Suryakumar Yadav is having the time of his life. In 2022, he ended with&nbsp;1,164 runs in T20Is -- 168 more than second-highest run-getter Md Rizwan (996). He has started 2023 with a bang, scoring his third ton in the shortest format during the India-Sri Lanka T20Is. He is the No. 1 ranked batter in T20Is, is in the scheme of things for India with regard to their 2023 ODI World Cup preparations whereas some former cricketers also want him to be part of the red-ball side.&nbsp;

Surya's rise has been remarkable given he made his international debut at the age of 31. Being hailed by many for his consistency for Mumbai Indians (MI) in the IPL, the right-hander finally managed to enter the Indian playing XI in February 2021. Since then, he has dominated world cricket -- especially in the shortest format. Recently, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt opined on SKY and made a bold claim that he would not have been successful if he was playing for Pakistan. Butt referred to a reported policy by the Ramiz Raja-led Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of not letting 30-plus aged&nbsp;players make their international debut.

Butt said on his Youtube channel, "I was reading everywhere that he came to international cricket when he was over 30. I just thought, he's lucky that he is Indian. If he was in Pakistan, he would've been a victim to the over-30 policy. Those who are in team, they are fine. Those who aren't in the team, they don't have a chance. Suryakumar broke into the team when he was 30. So, his case is different."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-to-not-return-for-sri-lanka-odis-pacer-to-miss-series-as-bcci-keen-to-not-rush-him-550656">Jasprit Bumrah to not return for Sri Lanka ODIs, pacer to miss series as BCCI keen to not rush him</a>

Surya scored his third T20I century, in less than six months, and first on home soil during India's third and final encounter versus Sri Lanka on Saturday (January 07) at the Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot. Coming out to bat at No. 4, SKY stitched a mammoth 111-run-third-wicket stand with Shubman Gill (46) and entertained the fans with his strokeplay and ability to hit in all parts of the ground to return with a breathtaking 51-ball 112 not out, laced with 7 fours and 9 sixes at a whopping strike rate of&nbsp;219.61. Courtesy of SKY's brilliance, India posted 228 for 5 and beat the Islanders by 91 runs to win the series 2-1.

Suryakumar Yadav is having the time of his life. In 2022, he ended with 1,164 runs in T20Is -- 168 more than second-highest run-getter Md Rizwan (996). He has started 2023 with a bang, scoring his third ton in the shortest format during the India-Sri Lanka T20Is.

Suryakumar Yadav is having the time of his life. In 2022, he ended with 1,164 runs in T20Is -- 168 more than second-highest run-getter Md Rizwan (996). He has started 2023 with a bang, scoring his third ton in the shortest format during the India-Sri Lanka T20Is. He is the No. 1 ranked batter in T20Is, is in the scheme of things for India with regard to their 2023 ODI World Cup preparations whereas some former cricketers also want him to be part of the red-ball side. Surya's rise has been remarkable given he made his international debut at the age of 31. Being hailed by many for his consistency for Mumbai Indians (MI) in the IPL, the right-hander finally managed to enter the Indian playing XI in February 2021. Since then, he has dominated world cricket -- especially in the shortest format. Recently, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt opined on SKY and made a bold claim that he would not have been successful if he was playing for Pakistan. Butt referred to a reported policy by the Ramiz Raja-led Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of not letting 30-plus aged players make their international debut. Butt said on his Youtube channel, "I was reading everywhere that he came to international cricket when he was over 30. I just thought, he's lucky that he is Indian. If he was in Pakistan, he would've been a victim to the over-30 policy. Those who are in team, they are fine. Those who aren't in the team, they don't have a chance. Suryakumar broke into the team when he was 30. So, his case is different." Also read: Jasprit Bumrah to not return for Sri Lanka ODIs, pacer to miss series as BCCI keen to not rush him Surya scored his third T20I century, in less than six months, and first on home soil during India's third and final encounter versus Sri Lanka on Saturday (January 07) at the Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot. Coming out to bat at No. 4, SKY stitched a mammoth 111-run-third-wicket stand with Shubman Gill (46) and entertained the fans with his strokeplay and ability to hit in all parts of the ground to return with a breathtaking 51-ball 112 not out, laced with 7 fours and 9 sixes at a whopping strike rate of 219.61. Courtesy of SKY's brilliance, India posted 228 for 5 and beat the Islanders by 91 runs to win the series 2-1.

