of-achieving-major-milestones-in-dharamshala-456712">Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala</a>

"It's been very good (Relationship) since the early days. When I came into the side, Ricky Ponting was the captain but I was not playing regularly. But under Rohit, I did. He had a lot of confidence in me, he instilled confidence." He asserted, "He (Rohit) saw me bowling in the nets and the skills that I have. He always backed me, told me to believe in myself. Whenever in the initial stages as well, he had a lot of trust in me. He would give me the important overs. It's been the same relationship."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-new-format-explained-mumbai-indians-and-chennai-super-kings-headline-two-groups-456529">IPL 2022 new format explained: Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings headline two groups</a>

Bumrah further added, "Now we have reached a stage he doesn't even tell me things. He will tell 'you set the field on your own, if you have any changes, tell me, I will do that'. He has had that trust because I have made things work. Somedays, things might not go well, but he always has kept the atmosphere in our team very simple and calm. Under him, I have got the freedom to do whatever I want. That has really helped me."

At present, Bumrah is India and MI's vital cog across formats. He is currently serving as Rohit's deputy in India's ongoing three-match T20I series versus Sri Lanka at home. Bumrah played his first-ever game in the shortest format post the 2021 T20 World Cup when India locked horns with Sri Lanka in the series opener in Lucknow on Thursday (February 24).

India and Sri Lanka meet each other in the second and penultimate T20I on Saturday evening (February 26) in Dharamshala.

Jasprit Bumrah has grown in stature significantly with each passing year. He debuted in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2013 but hardly got regular appearances.

Jasprit Bumrah has grown in stature significantly with each passing year. He debuted in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2013 but hardly got regular appearances. In his first two seasons, Bumrah didn't play a massive role in Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians' (MI) campaign but slowly and steadily moved up the ladder, with good performances in domestic circuit and following his international debut in early 2016. To date, Bumrah remains one of the most important players for the MI franchise. He has helped the Mumbai-based franchise win plenty of close encounters, and trophies, picking up 130 wickets in 106 matches at an impressive average of 23.03. Recently, in a conversation with R Ashwin on the wily spinner's Youtube channel, Bumrah spilled the beans on his relationship with Rohit and revealed how Hitman helped him in his growth. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala "It's been very good (Relationship) since the early days. When I came into the side, Ricky Ponting was the captain but I was not playing regularly. But under Rohit, I did. He had a lot of confidence in me, he instilled confidence." He asserted, "He (Rohit) saw me bowling in the nets and the skills that I have. He always backed me, told me to believe in myself. Whenever in the initial stages as well, he had a lot of trust in me. He would give me the important overs. It's been the same relationship." ALSO READ | IPL 2022 new format explained: Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings headline two groups Bumrah further added, "Now we have reached a stage he doesn't even tell me things. He will tell 'you set the field on your own, if you have any changes, tell me, I will do that'. He has had that trust because I have made things work. Somedays, things might not go well, but he always has kept the atmosphere in our team very simple and calm. Under him, I have got the freedom to do whatever I want. That has really helped me." At present, Bumrah is India and MI's vital cog across formats. He is currently serving as Rohit's deputy in India's ongoing three-match T20I series versus Sri Lanka at home. Bumrah played his first-ever game in the shortest format post the 2021 T20 World Cup when India locked horns with Sri Lanka in the series opener in Lucknow on Thursday (February 24). India and Sri Lanka meet each other in the second and penultimate T20I on Saturday evening (February 26) in Dharamshala.

He would give me important overs: Jasprit Bumrah reveals how Rohit Sharma helped in his growth

India's former captain Virat Kohli is set to play his 100th Test during the two-match series opener between hosts India and Sri Lanka, starting on March 04. The 33-year-old Kohli -- who is on a bio-bubble break at present -- will return to the Indian team setup before the SL Test series opener and gear up for his landmark outing in whites, however, the match will be held behind closed doors.

The CEO of the Punjab Cricket Association recently revealed that the first Test between the two Asian giants will be played amid empty stands, which will also be the captaincy debut of Rohit Sharma in the purest format of the game.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-t20i-rohit-sharma-on-the-cusp-of-achieving-major-milestones-in-dharamshala-456712">Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala</a>

"The first Test between India and Sri Lanka will be played behind closed doors with no spectators allowed," Punjab Cricket Association CEO Deepak Sharma was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-batsman-bats-there-with-no-pujara-gavaskar-wants-star-indian-player-to-take-no-3-spot-in-tests-456735">Best batsman bats there: With no Pujara, Gavaskar wants star Indian player to take No. 3 spot in Tests</a>

In 99 Tests, Kohli has&nbsp;7,962 runs at an average of 50.39 along with 27 centuries. He recently stepped down as the Test captain, leading India to 40 wins in 68 encounters. Under him, India won their maiden Test series in Australia, have an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in mid-2021, dominated at home and played the inaugural WTC final.

