Indian cricket veteran Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect, bringing an end to a remarkable career spanning more than a decade. Rahane will forever be remembered for leading India to one of its greatest-ever Test triumphs during the historic 2020–21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Under his captaincy, India scripted the unforgettable Gabba victory after overcoming injuries and adversity to seal a memorable series win.

Ajinkya Rahane Announces Retirement From Cricket | Wion Sports 

After a disappointing tour of the United Kingdom, Team India begins a crucial three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe. With several senior players rested, all eyes are on young stars, especially 15-year-old sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who returns to the venue where he led India to the Under-19 World Cup title. Captain Shreyas Iyer faces mounting pressure after India's poor run in England, while Gautam Gambhir will look for a strong comeback from his side.

Can India's young brigade turn things around against Zimbabwe? Watch our full preview of the 1st T20I, probable playing XI, key players, and everything you need to know.

India Begin Zimbabwe T20 Series With Young Squad As Pressure Mounts On Gautam Gambhir

India's incredible teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has triggered an unprecedented box office scramble across the United Kingdom before the tour even begins. We dive deep into his IPL records, his incredibly aggressive, hard-hitting batting style, and the ultimate praise he received from the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. Discover how this young phenomenon has forced the BCCI to create a special travel provision for his father, and see why fans are queuing up for the first Test at Headingley on June 20.

How the Sooryavanshi Effect Drives Ticket Sales & Broadcast Deals 

<p>Shortly after the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) concludes, India’s international cricket calendar will resume with a lone Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh on June 6. Led by Shubman Gill, who recently guided Gujarat Titans to the IPL final, the squad includes key red-ball players such as KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant and Mohammed Siraj, all set to return to the longer format.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Following the Test, India will shift focus to preparations for next year’s World Cup with a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. The series will also see the return of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to international cricket, having already retired from Tests and T20Is.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, India A team, under Tilak Varma’s leadership, will compete in a tri-series against Sri Lanka A and Afghanistan A from Jun 9 to 21. The squad blends youth and experience, featuring IPL 2026 Orange Cap winner Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ruturaj Gaikwad and attacking openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The seven-match tournament in Sri Lanka is expected to serve as a key platform for emerging players aiming to push for selection in India’s ODI setup ahead of the global event.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-a-player-and-what-a-knock-virat-kohli-gets-special-praise-from-this-england-footballer-after-rcb-s-back-to-back-ipl-titles-1780380131610"><strong>Kohli gets special praise from THIS footballer as RCB win back-to-back IPL title</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India’s packed schedule continues with two T20Is in Ireland, followed by a tour of England featuring five T20Is and three ODIs from Jul 1 to 19.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Later in 2026, India are scheduled to tour Zimbabwe for three T20Is, host the West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is and conclude the year at home with white-ball series against Sri Lanka comprising three ODIs and three T20Is in December.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-reschedules-women-s-champions-trophy-2027-to-february-window-1780384079095"><strong>ICC reschedules Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 to February window</strong></a></p><h3><strong>Afghanistan tour of India 2026</strong></h3><ul><li>Only Test: Jun 6 to 10 - New Chandigarh</li><li>1st ODI: Jun 13 - Dharamsala</li><li>2nd ODI: Jun 17 - Lucknow</li><li>3rd ODI: Jun 20 - Chennai</li></ul><h3><strong>A-Team Tri-Series (IND-A, AFG-A &amp; SL-A)</strong></h3><ul><li>1st match: Jun 9 - Sri Lanka A vs India A - Dambulla</li><li>2nd match: Jun 11 - Afghanistan A vs India A - Dambulla</li><li>4th match: Jun 15 - Sri Lanka A vs India A - Dambulla</li><li>5th match: Jun 17 - Afghanistan A vs India A - Dambulla</li><li>Final: Jun 21 - Dambulla</li></ul><h3><strong>India tour of Ireland 2026</strong></h3><ul><li>1st T20I: Jun 26 - Belfast</li><li>2nd T20I: Jun 28 - Belfast</li></ul><h3><strong>India tour of England 2026</strong></h3><ul><li>1st T20I: Jul 1 - Chester-le-Street</li><li>2nd T20I: Jul 4 - Manchester</li><li>3rd T20I: Jul 7 - Nottingham</li><li>4th T20I: Jul 9 - Bristol</li><li>5th T20I: Jul 11 - Southampton</li><li>1st ODI: Jul 14 - Birmingham</li><li>2nd ODI: Jul 16 - Cardiff</li><li>3rd ODI: Jul 19 - Lord’s</li></ul>

Complete list of India’s international fixtures following the conclusion of IPL 2026 on May 31.

Shortly after the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) concludes, India’s international cricket calendar will resume with a lone Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh on June 6. Led by Shubman Gill, who recently guided Gujarat Titans to the IPL final, the squad includes key red-ball players such as KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant and Mohammed Siraj, all set to return to the longer format. Following the Test, India will shift focus to preparations for next year’s World Cup with a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. The series will also see the return of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to international cricket, having already retired from Tests and T20Is. Meanwhile, India A team, under Tilak Varma’s leadership, will compete in a tri-series against Sri Lanka A and Afghanistan A from Jun 9 to 21. The squad blends youth and experience, featuring IPL 2026 Orange Cap winner Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ruturaj Gaikwad and attacking openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya. The seven-match tournament in Sri Lanka is expected to serve as a key platform for emerging players aiming to push for selection in India’s ODI setup ahead of the global event. Also Read - Kohli gets special praise from THIS footballer as RCB win back-to-back IPL title India’s packed schedule continues with two T20Is in Ireland, followed by a tour of England featuring five T20Is and three ODIs from Jul 1 to 19. Later in 2026, India are scheduled to tour Zimbabwe for three T20Is, host the West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is and conclude the year at home with white-ball series against Sri Lanka comprising three ODIs and three T20Is in December. Also Read - ICC reschedules Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 to February window Afghanistan tour of India 2026 Only Test: Jun 6 to 10 - New Chandigarh 1st ODI: Jun 13 - Dharamsala 2nd ODI: Jun 17 - Lucknow 3rd ODI: Jun 20 - Chennai A-Team Tri-Series (IND-A, AFG-A & SL-A) 1st match: Jun 9 - Sri Lanka A vs India A - Dambulla 2nd match: Jun 11 - Afghanistan A vs India A - Dambulla 4th match: Jun 15 - Sri Lanka A vs India A - Dambulla 5th match: Jun 17 - Afghanistan A vs India A - Dambulla Final: Jun 21 - Dambulla India tour of Ireland 2026 1st T20I: Jun 26 - Belfast 2nd T20I: Jun 28 - Belfast India tour of England 2026 1st T20I: Jul 1 - Chester-le-Street 2nd T20I: Jul 4 - Manchester 3rd T20I: Jul 7 - Nottingham 4th T20I: Jul 9 - Bristol 5th T20I: Jul 11 - Southampton 1st ODI: Jul 14 - Birmingham 2nd ODI: Jul 16 - Cardiff 3rd ODI: Jul 19 - Lord’s

<p>Complete list of India’s international fixtures following the conclusion of IPL 2026 on May 31.</p>

Team India's schedule after IPL 2026: Complete list of matches, dates and venues

<p>When team India arrived in Indore for the series decider ODI against New Zealand, cricket was not the only thing on their minds. With the cleanest city in India, dealing with a serious water contamination crisis, the team has decided to take extra care about health and safety. This match is crucial, with the ODI series tied at 1-1, but off the field, staying safe has become just as important as winning the game and clinching the ODI series.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to reports from NDTV and Dainik Bhaskar, Indian ODI captain Shubman Gill brought a special water purification machine worth nearly INR 3 lakh to the team hotel. The machine has been installed inside his personal room and is used to re-purify water that is already treated by RO systems or even bottled water. The idea is simple: no risks, no shortcuts, and complete control over drinking water quality.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-i-can-beat-anyone-novak-djokovic-confident-ahead-of-australian-open-2026-title-push-1768645386986"><strong>'I can beat anyone:' Novak Djokovic confident ahead of Australian Open 2026 title push</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Hotel sources revealed that the device is capable of filtering water at multiple levels and is seen as an added safety layer. While the team is staying in a five-star hotel that already provides packaged drinking water and RO facilities, the Indian camp has chosen to go a step further. A member of the team management was quoted by NDTV as saying that “the health of players comes first, and every possible step is being taken to avoid any issue.”</p><p><br>The team’s media manager, however, refused to make any official comment on the matter. He did not confirm whether the purifier was brought due to the recent deaths caused by contaminated water or if it was part of Gill’s personal safety routine. This silence has only highlighted how serious the situation in Indore has become.</p><p><br>The water crisis in the city has already claimed 23 lives, as per local reports. The government has acknowledged 15 deaths in the High Court, and compensation has been given to 21 affected families. Several patients are still in the ICU, with some on ventilator support. These developments have created concern across the country, especially with an international cricket match being hosted in the same city.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Alongside safety measures, faith has also played a role before the big match. Head coach Gautam Gambhir visited the Baglamukhi Temple in Agar Malwa, while Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Kuldeep Yadav offered prayers at the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain.</p>

Team India takes extra safety steps in Indore as Shubman Gill brings an INR 3 lakh water purifier amid the city’s water crisis ahead of the series-deciding ODI against New Zealand.

When team India arrived in Indore for the series decider ODI against New Zealand, cricket was not the only thing on their minds. With the cleanest city in India, dealing with a serious water contamination crisis, the team has decided to take extra care about health and safety. This match is crucial, with the ODI series tied at 1-1, but off the field, staying safe has become just as important as winning the game and clinching the ODI series. According to reports from NDTV and Dainik Bhaskar, Indian ODI captain Shubman Gill brought a special water purification machine worth nearly INR 3 lakh to the team hotel. The machine has been installed inside his personal room and is used to re-purify water that is already treated by RO systems or even bottled water. The idea is simple: no risks, no shortcuts, and complete control over drinking water quality. Also read | 'I can beat anyone:' Novak Djokovic confident ahead of Australian Open 2026 title push Hotel sources revealed that the device is capable of filtering water at multiple levels and is seen as an added safety layer. While the team is staying in a five-star hotel that already provides packaged drinking water and RO facilities, the Indian camp has chosen to go a step further. A member of the team management was quoted by NDTV as saying that “the health of players comes first, and every possible step is being taken to avoid any issue.” The team’s media manager, however, refused to make any official comment on the matter. He did not confirm whether the purifier was brought due to the recent deaths caused by contaminated water or if it was part of Gill’s personal safety routine. This silence has only highlighted how serious the situation in Indore has become. The water crisis in the city has already claimed 23 lives, as per local reports. The government has acknowledged 15 deaths in the High Court, and compensation has been given to 21 affected families. Several patients are still in the ICU, with some on ventilator support. These developments have created concern across the country, especially with an international cricket match being hosted in the same city. Alongside safety measures, faith has also played a role before the big match. Head coach Gautam Gambhir visited the Baglamukhi Temple in Agar Malwa, while Virat Kohli, KL Rahul and Kuldeep Yadav offered prayers at the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain.

<p>Team India takes extra safety steps in Indore as Shubman Gill brings a INR 3 lakh water purifier amid the city’s water crisis ahead of the series-deciding ODI against New Zealand.</p>

Amid Indore water crisis, Shubman Gill installs special purifier in hotel room: Reports

<p>The Pune Grand Tour 2026, India's first-ever Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) 2.2 category multi-stage Continental Road Cycling Race for men, marks a landmark moment for the sport in the country. Scheduled from January 19 to 23, 2026, the five-stage race, will cover 437 kilometres and feature 171 elite riders from 29 teams representing 35 countries across five continents. Organised by the Pune District Administration and supported by the Government of Maharashtra under the aegis of the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), the race will cut across 9 talukas and 150 villages, firmly placing Pune and India on the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) global calendar.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As anticipation builds for the landmark event, the Indian national cycling contingent has arrived in Pune, signalling the final phase of preparations for the country's biggest-ever international road cycling competition.&nbsp;</p><p><br>The CFI has confirmed that India will field two national squads for the event: the Indian National Team and the Indian Development Team - reflecting a strategic push to broaden the competitive pool while providing both seasoned and emerging riders an opportunity to compete at an elite international level on home soil.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-2nd-odi-mitchell-131-outscore-kl-rahul-ton-in-rajkot-win-1768401657245"><strong>IND vs NZ, 2nd ODI: Mitchell 131 outscore KL Rahul ton in Rajkot win</strong></a></p><p><br>The Indian National Team features Naveen John (Karnataka), Sahil Kumar (Haryana), Dinesh Kumar (Rourkela), Harshveer Singh Sekhon (Punjab), Vishwajeet Singh (Punjab) and Surya Thathu (Maharashtra), forming India's elite national line-up for the historic race.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Indian Development Team includes Sachin Desai, Niraj Kumar, Vivaan Sapru, Manav Sarda, Chirag Sehgal, and Akshar Tyagi, representing the next generation of Indian road cycling talent.</p><p><br>The final selection for the two Indian teams followed a stringent evaluation process, beginning with the National Road Cycling Championship-cum-selection trials held in Sambalpur, Odisha, from December 2 to 6, 2025, ensuring riders were tested on terrain aligned with the Grand Tour stages.&nbsp;</p><p><br>Naveen John, hailing from Bangalore, Karnataka, will lead the Indian National team challenge and is the only Indian to have ridden professionally for a UCI Continental team (State of Matter/MAAP - based in Australia).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking on the arrival in Pune, he said, "The opportunity to race in the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour on Indian roads, in front of home fans, is a proud moment for all of us. Competing in a UCI 2.2 stage race in India is a big step forward for the sport, and we're excited to test ourselves against international competition while representing the country."</p><p><br>Highlighting the significance of fielding two teams, CFI Secretary General Maninder Pal Singh said, "The Pune Grand Tour 2026 is a defining moment for Indian cycling. Fielding two national squads allows us to broaden our talent base while providing both established and emerging riders invaluable exposure at an elite international level."</p><p><br>With Team India now in Pune and final preparations underway, the inaugural Pune Grand Tour is set to become one of the most significant cycling events ever hosted in the country, reinforcing India's growing stature on the global professional road cycling stage.&nbsp;</p>

With Team India now in Pune and final preparations underway, the inaugural Pune Grand Tour is set to become one of the most significant cycling events ever hosted in the country, reinforcing India's growing stature on the global professional road cycling stage. 

The Pune Grand Tour 2026, India's first-ever Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) 2.2 category multi-stage Continental Road Cycling Race for men, marks a landmark moment for the sport in the country. Scheduled from January 19 to 23, 2026, the five-stage race, will cover 437 kilometres and feature 171 elite riders from 29 teams representing 35 countries across five continents. Organised by the Pune District Administration and supported by the Government of Maharashtra under the aegis of the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), the race will cut across 9 talukas and 150 villages, firmly placing Pune and India on the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) global calendar. As anticipation builds for the landmark event, the Indian national cycling contingent has arrived in Pune, signalling the final phase of preparations for the country's biggest-ever international road cycling competition. The CFI has confirmed that India will field two national squads for the event: the Indian National Team and the Indian Development Team - reflecting a strategic push to broaden the competitive pool while providing both seasoned and emerging riders an opportunity to compete at an elite international level on home soil. Also Read - IND vs NZ, 2nd ODI: Mitchell 131 outscore KL Rahul ton in Rajkot win The Indian National Team features Naveen John (Karnataka), Sahil Kumar (Haryana), Dinesh Kumar (Rourkela), Harshveer Singh Sekhon (Punjab), Vishwajeet Singh (Punjab) and Surya Thathu (Maharashtra), forming India's elite national line-up for the historic race. The Indian Development Team includes Sachin Desai, Niraj Kumar, Vivaan Sapru, Manav Sarda, Chirag Sehgal, and Akshar Tyagi, representing the next generation of Indian road cycling talent. The final selection for the two Indian teams followed a stringent evaluation process, beginning with the National Road Cycling Championship-cum-selection trials held in Sambalpur, Odisha, from December 2 to 6, 2025, ensuring riders were tested on terrain aligned with the Grand Tour stages. Naveen John, hailing from Bangalore, Karnataka, will lead the Indian National team challenge and is the only Indian to have ridden professionally for a UCI Continental team (State of Matter/MAAP - based in Australia). Speaking on the arrival in Pune, he said, "The opportunity to race in the Bajaj Pune Grand Tour on Indian roads, in front of home fans, is a proud moment for all of us. Competing in a UCI 2.2 stage race in India is a big step forward for the sport, and we're excited to test ourselves against international competition while representing the country." Highlighting the significance of fielding two teams, CFI Secretary General Maninder Pal Singh said, "The Pune Grand Tour 2026 is a defining moment for Indian cycling. Fielding two national squads allows us to broaden our talent base while providing both established and emerging riders invaluable exposure at an elite international level." With Team India now in Pune and final preparations underway, the inaugural Pune Grand Tour is set to become one of the most significant cycling events ever hosted in the country, reinforcing India's growing stature on the global professional road cycling stage.