'If he was in Pakistan, he would've...' - Former Pakistan captain's BOLD remark on Suryakumar Yadav

A lot transpired in India's senior men's cricket team post their disappointing campign in the 2021 T20 World Cup. While Ravi Shastri-led support staff resigned, Virat Kohli had already announced the decision to step aside from&nbsp;T20I captaincy post the World Cup. However, Kohli was then sacked as ODI captain by the BCCI, in early December, before he also resigned from the top post in Tests.&nbsp;

Thus, the baton was passed to Rohit Sharma as he slowly took over as the full-time captain in early 2022. While Rohit and Rahul Dravid, Shastri's successor, revamped the team and changed India's playing style, being more aggressive with the bat, India went into the T20 World Cup 2022 edition as the No. 1 ranked side and one of the top contenders.

India topped their group in the Super 12 round, however, they bowed out in the semi-finals with a heavy ten-wicket defeat at the hands of eventual winners England. After India's T20 WC campaign, in Australia, former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt has taken a jibe at BCCI for sacking Kohli as captain and made a big claim.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Butt opined, "When they had sacked Kohli, there was no valid reason for that. The reason was that he did not win an ICC trophy. How many captains have actually won the ICC trophy? Many have spent their entire career without it. Ab jeet liye? (Have they won it now)? He was a quality captain. He wasn't the only reason why the team had lost. It is not that the team has drastically improved now. If it was all about winning then it's not that Dhoni can't play in the T20s."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-irelands-delight-to-kohlis-dazzle-top-moments-from-t20-wc-2022-tournament-533836">From Ireland's delight to Kohli's dazzle: Top moments from T20 WC 2022 tournament</a>

Butt further added, "The format itself is so fickle and World Cups are happening so frequently and then you have various leagues going on in between. And above that if you have someone who is fit, ready to go and can lead you tactically then why not? Grooming can happen in bigger formats as well. But again it's all about their mindset."

Currently, Rohit and many regulars such as Kohli, KL Rahul, etc. aren't part of India's white-ball tour of New Zealand post the T20 WC. Hardik Pandya is leading the Men in Blue in the three T20Is versus NZ and many reports suggest that BCCI is looking at him as the next T20I skipper, succeeding the 35-year-old Rohit keeping in view the 2024 T20 WC.

A lot transpired in India's senior men's cricket team post their disappointing campign in the 2021 T20 World Cup. While Ravi Shastri-led support staff resigned, Virat Kohli had already announced the decision to step aside from T20I captaincy post the World Cup.

A lot transpired in India's senior men's cricket team post their disappointing campign in the 2021 T20 World Cup. While Ravi Shastri-led support staff resigned, Virat Kohli had already announced the decision to step aside from T20I captaincy post the World Cup. However, Kohli was then sacked as ODI captain by the BCCI, in early December, before he also resigned from the top post in Tests. Thus, the baton was passed to Rohit Sharma as he slowly took over as the full-time captain in early 2022. While Rohit and Rahul Dravid, Shastri's successor, revamped the team and changed India's playing style, being more aggressive with the bat, India went into the T20 World Cup 2022 edition as the No. 1 ranked side and one of the top contenders. India topped their group in the Super 12 round, however, they bowed out in the semi-finals with a heavy ten-wicket defeat at the hands of eventual winners England. After India's T20 WC campaign, in Australia, former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt has taken a jibe at BCCI for sacking Kohli as captain and made a big claim. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Butt opined, "When they had sacked Kohli, there was no valid reason for that. The reason was that he did not win an ICC trophy. How many captains have actually won the ICC trophy? Many have spent their entire career without it. Ab jeet liye? (Have they won it now)? He was a quality captain. He wasn't the only reason why the team had lost. It is not that the team has drastically improved now. If it was all about winning then it's not that Dhoni can't play in the T20s." Also read: From Ireland's delight to Kohli's dazzle: Top moments from T20 WC 2022 tournament Butt further added, "The format itself is so fickle and World Cups are happening so frequently and then you have various leagues going on in between. And above that if you have someone who is fit, ready to go and can lead you tactically then why not? Grooming can happen in bigger formats as well. But again it's all about their mindset." Currently, Rohit and many regulars such as Kohli, KL Rahul, etc. aren't part of India's white-ball tour of New Zealand post the T20 WC. Hardik Pandya is leading the Men in Blue in the three T20Is versus NZ and many reports suggest that BCCI is looking at him as the next T20I skipper, succeeding the 35-year-old Rohit keeping in view the 2024 T20 WC.

