The IPL 2022 edition is surely closely being followed by the Indian selection committee with the T20 World Cup set to be held later this year, in Australia. Many veteran, out-of-favour, and young players have a chance to showcase their skills and credentials in order to appear in the Indian squad for the showpiece event.

In this regard, veteran wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has been phenomenal in IPL 15. Karthik, who had an ordinary run in the last two IPL seasons, has scored 274 runs in 12 games at a strike rate of&nbsp;200.00 by playing some memorable cameos and match-finishing knocks. Thus, he has surely made heads turn and is now in the reckoning for a Team India comeback for the T20 WC.

Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has backed&nbsp;Karthik to take up the lower-order batter's responsibility for India in the showpiece event. "The way the IPL is going for him at the moment, I do believe he should be very much in the running for the India spot in the October tournament, maybe even earlier for South Africa, for England, I do believe he should be earlier in the team," Gavaskar told Sports Today.

"I would definitely look at him as a batter who can come in at No. 6 or No. 7 like he is doing for RCB and take the game away from the opposition," Gavaskar added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-resorts-to-ms-dhonis-famous-catchphrase-when-asked-about-csk-skippers-ipl-future-478682">Sunil Gavaskar resorts to MS Dhoni's famous catchphrase when asked about CSK skipper's IPL future</a>

Gavaskar revealed that he spent a lot of time with Karthik when the latter turned into a commentator last year, especially during the WTC final and India-England Tests in the United Kingdom. "I spent a lot of time with him last year. We spent about 10-12 days in quarantine in Belgrade, Serbia where we practically sort of spending 12 to 14 hours a day, eating lunch, dinner, and breakfast. Spending time with him, I got to see how keen he was to come back to the Indian team. He was keen to come back to the team that played in the UAE last year. That didn’t quite happen. It was perhaps a little too close. The IPL that year didn’t go all that well for him," Gavaskar concluded.

Will DK make a comeback into the Indian team for the mega event Down Under? Only time will tell...

The IPL 2022 edition is surely closely being followed by the Indian selection committee with the T20 World Cup set to be held later this year, in Australia. Many veteran, out-of-favour, and young players have a chance to showcase their skills and credentials in order to appear in the Indian squad for the showpiece event.

The IPL 2022 edition is surely closely being followed by the Indian selection committee with the T20 World Cup set to be held later this year, in Australia. Many veteran, out-of-favour, and young players have a chance to showcase their skills and credentials in order to appear in the Indian squad for the showpiece event. In this regard, veteran wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has been phenomenal in IPL 15. Karthik, who had an ordinary run in the last two IPL seasons, has scored 274 runs in 12 games at a strike rate of 200.00 by playing some memorable cameos and match-finishing knocks. Thus, he has surely made heads turn and is now in the reckoning for a Team India comeback for the T20 WC. Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has backed Karthik to take up the lower-order batter's responsibility for India in the showpiece event. "The way the IPL is going for him at the moment, I do believe he should be very much in the running for the India spot in the October tournament, maybe even earlier for South Africa, for England, I do believe he should be earlier in the team," Gavaskar told Sports Today. "I would definitely look at him as a batter who can come in at No. 6 or No. 7 like he is doing for RCB and take the game away from the opposition," Gavaskar added. ALSO READ | Sunil Gavaskar resorts to MS Dhoni's famous catchphrase when asked about CSK skipper's IPL future Gavaskar revealed that he spent a lot of time with Karthik when the latter turned into a commentator last year, especially during the WTC final and India-England Tests in the United Kingdom. "I spent a lot of time with him last year. We spent about 10-12 days in quarantine in Belgrade, Serbia where we practically sort of spending 12 to 14 hours a day, eating lunch, dinner, and breakfast. Spending time with him, I got to see how keen he was to come back to the Indian team. He was keen to come back to the team that played in the UAE last year. That didn’t quite happen. It was perhaps a little too close. The IPL that year didn’t go all that well for him," Gavaskar concluded. Will DK make a comeback into the Indian team for the mega event Down Under? Only time will tell...

'He can come in at No. 6 or 7' - Sunil Gavaskar picks Dinesh Karthik as India's finisher for T20 World Cup

India are set to host Australia in a three-match T20I series in September, ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup. Prior to the upcoming edition of the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later in October, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. will gear up for the marquee event by facing the T20 World champions Aaron Finch-led Aussies in the Indian subcontinent.

"Australia will play a number of white ball series with home games against Zimbabwe, New Zealand, West Indies, and England coming to either side of three T20s in India in September," a report in Fox Sports read.

Cricket Australia's full schedule (2022-23):

<section>
June-July 2022: Tour of Sri Lanka (3xT20s, 3xODIs, 2xTests) 
August-September 2022: Zimbabwe (3xODIs) and New Zealand (3xODIs) at home 
September 2022: White ball series in India (3xT20s) 
October 2022: West Indies and England at home (6xT20s) 
October-November 2022: T20 World Cup at home 
November 2022: England at home (3xODIs) 
December-January 2022-23: West Indies (2xTests) and South Africa (3xTests, 3xODIs) at home 
February-March 2023: Test tour of India (4xTests) 
March-May 2023: Indian Premier League 
June-July 2023: Ashes tour of England (5xTests, ODIs expected) 
August 2023: Test tour of South Africa (3xTests) 
October-November 2023: ODI World Cup in India

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-i-raised-my-voice-against-forced-conversion-danish-kaneria-tweets-amid-feud-with-shahid-afridi-477543">'India not our enemy country' - Danish Kaneria slams Shahid Afridi, makes explosive remark on Twitter</a>

Talking about the Australian cricket team, it is going to be on the road since June this year before returning home to defend its title in the T20 World Cup. Further, the Pat Cummins-led Australian side will also square off against India in the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in early 2023, in India. On the other hand, they will travel to the United Kingdom for the Ashes 2023 in June-July next year.

Meanwhile, India will also have a hectic schedule post the conclusion of IPL 2022. After hosting South Africa in five T20Is, they&nbsp;will travel to the United Kingdom where they play England in all formats, then lock horns with&nbsp;Ireland in a limited-overs series, travel to the Caribbean island before returning home to host&nbsp;the Aussies, and then make a trip Down Under for the T20 WC.
</section>

India are set to host Australia in a three-match T20I series in September, ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup. Prior to the upcoming edition of the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later in October, Rohit Sharma & Co.

India are set to host Australia in a three-match T20I series in September, ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup. Prior to the upcoming edition of the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later in October, Rohit Sharma & Co. will gear up for the marquee event by facing the T20 World champions Aaron Finch-led Aussies in the Indian subcontinent. "Australia will play a number of white ball series with home games against Zimbabwe, New Zealand, West Indies, and England coming to either side of three T20s in India in September," a report in Fox Sports read. Cricket Australia's full schedule (2022-23): June-July 2022: Tour of Sri Lanka (3xT20s, 3xODIs, 2xTests) August-September 2022: Zimbabwe (3xODIs) and New Zealand (3xODIs) at home September 2022: White ball series in India (3xT20s) October 2022: West Indies and England at home (6xT20s) October-November 2022: T20 World Cup at home November 2022: England at home (3xODIs) December-January 2022-23: West Indies (2xTests) and South Africa (3xTests, 3xODIs) at home February-March 2023: Test tour of India (4xTests) March-May 2023: Indian Premier League June-July 2023: Ashes tour of England (5xTests, ODIs expected) August 2023: Test tour of South Africa (3xTests) October-November 2023: ODI World Cup in India ALSO READ | 'India not our enemy country' - Danish Kaneria slams Shahid Afridi, makes explosive remark on Twitter Talking about the Australian cricket team, it is going to be on the road since June this year before returning home to defend its title in the T20 World Cup. Further, the Pat Cummins-led Australian side will also square off against India in the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in early 2023, in India. On the other hand, they will travel to the United Kingdom for the Ashes 2023 in June-July next year. Meanwhile, India will also have a hectic schedule post the conclusion of IPL 2022. After hosting South Africa in five T20Is, they will travel to the United Kingdom where they play England in all formats, then lock horns with Ireland in a limited-overs series, travel to the Caribbean island before returning home to host the Aussies, and then make a trip Down Under for the T20 WC.

India to host Australia in three T20Is before T20 World Cup, BG Trophy early next year

Former Indian cricket team opener Wasim Jaffer believes that Ruturaj Gaikwad can have an ‘outside chance’ of featuring in the squad for the T20 World Cup. Jaffer was not impressed with his performances in the ongoing IPL 2022 and said that the youngster is a ‘really big talent’.

In a recent interaction, Jaffer picked four options for the opening spot ahead of the T20 World Cup and he picked KL Rahul and skipper Rohit Sharma as automatic picks. Apart from Gaikwad, Jaffer also thought that Prithvi Shaw will be an addition for the India squad ahead of the mega tournament.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-faf-du-plessis-wanindu-hasaranga-set-up-rcbs-massive-victory-over-srh-477410">IPL 2022: Faf Du Plessis, Wanindu Hasaranga set up RCB's massive win over SRH</a>

“If we are to talk about the openers then I feel the batters who are definite for this position are KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma. I think these will surely be there in the World Cup. Apart from that, I feel Prithvi Shaw should be in the World Cup T20 squad and there could be an outside chance for Ruturaj Gaikwad even though his IPL form has not been up to the mark but, I feel we need to persist with Ruturaj Gaikwad because he is a really big talent," he told Crictracker.

Apart from these two options, veteran Shikhar Dhawan and Mumbai Indians wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan have also made a strong case for themselves for the T20 World Cup inclusion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-ishan-kishan-or-dinesh-karthik-virender-sehwag-names-surprise-wicketkeeper-pick-for-t20-world-cup-477423" hreflang="en">Not Ishan Kishan or Dinesh Karthik! Virender Sehwag names surprise wicketkeeper pick for T20 World Cup</a>

In IPL 2022, Lucknow Super Giants skipper KL Rahul is leading the charts when it comes to Indian openers with 451 runs with Punjab Kings’ Dhawan following closely with 381 runs.

Former Indian cricket team opener Wasim Jaffer believes that Ruturaj Gaikwad can have an ‘outside chance’ of featuring in the squad for the T20 World Cup. Jaffer was not impressed with his performances in the ongoing IPL 2022 and said that the youngster is a ‘really big talent’.

Former Indian cricket team opener Wasim Jaffer believes that Ruturaj Gaikwad can have an ‘outside chance’ of featuring in the squad for the T20 World Cup. Jaffer was not impressed with his performances in the ongoing IPL 2022 and said that the youngster is a ‘really big talent’. In a recent interaction, Jaffer picked four options for the opening spot ahead of the T20 World Cup and he picked KL Rahul and skipper Rohit Sharma as automatic picks. Apart from Gaikwad, Jaffer also thought that Prithvi Shaw will be an addition for the India squad ahead of the mega tournament. Also read | IPL 2022: Faf Du Plessis, Wanindu Hasaranga set up RCB's massive win over SRH “If we are to talk about the openers then I feel the batters who are definite for this position are KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma. I think these will surely be there in the World Cup. Apart from that, I feel Prithvi Shaw should be in the World Cup T20 squad and there could be an outside chance for Ruturaj Gaikwad even though his IPL form has not been up to the mark but, I feel we need to persist with Ruturaj Gaikwad because he is a really big talent," he told Crictracker. Apart from these two options, veteran Shikhar Dhawan and Mumbai Indians wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan have also made a strong case for themselves for the T20 World Cup inclusion. Also read | Not Ishan Kishan or Dinesh Karthik! Virender Sehwag names surprise wicketkeeper pick for T20 World Cup In IPL 2022, Lucknow Super Giants skipper KL Rahul is leading the charts when it comes to Indian openers with 451 runs with Punjab Kings’ Dhawan following closely with 381 runs.

'There could be an outside chance': Former India cricketer picks four openers for T20 World Cup

Former India opener Virender Sehwag believes that Punjab Kings cricketer Jitesh Sharma can be a good pick as the back-up wicketkeeper in the India squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

The 28-year-old has been quite impressive in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and Sehwag said that he can be a good choice along with Rishabh Pant in the World Cup.'

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-supposed-to-be-the-captain-yuvraj-singh-claims-he-lost-india-captaincy-to-ms-dhoni-due-to-chappell-row-477350" hreflang="en">Yuvraj claims he lost India captaincy to Dhoni due to Chappell incident</a>

"He has impressed quite a bit... So should we also include him in the Australia-bound T20 World Cup squad?" Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.

"I am just asking because whoever scores runs, we keep them in the category of potential players for the World Cup. But no doubt, he has impressed me a lot. If I had to select the team, I would take him to Australia as a second wicketkeeper-batter for the T20 World Cup," he added.

Jitesh has scored 162 runs in seven innings till now at an impressive strike rate of 167.0. Sehwag praised his performances and even compared his stroke play to VVS Laxman.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cheteshwar-pujara-scores-fourth-successive-ton-in-county-cricket-wins-his-battle-against-shaheen-afridi-477365" hreflang="en">Pujara scores 4th successive ton in county cricket, wins battle against Afridi</a>

"Ishan Kishan is a wicketkeeper-batter, Rishabh Pant is a wicketkeeper-batter, (Wriddhiman) Saha is a wicketkeeper-batter, but out of all of them, if there is someone who has impressed me the most, it is Jitesh Sharma.”

"He reminded me of VVS Laxman with the six he hit off Yuzvendra Chahal... Laxman used to hit Shane Warne with an open stance over mid-wicket. He has impressed me quite a bit," he concluded.

