The year 2021 is coming to an end. The calendar year saw plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip, especially in the purest format of the gentlemen's game. The year saw New Zealand become the first-ever World Test champions whereas many other riveting series was played out in the longest format of the game.&nbsp;

Many big guns made heads turn with their performances whereas some marquee players fell flat. On the other hand, some new faces made a mark in the toughest form of the game with their efforts on the field. Cricket Australia, thus, shared their Test XI for the year 2021, which featured some big names but the likes of Indian Test captain Virat Kohli and ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah found no place.&nbsp;

Cricket.com.au Test team features as many as four Indians, such as Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel. Rohit ended the year being the second-highest run-getter after Joe Root (1,708 runs). Rohit slammed 2 tons and 4 fifties whereas Pant finished with 748 runs, with 1 hundred and as many as five half-centuries. Ashwin is 2021's leading wicket-taker (54 scalps) whereas spin-bowling all-rounder Axar debuted in whites this year and returned with 36 scalps (second-most by an Indian).&nbsp;

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The other players in the list are Sri Lanka's Dimuth Karunaratne (with 902 runs with 4 centuries and 3 fifties), also named the captain. Joe Root, Fawad Alam and Marnus Labuschagne also made the cut. Labuschagne ended being Australia's top run-getter in Tests (526 runs) whereas Fawad had three&nbsp;triple-figure knocks and two fifties. The rest of the list includes Kyle Jamieson (Player-of-the-Match in WTC final) and Pakistan's pace duo Hasan Ali and Shaheen Afridi (both among the top 3 wicket-takers in 2021).

Cricket Australia Test XI of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Joe Root, Fawad Alam, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravi Ashwin, Kyle Jamieson, Axar Patel, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi

The year 2021 is coming to an end. The calendar year saw plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip, especially in the purest format of the gentlemen's game. The year saw New Zealand become the first-ever World Test champions whereas many other riveting series was played out in the longest format of the game.

The year 2021 is coming to an end. The calendar year saw plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip, especially in the purest format of the gentlemen's game. The year saw New Zealand become the first-ever World Test champions whereas many other riveting series was played out in the longest format of the game. Many big guns made heads turn with their performances whereas some marquee players fell flat. On the other hand, some new faces made a mark in the toughest form of the game with their efforts on the field. Cricket Australia, thus, shared their Test XI for the year 2021, which featured some big names but the likes of Indian Test captain Virat Kohli and ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah found no place. Cricket.com.au Test team features as many as four Indians, such as Rohit Sharma, R Ashwin, Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel. Rohit ended the year being the second-highest run-getter after Joe Root (1,708 runs). Rohit slammed 2 tons and 4 fifties whereas Pant finished with 748 runs, with 1 hundred and as many as five half-centuries. Ashwin is 2021's leading wicket-taker (54 scalps) whereas spin-bowling all-rounder Axar debuted in whites this year and returned with 36 scalps (second-most by an Indian). ALSO READ | ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year award: Smriti Mandhana among four players nominated The other players in the list are Sri Lanka's Dimuth Karunaratne (with 902 runs with 4 centuries and 3 fifties), also named the captain. Joe Root, Fawad Alam and Marnus Labuschagne also made the cut. Labuschagne ended being Australia's top run-getter in Tests (526 runs) whereas Fawad had three triple-figure knocks and two fifties. The rest of the list includes Kyle Jamieson (Player-of-the-Match in WTC final) and Pakistan's pace duo Hasan Ali and Shaheen Afridi (both among the top 3 wicket-takers in 2021). Cricket Australia Test XI of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Joe Root, Fawad Alam, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravi Ashwin, Kyle Jamieson, Axar Patel, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi

No Kohli or Bumrah! Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant among 4 Indians in Cricket Australia's Test XI of 2021

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes the captain and the head coach of the side should have a say in the team selection. Shastri&nbsp;served as the head coach of the Indian cricket team for four years from 2017 to 2021. He along with captain Virat Kohli took the team to greater hieghts and made India a force to reckon with across formats.

Shastri, who has previously stated that he has had no say in a lot of selection matters during his coaching stint with the Indian team, has stressed the importance of the coach and captain having a say in the selection. Shastri feels it is extremely important for that to happen going forward.

"I think it is extremely important for the coach and the captain to have a say in the team selection, officially going forward. It is very important especially if the coach is experienced enough. I was, Rahul (Dravid is) and the captain should also have a say,” Ravi Shastri said on&nbsp;Star Sports.

In one of his recent interviews, Shastri had opened up on India's poor selection calls in the build-up to the 2019 ODI World Cup. Shastri had revealed he would have liked to have Ambati Rayudu or Shreyas Iyer in the squad instead of having as many as three wicket-keepers.

"I wasn't okay with three wicketkeepers being picked for the World Cup. Either Ambati (Rayudu) or Shreyas (Iyer) could've come in. What was the logic in having MS Dhoni, Rishabh (Pant) and Dinesh (Karthik) all together? But I never interfered with the selectors' work, except when I was asked for feedback or as part of a general discussion," Shastri had told the Times of India.

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Rayudu was India's designated number 4 batsman in the build-up to the 2019 ODI World Cup. However, he was snubbed from the squad at the last moment with all-rounder Vijay Shankar making the cut. India had&nbsp;Dhoni and Karthik already in the squad but brought in another wicket-keeper in Rishabh Pant to replace injured opener Shikhar Dhawan.

India dominated the proceedings in the group stages at the 2019 ODI World Cup before losing against New Zealand in the semi-final. Shastri failed to help India win a major ICC trophy during his tenure as the head coach of the team but inspired them to several memorable wins at home and overseas.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes the captain and the head coach of the side should have a say in the team selection. Shastri served as the head coach of the Indian cricket team for four years from 2017 to 2021.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes the captain and the head coach of the side should have a say in the team selection. Shastri served as the head coach of the Indian cricket team for four years from 2017 to 2021. He along with captain Virat Kohli took the team to greater hieghts and made India a force to reckon with across formats. Shastri, who has previously stated that he has had no say in a lot of selection matters during his coaching stint with the Indian team, has stressed the importance of the coach and captain having a say in the selection. Shastri feels it is extremely important for that to happen going forward. "I think it is extremely important for the coach and the captain to have a say in the team selection, officially going forward. It is very important especially if the coach is experienced enough. I was, Rahul (Dravid is) and the captain should also have a say,” Ravi Shastri said on Star Sports. In one of his recent interviews, Shastri had opened up on India's poor selection calls in the build-up to the 2019 ODI World Cup. Shastri had revealed he would have liked to have Ambati Rayudu or Shreyas Iyer in the squad instead of having as many as three wicket-keepers. "I wasn't okay with three wicketkeepers being picked for the World Cup. Either Ambati (Rayudu) or Shreyas (Iyer) could've come in. What was the logic in having MS Dhoni, Rishabh (Pant) and Dinesh (Karthik) all together? But I never interfered with the selectors' work, except when I was asked for feedback or as part of a general discussion," Shastri had told the Times of India. Also Read: Kohli ends 2021 without a century as Indian captain departs on 18 in Centurion Test vs South Africa Rayudu was India's designated number 4 batsman in the build-up to the 2019 ODI World Cup. However, he was snubbed from the squad at the last moment with all-rounder Vijay Shankar making the cut. India had Dhoni and Karthik already in the squad but brought in another wicket-keeper in Rishabh Pant to replace injured opener Shikhar Dhawan. India dominated the proceedings in the group stages at the 2019 ODI World Cup before losing against New Zealand in the semi-final. Shastri failed to help India win a major ICC trophy during his tenure as the head coach of the team but inspired them to several memorable wins at home and overseas.

Extremely important for captain and coach to have a say in team selection going forward: Ravi Shastri

Team India entered the knockouts of every ICC event, following their 2013 Champions Trophy win, but haven't been able to win a major title across formats. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team were touted to be one of the strongest contenders but the Men in Blue didn't even reach the semi-finals and bowed out with heavy defeats at the hands of Pakistan and New Zealand.

The year 2022 and 2023 will see India compete in two ICC tournaments, in the form of the next edition of the T20 World Cup and ODI World Cup, respectively. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has highlighted one area where Rohit Sharma-led Team India have to improve on to win the next two World Cups.&nbsp;

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Gavaskar recalled India's historic 1983 World Cup triumph and wrote in his column for Mid-Day, "It was a squad of 14 players and one manager and we conquered the cricketing world. There were no field restrictions then, no limitations on the number of bouncers too and the red ball in English conditions which hardly stopped moving even after the shine was gone."

"That team were full of all-rounders and that is the key especially in limited overs cricket. Even the 2007 and 2011 teams had batsmen who could bowl and bowlers who were no bunnies with the bat. If India can find two all-rounders, then we will have a better chance in the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022 and in the 50 overs Cup at home in India in 2023."

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At present, India's premier all-rounder Hardik Pandya is out of the scene due to injury concerns. The other options for Rohit &amp; Co. are in the form of Krunal Pandya, Shardul Thakur, Venkatesh Iyer, etc. Nonetheless, India will also hope for Hardik to recover soon and return in full flow to strengthen the national side in white-ball formats in the near future.&nbsp;

While India will look to end their ICC-title drought in the upcoming T20 and ODI WCs, they also have a chance to become the World Test champions if they win the ongoing second WTC cycle (which will conclude by early 2023).

Team India entered the knockouts of every ICC event, following their 2013 Champions Trophy win, but haven't been able to win a major title across formats. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team were touted to be one of the strongest contenders but the Men in Blue didn't even reach the semi-finals and bowed out with heavy defeats at the hands of Pakistan and New Zealand.

Team India entered the knockouts of every ICC event, following their 2013 Champions Trophy win, but haven't been able to win a major title across formats. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team were touted to be one of the strongest contenders but the Men in Blue didn't even reach the semi-finals and bowed out with heavy defeats at the hands of Pakistan and New Zealand. The year 2022 and 2023 will see India compete in two ICC tournaments, in the form of the next edition of the T20 World Cup and ODI World Cup, respectively. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has highlighted one area where Rohit Sharma-led Team India have to improve on to win the next two World Cups. ALSO READ | Solid bench strength, IPL 2021, Test dominance to Rahul Dravid's return: Reliving India's 2021 Gavaskar recalled India's historic 1983 World Cup triumph and wrote in his column for Mid-Day, "It was a squad of 14 players and one manager and we conquered the cricketing world. There were no field restrictions then, no limitations on the number of bouncers too and the red ball in English conditions which hardly stopped moving even after the shine was gone." "That team were full of all-rounders and that is the key especially in limited overs cricket. Even the 2007 and 2011 teams had batsmen who could bowl and bowlers who were no bunnies with the bat. If India can find two all-rounders, then we will have a better chance in the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022 and in the 50 overs Cup at home in India in 2023." ALSO READ | Had Virat Kohli been soft like MS Dhoni, he wouldn't have scored these many runs: Harbhajan Singh At present, India's premier all-rounder Hardik Pandya is out of the scene due to injury concerns. The other options for Rohit & Co. are in the form of Krunal Pandya, Shardul Thakur, Venkatesh Iyer, etc. Nonetheless, India will also hope for Hardik to recover soon and return in full flow to strengthen the national side in white-ball formats in the near future. While India will look to end their ICC-title drought in the upcoming T20 and ODI WCs, they also have a chance to become the World Test champions if they win the ongoing second WTC cycle (which will conclude by early 2023).

Sunil Gavaskar mentions one area where Team India need to work on to win next two World Cups

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more. Talking about Indian men's senior cricket team, the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer performed in bilateral series across formats, played the WTC final and ended the year with some glaring changes in the team management.

Here's looking back at the positives for Team India in the year 2021:

Conquering Aussies Down Under

The year started with a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team stunning Australia in their own backyard to win their second successive Test series on Aussies soil in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Contrary to what many would've thought, the heroes for India were Mohammed Siraj (13 wickets), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Rishabh Pant (with two half-centuries), Shubman Gill (equal number of fifties), etc.

India hammer England across formats

After the Australia Tests, India romped past England in all forms of the game while hosting the Three Lions in early 2021. In Tests, India saw young guns such as Axar Patel (27 wickets), Rishabh Pant (second-highest run-getter for India), Washington Sundar (important fifties and 2&nbsp;wickets) perform. In the limited-overs leg, the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Rohit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar rose to the occasion with some success for Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan.

