On Tuesday (February 14), the cricketing fraternity was left shellshocked with the revelations made by BCCI chief selector Chetan Sharma during a sting operation carried out by Zee Media. In the TV sting, Chetan spoke at length about certain Indian players taking injections to play despite not being fully fit, Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli alleged rift, Virat Kohli's fallout with former BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly and more.

Following the staggering chaims made by Chetan Sharma, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has called for MS Dhoni to take over as the BCCI chief selector.&nbsp;In an interview with India.com, Kaneria opined that since Dhoni, the former Indian captain, is one of the most respected and celebrated figures in Indian cricket and&nbsp;has a fantastic cricketing brain, the BCCI should hire him as the next chief selector.

<section>Kaneria claimed, "First, bring MS Dhoni on the table, have a word with him, whats his plan and how he will go as a chief selector. Now is the time for BCCI — Roger Binny and Jay Shah — to take a avery strict action and to have a new selection commitee, to have new people on board. MS Dhoni, one of the fantastic cricketers, people say that the brain of MS Dhoni is amazing. He added, "So why not have that kind of guy in the chief selector arena or some other position to sit and monitorise the players?"</section>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-virat-kohli-tried-to-defame-sourav-ganguly-in-the-media-but-it-backfired-says-chetan-sharma-561986">Exclusive: Virat Kohli tried to defame Sourav Ganguly in the media but it backfired, says Chetan Sharma</a>

Following Chetan's claims in the TV sting operation, no official statement has come from the BCCI. Nonetheless, one of the board officials has reacted to the whole controversy and feels Sharma spoke too much. The source added that in reality, none of the senior Indian players interact with him.

"No player or selector will be comfortable in sharing a cordial relationship even with well meaning journalists after this sting as the trust factor has been compromised," a senior BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity.

At present, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team is gearing up for the second Test versus Australia which will get underway on Friday (February 17) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.

On Tuesday (February 14), the cricketing fraternity was left shellshocked with the revelations made by BCCI chief selector Chetan Sharma during a sting operation carried out by Zee Media.

On Tuesday (February 14), the cricketing fraternity was left shellshocked with the revelations made by BCCI chief selector Chetan Sharma during a sting operation carried out by Zee Media. In the TV sting, Chetan spoke at length about certain Indian players taking injections to play despite not being fully fit, Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli alleged rift, Virat Kohli's fallout with former BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly and more. Following the staggering chaims made by Chetan Sharma, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has called for MS Dhoni to take over as the BCCI chief selector. In an interview with India.com, Kaneria opined that since Dhoni, the former Indian captain, is one of the most respected and celebrated figures in Indian cricket and has a fantastic cricketing brain, the BCCI should hire him as the next chief selector. Kaneria claimed, "First, bring MS Dhoni on the table, have a word with him, whats his plan and how he will go as a chief selector. Now is the time for BCCI — Roger Binny and Jay Shah — to take a avery strict action and to have a new selection commitee, to have new people on board. MS Dhoni, one of the fantastic cricketers, people say that the brain of MS Dhoni is amazing. He added, "So why not have that kind of guy in the chief selector arena or some other position to sit and monitorise the players?" Also Read: Exclusive: Virat Kohli tried to defame Sourav Ganguly in the media but it backfired, says Chetan Sharma Following Chetan's claims in the TV sting operation, no official statement has come from the BCCI. Nonetheless, one of the board officials has reacted to the whole controversy and feels Sharma spoke too much. The source added that in reality, none of the senior Indian players interact with him. "No player or selector will be comfortable in sharing a cordial relationship even with well meaning journalists after this sting as the trust factor has been compromised," a senior BCCI source told PTI on conditions of anonymity. At present, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team is gearing up for the second Test versus Australia which will get underway on Friday (February 17) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.

Former Pakistan spinner wants MS Dhoni as India's chief selector after Chetan Sharma TV sting operation

India have a solid pace attack at disposal. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, etc. form a lethal fast-bowling department for Team India. Ishant, being the senior of the lot, has seen his compatriots' rise over the years. Recently, he opened up on Mohammed Shami and how the West Bengal pacer had impressed former Indian captain MS Dhoni during a net session almost a decade back, in 2013.

Speaking to Cricbuzz, on their 'Rise of New India' show, Ishant&nbsp;recalled the first time Shami bowled in Team India nets and described it as being “very skiddy”.&nbsp;The 34-year-old further added that Shami was called to the Indian net session in 2013 amid the presence of then captain Dhoni, who was thoroughly impressed with the speedster's skills.

"I had heard of a bowler from West Indies who had a lot of pace, meaning he was very skiddy. His run-up looks normal but he bowled with a lot of pace. So, when we saw him at the net, Mahi Bhai said, "Wow, he is good,"&nbsp;recalled Ishant.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/massive-feat-rohit-sharma-led-india-become-no-1-across-formats-after-dethroning-australia-in-tests-562225">MASSIVE FEAT! Rohit Sharma-led India become No. 1 across formats, dethrones Australia in Tests</a>

The wily pacer added, "Then he made his debut in Kolkata (versus West Indies in 2013). As far as I remember, he picked nine wickets and helped India win. So after that, we also became very good friends. When he was going through some personal turmoil, whatever had happened to him, I felt he needed a support from someone outside and say to him, 'What happened, happened. If you focus on cricket, may be things will become okay'. May be that is why Shami is a totally different bowler now."

Shami went through a turbulent time in 2018 after his relationship with his ex-wife Hasin Jahan went downhill. While the initial few months were tough for Shami as he failed&nbsp;the Yo-Yo Test as well, the pacer bounced back in style and there has been no looking back since then&nbsp;and has in total so far claimed 219, 159 and 24 wickets in 61 Tests, 87 ODIs and 23 T20Is, respectively.&nbsp;

He will next be seen in action in India's second Test&nbsp;of the four-match series&nbsp;versus Australia in New Delhi. The match kicks off on February 17.

India have a solid pace attack at disposal. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, etc. form a lethal fast-bowling department for Team India.

India have a solid pace attack at disposal. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, etc. form a lethal fast-bowling department for Team India. Ishant, being the senior of the lot, has seen his compatriots' rise over the years. Recently, he opened up on Mohammed Shami and how the West Bengal pacer had impressed former Indian captain MS Dhoni during a net session almost a decade back, in 2013. Speaking to Cricbuzz, on their 'Rise of New India' show, Ishant recalled the first time Shami bowled in Team India nets and described it as being “very skiddy”. The 34-year-old further added that Shami was called to the Indian net session in 2013 amid the presence of then captain Dhoni, who was thoroughly impressed with the speedster's skills. "I had heard of a bowler from West Indies who had a lot of pace, meaning he was very skiddy. His run-up looks normal but he bowled with a lot of pace. So, when we saw him at the net, Mahi Bhai said, "Wow, he is good," recalled Ishant. Also Read: MASSIVE FEAT! Rohit Sharma-led India become No. 1 across formats, dethrones Australia in Tests The wily pacer added, "Then he made his debut in Kolkata (versus West Indies in 2013). As far as I remember, he picked nine wickets and helped India win. So after that, we also became very good friends. When he was going through some personal turmoil, whatever had happened to him, I felt he needed a support from someone outside and say to him, 'What happened, happened. If you focus on cricket, may be things will become okay'. May be that is why Shami is a totally different bowler now." Shami went through a turbulent time in 2018 after his relationship with his ex-wife Hasin Jahan went downhill. While the initial few months were tough for Shami as he failed the Yo-Yo Test as well, the pacer bounced back in style and there has been no looking back since then and has in total so far claimed 219, 159 and 24 wickets in 61 Tests, 87 ODIs and 23 T20Is, respectively. He will next be seen in action in India's second Test of the four-match series versus Australia in New Delhi. The match kicks off on February 17.