Former India opener Virender Sehwag believes that Punjab Kings cricketer Jitesh Sharma can be a good pick as the back-up wicketkeeper in the India squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Former India opener Virender Sehwag believes that Punjab Kings cricketer Jitesh Sharma can be a good pick as the back-up wicketkeeper in the India squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The 28-year-old has been quite impressive in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and Sehwag said that he can be a good choice along with Rishabh Pant in the World Cup.' Also read | Yuvraj claims he lost India captaincy to Dhoni due to Chappell incident "He has impressed quite a bit... So should we also include him in the Australia-bound T20 World Cup squad?" Sehwag said on Cricbuzz. "I am just asking because whoever scores runs, we keep them in the category of potential players for the World Cup. But no doubt, he has impressed me a lot. If I had to select the team, I would take him to Australia as a second wicketkeeper-batter for the T20 World Cup," he added. Jitesh has scored 162 runs in seven innings till now at an impressive strike rate of 167.0. Sehwag praised his performances and even compared his stroke play to VVS Laxman. Also read | Pujara scores 4th successive ton in county cricket, wins battle against Afridi "Ishan Kishan is a wicketkeeper-batter, Rishabh Pant is a wicketkeeper-batter, (Wriddhiman) Saha is a wicketkeeper-batter, but out of all of them, if there is someone who has impressed me the most, it is Jitesh Sharma.” "He reminded me of VVS Laxman with the six he hit off Yuzvendra Chahal... Laxman used to hit Shane Warne with an open stance over mid-wicket. He has impressed me quite a bit," he concluded.

Not Ishan Kishan or Dinesh Karthik! Virender Sehwag names surprise wicketkeeper pick for T20 World Cup

Virat Kohli's form remains a concern. During the IPL 2022 edition, he achieved an unwanted feat of going over 100 matches across formats without a century. While Kohli scored his first half-century for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in their tenth outing this season, he only managed a 53-ball 58. Even in RCB's reverse fixture versus the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Kohli returned with an unimpressive 33-ball 30.

As his struggle for runs continues, the whole of the Indian cricket fraternity is concerned by King Kohli's barren run. His last international ton came in late 2019 and at present, he is looking far from his usual best. Amid all this, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri had advised him to pull out of IPL 15 and take a much-needed break. Now, former Indian chief selector MSK Prasad has also joined the bandwagon and asked Kohli to take a significant rest to return completely fresh before the Asia Cup.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mr-360-ab-de-villiers-turns-to-golf-to-team-up-with-australias-ex-tennis-star-ashleigh-barty-in-icon-series-476530">Mr. 360 AB de Villiers turns to golf, to team up with Australia's ex-tennis star Ashleigh Barty in Icon Series</a>

Further, MSK also called for KL Rahul to be tried at No. 4 in T20Is with Shikhar Dhawan-Rohit Sharma opening the innings.

"These three are indispensable if fit. There is no way that you can leave anyone of them for the World T20. But yes, if I look at numbers, I might just try someone like Shikhar Dhawan at the opening slot and check Rahul out at No.4. He has a T20 hundred in Manchester some years back in middle-order, so why not. But yes, I want Virat to take a significant break and before the Asia Cup, he should be fresh, up and running," Prasad told PTI.

It remains to be seen if Kohli takes a break in the near future. At present, it seems highly unlikely given that Faf du Plessis-led RCB haven't cemented a place in the playoffs in this year's IPL season. Given that India will play the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later this year, Kohli's form is extremely critical to the Men in Blue's chances in the showpiece event.

Virat Kohli's form remains a concern. During the IPL 2022 edition, he achieved an unwanted feat of going over 100 matches across formats without a century. While Kohli scored his first half-century for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in their tenth outing this season, he only managed a 53-ball 58.

Virat Kohli's form remains a concern. During the IPL 2022 edition, he achieved an unwanted feat of going over 100 matches across formats without a century. While Kohli scored his first half-century for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in their tenth outing this season, he only managed a 53-ball 58. Even in RCB's reverse fixture versus the MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Kohli returned with an unimpressive 33-ball 30. As his struggle for runs continues, the whole of the Indian cricket fraternity is concerned by King Kohli's barren run. His last international ton came in late 2019 and at present, he is looking far from his usual best. Amid all this, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri had advised him to pull out of IPL 15 and take a much-needed break. Now, former Indian chief selector MSK Prasad has also joined the bandwagon and asked Kohli to take a significant rest to return completely fresh before the Asia Cup. ALSO READ | Mr. 360 AB de Villiers turns to golf, to team up with Australia's ex-tennis star Ashleigh Barty in Icon Series Further, MSK also called for KL Rahul to be tried at No. 4 in T20Is with Shikhar Dhawan-Rohit Sharma opening the innings. "These three are indispensable if fit. There is no way that you can leave anyone of them for the World T20. But yes, if I look at numbers, I might just try someone like Shikhar Dhawan at the opening slot and check Rahul out at No.4. He has a T20 hundred in Manchester some years back in middle-order, so why not. But yes, I want Virat to take a significant break and before the Asia Cup, he should be fresh, up and running," Prasad told PTI. It remains to be seen if Kohli takes a break in the near future. At present, it seems highly unlikely given that Faf du Plessis-led RCB haven't cemented a place in the playoffs in this year's IPL season. Given that India will play the T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later this year, Kohli's form is extremely critical to the Men in Blue's chances in the showpiece event.

Want him to take significant break before Asia Cup, says MSK Prasad amid Virat Kohli's poor form

When Virat Kohli got dismissed for a golden duck in Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) face-off versus Lucknow Super Giants, in IPL 2022's match 31, a statistic started doing the rounds on social media and elsewhere. It revealed that the once regarded 'run machine' has now gone over 100 matches without a century&nbsp;across all formats (17 Tests, 21 ODIs, 25 T20Is and 38*&nbsp;IPL games).&nbsp;

Kohli had a wry smile as he walked past KL Rahul &amp; Co. after an embarrassing first-ball duck. Four evenings later, King Kohli came to the crease in the second over of RCB's innings after Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) opted to bowl first at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai in match 36 of the 15th season, on Saturday evening (April 23). As soon as he arrived, Kane Williamson -- a tactical mastermind -- strived hard to grab Aiden Markram's attention to add him to the slip cordon. Soon, Marco Jansen bowled outside off-stump, on the fifth-stump line, as Kohli wasted no time to edge one and get caught in the slips. This time, no smile followed as RCB's former skipper stood still in disbelief. He&nbsp;looked helplessly toward his non-striker (Anuj Rawat) as&nbsp;if asking&nbsp;to be pinched in order to accept the reality before walking back.

After his second successive golden duck, Kohli's expression said it all. There was sheer disbelief in his eyes. Thus, there was pin-drop silence in the stadium as an often hard-to-please and unforgiving crowd silently sympathised with Kohli after yet another failure.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli's no-shows since NZ tour, 2020

Ducks - 9 
Golden Ducks - 3 (2 in IPL)

**across all formats

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-need-a-six-month-break-pietersen-comes-out-in-support-of-indias-under-fire-duo-473031">Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma need a six-month break: Pietersen comes out in support of India's under-fire duo</a>

What's fretting King Kohli? (Covid break, bio-bubble fatigue, overburdened, empty stands, BCCI row, etc.)

Those who possess even the most basic updates of men's cricket are aware of Kohli's barren run. It has been written, re-written, highlighted on front pages on several occasions, and even discussed on&nbsp;hour-long shows on how Team India and RCB's former captain has been without a century in competitive cricket since late 2019. At first, it seemed as if it was just a matter of time before Kohli would rediscover his form. However, time is now surely passing away at a rapid pace for the 33-year-old superstar cricketer.

Kohli's downfall coincided with Covid-19's advent. It led to a six-month-long break at the international level. Since then, Kohli has not been the old Kohli. At times, his aggression has gone missing, he has been completely undone by the bio-bubble restrictions and looked clueless playing in front of empty stands.&nbsp;A player of Kohli's caliber cherishes the crowd support. Their energy rubs on him, helping him remain at his usual chirpy best. All this is lagging in his game nowadays!

Also, Team India's unbelievably hectic cricketing&nbsp;calendar hasn't helped Kohli's case. Despite some mini-breaks, he has almost been omnipresent for India and the RCB. The nearly-decade-long captaincy responsibilities (he became RCB's full-time skipper in 2013) also led to him being overburdened. Moreover, the BCCI captaincy row added salt to Kohli's wounds. The entire saga panned out in the open. Thus, it led to Kohli taking BCCI heads on, however, mentally he kept losing the battle with each passing day...

The dismissals depict a sad story...

Since April 2020, Kohli has fallen to spinners more often than&nbsp;not (51 out of his total 74 dismissals have been against the tweakers). In addition, he continues to remain lost regarding&nbsp;the fourth-fifth stump lines; chasing deliveries way out of his arc. At times, the gap between bat and pad has also widened alarmingly. Surely, he can't be far away from finding his peak once again. He is too good a player to miss out for too long. But, hasn't it already been a long wait? Has he become a victim of his greatness? Is he overcooked and&nbsp;desperately in need of a lengthy break?

Ravi Shastri on Star Sports:&nbsp;Virat Kohli is overcooked. If anyone needs a break, it's him. Whether it's 2 months or a month-and-a-half, whether it's after England or before England. He needs a break because he has got 6-7 years of cricket left in him and you don't want to lose that with a fried brain. He is not the only one. There might be 1 or 2 in world cricket going through the same. You need to address the problem upfront.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-virat-kohlis-batting-woes-continue-dismissed-for-second-consecutive-golden-duck-watch-473267">IPL 2022: Virat Kohli's batting woes continue, dismissed for second consecutive golden duck - WATCH</a>

The answers lie within Kohli's mind. He knows his body and how his mind functions better&nbsp;than anyone (Taking the liberty to share a&nbsp;message for his&nbsp;plethora of&nbsp;fans: don't make him your main protagonist in every discussion. Don't even discuss him. Focus less on him. Outside noise needs to die down for Kohli to rise again).

Even the great Sachin Tendulkar had flaws. He, however, always found ways to tackle them. For now, Kohli is content with working on his strengths than weaknesses. Maybe he needs to slow down. Maybe, he needs to fight the bubble within&nbsp;before coming out of this crisis.

The engine surely needs an overhaul. At present, the damage has been done. But, King Kohli isn't one to be kept out for very long. Somewhere down the line, his usual form is still waiting for him. He just needs to redo the coding&nbsp;to function as usual.

When Virat Kohli got dismissed for a golden duck in Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) face-off versus Lucknow Super Giants, in IPL 2022's match 31, a statistic started doing the rounds on social media and elsewhere.

When Virat Kohli got dismissed for a golden duck in Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) face-off versus Lucknow Super Giants, in IPL 2022's match 31, a statistic started doing the rounds on social media and elsewhere. It revealed that the once regarded 'run machine' has now gone over 100 matches without a century across all formats (17 Tests, 21 ODIs, 25 T20Is and 38* IPL games). Kohli had a wry smile as he walked past KL Rahul & Co. after an embarrassing first-ball duck. Four evenings later, King Kohli came to the crease in the second over of RCB's innings after Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) opted to bowl first at the Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai in match 36 of the 15th season, on Saturday evening (April 23). As soon as he arrived, Kane Williamson -- a tactical mastermind -- strived hard to grab Aiden Markram's attention to add him to the slip cordon. Soon, Marco Jansen bowled outside off-stump, on the fifth-stump line, as Kohli wasted no time to edge one and get caught in the slips. This time, no smile followed as RCB's former skipper stood still in disbelief. He looked helplessly toward his non-striker (Anuj Rawat) as if asking to be pinched in order to accept the reality before walking back. After his second successive golden duck, Kohli's expression said it all. There was sheer disbelief in his eyes. Thus, there was pin-drop silence in the stadium as an often hard-to-please and unforgiving crowd silently sympathised with Kohli after yet another failure. Virat Kohli's no-shows since NZ tour, 2020 Ducks - 9 Golden Ducks - 3 (2 in IPL) **across all formats ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma need a six-month break: Pietersen comes out in support of India's under-fire duo What's fretting King Kohli? (Covid break, bio-bubble fatigue, overburdened, empty stands, BCCI row, etc.) Those who possess even the most basic updates of men's cricket are aware of Kohli's barren run. It has been written, re-written, highlighted on front pages on several occasions, and even discussed on hour-long shows on how Team India and RCB's former captain has been without a century in competitive cricket since late 2019. At first, it seemed as if it was just a matter of time before Kohli would rediscover his form. However, time is now surely passing away at a rapid pace for the 33-year-old superstar cricketer. Kohli's downfall coincided with Covid-19's advent. It led to a six-month-long break at the international level. Since then, Kohli has not been the old Kohli. At times, his aggression has gone missing, he has been completely undone by the bio-bubble restrictions and looked clueless playing in front of empty stands. A player of Kohli's caliber cherishes the crowd support. Their energy rubs on him, helping him remain at his usual chirpy best. All this is lagging in his game nowadays! Also, Team India's unbelievably hectic cricketing calendar hasn't helped Kohli's case. Despite some mini-breaks, he has almost been omnipresent for India and the RCB. The nearly-decade-long captaincy responsibilities (he became RCB's full-time skipper in 2013) also led to him being overburdened. Moreover, the BCCI captaincy row added salt to Kohli's wounds. The entire saga panned out in the open. Thus, it led to Kohli taking BCCI heads on, however, mentally he kept losing the battle with each passing day... The dismissals depict a sad story... Since April 2020, Kohli has fallen to spinners more often than not (51 out of his total 74 dismissals have been against the tweakers). In addition, he continues to remain lost regarding the fourth-fifth stump lines; chasing deliveries way out of his arc. At times, the gap between bat and pad has also widened alarmingly. Surely, he can't be far away from finding his peak once again. He is too good a player to miss out for too long. But, hasn't it already been a long wait? Has he become a victim of his greatness? Is he overcooked and desperately in need of a lengthy break? Ravi Shastri on Star Sports: Virat Kohli is overcooked. If anyone needs a break, it's him. Whether it's 2 months or a month-and-a-half, whether it's after England or before England. He needs a break because he has got 6-7 years of cricket left in him and you don't want to lose that with a fried brain. He is not the only one. There might be 1 or 2 in world cricket going through the same. You need to address the problem upfront. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Virat Kohli's batting woes continue, dismissed for second consecutive golden duck - WATCH The answers lie within Kohli's mind. He knows his body and how his mind functions better than anyone (Taking the liberty to share a message for his plethora of fans: don't make him your main protagonist in every discussion. Don't even discuss him. Focus less on him. Outside noise needs to die down for Kohli to rise again). Even the great Sachin Tendulkar had flaws. He, however, always found ways to tackle them. For now, Kohli is content with working on his strengths than weaknesses. Maybe he needs to slow down. Maybe, he needs to fight the bubble within before coming out of this crisis. The engine surely needs an overhaul. At present, the damage has been done. But, King Kohli isn't one to be kept out for very long. Somewhere down the line, his usual form is still waiting for him. He just needs to redo the coding to function as usual.