'Have they won it now?' - Former Pakistan skipper slams BCCI for sacking Virat Kohli as captain after T20 WC

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

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. While Rohit Sharma succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter had resigned post the T20 WC, Hitman also replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper recently (on December 8).

BCCI named Rohit as Kohli's successor in the limited-overs format whereas the former has also been promoted as the Test vice-captain. Ever since Kohli was entirely removed as the white-ball captain, there have been plenty of reactions on the whole development, on social media platforms and elsewhere.&nbsp;

Recently, Rohit also opened up on taking over from Virat and told on BCCI.tv, "He has put the team in a situation where there is no looking back. Those five years that he led the team, he led from the front every time we stepped on to the park. There was clear grit and determination to win every game. That was the message to the entire squad."

"We had a great time playing under him. I have played a lot of cricket with him and enjoyed each and every moment and I will still continue to do that. We need to keep getting better as a team and as individuals and that will be the focus for not just me but for the entire squad moving forward," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-ruled-out-of-upcoming-test-series-against-south-africa-priyank-panchal-likely-replacement-436590">Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement</a>

Thus, impressed with Hitman's answers and way of handling things calmly, Pakistan's former captain Salman Butt&nbsp; has opened up on the whole captaincy change and lavished praise on Rohit in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel.

Butt said, "Rohit Sharma is countering every point very intelligently. There are all kinds of talks floating on social media w.r.t. to the send-off (from captaincy) given to Kohli. Rohit Sharma has all the credentials (to take over the role); he is an outstanding player and a great captain and he was bound to take over next."

"It makes sense to have only a single captain in white-ball cricket. Somewhere down the line, Virat Kohli will also understand this. They have been the captain and vice-captain for several years. There should be no issue if they back each other. Rohit Sharma is trying to keep everything calm and cool. What he has said is also true as Kohli has raised the bar of Indian cricket with his intensity," he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-heaps-praise-on-virat-kohli-he-led-from-the-front-there-was-determination-to-win-every-game-436442">Rohit Sharma heaps praise on Virat Kohli: He led from the front, there was determination to win every game</a>

Butt, however, also stated that Rohit can be a short-term captain as age is not on his age (being 34 at present). "Sharma could just be a short-term captain. Being 34 years old, the player is expected to play for only the next 3-4 years. I don't think any other player was ready apart from Sharma for the captaincy role at the moment," Butt concluded.

Rohit will take over as India's full-time limited-overs captain with the forthcoming South Africa ODIs, in the African nation. However, the 34-year-old is set to miss the three Tests versus the Proteas due to an injury he suffered recently during training in Mumbai, before India's departure to the African nation.

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. While Rohit Sharma succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter had resigned post the T20 WC, Hitman also replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper recently (on December 8).

