Team India is set to play West Indies in three ODIs and five T20Is, in the Caribbean island, with the tour opener to take place on Friday (July 22). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Shikhar Dhawan will take charge of the ODI side whereas Hitman will reclaim his position during the five T20Is.

In the year 2022, India have had several captains such as Rohit, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah whereas Dhawan will also join the list, having already captained a second-stringed side during the Sri Lanka tour last year. Ahead of the WI series, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris feels Shreyas Iyer is also a future captaincy candidate provided he cashes in on his opportunities and gets rid of his short-ball struggles.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pant-or-karthik-ricky-ponting-names-his-choice-for-indias-wicketkeepers-slot-for-2022-t20-wc-499428">Pant or Karthik: Ricky Ponting names his choice for India's wicketkeeper's slot for 2022 T20 WC</a>

Styris agreed&nbsp;that the forthcoming WI tour can be a do-or-die condition for Iyer, who hasn't done anything extraordinary since his return in India colours after IPL 2022. The New Zealander also&nbsp;termed the star batter as a captaincy choice and told Sports 18, "One hundred percent, what I really like about Shreyas Iyer is the leadership quality that he possesses. I think he is a real possibility to be a captain as well for India. For that reason, I would like to see him in and even given more and more opportunities around this squad."

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"What I don't like is that there is no secret about Shreyas Iyer now. He has real problems with the short ball. I think you will see a lot of teams attack him with their quick bowlers, attack him at the body with the bouncers, under the armpit, if you like, because I am not sure he has found a way," the former cricketer added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-shikhar-dhawan-to-jasprit-bumrah-7-captains-rahul-dravid-has-worked-with-as-indias-head-coach-498546">From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: 7 captains Rahul Dravid has worked with as India's head coach</a>

Iyer is part of India's ODI and T20I squad for the WI tour and will be eager to come up with consistent performances to cement his place in the white-ball setup. With the T20 World Cup to be held later this year, in Australia, the middle-order batter needs to be on his toes or he will miss being part of the squad for the trip Down Under.
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Team India is set to play West Indies in three ODIs and five T20Is, in the Caribbean island, with the tour opener to take place on Friday (July 22). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Shikhar Dhawan will take charge of the ODI side whereas Hitman will reclaim his position during the five T20Is.

Team India is set to play West Indies in three ODIs and five T20Is, in the Caribbean island, with the tour opener to take place on Friday (July 22). In Rohit Sharma's absence, Shikhar Dhawan will take charge of the ODI side whereas Hitman will reclaim his position during the five T20Is. In the year 2022, India have had several captains such as Rohit, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah whereas Dhawan will also join the list, having already captained a second-stringed side during the Sri Lanka tour last year. Ahead of the WI series, former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris feels Shreyas Iyer is also a future captaincy candidate provided he cashes in on his opportunities and gets rid of his short-ball struggles. ALSO READ | Pant or Karthik: Ricky Ponting names his choice for India's wicketkeeper's slot for 2022 T20 WC Styris agreed that the forthcoming WI tour can be a do-or-die condition for Iyer, who hasn't done anything extraordinary since his return in India colours after IPL 2022. The New Zealander also termed the star batter as a captaincy choice and told Sports 18, "One hundred percent, what I really like about Shreyas Iyer is the leadership quality that he possesses. I think he is a real possibility to be a captain as well for India. For that reason, I would like to see him in and even given more and more opportunities around this squad." "What I don't like is that there is no secret about Shreyas Iyer now. He has real problems with the short ball. I think you will see a lot of teams attack him with their quick bowlers, attack him at the body with the bouncers, under the armpit, if you like, because I am not sure he has found a way," the former cricketer added. ALSO READ | From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: 7 captains Rahul Dravid has worked with as India's head coach Iyer is part of India's ODI and T20I squad for the WI tour and will be eager to come up with consistent performances to cement his place in the white-ball setup. With the T20 World Cup to be held later this year, in Australia, the middle-order batter needs to be on his toes or he will miss being part of the squad for the trip Down Under.

Not Pandya, Pant or Rahul! Former NZ all-rounder backs India's star player as future captaincy candidate

It isn't an unknown fact that Team India have not been able to win an ICC event since 2013. Their last major trophy came during the 2013 Champions Trophy under talismanic leader MS Dhoni. Since then, India have been knocked out in the semi-finals in as many as three ICC events (2015 ODI World Cup, 2016 T20 World Cup, 2019 ODI World Cup), lost two mega finals (2014 T20 World Cup and 2017 Champions Trophy) and bowed out of the league stage in the 2021 T20 World Cup.

From MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli was given the charge of the team across formats in early 2017. Under him, India did well in every ICC event, barring last year's showpiece event in the UAE, but failed to return with the coveted title. Former and tainted India pacer S Sreesanth has now claimed that India would have won three World Cups had he been part of Kohli-led Men in Blue.

“If I would have been a part of the team under Virat’s captaincy, India would have won the World Cup in 2015, 2019 &amp; 2021," the former fast bowler made the big claim during a live chat with&nbsp;fans as part of the new season of CricChat on the ShareChat Audio Chatroom.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-shikhar-dhawan-to-jasprit-bumrah-7-captains-rahul-dravid-has-worked-with-as-indias-head-coach-498546">From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: 7 captains Rahul Dravid has worked with as India's head coach</a>

Further, Sreesanth also stressed how&nbsp;practicing bowling yorkers made him master it as a fast bowler. "It is important to visualize while playing and small regions do not make any difference. Rather it is better to learn such tricks here, given there are a few distractions. My coach taught me how to throw Yorkers with tennis balls. If you ask Bumrah, he’ll say that it is easy too,” Sreesanth opined.

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Sreesanth represented India in&nbsp;27 Tests and 53 ODIs, claiming&nbsp;87 and 75 wickets respectively, and was part of the national side's 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup winning campaigns. Recalling being part of the ODI World&nbsp;Cup triumph, Sreesanth shared how emotional Sachin Tendulkar was after Dhoni &amp; Co.'s famous triumph. “We won that World Cup for Sachin Tendulkar,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-like-dhoni-yuvraj-gavaskar-lauds-pant-pandya-compares-duo-with-legendary-indian-batting-pair-498733">'Just like Dhoni &amp; Yuvraj...: Gavaskar lauds Pant-Pandya, compares duo with legendary Indian batting pair</a>

Sreesanth announced his international retirement early this year, in March. Back then, he stated, "It has been an honor to represent my family, my teammates, and the people of India. Nd everyone who loves the game. With much sadness but without regret, I say this with a heavy heart: I am retiring from the Indian domestic (first class and all formats) cricket."

The former pacer's career turned upside down after he got involved in the IPL spot-fixing scandal. While he saw his ban getting over in 2020, he never played an IPL game or represented India after that. His last game for the national side came in 2013.
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It isn't an unknown fact that Team India have not been able to win an ICC event since 2013. Their last major trophy came during the 2013 Champions Trophy under talismanic leader MS Dhoni.

It isn't an unknown fact that Team India have not been able to win an ICC event since 2013. Their last major trophy came during the 2013 Champions Trophy under talismanic leader MS Dhoni. Since then, India have been knocked out in the semi-finals in as many as three ICC events (2015 ODI World Cup, 2016 T20 World Cup, 2019 ODI World Cup), lost two mega finals (2014 T20 World Cup and 2017 Champions Trophy) and bowed out of the league stage in the 2021 T20 World Cup. From MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli was given the charge of the team across formats in early 2017. Under him, India did well in every ICC event, barring last year's showpiece event in the UAE, but failed to return with the coveted title. Former and tainted India pacer S Sreesanth has now claimed that India would have won three World Cups had he been part of Kohli-led Men in Blue. “If I would have been a part of the team under Virat’s captaincy, India would have won the World Cup in 2015, 2019 & 2021," the former fast bowler made the big claim during a live chat with fans as part of the new season of CricChat on the ShareChat Audio Chatroom. ALSO READ | From Shikhar Dhawan to Jasprit Bumrah: 7 captains Rahul Dravid has worked with as India's head coach Further, Sreesanth also stressed how practicing bowling yorkers made him master it as a fast bowler. "It is important to visualize while playing and small regions do not make any difference. Rather it is better to learn such tricks here, given there are a few distractions. My coach taught me how to throw Yorkers with tennis balls. If you ask Bumrah, he’ll say that it is easy too,” Sreesanth opined. Sreesanth represented India in 27 Tests and 53 ODIs, claiming 87 and 75 wickets respectively, and was part of the national side's 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup winning campaigns. Recalling being part of the ODI World Cup triumph, Sreesanth shared how emotional Sachin Tendulkar was after Dhoni & Co.'s famous triumph. “We won that World Cup for Sachin Tendulkar,” he added. ALSO READ | 'Just like Dhoni & Yuvraj...: Gavaskar lauds Pant-Pandya, compares duo with legendary Indian batting pair Sreesanth announced his international retirement early this year, in March. Back then, he stated, "It has been an honor to represent my family, my teammates, and the people of India. Nd everyone who loves the game. With much sadness but without regret, I say this with a heavy heart: I am retiring from the Indian domestic (first class and all formats) cricket." The former pacer's career turned upside down after he got involved in the IPL spot-fixing scandal. While he saw his ban getting over in 2020, he never played an IPL game or represented India after that. His last game for the national side came in 2013.

'India would've won 3 World Cups if I played in Virat Kohli-led team' : S Sreesanth makes big claim

Hosts Zimbabwe and the Netherlands filled the last two places for the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia by winning their qualifying tournament semi-finals in Bulawayo on Friday.

Zimbabwe beat Papua New Guinea by 27 runs after posting 199-5 in 20 overs, then restricting their opponents to 172-8. The Netherlands defeated the United States by seven wickets. Replying to an American total of 138 in 19.4 overs, the Dutch scored 139-3 with six balls to spare.

Hosts Zimbabwe and the Netherlands filled the last two places for the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia by winning their qualifying tournament semi-finals in Bulawayo on Friday.

Hosts Zimbabwe and the Netherlands filled the last two places for the Twenty20 World Cup in Australia by winning their qualifying tournament semi-finals in Bulawayo on Friday. Zimbabwe beat Papua New Guinea by 27 runs after posting 199-5 in 20 overs, then restricting their opponents to 172-8. The Netherlands defeated the United States by seven wickets. Replying to an American total of 138 in 19.4 overs, the Dutch scored 139-3 with six balls to spare.

T20 World Cup: Zimbabwe, Netherlands qualify for marquee event Down Under

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has questioned the Indian team management for persisting with an underperforming Virat Kohli. While Kohli's century-drought continues since late 2019, he has failed to even cross the fifty-run mark in India's ongoing tour of England.

During the one-off Test in Edgbaston, Kohli had scores of 11 and 20. While he was rested for the three-match T20I series opener, he got favoured over in-form Deepak Hooda in the remaining two games but only ended with 12 runs overall. After missing the first ODI versus Jos Buttler &amp; Co., Kohli returned for Thursday's (July 14) second ODI but once again failed, scoring a 25-ball 16. Thus, questions are being raised on his form and also on why he is being rested for the West Indies T20Is -- in the Caribbean island -- despite poor form.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-why-is-it-happening-rohit-sharma-on-talks-regarding-under-fire-virat-kohli-497565">WATCH: 'Why is it happening?' - Rohit Sharma on talks regarding under-fire Virat Kohli</a>

Earlier, Kapil Dev had questioned Kohli's place. Now, Kaneria has joined the bandwagon and lashed out at the BCCI selection committee, headed by Chetan Sharma, and the Rahul Dravid-led team management for persisting with Kohli and not giving 'talented cricketers' such as Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, etc. a longer rope.