IPL 2022: What's fretting Virat Kohli, the player?

Shaheen Afridi has grown from strength to strength with each game for Pakistan. He has become the Men in Green's multi-format player in no time and his stature is rising at a rapid pace. Last year, the young pacer was the star performer for Babar Azam &amp; Co. as Pakistan finally ended their winless streak versus India in World Cup history.

With India and Pakistan playing each other in their respective Super 12 opening clash in 2021 T20 World Cup, in Dubai, Shaheen returned with a match-winning spell of 3 for 31 -- dismissing India's Big Three in Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli -- as Pakistan restricted India for&nbsp;151-7 before the one-time winners chased it down with ten wickets and 13 balls to spare.

Recently, in conversation with Geo Super, Shaheen revealed he had a chat with Shahid Afridi to get some tips ahead of the marquee clash versus India. "When we had that match against India in the T20 World Cup, I requested Lala to have a word with me. Because before that I played just one match against India, that too in Asia Cup, which was in One-Day format. And this was a T20 game and we never won a World Cup game against India," Shaheen said.

"So I thought that this was a big opportunity for me. So I called Lala for some tips and asked him, 'What different do I do today?'. He gave me very good advice and told, 'Do something so that the entire stadium notices only Shaheen' and give your 100 percent in bowling and fielding. I just did that and we got the results,” he added.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-one-comes-your-way-former-coach-ravi-shastri-reveals-how-team-india-tackled-australias-sledging-473996">'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging</a>

Shahid Afridi has had some memorable performances versus India during his playing days for Pakistan. Thus, his words surely encouraged a young Shaheen, who was highly impressive versus India and led the Men in Green to a stunning ten-wicket win at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.&nbsp;

Babar-led Pakistan, however, couldn't reach the tournament final in last year's edition, losing to eventual winners Australia in the semi-finals.
</section>

Shaheen Afridi has grown from strength to strength with each game for Pakistan. He has become the Men in Green's multi-format player in no time and his stature is rising at a rapid pace.

Shaheen Afridi has grown from strength to strength with each game for Pakistan. He has become the Men in Green's multi-format player in no time and his stature is rising at a rapid pace. Last year, the young pacer was the star performer for Babar Azam & Co. as Pakistan finally ended their winless streak versus India in World Cup history. With India and Pakistan playing each other in their respective Super 12 opening clash in 2021 T20 World Cup, in Dubai, Shaheen returned with a match-winning spell of 3 for 31 -- dismissing India's Big Three in Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli -- as Pakistan restricted India for 151-7 before the one-time winners chased it down with ten wickets and 13 balls to spare. Recently, in conversation with Geo Super, Shaheen revealed he had a chat with Shahid Afridi to get some tips ahead of the marquee clash versus India. "When we had that match against India in the T20 World Cup, I requested Lala to have a word with me. Because before that I played just one match against India, that too in Asia Cup, which was in One-Day format. And this was a T20 game and we never won a World Cup game against India," Shaheen said. "So I thought that this was a big opportunity for me. So I called Lala for some tips and asked him, 'What different do I do today?'. He gave me very good advice and told, 'Do something so that the entire stadium notices only Shaheen' and give your 100 percent in bowling and fielding. I just did that and we got the results,” he added. ALSO READ | 'If one comes your way....' - Former coach Ravi Shastri reveals how Team India tackled Australia's sledging Shahid Afridi has had some memorable performances versus India during his playing days for Pakistan. Thus, his words surely encouraged a young Shaheen, who was highly impressive versus India and led the Men in Green to a stunning ten-wicket win at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Babar-led Pakistan, however, couldn't reach the tournament final in last year's edition, losing to eventual winners Australia in the semi-finals.

Shaheen Afridi recalls chat with Shahid Afridi before match-winning spell against India in T20 World Cup

Team India have a hectic schedule in the calendar year. Soon after the completion of IPL 2022, the Indian senior men's team will soon gear up for a home series versus South Africa. Temba Bavuma-led Proteas will arrive in India for five T20Is, from June 09-June 19, as the bilateral series will be a preparation for both sides for the 2022 T20 World Cup.

As per reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen on doing away with bio-bubbles and also getting rid of hard quarantine for the South Africa home series. As per the board's senior official, bio-bubbles are taking a hard toll on cricketers and, hence, it is likely that the players will benefit with more freedom given to them this time around.

For the unversed,&nbsp;the bilateral series for India, prior to the ongoing IPL season, have all been played under bio-bubbles. In fact, even IPL 2022 is being conducted within the bio-bubble environment. Thus, this will be a welcome change for players if a change is implemented by the BCCI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-told-umran-malik-he-is-the-future-of-indian-cricket-reveals-srh-speedsters-father-473906">Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni told Umran Malik he is the future of Indian cricket, reveals SRH speedster's father</a>

"If all goes well and things remain in control like it is right now, there will be no bio-bubbles and hard quarantine during the home series against South Africa," a senior BCCI official told the&nbsp;Press Trust of India

The official also indicated that some senior players are set to be rested for the SA series. "Then we are going to Ireland and England and there won't be any bio-bubble in those countries too. Some players have got periodic breaks but if you look at the bigger picture, living in bio-bubble one series after another and now two months of IPL is simply exhausting for the players," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-will-have-to-displace-pant-manjrekar-explains-why-dinesh-karthik-might-not-get-into-indias-playing-xi-473771">'He will have to displace Pant': Manjrekar explains why Dinesh Karthik might not get into India's playing XI</a>

Some multi-format players such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to miss the SA series. Some of them will play only a few matches whereas some will be allowed to skip the entire series.

Following the SA series, India play two T20Is versus hosts Ireland and also play&nbsp;1 Test, 3 T20Is, and 3 ODIs in England soon after. Thus, some key players are set&nbsp;to remain out of action in the SA T20Is to remain fresh with T20 World Cup in mind.

Team India have a hectic schedule in the calendar year. Soon after the completion of IPL 2022, the Indian senior men's team will soon gear up for a home series versus South Africa.

Team India have a hectic schedule in the calendar year. Soon after the completion of IPL 2022, the Indian senior men's team will soon gear up for a home series versus South Africa. Temba Bavuma-led Proteas will arrive in India for five T20Is, from June 09-June 19, as the bilateral series will be a preparation for both sides for the 2022 T20 World Cup. As per reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keen on doing away with bio-bubbles and also getting rid of hard quarantine for the South Africa home series. As per the board's senior official, bio-bubbles are taking a hard toll on cricketers and, hence, it is likely that the players will benefit with more freedom given to them this time around. For the unversed, the bilateral series for India, prior to the ongoing IPL season, have all been played under bio-bubbles. In fact, even IPL 2022 is being conducted within the bio-bubble environment. Thus, this will be a welcome change for players if a change is implemented by the BCCI. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni told Umran Malik he is the future of Indian cricket, reveals SRH speedster's father "If all goes well and things remain in control like it is right now, there will be no bio-bubbles and hard quarantine during the home series against South Africa," a senior BCCI official told the Press Trust of India The official also indicated that some senior players are set to be rested for the SA series. "Then we are going to Ireland and England and there won't be any bio-bubble in those countries too. Some players have got periodic breaks but if you look at the bigger picture, living in bio-bubble one series after another and now two months of IPL is simply exhausting for the players," he added. ALSO READ | 'He will have to displace Pant': Manjrekar explains why Dinesh Karthik might not get into India's playing XI Some multi-format players such as captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja are expected to miss the SA series. Some of them will play only a few matches whereas some will be allowed to skip the entire series. Following the SA series, India play two T20Is versus hosts Ireland and also play 1 Test, 3 T20Is, and 3 ODIs in England soon after. Thus, some key players are set to remain out of action in the SA T20Is to remain fresh with T20 World Cup in mind.

India vs SA: BCCI to do away with bio-bubbles and hard quarantine, senior players to be rested - Report

Former Indian cricket team spinner Harbhajan Singh believes that Dinesh Karthik should be a part of the national side in this year’s T20 World Cup and he even placed the veteran wicketkeeper ahead of Rishabh Pant based on his form in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

“If we have to consider the form and what he's doing for RCB, he has been unbelievable with the bat. He was always a good wicketkeeper. Karthik was an unbelievable keeper from Day 1. He has now donned the role of a finisher with the bat. Last year he was quite off-colour for Kolkata Knight Riders. He didn't score too many runs,” Harbhajan told Sportskeeda.

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Harbhajan played in Kolkata Knight Riders under Karthik’s captaincy but this season, the 34-year-old has transformed himself into a brilliant finisher for Royal Challengers Bangalore. Karthik is currently the highest run-scorer for his side and was responsible for a number of their victories.

Karthik has scored 210 runs in seven matches till now at an extraordinary strike rate of 205.88.

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"He was getting dismissed in a crunch situation but he's now helping Bangalore win from that position. He is winning you games... I will put him ahead of everyone including Rishabh Pant. He should be your first choice going to Australia.

"Fast bowlers will get extra bounce in those conditions. But Karthik is playing 360-degree game at the moment. He's been unstoppable and should be definitely included in India's squad for T20 World Cup. If a player is doing well, he should be brought back into the side, and DK hasn't performed that bad in international cricket. He needs to be provided consistent opportunities with the Indian team. He will score a lot of runs for India," he further added.

Former Indian cricket team spinner Harbhajan Singh believes that Dinesh Karthik should be a part of the national side in this year’s T20 World Cup and he even placed the veteran wicketkeeper ahead of Rishabh Pant based on his form in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

Former Indian cricket team spinner Harbhajan Singh believes that Dinesh Karthik should be a part of the national side in this year’s T20 World Cup and he even placed the veteran wicketkeeper ahead of Rishabh Pant based on his form in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. “If we have to consider the form and what he's doing for RCB, he has been unbelievable with the bat. He was always a good wicketkeeper. Karthik was an unbelievable keeper from Day 1. He has now donned the role of a finisher with the bat. Last year he was quite off-colour for Kolkata Knight Riders. He didn't score too many runs,” Harbhajan told Sportskeeda. Also read | Dhoni outsmarts Pollard with genius field placement during MI vs CSK - WATCH Harbhajan played in Kolkata Knight Riders under Karthik’s captaincy but this season, the 34-year-old has transformed himself into a brilliant finisher for Royal Challengers Bangalore. Karthik is currently the highest run-scorer for his side and was responsible for a number of their victories. Karthik has scored 210 runs in seven matches till now at an extraordinary strike rate of 205.88. Also read | Unadkat achieves historic feat and dubious record during MI's loss against CSK "He was getting dismissed in a crunch situation but he's now helping Bangalore win from that position. He is winning you games... I will put him ahead of everyone including Rishabh Pant. He should be your first choice going to Australia. "Fast bowlers will get extra bounce in those conditions. But Karthik is playing 360-degree game at the moment. He's been unstoppable and should be definitely included in India's squad for T20 World Cup. If a player is doing well, he should be brought back into the side, and DK hasn't performed that bad in international cricket. He needs to be provided consistent opportunities with the Indian team. He will score a lot of runs for India," he further added.

'He should be your first choice': Ex-India spinner backs Dinesh Karthik to make the cut for T20 World Cup

Umran Malik was the star for Sunrisers Hyderabad with the ball as they raced to a comfortable victory over Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Sunday. The young pacer from Jammu &amp; Kashmir was the pick of the SRH bowlers as he completed a brilliant four-wicket haul.

Malik started with the dismissal of Jitesh Sharma and in the final over of the match, he took the wickets of Odean Smith, Rahul Chahar and Vaibhav Arora without conceding a single run.

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Former Indian cricket team spinner Harbhajan Singh was amazed by the pace and talent of the youngster and back him to make his place in the India squad for the 2022 T20 World Cup.

"This (Blue) is the only jersey missing and he should get it early. I feel he is the most deserving one who should be selected to play for India in that T20 World Cup in Australia. He could be your match winner there," he said on Star Sports after the end of the PBKS innings against SRH.

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SRH became the first team in this year’s IPL to register four consecutive wins in the competition after losing two of their opening matches. Malik was the best bowler for them while Bhuvneshwar Kumar took three scalps at the top of the innings to bundle out a hapless Punjab Kings for just 151.

While chasing a modest total, SRH hardly faced much difficulty as Abhishek Sharma started well and the duo of Aiden Markram and Nicholas Pooran was able to guide them to victory.

Umran Malik was the star for Sunrisers Hyderabad with the ball as they raced to a comfortable victory over Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Sunday.

Umran Malik was the star for Sunrisers Hyderabad with the ball as they raced to a comfortable victory over Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 on Sunday. The young pacer from Jammu & Kashmir was the pick of the SRH bowlers as he completed a brilliant four-wicket haul. Malik started with the dismissal of Jitesh Sharma and in the final over of the match, he took the wickets of Odean Smith, Rahul Chahar and Vaibhav Arora without conceding a single run. Also read | Pujara scripts history with first-class double century on debut for Sussex Former Indian cricket team spinner Harbhajan Singh was amazed by the pace and talent of the youngster and back him to make his place in the India squad for the 2022 T20 World Cup. "This (Blue) is the only jersey missing and he should get it early. I feel he is the most deserving one who should be selected to play for India in that T20 World Cup in Australia. He could be your match winner there," he said on Star Sports after the end of the PBKS innings against SRH. Also read | Former India opener names two franchises who have 'lit up' IPL this year SRH became the first team in this year’s IPL to register four consecutive wins in the competition after losing two of their opening matches. Malik was the best bowler for them while Bhuvneshwar Kumar took three scalps at the top of the innings to bundle out a hapless Punjab Kings for just 151. While chasing a modest total, SRH hardly faced much difficulty as Abhishek Sharma started well and the duo of Aiden Markram and Nicholas Pooran was able to guide them to victory.

IPL 2022: 'Most deserving' - Harbhajan Singh backs SRH pacer to be included in India's T20 World Cup squad

With the T20 World Cup taking place in October 2022, the Indian Premier League provides a perfect platform for cricketers to make their case in front of the national selectors. Here’s a look at five out-of-favour India cricketers who have impressed in the competition till now.