Team India have gone through rapid changes post the T20 World Cup. While Rohit Sharma succeeded Virat Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter had resigned post the T20 WC, Hitman also replaced Kohli as the ODI skipper recently (on December 8). BCCI named Rohit as Kohli's successor in the limited-overs format whereas the former has also been promoted as the Test vice-captain. Ever since Kohli was entirely removed as the white-ball captain, there have been plenty of reactions on the whole development, on social media platforms and elsewhere. Recently, Rohit also opened up on taking over from Virat and told on BCCI.tv, "He has put the team in a situation where there is no looking back. Those five years that he led the team, he led from the front every time we stepped on to the park. There was clear grit and determination to win every game. That was the message to the entire squad." "We had a great time playing under him. I have played a lot of cricket with him and enjoyed each and every moment and I will still continue to do that. We need to keep getting better as a team and as individuals and that will be the focus for not just me but for the entire squad moving forward," he added. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement Thus, impressed with Hitman's answers and way of handling things calmly, Pakistan's former captain Salman Butt has opened up on the whole captaincy change and lavished praise on Rohit in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel. Butt said, "Rohit Sharma is countering every point very intelligently. There are all kinds of talks floating on social media w.r.t. to the send-off (from captaincy) given to Kohli. Rohit Sharma has all the credentials (to take over the role); he is an outstanding player and a great captain and he was bound to take over next." "It makes sense to have only a single captain in white-ball cricket. Somewhere down the line, Virat Kohli will also understand this. They have been the captain and vice-captain for several years. There should be no issue if they back each other. Rohit Sharma is trying to keep everything calm and cool. What he has said is also true as Kohli has raised the bar of Indian cricket with his intensity," he said. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma heaps praise on Virat Kohli: He led from the front, there was determination to win every game Butt, however, also stated that Rohit can be a short-term captain as age is not on his age (being 34 at present). "Sharma could just be a short-term captain. Being 34 years old, the player is expected to play for only the next 3-4 years. I don't think any other player was ready apart from Sharma for the captaincy role at the moment," Butt concluded. Rohit will take over as India's full-time limited-overs captain with the forthcoming South Africa ODIs, in the African nation. However, the 34-year-old is set to miss the three Tests versus the Proteas due to an injury he suffered recently during training in Mumbai, before India's departure to the African nation.

Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli

Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has commented on Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya's fitness, who is a vital cog in the Indian cricket team, especially in the middle order, but currently going through a lean patch in his career.&nbsp;

Butt said that India's&nbsp;star all-rounder's problem is that he is "so slim" and if there is extra load on his body, he will "keep getting unfit".&nbsp;

"India had high hopes from Hardik Pandya, but he has been on a long layoff period. He looks very skilful when he bats. And when he was bowling before injury, he looked very effective with decent pace,"&nbsp;Butt said on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;

"But again, Hardik Pandya’s problem is that he is so slim, if there is extra load on his body, he will keep getting unfit," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indvseng-mark-wood-injury-adds-to-england-pace-problems-ahead-of-third-test-407846">INDvsENG: Mark Wood injury adds to England pace problems ahead of third Test</a>

Previously, Pandya was part of Shikhar Dhawan's team that toured Sri Lanka recently for a white-ball series and he is tipped to be part of India's squad during ICC T20 World Cup. But before that, he will&nbsp;be seen in the 14th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) for Mumbai Indians in UAE.&nbsp;

"He needs some muscle on his body. Skill-wise, he has a lot of capacity to become better and better. The way he bats and bowls… he has a very good bowling action. But again, his body cannot take the excess workload. That is what needs to be managed," Butt added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-and-mohammed-sirajs-gesture-when-james-anderson-walked-out-to-bat-goes-viral-407417">Watch: Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj's gesture when James Anderson walked out to bat goes viral</a>

The ex-Pakistani cricketer also gave an example of some legendary all-rounders like Kapil Dev and Imran Khan and said that they were "fitter than him".&nbsp;

"If you compare Hardik Pandya with Kapil Dev or Imran Khan, they were far fitter than him. You can watch their YouTube videos. They were double in size, and had more muscle. I don’t know if there is any issue with Hardik Pandya’s physique. The physios and trainers must be definitely talking to him about it," he further said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-krunal-pandyas-luxurious-8-bhk-apartment-has-over-the-top-amenities-see-pics-402039">Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya's luxurious 8-BHK apartment has over-the-top amenities - see pics</a>

Watch the video here:

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Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has commented on Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya's fitness, who is a vital cog in the Indian cricket team, especially in the middle order, but currently going through a lean patch in his career.