"When world class off spinner Ashwin can be dropped then why not Virat where is Deepak Hooda why the selection committee and management playing with carriers of Indian talented cricketers. Who is the person playing Ludo with Indian and fans of Indian team, Arshdeep, Deepak Hooda and Surya needs to give them full confidence they are back bone of Indian Cricket," Kaneria said exclusively on the Koo app.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-got-to-find-his-way-and-bcci-chief-sourav-ganguly-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-poor-form-497616">'He has got to find his way and....' - BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's poor form</a>

After India lost the second ODI versus England, by 100 runs, captain Rohit Sharma backed under-fire Kohli when he was asked about the continous chatter regarding the star batter's lean patch.&nbsp;

"Why is it happening, I do not understand? Someone who has made so many runs is being questioned over his form. I don't understand this." He added, "Virat Kohli is such a great batsman. He has been playing for so many years and he has won so many matches for the team. He doesn't need any reassurance. You can see quality of player, form ups &amp; down in everyone's career. Look at how many runs he has scored &amp; centuries scored. Look at his averages. He won many matches for India. He is great Batsman."

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has questioned the Indian team management for persisting with an underperforming Virat Kohli. While Kohli's century-drought continues since late 2019, he has failed to even cross the fifty-run mark in India's ongoing tour of England.

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has questioned the Indian team management for persisting with an underperforming Virat Kohli. While Kohli's century-drought continues since late 2019, he has failed to even cross the fifty-run mark in India's ongoing tour of England. During the one-off Test in Edgbaston, Kohli had scores of 11 and 20. While he was rested for the three-match T20I series opener, he got favoured over in-form Deepak Hooda in the remaining two games but only ended with 12 runs overall. After missing the first ODI versus Jos Buttler & Co., Kohli returned for Thursday's (July 14) second ODI but once again failed, scoring a 25-ball 16. Thus, questions are being raised on his form and also on why he is being rested for the West Indies T20Is -- in the Caribbean island -- despite poor form. ALSO READ | WATCH: 'Why is it happening?' - Rohit Sharma on talks regarding under-fire Virat Kohli Earlier, Kapil Dev had questioned Kohli's place. Now, Kaneria has joined the bandwagon and lashed out at the BCCI selection committee, headed by Chetan Sharma, and the Rahul Dravid-led team management for persisting with Kohli and not giving 'talented cricketers' such as Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, etc. a longer rope. "When world class off spinner Ashwin can be dropped then why not Virat where is Deepak Hooda why the selection committee and management playing with carriers of Indian talented cricketers. Who is the person playing Ludo with Indian and fans of Indian team, Arshdeep, Deepak Hooda and Surya needs to give them full confidence they are back bone of Indian Cricket," Kaneria said exclusively on the Koo app. ALSO READ | 'He has got to find his way and....' - BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly reacts to Virat Kohli's poor form After India lost the second ODI versus England, by 100 runs, captain Rohit Sharma backed under-fire Kohli when he was asked about the continous chatter regarding the star batter's lean patch. "Why is it happening, I do not understand? Someone who has made so many runs is being questioned over his form. I don't understand this." He added, "Virat Kohli is such a great batsman. He has been playing for so many years and he has won so many matches for the team. He doesn't need any reassurance. You can see quality of player, form ups & down in everyone's career. Look at how many runs he has scored & centuries scored. Look at his averages. He won many matches for India. He is great Batsman."

'Who is playing Ludo?': Former Pakistan spinner questions India's decision to play out-of-form Virat Kohli

Hardik Pandya has had a stellar time since IPL 2022. In the 15th IPL season, which saw him make a comeback at the competitive level after last year's T20 World Cup, Hardik returned with his best-ever tally as a batter (487 runs) and claimed eight scalps, including a match-winning three-fer in the season-finale as Gujarat Titans (GT) won their maiden championship on debut.

Hardik's stocks rose considerably after leading Gujarat to a historic title as captain. Making a comeback for India in the home T20Is versus South Africa, the all-rounder fulfilled both roles and was also Rishabh Pant's deputy. Further, he was appointed as the Indian captain during the second-stringed side's twin&nbsp;T20Is versus Ireland, in Dublin, which Men in Blue won 2-0. In the India-England T20Is, the 28-year-old scored his maiden fifty in the format. Hence, he is on a roll, however, question marks remain on his ability to bowl his full quota of overs in ODIs. So far, he has bowled regularly in T20Is, nonetheless, it remains to be seen if he can complete his full overs in the 50-over format.

In this regard, Hardik-led Gujarat franchise's head coach Ashish Nehra made an interesting remark. "Even Hardik won’t be able to answer that since you can plan but things don’t always fall into place. But so far so good. Hardik can be in any white ball team solely as a batter. On top of that, if he bowls, it will be a bonus. But you can’t keep him as your fifth bowler in T20 or 50 overs. He can only be your sixth bowler," Nehra was quoted as saying by Telegraph India.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-cant-be-dropped-straightaway-ashish-nehra-backs-under-fire-india-batter-amid-form-concerns-497041">Virat Kohli can't be dropped straightaway: Ashish Nehra backs under-fire India batter amid form concerns</a>

The 2011 ODI World Cup winner further&nbsp;added, "But looking at his fitness, you have to build it up slowly. He will not be going to the West Indies for ODIs, which is good in a way. When you are an out-and-out fast bowler, you don’t have a choice. You have to bowl, you have to be fit... But it’s not the case with Hardik. He has been doing well during the last 2-3 months."

Hardik bowled only four overs, conceding 22&nbsp;runs and being wicketless, in India's ODI series opener versus hosts England at The Oval, London. He is already among wickets in the ongoing second and penultimate ODI, on Thursday (July 14) at Lord's, and will slowly aim to regularly finish his full quota of overs in white-ball formats.

Hardik Pandya has had a stellar time since IPL 2022. In the 15th IPL season, which saw him make a comeback at the competitive level after last year's T20 World Cup, Hardik returned with his best-ever tally as a batter (487 runs) and claimed eight scalps, including a match-winning three-fer in the season-finale as Gujarat Titans (GT) won their maiden championship on debut.

Hardik Pandya has had a stellar time since IPL 2022. In the 15th IPL season, which saw him make a comeback at the competitive level after last year's T20 World Cup, Hardik returned with his best-ever tally as a batter (487 runs) and claimed eight scalps, including a match-winning three-fer in the season-finale as Gujarat Titans (GT) won their maiden championship on debut. Hardik's stocks rose considerably after leading Gujarat to a historic title as captain. Making a comeback for India in the home T20Is versus South Africa, the all-rounder fulfilled both roles and was also Rishabh Pant's deputy. Further, he was appointed as the Indian captain during the second-stringed side's twin T20Is versus Ireland, in Dublin, which Men in Blue won 2-0. In the India-England T20Is, the 28-year-old scored his maiden fifty in the format. Hence, he is on a roll, however, question marks remain on his ability to bowl his full quota of overs in ODIs. So far, he has bowled regularly in T20Is, nonetheless, it remains to be seen if he can complete his full overs in the 50-over format. In this regard, Hardik-led Gujarat franchise's head coach Ashish Nehra made an interesting remark. "Even Hardik won’t be able to answer that since you can plan but things don’t always fall into place. But so far so good. Hardik can be in any white ball team solely as a batter. On top of that, if he bowls, it will be a bonus. But you can’t keep him as your fifth bowler in T20 or 50 overs. He can only be your sixth bowler," Nehra was quoted as saying by Telegraph India. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli can't be dropped straightaway: Ashish Nehra backs under-fire India batter amid form concerns The 2011 ODI World Cup winner further added, "But looking at his fitness, you have to build it up slowly. He will not be going to the West Indies for ODIs, which is good in a way. When you are an out-and-out fast bowler, you don’t have a choice. You have to bowl, you have to be fit... But it’s not the case with Hardik. He has been doing well during the last 2-3 months." Hardik bowled only four overs, conceding 22 runs and being wicketless, in India's ODI series opener versus hosts England at The Oval, London. He is already among wickets in the ongoing second and penultimate ODI, on Thursday (July 14) at Lord's, and will slowly aim to regularly finish his full quota of overs in white-ball formats.

'Even he won’t......' - Ashish Nehra on whether Hardik Pandya can bowl 10 overs in ODIs

India were on a roll versus England in the three-match ODI series opener on Tuesday (July 12), winning the game by ten wickets with less than 50 overs being played overall. Rohit Sharma-led India opted to bowl first and bundled out Jos Buttler &amp; Co. for 110, their lowest ODI score versus the Men in Blue, as Jasprit Bumrah wreaked havoc with 6 for 19.&nbsp;

Later, Rohit (58-ball 76 not out) and Shikhar Dhawan's sedate 31 completed the formalities for India, scripting an easy win over the two-time ODI world champions as they go 1-0 up in the series. After the clash, former England captain Michael Vaughan lavished huge praise on Rohit &amp; Co., whom he believes should be on a roll and win all major titles in the coming years given their skillsets and talented players.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-reclaims-top-spot-among-bowlers-in-icc-odi-rankings-after-619-vs-england-496978">Jasprit Bumrah reclaims top spot among bowlers in ICC ODI Rankings after 6/19 vs England</a>

"Conditions will be different in a year and a half's time (for the ODI World Cup) but India have just got to get on a roll in white-ball cricket. They've just got the build that momentum, they've done that in the T20 series in the manner that they've played. We talk about aggression, they were aggressive with the ball today, and they were aggressive in the field. That's what you've got to do when you've things going in your favour, you've got to blow teams away. England are an outstanding team, so that should give India a lot of confidence. I've said before, this Indian one-day team for long haven't gotten close to winning anything for a long period of time. They should be there or there about every single Champions Trophy, T20 World Cup, and ODI World Cup," Vaughan said on Cricbuzz.

"This Indian group of white-ball experts that have been built on the back of IPL, should be pushing all the way in all conditions world. Not just at home next year. They should be able to arrive in Australia in a few months' time as one of the clear favourites to win that tournament. They've certainly got enough skill," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-after-missing-series-opener-virat-kohli-likely-to-skip-2nd-odi-with-injury-concerns-report-496967">ENG vs IND: After missing series opener, Virat Kohli likely to skip 2nd ODI with injury concerns - Report</a>

For the unversed, India have not won an ICC title since 2013. Last year, India bowed out of the 2021 T20 World Cup in the group stage and, hence, will be eager to turn the tides this time around and go onto win the coveted title; ending their nine-year-long ICC-title drought.

India were on a roll versus England in the three-match ODI series opener on Tuesday (July 12), winning the game by ten wickets with less than 50 overs being played overall.

India were on a roll versus England in the three-match ODI series opener on Tuesday (July 12), winning the game by ten wickets with less than 50 overs being played overall. Rohit Sharma-led India opted to bowl first and bundled out Jos Buttler & Co. for 110, their lowest ODI score versus the Men in Blue, as Jasprit Bumrah wreaked havoc with 6 for 19. Later, Rohit (58-ball 76 not out) and Shikhar Dhawan's sedate 31 completed the formalities for India, scripting an easy win over the two-time ODI world champions as they go 1-0 up in the series. After the clash, former England captain Michael Vaughan lavished huge praise on Rohit & Co., whom he believes should be on a roll and win all major titles in the coming years given their skillsets and talented players. ALSO READ | Jasprit Bumrah reclaims top spot among bowlers in ICC ODI Rankings after 6/19 vs England "Conditions will be different in a year and a half's time (for the ODI World Cup) but India have just got to get on a roll in white-ball cricket. They've just got the build that momentum, they've done that in the T20 series in the manner that they've played. We talk about aggression, they were aggressive with the ball today, and they were aggressive in the field. That's what you've got to do when you've things going in your favour, you've got to blow teams away. England are an outstanding team, so that should give India a lot of confidence. I've said before, this Indian one-day team for long haven't gotten close to winning anything for a long period of time. They should be there or there about every single Champions Trophy, T20 World Cup, and ODI World Cup," Vaughan said on Cricbuzz. "This Indian group of white-ball experts that have been built on the back of IPL, should be pushing all the way in all conditions world. Not just at home next year. They should be able to arrive in Australia in a few months' time as one of the clear favourites to win that tournament. They've certainly got enough skill," he added. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND: After missing series opener, Virat Kohli likely to skip 2nd ODI with injury concerns - Report For the unversed, India have not won an ICC title since 2013. Last year, India bowed out of the 2021 T20 World Cup in the group stage and, hence, will be eager to turn the tides this time around and go onto win the coveted title; ending their nine-year-long ICC-title drought.