The second and final Test will be held at the M Chinnaswammy Stadium, Bengaluru where 50% crowd is expected. Thus, Kohli will miss the chance of playing his 100th Test in his second home (i.e. Bengaluru) and amid crowd presence, unless he misses the Mohali encounter.

India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Shami, Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar.

India's former captain Virat Kohli is set to play his 100th Test during the two-match series opener between hosts India and Sri Lanka, starting on March 04. The 33-year-old Kohli -- who is on a bio-bubble break at present -- will return to the Indian team setup before the SL Test series opener and gear up for his landmark outing in whites, however, the match will be held behind closed doors.

India's former captain Virat Kohli is set to play his 100th Test during the two-match series opener between hosts India and Sri Lanka, starting on March 04. The 33-year-old Kohli -- who is on a bio-bubble break at present -- will return to the Indian team setup before the SL Test series opener and gear up for his landmark outing in whites, however, the match will be held behind closed doors. The CEO of the Punjab Cricket Association recently revealed that the first Test between the two Asian giants will be played amid empty stands, which will also be the captaincy debut of Rohit Sharma in the purest format of the game. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala "The first Test between India and Sri Lanka will be played behind closed doors with no spectators allowed," Punjab Cricket Association CEO Deepak Sharma was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. ALSO READ | Best batsman bats there: With no Pujara, Gavaskar wants star Indian player to take No. 3 spot in Tests In 99 Tests, Kohli has 7,962 runs at an average of 50.39 along with 27 centuries. He recently stepped down as the Test captain, leading India to 40 wins in 68 encounters. Under him, India won their maiden Test series in Australia, have an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in mid-2021, dominated at home and played the inaugural WTC final. The second and final Test will be held at the M Chinnaswammy Stadium, Bengaluru where 50% crowd is expected. Thus, Kohli will miss the chance of playing his 100th Test in his second home (i.e. Bengaluru) and amid crowd presence, unless he misses the Mohali encounter. India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Shami, Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar.

India vs Sri Lanka: Virat Kohli set to play historic 100th Test behind closed doors in Mohali

Rohit Sharma has had a dream start to his captaincy era. While Hitman has led the Men in Blue in only a handful of ODIs and is yet to start his Test captaincy era, the 34-year-old is on a winning spree as the captain in the shortest format.&nbsp;

After India defeated Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the series opener of the three T20Is, in Lucknow on Thursday (February 24), Rohit &amp; Co. attained their best-ever unbeaten streak in the format (10). Ahead of the second and penultimate T20I between both sides in Dharamshala, on Saturday (February 26), Rohit has a few major milestones awaiting him.&nbsp;

If India manage to beat Sri Lanka in the 2nd T20I and take an unassailable lead in the series, it will not only be another series triumph for the Rohit-led side but Hitman will also have most&nbsp;wins in the format as an Indian captain. So far, Rohit has 15 wins from 16 encounters and is currently levelled with Eoin Morgan and Aaron Finch. Among Indian skippers, Rohit is already two ahead of Virat Kohli's tally (13) whereas MS Dhoni comes third (10 wins).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-t20i-weather-report-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-second-and-penultimate-tie-in-dharamshala-456685">Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala?</a>

In addition, Rohit is just 19 away from joining an elite list -- comprising Morgan, Finch, Dhoni, Kohli and Babar Azam -- to have 1,000, or more, runs as captain in T20Is. He will also become the second-quickest batter to reach the milestone, after Babar Azam (26 innings). Rohit&nbsp;fell just short of one innings&nbsp;of equalling the feat with the Pakistani. Among Indian captains, he looks set to become the fastest to be the milestone (in 27 innings if he does so on Saturday) -- with Kohli getting there in 30 innings whereas Dhoni was the slowest to get to 1,000 runs as captain in the format (57 innings).

Rohit Sharma has had a dream start to his captaincy era. While Hitman has led the Men in Blue in only a handful of ODIs and is yet to start his Test captaincy era, the 34-year-old is on a winning spree as the captain in the shortest format.