5 out-of-favour India cricketers shining bright in IPL 2022

Dinesh Karthik has made heads turn so far in IPL 2022 edition. After three games for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the veteran keeper-batter is yet to be dismissed and has scores of 32* (14), 14* (7) and a match-winning 44* (23) versus Rajasthan Royals (RR), which led to a stunning six-wicket win for Bengaluru over the table-toppers on Tuesday evening (April 05).

Karthik came out to bat for RCB with the score&nbsp;87 for 5 in the three-time runners-up's 170-run chase versus RR. The 36-year-old got going from the word go and showed his wide range of shots and composure to stitch a match-winning 67-run sixth-wicket stand with Shahbaz Ahmed (45) to take RCB home in the last over of the contest.

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With Karthik being in the form of his life at the moment, former South Africa captain Shaun Pollock has made a bold claim. While Rishabh Pant has become a regular across formats for India, Pollock feels the experienced finisher DK can give the former a tough run for a place in the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later this year.

"Yeah, the way he is playing now, if this form continues, it is a headache for people at the backend. The only issue he has got is that Rishabh Pant will be the man with the gloves. If his batting is good enough, you never know. Just give him the role and use him on the field,” Pollock said on Cricbuzz.

Pollock added, “But I don't think even he (DK) would want to discuss this at this stage. He would focus on each game, making sure he does his best. But if he performs like this, form wise, he will definitely have his name ahead."

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While Pollock hasn't meant that DK will be a clear favourite over Pant, the former can turn the tides in his favour -- to at least feature as a finisher -- for the one-time T20 WC champions India, who were eliminated in the Super 12 round in last year's edition.

DK will be eager to carry on in a similar stead and take RCB to more glory in the 15th season of the IPL. Currently, they occupy the sixth position in the points table after two wins from their opening three encounters.

Dinesh Karthik has made heads turn so far in IPL 2022 edition. After three games for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the veteran keeper-batter is yet to be dismissed and has scores of 32* (14), 14* (7) and a match-winning 44* (23) versus Rajasthan Royals (RR), which led to a stunning six-wicket win for Bengaluru over the table-toppers on Tuesday evening (April 05).

Dinesh Karthik has made heads turn so far in IPL 2022 edition. After three games for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the veteran keeper-batter is yet to be dismissed and has scores of 32* (14), 14* (7) and a match-winning 44* (23) versus Rajasthan Royals (RR), which led to a stunning six-wicket win for Bengaluru over the table-toppers on Tuesday evening (April 05). Karthik came out to bat for RCB with the score 87 for 5 in the three-time runners-up's 170-run chase versus RR. The 36-year-old got going from the word go and showed his wide range of shots and composure to stitch a match-winning 67-run sixth-wicket stand with Shahbaz Ahmed (45) to take RCB home in the last over of the contest. ALSO READ | I'm not done yet: Dinesh Karthik sends strong message after match-winning knock against Rajasthan Royals With Karthik being in the form of his life at the moment, former South Africa captain Shaun Pollock has made a bold claim. While Rishabh Pant has become a regular across formats for India, Pollock feels the experienced finisher DK can give the former a tough run for a place in the 2022 T20 World Cup, to be held in Australia later this year. "Yeah, the way he is playing now, if this form continues, it is a headache for people at the backend. The only issue he has got is that Rishabh Pant will be the man with the gloves. If his batting is good enough, you never know. Just give him the role and use him on the field,” Pollock said on Cricbuzz. Pollock added, “But I don't think even he (DK) would want to discuss this at this stage. He would focus on each game, making sure he does his best. But if he performs like this, form wise, he will definitely have his name ahead." ALSO READ | When he does well, I feel proud: MSK Prasad names India player whose success elates him While Pollock hasn't meant that DK will be a clear favourite over Pant, the former can turn the tides in his favour -- to at least feature as a finisher -- for the one-time T20 WC champions India, who were eliminated in the Super 12 round in last year's edition. DK will be eager to carry on in a similar stead and take RCB to more glory in the 15th season of the IPL. Currently, they occupy the sixth position in the points table after two wins from their opening three encounters.

Dinesh Karthik ahead of Rishabh Pant? Shaun Pollock makes bold claim regarding RCB star's T20 WC chances

The IPL 2022 edition is set to get underway on March 26. Ahead of the new season, the ardent fans are excited to see how the two new teams shape up and compete with the rest. While KL Rahul will lead the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the Gujarat Titans (GT) will be led by local boy Hardik Pandya.

Ahead of the 15th season, all eyes are on Hardik as it remains to be seen if he will return back as an all-rounder. Since the 2021 T20 World Cup, Hardik hasn't been in the scheme of things for Team India, mainly due to the all-rounder working on his fitness to return back to bowling in full flow. In the last two IPL seasons, Hardik didn't bowl a single over for the Mumbai Indians (MI). However, ex-Team India head coach Ravi Shastri feels the 28-year-old needs to bowl to be able to return back in the playing XI for India in white-ball formats.

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"In the top five, there's a lot of muscle there. If anyone's occupying the position Nos. 5, 6 onwards, he'll have to bring that extra department to the game. That is why from Hardik's point of view, from India's point of view, from the Gujarat team's point of view, it's extremely important that he strings those two or three overs together because if he does and bowls with even limited success, he becomes an automatic choice in the Indian team," said Shastri to&nbsp;Espncricinfo.

"I think the all-rounder's position at No. 6 for sure. Ideally, someone in the top-five who can bowl two or three overs. That takes the pressure off the captain. It gives him then six and a half bowlers from whom he can choose. That will be one area I'll be looking at very closely. And of course the fast bowling and fielding. I'm not really worried about the batting. Batting is there," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-a-look-at-the-veterans-captaincy-record-for-chennai-super-kings-465141">MS Dhoni: A look at the veteran's captaincy record for Chennai Super Kings</a>

The GT franchise will open their campaign versus LSG on March 28 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. So far, Hardik has kept mum on his bowling plans and has said that it will be a 'surprise' for fans. Let's see what he has in store for one and all in this IPL edition.

Complete squad of Gujarat Titans for IPL 2022:

Jason Roy,&nbsp;Abhinav Sadarangani, David Miller, Wriddhiman Saha, Matthew Wade, Mohammed Shami, Lockie Ferguson, Noor Ahmad, R Sai Kishore, Yash Dayal,&nbsp;Alzarri Joseph, Pradeep Sangwan, Varun Aaron, Rahul Tewatia, Dominic Drakes, Jayant Yadav, Vijay Shankar, Darshan Nalkande, Gurkeerat Singh Mann,&nbsp;Sai Sudarshan

The IPL 2022 edition is set to get underway on March 26. Ahead of the new season, the ardent fans are excited to see how the two new teams shape up and compete with the rest.

The IPL 2022 edition is set to get underway on March 26. Ahead of the new season, the ardent fans are excited to see how the two new teams shape up and compete with the rest. While KL Rahul will lead the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the Gujarat Titans (GT) will be led by local boy Hardik Pandya. Ahead of the 15th season, all eyes are on Hardik as it remains to be seen if he will return back as an all-rounder. Since the 2021 T20 World Cup, Hardik hasn't been in the scheme of things for Team India, mainly due to the all-rounder working on his fitness to return back to bowling in full flow. In the last two IPL seasons, Hardik didn't bowl a single over for the Mumbai Indians (MI). However, ex-Team India head coach Ravi Shastri feels the 28-year-old needs to bowl to be able to return back in the playing XI for India in white-ball formats. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni hands over CSK captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja ahead of IPL 2022 "In the top five, there's a lot of muscle there. If anyone's occupying the position Nos. 5, 6 onwards, he'll have to bring that extra department to the game. That is why from Hardik's point of view, from India's point of view, from the Gujarat team's point of view, it's extremely important that he strings those two or three overs together because if he does and bowls with even limited success, he becomes an automatic choice in the Indian team," said Shastri to Espncricinfo. "I think the all-rounder's position at No. 6 for sure. Ideally, someone in the top-five who can bowl two or three overs. That takes the pressure off the captain. It gives him then six and a half bowlers from whom he can choose. That will be one area I'll be looking at very closely. And of course the fast bowling and fielding. I'm not really worried about the batting. Batting is there," he added. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni: A look at the veteran's captaincy record for Chennai Super Kings The GT franchise will open their campaign versus LSG on March 28 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. So far, Hardik has kept mum on his bowling plans and has said that it will be a 'surprise' for fans. Let's see what he has in store for one and all in this IPL edition. Complete squad of Gujarat Titans for IPL 2022: Jason Roy, Abhinav Sadarangani, David Miller, Wriddhiman Saha, Matthew Wade, Mohammed Shami, Lockie Ferguson, Noor Ahmad, R Sai Kishore, Yash Dayal, Alzarri Joseph, Pradeep Sangwan, Varun Aaron, Rahul Tewatia, Dominic Drakes, Jayant Yadav, Vijay Shankar, Darshan Nalkande, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Sai Sudarshan

'He'll have to bring....': Shastri claims Hardik needs to bowl in IPL 2022 to make India comeback

The IPL 2022 edition is set to get underway on March 26, at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. This year's cash-rich league will be extremely crucial for Team India players as they will try to put their best foot forward&nbsp;to be added to the national side's T20 World Cup squad, with the showpiece event to be held later this year in Australia.

Among the bowlers, Jasprit Bumrah is sure to feature in the T20 WC squad (unless fitness concerns arise) but the same can't be said about Mohammed Shami. Shami has been a regular in Tests and also has good numbers in ODIs, but his T20I career isn't very impressive. For the unversed, the senior pacer has an economy rate of over 9 (9.54) in T20Is whereas he hasn't managed to contain the run-flow for various IPL franchises that he has represented over the years.&nbsp;

Thus, the forthcoming IPL season is very important for Shami. He is set to represent the Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) after being bought by the debutant franchise for INR 62.5 million (INR 6.25 crore). As per a BCCI source, IPL will be a trial run for Shami to be in the scheme of things for India in the shortest format.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-does-ms-dhoni-don-no-7-jersey-csk-veteran-answers-the-big-question-ahead-of-ipl-2022-463195">Why does MS Dhoni don No. 7 jersey? CSK veteran answers the big question ahead of IPL 2022</a>

“It’s difficult to sustain all-format bowlers for all conditions. Jasprit Bumrah is the only one who has excelled in all formats. This team management believes in presenting a clear picture to all the players. Shami will surely be spoken to,” a BCCI source was quoted as saying by TOI.

“His ODI career is much better placed. But this IPL will be a kind of trial for him to be considered for the T20 World Cup and he also understands it,” the source added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/success-is-theirs-failure-is-mine-captain-hardik-pandya-shares-his-philosophy-ahead-of-ipl-2022-463170">Success is theirs, failure is mine: Captain Hardik Pandya shares his philosophy ahead of IPL 2022</a>

Shami was part of India's disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup. However, he has often been rested by the selectors for T20I assignments, in order to keep him fresh for big-ticket limited-overs events or Tests. However, with a T20 WC round the corner once again, his IPL season will determine if he remains in contention to appear in India's&nbsp;WC squad.

The IPL 2022 edition is set to get underway on March 26, at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. This year's cash-rich league will be extremely crucial for Team India players as they will try to put their best foot forward to be added to the national side's T20 World Cup squad, with the showpiece event to be held later this year in Australia.

The IPL 2022 edition is set to get underway on March 26, at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. This year's cash-rich league will be extremely crucial for Team India players as they will try to put their best foot forward to be added to the national side's T20 World Cup squad, with the showpiece event to be held later this year in Australia. Among the bowlers, Jasprit Bumrah is sure to feature in the T20 WC squad (unless fitness concerns arise) but the same can't be said about Mohammed Shami. Shami has been a regular in Tests and also has good numbers in ODIs, but his T20I career isn't very impressive. For the unversed, the senior pacer has an economy rate of over 9 (9.54) in T20Is whereas he hasn't managed to contain the run-flow for various IPL franchises that he has represented over the years. Thus, the forthcoming IPL season is very important for Shami. He is set to represent the Hardik Pandya-led Gujarat Titans (GT) after being bought by the debutant franchise for INR 62.5 million (INR 6.25 crore). As per a BCCI source, IPL will be a trial run for Shami to be in the scheme of things for India in the shortest format. ALSO READ | Why does MS Dhoni don No. 7 jersey? CSK veteran answers the big question ahead of IPL 2022 “It’s difficult to sustain all-format bowlers for all conditions. Jasprit Bumrah is the only one who has excelled in all formats. This team management believes in presenting a clear picture to all the players. Shami will surely be spoken to,” a BCCI source was quoted as saying by TOI. “His ODI career is much better placed. But this IPL will be a kind of trial for him to be considered for the T20 World Cup and he also understands it,” the source added. ALSO READ | Success is theirs, failure is mine: Captain Hardik Pandya shares his philosophy ahead of IPL 2022 Shami was part of India's disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup. However, he has often been rested by the selectors for T20I assignments, in order to keep him fresh for big-ticket limited-overs events or Tests. However, with a T20 WC round the corner once again, his IPL season will determine if he remains in contention to appear in India's WC squad.

IPL 2022 to be a trial run for star Team India bowler for T20 World Cup consideration: Report

S Sreesanth announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Wednesday evening (March 09). The discarded Indian pacer represented the national team in 90 internationals (27 Tests, 53 ODIs and 10 T20Is).&nbsp;

The 39-year-old was part of MS Dhoni-led Indian team's title-wins in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup. Sreesanth's best performances came in India's maiden Test win in South Africa (in 2006) and he was also a part of the Rahul Dravid-led side's Test series triumph in England, in mid-2007. Following the IPL 2013 spot-fixing scandal, his career took a massive downfall. He had restarted his career&nbsp;recently&nbsp;after successfully overturning&nbsp;a life ban from the sport for his involvement in the spot-fixing saga. Thus, he made a&nbsp;sensational comeback in the action-packed edition of the&nbsp;Ranji Trophy before&nbsp;calling it quits soon.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/for-next-generation-of-cricketers-india-pacer-s-sreesanth-announces-retirement-from-all-forms-of-cricket-460636">'For next generation of cricketers...'- India pacer S Sreesanth announces retirement from all forms of cricket</a>

“Today is a difficult day for me, but it is also a day of reflection and gratitude. Playing for Ecc, Ernakulam district, varies diff. League and tournament teams, Kerala state cricket association, Bcci, Warwickshire county cricket team, Indian airlines cricket team, Bpcl, and ICC,” Sreesanth said.

