Punjab Kings (PBKS) are squaring off against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 8 of the IPL 2022 edition on Friday (April 1), at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

After a fine start to their 15th season, with a five-wicket win over the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on March 27, the one-time runners-up Punjab will aim to make it two wins in a row.&nbsp;

In the previous encounter, the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Mayank Agarwal, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shahrukh Khan, Odean Smith and Liam Livingstone combined to take Punjab home in a tall run-chase of 206. Against KKR, they will hope for a similar&nbsp;performance by the batters.&nbsp;

For Shikhar, he is 8 fours away from becoming the first-ever Indian (fourth overall) to a massive T20 feat. At present, Dhawan has 992 fours and is eight away from entering the 1,000-four club.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-ms-dhoni-becomes-first-wicketkeeper-to-reach-impressive-t20-milestone-467442">IPL 2022: MS Dhoni becomes first wicketkeeper to reach impressive T20 milestone</a>

List of players to have hit 1000 or more fours:

Chris Gayle - 1132 
Alex Hales - 1054 
David Warner - 1005

Indians to have hit the most fours in T20 history:

Shikhar Dhawan - 992 
Virat Kohli - 917 
Rohit Sharma - 875 
Suresh Raina - 779 
Gautam Gambhir - 747

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-ms-dhoni-gautam-gambhirs-interaction-goes-viral-after-lsg-beat-csk-in-a-run-fest-watch-467420">IPL 2022: MS Dhoni, Gautam Gambhir's interaction goes viral after LSG beat CSK in a run-fest - WATCH</a>

Dhawan debuted for the PBKS franchise in IPL 2022 during their season-opener, versus RCB, and returned with an impressive 29-ball 43, studded with 5 fours and a six. He will be eager to make a big score in the PBKS-KKR encounter on Friday evening.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) are squaring off against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 8 of the IPL 2022 edition on Friday (April 1), at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) are squaring off against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 8 of the IPL 2022 edition on Friday (April 1), at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. After a fine start to their 15th season, with a five-wicket win over the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on March 27, the one-time runners-up Punjab will aim to make it two wins in a row. In the previous encounter, the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Mayank Agarwal, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shahrukh Khan, Odean Smith and Liam Livingstone combined to take Punjab home in a tall run-chase of 206. Against KKR, they will hope for a similar performance by the batters. For Shikhar, he is 8 fours away from becoming the first-ever Indian (fourth overall) to a massive T20 feat. At present, Dhawan has 992 fours and is eight away from entering the 1,000-four club. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: MS Dhoni becomes first wicketkeeper to reach impressive T20 milestone List of players to have hit 1000 or more fours: Chris Gayle - 1132 Alex Hales - 1054 David Warner - 1005 Indians to have hit the most fours in T20 history: Shikhar Dhawan - 992 Virat Kohli - 917 Rohit Sharma - 875 Suresh Raina - 779 Gautam Gambhir - 747 ALSO READ | IPL 2022: MS Dhoni, Gautam Gambhir's interaction goes viral after LSG beat CSK in a run-fest - WATCH Dhawan debuted for the PBKS franchise in IPL 2022 during their season-opener, versus RCB, and returned with an impressive 29-ball 43, studded with 5 fours and a six. He will be eager to make a big score in the PBKS-KKR encounter on Friday evening.

IPL 2022: PBKS opener Shikhar Dhawan 8 fours away from becoming first Indian to attain massive T20 feat

Match 8 of the IPL 2022 edition will see the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face the one-time runners-up Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday evening (April 01). While this will be only the second game for Punjab, Shreyas Iyer &amp; Co. will play their third match as the first week of the 15th season comes to a close.

Talking about the PBKS outfit, they started their campaign with a spirited five-wicket win over the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)&nbsp;franchise. Bowling first, Punjab leaked runs as RCB posted 205-2 in 20 overs. However, their batters such as skipper Mayank Agarwal, Shikhar Dhawan, Bhanuka Rajapaksha, Liam Livingstone, Odean Smith and Shahrukh Khan combined with vital knocks to propel the side to a thrilling last-over win, at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-kolkata-knight-riders-vs-punjab-kings-head-to-head-record-trivia-stats-and-squads-467393">IPL 2022: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings - Head-to-head record, trivia, stats and squads</a>

After a desirable start, Punjab will aim to move past their inconsistent tag and make it two wins in a row. It won't be easy facing the KKR outfit, who have won and lost a match each. Iyer-led KKR are a formidable unit with a good mix of batters and enough variety in their bowling department.&nbsp;

While Punjab have some big hitters, they will need their bowling to improve with each passing game. Kagiso Rabada looks all set to don the Punjab jersey for the first time in the KKR face-off. The South African seamer will look to add to the bowling unit and spearhead the attack versus Kolkata.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kkr-vs-pbks-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-kolkata-knight-riders-vs-punjab-kings-match-467369">KKR vs PBKS, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings match?</a>

While Punjab need not make a lot of changes, they will have to fit in Rabada. In all likelihood, Raj Bawa is expected to warm the bench to make way for Rabada. The rest of the line-up should remain the same. As of now, there is no news on the&nbsp;availability of Jonny Bairstow, hence, Rajapaksha will retain his place.

PBKS likely XI vs KKR:

Mayank Agarwal (C), Shikhar Dhawan, Bhanuka Rajapaksa (wk), Liam Livingstone, Shahrukh Khan, Odean Smith, Harpreet Brar,&nbsp;Kagiso Rabada, Sandeep Sharma, Rahul Chahar, Arshdeep Singh.

Match 8 of the IPL 2022 edition will see the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face the one-time runners-up Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday evening (April 01).

Match 8 of the IPL 2022 edition will see the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face the one-time runners-up Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday evening (April 01). While this will be only the second game for Punjab, Shreyas Iyer & Co. will play their third match as the first week of the 15th season comes to a close. Talking about the PBKS outfit, they started their campaign with a spirited five-wicket win over the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise. Bowling first, Punjab leaked runs as RCB posted 205-2 in 20 overs. However, their batters such as skipper Mayank Agarwal, Shikhar Dhawan, Bhanuka Rajapaksha, Liam Livingstone, Odean Smith and Shahrukh Khan combined with vital knocks to propel the side to a thrilling last-over win, at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings - Head-to-head record, trivia, stats and squads After a desirable start, Punjab will aim to move past their inconsistent tag and make it two wins in a row. It won't be easy facing the KKR outfit, who have won and lost a match each. Iyer-led KKR are a formidable unit with a good mix of batters and enough variety in their bowling department. While Punjab have some big hitters, they will need their bowling to improve with each passing game. Kagiso Rabada looks all set to don the Punjab jersey for the first time in the KKR face-off. The South African seamer will look to add to the bowling unit and spearhead the attack versus Kolkata. ALSO READ | KKR vs PBKS, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings match? While Punjab need not make a lot of changes, they will have to fit in Rabada. In all likelihood, Raj Bawa is expected to warm the bench to make way for Rabada. The rest of the line-up should remain the same. As of now, there is no news on the availability of Jonny Bairstow, hence, Rajapaksha will retain his place. PBKS likely XI vs KKR: Mayank Agarwal (C), Shikhar Dhawan, Bhanuka Rajapaksa (wk), Liam Livingstone, Shahrukh Khan, Odean Smith, Harpreet Brar, Kagiso Rabada, Sandeep Sharma, Rahul Chahar, Arshdeep Singh.

IPL 2022: Kagiso Rabada to debut for PBKS? Predicting Mayank Agarwal & Co.’s likely XI vs KKR

MS Dhoni is on the cusp of joining an elite list as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) face newcomers Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Thursday.<o:p></o:p>

Dhoni is just 15 runs away from joining Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina and Robin Uthappa in the list of Indian cricketers who have completed 7000 runs in T20s. Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Kohli leads the list with 10,326 runs in the shortest format of the sport followed by Rohit (9936 runs) and Punjab Kings opener Dhawan with 8818 runs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-suresh-raina-ms-dhoni-and-ab-de-villiers-were-the-most-challenging-to-bowl-to-says-sandeep-sharma-467156" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE: Raina, Dhoni &amp; ABD were the toughest to bowl to - Sandeep Sharma</a>

The two other names in the list are – former CSK batsman Suresh Raina who has 8654 runs under his belt and Dhoni’s current teammate Robin Uthappa who has scored 7070 runs in his T20 career.<o:p></o:p>

Dhoni was the top-scorer for CSK in their season opener against Kolkata Knight Riders as he scored his first half-century in almost three years to steady the innings after an early collapse. However, that was not enough as KKR marched on to a five-wicket victory thanks to Ajinkya Rahane’s batting.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/universe-boss-show-not-over-yet-chris-gayle-kicks-off-preparations-for-ipl-2023-see-pic-467065" hreflang="en">Universe Boss' show not over yet! Gayle kicks off preparations for IPL 2023</a>

During the encounter, Dhoni also became the oldest cricketer to score an IPL fifty surpassing Rahul Dravid’s record when he scored 65 off 51 deliveries against Delhi Daredevils in 2013.<o:p></o:p>

Oldest Indian to score an IPL fifty:<o:p></o:p>

40y 262d - MS Dhoni v KKR, 2022<o:p></o:p>

40y 116d - Rahul Dravid v DC, 2013<o:p></o:p>

39y 362d - Sachin Tendulkar v DC, 2013<o:p></o:p>

Dhoni stepped down as CSK skipper ahead of IPL 2022 and passed the baton on Ravindra Jadeja.<o:p></o:p>

MS Dhoni is on the cusp of joining an elite list as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) face newcomers Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Thursday.

MS Dhoni is on the cusp of joining an elite list as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) face newcomers Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Thursday. Dhoni is just 15 runs away from joining Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina and Robin Uthappa in the list of Indian cricketers who have completed 7000 runs in T20s. Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Kohli leads the list with 10,326 runs in the shortest format of the sport followed by Rohit (9936 runs) and Punjab Kings opener Dhawan with 8818 runs. Also read | EXCLUSIVE: Raina, Dhoni & ABD were the toughest to bowl to - Sandeep Sharma The two other names in the list are – former CSK batsman Suresh Raina who has 8654 runs under his belt and Dhoni’s current teammate Robin Uthappa who has scored 7070 runs in his T20 career. Dhoni was the top-scorer for CSK in their season opener against Kolkata Knight Riders as he scored his first half-century in almost three years to steady the innings after an early collapse. However, that was not enough as KKR marched on to a five-wicket victory thanks to Ajinkya Rahane’s batting. Also read | Universe Boss' show not over yet! Gayle kicks off preparations for IPL 2023 During the encounter, Dhoni also became the oldest cricketer to score an IPL fifty surpassing Rahul Dravid’s record when he scored 65 off 51 deliveries against Delhi Daredevils in 2013. Oldest Indian to score an IPL fifty: 40y 262d - MS Dhoni v KKR, 2022 40y 116d - Rahul Dravid v DC, 2013 39y 362d - Sachin Tendulkar v DC, 2013 Dhoni stepped down as CSK skipper ahead of IPL 2022 and passed the baton on Ravindra Jadeja.

IPL 2022: MS Dhoni on cusp of joining Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan in T20 elite list

Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will be up against old rivals Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 6 of the IPL 2022 edition on Wednesday evening (March 30). After losing their season-opener to Punjab Kings (PBKS) -- by five wickets in defence of 206 -- RCB will be desperate to get off the mark in the points table when they face last year's runners-up KKR.

Talking about Virat Kohli, the former RCB captain will also be eager to score a big knock versus the Kolkata outfit. He showed good intent during his unbeaten 29-ball 41 versus Mayank Agarwal's PBKS and, thus, will be looking to carry forward the momentum this time around as well.&nbsp;

Ahead of the RCB-KKR face-off, Kohli is also on the verge of attaining an elite feat. If Kohli scores three more fours versus KKR, he will join Shikhar Dhawan in becoming only the second batter in IPL history to have 550, or more, fours. At present, Dhawan tops the list with 657 fours to his name. On the other hand, David Warner comes third in the list (525 fours).&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/would-be-great-to-see-virat-kohli-babar-azam-open-in-ipl-akhtar-predicts-price-tag-of-pakistan-captain-466900">Would be great to see Virat Kohli, Babar Azam open in IPL: Akhtar predicts price tag of Pakistan captain</a>

Talking about RCB's first game in IPL 2022, they were asked to bat first versus Punjab at the Dr DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai on Sunday (March 27). Posting 205-2, riding on Faf du Plessis' 88, Kohli's 41 not out and Dinesh Karthik's 14-ball 32*, Bengaluru couldn't defend the big total as Punjab went past the finish line in the last over with five wickets in hand.

Will RCB get their first points of the season in the KKR face-off? Only time will tell...

Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will be up against old rivals Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 6 of the IPL 2022 edition on Wednesday evening (March 30).

Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will be up against old rivals Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in match 6 of the IPL 2022 edition on Wednesday evening (March 30). After losing their season-opener to Punjab Kings (PBKS) -- by five wickets in defence of 206 -- RCB will be desperate to get off the mark in the points table when they face last year's runners-up KKR. Talking about Virat Kohli, the former RCB captain will also be eager to score a big knock versus the Kolkata outfit. He showed good intent during his unbeaten 29-ball 41 versus Mayank Agarwal's PBKS and, thus, will be looking to carry forward the momentum this time around as well. Ahead of the RCB-KKR face-off, Kohli is also on the verge of attaining an elite feat. If Kohli scores three more fours versus KKR, he will join Shikhar Dhawan in becoming only the second batter in IPL history to have 550, or more, fours. At present, Dhawan tops the list with 657 fours to his name. On the other hand, David Warner comes third in the list (525 fours). ALSO READ | Would be great to see Virat Kohli, Babar Azam open in IPL: Akhtar predicts price tag of Pakistan captain Talking about RCB's first game in IPL 2022, they were asked to bat first versus Punjab at the Dr DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai on Sunday (March 27). Posting 205-2, riding on Faf du Plessis' 88, Kohli's 41 not out and Dinesh Karthik's 14-ball 32*, Bengaluru couldn't defend the big total as Punjab went past the finish line in the last over with five wickets in hand. Will RCB get their first points of the season in the KKR face-off? Only time will tell...