Rohit Sharma has had a dream start to his captaincy era. While Hitman has led the Men in Blue in only a handful of ODIs and is yet to start his Test captaincy era, the 34-year-old is on a winning spree as the captain in the shortest format. After India defeated Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the series opener of the three T20Is, in Lucknow on Thursday (February 24), Rohit & Co. attained their best-ever unbeaten streak in the format (10). Ahead of the second and penultimate T20I between both sides in Dharamshala, on Saturday (February 26), Rohit has a few major milestones awaiting him. If India manage to beat Sri Lanka in the 2nd T20I and take an unassailable lead in the series, it will not only be another series triumph for the Rohit-led side but Hitman will also have most wins in the format as an Indian captain. So far, Rohit has 15 wins from 16 encounters and is currently levelled with Eoin Morgan and Aaron Finch. Among Indian skippers, Rohit is already two ahead of Virat Kohli's tally (13) whereas MS Dhoni comes third (10 wins). ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala? In addition, Rohit is just 19 away from joining an elite list -- comprising Morgan, Finch, Dhoni, Kohli and Babar Azam -- to have 1,000, or more, runs as captain in T20Is. He will also become the second-quickest batter to reach the milestone, after Babar Azam (26 innings). Rohit fell just short of one innings of equalling the feat with the Pakistani. Among Indian captains, he looks set to become the fastest to be the milestone (in 27 innings if he does so on Saturday) -- with Kohli getting there in 30 innings whereas Dhoni was the slowest to get to 1,000 runs as captain in the format (57 innings).

Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala

India beat Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the series opener of the three-match T20I series on Thursday evening (February 24). Being asked to bat first, India rode on Ishan Kishan's blistering 89 and Shreyas Iyer's 28-ball 57 to post a daunting 199-2 in 20 overs. In reply, Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka managed only a modest 136-7 as they lost the opening game by a whopping 62-run margin.

With another win under their belt, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue have been on a roll in the shortest format. Following their defeats in the opening two games of the 2021 T20 World Cup, India have gone onto win 10 games on the trot; their best-ever winning streak. Thus, they will like to extend their winning run and also attain an unassailable lead versus the Lankans when they take on the field in the second and penultimate T20I on Saturday evening (February 26).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-t20i-rohit-sharma-on-the-cusp-of-achieving-major-milestones-in-dharamshala-456712">Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala</a>

Here is everything you need to know about the 2nd T20I - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I&nbsp;match taking place?

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I&nbsp;is scheduled to take place on February 26, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I&nbsp;taking place?

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I&nbsp;will take place at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala.

At what time India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I&nbsp;taking place?

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I&nbsp;will kick off at 7:00pm (IST).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-2nd-t20i-weather-report-will-rain-play-spoilsport-in-second-and-penultimate-tie-in-dharamshala-456685">Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala?</a>

How to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I&nbsp;live on TV?

India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I&nbsp;will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada.&nbsp;

How to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I&nbsp;live streaming?

The India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I&nbsp;will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.&nbsp;

India beat Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the series opener of the three-match T20I series on Thursday evening (February 24). Being asked to bat first, India rode on Ishan Kishan's blistering 89 and Shreyas Iyer's 28-ball 57 to post a daunting 199-2 in 20 overs.

India beat Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the series opener of the three-match T20I series on Thursday evening (February 24). Being asked to bat first, India rode on Ishan Kishan's blistering 89 and Shreyas Iyer's 28-ball 57 to post a daunting 199-2 in 20 overs. In reply, Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka managed only a modest 136-7 as they lost the opening game by a whopping 62-run margin. With another win under their belt, the Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue have been on a roll in the shortest format. Following their defeats in the opening two games of the 2021 T20 World Cup, India have gone onto win 10 games on the trot; their best-ever winning streak. Thus, they will like to extend their winning run and also attain an unassailable lead versus the Lankans when they take on the field in the second and penultimate T20I on Saturday evening (February 26). ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala Here is everything you need to know about the 2nd T20I - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I match taking place? India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I is scheduled to take place on February 26, 2022. Where is India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I taking place? India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I will take place at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala. At what time India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I taking place? India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I will kick off at 7:00pm (IST). ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala? How to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I live on TV? India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada. How to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I live streaming? The India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.

