Shubman Gill is struggling in Tests. Since the West Indies Tests, he has been batting at No. 3. However, he has had an unimpressive run so far. The right-hander has scores of 13, 18, 6, 10, 29*, 2, 26, 36, 10, 23, 0 in his last 10 innings. On Day 1 of the second Test between India and England, on Friday (Feb 2),&nbsp;Gill departed for 34 (46) to continue his poor run of form.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on Gill's Test struggles prior to&nbsp;the second Test in Vizag. Talking to ESPN Cricinfo, Manjrekar said, "Shubman Gill, how does he react to his failures? He needs to do something about his defence if he wants to be the prolific run-getter in the team at the Test level, both against swing and spin."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-would-be-disappointing-if-england-dont-win-the-series-says-atherton-after-visitors-bright-start-686235">Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win the series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start</a>

“That’s a cause for worry and that’s something that won’t be solved easily. These are uncontrollable for the team management, and the selectors,” he further opined.

Manjrekar then shifted focus to Shreyas Iyer, who was also short of runs and fell flat in the first Test versus England in Hyderabad. "Shreyas Iyer seems to want to play the modern way, which is about hitting the way out of trouble, so be it. We saw the English batters take a safer approach to be aggressive."

He added, "He’s got to find one because just lofting balls down the pitch or towards mid-wicket is a lot more risky than playing the reverse sweeps and the switch reverse sweeps."

The Indian team opted to bat first on Day 1 of the Vizag Test on Friday morning. They are eyeing a big score to challenge the English side after losing the first Test in a shocking fashion by 28 runs. While Gill departed early, Iyer will target&nbsp;a big score to shrug off his poor form.

Shubman Gill is struggling in Tests. Since the West Indies Tests, he has been batting at No. 3. However, he has had an unimpressive run so far. The right-hander has scores of 13, 18, 6, 10, 29*, 2, 26, 36, 10, 23, 0 in his last 10 innings.

Shubman Gill is struggling in Tests. Since the West Indies Tests, he has been batting at No. 3. However, he has had an unimpressive run so far. The right-hander has scores of 13, 18, 6, 10, 29*, 2, 26, 36, 10, 23, 0 in his last 10 innings. On Day 1 of the second Test between India and England, on Friday (Feb 2), Gill departed for 34 (46) to continue his poor run of form. Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on Gill's Test struggles prior to the second Test in Vizag. Talking to ESPN Cricinfo, Manjrekar said, "Shubman Gill, how does he react to his failures? He needs to do something about his defence if he wants to be the prolific run-getter in the team at the Test level, both against swing and spin." Also read: Ind vs Eng: Would be disappointing if England don't win the series, says Atherton after visitors' bright start “That’s a cause for worry and that’s something that won’t be solved easily. These are uncontrollable for the team management, and the selectors,” he further opined. Manjrekar then shifted focus to Shreyas Iyer, who was also short of runs and fell flat in the first Test versus England in Hyderabad. "Shreyas Iyer seems to want to play the modern way, which is about hitting the way out of trouble, so be it. We saw the English batters take a safer approach to be aggressive." He added, "He’s got to find one because just lofting balls down the pitch or towards mid-wicket is a lot more risky than playing the reverse sweeps and the switch reverse sweeps." The Indian team opted to bat first on Day 1 of the Vizag Test on Friday morning. They are eyeing a big score to challenge the English side after losing the first Test in a shocking fashion by 28 runs. While Gill departed early, Iyer will target a big score to shrug off his poor form.

Ind vs Eng: Shubman Gill needs to better his defence if he wants to succeed in Tests, says Sanjay Manjrekar

Former India opener Sanjay Manjrekar has backed the selection of Mukesh Kumar in the second Test match against South Africa as the two nations lock horns in Cape Town. With the hosts leading 1-0 in the two-match series, India will need a change in fortunes for the second Test which starts at the Newlands on Wednesday (Jan 3). According to Manjrekar, either Shardul Thakur or Prasidh Krishna is unlikely to get the nod for the Playing XI at the same time as India suffered an embarrassing defeat in the Centurion Test.

<h2>Manjrekar backs Mukesh</h2>

"From what we have seen in the first Test, I don't expect Shardul Thakur and Prasidh Krishna to play together in the second Test. There will definitely be one change. If Ravindra Jadeja is fit, it will strengthen our batting. So, if Mukesh Kumar is bowling well in the nets, he could be brought in. He is more suited to these conditions," Manjrekar was quoted as saying to ESPNcricinfo.

In his only Test match for the nation, Mukesh has two wickets which he scalped on his debut during the West Indies tour in July 2023. He will be expected to fire&nbsp;all cylinders if he gets the nod ahead of either Shardul Thakur or Krishna. Considering India’s lack of depth in batting, Shardul could be preferred in the Playing XI over Krishna.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-pak-waqar-younis-blasts-pakistan-team-management-for-resting-shaheen-afridi-in-sydney-test-676045">AUS vs PAK: Waqar Younis blasts Pakistan team management for resting Shaheen Afridi in Sydney Test</a>

India will also have the added boost of Ravindra Jadeja if he makes the Playing XI in Cape Town. He missed the Centurion Test with a minor injury but is expected to be back for the Wednesday affair at Newlands. However, in the case of Jadeja the team management will not look to take any risks as he will be an important member of the team which will face England in the five-match Test series, starting in February.

For now, India will look to ruin Dean Elgar’s farewell match as he will bid adieu to the Test format after the Cape Town Test. The match will start at 1:30 pm IST with the toss taking place at 1:00 PM.

Former India opener Sanjay Manjrekar has backed the selection of Mukesh Kumar in the second Test match against South Africa as the two nations lock horns in Cape Town.

Former India opener Sanjay Manjrekar has backed the selection of Mukesh Kumar in the second Test match against South Africa as the two nations lock horns in Cape Town. With the hosts leading 1-0 in the two-match series, India will need a change in fortunes for the second Test which starts at the Newlands on Wednesday (Jan 3). According to Manjrekar, either Shardul Thakur or Prasidh Krishna is unlikely to get the nod for the Playing XI at the same time as India suffered an embarrassing defeat in the Centurion Test. Manjrekar backs Mukesh "From what we have seen in the first Test, I don't expect Shardul Thakur and Prasidh Krishna to play together in the second Test. There will definitely be one change. If Ravindra Jadeja is fit, it will strengthen our batting. So, if Mukesh Kumar is bowling well in the nets, he could be brought in. He is more suited to these conditions," Manjrekar was quoted as saying to ESPNcricinfo. In his only Test match for the nation, Mukesh has two wickets which he scalped on his debut during the West Indies tour in July 2023. He will be expected to fire all cylinders if he gets the nod ahead of either Shardul Thakur or Krishna. Considering India’s lack of depth in batting, Shardul could be preferred in the Playing XI over Krishna. ALSO READ | AUS vs PAK: Waqar Younis blasts Pakistan team management for resting Shaheen Afridi in Sydney Test India will also have the added boost of Ravindra Jadeja if he makes the Playing XI in Cape Town. He missed the Centurion Test with a minor injury but is expected to be back for the Wednesday affair at Newlands. However, in the case of Jadeja the team management will not look to take any risks as he will be an important member of the team which will face England in the five-match Test series, starting in February. For now, India will look to ruin Dean Elgar’s farewell match as he will bid adieu to the Test format after the Cape Town Test. The match will start at 1:30 pm IST with the toss taking place at 1:00 PM.

SA vs IND, 2nd Test: Former player backs Mukesh Kumar to get nod for Cape Town contest

With the three ODIs ending in India's favour&nbsp;on Thursday (Dec 21), the visitors now shift their focus to&nbsp;the two-match Test&nbsp;series versus South Africa&nbsp;in the African nation. The Test series kicks off on January 26, in Centurion, which will see many senior Indian players such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, etc. return&nbsp;to action after the ODI World Cup final loss, to Australia last month.

Kohli will&nbsp;gear up for the Test series&nbsp;in a country where India have still not won&nbsp;a red-ball series. In the 2021-22 SA tour, Kohli scored 161 runs at an average of 40.25 with a top score of 79 in two of the three Tests. Thus, he will hope for a bright series and move past the ODI WC heartbreak. Ahead of the series opener, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has backed Kohli to be among runs and feels he will be fired up to do well.

Asked if we will see an aggressive Kohli as witnessed in the last Test series in SA, hinting at&nbsp;the&nbsp;stump-mic aggression from the then Indian captain, Manjrekar said while talking on Star Sports, "No (stump-mic aggression from last series repeat?) because we have a new leader in Rohit Sharma. But you are right, it brings back memories of players saying something that they have never done before, suggesting that the local broadcasters supported the South African team and all that."

“But that was a different temperamental team the last time around, under Rohit Sharma, they tend to play differently. It's always the captain who creates the culture, so I don't see that happening," he opined.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-border-gavaskar-trophy-win-to-near-perfect-odi-world-cup-campaign-team-indias-run-in-2023-669970">From Border-Gavaskar Trophy win to near-perfect ODI World Cup campaign: Team India's run in 2023</a>

<h2>'When Virat Kohli is all fired up and angry, that's the sight I like'</h2>

Manjrekar added, "I&nbsp;see Virat Kohli doing his own few things. He is going to get fired up. The last trip to South Africa, he did not get a big one and Kohli has had to work harder for Test runs recently. When Virat Kohli is all fired up and angry, that's the sight I like. David Warner as well. When they get a little fired up, you see them batting better."

Kohli has had a good run in South Africa, i.e. undoubtedly a tough place for batters. He averages a healthy 51.35 with 719 runs in 14 innings, including two hundreds and three half-centuries. At present, he missed out on the team's ongoing three-day&nbsp;intra-squad game, in Pretoria, and&nbsp;returned to India due to a family emergency. The 35-year-old is expected to join the team before the first Test gets underway. Meanwhile, opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of the red-ball series due to a finger injury.

The two Tests will be played in Centurion (Dec 26-30) and Cape Town (Jan 3-7).

With the three ODIs ending in India's favour on Thursday (Dec 21), the visitors now shift their focus to the two-match Test series versus South Africa in the African nation.

With the three ODIs ending in India's favour on Thursday (Dec 21), the visitors now shift their focus to the two-match Test series versus South Africa in the African nation. The Test series kicks off on January 26, in Centurion, which will see many senior Indian players such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, R Ashwin, etc. return to action after the ODI World Cup final loss, to Australia last month. Kohli will gear up for the Test series in a country where India have still not won a red-ball series. In the 2021-22 SA tour, Kohli scored 161 runs at an average of 40.25 with a top score of 79 in two of the three Tests. Thus, he will hope for a bright series and move past the ODI WC heartbreak. Ahead of the series opener, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has backed Kohli to be among runs and feels he will be fired up to do well. Asked if we will see an aggressive Kohli as witnessed in the last Test series in SA, hinting at the stump-mic aggression from the then Indian captain, Manjrekar said while talking on Star Sports, "No (stump-mic aggression from last series repeat?) because we have a new leader in Rohit Sharma. But you are right, it brings back memories of players saying something that they have never done before, suggesting that the local broadcasters supported the South African team and all that." “But that was a different temperamental team the last time around, under Rohit Sharma, they tend to play differently. It's always the captain who creates the culture, so I don't see that happening," he opined. Also read: From Border-Gavaskar Trophy win to near-perfect ODI World Cup campaign: Team India's run in 2023 'When Virat Kohli is all fired up and angry, that's the sight I like' Manjrekar added, "I see Virat Kohli doing his own few things. He is going to get fired up. The last trip to South Africa, he did not get a big one and Kohli has had to work harder for Test runs recently. When Virat Kohli is all fired up and angry, that's the sight I like. David Warner as well. When they get a little fired up, you see them batting better." Kohli has had a good run in South Africa, i.e. undoubtedly a tough place for batters. He averages a healthy 51.35 with 719 runs in 14 innings, including two hundreds and three half-centuries. At present, he missed out on the team's ongoing three-day intra-squad game, in Pretoria, and returned to India due to a family emergency. The 35-year-old is expected to join the team before the first Test gets underway. Meanwhile, opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has been ruled out of the red-ball series due to a finger injury. The two Tests will be played in Centurion (Dec 26-30) and Cape Town (Jan 3-7).

SA vs Ind, Test series: Virat Kohli will be fired up, feels Sanjay Manjrekar ahead of Centurion tie

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has opined on the change of guard&nbsp;in the Mumbai Indians camp after Hardik Pandya took over the reins as captain on Friday (Dec 15). In a sensational development on Friday, Hardik was announced as the new skipper while Rohit Sharma stepped down after a successful spell as the leader. According to Manjrekar, there should not be too much "sentimental"&nbsp;thinking about the captaincy change ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

<h2>Manjrekar opines on Pandya’s new role</h2>

“One should not be thinking sentimentally or emotionally about Rohit Sharma. I think it’s a good move as Hardik Pandya is a proven leader and has had a great run. So, he is your in-form T20 captain and player,” Manjrekar said while speaking during the India vs South Africa contest.

“Rohit has been around for a long time. So, it makes a lot of cricketing sense to have somebody like Hardik,” he stated.

The announcement on Friday came as a big surprise for the cricket fraternity after Rohit decided to step down from his role as captain. Pandya, on the flip side, will look to succeed the successful stint of Rohit having led Gujarat Titans in the previous two seasons. Interestingly, his first year with GT saw him lead them to glory after beating Rajasthan Royals in the final of the 2022 tournament. Hardik also acts as deputy to Rohit in the Indian cricket team but is currently nursing an injury.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-ishan-kishan-withdraws-from-test-squad-due-to-personal-reasons-ks-bharat-roped-in-as-replacement-670562">SA vs IND: Ishan Kishan withdraws from Test squad due to personal reasons; KS Bharat roped in as replacement</a>

<h2>Rohit’s stint as captain</h2>

Rohit took over the captaincy in 2013 from Ricky Ponting at the midway point of the season and led the team to their first IPL title. Later that year, Rohit also helped Mumbai beat Rajasthan Royals in the final of the Champions League with Sachin Tendulkar playing his final competitive match in Delhi. He then led Mumbai to success in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming&nbsp;the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Earlier, MS Dhoni joined Rohit Sharma as the joint-best successful captain in the IPL history with five titles.

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has opined on the change of guard in the Mumbai Indians camp after Hardik Pandya took over the reins as captain on Friday (Dec 15).

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has opined on the change of guard in the Mumbai Indians camp after Hardik Pandya took over the reins as captain on Friday (Dec 15). In a sensational development on Friday, Hardik was announced as the new skipper while Rohit Sharma stepped down after a successful spell as the leader. According to Manjrekar, there should not be too much "sentimental" thinking about the captaincy change ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Manjrekar opines on Pandya’s new role “One should not be thinking sentimentally or emotionally about Rohit Sharma. I think it’s a good move as Hardik Pandya is a proven leader and has had a great run. So, he is your in-form T20 captain and player,” Manjrekar said while speaking during the India vs South Africa contest. “Rohit has been around for a long time. So, it makes a lot of cricketing sense to have somebody like Hardik,” he stated. The announcement on Friday came as a big surprise for the cricket fraternity after Rohit decided to step down from his role as captain. Pandya, on the flip side, will look to succeed the successful stint of Rohit having led Gujarat Titans in the previous two seasons. Interestingly, his first year with GT saw him lead them to glory after beating Rajasthan Royals in the final of the 2022 tournament. Hardik also acts as deputy to Rohit in the Indian cricket team but is currently nursing an injury. ALSO READ | SA vs IND: Ishan Kishan withdraws from Test squad due to personal reasons; KS Bharat roped in as replacement Rohit’s stint as captain Rohit took over the captaincy in 2013 from Ricky Ponting at the midway point of the season and led the team to their first IPL title. Later that year, Rohit also helped Mumbai beat Rajasthan Royals in the final of the Champions League with Sachin Tendulkar playing his final competitive match in Delhi. He then led Mumbai to success in 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020, becoming the most successful captain in the history of the tournament. Earlier, MS Dhoni joined Rohit Sharma as the joint-best successful captain in the IPL history with five titles.