IPL 2022: Virat Kohli on the cusp of joining Shikhar Dhawan in elite feat during RCB vs KKR clash

The cricketing action will continue on IPL 2022's second day itself. On Sunday (March 27), the 15th season will see its first doubleheader as Mumbai Indians (MI) face Delhi Capitals in the afternoon game whereas two new-look teams in the form of Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mayank Agarwal's Punjab Kings (PBKS) will lock horns with each other in the evening encounter.

Talking about the second game of the doubleheader, it will be an exciting contest between two teams who have changed a whole lot since the last season. For Punjab, they will have a new captain once again after KL Rahul left the franchise to join the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Mayank will step into his shoes and has a power-packed squad, comprising the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada, Liam Livingstone, Shahrukh Khan, Odean Smith, Rahul Chahar, etc. Jonny Bairstow is currently involved in England's third and final Test versus West Indies in the Caribbean island and, hence, his absence will be felt. Nonetheless, PBKS have most of their players which should keep them in good stead.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the perennial underachievers RCB will be led by Faf du Plessis. He steps into the big shoes of Virat Kohli, who resigned from the top post after IPL 2021. Faf will have Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik's experience along with him but the Aussie all-rounder will miss the opening few games due to his marriage. Bengaluru still have enough firepower to rely upon and will give a tough competition to the Punjab line-up.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kkr-begin-ipl-2022-campaign-with-six-wicket-victory-over-csk-465818">KKR begin IPL 2022 campaign with six-wicket victory over CSK</a>

It will be interesting to see how the bowlers from both sides utilise the DY Patil Stadium's surface, which has been used as a football ground of late. The captains will also be put to test to rotate their bowlers and set a template for their batters on a pitch which can have anything on offer.&nbsp;

Match prediction for RCB vs PBKS: The surface at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai continues to be the biggest talking point ahead of the season. Being in the early days of IPL 2022, not much can be predicted on how it will come into play. If one analyses the two teams on paper, Punjab pack a solid punch, however, it remains to be seen how well they gel and show up on the field versus the three-time runners-up.

In head-to-head, Punjab lead RCB 15-13.&nbsp;

The cricketing action will continue on IPL 2022's second day itself. On Sunday (March 27), the 15th season will see its first doubleheader as Mumbai Indians (MI) face Delhi Capitals in the afternoon game whereas two new-look teams in the form of Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mayank Agarwal's Punjab Kings (PBKS) will lock horns with each other in the evening encounter.

The cricketing action will continue on IPL 2022's second day itself. On Sunday (March 27), the 15th season will see its first doubleheader as Mumbai Indians (MI) face Delhi Capitals in the afternoon game whereas two new-look teams in the form of Faf du Plessis-led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mayank Agarwal's Punjab Kings (PBKS) will lock horns with each other in the evening encounter. Talking about the second game of the doubleheader, it will be an exciting contest between two teams who have changed a whole lot since the last season. For Punjab, they will have a new captain once again after KL Rahul left the franchise to join the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Mayank will step into his shoes and has a power-packed squad, comprising the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada, Liam Livingstone, Shahrukh Khan, Odean Smith, Rahul Chahar, etc. Jonny Bairstow is currently involved in England's third and final Test versus West Indies in the Caribbean island and, hence, his absence will be felt. Nonetheless, PBKS have most of their players which should keep them in good stead. On the other hand, the perennial underachievers RCB will be led by Faf du Plessis. He steps into the big shoes of Virat Kohli, who resigned from the top post after IPL 2021. Faf will have Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik's experience along with him but the Aussie all-rounder will miss the opening few games due to his marriage. Bengaluru still have enough firepower to rely upon and will give a tough competition to the Punjab line-up. ALSO READ | KKR begin IPL 2022 campaign with six-wicket victory over CSK It will be interesting to see how the bowlers from both sides utilise the DY Patil Stadium's surface, which has been used as a football ground of late. The captains will also be put to test to rotate their bowlers and set a template for their batters on a pitch which can have anything on offer. Match prediction for RCB vs PBKS: The surface at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai continues to be the biggest talking point ahead of the season. Being in the early days of IPL 2022, not much can be predicted on how it will come into play. If one analyses the two teams on paper, Punjab pack a solid punch, however, it remains to be seen how well they gel and show up on the field versus the three-time runners-up. In head-to-head, Punjab lead RCB 15-13.

RCB vs PBKS, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Punjab Kings match?

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Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Monday (February 28) appointed opener Mayank Agarwal as the franchise's captain ahead of the much-awaited IPL 2022 edition, set to be held in India from March 26. After much speculation, Mayank won the captaincy race despite the presence of senior pro Shikhar Dhawan in the squad, who was bought by the 2014 runners-up in the mega auction held earlier this month.

Mayank, who will now succeed his good friend and ex-Punjab opener KL Rahul as the captain,&nbsp;has been in the PBKS setup since IPL 2018 and had a wonderful run in the last two editions, amassing 424 runs at a whopping strike-rate of 156.45 in IPL 2020 and&nbsp;441&nbsp;runs, with 4 half-centuries, at a strike-rate of 140.44 in last year's&nbsp;season. He was the only capped player retained by the franchise ahead of the mega auction (for INR 140 million).

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"I have been at Punjab Kings since 2018 and I take a lot of pride in representing this fantastic unit. I am delighted to be given the opportunity to lead the team. I take over this responsibility with utmost sincerity, but at the same time, I believe my job would be made easier with the talent we have at the Punjab Kings squad this season. We have some vastly experienced players in our ranks, along with many talented youngsters who are keen to grab the opportunity and run with it. We have always taken to the field hoping to win the title and as a team we will once again work towards this goal of lifting our maiden IPL trophy. I thank the team management for entrusting me with this new role of leading the side. I look forward to the new season and the new challenges it brings with it,” said Mayank in a statement.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-new-format-explained-mumbai-indians-and-chennai-super-kings-headline-two-groups-456529">IPL 2022 new format explained: Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings headline two groups</a>

Anil Kumble, Head Coach, Punjab Kings said, “Mayank has been an integral part of the side since 2018 and of the leadership group for the last two years. The new squad we selected at the recently concluded auction has exciting young talent and outstanding experienced players. We want to create a strong foundation for the future with Mayank at the helm. He is hardworking, enthusiastic, a team player with all the attributes required of a leader. I look forward to working with him as captain and believe that he will lead this team to a successful campaign."

PBKS squad for IPL 2022

Mayank Agarwal (captain), Arshdeep Singh, Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada, Jonny Bairstow, Rahul Chahar, Shahrukh Khan, Harpreet Brar, Prabhsimran Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Ishan Porel, Liam Livingstone, Odean Smith, Sandeep Sharma, Raj Bawa, Rishi Dhawan, Prerak Mankad, Vaibhav Arora, Writtick Chatterjee, Baltej Dhanda, Ansh Patel, Nathan Ellis, Atharva Taide, Bhanuka Rajapakse, Benny Howell

Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Monday (February 28) appointed opener Mayank Agarwal as the franchise's captain ahead of the much-awaited IPL 2022 edition, set to be held in India from March 26.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Monday (February 28) appointed opener Mayank Agarwal as the franchise's captain ahead of the much-awaited IPL 2022 edition, set to be held in India from March 26. After much speculation, Mayank won the captaincy race despite the presence of senior pro Shikhar Dhawan in the squad, who was bought by the 2014 runners-up in the mega auction held earlier this month. Mayank, who will now succeed his good friend and ex-Punjab opener KL Rahul as the captain, has been in the PBKS setup since IPL 2018 and had a wonderful run in the last two editions, amassing 424 runs at a whopping strike-rate of 156.45 in IPL 2020 and 441 runs, with 4 half-centuries, at a strike-rate of 140.44 in last year's season. He was the only capped player retained by the franchise ahead of the mega auction (for INR 140 million). 🚨 Attention #SherSquad 🚨 Our 🆕© ➜ Mayank Agarwal Send in your wishes for the new #CaptainPunjab 🎉#SaddaPunjab #PunjabKings #TATAIPL2022 @mayankcricket pic.twitter.com/hkxwzRyOVA — Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) February 28, 2022 × "I have been at Punjab Kings since 2018 and I take a lot of pride in representing this fantastic unit. I am delighted to be given the opportunity to lead the team. I take over this responsibility with utmost sincerity, but at the same time, I believe my job would be made easier with the talent we have at the Punjab Kings squad this season. We have some vastly experienced players in our ranks, along with many talented youngsters who are keen to grab the opportunity and run with it. We have always taken to the field hoping to win the title and as a team we will once again work towards this goal of lifting our maiden IPL trophy. I thank the team management for entrusting me with this new role of leading the side. I look forward to the new season and the new challenges it brings with it,” said Mayank in a statement. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 new format explained: Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings headline two groups Anil Kumble, Head Coach, Punjab Kings said, “Mayank has been an integral part of the side since 2018 and of the leadership group for the last two years. The new squad we selected at the recently concluded auction has exciting young talent and outstanding experienced players. We want to create a strong foundation for the future with Mayank at the helm. He is hardworking, enthusiastic, a team player with all the attributes required of a leader. I look forward to working with him as captain and believe that he will lead this team to a successful campaign." PBKS squad for IPL 2022 Mayank Agarwal (captain), Arshdeep Singh, Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada, Jonny Bairstow, Rahul Chahar, Shahrukh Khan, Harpreet Brar, Prabhsimran Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Ishan Porel, Liam Livingstone, Odean Smith, Sandeep Sharma, Raj Bawa, Rishi Dhawan, Prerak Mankad, Vaibhav Arora, Writtick Chatterjee, Baltej Dhanda, Ansh Patel, Nathan Ellis, Atharva Taide, Bhanuka Rajapakse, Benny Howell

Mayank Agarwal wins captaincy race to be named Punjab Kings' skipper ahead of IPL 2022

Mayank Agarwal is set to become the next captain of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) franchise. The announcement is likely to be made very soon. Mayank was the only capped player retained by the Punjab franchise before the mega auction. While it seemed to be a contest between Mayank and Shikhar Dhawan -- whom the franchise roped in the mega auction -- for the top post, the right-hander is almost certain to succeed his good friend and former Punjab captain, KL Rahul.

"In all likelihood, Mayank will captain the side. The announcement is expected later this week. Dhawan is a welcome addition to the side and was always on the radar at the auction. He is a champion player but it seems Punjab were keen on Mayank as captain ever since K L Rahul left the team," an IPL source told PTI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mumbai-and-pune-to-host-league-stage-final-decision-on-starting-date-venues-soon-report-455709">IPL 2022: Mumbai and Pune to host league stage; final decision on starting date, venues soon - Report</a>

Mayank had joined the franchise back in 2018. In IPL 2020 edition, he amassed 424 runs at a whopping strike-rate of 156.45 whereas he ended with 441&nbsp;runs, with 4 half-centuries, at a strike-rate of 140.44 in last year's IPL season.&nbsp;

Talking about Shikhar, he was roped in by the team management for a whopping INR 82.5 million (INR 8.25 crore) in the mega auction. Being a senior player, and a former full-time captain of the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), there were talks that he might pip Mayank for the top job. However, the&nbsp;Punjab franchise seems to have zeroed in on Mayank.

Punjab Kings' squad for IPL 2022:&nbsp;Mayank Agarwal, Prerak Mankad, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shahrukh Khan,&nbsp;Jonny Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Benny Howell, Baltej Singh, Ansh Patel, Liam Livingstone, Rishi Dhawan, Atharva Taide, Odean Smith, Raj Bawa, Harpreet Brar, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh, Writtick Chatterjee, Sandeep Sharma, Nathan Elis, Vaibhav Arora, Ishan Porel, Rahul Chaha

Mayank Agarwal is set to become the next captain of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) franchise. The announcement is likely to be made very soon. Mayank was the only capped player retained by the Punjab franchise before the mega auction.

Mayank Agarwal is set to become the next captain of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) franchise. The announcement is likely to be made very soon. Mayank was the only capped player retained by the Punjab franchise before the mega auction. While it seemed to be a contest between Mayank and Shikhar Dhawan -- whom the franchise roped in the mega auction -- for the top post, the right-hander is almost certain to succeed his good friend and former Punjab captain, KL Rahul. "In all likelihood, Mayank will captain the side. The announcement is expected later this week. Dhawan is a welcome addition to the side and was always on the radar at the auction. He is a champion player but it seems Punjab were keen on Mayank as captain ever since K L Rahul left the team," an IPL source told PTI. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mumbai and Pune to host league stage; final decision on starting date, venues soon - Report Mayank had joined the franchise back in 2018. In IPL 2020 edition, he amassed 424 runs at a whopping strike-rate of 156.45 whereas he ended with 441 runs, with 4 half-centuries, at a strike-rate of 140.44 in last year's IPL season. Talking about Shikhar, he was roped in by the team management for a whopping INR 82.5 million (INR 8.25 crore) in the mega auction. Being a senior player, and a former full-time captain of the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), there were talks that he might pip Mayank for the top job. However, the Punjab franchise seems to have zeroed in on Mayank. Punjab Kings' squad for IPL 2022: Mayank Agarwal, Prerak Mankad, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shahrukh Khan, Jonny Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Benny Howell, Baltej Singh, Ansh Patel, Liam Livingstone, Rishi Dhawan, Atharva Taide, Odean Smith, Raj Bawa, Harpreet Brar, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh, Writtick Chatterjee, Sandeep Sharma, Nathan Elis, Vaibhav Arora, Ishan Porel, Rahul Chaha

Not Shikhar Dhawan! Mayank Agarwal likely to be named Punjab Kings' captain ahead of IPL 2022 - Report

Punjab Kings (PBKS) were one of the teams which headed into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction looking for potential captaincy candidates. Punjab Kings were left without a captain ahead of the new season after KL Rahul decided to part ways with the franchise and join the Lucknow Super Giants. PBKS wanted to retain Rahul but the Indian batter wanted to leave the franchise after failing to guide the team to play-offs for two successive seasons as captain.

Punjab Kings bought some experienced players in the IPL 2022 mega auction as they roped in the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada and Jonny Bairstow among others, They also made England batter Liam Livingstone the costliest overseas buy at the auction this year.

Punjab Kings now have several options to choose from when it comes to deciding their next captain. However, Dhawan and Mayank Agarwal, who was retained by the team, are among favourites to take over as the new captain of the side in IPL 2022. While Dhawan has IPL captaincy experience having led Sunrisers Hyderabad in the past, Agarwal has never been a full-time skipper in the league.