MS Dhoni said, 'Wow, he is good': Ishant Sharma recalls former captain's words on star India bowler

Shikhar Dhawan's stocks have gone down considerably following his poor run of form and the emergence of Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill. Hence, Dhawan was last seen in action during India-Bangladesh ODIs and hasn't played a single international match in 2023. While many have written him off for the 2023 ODI World Cup, the senior batter hasn't lost hope and remains optimistic about featuring in Team India's squad for the showpiece event, to be held later this year in India. At present, the 37-year-old is focused on IPL 2023 where he will be leading the Punjab Kings (PBKS).

Speaking on his ouster from the national side, Dhawan was quoted as saying by the news agency PTI, "They (ups and downs) are part of life. With time, with experience, you learn how to handle them with ease. I find a lot of strength in them. I did my best. If somebody is doing better than my best, that is fine. That is why that person is there and I am not there. I am very happy and content wherever I am. I make sure my process goes on strong. Of course, there is always a chance of me coming back to the side."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/enjoyed-your-batting-sachin-tendulkar-lauds-young-girl-playing-cricket-barefoot-in-desert-watch-video-562320">'Enjoyed your batting': Sachin Tendulkar lauds young girl playing cricket barefoot in desert - Watch Video</a>

The left-hander further opined, "If it comes (comeback) it is good, if it doesn't come that is also good. I have achieved a lot and I am happy with that. Whatever has to come will come. I don't get desperate about it." Dhawan, who has represented India in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is, added, "My IPL preparation is going on well. I was in Bangalore for 10 days. The focus was on fitness. With the IPL coming up, I will join the camp in Mohali on February 24 and then we regroup again later on and get going. I am in a very good state of mind and looking forward to leading from the front."

In IPL 2022, Dhawan became a part of the Punjab outfit and returned as the eighth-highest run-getter. He ended with 460 runs but had an ordinary strike rate of 122.66. This time around, Dhawan will be desperate to score more freely and make a big statement with ODI WC spot up for grabs.&nbsp;

Shikhar Dhawan's stocks have gone down considerably following his poor run of form and the emergence of Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill. Hence, Dhawan was last seen in action during India-Bangladesh ODIs and hasn't played a single international match in 2023.

Shikhar Dhawan's stocks have gone down considerably following his poor run of form and the emergence of Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill. Hence, Dhawan was last seen in action during India-Bangladesh ODIs and hasn't played a single international match in 2023. While many have written him off for the 2023 ODI World Cup, the senior batter hasn't lost hope and remains optimistic about featuring in Team India's squad for the showpiece event, to be held later this year in India. At present, the 37-year-old is focused on IPL 2023 where he will be leading the Punjab Kings (PBKS). Speaking on his ouster from the national side, Dhawan was quoted as saying by the news agency PTI, "They (ups and downs) are part of life. With time, with experience, you learn how to handle them with ease. I find a lot of strength in them. I did my best. If somebody is doing better than my best, that is fine. That is why that person is there and I am not there. I am very happy and content wherever I am. I make sure my process goes on strong. Of course, there is always a chance of me coming back to the side." Also Read: 'Enjoyed your batting': Sachin Tendulkar lauds young girl playing cricket barefoot in desert - Watch Video The left-hander further opined, "If it comes (comeback) it is good, if it doesn't come that is also good. I have achieved a lot and I am happy with that. Whatever has to come will come. I don't get desperate about it." Dhawan, who has represented India in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is, added, "My IPL preparation is going on well. I was in Bangalore for 10 days. The focus was on fitness. With the IPL coming up, I will join the camp in Mohali on February 24 and then we regroup again later on and get going. I am in a very good state of mind and looking forward to leading from the front." In IPL 2022, Dhawan became a part of the Punjab outfit and returned as the eighth-highest run-getter. He ended with 460 runs but had an ordinary strike rate of 122.66. This time around, Dhawan will be desperate to score more freely and make a big statement with ODI WC spot up for grabs.

Shikhar Dhawan not 'desperate' about national comeback, focused on leading Punjab Kings in IPL 2023

Ahead of the second Test versus Australia, in New Delhi, Rohit Sharma-led India have created history. India displaced Australia to become the No. 1 ranked side in ICC Test Rankings and have also become the No. 1 team across formats. This is the first time that the Indian cricket team has&nbsp;topped the rankings across formats at the same time; making Rohit the first Indian captain to achieve the feat. India have been the No. 1 ranked side in T20Is for quite some time whereas they topped the ODI rankings following a 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand in the home series, in January. After their big win in the four-match Test series opener versus Australia&nbsp;by an innings and 132 runs, India have now topped the Test rankings to become No. 1 in all forms of the game.

In Tests, here's the top-five teams:

INDIA - 115 rating points 
Australia - 111 rating points 
England - 106 rating points 
New Zealand - 100 rating points 
South Africa - 85 rating points

Top-five ODI sides:

INDIA - 114 rating points 
Australia - 112 rating points 
New Zealand - 111 rating points 
England - 111 rating points 
Pakistan - 106 rating points

In T20Is:

India - 267 rating points 
England - 266 rating points 
Pakistan - 258 rating points 
South Africa - 256 rating points 
New Zealand - 252 rating points

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thought-something-positive-would-come-out-babar-azam-on-his-this-too-shall-pass-tweet-for-virat-kohli-562215">Thought something positive would come out: Babar Azam on his 'this too shall pass' tweet for Virat Kohli</a>

Among the players, R Ashwin jumped to the second spot in ICC Rankings for bowlers in Tests after his eight wicket haul in the Nagpur Test. The list is led by Australia captain Pat Cummins. Meanwhile, captain Rohit Sharma was rewarded for his majestic 120 in the first Test and moved from the 10th to the 8th spot in&nbsp;the Men's Test Batting Rankings. India will have to win the upcoming second Test versus Australia, in the national capital, to hold on to the top spot in Tests and strengthen their chances of making it to the ICC World Test Championship final -- for the second time in a row -- which will be held in June.

The second Test gets underway on February 17.

Ahead of the second Test versus Australia, in New Delhi, Rohit Sharma-led India have created history. India displaced Australia to become the No. 1 ranked side in ICC Test Rankings and have also become the No.

Ahead of the second Test versus Australia, in New Delhi, Rohit Sharma-led India have created history. India displaced Australia to become the No. 1 ranked side in ICC Test Rankings and have also become the No. 1 team across formats. This is the first time that the Indian cricket team has topped the rankings across formats at the same time; making Rohit the first Indian captain to achieve the feat. India have been the No. 1 ranked side in T20Is for quite some time whereas they topped the ODI rankings following a 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand in the home series, in January. After their big win in the four-match Test series opener versus Australia by an innings and 132 runs, India have now topped the Test rankings to become No. 1 in all forms of the game. In Tests, here's the top-five teams: INDIA - 115 rating points Australia - 111 rating points England - 106 rating points New Zealand - 100 rating points South Africa - 85 rating points Top-five ODI sides: INDIA - 114 rating points Australia - 112 rating points New Zealand - 111 rating points England - 111 rating points Pakistan - 106 rating points In T20Is: India - 267 rating points England - 266 rating points Pakistan - 258 rating points South Africa - 256 rating points New Zealand - 252 rating points Also Read: Thought something positive would come out: Babar Azam on his 'this too shall pass' tweet for Virat Kohli Among the players, R Ashwin jumped to the second spot in ICC Rankings for bowlers in Tests after his eight wicket haul in the Nagpur Test. The list is led by Australia captain Pat Cummins. Meanwhile, captain Rohit Sharma was rewarded for his majestic 120 in the first Test and moved from the 10th to the 8th spot in the Men's Test Batting Rankings. India will have to win the upcoming second Test versus Australia, in the national capital, to hold on to the top spot in Tests and strengthen their chances of making it to the ICC World Test Championship final -- for the second time in a row -- which will be held in June. The second Test gets underway on February 17.