IPL 2024: 'One should not be thinking sentimentally', Sanjay Manjrekar on Pandya's new role at MI

Rohit Sharma-led India continued their winning run when they locked horns with New Zealand in match 21 of the ICC ODI World Cup, at home, on Sunday (Oct 22) in Dharamsala. Both sides met each other being unbeaten in the ten-team tournament and produced an intense battle, where India eventually went past the Kiwis by four wickets in pursuit of 274. The likes of Mohammed Shami (5 for 54), Ravindra Jadeja (10-0-48-0 and 39 not out), Rohit (46) and Virat Kohli (95) starred in India's fifth win on the trot as they sit pretty at the top with ten points.&nbsp;

After the match, former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lauded Team India and hailed captain Rohit's fearless approach at the top. Rohit has been in top form in the ODI World Cup, with 311 runs (second-most) and has struck at&nbsp;133.47; going hard at the powerplays. In the game versus the Black Caps, he targetted Matt Henry, in particular, and Trent Boult and never shied away from counterattacking despite being beaten on occasions. As a result, India was 63 for no loss after 10 overs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thus, Manjrekar said on Star Sports, "The talk was about Trent Boult's swing, and that Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry could trouble the Indian batters a lot on this pitch. I like this Rohit Sharma because India are winning more and winning more convincingly. He scored five centuries in 2019 but India's performance didn't look this convincing. Yes, he is scoring forties but is going after setting a good platform."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-he-scored-50-off-60-balls-there-is-no-use-gambhir-slams-babar-azams-batting-approach-in-odi-wc-650339">If he scored 50 off 60 balls, there is no use: Gambhir SLAMS Babar Azam's batting approach in ODI WC</a>

After the win over NZ, Rohit said at the post-match presentation, "Good start to the tournament. Job is half done. Important to stay balanced. Not to think too far ahead. Important to stay in the present. Shami took the opportunity with both hands. He has the experience in these conditions and is a class bowler. At one stage, we were looking at 300 plus. Credit to our bowlers at the back end. I am enjoying my batting. Both are different personalities but we (Him and Gill) complement each other. Happy that we won. Nothing much to say. He (Kohli) has done this for us so many years. He backed himself to do the job. Kohli and Jadeja pulled us back when we lost a few wickets in the middle. The fielding is something we pride ourselves on. Today the fielding wasn't clinical. Ravindra Jadeja is one of the best fielders in the world. These things happen. We know that fielding is something that will decide a lot of things going forward. We love travelling and playing in different parts of the game."

India now have some rest before they take on England in Lucknow on Sunday (Oct 29).&nbsp;

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Rohit Sharma-led India continued their winning run when they locked horns with New Zealand in match 21 of the ICC ODI World Cup, at home, on Sunday (Oct 22) in Dharamsala.

Rohit Sharma-led India continued their winning run when they locked horns with New Zealand in match 21 of the ICC ODI World Cup, at home, on Sunday (Oct 22) in Dharamsala. Both sides met each other being unbeaten in the ten-team tournament and produced an intense battle, where India eventually went past the Kiwis by four wickets in pursuit of 274. The likes of Mohammed Shami (5 for 54), Ravindra Jadeja (10-0-48-0 and 39 not out), Rohit (46) and Virat Kohli (95) starred in India's fifth win on the trot as they sit pretty at the top with ten points. After the match, former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lauded Team India and hailed captain Rohit's fearless approach at the top. Rohit has been in top form in the ODI World Cup, with 311 runs (second-most) and has struck at 133.47; going hard at the powerplays. In the game versus the Black Caps, he targetted Matt Henry, in particular, and Trent Boult and never shied away from counterattacking despite being beaten on occasions. As a result, India was 63 for no loss after 10 overs. Thus, Manjrekar said on Star Sports, "The talk was about Trent Boult's swing, and that Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry could trouble the Indian batters a lot on this pitch. I like this Rohit Sharma because India are winning more and winning more convincingly. He scored five centuries in 2019 but India's performance didn't look this convincing. Yes, he is scoring forties but is going after setting a good platform." Also read: If he scored 50 off 60 balls, there is no use: Gambhir SLAMS Babar Azam's batting approach in ODI WC After the win over NZ, Rohit said at the post-match presentation, "Good start to the tournament. Job is half done. Important to stay balanced. Not to think too far ahead. Important to stay in the present. Shami took the opportunity with both hands. He has the experience in these conditions and is a class bowler. At one stage, we were looking at 300 plus. Credit to our bowlers at the back end. I am enjoying my batting. Both are different personalities but we (Him and Gill) complement each other. Happy that we won. Nothing much to say. He (Kohli) has done this for us so many years. He backed himself to do the job. Kohli and Jadeja pulled us back when we lost a few wickets in the middle. The fielding is something we pride ourselves on. Today the fielding wasn't clinical. Ravindra Jadeja is one of the best fielders in the world. These things happen. We know that fielding is something that will decide a lot of things going forward. We love travelling and playing in different parts of the game." India now have some rest before they take on England in Lucknow on Sunday (Oct 29). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Like this Rohit Sharma because India are winning more convincingly in CWC '23, says Sanjay Manjrekar

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has raised concerns over Hardik Pandya’s involvement as a bowler in the ODI World Cup as he feels it could bring added pressure to him. The Indian team is all set to take on Afghanistan in their second ODI World Cup contest on Wednesday (Oct 11) in New Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium. Pandya, an integral part of the Playing XI, has been India’s big-game player with his batting and bowling abilities.

<h2>Manjrekar highlights key factor</h2>

"My view is that, unless there is a compelling reason, I don't like Hardik Pandya as your third seamer. I think he also feels the pressure if he is the third seamer," Sanjay Manjrekar said during a discussion on Star Sports.

"What is likely to happen is that if the pitch is similar to the one that we had in that South Africa-Sri Lanka game, which was a belter, there was nothing there for the spinners, I don't see Ashwin playing on that surface."

In 83 matches for India, the all-rounder has scored 1&nbsp;769 runs while scalping 80 wickets.

India could gamble in the Delhi match on Wednesday (Oct 11) if they go with an unchanged Playing XI from their win against Australia. India played three spinners Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravindra Jadeja in the Australia contest. However, if they play with the same team, Hardik’s role as a pace bowler becomes more important to the side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fia-to-look-at-f1-calendar-changes-after-drivers-puke-faint-at-qatar-grand-prix-644930">FIA to look at F1 calendar changes after drivers puke, faint at Qatar Grand Prix</a>

However, if Ashwin is dropped in favour of Mohammed Shami, it could reduce the workload on Hardik.

Delhi wicket has generally favoured speedsters more than spin options in the past.

India will take on Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in the city on Wednesday, having got the better of Australia on Sunday by six wickets.

On the flip side, Afghanistan will look to bounce back from their defeat against Bangladesh in the opening match. They were beaten by six wickets as well in the adverse outfield conditions of Dharamshala on Saturday.

The match will start at 2 PM with the toss taking place at 1:30 PM.

The management has already confirmed that Shubman Gill won’t take part in the match due to dengue.

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Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has raised concerns over Hardik Pandya’s involvement as a bowler in the ODI World Cup as he feels it could bring added pressure to him.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has raised concerns over Hardik Pandya’s involvement as a bowler in the ODI World Cup as he feels it could bring added pressure to him. The Indian team is all set to take on Afghanistan in their second ODI World Cup contest on Wednesday (Oct 11) in New Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium. Pandya, an integral part of the Playing XI, has been India’s big-game player with his batting and bowling abilities. Manjrekar highlights key factor "My view is that, unless there is a compelling reason, I don't like Hardik Pandya as your third seamer. I think he also feels the pressure if he is the third seamer," Sanjay Manjrekar said during a discussion on Star Sports. "What is likely to happen is that if the pitch is similar to the one that we had in that South Africa-Sri Lanka game, which was a belter, there was nothing there for the spinners, I don't see Ashwin playing on that surface." In 83 matches for India, the all-rounder has scored 1 769 runs while scalping 80 wickets. India could gamble in the Delhi match on Wednesday (Oct 11) if they go with an unchanged Playing XI from their win against Australia. India played three spinners Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravindra Jadeja in the Australia contest. However, if they play with the same team, Hardik’s role as a pace bowler becomes more important to the side. ALSO READ | FIA to look at F1 calendar changes after drivers puke, faint at Qatar Grand Prix However, if Ashwin is dropped in favour of Mohammed Shami, it could reduce the workload on Hardik. Delhi wicket has generally favoured speedsters more than spin options in the past. India will take on Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in the city on Wednesday, having got the better of Australia on Sunday by six wickets. On the flip side, Afghanistan will look to bounce back from their defeat against Bangladesh in the opening match. They were beaten by six wickets as well in the adverse outfield conditions of Dharamshala on Saturday. The match will start at 2 PM with the toss taking place at 1:30 PM. The management has already confirmed that Shubman Gill won’t take part in the match due to dengue. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Former cricketer concerned over Hardik Pandya's bowling duties before Afghanistan clash

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on India's star batter Virat Kohli during a recent interaction. Manjrekar feels that Kohli isn't one who wants leadership or power and doesn't have any scope of an unfulfilled dream when it comes to leadership after having led India for a long time across formats before Rohit Sharma's current tenure. Kohli was recently seen in action during Asia Cup 2023, where Rohit Sharma-led India beat Sri Lanka in the final by ten wickets. He will feature in the third and final ODI between India and Australia with the series opener to be held on Friday (September 22).

While talking to journalist&nbsp;Vimal Kumar on his Youtube channel, Manjrekar spoke at length about similarities between Kohli and Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar and opined on the former not wanting power or leadership in the current Indian setup.&nbsp;

Manjrekar said, "The one similarity between Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar is that both of them enjoy playing cricket. They want to be on the field. He was not part of the team for the game against Bangladesh but was still on the field. I don't think Virat Kohli wants power or leadership." He further opined, "He just wants to play and it looks like he enjoys being a part of the team. He captained the team for a very long time, so there is no scope for an unfulfilled dream. Being with the team, travelling with players, going to the ground, and being part of winning moments are more important to him than having power."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-kl-rahul-should-play-all-games-and-maintain-consistency-says-2011-odi-wc-winner-637568">India vs Australia: KL Rahul should play all games and maintain consistency, says 2011 ODI WC winner</a>

<h2>'It will be very difficult for Kohli to reach SRT's 51 Test centuries'</h2>

Further, Manjrekar made a big claim whether Kohli can surpass Tendulkar's Test century tally and added, "Sachin Tendulkar has 51 hundreds, 17 more than what Sunil Gavaskar finished with. For a good player, accumulating runs in ODIs is comparatively easy, as bowlers don't always try to take a wicket. Tendulkar and Kohli are special because they also have a lot of Test hundreds. However, I believe it will be very difficult for Kohli to reach 51 Test centuries."

Tendulkar ended his illustrious career with over 34,000 international runs and 100 tons overall. Kohli, at present, has&nbsp;amassed 13,027 runs in 280 ODIs, 8,676 runs in 111 Tests, and 4,008 runs in 115 T20Is for India. He is just two centuries away from equalling Tendulkar's tally in ODIs (49) but remains far behind in Tests (with 29 hundreds).

Kohli will soon take part in his fourth ODI World Cup when the marquee event kicks off in India on October 05.&nbsp;

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Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on India's star batter Virat Kohli during a recent interaction. Manjrekar feels that Kohli isn't one who wants leadership or power and doesn't have any scope of an unfulfilled dream when it comes to leadership after having led India for a long time across formats before Rohit Sharma's current tenure.

Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar opened up on India's star batter Virat Kohli during a recent interaction. Manjrekar feels that Kohli isn't one who wants leadership or power and doesn't have any scope of an unfulfilled dream when it comes to leadership after having led India for a long time across formats before Rohit Sharma's current tenure. Kohli was recently seen in action during Asia Cup 2023, where Rohit Sharma-led India beat Sri Lanka in the final by ten wickets. He will feature in the third and final ODI between India and Australia with the series opener to be held on Friday (September 22). While talking to journalist Vimal Kumar on his Youtube channel, Manjrekar spoke at length about similarities between Kohli and Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar and opined on the former not wanting power or leadership in the current Indian setup. Manjrekar said, "The one similarity between Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar is that both of them enjoy playing cricket. They want to be on the field. He was not part of the team for the game against Bangladesh but was still on the field. I don't think Virat Kohli wants power or leadership." He further opined, "He just wants to play and it looks like he enjoys being a part of the team. He captained the team for a very long time, so there is no scope for an unfulfilled dream. Being with the team, travelling with players, going to the ground, and being part of winning moments are more important to him than having power." Also read: India vs Australia: KL Rahul should play all games and maintain consistency, says 2011 ODI WC winner 'It will be very difficult for Kohli to reach SRT's 51 Test centuries' Further, Manjrekar made a big claim whether Kohli can surpass Tendulkar's Test century tally and added, "Sachin Tendulkar has 51 hundreds, 17 more than what Sunil Gavaskar finished with. For a good player, accumulating runs in ODIs is comparatively easy, as bowlers don't always try to take a wicket. Tendulkar and Kohli are special because they also have a lot of Test hundreds. However, I believe it will be very difficult for Kohli to reach 51 Test centuries." Tendulkar ended his illustrious career with over 34,000 international runs and 100 tons overall. Kohli, at present, has amassed 13,027 runs in 280 ODIs, 8,676 runs in 111 Tests, and 4,008 runs in 115 T20Is for India. He is just two centuries away from equalling Tendulkar's tally in ODIs (49) but remains far behind in Tests (with 29 hundreds). Kohli will soon take part in his fourth ODI World Cup when the marquee event kicks off in India on October 05. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Don't think Virat Kohli wants power or leadership': Sanjay Manjrekar opines on India's star batter

During the rain break of the India-Pakistan Super 4 Asia Cup clash, on Sunday (September 10), former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar stated that Indian all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are not in the same league as Yuvraj Singh. Manjrekar's statements came following former Pakistan speedster Waqar Younis' words of praise for Hardik and Jadeja.&nbsp;

"Look at what Hardik and Jadeja bring to the table. They are well equipped with both bat and ball. Especially Hardik Pandya - the way he batted against Pakistan - I think he is a really destructive batter at No. 6. Any team would love to have someone like him. He is aggressive, and now as we saw in the previous match, he is very sensitive and smart," Younis told Star Sports.

In response, Manjrekar stated that Yuvraj was on another level, referring to him as "India's best white-ball batter". In this regard, he commented, "Yuvraj is arguably India's best white-ball batter. He could win games and was in a different league. Hardik and Jadeja, with due respect, aren't quite there. These two are far better bowlers than Yuvraj Singh, but because of that, one discipline was so disciplined."

Talking about Yuvraj, he ended as one of India's finest white-ball cricketers, ending with over 8,500 ODI runs and was a key player in India's victorious campaigns in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup.

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To this, the Pakistani intervened and asked, "Not even Hardik Pandya? With the kind of batting that he has shown? I am not comparing them but the intention is there."

Manjrekar replied by saying, "He has the potential but when I see him at this stage, it's not a guarantee that he will come and bowl all 10 overs like one of the mainstream bowlers. I see him as more of a batting all-rounder and he batted really well in the last game," Manjrekar said.

"So yes, they have this combined skill to make the kind of contribution made but one discipline of Yuvraj Singh, like I said, was at a different level. In pitches that help Jadeja the bowler, his batting will come through but Hardik the batter doesn't need a bad ball or loose ball to decide that this needs to go."

Both Hardik and Jadeja are an integral part of the Indian white-ball teams. The duo's form will be essential for India in the upcoming ODI World Cup, which kicks off in India on October 05. As of now, both have contributed to India in the ongoing rain-hit Asia Cup. Hardik top-scored for India in their group stage clash versus Pakistan (scoring an impressive 87) whereas Jadeja was India's top wicket-taker in their face-off versus Nepal (returning with 3 for 40).&nbsp;

During the rain break of the India-Pakistan Super 4 Asia Cup clash, on Sunday (September 10), former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar stated that Indian all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are not in the same league as Yuvraj Singh.