However, Punjab Kings co-owner Mohit Burman recently dropped a major hint regarding the next captain of the franchise. Burman hinted at Agarwal being handed over captaincy as he said it is good to have someone who has been with the team to lead the side in the future as the senior player has a better understanding with&nbsp;the coaches.

"I think it's a big advantage to have a senior player who has played with you before to lead the team. He understands the thinking of the coach. He has a good rapport with the coaches and the idea is to give him a strong bunch of players who fill up all the positions," Burman told News9 Sports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/deepak-chahar-to-liam-livingstone-5-players-who-earned-biggest-pay-rise-at-ipl-mega-auction-453828">Deepak Chahar to Liam Livingstone: 5 players who earned biggest pay rise at IPL mega auction</a>

Agarwal had joined Punjab Kings in 2018 and has since been an integral part of the setup. He was the only capped player retained by the franchise ahead of the mega auction and looks set to become the new captain of the team. Agarwal has so far played 100 matches in his IPL career and has 2131 runs to his name at an average of over 23.

&nbsp;

Punjab Kings (PBKS) were one of the teams which headed into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction looking for potential captaincy candidates. Punjab Kings were left without a captain ahead of the new season after KL Rahul decided to part ways with the franchise and join the Lucknow Super Giants.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) were one of the teams which headed into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction looking for potential captaincy candidates. Punjab Kings were left without a captain ahead of the new season after KL Rahul decided to part ways with the franchise and join the Lucknow Super Giants. PBKS wanted to retain Rahul but the Indian batter wanted to leave the franchise after failing to guide the team to play-offs for two successive seasons as captain. Punjab Kings bought some experienced players in the IPL 2022 mega auction as they roped in the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada and Jonny Bairstow among others, They also made England batter Liam Livingstone the costliest overseas buy at the auction this year. Punjab Kings now have several options to choose from when it comes to deciding their next captain. However, Dhawan and Mayank Agarwal, who was retained by the team, are among favourites to take over as the new captain of the side in IPL 2022. While Dhawan has IPL captaincy experience having led Sunrisers Hyderabad in the past, Agarwal has never been a full-time skipper in the league. However, Punjab Kings co-owner Mohit Burman recently dropped a major hint regarding the next captain of the franchise. Burman hinted at Agarwal being handed over captaincy as he said it is good to have someone who has been with the team to lead the side in the future as the senior player has a better understanding with the coaches. "I think it's a big advantage to have a senior player who has played with you before to lead the team. He understands the thinking of the coach. He has a good rapport with the coaches and the idea is to give him a strong bunch of players who fill up all the positions," Burman told News9 Sports. Also Read: Deepak Chahar to Liam Livingstone: 5 players who earned biggest pay rise at IPL mega auction Agarwal had joined Punjab Kings in 2018 and has since been an integral part of the setup. He was the only capped player retained by the franchise ahead of the mega auction and looks set to become the new captain of the team. Agarwal has so far played 100 matches in his IPL career and has 2131 runs to his name at an average of over 23.

Mayank Agarwal or Shikhar Dhawan? Punjab Kings co-owner hints at team's next captain ahead of IPL 2022

Punjab Kings (PBKS) were one of the franchises who headed into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction looking to rope in a potential captaincy candidate ahead of the new season. KL Rahul parted ways with Punjab Kings last year to join Lucknow Super Giants as their new captain, leaving his former franchise with the tough task of finding a new captain for the team.

Punjab had the largest purse heading into the auction and the franchise was able to rope in some quality Indian and overseas players to form a strong squad at the end. Punjab Kings picked up a total of 23 players at the IPL 2022 mega auction, including the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Jonny Bairstow, Kagiso Rabada and Liam Livingstone among others.

While many believe Dhawan is an ideal captaincy candidate for the Punjab Kings, former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has urged the franchise to look at the future while appointing their next captain. Giving his take on the captaincy debate, Gavaskar said Mayank Agarwal should be handed over the reins as he is 31 and has many years of cricket left in him at the top level, unlike Dhawan, who is 36 and might not be a long-term option for captaincy.

Lauding Mayank, Gavaskar said the right-hand batter is a hard-working athlete and has always been a team man. The batting legend also believes Mayank can be a potential candidate to lead India in the future if he can deliver consistent performances with the bat.

Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/punjab-kings-break-the-bank-for-livingstone-pbks-squad-list-for-ipl-2022-with-signings-of-dhawan-bairstow-453039">Punjab Kings complete&nbsp;squad list for IPL 2022 with signings of Dhawan, Bairstow</a>

"I will look at the future, and I look at Mayank Agarwal. Because I do believe that Mayank has got leadership qualities. He speaks well, he is a hardworking individual. He wants to get better than yesterday. He is very very very enthusiastic. He is a real team man. We can see that when he is playing for India. He is always ready to hop on to the field, even when he isn't in the XI," Gavaskar told Sports Today.

"So every aspect I think, Mayank Agarwal is somebody Punjab Kings should look as captain. And who knows, he could be considered in the future for national captaincy if he is consistent with his performances," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-lost-ms-dhonis-loyalty-simon-doull-explains-why-csk-didnt-pick-mr-ipl-at-mega-auction-453672">Suresh Raina lost MS Dhoni's loyalty: Simon Doull explains why CSK didn't pick 'Mr IPL' at mega auction</a>

While Dhawan has been a full-time captain in the IPL in the past,&nbsp;Mayank had led Punjab Kings in one game last season after an injury to Rahul. Dhawan has also led the Indian team in a few matches but with age not being on his side, Punjab Kings will have a difficult decision to make in terms of captaincy.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) were one of the franchises who headed into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction looking to rope in a potential captaincy candidate ahead of the new season.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) were one of the franchises who headed into the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction looking to rope in a potential captaincy candidate ahead of the new season. KL Rahul parted ways with Punjab Kings last year to join Lucknow Super Giants as their new captain, leaving his former franchise with the tough task of finding a new captain for the team. Punjab had the largest purse heading into the auction and the franchise was able to rope in some quality Indian and overseas players to form a strong squad at the end. Punjab Kings picked up a total of 23 players at the IPL 2022 mega auction, including the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Jonny Bairstow, Kagiso Rabada and Liam Livingstone among others. While many believe Dhawan is an ideal captaincy candidate for the Punjab Kings, former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has urged the franchise to look at the future while appointing their next captain. Giving his take on the captaincy debate, Gavaskar said Mayank Agarwal should be handed over the reins as he is 31 and has many years of cricket left in him at the top level, unlike Dhawan, who is 36 and might not be a long-term option for captaincy. Lauding Mayank, Gavaskar said the right-hand batter is a hard-working athlete and has always been a team man. The batting legend also believes Mayank can be a potential candidate to lead India in the future if he can deliver consistent performances with the bat. Also Read: Punjab Kings complete squad list for IPL 2022 with signings of Dhawan, Bairstow "I will look at the future, and I look at Mayank Agarwal. Because I do believe that Mayank has got leadership qualities. He speaks well, he is a hardworking individual. He wants to get better than yesterday. He is very very very enthusiastic. He is a real team man. We can see that when he is playing for India. He is always ready to hop on to the field, even when he isn't in the XI," Gavaskar told Sports Today. "So every aspect I think, Mayank Agarwal is somebody Punjab Kings should look as captain. And who knows, he could be considered in the future for national captaincy if he is consistent with his performances," he added. Also Read: Suresh Raina lost MS Dhoni's loyalty: Simon Doull explains why CSK didn't pick 'Mr IPL' at mega auction While Dhawan has been a full-time captain in the IPL in the past, Mayank had led Punjab Kings in one game last season after an injury to Rahul. Dhawan has also led the Indian team in a few matches but with age not being on his side, Punjab Kings will have a difficult decision to make in terms of captaincy.

Not Shikhar Dhawan! Sunil Gavaskar names Indian star who should captain Punjab Kings in IPL 2022

The IPL 2022 mega auction was an enthralling two-day affair, which was held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. As many as 590 players went under the hammer in the mega auction, which was held after four years. At the end of the two-day auction, all the ten IPL franchises have added quite a lot of big names to their respective squads before the IPL 2022 edition, which gets underway in late March.&nbsp;

Talking about the Punjab Kings (PBKS), they retained only opener Mayank Agarwal and pacer Arshdeep Singh before heading into the mega auction, with INR 720 million in their purse. As a result of having the highest purse before the auction, the PBKS think-tank went all-out and roped in some big players and relatively experienced as well as uncapped cricketers to the squad.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/livingstone-surpasses-hasarangas-price-tag-to-become-costliest-overseas-buy-at-ipl-2022-mega-auction-452873">Livingstone surpasses Hasaranga's price tag to become costliest overseas buy at IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

Along with picking Shikhar Dhawan, Jonny Bairstow, Kagiso Rabada, Liam Livingstone, Rahul Chahar, Shahrukh Khan, etc. PBKS also roped in all-rounder Benny Howell. The English all-rounder is now the first-ever French-born cricketer to play the IPL.

Here's all you need to know about Howell

Howell entered the auction pool at a base price of INR 4 million (INR 40 lakhs). The French-born player&nbsp;is a right-handed batsman who bowls right-arm medium-fast.&nbsp;The 33-year-old is an experienced T20 cricketer. He&nbsp;has&nbsp;domestically represented the&nbsp;Hampshire County Cricket Club as well as the&nbsp;Gloucestershire team. In addition, he has&nbsp;been a part of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), playing for the Rangpur Riders for three seasons.

In the BPL, he has played alongside several big T20 players such as AB De Villiers, Ravi Bopara, Chris Gayle, Alex Hales, and Rilee Rossouw.&nbsp;

Howell, thus, is an interesting addition to PBKS' all-round department, also featuring Odean Smith, Harpreet Brar and the likes.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/punjab-kings-break-the-bank-for-livingstone-pbks-squad-list-for-ipl-2022-with-signings-of-dhawan-bairstow-453039">Punjab Kings break the bank for Livingstone. PBKS squad list for IPL 2022 with signings of Dhawan, Bairstow</a>

Check out Punjab Kings full squad&nbsp;

Mayank Agarwal, Prerak Mankad, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shahrukh Khan, Shikhar Dhawan,&nbsp;Jonny Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Benny Howell, Baltej Singh, Ansh Patel, Liam Livingstone, Rishi Dhawan, Atharva Taide, Odean Smith, Raj Bawa, Harpreet Brar, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh, Writtick Chatterjee, Sandeep Sharma, Nathan Elis, Vaibhav Arora, Ishan Porel, Rahul Chahar

The IPL 2022 mega auction was an enthralling two-day affair, which was held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. As many as 590 players went under the hammer in the mega auction, which was held after four years.

The IPL 2022 mega auction was an enthralling two-day affair, which was held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. As many as 590 players went under the hammer in the mega auction, which was held after four years. At the end of the two-day auction, all the ten IPL franchises have added quite a lot of big names to their respective squads before the IPL 2022 edition, which gets underway in late March. Talking about the Punjab Kings (PBKS), they retained only opener Mayank Agarwal and pacer Arshdeep Singh before heading into the mega auction, with INR 720 million in their purse. As a result of having the highest purse before the auction, the PBKS think-tank went all-out and roped in some big players and relatively experienced as well as uncapped cricketers to the squad. ALSO READ | Livingstone surpasses Hasaranga's price tag to become costliest overseas buy at IPL 2022 mega auction Along with picking Shikhar Dhawan, Jonny Bairstow, Kagiso Rabada, Liam Livingstone, Rahul Chahar, Shahrukh Khan, etc. PBKS also roped in all-rounder Benny Howell. The English all-rounder is now the first-ever French-born cricketer to play the IPL. Here's all you need to know about Howell Howell entered the auction pool at a base price of INR 4 million (INR 40 lakhs). The French-born player is a right-handed batsman who bowls right-arm medium-fast. The 33-year-old is an experienced T20 cricketer. He has domestically represented the Hampshire County Cricket Club as well as the Gloucestershire team. In addition, he has been a part of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), playing for the Rangpur Riders for three seasons. In the BPL, he has played alongside several big T20 players such as AB De Villiers, Ravi Bopara, Chris Gayle, Alex Hales, and Rilee Rossouw. Howell, thus, is an interesting addition to PBKS' all-round department, also featuring Odean Smith, Harpreet Brar and the likes. ALSO READ | Punjab Kings break the bank for Livingstone. PBKS squad list for IPL 2022 with signings of Dhawan, Bairstow Check out Punjab Kings full squad Mayank Agarwal, Prerak Mankad, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Shahrukh Khan, Shikhar Dhawan, Jonny Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Benny Howell, Baltej Singh, Ansh Patel, Liam Livingstone, Rishi Dhawan, Atharva Taide, Odean Smith, Raj Bawa, Harpreet Brar, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh, Writtick Chatterjee, Sandeep Sharma, Nathan Elis, Vaibhav Arora, Ishan Porel, Rahul Chahar

IPL 2022: Who is PBKS's Benny Howell? First French-born cricketer to feature in India's cash-rich league

Shikhar Dhawan was the first player sold at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction on Saturday (February 12). The veteran Team India batter was roped in by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for a whopping sum of Rs 8.25 crore (INR 82.5 million). There was an intense bidding war for Dhawan between his former side Delhi Capitals (DC) and Punjab Kings, who managed to rope in the senior India batter.

Dhawan has been one of the most consistent performers in the IPL over the years and played an instrumental role in Delhi Capitals' success ever since joining the side in 2018.&nbsp;Dhawan was among the top run-getters in the league last season with 587 runs from 16 matches at a brilliant average of 39.13 and a strike rate close to 125.

Dhawan will be doing the Punjab Kings' jersey in the upcoming IPL 2022 season after he was roped in by the Punjab outfit at the IPL 2022 mega auction. He was the first player to go under the hammer and drew a bidding war for his services at the mega event in Bengaluru.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-will-shake-the-bank-sunil-gavaskar-picks-indian-star-who-can-be-one-of-top-earners-at-ipl-mega-auction-452564">'He will shake the bank': Sunil Gavaskar picks Indian star who can be one of top earners at IPL mega auction</a>

<h3>Kagiso Rabada joins Punjab Kings for Rs 9.25 crore (INR 92.5 million)</h3>

Punjab Kings roped in another former Delhi Capitals star at the IPL 2022 mega auction in the form of South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada. The Proteas fast bowler has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers in the IPL over the years and is regarded as one of the best pacers in international cricket at present.