Team India should win all ODI, T20I World Cups, and Champions Trophy: Michael Vaughan lauds Rohit & Co.

Virat Kohli's form remains a cause of concern and a huge talking point in the Indian cricket fraternity. With the 2022 T20 World Cup right around the corner, many former cricketers and experts have shared their views regarding King Kohli, who has struggled to be at his usual best since the start of IPL 2022 edition and his century-drought continues since late 2019.&nbsp;

After the conclusion of the India-England T20Is, which India won 2-1, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar joined the bandwagon and commented on Kohli's form. While some have even questioned his place in the T20I line-up, Gavaskar came in Kohli's defence.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/some-of-them-are-sitting-out-sehwag-feels-india-need-to-play-best-available-players-ahead-of-t20-wc-496414">'Some of them are sitting out': Sehwag feels India need to play 'best available players' ahead of T20 WC</a>

"I don't understand when Rohit Sharma does not score runs, no one talks about it. When other batters don't score runs, no one talks about it. Form is temporary and class is permanent. You are only asking about one player. The kind of template Team India has started, players will be unsuccessful," he told on Sports Tak. Further, he added, "We have a good selection committee. There are still two months for the team to be announced and even the Asia Cup is left. You can see the form there and choose your team. Give it some time."

In the England T20Is, Kohli was given rest for the series opener -- which commenced after a one-day break post the Edgbaston Test -- and he returned to the playing XI for the remaining two matches. However, the 33-year-old managed only scores of 1 and 11. It will be interesting to see if Kohli is part of India's five T20Is versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island, which will kick off during the end of July.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli's form remains a cause of concern and a huge talking point in the Indian cricket fraternity. With the 2022 T20 World Cup right around the corner, many former cricketers and experts have shared their views regarding King Kohli, who has struggled to be at his usual best since the start of IPL 2022 edition and his century-drought continues since late 2019.

Virat Kohli's form remains a cause of concern and a huge talking point in the Indian cricket fraternity. With the 2022 T20 World Cup right around the corner, many former cricketers and experts have shared their views regarding King Kohli, who has struggled to be at his usual best since the start of IPL 2022 edition and his century-drought continues since late 2019. After the conclusion of the India-England T20Is, which India won 2-1, former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar joined the bandwagon and commented on Kohli's form. While some have even questioned his place in the T20I line-up, Gavaskar came in Kohli's defence. ALSO READ | 'Some of them are sitting out': Sehwag feels India need to play 'best available players' ahead of T20 WC "I don't understand when Rohit Sharma does not score runs, no one talks about it. When other batters don't score runs, no one talks about it. Form is temporary and class is permanent. You are only asking about one player. The kind of template Team India has started, players will be unsuccessful," he told on Sports Tak. Further, he added, "We have a good selection committee. There are still two months for the team to be announced and even the Asia Cup is left. You can see the form there and choose your team. Give it some time." In the England T20Is, Kohli was given rest for the series opener -- which commenced after a one-day break post the Edgbaston Test -- and he returned to the playing XI for the remaining two matches. However, the 33-year-old managed only scores of 1 and 11. It will be interesting to see if Kohli is part of India's five T20Is versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island, which will kick off during the end of July.

'When Rohit does not score runs, no one talks about it' - Sunil Gavaskar comes in defence of Virat Kohli

Rohit Sharma-led India missed a golden opportunity to inflict a series whitewash over England in the three T20Is. After taking an unassailable 2-0 lead versus Jos Buttler &amp; Co., Rohit-led India aimed for a 3-0 scoreline but lost the final encounter by 17 runs despite Suryakumar Yadav's magnificent 117.&nbsp;

In pursuit of a mammoth 216-run chase, India fell short and were restricted for 198-8. After the clash, former Indian opener-turned-expert Aakash Chopra lashed out at Indian team management's selection for the final encounter, where Shreyas Iyer was given a chance and in-form batter Deepak Hooda continued to warm the bench. For the unversed, Hooda has scored a hundred during the Ireland T20Is and scored a quickire 17-ball 33 in the England series opener before other players were preferred over him.

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "I was saying - don't make any change, go with the same team. What difference does it make? But that did not happen. What I found slightly baffling is that I understand that Shreyas Iyer is probably ahead of Deepak Hooda in the pecking order, although I am not ready to agree that he is ahead in the pecking order."

<section>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-can-single-handedly-win-you-world-cups-former-india-selector-backs-under-fire-virat-kohli-496323">He can single-handedly win you World Cups: Former India selector backs under-fire Virat Kohli</a>

"Why he is ahead, I have got no idea. I feel Deepak Hooda should be slightly ahead in this list. If you were resting Hardik Pandya, then why not Deepak Hooda? There was a chance to play him which you have missed."

While Iyer was involved in a 119-run fourth-wicket stand with centurion SKY, he didn't have the best of outing as the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain returned with a 23-ball 28 in a tall run-chase. It will be interesting to see if Iyer continues to good a run in the T20I line-up or the team management accomodates Hooda in place of one of the middle-order batters.
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Rohit Sharma-led India missed a golden opportunity to inflict a series whitewash over England in the three T20Is. After taking an unassailable 2-0 lead versus Jos Buttler & Co.

Rohit Sharma-led India missed a golden opportunity to inflict a series whitewash over England in the three T20Is. After taking an unassailable 2-0 lead versus Jos Buttler & Co., Rohit-led India aimed for a 3-0 scoreline but lost the final encounter by 17 runs despite Suryakumar Yadav's magnificent 117. In pursuit of a mammoth 216-run chase, India fell short and were restricted for 198-8. After the clash, former Indian opener-turned-expert Aakash Chopra lashed out at Indian team management's selection for the final encounter, where Shreyas Iyer was given a chance and in-form batter Deepak Hooda continued to warm the bench. For the unversed, Hooda has scored a hundred during the Ireland T20Is and scored a quickire 17-ball 33 in the England series opener before other players were preferred over him. In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "I was saying - don't make any change, go with the same team. What difference does it make? But that did not happen. What I found slightly baffling is that I understand that Shreyas Iyer is probably ahead of Deepak Hooda in the pecking order, although I am not ready to agree that he is ahead in the pecking order." ALSO READ | He can single-handedly win you World Cups: Former India selector backs under-fire Virat Kohli "Why he is ahead, I have got no idea. I feel Deepak Hooda should be slightly ahead in this list. If you were resting Hardik Pandya, then why not Deepak Hooda? There was a chance to play him which you have missed." While Iyer was involved in a 119-run fourth-wicket stand with centurion SKY, he didn't have the best of outing as the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain returned with a 23-ball 28 in a tall run-chase. It will be interesting to see if Iyer continues to good a run in the T20I line-up or the team management accomodates Hooda in place of one of the middle-order batters.

'What I found slightly baffling is....' - Aakash Chopra questions India's selection for 3rd T20I vs England

All eyes are now on the 2022 T20 World Cup. All teams have dived into the preparations and will go all-out against each other in the showpiece event, which is set to be held in Australia from October-November. In the last edition, held in the UAE, Pakistan broke their World Cup jinx versus India and beat them comfortably, by ten wickets, to send their fans into a frenzy.

Ahead of India and Pakistan's much-awaited face-off in the 2022 edition, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar has opened up on the much-anticipated clash and made a big claim.

"India will come up with proper planning this time around. It will not be easy for Pakistan to beat India in T20 WC this time. Predicting match results now is quite difficult but Pakistan should bowl second as [the] pitch in Melbourne offers bounce to fast bowlers,” Akhtar was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Cricket Pakistan.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-can-single-handedly-win-you-world-cups-former-india-selector-backs-under-fire-virat-kohli-496323">He can single-handedly win you World Cups: Former India selector backs under-fire Virat Kohli</a>

In the 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led India were blown away by Babar Azam &amp; Co. courtesy of Shaheen Afridi's three-fer. Opting to bowl first, in Dubai, Pakistan restricted India to 158-7 before openers Babar and Md Rizwan's unbroken stand propelled the Men in Green to an easy ten-wicket win.&nbsp;

This time around, India will enter the marquee event with Rohit Sharma as the captain, who took over from Kohli last year. The Men in Blue have adopted an aggressive approach with the bat and will like to settle scores with Pakistan in the forthcoming tournament. Before the T20 WC, both sides will also meet in the Asia Cup 2022.

All eyes are now on the 2022 T20 World Cup. All teams have dived into the preparations and will go all-out against each other in the showpiece event, which is set to be held in Australia from October-November.

All eyes are now on the 2022 T20 World Cup. All teams have dived into the preparations and will go all-out against each other in the showpiece event, which is set to be held in Australia from October-November. In the last edition, held in the UAE, Pakistan broke their World Cup jinx versus India and beat them comfortably, by ten wickets, to send their fans into a frenzy. Ahead of India and Pakistan's much-awaited face-off in the 2022 edition, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar has opened up on the much-anticipated clash and made a big claim. "India will come up with proper planning this time around. It will not be easy for Pakistan to beat India in T20 WC this time. Predicting match results now is quite difficult but Pakistan should bowl second as [the] pitch in Melbourne offers bounce to fast bowlers,” Akhtar was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan. ALSO READ | He can single-handedly win you World Cups: Former India selector backs under-fire Virat Kohli In the 2021 edition, Virat Kohli-led India were blown away by Babar Azam & Co. courtesy of Shaheen Afridi's three-fer. Opting to bowl first, in Dubai, Pakistan restricted India to 158-7 before openers Babar and Md Rizwan's unbroken stand propelled the Men in Green to an easy ten-wicket win. This time around, India will enter the marquee event with Rohit Sharma as the captain, who took over from Kohli last year. The Men in Blue have adopted an aggressive approach with the bat and will like to settle scores with Pakistan in the forthcoming tournament. Before the T20 WC, both sides will also meet in the Asia Cup 2022.

'It will not be easy': Shoaib Akhtar explains why Pakistan might not be able to beat India in T20 WC 2022

Virat Kohli's form remains a cause of concern and a big talking point in the Indian cricket fraternity. In the third and final T20I between India and England, Kohli started off aggressively -- keeping up with India's newly-found aggressive approach in the format -- before falling for a 6-ball 11. Thus, big knocks continue to evade Kohli and talks have started doing the rounds that Kohli can be omitted from India's T20 World Cup squad.

With the Indian selectors set to announce the T20I&nbsp;squad for the upcoming West Indies series, in the Caribbean island, reports suggest that&nbsp;Kohli might be rested for the series. Amid this, former Indian selector Sarandeep Singh feels Kohli needs to play more to regain form and made a big claim on the ex-Indian skipper.

"What are the selectors doing to understand where is his batting going wrong? He shouldn't be dropped. Everybody knows his capabilities and his potential. He can single-handedly win you World Cups," Singh told Karishma Singh of Times Now.

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"Why is he being given rest then? What is this illogical way of selecting players? He plays one series then rest and then he plays another series. Make him play if he is not performing, that's the only way for him coming back to form," he added.

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-defends-virat-kohli-reponds-to-his-critics-they-dont-know-whats-going-on-inside-496254">Rohit Sharma defends Virat Kohli, responds to his critics: 'They don't know what's going on inside'</a>

After India lost the third and final T20I versus England by 17 runs, to win the series 2-1, skipper Rohit Sharma also backed Kohli to come good soon. Recently, Kapil Dev had suggested that Kohli should be dropped from the T20I line-up, to which Rohit said,&nbsp;"He is watching the game from outside and does not know what is happening inside. We have our thought process. We build our team and behind this, there is a lot of thinking. We back the boys and give them opportunities. So, these things you do not get to know from outside. So, whatever is happening outside is not important but what is happening inside is more important for us," Sharma said during a post-match press conference.