"ICC has been a tremendous honor. During my 25 years career as a Cricket player, I've always pursued success and winning cricket games, while preparing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance. It has been an honor to represent my family. It has been an honor to represent my family, my teammates and the people of India. Nd everyone who loves the game," he further wrote.

"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.&nbsp;For the next generation of cricketers..I have chosen to end my first class cricket career. This decision is mine alone, and although I know this will not bring me happiness, it is the right and honorable action to take at this time in my life. I ve cherished every moment," addeed Sreesanth.

Following his heartfelt post, Sreesanth received a reply from his former teammate and ex-Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh. Here's what Bhajji wrote:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Good luck shenta 🤗🤗 <a href="https://t.co/OXKTdh4QxL">https://t.co/OXKTdh4QxL</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1501640038098305024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-or-harbhajan-singh-gautam-gambhir-picks-the-more-difficult-off-spinner-to-face-460293">R Ashwin or Harbhajan Singh? Gautam Gambhir picks the more difficult off-spinner to face</a>

Harbhajan-Sreesanth's relationship had hit rock bottom during the inaugural IPL season, when the senior pro had slapped the speedster after a game, but the duo sorted out their differences in the following years.

Sreesanth also represented Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Kerala Kochi Tuskers (KKT) and Kerala, in the domestic circuit. He finished his international career with a total of 169 scalps.

S Sreesanth announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Wednesday evening (March 09). The discarded Indian pacer represented the national team in 90 internationals (27 Tests, 53 ODIs and 10 T20Is).

S Sreesanth announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Wednesday evening (March 09). The discarded Indian pacer represented the national team in 90 internationals (27 Tests, 53 ODIs and 10 T20Is). The 39-year-old was part of MS Dhoni-led Indian team's title-wins in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup. Sreesanth's best performances came in India's maiden Test win in South Africa (in 2006) and he was also a part of the Rahul Dravid-led side's Test series triumph in England, in mid-2007. Following the IPL 2013 spot-fixing scandal, his career took a massive downfall. He had restarted his career recently after successfully overturning a life ban from the sport for his involvement in the spot-fixing saga. Thus, he made a sensational comeback in the action-packed edition of the Ranji Trophy before calling it quits soon. ALSO READ | 'For next generation of cricketers...'- India pacer S Sreesanth announces retirement from all forms of cricket “Today is a difficult day for me, but it is also a day of reflection and gratitude. Playing for Ecc, Ernakulam district, varies diff. League and tournament teams, Kerala state cricket association, Bcci, Warwickshire county cricket team, Indian airlines cricket team, Bpcl, and ICC,” Sreesanth said. "ICC has been a tremendous honor. During my 25 years career as a Cricket player, I've always pursued success and winning cricket games, while preparing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance. It has been an honor to represent my family. It has been an honor to represent my family, my teammates and the people of India. Nd everyone who loves the game," he further wrote. "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. For the next generation of cricketers..I have chosen to end my first class cricket career. This decision is mine alone, and although I know this will not bring me happiness, it is the right and honorable action to take at this time in my life. I ve cherished every moment," addeed Sreesanth. Following his heartfelt post, Sreesanth received a reply from his former teammate and ex-Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh. Here's what Bhajji wrote: Good luck shenta 🤗🤗 https://t.co/OXKTdh4QxL — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) March 9, 2022 × ALSO READ | R Ashwin or Harbhajan Singh? Gautam Gambhir picks the more difficult off-spinner to face Harbhajan-Sreesanth's relationship had hit rock bottom during the inaugural IPL season, when the senior pro had slapped the speedster after a game, but the duo sorted out their differences in the following years. Sreesanth also represented Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Kerala Kochi Tuskers (KKT) and Kerala, in the domestic circuit. He finished his international career with a total of 169 scalps.

Harbhajan Singh reacts after pacer S Sreesanth calls it quits from professional cricket

Hardik Pandya has been out of action since the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Since then, the 28-year-old all-rounder is out of contention and is striving hard to regain full fitness to reclaim the all-rounder's slot in Team India setup across formats.

Hardik will next be seen in action during the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 edition, where he will represent the Gujarat Titans (GT). The swashbuckling all-rounder will represent his home franchise as the captain. Along with showcasing his skills as captain, Hardik will be eager to don the all-rounder's role and perform with aplomb for a comeback into the national side. For now, he was been replaced by Venkatesh Iyer in the white-ball formats. Iyer has also grown as a T20I player over the past month and is doing the right things so far to make it to the 2022 T20 WC squad.

Nonetheless, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Hardik still has the upper hand and will pip Venky Iyer for the fast-bowling all-rounder's slot, for the T20 WC, once he starts bowling and regains full fitness.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-ms-dhonis-csk-as-deepak-chahar-set-to-miss-majority-of-ipl-2022-edition-reports-458194">Big blow to MS Dhoni's CSK as Deepak Chahar set to miss majority of IPL 2022 edition - Reports</a>

“It may look like Venkatesh Iyer is ahead in the race, but I won't be surprised if Hardik Pandya wins it. Ravindra Jadeja will be the spin all-rounder and Pandya will be the fast-bowling all-rounder,” Aakash said on his official YouTube channel.

“Iyer is present for now but the day Hardik starts bowling, he will pip Venkatesh Iyer for the role. It is also worth remembering that it is not a bilateral series where you can take 18-20 players at once according to your convenience. This is an ICC event where you can select only a 15-member squad," the ex-cricketer pointed out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-t20i-rankings-shreyas-iyer-achieves-huge-jump-after-sl-series-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-out-of-top-10-458106">ICC T20I Rankings: Shreyas Iyer achieves huge jump after SL series; Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma out of top 10</a>

The former India batter further stated that the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) opener Venky Iyer will only have an outside chance if Hardik doesn't regain full fitness.

“So, when you only have 15 places, you cannot take everything with you. So, you will only have two options for the all-rounder position and for me, they would be Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya. Venkatesh Iyer may have a chance if Pandya isn't fit -- that can also happen but hopefully it doesn't,” said Aakash.

Hardik Pandya has been out of action since the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Since then, the 28-year-old all-rounder is out of contention and is striving hard to regain full fitness to reclaim the all-rounder's slot in Team India setup across formats.

Hardik Pandya has been out of action since the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Since then, the 28-year-old all-rounder is out of contention and is striving hard to regain full fitness to reclaim the all-rounder's slot in Team India setup across formats. Hardik will next be seen in action during the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 edition, where he will represent the Gujarat Titans (GT). The swashbuckling all-rounder will represent his home franchise as the captain. Along with showcasing his skills as captain, Hardik will be eager to don the all-rounder's role and perform with aplomb for a comeback into the national side. For now, he was been replaced by Venkatesh Iyer in the white-ball formats. Iyer has also grown as a T20I player over the past month and is doing the right things so far to make it to the 2022 T20 WC squad. Nonetheless, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra feels Hardik still has the upper hand and will pip Venky Iyer for the fast-bowling all-rounder's slot, for the T20 WC, once he starts bowling and regains full fitness. ALSO READ | Big blow to MS Dhoni's CSK as Deepak Chahar set to miss majority of IPL 2022 edition - Reports “It may look like Venkatesh Iyer is ahead in the race, but I won't be surprised if Hardik Pandya wins it. Ravindra Jadeja will be the spin all-rounder and Pandya will be the fast-bowling all-rounder,” Aakash said on his official YouTube channel. “Iyer is present for now but the day Hardik starts bowling, he will pip Venkatesh Iyer for the role. It is also worth remembering that it is not a bilateral series where you can take 18-20 players at once according to your convenience. This is an ICC event where you can select only a 15-member squad," the ex-cricketer pointed out. ALSO READ | ICC T20I Rankings: Shreyas Iyer achieves huge jump after SL series; Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma out of top 10 The former India batter further stated that the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) opener Venky Iyer will only have an outside chance if Hardik doesn't regain full fitness. “So, when you only have 15 places, you cannot take everything with you. So, you will only have two options for the all-rounder position and for me, they would be Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya. Venkatesh Iyer may have a chance if Pandya isn't fit -- that can also happen but hopefully it doesn't,” said Aakash.

The day Hardik starts bowling, he'll pip Iyer for the all-rounder's slot for T20 World Cup: Aakash Chopra

It wasn't quite a smooth transition in Indian cricket when Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri-era came to an end, slowly making&nbsp;way for the Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid's alliance. When Kohli resigned as the T20I captain and Rohit was named his successor, the Indian cricket fans were in for a rollercoaster ride as many changed followed suit.&nbsp;

In late 2021, BCCI removed Kohli as the ODI captain, making Rohit the&nbsp;white-ball skipper. While it opened a pandora of box -- with the Kohli vs BCCI row gaining much limelight -- the dust seems to have settled down on the&nbsp;communication mishap between BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly-selection committee and the former captain. The changes in the leadership group, however, continued&nbsp;as Kohli also resigned as the Test captain in mid-January 2022.&nbsp;

At present, Rohit has&nbsp;become&nbsp;the all-format skipper with Dravid being in his shadow as the head coach. Amid the unnecessary chaos and negativity, India have been on a roll at home with a forgettable&nbsp;South Africa tour the only blip in between. However, things are now slowly starting to shape up and falling into places within the national team.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-would-give-me-important-overs-jasprit-bumrah-reveals-how-rohit-sharma-helped-in-his-growth-456807">He would give me important overs: Jasprit Bumrah reveals how Rohit Sharma helped in his growth</a>

After their SA annihilation, Team India has been on a roll -- although in home conditions. Rohit-led India whitewashed West Indies in the home white-ball series and the hosts have already gained an unassailable lead in the ongoing three T20Is versus Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

With the SL series also in their grasp, Rohit-Dravid is yet to lose an international game as&nbsp;captain-coach. In fact, India are currently enjoying their longest unbeaten streak in the shortest format&nbsp;(11).&nbsp;

Thus, what is the duo doing right despite much chaos in their brief partnership? (If&nbsp;the BCCI vs Kohli row is now on the backburner, out-of-favour Wriddiman Saha's revelations on his communication with Dravid, Ganguly, etc. have also made a lot of noise)&nbsp;

Role clarity, focus on flexibility and plugging small holes

In the recent past, Rohit-Dravid have spoken a lot on giving bio-bubble breaks to the players (currently enjoyed by&nbsp;Kohli, Md Shami, Rishabh Pant),&nbsp;role clarity and redeveloping a proper communication process&nbsp;(It is to be noted that despite the success enjoyed by Shastri-Kohli, their partnership highlighted communication gap between players and team management on several occasions:&nbsp;during M Vijay, Ambati Rayudu, Ajinkya Rahane's respective omissions, etc.).&nbsp;

Backing even a non-regular like Sanju Samson

Ahead of the SL T20Is, captain Rohit talked about being the team's plans of being flexible by relentlessly backing even their non-regular players&nbsp;ahead of&nbsp;the 2022 T20 World Cup. Rohit opined on Sanju Samson and told the reporters, "That guy has got talent, man. Whenever I have seen him bat in IPL and all of that, he has just produced an innings where everyone goes over the moon watching it. So he has got the skill set to succeed. That is the whole point about the sport. A lot of people have skill set, lot of people have talent but how you utilise them is the most critical par."

"His back-foot play is superb, some of the shots you must have seen during the IPL, the pick-up pull, the cut shots, standing and delivering over bowler’s head. Those kinds of shots are not easy to play and I believe when we go to Australia, you need those kind of shot-making ability and Samson does has it in him. I just hope that he utilises his potential to the maximum,” added Rohit.

(Sanju repaid the faith with a blistering 25-ball 39 in the second and penultimate encounter versus the Islanders).

Dropped but no way out of reckoning...

With Shreyas Iyer not making it to the playing XI in India's 1st T20I versus West Indies, Rohit made it clear that the batter remains a vital cog in the setup. "Someone like Shreyas Iyer&nbsp;is sitting out, very hard on him not making it to playing eleven, but we needed someone to bowl in the middle which is why we couldn't get him in. It's always nice with that kind of competition going around and a lot of the guys are missing out as well. I'm happy to have that kind of challenges rather than not having players available and not in form," he had told at the post-match presentation.

(Iyer is in rollicking form&nbsp;with two electrifying half-centuries&nbsp;in the SL T20Is).

Dravid on Saha's omission&nbsp;

Dravid welcomed the big question on Saha's Test omission -- without losing his cool&nbsp;-- and told the reporters after the WI T20Is, "I’m actually not hurt at all, because I have deep respect for Wridhhiman Saha and his achievements, his contribution to Indian cricket. My conversation with him actually came from that place. I think he deserved honesty and he deserved clarity. These are conversations I constantly have with players. I don’t expect players to always like messages or to agree with everything that I have to say about them. That’s not how it works."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theyre-taking-team-india-in-a-fabulous-direction-dinesh-karthik-lauds-rahul-dravid-rohit-sharma-456046">They're taking Team India in a fabulous direction: Dinesh Karthik lauds Rahul Dravid-Rohit Sharma</a>

Thus, the team is now slowly plugging the gaps which were previously present in the Indian team, under Kohli-Shastri.&nbsp;

Highlighting the same, Dinesh Karthik recently&nbsp;told the ICC, "The new captain and there's a new coach, I think they are taking the team in a fabulous direction. They've plugged small holes, which were probably there previously, and that has been the beautiful part about it. And along the way, in the journey, they've managed to become No.1."

Time and again, Rohit-Dravid have not shied away from stressing that&nbsp;they are preparing the team for the 2022 T20 WC, albeit with some tinkering in team combination and roles&nbsp;(In the previous captain-coach pairing,&nbsp;one eye was on the future but never openly declared in public; showcasing a rather confused mindset).