Rabada was bought by Punjab Kings for a huge sum of Rs 9.25 crore (INR 92.5 million) after an intense bidding war between three teams - Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans and Delhi Capitals. Rabada has so far played 50 matches in his IPl career and has 76 wickets to his name.

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<h3>&nbsp;</h3>

Shikhar Dhawan was the first player sold at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction on Saturday (February 12). The veteran Team India batter was roped in by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for a whopping sum of Rs 8.

Shikhar Dhawan was the first player sold at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction on Saturday (February 12). The veteran Team India batter was roped in by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for a whopping sum of Rs 8.25 crore (INR 82.5 million). There was an intense bidding war for Dhawan between his former side Delhi Capitals (DC) and Punjab Kings, who managed to rope in the senior India batter. Dhawan has been one of the most consistent performers in the IPL over the years and played an instrumental role in Delhi Capitals' success ever since joining the side in 2018. Dhawan was among the top run-getters in the league last season with 587 runs from 16 matches at a brilliant average of 39.13 and a strike rate close to 125. Dhawan will be doing the Punjab Kings' jersey in the upcoming IPL 2022 season after he was roped in by the Punjab outfit at the IPL 2022 mega auction. He was the first player to go under the hammer and drew a bidding war for his services at the mega event in Bengaluru. Also Read: 'He will shake the bank': Sunil Gavaskar picks Indian star who can be one of top earners at IPL mega auction Kagiso Rabada joins Punjab Kings for Rs 9.25 crore (INR 92.5 million) Punjab Kings roped in another former Delhi Capitals star at the IPL 2022 mega auction in the form of South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada. The Proteas fast bowler has been one of the most prolific wicket-takers in the IPL over the years and is regarded as one of the best pacers in international cricket at present. Rabada was bought by Punjab Kings for a huge sum of Rs 9.25 crore (INR 92.5 million) after an intense bidding war between three teams - Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans and Delhi Capitals. Rabada has so far played 50 matches in his IPl career and has 76 wickets to his name.

Punjab Kings shell out big money to rope in Kagiso Rabada & Shikhar Dhawan at IPL 2022 mega auction

The IPL 2022 mega auction is just a few days away. The mega auction, which will take place after four years, is set to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. Ahead of the auction proceedings, all eyes are on the ten franchises regarding how they will strategise and the players they will target.

Talking about the defending champions MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), they retained the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounder Moeen Ali. Thus, they released Suresh Raina, Faf du Plessis, Robin Uthappa, Josh Hazlewood, etc. It will be interesting to see how the four-time winners revamp their side in the forthcoming auction.

Ahead of the auction, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra predicted the players CSK will target. Chopra believes CSK will look beyond Mr. IPL Raina (who played a big role in the franchise's initial few title wins) and might look to get the services of experienced players such as Steve Smith, R Ashwin, Shakib Al Hasan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-not-rcb-mi-dinesh-karthik-reveals-which-franchise-he-will-feel-great-to-play-for-451298">IPL 2022 mega auction: Not RCB, MI! Dinesh Karthik reveals which franchise he will feel 'great to play for'</a>

"Focus on the experienced players, this has been their strategy and philosophy. Dhoni likes players like that. They don't run after youth, they don't run after exciting talent. They like to pick ripened players. Their philosophy probably is that the known devil is better than the unknown one," Chopra said on his Youtube channel.&nbsp;

"I won't be surprised at all if they look towards Steve Smith. Warner probably does not suit them. They might bring back Faf du Plessis. I see their interest in Faf du Plessis, Ravichandran Ashwin and Shakib Al Hasan. Steve Smith - outside chance. They won't look towards Dinesh Karthik," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/that-will-be-the-easiest-solution-ajit-agarkar-urges-virat-kohli-to-reconsider-captaining-rcb-in-ipl-2022-451328">That will be the easiest solution: Ajit Agarkar urges Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining RCB in IPL 2022</a>

Among the non-retained players, the list includes David Warner, Shikhar Dhawan, Nitish Rana, Kagiso Rabada, Shimron Hetmyer, Harshal Patel, Dinesh Karthik, etc. Ahead of the mega auction, Lucknow Suoer Giants roped in KL Rahul (named the captain), Ravi Bishnoi and Marcus Stoinis whereas Ahmedabad franchsie got the likes of Hardik Pandya (skipper), Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan.

The IPL 2022 mega auction is just a few days away. The mega auction, which will take place after four years, is set to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru.

The IPL 2022 mega auction is just a few days away. The mega auction, which will take place after four years, is set to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. Ahead of the auction proceedings, all eyes are on the ten franchises regarding how they will strategise and the players they will target. Talking about the defending champions MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), they retained the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad and all-rounder Moeen Ali. Thus, they released Suresh Raina, Faf du Plessis, Robin Uthappa, Josh Hazlewood, etc. It will be interesting to see how the four-time winners revamp their side in the forthcoming auction. Ahead of the auction, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra predicted the players CSK will target. Chopra believes CSK will look beyond Mr. IPL Raina (who played a big role in the franchise's initial few title wins) and might look to get the services of experienced players such as Steve Smith, R Ashwin, Shakib Al Hasan. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction: Not RCB, MI! Dinesh Karthik reveals which franchise he will feel 'great to play for' "Focus on the experienced players, this has been their strategy and philosophy. Dhoni likes players like that. They don't run after youth, they don't run after exciting talent. They like to pick ripened players. Their philosophy probably is that the known devil is better than the unknown one," Chopra said on his Youtube channel. "I won't be surprised at all if they look towards Steve Smith. Warner probably does not suit them. They might bring back Faf du Plessis. I see their interest in Faf du Plessis, Ravichandran Ashwin and Shakib Al Hasan. Steve Smith - outside chance. They won't look towards Dinesh Karthik," he added. ALSO READ | That will be the easiest solution: Ajit Agarkar urges Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining RCB in IPL 2022 Among the non-retained players, the list includes David Warner, Shikhar Dhawan, Nitish Rana, Kagiso Rabada, Shimron Hetmyer, Harshal Patel, Dinesh Karthik, etc. Ahead of the mega auction, Lucknow Suoer Giants roped in KL Rahul (named the captain), Ravi Bishnoi and Marcus Stoinis whereas Ahmedabad franchsie got the likes of Hardik Pandya (skipper), Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan.

Not Suresh Raina! Aakash Chopra names players CSK might target in IPL 2022 mega auction

India batters Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested negative for COVID-19 and hence the duo has been cleared to resume training. Sources in the know of developments confirmed to ANI that Dhawan and Iyer have been cleared to train.

"Yes, Shikhar and Shreyas have tested negative for COVID-19 and they have been cleared to train. Ruturaj Gaikwad is still in isolation," the source pointed. Team India will have a training session on Tuesday evening and both Dhawan and Iyer are set to be a part of that session.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-been-happening-for-years-sunil-gavaskar-rubbishes-rift-rumours-between-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-451281">This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli</a>

Earlier, before the first ODI against West Indies, Shreyas Iyer, Dhawan, Ruturaj, and Navdeep Saini tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, all these players missed the first ODI against West Indies.

The Rohit-led squad defeated Windies by six wickets in the first ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium. India and West Indies will now lock horns in the second ODI on Wednesday at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

India batters Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested negative for COVID-19 and hence the duo has been cleared to resume training. Sources in the know of developments confirmed to ANI that Dhawan and Iyer have been cleared to train.

India batters Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested negative for COVID-19 and hence the duo has been cleared to resume training. Sources in the know of developments confirmed to ANI that Dhawan and Iyer have been cleared to train. "Yes, Shikhar and Shreyas have tested negative for COVID-19 and they have been cleared to train. Ruturaj Gaikwad is still in isolation," the source pointed. Team India will have a training session on Tuesday evening and both Dhawan and Iyer are set to be a part of that session. ALSO READ: This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli Earlier, before the first ODI against West Indies, Shreyas Iyer, Dhawan, Ruturaj, and Navdeep Saini tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, all these players missed the first ODI against West Indies. The Rohit-led squad defeated Windies by six wickets in the first ODI at the Narendra Modi Stadium. India and West Indies will now lock horns in the second ODI on Wednesday at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer test COVID-19 negative, cleared to train ahead of 2nd ODI vs West Indies

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies by six wickets in the three-match ODI series opener on Sunday (February 6) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. With this, India started their home season on a high and also completed their 1000th outing in the 50-over format on an emphatic note.

With a 1-0 lead, Rohit &amp; Co. will not like to lose momentum and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three ODIs as both sides face each other in the second and penultimate match on Wednesday (February 09), at the same venue.

The likes of KL Rahul (limited-overs vice-captain), Shreyas Iyer and Shikhar Dhawan have been added to the squad. Rahul missed the series opener -- reportedly due to personal reasons -- whereas Iyer and opener Dhawan have recovered from Covid-19 and cleared to train on Tuesday (February 08). It is highly unlikely that the Rahul Dravid-led team management will include both Iyer and Dhawan at one go, however, Rahul is expected to return to the playing XI.

It will be interesting to see who misses out if Rahul is included in the XI. For the Windies, they need to address their batting issues at the earliest whereas a lot depends on Jason Holder and Kemar Roach with the ball. While Alzarri Joseph had a decent outing in the series opener, the inexperienced spin duo of Fabien Allen and Akeal Hosein will be tested by the Indian batters.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shikhar-dhawan-shreyas-iyer-test-covid-19-negative-cleared-to-train-ahead-of-2nd-odi-vs-west-indies-451450">Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer test COVID-19 negative, cleared to train ahead of 2nd ODI vs West Indies</a>

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is India vs West Indies&nbsp;2nd ODI match taking place?

India vs West Indies 2nd ODI is scheduled to take place on February 09, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is India vs West Indies 2nd ODI taking place?

India vs West Indies 2nd ODI&nbsp;will take place at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium,&nbsp;in Ahmedabad.

At what time India vs West Indies 2nd ODI taking place?

India vs West Indies 2nd ODI&nbsp;will kick off at 1:30pm (IST).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-been-happening-for-years-sunil-gavaskar-rubbishes-rift-rumours-between-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-451281">This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli</a>

How to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI live on TV?

India vs West Indies 2nd ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada.&nbsp;

How to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI live streaming?

The India vs West Indies 2nd ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies by six wickets in the three-match ODI series opener on Sunday (February 6) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.

Rohit Sharma-led Team India beat West Indies by six wickets in the three-match ODI series opener on Sunday (February 6) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. With this, India started their home season on a high and also completed their 1000th outing in the 50-over format on an emphatic note. With a 1-0 lead, Rohit & Co. will not like to lose momentum and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three ODIs as both sides face each other in the second and penultimate match on Wednesday (February 09), at the same venue. The likes of KL Rahul (limited-overs vice-captain), Shreyas Iyer and Shikhar Dhawan have been added to the squad. Rahul missed the series opener -- reportedly due to personal reasons -- whereas Iyer and opener Dhawan have recovered from Covid-19 and cleared to train on Tuesday (February 08). It is highly unlikely that the Rahul Dravid-led team management will include both Iyer and Dhawan at one go, however, Rahul is expected to return to the playing XI. It will be interesting to see who misses out if Rahul is included in the XI. For the Windies, they need to address their batting issues at the earliest whereas a lot depends on Jason Holder and Kemar Roach with the ball. While Alzarri Joseph had a decent outing in the series opener, the inexperienced spin duo of Fabien Allen and Akeal Hosein will be tested by the Indian batters. ALSO READ | Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer test COVID-19 negative, cleared to train ahead of 2nd ODI vs West Indies Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match taking place? India vs West Indies 2nd ODI is scheduled to take place on February 09, 2022. Where is India vs West Indies 2nd ODI taking place? India vs West Indies 2nd ODI will take place at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, in Ahmedabad. At what time India vs West Indies 2nd ODI taking place? India vs West Indies 2nd ODI will kick off at 1:30pm (IST). ALSO READ | This has been happening for years: Sunil Gavaskar rubbishes rift rumours between Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli How to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI live on TV? India vs West Indies 2nd ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada. How to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI live streaming? The India vs West Indies 2nd ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.

INDvsWI: When and where to watch India vs West Indies 2nd ODI match - IST time and streaming details

India's limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma is gearing up to lead the team in his first ODI series as full-time captain of the Indian team. India will lock horns with West Indies in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06). Rohit had to miss India's tour of South Africa due to a hamstring injury but has now returned to the squad after recovering fully.

Ahead of the start of the three-match ODI series against Kieron Pollard &amp; Co., the Indian captain answered reporters' questions during a virtual pre-match press conference on Saturday. Rohit spoke on a range of topics from the COVID-19 situation in the Indian team to the team's vision in limited-overs cricket going forward.

Rohit was also asked about the lack of opportunities in the Indian team for the young openers Ruturak Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan. While Kishan was initially not part of the ODI squad and had been picked only in the T20I side, he was selected in the ODI squad after Shikhar Dhawan, Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week.

Rohit came up with a cheeky response to the question and asked the reporter if he wanted him to bench himself and senior opener Dhawan to give chances to the likes of Kishan and Gaikwad. "You are saying I and Shikhar should sit on the bench and give Ruturaj and Ishan chances at the top?"- Rohit responded.

"The top 3 batters in Indian ODI team have done very well. Young batters will get opportunities. Ishan is getting one. There are a lot of matches. The ones who do well will get opportunities. Dhawan did well in SA but is now affected by Covid. Ishan is getting the opportunity now," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-unhappy-with-anil-kumble-for-not-standing-up-for-players-claims-former-bcci-official-450649">Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official</a>

Apart from Gaikwad, Dhawan and Iyer, pacer Navdeep Saini has also tested positive for the virus and is currently in isolation. All four players are likely to not feature in the ODI series against West Indies. Vice-captain KL Rahul, who also plays as an opener, will miss the first ODI due to personal reasons which will see Kishan get an opportunity at the top.

However, Rahul will be available for selection from the second ODI. Mayank Agarwal has also been added to India's ODI squad after COVID-19 cases in the team but the batter is currently in quarantine and will not feature in the first ODI of the series.