MASSIVE FEAT! Rohit Sharma-led India become No. 1 across formats, dethrone Australia in Tests

Jasprit Bumrah's return is keenly awaited in Team India colours. The speedster has been out of action at the international level since September 2022, due to back issues, and missed the entire T20 World Cup 2022, Bangladesh tour, and home series versus Sri Lanka and New Zealand. He was expected to return for the ongoing India-Australia Tests, at home, for the last two matches but now it has been reported that he won't be joining the side for the red-ball series.

After the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India will host Australia in three ODIs -- on March 17, 19, and 22&nbsp;-- and as per&nbsp;news agency PTI, Bumrah won't be returning even for the 50-over series and will likely make his comeback straightaway in IPL 2023 for the Mumbai Indians (MI) where his workload will be closely monitored. Bumrah had pulled out of the India-Sri Lanka ODIs, in January,&nbsp;after the right-arm seamer felt discomfort in his back. He was drafted into the squad and even cleared the match simulation on the first day at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). He, however, complained of back issues when the load&nbsp;increased the following day. Thus, he was pulled out of the ODI squad and has not rejoined the team since then.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-bgt-rohit-sharmas-promotion-as-opener-saved-his-test-career-feels-aussie-legend-ian-chappell-561595">IND vs AUS, BGT: Rohit Sharma's promotion as opener saved his Test career, feels Aussie legend Ian Chappell</a>

Given India have a strong chance to play the ICC World Test Championship final (WTC), right after IPL 2023, and there is an Asia Cup (ODI edition) and ODI World Cup to follow suit in the second half of the year, the Indian team management isn't willing to take any chances with Bumrah.&nbsp;

&nbsp;At present, Rohit Sharma-led India is 1-0 up in the four-match Test series versus Australia after beating them by an innings and 132 runs in the series opener in Nagpur. The second Test gets underway on February 17 in New Delhi.

Jasprit Bumrah's return is keenly awaited in Team India colours. The speedster has been out of action at the international level since September 2022, due to back issues, and missed the entire T20 World Cup 2022, Bangladesh tour, and home series versus Sri Lanka and New Zealand.

Jasprit Bumrah's return is keenly awaited in Team India colours. The speedster has been out of action at the international level since September 2022, due to back issues, and missed the entire T20 World Cup 2022, Bangladesh tour, and home series versus Sri Lanka and New Zealand. He was expected to return for the ongoing India-Australia Tests, at home, for the last two matches but now it has been reported that he won't be joining the side for the red-ball series. After the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India will host Australia in three ODIs -- on March 17, 19, and 22 -- and as per news agency PTI, Bumrah won't be returning even for the 50-over series and will likely make his comeback straightaway in IPL 2023 for the Mumbai Indians (MI) where his workload will be closely monitored. Bumrah had pulled out of the India-Sri Lanka ODIs, in January, after the right-arm seamer felt discomfort in his back. He was drafted into the squad and even cleared the match simulation on the first day at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). He, however, complained of back issues when the load increased the following day. Thus, he was pulled out of the ODI squad and has not rejoined the team since then. Also Read: IND vs AUS, BGT: Rohit Sharma's promotion as opener saved his Test career, feels Aussie legend Ian Chappell Given India have a strong chance to play the ICC World Test Championship final (WTC), right after IPL 2023, and there is an Asia Cup (ODI edition) and ODI World Cup to follow suit in the second half of the year, the Indian team management isn't willing to take any chances with Bumrah. At present, Rohit Sharma-led India is 1-0 up in the four-match Test series versus Australia after beating them by an innings and 132 runs in the series opener in Nagpur. The second Test gets underway on February 17 in New Delhi.

Not only Border-Gavaskar Trophy! Jasprit Bumrah likely to miss Australia ODIs  – Report

MS Dhoni-Gary Kirsten had a memorable run as captain-coach for Team India from 2007-2011. Under them, India scaled new heights by becoming the No. 1 Test side for the first time ever, winning the CB Series in Australia in 2008, beating New Zealand in their own backyard in ODIs and Tests, drawing a Test series in South Africa and winning the 2010 Asia Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup.&nbsp;

Recently, Kirsten spilled the beans on working with Dhoni. The former South African opener recalled the time he was appointed as India's head coach in December 2007 amid the "superstar" culture in the Indian team and revealed how Dhoni was different than the lot as he focused on team goals than individual milestones.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-used-to-make-things-former-indian-spinner-on-how-ms-dhoni-helped-bowlers-from-behind-the-stumps-561569">'He used to...': Former Indian spinner on how MS Dhoni helped bowlers from behind the stumps</a>

Kirsten explained, "Any coach would want a group of players playing for the name on the front of the shirt and not the name on the back of the shirt. India is a tough place with a lot of hype around individual superstars, and you often get lost in what your own personal needs are. And Dhoni meanwhile was standout as a leader as he was so focused on the team doing well, he wanted to win trophies and have great success and he was very public about that. And that pulled a lot of other guys into line, and quite simply, Sachin started enjoying cricket as well."

"MS and I formed the most unlikely partnership of captain and coach you will ever imagine in international games, and we end up having this incredible journey together," he added.

Kirsten-Dhoni's partnership was hailed for the team environment they created together. All the players came together for one goal; i.e. winning the 2011 ODI WC on home soil and were determined to top the ICC Test Rankings, a feat they attained in late 2009. Kirsten vacated the post after India's historic ODI WC triumph and was succeeded by Duncan Fletcher.

MS Dhoni-Gary Kirsten had a memorable run as captain-coach for Team India from 2007-2011. Under them, India scaled new heights by becoming the No. 1 Test side for the first time ever, winning the CB Series in Australia in 2008, beating New Zealand in their own backyard in ODIs and Tests, drawing a Test series in South Africa and winning the 2010 Asia Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup.

MS Dhoni-Gary Kirsten had a memorable run as captain-coach for Team India from 2007-2011. Under them, India scaled new heights by becoming the No. 1 Test side for the first time ever, winning the CB Series in Australia in 2008, beating New Zealand in their own backyard in ODIs and Tests, drawing a Test series in South Africa and winning the 2010 Asia Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup. Recently, Kirsten spilled the beans on working with Dhoni. The former South African opener recalled the time he was appointed as India's head coach in December 2007 amid the "superstar" culture in the Indian team and revealed how Dhoni was different than the lot as he focused on team goals than individual milestones. Also Read: 'He used to...': Former Indian spinner on how MS Dhoni helped bowlers from behind the stumps Kirsten explained, "Any coach would want a group of players playing for the name on the front of the shirt and not the name on the back of the shirt. India is a tough place with a lot of hype around individual superstars, and you often get lost in what your own personal needs are. And Dhoni meanwhile was standout as a leader as he was so focused on the team doing well, he wanted to win trophies and have great success and he was very public about that. And that pulled a lot of other guys into line, and quite simply, Sachin started enjoying cricket as well." "MS and I formed the most unlikely partnership of captain and coach you will ever imagine in international games, and we end up having this incredible journey together," he added. Kirsten-Dhoni's partnership was hailed for the team environment they created together. All the players came together for one goal; i.e. winning the 2011 ODI WC on home soil and were determined to top the ICC Test Rankings, a feat they attained in late 2009. Kirsten vacated the post after India's historic ODI WC triumph and was succeeded by Duncan Fletcher.

'MS Dhoni was standout as...': Gary Kirsten on how former Indian captain was separate from other 'superstars'

India will be hosting Australia in the second Test, of the four-match series, which gets underway on February 17 (Friday). Cheteshwar Pujara, India's No. 3 batter, will be playing his 100th Test and become only the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club. He will become the second&nbsp;active Indian player to achieve the feat after Kohli (105 Tests).

Ahead of the second Test, in the national capital, R Ashwin lauded Pujara. He, however, pointed out --&nbsp;in his column for ESPNCricinfo -- that Pujara&nbsp;and even Murali Vijay, who recently retired from international cricket,&nbsp;are not celebrated enough.