"If you talk about form then everyone goes through ups and downs. The player's quality does not get affected. So, we should keep these things in our minds. When a player is doing well for so many years, then one or two bad series does not make him a bad player. We should not overlook his past performances. We who are in the team know the importance of the player. They have got all the right to talk about it but it does not matter for us too much," he added.
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Virat Kohli's form remains a cause of concern and a big talking point in the Indian cricket fraternity. In the third and final T20I between India and England, Kohli started off aggressively -- keeping up with India's newly-found aggressive approach in the format -- before falling for a 6-ball 11.

Virat Kohli's form remains a cause of concern and a big talking point in the Indian cricket fraternity. In the third and final T20I between India and England, Kohli started off aggressively -- keeping up with India's newly-found aggressive approach in the format -- before falling for a 6-ball 11. Thus, big knocks continue to evade Kohli and talks have started doing the rounds that Kohli can be omitted from India's T20 World Cup squad. With the Indian selectors set to announce the T20I squad for the upcoming West Indies series, in the Caribbean island, reports suggest that Kohli might be rested for the series. Amid this, former Indian selector Sarandeep Singh feels Kohli needs to play more to regain form and made a big claim on the ex-Indian skipper. "What are the selectors doing to understand where is his batting going wrong? He shouldn't be dropped. Everybody knows his capabilities and his potential. He can single-handedly win you World Cups," Singh told Karishma Singh of Times Now. "Why is he being given rest then? What is this illogical way of selecting players? He plays one series then rest and then he plays another series. Make him play if he is not performing, that's the only way for him coming back to form," he added. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma defends Virat Kohli, responds to his critics: 'They don't know what's going on inside' After India lost the third and final T20I versus England by 17 runs, to win the series 2-1, skipper Rohit Sharma also backed Kohli to come good soon. Recently, Kapil Dev had suggested that Kohli should be dropped from the T20I line-up, to which Rohit said, "He is watching the game from outside and does not know what is happening inside. We have our thought process. We build our team and behind this, there is a lot of thinking. We back the boys and give them opportunities. So, these things you do not get to know from outside. So, whatever is happening outside is not important but what is happening inside is more important for us," Sharma said during a post-match press conference. "If you talk about form then everyone goes through ups and downs. The player's quality does not get affected. So, we should keep these things in our minds. When a player is doing well for so many years, then one or two bad series does not make him a bad player. We should not overlook his past performances. We who are in the team know the importance of the player. They have got all the right to talk about it but it does not matter for us too much," he added.

He can single-handedly win you World Cups: Former India selector backs under-fire Virat Kohli

India started their white-ball series versus England on a winning note by defeating Jos Buttler-led English line-up by 50 runs in the first T20I at the Rose Bowl, Southampton on Thursday (July 07). While Hardik Pandya was the star performer, returning with 51 and 4 for 33, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh also had a good outing.

After Rohit Sharma-led India's convincing win, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has heaped praise on Deepak Hooda and feels his recent performances will put pressure on a struggling Virat Kohli. While Kohli's strike rate has dipped a bit, especially in the IPL, Hooda has been onsong since the Ireland T20Is. The right-hander has had scores of 47*, 104, 59 and 33 in his last four T20Is and the 27-year-old has impressed with his hitting abilities from the word go, helping India get off to a flying start in the powerplays.

Thus, Jaffer told ESPNCricinfo, "Hooda’s performance will put pressure on Virat Kohli when he comes back. You’ve got a guy who has done so well, performed consistently in the IPL and the T20Is as well. The pressure might bring out the best of Virat Kohli."

<section>
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-something-we-rohit-sharma-breaks-silence-over-frequent-captaincy-changes-in-india-watch-495598">'It's something we....' - Rohit Sharma breaks silence over frequent captaincy changes in India - WATCH</a>

Lavishing praise on India's attacking approach from the onset, Jaffer opined, "You’ve got to like the way they accelerated and the momentum they batted with. This was missing in the last T20 World Cup all the time. They are going with that aggressive approach, which is very refreshing to see."

“The big guys who are missing, KL Rahul (after recovering from injury) and Virat, are going to come back. But India will be happy that they have got the guys to back them up. However, the approach needs to be similar. This is the brand of cricket they need to play if they want to dominate this format. This is something we would like to see from the main guys as well,” Jaffer further asserted.

Regulars such as Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja are now available for the second and penultimate T20I, to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on Saturday (July 09).
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India started their white-ball series versus England on a winning note by defeating Jos Buttler-led English line-up by 50 runs in the first T20I at the Rose Bowl, Southampton on Thursday (July 07).

India started their white-ball series versus England on a winning note by defeating Jos Buttler-led English line-up by 50 runs in the first T20I at the Rose Bowl, Southampton on Thursday (July 07). While Hardik Pandya was the star performer, returning with 51 and 4 for 33, Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal and Arshdeep Singh also had a good outing. After Rohit Sharma-led India's convincing win, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has heaped praise on Deepak Hooda and feels his recent performances will put pressure on a struggling Virat Kohli. While Kohli's strike rate has dipped a bit, especially in the IPL, Hooda has been onsong since the Ireland T20Is. The right-hander has had scores of 47*, 104, 59 and 33 in his last four T20Is and the 27-year-old has impressed with his hitting abilities from the word go, helping India get off to a flying start in the powerplays. Thus, Jaffer told ESPNCricinfo, "Hooda’s performance will put pressure on Virat Kohli when he comes back. You’ve got a guy who has done so well, performed consistently in the IPL and the T20Is as well. The pressure might bring out the best of Virat Kohli." ALSO READ | 'It's something we....' - Rohit Sharma breaks silence over frequent captaincy changes in India - WATCH Lavishing praise on India's attacking approach from the onset, Jaffer opined, "You’ve got to like the way they accelerated and the momentum they batted with. This was missing in the last T20 World Cup all the time. They are going with that aggressive approach, which is very refreshing to see." “The big guys who are missing, KL Rahul (after recovering from injury) and Virat, are going to come back. But India will be happy that they have got the guys to back them up. However, the approach needs to be similar. This is the brand of cricket they need to play if they want to dominate this format. This is something we would like to see from the main guys as well,” Jaffer further asserted. Regulars such as Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja are now available for the second and penultimate T20I, to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on Saturday (July 09).

'His performance will put pressure on Virat Kohli' - Wasim Jaffer heaps praise on Indian star

Rohit Sharma-led India faced England in the first T20I, of the three-match series, on Thursday (July 07) in Southampton. India were without the likes of Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja but the second-stringed side beat England comfortably, by 50 runs, to take a 1-0 lead.&nbsp;

Opting to bat first at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India rode on quickfire knocks from Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Hardik Pandya's 51 to post 198-8. In reply, Hardik rose to the occasion with the ball and returned with a match-winning spell of 4-0-33-4 to guide India to an easy win over Jos Buttler &amp; Co. With his all-round blitz, the 28-year-old Hardik also scripted a massive feat by becoming the first-ever Indian to score a fifty and return with a four-wicket haul in a T20I.

Thus, Hardik&nbsp;joined the list of elite all-rounders such as Dwayne Bravo, Shane Watson, and Mohammed Hafeez to have achieved the same feat earlier. Former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh came close to this record in 2009 when he returned with&nbsp;a half-century and scalped three wickets in India's six-wicket win over Sri Lanka in Mohali in 2009.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-rohit-sharma-scripts-history-becomes-first-captain-to-win-13-successive-t20is-495573">ENG vs IND: Rohit Sharma scripts history, becomes first captain to win 13 successive T20Is</a>

At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Hardik said, "The last time I played a T20 in England, I think I took 4 wickets and scored some 30. So I kind of knew I was the first Indian to score fifty and take 4 wickets. I am enjoying my cricket right now. For me a lot of time goes into the preparation to get my body ready. The kind of break I took before this run of play I want to capitalize on the opportunities. I felt I needed that break. It is about giving your 100% and when you don't do that, there is no point playing. So I needed that break and now I am happy to be in this place right now."

India will now take on England in the second and penultimate T20I in&nbsp;Edgbaston, Birmingham

Rohit Sharma-led India faced England in the first T20I, of the three-match series, on Thursday (July 07) in Southampton. India were without the likes of Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja but the second-stringed side beat England comfortably, by 50 runs, to take a 1-0 lead.

Rohit Sharma-led India faced England in the first T20I, of the three-match series, on Thursday (July 07) in Southampton. India were without the likes of Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja but the second-stringed side beat England comfortably, by 50 runs, to take a 1-0 lead. Opting to bat first at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India rode on quickfire knocks from Deepak Hooda, Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Hardik Pandya's 51 to post 198-8. In reply, Hardik rose to the occasion with the ball and returned with a match-winning spell of 4-0-33-4 to guide India to an easy win over Jos Buttler & Co. With his all-round blitz, the 28-year-old Hardik also scripted a massive feat by becoming the first-ever Indian to score a fifty and return with a four-wicket haul in a T20I. Thus, Hardik joined the list of elite all-rounders such as Dwayne Bravo, Shane Watson, and Mohammed Hafeez to have achieved the same feat earlier. Former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh came close to this record in 2009 when he returned with a half-century and scalped three wickets in India's six-wicket win over Sri Lanka in Mohali in 2009. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND: Rohit Sharma scripts history, becomes first captain to win 13 successive T20Is At the post-match presentation, Player-of-the-Match Hardik said, "The last time I played a T20 in England, I think I took 4 wickets and scored some 30. So I kind of knew I was the first Indian to score fifty and take 4 wickets. I am enjoying my cricket right now. For me a lot of time goes into the preparation to get my body ready. The kind of break I took before this run of play I want to capitalize on the opportunities. I felt I needed that break. It is about giving your 100% and when you don't do that, there is no point playing. So I needed that break and now I am happy to be in this place right now." India will now take on England in the second and penultimate T20I in Edgbaston, Birmingham

ENG vs IND, 1st T20I: Hardik Pandya becomes first Indian to achieve MASSIVE feat in series opener

Hardik Pandya-led India kicked off their two-match T20I series versus Ireland at The Village, Dublin on Sunday evening (June 26). In a rain-affected 12-over aside contest, Hardik &amp; Co. defeated a spirited Ireland by seven wickets to take an unassailable lead in the process.&nbsp;

Vice-captain Bhuvneshwar Kumar set the tone for Team India after the visitors opted to bowl first. Bhuvi removed Ireland captain Andy Balbirnie for nought, with some early movement, and took India off to a flier. While&nbsp;Harry Tector's 33-ball 64 propelled Ireland to 108/4, in a dozen overs, Bhuvi remained economical (going at 5.30) and ended with 3-1-16-1. In reply, Deepak Hooda's unbeaten 47 and Hardik's 12-ball 24 took India to a comfortable win with 16 balls to spare.

While reviewing the&nbsp;India-Ireland T20I series opener in a video shared on his YouTube channel, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra pointed out the recent success that Bhuvi has achieved&nbsp;is his second coming. For the unversed, he was the Player-of-the-Series in the India-South Africa T20Is at home. In the Ireland series opener, the 32-year-old pacer attained another feat, becoming the leading wicket-taker in powerplays in T20Is (34). Thus, he went&nbsp;past West Indies spinner Samuel Badree and New Zealand seamer Tim Southee (both with 33 scalps each).&nbsp;

"Let's talk about Bhuvi because he has found a second wind. If you had asked me six to eight months back, I would have said that Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been a very good bowler, but he is not in my T20 scheme of things because there was no pace in the deliveries."