India's limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma is gearing up to lead the team in his first ODI series as full-time captain of the Indian team. India will lock horns with West Indies in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06).

India's limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma is gearing up to lead the team in his first ODI series as full-time captain of the Indian team. India will lock horns with West Indies in the series-opener of the three-match ODI series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06). Rohit had to miss India's tour of South Africa due to a hamstring injury but has now returned to the squad after recovering fully. Ahead of the start of the three-match ODI series against Kieron Pollard & Co., the Indian captain answered reporters' questions during a virtual pre-match press conference on Saturday. Rohit spoke on a range of topics from the COVID-19 situation in the Indian team to the team's vision in limited-overs cricket going forward. Rohit was also asked about the lack of opportunities in the Indian team for the young openers Ruturak Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan. While Kishan was initially not part of the ODI squad and had been picked only in the T20I side, he was selected in the ODI squad after Shikhar Dhawan, Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week. Rohit came up with a cheeky response to the question and asked the reporter if he wanted him to bench himself and senior opener Dhawan to give chances to the likes of Kishan and Gaikwad. "You are saying I and Shikhar should sit on the bench and give Ruturaj and Ishan chances at the top?"- Rohit responded. "The top 3 batters in Indian ODI team have done very well. Young batters will get opportunities. Ishan is getting one. There are a lot of matches. The ones who do well will get opportunities. Dhawan did well in SA but is now affected by Covid. Ishan is getting the opportunity now," he added. Also Read: Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official Apart from Gaikwad, Dhawan and Iyer, pacer Navdeep Saini has also tested positive for the virus and is currently in isolation. All four players are likely to not feature in the ODI series against West Indies. Vice-captain KL Rahul, who also plays as an opener, will miss the first ODI due to personal reasons which will see Kishan get an opportunity at the top. However, Rahul will be available for selection from the second ODI. Mayank Agarwal has also been added to India's ODI squad after COVID-19 cases in the team but the batter is currently in quarantine and will not feature in the first ODI of the series.

'You want me & Shikhar Dhawan on bench?': Rohit Sharma stumps reporter after question on Kishan, Gaikwad

The Indian team was dealt with a huge blow ahead of the start of the upcoming ODI series against West Indies as three players tested positive for COVID-19. Openers Ruturaj&nbsp;Gaikwad, Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested positive for the virus and are unlikely to feature in the three-match ODI rubber that gets underway on Sunday (February 06).

With Dhawan and Gaikwad down with COVID-19 and KL Rahul unavailable for selection in the first ODI due to personal reasons, the Indian team had to rope in Ishan Kishan and Mayank Agarwal as reserve openers ahead of the start of the series.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma on Saturday confirmed his opening partner for the first ODI against the Kieron Pollard-led side. Rohit said Kishan will open the batting with him in the series-opener as Mayank is still in quarantine after joining the rest of the Indian squad in Ahmedabad.

"Ishan will open with me. Mayank is still in isolation although he has come into the squad. So, Ishan will open," Rohit told the reporters during the pre-match virtual press conference on Saturday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-unhappy-with-anil-kumble-for-not-standing-up-for-players-claims-former-bcci-official-450649">Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official</a>

Rohit himself will be returning to the field for the Men in Blue after a gap of nearly two months as he had missed India's tour of South Africa due to a hamstring injury. The Hitman has fully recovered and is raring to go in what will be his first ODI series as India's full-time captain.

The first ODI between the two sides will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. While Kishan will open the batting, Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Hooda are likely to feature in the middle-order along with Rishabh Pant.

All-rounder Washington Sundar is also likely to be included in the playing XI given the absence of some of the top batters in the team.

&nbsp;

The Indian team was dealt with a huge blow ahead of the start of the upcoming ODI series against West Indies as three players tested positive for COVID-19. Openers Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested positive for the virus and are unlikely to feature in the three-match ODI rubber that gets underway on Sunday (February 06).

The Indian team was dealt with a huge blow ahead of the start of the upcoming ODI series against West Indies as three players tested positive for COVID-19. Openers Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shikhar Dhawan and Shreyas Iyer have tested positive for the virus and are unlikely to feature in the three-match ODI rubber that gets underway on Sunday (February 06). With Dhawan and Gaikwad down with COVID-19 and KL Rahul unavailable for selection in the first ODI due to personal reasons, the Indian team had to rope in Ishan Kishan and Mayank Agarwal as reserve openers ahead of the start of the series. Indian captain Rohit Sharma on Saturday confirmed his opening partner for the first ODI against the Kieron Pollard-led side. Rohit said Kishan will open the batting with him in the series-opener as Mayank is still in quarantine after joining the rest of the Indian squad in Ahmedabad. "Ishan will open with me. Mayank is still in isolation although he has come into the squad. So, Ishan will open," Rohit told the reporters during the pre-match virtual press conference on Saturday. Also Read: Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official Rohit himself will be returning to the field for the Men in Blue after a gap of nearly two months as he had missed India's tour of South Africa due to a hamstring injury. The Hitman has fully recovered and is raring to go in what will be his first ODI series as India's full-time captain. The first ODI between the two sides will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. While Kishan will open the batting, Suryakumar Yadav and Deepak Hooda are likely to feature in the middle-order along with Rishabh Pant. All-rounder Washington Sundar is also likely to be included in the playing XI given the absence of some of the top batters in the team.

Rohit Sharma confirms his opening partner for first ODI against West Indies in absence of Dhawan, Rahul

The Indian cricket team has been dealt with a huge setback ahead of the start of the upcoming three-match ODI series against West Indies. The Men in Blue will lock horns with Kieron Pollard-led visitors in the first ODI of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06).

Ahead of the series opener, three Indian players have tested positive for COVID-19 and are unlikely to feature in the three ODIs. Opening batters Shikhar Dhawan, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer have all tested positive for coronavirus. Team India is facing a crunch in terms of the opening slot after Dhawan and Gaikwad's positive reports.

Vice-captain KL Rahul could have opened the batting with captain Rohit Sharma in the duo's absence. However, he is set to miss the first ODI due to personal reasons. As per a report in PTI, young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan has been added to India's ODI squad ahead of the start of the series.

Kishan, who also plays as an opener, has reportedly joined the Indian team in Ahmedabad and is likely to be the reserve opener in the squad. There are chances that the left-hander might open the batting with Rohit in the first ODI against West Indies on Sunday.

Apart from Kishan, Mayank Agarwal has also reportedly joined the Indian team in Ahmedabad amid COVID-19 infection to three players. While Kishan was only part of the T20I series against West Indies, Mayank was not a part of either of the two squads for the limited-overs series against West Indies.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/an-achievement-entire-nation-should-be-proud-of-sachin-tendulkar-on-indias-1000th-odi-milestone-450549">An achievement entire nation should be proud of: Sachin Tendulkar on India's 1000th ODI milestone</a>

On Friday, the Indian team had their first training session in Ahmedabad where head coach Rahul Dravid introduced young spinner Ravi Bishnoi to the other members of the Indian team. Captain Rohit took charge of the session and was seen gearing up for his first major ODI assignment as India's captain.

The Indian cricket team has been dealt with a huge setback ahead of the start of the upcoming three-match ODI series against West Indies. The Men in Blue will lock horns with Kieron Pollard-led visitors in the first ODI of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06).

The Indian cricket team has been dealt with a huge setback ahead of the start of the upcoming three-match ODI series against West Indies. The Men in Blue will lock horns with Kieron Pollard-led visitors in the first ODI of the series at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (February 06). Ahead of the series opener, three Indian players have tested positive for COVID-19 and are unlikely to feature in the three ODIs. Opening batters Shikhar Dhawan, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shreyas Iyer have all tested positive for coronavirus. Team India is facing a crunch in terms of the opening slot after Dhawan and Gaikwad's positive reports. Vice-captain KL Rahul could have opened the batting with captain Rohit Sharma in the duo's absence. However, he is set to miss the first ODI due to personal reasons. As per a report in PTI, young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan has been added to India's ODI squad ahead of the start of the series. Kishan, who also plays as an opener, has reportedly joined the Indian team in Ahmedabad and is likely to be the reserve opener in the squad. There are chances that the left-hander might open the batting with Rohit in the first ODI against West Indies on Sunday. Apart from Kishan, Mayank Agarwal has also reportedly joined the Indian team in Ahmedabad amid COVID-19 infection to three players. While Kishan was only part of the T20I series against West Indies, Mayank was not a part of either of the two squads for the limited-overs series against West Indies. Also Read: An achievement entire nation should be proud of: Sachin Tendulkar on India's 1000th ODI milestone On Friday, the Indian team had their first training session in Ahmedabad where head coach Rahul Dravid introduced young spinner Ravi Bishnoi to the other members of the Indian team. Captain Rohit took charge of the session and was seen gearing up for his first major ODI assignment as India's captain.

Ishan Kishan added to India's ODI squad as Dhawan, Gaikwad test positive for COVID-19 - Report

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday (February 01) announced the final list of 590 players who are set to go under the hammer at the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. The IPL mega auction will be conducted in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13 where&nbsp;some of the best players from across the globe will be&nbsp;up for grabs for the ten franchises.

The final list of 590 players consists of 370 Indians and 220 overseas stars. There are 228 capped players, 355 uncapped players and 7 players from associate nations who will be going under the hammer at the IPL mega auction this month. The players have been divided across seven different categories as per their base price.

The players who have opted for the highest base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million) are in the top bracket followed by those in the brackets of Rs 1.5 crore (INR 15 million), Rs 1 crore (INR 10 million), Rs 75 lakh (INR 7.5 million), Rs 50 lakh (INR 5 million), Rs 40 lakh (INR 4 million) and Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million).

While the uncapped players, who are yet to make their international debut, can opt for a maximum base price of Rs 40 lakh (INR 4 million), a capped player is free to put his name under any of the seven brackets. Some of the top players from around the world, including the ten marquee stars, have opted for the highest base price of Rs 2 crore.

The likes of former Delhi Capitals skipper Shreyas Iyer, former Sunrisers Hyderabad captain David Warner, senior India spinner R Ashwin, South Africa's premier pacer Kagiso Rabada among others are part of the marquee set of ten players and are all under the base price of Rs 2 crore. India's explosive young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan is not among marquee names but is one of the players to watch out for in the Rs 2 crore category.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/370-indians-220-overseas-stars-up-for-grabs-complete-list-of-590-players-for-ipl-2022-mega-auction-449547">370 Indians, 220 overseas stars up for grabs: Complete list of 590 players for IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

Here is the complete list of 48 players with base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million) at IPL mega auction:

Indians - Ravichandran Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Shami, Devdutt Padikkal, Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa, Krunal Pandya, Harshal Patel, Ishan Kishan, Ambati Rayudu, Deepak Chahar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Dinesh Karthik

Overseas - &nbsp;Trent Boult, Pat Cummins, Quinton de Kock, Faf du Plessis, Kagiso Rabada, David Warner, Steve Smith, Shakib Al Hasan, Dwayne Bravo, Jason Roy, Sam Billings, Matthew Wade, Lockie Ferguson, Josh Hazlewood, Mustafizur Rahman, Mark Wood, Imran Tahir, Mujeeb ur Rahman, Adam Zampa, Evin Lewis, Jofra Archer, James Vince, Marchant De Lange, Saqib Mahmood, Ashton Agar, Craig Overton, David Willey, Chris Jordan, Adil Rashid, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Mitchell Marsh

 
&nbsp;

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday (February 01) announced the final list of 590 players who are set to go under the hammer at the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday (February 01) announced the final list of 590 players who are set to go under the hammer at the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. The IPL mega auction will be conducted in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13 where some of the best players from across the globe will be up for grabs for the ten franchises. The final list of 590 players consists of 370 Indians and 220 overseas stars. There are 228 capped players, 355 uncapped players and 7 players from associate nations who will be going under the hammer at the IPL mega auction this month. The players have been divided across seven different categories as per their base price. The players who have opted for the highest base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million) are in the top bracket followed by those in the brackets of Rs 1.5 crore (INR 15 million), Rs 1 crore (INR 10 million), Rs 75 lakh (INR 7.5 million), Rs 50 lakh (INR 5 million), Rs 40 lakh (INR 4 million) and Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million). While the uncapped players, who are yet to make their international debut, can opt for a maximum base price of Rs 40 lakh (INR 4 million), a capped player is free to put his name under any of the seven brackets. Some of the top players from around the world, including the ten marquee stars, have opted for the highest base price of Rs 2 crore. The likes of former Delhi Capitals skipper Shreyas Iyer, former Sunrisers Hyderabad captain David Warner, senior India spinner R Ashwin, South Africa's premier pacer Kagiso Rabada among others are part of the marquee set of ten players and are all under the base price of Rs 2 crore. India's explosive young wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan is not among marquee names but is one of the players to watch out for in the Rs 2 crore category. Also Read: 370 Indians, 220 overseas stars up for grabs: Complete list of 590 players for IPL 2022 mega auction Here is the complete list of 48 players with base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million) at IPL mega auction: Indians - Ravichandran Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Shami, Devdutt Padikkal, Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa, Krunal Pandya, Harshal Patel, Ishan Kishan, Ambati Rayudu, Deepak Chahar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Dinesh Karthik Overseas - Trent Boult, Pat Cummins, Quinton de Kock, Faf du Plessis, Kagiso Rabada, David Warner, Steve Smith, Shakib Al Hasan, Dwayne Bravo, Jason Roy, Sam Billings, Matthew Wade, Lockie Ferguson, Josh Hazlewood, Mustafizur Rahman, Mark Wood, Imran Tahir, Mujeeb ur Rahman, Adam Zampa, Evin Lewis, Jofra Archer, James Vince, Marchant De Lange, Saqib Mahmood, Ashton Agar, Craig Overton, David Willey, Chris Jordan, Adil Rashid, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Mitchell Marsh

Ishan Kishan to Pat Cummins: Final list of players with highest base price of Rs 2 crore for IPL mega auction

All eyes are now on the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mega auction, which is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. While the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad -- will look to build their team from scratch, the other eight&nbsp;teams will revamp after releasing some of their marquee players.