INDvsSL: When and where to watch India vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I - IST time and streaming details

Team India will start a new era in Tests when they host Sri Lanka in a two-match series, starting on March 04 in Mohali. The forthcoming Tests will see the start of Rohit Sharma's captaincy in whites whereas a lot of youngsters will have the onus with four experienced campaigners dropped.

Recently, the&nbsp;Chetan Sharma-led selection committee dropped as many as four senior players, such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha. With no Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill or Shreyas Iyer are expected to take the No. 3 slot. However, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels former captain Virat Kohli should take over the important slot.

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“Ideally, Kohli should go at No.3. Because the best batsman you see...Ricky Ponting goes at 3. Joe Root bats at No.4, but I feel he will be batting at No.3 in West Indies. So the best batsman of the team is batting at No.3. He is capable of tackling the new ball in case there is an early wicket and he has also got the ability to up the tempo of the team has got off to a good start. So Kohli at three would be ideal," said Gavaskar on&nbsp;India Today.

If not Kohli, the cricketer-turned-commentator recommended Vihari's name for No. 3. "Otherwise, you can look at Hanuma Vihari, who has done well in South Africa and showed a lot of courage,” added Gavaskar.

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India are currently involved in the three T20Is versus the Islanders. It will be followed by two Tests versus the Asian neighbours, which will get underway on March 04 in Mohali. India's squad for the SL Tests is as follows:

India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Team India will start a new era in Tests when they host Sri Lanka in a two-match series, starting on March 04 in Mohali. The forthcoming Tests will see the start of Rohit Sharma's captaincy in whites whereas a lot of youngsters will have the onus with four experienced campaigners dropped.

Team India will start a new era in Tests when they host Sri Lanka in a two-match series, starting on March 04 in Mohali. The forthcoming Tests will see the start of Rohit Sharma's captaincy in whites whereas a lot of youngsters will have the onus with four experienced campaigners dropped. Recently, the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee dropped as many as four senior players, such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma and wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha. With no Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill or Shreyas Iyer are expected to take the No. 3 slot. However, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar feels former captain Virat Kohli should take over the important slot. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma on the cusp of achieving major milestones in Dharamshala “Ideally, Kohli should go at No.3. Because the best batsman you see...Ricky Ponting goes at 3. Joe Root bats at No.4, but I feel he will be batting at No.3 in West Indies. So the best batsman of the team is batting at No.3. He is capable of tackling the new ball in case there is an early wicket and he has also got the ability to up the tempo of the team has got off to a good start. So Kohli at three would be ideal," said Gavaskar on India Today. If not Kohli, the cricketer-turned-commentator recommended Vihari's name for No. 3. "Otherwise, you can look at Hanuma Vihari, who has done well in South Africa and showed a lot of courage,” added Gavaskar. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala? India are currently involved in the three T20Is versus the Islanders. It will be followed by two Tests versus the Asian neighbours, which will get underway on March 04 in Mohali. India's squad for the SL Tests is as follows: India's Test squad for Sri Lanka series: Rohit Sharma (C), Mayank Agarwal, Priyank Panchal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas, Hanuma Vihari, Gill, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, Ashwin (subject to fitness), Ravindra Jadeja, Jayant Yadav, Kuldeep, Bumrah (VC), Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Sourabh Kumar

Best batsman bats there: With no Pujara, Gavaskar wants star Indian player to take No. 3 spot in Tests

Batter Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka.

"He had complained of pain in his right wrist joint ahead of the first T20I in Lucknow on Thursday and was examined by the BCCI Medical Team," stated an official statement.

An MRI scan was later conducted followed by a specialist consultation.

Ruturaj will now head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further management of his injury.

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The All-India Senior Selection Committee has added Mayank Agarwal to India's squad for the remaining two T20Is.

Mayank has joined the team in Dharamsala.

India's T20 squad for 2nd and 3rd T20Is: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Avesh Khan, Mayank Agarwal.

Batter Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka. "He had complained of pain in his right wrist joint ahead of the first T20I in Lucknow on Thursday and was examined by the BCCI Medical Team," stated an official statement.

Batter Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka. "He had complained of pain in his right wrist joint ahead of the first T20I in Lucknow on Thursday and was examined by the BCCI Medical Team," stated an official statement. An MRI scan was later conducted followed by a specialist consultation. Ruturaj will now head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further management of his injury. ALSO READ: Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala? The All-India Senior Selection Committee has added Mayank Agarwal to India's squad for the remaining two T20Is. Mayank has joined the team in Dharamsala. India's T20 squad for 2nd and 3rd T20Is: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Harshal Patel, Jasprit Bumrah (vice-captain), Avesh Khan, Mayank Agarwal.

Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out of T20I series against Sri Lanka, Mayank Agarwal named as replacement

Team India and Sri Lanka will face each other in the second and penultimate T20I on Saturday evening (February 26). The match is set to take place in the picturesque&nbsp;Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala.&nbsp;

After an emphatic performance in the series opener, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team will be eager to close the series in the second game itself with an unassailable lead. This will help the home team to test their benched players in the third and final encounter, also to be played at the same venue on Sunday (February 27).

Talking about the 1st T20I, Rohit-led India were asked to bat first. Riding on a century stand between Rohit- Ishan Kishan (89) and Shreyas Iyer's late fireworks 28-ball 57*, India posted a mammoth 199-2. In reply, Dasun Shanaka's Islanders were never in the hunt and managed only 137-6 courtesy Charith Asalanka's unbeaten 53. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Venkatesh Iyer's two wickets apiece helped India restrict the visitors in the tall run-chase.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-were-standing-there-for-me-ishan-kishan-credits-rohit-dravid-for-backing-him-despite-poor-form-456502">They were standing there for me: Ishan Kishan credits Rohit, Dravid for backing him despite poor form</a>

Ahead of the second and penultimate T20I, here's a look at the weather forecast for the encounter:

As per a report in News18, the weather is expected to&nbsp;play spoilsport in patches -- if not a complete washout. Much to the dismay of the fans,&nbsp;rain is predicted on Saturday evening whereas the precipitation chances are&nbsp;90 percent.

On the other hand, the humidity can be around 87 percent whereas the&nbsp;wind speed can be recorded at 10 km/h. The forecast further reveals&nbsp;that the temperature can&nbsp;range from 7 degrees celsius to 10 degrees celsius.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishan-kishan-surpasses-ms-dhoni-rishabh-pant-to-create-new-record-for-team-india-in-t20is-456402">Ishan Kishan surpasses MS Dhoni, Rishabh Pant to create new record for Team India in T20Is</a>

India are enjoying their best-ever unbeaten streak in the format (10). Thus, the Rohit-led side will be eager to continue with their dream run and seal another series post the disastrous 2021 T20 World Cup campaign, in the UAE. Will their plans be spoiled due to rain? Only time will tell...

Team India and Sri Lanka will face each other in the second and penultimate T20I on Saturday evening (February 26). The match is set to take place in the picturesque Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala.

Team India and Sri Lanka will face each other in the second and penultimate T20I on Saturday evening (February 26). The match is set to take place in the picturesque Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala. After an emphatic performance in the series opener, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team will be eager to close the series in the second game itself with an unassailable lead. This will help the home team to test their benched players in the third and final encounter, also to be played at the same venue on Sunday (February 27). Talking about the 1st T20I, Rohit-led India were asked to bat first. Riding on a century stand between Rohit- Ishan Kishan (89) and Shreyas Iyer's late fireworks 28-ball 57*, India posted a mammoth 199-2. In reply, Dasun Shanaka's Islanders were never in the hunt and managed only 137-6 courtesy Charith Asalanka's unbeaten 53. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Venkatesh Iyer's two wickets apiece helped India restrict the visitors in the tall run-chase. ALSO READ | They were standing there for me: Ishan Kishan credits Rohit, Dravid for backing him despite poor form Ahead of the second and penultimate T20I, here's a look at the weather forecast for the encounter: As per a report in News18, the weather is expected to play spoilsport in patches -- if not a complete washout. Much to the dismay of the fans, rain is predicted on Saturday evening whereas the precipitation chances are 90 percent. On the other hand, the humidity can be around 87 percent whereas the wind speed can be recorded at 10 km/h. The forecast further reveals that the temperature can range from 7 degrees celsius to 10 degrees celsius. ALSO READ | Ishan Kishan surpasses MS Dhoni, Rishabh Pant to create new record for Team India in T20Is India are enjoying their best-ever unbeaten streak in the format (10). Thus, the Rohit-led side will be eager to continue with their dream run and seal another series post the disastrous 2021 T20 World Cup campaign, in the UAE. Will their plans be spoiled due to rain? Only time will tell...

Ind vs SL, 2nd T20I weather report: Will rain play spoilsport in second and penultimate tie in Dharamshala?