"There was swing in the hand, but let's be honest, the swing that was always there had also reduced, the pace was slightly going down, and suddenly you are asking that an important component of the bowling is missing, without which it will not work because there are a lot of other bowlers," opined Chopra.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-rising-up-the-ranks-with-ms-dhonis-learnings-492204">Hardik Pandya, rising up the ranks with MS Dhoni's learnings</a>

Chopra further added, "But this is his second wind. You will give him a lot of credit for how well he has bowled. You will also credit the team management for sticking with him continuously, I felt they would not stay with him after the World Cup. But he is continuously improving. The way the ball is swinging from his hand, it's been a revelation of sorts about how well you can get your rhythm back. The speed gun is still showing the same speed but the swing is back. That means Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back. I am really, really happy for him."

Bhuvi-starrer India will take on Ireland in the second and final T20I on June 28 (Tuesday) at the same venue.

Hardik Pandya-led India kicked off their two-match T20I series versus Ireland at The Village, Dublin on Sunday evening (June 26). In a rain-affected 12-over aside contest, Hardik & Co.

Hardik Pandya-led India kicked off their two-match T20I series versus Ireland at The Village, Dublin on Sunday evening (June 26). In a rain-affected 12-over aside contest, Hardik & Co. defeated a spirited Ireland by seven wickets to take an unassailable lead in the process. Vice-captain Bhuvneshwar Kumar set the tone for Team India after the visitors opted to bowl first. Bhuvi removed Ireland captain Andy Balbirnie for nought, with some early movement, and took India off to a flier. While Harry Tector's 33-ball 64 propelled Ireland to 108/4, in a dozen overs, Bhuvi remained economical (going at 5.30) and ended with 3-1-16-1. In reply, Deepak Hooda's unbeaten 47 and Hardik's 12-ball 24 took India to a comfortable win with 16 balls to spare. While reviewing the India-Ireland T20I series opener in a video shared on his YouTube channel, former India cricketer Aakash Chopra pointed out the recent success that Bhuvi has achieved is his second coming. For the unversed, he was the Player-of-the-Series in the India-South Africa T20Is at home. In the Ireland series opener, the 32-year-old pacer attained another feat, becoming the leading wicket-taker in powerplays in T20Is (34). Thus, he went past West Indies spinner Samuel Badree and New Zealand seamer Tim Southee (both with 33 scalps each). "Let's talk about Bhuvi because he has found a second wind. If you had asked me six to eight months back, I would have said that Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been a very good bowler, but he is not in my T20 scheme of things because there was no pace in the deliveries." "There was swing in the hand, but let's be honest, the swing that was always there had also reduced, the pace was slightly going down, and suddenly you are asking that an important component of the bowling is missing, without which it will not work because there are a lot of other bowlers," opined Chopra. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya, rising up the ranks with MS Dhoni's learnings Chopra further added, "But this is his second wind. You will give him a lot of credit for how well he has bowled. You will also credit the team management for sticking with him continuously, I felt they would not stay with him after the World Cup. But he is continuously improving. The way the ball is swinging from his hand, it's been a revelation of sorts about how well you can get your rhythm back. The speed gun is still showing the same speed but the swing is back. That means Bhuvneshwar Kumar is back. I am really, really happy for him." Bhuvi-starrer India will take on Ireland in the second and final T20I on June 28 (Tuesday) at the same venue.

'He has found....': Former cricketer all praise for star India player after Ireland T20I series opener

India and South Africa's five-match T20I series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, after the fifth and final encounter was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Despite the series not determining a winner between both sides, there were a lot of positives for the hosts India, who were without many of their white-ball regulars.

The Rishabh Pant-led Indian team saw top performances from Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who returned with the Player-of-the-Match, Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan and Yuzvendra Chahal. After the series, former SA captain Graeme Smith named two players who are now integral to India's T20I squad and named the X-factor for Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup.

Speaking to&nbsp;cricket.com, batting icon Smith opined that Pandya and Karthik have become somewhat indispensable. In this regard, he opined, "Still a lot of cricket to be played so it is difficult to predict what is going to happen in the next couple of months but you are going to think Hardik and DK are integral to that squad. DK is experienced with that finishing role that he has played Hardik has grown leaps and bounds and is in control of his game."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-spent-a-lot-of-time-with-dhoni-virat-but-has-his-own-brand-of-captaincy-ex-india-stumper-490187">Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper</a>

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On Hardik, Smith added, "Mentally he looks like he has settled. And he is also that all-rounder X Factor that India require to just balance the team with him and Jadeja in the squad which opens up a lot of options. So I can't see that those two not making it to the World Cup squad."

Both Hardik and DK will next be seen in action during India's forthcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.
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India and South Africa's five-match T20I series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, after the fifth and final encounter was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru.

India and South Africa's five-match T20I series ended in a stalemate, 2-2, after the fifth and final encounter was abandoned due to persistent rain in Bengaluru. Despite the series not determining a winner between both sides, there were a lot of positives for the hosts India, who were without many of their white-ball regulars. The Rishabh Pant-led Indian team saw top performances from Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who returned with the Player-of-the-Match, Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan and Yuzvendra Chahal. After the series, former SA captain Graeme Smith named two players who are now integral to India's T20I squad and named the X-factor for Rohit Sharma & Co. heading into the 2022 T20 World Cup. Speaking to cricket.com, batting icon Smith opined that Pandya and Karthik have become somewhat indispensable. In this regard, he opined, "Still a lot of cricket to be played so it is difficult to predict what is going to happen in the next couple of months but you are going to think Hardik and DK are integral to that squad. DK is experienced with that finishing role that he has played Hardik has grown leaps and bounds and is in control of his game." ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya spent a lot of time with Dhoni, Virat but has his own brand of captaincy: Ex-India stumper On Hardik, Smith added, "Mentally he looks like he has settled. And he is also that all-rounder X Factor that India require to just balance the team with him and Jadeja in the squad which opens up a lot of options. So I can't see that those two not making it to the World Cup squad." Both Hardik and DK will next be seen in action during India's forthcoming two-match T20I series versus Ireland, in Dublin, on June 26 and 28.

Graeme Smith names star player as Rohit Sharma-led India's 'X-factor' for 2022 T20 World Cup

India played an intense five-match T20I series versus South Africa at home, which concluded on Sunday evening (June 19). With the series levelled at 2-2, both sides had all to play for before the final encounter, at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, which ended in no-result with only 3.3 overs of play possible due to persistent rain.

Despite the series being shared, India had quite a few positives with the form and performances of Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. as they continue to fix their final combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. While a lot of players are still fighting hard to cement a spot in the final squad, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar was asked about veteran Shikhar Dhawan's chances.

"No. I don't see his name popping up. If it had to pop up, it would have been in this squad. A lot of guys have gone to England and he could have been in this squad. If he is not in this squad, I don't see him ending in the mix (for T20 World Cup)," Gavaskar said in an interaction on&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;during the Bengaluru T20I.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-t20is-bhuvneshwar-kumar-creates-new-record-for-team-india-after-memorable-series-vs-proteas-489914">Ind vs SA, T20Is: Bhuvneshwar Kumar creates new record for Team India after memorable series vs Proteas</a>

For the unversed, Dhawan has played 68 T20Is for India, scoring&nbsp;1,759 runs at 126.36. While he has had seven consecutive IPL seasons with over 400-plus runs, his strike rate was deemed to be an issue for the Men in Blue. Even though Dhawan improved his strike rate in IPL, does well for India in&nbsp;ICC events and has has a lot of experience overall, he has fallen behind in the pecking order with the emergence of some young and dashing openers.&nbsp;Thus, he missed being a part of India's squad in the 2021 edition and is likely to remain out of favour for this year's showpiece event as well, which will take place Down Under.

India played an intense five-match T20I series versus South Africa at home, which concluded on Sunday evening (June 19). With the series levelled at 2-2, both sides had all to play for before the final encounter, at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, which ended in no-result with only 3.

India played an intense five-match T20I series versus South Africa at home, which concluded on Sunday evening (June 19). With the series levelled at 2-2, both sides had all to play for before the final encounter, at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, which ended in no-result with only 3.3 overs of play possible due to persistent rain. Despite the series being shared, India had quite a few positives with the form and performances of Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. as they continue to fix their final combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year. While a lot of players are still fighting hard to cement a spot in the final squad, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar was asked about veteran Shikhar Dhawan's chances. "No. I don't see his name popping up. If it had to pop up, it would have been in this squad. A lot of guys have gone to England and he could have been in this squad. If he is not in this squad, I don't see him ending in the mix (for T20 World Cup)," Gavaskar said in an interaction on Star Sports during the Bengaluru T20I. ALSO READ | Ind vs SA, T20Is: Bhuvneshwar Kumar creates new record for Team India after memorable series vs Proteas For the unversed, Dhawan has played 68 T20Is for India, scoring 1,759 runs at 126.36. While he has had seven consecutive IPL seasons with over 400-plus runs, his strike rate was deemed to be an issue for the Men in Blue. Even though Dhawan improved his strike rate in IPL, does well for India in ICC events and has has a lot of experience overall, he has fallen behind in the pecking order with the emergence of some young and dashing openers. Thus, he missed being a part of India's squad in the 2021 edition and is likely to remain out of favour for this year's showpiece event as well, which will take place Down Under.

Don't see his name popping up: Sunil Gavaskar dismisses India star's chances of making it to T20 WC squad

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series in the former's own backyard, which ended tamely with the fifth and final encounter being abandoned on Sunday (June 19). Due to persistent rain in Bengaluru, the final match of the series led to a no-result, however, Rishabh Pant-led Men in Blue had a lot of takeaways from the series.

The return and form of Dinesh Karthik, who made a comeback in the Team India setup after almost three years, made heads turn. DK returned with a tough 21-ball 30* in the second T20I and was the Player-of-the-Match in the fourth and final encounter, in Rajkot, which helped India level the series 2-2 before the final game resulted in no winner. Thus, calls have intensified for him to be a part of Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad.

DK had a splendid IPL 2022 season as well, returning with 330 runs at a strike rate of 183.33. Thus, he carried his form for India whereas Rishabh Pant fell flat with the bat in the SA series, ending with scores of&nbsp;29, 5, 6, 17 and 1*. He&nbsp;had a decent IPL 15, scoring 340 runs at 151.78 but hardly&nbsp;made match-winning contributions, unlike DK.

Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious 2007 T20 World Cup squad and ended as the Player-of-the-Match in the finale -- picked his ideal XI for Rohit &amp; Co., naming DK over Pant.

ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-netizens-divided-over-ruturaj-gaikwads-behaviour-with-groundsman-in-bengaluru-t20i-489830">WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I</a>

Speaking to&nbsp;Star Sports,&nbsp;Pathan picked star batters KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the top 3 of his World Cup playing XI. “In Australia, you need powerful starts because the ball swings and seams a lot. So you need a player who has a lot of experience,” Pathan said. "Kohli may not have performed well so far but in Australia, he has scored a lot of runs,” he added.

Further, after picking the likes of Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, Irfan chose DK over Pant and mentioned his all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel (who can bat a bit) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar before ending his XI with&nbsp;Yuzvendra Chahal and Jasprit Bumrah.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-the-finisher-who-is-far-from-finished-489375">Dinesh Karthik: The finisher who is far from finished</a>

Irfan Pathan's India XI for 2022 T20 World Cup:&nbsp;KL Rahul, (C) Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series in the former's own backyard, which ended tamely with the fifth and final encounter being abandoned on Sunday (June 19).