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What a solid bench strength

India's solid bench strength once again came to the fore during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav (Player-of-the-Series in ODIs), Rahul Chahar (taking seven wickets in the tour), Prithvi Shaw (with some attractive knocks in the ODIs) made heads turn whereas Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar led from the front being the experienced ones among the lot.

IPL 2021

This year's IPL was the first-ever season to be played in two halves, in India and the UAE. Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the superstar duo didn't have a great campaign with the bat for their respective franchises but the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad (Orange Cap holder with 635 runs), Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Prithvi Shaw remained in the top 10 for most runs among batters. In the bowling department, Harshal Patel (32 wickets), Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh were among the top-10 wicket-takers.

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While India's T20 World Cup campaign was a disaster, they returned with an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests versus Joe Root &amp; Co. in the United Kingdom. Bumrah returned with 18 wickets whereas Siraj finished with 15 scalps (second-most among Indians). With the bat, Rohit and KL Rahul led the show with 365 and 318 runs, respectively.&nbsp;

The Dravid-era

The year maybe ending with a controversy in the form of how things folded following the ODI&nbsp;captaincy row, however, Indian cricket fans can hope for things to be stable with an unfazed Rahul Dravid serving as the head coach. Dravid had led India in tumultuous times during the Greg Chappell-era. Hence, he has the calmness and excellent man-management skills to keep things afloat in the Indian camp during testing times as the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in white-ball formats.&nbsp;

In 2022, India will complete their tour of South Africa, which is currently underway, host Sri Lanka, West Indies, Afghanistan along with preparing for the T20 World Cup in Australia under Dravid's guidance. Fasten your seatbelts as India look for more success in 2022.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 saw plenty of cricketing action take place, which included the WTC final, IPL 2021, T20 World Cup, India's women's tour of England and Australia, Ashes 2021, U-19 Asia Cup and many more. Talking about Indian men's senior cricket team, the Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer performed in bilateral series across formats, played the WTC final and ended the year with some glaring changes in the team management. Here's looking back at the positives for Team India in the year 2021: Conquering Aussies Down Under The year started with a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led Indian team stunning Australia in their own backyard to win their second successive Test series on Aussies soil in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Contrary to what many would've thought, the heroes for India were Mohammed Siraj (13 wickets), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Rishabh Pant (with two half-centuries), Shubman Gill (equal number of fifties), etc. India hammer England across formats After the Australia Tests, India romped past England in all forms of the game while hosting the Three Lions in early 2021. In Tests, India saw young guns such as Axar Patel (27 wickets), Rishabh Pant (second-highest run-getter for India), Washington Sundar (important fifties and 2 wickets) perform. In the limited-overs leg, the likes of Kohli, Rahul, Rohit, Bhuvneshwar Kumar rose to the occasion with some success for Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan. ALSO READ | Vaughan reacts after Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Englishman amid Joe Root & Co.'s Ashes horrors What a solid bench strength India's solid bench strength once again came to the fore during their limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. The likes of Suryakumar Yadav (Player-of-the-Series in ODIs), Rahul Chahar (taking seven wickets in the tour), Prithvi Shaw (with some attractive knocks in the ODIs) made heads turn whereas Shikhar Dhawan, Bhuvneshwar and Deepak Chahar led from the front being the experienced ones among the lot. IPL 2021 This year's IPL was the first-ever season to be played in two halves, in India and the UAE. Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the superstar duo didn't have a great campaign with the bat for their respective franchises but the likes of Ruturaj Gaikwad (Orange Cap holder with 635 runs), Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, Sanju Samson, Prithvi Shaw remained in the top 10 for most runs among batters. In the bowling department, Harshal Patel (32 wickets), Avesh Khan, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh were among the top-10 wicket-takers. ALSO READ | No IPL title or ICC silverware, captaincy resignation and BCCI row: Reliving Virat Kohli's eventful 2021 While India's T20 World Cup campaign was a disaster, they returned with an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests versus Joe Root & Co. in the United Kingdom. Bumrah returned with 18 wickets whereas Siraj finished with 15 scalps (second-most among Indians). With the bat, Rohit and KL Rahul led the show with 365 and 318 runs, respectively. The Dravid-era The year maybe ending with a controversy in the form of how things folded following the ODI captaincy row, however, Indian cricket fans can hope for things to be stable with an unfazed Rahul Dravid serving as the head coach. Dravid had led India in tumultuous times during the Greg Chappell-era. Hence, he has the calmness and excellent man-management skills to keep things afloat in the Indian camp during testing times as the captaincy baton has been passed from Kohli to Rohit in white-ball formats. In 2022, India will complete their tour of South Africa, which is currently underway, host Sri Lanka, West Indies, Afghanistan along with preparing for the T20 World Cup in Australia under Dravid's guidance. Fasten your seatbelts as India look for more success in 2022.

Solid bench strength, IPL 2021, Test dominance to Rahul Dravid's return: Reliving India's 2021

Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt is very vocal on various aspects of the gentlemen's game and often shares his views on several platforms. After Day 1 of the Centurion Test ended between India and South Africa, on Sunday (December 26), the tainted Pakistani cricketer has called for senior Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara's omission from the Test line-up to make way for 'in-form' Mayank Agarwal once Rohit Sharma returns.

For the unversed, vice-captain Rohit Sharma isn't part of Virat Kohli-led India's three-match Test series versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas, in the rainbow nation, due to a hamstring injury. Mayank, on the other hand, had fallen behind in the pecking order due to Rohit, KL Rahul and Shubman Gill's presence but injury to Rohit and Gill made him the opener for the SA series.

Mayank cashed in the opportunity to score a free-flowing and attractive 123-ball 60 on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park, Centurion. He stitched an impressive 117-run opening stand with centurion KL Rahul (122 not out) and helped India close the day at 272-3. Meanwhile, Pujara's struggles continued as he was dismissed for a golden duck, his second overall, and fourth duck in the calendar year. Pujara's last international ton came in early 2019, hence, his spot is under the scanner.

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Butt feels once Rohit is fit and back in the Test setup, Pujara can make way for Mayank. On his Youtube channel, the Pakistani stated, "He (Pujara) is not in form now. So you have to replace him when Rohit Sharma returns because you cannot drop an in-form player. And I was never in favour of that move. They left out Shreyas Iyer despite that performance (against New Zealand). India have always backed their senior players, which is good, but Pujara needs to score runs."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-test-dravid-gives-a-pat-on-pujaras-back-to-uplift-his-spirits-after-golden-duck-watch-440395">Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH</a>

Thus, Pujara needs to be among runs in the remainder of the SA Tests in order to retain his spot in the purest format of the game. Meanwhile, Rohit is expected to be available for the three ODIs versus South Africa, starting early next year.&nbsp;

Talking about the Centurion Test, Day 2 got washed out without a ball being bowled due to rain showers. India will resume third day's play at 272-3 with Rahul and Ajinkya Rahane (unbeaten on 40) in the middle.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt is very vocal on various aspects of the gentlemen's game and often shares his views on several platforms. After Day 1 of the Centurion Test ended between India and South Africa, on Sunday (December 26), the tainted Pakistani cricketer has called for senior Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara's omission from the Test line-up to make way for 'in-form' Mayank Agarwal once Rohit Sharma returns.

Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt is very vocal on various aspects of the gentlemen's game and often shares his views on several platforms. After Day 1 of the Centurion Test ended between India and South Africa, on Sunday (December 26), the tainted Pakistani cricketer has called for senior Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara's omission from the Test line-up to make way for 'in-form' Mayank Agarwal once Rohit Sharma returns. For the unversed, vice-captain Rohit Sharma isn't part of Virat Kohli-led India's three-match Test series versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas, in the rainbow nation, due to a hamstring injury. Mayank, on the other hand, had fallen behind in the pecking order due to Rohit, KL Rahul and Shubman Gill's presence but injury to Rohit and Gill made him the opener for the SA series. Mayank cashed in the opportunity to score a free-flowing and attractive 123-ball 60 on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test between India and South Africa at the SuperSport Park, Centurion. He stitched an impressive 117-run opening stand with centurion KL Rahul (122 not out) and helped India close the day at 272-3. Meanwhile, Pujara's struggles continued as he was dismissed for a golden duck, his second overall, and fourth duck in the calendar year. Pujara's last international ton came in early 2019, hence, his spot is under the scanner. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Ex-India pacer Ashish Nehra predicts a top knock from Virat Kohli 'isn't far away' Butt feels once Rohit is fit and back in the Test setup, Pujara can make way for Mayank. On his Youtube channel, the Pakistani stated, "He (Pujara) is not in form now. So you have to replace him when Rohit Sharma returns because you cannot drop an in-form player. And I was never in favour of that move. They left out Shreyas Iyer despite that performance (against New Zealand). India have always backed their senior players, which is good, but Pujara needs to score runs." ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, 1st Test: Dravid gives a pat on Pujara's back to uplift his spirits after golden duck - WATCH Thus, Pujara needs to be among runs in the remainder of the SA Tests in order to retain his spot in the purest format of the game. Meanwhile, Rohit is expected to be available for the three ODIs versus South Africa, starting early next year. Talking about the Centurion Test, Day 2 got washed out without a ball being bowled due to rain showers. India will resume third day's play at 272-3 with Rahul and Ajinkya Rahane (unbeaten on 40) in the middle.

Ex-Pak skipper calls for senior batter's omission for 'in-form' Mayank Agarwal on Rohit's Test return

Rohit Sharma is unlikely to recover in time to feature in the upcoming ODI series against South Africa. India are currently taking on the hosts in a three-match Test series which will be followed by as many ODIs. Rohit, who was named India's ODI captain ahead of the start of the ongoing tour earlier this month, is not part of the Test squad due to a hamstring injury.

Rohit had suffered a hamstring injury while training in Mumbai and is currently at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru where he is working on his recovery. However, as per Sports Today, India's limited-overs captain might not make it in time for the ODI series as he might take 4-6 weeks to recover fully from the hamstring injury.

Earlier, BCCI had said Rohit might return in three weeks time to lead the team in the ODI series against South Africa. However, as per Sports Today, he is unlikely to return and KL Rahul might lead the Indian team in the Hitman's absence. Rahul is India's designated vice-captain in both ODIs and T20Is.

Rahul has had a remarkable 2021 so far as he once again cemented his spot in the Test team and became a regular for the team in limited-overs. Rahul was elevated to vice-captaincy in T20Is after Kohli stepped down as the captain in the shortest format with Rohit taking over.

The stylish right-hander was later named the vice-captain in ODIs as well after Rohit replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper. Rahul was then named Kohli's deputy for the ongoing South Africa Test series in the absence of Rohit, who was the vice-captain of the series.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/surprised-myself-with-how-calm-i-have-been-kl-rahul-reacts-to-his-truly-special-centurion-ton-vs-sa-440419">Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA</a>

Rahul made a fantastic start to the Test series against South Africa as he slammed an unbeaten hundred while opening the batting for India on Day 1 of the ongoing first Test in Centurion. Rahul remained unbeaten on 122 to help India post a strong 272/3 on the board at stumps on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test.

Rahul became only the second Indian opener after Wasim Jaffer to score a Test ton on South African soil.

&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma is unlikely to recover in time to feature in the upcoming ODI series against South Africa. India are currently taking on the hosts in a three-match Test series which will be followed by as many ODIs.

Rohit Sharma is unlikely to recover in time to feature in the upcoming ODI series against South Africa. India are currently taking on the hosts in a three-match Test series which will be followed by as many ODIs. Rohit, who was named India's ODI captain ahead of the start of the ongoing tour earlier this month, is not part of the Test squad due to a hamstring injury. Rohit had suffered a hamstring injury while training in Mumbai and is currently at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru where he is working on his recovery. However, as per Sports Today, India's limited-overs captain might not make it in time for the ODI series as he might take 4-6 weeks to recover fully from the hamstring injury. Earlier, BCCI had said Rohit might return in three weeks time to lead the team in the ODI series against South Africa. However, as per Sports Today, he is unlikely to return and KL Rahul might lead the Indian team in the Hitman's absence. Rahul is India's designated vice-captain in both ODIs and T20Is. Rahul has had a remarkable 2021 so far as he once again cemented his spot in the Test team and became a regular for the team in limited-overs. Rahul was elevated to vice-captaincy in T20Is after Kohli stepped down as the captain in the shortest format with Rohit taking over. The stylish right-hander was later named the vice-captain in ODIs as well after Rohit replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper. Rahul was then named Kohli's deputy for the ongoing South Africa Test series in the absence of Rohit, who was the vice-captain of the series. Also Read: Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA Rahul made a fantastic start to the Test series against South Africa as he slammed an unbeaten hundred while opening the batting for India on Day 1 of the ongoing first Test in Centurion. Rahul remained unbeaten on 122 to help India post a strong 272/3 on the board at stumps on Day 1 of the Boxing Day Test. Rahul became only the second Indian opener after Wasim Jaffer to score a Test ton on South African soil.