Young Indian opener Ishan Kishan credited captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid along with senior batter Virat Kohli for backing him during his rough patch in the recently-concluded T20I series against West Indies at home. In the absence of KL Rahul, Kishan was handed the opportunity to open for India in all three T20Is, however, he failed to impress.

Kishan had managed to score only 71 runs in the three matches against West Indies but bounced back to form with a splendid knock of 89 runs in the first T20I against Sri Lanka on Thursday. Kishan looked in phenomenal touch as he took the Sri Lankan bowlers to the cleaners during his brilliant knock.

Opening the batting with skipper Rohit, Ishan scored a stunning 89 runs off 56 balls laced with ten fours and three sixes. The duo posted a 111-run stand for the first wicket before Shreyas Iyer's quickfire 57 off 28 balls helped India post a huge total of 199 runs on the board.

With his brilliant knock, Kishan also went on to surpass Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul to create the record for the highest individual score by an Indian wicket-keeper in T20Is. The young left-hander spoke about his chats with the likes of Rohit and Dravid and revealed how they always stood by him during his rough patch against West Indies.

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"The seniors in the team always want a youngster to be in good head space. Be it Rohit Sharma, Rahul Dravid or Virat Kohli, they know how a youngster feels if he doesn't perform well. When I did not perform well against the West Indies, they were standing there with me, telling me 'we know about your talent, we know what you can do for the team. We trust in you. Don't ever think that we are doubting you'," Ishan said at the press conference after India's victory in the first T20I against Sri Lanka.

"When a youngster hears such words, he gets a lot of confidence. These small things while you're batting at the nets, they guide you. They have told me it's not always about hitting hard. We learn all these things whether we score runs or not," he added.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishan-kishan-surpasses-ms-dhoni-rishabh-pant-to-create-new-record-for-team-india-in-t20is-456402">&nbsp;Ishan Kishan surpasses MS Dhoni, Rishabh Pant to create new record for Team India in T20Is</a>

Despite facing stiff competition for a spot in the squad, Kishan has managed to get a long rope owing to his talent and skills. He is likely to continue opening the batting for India in the remaining two T20Is against Sri Lanka. If he manages to continue his good form, Kishan can cement his spot in the T20 side in the run-up to the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year.

Young Indian opener Ishan Kishan credited captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid along with senior batter Virat Kohli for backing him during his rough patch in the recently-concluded T20I series against West Indies at home.

Young Indian opener Ishan Kishan credited captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid along with senior batter Virat Kohli for backing him during his rough patch in the recently-concluded T20I series against West Indies at home. In the absence of KL Rahul, Kishan was handed the opportunity to open for India in all three T20Is, however, he failed to impress. Kishan had managed to score only 71 runs in the three matches against West Indies but bounced back to form with a splendid knock of 89 runs in the first T20I against Sri Lanka on Thursday. Kishan looked in phenomenal touch as he took the Sri Lankan bowlers to the cleaners during his brilliant knock. Opening the batting with skipper Rohit, Ishan scored a stunning 89 runs off 56 balls laced with ten fours and three sixes. The duo posted a 111-run stand for the first wicket before Shreyas Iyer's quickfire 57 off 28 balls helped India post a huge total of 199 runs on the board. With his brilliant knock, Kishan also went on to surpass Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul to create the record for the highest individual score by an Indian wicket-keeper in T20Is. The young left-hander spoke about his chats with the likes of Rohit and Dravid and revealed how they always stood by him during his rough patch against West Indies. Also Read: BCCI announces new format for IPL 2022: Two groups of five, each team to play 14 games in league stage "The seniors in the team always want a youngster to be in good head space. Be it Rohit Sharma, Rahul Dravid or Virat Kohli, they know how a youngster feels if he doesn't perform well. When I did not perform well against the West Indies, they were standing there with me, telling me 'we know about your talent, we know what you can do for the team. We trust in you. Don't ever think that we are doubting you'," Ishan said at the press conference after India's victory in the first T20I against Sri Lanka. "When a youngster hears such words, he gets a lot of confidence. These small things while you're batting at the nets, they guide you. They have told me it's not always about hitting hard. We learn all these things whether we score runs or not," he added. Also Read: Ishan Kishan surpasses MS Dhoni, Rishabh Pant to create new record for Team India in T20Is Despite facing stiff competition for a spot in the squad, Kishan has managed to get a long rope owing to his talent and skills. He is likely to continue opening the batting for India in the remaining two T20Is against Sri Lanka. If he manages to continue his good form, Kishan can cement his spot in the T20 side in the run-up to the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year.