<p>With Team India now in Pune and final preparations underway, the inaugural Pune Grand Tour is set to become one of the most significant cycling events ever hosted in the country, reinforcing India's growing stature on the global professional road cycling stage.&nbsp;</p>

Team India arrives in Pune ahead of historic Grand Tour 2026

<p>The 2026 T20 World Cup will start on Feb 7, with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the event. A total of 20 teams will compete and they have been divided into four groups of five sides each. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA. India, who have won the tournament twice and are the current champions will start their campaign against the USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Feb 7.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>One of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Pakistan will play all its games in Sri Lanka. Here is India’s full match schedule, with dates, venues and group information from the opening match to the knockout stage.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-return-to-domestic-circuit-named-in-vijay-hazare-trophy-squads-1766215752363"><strong>Rohit, Virat return to domestic circuit, named in Vijay Hazare Trophy squads</strong></a></p><h2><strong>T20 World Cup 2026 groups</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>Group A</strong>: India, Pakistan, Netherlands, Namibia and USA</li><li><strong>Group B</strong>: Sri Lanka, Australia, Zimbabwe, Ireland and Oman</li><li><strong>Group C</strong>: England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Nepal and Italy</li><li><strong>Group D</strong>: South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, UAE and Canada</li></ul><h2>India’s full schedule</h2><ul><li>India vs USA - Feb 7 - Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai</li><li>India vs Namibia - Feb 12 - Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi</li><li>India vs Pakistan - Feb 15 - R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo</li><li>India vs Netherlands - Feb 18 - Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad</li></ul><h2><strong>How many T20Is will India play before 2026 T20 World Cup?</strong></h2><p>As part of their preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup, India will host New Zealand for a five-match T20I series next year. Below is a full look at India’s build-up, including the opponents and match dates.</p><h2><strong>IND vs NZ, T20Is - Full schedule&nbsp;</strong></h2><ul><li>1st T20I: 21 Jan, 2026, at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>2nd T20I: 23 Jan, 2026, at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>3rd T20I: 25 Jan, 2026, at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>4th T20I: 28 Jan, 2026, at Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>5th T20I: 31 Jan, 2026, at Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram (7:00 PM IST)</li></ul>

One of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Pakistan will play all its games in Sri Lanka. 

The 2026 T20 World Cup will start on Feb 7, with India and Sri Lanka co-hosting the event. A total of 20 teams will compete and they have been divided into four groups of five sides each. India are placed in Group A with Pakistan, the Netherlands, Namibia and the USA. India, who have won the tournament twice and are the current champions will start their campaign against the USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Feb 7. One of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Pakistan will play all its games in Sri Lanka. Here is India’s full match schedule, with dates, venues and group information from the opening match to the knockout stage. Also Read - Rohit, Virat return to domestic circuit, named in Vijay Hazare Trophy squads T20 World Cup 2026 groups Group A: India, Pakistan, Netherlands, Namibia and USA Group B: Sri Lanka, Australia, Zimbabwe, Ireland and Oman Group C: England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Nepal and Italy Group D: South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, UAE and Canada India’s full schedule India vs USA - Feb 7 - Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai India vs Namibia - Feb 12 - Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi India vs Pakistan - Feb 15 - R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo India vs Netherlands - Feb 18 - Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad How many T20Is will India play before 2026 T20 World Cup? As part of their preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup, India will host New Zealand for a five-match T20I series next year. Below is a full look at India’s build-up, including the opponents and match dates. IND vs NZ, T20Is - Full schedule 1st T20I: 21 Jan, 2026, at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur (7:00 PM IST) 2nd T20I: 23 Jan, 2026, at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur (7:00 PM IST) 3rd T20I: 25 Jan, 2026, at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati (7:00 PM IST) 4th T20I: 28 Jan, 2026, at Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam (7:00 PM IST) 5th T20I: 31 Jan, 2026, at Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram (7:00 PM IST)

<p>One of the biggest rivalries, India vs Pakistan is set for Feb 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Pakistan will play all its games in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

India’s T20 World Cup 2026 schedule: Check dates, venues, groups and key matches

<p>India secured a comfortable 53-run victory (DLS method) over New Zealand in the must-win ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 match on Thursday (Oct 23) in Navi Mumbai. The win helped India to book a spot in the semi-finals, even after suffering three straight losses earlier in the tournament. With this result, India are confirmed to finish fourth in the eight-team standings, regardless of the outcome of their final league match against Bangladesh.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, India began their campaign with comfortable wins over Sri Lanka and arch-rivals Pakistan but then lost close matches to South Africa, Australia and England.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-world-cup-2025-pratika-rawal-smriti-mandhana-star-in-indias-53-run-win-over-new-zealand-seal-semi-final-spot-updated-points-table-1761238394410"><strong>Women’s World Cup 2025: Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana star in India’s 53-run win over New Zealand, seal semi-final spot</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In the important clash against New Zealand, openers Smriti Mandhana (109) and Pratika Rawal (122) struck brilliant centuries, while Jemimah Rodrigues added an unbeaten 76 to power India to 340/3 in 49 overs in a rain-affected match. Chasing a revised target of 325 runs in 44 overs, New Zealand managed only 271/8, with Brooke Halliday (81) and Isabella Gaze (65 not out) were the top run-scorers. For India, Renuka Singh Thakur and Kranti Gaud took two wickets each. With this win, India secured the fourth spot on the points table and joined Australia, South Africa and England in the knockout stage.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-w-vs-nz-w-pratika-rawal-now-joint-fastest-to-1000-wodi-runs-as-india-post-record-total-1761233477807"><strong>IND-W vs NZ-W: Pratika Rawal now joint-fastest to THIS WODI milestone as India post record total</strong></a></p><h2>Who will India face in the semi-final?</h2><p>India will meet the team that finishes first on the points table. As per now, that opponent is likely to be Australia. However, the final standings depend on the outcome of the Australia vs South Africa match. Australia currently have 11 points, while South Africa are on 10. The winner of that game will finish at the top and will face India in the semi-final.&nbsp;</p><h2>When will India play their semi-final match?</h2><p>India will play the first semi-final of the 2025 Women’s World Cup on Oct 29 (Thursday) at the Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.</p>

India’s 53-run win over New Zealand secured them the final semifinal spot alongside Australia, South Africa and England.

India secured a comfortable 53-run victory (DLS method) over New Zealand in the must-win ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 match on Thursday (Oct 23) in Navi Mumbai. The win helped India to book a spot in the semi-finals, even after suffering three straight losses earlier in the tournament. With this result, India are confirmed to finish fourth in the eight-team standings, regardless of the outcome of their final league match against Bangladesh. Led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, India began their campaign with comfortable wins over Sri Lanka and arch-rivals Pakistan but then lost close matches to South Africa, Australia and England. Also Read - Women’s World Cup 2025: Pratika Rawal, Smriti Mandhana star in India’s 53-run win over New Zealand, seal semi-final spot In the important clash against New Zealand, openers Smriti Mandhana (109) and Pratika Rawal (122) struck brilliant centuries, while Jemimah Rodrigues added an unbeaten 76 to power India to 340/3 in 49 overs in a rain-affected match. Chasing a revised target of 325 runs in 44 overs, New Zealand managed only 271/8, with Brooke Halliday (81) and Isabella Gaze (65 not out) were the top run-scorers. For India, Renuka Singh Thakur and Kranti Gaud took two wickets each. With this win, India secured the fourth spot on the points table and joined Australia, South Africa and England in the knockout stage. Also Read - IND-W vs NZ-W: Pratika Rawal now joint-fastest to THIS WODI milestone as India post record total Who will India face in the semi-final? India will meet the team that finishes first on the points table. As per now, that opponent is likely to be Australia. However, the final standings depend on the outcome of the Australia vs South Africa match. Australia currently have 11 points, while South Africa are on 10. The winner of that game will finish at the top and will face India in the semi-final. When will India play their semi-final match? India will play the first semi-final of the 2025 Women’s World Cup on Oct 29 (Thursday) at the Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.

<p>India’s 53-run win over New Zealand secured them the final semi-final spot alongside Australia, South Africa and England.</p>

Women's World Cup 2025: Who will India face in the semi-final after defeating New Zealand?

Here is the list of 5 cricketers who hold honorary ranks in the armed forces

'Dhoni, Sachin, Kapil Dev and more': 5 Indian cricketers who hold army ranks

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/team-india" rel="dofollow">Team India</a> reigned supreme in the white-ball formats - ODIs and T20Is, in the latest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc-rankings" rel="dofollow">ICC annual rankings</a> released on Monday (May 5). While the Men in Blue bagged the top in the limited-overs formats, they stood fourth in the Test rankings. On the other hand, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/pakistan-cricket" rel="dofollow">Pakistan</a> suffered a massive hit to its rankings across formats, sitting in the bottom three and four in Tests and T20Is, respectively.</p>
<p>It has come amid rising cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan over the recent Pahalgam terror attack in India&rsquo;s Kashmir, wherein Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 innocent lives in broad daylight, all tourists from India and abroad, in the deadliest attack on Indian soil since the 2019 Pulwama bombing.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-to-replace-jasprit-bumrah-as-indias-new-vice-captain-for-england-tests-squad-announcement-date-nears-report-9037085" rel="dofollow">Shubman Gill to replace Bumrah as India's new vice-captain for England Tests&ndash; Report</a></strong></p>
<p>Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/fans-made-dubai-a-home-ground-for-us-rohit-sharma-on-indias-champions-trophy-win-8837639" rel="dofollow">fresh from the ICC Champions Trophy triumph in Dubai</a> in February-March, India stood tall in the ODI rankings, boosting their ratings from 122 to 124; New Zealand, the tournament&rsquo;s runners-up, climbed to the second spot, surpassing Australia, who are now third on the list.&nbsp;</p>
<p>On the other hand, Sri Lanka&rsquo;s dominant run in ODIs at home since last May, a window that carries the full weightage in this ICC annual rankings, saw them climb to the fourth spot, pushing Pakistan to the fifth and South Africa below it. The former world champions England slipped to the eighth position in the ODI rankings, while Afghanistan, the rising white-ball unit for the past two years, climbed to the seventh. West Indies, however, is ninth on the list, and Bangladesh is below them at an embarrassing 10th.</p>
<h2>India top on T20I rankings; bag fourth spot in Tests</h2>
<p>In the T20I rankings, India stand tall, sitting at the top with 271 rating points, nine more than second-placed Australia. Besides the top two, England, New Zealand and the former two-time world champions West Indies complete the top five; while South Africa is sixth, Sri Lanka gained ratings to fill the seventh spot. Pakistan, however, is eighth on the list, with Bangladesh and Afghanistan occupying the ninth and 10th spots, respectively.</p>
<p>In the Test rankings, India is below the top three. In the past season, they lost two back-to-back series, first against New Zealand at home and then to Australia Down Under, conceding the chance to make it to their third straight WTC Final.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Australia&rsquo;s dominant run in the whites sees them bag the top position in Test rankings, with 126 rating points. England follow them next with 113 to their name, while Australia&rsquo;s opponent in the WTC Final 2025, South Africa, is third on the list with 111 ratings, six more than fourth-placed India.&nbsp;</p>
<p>New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and West Indies are the following teams in order, while Bangladesh and Ireland bagged the last two spots in the top-ten rankings.&nbsp;</p>

While India bagged the top spot in two formats, ODIs and T20is, Pakistan slipped across all formats in the latest ICC annual rankings released on Monday. Sports, Cricket

Team India reigned supreme in the white-ball formats - ODIs and T20Is, in the latest ICC annual rankings released on Monday (May 5). While the Men in Blue bagged the top in the limited-overs formats, they stood fourth in the Test rankings. On the other hand, Pakistan suffered a massive hit to its rankings across formats, sitting in the bottom three and four in Tests and T20Is, respectively. It has come amid rising cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan over the recent Pahalgam terror attack in India’s Kashmir, wherein Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 innocent lives in broad daylight, all tourists from India and abroad, in the deadliest attack on Indian soil since the 2019 Pulwama bombing. Also read | Shubman Gill to replace Bumrah as India's new vice-captain for England Tests– Report Meanwhile, fresh from the ICC Champions Trophy triumph in Dubai in February-March, India stood tall in the ODI rankings, boosting their ratings from 122 to 124; New Zealand, the tournament’s runners-up, climbed to the second spot, surpassing Australia, who are now third on the list. On the other hand, Sri Lanka’s dominant run in ODIs at home since last May, a window that carries the full weightage in this ICC annual rankings, saw them climb to the fourth spot, pushing Pakistan to the fifth and South Africa below it. The former world champions England slipped to the eighth position in the ODI rankings, while Afghanistan, the rising white-ball unit for the past two years, climbed to the seventh. West Indies, however, is ninth on the list, and Bangladesh is below them at an embarrassing 10th. India top on T20I rankings; bag fourth spot in Tests In the T20I rankings, India stand tall, sitting at the top with 271 rating points, nine more than second-placed Australia. Besides the top two, England, New Zealand and the former two-time world champions West Indies complete the top five; while South Africa is sixth, Sri Lanka gained ratings to fill the seventh spot. Pakistan, however, is eighth on the list, with Bangladesh and Afghanistan occupying the ninth and 10th spots, respectively. In the Test rankings, India is below the top three. In the past season, they lost two back-to-back series, first against New Zealand at home and then to Australia Down Under, conceding the chance to make it to their third straight WTC Final. Australia’s dominant run in the whites sees them bag the top position in Test rankings, with 126 rating points. England follow them next with 113 to their name, while Australia’s opponent in the WTC Final 2025, South Africa, is third on the list with 111 ratings, six more than fourth-placed India. New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and West Indies are the following teams in order, while Bangladesh and Ireland bagged the last two spots in the top-ten rankings.