Ashwin said, "M Vijay, according to me the greatest opener for India outside of Sunil Gavaskar and Virender Sehwag, and Puji are quite similar in that they haven't been celebrated enough. They also had some of the most hilarious arguments. They used to do the most difficult job in Test cricket - play out the new ball in testing conditions, as we tend to need to do whenever we go abroad - so it is par for the course to have a few eccentricities emerge from that kind of partnership."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-want-to-quit-cricket-ex-india-bowling-coach-recalls-shamis-words-reveals-how-shastri-motivated-him-561862">I want to quit cricket: Ex-India bowling coach recalls Shami's words, reveals how Shastri motivated him</a>

Further, the wily off-spinner Ashwin hailed Pujara's stubbornness, which has broken down the best of the attacks in the recent past. In this regard, he said, "Pat Cummins bowls good ball after good ball, changing the angles, trying a bouncer, trying a sucker ball, but all he gets from Puji is the leave or the dead defence. Actually I don't recall thinking Puji had a great defence when I first saw him, but his stubbornness is such that he has broken down the best of the attacks with his defence."

"Most batters add to their game when they are successful or cut out some elements when they are failing, but Puji keeps trusting his method. You can't convince him to change. I used to use a Tamil nickname for him with Shankar Basu, our previous trainer: Mirugam, the beast. Just like a beast focuses single-mindedly on its prey, Puji focuses on batting," he added.

Pujara has had a glittering career in the red-ball format. In 99 Tests, he has 7,021 runs at an average of 44.15 with 19 tons and 34 half-centuries. He will aim for a memorable outing on his 100th Test and take India to a 2-0 scoreline with another impressive win in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

India will be hosting Australia in the second Test, of the four-match series, which gets underway on February 17 (Friday). Cheteshwar Pujara, India's No. 3 batter, will be playing his 100th Test and become only the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club.

India will be hosting Australia in the second Test, of the four-match series, which gets underway on February 17 (Friday). Cheteshwar Pujara, India's No. 3 batter, will be playing his 100th Test and become only the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club. He will become the second active Indian player to achieve the feat after Kohli (105 Tests). Ahead of the second Test, in the national capital, R Ashwin lauded Pujara. He, however, pointed out -- in his column for ESPNCricinfo -- that Pujara and even Murali Vijay, who recently retired from international cricket, are not celebrated enough. Ashwin said, "M Vijay, according to me the greatest opener for India outside of Sunil Gavaskar and Virender Sehwag, and Puji are quite similar in that they haven't been celebrated enough. They also had some of the most hilarious arguments. They used to do the most difficult job in Test cricket - play out the new ball in testing conditions, as we tend to need to do whenever we go abroad - so it is par for the course to have a few eccentricities emerge from that kind of partnership." Also Read: I want to quit cricket: Ex-India bowling coach recalls Shami's words, reveals how Shastri motivated him Further, the wily off-spinner Ashwin hailed Pujara's stubbornness, which has broken down the best of the attacks in the recent past. In this regard, he said, "Pat Cummins bowls good ball after good ball, changing the angles, trying a bouncer, trying a sucker ball, but all he gets from Puji is the leave or the dead defence. Actually I don't recall thinking Puji had a great defence when I first saw him, but his stubbornness is such that he has broken down the best of the attacks with his defence." "Most batters add to their game when they are successful or cut out some elements when they are failing, but Puji keeps trusting his method. You can't convince him to change. I used to use a Tamil nickname for him with Shankar Basu, our previous trainer: Mirugam, the beast. Just like a beast focuses single-mindedly on its prey, Puji focuses on batting," he added. Pujara has had a glittering career in the red-ball format. In 99 Tests, he has 7,021 runs at an average of 44.15 with 19 tons and 34 half-centuries. He will aim for a memorable outing on his 100th Test and take India to a 2-0 scoreline with another impressive win in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

IND vs AUS: R Ashwin names India's star batters who are 'not celebrated enough'

Mohammed Shami remains an integral part of Team India across formats. At 32, the pacer has represented India in 61 Tests, 87 ODIs, and 23 T20Is, claiming 219, 159, and 24 scalps respectively. While he is spearheading India's pace attack in the ongoing home Test series versus Australia, there was a time in Shami's career when he was contemplating retirement. After going through a lot in his personal life in early 2018, Shami's fitness standards&nbsp;dropped and he was out of the Indian team. Just when he thought about retiring from the game, the then bowling coach Bharat Arun took him to then head coach Ravi Shastri and the former revealed how Shastri came to Shami's aid.

'I am very angry and I want to quit cricket'

Arun told Cricbuzz, "Just before the 2018 tour of England, we had a fitness test and Shami failed it. He lost his place in the Indian team. He called me and said he wanted to have a word with me. So I invited him to my room; he was going through personal turmoil. His fitness was affected, mentally he was gone. He came to me and said 'I am very angry and I want to quit cricket'. I immediately took Shami to meet Ravi Shastri. We both went up to his room and I said 'Ravi, Shami wants to say something'. Ravi asked what it was and Shami told him the same thing that 'I don't want to play cricket'. Both of us asked 'What will you do if not play cricket?' What else do you know? You know how to bowl when given the ball."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-200-per-cent-sure-he-cant-do-ishant-recalls-being-investigated-for-match-fixing-allegations-on-shami-561792">I'm 200 per cent sure he can't do: Ishant recalls being investigated for match-fixing allegations on Shami</a>

Arun added, "So Ravi said 'It's good that you're angry. This is the best thing that has happened to you because you have a ball in hand. Your fitness is poor. Whatever anger it is that you have, take it out on your body. We are going to send you to National Cricket Academy and want you to go there for 4 weeks and stay there. You will not go home, and only head to NCA. It suited Shami also because he had a problem going to Kolkata then so he spent 5 weeks at the NCA. I still remember the call he made and told me 'Sir, I have become like a stallion. Make me run as much as you want'. The 5 weeks that he spent there, he realised what working on fitness can do to him."

Not going home and working on his bowling and fitness worked wonders for Shami. He missed the one-off Test versus Afghanistan in June 2018 but returned to the Test squad for the away series in England, claiming the second-most wickets for India (17).&nbsp;

After that, there was no looking back for Shami.&nbsp;He was India's top performer in the away ODI series versus New Zealand in early 2019, took a hat-trick in the 2019 ODI World Cup, and remains&nbsp;an indispensable part of India's pace attack in red-ball format to date. He is also&nbsp;a vital part of India's plans keeping&nbsp;the WTC final and 2023 ODI World Cup in mind.&nbsp;

Mohammed Shami remains an integral part of Team India across formats. At 32, the pacer has represented India in 61 Tests, 87 ODIs, and 23 T20Is, claiming 219, 159, and 24 scalps respectively.

Mohammed Shami remains an integral part of Team India across formats. At 32, the pacer has represented India in 61 Tests, 87 ODIs, and 23 T20Is, claiming 219, 159, and 24 scalps respectively. While he is spearheading India's pace attack in the ongoing home Test series versus Australia, there was a time in Shami's career when he was contemplating retirement. After going through a lot in his personal life in early 2018, Shami's fitness standards dropped and he was out of the Indian team. Just when he thought about retiring from the game, the then bowling coach Bharat Arun took him to then head coach Ravi Shastri and the former revealed how Shastri came to Shami's aid. 'I am very angry and I want to quit cricket' Arun told Cricbuzz, "Just before the 2018 tour of England, we had a fitness test and Shami failed it. He lost his place in the Indian team. He called me and said he wanted to have a word with me. So I invited him to my room; he was going through personal turmoil. His fitness was affected, mentally he was gone. He came to me and said 'I am very angry and I want to quit cricket'. I immediately took Shami to meet Ravi Shastri. We both went up to his room and I said 'Ravi, Shami wants to say something'. Ravi asked what it was and Shami told him the same thing that 'I don't want to play cricket'. Both of us asked 'What will you do if not play cricket?' What else do you know? You know how to bowl when given the ball." Also Read: I'm 200 per cent sure he can't do: Ishant recalls being investigated for match-fixing allegations on Shami Arun added, "So Ravi said 'It's good that you're angry. This is the best thing that has happened to you because you have a ball in hand. Your fitness is poor. Whatever anger it is that you have, take it out on your body. We are going to send you to National Cricket Academy and want you to go there for 4 weeks and stay there. You will not go home, and only head to NCA. It suited Shami also because he had a problem going to Kolkata then so he spent 5 weeks at the NCA. I still remember the call he made and told me 'Sir, I have become like a stallion. Make me run as much as you want'. The 5 weeks that he spent there, he realised what working on fitness can do to him." Not going home and working on his bowling and fitness worked wonders for Shami. He missed the one-off Test versus Afghanistan in June 2018 but returned to the Test squad for the away series in England, claiming the second-most wickets for India (17). After that, there was no looking back for Shami. He was India's top performer in the away ODI series versus New Zealand in early 2019, took a hat-trick in the 2019 ODI World Cup, and remains an indispensable part of India's pace attack in red-ball format to date. He is also a vital part of India's plans keeping the WTC final and 2023 ODI World Cup in mind.