Former Pakistan captain Salman Butt has commented on Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya's fitness, who is a vital cog in the Indian cricket team, especially in the middle order, but currently going through a lean patch in his career. Butt said that India's star all-rounder's problem is that he is "so slim" and if there is extra load on his body, he will "keep getting unfit". "India had high hopes from Hardik Pandya, but he has been on a long layoff period. He looks very skilful when he bats. And when he was bowling before injury, he looked very effective with decent pace," Butt said on his YouTube channel. "But again, Hardik Pandya’s problem is that he is so slim, if there is extra load on his body, he will keep getting unfit," he added. ALSO READ | INDvsENG: Mark Wood injury adds to England pace problems ahead of third Test Previously, Pandya was part of Shikhar Dhawan's team that toured Sri Lanka recently for a white-ball series and he is tipped to be part of India's squad during ICC T20 World Cup. But before that, he will be seen in the 14th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) for Mumbai Indians in UAE. "He needs some muscle on his body. Skill-wise, he has a lot of capacity to become better and better. The way he bats and bowls… he has a very good bowling action. But again, his body cannot take the excess workload. That is what needs to be managed," Butt added. ALSO READ | Watch: Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj's gesture when James Anderson walked out to bat goes viral The ex-Pakistani cricketer also gave an example of some legendary all-rounders like Kapil Dev and Imran Khan and said that they were "fitter than him". "If you compare Hardik Pandya with Kapil Dev or Imran Khan, they were far fitter than him. You can watch their YouTube videos. They were double in size, and had more muscle. I don’t know if there is any issue with Hardik Pandya’s physique. The physios and trainers must be definitely talking to him about it," he further said. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya's luxurious 8-BHK apartment has over-the-top amenities - see pics Watch the video here: ×

Watch: Salman Butt has his say on India's star all-rounder's physique — 'problem is that he is so slim'

Former Pakistan skipper&nbsp;Salman Butt has praised the&nbsp;Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj for his stunning performance in the ongoing Test series between India and England.&nbsp;

In the second Test of five-match series, Indian pacers including Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma shared 10 wickets between them to bundle out England for 120 in the final session to go 1-0 up.&nbsp;

Besides the experienced bowlers, Siraj in particular impressed with his bowling and also his fierce attitude during the match. It is important to note that he has played just seven Tests so far in his career and has been receiving compliments from cricket stalwarts.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ajinkya-rahanes-epic-reaction-when-he-sees-social-media-trolls-get-trolled-406564">Ajinkya Rahane's epic reaction when he sees social media trolls get 'trolled'</a>

Recently, Salman Butt also praised the Indian pacer while speaking in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel. He said that Siraj has a "different attitude and a different output" and the bowler also adds a "different flavour" to this Indian attack.&nbsp;

"Mohammed Siraj came in and gave it his all. He has a different expression on his face. As an opposition batsman when you look at him, you have to be very good, or rather outstanding, to find it easy against him. It always seems like he will make an impact, whether it is at the start of the innings or towards the end. According to me, in Test cricket, this aggression helps a lot and works," said Butt.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mecca-of-cricket-from-test-debut-to-world-cup-indias-historic-performances-at-lords-in-pictures-406252">'Mecca of Cricket': From Test debut to World Cup - India's historic performances at Lord's in pictures</a>

He further added, "Siraj has a different attitude and a different output. He adds a different flavour to this Indian attack. No other Indian bowler has such aggression in his body language. Bumrah’s body language and attitude are more like a batsman. He is very calm and cool. Very rarely does he get aggressive."