They were standing there for me: Ishan Kishan credits Rohit, Dravid for backing him despite poor form

India thrashed Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the first of the three-match T20I series on Thursday evening (February 24) to go 1-0 up in the series. With this win, India also attained their biggest winning streak in the shortest format (10).&nbsp;

Post India's back-to-back defeats in the opening two games of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE, the Men in Blue have been on a roll with their unbeaten streak now stretching to ten games. By virtue of this, India became the second-Test playing nation to attain 10 successive wins (fourth overall).&nbsp;

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Talking about the series opener, played in Lucknow, Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bowl first. The decision backfired as Ishan Kishan-Rohit's century-stand took India off to a flier. While Rohit fell for 32-ball 44, he became the leading run-getter in the shortest format.&nbsp;

After Rohit's fall, Ishan's 56-ball 89 (at a strike-rate of 158.93) and Shreyas Iyer's 28-ball 57 not out (filled with 5 fours, 2 sixes) propelled the home side to a daunting 199-2. This effort came in the absence of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-rohit-sharma-moves-past-martin-guptill-virat-kohli-to-become-highest-run-getter-in-t20is-456120">Ind vs SL: Rohit Sharma moves past Martin Guptill, Virat Kohli to become highest run-getter in T20Is</a>

In reply, Sri Lanka lost Pathum Nissanka on the very first ball of the steep run-chase. Bhuvneshwar Kumar also removed Kamil Mishara for cheap whereas Dinesh Chandimal, Shanaka and Chamika Karunaratne fell after getting a start each. Rohit once again rotated his bowlers with ease as Bhuvi, Venkestesh Iyer chipped in with two wickets each whereas Yuzi Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja maintained the pressure with one wicket apiece. Chahal also became the leading wicket-taker for the Men in Blue after dismissing Shanaka.&nbsp;

Eventually, SL were restricted for 137 for 6 in their full quota of overs (courtesy of Charith Asalanka's gritty 53*) as they were never in the run-chase and struggled to stitch partnerships.&nbsp;

The second and penultimate T20I will be held in Dharamshala on Saturday (February 26).

India thrashed Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the first of the three-match T20I series on Thursday evening (February 24) to go 1-0 up in the series. With this win, India also attained their biggest winning streak in the shortest format (10).

India thrashed Sri Lanka by 62 runs in the first of the three-match T20I series on Thursday evening (February 24) to go 1-0 up in the series. With this win, India also attained their biggest winning streak in the shortest format (10). Post India's back-to-back defeats in the opening two games of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE, the Men in Blue have been on a roll with their unbeaten streak now stretching to ten games. By virtue of this, India became the second-Test playing nation to attain 10 successive wins (fourth overall). ALSO READ | IPL 2022 to kick off from March 26, league stage to be played in Mumbai, Pune Talking about the series opener, played in Lucknow, Dasun Shanaka-led Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bowl first. The decision backfired as Ishan Kishan-Rohit's century-stand took India off to a flier. While Rohit fell for 32-ball 44, he became the leading run-getter in the shortest format. After Rohit's fall, Ishan's 56-ball 89 (at a strike-rate of 158.93) and Shreyas Iyer's 28-ball 57 not out (filled with 5 fours, 2 sixes) propelled the home side to a daunting 199-2. This effort came in the absence of Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. ALSO READ | Ind vs SL: Rohit Sharma moves past Martin Guptill, Virat Kohli to become highest run-getter in T20Is In reply, Sri Lanka lost Pathum Nissanka on the very first ball of the steep run-chase. Bhuvneshwar Kumar also removed Kamil Mishara for cheap whereas Dinesh Chandimal, Shanaka and Chamika Karunaratne fell after getting a start each. Rohit once again rotated his bowlers with ease as Bhuvi, Venkestesh Iyer chipped in with two wickets each whereas Yuzi Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja maintained the pressure with one wicket apiece. Chahal also became the leading wicket-taker for the Men in Blue after dismissing Shanaka. Eventually, SL were restricted for 137 for 6 in their full quota of overs (courtesy of Charith Asalanka's gritty 53*) as they were never in the run-chase and struggled to stitch partnerships. The second and penultimate T20I will be held in Dharamshala on Saturday (February 26).