I want to quit cricket: Ex-India bowling coach recalls Shami's words, reveals how Shastri motivated him

Mohammed Shami remains one of the main bowlers for India. He is currently spearheading the pace attack in the ongoing Australia home Tests with Jasprit Bumrah not yet fully fit. Shami has been an important asset for India over the years and has continued to deliver crunch spells from time to time. In 2018, he had gone through a turbulent time on the personal front after his&nbsp;estranged wife Hasin Jahan&nbsp;levelled serious charges against him.

Shami's ex-wife had&nbsp;lodged a police complaint and accused the pacer of domestic violence and even of match-fixing; claiming that the Indian pacer&nbsp;received money from a Pakistani woman. As soon as the news spread like wildfire, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) upheld Shami's&nbsp;contract. In addition, the Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) urged the Indian board to seriously look into the matter. Later, Shami was cleared of all charges.

Recalling the whole episode where he was investigated for match-fixing allegations on Shami, Ishant Sharma said on the latest episode of 'Rise of New India' on Cricbuzz, "I had a word with him and he did share of lot on the topic. Whatever had happened, the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) had approached us all, and they had asked us whether Shami could do a match-fixing or not. Just like policemen lodge a complaint...I was asked everything and all was written down. I had told them, 'I don't know his personal things but I'm 200 per cent sure he can't do that because I know him that well." When he heard I said those words, he realised that what I think of him and our bond became stronger."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-only-border-gavaskar-trophy-jasprit-bumrah-likely-to-miss-australia-odis-report-561758">Not only Border-Gavaskar Trophy! Jasprit Bumrah likely to miss Australia ODIs – Report</a>

Later, Dinesh Karthik -- India's veteran keeper-batter -- also spoke highly of Shami and said on the show, "If I have to use one word for Shami, it will be "torture Shami." Because in my whole career, he is the toughest bowler I have faced in the nets, he has got me out a couple of times as well in the match. But he has been nasty to play in the net. I thought I was the only one, so then I asked Kohli and Rohit, and they are all legends of the game, and they all said they hate playing Shami."

Shami has moved past all the allegations levied by his estranged wife and has been a key weapon in India's success since then. He claimed a hat-trick in 2019 ODI World Cup and was part of India's memorable journey in the inaugural WTC, where they lost the final to New Zealand. He was part of the 2021 and 2022 T20 World Cup campaigns; picking six wickets in as many games in the last edition at an economy of 7.15.

At present, Shami is part of Rohit Sharma-led India's Test squad for the ongoing Australia home series. He accounted for three scalps and scored an entertaining 37 in the first Test in Nagpur. The second Test kicks off on February 17 in New Delhi.

Mohammed Shami remains one of the main bowlers for India. He is currently spearheading the pace attack in the ongoing Australia home Tests with Jasprit Bumrah not yet fully fit.

Mohammed Shami remains one of the main bowlers for India. He is currently spearheading the pace attack in the ongoing Australia home Tests with Jasprit Bumrah not yet fully fit. Shami has been an important asset for India over the years and has continued to deliver crunch spells from time to time. In 2018, he had gone through a turbulent time on the personal front after his estranged wife Hasin Jahan levelled serious charges against him. Shami's ex-wife had lodged a police complaint and accused the pacer of domestic violence and even of match-fixing; claiming that the Indian pacer received money from a Pakistani woman. As soon as the news spread like wildfire, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) upheld Shami's contract. In addition, the Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) urged the Indian board to seriously look into the matter. Later, Shami was cleared of all charges. Recalling the whole episode where he was investigated for match-fixing allegations on Shami, Ishant Sharma said on the latest episode of 'Rise of New India' on Cricbuzz, "I had a word with him and he did share of lot on the topic. Whatever had happened, the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) had approached us all, and they had asked us whether Shami could do a match-fixing or not. Just like policemen lodge a complaint...I was asked everything and all was written down. I had told them, 'I don't know his personal things but I'm 200 per cent sure he can't do that because I know him that well." When he heard I said those words, he realised that what I think of him and our bond became stronger." Also Read: Not only Border-Gavaskar Trophy! Jasprit Bumrah likely to miss Australia ODIs – Report Later, Dinesh Karthik -- India's veteran keeper-batter -- also spoke highly of Shami and said on the show, "If I have to use one word for Shami, it will be "torture Shami." Because in my whole career, he is the toughest bowler I have faced in the nets, he has got me out a couple of times as well in the match. But he has been nasty to play in the net. I thought I was the only one, so then I asked Kohli and Rohit, and they are all legends of the game, and they all said they hate playing Shami." Shami has moved past all the allegations levied by his estranged wife and has been a key weapon in India's success since then. He claimed a hat-trick in 2019 ODI World Cup and was part of India's memorable journey in the inaugural WTC, where they lost the final to New Zealand. He was part of the 2021 and 2022 T20 World Cup campaigns; picking six wickets in as many games in the last edition at an economy of 7.15. At present, Shami is part of Rohit Sharma-led India's Test squad for the ongoing Australia home series. He accounted for three scalps and scored an entertaining 37 in the first Test in Nagpur. The second Test kicks off on February 17 in New Delhi.

I'm 200 per cent sure he can't do: Ishant recalls being investigated for match-fixing allegations on Shami

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. The former Indian captain had an illustrious career at the international level, amassing 17,266 runs, scoring 16 tons, claiming 634 catches and 195 stumpings, hitting 359 sixes along with leading India to all three major ICC titles during his captaincy tenure. While the wicketkeeper-batter was known for his calmness, captaincy, keeping and power-hitting skills, he was also known to be an asset behind the stumps; helping bowlers plot the downfall of opposition batters.&nbsp;

In this regard, former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha hailed Dhoni and revealed how he made life easier for the bowlers.&nbsp;"I think he used to make things very simple. If you see all the spinners who have played along with him or under him, they used to enjoy his advice. He used to make things very easy for us. As a bowler, you have to think about your own bowling, felding, you have to think about the batsman, you have to think about the conditions," he&nbsp;told&nbsp;Hindustan Times&nbsp;in an interview.

"But he was one who used to take one part out of your system, like the field placement or maybe how the wicket is behaving. These are the things which he would help you out with. That is the reason why it was less of a burden on a bowler, and that is what I enjoyed," Ojha asserted.

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The 36-year-old Ojha, who represented India in 24 Tests, 18 ODIs, and six T20Is, also revealed that Dhoni's best quality was that he used to ensure that his teammates were not under any pressure.&nbsp; "I think the best part was the way he used to make sure that the pressure doesn't come to us. That is something that really helped me. That is something I make sure that when a young person is playing, I make sure the pressure doesn't mount on him. That is something that really helps you", Ojha added.