The current Indian team is slowly picking the lying pieces and moving ahead. The Men in Blue are trying to experiment with their template (which resulted in their first-round exit in the 2021 T20 WC), trying to balance out between youth and experienced campaigners,&nbsp;identifying new leaders, tinkering roles of different individuals to not increase their options but&nbsp;to broaden the horizons of the resources available.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-were-standing-there-for-me-ishan-kishan-credits-rohit-dravid-for-backing-him-despite-poor-form-456502">They were standing there for me: Ishan Kishan credits Rohit, Dravid for backing him despite poor form</a>

After the WI home series, coach Dravid confirmed that the team management 'don't want to cast their net too wide'; to avoid confusion and irregularity in team selection.&nbsp;"There is no set time frame to freeze on a team. We don’t want to cast our net too wide but we also don’t want to just restrict ourselves to 15 players. By the time we get to the [T20] World Cup, we need to have a bunch of guys who have at least played 10-20 games," the former captain stated.

Surely, Dravid-Rohit pairing is off to a flier. The real test is still miles away but they are not backing out from&nbsp;acknowledging&nbsp;the past mistakes and are boldly&nbsp;setting up new ways going forward.&nbsp;Sit back and relax guys...The road will clearly have more hurdles and speed-breakers but the Rohit-Dravid&nbsp;looks more suited to handle it all with a pragmatic and practical approach.

It wasn't quite a smooth transition in Indian cricket when Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri-era came to an end, slowly making way for the Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid's alliance.

It wasn't quite a smooth transition in Indian cricket when Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri-era came to an end, slowly making way for the Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid's alliance. When Kohli resigned as the T20I captain and Rohit was named his successor, the Indian cricket fans were in for a rollercoaster ride as many changed followed suit. In late 2021, BCCI removed Kohli as the ODI captain, making Rohit the white-ball skipper. While it opened a pandora of box -- with the Kohli vs BCCI row gaining much limelight -- the dust seems to have settled down on the communication mishap between BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly-selection committee and the former captain. The changes in the leadership group, however, continued as Kohli also resigned as the Test captain in mid-January 2022. At present, Rohit has become the all-format skipper with Dravid being in his shadow as the head coach. Amid the unnecessary chaos and negativity, India have been on a roll at home with a forgettable South Africa tour the only blip in between. However, things are now slowly starting to shape up and falling into places within the national team. ALSO READ | He would give me important overs: Jasprit Bumrah reveals how Rohit Sharma helped in his growth After their SA annihilation, Team India has been on a roll -- although in home conditions. Rohit-led India whitewashed West Indies in the home white-ball series and the hosts have already gained an unassailable lead in the ongoing three T20Is versus Sri Lanka. With the SL series also in their grasp, Rohit-Dravid is yet to lose an international game as captain-coach. In fact, India are currently enjoying their longest unbeaten streak in the shortest format (11). Thus, what is the duo doing right despite much chaos in their brief partnership? (If the BCCI vs Kohli row is now on the backburner, out-of-favour Wriddiman Saha's revelations on his communication with Dravid, Ganguly, etc. have also made a lot of noise) Role clarity, focus on flexibility and plugging small holes In the recent past, Rohit-Dravid have spoken a lot on giving bio-bubble breaks to the players (currently enjoyed by Kohli, Md Shami, Rishabh Pant), role clarity and redeveloping a proper communication process (It is to be noted that despite the success enjoyed by Shastri-Kohli, their partnership highlighted communication gap between players and team management on several occasions: during M Vijay, Ambati Rayudu, Ajinkya Rahane's respective omissions, etc.). Backing even a non-regular like Sanju Samson Ahead of the SL T20Is, captain Rohit talked about being the team's plans of being flexible by relentlessly backing even their non-regular players ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup. Rohit opined on Sanju Samson and told the reporters, "That guy has got talent, man. Whenever I have seen him bat in IPL and all of that, he has just produced an innings where everyone goes over the moon watching it. So he has got the skill set to succeed. That is the whole point about the sport. A lot of people have skill set, lot of people have talent but how you utilise them is the most critical par." "His back-foot play is superb, some of the shots you must have seen during the IPL, the pick-up pull, the cut shots, standing and delivering over bowler’s head. Those kinds of shots are not easy to play and I believe when we go to Australia, you need those kind of shot-making ability and Samson does has it in him. I just hope that he utilises his potential to the maximum,” added Rohit. (Sanju repaid the faith with a blistering 25-ball 39 in the second and penultimate encounter versus the Islanders). Dropped but no way out of reckoning... With Shreyas Iyer not making it to the playing XI in India's 1st T20I versus West Indies, Rohit made it clear that the batter remains a vital cog in the setup. "Someone like Shreyas Iyer is sitting out, very hard on him not making it to playing eleven, but we needed someone to bowl in the middle which is why we couldn't get him in. It's always nice with that kind of competition going around and a lot of the guys are missing out as well. I'm happy to have that kind of challenges rather than not having players available and not in form," he had told at the post-match presentation. (Iyer is in rollicking form with two electrifying half-centuries in the SL T20Is). Dravid on Saha's omission Dravid welcomed the big question on Saha's Test omission -- without losing his cool -- and told the reporters after the WI T20Is, "I’m actually not hurt at all, because I have deep respect for Wridhhiman Saha and his achievements, his contribution to Indian cricket. My conversation with him actually came from that place. I think he deserved honesty and he deserved clarity. These are conversations I constantly have with players. I don’t expect players to always like messages or to agree with everything that I have to say about them. That’s not how it works." ALSO READ | They're taking Team India in a fabulous direction: Dinesh Karthik lauds Rahul Dravid-Rohit Sharma Thus, the team is now slowly plugging the gaps which were previously present in the Indian team, under Kohli-Shastri. Highlighting the same, Dinesh Karthik recently told the ICC, "The new captain and there's a new coach, I think they are taking the team in a fabulous direction. They've plugged small holes, which were probably there previously, and that has been the beautiful part about it. And along the way, in the journey, they've managed to become No.1." Time and again, Rohit-Dravid have not shied away from stressing that they are preparing the team for the 2022 T20 WC, albeit with some tinkering in team combination and roles (In the previous captain-coach pairing, one eye was on the future but never openly declared in public; showcasing a rather confused mindset). The current Indian team is slowly picking the lying pieces and moving ahead. The Men in Blue are trying to experiment with their template (which resulted in their first-round exit in the 2021 T20 WC), trying to balance out between youth and experienced campaigners, identifying new leaders, tinkering roles of different individuals to not increase their options but to broaden the horizons of the resources available. ALSO READ | They were standing there for me: Ishan Kishan credits Rohit, Dravid for backing him despite poor form After the WI home series, coach Dravid confirmed that the team management 'don't want to cast their net too wide'; to avoid confusion and irregularity in team selection. "There is no set time frame to freeze on a team. We don’t want to cast our net too wide but we also don’t want to just restrict ourselves to 15 players. By the time we get to the [T20] World Cup, we need to have a bunch of guys who have at least played 10-20 games," the former captain stated. Surely, Dravid-Rohit pairing is off to a flier. The real test is still miles away but they are not backing out from acknowledging the past mistakes and are boldly setting up new ways going forward. Sit back and relax guys...The road will clearly have more hurdles and speed-breakers but the Rohit-Dravid looks more suited to handle it all with a pragmatic and practical approach.

Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid partnership: A promising alliance focused on role clarity & plugging small holes

Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka three T20Is at home. Iyer got a chance to bat higher up the order, at No. 3, in the absence of Virat Kohli and made the most of the opportunities to remain unbeaten throughout the course of the three T20Is to end with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) as India completed a whitewash over the hapless Islanders.

Thus, Iyer has made a strong case to be a regular in the playing XI in the shortest format, ahead of this year's T20 World Cup. Nonetheless, he still intense competition due to the presence of Suryakumar Yadav&nbsp;and Rishabh Pant (both of whom didn't feature in the SL series) along with currently out-of-favour all-rounder Hardik Pandya.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-joins-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-kl-rahul-in-elite-list-after-dream-run-in-sri-lanka-t20is-457333">Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is</a>

After his memorable series versus the Asian neighbours, Iyer revealed his preferred batting slot amid intense competition for slots in the national side. "I'm not keeping any expectations from myself nor from the team coaches because if you see the competition in our team, it's immense. Every individual is capable of winning you games. Personally I want to enjoy each and every moment and opportunity, which I've been provided with. I like to finish off the games and that's like my mindset whenever I go onto the pitch," he said in the post-match conference.

"Obviously in this format, top-three is the only place where you can pace your innings pretty well. Otherwise if you bat down the order you can't give yourself time you need to start going from ball one. So yeah, if I had to say the best number to bat for me personally, it's obviously No. 3," Iyer added.

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After the SL series, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar also opined on problems of plenty for the Indian team. He suggested a slot for Iyer in the batting line-up and told Star Sports, "It's a great problem to have. Obviously, Virat Kohli can't be replaced. He will probably come in at No.3, there is no question about it. But then you can use somebody like a Shreyas Iyer at No.4 or 5. Suryakumar, the way he has been batting, he is got to be included. It is just the plus, plus as far as the team is concerned."

“There are so many options. And it allows you to go in with pure bowlers and not bowlers who can bat. With a top-batting line-up, you can can go in with someone like Mohammed Siraj or Avesh Khan, who is not known as a batsman. You might think in terms of all-out attack,” he further asserted.

Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka three T20Is at home. Iyer got a chance to bat higher up the order, at No. 3, in the absence of Virat Kohli and made the most of the opportunities to remain unbeaten throughout the course of the three T20Is to end with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) as India completed a whitewash over the hapless Islanders.

Shreyas Iyer had a dream run in the just-concluded India-Sri Lanka three T20Is at home. Iyer got a chance to bat higher up the order, at No. 3, in the absence of Virat Kohli and made the most of the opportunities to remain unbeaten throughout the course of the three T20Is to end with scores of 57* (28), 74* (44) and 73* (45) as India completed a whitewash over the hapless Islanders. Thus, Iyer has made a strong case to be a regular in the playing XI in the shortest format, ahead of this year's T20 World Cup. Nonetheless, he still intense competition due to the presence of Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant (both of whom didn't feature in the SL series) along with currently out-of-favour all-rounder Hardik Pandya. ALSO READ | Shreyas Iyer joins Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul in elite list after dream run in Sri Lanka T20Is After his memorable series versus the Asian neighbours, Iyer revealed his preferred batting slot amid intense competition for slots in the national side. "I'm not keeping any expectations from myself nor from the team coaches because if you see the competition in our team, it's immense. Every individual is capable of winning you games. Personally I want to enjoy each and every moment and opportunity, which I've been provided with. I like to finish off the games and that's like my mindset whenever I go onto the pitch," he said in the post-match conference. "Obviously in this format, top-three is the only place where you can pace your innings pretty well. Otherwise if you bat down the order you can't give yourself time you need to start going from ball one. So yeah, if I had to say the best number to bat for me personally, it's obviously No. 3," Iyer added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli can't be replaced: Gavaskar on in-form Shreyas Iyer's batting position for Team India in T20Is After the SL series, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar also opined on problems of plenty for the Indian team. He suggested a slot for Iyer in the batting line-up and told Star Sports, "It's a great problem to have. Obviously, Virat Kohli can't be replaced. He will probably come in at No.3, there is no question about it. But then you can use somebody like a Shreyas Iyer at No.4 or 5. Suryakumar, the way he has been batting, he is got to be included. It is just the plus, plus as far as the team is concerned." “There are so many options. And it allows you to go in with pure bowlers and not bowlers who can bat. With a top-batting line-up, you can can go in with someone like Mohammed Siraj or Avesh Khan, who is not known as a batsman. You might think in terms of all-out attack,” he further asserted.

'Best number for me is....' - Shreyas Iyer reveals his preferred batting slot after Sri Lanka T20Is

Team India have an action-packed calendar before the T20 World Cup, which is set to be held in Australia later this year. Before the national side gears up to face Sri Lanka in the three T20Is at home, as per a report, BCCI is planning to field more teams parallelly as more bilateral series have been added to Rohit Sharma-led India's schedule prior to the showpiece event Down Under.

After India host Sri Lanka in three T20Is and two Tests, the Indian players will take part in IPL 2022, which will be followed by five home T20Is versus South Africa, a one-off T20I versus hosts Ireland and fifth and final Test (from the incomplete 2021 series) against England, in the United Kingdom. India will then reportedly travel to West Indies and Zimbabwe. The Asia Cup will also take place during the same time, hence, the Indian cricket board might field two teams simultaneously; with a second-stringed team playing against Ireland and Zimbabwe.&nbsp;

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"The discussions on bio-bubble breaks have already started. Every player has been communicated about the busy itinerary. They have been given time to think about when they would like to take a break. It's likely a depleted side will travel to Zimbabwe. Ideally, the Asia Cup will be the right tournament to play the first team, in order to get combinations right before the T20 World Cup," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by TOI.

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During the last calendar year, Indian team had also played two sides parallelly when Virat Kohli's Test side were in England whereas Shikhar Dhawan-led Men in Blue travelled to Sri Lanka for a white-ball series, during mid-July 2021. Before that, India had fielded two teams&nbsp;at the same time during 1998 as well -- with one participating in the Commonwealth Games and the other in the Sahara Cup.

Team India have an action-packed calendar before the T20 World Cup, which is set to be held in Australia later this year. Before the national side gears up to face Sri Lanka in the three T20Is at home, as per a report, BCCI is planning to field more teams parallelly as more bilateral series have been added to Rohit Sharma-led India's schedule prior to the showpiece event Down Under.