India reign supreme in ODIs and T20Is in ICC annual rankings, Pakistan slip across all formats

<p>Ace India seamer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah</a> has endured enough injuries and pain in his glorious career; as things stand, he is preparing to return to competitive cricket after suffering a back spasm during the BGT Down Under in January 2025. Shane Bond, the former New Zealand pacer who worked with Bumrah at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> in the IPL, reflected on his back issue, saying India over bowled him against Australia, and should they not learn from past mistakes, Bumrah&rsquo;s career is the price they will pay for it.</p>
<p>Back issues have troubled Bumrah since he emerged (on the cricket scene), cutting on his regular appearances for Team India across formats. Bumrah&rsquo;s risky action, coupled with his excessive workload, has kept him away from on-field cricket for a prolonged period, so much so that when he suffered the same injury back in 2023, he missed a major chunk of the year recovering from it and another quarter to get back to bowling full throttles.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-riyan-parag-throws-phone-attitude-to-ground-staff-fans-slam-rr-captain-for-rude-behaviour-watch-8910359" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Riyan Parag throws phone, attitude to ground staff, fans slam RR captain for &lsquo;rude behaviour&rsquo; &ndash; WATCH</a></strong></p>
<p>Although India won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in his absence, they&rsquo;d need him for the away England Tests later this year; however, Bond sent warning signs for the skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir to utilise his services properly to avoid him suffering a stress fracture in his back, which is on the borderline.</p>
<p>&ldquo;I don't think so,&rdquo; Bond said on whether Bumrah should change his bowling action to preserve his career.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;He had the [2023] surgery, but he played all that [Australia] Test series, performed unbelievably. At the end of the day, he just bowled too much over a one-month period. And it hasn't cracked, he hasn't got a fracture, he is on the borderline of a fracture,&rdquo; Bond said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;But what India would have learned is, if you then look at a five-Test match series in England and they do the same thing, they are probably going to get the same result. So you can't do that. You need a squad of bowlers where you can sort of pick and choose.&nbsp;Because if you lose him, you have got T20 World Cups, you've got 50-overs World Cups, and he's an important member across all formats, IPL, all that sort of stuff,&rdquo; Bond continued.</p>
<h2>Too many overs broke Bumrah&rsquo;s back</h2>
<p>Bumrah captained India in two Tests on its last tour Down Under, winning one (in Perth) and leaving the field midway in his second (at the final Test in Sydney). Though he was the standout bowler, picking 32 wickets from five Tests &ndash; the most by an Indian bowler on Australian soil, Bumrah paid the price for sending down a sheer volume of overs (151.2) that eventually broke his back.</p>
<p>"In Australia, it was just the sheer volume of overs that got him in the end - in those five Test matches, his performance was ridiculous, and they leaned on him a lot, and I think he might've bowled 50 overs in a Test match. You are not going to avoid an injury, you are just trying to avoid the really bad ones, and I'm hoping Bumrah can avoid another one of these," Bond said.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Bumrah would re-link with the Mumbai Indians squad sometime in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Currently, Jasprit Bumrah is preparing to return to competitive cricket after suffering a back spasm during the BGT Down Under in January 2025.

Ace India seamer Jasprit Bumrah has endured enough injuries and pain in his glorious career; as things stand, he is preparing to return to competitive cricket after suffering a back spasm during the BGT Down Under in January 2025. Shane Bond, the former New Zealand pacer who worked with Bumrah at Mumbai Indians in the IPL, reflected on his back issue, saying India over bowled him against Australia, and should they not learn from past mistakes, Bumrah’s career is the price they will pay for it. Back issues have troubled Bumrah since he emerged (on the cricket scene), cutting on his regular appearances for Team India across formats. Bumrah’s risky action, coupled with his excessive workload, has kept him away from on-field cricket for a prolonged period, so much so that when he suffered the same injury back in 2023, he missed a major chunk of the year recovering from it and another quarter to get back to bowling full throttles. Also read | IPL 2025: Riyan Parag throws phone, attitude to ground staff, fans slam RR captain for ‘rude behaviour’ – WATCH Although India won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in his absence, they’d need him for the away England Tests later this year; however, Bond sent warning signs for the skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir to utilise his services properly to avoid him suffering a stress fracture in his back, which is on the borderline. “I don't think so,” Bond said on whether Bumrah should change his bowling action to preserve his career. “He had the [2023] surgery, but he played all that [Australia] Test series, performed unbelievably. At the end of the day, he just bowled too much over a one-month period. And it hasn't cracked, he hasn't got a fracture, he is on the borderline of a fracture,” Bond said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo. “But what India would have learned is, if you then look at a five-Test match series in England and they do the same thing, they are probably going to get the same result. So you can't do that. You need a squad of bowlers where you can sort of pick and choose. Because if you lose him, you have got T20 World Cups, you've got 50-overs World Cups, and he's an important member across all formats, IPL, all that sort of stuff,” Bond continued. Too many overs broke Bumrah’s back Bumrah captained India in two Tests on its last tour Down Under, winning one (in Perth) and leaving the field midway in his second (at the final Test in Sydney). Though he was the standout bowler, picking 32 wickets from five Tests – the most by an Indian bowler on Australian soil, Bumrah paid the price for sending down a sheer volume of overs (151.2) that eventually broke his back. "In Australia, it was just the sheer volume of overs that got him in the end - in those five Test matches, his performance was ridiculous, and they leaned on him a lot, and I think he might've bowled 50 overs in a Test match. You are not going to avoid an injury, you are just trying to avoid the really bad ones, and I'm hoping Bumrah can avoid another one of these," Bond said. Meanwhile, Bumrah would re-link with the Mumbai Indians squad sometime in IPL 2025. (With inputs from agencies)

Bumrah’s future is the price Team India will pay should they not learn from past mistakes, says Shane Bond

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">Team India has sealed its place in the last four of the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025 after Monday's (Feb 24) results went in their favour. New Zealand&rsquo;s win over Bangladesh guaranteed the Men in Blue a place in the top two of Group A, meaning they will play in the semis. However, India&rsquo;s potential opponent will depend on certain results, including the head-to-head clash against New Zealand on Sunday (Mar 2). <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;"><strong>Who could India play in semis?</strong><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">According to the current format, group winners will play against the other group&rsquo;s runner-up team, meaning A1 vs B2 and B1 vs A2. With India and New Zealand set to face each other in the final clash of the group stage on Sunday, the winner will secure top spot while the loser will end up as group runners-up.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">On the other hand in Group B, things are tighter than they are in Group A as each team has only played one match at the time of writing. South Africa and Australia remain top after one game each while England will look to bounce back after their opening-day defeat. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">Currently, South Africa and New Zealand occupy the top spot in their groups, while Australia and India are second in the standings, with Net Run Rate (NRR) also a factor. In case there is no change in the current standings, India will face South Africa in semis with the contest taking place in Dubai while New Zealand will face Australia in Lahore on March 5.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">However, if either England or Afghanistan are to stage a comeback in their remaining two matches, they both could land as India&rsquo;s potential opponents in the semifinal.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;"><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/host-defending-champions-pakistan-out-of-champions-trophy-after-new-zealand-beat-bangladesh-in-rawalpindi-8753319" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">India, New Zealand qualify for Champions Trophy semis; Pakistan eliminated</a></strong><br></span></p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;"><strong>Can India vs Australia happen in semifinal, final?</strong><o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">Yes, in case India win Group A and Australia finish as Group B runners-up, the two teams will meet in the repeat of the 2023 ODI World Cup final. Vice-versa, if India finish Group A as runners-up and Australia finish Group B as winners, then also the two will meet in semis in Dubai.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-IN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-IN;">In case both India and Australia win their group or finish group runners-up and later win their semifinal contests, they will meet in the final of the Champions Trophy 2025.</span></p>

Sports, Cricket: With India and New Zealand set to face each other in the final clash of the group stage in Group A, neither team’s final position is guaranteed.

Team India has sealed its place in the last four of the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025 after Monday's (Feb 24) results went in their favour. New Zealand’s win over Bangladesh guaranteed the Men in Blue a place in the top two of Group A, meaning they will play in the semis. However, India’s potential opponent will depend on certain results, including the head-to-head clash against New Zealand on Sunday (Mar 2). Who could India play in semis? According to the current format, group winners will play against the other group’s runner-up team, meaning A1 vs B2 and B1 vs A2. With India and New Zealand set to face each other in the final clash of the group stage on Sunday, the winner will secure top spot while the loser will end up as group runners-up. On the other hand in Group B, things are tighter than they are in Group A as each team has only played one match at the time of writing. South Africa and Australia remain top after one game each while England will look to bounce back after their opening-day defeat. Currently, South Africa and New Zealand occupy the top spot in their groups, while Australia and India are second in the standings, with Net Run Rate (NRR) also a factor. In case there is no change in the current standings, India will face South Africa in semis with the contest taking place in Dubai while New Zealand will face Australia in Lahore on March 5. However, if either England or Afghanistan are to stage a comeback in their remaining two matches, they both could land as India’s potential opponents in the semifinal. ALSO READ | India, New Zealand qualify for Champions Trophy semis; Pakistan eliminated Can India vs Australia happen in semifinal, final? Yes, in case India win Group A and Australia finish as Group B runners-up, the two teams will meet in the repeat of the 2023 ODI World Cup final. Vice-versa, if India finish Group A as runners-up and Australia finish Group B as winners, then also the two will meet in semis in Dubai. In case both India and Australia win their group or finish group runners-up and later win their semifinal contests, they will meet in the final of the Champions Trophy 2025.

Champions Trophy 2025: Who will Team India face in the semi-final?

<p>Kris Srikkanth, former Indian captain and chief selector, slammed Shubman Gill after his flop run in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy edition between India and Australia, in Australia. Srikkanth called Gill an 'overrated cricketer' and suggested two names who can replace him. Srikkanth feels Ruturaj Gaikwad, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain, and Tamil Nadu-born Sai Sudharshan can replace Gill going ahead.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"I've always maintained that Shubman Gill is an overrated cricketer, but nobody listened to me. He is a highly overrated cricketer," Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel.</p>
<p>The former Indian captain, and 1983 World Cup winner, further remarked, "When Gill is getting such a long rope, some people might wonder why even players like Suryakumar Yadav couldn't have been given a longer run in Tests.&nbsp;Suryakumar didn't have the best start in Tests, but he has the technique and ability. Yet, the selectors and management have boxed him into being a white-ball specialist. So now, fresh talent needs to be looked at."</p>
<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sa-vs-pak-2nd-test-result-south-africa-beat-pakistan-in-second-test-by-10-wickets-in-cape-town-to-complete-series-whitewash-8597145" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">South Africa beat Pakistan in second Test to complete series whitewash</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>'Selectors are stuck in a loop with Gill'</strong></h2>
<p>Srikkanth added, "Ruturaj Gaikwad, for instance, has been performing brilliantly in first-class cricket, but he hasn't been picked. Similarly, Sai Sudharsan has been outstanding on 'A' tours. These are the players who should be promoted. Instead, the selectors are stuck in a loop with Gill."</p>
<p class="edpara">"Gill is surviving because he gets ten chances and scores on the tenth after nine failures. That keeps him in contention for another ten chances. Anyone can score runs on Indian wickets, but the real challenge is performing in overseas conditions, particularly in SENA countries. That's where players like KL Rahul have proven themselves."</p>
<p class="edpara">Gill has 1,893 runs in 32 Tests at an average of <span>35.05, with five centuries. While he averages 42.03 at home, his numbers dip in away Tests. The right-hander has an average of 29.50 in 13 Tests, with a best of 91 in SENA Tests (having not played a game in New Zealand). The 25-year-old failed miserably in the just-concluded Australia tour, ending with scores of 31, 28, 1, 20 and 13.</span></p>

Cricket, Sports | Shubman Gill is highly overrated, India should pick Ruturaj Gaikwad or Sai Sudharsan, claims 1983 World Cup winner Kris Srikkanth 

Kris Srikkanth, former Indian captain and chief selector, slammed Shubman Gill after his flop run in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy edition between India and Australia, in Australia. Srikkanth called Gill an 'overrated cricketer' and suggested two names who can replace him. Srikkanth feels Ruturaj Gaikwad, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain, and Tamil Nadu-born Sai Sudharshan can replace Gill going ahead. "I've always maintained that Shubman Gill is an overrated cricketer, but nobody listened to me. He is a highly overrated cricketer," Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel. The former Indian captain, and 1983 World Cup winner, further remarked, "When Gill is getting such a long rope, some people might wonder why even players like Suryakumar Yadav couldn't have been given a longer run in Tests. Suryakumar didn't have the best start in Tests, but he has the technique and ability. Yet, the selectors and management have boxed him into being a white-ball specialist. So now, fresh talent needs to be looked at." Also read: South Africa beat Pakistan in second Test to complete series whitewash 'Selectors are stuck in a loop with Gill' Srikkanth added, "Ruturaj Gaikwad, for instance, has been performing brilliantly in first-class cricket, but he hasn't been picked. Similarly, Sai Sudharsan has been outstanding on 'A' tours. These are the players who should be promoted. Instead, the selectors are stuck in a loop with Gill." "Gill is surviving because he gets ten chances and scores on the tenth after nine failures. That keeps him in contention for another ten chances. Anyone can score runs on Indian wickets, but the real challenge is performing in overseas conditions, particularly in SENA countries. That's where players like KL Rahul have proven themselves." Gill has 1,893 runs in 32 Tests at an average of 35.05, with five centuries. While he averages 42.03 at home, his numbers dip in away Tests. The right-hander has an average of 29.50 in 13 Tests, with a best of 91 in SENA Tests (having not played a game in New Zealand). The 25-year-old failed miserably in the just-concluded Australia tour, ending with scores of 31, 28, 1, 20 and 13.

Gill is highly overrated, India should pick Gaikwad or Sudharsan, claims 1983 World Cup winner

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India </span>
<p>R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18. Ashwin ended a stellar run at the international level with 765 scalps -- second-most among Indians. In Tests, he accounted for 537 scalps whereas the wily spinner claimed 228 wickets in white-ball formats. After his retirement, Ashwin opened up on his career and not being able to captain India once.</p></p>
<p>On not captaining India, Ashwin said during a Sky Sports Podcast, "It's interesting. I am smart enough to know what works for me and what doesn't for another person. When I started my career, I got first-class captaincy very early. I have won a few tournaments for my team. I believe I had it in me. But I did not have any regret that I didn't go on to lead my country because these are not things that I can control."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-backs-modern-day-great-kohli-to-come-good-vs-outside-off-stump-deliveries-in-boxing-day-test-786380">BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test</a></strong></p>
<p>The wily spinner opined, "I have realised somebody needs to feel that I am good enough to lead the team, I need to get another 15-20 people to come along with me for me to be able to lead the team. It wasn't meant for me in this particular chapter of my life."</p>
<p>"I don't think this office or corporate felt I was good enough to lead the team. That doesn't mean I am not good enough for leadership. Leadership, you don't need a title to do that because, within me, I was a great leader in that group to be able to contribute to other people's success. I looked out for zones of contribution. I did it to the best of my ability. I do not have regrets, but I do think it would have been something I would have enjoyed," Ashwin added.</p>
<p>Ashwin made his debut under MS Dhoni in 2010. He played under numerous captains, such as Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, KL Rahul, etc. While he didn't lead India, he has had enough leadership exposure at the domestic level.</p>
<p>The 38-year-old Ashwin is known to be an astute reader of the game and will make his presence felt in the domestic tournaments.</p>


Former Indian spinner R Ashwin opened up on not leading the national side after hanging his boots from international cricket last week. 



New Delhi, India R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18. Ashwin ended a stellar run at the international level with 765 scalps -- second-most among Indians. In Tests, he accounted for 537 scalps whereas the wily spinner claimed 228 wickets in white-ball formats. After his retirement, Ashwin opened up on his career and not being able to captain India once. On not captaining India, Ashwin said during a Sky Sports Podcast, "It's interesting. I am smart enough to know what works for me and what doesn't for another person. When I started my career, I got first-class captaincy very early. I have won a few tournaments for my team. I believe I had it in me. But I did not have any regret that I didn't go on to lead my country because these are not things that I can control." Also read: BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test The wily spinner opined, "I have realised somebody needs to feel that I am good enough to lead the team, I need to get another 15-20 people to come along with me for me to be able to lead the team. It wasn't meant for me in this particular chapter of my life." "I don't think this office or corporate felt I was good enough to lead the team. That doesn't mean I am not good enough for leadership. Leadership, you don't need a title to do that because, within me, I was a great leader in that group to be able to contribute to other people's success. I looked out for zones of contribution. I did it to the best of my ability. I do not have regrets, but I do think it would have been something I would have enjoyed," Ashwin added. Ashwin made his debut under MS Dhoni in 2010. He played under numerous captains, such as Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, KL Rahul, etc. While he didn't lead India, he has had enough leadership exposure at the domestic level. The 38-year-old Ashwin is known to be an astute reader of the game and will make his presence felt in the domestic tournaments.