KL Rahul likely to lead India in ODI series vs South Africa if Rohit Sharma fails to recover in time - Report

BCCI's decision to remove Virat Kohli and replace him with Rohit Sharma as team India's ODI captain stirred one of the biggest controversies in Indian cricket in recent times. While the decision drew mixed reactions, the manner in which it was announced left many irked.&nbsp;

To make matters worse for the Indian cricket board, Kohli came out in open and denied BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's claims that he had been requested not to leave the T20I captaincy earlier this year. Ganguly had said the selectors wanted one white-ball captain and he had personally requested Kohli to not leave T20I captaincy. However, Kohli refuted his claims in an explosive presser ahead of the South Africa tour.

Kohli also revealed the board or the selectors had made no prior communication before taking the decision, and that he got to know about his sacking only ninety minutes before it was made official. The Indian Test skipper's comments added fuel to the fire as BCCI was once again embroiled in a huge row.

Former head coach Ravi Shastri has now given his take on the matter and said it could prove to be a blessing in disguise for Kohli and Rohit as leading across all three formats in the current bio-bubble environment can take a toll on the player's performance. Kohli himself has been struggling with his consistency for a while now and no captaincy burden might help him bounce back.

"It's the right way to go. This could be a blessing in disguise for Virat and Rohit. For one guy to handle all 3 is not easy at all in this time of living in and out of bio-bubbles because of Covid," former India head coach Shastri said on Star Sports.

"Virat can focus on red-ball cricket and lead for as long as he wants to lead in Tests. It will allow him to sit back and think on his game because he's got a good 5-6 years left in him," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-took-ravi-shastris-comments-on-kuldeep-yadav-in-a-wrong-way-says-former-india-selector-440105">R Ashwin took Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav in a wrong way, says former India selector</a>

Shastri served as India's head coach for over three years from 2017 to 2021 and had closely worked with skipper Kohli in making the team a force to reckon with across formats. While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under Shastri, the team registered some memorable series wins both at home and away from home.

India also won the Asia Cup in 2018, and made it to semi-final and final of the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2021 World Test Championship respectively.

BCCI's decision to remove Virat Kohli and replace him with Rohit Sharma as team India's ODI captain stirred one of the biggest controversies in Indian cricket in recent times.

BCCI's decision to remove Virat Kohli and replace him with Rohit Sharma as team India's ODI captain stirred one of the biggest controversies in Indian cricket in recent times. While the decision drew mixed reactions, the manner in which it was announced left many irked. To make matters worse for the Indian cricket board, Kohli came out in open and denied BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's claims that he had been requested not to leave the T20I captaincy earlier this year. Ganguly had said the selectors wanted one white-ball captain and he had personally requested Kohli to not leave T20I captaincy. However, Kohli refuted his claims in an explosive presser ahead of the South Africa tour. Kohli also revealed the board or the selectors had made no prior communication before taking the decision, and that he got to know about his sacking only ninety minutes before it was made official. The Indian Test skipper's comments added fuel to the fire as BCCI was once again embroiled in a huge row. Former head coach Ravi Shastri has now given his take on the matter and said it could prove to be a blessing in disguise for Kohli and Rohit as leading across all three formats in the current bio-bubble environment can take a toll on the player's performance. Kohli himself has been struggling with his consistency for a while now and no captaincy burden might help him bounce back. "It's the right way to go. This could be a blessing in disguise for Virat and Rohit. For one guy to handle all 3 is not easy at all in this time of living in and out of bio-bubbles because of Covid," former India head coach Shastri said on Star Sports. "Virat can focus on red-ball cricket and lead for as long as he wants to lead in Tests. It will allow him to sit back and think on his game because he's got a good 5-6 years left in him," he added. Also Read: R Ashwin took Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav in a wrong way, says former India selector Shastri served as India's head coach for over three years from 2017 to 2021 and had closely worked with skipper Kohli in making the team a force to reckon with across formats. While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under Shastri, the team registered some memorable series wins both at home and away from home. India also won the Asia Cup in 2018, and made it to semi-final and final of the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2021 World Test Championship respectively.

'Blessing in disguise': Ravi Shastri opens up on BCCI's decision to replace Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup. On the other hand, BCCI recently sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper.

Ahead of India's tour-opener versus South Africa in Centurion, on December 26, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a big claim on the partnership of Kohli-Dravid, who are the captain-coach in the Test format for the national side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-retires-draws-curtains-to-glorious-23-year-long-international-career-439548">Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career</a>

By now, all the cricket fans are well aware of the rusty relations between Kohli and the BCCI post the ODI captaincy switch. After being sacked as the ODI skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims, who had earlier stated that he had advised the former to continue as the T20I captain. Kohli also revealed that he had no prior communication with the national selectors before his sacking. Hence, the Indian Test captain's relations with Ganguly has gone down. In 2017, he had a fallout with then head coach Anil Kumble as well. Hence, Kaneria feels his relations with Dravid might also not be good in the long run.

"It's been two years, Virat has not made any century, so he needs to focus on his game. Speaking against legends like Sourav Ganguly and anyone else is not going to help him," Kaneria told IANS in an interview.

He further asserted, "Virat had problems with Anil Kumble, now he has problems with Ganguly. Kumble and Ganguly have proved themselves; they are the real ambassadors of the game. Virat is speaking against Ganguly who has changed Indian cricket and then MS Dhoni took it forward. Now Virat's 90-minute jibe is really not needed at this time."

"He is struggling to make runs in Tests and T20s. And as a captain, he has not won any ICC trophy, so everything is going against him. And now this blame game, I don't think this is going to help him as well as Indian cricket," Kaneria further explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

Kaneria added, "As far as Rohit Sharma is concerned, he's been an outstanding ambassador of the game; he has won five IPL trophies. His captaincy is impeccable; his camaraderie with Rahul Dravid is amazing. I don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Dravid will be good in the long run. Virat had a problem with Anil Kumble as well. Both Kumble and Dravid are coming from South India and they have big status in cricket. I played against both of them, and I know what kind of intellectuals they are."

It will be interesting to see how the relation&nbsp;between Kohli and Dravid will pan out going forward. At present, the Dravid-Kohli-led Indian team is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in Centurion, on Sunday (December 26).

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup.

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup. On the other hand, BCCI recently sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper. Ahead of India's tour-opener versus South Africa in Centurion, on December 26, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a big claim on the partnership of Kohli-Dravid, who are the captain-coach in the Test format for the national side. ALSO READ | Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career By now, all the cricket fans are well aware of the rusty relations between Kohli and the BCCI post the ODI captaincy switch. After being sacked as the ODI skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims, who had earlier stated that he had advised the former to continue as the T20I captain. Kohli also revealed that he had no prior communication with the national selectors before his sacking. Hence, the Indian Test captain's relations with Ganguly has gone down. In 2017, he had a fallout with then head coach Anil Kumble as well. Hence, Kaneria feels his relations with Dravid might also not be good in the long run. "It's been two years, Virat has not made any century, so he needs to focus on his game. Speaking against legends like Sourav Ganguly and anyone else is not going to help him," Kaneria told IANS in an interview. He further asserted, "Virat had problems with Anil Kumble, now he has problems with Ganguly. Kumble and Ganguly have proved themselves; they are the real ambassadors of the game. Virat is speaking against Ganguly who has changed Indian cricket and then MS Dhoni took it forward. Now Virat's 90-minute jibe is really not needed at this time." "He is struggling to make runs in Tests and T20s. And as a captain, he has not won any ICC trophy, so everything is going against him. And now this blame game, I don't think this is going to help him as well as Indian cricket," Kaneria further explained. ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC Kaneria added, "As far as Rohit Sharma is concerned, he's been an outstanding ambassador of the game; he has won five IPL trophies. His captaincy is impeccable; his camaraderie with Rahul Dravid is amazing. I don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Dravid will be good in the long run. Virat had a problem with Anil Kumble as well. Both Kumble and Dravid are coming from South India and they have big status in cricket. I played against both of them, and I know what kind of intellectuals they are." It will be interesting to see how the relation between Kohli and Dravid will pan out going forward. At present, the Dravid-Kohli-led Indian team is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in Centurion, on Sunday (December 26).

Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria

Former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri has reacted to the number of developments that have taken place in the senior men's cricket team post the end of his tenure. Post his exit, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Virat Kohli recently got removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma replacing him as the limited-overs skipper.

For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. In mid-September, the 33-year-old Kohli had revealed that the mega event in the UAE will be his last assignment as the T20I skipper. Thus, Shastri has opened up on Rohit taking over as the white-ball captain and the ODI captaincy row, created due to contrasting statements from Kohli and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-job-isnt-to-butter-everyones-toast-ravi-shastri-recalls-his-praise-for-kuldeep-which-crushed-r-ashwin-439515">My job isn't to butter everyone’s toast: Ravi Shastri recalls his praise for Kuldeep which 'crushed' R Ashwin</a>

Shastri told the Indian Express, "Once Virat said he didn't want to lead T20s, it opened for Rohit. He should be the white-ball captain. Rohit Sharma is the T20 captain now. He should be the white-ball captain."

On Ganguly and the ODI captaincy saga, the former all-rounder opined, "I see no residue. Just events and you react to those events. That aside, we are cricketers. Both of us know the game. That does not mean we will agree on everything. Interacted with Ganguly many times. With good communication, the Indian team situation can be handled better."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

At present, Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa for the three-match series versus the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. After winning back-to-back Test series in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, early this year, India will look to win their maiden series in the African nation.&nbsp;

Former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri has reacted to the number of developments that have taken place in the senior men's cricket team post the end of his tenure.

Former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri has reacted to the number of developments that have taken place in the senior men's cricket team post the end of his tenure. Post his exit, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Virat Kohli recently got removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma replacing him as the limited-overs skipper. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. In mid-September, the 33-year-old Kohli had revealed that the mega event in the UAE will be his last assignment as the T20I skipper. Thus, Shastri has opened up on Rohit taking over as the white-ball captain and the ODI captaincy row, created due to contrasting statements from Kohli and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly. ALSO READ | My job isn't to butter everyone’s toast: Ravi Shastri recalls his praise for Kuldeep which 'crushed' R Ashwin Shastri told the Indian Express, "Once Virat said he didn't want to lead T20s, it opened for Rohit. He should be the white-ball captain. Rohit Sharma is the T20 captain now. He should be the white-ball captain." On Ganguly and the ODI captaincy saga, the former all-rounder opined, "I see no residue. Just events and you react to those events. That aside, we are cricketers. Both of us know the game. That does not mean we will agree on everything. Interacted with Ganguly many times. With good communication, the Indian team situation can be handled better." ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC At present, Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa for the three-match series versus the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. After winning back-to-back Test series in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, early this year, India will look to win their maiden series in the African nation.

'Once Virat Kohli said....' - Shastri reacts to Rohit Sharma's appointment as India's limited-overs captain

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has joined the bandwagon and reacted to the Virat Kohli vs BCCI ODI captaincy row. Ever since the BCCI announced that Kohli has been removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma being appointed as the limited-overs skipper, things went out of hand in a flash.

While Kohli rubbished rumours of any rift with Rohit in a press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, he claimed that BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had no word with him to reconsider quitting as T20I captain (contrary to Ganguly's claims) and even stressed&nbsp;that he had no prior communication with the selectors being his sacking as ODI skipper. In addition, the 33-year-old Kohli said that he was always available for the upcoming SA ODIs, in the African nation, contradicting a claim made by a board member. Hence, it has been Kohli vs BCCI since then.