Team India have an action-packed calendar before the T20 World Cup, which is set to be held in Australia later this year. Before the national side gears up to face Sri Lanka in the three T20Is at home, as per a report, BCCI is planning to field more teams parallelly as more bilateral series have been added to Rohit Sharma-led India's schedule prior to the showpiece event Down Under. After India host Sri Lanka in three T20Is and two Tests, the Indian players will take part in IPL 2022, which will be followed by five home T20Is versus South Africa, a one-off T20I versus hosts Ireland and fifth and final Test (from the incomplete 2021 series) against England, in the United Kingdom. India will then reportedly travel to West Indies and Zimbabwe. The Asia Cup will also take place during the same time, hence, the Indian cricket board might field two teams simultaneously; with a second-stringed team playing against Ireland and Zimbabwe. ALSO READ | He hasn't apologised or got in touch with me: Wriddhiman Saha on journalist who threatened him "The discussions on bio-bubble breaks have already started. Every player has been communicated about the busy itinerary. They have been given time to think about when they would like to take a break. It's likely a depleted side will travel to Zimbabwe. Ideally, the Asia Cup will be the right tournament to play the first team, in order to get combinations right before the T20 World Cup," a BCCI official was quoted as saying by TOI. ALSO READ | He's making a case for inclusion for T20 World Cup: Sunil Gavaskar impressed with India's star batter During the last calendar year, Indian team had also played two sides parallelly when Virat Kohli's Test side were in England whereas Shikhar Dhawan-led Men in Blue travelled to Sri Lanka for a white-ball series, during mid-July 2021. Before that, India had fielded two teams at the same time during 1998 as well -- with one participating in the Commonwealth Games and the other in the Sahara Cup.

BCCI planning to field two teams simultaneously as India to play more bilaterals before T20 WC: Report

UAE and Ireland on Tuesday confirmed their big tickets to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Australia after reaching the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier A, at Al Amerat.

UAE stopped the three-match winning run of Nepal with a 68-run victory while Ireland beat Oman by 56 runs.

At the Oman Academy ground 1, UAE exhibited a clinical performance to reach the ICC Men's T20 World Cup for the second time.

The last time UAE made it to the global showpiece event was in 2014. For Ireland, the only Full Member nation in Qualifier A, it will be their seventh appearance at the global showpiece event.

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The two winning teams took the 13th and 14th spots for the tournament in Australia later this year, with the last two places to be decided at the Qualifier B in July.

Chasing an imposing victory target of 176 to win, Nepal was rocked by the early strikes of UAE pacer Junaid Siddique.

The quick, was in top gear, removing the top-three Nepal batters in his three-over spell. A sensational opening over saw Siddique sending back opener Aasif Sheikh and one-down batter Lokesh Bam off two successive balls.

Nepal was 3-2 in six balls and the chase looked a tall order. Batting first after losing the toss, Ireland posted a total of 165/7. Gareth Delany top-scored with a masterfully constructed 32-ball 47.

Oman began the Powerplay well as Ireland's usually reliable opening pair - Paul Stirling and Andrew Balbirnie - failed them this time. However, Delany and Harry Tector erected an 82-run fourth-wicket stand to put the pressure back on the hosts.

Tector was the aggressor early on, but once Delany settled in, fireworks ensued on both ends of the wicket. Skipper Zeeshan Maqsood in particular endured a difficult afternoon with the ball as Delany devoured his only over, smashing three consecutive sixes.

Bilal Khan had dismissed both the openers earlier and Kaleemullah matched his strike partner's efforts by plotting Tector's demise for a well-made 35.

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Lorcan Tucker followed suit in the very next ball, and with Khawar Ali sending Delany back in the following over, Oman had their tails up for the final stretch of the innings. With good reason too, as Ireland was placed precariously at 106/5 at the end of 14 overs.

George Dockrell chipped in with a valuable 16-ball 18, but it was Andy Mcbrine that provided the fuel to take Ireland past 150. His quick-fire 36 included 3 fours and 2 sixes.

Bilal was Oman's star performer with the ball, ending the day with figures of 3/23. In response, Oman was bowled out for 109 in 18.3 overs. Shoaib Khan was the top scorer with 30.

Oman matched Ireland's efforts in the batting Powerplay, losing both their openers cheaply. Shoaib Khan and Zeeshan Maqsood (28) steadied the ship with a 40-run partnership.

Shoaib scored at a healthy pace to keep the asking rate in check. They dealt with the Irish spinners pro-actively, effusing shades of Ireland's game-changing fourth-wicket partnership earlier in the day.

But once Josh Little scalped Shoaib's wicket in the 11th over, Oman's batting roster crumbled. Khurram Nawaz was dismissed in the same over. Khawar Ali and Naseem Khushi soon followed suit.

Receiving no support from the other end, Maqsood was tasked with winning the match all by himself. His wicket in the 15th over put an end to all hopes of a successful Omani run-chase.

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Ireland cleaned up over the next four overs and put the finishing touches on a well-deserved victory.

Simi Singh was their top performer with the ball, recording figures of 3/20 in 3.3 overs, but all the bowlers chipped in. Josh Little, Craig Young, and Andy Mcbrine claimed two wickets apiece.

UAE and Ireland on Tuesday confirmed their big tickets to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Australia after reaching the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier A, at Al Amerat.

UAE and Ireland on Tuesday confirmed their big tickets to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Australia after reaching the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier A, at Al Amerat. UAE stopped the three-match winning run of Nepal with a 68-run victory while Ireland beat Oman by 56 runs. At the Oman Academy ground 1, UAE exhibited a clinical performance to reach the ICC Men's T20 World Cup for the second time. The last time UAE made it to the global showpiece event was in 2014. For Ireland, the only Full Member nation in Qualifier A, it will be their seventh appearance at the global showpiece event. ALSO READ: Heartwarming! KL Rahul donates generous amount to save aspiring young cricketer from rare blood disease The two winning teams took the 13th and 14th spots for the tournament in Australia later this year, with the last two places to be decided at the Qualifier B in July. Chasing an imposing victory target of 176 to win, Nepal was rocked by the early strikes of UAE pacer Junaid Siddique. The quick, was in top gear, removing the top-three Nepal batters in his three-over spell. A sensational opening over saw Siddique sending back opener Aasif Sheikh and one-down batter Lokesh Bam off two successive balls. Nepal was 3-2 in six balls and the chase looked a tall order. Batting first after losing the toss, Ireland posted a total of 165/7. Gareth Delany top-scored with a masterfully constructed 32-ball 47. Oman began the Powerplay well as Ireland's usually reliable opening pair - Paul Stirling and Andrew Balbirnie - failed them this time. However, Delany and Harry Tector erected an 82-run fourth-wicket stand to put the pressure back on the hosts. Tector was the aggressor early on, but once Delany settled in, fireworks ensued on both ends of the wicket. Skipper Zeeshan Maqsood in particular endured a difficult afternoon with the ball as Delany devoured his only over, smashing three consecutive sixes. Bilal Khan had dismissed both the openers earlier and Kaleemullah matched his strike partner's efforts by plotting Tector's demise for a well-made 35. ALSO READ: Not naming for family's sake, but will not hold back if it's repeated: Wriddhiman Saha warns journalist Lorcan Tucker followed suit in the very next ball, and with Khawar Ali sending Delany back in the following over, Oman had their tails up for the final stretch of the innings. With good reason too, as Ireland was placed precariously at 106/5 at the end of 14 overs. George Dockrell chipped in with a valuable 16-ball 18, but it was Andy Mcbrine that provided the fuel to take Ireland past 150. His quick-fire 36 included 3 fours and 2 sixes. Bilal was Oman's star performer with the ball, ending the day with figures of 3/23. In response, Oman was bowled out for 109 in 18.3 overs. Shoaib Khan was the top scorer with 30. Oman matched Ireland's efforts in the batting Powerplay, losing both their openers cheaply. Shoaib Khan and Zeeshan Maqsood (28) steadied the ship with a 40-run partnership. Shoaib scored at a healthy pace to keep the asking rate in check. They dealt with the Irish spinners pro-actively, effusing shades of Ireland's game-changing fourth-wicket partnership earlier in the day. But once Josh Little scalped Shoaib's wicket in the 11th over, Oman's batting roster crumbled. Khurram Nawaz was dismissed in the same over. Khawar Ali and Naseem Khushi soon followed suit. Receiving no support from the other end, Maqsood was tasked with winning the match all by himself. His wicket in the 15th over put an end to all hopes of a successful Omani run-chase. ALSO READ: Whoever you are, you're talking like a kidnapper: Aakash Chopra to journalist who threatened Wriddhiman Saha Ireland cleaned up over the next four overs and put the finishing touches on a well-deserved victory. Simi Singh was their top performer with the ball, recording figures of 3/20 in 3.3 overs, but all the bowlers chipped in. Josh Little, Craig Young, and Andy Mcbrine claimed two wickets apiece.

UAE, Ireland qualify for ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia

India demolished West Indies in the three T20Is&nbsp;at home. Taking an unassailable lead heading into the final encounter, Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first in the&nbsp;final T20I. After being at a tricky position, at 61-3, the Men in Blue posted a daunting 184-5 courtesy of an impressive 91-run fifth-wicket stand between Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer.

Both SKY and Iyer came together with the score reading 93-4 in 13.5 overs. The duo's stand flourished as the rest of the innings progressed with their strokeplay, taking India to a competitive score. In reply, Nicholas Pooran's 61 and cameos from Romario Shepherd and Rovman Powell weren't enough for Kieron Pollard's West Indies; losing by 17 runs.

Following the series, SKY's stature continues to rise in Indian cricket. He has fulfilled various roles -- coming out to bat at different positions -- and looks pretty much in contention for the T20 World Cup squad, as per Little Master Sunil Gavaskar.

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Gavaskar told Star Sports, "I think he is pretty much making a case for inclusion (T20 World Cup team). In the first match, he and Venkatesh combined to take India home just when things were looking a bit difficult. Today as well. To bat like that when 4 wickets already fell that truly shows the sign that the team is making the right progress. Perfection is impossible. But to have guys who can raise their hand and step up when things are not going their way...don't forget, he is still a newcomer. So it is not like he is playing international cricket for a long time. Venkatesh too came in only a couple of months back."&nbsp;

“He can play at No.3 and help build an innings. Like what we saw in the first game and today the way he can finish it, he is an innings builder and also a finisher. What a great combination," pointed out the former opener.

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SKY ended the series with scores of 34* (18) -- striking at 188.89 -- 8 (6)&nbsp;and 65 (31). Thus, he was adjudged&nbsp;the Player-of-the-Match as well as the Player-of-the-Series (he was also the highest run-getter in the ODI leg). At the post-match presentation after the T20Is, SKY said, "Just wanted to replicate what I did in the first game. Needed someone to stay there after Rohit got out and get the team to a defendable total. We had a long chat in the team meeting as to how we are going to react under immense pressure and it came out very well. I just try to keep things simple. Being a little harsh on yourself in the nets, don't hit every ball wildly and have some quality sessions. Excited for the next series."

India demolished West Indies in the three T20Is at home. Taking an unassailable lead heading into the final encounter, Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first in the final T20I.

India demolished West Indies in the three T20Is at home. Taking an unassailable lead heading into the final encounter, Rohit Sharma-led Indian team were asked to bat first in the final T20I. After being at a tricky position, at 61-3, the Men in Blue posted a daunting 184-5 courtesy of an impressive 91-run fifth-wicket stand between Suryakumar Yadav and Venkatesh Iyer. Both SKY and Iyer came together with the score reading 93-4 in 13.5 overs. The duo's stand flourished as the rest of the innings progressed with their strokeplay, taking India to a competitive score. In reply, Nicholas Pooran's 61 and cameos from Romario Shepherd and Rovman Powell weren't enough for Kieron Pollard's West Indies; losing by 17 runs. Following the series, SKY's stature continues to rise in Indian cricket. He has fulfilled various roles -- coming out to bat at different positions -- and looks pretty much in contention for the T20 World Cup squad, as per Little Master Sunil Gavaskar. ALSO READ | Going to be a big challenge: Dinesh Karthik points out where captain Rohit Sharma will be tested Gavaskar told Star Sports, "I think he is pretty much making a case for inclusion (T20 World Cup team). In the first match, he and Venkatesh combined to take India home just when things were looking a bit difficult. Today as well. To bat like that when 4 wickets already fell that truly shows the sign that the team is making the right progress. Perfection is impossible. But to have guys who can raise their hand and step up when things are not going their way...don't forget, he is still a newcomer. So it is not like he is playing international cricket for a long time. Venkatesh too came in only a couple of months back." “He can play at No.3 and help build an innings. Like what we saw in the first game and today the way he can finish it, he is an innings builder and also a finisher. What a great combination," pointed out the former opener. ALSO READ | Today, there is another opportunity: Venkatesh Iyer reveals motivating words from 'likeable' Suryakumar Yadav SKY ended the series with scores of 34* (18) -- striking at 188.89 -- 8 (6) and 65 (31). Thus, he was adjudged the Player-of-the-Match as well as the Player-of-the-Series (he was also the highest run-getter in the ODI leg). At the post-match presentation after the T20Is, SKY said, "Just wanted to replicate what I did in the first game. Needed someone to stay there after Rohit got out and get the team to a defendable total. We had a long chat in the team meeting as to how we are going to react under immense pressure and it came out very well. I just try to keep things simple. Being a little harsh on yourself in the nets, don't hit every ball wildly and have some quality sessions. Excited for the next series."

He's making a case for inclusion for T20 World Cup: Sunil Gavaskar impressed with India's star batter

Rohit Sharma's Team India beat West Indies by 17 runs to win the third and final T20I and inflict a whitewash over the hapless visitors. On Sunday evening (February 20), Rohit-led Indian team posted a daunting 184-5 and defended the score by 17 runs, despite Nicholas Pooran's 61 and cameos from Rovman Powell and Romario Shepherd.&nbsp;

Speaking after Team India's 3-0 victory against the Windies in the press conference, head coach Rahul Dravid lavished huge praise on the national team. He further indicated that the team management already have a fair idea of the team combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia. He said, "I think we have got a fair idea between Rohit and myself and the selectors and the management.&nbsp;I don’t think there’s a set formula to it. But we’re pretty clear about the balance and the combination (for the T20 World Cup)…We are just structuring a little bit of the team around it and also balancing individual workloads as well."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/today-there-is-another-opportunity-venkatesh-iyer-reveals-motivating-words-from-likeable-suryakumar-yadav-455016">Today, there is another opportunity: Venkatesh Iyer reveals motivating words from 'likeable' Suryakumar Yadav</a>

He added, "We have got a pretty fair idea of the kind of skills we’re looking for in Australia, with the kind of guys who are in running. Not everything is set in stone but we want to give everyone a fair chance to stake their claim for those spots."