During the rain break of the India-Pakistan Super 4 Asia Cup clash, on Sunday (September 10), former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar stated that Indian all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are not in the same league as Yuvraj Singh. Manjrekar's statements came following former Pakistan speedster Waqar Younis' words of praise for Hardik and Jadeja. "Look at what Hardik and Jadeja bring to the table. They are well equipped with both bat and ball. Especially Hardik Pandya - the way he batted against Pakistan - I think he is a really destructive batter at No. 6. Any team would love to have someone like him. He is aggressive, and now as we saw in the previous match, he is very sensitive and smart," Younis told Star Sports. In response, Manjrekar stated that Yuvraj was on another level, referring to him as "India's best white-ball batter". In this regard, he commented, "Yuvraj is arguably India's best white-ball batter. He could win games and was in a different league. Hardik and Jadeja, with due respect, aren't quite there. These two are far better bowlers than Yuvraj Singh, but because of that, one discipline was so disciplined." Talking about Yuvraj, he ended as one of India's finest white-ball cricketers, ending with over 8,500 ODI runs and was a key player in India's victorious campaigns in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup. Also read: Asia Cup: Most important goal is to win World Cup 2023, says Indian opener Shubman Gill To this, the Pakistani intervened and asked, "Not even Hardik Pandya? With the kind of batting that he has shown? I am not comparing them but the intention is there." Manjrekar replied by saying, "He has the potential but when I see him at this stage, it's not a guarantee that he will come and bowl all 10 overs like one of the mainstream bowlers. I see him as more of a batting all-rounder and he batted really well in the last game," Manjrekar said. "So yes, they have this combined skill to make the kind of contribution made but one discipline of Yuvraj Singh, like I said, was at a different level. In pitches that help Jadeja the bowler, his batting will come through but Hardik the batter doesn't need a bad ball or loose ball to decide that this needs to go." Both Hardik and Jadeja are an integral part of the Indian white-ball teams. The duo's form will be essential for India in the upcoming ODI World Cup, which kicks off in India on October 05. As of now, both have contributed to India in the ongoing rain-hit Asia Cup. Hardik top-scored for India in their group stage clash versus Pakistan (scoring an impressive 87) whereas Jadeja was India's top wicket-taker in their face-off versus Nepal (returning with 3 for 40).

Asia Cup: Yuvraj was in a different league, Hardik & Jadeja aren't quite there, claims Manjrekar

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has said that India can't do without Ravindra Jadeja at ICC ODI World Cup. The former batter, however, said that it won't be fair to compare Jadeja to Yuvraj Singh. Notably, Singh had played a pivotal role when India last won the ICC World Cup in 2011 and had won Player of the Series award.

"There is a very good chance, it’s almost a certainty that he will play all the World Cup matches. India can’t do without him. Axar Patel will be there in the reserves but Jadeja will be the first-choice spin-bowling all-rounder. If the pitch is rough, if you have got a quality opposition, he will finish in 10 overs," Manjrekar told Star Sports.

“But the batting all-rounder we had in 2011, Yuvraj Singh. It's not fair to compare his batting with Jadeja. So I see him more as a bowling all-rounder with somebody who can be a threat at No. 7 or No.8. His white-ball career has changed completely in the last few years,” said Manjrekar.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-bcci-chief-selector-ajit-agarkar-on-selecting-kl-rahul-having-one-specialist-spinner-in-india-squad-632553">CWC '23: BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar on selecting KL Rahul; having one specialist spinner in India squad</a>

Manjrekar, who once called Jadeja a 'bits-and-pieces' cricketer, said that in the last few seasons the left-arm spinner has been bowling his 10 overs in limited overs which shows how 'good a bowler' he is.

"Earlier, he was a formidable Test bowler. In the early part of his one-day career, he wasn't even completing his 10 overs. But in the last few seasons, you see him bowling his 10 overs. That's a best indicator of how good a bowler you are. All you have to do is see how many times you bowl your 10 overs. That's something that you get with Jadeja now. He is a much-improved white-ball cricketer, which he was not 3- years before that," Manjrekar added.

Jadeja has been included in the 15-man squad announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on September 5. Axar Patel also features in the side alongside Jadeja.

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Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has said that India can't do without Ravindra Jadeja at ICC ODI World Cup. The former batter, however, said that it won't be fair to compare Jadeja to Yuvraj Singh.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has said that India can't do without Ravindra Jadeja at ICC ODI World Cup. The former batter, however, said that it won't be fair to compare Jadeja to Yuvraj Singh. Notably, Singh had played a pivotal role when India last won the ICC World Cup in 2011 and had won Player of the Series award. "There is a very good chance, it’s almost a certainty that he will play all the World Cup matches. India can’t do without him. Axar Patel will be there in the reserves but Jadeja will be the first-choice spin-bowling all-rounder. If the pitch is rough, if you have got a quality opposition, he will finish in 10 overs," Manjrekar told Star Sports. “But the batting all-rounder we had in 2011, Yuvraj Singh. It's not fair to compare his batting with Jadeja. So I see him more as a bowling all-rounder with somebody who can be a threat at No. 7 or No.8. His white-ball career has changed completely in the last few years,” said Manjrekar. Also Read: CWC '23: BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar on selecting KL Rahul; having one specialist spinner in India squad Manjrekar, who once called Jadeja a 'bits-and-pieces' cricketer, said that in the last few seasons the left-arm spinner has been bowling his 10 overs in limited overs which shows how 'good a bowler' he is. "Earlier, he was a formidable Test bowler. In the early part of his one-day career, he wasn't even completing his 10 overs. But in the last few seasons, you see him bowling his 10 overs. That's a best indicator of how good a bowler you are. All you have to do is see how many times you bowl your 10 overs. That's something that you get with Jadeja now. He is a much-improved white-ball cricketer, which he was not 3- years before that," Manjrekar added. Jadeja has been included in the 15-man squad announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on September 5. Axar Patel also features in the side alongside Jadeja. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Ravindra Jadeja no Yuvraj but India can't do without him at ODI world cup,' says Sanjay Manjrekar

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned the Indian team’s selection in the Asia Cup clash against Pakistan at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele. India who opted to choose Shradul Thakur over Mohammed Shami for the clash started on a poor note as they lost star batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma early in the innings. According to Manjrekar, India may have missed out on a trick by not playing Mohammed Shami as they lacked confidence in their current batting line-up.

<h2>Manjrekar questions selection</h2>

"Hearing murmurs that India wanted batting depth. But nobody is talking about bowling depth. Shardul Thakur is in and I am slightly against this thought. Is Mohammed Shami more a threat to Pakistan batters or Shardul Thakur?

"I wouldn't worry about batting depth. Somebody like a Shami on this pitch, especially when we have seen the ball moving around India should have gone in with 3 genuine bowlers - Bumrah, Shami, and Siraj, just like Pakistan have done," Manjrekar told Star Sports.

India opted to choose Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, and Kuldeep Yadav as natural bowling options while Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur came in as bowling all-rounder options in the team. India also opted to bring in Shreyas Iyer in the team having missed the last few months due to injury. India also opted to go for Ishan Kishan as a natural wicketkeeper option with KL Rahul not available for the group stage. This prompted India to drop Suryakumar Yadav in the Playing XI.

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<h2>India make poor start</h2>

At the time of writing, India were 111/4 with Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya in the middle. The Men in Blue lost Rohit Sharma (11) and Virat Kohli (4) early while Shreyas Iyer scored 14 on his return to the Indian team. Shubman Gill stayed in the middle for India but ultimately was dismissed for 10. For Pakistan Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf both scalped two wickets each to give the Men in Green a good start.

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Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned the Indian team’s selection in the Asia Cup clash against Pakistan at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned the Indian team’s selection in the Asia Cup clash against Pakistan at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele. India who opted to choose Shradul Thakur over Mohammed Shami for the clash started on a poor note as they lost star batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma early in the innings. According to Manjrekar, India may have missed out on a trick by not playing Mohammed Shami as they lacked confidence in their current batting line-up. Manjrekar questions selection "Hearing murmurs that India wanted batting depth. But nobody is talking about bowling depth. Shardul Thakur is in and I am slightly against this thought. Is Mohammed Shami more a threat to Pakistan batters or Shardul Thakur? "I wouldn't worry about batting depth. Somebody like a Shami on this pitch, especially when we have seen the ball moving around India should have gone in with 3 genuine bowlers - Bumrah, Shami, and Siraj, just like Pakistan have done," Manjrekar told Star Sports. India opted to choose Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, and Kuldeep Yadav as natural bowling options while Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur came in as bowling all-rounder options in the team. India also opted to bring in Shreyas Iyer in the team having missed the last few months due to injury. India also opted to go for Ishan Kishan as a natural wicketkeeper option with KL Rahul not available for the group stage. This prompted India to drop Suryakumar Yadav in the Playing XI. ALSO READ | Neeraj Chopra eyes gold in Diamond League final and Asian Games but staying fit remains priority India make poor start At the time of writing, India were 111/4 with Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya in the middle. The Men in Blue lost Rohit Sharma (11) and Virat Kohli (4) early while Shreyas Iyer scored 14 on his return to the Indian team. Shubman Gill stayed in the middle for India but ultimately was dismissed for 10. For Pakistan Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf both scalped two wickets each to give the Men in Green a good start. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Asia Cup 2023: Former cricketer questions India's Playing XI vs Pak, says 'this shows signs of insecurity'

Team India, under Rohit Sharma, is set to kick off their Asia Cup 2023 campaign on September 02 when they face arch-rivals Pakistan in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The continental tournament gets underway on Wednesday (August 30) with co-hosts Pakistan locking horns with Nepal in Multan. After the Asia Cup, to be held in the ODI format, the 50-over World Cup will take place, in India, starting on October 05.

Prior to the Asia Cup and CWC '23, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar heaped praise on Virat Kohli and pointed out where he becomes 'valuable' for Rohit &amp; Co.&nbsp;

<h2>'I expect Virat to have a great World Cup'</h2>

Speaking to&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;in the lead-up to the 50-over Asia Cup, Manjrekar was optimistic of Kohli having a great run in the upcoming World Cup.&nbsp;"Great player who has had a great journey. But people change, players change and skills change as well. At this stage, you see that Rohit Sharma, his greatest skill and impact is visible in Test cricket. I expect Virat to have a great World Cup," Manjrekar mentioned.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-141-in-adelaide-was-a-masterpiece-ian-chappell-heaps-praise-on-former-indian-captain-630002">'Virat Kohli's 141 in Adelaide was a masterpiece': Ian Chappell heaps praise on former Indian captain</a>

Further, Manjrekar added, "With his current state of play, you would think that 50-overs is just the right format for him. On the big stage, he has done it for India on many occasions. You get excited about many young and rising players. But on a big night, we need a player, who has been there, done that. That is where Virat becomes so valuable for India."

To back Manjrekar's claims, the two-time ODI world champions India will bank on Kohli's experience as they aim to lift the forthcoming ICC event, to be held on home soil. Back in the 2011 edition, co-hosted by India, Bangladesh and eventual runners-up Sri Lanka, the MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue ended as the champions with a young Kohli part of the historic squad.&nbsp;

Thus, Kohli's experience of having won an ODI World Cup will be essential not only for captain -- who was snubbed for the 2011 edition -- but for the entire Indian unit. At present, the 34-year-old will hope for a miraculous campaign in the continental tournament, which kicks off on Wednesday.&nbsp;

A good run in the Asia Cup will keep Kohli in terrific mindset before the World Cup commences.

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Team India, under Rohit Sharma, is set to kick off their Asia Cup 2023 campaign on September 02 when they face arch-rivals Pakistan in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The continental tournament gets underway on Wednesday (August 30) with co-hosts Pakistan locking horns with Nepal in Multan.

Team India, under Rohit Sharma, is set to kick off their Asia Cup 2023 campaign on September 02 when they face arch-rivals Pakistan in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. The continental tournament gets underway on Wednesday (August 30) with co-hosts Pakistan locking horns with Nepal in Multan. After the Asia Cup, to be held in the ODI format, the 50-over World Cup will take place, in India, starting on October 05. Prior to the Asia Cup and CWC '23, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar heaped praise on Virat Kohli and pointed out where he becomes 'valuable' for Rohit & Co. 'I expect Virat to have a great World Cup' Speaking to Star Sports in the lead-up to the 50-over Asia Cup, Manjrekar was optimistic of Kohli having a great run in the upcoming World Cup. "Great player who has had a great journey. But people change, players change and skills change as well. At this stage, you see that Rohit Sharma, his greatest skill and impact is visible in Test cricket. I expect Virat to have a great World Cup," Manjrekar mentioned. Also read: 'Virat Kohli's 141 in Adelaide was a masterpiece': Ian Chappell heaps praise on former Indian captain Further, Manjrekar added, "With his current state of play, you would think that 50-overs is just the right format for him. On the big stage, he has done it for India on many occasions. You get excited about many young and rising players. But on a big night, we need a player, who has been there, done that. That is where Virat becomes so valuable for India." To back Manjrekar's claims, the two-time ODI world champions India will bank on Kohli's experience as they aim to lift the forthcoming ICC event, to be held on home soil. Back in the 2011 edition, co-hosted by India, Bangladesh and eventual runners-up Sri Lanka, the MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue ended as the champions with a young Kohli part of the historic squad. Thus, Kohli's experience of having won an ODI World Cup will be essential not only for captain -- who was snubbed for the 2011 edition -- but for the entire Indian unit. At present, the 34-year-old will hope for a miraculous campaign in the continental tournament, which kicks off on Wednesday. A good run in the Asia Cup will keep Kohli in terrific mindset before the World Cup commences. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

This is where he becomes so valuable: Manjrekar on Virat Kohli ahead of India's Asia Cup, CWC '23 campaigns

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming Asia Cup, to be jointly held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The tournament begins on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan with the Babar Azam-led Men in Green hosting Nepal. The biggest clash is on September 02 when Rohit Sharma's Team India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in Pallekele, Sri Lanka.

India, Pakistan and Nepal are placed in Group A whereas the other group comprises Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. It is to be noted that India and Pakistan can meet thrice in the upcoming edition, including the final which will be held on September 17 in Colombo. For now, all eyes are on India's opening clash. Ahead of the continental tournament's commencement, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar picked his India XI.

<h2>'KL Rahul would.....'</h2>

Manjrekar told ESPNCricinfo, "My three seamers would be Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. Hardik Pandya would be my fourth seamer. My spinners would be Jadeja and Kuldeep. My opener would be Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma. No. 3 batter would be Virat Kohli. KL Rahul would play because he is the keeper."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-one-is-a-favourite-in-asia-cup-says-sourav-ganguly-ahead-of-indias-opening-tie-vs-arch-rivals-pakistan-629060">No one is a favourite in Asia Cup, says Sourav Ganguly ahead of India's opening tie vs arch-rivals Pakistan</a>

It is to be noted that when Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors named India's squad early this week, the chief selector revealed that Rahul has picked up a niggle while recovering from a thigh injury (the niggle is unrelated to his original injury). Thus, India have kept plenty of options for the middle-order with the inclusion of uncapped player Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav&nbsp;in the final 17. In addition,&nbsp;Sanju Samson is the sole travelling reserve player.

Manjrekar has included Rahul in the playing XI and feels that either Shreyas Iyer or Varma could get the nod in the middle-order. “Either Shreyas Iyer or Tilak Varma could play [in the middle-order]. I am saying this because in India’s first-choice side XI, the first seven (six) batters, including Hardik Pandya, are all right-handers. Somewhere, India will have to fit in a left-hander in Tilak Varma. This is a problem India has,” Manjrekar added.

Both Iyer and Rahul are returning to the Indian team after long injury layoffs, hence, all eyes will be on the duo in the Asia Cup, which will be followed by the home ODI World Cup, beginning on October 05.

<h2>Manjrekar's India XI for Asia Cup clash with Pakistan</h2>

Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer/ Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj

<h3>Here is India’s squad for Asia Cup 2023 –&nbsp;</h3>

Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna

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The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming Asia Cup, to be jointly held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The tournament begins on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan with the Babar Azam-led Men in Green hosting Nepal.