India and South Africa were involved in a closely-fought five-match T20I series in the former's own backyard, which ended tamely with the fifth and final encounter being abandoned on Sunday (June 19). Due to persistent rain in Bengaluru, the final match of the series led to a no-result, however, Rishabh Pant-led Men in Blue had a lot of takeaways from the series. The return and form of Dinesh Karthik, who made a comeback in the Team India setup after almost three years, made heads turn. DK returned with a tough 21-ball 30* in the second T20I and was the Player-of-the-Match in the fourth and final encounter, in Rajkot, which helped India level the series 2-2 before the final game resulted in no winner. Thus, calls have intensified for him to be a part of Rohit Sharma-led India's 2022 T20 World Cup squad. DK had a splendid IPL 2022 season as well, returning with 330 runs at a strike rate of 183.33. Thus, he carried his form for India whereas Rishabh Pant fell flat with the bat in the SA series, ending with scores of 29, 5, 6, 17 and 1*. He had a decent IPL 15, scoring 340 runs at 151.78 but hardly made match-winning contributions, unlike DK. Thus, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan -- who was part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious 2007 T20 World Cup squad and ended as the Player-of-the-Match in the finale -- picked his ideal XI for Rohit & Co., naming DK over Pant. ALSO READ | WATCH: Netizens divided over Ruturaj Gaikwad's behaviour with groundsman in Bengaluru T20I Speaking to Star Sports, Pathan picked star batters KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the top 3 of his World Cup playing XI. “In Australia, you need powerful starts because the ball swings and seams a lot. So you need a player who has a lot of experience,” Pathan said. "Kohli may not have performed well so far but in Australia, he has scored a lot of runs,” he added. Further, after picking the likes of Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, Irfan chose DK over Pant and mentioned his all-rounders in Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel (who can bat a bit) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar before ending his XI with Yuzvendra Chahal and Jasprit Bumrah. ALSO READ | Dinesh Karthik: The finisher who is far from finished Irfan Pathan's India XI for 2022 T20 World Cup: KL Rahul, (C) Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshal Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.

Rishabh Pant or Dinesh Karthik? Irfan Pathan names his choice while picking Rohit & Co.'s ideal T20 WC XI

Kuldeep Yadav has had a tough ride in international cricket since the 2019 ODI World Cup. Following his IPL 2022 blitz, where he ended as the fifth-highest wicket while representing the Delhi Capitals (DC), the wrist-spinner is now in the scheme of things for Team India ahead of this year's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia.&nbsp;

Former Indian batter-turned-expert Sanjay Manjrekar has recently called for Kuldeep's inclusion in the Indian team ahead of the showpiece event Down Under. Manjrekar feels the pitches in Australia will assist a spinner like Kuldeep and won't be to the liking of Yuzvendra Chahal.

Speaking on&nbsp;Sports 18,&nbsp;Manjrekar was asked how Chahal, who was the Player-of-the-Match in the third T20I between India and South Africa on Tuesday (June 14), fits in the Men in Blue's plans going ahead. To this, the 56-year-old said, "He will be tested on those pitches in Australia. The pitches won't be the ones that Chahal relishes and that's why I believe Kuldeep Yadav has got to be a part of the squad. There will be bounce for his kind of bowler."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuzvendra-chahal-reveals-technical-changes-he-made-for-better-returns-after-indias-3rd-t20i-win-vs-sa-488379">Yuzvendra Chahal reveals technical changes he made for better returns after India's 3rd T20I win vs SA</a>

"The other thing is in a World Cup you play a different team every game, so there will come teams who will not be so good against the kind of deception that a Kuldeep Yadav has," Manjrekar further pointed out.

So far, Kuldeep has played 24 T20Is for India. In Australia, the 27-year-old spinner has played three T20Is, claiming four scalps at an economy of 5.50. He was part of India's ongoing home T20Is versus the Proteas before an injury ruled him out of action.

Kuldeep Yadav has had a tough ride in international cricket since the 2019 ODI World Cup. Following his IPL 2022 blitz, where he ended as the fifth-highest wicket while representing the Delhi Capitals (DC), the wrist-spinner is now in the scheme of things for Team India ahead of this year's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia.

Kuldeep Yadav has had a tough ride in international cricket since the 2019 ODI World Cup. Following his IPL 2022 blitz, where he ended as the fifth-highest wicket while representing the Delhi Capitals (DC), the wrist-spinner is now in the scheme of things for Team India ahead of this year's T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia. Former Indian batter-turned-expert Sanjay Manjrekar has recently called for Kuldeep's inclusion in the Indian team ahead of the showpiece event Down Under. Manjrekar feels the pitches in Australia will assist a spinner like Kuldeep and won't be to the liking of Yuzvendra Chahal. Speaking on Sports 18, Manjrekar was asked how Chahal, who was the Player-of-the-Match in the third T20I between India and South Africa on Tuesday (June 14), fits in the Men in Blue's plans going ahead. To this, the 56-year-old said, "He will be tested on those pitches in Australia. The pitches won't be the ones that Chahal relishes and that's why I believe Kuldeep Yadav has got to be a part of the squad. There will be bounce for his kind of bowler." ALSO READ | Yuzvendra Chahal reveals technical changes he made for better returns after India's 3rd T20I win vs SA "The other thing is in a World Cup you play a different team every game, so there will come teams who will not be so good against the kind of deception that a Kuldeep Yadav has," Manjrekar further pointed out. So far, Kuldeep has played 24 T20Is for India. In Australia, the 27-year-old spinner has played three T20Is, claiming four scalps at an economy of 5.50. He was part of India's ongoing home T20Is versus the Proteas before an injury ruled him out of action.

There'll be bounce for his kind of bowler in AUS: Manjrekar feels star spinner needed in India's T20 WC squad

Dinesh Karthik has been hailed by many and labelled as the comeback man after he was named in India's T20I squad for the home series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa. Karthik played his first-ever game for Team India -- after the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals -- when he stepped onto the 22-yard cricket strip for Rishabh Pant &amp; Co. during the series opener in New Delhi.

While he didn't face a lot of balls in the first T20I, Karthik returned with an impressive 21-ball 30 not out in the second match of the series, in Cuttack on Sunday evening (June 12). Thus, former Indian captain, Kapil Dev has heaped praise on DK for his impressive run in IPL 2022 -- where he ended with 330 runs at 183.33 for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- and lauded him for keeping his motivation levels high despite not representing India for a long time.

"This time he has performed so well (in IPL 15) that he has forced the selectors to think that 'look, you can't ignore me'. Rishabh Pant is a youngster, he has plenty of cricket. Dinesh Karthik has experience and performance, which is why I would say, that no praise is enough for him," said Kapil on Youtube channel Uncut.

The 1983 World Cup-winning captain&nbsp;added, "He has been playing cricket even before MS Dhoni. It’s been 2 years since Dhoni retired but even now, Karthik has kept his motivation level high and to love the game with the same passion and heart after so many years is not easy. If you talk about consistency, then Dinesh Karthik is ahead of them all. Irrespective of how many balls he faces – 20, 10, or 15, he always delivers, like we saw in the IPL."

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-wouldnt-have-him-in-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-gautam-gambhirs-take-on-star-players-chances-488094">'I wouldn't have him in India's T20 World Cup squad' - Gautam Gambhir's take on star player's chances</a>

Karthik has surely kept his dreams alive of representing India in the 2022 T20 World Cup. Nonetheless, he would still need to perform on a consistent level to hold onto his spot, especially after regulars such as captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain KL Rahul, former skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, etc. return back into the playing XI.&nbsp;

Karthik-starrer India are facing South Africa in the third T20I in Visakhapatnam, on Tuesday evening (June 14), in a bid to keep the five-match series alive.
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Dinesh Karthik has been hailed by many and labelled as the comeback man after he was named in India's T20I squad for the home series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa.

Dinesh Karthik has been hailed by many and labelled as the comeback man after he was named in India's T20I squad for the home series versus Temba Bavuma-led South Africa. Karthik played his first-ever game for Team India -- after the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals -- when he stepped onto the 22-yard cricket strip for Rishabh Pant & Co. during the series opener in New Delhi. While he didn't face a lot of balls in the first T20I, Karthik returned with an impressive 21-ball 30 not out in the second match of the series, in Cuttack on Sunday evening (June 12). Thus, former Indian captain, Kapil Dev has heaped praise on DK for his impressive run in IPL 2022 -- where he ended with 330 runs at 183.33 for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) -- and lauded him for keeping his motivation levels high despite not representing India for a long time. "This time he has performed so well (in IPL 15) that he has forced the selectors to think that 'look, you can't ignore me'. Rishabh Pant is a youngster, he has plenty of cricket. Dinesh Karthik has experience and performance, which is why I would say, that no praise is enough for him," said Kapil on Youtube channel Uncut. The 1983 World Cup-winning captain added, "He has been playing cricket even before MS Dhoni. It’s been 2 years since Dhoni retired but even now, Karthik has kept his motivation level high and to love the game with the same passion and heart after so many years is not easy. If you talk about consistency, then Dinesh Karthik is ahead of them all. Irrespective of how many balls he faces – 20, 10, or 15, he always delivers, like we saw in the IPL." ALSO READ | 'I wouldn't have him in India's T20 World Cup squad' - Gautam Gambhir's take on star player's chances Karthik has surely kept his dreams alive of representing India in the 2022 T20 World Cup. Nonetheless, he would still need to perform on a consistent level to hold onto his spot, especially after regulars such as captain Rohit Sharma, vice-captain KL Rahul, former skipper Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, etc. return back into the playing XI. Karthik-starrer India are facing South Africa in the third T20I in Visakhapatnam, on Tuesday evening (June 14), in a bid to keep the five-match series alive.

He forced selectors to think that 'look, you can't ignore me': Kapil Dev heaps praise on Dinesh Karthik

Dinesh Karthik has made a remarkable comeback into the Indian team after the 2019 ODI World Cup. Many had written him off but the veteran keeper-batter produced a sensational performance with the bat for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022 and, hence, earned a recall into the Indian T20I line-up.

Karthik, at 37, is part of the Rishabh Pant-led Indian squad for the ongoing South Africa home T20Is. While he faced only two balls and was unbeaten on 1 in the series opener, Karthik produced another gem of an innings as a finisher when he returned with a 21-ball 30* in the second T20I versus the Proteas in Cuttack on Sunday evening (June 12). Thus, he is now also performing for Team India as he remains in contention to feature in the national side's 2022 T20 World Cup squad.

However, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir feels Karthik will find it tough to retain his place once regulars such as KL Rahul, captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and others return.

Speaking on Star Sports' Match Point, Gambhir lauded DK's 2nd T20I heroics and said, "It was very valuable (the knock), he has been doing that for the last 2-3 months for RCB. But, I was a bit amazed that Axar came ahead of Dinesh Karthik. I would've been more happy if he had come ahead of Axar."

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"Too early to say. T20 World Cup is far ahead. He needs to consistently perform till then but if he wants to bat only in the last three overs, things could get tough. India will definitely be looking at someone in the top 7 who can bowl and if Axar is batting at 7, the team would be a batter short," he opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-prediction-who-will-win-3rd-t20i-between-india-and-south-africa-in-visakhapatnam-488033">IND vs SA prediction: Who will win 3rd T20I between India and South Africa in Visakhapatnam</a>

"In such a case I would not have him (Karthik) in the World Cup Squad. I would definitely have people like Rishabh Pant, and Deepak Hooda (in the team). We have got KL Rahul, we've got Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma. Once they come back, it's going to be tough for Dinesh Karthik to find a place in the playing XI. If he doesn't have a place in the playing XI, there's no point giving him a place in the squad," Gambhir mentioned.

"Once KL, Rohit, Surya and Virat are back, I don't see him in the playing XI. This will be your top 4 and then you'll have someone like Hooda, Pant, Hardik, Jadeja. I will have a younger guy (in place of Karthik) who is a better fielder on those grounds and can probably chip in with a couple of overs as well. Karthik, unfortunately, will have to miss out unless and until the selectors make a huge call and drop one of the top four," the cricketer-turned-politician added.

Karthik, however, would want to continue performing for Team India in the remainder of the SA series to keep his World Cup dreams alive. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant &amp; Co. will take on Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the third T20I to keep the series alive after conceding a 2-0 lead.
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Dinesh Karthik has made a remarkable comeback into the Indian team after the 2019 ODI World Cup. Many had written him off but the veteran keeper-batter produced a sensational performance with the bat for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022 and, hence, earned a recall into the Indian T20I line-up.