'No regrets about not captaining India, but...': R Ashwin on not leading national side

<p>R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18. Ashwin ended a stellar run at the international level with 765 scalps -- second-most among Indians. In Tests, he accounted for 537 scalps whereas the wily spinner claimed 228 wickets in white-ball formats. After his retirement, Ashwin opened up on his career and not being able to captain India once.</p>

<p>On not captaining India, Ashwin said during a&nbsp;Sky Sports Podcast, "It's interesting. I am smart enough to know what works for me and what doesn't for another person. When I started my career, I got first-class captaincy very early. I have won a few tournaments for my team. I believe I had it in me. But I did not have any regret that I didn't go on to lead my country because these are not things that I can control."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-rohit-backs-modern-day-great-kohli-to-come-good-vs-outside-off-stump-deliveries-in-boxing-day-test-786380">BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test</a></strong></p>

<p>The wily spinner opined, "I have realised somebody needs to feel that I am good enough to lead the team, I need to get another 15-20 people to come along with me for me to be able to lead the team. It wasn't meant for me in this particular chapter of my life."</p>

<p>"I don't think this office or corporate felt I was good enough to lead the team. That doesn't mean I am not good enough for leadership. Leadership, you don't need a title to do that because, within me, I was a great leader in that group to be able to contribute to other people's success. I looked out for zones of contribution. I did it to the best of my ability. I do not have regrets, but I do think it would have been something I would have enjoyed," Ashwin added.</p>

<p>Ashwin made his debut under MS Dhoni in 2010. He played under numerous captains, such as Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane,&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, KL Rahul, etc. While he didn't lead India, he has had enough leadership exposure at the domestic level.</p>

<p>The 38-year-old Ashwin is known to be an astute reader of the game and will make his presence felt in the domestic tournaments.</p>


R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18.

R Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity by announcing his international retirement during Day 5 of the Gabba Test between India and Australia, in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on Dec 18. Ashwin ended a stellar run at the international level with 765 scalps -- second-most among Indians. In Tests, he accounted for 537 scalps whereas the wily spinner claimed 228 wickets in white-ball formats. After his retirement, Ashwin opened up on his career and not being able to captain India once. On not captaining India, Ashwin said during a Sky Sports Podcast, "It's interesting. I am smart enough to know what works for me and what doesn't for another person. When I started my career, I got first-class captaincy very early. I have won a few tournaments for my team. I believe I had it in me. But I did not have any regret that I didn't go on to lead my country because these are not things that I can control." Also read: BGT: Rohit backs 'modern-day great' Kohli to come good vs outside off-stump deliveries in Boxing Day Test The wily spinner opined, "I have realised somebody needs to feel that I am good enough to lead the team, I need to get another 15-20 people to come along with me for me to be able to lead the team. It wasn't meant for me in this particular chapter of my life." "I don't think this office or corporate felt I was good enough to lead the team. That doesn't mean I am not good enough for leadership. Leadership, you don't need a title to do that because, within me, I was a great leader in that group to be able to contribute to other people's success. I looked out for zones of contribution. I did it to the best of my ability. I do not have regrets, but I do think it would have been something I would have enjoyed," Ashwin added. Ashwin made his debut under MS Dhoni in 2010. He played under numerous captains, such as Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Gautam Gambhir, KL Rahul, etc. While he didn't lead India, he has had enough leadership exposure at the domestic level. The 38-year-old Ashwin is known to be an astute reader of the game and will make his presence felt in the domestic tournaments.

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India </span>
<p>Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauded his protégé and claimed that the star batter will not retire anytime soon and will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. Kohli is currently part of the Rohit Sharma-led India Test squad for the ongoing 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) versus Australia, in Australia.</p></p>
<p>Kohli started the BGT with a ton in Perth but failed in the next two Tests. Rajkumar is, however, not concerned with the batter's form and predicted two more centuries from his blade in the last two Tests. Further, he made a big claim on the 36-year-old's internatonal future.</p>
<p>Rajkumar told Dainik Jagran, "Virat Kohli is playing the best cricket of his career. He also scored a century against Australia in the first Test. I believe two more centuries will come from his bat in the next two matches. This is a player who has always enjoyed his game. When a player enjoys his game, he gives his best. Virat's form is not a matter of concern. This player knows how to bat in difficult situations and make the team win."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-to-settle-in-london-with-family-confirms-childhood-coach-rajkumar-sharma-785548">Virat Kohli to settle in London with family, confirms childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma</a></strong></p>
<h2>'Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup'</h2>
<p>Sharma further added, "Virat is still very fit and not too old to retire. I believe that Virat will play cricket for five more years. Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup. The rapport between Virat and me is very good. I have known him well since Virat was not even 10 years old. I have been with him for more than 26 years. That is why I can say that Virat still has a lot of cricket left in him."</p>
<p>Kohli's record in ODI World Cups is exceptional. He was the top run-getter in the 2023 edition, held in India, with 765 runs -- most by any batter in an ODI WC. Despite his glorious run, Rohit-led India failed in the final hurdle to end as runners-up. Thus, Kohli will be eager to end his career with another ODI WC trophy.</p>


Virat Kohli's childhood coach has backed Virat Kohli to play the 2027 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. Here is what he said - 



New Delhi, India Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauded his protégé and claimed that the star batter will not retire anytime soon and will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. Kohli is currently part of the Rohit Sharma-led India Test squad for the ongoing 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) versus Australia, in Australia. Kohli started the BGT with a ton in Perth but failed in the next two Tests. Rajkumar is, however, not concerned with the batter's form and predicted two more centuries from his blade in the last two Tests. Further, he made a big claim on the 36-year-old's internatonal future. Rajkumar told Dainik Jagran, "Virat Kohli is playing the best cricket of his career. He also scored a century against Australia in the first Test. I believe two more centuries will come from his bat in the next two matches. This is a player who has always enjoyed his game. When a player enjoys his game, he gives his best. Virat's form is not a matter of concern. This player knows how to bat in difficult situations and make the team win." Also read: Virat Kohli to settle in London with family, confirms childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma 'Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup' Sharma further added, "Virat is still very fit and not too old to retire. I believe that Virat will play cricket for five more years. Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup. The rapport between Virat and me is very good. I have known him well since Virat was not even 10 years old. I have been with him for more than 26 years. That is why I can say that Virat still has a lot of cricket left in him." Kohli's record in ODI World Cups is exceptional. He was the top run-getter in the 2023 edition, held in India, with 765 runs -- most by any batter in an ODI WC. Despite his glorious run, Rohit-led India failed in the final hurdle to end as runners-up. Thus, Kohli will be eager to end his career with another ODI WC trophy.

Virat Kohli is 'not too old' to retire, will play 2027 ODI World Cup - Childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma

<p>Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauded his protégé and claimed that the star batter will not retire anytime soon and will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. Kohli is currently part of the Rohit Sharma-led India Test squad for the ongoing 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) versus Australia, in Australia.</p>

<p>Kohli started the BGT with a ton in Perth but failed in the next two Tests. Rajkumar is, however, not concerned with the batter's form and predicted two more centuries from his blade in the last two Tests. Further, he made a big claim on the 36-year-old's internatonal future.</p>

<p>Rajkumar told Dainik Jagran, "Virat Kohli is playing the best cricket of his career. He also scored a century against Australia in the first Test. I believe two more centuries will come from his bat in the next two matches. This is a player who has always enjoyed his game. When a player enjoys his game, he gives his best. Virat's form is not a matter of concern. This player knows how to bat in difficult situations and make the team win."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohli-to-settle-in-london-with-family-confirms-childhood-coach-rajkumar-sharma-785548">Virat Kohli to settle in London with family, confirms childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma</a></strong></p>

<h2>'Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup'</h2>

<p>Sharma further added, "Virat is still very fit and not too old to retire. I believe that Virat will play cricket for five more years. Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup. The rapport between Virat and me is very good. I have known him well since Virat was not even 10 years old. I have been with him for more than 26 years. That is why I can say that Virat still has a lot of cricket left in him."</p>

<p>Kohli's record in ODI World Cups is exceptional. He was the top run-getter in the 2023 edition, held in India, with 765 runs -- most by any batter in an ODI WC. Despite his glorious run, Rohit-led India failed in the final hurdle to end as runners-up. Thus, Kohli will be eager to end his career with another ODI WC trophy.</p>


Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauded his protégé and claimed that the star batter will not retire anytime soon and will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, in South Africa.

Virat Kohli's childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauded his protégé and claimed that the star batter will not retire anytime soon and will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, in South Africa. Kohli is currently part of the Rohit Sharma-led India Test squad for the ongoing 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) versus Australia, in Australia. Kohli started the BGT with a ton in Perth but failed in the next two Tests. Rajkumar is, however, not concerned with the batter's form and predicted two more centuries from his blade in the last two Tests. Further, he made a big claim on the 36-year-old's internatonal future. Rajkumar told Dainik Jagran, "Virat Kohli is playing the best cricket of his career. He also scored a century against Australia in the first Test. I believe two more centuries will come from his bat in the next two matches. This is a player who has always enjoyed his game. When a player enjoys his game, he gives his best. Virat's form is not a matter of concern. This player knows how to bat in difficult situations and make the team win." Also read: Virat Kohli to settle in London with family, confirms childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma 'Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup' Sharma further added, "Virat is still very fit and not too old to retire. I believe that Virat will play cricket for five more years. Virat will also be seen playing in the 2027 World Cup. The rapport between Virat and me is very good. I have known him well since Virat was not even 10 years old. I have been with him for more than 26 years. That is why I can say that Virat still has a lot of cricket left in him." Kohli's record in ODI World Cups is exceptional. He was the top run-getter in the 2023 edition, held in India, with 765 runs -- most by any batter in an ODI WC. Despite his glorious run, Rohit-led India failed in the final hurdle to end as runners-up. Thus, Kohli will be eager to end his career with another ODI WC trophy.

<p>R Ashwin retired from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18) following the Gabba Test between India and Australia, of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), in Brisbane. After his retirement, he announced that he would be leaving for India and the wily spinner reached his hometown Chennai on Thursday (Dec 19). Meeting&nbsp;reporters in his hometown post his arrival, Ashwin made it clear that he has 'no regrets' and aspires to play for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for long.</p>

<p>Talking to the media, Ashwin quashed rumours of having regrets of not captaining India during his 14-year-long career. He said, "I can't any more. It's done. No, I have zero regrets. I have seen so many people with regrets from afar, but I don't want to live my life like that."</p>

<p>On his plans post retirement, the 38-year-old Ashwin stated, "I want to be idle-no immediate plans. Being idle is difficult for me.</p>

<p>He added,&nbsp;"I am going to play for CSK, and don't be surprised if I try and aspire to play for as long as I can. I don't think Ashwin the cricketer is done. I think Ashwin the Indian cricketer has probably called it time. That's it."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bit-disappointed-you-retired-wanted-you-to-go-past-619-anil-kumble-reacts-to-ashwins-retirement-785192">'Bit disappointed you retired, wanted you to go past 619': Anil Kumble reacts to Ashwin's retirement</a></strong></p>

<p>"Thanks to all of you. I didn't expect so many of you to come. I thought I would quietly reach home, but you've all made my day. The last time it was like this was when I returned home after the 2011 World Cup. It brought back those memories," Ashwin concluded.</p>

<p>Ashwin ended his international career having represented India in 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 65 T20Is. He accounted for 537 Test scalps (second-most by an Indian) and 228 wickets in white-ball formats. He even returned with 3,503 Test runs, including six centuries.&nbsp;The off-spinner was part of India's victorious runs in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy.</p>

<p>Ashwin will be back in Chennai colours in IPL 2025, after being bought by the CSK franchise in IPL 2025 mega auction. He represented the Yellow Army from 2010-2015, being part of their winning runs in 2010 and 2011.</p>


R Ashwin retired from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18) following the Gabba Test between India and Australia, of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), in Brisbane.

R Ashwin retired from international cricket on Wednesday (Dec 18) following the Gabba Test between India and Australia, of the ongoing 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), in Brisbane. After his retirement, he announced that he would be leaving for India and the wily spinner reached his hometown Chennai on Thursday (Dec 19). Meeting reporters in his hometown post his arrival, Ashwin made it clear that he has 'no regrets' and aspires to play for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for long. Talking to the media, Ashwin quashed rumours of having regrets of not captaining India during his 14-year-long career. He said, "I can't any more. It's done. No, I have zero regrets. I have seen so many people with regrets from afar, but I don't want to live my life like that." On his plans post retirement, the 38-year-old Ashwin stated, "I want to be idle-no immediate plans. Being idle is difficult for me. He added, "I am going to play for CSK, and don't be surprised if I try and aspire to play for as long as I can. I don't think Ashwin the cricketer is done. I think Ashwin the Indian cricketer has probably called it time. That's it." Also read: 'Bit disappointed you retired, wanted you to go past 619': Anil Kumble reacts to Ashwin's retirement "Thanks to all of you. I didn't expect so many of you to come. I thought I would quietly reach home, but you've all made my day. The last time it was like this was when I returned home after the 2011 World Cup. It brought back those memories," Ashwin concluded. Ashwin ended his international career having represented India in 106 Tests, 116 ODIs and 65 T20Is. He accounted for 537 Test scalps (second-most by an Indian) and 228 wickets in white-ball formats. He even returned with 3,503 Test runs, including six centuries. The off-spinner was part of India's victorious runs in the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. Ashwin will be back in Chennai colours in IPL 2025, after being bought by the CSK franchise in IPL 2025 mega auction. He represented the Yellow Army from 2010-2015, being part of their winning runs in 2010 and 2011.

I have zero regrets, want to play for CSK as long as possible, says R Ashwin post his international retirement

<p>MS Dhoni and Harbhajan Singh were part of the Indian team dressing room for major part of 2000-2015. The latter also played under Dhoni in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from IPL 2018-2020. Both the cricketers were part of India's victorious runs in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup, where the Men in Blue won under Dhoni's captaincy.&nbsp;Bhajji and Dhoni have remained cordial off the field. Recently, the former Indian spinner revealed his equation with the ex-India skipper. Harbhajan admitted that he hasn't spoken to Dhoni for '10 years and more'.</p>

<h2><strong>'He did not come to my room, nor did I go to his'</strong></h2>

<p>Talking to News18, Bhajji -- who ended with third-most international wickets (707) for India&nbsp; said, "No, I don't speak to Dhoni. When I was playing at CSK, that's when we spoke, but otherwise, we haven't spoken. It's been 10 years and more. I have no reason; perhaps he does. I don't know what the reasons are. When we were playing in the IPL at CSK, that's when we used to talk, and that, too, was restricted to the ground. After that, he did not come to my room, nor did I go to his."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/champions-trophy-2025-pcb-open-to-hybrid-model-urges-same-for-events-in-india-781329">Champions Trophy 2025: PCB open to hybrid model, urges same for events in India</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'A relationship is always about give and take'</strong></h2>

<p>Harbhajan added, "I don't have anything against him. If he has something to say, he can tell me. But if he did, he would have told me by now. I never tried to call him because I have a lot of passion. I only ring up those who pick up my calls. I don't have the time otherwise. I stay in touch with the ones I am friends with. A relationship is always about give and take. If I respect you, I hope you will respect me back. Or you respond to me. But if I call you once or twice but don't get a response, I will probably only meet you as much as I am needed to."</p>

<p>Notably, Dhoni has never responded to the rift rumours with Bhajji. There have been several reports of his weak equation with Yuvraj Singh and Gautam Gambhir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dhoni and Harbhajan played together for India for a long time before they reunited at the CSK camp from 2018-2020. While the former remains active in the IPL, where he has played for CSK and now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS), he retired from internationals in mid-2020. Bhajji, on the other hand, debuted for India in 1998 and played his last in 2015. He represented CSK, after his long stint with Mumbai Indians (MI), in the IPL before moving to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a year. He announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in late 2021.</p>


MS Dhoni and Harbhajan Singh were part of the Indian team dressing room for major part of 2000-2015. The latter also played under Dhoni in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from IPL 2018-2020.