Now, Manjrekar has also reacted to the unfortunate turn of events and feels that Ganguly shouldn't have made any statement on behalf of the selectors post Kohli's removal as ODI captain. The BCCI President had said that he had advised Kohli to retain the top job in T20Is before the latter completely contradicted from his remark.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-wont-be-solved-if-you-keep-dragging-it-shahid-afridi-reacts-to-bcci-vs-virat-kohli-captaincy-saga-439254">This won't be solved if you keep dragging it: Shahid Afridi reacts to BCCI vs Virat Kohli captaincy saga</a>

"Three different captains for three formats is not an ideal scenario but if you are left with no choice and that's gonna get the best out of the three teams, then so be it. The one very important member of the Indian cricket administration is a guy who doesn't quite get the attention that he deserves. And that's the chairman of selectors," Manjrekar told&nbsp;Times Now.&nbsp;

"So I don't know why there should have been a conversation publicly or any statement given by the president of the BCCI when really it is the job of the chairman of the selection committee," he added.&nbsp;

"Miscommunications and all the misunderstandings, everything has been happening over the years. It should have been the chairman of the selection committee versus Virat Kohli. That would have been the right way to go about it. That would have been a more professional exterior,” Manjrekar pointed out.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ganguly-had-no-business-to-speak-on-behalf-of-selection-committee-vengsarkar-on-bcci-kohli-captaincy-row-439033">Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row</a>

Recently, former chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar had also blamed Ganguly for creating a ruckus by speaking on behalf of the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee. Speaking to&nbsp;Khaleej Times, Vengsarkar has slammed Ganguly and said, "It’s very unfortunate, the whole thing. I think it should have been handled more professionally by the cricket board. The thing is that Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of the selection committee. Ganguly is the president of BCCI. Any issue about selection or captaincy, it’s the chairman of the selection committee who should speak."

At present, Ganguly-led BCCI have refrained from commenting on the matter post Kohli's explosive presser. Meanwhile, Kohli-led Indian Test team is gearing up for the three-match series versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas which will get underway in Centurion on December 26.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has joined the bandwagon and reacted to the Virat Kohli vs BCCI ODI captaincy row. Ever since the BCCI announced that Kohli has been removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma being appointed as the limited-overs skipper, things went out of hand in a flash.

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has joined the bandwagon and reacted to the Virat Kohli vs BCCI ODI captaincy row. Ever since the BCCI announced that Kohli has been removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma being appointed as the limited-overs skipper, things went out of hand in a flash. While Kohli rubbished rumours of any rift with Rohit in a press conference, before India's departure for South Africa, he claimed that BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly had no word with him to reconsider quitting as T20I captain (contrary to Ganguly's claims) and even stressed that he had no prior communication with the selectors being his sacking as ODI skipper. In addition, the 33-year-old Kohli said that he was always available for the upcoming SA ODIs, in the African nation, contradicting a claim made by a board member. Hence, it has been Kohli vs BCCI since then. Now, Manjrekar has also reacted to the unfortunate turn of events and feels that Ganguly shouldn't have made any statement on behalf of the selectors post Kohli's removal as ODI captain. The BCCI President had said that he had advised Kohli to retain the top job in T20Is before the latter completely contradicted from his remark. ALSO READ | This won't be solved if you keep dragging it: Shahid Afridi reacts to BCCI vs Virat Kohli captaincy saga "Three different captains for three formats is not an ideal scenario but if you are left with no choice and that's gonna get the best out of the three teams, then so be it. The one very important member of the Indian cricket administration is a guy who doesn't quite get the attention that he deserves. And that's the chairman of selectors," Manjrekar told Times Now. "So I don't know why there should have been a conversation publicly or any statement given by the president of the BCCI when really it is the job of the chairman of the selection committee," he added. "Miscommunications and all the misunderstandings, everything has been happening over the years. It should have been the chairman of the selection committee versus Virat Kohli. That would have been the right way to go about it. That would have been a more professional exterior,” Manjrekar pointed out. ALSO READ | Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row Recently, former chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar had also blamed Ganguly for creating a ruckus by speaking on behalf of the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee. Speaking to Khaleej Times, Vengsarkar has slammed Ganguly and said, "It’s very unfortunate, the whole thing. I think it should have been handled more professionally by the cricket board. The thing is that Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of the selection committee. Ganguly is the president of BCCI. Any issue about selection or captaincy, it’s the chairman of the selection committee who should speak." At present, Ganguly-led BCCI have refrained from commenting on the matter post Kohli's explosive presser. Meanwhile, Kohli-led Indian Test team is gearing up for the three-match series versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas which will get underway in Centurion on December 26.

Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar

Pakistan spin-bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan named the toughest batter he has bowled at in international cricket during a recent Q/A session with fans on Twitter. While there are many batters who play spin really well at the highest level, Shadab went ahead and named two batters in the form of Rohit Sharma and David Warner.

The likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, KL Rahul, Joe Root, etc. play spin really well. Hence, it isn't easy bowling against them, however, Shadab named Warner and Rohit as per his experience.

In a recent #AskShadab session with his avid fans, a Twitter user asked him 'who is the most difficult batsman to bowl' as the Pakistani all-rounder mentioned Rohit and the Aussie left-handed opener.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-no-rohit-sharma-there-will-be-pressure-on-virat-kohli-reckons-former-sa-spinner-ahead-of-centurion-test-439062">With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test</a>

&nbsp;

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ganguly-had-no-business-to-speak-on-behalf-of-selection-committee-vengsarkar-on-bcci-kohli-captaincy-row-439033">Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row</a>

Shadab-starrer Pakistan had locked horns with both India and Australia in the 2021 T20 World Cup, which concluded on November 14. While the 23-year-old Shadab didn't get a chance to bowl at Rohit, as Hitman fell for cheap in the Indo-Pak Super 12 face-off, he got a chance to come up against Warner in the riveting second semi-final between Pakistan and Australia at Dubai.&nbsp;

Shadab got rid of danger man Warner (49) as he returned with 4-0-26-4 before Matthew Wade-Marcus Stoinis' finishing skills and unbeaten 89-run stand, for the sixth-wicket, dented Pakistan's hopes of entering the final.

At present, Warner is involved in Ashes 2021 in Australia whereas India's limited-overs captain Rohit is recovering from an injury, which has kept him out of India's three Tests versus South Africa in the African nation.

Pakistan spin-bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan named the toughest batter he has bowled at in international cricket during a recent Q/A session with fans on Twitter.

Pakistan spin-bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan named the toughest batter he has bowled at in international cricket during a recent Q/A session with fans on Twitter. While there are many batters who play spin really well at the highest level, Shadab went ahead and named two batters in the form of Rohit Sharma and David Warner. The likes of Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, KL Rahul, Joe Root, etc. play spin really well. Hence, it isn't easy bowling against them, however, Shadab named Warner and Rohit as per his experience. In a recent #AskShadab session with his avid fans, a Twitter user asked him 'who is the most difficult batsman to bowl' as the Pakistani all-rounder mentioned Rohit and the Aussie left-handed opener. ALSO READ | With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test Rohit Sharma and Warner #AskShadab https://t.co/qZLJCdJyae — Shadab Khan (@76Shadabkhan) December 20, 2021 × ALSO READ | Ganguly had no business to speak on behalf of selection committee: Vengsarkar on BCCI-Kohli captaincy row Shadab-starrer Pakistan had locked horns with both India and Australia in the 2021 T20 World Cup, which concluded on November 14. While the 23-year-old Shadab didn't get a chance to bowl at Rohit, as Hitman fell for cheap in the Indo-Pak Super 12 face-off, he got a chance to come up against Warner in the riveting second semi-final between Pakistan and Australia at Dubai. Shadab got rid of danger man Warner (49) as he returned with 4-0-26-4 before Matthew Wade-Marcus Stoinis' finishing skills and unbeaten 89-run stand, for the sixth-wicket, dented Pakistan's hopes of entering the final. At present, Warner is involved in Ashes 2021 in Australia whereas India's limited-overs captain Rohit is recovering from an injury, which has kept him out of India's three Tests versus South Africa in the African nation.

Not Virat Kohli! Shadab Khan names star Indian opener and David Warner as 'toughest batter to bowl' at

Ever since the BCCI announced Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the 50-over skipper, there has been a huge outrage in world cricket. While many thought things might not be at its best between Hitman and Kohli, the latter cleared the air in an explosive presser ahead of India's departure for South Africa.

While many have reacted to Kohli's statements, where he has openly denied having any prior communication before being removed as ODI captain and also of not having been told to reconsider quitting as T20I captain by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly, former India pacer Atul Wassan has claimed that it must have been the board's decision to remove Kohli as the ODI captain and not the selectors'.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/made-him-my-obsession-ashwin-reveals-how-he-got-the-better-of-steve-smith-in-202021-ind-aus-series-438982">Made him my obsession: Ashwin reveals how he got the better of Steve Smith in 2020/21 IND-AUS series</a>

Wassan told on CNN News 18, "I think Virat wanted to carry on till the 2023 World Cup, and they have done well in one-day cricket. We have not won any big trophy but generally we have done well. He is the premium one-day batter in the world. It could have been handled better and there was no need to jump to an immediate reaction."

He further asserted, "Unless the board wants to send out a signal, that 'Virat… ok, enough is enough. You are not doing well and we haven't won much, so this is a penalty’. That's what happened. It is not the selectors' call; it is the board's decision."

"It's a culmination of many things, and the biggest factor is Virat's form. That has contributed. If Virat was doing well and even if India did not win, nobody would have touched him, and also Ravi Shastri's moving out. They worked really well. With Ravi Shastri going out and a new style of thinking coming in… Rahul Dravid is a no-nonsense guy. He would call it right away. And probably that rankling of what happened with Anil Kumble as well."

"All these things got piled up to point where people said, ‘alright, let us look forward’. Virat would feel that he has been hard done by. A collective thought must have circulated among the top brass. They must have thought that this is the right time to clip Kohli's wings so that he isn't allowed to what he likes, and especially with Ravi no longer being there," added Wassan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-shouldve-learnt-from-greg-chappell-episode-ex-selector-on-bcci-virat-kohli-row-438933">Sourav Ganguly should've learnt from Greg Chappell episode: Ex-selector on BCCI-Virat Kohli row</a>

2021 hasn't been very kind to Kohli. While he hasn't been able to break his century-drought, he couldn't even lead India to an ICC title in the WTC final as well as in the 2021 T20 World Cup. Moreover, he also lost captaincy in the white-ball formats and will now look to start afresh in the upcoming three Tests between India and South Africa in the African nation, starting on December 26 in Centurion.

Under Kohli, India have won a Test series in Australia and also have an unassailable lead in the five-match series against England in the United Kingdom. Hence, the 33-year-old will now look to lead India to their maiden series win in whites on South African soil and silence the outside noise, being against him in the aftermath of the ODI captaincy row.&nbsp;

Ever since the BCCI announced Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the 50-over skipper, there has been a huge outrage in world cricket.

Ever since the BCCI announced Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, sacking Virat Kohli as the 50-over skipper, there has been a huge outrage in world cricket. While many thought things might not be at its best between Hitman and Kohli, the latter cleared the air in an explosive presser ahead of India's departure for South Africa. While many have reacted to Kohli's statements, where he has openly denied having any prior communication before being removed as ODI captain and also of not having been told to reconsider quitting as T20I captain by BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly, former India pacer Atul Wassan has claimed that it must have been the board's decision to remove Kohli as the ODI captain and not the selectors'. ALSO READ | Made him my obsession: Ashwin reveals how he got the better of Steve Smith in 2020/21 IND-AUS series Wassan told on CNN News 18, "I think Virat wanted to carry on till the 2023 World Cup, and they have done well in one-day cricket. We have not won any big trophy but generally we have done well. He is the premium one-day batter in the world. It could have been handled better and there was no need to jump to an immediate reaction." He further asserted, "Unless the board wants to send out a signal, that 'Virat… ok, enough is enough. You are not doing well and we haven't won much, so this is a penalty’. That's what happened. It is not the selectors' call; it is the board's decision." "It's a culmination of many things, and the biggest factor is Virat's form. That has contributed. If Virat was doing well and even if India did not win, nobody would have touched him, and also Ravi Shastri's moving out. They worked really well. With Ravi Shastri going out and a new style of thinking coming in… Rahul Dravid is a no-nonsense guy. He would call it right away. And probably that rankling of what happened with Anil Kumble as well." "All these things got piled up to point where people said, ‘alright, let us look forward’. Virat would feel that he has been hard done by. A collective thought must have circulated among the top brass. They must have thought that this is the right time to clip Kohli's wings so that he isn't allowed to what he likes, and especially with Ravi no longer being there," added Wassan. ALSO READ | Sourav Ganguly should've learnt from Greg Chappell episode: Ex-selector on BCCI-Virat Kohli row 2021 hasn't been very kind to Kohli. While he hasn't been able to break his century-drought, he couldn't even lead India to an ICC title in the WTC final as well as in the 2021 T20 World Cup. Moreover, he also lost captaincy in the white-ball formats and will now look to start afresh in the upcoming three Tests between India and South Africa in the African nation, starting on December 26 in Centurion. Under Kohli, India have won a Test series in Australia and also have an unassailable lead in the five-match series against England in the United Kingdom. Hence, the 33-year-old will now look to lead India to their maiden series win in whites on South African soil and silence the outside noise, being against him in the aftermath of the ODI captaincy row.