Prior to the mega auction proceedings, which will be held in Bengaluru, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra shared his thoughts and made a bold claim while predicting the 'most expensive opener'. The likes of David Warner, Jonny Bairstow, Shikhar Dhawan, Quinton de Kock, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, etc. will go under the hammer. Chopra believes Ishan will earn a whopping amount in the forthcoming two-day auction affair.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-opens-up-on-delhi-franchises-decision-to-choose-pradeep-sangwan-over-him-in-maiden-ipl-auction-449482">Kohli opens up on Delhi franchise's decision to choose Pradeep Sangwan over him in maiden IPL auction</a>

"In my opinion, Ishan Kishan will be the most expensive opener at the IPL 2022 Auction. He could actually be the most expensive player, one out of him or Shreyas Iyer could be the most expensive. I won't be surprised if it is Ishan Kishan," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

He further stressed on the role of the openers and said, "The openers make or break the game. They have the ability because they have a lot of time. The problem in T20 is that you don't have time, it gets over very quickly. In such a case if you are an opener, you can decide the tempo of the match. KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Quinton de Kock, Shikhar Dhawan - you have seen a lot of players like that."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-disappointing-to-lose-shubman-gill-coach-brendon-mccullum-explains-why-kkr-released-star-batter-448916">'It was disappointing to lose Shubman Gill': Coach Brendon McCullum explains why KKR released star batter</a>

It will be interesting to see if Ishan goes for big in the auction or not. In IPL 2020, the then Mumbai Indians (MI) keeper-batter Ishan had amassed 516 runs at a strike-rate of&nbsp;145.76 with four&nbsp;half-centuries. While he didn't have a great run in IPL 2021, he is still expected to attract big money for his power-hitting and fearless style of play.

Chopra further also stated that while Bairstow and Warner will also fetch big amounts, he named Quinton de Kock as the most expensive opener among foreign players. "Ishan Kishan, Devdutt Padikkal, Quinton de Kock - I am saying the most expensive overseas opener, David Warner, Chris Lynn, Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow - a lot of money is going to be spent. Ambati Rayudu can open, Shikhar Dhawan, Robin Uthappa, Faf du Plessis - there are a lot of openers who will present themselves as options," he concluded.

All eyes are now on the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mega auction, which is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. While the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad -- will look to build their team from scratch, the other eight teams will revamp after releasing some of their marquee players.

All eyes are now on the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 mega auction, which is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru. While the two new IPL franchises -- Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad -- will look to build their team from scratch, the other eight teams will revamp after releasing some of their marquee players. Prior to the mega auction proceedings, which will be held in Bengaluru, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra shared his thoughts and made a bold claim while predicting the 'most expensive opener'. The likes of David Warner, Jonny Bairstow, Shikhar Dhawan, Quinton de Kock, Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan, etc. will go under the hammer. Chopra believes Ishan will earn a whopping amount in the forthcoming two-day auction affair. ALSO READ | Kohli opens up on Delhi franchise's decision to choose Pradeep Sangwan over him in maiden IPL auction "In my opinion, Ishan Kishan will be the most expensive opener at the IPL 2022 Auction. He could actually be the most expensive player, one out of him or Shreyas Iyer could be the most expensive. I won't be surprised if it is Ishan Kishan," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. He further stressed on the role of the openers and said, "The openers make or break the game. They have the ability because they have a lot of time. The problem in T20 is that you don't have time, it gets over very quickly. In such a case if you are an opener, you can decide the tempo of the match. KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Quinton de Kock, Shikhar Dhawan - you have seen a lot of players like that." ALSO READ | 'It was disappointing to lose Shubman Gill': Coach Brendon McCullum explains why KKR released star batter It will be interesting to see if Ishan goes for big in the auction or not. In IPL 2020, the then Mumbai Indians (MI) keeper-batter Ishan had amassed 516 runs at a strike-rate of 145.76 with four half-centuries. While he didn't have a great run in IPL 2021, he is still expected to attract big money for his power-hitting and fearless style of play. Chopra further also stated that while Bairstow and Warner will also fetch big amounts, he named Quinton de Kock as the most expensive opener among foreign players. "Ishan Kishan, Devdutt Padikkal, Quinton de Kock - I am saying the most expensive overseas opener, David Warner, Chris Lynn, Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow - a lot of money is going to be spent. Ambati Rayudu can open, Shikhar Dhawan, Robin Uthappa, Faf du Plessis - there are a lot of openers who will present themselves as options," he concluded.

Not Warner or Dhawan! Chopra predicts Indian youngster as 'most expensive opener' in IPL 2022 auction

The Indian Premier League (IPL) on Tuesday (February 01) released the complete list of 590 players who are set to go under the hammer at the upcoming IPL 2022 mega auction. The showpiece event is scheduled to be held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13 where top players from across the globe will be hoping to be picked by one of ten IPL franchises.

The complete list of 590 cricketers consists of some of the biggest names in world cricket. 228 out of the 590 players are capped players while 355 are uncapped. 7 players from associate nations have also been included in the final list ahead of the mega auction where all ten teams will be focused on building strong squads.

The list released by IPL also mentions the base price of every player and the set in which they will be going under the hammer at the mega auction. Ten out of the 590 players have been placed in the marquee category. The marquee set consists of some of the prominent Indian names and overseas stars.

Former Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) captain David Warner and former Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper Shreyas Iyer among potential captaincy candidates who are part of the marquee set. Besides the duo, the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Faf du Plessis, R Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan and Trent Boult are also part of the marquee set.

Here is the complete list of ten players in the marquee set for IPL 2022 mega auction:

David Warner, R Ashwin, Trent Boult, Pat Cummins, Quinton de Kock, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Kagiso Rabada, Faf du Plessis and Mohammed Shami

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-opens-up-on-delhi-franchises-decision-to-choose-pradeep-sangwan-over-him-in-maiden-ipl-auction-449482">Kohli opens up on Delhi franchise's decision to choose Pradeep Sangwan over him in maiden IPL auction</a>

All ten players in the marquee category have opted for the base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million) at the mega auction. All ten teams will be looking to secure the services of some of these top players who fit in their plans ahead of the new season.

There are a total of 48 players who have opted for the highest base price of Rs 2 crore while 20 players have chosen the secon-highest bracket of Rs 1.5 crore (INR 15 million) at the mega auction.

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The Indian Premier League (IPL) on Tuesday (February 01) released the complete list of 590 players who are set to go under the hammer at the upcoming IPL 2022 mega auction.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) on Tuesday (February 01) released the complete list of 590 players who are set to go under the hammer at the upcoming IPL 2022 mega auction. The showpiece event is scheduled to be held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13 where top players from across the globe will be hoping to be picked by one of ten IPL franchises. The complete list of 590 cricketers consists of some of the biggest names in world cricket. 228 out of the 590 players are capped players while 355 are uncapped. 7 players from associate nations have also been included in the final list ahead of the mega auction where all ten teams will be focused on building strong squads. The list released by IPL also mentions the base price of every player and the set in which they will be going under the hammer at the mega auction. Ten out of the 590 players have been placed in the marquee category. The marquee set consists of some of the prominent Indian names and overseas stars. Former Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) captain David Warner and former Delhi Capitals (DC) skipper Shreyas Iyer among potential captaincy candidates who are part of the marquee set. Besides the duo, the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Faf du Plessis, R Ashwin, Shikhar Dhawan and Trent Boult are also part of the marquee set. Here is the complete list of ten players in the marquee set for IPL 2022 mega auction: David Warner, R Ashwin, Trent Boult, Pat Cummins, Quinton de Kock, Shikhar Dhawan, Shreyas Iyer, Kagiso Rabada, Faf du Plessis and Mohammed Shami Also Read: Kohli opens up on Delhi franchise's decision to choose Pradeep Sangwan over him in maiden IPL auction All ten players in the marquee category have opted for the base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million) at the mega auction. All ten teams will be looking to secure the services of some of these top players who fit in their plans ahead of the new season. There are a total of 48 players who have opted for the highest base price of Rs 2 crore while 20 players have chosen the secon-highest bracket of Rs 1.5 crore (INR 15 million) at the mega auction.

Warner, Iyer, Rabada and 7 others part of marquee set at IPL 2022 mega auction, see full list

The BCCI announced 18-member ODI and T20I squads for Team India's white-ball series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies on Wednesday (January 26). As it was reported earlier that Rohit Sharma had passed the fitness test at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) Bengaluru, Hitman has returned to the squad after missing the entire South Africa tour. Rohit was appointed as the white-ball captain in early December 2021, however, he missed leading the side in the three ODIs in South Africa due to hamstring injury. Nonetheless, he has returned as Rohit will gear up to play his first ODI series since early 2021.

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, however, remained unfit and couldn't return&nbsp;to the line-up, failing to recovering from his knee injury.&nbsp;Selectors didn't include Hardik Panya as well, in any of the squads, as they aren't fully confident of his ability to deliver as an all-rounder due to fitness concerns. R Ashwin, meanwhile, is not in any squads&nbsp;for being unavailable for selection and the offie is undergoing treatment. Bhuvneshwar Kumar held onto his T20I spot&nbsp;but isn't in the scheme of things for ODIs.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-is-one-of-the-sharpest-cricket-minds-greg-chappell-heaps-praise-on-former-indian-captain-447839">MS Dhoni is one of the sharpest cricket minds: Greg Chappell heaps praise on former Indian captain</a>

In addition, there are some big updates with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami being rested. Limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul will be available from the second ODI onwards whereas spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel will feature only in the T20Is.

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Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami have been rested from the series. 
KL Rahul will be available from 2nd ODI onwards. 
R Jadeja is undergoing his final stage of recovery post his knee injury and will not be available for the ODIs and T20Is. 
Axar Patel will be available for the T20Is.
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1486385548063555584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The biggest talking point is the addition of some domestic and IPL star players such as Deepak Hooda and Ravi Bishnoi. Hooda, Harshal Patel are&nbsp;named in the ODI and T20I squad, respectively,&nbsp;whereas Bishnoi is part of both ODIs and T20Is. Kuldeep Yadav also makes a return to the ODI setup. Pacers Md Siraj and&nbsp;Avesh Khan&nbsp;have been backed for both the white-balls series whereas Prasidh Krishna is part of the 50-over squad.&nbsp;Nonetheless, there was no room for Himachal's star Rishi Dhawan, who has had a stellar run in the domestic circuit of late.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/good-news-for-team-india-fans-rohit-sharma-clears-fitness-test-ahead-of-west-indies-series-report-447797">Good news for Team India fans! Rohit Sharma clears fitness test ahead of West Indies series: Report</a>

India will lock horns with West Indies in three ODIs and equal number of T20Is in early February,&nbsp;starting on the 6th. The ODIs will be held in Ahmedabad and the T20Is will take place in Kolkata. The BCCI had recently revised the schedule, to not have the ODIs clash with the IPL 2022 mega auction, and also narrowed down the total venues from six to two cities due to Covid-19 crisis.

Squad for WI series:

ODI squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Capt), KL Rahul (vc), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shikhar, Virat Kohli, Surya Kumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wk), D Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan

T20I squad: Rohit Sharma(Capt),KL Rahul (vc),Ishan Kishan,Virat Kohli,Shreyas Iyer,Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk),Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel

The BCCI announced 18-member ODI and T20I squads for Team India's white-ball series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies on Wednesday (January 26). As it was reported earlier that Rohit Sharma had passed the fitness test at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) Bengaluru, Hitman has returned to the squad after missing the entire South Africa tour.

The BCCI announced 18-member ODI and T20I squads for Team India's white-ball series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies on Wednesday (January 26). As it was reported earlier that Rohit Sharma had passed the fitness test at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) Bengaluru, Hitman has returned to the squad after missing the entire South Africa tour. Rohit was appointed as the white-ball captain in early December 2021, however, he missed leading the side in the three ODIs in South Africa due to hamstring injury. Nonetheless, he has returned as Rohit will gear up to play his first ODI series since early 2021. All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, however, remained unfit and couldn't return to the line-up, failing to recovering from his knee injury. Selectors didn't include Hardik Panya as well, in any of the squads, as they aren't fully confident of his ability to deliver as an all-rounder due to fitness concerns. R Ashwin, meanwhile, is not in any squads for being unavailable for selection and the offie is undergoing treatment. Bhuvneshwar Kumar held onto his T20I spot but isn't in the scheme of things for ODIs. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni is one of the sharpest cricket minds: Greg Chappell heaps praise on former Indian captain In addition, there are some big updates with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami being rested. Limited-overs vice-captain KL Rahul will be available from the second ODI onwards whereas spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel will feature only in the T20Is. Jasprit Bumrah, Mohd. Shami have been rested from the series. KL Rahul will be available from 2nd ODI onwards. R Jadeja is undergoing his final stage of recovery post his knee injury and will not be available for the ODIs and T20Is. Axar Patel will be available for the T20Is. — BCCI (@BCCI) January 26, 2022 × The biggest talking point is the addition of some domestic and IPL star players such as Deepak Hooda and Ravi Bishnoi. Hooda, Harshal Patel are named in the ODI and T20I squad, respectively, whereas Bishnoi is part of both ODIs and T20Is. Kuldeep Yadav also makes a return to the ODI setup. Pacers Md Siraj and Avesh Khan have been backed for both the white-balls series whereas Prasidh Krishna is part of the 50-over squad. Nonetheless, there was no room for Himachal's star Rishi Dhawan, who has had a stellar run in the domestic circuit of late. ALSO READ | Good news for Team India fans! Rohit Sharma clears fitness test ahead of West Indies series: Report India will lock horns with West Indies in three ODIs and equal number of T20Is in early February, starting on the 6th. The ODIs will be held in Ahmedabad and the T20Is will take place in Kolkata. The BCCI had recently revised the schedule, to not have the ODIs clash with the IPL 2022 mega auction, and also narrowed down the total venues from six to two cities due to Covid-19 crisis. Squad for WI series: ODI squad: Rohit Sharma (Capt), KL Rahul (vc), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shikhar, Virat Kohli, Surya Kumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Deepak Hooda, Rishabh Pant (wk), D Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Mohd. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan T20I squad: Rohit Sharma(Capt),KL Rahul (vc),Ishan Kishan,Virat Kohli,Shreyas Iyer,Surya Kumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk),Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Ravi Bishnoi, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Washington Sundar, Mohd. Siraj, Bhuvneshwar, Avesh Khan, Harshal Patel

BCCI announces Rohit-led India squad for WI series; Jasprit Bumrah, Md Shami rested, Jadeja misses out

From David Warner to R Ashwin: Top five players at highest base price ahead of IPL 2022 mega auction

Shikhar Dhawan believes that every lean patch in his career has made him "stronger" but it is his clarity of mind and calmness that has enabled him to ride over the rough times.