MS Dhoni and Harbhajan Singh were part of the Indian team dressing room for major part of 2000-2015. The latter also played under Dhoni in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from IPL 2018-2020. Both the cricketers were part of India's victorious runs in the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup, where the Men in Blue won under Dhoni's captaincy. Bhajji and Dhoni have remained cordial off the field. Recently, the former Indian spinner revealed his equation with the ex-India skipper. Harbhajan admitted that he hasn't spoken to Dhoni for '10 years and more'. 'He did not come to my room, nor did I go to his' Talking to News18, Bhajji -- who ended with third-most international wickets (707) for India said, "No, I don't speak to Dhoni. When I was playing at CSK, that's when we spoke, but otherwise, we haven't spoken. It's been 10 years and more. I have no reason; perhaps he does. I don't know what the reasons are. When we were playing in the IPL at CSK, that's when we used to talk, and that, too, was restricted to the ground. After that, he did not come to my room, nor did I go to his." Also read: Champions Trophy 2025: PCB open to hybrid model, urges same for events in India 'A relationship is always about give and take' Harbhajan added, "I don't have anything against him. If he has something to say, he can tell me. But if he did, he would have told me by now. I never tried to call him because I have a lot of passion. I only ring up those who pick up my calls. I don't have the time otherwise. I stay in touch with the ones I am friends with. A relationship is always about give and take. If I respect you, I hope you will respect me back. Or you respond to me. But if I call you once or twice but don't get a response, I will probably only meet you as much as I am needed to." Notably, Dhoni has never responded to the rift rumours with Bhajji. There have been several reports of his weak equation with Yuvraj Singh and Gautam Gambhir. Dhoni and Harbhajan played together for India for a long time before they reunited at the CSK camp from 2018-2020. While the former remains active in the IPL, where he has played for CSK and now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS), he retired from internationals in mid-2020. Bhajji, on the other hand, debuted for India in 1998 and played his last in 2015. He represented CSK, after his long stint with Mumbai Indians (MI), in the IPL before moving to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a year. He announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in late 2021.

No, I don't speak to MS Dhoni: Harbhajan Singh reveals his equation with former India captain

<p>Prithvi Shaw,&nbsp;with a base price of INR 7.5 million (75 lakhs), went unsold in&nbsp;the recently held IPL 2025 mega auction&nbsp;in Saudi Arabia. The right-hander led India to a memorable U19 World Cup win in 2018 and was soon picked by the Delhi Daredevils (DD), now known as the Delhi Capitals (DC). He could, however,&nbsp;never cement his spot due to fitness and inconsistency. For India, Shaw made his debut in 2018, where he scored a hundred in his maiden Test, and last played in mid-2021. He has also been involved in many controversies, on and off the field, and faced a doping ban in 2020.&nbsp;Seeing Shaw's decline, post IPL 2025 auction, his childhood coach admitted that 'everything but his game rose'.</p>

<p>"He is just 25 years old. He still has age in his hand. He can bounce back with hard work if he wants to sustain in competitive cricket," Shaw's coach Santosh Pingutkar told ETV Bharat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/lsg-owner-explains-why-he-broke-the-bank-for-rishabh-pant-hints-who-can-lead-franchise-in-ipl-2025-780832">LSG owner explains why he broke the bank for Rishabh Pant, hints who can lead franchise in IPL 2025</a></strong></p>

<p>Pingutkar added, "Other activities, everything but his game witnessed a rise. He was more involved in his groups outside cricket. But, no doubt he loves cricket. However, he wasn't able to convert his love for the game into his efforts. That's why he is witnessing such a lean phase. He should bounce back as soon as possible. Everyone's blessings are with him."</p>

<p>Left unsold in auction, Shaw&nbsp;continues to struggle, whereas his former colleagues Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, etc., have gone far ahead. The 25-year-old will be eager to move past the IPL snub and revamp his career. The right-hander, who has been compared with legends of the game, will be desperate to keep himself away from outside noise and work on his fitness in order&nbsp;to stage a memorable comeback.</p>


Prithvi Shaw, with a base price of INR 7.5 million (75 lakhs), went unsold in the recently held IPL 2025 mega auction in Saudi Arabia. The right-hander led India to a memorable U19 World Cup win in 2018 and was soon picked by the Delhi Daredevils (DD), now known as the Delhi Capitals (DC).

Prithvi Shaw, with a base price of INR 7.5 million (75 lakhs), went unsold in the recently held IPL 2025 mega auction in Saudi Arabia. The right-hander led India to a memorable U19 World Cup win in 2018 and was soon picked by the Delhi Daredevils (DD), now known as the Delhi Capitals (DC). He could, however, never cement his spot due to fitness and inconsistency. For India, Shaw made his debut in 2018, where he scored a hundred in his maiden Test, and last played in mid-2021. He has also been involved in many controversies, on and off the field, and faced a doping ban in 2020. Seeing Shaw's decline, post IPL 2025 auction, his childhood coach admitted that 'everything but his game rose'. "He is just 25 years old. He still has age in his hand. He can bounce back with hard work if he wants to sustain in competitive cricket," Shaw's coach Santosh Pingutkar told ETV Bharat. Also read: LSG owner explains why he broke the bank for Rishabh Pant, hints who can lead franchise in IPL 2025 Pingutkar added, "Other activities, everything but his game witnessed a rise. He was more involved in his groups outside cricket. But, no doubt he loves cricket. However, he wasn't able to convert his love for the game into his efforts. That's why he is witnessing such a lean phase. He should bounce back as soon as possible. Everyone's blessings are with him." Left unsold in auction, Shaw continues to struggle, whereas his former colleagues Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, etc., have gone far ahead. The 25-year-old will be eager to move past the IPL snub and revamp his career. The right-hander, who has been compared with legends of the game, will be desperate to keep himself away from outside noise and work on his fitness in order to stage a memorable comeback.

'More involved in groups....', Prithvi Shaw's coach on his decline, says 'everything but his game rose'

<p>Sanju Samson's father&nbsp;Vishwanath Samson has made heads turn with his statement on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. Vishwanath accused the India greats&nbsp;of wasting his son's 10 precious years by not giving him a longer run&nbsp;at the international level (having hardly played under Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit's captaincy). The stylish right-hander made his India debut in 2015 but only since 2022, Samson has been getting a fair run in white-ball cricket. The 30-year-old's career has been marred with inconsistencies but&nbsp;recently he became the first Indian to slam consecutive T20I centuries during India's ongoing four-match series versus South Africa, in the African nation.</p>

<h2><strong>'Dhoni, Kohli, Rohit and Dravid&nbsp;destroyed 10 years of my son's life'</strong></h2>

<p>Vishwanath,&nbsp;in a recent interview with a Kerala-based news outlet, Media One, said, "There are 3-4 people who wasted 10 years of my son's vital career... captains like Dhoni ji, Virat [Kohli] ji, Rohit [Sharma] ji, and coach [Rahul] Dravid ji," he said, stating that they had "destroyed 10 years of my son's life."</p>

<p>Despite the setbacks, Vishwanath was all praise for his son and further opined,&nbsp;"The more they hurt him, the stronger Sanju came out of the crisis."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-sa-3rd-t20i-tilak-varmas-maiden-ton-gives-india-unbeatable-series-lead-in-high-scoring-thriller-775993">Ind vs SA, 3rd T20I: Tilak Varma's maiden ton gives India unbeatable series lead in high-scoring thriller</a></strong></p>

<p>Vishwanath also hit back at Kris Srikkanth for belittling Sanju's achievements, particularly after he scored his maiden T20I century (against Bangladesh) last month. In this regard, he added, "What hurt me really bad was comments from [Kris] Srikkanth, the player from Tamil Nadu. He said, 'against whom did Sanju score a century? It was only Bangladesh.' Century is a century, and that guy has scored only 26 runs against Bangladesh. Sanju has scored a hundred and he is a player with a classical touch like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. At least respect that."</p>

<p>At present, Samson has been inconsistent in the four T20Is versus Proteas. He started the series with his second T20I ton, scoring a magnificent 107, but&nbsp;followed it up with two successive ducks. He will be eager to score big in the fourth and final T20I, on Friday (Nov 15) in Johannesburg. The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team have an unassailable 2-1 lead&nbsp;after a narrow 11-run win in the penultimate tie, in Centurion, on Wednesday (Nov 13).</p>


Sanju Samson's father Vishwanath Samson has made heads turn with his statement on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. Vishwanath accused the India greats of wasting his son's 10 precious years by not giving him a longer run at the international level (having hardly played under Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit's captaincy).

Sanju Samson's father Vishwanath Samson has made heads turn with his statement on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid. Vishwanath accused the India greats of wasting his son's 10 precious years by not giving him a longer run at the international level (having hardly played under Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit's captaincy). The stylish right-hander made his India debut in 2015 but only since 2022, Samson has been getting a fair run in white-ball cricket. The 30-year-old's career has been marred with inconsistencies but recently he became the first Indian to slam consecutive T20I centuries during India's ongoing four-match series versus South Africa, in the African nation. 'Dhoni, Kohli, Rohit and Dravid destroyed 10 years of my son's life' Vishwanath, in a recent interview with a Kerala-based news outlet, Media One, said, "There are 3-4 people who wasted 10 years of my son's vital career... captains like Dhoni ji, Virat [Kohli] ji, Rohit [Sharma] ji, and coach [Rahul] Dravid ji," he said, stating that they had "destroyed 10 years of my son's life." Despite the setbacks, Vishwanath was all praise for his son and further opined, "The more they hurt him, the stronger Sanju came out of the crisis." Also read: Ind vs SA, 3rd T20I: Tilak Varma's maiden ton gives India unbeatable series lead in high-scoring thriller Vishwanath also hit back at Kris Srikkanth for belittling Sanju's achievements, particularly after he scored his maiden T20I century (against Bangladesh) last month. In this regard, he added, "What hurt me really bad was comments from [Kris] Srikkanth, the player from Tamil Nadu. He said, 'against whom did Sanju score a century? It was only Bangladesh.' Century is a century, and that guy has scored only 26 runs against Bangladesh. Sanju has scored a hundred and he is a player with a classical touch like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. At least respect that." At present, Samson has been inconsistent in the four T20Is versus Proteas. He started the series with his second T20I ton, scoring a magnificent 107, but followed it up with two successive ducks. He will be eager to score big in the fourth and final T20I, on Friday (Nov 15) in Johannesburg. The Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian team have an unassailable 2-1 lead after a narrow 11-run win in the penultimate tie, in Centurion, on Wednesday (Nov 13).

MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father

<p>Team India suffered their first-ever whitewash in Tests at home, comprising three matches or more, when New Zealand beat them by 25 runs in the final match in Mumbai on Sunday (Nov 3). Having already conceded&nbsp;a 2-0 lead, Rohit Sharma-led India were determined to end on a high and needed only 147 for a win. However, the home side&nbsp;collapsed for 121 on Day 3 to suffer a humiliating whitewash. Thus, BCCI is set to discuss the series loss in detail and one of the topics will be the pitches used in the second and third Test, in Pune and Mumbai, respectively.</p>

<p>After the first Test in Bengaluru, which India lost by eight wickets, the pitches used for Pune and Mumbai were spin-friendly (despite Indian batters' spin woes). During current coach Gautam Gambhir's predecessor Rahul Dravid's tenure, India went against making rank turners in home Tests. However, it is reportedly believed that Gambhir went back to the tactic, despite resistance from majority part of the team management comprising senior players, during the NZ series, The move, however,&nbsp;maid&nbsp;India pay a heavy price with twin defeats.</p>

<p>"The decision to go back to rank turners caught a few people in the board by surprise. The new support staff under Gautam Gambhir will be asked about their vision for taking the team forward," the Times of India quoted a source as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sunil-gavaskar-slams-gautam-gambhirs-stint-as-india-coach-makes-bold-claim-on-rohit-kohlis-test-future-773364">Sunil Gavaskar SLAMS Gautam Gambhir's stint as India coach, makes BOLD claim on Rohit, Kohli's Test future</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir became India's coach in July, succeeding Dravid. He has been given a freehand in selecting his support staff, where he brought in several foreigners (which, as per reports,&nbsp;wasn't the BCCI's preference). Moreover, the former Indian opener&nbsp;attained a rare seat at the selection committee meeting for the forthcoming Australia tour.</p>

<p>However, an ODI series loss in Sri Lanka and a home series humiliation versus New Zealand clearly suggests that things aren't looking bright&nbsp;for Gambhir and his team. BCCI will monitor his team's progress closely and several questions can be raised going ahead if India's fortunes do not change starting with the all-important Australia tour.</p>


Team India suffered their first-ever whitewash in Tests at home, comprising three matches or more, when New Zealand beat them by 25 runs in the final match in Mumbai on Sunday (Nov 3).

Team India suffered their first-ever whitewash in Tests at home, comprising three matches or more, when New Zealand beat them by 25 runs in the final match in Mumbai on Sunday (Nov 3). Having already conceded a 2-0 lead, Rohit Sharma-led India were determined to end on a high and needed only 147 for a win. However, the home side collapsed for 121 on Day 3 to suffer a humiliating whitewash. Thus, BCCI is set to discuss the series loss in detail and one of the topics will be the pitches used in the second and third Test, in Pune and Mumbai, respectively. After the first Test in Bengaluru, which India lost by eight wickets, the pitches used for Pune and Mumbai were spin-friendly (despite Indian batters' spin woes). During current coach Gautam Gambhir's predecessor Rahul Dravid's tenure, India went against making rank turners in home Tests. However, it is reportedly believed that Gambhir went back to the tactic, despite resistance from majority part of the team management comprising senior players, during the NZ series, The move, however, maid India pay a heavy price with twin defeats. "The decision to go back to rank turners caught a few people in the board by surprise. The new support staff under Gautam Gambhir will be asked about their vision for taking the team forward," the Times of India quoted a source as saying. Also read: Sunil Gavaskar SLAMS Gautam Gambhir's stint as India coach, makes BOLD claim on Rohit, Kohli's Test future Gambhir became India's coach in July, succeeding Dravid. He has been given a freehand in selecting his support staff, where he brought in several foreigners (which, as per reports, wasn't the BCCI's preference). Moreover, the former Indian opener attained a rare seat at the selection committee meeting for the forthcoming Australia tour. However, an ODI series loss in Sri Lanka and a home series humiliation versus New Zealand clearly suggests that things aren't looking bright for Gambhir and his team. BCCI will monitor his team's progress closely and several questions can be raised going ahead if India's fortunes do not change starting with the all-important Australia tour.