Rohit Sharma & Co. thrash Sri Lanka in 1st T20I as India attain longest unbeaten streak in shortest format

Rohit Sharma, on Thursday (February 24), surpassed Martin Guptill and his predecessor Virat Kohli to become the highest run-getter in T20Is. At the start of the India-Sri Lanka three-match series opener, Hitman was 37 runs away from going past New Zealand opener Guptill's run-tally. Courtesy a 100-run stand with Ishan Kishan, after being asked to bat first in Lucknow, Rohit jumped from the third spot to top the list of most runs in the shortest format.

Rohit achieved the big milestone before the half-way stage with a single off spinner&nbsp;Jeffrey Vandersay in the ninth over. While he was a bit slow to start his innings, as compared to Ishan, Hitman came to his own and attained the huge feat in the T20I format. He eventually fell for a 32-ball 44.

Most runs in T20Is

Rohit Sharma - 3307*

Martin Guptill - 3299

Virat Kohli - 3263

Paul Stirling - 2,764

Aaron Finch - 2,686

Rohit has 4 hundreds in the format, at an average of&nbsp;33.07 and strike-rate of 139.94 along with 26 fifties.

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Rohit is also playing his 123rd match in the shortest format at the international level. If he features in all three games versus the Islanders in the ongoing series, he will also become the most-capped player in the format; surpassing Shoaib Malik (124).

At the coin toss in the 1st T20I, in Lucknow, Rohit said, "We were looking to chase as well, not sure how the pitches in India plays. But we now know we need to bat well, the last time we played here, about 4 years back, the pitch played well. Nothing changes as far as the goals of the team are concerned, need to do the right things as a team, need to keep ticking all the right boxes. It's a challenge for the new gutsy - from the last game we played, we have 6 changes. Ruturaj was supposed to play, but he has a wrist injury and will not play today."

Rohit's captaincy era has started off with a bang so far in the white-ball format. He is yet to lose a single game and will hope to take India to their 10th consecutive win in T20Is -- which will be the Men in Blue's longest unbeaten streak -- during the series opener versus their Asian neighbours.

Rohit Sharma, on Thursday (February 24), surpassed Martin Guptill and his predecessor Virat Kohli to become the highest run-getter in T20Is. At the start of the India-Sri Lanka three-match series opener, Hitman was 37 runs away from going past New Zealand opener Guptill's run-tally.

Rohit Sharma, on Thursday (February 24), surpassed Martin Guptill and his predecessor Virat Kohli to become the highest run-getter in T20Is. At the start of the India-Sri Lanka three-match series opener, Hitman was 37 runs away from going past New Zealand opener Guptill's run-tally. Courtesy a 100-run stand with Ishan Kishan, after being asked to bat first in Lucknow, Rohit jumped from the third spot to top the list of most runs in the shortest format. Rohit achieved the big milestone before the half-way stage with a single off spinner Jeffrey Vandersay in the ninth over. While he was a bit slow to start his innings, as compared to Ishan, Hitman came to his own and attained the huge feat in the T20I format. He eventually fell for a 32-ball 44. Most runs in T20Is Rohit Sharma - 3307* Martin Guptill - 3299 Virat Kohli - 3263 Paul Stirling - 2,764 Aaron Finch - 2,686 Rohit has 4 hundreds in the format, at an average of 33.07 and strike-rate of 139.94 along with 26 fifties. ALSO READ | They're taking Team India in a fabulous direction: Dinesh Karthik lauds Rahul Dravid-Rohit Sharma Rohit is also playing his 123rd match in the shortest format at the international level. If he features in all three games versus the Islanders in the ongoing series, he will also become the most-capped player in the format; surpassing Shoaib Malik (124). At the coin toss in the 1st T20I, in Lucknow, Rohit said, "We were looking to chase as well, not sure how the pitches in India plays. But we now know we need to bat well, the last time we played here, about 4 years back, the pitch played well. Nothing changes as far as the goals of the team are concerned, need to do the right things as a team, need to keep ticking all the right boxes. It's a challenge for the new gutsy - from the last game we played, we have 6 changes. Ruturaj was supposed to play, but he has a wrist injury and will not play today." Rohit's captaincy era has started off with a bang so far in the white-ball format. He is yet to lose a single game and will hope to take India to their 10th consecutive win in T20Is -- which will be the Men in Blue's longest unbeaten streak -- during the series opener versus their Asian neighbours.

Ind vs SL: Rohit Sharma moves past Martin Guptill, Virat Kohli to become highest run-getter in T20Is

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