Not the selectors' call: Former India pacer feels BCCI was behind Virat Kohli being sacked as ODI captain

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket recently. Following Rohit Sharma's appointment as the ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli, there was a lot of noise in the cricketing fraternity. Kohli addressed the media in a press conference before the team's departure for South Africa and rubbished rift rumours with Hitman. However, he contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims saying that the latter had never asked him to reconsider quitting as T20I captain.

Further, Kohli also told that he had no prior communication with the board members or selectors before his sacking as ODI skipper. In addition, he said that he was always available for the SA ODIs, contrary to the claims by a board member. Hence, former Indian cricketer and ex-selector Kirti Azad has opened up on the whole controversy.&nbsp;

Azad, the 1983 World Cup-winning member, reflected on his days as a national selector during the infamous Greg Chappell-Ganguly episode and feels the current BCCI President should've handled the captaincy row in a better way.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-virat-kohli-on-cusp-of-entering-8000-run-club-ahead-of-test-series-opener-in-centurion-438799">India vs SA: Virat Kohli on cusp of entering 8,000-run club ahead of Test series opener in Centurio</a>n

Azad told News18, "I remember how Bishan Bedi was dethroned, how Sunil Gavaskar was dethroned. Venkataraghavan was in his flight and when he landed, he was replaced as captain. At least, Sourav should have realised through his own experience."

"I remember I had defended him when Greg Chappell was coach and he was dropped as captain. He should have learnt from his own example and spoken to Virat much earlier. I am not saying Virat is a special case. Yes, he is a special batter and a special cricketer. He leads by example," he further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-kanerias-t20-xi-of-2021-features-bumrah-rishabh-pant-2-more-indians-438786">No Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma! Kaneria's T20 XI of 2021 features Bumrah, Rishabh Pant &amp; 2 more Indians</a>

Before Kohli's explosive presser, former Indian captain Md Azharuddin had tweeted saying, "Virat Kohli has informed that he's not available for the ODI series &amp; Rohit Sharma is unavailable fr d upcoming test. There is no harm in takin a break but d timing has to be better. This just substantiates speculation abt d rift. Neither wil be giving up d other form of cricket."

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Virat Kohli has informed that he's not available for the ODI series &amp; Rohit Sharma is unavailable fr d upcoming test. There is no harm in takin a break but d timing has to be better. This just substantiates speculation abt d rift. Neither wil be giving up d other form of cricket.
— Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) <a href="https://twitter.com/azharflicks/status/1470655304194936833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In this regard, Azad feels BCCI could have been more professional and should've ideally communicated with Kohli as all the rift rumours with Rohit and his current rusty term with the board could've been easily avoided. "I feel that it should have been done in a more proper manner. BCCI should have been a little more professional on a cricketing front and with Sourav at the helm, especially when a former captain had tweeted about a rift, a speculation that had been going on. These things should not come out in the public and a captain who has given so much, Virat Kohli, should have been informed well in advance," the 1983 WC winner&nbsp;opined.

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket recently. Following Rohit Sharma's appointment as the ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli, there was a lot of noise in the cricketing fraternity.

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket recently. Following Rohit Sharma's appointment as the ODI captain, replacing Virat Kohli, there was a lot of noise in the cricketing fraternity. Kohli addressed the media in a press conference before the team's departure for South Africa and rubbished rift rumours with Hitman. However, he contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims saying that the latter had never asked him to reconsider quitting as T20I captain. Further, Kohli also told that he had no prior communication with the board members or selectors before his sacking as ODI skipper. In addition, he said that he was always available for the SA ODIs, contrary to the claims by a board member. Hence, former Indian cricketer and ex-selector Kirti Azad has opened up on the whole controversy. Azad, the 1983 World Cup-winning member, reflected on his days as a national selector during the infamous Greg Chappell-Ganguly episode and feels the current BCCI President should've handled the captaincy row in a better way. ALSO READ | India vs SA: Virat Kohli on cusp of entering 8,000-run club ahead of Test series opener in Centurion Azad told News18, "I remember how Bishan Bedi was dethroned, how Sunil Gavaskar was dethroned. Venkataraghavan was in his flight and when he landed, he was replaced as captain. At least, Sourav should have realised through his own experience." "I remember I had defended him when Greg Chappell was coach and he was dropped as captain. He should have learnt from his own example and spoken to Virat much earlier. I am not saying Virat is a special case. Yes, he is a special batter and a special cricketer. He leads by example," he further added. ALSO READ | No Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma! Kaneria's T20 XI of 2021 features Bumrah, Rishabh Pant & 2 more Indians Before Kohli's explosive presser, former Indian captain Md Azharuddin had tweeted saying, "Virat Kohli has informed that he's not available for the ODI series & Rohit Sharma is unavailable fr d upcoming test. There is no harm in takin a break but d timing has to be better. This just substantiates speculation abt d rift. Neither wil be giving up d other form of cricket." Virat Kohli has informed that he's not available for the ODI series & Rohit Sharma is unavailable fr d upcoming test. There is no harm in takin a break but d timing has to be better. This just substantiates speculation abt d rift. Neither wil be giving up d other form of cricket. — Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) December 14, 2021 × In this regard, Azad feels BCCI could have been more professional and should've ideally communicated with Kohli as all the rift rumours with Rohit and his current rusty term with the board could've been easily avoided. "I feel that it should have been done in a more proper manner. BCCI should have been a little more professional on a cricketing front and with Sourav at the helm, especially when a former captain had tweeted about a rift, a speculation that had been going on. These things should not come out in the public and a captain who has given so much, Virat Kohli, should have been informed well in advance," the 1983 WC winner opined.

Sourav Ganguly should've learnt from Greg Chappell episode: Ex-selector on BCCI-Virat Kohli row

There has been a lot happening in Indian cricket at present. Before the South Africa tour, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's limited-overs captain. While Hitman had already succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain -- post the latter's resignation -- Rohit took over from Kohli in ODIs as the selectors went ahead with only one captain in white-ball formats.

While many speculated things weren't ideal between Rohit and Kohli post the ODI captaincy switch, Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the SA tour and contradicted from BCCI's claims; i.e. regarding T20I captaincy resignation, or whether he had prior communication before his ODI captaincy sacking and if he was willing to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and the Indian cricket board.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/main-objective-is-to-play-for-the-country-former-pak-captain-defends-bccis-silence-over-kohli-presser-row-438496">Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row</a>

In a video on his YouTube channel, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra feels that discussions should've taken place between the concerned parties before the ODI captaincy change took place.

"It could have definitely been handled better, let's be very very honest. There are a lot of things which could have been better where they could have asked or had a discussion. You don't actually need to ask when you are removing someone as a captain. You just need to tell but it could have been handled a little better, that you acknowledge that the captain has done very well but now you are moving ahead and all of that. That communication could have happened," Chopra opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-test-and-odi-series-against-south-africa-to-be-played-behind-closed-doors-due-to-covid-19-438506">India's Test and ODI series against South Africa to be played behind closed doors due to COVID-19</a>

He further also suggested that Kohli could've spoken to the board members or selectors to clear the air regarding his availability for the SA ODIs, when news were circulating that he is willing to skip the series (also stated by a board member). In this regard, he said, "Virat Kohli could have also picked up the phone and spoken to them, everyone whose statements he didn't like because it was not only sources but it came from the horse's mouth, there were BCCI officials in that."

"So let's discuss between the two of us like grown-up adults and the BCCI officials could have also done the same thing. Washing dirty linen in public is never a great thing. The rumor markets are again hot and then the same sources, the same drama, we come back to square one, which we don't want."

At present, Ganguly-led BCCI has refrained from commenting on the matter post Kohli's presser. On the other hand, Kohli-led Team India's Test side is in South Africa where they are gearing up for the three-match series opener at Centurion on December 26.&nbsp;

There has been a lot happening in Indian cricket at present. Before the South Africa tour, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's limited-overs captain. While Hitman had already succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain -- post the latter's resignation -- Rohit took over from Kohli in ODIs as the selectors went ahead with only one captain in white-ball formats.

There has been a lot happening in Indian cricket at present. Before the South Africa tour, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as Team India's limited-overs captain. While Hitman had already succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain -- post the latter's resignation -- Rohit took over from Kohli in ODIs as the selectors went ahead with only one captain in white-ball formats. While many speculated things weren't ideal between Rohit and Kohli post the ODI captaincy switch, Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the SA tour and contradicted from BCCI's claims; i.e. regarding T20I captaincy resignation, or whether he had prior communication before his ODI captaincy sacking and if he was willing to skip the SA ODIs. Thus, things aren't at its best between Kohli and the Indian cricket board. ALSO READ | Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row In a video on his YouTube channel, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra feels that discussions should've taken place between the concerned parties before the ODI captaincy change took place. "It could have definitely been handled better, let's be very very honest. There are a lot of things which could have been better where they could have asked or had a discussion. You don't actually need to ask when you are removing someone as a captain. You just need to tell but it could have been handled a little better, that you acknowledge that the captain has done very well but now you are moving ahead and all of that. That communication could have happened," Chopra opined. ALSO READ | India's Test and ODI series against South Africa to be played behind closed doors due to COVID-19 He further also suggested that Kohli could've spoken to the board members or selectors to clear the air regarding his availability for the SA ODIs, when news were circulating that he is willing to skip the series (also stated by a board member). In this regard, he said, "Virat Kohli could have also picked up the phone and spoken to them, everyone whose statements he didn't like because it was not only sources but it came from the horse's mouth, there were BCCI officials in that." "So let's discuss between the two of us like grown-up adults and the BCCI officials could have also done the same thing. Washing dirty linen in public is never a great thing. The rumor markets are again hot and then the same sources, the same drama, we come back to square one, which we don't want." At present, Ganguly-led BCCI has refrained from commenting on the matter post Kohli's presser. On the other hand, Kohli-led Team India's Test side is in South Africa where they are gearing up for the three-match series opener at Centurion on December 26.

'Virat Kohli could've picked up the phone...' - Aakash Chopra opines on Team India's ODI captaincy row

Danish Kaneria, the former Pakistan spinner, recently revealed his T20 XI of the year. With the calendar year coming to an end, there was plenty of cricketing action across formats. In the shortest format, the T20 World Cup was held in the UAE in the last quarter whereas several bilateral series also took place, across the globe, as a build-up for the marquee event.

Hence, many top stars performed as per expectations whereas some new faces impressed the most. On the other hand, some big names failed to live upto expectations. In this regard, Kaneria's list features some top names from the game but didn't have both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma; two of the most consistent performers in the format and among the top-three run-getters in T20Is overall.

Kaneria told on his Youtube channel, "Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam are my openers as performed really well throughout 2021. They were outstanding in the T20 World Cup (2021) and they played well in the recently concluded series against West Indies as well," Kaneria said.&nbsp;

"People will say at one down it should be Rohit Sharma or KL Rahul or Virat Kohli but no I have a different opinion, I will go with Jos Buttler. He (Buttler) played really well and he had also scored a hundred in World Cup. So, he deserves the spot," Kaneria explained.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-is-no-1-league-but-akram-opines-on-indias-t20-wc-debacle-explains-why-they-need-to-think-back-438451">'IPL is No. 1 league but...': Akram opines on India's T20 WC debacle, explains why 'they need to think back'</a>

The rest of his line-up comprised England's big-hitter Liam Livingstone (who had a decent T20 WC), Mitchell Marsh (Player-of-the-Match in T20 WC finale), Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin (who has 9 scalps from 5 T20Is since his comeback in limited-overs setup) and Adam Zampa whereas his pacers included Shaheen Afridi, Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah. Rishabh Pant was named as the 12th man.