The oldest player in the Indian ODI set-up, there were lot of talks about Dhawan's poor form in domestic cricket but as it has been with the 36-year-old, he was back with a bang in his favourite blue shirt with a top-score of 79 off 84 balls, albeit in a losing cause in the first ODI against South Africa.

"I don't listen to the media or don't read newspapers or watch news, that way I don't take all that information," Dhawan said when asked how he keeps himself way from negativity.

For him, neither the bad patch has affected him for the first time nor is it going to be the last time but one needs to have the self belief in one's abilities.

"I have full confidence in myself that what my game is and I have clarity on that and I stay quite calm. And this is part of life, this happens in life, everyone's life has ups and downs, so it is nothing new and happening for the first time or for the last time in my career or my life, so it is alright, that only makes me stronger," said Dhawan.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/bcci-president-ganguly-wanted-to-issue-showcause-notice-to-kohli-following-his-explosive-presser-report-446249">BCCI President Ganguly wanted to issue showcause notice to Kohli following his explosive presser - Report</a>

Dhawan came into the series after a poor run of Vijay Hazare Trophy scores --- 0, 12, 14, 18, 12 -- in five List A games. But if one carefully looks at Dhawan's career, just when there have been calls to drop him, he has invariably responded with a big knock like he did in the first ODI, where he looked the best batter in his side.

"These talks (to drop him) always are there and I am used to it and I just know how to give my best and I always make sure that my preparation is quite good and process is good and then I leave it on God. 
"...And I know that with my experience and my self-confidence, I'll do good and I am happy that I did well today," the flamboyant opener quipped.

His endeavour is to remain fit and healthy for the last part of his career. 
"With my experience I'll keep scoring lots of runs and yeah till the time I keep playing cricket I stay healthy and happy and I score lot of runs," he said knowing well that he is reaching the business end of his career. 
 
Not an easy wicket to play shots in middle overs 
 
Dhawan's assessment of his team's 31-run defeat against South Africa was its struggle to keep the scoreboard ticking in the middle overs as the pitch got slower.

"We had a good start and I feel the wicket was slow, it was offering a bit of turn as well. So, when you are chasing (around) 300 runs, when the middle-order comes to bat, it is not easy to play shots.

"Our wickets fell in a heap and that had an impact on us as a batting unit," Dhawan reasoned.

Dhawan also praised the South African duo of Temba Bavuma (110 off 143) and Rassie van der Dussen (129 not out off 96) for their well crafted hundreds that laid the platform for a convincing win.

Asked what was the turning point of the game, he said, "I feel both the South African batsmen (batters) batted quite well and they took the innings quite deep." 
 
Younger batters need to mould game as per demands 
 
Dhawan believes that handling varied match situations comes with experience and the likes of Rishabh Pant, the two Iyers -- Shreyas and Venkatesh -- will understand better as they play more games.

Read Also <a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/sri-lanka-tour-of-australia-lankans-to-play-two-t20is-in-sydney-in-revised-series-schedule-446208">|&nbsp;Sri Lanka tour of Australia: Lankans to play two T20Is in Sydney in revised series schedule</a>

"This (discussion) we have that play according to the situation and what the situation demands, keep the team ahead and an individual's game is important," he said.

"...But at the same time be practical, how can you mould your game, so that when a partnership is needed, then it is necessary, all those things and I feel these get refined with experience and time," noted the Delhi batter.

The southpaw was again asked how the middle order problems can be rectified, to which he said, "See our thought process as a unit or a team is that we are building our team for the 2023 World Cup, so there are going to be a few hiccups here and there, which is fine and we as a team analyze how we can get better." 
 
Rohit's absence is a factor 
 
Dhawan believes that once regular white ball captain Rohit Sharma is back in the mix, the team will be stronger and the middle-order will also play better cricket.

"Now Rohit (Sharma) isn't there, once he comes back, an experienced player will come in and the middle-order (Rahul will go down) will get stronger. So, the youngsters who are getting a chance, they will gain from this experience. We are looking at bigger picture," he said.

Shikhar Dhawan believes that every lean patch in his career has made him "stronger" but it is his clarity of mind and calmness that has enabled him to ride over the rough times.

Shikhar Dhawan believes that every lean patch in his career has made him "stronger" but it is his clarity of mind and calmness that has enabled him to ride over the rough times. The oldest player in the Indian ODI set-up, there were lot of talks about Dhawan's poor form in domestic cricket but as it has been with the 36-year-old, he was back with a bang in his favourite blue shirt with a top-score of 79 off 84 balls, albeit in a losing cause in the first ODI against South Africa. "I don't listen to the media or don't read newspapers or watch news, that way I don't take all that information," Dhawan said when asked how he keeps himself way from negativity. For him, neither the bad patch has affected him for the first time nor is it going to be the last time but one needs to have the self belief in one's abilities. "I have full confidence in myself that what my game is and I have clarity on that and I stay quite calm. And this is part of life, this happens in life, everyone's life has ups and downs, so it is nothing new and happening for the first time or for the last time in my career or my life, so it is alright, that only makes me stronger," said Dhawan. Read Also | BCCI President Ganguly wanted to issue showcause notice to Kohli following his explosive presser - Report Dhawan came into the series after a poor run of Vijay Hazare Trophy scores --- 0, 12, 14, 18, 12 -- in five List A games. But if one carefully looks at Dhawan's career, just when there have been calls to drop him, he has invariably responded with a big knock like he did in the first ODI, where he looked the best batter in his side. "These talks (to drop him) always are there and I am used to it and I just know how to give my best and I always make sure that my preparation is quite good and process is good and then I leave it on God. "...And I know that with my experience and my self-confidence, I'll do good and I am happy that I did well today," the flamboyant opener quipped. His endeavour is to remain fit and healthy for the last part of his career. "With my experience I'll keep scoring lots of runs and yeah till the time I keep playing cricket I stay healthy and happy and I score lot of runs," he said knowing well that he is reaching the business end of his career. Not an easy wicket to play shots in middle overs Dhawan's assessment of his team's 31-run defeat against South Africa was its struggle to keep the scoreboard ticking in the middle overs as the pitch got slower. "We had a good start and I feel the wicket was slow, it was offering a bit of turn as well. So, when you are chasing (around) 300 runs, when the middle-order comes to bat, it is not easy to play shots. "Our wickets fell in a heap and that had an impact on us as a batting unit," Dhawan reasoned. Dhawan also praised the South African duo of Temba Bavuma (110 off 143) and Rassie van der Dussen (129 not out off 96) for their well crafted hundreds that laid the platform for a convincing win. Asked what was the turning point of the game, he said, "I feel both the South African batsmen (batters) batted quite well and they took the innings quite deep." Younger batters need to mould game as per demands Dhawan believes that handling varied match situations comes with experience and the likes of Rishabh Pant, the two Iyers -- Shreyas and Venkatesh -- will understand better as they play more games. Read Also | Sri Lanka tour of Australia: Lankans to play two T20Is in Sydney in revised series schedule "This (discussion) we have that play according to the situation and what the situation demands, keep the team ahead and an individual's game is important," he said. "...But at the same time be practical, how can you mould your game, so that when a partnership is needed, then it is necessary, all those things and I feel these get refined with experience and time," noted the Delhi batter. The southpaw was again asked how the middle order problems can be rectified, to which he said, "See our thought process as a unit or a team is that we are building our team for the 2023 World Cup, so there are going to be a few hiccups here and there, which is fine and we as a team analyze how we can get better." Rohit's absence is a factor Dhawan believes that once regular white ball captain Rohit Sharma is back in the mix, the team will be stronger and the middle-order will also play better cricket. "Now Rohit (Sharma) isn't there, once he comes back, an experienced player will come in and the middle-order (Rahul will go down) will get stronger. So, the youngsters who are getting a chance, they will gain from this experience. We are looking at bigger picture," he said.

Not happening for first or last time in my career: Shikhar Dhawan on speculation over his ODI spot

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday (January 20), announced the Men's ODI team of 2021. Pakistan's Babar Azam has been named as the captain of the line-up, which includes no player from India, England and Australia. On Wednesday, the ICC had also shared the Men's T20I team of 2021, which didn't comprise a single Indian and had Babar as the captain.

Talking about the ODI XI, Ireland's Paul Stirling made the cut. He ended the calendar year with&nbsp;885 runs including 3 hundreds. South Africa's Janneman Malan was named the second opener with Babar at No. 3&nbsp;whereas Fakhar Zaman took the No. 4 spot. The rest of the middle-order comprises Rassie van der Dussen, who played a match-winning 129* versus India in the first ODI on Wednesday (January 19), along with Bangladeshi pair Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. Apart from Shakib, Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga and Ireland's Simi Singh are the two all-rounders whereas Mustafizur Rahman and Dushmantha Chameera were the two pacers included.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-t20i-team-of-2021-babar-azam-leads-star-studded-xi-no-team-india-player-makes-the-cut-446012">ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut</a>

Babar had a great run in 2021, being named as the white-ball captain altogether by the ICC. Under Babar, Pakistan won the ODI series in South Africa and also reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE.

The list had no mention of some of the big-ticket players, such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Jos Buttler, David Warner, Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, etc. For the unversed, this was the first time since 2004 that no Indian was named in the Men's ODI Team of the Year.&nbsp;

While no Indian featured in the team, it is to be noted that the senior men's team played only a handful of ODIs in 2021 (same goes for other big teams as well). India played six ODIs -- winning four of them -- with many regulars missing the 50-over leg versus Sri Lanka, in the island nation, in mid-2021.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-test-team-of-2021-rohit-sharma-rishabh-pant-and-r-ashwin-included-in-star-studded-line-up-446190">ICC Men's Test team of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant and R Ashwin included in star-studded line-up</a>

ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year:&nbsp;Babar Azam (captain), Paul Stirling, Janneman Malan, Fakhar Zaman, Rassie van der Dussen, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Wanidu Hasaranga, Mustafizur Rahman, Simi Singh, Dushmantha Chameera.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday (January 20), announced the Men's ODI team of 2021. Pakistan's Babar Azam has been named as the captain of the line-up, which includes no player from India, England and Australia.

The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Thursday (January 20), announced the Men's ODI team of 2021. Pakistan's Babar Azam has been named as the captain of the line-up, which includes no player from India, England and Australia. On Wednesday, the ICC had also shared the Men's T20I team of 2021, which didn't comprise a single Indian and had Babar as the captain. Talking about the ODI XI, Ireland's Paul Stirling made the cut. He ended the calendar year with 885 runs including 3 hundreds. South Africa's Janneman Malan was named the second opener with Babar at No. 3 whereas Fakhar Zaman took the No. 4 spot. The rest of the middle-order comprises Rassie van der Dussen, who played a match-winning 129* versus India in the first ODI on Wednesday (January 19), along with Bangladeshi pair Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. Apart from Shakib, Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga and Ireland's Simi Singh are the two all-rounders whereas Mustafizur Rahman and Dushmantha Chameera were the two pacers included. ALSO READ | ICC Men's T20I team of 2021: Babar Azam leads star-studded XI, no Team India player makes the cut Babar had a great run in 2021, being named as the white-ball captain altogether by the ICC. Under Babar, Pakistan won the ODI series in South Africa and also reached the semi-finals of the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. The list had no mention of some of the big-ticket players, such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Jos Buttler, David Warner, Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, etc. For the unversed, this was the first time since 2004 that no Indian was named in the Men's ODI Team of the Year. While no Indian featured in the team, it is to be noted that the senior men's team played only a handful of ODIs in 2021 (same goes for other big teams as well). India played six ODIs -- winning four of them -- with many regulars missing the 50-over leg versus Sri Lanka, in the island nation, in mid-2021. ALSO READ | ICC Men's Test team of 2021: Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant and R Ashwin included in star-studded line-up ICC Men's ODI Team of the Year: Babar Azam (captain), Paul Stirling, Janneman Malan, Fakhar Zaman, Rassie van der Dussen, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim (wicketkeeper), Wanidu Hasaranga, Mustafizur Rahman, Simi Singh, Dushmantha Chameera.

ICC Men's ODI team of 2021: No Team India player makes the cut in Babar Azam-led XI

After the end of the riveting Test series, India and South Africa will face each other in a three-match ODI series in the African nation, starting on January 19 at Boland Park, Paarl. The series will see India return to the 50-over format after a long time. The last ODI series for the Men in Blue was in Sri Lanka, in July 2021, where a second-stringed Shikhar Dhawan-led side beat the Islanders.&nbsp;

The last time both sides faced each other in ODIs in the rainbow nation led to the visitors winning 5-1. Since then, India and South Africa haven't faced each other in the shorter&nbsp;format. During SA's tour of India in late 2019, the African nation had played three T20Is and equal number of Tests. Their only face-off in the 50-over format was during the 2019 ODI World Cup.

The ODI series will present a huge opportunity for KL Rahul to bolster his chances of taking over as the Test captain, following Kohli's resignation. Rahul is leading the national side in the absence of limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma, ruled out due to injury. He will have the assistance of Kohli, Dhawan, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, etc.

On the other hand, the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas will be bolstered by the presence of white-ball specialists, such as David Miller, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi. They will like to carry on in a similar stead after having won the three Tests, 2-1, despite a 1-0 lead.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-1st-odi-prediction-who-will-win-series-opener-between-kl-rahul-led-india-and-south-africa-445719">IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa?</a>

Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc.&nbsp;

When is South Africa vs India 1st ODI match taking place?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI is scheduled to take place on January 19, 2022.&nbsp;

Where is South Africa vs India 1st ODI taking place?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI&nbsp;will take place at the Boland Park, Paarl in South Africa.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-already-set-a-standard-for-india-rahul-speaks-highly-of-former-captain-kohli-ahead-of-sa-odis-445743">He has already set a standard for India: Rahul speaks highly of former captain Kohli ahead of SA ODIs</a>

At what time South Africa vs India 1st ODI taking place?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI&nbsp;will kick off at&nbsp;2:00pm (IST).

How to watch South Africa vs India 1st ODI&nbsp;live on TV?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada.&nbsp;

How to watch South Africa vs India 1st ODI live streaming?