Gautam Gambhir went against team management, defied Rahul Dravid's 'pitch theory' during NZ Tests: Report

<p>Indian cricketer Virat&nbsp;Kohli turns&nbsp;36&nbsp;on Tuesday (Nov 5). As a result, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a heartfelt post for the superstar Indian cricketer on X, formerly Twitter. Kohli, who is gearing up for India's five-match Test series versus Australia in Australia, was also wished by a plethora of his ardent fans as they also expressed their desire for him to keep piling up runs for Team India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here is BCCI's post:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">5⃣3⃣8⃣ intl. matches &amp; counting 👌<br />
2⃣7⃣1⃣3⃣4⃣ intl. runs &amp; counting 🙌<br />
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2⃣0⃣1⃣1⃣ ICC World Cup Winner 🏆<br />
2⃣0⃣1⃣3⃣ ICC Champions Trophy Winner 🏆<br />
2⃣0⃣2⃣4⃣ ICC Men's T20 World Cup Winner 🏆<br />
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Here's wishing Virat Kohli - Former <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> Captain &amp; one of the finest batters - a very… <a href="https://t.co/gh4p3EFCO9">pic.twitter.com/gh4p3EFCO9</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1853626430468624808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricketing-world-agrees-india-legend-slams-bccis-short-gain-policies-after-new-zealand-whitewash-773248">‘Cricketing world agrees…’ – India legend slams BCCI’s ‘short-gain policies’ after New Zealand whitewash</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here are some of the replies of his fans on BCCI's post as many joined in to wish Kohli:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday King 👑 <a href="https://t.co/ySveJGJTWC">https://t.co/ySveJGJTWC</a></p>
— Pankaj (@Pankaj41627) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pankaj41627/status/1853626749394776297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">-World best All' three formats bestman - Virat Kohli<br />
-Runs Machine of team india - Virat Kohli<br />
-Second Most hundred in International cricket - Virat Kohli<br />
- best Indian test captain ever - Virat Kohli<br />
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Happy birthday legend King Virat Kohli sir 🎂🎂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohlibirthday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohlibirthday</a> <a href="https://t.co/T6pMsAYFVr">pic.twitter.com/T6pMsAYFVr</a></p>
— JassPreet (@JassPreet96) <a href="https://twitter.com/JassPreet96/status/1853639592210993567?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday KING of White Ball Cricket!! <a href="https://t.co/pwD7P8iPDo">pic.twitter.com/pwD7P8iPDo</a></p>
— Mustafa Moudi (@Mustafamoudi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mustafamoudi/status/1853629329227334066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> 👑<br />
<br />
A King was born, who rules the heart of his fans and inspires millions to chase their dreams! 🥺🤍</p>
— BiggBoss24x7 (@BB24x7_) <a href="https://twitter.com/BB24x7_/status/1853641434554913192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday, Virat Kohli!<br />
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Age of Excellence: Celebrating another year of your extraordinary journey, not just in age, but in excellence and cricketing prowess.<br />
<br />
Captaincy Legacy: Under your leadership, the Indian cricket team has achieved:<br />
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Test Wins: You've led India to…</p>
— Death By DooM (@LeastVisited) <a href="https://twitter.com/LeastVisited/status/1853626713449877713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Best wishes of birthday <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayKingKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayKingKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/W67iLa6Wan">pic.twitter.com/W67iLa6Wan</a></p>
— 🇮🇳A.Sikandar ( ❤️Raaj S...❤️ ) (@realA_Sikandar) <a href="https://twitter.com/realA_Sikandar/status/1853627152970756278?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Kohli debuted for India in 2008. Soon, he became a household name and was a regular in the side following the retirement of stalwarts such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag, etc. Since then, he kept piling runs across formats and even led the national side from 2015 to early 2022. During his captaincy, India reached the No. 1 ranking in Tests, dominated at home and competed hard in the away series whereas also played the 2017 Champions Trophy final and reached the semifinals of the 2019 ODI World Cup.</p>

<p>During the 2023 ODI World Cup, Kohli amassed 765 runs -- most ever by any batter in a single edition. He also scored his 50th century in the format during the semifinals, the most by any in ODI cricket. In June 2024, he announced his retirement, along with Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja, from T20Is (as the second-highest run-getter) following India's T20 World Cup triumph in the West Indies and the USA.</p>

<p>At present, Kohli has 27,134 international runs with 80 centuries. While he is going through a bad phase, with only one fifty in six innings in the just-concluded home series versus New Zealand (where India got whitewashed), the 36-year-old will vow to bounce back strongly in the forthcoming Australia tour, starting on Nov 22. Kohli will also be India's key member in their upcoming campaign in the 2025 Champions Trophy.</p>

<p>Kohli, who has already won both World Cups, is in the last phase of his illustrious career. He will surely like to step aside by also winning the WTC and CT titles.</p>


Indian cricketer Virat Kohli turns 36 on Tuesday (Nov 5). As a result, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a heartfelt post for the superstar Indian cricketer on X, formerly Twitter.

Indian cricketer Virat Kohli turns 36 on Tuesday (Nov 5). As a result, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a heartfelt post for the superstar Indian cricketer on X, formerly Twitter. Kohli, who is gearing up for India's five-match Test series versus Australia in Australia, was also wished by a plethora of his ardent fans as they also expressed their desire for him to keep piling up runs for Team India. Here is BCCI's post: 5⃣3⃣8⃣ intl. matches & counting 👌 2⃣7⃣1⃣3⃣4⃣ intl. runs & counting 🙌 2⃣0⃣1⃣1⃣ ICC World Cup Winner 🏆 2⃣0⃣1⃣3⃣ ICC Champions Trophy Winner 🏆 2⃣0⃣2⃣4⃣ ICC Men's T20 World Cup Winner 🏆 Here's wishing Virat Kohli - Former #TeamIndia Captain & one of the finest batters - a very… pic.twitter.com/gh4p3EFCO9 — BCCI (@BCCI) November 5, 2024 × Also read: ‘Cricketing world agrees…’ – India legend slams BCCI’s ‘short-gain policies’ after New Zealand whitewash Here are some of the replies of his fans on BCCI's post as many joined in to wish Kohli: Happy Birthday King 👑 https://t.co/ySveJGJTWC — Pankaj (@Pankaj41627) November 5, 2024 × -World best All' three formats bestman - Virat Kohli -Runs Machine of team india - Virat Kohli -Second Most hundred in International cricket - Virat Kohli - best Indian test captain ever - Virat Kohli Happy birthday legend King Virat Kohli sir 🎂🎂#ViratKohlibirthday pic.twitter.com/T6pMsAYFVr — JassPreet (@JassPreet96) November 5, 2024 × Happy Birthday KING of White Ball Cricket!! pic.twitter.com/pwD7P8iPDo — Mustafa Moudi (@Mustafamoudi) November 5, 2024 × Happy Birthday #ViratKohli 👑 A King was born, who rules the heart of his fans and inspires millions to chase their dreams! 🥺🤍 — BiggBoss24x7 (@BB24x7_) November 5, 2024 × Happy Birthday, Virat Kohli! Age of Excellence: Celebrating another year of your extraordinary journey, not just in age, but in excellence and cricketing prowess. Captaincy Legacy: Under your leadership, the Indian cricket team has achieved: Test Wins: You've led India to… — Death By DooM (@LeastVisited) November 5, 2024 × Best wishes of birthday #ViratKohli #HappyBirthdayKingKohli pic.twitter.com/W67iLa6Wan — 🇮🇳A.Sikandar ( ❤️Raaj S...❤️ ) (@realA_Sikandar) November 5, 2024 × Kohli debuted for India in 2008. Soon, he became a household name and was a regular in the side following the retirement of stalwarts such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag, etc. Since then, he kept piling runs across formats and even led the national side from 2015 to early 2022. During his captaincy, India reached the No. 1 ranking in Tests, dominated at home and competed hard in the away series whereas also played the 2017 Champions Trophy final and reached the semifinals of the 2019 ODI World Cup. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, Kohli amassed 765 runs -- most ever by any batter in a single edition. He also scored his 50th century in the format during the semifinals, the most by any in ODI cricket. In June 2024, he announced his retirement, along with Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja, from T20Is (as the second-highest run-getter) following India's T20 World Cup triumph in the West Indies and the USA. At present, Kohli has 27,134 international runs with 80 centuries. While he is going through a bad phase, with only one fifty in six innings in the just-concluded home series versus New Zealand (where India got whitewashed), the 36-year-old will vow to bounce back strongly in the forthcoming Australia tour, starting on Nov 22. Kohli will also be India's key member in their upcoming campaign in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Kohli, who has already won both World Cups, is in the last phase of his illustrious career. He will surely like to step aside by also winning the WTC and CT titles.

BCCI wishes Virat Kohli on his 36th birthday, netizens join in to pour their love

<p>Team India has hit the rock in the ongoing Test series against New Zealand after they lost the Pune Test on Saturday (Oct 27), condemning them to their first Test series defeat on home soil in 12 years. While questions have been raised on the futures of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma after their lack of contribution in recent series, it is tough to argue whether the Indian team is better with or without them. However, with the Border-Gavaskar Trophy set to start in Australia next month, it is a case of whether or not for coach Gautam Gambhir to drop the big boys.</p>

<h2><strong>Virat Kohli in numbers</strong></h2>

<p>At the time of writing, it has been 348 days since Virat last scored an international hundred for India when he played a superb 117-run knock against New Zealand in the ODI World Cup. Since then he has scored 621 international runs in 26 innings, averaging 24.84 for an innings. After the ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad, he has scored only two fifties for India in all formats while registering four ducks.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Virat still deserves his place in the team?</strong></h2>

<p>While the numbers don’t make a great reading for Virat in the last 12 months, he still retains the fear factor in him. While he was not at his best for India in the last 12 months, his most valuable and important knock came in the T20 World Cup final in Barbados in June. His 76-run knock was the difference-maker in India winning the World Cup, highlighting his ability to perform on a big day when required.</p>

<p>Australia are Virat’s favourite Test opponent as numbers suggest, in 44 Test innings against the Aussies he has 2042 runs, more than any other Test-playing nation. He has eight hundreds and five fifties, showing why he deserves a place on the team.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/manchester-citys-rodri-wins-mens-2024-ballon-dor-as-real-madrids-vinicius-jr-settles-for-second-spot-771493">Manchester City's Rodri wins men's 2024 Ballon d'Or as Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr settles for second spot</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia also remains Virat’s happy hunting away territory with the bat, having amassed 1352 runs in 25 Test innings. He will potentially have 10 innings during the BGT to add to that impressive tally. With six hundreds Down Under in the red-ball format alone, the 35-year-old should be the first name on the team’s Playing XI.</p>

<p>Interestingly, the former India skipper has scored at least one hundred on each red-ball tour of Australia barring the last one in 2020-21. He only played in the Adelaide Test scoring 78 runs in both innings combined before jetting off for paternity leave.</p>

<p>With ruthless aggression on board and the ability to perform on the biggest stage, Virat will be Team India’s biggest weapon Down Under while the World Test Championship final qualification also remains on the agenda.</p>


Team India has hit the rock in the ongoing Test series against New Zealand after they lost the Pune Test on Saturday (Oct 27), condemning them to their first Test series defeat on home soil in 12 years.

Team India has hit the rock in the ongoing Test series against New Zealand after they lost the Pune Test on Saturday (Oct 27), condemning them to their first Test series defeat on home soil in 12 years. While questions have been raised on the futures of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma after their lack of contribution in recent series, it is tough to argue whether the Indian team is better with or without them. However, with the Border-Gavaskar Trophy set to start in Australia next month, it is a case of whether or not for coach Gautam Gambhir to drop the big boys. Virat Kohli in numbers At the time of writing, it has been 348 days since Virat last scored an international hundred for India when he played a superb 117-run knock against New Zealand in the ODI World Cup. Since then he has scored 621 international runs in 26 innings, averaging 24.84 for an innings. After the ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad, he has scored only two fifties for India in all formats while registering four ducks. Why Virat still deserves his place in the team? While the numbers don’t make a great reading for Virat in the last 12 months, he still retains the fear factor in him. While he was not at his best for India in the last 12 months, his most valuable and important knock came in the T20 World Cup final in Barbados in June. His 76-run knock was the difference-maker in India winning the World Cup, highlighting his ability to perform on a big day when required. Australia are Virat’s favourite Test opponent as numbers suggest, in 44 Test innings against the Aussies he has 2042 runs, more than any other Test-playing nation. He has eight hundreds and five fifties, showing why he deserves a place on the team. ALSO READ | Manchester City's Rodri wins men's 2024 Ballon d'Or as Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr settles for second spot Australia also remains Virat’s happy hunting away territory with the bat, having amassed 1352 runs in 25 Test innings. He will potentially have 10 innings during the BGT to add to that impressive tally. With six hundreds Down Under in the red-ball format alone, the 35-year-old should be the first name on the team’s Playing XI. Interestingly, the former India skipper has scored at least one hundred on each red-ball tour of Australia barring the last one in 2020-21. He only played in the Adelaide Test scoring 78 runs in both innings combined before jetting off for paternity leave. With ruthless aggression on board and the ability to perform on the biggest stage, Virat will be Team India’s biggest weapon Down Under while the World Test Championship final qualification also remains on the agenda.

Why Team India should stick to Virat Kohli despite failure in recent games?

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India lost the first Test to New Zealand by eight wickets on Day 5 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20). Ahead of the second Test, in Pune starting Oct 24, the Indian team management would consider changing the playing XI. In the first Test, the hosts went ahead with three spinners and two pacers, however, Mohammed Siraj didn't look in his elements. He returned with match figures of 2 for 100 and seemed off colour, despite conditions being favourable for pacers. Thus, former Indian stumper Saba Karim feels India can bring in Akash Deep instead of Siraj for the Pune Test, starting on Oct 24.</p>

<p>Talking on Jio Cinema, Karim said, "I reckon that Mohammed Siraj may be under some kind of pressure and I'm sure they will have a discussion before they pick the XI for the next Test match. Because as a front-line seam bowler in a Test match, you are expected to pick wickets with the new ball and also come back and bowl well with the second new ball. To that extent, I don't think that Siraj has delivered."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-2024-new-zealand-win-in-bengaluru-bags-first-test-victory-in-india-in-36-years-769134">IND v NZ 2024: New Zealand win in Bengaluru, bags first Test victory in India in 36 years</a></strong></p>

<p>Karim added, "Akash has got enough experience of bowling on such tracks in Indian conditions because he's been around for a number of years for Bengal. So you would look to have somebody on your side who has the experience of bowling on such tracks, even though the tracks have been lifeless."</p>

<p>Akash made his Test debut early this year, during India's home games versus England. In three Tests, he has accounted for eight scalps and looked in good rhythm, with his pace, action and control. Siraj, on the other hand, has been ordinary in India's home Tests this year. Hence, it will be interesting to see if the Indian team management drops him for the penultimate Test to allow him to rejuvenate and comeback stronger.</p>

<p>India lost the Bengaluru Test despite a solid comeback after being all-out for 46, their lowest-total in home Tests, on Day 1 (after opting to bat first), courtesy of Matt Henry's 5 for 15. In reply, the Kiwis rode on Rachin Ravindra's 134 to take a solid 356-run lead. Later India rode on Sarfaraz Khan's 150 and Rishabh Pant's 99 to go past the 400-run mark in their second essay but eventually got dismissed for 462; setting a paltry 107-run target which the visitors achieved on the final day on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>India squad: </strong>Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Washington Sundar</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India lost the first Test to New Zealand by eight wickets on Day 5 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20). Ahead of the second Test, in Pune starting Oct 24, the Indian team management would consider changing the playing XI.