Dhoni will next be seen in action in IPL 2023, where he will once again lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). It is expected to be his last season in the cash-rich league and will be desperate to guide his side to their fifth title.&nbsp;

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. The former Indian captain had an illustrious career at the international level, amassing 17,266 runs, scoring 16 tons, claiming 634 catches and 195 stumpings, hitting 359 sixes along with leading India to all three major ICC titles during his captaincy tenure.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. The former Indian captain had an illustrious career at the international level, amassing 17,266 runs, scoring 16 tons, claiming 634 catches and 195 stumpings, hitting 359 sixes along with leading India to all three major ICC titles during his captaincy tenure. While the wicketkeeper-batter was known for his calmness, captaincy, keeping and power-hitting skills, he was also known to be an asset behind the stumps; helping bowlers plot the downfall of opposition batters. In this regard, former Indian spinner Pragyan Ojha hailed Dhoni and revealed how he made life easier for the bowlers. "I think he used to make things very simple. If you see all the spinners who have played along with him or under him, they used to enjoy his advice. He used to make things very easy for us. As a bowler, you have to think about your own bowling, felding, you have to think about the batsman, you have to think about the conditions," he told Hindustan Times in an interview. "But he was one who used to take one part out of your system, like the field placement or maybe how the wicket is behaving. These are the things which he would help you out with. That is the reason why it was less of a burden on a bowler, and that is what I enjoyed," Ojha asserted. Also Read: WPL Auction: Team India captain Harmanpreet Kaur joins Mumbai Indians for INR 1.8 crores The 36-year-old Ojha, who represented India in 24 Tests, 18 ODIs, and six T20Is, also revealed that Dhoni's best quality was that he used to ensure that his teammates were not under any pressure. "I think the best part was the way he used to make sure that the pressure doesn't come to us. That is something that really helped me. That is something I make sure that when a young person is playing, I make sure the pressure doesn't mount on him. That is something that really helps you", Ojha added. Dhoni will next be seen in action in IPL 2023, where he will once again lead the Chennai Super Kings (CSK). It is expected to be his last season in the cash-rich league and will be desperate to guide his side to their fifth title.

'He used to...': Former Indian spinner on how MS Dhoni helped bowlers from behind the stumps

India had another memorable day in the first Test versus Australia, in Nagpur. After commencing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023 edition in style by folding Pat Cummins &amp; Co. for 177 on Day 1, on Thursday (February 09), Rohit Sharma-led India rode on skipper's 120, Ravindra Jadeja's 66 not out and Axar Patel's 52* to reach 321 for 7; leading by 144 runs.

Rohit resumed the day's play at 56 and went on to slam a sublime 212-ball 120, laced with 15 fours and two sixes. He showed grit, determination and class during his knock but could have&nbsp;missed out on reaching his ninth Test hundred when he had a terrible mix-up with his predecessor Virat Kohli for the fourth-wicket stand. The incident took place during the 48th over, bowled by Nathan Lyon.

Kohli nudged a delivery to mid-wicket and began to run before realising there is no run on offer. By then, Rohit had come halfway down when he turned and dived to save himself. Hitman was lucky that the throw wasn't a direct hit otherwise he would've made the long walk back to the pavillion. As Rohit survived, Kohli apologised to him to which the Indian captain had a heartfelt reaction. Here's the video:&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-virat-kohli-gets-dismissed-for-cheap-after-lunch-break-on-day-2-of-1st-test-watch-560594">IND vs AUS: Virat Kohli gets dismissed for cheap after lunch break on Day 2 of 1st Test - Watch</a>

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Kohli-Rohit only added 16 runs for the fourth wicket before the former Indian captain departed for 12. He was caught behind off debutant Todd Murphy, on a delivery which kept low and was on the legside, but Rohit carried on and became the first Indian skipper to score a hundred in all formats of the game; fourth overall.&nbsp;

Courtesy of Rohit's ton and fifties from all-rounders Jadeja and Axar, India are in a strong position in the first Test in Nagpur. They will look to dictate terms on Day 3 by stretching the lead beyond the 200-run mark and go for the kill versus the Aussies on a tricky surface.

India had another memorable day in the first Test versus Australia, in Nagpur. After commencing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023 edition in style by folding Pat Cummins & Co.

India had another memorable day in the first Test versus Australia, in Nagpur. After commencing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023 edition in style by folding Pat Cummins & Co. for 177 on Day 1, on Thursday (February 09), Rohit Sharma-led India rode on skipper's 120, Ravindra Jadeja's 66 not out and Axar Patel's 52* to reach 321 for 7; leading by 144 runs. Rohit resumed the day's play at 56 and went on to slam a sublime 212-ball 120, laced with 15 fours and two sixes. He showed grit, determination and class during his knock but could have missed out on reaching his ninth Test hundred when he had a terrible mix-up with his predecessor Virat Kohli for the fourth-wicket stand. The incident took place during the 48th over, bowled by Nathan Lyon. Kohli nudged a delivery to mid-wicket and began to run before realising there is no run on offer. By then, Rohit had come halfway down when he turned and dived to save himself. Hitman was lucky that the throw wasn't a direct hit otherwise he would've made the long walk back to the pavillion. As Rohit survived, Kohli apologised to him to which the Indian captain had a heartfelt reaction. Here's the video: Also Read: IND vs AUS: Virat Kohli gets dismissed for cheap after lunch break on Day 2 of 1st Test - Watch pic.twitter.com/Kw0jMSDg6A — Nitin Varshney (@NitinVa15588475) February 10, 2023 × Kohli-Rohit only added 16 runs for the fourth wicket before the former Indian captain departed for 12. He was caught behind off debutant Todd Murphy, on a delivery which kept low and was on the legside, but Rohit carried on and became the first Indian skipper to score a hundred in all formats of the game; fourth overall. Courtesy of Rohit's ton and fifties from all-rounders Jadeja and Axar, India are in a strong position in the first Test in Nagpur. They will look to dictate terms on Day 3 by stretching the lead beyond the 200-run mark and go for the kill versus the Aussies on a tricky surface.

1st Test: Virat Kohli apologises to Rohit Sharma after terrible mix-up almost ends Hitman's inning - watch

India had a flawless start to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy by dominating Day 1 of the Nagpur Test on Thursday (February 09). Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. dismissed Pat Cummins-led Australia for a paltry 177 riding on Ravindra Jadeja's five-fer before the hosts went to stumps at 77 for 1, with captain Rohit unbeaten on fifty-plus.

Rohit and KL Rahul stitched an impressive 76-run opening stand but the latter was dismissed for 20 off debutant Todd Murphy as India lost a wicket before end of day's play. With Rahul failing to touch the 50-run mark in his last eight innings, many were left disappointed with his departure as he missed another opportunity to get a big score.&nbsp;

Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh feels Rahul should've adopted a more aggressive approach. Speaking on his official Youtube channel, Bhajji said, "KL Rahul would be disappointed as he was taking more time. I believe if he could have kept an attacking approach then he could have scored more. I hope in the second innings if he gets the chance to bat, he will score some runs for his own confidence."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-test-team-india-clear-the-air-inform-match-referee-ravindra-jadeja-used-pain-relief-cream-on-finger-560499">1st Test: Team India clear the air, inform match referee Ravindra Jadeja used pain-relief cream on finger</a>

Commenting on the match, Harbhajan stated, "I am hoping that India scores 300-350 on this pitch. Captain Rohit Sharma started a great inning (and) is not out with more than 50 runs. If he plays the entire first session then there will be expectations for a century."

"If India scores anywhere near 350 then I doubt Australia will be able to score more than 200 in the second innings. The more you bowl on this pitch, the more it will spin. If it spins then Australia will surrender against India's three spinners," he asserted.

At present, the match is interestingly poised. Australia have chipped in with regular wickets on Day 2, on Friday (February 10), to not let India run away with the game. Rohit's century has taken India to the lead but they have only five wickets in hand. Hence, he needs to bat for long to ensure his side a healthy lead in the contest.

India had a flawless start to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy by dominating Day 1 of the Nagpur Test on Thursday (February 09). Rohit Sharma & Co. dismissed Pat Cummins-led Australia for a paltry 177 riding on Ravindra Jadeja's five-fer before the hosts went to stumps at 77 for 1, with captain Rohit unbeaten on fifty-plus.