South Africa vs India 1st ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.&nbsp;

After the end of the riveting Test series, India and South Africa will face each other in a three-match ODI series in the African nation, starting on January 19 at Boland Park, Paarl.

After the end of the riveting Test series, India and South Africa will face each other in a three-match ODI series in the African nation, starting on January 19 at Boland Park, Paarl. The series will see India return to the 50-over format after a long time. The last ODI series for the Men in Blue was in Sri Lanka, in July 2021, where a second-stringed Shikhar Dhawan-led side beat the Islanders. The last time both sides faced each other in ODIs in the rainbow nation led to the visitors winning 5-1. Since then, India and South Africa haven't faced each other in the shorter format. During SA's tour of India in late 2019, the African nation had played three T20Is and equal number of Tests. Their only face-off in the 50-over format was during the 2019 ODI World Cup. The ODI series will present a huge opportunity for KL Rahul to bolster his chances of taking over as the Test captain, following Kohli's resignation. Rahul is leading the national side in the absence of limited-overs skipper Rohit Sharma, ruled out due to injury. He will have the assistance of Kohli, Dhawan, R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, etc. On the other hand, the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas will be bolstered by the presence of white-ball specialists, such as David Miller, Wayne Parnell, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi. They will like to carry on in a similar stead after having won the three Tests, 2-1, despite a 1-0 lead. ALSO READ | IND vs SA, 1st ODI prediction: Who will win series opener between KL Rahul-led India and South Africa? Here is everything you need to know about the match - date, IST, streaming details, etc. When is South Africa vs India 1st ODI match taking place? South Africa vs India 1st ODI is scheduled to take place on January 19, 2022. Where is South Africa vs India 1st ODI taking place? South Africa vs India 1st ODI will take place at the Boland Park, Paarl in South Africa. ALSO READ | He has already set a standard for India: Rahul speaks highly of former captain Kohli ahead of SA ODIs At what time South Africa vs India 1st ODI taking place? South Africa vs India 1st ODI will kick off at 2:00pm (IST). How to watch South Africa vs India 1st ODI live on TV? South Africa vs India 1st ODI will be aired live on Star Sports channels - Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 Hindi HD, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Telugu, and Star Sports 1 Kannada. How to watch South Africa vs India 1st ODI live streaming? South Africa vs India 1st ODI will be available to watch online/streaming on the Disney+ Hotstar App and the website.

INDvsSA: When and where to watch India vs South Africa 1st ODI match - IST time and streaming details

From Rahul to Hardik: 6 players who can be picked by new teams and not enter IPL 2022 auction pool

The Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction is all set to be a grand affair this year with as many as ten teams battling it out for a number of top players who will be going under the hammer at the showpiece event. While the existing eight teams have already revealed their final retentions, the two new franchises - Lucknow and Ahmedabad can make three picks each from the pool of non-retained players.

Barring the players picked by Ahmedabad and Lucknow in the draft, all others will be heading to the mega auction. Several big Indian names, who have not been retained by their respective IPL sides will be up for grabs at the mega auction. Here we take a look at five Indian stars who are likely to fetch a huge amount at the IPL 2022 mega player auction.

KL Rahul&nbsp;

One of the favourites to captain the Lucknow IPL franchise in the 2022 season, former Punjab Kings skipper KL Rahul is unlikely to head into the auction pool as he is expected to be picked in the players draft ahead of the event. Rahul is reportedly set to join Lucknow and has been offered a staggering contract.

He has been one of the most consistent performers in the IPL over the last few seasons and has been among the runs. Rahul was recently appointed as India's limited-overs vice-captain and is seen as a future leader of the national team as well. He has so far played 94 IPL matches and has an impressive 3273 runs to his name at an average of over 47.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/faf-du-plessis-to-ishan-kishan-5-players-who-might-be-bought-back-by-their-ipl-franchise-at-mega-auction-436140">Faf du Plessis to Ishan Kishan: 5 players who might be bought back by their IPL franchise at mega auction</a>

Hardik Pandya

Mumbai Indians had to let go of their star all-rounder Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction owing to his recent fitness issues and concerns regarding his bowling. Hardik, who has played an instrumental role in Mumbai Indians' success over the years, didn't bowl at all in IPL 2021 as he continues to deal with his back issues which have hampered his progress.

Hardik had been retained for a sum of Rs 11 crore (110 million) by Mumbai Indians in 2018 and is expected to go for big money once again if he heads to the auction pool. However, there is a strong chance that the all-rounder is picked by one of the two new teams - Lucknow or Ahmedabad before the auction for a huge sum.

Shreyas Iyer&nbsp;

Shreyas Iyer's rise in the Indian Premier League has been nothing short of extraordinary. From a young batting talent, Iyer matured into a fine leader for the Delhi Capitals after he was handed over captaincy midway into the IPL 2018 season. He led DC to their first-ever final in IPL 2020 and proved why he is on his path to becoming one of the future greats in the IPL.

Besides his captaincy credentials, Iyer is a reliable batsman, who has been a consistent performer in the league. He was released by Delhi Capitals after reportedly expressing his desire to look for a leadership role elsewhere after being replaced by Rishabh Pant as captain. Iyer has 2375 runs in 87 matches in the IPL at an average of over 31.

Shikhar Dhawan&nbsp;

Senior India batter Shikhar Dhawan might have slipped down the pecking order in the Indian team as far as T20Is are concerned, but he remains a prolific run-getter in the IPL. Dhawan has been churning out runs regularly for every team that he has played for in the league so far and enjoyed a brilliant stint for Delhi Capitals before being released this year.

Dhawan scored 587 runs in 16 matches for DC in IPL 2020 and was the fourth-highest run-getter in the tournament. The experienced opener will be in massive demand at the IPL 2022 mega auction and is expected to trigger a bidding war among teams.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mike-hesson-called-me-ipl-2021s-highest-wicket-taker-harshal-patel-reveals-why-rcb-did-not-retain-him-443143">&nbsp;'Mike Hesson called me': IPL 2021's highest wicket-taker Harshal Patel reveals why RCB did not retain him</a>

Ishan Kishan&nbsp;

The explosive young wicket-keeper batter made his India debut last year and has been impressive since. Kishan didn't have a season to remember in IPL 2021 but still managed to stay among the runs despite not getting many chances. However, his versatility as a batter who can fire as an opener, as well as in the middle-order makes him a huge asset for any team.

Kishan is also a brilliant young wicket-keeper and can also be groomed into a leadership role in the future. He is certain to draw bids from a number of teams at the IPL mega auction and get a fat pay cheque for his services.

&nbsp;

The Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction is all set to be a grand affair this year with as many as ten teams battling it out for a number of top players who will be going under the hammer at the showpiece event.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction is all set to be a grand affair this year with as many as ten teams battling it out for a number of top players who will be going under the hammer at the showpiece event. While the existing eight teams have already revealed their final retentions, the two new franchises - Lucknow and Ahmedabad can make three picks each from the pool of non-retained players. Barring the players picked by Ahmedabad and Lucknow in the draft, all others will be heading to the mega auction. Several big Indian names, who have not been retained by their respective IPL sides will be up for grabs at the mega auction. Here we take a look at five Indian stars who are likely to fetch a huge amount at the IPL 2022 mega player auction. KL Rahul One of the favourites to captain the Lucknow IPL franchise in the 2022 season, former Punjab Kings skipper KL Rahul is unlikely to head into the auction pool as he is expected to be picked in the players draft ahead of the event. Rahul is reportedly set to join Lucknow and has been offered a staggering contract. He has been one of the most consistent performers in the IPL over the last few seasons and has been among the runs. Rahul was recently appointed as India's limited-overs vice-captain and is seen as a future leader of the national team as well. He has so far played 94 IPL matches and has an impressive 3273 runs to his name at an average of over 47. Also Read: Faf du Plessis to Ishan Kishan: 5 players who might be bought back by their IPL franchise at mega auction Hardik Pandya Mumbai Indians had to let go of their star all-rounder Hardik Pandya ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction owing to his recent fitness issues and concerns regarding his bowling. Hardik, who has played an instrumental role in Mumbai Indians' success over the years, didn't bowl at all in IPL 2021 as he continues to deal with his back issues which have hampered his progress. Hardik had been retained for a sum of Rs 11 crore (110 million) by Mumbai Indians in 2018 and is expected to go for big money once again if he heads to the auction pool. However, there is a strong chance that the all-rounder is picked by one of the two new teams - Lucknow or Ahmedabad before the auction for a huge sum. Shreyas Iyer Shreyas Iyer's rise in the Indian Premier League has been nothing short of extraordinary. From a young batting talent, Iyer matured into a fine leader for the Delhi Capitals after he was handed over captaincy midway into the IPL 2018 season. He led DC to their first-ever final in IPL 2020 and proved why he is on his path to becoming one of the future greats in the IPL. Besides his captaincy credentials, Iyer is a reliable batsman, who has been a consistent performer in the league. He was released by Delhi Capitals after reportedly expressing his desire to look for a leadership role elsewhere after being replaced by Rishabh Pant as captain. Iyer has 2375 runs in 87 matches in the IPL at an average of over 31. Shikhar Dhawan Senior India batter Shikhar Dhawan might have slipped down the pecking order in the Indian team as far as T20Is are concerned, but he remains a prolific run-getter in the IPL. Dhawan has been churning out runs regularly for every team that he has played for in the league so far and enjoyed a brilliant stint for Delhi Capitals before being released this year. Dhawan scored 587 runs in 16 matches for DC in IPL 2020 and was the fourth-highest run-getter in the tournament. The experienced opener will be in massive demand at the IPL 2022 mega auction and is expected to trigger a bidding war among teams. Also Read: 'Mike Hesson called me': IPL 2021's highest wicket-taker Harshal Patel reveals why RCB did not retain him Ishan Kishan The explosive young wicket-keeper batter made his India debut last year and has been impressive since. Kishan didn't have a season to remember in IPL 2021 but still managed to stay among the runs despite not getting many chances. However, his versatility as a batter who can fire as an opener, as well as in the middle-order makes him a huge asset for any team. Kishan is also a brilliant young wicket-keeper and can also be groomed into a leadership role in the future. He is certain to draw bids from a number of teams at the IPL mega auction and get a fat pay cheque for his services.

KL Rahul to Hardik Pandya: Indian stars who can bag big contracts at IPL 2022 mega auction

Former India wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim believes Shikhar Dhawan would not make it to the Indian team's&nbsp;playing XI&nbsp;for the next South Africa trip since the team already has proven and in-form openers in Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul.

In the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Dhawan led a second-string Indian squad in the ODIs and T20Is in Sri Lanka in July, but he hasn't played for the national team since.

Despite a successful season with the Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2021, when he accumulated 587 runs at 39.13 to finish as the fourth-highest scorer, he was snubbed for the T20 World Cup in the UAE.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-ruled-out-of-upcoming-test-series-against-south-africa-priyank-panchal-likely-replacement-436590">Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement</a>

The selectors snubbed him once more for the home T20Is against New Zealand, instead went&nbsp;with Rohit and Rahul as the key openers and Ishan Kishan as the reserve option.

That's why Karim believes it's pointless to take Dhawan to South Africa if he's not going to make the final XI for the ODI series against South Africa, which begins on January 19.

"Even if Dhawan is there in the squad, will he be part of the playing XI? KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma have opened in Tests and T20s, so I think they will open in ODIs as well. So, if you are including Dhawan in the squad and not playing him, should he be in the team? I don't see the point of his inclusion, what is the need?"&nbsp;Karim&nbsp;stated&nbsp;this&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;Khelneeti&nbsp;podcast&nbsp;on&nbsp;YouTube.

Karim believes Dhawan's only advantage is his left-hand-right-hand combination with Rohit Sharma.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-is-countering-every-point-intelligently-ex-pak-captain-reacts-to-hitmans-comments-on-virat-kohli-436601">Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli</a>

"The only thing possible is the left-hand-right-hand combination of Rohit and Dhawan. It has been a formidable partnership as well."

The former BCCI general manager went on to suggest that Dhawan may find it "difficult" to make a comeback in any of the Indian sides right now.

"It would be difficult for Dhawan to come back into this side. I still think that he should be given one more opportunity because he is a big player with experience. Have to see what the selectors and the team management think," he further added.

Former India wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim believes Shikhar Dhawan would not make it to the Indian team's playing XI for the next South Africa trip since the team already has proven and in-form openers in Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul.

Former India wicketkeeper and national selector Saba Karim believes Shikhar Dhawan would not make it to the Indian team's playing XI for the next South Africa trip since the team already has proven and in-form openers in Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul. In the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Dhawan led a second-string Indian squad in the ODIs and T20Is in Sri Lanka in July, but he hasn't played for the national team since. Despite a successful season with the Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2021, when he accumulated 587 runs at 39.13 to finish as the fourth-highest scorer, he was snubbed for the T20 World Cup in the UAE. ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma ruled out of upcoming Test series against South Africa, Priyank Panchal likely replacement The selectors snubbed him once more for the home T20Is against New Zealand, instead went with Rohit and Rahul as the key openers and Ishan Kishan as the reserve option. That's why Karim believes it's pointless to take Dhawan to South Africa if he's not going to make the final XI for the ODI series against South Africa, which begins on January 19. "Even if Dhawan is there in the squad, will he be part of the playing XI? KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma have opened in Tests and T20s, so I think they will open in ODIs as well. So, if you are including Dhawan in the squad and not playing him, should he be in the team? I don't see the point of his inclusion, what is the need?" Karim stated this on the Khelneeti podcast on YouTube. Karim believes Dhawan's only advantage is his left-hand-right-hand combination with Rohit Sharma. ALSO READ: Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli "The only thing possible is the left-hand-right-hand combination of Rohit and Dhawan. It has been a formidable partnership as well." The former BCCI general manager went on to suggest that Dhawan may find it "difficult" to make a comeback in any of the Indian sides right now. "It would be difficult for Dhawan to come back into this side. I still think that he should be given one more opportunity because he is a big player with experience. Have to see what the selectors and the team management think," he further added.

It would be difficult for Shikhar Dhawan to come back into Indian side, says former selector

From KL Rahul to Suresh Raina: Iconic Indian players who weren't retained before IPL 2022 mega auction

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