Virat Kohli's side won the second Test match by 151 runs and during the match, Siraj's "Finger on Lips" celebration, which he did after taking the wicket, also went viral. Responding to the same, the bowler said, "This story is for the haters because they used to say a lot of things about me like he cannot do this and cannot do that. So, I will only let my ball do the talking and hence this is my new style of celebration."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-sachin-tendulkar-responds-to-virat-kohlis-poor-form-406490">India vs England: Sachin Tendulkar responds to Virat Kohli's poor form</a>

Siraj was also involved in a verbal duel in the first Test match with England's James Anderson. During the third day at Trent Bridge in Nottingham, the England team was trying to get the final wicket that became a bit frustrating for them as the last-wicket stand between Jasprit Bumrah and Siraj accumulated some crucial runs.&nbsp;

In the 84th over, when Anderson was bowling, he said a few words to Siraj. Soon after that, Siraj said something in return and the video of that heated altercation went viral on social media.

Watch it here:

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Mohammed Siraj sledging Jimmy Anderson 😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvsIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGvsIND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Anderson?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Anderson</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KLRahul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KLRahul</a> <a href="https://t.co/YlnVLPyPxP">pic.twitter.com/YlnVLPyPxP</a>
— Ashwani Pratap Singh (@Ashwani45singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ashwani45singh/status/1423675161291620355?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt has praised the Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj for his stunning performance in the ongoing Test series between India and England.

Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt has praised the Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj for his stunning performance in the ongoing Test series between India and England. In the second Test of five-match series, Indian pacers including Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Ishant Sharma shared 10 wickets between them to bundle out England for 120 in the final session to go 1-0 up. Besides the experienced bowlers, Siraj in particular impressed with his bowling and also his fierce attitude during the match. It is important to note that he has played just seven Tests so far in his career and has been receiving compliments from cricket stalwarts. ALSO READ | Ajinkya Rahane's epic reaction when he sees social media trolls get 'trolled' Recently, Salman Butt also praised the Indian pacer while speaking in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel. He said that Siraj has a "different attitude and a different output" and the bowler also adds a "different flavour" to this Indian attack. "Mohammed Siraj came in and gave it his all. He has a different expression on his face. As an opposition batsman when you look at him, you have to be very good, or rather outstanding, to find it easy against him. It always seems like he will make an impact, whether it is at the start of the innings or towards the end. According to me, in Test cricket, this aggression helps a lot and works," said Butt. ALSO READ | 'Mecca of Cricket': From Test debut to World Cup - India's historic performances at Lord's in pictures He further added, "Siraj has a different attitude and a different output. He adds a different flavour to this Indian attack. No other Indian bowler has such aggression in his body language. Bumrah’s body language and attitude are more like a batsman. He is very calm and cool. Very rarely does he get aggressive." Virat Kohli's side won the second Test match by 151 runs and during the match, Siraj's "Finger on Lips" celebration, which he did after taking the wicket, also went viral. Responding to the same, the bowler said, "This story is for the haters because they used to say a lot of things about me like he cannot do this and cannot do that. So, I will only let my ball do the talking and hence this is my new style of celebration." ALSO READ | India vs England: Sachin Tendulkar responds to Virat Kohli's poor form Siraj was also involved in a verbal duel in the first Test match with England's James Anderson. During the third day at Trent Bridge in Nottingham, the England team was trying to get the final wicket that became a bit frustrating for them as the last-wicket stand between Jasprit Bumrah and Siraj accumulated some crucial runs. In the 84th over, when Anderson was bowling, he said a few words to Siraj. Soon after that, Siraj said something in return and the video of that heated altercation went viral on social media. Watch it here: Mohammed Siraj sledging Jimmy Anderson 😂 #ENGvsIND #Anderson #KLRahul pic.twitter.com/YlnVLPyPxP — Ashwani Pratap Singh (@Ashwani45singh) August 6, 2021 ×

'He adds a different flavour to Indian attack': Ex-Pakistan captain praises Mohammed Siraj