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming Asia Cup, to be jointly held in Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The tournament begins on August 30 in Multan, Pakistan with the Babar Azam-led Men in Green hosting Nepal. The biggest clash is on September 02 when Rohit Sharma's Team India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in Pallekele, Sri Lanka. India, Pakistan and Nepal are placed in Group A whereas the other group comprises Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. It is to be noted that India and Pakistan can meet thrice in the upcoming edition, including the final which will be held on September 17 in Colombo. For now, all eyes are on India's opening clash. Ahead of the continental tournament's commencement, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar picked his India XI. 'KL Rahul would.....' Manjrekar told ESPNCricinfo, "My three seamers would be Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami. Hardik Pandya would be my fourth seamer. My spinners would be Jadeja and Kuldeep. My opener would be Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma. No. 3 batter would be Virat Kohli. KL Rahul would play because he is the keeper." Also read: No one is a favourite in Asia Cup, says Sourav Ganguly ahead of India's opening tie vs arch-rivals Pakistan It is to be noted that when Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selectors named India's squad early this week, the chief selector revealed that Rahul has picked up a niggle while recovering from a thigh injury (the niggle is unrelated to his original injury). Thus, India have kept plenty of options for the middle-order with the inclusion of uncapped player Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav in the final 17. In addition, Sanju Samson is the sole travelling reserve player. Manjrekar has included Rahul in the playing XI and feels that either Shreyas Iyer or Varma could get the nod in the middle-order. “Either Shreyas Iyer or Tilak Varma could play [in the middle-order]. I am saying this because in India’s first-choice side XI, the first seven (six) batters, including Hardik Pandya, are all right-handers. Somewhere, India will have to fit in a left-hander in Tilak Varma. This is a problem India has,” Manjrekar added. Both Iyer and Rahul are returning to the Indian team after long injury layoffs, hence, all eyes will be on the duo in the Asia Cup, which will be followed by the home ODI World Cup, beginning on October 05. Manjrekar's India XI for Asia Cup clash with Pakistan Rohit Sharma (captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer/ Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj Here is India’s squad for Asia Cup 2023 – Rohit Sharma (C), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Prasidh Krishna WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

No Ishan Kishan! Sanjay Manjrekar picks star-studded India XI for Asia Cup opener vs Pakistan

The BCCI selectors, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 17-man squad for the Asia Cup on Monday (August 23). The continental tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan, is set to commence on August 30 whereas India will kick off their campaign on September 02 when they take on Pakistan in Pallekele in the Island nation. The competition will be an ideal dress rehearsal for the upcoming ODI World Cup&nbsp;which gets underway in India on October 05.

With regard to the 50-over ICC event, Rohit Sharma-led India are preparing hard and will closely monitor the progress of their middle and lower order as there still remain&nbsp;a lot of issues for the No. 4 spot. Shreyas Iyer, who is a top contender for the No. 4 spot, is set to feature in the continental tournament after a long injury layoff -- in early February. In his absence, India have tried plenty of backups such as Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, however, no one cemented the spot (as a backup for Iyer) despite Samson's decent faring.&nbsp;

Moreover, KL Rahul -- who bats at No. 5 -- is also coming back to international cricket after a long time (since his hip injury IPL 2023's latter stages). Thus, India still have lots to do to fix their middle order before the World Cup commences. In this regard, former India head coach Ravi Shastri backed Virat Kohli to drop down to No. 4.&nbsp;

Shastri told Star Sports channel, "If Virat has to bat at four, he will bat at four in the interest of the side. You know, there were times I thought of it." He added that&nbsp;during the 2019 World Cup, he considered changing Kohli's place "just to break that top heavy line-up".

Shastri revealed, "You know, because if we lose two or three at the top, we are gone and it was proved. If you look at Virat Kohli's record, he is good enough at number four."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kris-srikkanth-lashes-out-at-agarkar-led-bcci-selectors-for-including-kl-rahul-in-indias-asia-cup-squad-628252">Kris Srikkanth lashes out at Agarkar-led BCCI selectors for including KL Rahul in India's Asia Cup squad</a>

<h2>'In 2007 World Cup, Dravid and Chappell sent Tendulkar at No. 4 that became a huge controversy'</h2>

Now, former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar has shared his take on whether Kohli should bat at No. 4 in the upcoming World Cup. In a segment with Tom Moody, on Star Sports, Manjrekar said, "The more and more you talk about other options like Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli seems to get relegated. He has sort of become the scapegoat in the sense that you bat him at No. 4 and all your problems are solved."

"There is also a cultural issue in Indian cricket. In 2007 World Cup when the team management of Rahul Dravid and Greg Chappell sent Tendulkar at No. 4 instead of opening because they had people like Virender Sehwag and others at the top of the order. But that became a huge controversy. So it is really up to Kohli, an iconic player, on whether he wants to bat at No.4. It seems like a perfectly simple solution, but it concerns Kohli," he added. 
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The BCCI selectors, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 17-man squad for the Asia Cup on Monday (August 23). The continental tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan, is set to commence on August 30 whereas India will kick off their campaign on September 02 when they take on Pakistan in Pallekele in the Island nation.

The BCCI selectors, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 17-man squad for the Asia Cup on Monday (August 23). The continental tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan, is set to commence on August 30 whereas India will kick off their campaign on September 02 when they take on Pakistan in Pallekele in the Island nation. The competition will be an ideal dress rehearsal for the upcoming ODI World Cup which gets underway in India on October 05. With regard to the 50-over ICC event, Rohit Sharma-led India are preparing hard and will closely monitor the progress of their middle and lower order as there still remain a lot of issues for the No. 4 spot. Shreyas Iyer, who is a top contender for the No. 4 spot, is set to feature in the continental tournament after a long injury layoff -- in early February. In his absence, India have tried plenty of backups such as Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav, however, no one cemented the spot (as a backup for Iyer) despite Samson's decent faring. Moreover, KL Rahul -- who bats at No. 5 -- is also coming back to international cricket after a long time (since his hip injury IPL 2023's latter stages). Thus, India still have lots to do to fix their middle order before the World Cup commences. In this regard, former India head coach Ravi Shastri backed Virat Kohli to drop down to No. 4. Shastri told Star Sports channel, "If Virat has to bat at four, he will bat at four in the interest of the side. You know, there were times I thought of it." He added that during the 2019 World Cup, he considered changing Kohli's place "just to break that top heavy line-up". Shastri revealed, "You know, because if we lose two or three at the top, we are gone and it was proved. If you look at Virat Kohli's record, he is good enough at number four." Also read: Kris Srikkanth lashes out at Agarkar-led BCCI selectors for including KL Rahul in India's Asia Cup squad 'In 2007 World Cup, Dravid and Chappell sent Tendulkar at No. 4 that became a huge controversy' Now, former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar has shared his take on whether Kohli should bat at No. 4 in the upcoming World Cup. In a segment with Tom Moody, on Star Sports, Manjrekar said, "The more and more you talk about other options like Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli seems to get relegated. He has sort of become the scapegoat in the sense that you bat him at No. 4 and all your problems are solved." "There is also a cultural issue in Indian cricket. In 2007 World Cup when the team management of Rahul Dravid and Greg Chappell sent Tendulkar at No. 4 instead of opening because they had people like Virender Sehwag and others at the top of the order. But that became a huge controversy. So it is really up to Kohli, an iconic player, on whether he wants to bat at No.4. It seems like a perfectly simple solution, but it concerns Kohli," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

He has become the scapegoat: Sanjay Manjrekar reacts to Ravi Shastri's 'Virat Kohli can bat at No. 4' remark

India lost the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final to Australia by a whopping 209-run margin at The Oval, London, earlier&nbsp;this month. Having reached the WTC final for the second time in a row, India once again finished second&nbsp;(they lost&nbsp;to New Zealand in the summit clash of the inaugural cycle in 2021). India will now commence their campaign in the third cycle of the WTC with a two-match Test series versus West Indies in the Caribbean island, starting on July 12.

Prior to the Indian Test squad announcement by the BCCI selectors, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar shared his take on the team composition going forward. Manjrekar feels Indian selectors need to make some big decisions and should include at least three new batters and pacers in the mix, with many senior players looking out of touch, while the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, etc. remain injured.

<h2>'About time we start rewarding the guys who are doing well in first-class cricket'</h2>

"The game changers for Australia in the WTC final - Steve Smith and Travis Head - don't play a lot of T20 cricket. So we have to find guys who are not going to be fatigued or don't have to make the adjustments from IPL to Test cricket. About time we start rewarding the guys who are doing well in first-class cricket. And not just runs. The selectors could look at players who have it in them to be future Test players and succeed in foreign conditions. I would like to see at least three new batters come into play in the picture and new fast bowlers," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-it-going-to-hold-up-ricky-ponting-questions-englands-style-of-play-after-edgbaston-thriller-606880">'Is it going to hold up': Ricky Ponting questions England's 'style of play' after Edgbaston thriller</a>

The cricketer-turned-commentator further opined, "When it comes to batting, they just have to look at first-class performers and not just the amount of runs the player has scored. if you closely observe our domestic cricket then you will find players for No. 3, 4, 5 who has a decent defensive technique, has an appetite for runs and that's your guy, that's the guy to back."

On the pace department, Manjrekar added, "Just a few months back I was taking pride in the depth that we have in our seam-bowling department and suddenly Bumrah is not fit. There are quite fit others like Prasidh Krishna so maybe for Test cricket, India need to create a new line of fast bowlers. Now you should look for specific test players. If somebody gets injured, we should have backups ready. Like Scott Boland. Came in straightaway and made an impact. We had to go back to Umesh Yadav which is not a good sign."

India's tour of West Indies will comprise two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. It will be interesting to see if the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Umesh Yadav, etc. retain&nbsp;their spots or are replaced by the young guns. Meanwhile, even Virat Kohli's Test numbers have been below par in recent years whereas Rohit and R Ashwin do not have age and fitness on their side.

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India lost the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final to Australia by a whopping 209-run margin at The Oval, London, earlier this month. Having reached the WTC final for the second time in a row, India once again finished second (they lost to New Zealand in the summit clash of the inaugural cycle in 2021).

India lost the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final to Australia by a whopping 209-run margin at The Oval, London, earlier this month. Having reached the WTC final for the second time in a row, India once again finished second (they lost to New Zealand in the summit clash of the inaugural cycle in 2021). India will now commence their campaign in the third cycle of the WTC with a two-match Test series versus West Indies in the Caribbean island, starting on July 12. Prior to the Indian Test squad announcement by the BCCI selectors, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar shared his take on the team composition going forward. Manjrekar feels Indian selectors need to make some big decisions and should include at least three new batters and pacers in the mix, with many senior players looking out of touch, while the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, etc. remain injured. 'About time we start rewarding the guys who are doing well in first-class cricket' "The game changers for Australia in the WTC final - Steve Smith and Travis Head - don't play a lot of T20 cricket. So we have to find guys who are not going to be fatigued or don't have to make the adjustments from IPL to Test cricket. About time we start rewarding the guys who are doing well in first-class cricket. And not just runs. The selectors could look at players who have it in them to be future Test players and succeed in foreign conditions. I would like to see at least three new batters come into play in the picture and new fast bowlers," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo. Also Read: 'Is it going to hold up': Ricky Ponting questions England's 'style of play' after Edgbaston thriller The cricketer-turned-commentator further opined, "When it comes to batting, they just have to look at first-class performers and not just the amount of runs the player has scored. if you closely observe our domestic cricket then you will find players for No. 3, 4, 5 who has a decent defensive technique, has an appetite for runs and that's your guy, that's the guy to back." On the pace department, Manjrekar added, "Just a few months back I was taking pride in the depth that we have in our seam-bowling department and suddenly Bumrah is not fit. There are quite fit others like Prasidh Krishna so maybe for Test cricket, India need to create a new line of fast bowlers. Now you should look for specific test players. If somebody gets injured, we should have backups ready. Like Scott Boland. Came in straightaway and made an impact. We had to go back to Umesh Yadav which is not a good sign." India's tour of West Indies will comprise two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. It will be interesting to see if the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Umesh Yadav, etc. retain their spots or are replaced by the young guns. Meanwhile, even Virat Kohli's Test numbers have been below par in recent years whereas Rohit and R Ashwin do not have age and fitness on their side. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

West Indies tour: Sanjay Manjrekar calls for inclusion of '3 new batters and pacers' in India's Test line-up

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar blasted Rohit Sharma for being a bit eager for runs and getting out in the process on day 4 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia.

Rohit was batting fluently before getting out LBW while attempting a sweep shot off Nathan Lyon. He scored 43 runs and had added 41 runs with Shubman Gill for the 1st wicket and 51 runs with Cheteshwar Pujara for the second wicket.

“Rohit Sharma didn't put a foot wrong. T20 and Test match have absolutely no connection. He struggled in IPL, but come Test cricket, he didn't put a foot wrong unless that happened. It happened when a spinner came on after the three quality seamers went out. You suddenly felt there's a chance to get some runs and a T20 shot came out of the psyche of Rohit Sharma,” Manjrekar said in a conversation with ESPNCricinfo.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-never-expected-that-ravi-shastri-laments-poor-shot-selection-from-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-4-603081">'Never expected that...:' Ravi Shastri laments poor shot selection from Cheteshwar Pujara on day 4</a>

Manjrekar described the ball by Lyon as nothing special but a bit shorter than Rohit would have liked.

“The ball came straight, it was nothing special. Maybe, there was a lapse of concentration, a bit too eager for runs. Once he went down on his knees, much to his chagrin, it was shorter than he would've liked. He became greedy to pick up a few runs,” he added.

The former India batsman also compared Rohit to Virat Kohli and said that Kohli wouldn't have gone for a shot like that.&nbsp;

"With some batters, you can say there's a genuine problem of lapse of concentration. This is a guy who got two hundreds in his first two innings of his Test career. He knows how to get the big scores. Even against England in the four Tests, he got 100 and a a 80, and looked a million-dollar right through the series.

“This wasn't him losing the concentration. There's some difference in Rohit Sharma playing in that fashion, against somebody like Virat Kohli in his prime. He was never going to give you a chance, once he's in, he's in. 4 hundreds against Australia in 2014... that's what Kohli did,” Manjrekar added.

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Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar blasted Rohit Sharma for being a bit eager for runs and getting out in the process on day 4 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar blasted Rohit Sharma for being a bit eager for runs and getting out in the process on day 4 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia. Rohit was batting fluently before getting out LBW while attempting a sweep shot off Nathan Lyon. He scored 43 runs and had added 41 runs with Shubman Gill for the 1st wicket and 51 runs with Cheteshwar Pujara for the second wicket. “Rohit Sharma didn't put a foot wrong. T20 and Test match have absolutely no connection. He struggled in IPL, but come Test cricket, he didn't put a foot wrong unless that happened. It happened when a spinner came on after the three quality seamers went out. You suddenly felt there's a chance to get some runs and a T20 shot came out of the psyche of Rohit Sharma,” Manjrekar said in a conversation with ESPNCricinfo. Also Read: 'Never expected that...:' Ravi Shastri laments poor shot selection from Cheteshwar Pujara on day 4 Manjrekar described the ball by Lyon as nothing special but a bit shorter than Rohit would have liked. “The ball came straight, it was nothing special. Maybe, there was a lapse of concentration, a bit too eager for runs. Once he went down on his knees, much to his chagrin, it was shorter than he would've liked. He became greedy to pick up a few runs,” he added. The former India batsman also compared Rohit to Virat Kohli and said that Kohli wouldn't have gone for a shot like that. "With some batters, you can say there's a genuine problem of lapse of concentration. This is a guy who got two hundreds in his first two innings of his Test career. He knows how to get the big scores. Even against England in the four Tests, he got 100 and a a 80, and looked a million-dollar right through the series. “This wasn't him losing the concentration. There's some difference in Rohit Sharma playing in that fashion, against somebody like Virat Kohli in his prime. He was never going to give you a chance, once he's in, he's in. 4 hundreds against Australia in 2014... that's what Kohli did,” Manjrekar added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Sanjay Manjrekar calls out Rohit Sharma for being 'too eager for runs'

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has hailed the impact of Ajinkya Rahane after returning to the Indian team in the World Test Championship (WTC) final at the Oval. Rahane missed out on a hundred on Day 3 of the WTC final but helped India avoid the follow-on and thus kept his side in the hunt for glory. His fellow Mumbaikar, Manjrekar has applauded him for the impact after returning but says his sole innings can’t justify his tag as a crisis batter since there are two days and an innings to go in the match.