Dinesh Karthik has made a remarkable comeback into the Indian team after the 2019 ODI World Cup. Many had written him off but the veteran keeper-batter produced a sensational performance with the bat for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2022 and, hence, earned a recall into the Indian T20I line-up. Karthik, at 37, is part of the Rishabh Pant-led Indian squad for the ongoing South Africa home T20Is. While he faced only two balls and was unbeaten on 1 in the series opener, Karthik produced another gem of an innings as a finisher when he returned with a 21-ball 30* in the second T20I versus the Proteas in Cuttack on Sunday evening (June 12). Thus, he is now also performing for Team India as he remains in contention to feature in the national side's 2022 T20 World Cup squad. However, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir feels Karthik will find it tough to retain his place once regulars such as KL Rahul, captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and others return. Speaking on Star Sports' Match Point, Gambhir lauded DK's 2nd T20I heroics and said, "It was very valuable (the knock), he has been doing that for the last 2-3 months for RCB. But, I was a bit amazed that Axar came ahead of Dinesh Karthik. I would've been more happy if he had come ahead of Axar." "Too early to say. T20 World Cup is far ahead. He needs to consistently perform till then but if he wants to bat only in the last three overs, things could get tough. India will definitely be looking at someone in the top 7 who can bowl and if Axar is batting at 7, the team would be a batter short," he opined. ALSO READ | IND vs SA prediction: Who will win 3rd T20I between India and South Africa in Visakhapatnam "In such a case I would not have him (Karthik) in the World Cup Squad. I would definitely have people like Rishabh Pant, and Deepak Hooda (in the team). We have got KL Rahul, we've got Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma. Once they come back, it's going to be tough for Dinesh Karthik to find a place in the playing XI. If he doesn't have a place in the playing XI, there's no point giving him a place in the squad," Gambhir mentioned. "Once KL, Rohit, Surya and Virat are back, I don't see him in the playing XI. This will be your top 4 and then you'll have someone like Hooda, Pant, Hardik, Jadeja. I will have a younger guy (in place of Karthik) who is a better fielder on those grounds and can probably chip in with a couple of overs as well. Karthik, unfortunately, will have to miss out unless and until the selectors make a huge call and drop one of the top four," the cricketer-turned-politician added. Karthik, however, would want to continue performing for Team India in the remainder of the SA series to keep his World Cup dreams alive. On Tuesday evening (June 14), Pant & Co. will take on Temba Bavuma's South Africa in the third T20I to keep the series alive after conceding a 2-0 lead.

'I wouldn't have him in India's T20 World Cup squad' - Gautam Gambhir's take on star player's chances

Team India already have one eye on the forthcoming T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year, after their disastrous run in the last year's edition. Ahead of the showpiece event, former Indian captain, Kapil Dev slammed India's top order's T20 batting approach and asked them to strike at a higher rate.&nbsp;

The 1983 World Cup-winning skipper Kapil feels that Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli have the potential to go at a strike rate of 150-160, however, they restrict themselves and often get out while accelerating at the latter half of the innings, putting pressure on the rest of the batters. Kapil also went on to add that if they can't change their approach in a fast-moving game, they should be replaced by fresh faces.&nbsp;

"They have a big reputation and there's huge pressure on them, which shouldn't be the case. You have to play fearless cricket. All of these are players who can hit at a strike rate of 150-160. Whenever we need them to score runs, they all get out. When it is time to take off (in the innings), they are out. And that adds to pressure. Either you play an anchor or you play striker,” said Kapil on the Youtube channel&nbsp;Uncut.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/need-a-wicketkeeper-who-will-play-dhonis-role-shastri-on-how-karthik-can-cement-his-place-in-indian-team-485322">Need a wicketkeeper who will play Dhoni’s role: Shastri on how Karthik can cement his place in Indian team</a>

Kapil stressed on Rahul and said, "When you talk about KL Rahul, if the team tells him to play the entire 20 overs and you come back with a score of, say 60 not out, you're not doing justice to your team." He added, "

“I think the approach needs to change. And if it doesn't, you have to change the players. A big player is expected to make a big impact. Having a big reputation is not enough, you also have to deliver great performances."

At present, a second-stringed Rahul-led India are gearing up for the home T20Is versus South Africa, starting on June 09. Rohit and Virat have been rested and will return to action during the one-off Test versus England, on July 01.
</section>

Team India already have one eye on the forthcoming T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year, after their disastrous run in the last year's edition.

Team India already have one eye on the forthcoming T20 World Cup, set to be held in Australia later this year, after their disastrous run in the last year's edition. Ahead of the showpiece event, former Indian captain, Kapil Dev slammed India's top order's T20 batting approach and asked them to strike at a higher rate. The 1983 World Cup-winning skipper Kapil feels that Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli have the potential to go at a strike rate of 150-160, however, they restrict themselves and often get out while accelerating at the latter half of the innings, putting pressure on the rest of the batters. Kapil also went on to add that if they can't change their approach in a fast-moving game, they should be replaced by fresh faces. "They have a big reputation and there's huge pressure on them, which shouldn't be the case. You have to play fearless cricket. All of these are players who can hit at a strike rate of 150-160. Whenever we need them to score runs, they all get out. When it is time to take off (in the innings), they are out. And that adds to pressure. Either you play an anchor or you play striker,” said Kapil on the Youtube channel Uncut. ALSO READ | Need a wicketkeeper who will play Dhoni’s role: Shastri on how Karthik can cement his place in Indian team Kapil stressed on Rahul and said, "When you talk about KL Rahul, if the team tells him to play the entire 20 overs and you come back with a score of, say 60 not out, you're not doing justice to your team." He added, " “I think the approach needs to change. And if it doesn't, you have to change the players. A big player is expected to make a big impact. Having a big reputation is not enough, you also have to deliver great performances." At present, a second-stringed Rahul-led India are gearing up for the home T20Is versus South Africa, starting on June 09. Rohit and Virat have been rested and will return to action during the one-off Test versus England, on July 01.

When we need them to score runs, they get out: Kapil Dev on India's top order's T20 batting approach

The IPL 2022 edition ended on May 29 (Sunday). There were plenty of memorable performances by uncapped players, veteran stars whereas some big names failed to get going and fell flat. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Kieron Pollard, Glenn Maxwell and many other superstar cricketers failed to live upto expectations and had an ordinary run.

Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked Team India's T20 World Cup squad, for the mega event set to be held in Australia later this year, on the basis of Indian players' IPL 2022 performance. While Chopra named Hardik Pandya -- IPL 15's winning captain -- as India's skipper, he dropped Virat, Rohit, Rishabh Pant and Jadeja.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-a-special-player-but-kohli-and-rohit-belong-in-a-different-league-says-former-pakistan-captain-484006">KL Rahul a special player but Kohli and Rohit belong in a different league, says former Pakistan captain</a>

"The first name I am keeping is KL Rahul. He can play till 15-17 overs, he is a T20 gun batter and scored more than 600 runs this year. I have kept Ishan Kishan along with him. If you see his numbers, you will say it was not that bad a season for Ishan Kishan."

"At No. 3, I have kept Rahul Tripathi. He played very well this, strike rate has been very high and given match-winning performances. At No. 4, I have kept SKY. He has not played all the games but he has played at a different level in the matches he played," Chopra said on his Youtube channel.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-captains-aakash-chopras-ipl-2022-xi-no-place-for-dk-rashid-khan-and-umran-malik-483865">Hardik Pandya captains Aakash Chopra's IPL 2022 XI, no place for DK, Rashid Khan and Umran Malik</a>

He added, "After that, my Player of the Tournament. I have made Hardik Pandya the captain of the team. He can play in the middle and be a finisher as well. After that, I have given a spot to Dinesh Karthik and he is my wicketkeeper as well. He has run at a strike rate of 180-190 and finished a lot of matches."

"At No. 7, I have kept Krunal Pandya because he has had a very good season. He has been very economical as a bowler and scored crucial runs as a batter. He can bat up and down the order. You require a left-hander in the middle."

"After that, Yuzi Chahal has to be in my side. Then I have three fast bowlers and the fourth fast bowler is Hardik Pandya - Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh. I am seeing this as the XI," Chopra opined further.

India's T20 World Cup squad based on IPL 2022 performances: KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Rahul Tripathi, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (c), Dinesh Karthik, Krunal Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Sanju Samson, Deepak Hooda, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshal Patel, Jasprit Bumrah

The IPL 2022 edition ended on May 29 (Sunday). There were plenty of memorable performances by uncapped players, veteran stars whereas some big names failed to get going and fell flat.

The IPL 2022 edition ended on May 29 (Sunday). There were plenty of memorable performances by uncapped players, veteran stars whereas some big names failed to get going and fell flat. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, Kieron Pollard, Glenn Maxwell and many other superstar cricketers failed to live upto expectations and had an ordinary run. Thus, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra picked Team India's T20 World Cup squad, for the mega event set to be held in Australia later this year, on the basis of Indian players' IPL 2022 performance. While Chopra named Hardik Pandya -- IPL 15's winning captain -- as India's skipper, he dropped Virat, Rohit, Rishabh Pant and Jadeja. ALSO READ | KL Rahul a special player but Kohli and Rohit belong in a different league, says former Pakistan captain "The first name I am keeping is KL Rahul. He can play till 15-17 overs, he is a T20 gun batter and scored more than 600 runs this year. I have kept Ishan Kishan along with him. If you see his numbers, you will say it was not that bad a season for Ishan Kishan." "At No. 3, I have kept Rahul Tripathi. He played very well this, strike rate has been very high and given match-winning performances. At No. 4, I have kept SKY. He has not played all the games but he has played at a different level in the matches he played," Chopra said on his Youtube channel. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya captains Aakash Chopra's IPL 2022 XI, no place for DK, Rashid Khan and Umran Malik He added, "After that, my Player of the Tournament. I have made Hardik Pandya the captain of the team. He can play in the middle and be a finisher as well. After that, I have given a spot to Dinesh Karthik and he is my wicketkeeper as well. He has run at a strike rate of 180-190 and finished a lot of matches." "At No. 7, I have kept Krunal Pandya because he has had a very good season. He has been very economical as a bowler and scored crucial runs as a batter. He can bat up and down the order. You require a left-hander in the middle." "After that, Yuzi Chahal has to be in my side. Then I have three fast bowlers and the fourth fast bowler is Hardik Pandya - Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh. I am seeing this as the XI," Chopra opined further. India's T20 World Cup squad based on IPL 2022 performances: KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Rahul Tripathi, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (c), Dinesh Karthik, Krunal Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Sanju Samson, Deepak Hooda, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshal Patel, Jasprit Bumrah

Hardik to lead India in Aakash Chopra's T20 WC squad based on IPL 2022, Virat, Rohit & some big names dropped

Virat Kohli entered IPL 2022 after being free from captaincy responsibilities altogether. While he had relinquished Team India's captaincy in the shortest format and also stepped down as Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) skipper post last year's season, he was sacked as India's ODI skipper and he also resigned as the Test captain.

Thus, many thought he would go all-out in the 15th season of the IPL, being held in India. Nonetheless, he ended the league stage with only 309 runs at a strike rate of 117.93 along with two fifties. While he can still turn the tides in the playoffs, after having played his best knock in RCB's last league stage outing, many are concerned about Kohli's form in a T20 World Cup year for the Men in Blue.

However, former Indian spinner-turned-commentator Murali Karthik has backed Kohli to remain in India's T20I scheme of things as he can deliver at any time.