For the unversed, Kohli amassed 299 in 8 innings at 74.75 along with 4 fifties in the shortest format in 2021. Rohit, on the other hand, ended with 424 runs at a strike-rate of 150.88 with 5 half-centuries.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/main-objective-is-to-play-for-the-country-former-pak-captain-defends-bccis-silence-over-kohli-presser-row-438496">Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row</a>

Danish Kaneria's T20 XI of 2021:

Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Jos Buttler, Liam Livingstone, Mitchell Marsh, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravi Ashwin, Shaheen Afridi, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Adam Zampa; Rishabh Pant (12th Man).&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Danish Kaneria, the former Pakistan spinner, recently revealed his T20 XI of the year. With the calendar year coming to an end, there was plenty of cricketing action across formats.

Danish Kaneria, the former Pakistan spinner, recently revealed his T20 XI of the year. With the calendar year coming to an end, there was plenty of cricketing action across formats. In the shortest format, the T20 World Cup was held in the UAE in the last quarter whereas several bilateral series also took place, across the globe, as a build-up for the marquee event. Hence, many top stars performed as per expectations whereas some new faces impressed the most. On the other hand, some big names failed to live upto expectations. In this regard, Kaneria's list features some top names from the game but didn't have both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma; two of the most consistent performers in the format and among the top-three run-getters in T20Is overall. Kaneria told on his Youtube channel, "Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam are my openers as performed really well throughout 2021. They were outstanding in the T20 World Cup (2021) and they played well in the recently concluded series against West Indies as well," Kaneria said. "People will say at one down it should be Rohit Sharma or KL Rahul or Virat Kohli but no I have a different opinion, I will go with Jos Buttler. He (Buttler) played really well and he had also scored a hundred in World Cup. So, he deserves the spot," Kaneria explained. ALSO READ | 'IPL is No. 1 league but...': Akram opines on India's T20 WC debacle, explains why 'they need to think back' The rest of his line-up comprised England's big-hitter Liam Livingstone (who had a decent T20 WC), Mitchell Marsh (Player-of-the-Match in T20 WC finale), Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin (who has 9 scalps from 5 T20Is since his comeback in limited-overs setup) and Adam Zampa whereas his pacers included Shaheen Afridi, Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah. Rishabh Pant was named as the 12th man. For the unversed, Kohli amassed 299 in 8 innings at 74.75 along with 4 fifties in the shortest format in 2021. Rohit, on the other hand, ended with 424 runs at a strike-rate of 150.88 with 5 half-centuries. ALSO READ | Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row Danish Kaneria's T20 XI of 2021: Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Jos Buttler, Liam Livingstone, Mitchell Marsh, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravi Ashwin, Shaheen Afridi, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Adam Zampa; Rishabh Pant (12th Man).

No Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma! Kaneria's T20 XI of 2021 features Bumrah, Rishabh Pant & 2 more Indians

Virat Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa and are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The last two Tests will follow suit before the action moves to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19.

Following the ODIs, the tour will come to an end as the four T20Is have been rescheduled&nbsp;from India's current visit to South Africa. The T20Is will be held at a later date in next year. It was mainly done by both BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA) after the tour was under dark clouds due to the Omicron threat in the rainbow nation. While the tour was given the green signal, it meant that the T20Is had to be shifted to a later date from the original plan.

"BCCI has confirmed CSA that the Indian team will travel for three Tests and three ODIs. The remaining four T20Is will be played at a later date,” BCCI secretary Jay Shah was quoted as saying to ANI.

Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra isn't impressed with the four T20Is being rescheduled (to a later date).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-blow-for-south-africa-as-pacer-anrich-nortje-ruled-out-of-india-test-series-due-to-persistent-injury-438719">Huge blow for South Africa as pacer Anrich Nortje ruled out of India Test series due to persistent injury</a>

Speaking on his Youtube Channel, Chopra said, "I am with you that the T20Is shouldn't have been cancelled. There were equal number of games - three ODIs and three T20Is. So you could have played the T20Is and not played the ODIs.

But then, I don't know what the permutations and combinations are because the T20 World Cup is there again next year and the ODI World Cup is after another one year. So the more T20s you play now, the better it is," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-kapil-dev-mankanded-peter-kirsten-during-indias-1992-tour-of-sa-watch-438727">THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA - WATCH</a>

However, the former Test opener also conceded that the ODI Super League and South Africa's qualification chances for the 2023 ODI World Cup must have been a deciding factor for the boards to have gone ahead with the ODIs.

"I anyway believe there is no advantage of a bilateral ODI series. But you also need to keep in mind that there is a super league, where you get points. If you don't get points, you won't qualify. India's qualification is certain as hosts but the others need to qualify. So that could be a consideration," said Chopra.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa and are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The last two Tests will follow suit before the action moves to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19.

Virat Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa and are gearing up for the three-match Test series opener, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The last two Tests will follow suit before the action moves to the three ODIs in the African nation, starting from January 19. Following the ODIs, the tour will come to an end as the four T20Is have been rescheduled from India's current visit to South Africa. The T20Is will be held at a later date in next year. It was mainly done by both BCCI and Cricket South Africa (CSA) after the tour was under dark clouds due to the Omicron threat in the rainbow nation. While the tour was given the green signal, it meant that the T20Is had to be shifted to a later date from the original plan. "BCCI has confirmed CSA that the Indian team will travel for three Tests and three ODIs. The remaining four T20Is will be played at a later date,” BCCI secretary Jay Shah was quoted as saying to ANI. Hence, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra isn't impressed with the four T20Is being rescheduled (to a later date). ALSO READ | Huge blow for South Africa as pacer Anrich Nortje ruled out of India Test series due to persistent injury Speaking on his Youtube Channel, Chopra said, "I am with you that the T20Is shouldn't have been cancelled. There were equal number of games - three ODIs and three T20Is. So you could have played the T20Is and not played the ODIs. But then, I don't know what the permutations and combinations are because the T20 World Cup is there again next year and the ODI World Cup is after another one year. So the more T20s you play now, the better it is," he added. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When Kapil Dev mankanded Peter Kirsten during India's 1992 tour of SA - WATCH However, the former Test opener also conceded that the ODI Super League and South Africa's qualification chances for the 2023 ODI World Cup must have been a deciding factor for the boards to have gone ahead with the ODIs. "I anyway believe there is no advantage of a bilateral ODI series. But you also need to keep in mind that there is a super league, where you get points. If you don't get points, you won't qualify. India's qualification is certain as hosts but the others need to qualify. So that could be a consideration," said Chopra.

T20 World Cup is next year: Aakash Chopra unimpressed as T20Is rescheduled from India's tour of SA

With 'rift' rumours done and dusted, here's reliving 5 top partnerships between Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma

Virat Kohli-BCCI have been at the loggerheads following the recent ODI captaincy switch in Team India. Early this month, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, replacing Kohli as the ODI skipper after he had already resigned as the T20I captain.

Ahead of India's departure for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each, Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference and stated that he had no prior communication with the board and selectors before being removed as the ODI captain. In addition, he claimed that Sourav Ganguly had never approached him to reconsider quitting as T20I skipper, contradicting the BCCI chief's claims. Hence, there is clear tension between Kohli and the BCCI.

While the board hasn't reacted to the statements made by Kohli in the recent presser, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has defended BCCI's silence.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-is-no-1-league-but-akram-opines-on-indias-t20-wc-debacle-explains-why-they-need-to-think-back-438451">IPL is No. 1 league but...: Akram opines on India's T20 WC debacle, explains why 'they need to think back'</a>

“It's a sensible topic and it would have been naïve if there were exchange of words over the matter to the board would have sent a show cause notice. That is not the way. Team in on a tour. Main objective is to play cricket and win matches and play for the country,” Butt said on his Youtube channel.&nbsp;

He added, "I think they have been sensible about it, all of them. And they should keep it under wraps. Better not to give media half-volleys or full tosses or lese you will be hit for boundaries or sixes. Obviously they have had a discussion about it, but it has obviously been all internal. And that is the way to go."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-one-of-my-favourite-captains-when-sourav-ganguly-was-all-praise-for-virat-kohli-438348">THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli</a>

Earlier, Ganguly had reacted to Kohli's presser and told TV reporters, "No statement, no press conference," He added, "We will deal with it. Leave it to BCCI."&nbsp;

Thus, things aren't its best in Indian cricket following the ODI captaincy switch. Meanwhile, Kohli-led India are in South Africa where they are gearing up for the three Tests versus the Proteas, starting from December 26 in Centurion.

Rohit is expected to be available for the three ODIs and take charge of the Men in Blue, in South Africa, in early 2022.

Virat Kohli-BCCI have been at the loggerheads following the recent ODI captaincy switch in Team India. Early this month, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, replacing Kohli as the ODI skipper after he had already resigned as the T20I captain.

Virat Kohli-BCCI have been at the loggerheads following the recent ODI captaincy switch in Team India. Early this month, the BCCI named Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain, replacing Kohli as the ODI skipper after he had already resigned as the T20I captain. Ahead of India's departure for South Africa, where they play three Tests and ODIs each, Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference and stated that he had no prior communication with the board and selectors before being removed as the ODI captain. In addition, he claimed that Sourav Ganguly had never approached him to reconsider quitting as T20I skipper, contradicting the BCCI chief's claims. Hence, there is clear tension between Kohli and the BCCI. While the board hasn't reacted to the statements made by Kohli in the recent presser, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has defended BCCI's silence. ALSO READ | IPL is No. 1 league but...: Akram opines on India's T20 WC debacle, explains why 'they need to think back' “It's a sensible topic and it would have been naïve if there were exchange of words over the matter to the board would have sent a show cause notice. That is not the way. Team in on a tour. Main objective is to play cricket and win matches and play for the country,” Butt said on his Youtube channel. He added, "I think they have been sensible about it, all of them. And they should keep it under wraps. Better not to give media half-volleys or full tosses or lese you will be hit for boundaries or sixes. Obviously they have had a discussion about it, but it has obviously been all internal. And that is the way to go." ALSO READ | THROWBACK: 'One of my favourite captains' - When Sourav Ganguly was all praise for Virat Kohli Earlier, Ganguly had reacted to Kohli's presser and told TV reporters, "No statement, no press conference," He added, "We will deal with it. Leave it to BCCI." Thus, things aren't its best in Indian cricket following the ODI captaincy switch. Meanwhile, Kohli-led India are in South Africa where they are gearing up for the three Tests versus the Proteas, starting from December 26 in Centurion. Rohit is expected to be available for the three ODIs and take charge of the Men in Blue, in South Africa, in early 2022.

Main objective is to play for the country: Former Pak captain defends BCCI's silence over Kohli presser row

Ever since Virat Kohli was sacked as ODI captain of the Indian cricket team and replaced by senior batter Rohit Sharma, there have been reports of a rift between the duo. Reportedly, all is not well between the two superstars of Indian cricket, however, Kohli had recently rubbished the rumours of a rift with Rohit during his press conference ahead of India's tour of South Africa.

Kohli said both Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid will have his full support as far as India's limited-overs teams are concerned. While the ongoing controversy surrounding the change in ODI captaincy followed by Kohli and Sourav Ganguly's contradicting comments have left many fans and former cricketers divided, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has given his take on the chances of Rohit replacing Kohli as the Test skipper of the Indian team in the future.

Butt believes there are very slim chances of BCCI taking a decision to replace Kohli with Rohit as India's Test captain in the future, however, he insisted if the move materialises, it will confirm there is tension between the duo and that they are not getting along well in the dressing room.

“I don’t think it should happen; it won’t be of any benefit. But I can’t say whether it will happen or not. If it happens, it will be clear that there is tension between them and that they are not getting along very well,” Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel.