<h2>Rahane is not a crisis batter</h2>

“I don't think Ajinkya Rahane can be called a batter in crisis. There's another innings to go, the crisis has to be averted in a way that you either draw or win the game. But this innings, solely on the kind of odds... he's done brilliant,” Manjrekar told ESPNCricinfo.

“To call him the player in crisis... he has played an odd innings, but the old Ajinkya Rahane would follow it with low scores. Who knows, the new Ajinkya Rahane could be the Test batter 2.0. Maybe, he can carry it in the second innings as well,” added Manjrekar.

Rahane had a pleasant outing in India’s first innings when they were struggling at 71/4 having lost Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Rohit Sharma. He along with Ravindra Jadeja put up a 71-run knock for the fifth wicket on Day 2 while on Day 3 he and Shardul Thakur put up a 111-run stand for the seventh wicket which made sure India avoided follow-on in the first innings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ricky-ponting-explains-where-india-did-go-wrong-with-their-bowling-plans-in-first-innings-602434">WTC Final: Ricky Ponting explains where India went wrong with their bowling plan in first innings</a>

<h2>Rahane misses out on Hundred</h2>

The 35-year-old was scalped in the second session of Day 3 where Cameron Green took a single-handed brilliant catch to send Rahane packing home on 89. In the meantime, he also completed 5000 runs in the Test format and looked in good nick. He bought up his fifty with a six on Day 2, having cleared his ambitions against the Aussie attack.

Rahane will now have a big role to play as India are expected to chase a big total in the final two days of the Test match. If he does end up winning the match for India, they will become the first nation to win all the International Cricket Council (ICC) trophies.

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Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has hailed the impact of Ajinkya Rahane after returning to the Indian team in the World Test Championship (WTC) final at the Oval.

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has hailed the impact of Ajinkya Rahane after returning to the Indian team in the World Test Championship (WTC) final at the Oval. Rahane missed out on a hundred on Day 3 of the WTC final but helped India avoid the follow-on and thus kept his side in the hunt for glory. His fellow Mumbaikar, Manjrekar has applauded him for the impact after returning but says his sole innings can’t justify his tag as a crisis batter since there are two days and an innings to go in the match. Rahane is not a crisis batter “I don't think Ajinkya Rahane can be called a batter in crisis. There's another innings to go, the crisis has to be averted in a way that you either draw or win the game. But this innings, solely on the kind of odds... he's done brilliant,” Manjrekar told ESPNCricinfo. “To call him the player in crisis... he has played an odd innings, but the old Ajinkya Rahane would follow it with low scores. Who knows, the new Ajinkya Rahane could be the Test batter 2.0. Maybe, he can carry it in the second innings as well,” added Manjrekar. Rahane had a pleasant outing in India’s first innings when they were struggling at 71/4 having lost Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Rohit Sharma. He along with Ravindra Jadeja put up a 71-run knock for the fifth wicket on Day 2 while on Day 3 he and Shardul Thakur put up a 111-run stand for the seventh wicket which made sure India avoided follow-on in the first innings. ALSO READ | WTC Final: Ricky Ponting explains where India went wrong with their bowling plan in first innings Rahane misses out on Hundred The 35-year-old was scalped in the second session of Day 3 where Cameron Green took a single-handed brilliant catch to send Rahane packing home on 89. In the meantime, he also completed 5000 runs in the Test format and looked in good nick. He bought up his fifty with a six on Day 2, having cleared his ambitions against the Aussie attack. Rahane will now have a big role to play as India are expected to chase a big total in the final two days of the Test match. If he does end up winning the match for India, they will become the first nation to win all the International Cricket Council (ICC) trophies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Former India batter hails Ajinkya Rahane's impact but says, 'there's another innings to go'

Ahead of No. 1 ranked India's upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final versus Australia, former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished praise on Rohit Sharma's batting in Tests. The veteran opined that the Indian captain's batting in the purest format of the game has become almost faultless in recent times.

Ever since Rohit was promoted as a Test opener&nbsp;in late 2019, he has cemented his spot in the red-ball format with five hundreds and a double ton. Even in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India, the Hitman ended as his side's third-highest run-getter with a best of 120 in the series opener. He has scored 650 runs at 34.21 in 11 Tests versus the Aussies and, hence, will be eager to get going this time around as well.

<h2>'Test cricket seems to be the most exciting format for Rohit Sharma'</h2>

Ahead of India's marquee finale, Manjrekar told on the Star Sports show&nbsp;Game Plan, "Keep his IPL form (in the 2023 edition, he ended with 332 runs in 16 matches) aside because he looked out of form in the last IPL as well but we saw the amazing batting he did in the first Test match against Australia. I believe the stage of his career Rohit Sharma is in, Test cricket seems to be the most exciting format for him just like it has always been for Virat Kohli."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ricky-ponting-names-two-indian-batters-who-would-be-major-threat-to-australia-599127">WTC Final | Ricky Ponting names two Indian batters who would be major threat to Australia</a>

Manjrekar claimed that&nbsp;Rohit's batting is almost faultless right now but spoke about his knack for getting out on the pull shot; one of his favourite strokes. "His batting has become almost faultless in Test cricket at the moment. There is just one problem we have seen in Test matches - he gets out while playing the pull shot at times. They have bowled him a short ball and kept a fielder there. That is an instinctive shot," he asserted.

Manjrekar further added, "If you see in ODI cricket, his pull shot is extremely interesting. His backlift doesn't come from the top, so he can play the ball down. He has a very low back lift, he just picks up the ball and the bat then goes behind his back in the follow-through to give the power."

In the inaugural WTC final, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team lost to New Zealand by eight wickets and, hence, Rohit &amp; Co. will be desperate to get their hands on the coveted Test mace.&nbsp;

The match will kick off on June 07 at The Oval, London. The last time Rohit played in England, during the 2021 summer, he ended up scoring an impressive&nbsp;127 at the same venue,&nbsp;his first overseas ton in whites.

India's final squad for WTC final

Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk)

Standby players:&nbsp;Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav

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Ahead of No. 1 ranked India's upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final versus Australia, former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished praise on Rohit Sharma's batting in Tests.

Ahead of No. 1 ranked India's upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final versus Australia, former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished praise on Rohit Sharma's batting in Tests. The veteran opined that the Indian captain's batting in the purest format of the game has become almost faultless in recent times. Ever since Rohit was promoted as a Test opener in late 2019, he has cemented his spot in the red-ball format with five hundreds and a double ton. Even in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India, the Hitman ended as his side's third-highest run-getter with a best of 120 in the series opener. He has scored 650 runs at 34.21 in 11 Tests versus the Aussies and, hence, will be eager to get going this time around as well. 'Test cricket seems to be the most exciting format for Rohit Sharma' Ahead of India's marquee finale, Manjrekar told on the Star Sports show Game Plan, "Keep his IPL form (in the 2023 edition, he ended with 332 runs in 16 matches) aside because he looked out of form in the last IPL as well but we saw the amazing batting he did in the first Test match against Australia. I believe the stage of his career Rohit Sharma is in, Test cricket seems to be the most exciting format for him just like it has always been for Virat Kohli." Also read: WTC Final | Ricky Ponting names two Indian batters who would be major threat to Australia Manjrekar claimed that Rohit's batting is almost faultless right now but spoke about his knack for getting out on the pull shot; one of his favourite strokes. "His batting has become almost faultless in Test cricket at the moment. There is just one problem we have seen in Test matches - he gets out while playing the pull shot at times. They have bowled him a short ball and kept a fielder there. That is an instinctive shot," he asserted. Manjrekar further added, "If you see in ODI cricket, his pull shot is extremely interesting. His backlift doesn't come from the top, so he can play the ball down. He has a very low back lift, he just picks up the ball and the bat then goes behind his back in the follow-through to give the power." In the inaugural WTC final, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team lost to New Zealand by eight wickets and, hence, Rohit & Co. will be desperate to get their hands on the coveted Test mace. The match will kick off on June 07 at The Oval, London. The last time Rohit played in England, during the 2021 summer, he ended up scoring an impressive 127 at the same venue, his first overseas ton in whites. India's final squad for WTC final Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk) Standby players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

WTC Final: Rohit's Test batting has become almost faultless, opines Manjrekar ahead of mega clash

Former cricketer-turned-commentators Sanjay Manjrekar and Tom Moody shared their thoughts on which Pakistani player would be the biggest bet in an IPL auction in an ideal world.

Former cricketer-turned-commentators Sanjay Manjrekar and Tom Moody shared their thoughts on which Pakistani player would be the biggest bet in an IPL auction in an ideal world. During the inaugural edition back in 2008, Pakistan players appeared in the IPL, with big names also contributing, leaving an impact. Following that season, Pakistan players didn't participate in the tournament owing to political unrest between the Indian and Pakistan governments. Fast forward 15 seasons, after the end of the recently-concluded IPL 2023, two former cricketers opined how much Pakistan cricketers would fare if they were to put in an IPL auction. Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Moody said Pakistan’s spearhead Shaheen Afridi would be a box office as he will be the number one pick, while Manjrekar feels keeper-batter Muhammad Rizwan would pocket huge bucks too. ALSO READ: WTC Final: Usman Khawaja backs compatriot David Warner for busy English summer, says ' he is looking good' On Pakistan captain Babar Azam, both feel most teams would chase him given his credentials in the shortest format. Besides, Moody also thinks spin-bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan would be of everyone’s interest. “Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam, Rizwan and Shadab Khan. They have got a number of terrific players, particularly in this format of the game. Shaheen would be your No.1 pick, he would be box office,” Tom Moody was quoted as saying to ESPNcricinfo. Other than them, Manjrekar thinks seamer Haris Rauf and opener Fakhar Zaman would be among the top picks too. “One of the best death bowlers, Haris Rauf,” Manjrekar said. “I think about their bowlers more than their batters. But Fakhar Zaman would be an interesting choice in certain teams.” Pakistan’s domination in T20 cricket Several Pakistan players hold top positions in their respective categories in ICC Rankings due to their consistent performance at the top level. Be it the top-order of Babar, Rizwan and Fakhar or the lower middle order, including Shadab and Shaheen. While Rizwan and Babar are 2nd and 3rd on the batter's list, respectively, Shadab is fourth best all-rounder on the list. Even considering their performance in the T20 World Cups, Pakistan reached the last four on the past two occasions, having made the finals in the 2022 edition in Australia – where they suffered a five-wicket defeat at the hands of England. Recently, Pakistan and New Zealand shared honours in their recently-concluded T20I series, with result ending 2-2 in the five-match series. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam would be box office at IPL auction, predict Tom Moody and Manjrekar

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) returned to winning ways as they beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 24 runs in match 27 of the IPL 2023 edition on Thursday (April 20), in Mohali. Virat Kohli captained the franchise after a long time as regular captain Faf du Plessis only featured as an Impact Player, due to his hip injury.&nbsp;

Being asked to bat first, Kohli-Faf stitched an impressive 137-run opening stand as the duo continued their rich forms. Towards the end, RCB only managed 37 runs in the last four overs as they posted 174 for 4. In reply, Shikhar Dhawan-less Punjab only managed 150 all-out in 18.2 overs to lose by 24 runs. Kohli slammed a 47-ball 59 whereas Faf top-scored with a solid 56-ball 84&nbsp;before Mohammed Siraj returned with 4-0-21-4.

Seeing RCB's batting, where they struggled for a late flourish, former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar said, as quoted by India Today, "The start promised so much, but the score wasn’t what we expected. But the fact is that it’s an afternoon game. The pitch will become slower. That gives RCB hope. But, yes, they could have added maybe 25 runs more, considering the start that they had."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-all-round-rcb-beat-pbks-by-24-runs-to-return-to-winning-ways-move-up-in-points-table-584483">IPL 2023: All-round RCB beat PBKS by 24 runs to return to winning ways, move up in points table</a>

On Kohli slowing down after a fine start, Manjrekar opined, "It’s the same scenario with Virat Kohli that we have been seeing for a while. When the bowlers take the pace off, he struggles to get a move on. We saw that in the last IPL too. Once he gets into his 40s, he tends to slow down a little bit, I don’t know what the reason for that is."

"But, Faf du Plessis, how unselfish he was! He had an opportunity to get a hundred as well. But he was looking to hit a six every ball. He could have also maybe hang around and get a hundred. But he was looking to belt every ball for a six as he had a target in mind. That's the kind of batting that you really want to see," the ex-cricketer added.

Kohli-Faf added 59&nbsp;runs in the powerplays but the former slowed down once the field restrictions were lifted. He failed to accelerate freely in the middle overs, which has been an issue for him for quite some time.&nbsp;Kohli slammed 43 off 26 deliveries against pacers, smashing a six and three fours but&nbsp;faced as many as nine dot balls to only manage&nbsp;16 off&nbsp;21 balls against the Punjab spinners.

RCB will hope for Kohli to sort out his middle-overs issue and dominate pace and spin equally as the tournament progresses ahead.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) returned to winning ways as they beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 24 runs in match 27 of the IPL 2023 edition on Thursday (April 20), in Mohali.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) returned to winning ways as they beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 24 runs in match 27 of the IPL 2023 edition on Thursday (April 20), in Mohali. Virat Kohli captained the franchise after a long time as regular captain Faf du Plessis only featured as an Impact Player, due to his hip injury. Being asked to bat first, Kohli-Faf stitched an impressive 137-run opening stand as the duo continued their rich forms. Towards the end, RCB only managed 37 runs in the last four overs as they posted 174 for 4. In reply, Shikhar Dhawan-less Punjab only managed 150 all-out in 18.2 overs to lose by 24 runs. Kohli slammed a 47-ball 59 whereas Faf top-scored with a solid 56-ball 84 before Mohammed Siraj returned with 4-0-21-4. Seeing RCB's batting, where they struggled for a late flourish, former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar said, as quoted by India Today, "The start promised so much, but the score wasn’t what we expected. But the fact is that it’s an afternoon game. The pitch will become slower. That gives RCB hope. But, yes, they could have added maybe 25 runs more, considering the start that they had." Also Read: IPL 2023: All-round RCB beat PBKS by 24 runs to return to winning ways, move up in points table On Kohli slowing down after a fine start, Manjrekar opined, "It’s the same scenario with Virat Kohli that we have been seeing for a while. When the bowlers take the pace off, he struggles to get a move on. We saw that in the last IPL too. Once he gets into his 40s, he tends to slow down a little bit, I don’t know what the reason for that is." "But, Faf du Plessis, how unselfish he was! He had an opportunity to get a hundred as well. But he was looking to hit a six every ball. He could have also maybe hang around and get a hundred. But he was looking to belt every ball for a six as he had a target in mind. That's the kind of batting that you really want to see," the ex-cricketer added. Kohli-Faf added 59 runs in the powerplays but the former slowed down once the field restrictions were lifted. He failed to accelerate freely in the middle overs, which has been an issue for him for quite some time. Kohli slammed 43 off 26 deliveries against pacers, smashing a six and three fours but faced as many as nine dot balls to only manage 16 off 21 balls against the Punjab spinners. RCB will hope for Kohli to sort out his middle-overs issue and dominate pace and spin equally as the tournament progresses ahead.

IPL 2023: 'Once he gets into his 40s, he slows down' - Manjrekar on Virat Kohli's batting after RCB beat PBKS

Gujarat Titans (GT) edged past Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 18 of the IPL 2023 edition on Thursday evening (April 13), at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Opting to bowl first, GT restricted Shikhar Dhawan-led Punjab for 153 for 8 courtesy of Mohit Sharma's 2 for 18. In reply, GT dominated the run-chase for a large part but Punjab bowlers stretched the game till the final over where Rahul Tewatia's timely hit (5 not out off 2 balls) propelled the defending champions to a six-wicket win with a ball to spare.