"You don’t want to cast your net too wide. We don’t also want to restrict ourselves to just 15 players. We want to give players opportunities, ensure that by the time we get to the World Cup, some of our guys have played at least 10-15-20 games. It gives Rohit a chance to play them, bowl them in positions that he wants to, but he also has to be balanced with the fact that we need to have a few back-ups of people in case of an injury," the coach further explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-creates-new-captaincy-record-as-india-complete-3-0-whitewash-aganst-west-indies-in-t20is-454965">Rohit Sharma creates new captaincy record as India complete 3-0 whitewash aganst West Indies in T20Is</a>

After a disastrous campaign in the 2021 T20 World Cup, Dravid-Rohit's Team India have revamped in style and are going strong following the last year's mega event. Since India's T20 WC defeats versus Pakistan and New Zealand, respectively, they have a nine-match winning streak in the format and are yet to concede a game in the Dravid-Rohit era.&nbsp;

India will now lock horns with Sri Lanka in three T20Is, at home, before the action shifts to two Tests.

Rohit Sharma's Team India beat West Indies by 17 runs to win the third and final T20I and inflict a whitewash over the hapless visitors. On Sunday evening (February 20), Rohit-led Indian team posted a daunting 184-5 and defended the score by 17 runs, despite Nicholas Pooran's 61 and cameos from Rovman Powell and Romario Shepherd.

Rohit Sharma's Team India beat West Indies by 17 runs to win the third and final T20I and inflict a whitewash over the hapless visitors. On Sunday evening (February 20), Rohit-led Indian team posted a daunting 184-5 and defended the score by 17 runs, despite Nicholas Pooran's 61 and cameos from Rovman Powell and Romario Shepherd. Speaking after Team India's 3-0 victory against the Windies in the press conference, head coach Rahul Dravid lavished huge praise on the national team. He further indicated that the team management already have a fair idea of the team combination for the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia. He said, "I think we have got a fair idea between Rohit and myself and the selectors and the management. I don’t think there’s a set formula to it. But we’re pretty clear about the balance and the combination (for the T20 World Cup)…We are just structuring a little bit of the team around it and also balancing individual workloads as well." ALSO READ | Today, there is another opportunity: Venkatesh Iyer reveals motivating words from 'likeable' Suryakumar Yadav He added, "We have got a pretty fair idea of the kind of skills we’re looking for in Australia, with the kind of guys who are in running. Not everything is set in stone but we want to give everyone a fair chance to stake their claim for those spots." "You don’t want to cast your net too wide. We don’t also want to restrict ourselves to just 15 players. We want to give players opportunities, ensure that by the time we get to the World Cup, some of our guys have played at least 10-15-20 games. It gives Rohit a chance to play them, bowl them in positions that he wants to, but he also has to be balanced with the fact that we need to have a few back-ups of people in case of an injury," the coach further explained. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma creates new captaincy record as India complete 3-0 whitewash aganst West Indies in T20Is After a disastrous campaign in the 2021 T20 World Cup, Dravid-Rohit's Team India have revamped in style and are going strong following the last year's mega event. Since India's T20 WC defeats versus Pakistan and New Zealand, respectively, they have a nine-match winning streak in the format and are yet to concede a game in the Dravid-Rohit era. India will now lock horns with Sri Lanka in three T20Is, at home, before the action shifts to two Tests.

Have a fair idea of team combination for T20 World Cup, says Rahul Dravid after WI series

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier A is all set to begin at the Oman Academy grounds in Al Amerat on Friday.

A lot is at stake for the eight participating nations - Ireland, Nepal, UAE, Canada, Germany, Philippines, Bahrain, and hosts Oman - as they vie for the two spots available at the Qualifier A from February 18 to 24.

The Qualifier A is one of the two global qualifiers that is part of the final stages of the qualification process of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia.

A total of 20 matches will decide the two teams that will travel to Australia for the pinnacle event in the shortest format of the game later this year as an intense and exciting battle of cricket awaits fans across the world.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-t20i-rankings-wanindu-hasaranga-loses-top-spot-josh-hazelwood-moves-to-second-453722">ICC T20I Rankings: Wanindu Hasaranga loses top spot, Josh Hazelwood moves to second</a>

The eight-nation tournament features an experienced Ireland side, who are set to face a fight from an in-form UAE, hosts Oman, and Nepal as the quartet boast of experience at playing at the global stage.

However, with teams like Canada, Germany, Bahrain, and the Philippines eager to showcase their mettle, there is a good possibility of a few surprises in the coming week.

If Test-playing nation Ireland, the only Full Member nation, in the fray, begins the tournament as a favorite, there is a lot of excitement in the camp of debutants - Germany and the Philippines, who start the tournament as minnows, as this would be their first major event at the global stage.

Hosts Oman, who like Ireland, qualified for this tournament after being eliminated in the first round of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021, will be hoping to bank on their home ground advantage.

Oman is pooled along with Nepal, who will be looking to qualify for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup for the first time since they made their debut in 2014. Canada and the Philippines complete Group A.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/glenn-maxwell-to-miss-australias-tour-of-pakistan-and-likely-start-of-ipl-2022-heres-why-453718">Glenn Maxwell to miss Australia's tour of Pakistan and likely start of IPL 2022, here's why</a>

Canada could be the surprise package in Group A and matchups against the hosts and Nepal could potentially be decisive for the two teams that would make it to the semi-finals. In Group A, Ireland are the dominant unit, and the UAE, who have been in a good form ahead of the event, are likely to push for the top two spots.

Debutant Germany and regional team, Bahrain, are the other teams in Group B with Germany hoping to ring in a surprise or two.

For Germany, it will be a new chapter in the history of the game, as they make their first-ever appearance at a global qualifier, an achievement for an emerging cricket nation they share with the Philippines.

Nepal and the UAE sealed their places in the Qualifiers based on their rankings in the ICC Men's T20I Team Rankings. The other four teams - Germany, Canada, Bahrain, and the Philippines - advanced through their regional qualifying tournaments held through the course of last year

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier A is all set to begin at the Oman Academy grounds in Al Amerat on Friday. A lot is at stake for the eight participating nations - Ireland, Nepal, UAE, Canada, Germany, Philippines, Bahrain, and hosts Oman - as they vie for the two spots available at the Qualifier A from February 18 to 24.

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup Qualifier A is all set to begin at the Oman Academy grounds in Al Amerat on Friday. A lot is at stake for the eight participating nations - Ireland, Nepal, UAE, Canada, Germany, Philippines, Bahrain, and hosts Oman - as they vie for the two spots available at the Qualifier A from February 18 to 24. The Qualifier A is one of the two global qualifiers that is part of the final stages of the qualification process of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. A total of 20 matches will decide the two teams that will travel to Australia for the pinnacle event in the shortest format of the game later this year as an intense and exciting battle of cricket awaits fans across the world. ALSO READ: ICC T20I Rankings: Wanindu Hasaranga loses top spot, Josh Hazelwood moves to second The eight-nation tournament features an experienced Ireland side, who are set to face a fight from an in-form UAE, hosts Oman, and Nepal as the quartet boast of experience at playing at the global stage. However, with teams like Canada, Germany, Bahrain, and the Philippines eager to showcase their mettle, there is a good possibility of a few surprises in the coming week. If Test-playing nation Ireland, the only Full Member nation, in the fray, begins the tournament as a favorite, there is a lot of excitement in the camp of debutants - Germany and the Philippines, who start the tournament as minnows, as this would be their first major event at the global stage. Hosts Oman, who like Ireland, qualified for this tournament after being eliminated in the first round of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021, will be hoping to bank on their home ground advantage. Oman is pooled along with Nepal, who will be looking to qualify for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup for the first time since they made their debut in 2014. Canada and the Philippines complete Group A. ALSO READ: Glenn Maxwell to miss Australia's tour of Pakistan and likely start of IPL 2022, here's why Canada could be the surprise package in Group A and matchups against the hosts and Nepal could potentially be decisive for the two teams that would make it to the semi-finals. In Group A, Ireland are the dominant unit, and the UAE, who have been in a good form ahead of the event, are likely to push for the top two spots. Debutant Germany and regional team, Bahrain, are the other teams in Group B with Germany hoping to ring in a surprise or two. For Germany, it will be a new chapter in the history of the game, as they make their first-ever appearance at a global qualifier, an achievement for an emerging cricket nation they share with the Philippines. Nepal and the UAE sealed their places in the Qualifiers based on their rankings in the ICC Men's T20I Team Rankings. The other four teams - Germany, Canada, Bahrain, and the Philippines - advanced through their regional qualifying tournaments held through the course of last year

ICC Men's T20 World Cup: Qualifier A to kickstart on 18 February in Oman

Team India had a forgettable run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Under Virat Kohli, India endured a disastrous campaign, being eliminated in the Super 12 round. India have failed to end their ICC-title drought since 2013, when they lifted the Champions Trophy under former captain MS Dhoni.

During 2007-2013, India had a lot of success in ICC tournaments, winning the inaugural T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy, nine years back. Since then, the Men in Blue have done well in many ICC tournaments -- sans the last edition of the T20 WC -- but failed to lift the coveted title.&nbsp;

Suresh Raina, who went unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, recently opened up on India's struggles to win a major trophy and explained why the national side did so well between 2007-13. He cited&nbsp;the availability of multiple players, who could bat and as well roll their arms, as one of the main reasons for team's past success whereas feels the lack of more bowling options is now hurting the Men in Blue.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-ms-dhoni-showed-his-simplicity-by-travelling-with-jharkhand-players-in-train-see-pic-453218">THROWBACK: When MS Dhoni showed his simplicity by travelling with Jharkhand players in train - See pic</a>

"I think this is why we won the 2007 World T20, the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. When I started in Ranji, I remember our coach Gyanu bhai (Gyanendra Pandey) would always tell us, ‘you should bowl.’ It gives a captain the ability to get in eight-ten overs if he has a sixth or seventh bowling option, when he is playing only five bowlers. That is good planning," Raina told&nbsp;The Indian Express&nbsp;at&nbsp;Idea Exchange.

“So you see Viru paa (Sehwag), Yuvraj Singh, Yusuf Pathan and me, including in the 2011 World Cup, all would bowl,” said the veteran cricketer. He added, "When we lost in the Champions Trophy (2017), or even recently in Dubai (in the T20 World Cup), we did not have a sixth bowling option. Now Shreyas Iyer is working on his bowling, I think he should keep working hard. Rohit will have a good option then.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-hes-going-through-a-lean-phase-vikram-rathour-expects-virat-kohli-to-regain-form-in-wi-t20is-453207">Don't think he's going through a lean phase: Vikram Rathour expects Virat Kohli to regain form in WI T20Is</a>

He further asseerted, “In the South Africa series, recently, Aiden Markram was bowling six-eight overs upfront, and the main bowlers were coming in later. This is a big factor for the Indian team. Suryakumar Yadav can bowl as well. Even Rohit would bowl before his injury. So someone will have to step in, and bowl at least six-eight overs regularly in nets."&nbsp;

“Batsmen should definitely work on their batting but they need to come in early or stay back for half an hour for the nation (to bowl a bit in the nets). They will have to like that process. Once you start liking it, you will not go away without bowling five-six overs,” added the ex-Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter.

Raina, who had a base price of INR 20 million, went unsold at IPL auction this year. He remains one of the most successful batters in IPL history, being the fourth-highest run-getter (5,528), and was a vital all-rounder for Team India from 2005-2020.

He was a part of India's title win in 2011 ODI WC and Champions Trophy success in 2013.

Team India had a forgettable run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Under Virat Kohli, India endured a disastrous campaign, being eliminated in the Super 12 round.

Team India had a forgettable run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, held in the UAE. Under Virat Kohli, India endured a disastrous campaign, being eliminated in the Super 12 round. India have failed to end their ICC-title drought since 2013, when they lifted the Champions Trophy under former captain MS Dhoni. During 2007-2013, India had a lot of success in ICC tournaments, winning the inaugural T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and Champions Trophy, nine years back. Since then, the Men in Blue have done well in many ICC tournaments -- sans the last edition of the T20 WC -- but failed to lift the coveted title. Suresh Raina, who went unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, recently opened up on India's struggles to win a major trophy and explained why the national side did so well between 2007-13. He cited the availability of multiple players, who could bat and as well roll their arms, as one of the main reasons for team's past success whereas feels the lack of more bowling options is now hurting the Men in Blue. ALSO READ | THROWBACK: When MS Dhoni showed his simplicity by travelling with Jharkhand players in train - See pic "I think this is why we won the 2007 World T20, the 2011 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. When I started in Ranji, I remember our coach Gyanu bhai (Gyanendra Pandey) would always tell us, ‘you should bowl.’ It gives a captain the ability to get in eight-ten overs if he has a sixth or seventh bowling option, when he is playing only five bowlers. That is good planning," Raina told The Indian Express at Idea Exchange. “So you see Viru paa (Sehwag), Yuvraj Singh, Yusuf Pathan and me, including in the 2011 World Cup, all would bowl,” said the veteran cricketer. He added, "When we lost in the Champions Trophy (2017), or even recently in Dubai (in the T20 World Cup), we did not have a sixth bowling option. Now Shreyas Iyer is working on his bowling, I think he should keep working hard. Rohit will have a good option then.” ALSO READ | Don't think he's going through a lean phase: Vikram Rathour expects Virat Kohli to regain form in WI T20Is He further asseerted, “In the South Africa series, recently, Aiden Markram was bowling six-eight overs upfront, and the main bowlers were coming in later. This is a big factor for the Indian team. Suryakumar Yadav can bowl as well. Even Rohit would bowl before his injury. So someone will have to step in, and bowl at least six-eight overs regularly in nets." “Batsmen should definitely work on their batting but they need to come in early or stay back for half an hour for the nation (to bowl a bit in the nets). They will have to like that process. Once you start liking it, you will not go away without bowling five-six overs,” added the ex-Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter. Raina, who had a base price of INR 20 million, went unsold at IPL auction this year. He remains one of the most successful batters in IPL history, being the fourth-highest run-getter (5,528), and was a vital all-rounder for Team India from 2005-2020. He was a part of India's title win in 2011 ODI WC and Champions Trophy success in 2013.

Suresh Raina explains why India struggled in 2021 T20 WC, opines on team's success between 2007-13

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