India had a flawless start to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy by dominating Day 1 of the Nagpur Test on Thursday (February 09). Rohit Sharma & Co. dismissed Pat Cummins-led Australia for a paltry 177 riding on Ravindra Jadeja's five-fer before the hosts went to stumps at 77 for 1, with captain Rohit unbeaten on fifty-plus. Rohit and KL Rahul stitched an impressive 76-run opening stand but the latter was dismissed for 20 off debutant Todd Murphy as India lost a wicket before end of day's play. With Rahul failing to touch the 50-run mark in his last eight innings, many were left disappointed with his departure as he missed another opportunity to get a big score. Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh feels Rahul should've adopted a more aggressive approach. Speaking on his official Youtube channel, Bhajji said, "KL Rahul would be disappointed as he was taking more time. I believe if he could have kept an attacking approach then he could have scored more. I hope in the second innings if he gets the chance to bat, he will score some runs for his own confidence." Also Read: 1st Test: Team India clear the air, inform match referee Ravindra Jadeja used pain-relief cream on finger Commenting on the match, Harbhajan stated, "I am hoping that India scores 300-350 on this pitch. Captain Rohit Sharma started a great inning (and) is not out with more than 50 runs. If he plays the entire first session then there will be expectations for a century." "If India scores anywhere near 350 then I doubt Australia will be able to score more than 200 in the second innings. The more you bowl on this pitch, the more it will spin. If it spins then Australia will surrender against India's three spinners," he asserted. At present, the match is interestingly poised. Australia have chipped in with regular wickets on Day 2, on Friday (February 10), to not let India run away with the game. Rohit's century has taken India to the lead but they have only five wickets in hand. Hence, he needs to bat for long to ensure his side a healthy lead in the contest.

'KL Rahul could've scored more runs with...': Harbhajan on Indian opener's failure on Day 1 of Nagpur Test

Team India dominated Day 1 of the Nagpur Test versus Australia on Thursday (February 09). After losing the toss, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. dominated proceedings as Australia were reduced to 2 for 2 and dismissed for 177 thanks to comeback man Ravindra Jadeja's 5 for 46 and R Ashwin's 3 for 42. In reply, India ended the day's play in a strong position; at 77 for 1 with captain Rohit unbeaten on fifty-plus.

While Jadeja made all the right noise on the opening day, the Indian team management had to go to the match referee to clear the air that the all-rounder was applying pain-relief cream to the index finger of his bowling hand after a video went viral on social media.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-bowling-10-12-hours-ravindra-jadeja-on-his-magnificent-comeback-to-test-cricket-560360">'Was bowling 10-12 hours': Ravindra Jadeja on his magnificent comeback to Test cricket</a>

In the video that went viral, Jadeja was seen taking a substance off the back of Mohammed Siraj's palm with his right hand. He then&nbsp;rubbed this substance onto the index finger of his left hand - i.e. his bowling arm - before he got ready to bowl. It is to be noted that at no point&nbsp;was Jadeja seen rubbing anything on the red cherry despite having it in his hands at the time.

After the end of Day 1,&nbsp;Jadeja along with India captain Rohit Sharma and the team manager was made aware of the video clip. Match referee Andy&nbsp;Pycroft just wanted to just inform them about the incident and no charges were laid against Jadeja.

Team India dominated Day 1 of the Nagpur Test versus Australia on Thursday (February 09). After losing the toss, Rohit Sharma & Co. dominated proceedings as Australia were reduced to 2 for 2 and dismissed for 177 thanks to comeback man Ravindra Jadeja's 5 for 46 and R Ashwin's 3 for 42.

Team India dominated Day 1 of the Nagpur Test versus Australia on Thursday (February 09). After losing the toss, Rohit Sharma & Co. dominated proceedings as Australia were reduced to 2 for 2 and dismissed for 177 thanks to comeback man Ravindra Jadeja's 5 for 46 and R Ashwin's 3 for 42. In reply, India ended the day's play in a strong position; at 77 for 1 with captain Rohit unbeaten on fifty-plus. While Jadeja made all the right noise on the opening day, the Indian team management had to go to the match referee to clear the air that the all-rounder was applying pain-relief cream to the index finger of his bowling hand after a video went viral on social media. Also Read: 'Was bowling 10-12 hours': Ravindra Jadeja on his magnificent comeback to Test cricket In the video that went viral, Jadeja was seen taking a substance off the back of Mohammed Siraj's palm with his right hand. He then rubbed this substance onto the index finger of his left hand - i.e. his bowling arm - before he got ready to bowl. It is to be noted that at no point was Jadeja seen rubbing anything on the red cherry despite having it in his hands at the time. After the end of Day 1, Jadeja along with India captain Rohit Sharma and the team manager was made aware of the video clip. Match referee Andy Pycroft just wanted to just inform them about the incident and no charges were laid against Jadeja.

1st Test: Team India clear the air, inform match referee Ravindra Jadeja used pain-relief cream on finger

India had a perfect start to the opening day of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy edition on Thursday (February 09). Being asked to bowl first in the first Test, in Nagpur, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. were off to a flier versus Pat Cummins-led Australia, reducing them to 2 for 2, and soon dismissed them for 177 with Ravindra Jadeja (5 for 47) and R Ashwin (3 for 42) shining with the ball.

In reply, India started off on a strong note with the bat with captain Rohit leading the charge whereas his deputy and opening partner KL Rahul played cautiously. The duo had stitched an impressive 76-run-opening stand and looked set to close the day's play with their stand being unbroken. However, Rahul was once again dismissed for cheap -- after a dismal run in the Bangladesh Tests in December 2022 -- with a soft dismissal leading to his long walk back to the pavillion.&nbsp;

Rahul gave a simple catch to debutant spinner Todd Murphy to give Australia their first breakthrough. After his dismissal, Rohit was dejected and reacted strongly. Here's the video:

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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-r-ashwin-creates-history-becomes-second-indian-bowler-to-claim-450-test-scalps-560305">IND vs AUS: R Ashwin creates history, becomes second Indian bowler to claim 450 Test scalps</a>

While only few deliveries were left for Day 1 to end, Rohit-led India would've been much more content with their opening pair battling the final moments. However, Rahul's departure led to Ashwin being promoted, as a nightwatchman, to negate the final over of the day.&nbsp;

Rohit-Ashwin batted the final six balls with ease and ended day's play with India in a strong position; being 77 for 1 and trailing Australia's 177 by only 100 runs. With nine wickets in hand, the home side will look to bat for long and take a sizeable lead to dictate terms in the match.

India had a perfect start to the opening day of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy edition on Thursday (February 09). Being asked to bowl first in the first Test, in Nagpur, Rohit Sharma & Co.

India had a perfect start to the opening day of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy edition on Thursday (February 09). Being asked to bowl first in the first Test, in Nagpur, Rohit Sharma & Co. were off to a flier versus Pat Cummins-led Australia, reducing them to 2 for 2, and soon dismissed them for 177 with Ravindra Jadeja (5 for 47) and R Ashwin (3 for 42) shining with the ball. In reply, India started off on a strong note with the bat with captain Rohit leading the charge whereas his deputy and opening partner KL Rahul played cautiously. The duo had stitched an impressive 76-run-opening stand and looked set to close the day's play with their stand being unbroken. However, Rahul was once again dismissed for cheap -- after a dismal run in the Bangladesh Tests in December 2022 -- with a soft dismissal leading to his long walk back to the pavillion. Rahul gave a simple catch to debutant spinner Todd Murphy to give Australia their first breakthrough. After his dismissal, Rohit was dejected and reacted strongly. Here's the video: pic.twitter.com/prgOrmh276 — Anna 24GhanteChaukanna (@Anna24GhanteCh2) February 9, 2023 × Also Read: IND vs AUS: R Ashwin creates history, becomes second Indian bowler to claim 450 Test scalps While only few deliveries were left for Day 1 to end, Rohit-led India would've been much more content with their opening pair battling the final moments. However, Rahul's departure led to Ashwin being promoted, as a nightwatchman, to negate the final over of the day. Rohit-Ashwin batted the final six balls with ease and ended day's play with India in a strong position; being 77 for 1 and trailing Australia's 177 by only 100 runs. With nine wickets in hand, the home side will look to bat for long and take a sizeable lead to dictate terms in the match.