Shikhar Dhawan and Co. will take on Sri Lanka in a 3-match ODI series that will kick off on July 13th. This tour will be significant in many aspects. Several newbies will get to showcase their talent on the international level, and Rahul Dravid will be the one guiding them.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-captain-mithali-raj-shatters-huge-batting-record-bcci-reacts-395742" hreflang="en">India captain Mithali Raj shatters huge batting record; BCCI reacts</a>

Dravid has been lauded for his efforts as NCA chief in building India's bench strength and training young minds. Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt also feels that Team India's youngsters are lucky to be training under Dravid's guidance.&nbsp;

Salman Butt, in his latest YouTube video, lauded the Indian cricket board for choosing the former India captain to coach the Indian unit for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour.&nbsp;

“India are hiring specialists to train their players. Not only specialists in cricket skills, but also ones who are organizational specialists, who can guide teams in the right direction. Rahul Dravid has been the captain as well. And it wasn’t if he was the makeshift captain and or a failed leader, who was sacked. In fact, he was a successful skipper,” said Butt.

“The organizational skills of the (Indian) players can be judged from the fact that, even with five-six big names, a team managed to work towards a goal in a united manner. Dhoni had captained Dravid, Ganguly, Tendulkar and Laxman which wasn’t an easy job. I had seen during my playing days, the captain respected the seniors, who gave it back by supporting their leader.

“Dravid obviously has organizational skills. Add to it, his technical expertise. Dravid has proved himself in the toughest conditions. So, he knows what to teach the youngsters since he has gained that experience,” he added.

According to Butt, it is an opportunity for Dravid to create the future champions for the Men in Blue.&nbsp;

“I don’t think that there is any pressure (on Dravid). It is an opportunity for him to create future champions of Indian cricket. It is not necessary that everyone will get an opportunity to play in this series. But just spending time with Rahul and sharing his experiences, which is already done with a lot of players in the squad will just enhance their future,” Butt he signed off.&nbsp;

Shikhar Dhawan and Co. will take on Sri Lanka in a 3-match ODI series that will kick off on July 13th. This tour will be significant in many aspects. Several newbies will get to showcase their talent on the international level, and Rahul Dravid will be the one guiding them.

Shikhar Dhawan and Co. will take on Sri Lanka in a 3-match ODI series that will kick off on July 13th. This tour will be significant in many aspects. Several newbies will get to showcase their talent on the international level, and Rahul Dravid will be the one guiding them. ALSO READ: India captain Mithali Raj shatters huge batting record; BCCI reacts Dravid has been lauded for his efforts as NCA chief in building India's bench strength and training young minds. Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt also feels that Team India's youngsters are lucky to be training under Dravid's guidance. Salman Butt, in his latest YouTube video, lauded the Indian cricket board for choosing the former India captain to coach the Indian unit for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour. “India are hiring specialists to train their players. Not only specialists in cricket skills, but also ones who are organizational specialists, who can guide teams in the right direction. Rahul Dravid has been the captain as well. And it wasn’t if he was the makeshift captain and or a failed leader, who was sacked. In fact, he was a successful skipper,” said Butt. “The organizational skills of the (Indian) players can be judged from the fact that, even with five-six big names, a team managed to work towards a goal in a united manner. Dhoni had captained Dravid, Ganguly, Tendulkar and Laxman which wasn’t an easy job. I had seen during my playing days, the captain respected the seniors, who gave it back by supporting their leader. “Dravid obviously has organizational skills. Add to it, his technical expertise. Dravid has proved himself in the toughest conditions. So, he knows what to teach the youngsters since he has gained that experience,” he added. According to Butt, it is an opportunity for Dravid to create the future champions for the Men in Blue. “I don’t think that there is any pressure (on Dravid). It is an opportunity for him to create future champions of Indian cricket. It is not necessary that everyone will get an opportunity to play in this series. But just spending time with Rahul and sharing his experiences, which is already done with a lot of players in the squad will just enhance their future,” Butt he signed off.

'Opportunity for Dravid to create future champions of Indian cricket': Salman Butt