Butt said he will be surprised and many eyebrows will be raised if Kohli is sacked from Test captaincy after failing to lead India to a series win in the upcoming three-match rubber against South Africa. The former Pakistan cricketer argued that Kohli's credentials as a Test captain are the best among all Indian captains and it will not be a good move if he is sacked.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-like-virat-kohlis-attitude-but-he-fights-a-lot-says-bcci-president-sourav-ganguly-amid-captaincy-row-438107">I like Virat Kohli's attitude but he fights a lot, says BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid captaincy row</a>

“There can’t be any other reason to snatch the captaincy away from a captain who has won the most number of matches abroad among all other Indian skippers. One series shouldn’t affect his captaincy. I don’t think it will happen and the lesser they happen, the better. And if they happen often, then that’s harmful for cricket,” said Butt.

Kohli is the most successful Indian Test captain of all time with 39 wins in 66 matches. He is just three wins away from surpassing Steve Waugh as the third-most successful captain in Test history.

Ever since Virat Kohli was sacked as ODI captain of the Indian cricket team and replaced by senior batter Rohit Sharma, there have been reports of a rift between the duo.

Ever since Virat Kohli was sacked as ODI captain of the Indian cricket team and replaced by senior batter Rohit Sharma, there have been reports of a rift between the duo. Reportedly, all is not well between the two superstars of Indian cricket, however, Kohli had recently rubbished the rumours of a rift with Rohit during his press conference ahead of India's tour of South Africa. Kohli said both Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid will have his full support as far as India's limited-overs teams are concerned. While the ongoing controversy surrounding the change in ODI captaincy followed by Kohli and Sourav Ganguly's contradicting comments have left many fans and former cricketers divided, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has given his take on the chances of Rohit replacing Kohli as the Test skipper of the Indian team in the future. Butt believes there are very slim chances of BCCI taking a decision to replace Kohli with Rohit as India's Test captain in the future, however, he insisted if the move materialises, it will confirm there is tension between the duo and that they are not getting along well in the dressing room. “I don’t think it should happen; it won’t be of any benefit. But I can’t say whether it will happen or not. If it happens, it will be clear that there is tension between them and that they are not getting along very well,” Butt said in a video on his YouTube channel. Butt said he will be surprised and many eyebrows will be raised if Kohli is sacked from Test captaincy after failing to lead India to a series win in the upcoming three-match rubber against South Africa. The former Pakistan cricketer argued that Kohli's credentials as a Test captain are the best among all Indian captains and it will not be a good move if he is sacked. Also Read: I like Virat Kohli's attitude but he fights a lot, says BCCI president Sourav Ganguly amid captaincy row “There can’t be any other reason to snatch the captaincy away from a captain who has won the most number of matches abroad among all other Indian skippers. One series shouldn’t affect his captaincy. I don’t think it will happen and the lesser they happen, the better. And if they happen often, then that’s harmful for cricket,” said Butt. Kohli is the most successful Indian Test captain of all time with 39 wins in 66 matches. He is just three wins away from surpassing Steve Waugh as the third-most successful captain in Test history.

Salman Butt on chances of Rohit replacing Kohli as Test captain: Will be clear, there is tension between them

KL Rahul has been&nbsp;appointed as the vice-captain of the Indian team for the upcoming Test series against South Africa. The Indian team is currently in South Africa for a three-match Test rubber followed by as many ODIs. The Test series is scheduled to get underway from December 26 with the first Test in Centurion.

Rohit Sharma had replaced struggling Ajinkya Rahane as the vice-captain of the Test team ahead of the South Africa series, however, he will not be in action due to an injury. Rohit suffered a hamstring injury during training last week and has been ruled out of the Test series. He is likely to return to lead the team in ODIs.

Rahul, who has been appointed as the vice-captain in limited-overs formats as well, will now act as Kohli's deputy in the Test series. The star batter is seen as one of the future captaincy prospects of the Indian team and has also been captaining in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the last two seasons now. BCCI confirmed Rahul's appointment as vice-captain of the Test team on Saturday.

Rohit, on the other hand, is currently training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru where he is working on his recovery. If he manages to recover fully, the Hitman will be joining the Indian squad before the start of the ODI series against South Africa.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-beats-lionel-messi-sachin-tendulkar-to-be-named-most-admired-sportsperson-in-the-world-437892">Ronaldo beats Lionel Messi, Sachin Tendulkar to be named most-admired sportsperson in the world</a>

Meanwhile, Rahane is all set to be under the scanner in the upcoming Test series against South Africa considering his struggles with the bat recently. The senior batter has been far from his best in the longest format over the last couple of years and his spot in the team remains under threat if he fails to spark a turnaround in South Africa.

The Indian team had their first training session in Centurion on Friday after landing in South Africa and were seen enjoying some football with head coach Rahul Dravid overseeing the proceedings.

KL Rahul has been appointed as the vice-captain of the Indian team for the upcoming Test series against South Africa. The Indian team is currently in South Africa for a three-match Test rubber followed by as many ODIs.

KL Rahul has been appointed as the vice-captain of the Indian team for the upcoming Test series against South Africa. The Indian team is currently in South Africa for a three-match Test rubber followed by as many ODIs. The Test series is scheduled to get underway from December 26 with the first Test in Centurion. Rohit Sharma had replaced struggling Ajinkya Rahane as the vice-captain of the Test team ahead of the South Africa series, however, he will not be in action due to an injury. Rohit suffered a hamstring injury during training last week and has been ruled out of the Test series. He is likely to return to lead the team in ODIs. Rahul, who has been appointed as the vice-captain in limited-overs formats as well, will now act as Kohli's deputy in the Test series. The star batter is seen as one of the future captaincy prospects of the Indian team and has also been captaining in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the last two seasons now. BCCI confirmed Rahul's appointment as vice-captain of the Test team on Saturday. Rohit, on the other hand, is currently training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru where he is working on his recovery. If he manages to recover fully, the Hitman will be joining the Indian squad before the start of the ODI series against South Africa. Also Read: Ronaldo beats Lionel Messi, Sachin Tendulkar to be named most-admired sportsperson in the world Meanwhile, Rahane is all set to be under the scanner in the upcoming Test series against South Africa considering his struggles with the bat recently. The senior batter has been far from his best in the longest format over the last couple of years and his spot in the team remains under threat if he fails to spark a turnaround in South Africa. The Indian team had their first training session in Centurion on Friday after landing in South Africa and were seen enjoying some football with head coach Rahul Dravid overseeing the proceedings.

KL Rahul to be India's vice-captain for South Africa Test series in Rohit Sharma's absence

India's Test captain Virat Kohli rubbished the rumours that all is not well between him and India's newly-appointed white-ball captain Rohit Sharma. Rohit replaced Kohli as captain of the ODI side last week ahead of the team's upcoming tour of South Africa. He had earlier taken over T20I captaincy from Kohli when the latter had decided to step down as captain from the shortest format.

While stepping down as T20I captain, Kohli had expressed his desire to continue leading the team in ODIs and Tests, however, the BCCI decided to cut short his captaincy stint in limited-overs cricket leading to a massive controversy. The controversy has only gotten worse in the last couple of days after Kohli delivered an explosive press conference on Wednesday.

Kohli contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's claims in the presser, stating that he was never asked to not give up T20I captaincy and also revealed he was not communicated about the decision in advance by the BCCI. Kohli said he was informed about the decision only 90 minutes before it was made official.

Kohli also rubbished the rumours of him skipping the upcoming ODI series against South Africa due to personal reasons and once again spoke about his equation with Rohit Sharma. Kohli said both Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid will have his 'absolute support' going forward and that there is nothing wrong between him and India's newly-appointed white-ball skipper.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rahul-dravid-sourav-ganguly-reveals-another-batting-legend-wanted-india-head-coach-job-437659">Not Rahul Dravid! Sourav Ganguly reveals another batting legend wanted India head coach job</a>

It was not the first time, Kohli quashed the rumours of his bad equation with Rohit. Reports of a rift between the duo had gone viral post the conclusion of the 2019 ODI World Cup where India bowed out after losing the semi-final against New Zealand. Kohli had then refuted the baseless allegations and slammed those 'feeding off lies'.

"In my opinion, it's baffling. It's absolutely ridiculous to read this kind of stuff, that comes out there. I have been to public events where we have been praised and here we are feeding off lies, overlooking facts, turning a blind eye to all good things that happened and creating fantasies and scenarios in our head. We want to accept that this is the truth," Kohli had said in a presser after the 2019 ODI World Cup to end the rumours of a rift between him and Rohit.

&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-not-happy-with-virat-kohlis-comments-but-unlikely-to-take-hasty-step-ahead-of-south-africa-series-437626">BCCI not happy with Virat Kohli's comments but unlikely to take hasty step ahead of South Africa series</a>

Kohli will not be leading India in limited-overs cricket but remains the captain in Tests and will be captaining the visitors in the upcoming three-match Test series against the hosts starting from December 26. BCCI is yet to respond to Kohli's comments contradicting Ganguly's statements.

While Ganguly had said in an interview that he personally requested Kohli not to step down as T20I captain, Kohli maintained he was never asked by anybody to not resign from the post.

India's Test captain Virat Kohli rubbished the rumours that all is not well between him and India's newly-appointed white-ball captain Rohit Sharma. Rohit replaced Kohli as captain of the ODI side last week ahead of the team's upcoming tour of South Africa.

India's Test captain Virat Kohli rubbished the rumours that all is not well between him and India's newly-appointed white-ball captain Rohit Sharma. Rohit replaced Kohli as captain of the ODI side last week ahead of the team's upcoming tour of South Africa. He had earlier taken over T20I captaincy from Kohli when the latter had decided to step down as captain from the shortest format. While stepping down as T20I captain, Kohli had expressed his desire to continue leading the team in ODIs and Tests, however, the BCCI decided to cut short his captaincy stint in limited-overs cricket leading to a massive controversy. The controversy has only gotten worse in the last couple of days after Kohli delivered an explosive press conference on Wednesday. Kohli contradicted BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's claims in the presser, stating that he was never asked to not give up T20I captaincy and also revealed he was not communicated about the decision in advance by the BCCI. Kohli said he was informed about the decision only 90 minutes before it was made official. Kohli also rubbished the rumours of him skipping the upcoming ODI series against South Africa due to personal reasons and once again spoke about his equation with Rohit Sharma. Kohli said both Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid will have his 'absolute support' going forward and that there is nothing wrong between him and India's newly-appointed white-ball skipper. Also Read: Not Rahul Dravid! Sourav Ganguly reveals another batting legend wanted India head coach job It was not the first time, Kohli quashed the rumours of his bad equation with Rohit. Reports of a rift between the duo had gone viral post the conclusion of the 2019 ODI World Cup where India bowed out after losing the semi-final against New Zealand. Kohli had then refuted the baseless allegations and slammed those 'feeding off lies'. "In my opinion, it's baffling. It's absolutely ridiculous to read this kind of stuff, that comes out there. I have been to public events where we have been praised and here we are feeding off lies, overlooking facts, turning a blind eye to all good things that happened and creating fantasies and scenarios in our head. We want to accept that this is the truth," Kohli had said in a presser after the 2019 ODI World Cup to end the rumours of a rift between him and Rohit. Also Read: BCCI not happy with Virat Kohli's comments but unlikely to take hasty step ahead of South Africa series Kohli will not be leading India in limited-overs cricket but remains the captain in Tests and will be captaining the visitors in the upcoming three-match Test series against the hosts starting from December 26. BCCI is yet to respond to Kohli's comments contradicting Ganguly's statements. While Ganguly had said in an interview that he personally requested Kohli not to step down as T20I captain, Kohli maintained he was never asked by anybody to not resign from the post.

It's absolutely ridiculous! When Virat Kohli rubbished rumours of rift between him and Rohit Sharma

India white-ball captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja have started their rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy here after being ruled out of the upcoming Test series in South Africa due to injuries.

The two senior players were seen at the NCA with India U-19 captain Yash Dhull in his social media posts. The U-19 team is currently camping at the NCA ahead of the Asia Cup beginning in the UAE from December 23.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/master-blaster-to-return-sourav-ganguly-hints-at-sachin-tendulkar-taking-up-new-role-in-indian-cricket-437603">Master Blaster to return? Sourav Ganguly hints at Sachin Tendulkar taking up new role in Indian cricket</a>

Rohit, who was named ODI captain last week replacing Virat Kohli, was to travel to South Africa as vice-captain of the Test team for the series starting on December 26 but a hamstring injury during training ruled him out.