"You can't keep such players out of the squad for tournaments like the T20 World Cup because they have earned the right to be there for what they are and what they can do at the end moment," Kartik said on 'CricChat Season 2' on ShareChat Audio Chatrooms.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/even-rohit-virat-havent-scored-runs-former-pak-captain-defends-ishan-kishans-selection-for-sa-t20is-481740">Even Rohit, Virat haven't scored runs: Former Pak captain defends Ishan Kishan's selection for SA T20Is</a>

After returning with a match-winning 54-ball 73 in RCB's eight-wicket win over table-toppers Gujarat Titans (GT) in their final group stage fixture, Faf du Plessis-led Bengaluru will now play the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Eliminator and hope for some consistency from Kohli in the fag end of the IPL 2022 edition.

Kohli has been rested for India's upcoming five T20Is versus South Africa, at home, from starting June. Thus, he will take some time off before going all-out for India in an important calendar year, comprising the T20 World Cup in Australia in October-November.

Virat Kohli entered IPL 2022 after being free from captaincy responsibilities altogether. While he had relinquished Team India's captaincy in the shortest format and also stepped down as Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) skipper post last year's season, he was sacked as India's ODI skipper and he also resigned as the Test captain.

Virat Kohli entered IPL 2022 after being free from captaincy responsibilities altogether. While he had relinquished Team India's captaincy in the shortest format and also stepped down as Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) skipper post last year's season, he was sacked as India's ODI skipper and he also resigned as the Test captain. Thus, many thought he would go all-out in the 15th season of the IPL, being held in India. Nonetheless, he ended the league stage with only 309 runs at a strike rate of 117.93 along with two fifties. While he can still turn the tides in the playoffs, after having played his best knock in RCB's last league stage outing, many are concerned about Kohli's form in a T20 World Cup year for the Men in Blue. However, former Indian spinner-turned-commentator Murali Karthik has backed Kohli to remain in India's T20I scheme of things as he can deliver at any time. "You can't keep such players out of the squad for tournaments like the T20 World Cup because they have earned the right to be there for what they are and what they can do at the end moment," Kartik said on 'CricChat Season 2' on ShareChat Audio Chatrooms. ALSO READ | Even Rohit, Virat haven't scored runs: Former Pak captain defends Ishan Kishan's selection for SA T20Is After returning with a match-winning 54-ball 73 in RCB's eight-wicket win over table-toppers Gujarat Titans (GT) in their final group stage fixture, Faf du Plessis-led Bengaluru will now play the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Eliminator and hope for some consistency from Kohli in the fag end of the IPL 2022 edition. Kohli has been rested for India's upcoming five T20Is versus South Africa, at home, from starting June. Thus, he will take some time off before going all-out for India in an important calendar year, comprising the T20 World Cup in Australia in October-November.

'You can't keep such players....' - Former India spinner backs Virat Kohli amid batting concerns

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee announced an 18-member Team India squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, starting from June 09. While the big guns such as regular captain Rohit Sharma, former skipper Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested, KL Rahul will lead the line-up, which also sees the comeback of Dinesh Karthik.

Karthik, who had donned the commentator's hat last year, has seen his career getting revived in IPL 2022, where he is representing the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Karthik got a new lease of life at the RCB, where he has made heads turn being a fantastic finisher for the three-time runners-up and rescuing them from several precarious situations. In 14 games, Karthik has amassed 287 runs&nbsp;at an average of 57.40 and a strike rate of 191.

Thus, Karthik's IPL 15 knocks have helped him make a comeback in Team India setup. In a video shared by RCB, the veteran keeper-batter thanked Bengaluru's top brass&nbsp;Sanjay Bangar, Mike Hesson and Indian captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid for instilling faith on him.

"Very happy. Very very very satisfying. I must say this has been my most memorable comeback because a lot of people had given up on me and for me to do what I did, practice with the way I did with my coach Nayar. So many special things in the lead to the auction and how I practiced post that. I lot of credit also to Sanjay Bangar and Mike Hesson. The clarity that they gave me to execute the role that I wanted to, in many ways I am indebted to RCB for picking me and believing in me," said Karthik who was roped in by the francse&nbsp;for 5.50 crore at IPL mega auction.

"A lot of credit must go to the selectors, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid because these days with so many young boys putting their names for selection, to see the skillset that is there and then to believe that this is the guy we need for the World Cup, it is a very very humbling feeling. I know the journey is still there to the World Cup but to be a part of the scheme of things and giving me an opportunity to showcase my skills and I am very proud of it," Karthik added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-rested-as-india-announce-squad-for-t20i-series-against-south-africa-481249">Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma rested as India announce squad for T20I series against South Africa</a>

"I started believing but people around me gave me a feeling saying I should not dream too much. I took up the role of a commentator and that made it look like I am no more interested in trying to come back to the Indian team but I have always said that for me, playing for the Indian team is the priority, because I had time I did it. I am very excited overall," he signed off.

India's T20I squad for South Africa series -&nbsp;KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee announced an 18-member Team India squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, starting from June 09.

On Sunday (May 22), the BCCI selection committee announced an 18-member Team India squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series versus South Africa, starting from June 09. While the big guns such as regular captain Rohit Sharma, former skipper Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have been rested, KL Rahul will lead the line-up, which also sees the comeback of Dinesh Karthik. Karthik, who had donned the commentator's hat last year, has seen his career getting revived in IPL 2022, where he is representing the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Karthik got a new lease of life at the RCB, where he has made heads turn being a fantastic finisher for the three-time runners-up and rescuing them from several precarious situations. In 14 games, Karthik has amassed 287 runs at an average of 57.40 and a strike rate of 191. Thus, Karthik's IPL 15 knocks have helped him make a comeback in Team India setup. In a video shared by RCB, the veteran keeper-batter thanked Bengaluru's top brass Sanjay Bangar, Mike Hesson and Indian captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid for instilling faith on him. "Very happy. Very very very satisfying. I must say this has been my most memorable comeback because a lot of people had given up on me and for me to do what I did, practice with the way I did with my coach Nayar. So many special things in the lead to the auction and how I practiced post that. I lot of credit also to Sanjay Bangar and Mike Hesson. The clarity that they gave me to execute the role that I wanted to, in many ways I am indebted to RCB for picking me and believing in me," said Karthik who was roped in by the francse for 5.50 crore at IPL mega auction. "A lot of credit must go to the selectors, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid because these days with so many young boys putting their names for selection, to see the skillset that is there and then to believe that this is the guy we need for the World Cup, it is a very very humbling feeling. I know the journey is still there to the World Cup but to be a part of the scheme of things and giving me an opportunity to showcase my skills and I am very proud of it," Karthik added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma rested as India announce squad for T20I series against South Africa "I started believing but people around me gave me a feeling saying I should not dream too much. I took up the role of a commentator and that made it look like I am no more interested in trying to come back to the Indian team but I have always said that for me, playing for the Indian team is the priority, because I had time I did it. I am very excited overall," he signed off. India's T20I squad for South Africa series - KL Rahul (Capt), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant(VC) (wk), Dinesh Karthik (wk), Hardik Pandya, Venkatesh Iyer, Y Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, R Bishnoi, Bhuvneshwar, Harshal Patel, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Umran Malik

'A lot of people had given up on me' - Dinesh Karthik reacts after his memorable Team India comeback

Virat Kohli remains the talk of the cricketing fraternity despite his dismal run in IPL 2022. So far, the former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain has amassed only&nbsp;236 runs at an average of&nbsp;19.67 and a poor strike rate of&nbsp;113.46 with a solitary fifty under his belt.

While a lot has been said and written about Kohli and how he should take a break in order to rediscover his form and comeback motivated as ever for Team India, the 33-year-old recently opened up on the prospect of taking a breather from cricket and spoke about his goals for the national side.

"I know how motivated I will be when the scores start coming," Kohli told Star Sports. "I want to win India the Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup; that's the motivation."

"I have to move forward maintaining a balance, get some rest, some rejuvenation, once I'm in the mindset then there's no looking back and... it's great fun. My main aim is to help India win the Asia Cup and the World Cup and for that I am ready to do anything for the team," he told former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh in a chat for Star Sports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-built-a-new-team-doubt-if-virat-kohli-did-the-same-as-captain-says-virender-sehwag-480429">Sourav Ganguly built a new team, doubt if Virat Kohli did the same as captain, says Virender Sehwag</a>

While Ravi Shastri, Kevin Pietersen and many others have called for Kohli to take a break from the cricketing activities, the latter opened up in this regard and said, "It's not a lot of people who mentioned it. There is one person precisely who has mentioned it which is Ravi bhai and that's because he has seen from close quarters over the last six-seven years the reality of the situation that I have been in."

"The amount of cricket that I have played and the ups and downs and the toll that it takes on you to play three formats of the game plus the IPL for 10-11 years non-stop with the seven years of captaincy in between," he opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-virat-kohli-on-verge-of-achieving-major-milestone-as-rcb-face-gt-in-a-must-win-tie-480386">IPL 2022: Virat Kohli on verge of achieving major milestone as RCB face GT in a must-win tie</a>

"It is definitely a thing that one needs to consider because you don't want to do something which you are not a part of 100% and I have always believed in that in my life. So, to take a break and when to take a break is obviously something that I need to take a call on, but it is only a healthy decision for anyone to take some time off and just rejuvenate yourself mentally and physically.

"Not so much physically because physical fitness you keep up with through the course of playing cricket all the time, but it is a mental kind of reset that you need, and you want to be excited for what you are doing. You don't want to feel like you have been forcing yourself into any situation," Kohli added.

With India's T20I squad to be announced for the forthcoming South Africa series, from June 09, it seems Kohli will get a break and will likely return to action for the fifth and final Test versus England, in early July.

Virat Kohli remains the talk of the cricketing fraternity despite his dismal run in IPL 2022. So far, the former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain has amassed only 236 runs at an average of 19.

Virat Kohli remains the talk of the cricketing fraternity despite his dismal run in IPL 2022. So far, the former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain has amassed only 236 runs at an average of 19.67 and a poor strike rate of 113.46 with a solitary fifty under his belt. While a lot has been said and written about Kohli and how he should take a break in order to rediscover his form and comeback motivated as ever for Team India, the 33-year-old recently opened up on the prospect of taking a breather from cricket and spoke about his goals for the national side. "I know how motivated I will be when the scores start coming," Kohli told Star Sports. "I want to win India the Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup; that's the motivation." "I have to move forward maintaining a balance, get some rest, some rejuvenation, once I'm in the mindset then there's no looking back and... it's great fun. My main aim is to help India win the Asia Cup and the World Cup and for that I am ready to do anything for the team," he told former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh in a chat for Star Sports. ALSO READ | Sourav Ganguly built a new team, doubt if Virat Kohli did the same as captain, says Virender Sehwag While Ravi Shastri, Kevin Pietersen and many others have called for Kohli to take a break from the cricketing activities, the latter opened up in this regard and said, "It's not a lot of people who mentioned it. There is one person precisely who has mentioned it which is Ravi bhai and that's because he has seen from close quarters over the last six-seven years the reality of the situation that I have been in." "The amount of cricket that I have played and the ups and downs and the toll that it takes on you to play three formats of the game plus the IPL for 10-11 years non-stop with the seven years of captaincy in between," he opined. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Virat Kohli on verge of achieving major milestone as RCB face GT in a must-win tie "It is definitely a thing that one needs to consider because you don't want to do something which you are not a part of 100% and I have always believed in that in my life. So, to take a break and when to take a break is obviously something that I need to take a call on, but it is only a healthy decision for anyone to take some time off and just rejuvenate yourself mentally and physically. "Not so much physically because physical fitness you keep up with through the course of playing cricket all the time, but it is a mental kind of reset that you need, and you want to be excited for what you are doing. You don't want to feel like you have been forcing yourself into any situation," Kohli added. With India's T20I squad to be announced for the forthcoming South Africa series, from June 09, it seems Kohli will get a break and will likely return to action for the fifth and final Test versus England, in early July.

I want to win India the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup, says former skipper Virat Kohli

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