Rohit Sharma-led India lost the first Test to New Zealand by eight wickets on Day 5 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Sunday (Oct 20). Ahead of the second Test, in Pune starting Oct 24, the Indian team management would consider changing the playing XI. In the first Test, the hosts went ahead with three spinners and two pacers, however, Mohammed Siraj didn't look in his elements. He returned with match figures of 2 for 100 and seemed off colour, despite conditions being favourable for pacers. Thus, former Indian stumper Saba Karim feels India can bring in Akash Deep instead of Siraj for the Pune Test, starting on Oct 24. Talking on Jio Cinema, Karim said, "I reckon that Mohammed Siraj may be under some kind of pressure and I'm sure they will have a discussion before they pick the XI for the next Test match. Because as a front-line seam bowler in a Test match, you are expected to pick wickets with the new ball and also come back and bowl well with the second new ball. To that extent, I don't think that Siraj has delivered." Also read: IND v NZ 2024: New Zealand win in Bengaluru, bags first Test victory in India in 36 years Karim added, "Akash has got enough experience of bowling on such tracks in Indian conditions because he's been around for a number of years for Bengal. So you would look to have somebody on your side who has the experience of bowling on such tracks, even though the tracks have been lifeless." Akash made his Test debut early this year, during India's home games versus England. In three Tests, he has accounted for eight scalps and looked in good rhythm, with his pace, action and control. Siraj, on the other hand, has been ordinary in India's home Tests this year. Hence, it will be interesting to see if the Indian team management drops him for the penultimate Test to allow him to rejuvenate and comeback stronger. India lost the Bengaluru Test despite a solid comeback after being all-out for 46, their lowest-total in home Tests, on Day 1 (after opting to bat first), courtesy of Matt Henry's 5 for 15. In reply, the Kiwis rode on Rachin Ravindra's 134 to take a solid 356-run lead. Later India rode on Sarfaraz Khan's 150 and Rishabh Pant's 99 to go past the 400-run mark in their second essay but eventually got dismissed for 462; setting a paltry 107-run target which the visitors achieved on the final day on Sunday. India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Akash Deep, Washington Sundar

Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: Should India replace Mohammed Siraj with Akash Deep? Former Indian stumper opines

<p>Sanju Samson smashed his maiden T20I ton during the home Bangladesh series, early this month. The right-hander was part of the Rohit Sharma-led India squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, co-hosted by West Indies and the USA, eventually won by the Men in Blue. While he warmed the bench during the group stage, Super Sixes and semifinal, he was asked to 'be ready' for the final, versus South Africa in Barbados on June 29. However, India went ahead with an unchanged&nbsp;XI. Samson recently recalled his snub and how captain Rohit spent a lot of time with him, prior to the game, explaining his omission and, thereby, winning his heart.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Samson told journalist Vimal Kumar in an interview, "I had a chance to play the final. I was told to stay ready. I was ready. However, they decided before the toss that we would go with the same team. I was like, no worries. I was in that type of mood."</p>

<p>He&nbsp;mentioned, "During the warm-up, Rohit took me to the side and started to explain to me why he is making that decision. He was like, You understood, na? You know his way, very casual? I told him, 'Let us win the match and then talk.' You focus on the match."</p>

<h2><strong>'I will have a regret to not play a World Cup final with a leader like you'</strong></h2>

<p>Samson then stated, "He (Rohit) came back one minute later and said, 'I know you are cursing me in your mind.' I think you are not happy. I feel like you have something on your mind. Then we had a discussion."</p>

<p>The swashbuckling batter&nbsp;further opined, "I told him, 'As a player, I want to play'. Since childhood, I wanted to come here and do something. Then he was like, 'My pattern is like this' and all that. I said I totally respect that you came and explained me. I said, 'I will have a regret; I could not play a World Cup final with a leader like you.' This will be a regret in my heart that I missed a World Cup final with a leader like Rohit Sharma. That will stay in my life."</p>

<p>The Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper revealed how Hitman won his heart with his gesture just ahead of the big-ticket finale. "After this, I thought, such a big thing like a World Cup final. Before the final, you have changed your decision. You spent 10 minutes with the player that is not playing just before the toss. He gave me 10 minutes before the toss. After that, I got to know this person has some other qualities."</p>

<p>"If I were in their place, I would be thinking about the players who are playing or my batting. I will explain to Sanju later; that is what normally you think. At that point, he thought 'I have to explain to Sanju, why I took that decision.' At that point, he won a place in my heart that will stay for a lifetime," Samson added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/los-angeles-olympics-2028-to-host-cricket-matches-in-new-york-report-769638">Los Angeles Olympics 2028 to host cricket matches in New York: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Instead of Samson, Indian team management trusted Rishabh Pant to do the job behind the stumps despite his ordinary returns with the bat throughout the mega event. Moreover, even Shivam Dube didn't have a fruitful run, hence, many contemplated Samson would get a look-in before the summit clash. However, India didn't tweak their winning combination and it resulted in both Pant and Dube playing key roles in India's win. While Pant smartly halted the game for sometime before the end overs, when the momentum was firmly with South Africa, whereas Dube smashed a vital 16-ball 27 as India posted 178-7 (mainly riding on Virat Kohli's 76 and Axar Patel's 47) after opting to bat first at the Kensington Oval.</p>

<p>In reply, SA were in prime position and only needed 30 off the last five overs before Jasprit Bumrah (2 for 18), Arshdeep Singh (2 for 20) and Hardik Pandya (3 for 20)'s death-overs bowling masterclass took India to a famous seven-run win. Post the historic win, Rohit and Kohli retired from T20Is.</p>


Sanju Samson smashed his maiden T20I ton during the home Bangladesh series, early this month. The right-hander was part of the Rohit Sharma-led India squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, co-hosted by West Indies and the USA, eventually won by the Men in Blue.

Sanju Samson smashed his maiden T20I ton during the home Bangladesh series, early this month. The right-hander was part of the Rohit Sharma-led India squad for the T20 World Cup 2024 edition, co-hosted by West Indies and the USA, eventually won by the Men in Blue. While he warmed the bench during the group stage, Super Sixes and semifinal, he was asked to 'be ready' for the final, versus South Africa in Barbados on June 29. However, India went ahead with an unchanged XI. Samson recently recalled his snub and how captain Rohit spent a lot of time with him, prior to the game, explaining his omission and, thereby, winning his heart. Samson told journalist Vimal Kumar in an interview, "I had a chance to play the final. I was told to stay ready. I was ready. However, they decided before the toss that we would go with the same team. I was like, no worries. I was in that type of mood." He mentioned, "During the warm-up, Rohit took me to the side and started to explain to me why he is making that decision. He was like, You understood, na? You know his way, very casual? I told him, 'Let us win the match and then talk.' You focus on the match." 'I will have a regret to not play a World Cup final with a leader like you' Samson then stated, "He (Rohit) came back one minute later and said, 'I know you are cursing me in your mind.' I think you are not happy. I feel like you have something on your mind. Then we had a discussion." The swashbuckling batter further opined, "I told him, 'As a player, I want to play'. Since childhood, I wanted to come here and do something. Then he was like, 'My pattern is like this' and all that. I said I totally respect that you came and explained me. I said, 'I will have a regret; I could not play a World Cup final with a leader like you.' This will be a regret in my heart that I missed a World Cup final with a leader like Rohit Sharma. That will stay in my life." The Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper revealed how Hitman won his heart with his gesture just ahead of the big-ticket finale. "After this, I thought, such a big thing like a World Cup final. Before the final, you have changed your decision. You spent 10 minutes with the player that is not playing just before the toss. He gave me 10 minutes before the toss. After that, I got to know this person has some other qualities." "If I were in their place, I would be thinking about the players who are playing or my batting. I will explain to Sanju later; that is what normally you think. At that point, he thought 'I have to explain to Sanju, why I took that decision.' At that point, he won a place in my heart that will stay for a lifetime," Samson added. Also read: Los Angeles Olympics 2028 to host cricket matches in New York: Report Instead of Samson, Indian team management trusted Rishabh Pant to do the job behind the stumps despite his ordinary returns with the bat throughout the mega event. Moreover, even Shivam Dube didn't have a fruitful run, hence, many contemplated Samson would get a look-in before the summit clash. However, India didn't tweak their winning combination and it resulted in both Pant and Dube playing key roles in India's win. While Pant smartly halted the game for sometime before the end overs, when the momentum was firmly with South Africa, whereas Dube smashed a vital 16-ball 27 as India posted 178-7 (mainly riding on Virat Kohli's 76 and Axar Patel's 47) after opting to bat first at the Kensington Oval. In reply, SA were in prime position and only needed 30 off the last five overs before Jasprit Bumrah (2 for 18), Arshdeep Singh (2 for 20) and Hardik Pandya (3 for 20)'s death-overs bowling masterclass took India to a famous seven-run win. Post the historic win, Rohit and Kohli retired from T20Is.

You spent 10 minutes with a player who is not playing: Samson recalls Rohit's gesture after T20 WC final snub

<p>After end of Day 2 of the India versus New Zealand Bengaluru Test, on Thursday (Oct 17), a 'bandaged' Mohammed Shami was reportedly seen bowling at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Pictures captured the Indian pacer bowling in&nbsp;the nets at the iconic stadium, where the Kiwis dismissed Rohit Sharma-led India for 46 earlier in the day, raising hopes of a comeback.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a RevSportz report, Shami has been approaching his top speed and is even believed to have increased his intensity at the NCA, where he has been under rehabilitation following a series of injuries. The wily speedster was last seen in action for India during the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he ended with 24 scalps (most by any bowler). While he played the mega event despite ankle issues, he has had a swelling in his knees recently; adding to his injury woes.</p>

<p>Reportedly, Shami's&nbsp;knee was bandaged and strapped. He started bowling at a slower pace with a shorter run-up, gradually&nbsp;increasing&nbsp;his speed and approaching&nbsp;full tilt at the nets, in presence of senior figures within the National Cricket Academy (NCA)&nbsp;hierarchy.&nbsp;Troy Cooley, the lead bowling coach at the academy, and Nitin Patel,&nbsp;the head of sports science and medicine, kept a close watch on Shami.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-nz-1st-test-virat-kohli-surpasses-ms-dhoni-to-become-indias-second-most-capped-player-768536">Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Virat Kohli surpasses MS Dhoni to become India's second-most-capped player</a></strong></p>

<p>Before the three-match Test series opener versus the Kiwis, in Bengaluru, captain Rohit Sharma opened up on Shami's injury status. He said to the reporters, "To be honest, it is difficult to make a call on him for the Australia series. He had a setback and had swelling in his knees. That put him back a little bit and had to start again. He’s at the NCA with doctors and physios. We don’t want to bring undercooked Shami to Australia. We are keeping our fingers crossed."</p>

<p>Thus, Shami's injury continues to be closely monitored as India would hope for his participation in the forthcoming Australia tour, comprising five Tests. The 34-year-old has missed a plethora of series since the ODI WC at home.</p>

<p>At present, India are on the back foot in the first Test against the Black Caps, in Bengaluru. After a washout on Day 1, India opted to bat first and got dismissed for 46 (their lowest-ever Test score on home soil) during the second day's play, on Thursday. At the time of publishing this report, New Zealand's lead is nearing 200, in the morning session of Day 3 on Friday (Oct 18),&nbsp;with four wickets in hand.</p>


After end of Day 2 of the India versus New Zealand Bengaluru Test, on Thursday (Oct 17), a 'bandaged' Mohammed Shami was reportedly seen bowling at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

After end of Day 2 of the India versus New Zealand Bengaluru Test, on Thursday (Oct 17), a 'bandaged' Mohammed Shami was reportedly seen bowling at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Pictures captured the Indian pacer bowling in the nets at the iconic stadium, where the Kiwis dismissed Rohit Sharma-led India for 46 earlier in the day, raising hopes of a comeback. As per a RevSportz report, Shami has been approaching his top speed and is even believed to have increased his intensity at the NCA, where he has been under rehabilitation following a series of injuries. The wily speedster was last seen in action for India during the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he ended with 24 scalps (most by any bowler). While he played the mega event despite ankle issues, he has had a swelling in his knees recently; adding to his injury woes. Reportedly, Shami's knee was bandaged and strapped. He started bowling at a slower pace with a shorter run-up, gradually increasing his speed and approaching full tilt at the nets, in presence of senior figures within the National Cricket Academy (NCA) hierarchy. Troy Cooley, the lead bowling coach at the academy, and Nitin Patel, the head of sports science and medicine, kept a close watch on Shami. Also read: Ind vs NZ, 1st Test: Virat Kohli surpasses MS Dhoni to become India's second-most-capped player Before the three-match Test series opener versus the Kiwis, in Bengaluru, captain Rohit Sharma opened up on Shami's injury status. He said to the reporters, "To be honest, it is difficult to make a call on him for the Australia series. He had a setback and had swelling in his knees. That put him back a little bit and had to start again. He’s at the NCA with doctors and physios. We don’t want to bring undercooked Shami to Australia. We are keeping our fingers crossed." Thus, Shami's injury continues to be closely monitored as India would hope for his participation in the forthcoming Australia tour, comprising five Tests. The 34-year-old has missed a plethora of series since the ODI WC at home. At present, India are on the back foot in the first Test against the Black Caps, in Bengaluru. After a washout on Day 1, India opted to bat first and got dismissed for 46 (their lowest-ever Test score on home soil) during the second day's play, on Thursday. At the time of publishing this report, New Zealand's lead is nearing 200, in the morning session of Day 3 on Friday (Oct 18), with four wickets in hand.

'Bandaged' Mohammed Shami bowls nearly full tilt in Bengaluru stadium after Day 2 of Ind vs NZ Test: Report

<p>After a series loss versus Sri Lanka, in the Island nation, New Zealand have another stiff challenge waiting as they face a daunting India in a three-match series, starting on Oct 16 in Bengaluru. Ahead of the three Tests, captain Tom Latham -- who recently succeeded Tim Southee as the red-ball&nbsp;skipper -- shared advice for his side, who&nbsp;will be up against&nbsp;a daunting Indian team (unbeaten at home since 2012/13). Latham wants his side to play with 'freedom' and take the game to India in the upcoming series.</p>

<h2><strong>'Play with freedom, no fear and&nbsp;take it to them'</strong></h2>

<p>Latham was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo, "From my point of view it's about trying to continue doing the good stuff we've been doing, trying to put my spin on things. It's an exciting challenge&nbsp;going over to India and once we can go over there hopefully [we can] play with a bit of freedom, bit of no fear and try and take it to them. If we do that hopefully gives ourselves a good chance."</p>

<p>He further opined, "Think in India we've seen teams that have done well out there in the past have been quite aggressive towards them, especially with the bat. They've looked to play a few shots, but also put them under pressure which is really important over there, rather than sitting and waiting for something to happen. We'll decide on how we want to play when we get over there, but guys have got plans around how they like to approach things and hopefully we can fine tune those."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pak-vs-eng-1st-test-double-centurion-joe-root-becomes-first-englishman-to-score-20k-intl-runs-766242">Pak vs Eng, 1st Test: Double centurion Joe Root becomes first Englishman to score 20k int'l runs</a></strong></p>

<p>Latham took over as the full-time Test captain post Southee's resignation after the SL tour. He has&nbsp;previously captained New Zealand’s Test and ODI sides, leading in whites&nbsp;in nine matches when he filled&nbsp;in for Kane Williamson between 2020-2022. Thus, the left-handed opening batter will bank on his past experience and hope to deliver. He wants&nbsp;to encourage the players to be themselves and make&nbsp;leaders within the group.</p>

<p>In this regard, he added, "Will certainly be leaning on those experiences. Obviously a different situation being full-time where you can put your own spin on things but think what I want to do is encourage guys to be themselves, be leaders amongst themselves as well and hopefully if we can do that we can play the brand of cricket we want to play."</p>

<p>NZ's tour of India comprises only three Tests, with the series kicking off in Bengaluru next week. The visitors will be without star batter and former skipper Kane Williamson for the first Test due to groin injury. The second and third Test will be held in Pune and Mumbai, respectively.</p>

<p>The Kiwis, who have won only two out of 36 Tests&nbsp;in India, will need a lot to work in their favour to get past Rohit Sharma-led hosts, who have won as many as 18 consecutive&nbsp;Test series at home (most-ever) since 2012/13.</p>

<p><strong>NZ squad for India Test series:</strong></p>

<p>Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell (1st Test only), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Ish Sodhi (2nd and 3rd Test only), Tim Southee, Kane Williamson (ruled out of 1st Test), Will Young</p>


After a series loss versus Sri Lanka, in the Island nation, New Zealand have another stiff challenge waiting as they face a daunting India in a three-match series, starting on Oct 16 in Bengaluru.