From GT, opener Shubman Gill top-scored with a 49-ball 67. While he continues to grow in stature with his consistency, questions still arise on his ability to finish a run-chase and strike big towards the latter stage of the innings. He reached 35 off 22 balls but slowed down considerably, with GT losing Sai Sudharshan and captain Hardik Pandya, during the fag end of the run-chase. As a result, Gill took another 18 balls to get to his fifty. Holding one end, he was expected to complete the run-chase but got dismissed in the final over, by Sam Curran, with GT still requiring six off four balls.&nbsp;

Thus, former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has schooled Gill and asked him to take a leaf out of MS Dhoni, one of the greatest finishers of all-time.

Manjrekar, in conversation with ESPNCricinfo, said, "Champion teams are those who are mindful of their weak areas even when winning matches and tackle the same. Against KKR, there was a clear lesson for Gujarat that on the good pitch don’t play with only five bowlers."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-will-get-a-tight-slap-from-cricket-sehwag-slams-shubman-gill-after-gts-close-win-over-pbks-in-ipl-2023-582385">'You will get a tight slap from cricket': Sehwag SLAMS Shubman Gill after GT's close win over PBKS in IPL 202</a>3

He further opined, "From this game, the takeaway is that if a batter is set, he should try and finish the game in the 18th or 19th over. If you are taking it till the end, show a temperament like MS Dhoni and don’t get out. Shubman Gill might be asked how the game went to the 20th over. Sai Sudharsan scored at a strike rate of around 100. David Miller was also rather quiet."

Gill, too, spoke about his innings and said after the match, "It got slower with the old ball. So we needed to get off to a good start in the powerplay. We lost a bit of momentum when Hardik bhai got out. It wasn't a big score but it was important to rotate the strike and not have dot balls."

At the post-match presentation, Hardik pointed out, "To be very honest I would not appreciate for the game to go this deep. There was definitely a lot for us to learn from this game... It would have been a tough pill to swallow if the game had gone the other side. I would like to finish the game earlier, not a big fan of taking it to the last over."

Thus, Gill will be eager to remain unbeaten&nbsp;in GT's upcoming run-chases in IPL 2023 and also increase his strike rate as his inning progresses.

Gujarat Titans (GT) edged past Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 18 of the IPL 2023 edition on Thursday evening (April 13), at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Opting to bowl first, GT restricted Shikhar Dhawan-led Punjab for 153 for 8 courtesy of Mohit Sharma's 2 for 18.

Gujarat Titans (GT) edged past Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 18 of the IPL 2023 edition on Thursday evening (April 13), at the IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali. Opting to bowl first, GT restricted Shikhar Dhawan-led Punjab for 153 for 8 courtesy of Mohit Sharma's 2 for 18. In reply, GT dominated the run-chase for a large part but Punjab bowlers stretched the game till the final over where Rahul Tewatia's timely hit (5 not out off 2 balls) propelled the defending champions to a six-wicket win with a ball to spare. From GT, opener Shubman Gill top-scored with a 49-ball 67. While he continues to grow in stature with his consistency, questions still arise on his ability to finish a run-chase and strike big towards the latter stage of the innings. He reached 35 off 22 balls but slowed down considerably, with GT losing Sai Sudharshan and captain Hardik Pandya, during the fag end of the run-chase. As a result, Gill took another 18 balls to get to his fifty. Holding one end, he was expected to complete the run-chase but got dismissed in the final over, by Sam Curran, with GT still requiring six off four balls. Thus, former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has schooled Gill and asked him to take a leaf out of MS Dhoni, one of the greatest finishers of all-time. Manjrekar, in conversation with ESPNCricinfo, said, "Champion teams are those who are mindful of their weak areas even when winning matches and tackle the same. Against KKR, there was a clear lesson for Gujarat that on the good pitch don’t play with only five bowlers." Also Read: 'You will get a tight slap from cricket': Sehwag SLAMS Shubman Gill after GT's close win over PBKS in IPL 2023 He further opined, "From this game, the takeaway is that if a batter is set, he should try and finish the game in the 18th or 19th over. If you are taking it till the end, show a temperament like MS Dhoni and don’t get out. Shubman Gill might be asked how the game went to the 20th over. Sai Sudharsan scored at a strike rate of around 100. David Miller was also rather quiet." Gill, too, spoke about his innings and said after the match, "It got slower with the old ball. So we needed to get off to a good start in the powerplay. We lost a bit of momentum when Hardik bhai got out. It wasn't a big score but it was important to rotate the strike and not have dot balls." At the post-match presentation, Hardik pointed out, "To be very honest I would not appreciate for the game to go this deep. There was definitely a lot for us to learn from this game... It would have been a tough pill to swallow if the game had gone the other side. I would like to finish the game earlier, not a big fan of taking it to the last over." Thus, Gill will be eager to remain unbeaten in GT's upcoming run-chases in IPL 2023 and also increase his strike rate as his inning progresses.

'Show temperament like MS Dhoni": Manjrekar schools Shubman Gill after GT's close win over PBKS in IPL 2023

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition kicked off on March 31 and is already gaining traction with each passing day. So far, the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) have won two matches in a row whereas last year's runners-up Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 72 runs. Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) , the two most successful IPL teams, have lost one each with the latter winning their previous encounter by 12 runs. Meanwhile, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are also looking serious contenders.

In this regard, many former cricketers recently shared the teams who will finish at the top-two positions after the end of the ongoing group stage.&nbsp; "Sanju Samson's Royals and Faf du Plessis' Royal Challengers look like a great side. They can finish as the top two teams," Sanjay Manjrekar -- former Indian batter who is part of the&nbsp;elite commentary panellists of Star Sports, the official TV broadcaster of IPL, told on Star.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-became-better-since-ms-dhoni-ganguly-asks-dc-players-to-step-up-in-ipl-2023-579398">'Rishabh Pant became better since MS Dhoni...' - Ganguly asks DC players to step up in IPL 2023</a>

Meanwhile, former Australia all-rounder David Hussey told, "RR and LSG too are looking to finish as the top two teams at the end of the league stage.” Former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis said, "I think RR and DC have it in them to finish as the top two teams in IPL 2023."

On the other hand, the former West Indies captain Daren Sammy predcted saying, "RCB and GT according to me will end up finishing as the top-two teams in this season."

Former Australia cricketer and SRH head coach Tom Moody said, "Early stages but LSG and RR look like the teams to beat. They can be the top two teams in the group stage."

It will be interesting to see who will be the two teams who end up at the top two spots. The two sides will get an extra game to enter the final whereas the third and fourth-ranked sides will lock horns in the Eliminator and then also play the loser of Qualifier 1, in Qualifier 2, to make it to the summit clash.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition kicked off on March 31 and is already gaining traction with each passing day. So far, the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) have won two matches in a row whereas last year's runners-up Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 72 runs.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 edition kicked off on March 31 and is already gaining traction with each passing day. So far, the defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) have won two matches in a row whereas last year's runners-up Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) by 72 runs. Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) , the two most successful IPL teams, have lost one each with the latter winning their previous encounter by 12 runs. Meanwhile, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are also looking serious contenders. In this regard, many former cricketers recently shared the teams who will finish at the top-two positions after the end of the ongoing group stage. "Sanju Samson's Royals and Faf du Plessis' Royal Challengers look like a great side. They can finish as the top two teams," Sanjay Manjrekar -- former Indian batter who is part of the elite commentary panellists of Star Sports, the official TV broadcaster of IPL, told on Star. Also Read: 'Rishabh Pant became better since MS Dhoni...' - Ganguly asks DC players to step up in IPL 2023 Meanwhile, former Australia all-rounder David Hussey told, "RR and LSG too are looking to finish as the top two teams at the end of the league stage.” Former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis said, "I think RR and DC have it in them to finish as the top two teams in IPL 2023." On the other hand, the former West Indies captain Daren Sammy predcted saying, "RCB and GT according to me will end up finishing as the top-two teams in this season." Former Australia cricketer and SRH head coach Tom Moody said, "Early stages but LSG and RR look like the teams to beat. They can be the top two teams in the group stage." It will be interesting to see who will be the two teams who end up at the top two spots. The two sides will get an extra game to enter the final whereas the third and fourth-ranked sides will lock horns in the Eliminator and then also play the loser of Qualifier 1, in Qualifier 2, to make it to the summit clash.

IPL 2023: Not CSK or MI! Sanjay Manjrekar makes his top two picks after group stage

Virat Kohli&nbsp;is the only player in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) to play for the same team -- i.e. the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- in all seasons so far starting from 2008, when the cash-rich league came into the picture. He is also one of the few big players to have not won the IPL so far. However, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels IPL 2023 could be the season where Kohli's trophy-drought might get over.

Ahead of the IPL 2023 opener, where the defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) will take on the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Ahmedabad on Friday (March 31), Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo, "Yes, I feel Virat Kohli's dream of winning the trophy will come true this time. They have a wonderful bowling attack. If Faf du Plessis scores runs, they will have a great chance."

Kohli has scored most runs in the IPL (6,624) in 223 matches at a strike rate of&nbsp;129.14 along with five hundreds and 44 half-centuries. The 34-year-old had a dismal run in IPL 2022 where he only managed&nbsp;341 runs in 16 games at an average of 22.73 and a below-par strike rate of 115.99. Last year, the Faf du Plessis-led RCB franchise reached the playoffs and won the Eliminator, versus the KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), before they bowed out with a loss to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Qualifier 2. 
 
Thus, Kohli will be desperate to get going with the bat this time around and guide his side to their maiden title. They have a strong squad at their disposal comprising the likes of Du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell, Kohli, Harshal Patel, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Rajat Patidar, Md Siraj, David Willey, Reece Topley, Michael Bracewell, etc.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-not-kohli-rohit-or-tendulkar-this-batter-was-indias-first-centurion-in-cash-rich-league-577218">IPL 2023: Not Kohli, Rohit or Tendulkar! THIS batter was India's first centurion in cash-rich league</a> 
&nbsp;

RCB Complete Squad for IPL 2023

Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammad Siraj, Faf Du Plessis (c), Harshal Patel, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Shahbaz Ahemad, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Josh Hazlewood, Mahipal Lomror, Finn Allen, Suyash Prabhudessai, Karn Sharma, Siddharth Kaul, David Willey, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma,&nbsp; Manoj Bhandage, Rajan Kumar, Avinash Singh, Sonu Yadav, Micheal Bracewell

Virat Kohli is the only player in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) to play for the same team -- i.e. the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- in all seasons so far starting from 2008, when the cash-rich league came into the picture.

Virat Kohli is the only player in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) to play for the same team -- i.e. the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- in all seasons so far starting from 2008, when the cash-rich league came into the picture. He is also one of the few big players to have not won the IPL so far. However, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels IPL 2023 could be the season where Kohli's trophy-drought might get over. Ahead of the IPL 2023 opener, where the defending champions Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) will take on the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Ahmedabad on Friday (March 31), Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo, "Yes, I feel Virat Kohli's dream of winning the trophy will come true this time. They have a wonderful bowling attack. If Faf du Plessis scores runs, they will have a great chance." Kohli has scored most runs in the IPL (6,624) in 223 matches at a strike rate of 129.14 along with five hundreds and 44 half-centuries. The 34-year-old had a dismal run in IPL 2022 where he only managed 341 runs in 16 games at an average of 22.73 and a below-par strike rate of 115.99. Last year, the Faf du Plessis-led RCB franchise reached the playoffs and won the Eliminator, versus the KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), before they bowed out with a loss to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Qualifier 2. Thus, Kohli will be desperate to get going with the bat this time around and guide his side to their maiden title. They have a strong squad at their disposal comprising the likes of Du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell, Kohli, Harshal Patel, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Rajat Patidar, Md Siraj, David Willey, Reece Topley, Michael Bracewell, etc. Also Read: IPL 2023: Not Kohli, Rohit or Tendulkar! THIS batter was India's first centurion in cash-rich league RCB Complete Squad for IPL 2023 Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammad Siraj, Faf Du Plessis (c), Harshal Patel, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Shahbaz Ahemad, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Josh Hazlewood, Mahipal Lomror, Finn Allen, Suyash Prabhudessai, Karn Sharma, Siddharth Kaul, David Willey, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Rajan Kumar, Avinash Singh, Sonu Yadav, Micheal Bracewell

Virat Kohli's dream of winning the trophy will come true: Manjrekar's MASSIVE claim ahead of IPL 2023

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1. In the high-scoring series decider, Australia posted 480 all-out riding on centuries from Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green whereas India replied back strongly with tons from Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli (186). On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), both sides settled for a draw when Australia were 175 for 2 in the final session with no chance of any result.

There were a lot of positives for Team India in the just-concluded BGT. While the biggest positive is that India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), the likes of Shubman Gill and Axar Patel also impressed and were some bright performers along with senior pros R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, captain Rohit. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished huge praise on Gill and revealed 'another of his rare strengths' while comparing him with Virender Sehwag.

During a discussion on&nbsp;Star Sports, Manjrekar said, "He showed glimpses of it when he made his debut in Australia. It seemed that he is a capable player and can play Test cricket as well. We knew his fundamentals were good when we saw him in Under-19. Rahul Dravid was the coach then and was very happy with his basic abilities."

&nbsp;"The things I liked - one thing I will talk about is the footwork. The front foot is now going further forward although the trigger movement is the back foot. This will help him a lot in Test cricket," Manjrekar opined.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-does-become-kohlis-brutally-honest-reply-to-dravds-question-on-century-drought-watch-571912">'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravd's question on century drought - WATCH</a>

'This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag'

Manjrekar further added, "The second thing we saw in Test cricket as well is the big game, the confidence with which he plays the lofted shots. When you see him, it seems he is a purist, a classical player to an extent, but the power game comes whenever he calls for it. In this match also he played a lofted shot in the nineties to go close to a hundred. He reached his (ODI) double hundred also with a six. This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag. I didn't know about this but now it has come to the fore that this is another of his rare strengths."

Gill will now shift his focus on the ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off in Mumbai on March 17. After that, he will gear up for defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023, which commences on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1.

Rohit Sharma-led India's fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ended in a tame draw in Ahmedabad as the hosts won the series 2-1. In the high-scoring series decider, Australia posted 480 all-out riding on centuries from Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green whereas India replied back strongly with tons from Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli (186). On Day 5, on Monday (March 13), both sides settled for a draw when Australia were 175 for 2 in the final session with no chance of any result. There were a lot of positives for Team India in the just-concluded BGT. While the biggest positive is that India entered the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), the likes of Shubman Gill and Axar Patel also impressed and were some bright performers along with senior pros R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, captain Rohit. Former Indian batter-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar lavished huge praise on Gill and revealed 'another of his rare strengths' while comparing him with Virender Sehwag. During a discussion on Star Sports, Manjrekar said, "He showed glimpses of it when he made his debut in Australia. It seemed that he is a capable player and can play Test cricket as well. We knew his fundamentals were good when we saw him in Under-19. Rahul Dravid was the coach then and was very happy with his basic abilities." "The things I liked - one thing I will talk about is the footwork. The front foot is now going further forward although the trigger movement is the back foot. This will help him a lot in Test cricket," Manjrekar opined. Also Read: 'It does become...': Kohli's 'brutally honest' reply to Dravd's question on century drought - WATCH 'This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag' Manjrekar further added, "The second thing we saw in Test cricket as well is the big game, the confidence with which he plays the lofted shots. When you see him, it seems he is a purist, a classical player to an extent, but the power game comes whenever he calls for it. In this match also he played a lofted shot in the nineties to go close to a hundred. He reached his (ODI) double hundred also with a six. This power game saves you in nervous moments as it did with Virender Sehwag. I didn't know about this but now it has come to the fore that this is another of his rare strengths." Gill will now shift his focus on the ODI series versus Australia, which kicks off in Mumbai on March 17. After that, he will gear up for defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2023, which commences on March 31 in Ahmedabad.