His expected recovery time is between three to four weeks.

India 'A' captain Priyank Panchal was named in place of Rohit in the Test squad, which reached South Africa on Thursday for the series.

The senior opener, who took charge as T20I captain against New Zealand last month, is expected to be available to lead the team for the ODI leg of the South Africa tour, which is to take place in January.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/safer-option-wouldve-been-to-side-with-ganguly-tabraiz-shamsi-lauds-virat-kohli-amid-odi-captaincy-row-437584">&nbsp;'Safer option would've been to side with Ganguly': Tabraiz Shamsi lauds Virat Kohli amid ODI captaincy row</a>

Jadeja has been ruled out of the South Africa tour due to a knee injury which he sustained during the home New Zealand Test series last month.

He may take a longer time to recover from his injury.&nbsp;

India white-ball captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja have started their rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy here after being ruled out of the upcoming Test series in South Africa due to injuries.

India white-ball captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja have started their rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy here after being ruled out of the upcoming Test series in South Africa due to injuries. The two senior players were seen at the NCA with India U-19 captain Yash Dhull in his social media posts. The U-19 team is currently camping at the NCA ahead of the Asia Cup beginning in the UAE from December 23. ALSO READ: Master Blaster to return? Sourav Ganguly hints at Sachin Tendulkar taking up new role in Indian cricket Rohit, who was named ODI captain last week replacing Virat Kohli, was to travel to South Africa as vice-captain of the Test team for the series starting on December 26 but a hamstring injury during training ruled him out. His expected recovery time is between three to four weeks. India 'A' captain Priyank Panchal was named in place of Rohit in the Test squad, which reached South Africa on Thursday for the series. The senior opener, who took charge as T20I captain against New Zealand last month, is expected to be available to lead the team for the ODI leg of the South Africa tour, which is to take place in January. ALSO READ: 'Safer option would've been to side with Ganguly': Tabraiz Shamsi lauds Virat Kohli amid ODI captaincy row Jadeja has been ruled out of the South Africa tour due to a knee injury which he sustained during the home New Zealand Test series last month. He may take a longer time to recover from his injury.

Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja begin rehab at NCA; Hitman expected to lead India in South Africa ODIs

Team India saw a big change early this month as BCCI removed Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, appointing Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain altogether. For the unversed, Hitman had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain after the latter had made it clear that the World Cup would be his last assignment as the skipper in the shortest format.

Rohit, who has led Mumbai Indians (MI) to five IPL titles and has stood out as a leader for Team India in the limited opportunities, will look to end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Under Kohli, India did brilliantly in bilateral series, played the 2017 Champions Trophy final and reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup before their disastrous performance in the 2021 T20 WC.

Speaking on Boria Majumdar's show&nbsp;Backstage with Boria, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has explained why Rohit deserves to be India's captain in the white-ball&nbsp;formats after Kohli. The BCCI president also made it clear that Rohit became the best choice post Kohli's resignation from the top post in T20Is.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-contradicting-him-in-public-former-pak-skipper-urges-ganguly-to-answer-amid-captaincy-row-437433">'Kohli contradicting him in public....': Former Pak skipper urges Ganguly to 'answer' amid captaincy row</a>

"Five titles with Mumbai, another one with Deccan Chargers speak volumes of his ability under pressure. Once Virat decided he doesn't want to be part of T20 leadership, he was the best choice. He started well, beating NZ 3-0 in India. Hopefully, we will see a better result for India next year than what we saw this year,” Ganguly said.&nbsp;

He added, "To be honest, in 2017 Champions Trophy and 2019 World Cup, India was good. We were exceptional in the 2019 World Cup, one bad day and our entire hard work of two months was wiped away. I was disappointed with the way we played this World Cup (T20 WC 2021). It was the poorest we played in the past 4-5 years."&nbsp; &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-will-deal-with-it-appropriately-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-remark-on-odi-captaincy-row-437386">BCCI will deal with it appropriately: Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's remark on ODI captaincy row</a>

At present, Indian cricket isn't at a very good state following the ODI captaincy switch. There were reports of an alleged rift between Kohli and Rohit post the board's decision to sack the former from ODI captaincy. While Kohli denied all such rumours in a recent presser, he denied Ganguly's remark of being asked to reconsider&nbsp;resigning as the T20I captain. In addition, he&nbsp;stated of not having any prior communication with the board members and selectors before being removed as ODI skipper.

Hence, Indian team is dealing with a lot of outside noise ahead of their tour of South Africa. The national side, on Thursday (December 16), arrived in the African nation for the three Tests and ODIs each, starting from December 26.

Team India saw a big change early this month as BCCI removed Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, appointing Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain altogether. For the unversed, Hitman had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain after the latter had made it clear that the World Cup would be his last assignment as the skipper in the shortest format.

Team India saw a big change early this month as BCCI removed Virat Kohli as the ODI skipper, appointing Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain altogether. For the unversed, Hitman had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain after the latter had made it clear that the World Cup would be his last assignment as the skipper in the shortest format. Rohit, who has led Mumbai Indians (MI) to five IPL titles and has stood out as a leader for Team India in the limited opportunities, will look to end India's eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Under Kohli, India did brilliantly in bilateral series, played the 2017 Champions Trophy final and reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup before their disastrous performance in the 2021 T20 WC. Speaking on Boria Majumdar's show Backstage with Boria, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has explained why Rohit deserves to be India's captain in the white-ball formats after Kohli. The BCCI president also made it clear that Rohit became the best choice post Kohli's resignation from the top post in T20Is. ALSO READ | 'Kohli contradicting him in public....': Former Pak skipper urges Ganguly to 'answer' amid captaincy row "Five titles with Mumbai, another one with Deccan Chargers speak volumes of his ability under pressure. Once Virat decided he doesn't want to be part of T20 leadership, he was the best choice. He started well, beating NZ 3-0 in India. Hopefully, we will see a better result for India next year than what we saw this year,” Ganguly said. He added, "To be honest, in 2017 Champions Trophy and 2019 World Cup, India was good. We were exceptional in the 2019 World Cup, one bad day and our entire hard work of two months was wiped away. I was disappointed with the way we played this World Cup (T20 WC 2021). It was the poorest we played in the past 4-5 years." ALSO READ | BCCI will deal with it appropriately: Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's remark on ODI captaincy row At present, Indian cricket isn't at a very good state following the ODI captaincy switch. There were reports of an alleged rift between Kohli and Rohit post the board's decision to sack the former from ODI captaincy. While Kohli denied all such rumours in a recent presser, he denied Ganguly's remark of being asked to reconsider resigning as the T20I captain. In addition, he stated of not having any prior communication with the board members and selectors before being removed as ODI skipper. Hence, Indian team is dealing with a lot of outside noise ahead of their tour of South Africa. The national side, on Thursday (December 16), arrived in the African nation for the three Tests and ODIs each, starting from December 26.

Once Kohli decided to not be T20I skipper, Rohit was best choice for limited-overs captaincy: Ganguly

Indian cricket is in a mess at present. BCCI, on December 8, removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain. Following this, several reports claimed that Kohli and Rohit aren't sharing a good equation with each other whereas BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly claimed that he had personally spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I captain.

On Wednesday (December 15), Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the national side's departure for South Africa where they play three Tests and ODIs each. Hence, Kohli rubbished rumours of any rift with Rohit but dropped a bomb by saying that he was never told to reconsider quitting as T20I skipper and was also not informed of his sacking as the ODI captain prior to the official announcement.

"The chief selector discussed the Test team to which we both agreed. Before ending the call, I was told that the five selectors have decided that I will not be the ODI captain to which I replied ‘okay fine'," Kohli claimed.

He further asserted, "When I left the T20I captaincy, I had first approached BCCI and intimated them of my decision and laid down my point of view in front of them (office bearers). I gave the reasons why I wanted to quit T20 captaincy and my view point was received very nicely. There was no offence, no hesitation and not for once was I told that ‘you should not leave T20 captaincy’."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-will-deal-with-it-appropriately-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-remark-on-odi-captaincy-row-437386">BCCI will deal with it appropriately: Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's remark on ODI captaincy row</a>

Thus, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has now urged BCCI President Sourav Ganguly to come out in the open and respond so that the controversy can come to an end. “Ganguly needs to answer this for the betterment of Indian cricket. He is the President of the BCCI and Kohli contradicting him in public is not a small thing. On one hand, Ganguly said he had requested Kohli not to step down from T20 captaincy. But Kohli has now come out and claimed that no one from BCCI ever spoke to him about it. These are two completely contrasting statements. This is unrest," Butt said&nbsp;on his YouTube channel.

He added, "It is not a question of captaincy. Debate is not about Rohit taking over. He is a good captain and has proved himself at the international and IPL level. The procedure to pass on the responsibility from one great to another was not smooth. Unnecessary controversy has been created and there will be trust deficit between Kohli and Ganguly going ahead.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/please-pay-attention-to-sa-tour-kapil-dev-schools-virat-kohli-following-his-explosive-press-conference-437409">Please pay attention to SA tour: Kapil Dev schools Virat Kohli following his explosive press conference</a>

After Kohli contradicted his claims, Ganguly did respond and recently told News18, "I have no comments to make. The BCCI will deal with it appropriately."

The Indian cricket loyalists will hope for the ODI captaincy row to end as soon as possible as it can reflect India's performance in their forthcoming tour of South Africa, starting from December 26. The national side has left for the African nation on Thursday (December 16).

Indian cricket is in a mess at present. BCCI, on December 8, removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain. Following this, several reports claimed that Kohli and Rohit aren't sharing a good equation with each other whereas BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly claimed that he had personally spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I captain.

Indian cricket is in a mess at present. BCCI, on December 8, removed Virat Kohli as the ODI captain and appointed Rohit Sharma as the limited-overs captain. Following this, several reports claimed that Kohli and Rohit aren't sharing a good equation with each other whereas BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly claimed that he had personally spoken to Kohli to reconsider his decision of quitting as the T20I captain. On Wednesday (December 15), Kohli addressed the media in BCCI's customary press conference before the national side's departure for South Africa where they play three Tests and ODIs each. Hence, Kohli rubbished rumours of any rift with Rohit but dropped a bomb by saying that he was never told to reconsider quitting as T20I skipper and was also not informed of his sacking as the ODI captain prior to the official announcement. "The chief selector discussed the Test team to which we both agreed. Before ending the call, I was told that the five selectors have decided that I will not be the ODI captain to which I replied ‘okay fine'," Kohli claimed. He further asserted, "When I left the T20I captaincy, I had first approached BCCI and intimated them of my decision and laid down my point of view in front of them (office bearers). I gave the reasons why I wanted to quit T20 captaincy and my view point was received very nicely. There was no offence, no hesitation and not for once was I told that ‘you should not leave T20 captaincy’." ALSO READ | BCCI will deal with it appropriately: Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's remark on ODI captaincy row Thus, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has now urged BCCI President Sourav Ganguly to come out in the open and respond so that the controversy can come to an end. “Ganguly needs to answer this for the betterment of Indian cricket. He is the President of the BCCI and Kohli contradicting him in public is not a small thing. On one hand, Ganguly said he had requested Kohli not to step down from T20 captaincy. But Kohli has now come out and claimed that no one from BCCI ever spoke to him about it. These are two completely contrasting statements. This is unrest," Butt said on his YouTube channel. He added, "It is not a question of captaincy. Debate is not about Rohit taking over. He is a good captain and has proved himself at the international and IPL level. The procedure to pass on the responsibility from one great to another was not smooth. Unnecessary controversy has been created and there will be trust deficit between Kohli and Ganguly going ahead.” ALSO READ | Please pay attention to SA tour: Kapil Dev schools Virat Kohli following his explosive press conference After Kohli contradicted his claims, Ganguly did respond and recently told News18, "I have no comments to make. The BCCI will deal with it appropriately." The Indian cricket loyalists will hope for the ODI captaincy row to end as soon as possible as it can reflect India's performance in their forthcoming tour of South Africa, starting from December 26. The national side has left for the African nation on Thursday (December 16).

'Kohli contradicting him in public....': Former Pak skipper urges Ganguly to 'answer' amid captaincy row

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