After a series loss versus Sri Lanka, in the Island nation, New Zealand have another stiff challenge waiting as they face a daunting India in a three-match series, starting on Oct 16 in Bengaluru. Ahead of the three Tests, captain Tom Latham -- who recently succeeded Tim Southee as the red-ball skipper -- shared advice for his side, who will be up against a daunting Indian team (unbeaten at home since 2012/13). Latham wants his side to play with 'freedom' and take the game to India in the upcoming series. 'Play with freedom, no fear and take it to them' Latham was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo, "From my point of view it's about trying to continue doing the good stuff we've been doing, trying to put my spin on things. It's an exciting challenge going over to India and once we can go over there hopefully [we can] play with a bit of freedom, bit of no fear and try and take it to them. If we do that hopefully gives ourselves a good chance." He further opined, "Think in India we've seen teams that have done well out there in the past have been quite aggressive towards them, especially with the bat. They've looked to play a few shots, but also put them under pressure which is really important over there, rather than sitting and waiting for something to happen. We'll decide on how we want to play when we get over there, but guys have got plans around how they like to approach things and hopefully we can fine tune those." Also read: Pak vs Eng, 1st Test: Double centurion Joe Root becomes first Englishman to score 20k int'l runs Latham took over as the full-time Test captain post Southee's resignation after the SL tour. He has previously captained New Zealand’s Test and ODI sides, leading in whites in nine matches when he filled in for Kane Williamson between 2020-2022. Thus, the left-handed opening batter will bank on his past experience and hope to deliver. He wants to encourage the players to be themselves and make leaders within the group. In this regard, he added, "Will certainly be leaning on those experiences. Obviously a different situation being full-time where you can put your own spin on things but think what I want to do is encourage guys to be themselves, be leaders amongst themselves as well and hopefully if we can do that we can play the brand of cricket we want to play." NZ's tour of India comprises only three Tests, with the series kicking off in Bengaluru next week. The visitors will be without star batter and former skipper Kane Williamson for the first Test due to groin injury. The second and third Test will be held in Pune and Mumbai, respectively. The Kiwis, who have won only two out of 36 Tests in India, will need a lot to work in their favour to get past Rohit Sharma-led hosts, who have won as many as 18 consecutive Test series at home (most-ever) since 2012/13. NZ squad for India Test series: Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell (1st Test only), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Ish Sodhi (2nd and 3rd Test only), Tim Southee, Kane Williamson (ruled out of 1st Test), Will Young

Ind vs NZ: 'No fear, take it....', Tom Latham's advice to his side ahead of India challenge

<p>India continued their absolute dominance over hapless Bangladesh in the second and penultimate T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 9). After a 1-0 lead, Suryakumar Yadav-led hosts were asked to bat first and rode on newcomer Nitish Reddy's 34-ball 74 and Rinku Singh's 29-ball 54 to post a massive 221/9 and restricted&nbsp;the Bangla Tigers to 135/9 to win by 86&nbsp;runs. The home side put on a clinical show by ticking all three departments. Hardik Pandya, who scored a vital 19-ball 32, also stood out with a blinder at the deep to dismiss Rishad Hossain.</p>

<p>In the 14th over, with the match pretty much out of Bangladesh's hand, Rishad Hossain attempted a big shot off Varun Chakravarthy. It was heaved towards wide long-on&nbsp;as Hardik&nbsp;sprinted towards his left from deep mid-wicket and plucked a stunner in front of the boundary.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/man-with-heart-of-gold-rohit-sharma-neeraj-chopra-and-other-sporting-stars-react-as-ratan-tata-passes-away-766138">Man with heart of gold: Rohit Sharma, Neeraj Chopra and other sporting stars react as Ratan Tata passes away</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here is the video:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Athleticism at its best! 😎<br />
<br />
An outstanding running catch from Hardik Pandya 🔥🔥<br />
<br />
Live - <a href="https://t.co/Otw9CpO67y">https://t.co/Otw9CpO67y</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvBAN</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya7</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/ApgekVe4rB">pic.twitter.com/ApgekVe4rB</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1844052425134743945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>All the seven Indian bowlers chipped in with a wicket each with Varun and Reddy&nbsp;taking two-fers each. Earlier in the contest, the Men in Blue were reduced to 41-3 but continued their run-scoring ways courtesy of an impressive 108-run fourth-wicket stand between half-centurions Rinku and Reddy. While the latter fell for 74, laced with 4 fours and 7 sixes at a strike rate of 217.65, Rinku departed for 53, striking at 182.76. Hardik and Riyan Parag (6-ball 15) added more to the Indian scoreboard as the hosts posted 221/9 and, later, defended it in style.</p>

<p>India won the series opener by seven wickets in Gwalior and will now aim for a clean sweep with the series finale on Saturday (Oct 12) in Hyderabad.</p>


India continued their absolute dominance over hapless Bangladesh in the second and penultimate T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 9). After a 1-0 lead, Suryakumar Yadav-led hosts were asked to bat first and rode on newcomer Nitish Reddy's 34-ball 74 and Rinku Singh's 29-ball 54 to post a massive 221/9 and restricted the Bangla Tigers to 135/9 to win by 86 runs.

India continued their absolute dominance over hapless Bangladesh in the second and penultimate T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi on Wednesday (Oct 9). After a 1-0 lead, Suryakumar Yadav-led hosts were asked to bat first and rode on newcomer Nitish Reddy's 34-ball 74 and Rinku Singh's 29-ball 54 to post a massive 221/9 and restricted the Bangla Tigers to 135/9 to win by 86 runs. The home side put on a clinical show by ticking all three departments. Hardik Pandya, who scored a vital 19-ball 32, also stood out with a blinder at the deep to dismiss Rishad Hossain. In the 14th over, with the match pretty much out of Bangladesh's hand, Rishad Hossain attempted a big shot off Varun Chakravarthy. It was heaved towards wide long-on as Hardik sprinted towards his left from deep mid-wicket and plucked a stunner in front of the boundary. Also read: Man with heart of gold: Rohit Sharma, Neeraj Chopra and other sporting stars react as Ratan Tata passes away Here is the video: Athleticism at its best! 😎 An outstanding running catch from Hardik Pandya 🔥🔥 Live - https://t.co/Otw9CpO67y#TeamIndia | #INDvBAN | @hardikpandya7 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/ApgekVe4rB — BCCI (@BCCI) October 9, 2024 × All the seven Indian bowlers chipped in with a wicket each with Varun and Reddy taking two-fers each. Earlier in the contest, the Men in Blue were reduced to 41-3 but continued their run-scoring ways courtesy of an impressive 108-run fourth-wicket stand between half-centurions Rinku and Reddy. While the latter fell for 74, laced with 4 fours and 7 sixes at a strike rate of 217.65, Rinku departed for 53, striking at 182.76. Hardik and Riyan Parag (6-ball 15) added more to the Indian scoreboard as the hosts posted 221/9 and, later, defended it in style. India won the series opener by seven wickets in Gwalior and will now aim for a clean sweep with the series finale on Saturday (Oct 12) in Hyderabad.

IND vs Ban, 2nd T20I: Peak athleticism! Hardik Pandya pulls off a STUNNER to dismiss Rishad Hossain - Watch

<p>India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets in chase of 128 in the first T20I, in Gwalior, on Sunday (Oct 6). After Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy's three-fers, India dismissed the Najmul Shanto-led Bangla Tigers for 127 in 19.5 overs. The hosts chased down the paltry score in 11.5 overs, courtesy of quickfire knocks from Sanju Samson, skipper Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Hardik Pandya (who top-scored with a 16-ball 39*). Opener Abhishek Sharma also started off on a positive note before being run-out for a 7-ball 16. Post India's win, Sharma&nbsp;shared a post on Instagram, but was slammed by his mentor Yuvraj Singh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following India's easy win, Abhishek took to his Instagram handle and shared a post,&nbsp;showing the best moments for him from Gwalior.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/england-star-gutted-after-being-overlooked-as-replacement-for-ben-stokes-for-pakistan-test-series-765535">England star 'gutted' after being overlooked as replacement for Ben Stokes for Pakistan Test series</a></strong></p>

<p>However, the 42-year-old Yuvraj wasn't impressed with his disciple throwing away a good start and being out for 16. Thus, he schooled Abhishek and wrote in the comment section, "only if we apply our brains properly". Here is his reply:</p>

<p><img alt="Yuvraj on Abhishek Sharma" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="97dced4b-af7d-4c58-bea9-c35cc91c790a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Yuvraj%20on%20Abhishek.JPG" /></p>

<p>Yuvraj has been a mentor to Abhishek for quite some time. After the latter's maiden international century, which came during the five T20Is versus Zimbabwe in Zimbabwe in July, Abhishek revealed how Yuvraj helped him climb up the ladder. He said, "I had called Yuvi paji after the first match and I don't know why, but he was very happy, he was like that's a good start. I think he must be proud today as well, just like my family. So I am really happy, and it is all because of him as well, the hard work that he has put on me. For 2-3 years, he has been working really hard on me and not just cricket, even off the field as well. So, it's a big moment."</p>

<p>Surya-led India will lock horns with Bangladesh in the second and penultimate T20I on Wednesday (Oct 9) in New Delhi. Abhishek will look to score big after a missed opportunity in the series opener.</p>


India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets in chase of 128 in the first T20I, in Gwalior, on Sunday (Oct 6). After Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy's three-fers, India dismissed the Najmul Shanto-led Bangla Tigers for 127 in 19.

India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets in chase of 128 in the first T20I, in Gwalior, on Sunday (Oct 6). After Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy's three-fers, India dismissed the Najmul Shanto-led Bangla Tigers for 127 in 19.5 overs. The hosts chased down the paltry score in 11.5 overs, courtesy of quickfire knocks from Sanju Samson, skipper Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Hardik Pandya (who top-scored with a 16-ball 39*). Opener Abhishek Sharma also started off on a positive note before being run-out for a 7-ball 16. Post India's win, Sharma shared a post on Instagram, but was slammed by his mentor Yuvraj Singh. Following India's easy win, Abhishek took to his Instagram handle and shared a post, showing the best moments for him from Gwalior. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Abhishek Sharma (@abhisheksharma_4) × Also read: England star 'gutted' after being overlooked as replacement for Ben Stokes for Pakistan Test series However, the 42-year-old Yuvraj wasn't impressed with his disciple throwing away a good start and being out for 16. Thus, he schooled Abhishek and wrote in the comment section, "only if we apply our brains properly". Here is his reply: Yuvraj has been a mentor to Abhishek for quite some time. After the latter's maiden international century, which came during the five T20Is versus Zimbabwe in Zimbabwe in July, Abhishek revealed how Yuvraj helped him climb up the ladder. He said, "I had called Yuvi paji after the first match and I don't know why, but he was very happy, he was like that's a good start. I think he must be proud today as well, just like my family. So I am really happy, and it is all because of him as well, the hard work that he has put on me. For 2-3 years, he has been working really hard on me and not just cricket, even off the field as well. So, it's a big moment." Surya-led India will lock horns with Bangladesh in the second and penultimate T20I on Wednesday (Oct 9) in New Delhi. Abhishek will look to score big after a missed opportunity in the series opener.

Only if we apply our brains: Yuvraj SLAMS his disciple Abhishek Sharma after flop show in Gwalior T20I

<p>India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets on Day 5 of the second and final Test, on Oct 1, to win the recently-held two-match series 2-0. The match displayed Rohit Sharma's excellent captaincy as he inspired his side to push for a win after Day 2 and 3 were completely washed out due to rain and wet outfield. Opting to bowl first, India had reduced the Bangla Tigers to&nbsp;107/3 in a rain-marred opening day and the game resumed on the penultimate day, which saw the visitors folding up for 233 in Kanpur. In reply, India batted with aggression to declare at 285-9, in 33.4 overs, with a lead of 52. Eventually, India folded Bangladesh for 146 in their second essay and easily chased down the 95-run target to inflict a series whitewash.</p>

<p>Following the series win, critics hailed Rohit and head coach Gautam Gambhir for instilling fearlessness among the Indian batters. Many solely credited Gambhir for inspiring India's refreshing change in approach with the bat. However, it hasn't been well received by former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar. Gavaskar feels the sole credit goes to captain Rohit, who has been showing the way to the Indian batters since taking charge of the national side.</p>

<p>Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar, "While one paper called the Indian batting “Bossball” because the captain or “boss” of the team, Rohit, had shown the way, some from the old powers referred to it as “Gamball” after the Indian coach, Gautam Gambhir. While the England batting approach changed completely under the new regime of Ben Stokes and McCullum, we have seen over the last couple of years that Rohit has been batting like this and encouraging his team to do so as well."</p>

<h2><strong>'Attributing this approach to Gambhir is foot-licking of the highest quality'</strong></h2>

<p>"Gambhir has only been coaching for a couple of months, so attributing this approach to him is foot-licking of the highest quality. Gambhir himself hardly ever batted in this fashion like McCullum used to do. If any credit is due, it is solely to Rohit and nobody else,” he further mentioned.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/what-sort-of-cricket-do-you-play-former-cricketer-slams-bangladesh-for-no-show-in-1st-t20i-vs-india-765122">What sort of cricket do you play?: Former cricketer slams Bangladesh for no show in 1st T20I vs India</a></strong></p>

<p>Gavaskar added, "Instead of using the words this-ball or that-ball, I would suggest using the skipper’s first name, Rohit, and term it the “Gohit” approach. Hopefully, brainier people will come up with a trendier name for this rather than the lazy option of calling it after “Bazball”."</p>

<p>At present, Rohit is enjoying his break before the New Zealand home Test series, starting on Oct 16 in Bengaluru. Meanwhile, Gambhir is involved in India's three T20Is versus Bangladesh.&nbsp;</p>


India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets on Day 5 of the second and final Test, on Oct 1, to win the recently-held two-match series 2-0. The match displayed Rohit Sharma's excellent captaincy as he inspired his side to push for a win after Day 2 and 3 were completely washed out due to rain and wet outfield.

India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets on Day 5 of the second and final Test, on Oct 1, to win the recently-held two-match series 2-0. The match displayed Rohit Sharma's excellent captaincy as he inspired his side to push for a win after Day 2 and 3 were completely washed out due to rain and wet outfield. Opting to bowl first, India had reduced the Bangla Tigers to 107/3 in a rain-marred opening day and the game resumed on the penultimate day, which saw the visitors folding up for 233 in Kanpur. In reply, India batted with aggression to declare at 285-9, in 33.4 overs, with a lead of 52. Eventually, India folded Bangladesh for 146 in their second essay and easily chased down the 95-run target to inflict a series whitewash. Following the series win, critics hailed Rohit and head coach Gautam Gambhir for instilling fearlessness among the Indian batters. Many solely credited Gambhir for inspiring India's refreshing change in approach with the bat. However, it hasn't been well received by former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar. Gavaskar feels the sole credit goes to captain Rohit, who has been showing the way to the Indian batters since taking charge of the national side. Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar, "While one paper called the Indian batting “Bossball” because the captain or “boss” of the team, Rohit, had shown the way, some from the old powers referred to it as “Gamball” after the Indian coach, Gautam Gambhir. While the England batting approach changed completely under the new regime of Ben Stokes and McCullum, we have seen over the last couple of years that Rohit has been batting like this and encouraging his team to do so as well." 'Attributing this approach to Gambhir is foot-licking of the highest quality' "Gambhir has only been coaching for a couple of months, so attributing this approach to him is foot-licking of the highest quality. Gambhir himself hardly ever batted in this fashion like McCullum used to do. If any credit is due, it is solely to Rohit and nobody else,” he further mentioned. Also read: What sort of cricket do you play?: Former cricketer slams Bangladesh for no show in 1st T20I vs India Gavaskar added, "Instead of using the words this-ball or that-ball, I would suggest using the skipper’s first name, Rohit, and term it the “Gohit” approach. Hopefully, brainier people will come up with a trendier name for this rather than the lazy option of calling it after “Bazball”." At present, Rohit is enjoying his break before the New Zealand home Test series, starting on Oct 16 in Bengaluru. Meanwhile, Gambhir is involved in India's three T20Is versus Bangladesh.

Gambhir hardly...: Gavaskar SLAMS India coach's 'bootlickers', credits Rohit for India's batting revolution

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