Ind vs Aus: Sanjay Manjrekar lavishes huge praise on Shubman Gill, reveals 'another of his rare strengths'

Cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Sri Lanka are incapable of beating New Zealand in their conditions while backing India to reach the finals of the World Test Championship. With Australia already qualifying for the WTC final after beating India in the Indore Test, Sri Lanka and India are the two teams left fighting for the remaining spot.

For any of them to qualify, there are some stipulations in place. For Sri Lanka to enter the summit clash, they first have to beat the Kiwis 2-0 in the ongoing away series&nbsp;while&nbsp;hoping&nbsp;for Australia to either defeat India in Ahmedabad or play out a draw. Whereas India will have to beat the mighty Aussies in the ongoing Test to play the finals.&nbsp;However, if the opposite happens, i.e. if India loses the final Test, they would then need a favour from New Zealand to hand Sri Lanka a defeat in any of the Tests.

As both matches are currently underway and with Sri Lanka and Australia both looking stronger as things stand, India’s path towards reaching the final doesn't looking as smooth as how Manjrekar feels it is. Speaking during the final Test, Manjrekar said the atmosphere at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium was electric following visits from Prime Ministers of both countries.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cleaned-up-md-shami-rattles-marnus-labuschagnes-stumps-on-day-1-of-ahmedabad-test-watch-570152">CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch</a>

Shedding thoughts on which team will join Australia in the WTC finals, Sanjay said,

"It was a brilliant start and we were right there on the ground, experiencing the vibe at the start. There were so many things going for this Test match. It's being played at one of the biggest stadiums in the world. It's a great setting when people are there, every seat was taken. World Test Championship takes for India, on the verge of getting there. I think India will get there. I don't think Sri Lanka are capable of upsetting New Zealand," Manjrekar said.

Claiming that India already has one foot one in the finals and it’s about time before they officially make, Sanjay said

"So I believe, India are already in the final. But, you still have to actually, you know, officially get there. So that tension was there. Plus the series hanging the way it has,&nbsp; Australia making that brilliant comeback in Indore and plus a figure like Narendra Modi at the ground. That buzz was there. Every box was ticked before the start of this Test," he added.

Meanwhile, day one in Christchurch belonged to Sri Lanka who managed to put up a fighting 305 for six in 75 overs. India, on the other hand, picked up huge wicket of Steve Smith post team during final session of day one.

Cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Sri Lanka are incapable of beating New Zealand in their conditions while backing India to reach the finals of the World Test Championship.

Cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels Sri Lanka are incapable of beating New Zealand in their conditions while backing India to reach the finals of the World Test Championship. With Australia already qualifying for the WTC final after beating India in the Indore Test, Sri Lanka and India are the two teams left fighting for the remaining spot. For any of them to qualify, there are some stipulations in place. For Sri Lanka to enter the summit clash, they first have to beat the Kiwis 2-0 in the ongoing away series while hoping for Australia to either defeat India in Ahmedabad or play out a draw. Whereas India will have to beat the mighty Aussies in the ongoing Test to play the finals. However, if the opposite happens, i.e. if India loses the final Test, they would then need a favour from New Zealand to hand Sri Lanka a defeat in any of the Tests. As both matches are currently underway and with Sri Lanka and Australia both looking stronger as things stand, India’s path towards reaching the final doesn't looking as smooth as how Manjrekar feels it is. Speaking during the final Test, Manjrekar said the atmosphere at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium was electric following visits from Prime Ministers of both countries. ALSO READ: CLEANED UP! Md Shami rattles Marnus Labuschagne's stumps on Day 1 of Ahmedabad Test - Watch Shedding thoughts on which team will join Australia in the WTC finals, Sanjay said, "It was a brilliant start and we were right there on the ground, experiencing the vibe at the start. There were so many things going for this Test match. It's being played at one of the biggest stadiums in the world. It's a great setting when people are there, every seat was taken. World Test Championship takes for India, on the verge of getting there. I think India will get there. I don't think Sri Lanka are capable of upsetting New Zealand," Manjrekar said. Claiming that India already has one foot one in the finals and it’s about time before they officially make, Sanjay said "So I believe, India are already in the final. But, you still have to actually, you know, officially get there. So that tension was there. Plus the series hanging the way it has, Australia making that brilliant comeback in Indore and plus a figure like Narendra Modi at the ground. That buzz was there. Every box was ticked before the start of this Test," he added. Meanwhile, day one in Christchurch belonged to Sri Lanka who managed to put up a fighting 305 for six in 75 overs. India, on the other hand, picked up huge wicket of Steve Smith post team during final session of day one.

Sanjay Manjrekar plays down Sri Lanka's ability to beat New Zealand, backs India to reach WTC final

India have been on the back foot in the third and penultimate Test versus Australia in Indore. They only managed 109 and 163 in the two innings and conceded a vital 88-run lead with Australia making 197 in their first essay. On Day 3, Australia need to chase down a paltry 76-run target to make the four-match Test series scoreline 2-1 with one match to go.

During the entire Test match, a lot has been said and written about India's poor tactics. Former cricketers and experts have questioned Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led think tank for not using R Ashwin early on during Day 2's morning session whereas in-form Axar Patel batted below the former in the second essay; running out of partners. In addition, Ravindra Jadeja batted above Shreyas Iyer, at No. 5, which wasn't well received by Sanjay Manjrekar.

Speaking to&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;at the end of Day 2, the cricketer-turned-commentator Manjrekar&nbsp;said, "It has just disappointed me in the last and this innings as well that Jadeja came ahead of Shreyas Iyer. You can't be doing that for left-right combination. You've got a proper batter...even if he is a right hander. And Jadeja coming in as a left-hander...I can understand when you have 2-3 left-arm spinners like Bangladesh used to have in the past. Here you have two quality off-spinners bowling. It did not make any sense to me. Iyer has a great feel for spinners so you want him ahead in the line-up. And he has shown his class."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-way-a-spin-bowler-should-come-on-in-sixth-over-matthew-hayden-slams-indore-test-pitch-567978">'No way a spin bowler should come on in sixth over': Matthew Hayden slams Indore Test pitch</a>

The ploy to promote Jadeja fell flat as the No. 1 Test all-rounder 4 and 7 in both the innings. Meanwhile, Iyer ended the Test with scores of 0 and 26. Day 3 started with India defending only a mere 76 and removed in-form Usman Khawaja in a flash. However, Travis Head-Marnus Labuschagne have steadied the ship for the Aussies and taken the side closer to a memorable win in Indore.

India have been on the back foot in the third and penultimate Test versus Australia in Indore. They only managed 109 and 163 in the two innings and conceded a vital 88-run lead with Australia making 197 in their first essay.

India have been on the back foot in the third and penultimate Test versus Australia in Indore. They only managed 109 and 163 in the two innings and conceded a vital 88-run lead with Australia making 197 in their first essay. On Day 3, Australia need to chase down a paltry 76-run target to make the four-match Test series scoreline 2-1 with one match to go. During the entire Test match, a lot has been said and written about India's poor tactics. Former cricketers and experts have questioned Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid-led think tank for not using R Ashwin early on during Day 2's morning session whereas in-form Axar Patel batted below the former in the second essay; running out of partners. In addition, Ravindra Jadeja batted above Shreyas Iyer, at No. 5, which wasn't well received by Sanjay Manjrekar. Speaking to Star Sports at the end of Day 2, the cricketer-turned-commentator Manjrekar said, "It has just disappointed me in the last and this innings as well that Jadeja came ahead of Shreyas Iyer. You can't be doing that for left-right combination. You've got a proper batter...even if he is a right hander. And Jadeja coming in as a left-hander...I can understand when you have 2-3 left-arm spinners like Bangladesh used to have in the past. Here you have two quality off-spinners bowling. It did not make any sense to me. Iyer has a great feel for spinners so you want him ahead in the line-up. And he has shown his class." Also Read: 'No way a spin bowler should come on in sixth over': Matthew Hayden slams Indore Test pitch The ploy to promote Jadeja fell flat as the No. 1 Test all-rounder 4 and 7 in both the innings. Meanwhile, Iyer ended the Test with scores of 0 and 26. Day 3 started with India defending only a mere 76 and removed in-form Usman Khawaja in a flash. However, Travis Head-Marnus Labuschagne have steadied the ship for the Aussies and taken the side closer to a memorable win in Indore.

'It did not make any sense': Sanjay Manjrekar slams Rohit Sharma's tactics in Indore Test

Former Indian cricketer Murali Vijay was not an impressed man after commentator Sanjay Manjrekar made some comments on air. Manjrekar was shocked to find Vijay at the top of the list of the 'best conversion rate for Indian batters in India'.

Former Indian cricketer Murali Vijay was not an impressed man after commentator Sanjay Manjrekar made some comments on air. Manjrekar was shocked to find Vijay at the top of the list of the 'best conversion rate for Indian batters in India'. After Manjrekar made the comment on air, an exasperated Vijay showed his disappointment and tweeted, 'Surprised wow', whilst tagging the former Indian batter. Sanjay Manjrekar was surprised to see Murali Vijay on top of the list of conversion rates and mentioned it in the comms. #INDvAUS https://t.co/eclG9XHNet pic.twitter.com/V24BMQkrlA — Sameer Allana (@HitmanCricket) February 10, 2023 × In another tweet, Vijay increased the intensity of the dig by stating, "Some Mumbai ex players can never be appreciative of the south ! #showsomelove #equality #fairplayforall @sanjaymanjrekar @BCCI" @sanjaymanjrekar Surprised wow — Murali Vijay (@mvj888) February 10, 2023 × Some Mumbai ex players can never be appreciative of the south ! #showsomelove #equality #fairplayforall @sanjaymanjrekar@BCCI — Murali Vijay (@mvj888) February 10, 2023 × Read more: Ind vs Aus, 1st Test, Day 2: Rohit, Jadeja, Axar ensure India wrests control, Murphy bags five on debut Ex-Indian leg spinner and commentator Laxman Sivaramakrishnan also came to Vijay's corner and asked Manjrekar the reason for the surprise. "Why surprised Sanjay Manjrekar? There was a time when Vijay and Pujara had the highest partnership average for the top order. Interesting comment," Sivaramakrishnan tweeted. After the controversy seemingly boiled on the online platforms, Manjrekar sought to diffuse the situation. He brought up the 'conversion stat' once again and this time heaped praise on Vijay. “He (Rohit) is No. 2 now with eight hundreds when it comes to conversion rates at home. It is a good thing that Murali Vijay is in that list because we tend to forget the contributions that people like him make. 12 Test hundreds – nine out of them at home and a brilliant conversion rate right at the top," he said. Read more: 'Done with BCCI', out-of-favour opener takes a dig at board as he looks out for opportunities abroad At his peak, Vijay was pinned as one of the certainties in the Indian Test XI. However, after he fell out of favour with BCCI and the team management following a string of low scores, the Indian side moved past him. Left out without proper communication, Vijay, last month, announced his retirement from international cricket by penning down a 'thank you' note for all those who were part of his journey. Read more: India opener Murali Vijay retires from international cricket, pays gratitude in 'Thank You' note (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

After Murali Vijay slams Sanjay Manjrekar, the latter makes quick amends on air

As both Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant are injured and out and will be missing from the XI, it will be a toss-up between Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, KS Bharat, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav to fill those two spots in the XI against Australia for the first Test that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. Former India cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has backed Mumbai’s Suryakumar Yadav alongside KS Bharat to make the cut in the XI. This means if both of SKY, as Surya’s fans call him, gets picked and KS is chosen as the keeper-batter, India might just have to drop either of Shubman Gill or KL Rahul for the opening slot.

"I think Surya will play the first Test with Bharat at number six. Surya has played 79 first-class games; this is a unique career that we are witnessing. He has been around for a long time,” said Manjrekar while speaking to Star Sports.

In absence of Rishabh Pant, who used to up the ante at will, Surya could walk in as his perfect replacement. Surya’s ability to play at a healthier strike-rate across formats makes him the favourite to replace injured Pant in the side for the first Test. Manjrekar also said since Surya has a pretty good sweep shot, he could put the opposition under pressure on given day.

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"He will play because there are not many other options in the squad. Even in 50-over cricket, if he decides not to hit the ball in the air for a while, he will still score at a strike rate of 120. He is not just a six-hitter. He has a great sweep shot which is a great shot to have to put the opposition spinner under pressure,” the former India cricketer added.

Manjrekar added saying SKY doing Rishabh Pant makes more sense instead of anyone else – as that’s everyone’s cup of tea and that could eventually lead to a fall of wicket at a wrong time.

“Maybe one guy can come down the order and attack the spinners as Rishabh Pant has done for India. But, on a team basis, to come in with that ultra-aggressive tactic will be hazardous, because you are playing really outside your natural approach,” Sanjay further opined.

As we are just two sleeps away from the start of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series, it will be interesting to see who the management picks to play in the middle order.

As both Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant are injured and out and will be missing from the XI, it will be a toss-up between Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, KS Bharat, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav to fill those two spots in the XI against Australia for the first Test that begins on February 9th in Nagpur.

As both Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant are injured and out and will be missing from the XI, it will be a toss-up between Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, KS Bharat, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav to fill those two spots in the XI against Australia for the first Test that begins on February 9th in Nagpur. Former India cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has backed Mumbai’s Suryakumar Yadav alongside KS Bharat to make the cut in the XI. This means if both of SKY, as Surya’s fans call him, gets picked and KS is chosen as the keeper-batter, India might just have to drop either of Shubman Gill or KL Rahul for the opening slot. "I think Surya will play the first Test with Bharat at number six. Surya has played 79 first-class games; this is a unique career that we are witnessing. He has been around for a long time,” said Manjrekar while speaking to Star Sports. In absence of Rishabh Pant, who used to up the ante at will, Surya could walk in as his perfect replacement. Surya’s ability to play at a healthier strike-rate across formats makes him the favourite to replace injured Pant in the side for the first Test. Manjrekar also said since Surya has a pretty good sweep shot, he could put the opposition under pressure on given day. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli vs Pat Cummins is the battle everyone's waiting for, says former Pakistan captain "He will play because there are not many other options in the squad. Even in 50-over cricket, if he decides not to hit the ball in the air for a while, he will still score at a strike rate of 120. He is not just a six-hitter. He has a great sweep shot which is a great shot to have to put the opposition spinner under pressure,” the former India cricketer added. Manjrekar added saying SKY doing Rishabh Pant makes more sense instead of anyone else – as that’s everyone’s cup of tea and that could eventually lead to a fall of wicket at a wrong time. “Maybe one guy can come down the order and attack the spinners as Rishabh Pant has done for India. But, on a team basis, to come in with that ultra-aggressive tactic will be hazardous, because you are playing really outside your natural approach,” Sanjay further opined. As we are just two sleeps away from the start of the marquee Border-Gavaskar series, it will be interesting to see who the management picks to play in the middle order.

IND vs AUS: Sanjay Manjrekar predicts THIS star player to make the cut in XI for Nagpur Test

Virat Kohli commenced 2023 in style. With India being asked to bat first in the three-match ODI series opener versus Sri Lanka, on Tuesday (January 10), Kohli banked on a great start provided by Rohit Sharma (83) and Shubman Gill (70) to score a magnificent 87-ball 113 and take the home side to a mammoth 373 for 7 in 50 overs. With his 73rd international ton, 45th in the ODI format, Kohli broke a plethora of records and has begun the new calendar year in style as Rohit &amp; Co. have commenced their ODI World Cup preparations.&nbsp;

Ahead of the ODI series opener, former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar pinned his hopes on Kohli to return to his 'original heights' in the World Cup year. Speaking to Star Sports, Manjrekar pointed out that Kohli will&nbsp;get back to his best and play to his strengths, by knocking the ball around and rotating the strike, in the 50-over format.

"It's 2023, it's a 50-overs World Cup year. The 50-overs format is brilliant for people who want to get into form. Guys who are short on confidence. It's going to be great for Rohit Sharma. 50-overs cricket is right down his lane, he is already an all-time great. The 50-overs format suits him the most," Manjrekar said. He further asserted, "In 50 overs format, 65 percent of the runs that are scored are in ones and twos, and Virat Kohli loves getting his runs through ones and twos. This will take the pressure off. T20Is, he feels the pressure of going after the bowling. This might just be a brilliant year for Virat Kohli to come back to his original heights."

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Manjrekar mentioned that it is not fair to say Kohli underwent a lean patch in ODIs, although he slammed his first ton in the format after 2019 during the third and final tie in Bangladesh, in early December.&nbsp;The former cricketer stated that&nbsp;the former skipper contributed with useful knocks and will be more consistent as the year progresses. "See, he has got those innings. Let's be fair. Even when the hundreds haven't come, he has scored runs, he has been in form. We have said multiple times in the last two years that he has been in form. But, the form doesn't carry on. After a hundred, the next two-three innings are not big scores. That's what we are waiting for. This format will allow him. It will give time for Virat Kohli to be the consistent player that he was known as," he added.

Kohli has surely lived upto Manjrekar's expectations with an impressive knock in the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka in Guwahati on Tuesday. Being asked to bat first, India ended on 373 for 7 and will aim for a big win over the Islanders to go 1-0 up in the series.

Virat Kohli commenced 2023 in style. With India being asked to bat first in the three-match ODI series opener versus Sri Lanka, on Tuesday (January 10), Kohli banked on a great start provided by Rohit Sharma (83) and Shubman Gill (70) to score a magnificent 87-ball 113 and take the home side to a mammoth 373 for 7 in 50 overs.

Virat Kohli commenced 2023 in style. With India being asked to bat first in the three-match ODI series opener versus Sri Lanka, on Tuesday (January 10), Kohli banked on a great start provided by Rohit Sharma (83) and Shubman Gill (70) to score a magnificent 87-ball 113 and take the home side to a mammoth 373 for 7 in 50 overs. With his 73rd international ton, 45th in the ODI format, Kohli broke a plethora of records and has begun the new calendar year in style as Rohit & Co. have commenced their ODI World Cup preparations. Ahead of the ODI series opener, former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar pinned his hopes on Kohli to return to his 'original heights' in the World Cup year. Speaking to Star Sports, Manjrekar pointed out that Kohli will get back to his best and play to his strengths, by knocking the ball around and rotating the strike, in the 50-over format. "It's 2023, it's a 50-overs World Cup year. The 50-overs format is brilliant for people who want to get into form. Guys who are short on confidence. It's going to be great for Rohit Sharma. 50-overs cricket is right down his lane, he is already an all-time great. The 50-overs format suits him the most," Manjrekar said. He further asserted, "In 50 overs format, 65 percent of the runs that are scored are in ones and twos, and Virat Kohli loves getting his runs through ones and twos. This will take the pressure off. T20Is, he feels the pressure of going after the bowling. This might just be a brilliant year for Virat Kohli to come back to his original heights." Also read: 'No way you...': Former Indian speedster blasts Rahul Dravid-Rohit Sharma for dropping Ishan Kishan Manjrekar mentioned that it is not fair to say Kohli underwent a lean patch in ODIs, although he slammed his first ton in the format after 2019 during the third and final tie in Bangladesh, in early December. The former cricketer stated that the former skipper contributed with useful knocks and will be more consistent as the year progresses. "See, he has got those innings. Let's be fair. Even when the hundreds haven't come, he has scored runs, he has been in form. We have said multiple times in the last two years that he has been in form. But, the form doesn't carry on. After a hundred, the next two-three innings are not big scores. That's what we are waiting for. This format will allow him. It will give time for Virat Kohli to be the consistent player that he was known as," he added. Kohli has surely lived upto Manjrekar's expectations with an impressive knock in the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka in Guwahati on Tuesday. Being asked to bat first, India ended on 373 for 7 and will aim for a big win over the Islanders to go 1-0 up in the series.

Virat Kohli might return to his original heights in World Cup year: Sanjay Manjrekar pins hopes on ODI great

India captain Rohit Sharma is currently injured and out of the ongoing Test series against Bangladesh. Rohit suffered a finger injury during the 2nd ODI in Dhaka and upon consulting the private doctor in Mumbai he was advised rest. The recent reports, however, have claimed that Rohit could get fit in time for the 2nd Test, starting December 22nd and will also be available for selection. If that happens, who should be sitting out, the current stand-in skipper KL Rahul or the century-scorer in the ongoing Test Shubman Gill? India commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has an answer.

Speaking to Sony Sports Network, Sanjay said if Rohit is fit and selected for the second Test, KL being the preferred opener could well retain his place&nbsp;while Shubman Gill who just scored his maiden Test ton could be benched.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ban-vs-ind-2022-india-captain-rohit-sharma-likely-to-return-for-2nd-test-reports-543771">BAN vs IND 2022: India captain Rohit Sharma likely to return for 2nd Test – Reports</a>

"This guy (Gill) has got a hundred, he has looked good. Let’s imagine if Rohit Sharma is fit, KL Rahul and Rohit are your first-choice openers; you have to go back to Rohit Sharma. He is your captain. KL Rahul is not getting as many runs as he would like but they are not going to leave KL Rahul out," Sanjay said.

Even in the past we have seen players getting benched or worse dropped after producing excellent performances in their previous innings. The best example is that of Karun Nair, who despite scoring his maiden triple hundred against England in Chennai, 2016 was benched for incoming Ajinkya Rahane for the following Test in Mumbai.

Giving an example of the same, the former India player said, "Shubman Gill may have to sit out. Ajinkya Rahane, it happened with him once, I think. It has happened before Indian cricket."

Meanwhile, there is no confirmation as to whether will Rohit Sharma return for the second Test or not.

In the ongoing first Test match, Bangladesh are chasing 493 and are currently reeling at 118 for 0 at lunch on day 4 in Chattogram.

India captain Rohit Sharma is currently injured and out of the ongoing Test series against Bangladesh. Rohit suffered a finger injury during the 2nd ODI in Dhaka and upon consulting the private doctor in Mumbai he was advised rest.

India captain Rohit Sharma is currently injured and out of the ongoing Test series against Bangladesh. Rohit suffered a finger injury during the 2nd ODI in Dhaka and upon consulting the private doctor in Mumbai he was advised rest. The recent reports, however, have claimed that Rohit could get fit in time for the 2nd Test, starting December 22nd and will also be available for selection. If that happens, who should be sitting out, the current stand-in skipper KL Rahul or the century-scorer in the ongoing Test Shubman Gill? India commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has an answer. Speaking to Sony Sports Network, Sanjay said if Rohit is fit and selected for the second Test, KL being the preferred opener could well retain his place while Shubman Gill who just scored his maiden Test ton could be benched. ALSO READ: BAN vs IND 2022: India captain Rohit Sharma likely to return for 2nd Test – Reports "This guy (Gill) has got a hundred, he has looked good. Let’s imagine if Rohit Sharma is fit, KL Rahul and Rohit are your first-choice openers; you have to go back to Rohit Sharma. He is your captain. KL Rahul is not getting as many runs as he would like but they are not going to leave KL Rahul out," Sanjay said. Even in the past we have seen players getting benched or worse dropped after producing excellent performances in their previous innings. The best example is that of Karun Nair, who despite scoring his maiden triple hundred against England in Chennai, 2016 was benched for incoming Ajinkya Rahane for the following Test in Mumbai. Giving an example of the same, the former India player said, "Shubman Gill may have to sit out. Ajinkya Rahane, it happened with him once, I think. It has happened before Indian cricket." Meanwhile, there is no confirmation as to whether will Rohit Sharma return for the second Test or not. In the ongoing first Test match, Bangladesh are chasing 493 and are currently reeling at 118 for 0 at lunch on day 4 in Chattogram.

BAN vs IND 2022: If Rohit Sharma returns, Shubman Gill might have to sit out, opines Sanjay Manjrekar

Mohammed Shami is reportedly the frontrunner to replace Jasprit Bumrah in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022, however, BCCI is yet to name an official replacement for the injured pacer. Bumrah was ruled out of the T20 World Cup earlier this week as the Indian squad travelled to Australia without its 15th member.

Shami is the favourite to replace Bumrah considering his experience and skills, however, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes Mohammed Siraj is 'seriously pushing' the senior pacer for the spot after his heroics in the second ODI against South Africa on Sunday.

Shami, who had recently recovered from COVID-19, is currently at the NCA where he has to prove his fitness before he can be considered for selection in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2022. Siraj, on the other hand, is in action for Shikhar Dhawan-led India in their ongoing ODI series against South Africa at home.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/md-shami-or-deepak-chahar-former-india-keeper-picks-jasprit-bumrahs-replacement-for-t20-wc-2022-523795">Md. Shami or Deepak Chahar? Former India keeper picks Bumrah's replacement for T20 WC 2022</a>

Siraj bowled well in the second ODI against the visitors in Ranchi as he finished with figures of 3/38. The right-arm pacer bowled four overs in the death and impressed in what could be an audition for a spot in India's T20 World Cup side. Manjrekar was left impressed with the pacer's performance and took to Twitter to share his verdict.

"Siraj seriously pushing Shami for that Bumrah spot in the squad," Manjrekar wrote in a tweet.

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Siraj seriously pushing Shami for that Bumrah spot in the squad.
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjaymanjrekar/status/1579076235342548992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Siraj was originally roped in as Bumrah's replacement in India's T20I squad for the recently-concluded three-match T20I series against South Africa but didn't get a game. He has now been given opportunities in ODIs and has done well to build a case for selection in the T20 World Cup squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-finished-the-hype-around-india-pakistan-rivalry-because-he-kept-winning-against-us-shahid-afridi-523764">MS Dhoni finished the hype around India-Pakistan rivalry because he kept winning against us: Shahid Afridi</a>

If he can continue his fine form in the third and final ODI against South Africa next week, the Indian selectors will face major selection headache when picking Bumrah's replacement between him and Shami. Shami has not played a T20I game for India for over a year as he last featured in the shortest format for the Men in Blue in the T20 World Cup last year.

However, he remains ahead in the pecking order considering his overall experience. The deadline to name a replacement is October 15 and it remans to be seen who will make the cut as Bumrah's replacement in India's squad.

Mohammed Shami is reportedly the frontrunner to replace Jasprit Bumrah in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022, however, BCCI is yet to name an official replacement for the injured pacer.

Mohammed Shami is reportedly the frontrunner to replace Jasprit Bumrah in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022, however, BCCI is yet to name an official replacement for the injured pacer. Bumrah was ruled out of the T20 World Cup earlier this week as the Indian squad travelled to Australia without its 15th member. Shami is the favourite to replace Bumrah considering his experience and skills, however, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes Mohammed Siraj is 'seriously pushing' the senior pacer for the spot after his heroics in the second ODI against South Africa on Sunday. Shami, who had recently recovered from COVID-19, is currently at the NCA where he has to prove his fitness before he can be considered for selection in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2022. Siraj, on the other hand, is in action for Shikhar Dhawan-led India in their ongoing ODI series against South Africa at home. Also Read: Md. Shami or Deepak Chahar? Former India keeper picks Bumrah's replacement for T20 WC 2022 Siraj bowled well in the second ODI against the visitors in Ranchi as he finished with figures of 3/38. The right-arm pacer bowled four overs in the death and impressed in what could be an audition for a spot in India's T20 World Cup side. Manjrekar was left impressed with the pacer's performance and took to Twitter to share his verdict. "Siraj seriously pushing Shami for that Bumrah spot in the squad," Manjrekar wrote in a tweet. Siraj seriously pushing Shami for that Bumrah spot in the squad. — Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) October 9, 2022 × Siraj was originally roped in as Bumrah's replacement in India's T20I squad for the recently-concluded three-match T20I series against South Africa but didn't get a game. He has now been given opportunities in ODIs and has done well to build a case for selection in the T20 World Cup squad. Also Read: MS Dhoni finished the hype around India-Pakistan rivalry because he kept winning against us: Shahid Afridi If he can continue his fine form in the third and final ODI against South Africa next week, the Indian selectors will face major selection headache when picking Bumrah's replacement between him and Shami. Shami has not played a T20I game for India for over a year as he last featured in the shortest format for the Men in Blue in the T20 World Cup last year. However, he remains ahead in the pecking order considering his overall experience. The deadline to name a replacement is October 15 and it remans to be seen who will make the cut as Bumrah's replacement in India's squad.

'Siraj seriously pushing Shami': Sanjay Manjrekar on Jasprit Bumrah's spot in India's T20 World Cup squad

Sanjay Manjrekar and Ravindra Jadeja Twitter spat made the headlines in 2019. It all started with Manjrekar calling Jadeja a 'bits and pieces' cricketer during the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and Wales. Jadeja scored a fighting 79 in India's 18-run loss to New Zealand in the semi-finals and questioned the former cricketer for his comments soon after reaching&nbsp;his half-century.

Since then, the two have not interacted much but during the Asia Cup 2022 edition, Manjrekar interviewed Jadeja after India's group stage win over Pakistan -- where the all-rounder scored a vital 29-ball 35. Back then, the cricketer-turned-commentator hilariously asked Jaddu, "You are ok to talk to me?" To this, the 33-year-old said, "Ya ya, absolutely" as the two had a good laugh.

On Friday (September 30), Jadeja took to his official Twitter handle and&nbsp;posted Manjrekar’s photo with a caption, "Watching my dear friend on screen @sanjaymanjrekar." To this, Manjrekar replied, "Ha ha… and your dear friend looking forward to seeing you on the field soon."

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Ha ha… and your dear friend looking forward to seeing you on the field soon :) <a href="https://t.co/eMpZyZYsYU">https://t.co/eMpZyZYsYU</a>
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjaymanjrekar/status/1575675580053590016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-pak-you-are-ok-to-talk-to-me-manjrekar-leaves-jadeja-in-splits-all-rounder-replies-watch-511061">IND vs PAK: 'You are ok to talk to me?': Manjrekar leaves Jadeja in splits, all-rounder replies - WATCH</a>

It looks like the two have buried their differences and moved past their 2019 spat. Talking about Jadeja, the all-rounder is out of action due to a knee injury. He underwent a successful surgery early this month but is likely to not be seen in action again in 2022.

Sanjay Manjrekar and Ravindra Jadeja Twitter spat made the headlines in 2019. It all started with Manjrekar calling Jadeja a 'bits and pieces' cricketer during the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and Wales.

Sanjay Manjrekar and Ravindra Jadeja Twitter spat made the headlines in 2019. It all started with Manjrekar calling Jadeja a 'bits and pieces' cricketer during the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and Wales. Jadeja scored a fighting 79 in India's 18-run loss to New Zealand in the semi-finals and questioned the former cricketer for his comments soon after reaching his half-century. Since then, the two have not interacted much but during the Asia Cup 2022 edition, Manjrekar interviewed Jadeja after India's group stage win over Pakistan -- where the all-rounder scored a vital 29-ball 35. Back then, the cricketer-turned-commentator hilariously asked Jaddu, "You are ok to talk to me?" To this, the 33-year-old said, "Ya ya, absolutely" as the two had a good laugh. On Friday (September 30), Jadeja took to his official Twitter handle and posted Manjrekar’s photo with a caption, "Watching my dear friend on screen @sanjaymanjrekar." To this, Manjrekar replied, "Ha ha… and your dear friend looking forward to seeing you on the field soon." Ha ha… and your dear friend looking forward to seeing you on the field soon :) https://t.co/eMpZyZYsYU — Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) September 30, 2022 × ALSO READ | IND vs PAK: 'You are ok to talk to me?': Manjrekar leaves Jadeja in splits, all-rounder replies - WATCH It looks like the two have buried their differences and moved past their 2019 spat. Talking about Jadeja, the all-rounder is out of action due to a knee injury. He underwent a successful surgery early this month but is likely to not be seen in action again in 2022.

'Your dear friend...': Sanjay Manjrekar reacts to Ravindra Jadeja's viral post, leaves heartfelt message

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