WATCH: Rohit Sharma reacts after KL Rahul gets dismissed before stumps on Day 1 of Nagpur Test

Ravi Shastri had a stellar run as Team India's head coach. Under him, India scaled new heights, especially in Test cricket, and even reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup. Before he was appointed as the full-time head coach, in mid-2017, Shastri also served as India's team manager (coming into the scene during India's pathetic Test series loss to hosts England) in 2014.

During the 2015 ODI World Cup, Shastri -- along with bowling and fielding coaches Bharat Arun and R Sridhar, respectively -- had joined then coach Duncan Fletcher in the support staff. Back then, Shastri and Sridhar didn't get off to a bright start. Sridhar was the newest in the coaching staff in 2015 when he was slammed by the former Indian all-rounder for not accepting his idea.

In his book 'Coaching Beyond: My Days with the Indian Cricket Team', Sridhar narrated the whole episode, “Ahead of the World Cup, Ravi decided that the players would speak at the team meetings. That at every meeting, the batters would speak of their game plans, how they would approach different situations, what their plans are for each bowler in the opposition. After that, all-rounders Ashwin and Jadeja would hold forth, and at the end, the fast bowlers would express their thoughts. It was a very good system, I felt, because ultimately it was the players who had to perform out in the middle,”&nbsp;he said.

Sridhar revealed, “We had a similar exercise the day before the game against South Africa at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. That evening, I was at my old friend Noel Carr's place in Melbourne for dinner when I got a call from Arun, asking for my views on this new introduction. I knew I could speak freely to Arun, so I told him, 'It's a great concept, but we should be careful how often we do it. It's a golden goose, we should not kill it. If we do this before every game, its effectiveness will diminish. I feel it's better if we have such sessions before key matches."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-two-are-most-senior-cricketers-so-r-sridhar-recalls-how-ravi-shastri-handled-kohli-vs-rohit-saga-558792">'You two are most senior cricketers so...': R Sridhar recalls how Ravi Shastri handled Kohli vs Rohit saga</a>

The ex-fielding coach added how Shastri was on the call and blasted him.&nbsp;"I didn't know, of course, that I was on speaker phone, that Ravi was listening in. I was fairly new to international cricket, and Ravi and I didn't really know each other all that well. Apparently, he wasn't very amused by what he heard. 'Baadi,' he thundered, referring to Arun by his nickname, 'I told you these young coaches have no idea what I am doing. I had told you at the very beginning not to recommend such novice coaches. I was rattled. I knew there was merit in what I had told Arun, but I was unnerved by Ravi's reaction and didn't sleep very well that night."

Nonetheless, it all&nbsp;ended well with India hammering South Africa the next day with the fielders doing a fabulous job and, thus, Shastri lauded Sridhar.&nbsp;He added, “The next day, we turned in a brilliant performance in the field, we out-fielded South Africa for the first time. David Miller was run out, AB de Villiers was run out, thanks to great efforts by the fast bowlers, and we took all our catches. Ravi turned to me in the dressing room and said, 'Sri, great job. The way you have worked on the fielders is awesome. I was mighty relieved. He had completely shed his ire of the previous night. And although he had been angry at the time, he did take my suggestion on board. Only when he felt each one had to know the others' game plan before a big game did he have inclusive, extended meetings thereafter."

The MS Dhoni-led Indian team didn't have a great run coming into the CWC'15 but went on to win all their group-stage encounters to storm into the semi-finals. In the semis, the then defending champions India bowed out with eventual winners Australia beating them by 95 runs.

Ravi Shastri had a stellar run as Team India's head coach. Under him, India scaled new heights, especially in Test cricket, and even reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup.

Ravi Shastri had a stellar run as Team India's head coach. Under him, India scaled new heights, especially in Test cricket, and even reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup. Before he was appointed as the full-time head coach, in mid-2017, Shastri also served as India's team manager (coming into the scene during India's pathetic Test series loss to hosts England) in 2014. During the 2015 ODI World Cup, Shastri -- along with bowling and fielding coaches Bharat Arun and R Sridhar, respectively -- had joined then coach Duncan Fletcher in the support staff. Back then, Shastri and Sridhar didn't get off to a bright start. Sridhar was the newest in the coaching staff in 2015 when he was slammed by the former Indian all-rounder for not accepting his idea. In his book 'Coaching Beyond: My Days with the Indian Cricket Team', Sridhar narrated the whole episode, “Ahead of the World Cup, Ravi decided that the players would speak at the team meetings. That at every meeting, the batters would speak of their game plans, how they would approach different situations, what their plans are for each bowler in the opposition. After that, all-rounders Ashwin and Jadeja would hold forth, and at the end, the fast bowlers would express their thoughts. It was a very good system, I felt, because ultimately it was the players who had to perform out in the middle,” he said. Sridhar revealed, “We had a similar exercise the day before the game against South Africa at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. That evening, I was at my old friend Noel Carr's place in Melbourne for dinner when I got a call from Arun, asking for my views on this new introduction. I knew I could speak freely to Arun, so I told him, 'It's a great concept, but we should be careful how often we do it. It's a golden goose, we should not kill it. If we do this before every game, its effectiveness will diminish. I feel it's better if we have such sessions before key matches." Also Read: 'You two are most senior cricketers so...': R Sridhar recalls how Ravi Shastri handled Kohli vs Rohit saga The ex-fielding coach added how Shastri was on the call and blasted him. "I didn't know, of course, that I was on speaker phone, that Ravi was listening in. I was fairly new to international cricket, and Ravi and I didn't really know each other all that well. Apparently, he wasn't very amused by what he heard. 'Baadi,' he thundered, referring to Arun by his nickname, 'I told you these young coaches have no idea what I am doing. I had told you at the very beginning not to recommend such novice coaches. I was rattled. I knew there was merit in what I had told Arun, but I was unnerved by Ravi's reaction and didn't sleep very well that night." Nonetheless, it all ended well with India hammering South Africa the next day with the fielders doing a fabulous job and, thus, Shastri lauded Sridhar. He added, “The next day, we turned in a brilliant performance in the field, we out-fielded South Africa for the first time. David Miller was run out, AB de Villiers was run out, thanks to great efforts by the fast bowlers, and we took all our catches. Ravi turned to me in the dressing room and said, 'Sri, great job. The way you have worked on the fielders is awesome. I was mighty relieved. He had completely shed his ire of the previous night. And although he had been angry at the time, he did take my suggestion on board. Only when he felt each one had to know the others' game plan before a big game did he have inclusive, extended meetings thereafter." The MS Dhoni-led Indian team didn't have a great run coming into the CWC'15 but went on to win all their group-stage encounters to storm into the semi-finals. In the semis, the then defending champions India bowed out with eventual winners Australia beating them by 95 runs.

'I told you not to recommend such...': R Sridhar recalls how Ravi Shastri blasted him during CWC'15

Pakistani cricketers never shy away from expressing their views on various aspects of the modern-day game. Often, many of them pass a glaring remark which hits the headlines. In a recent interview, Pakistan veteran pacer Sohail Khan made heads turn with many of his claims, particularly on Virat Kohli and young Indian speedster Umran Malik.

Sohail opened up on his heated exchange with Kohli during India-Pakistan 2015 ODI World Cup face-off and also commented on Umran. Speaking on the 23-year-old, Sohail praised him but said Pakistan's domestic setup is filled with bowlers like him. "I feel this Umran Malik guy is a good bowler. I’ve seen 1-2 matches. He runs fast and has kept other things in check as well. But if you think of fast bowlers with speed in excess of over 150-155 kph, I can count 12-15 players right now who play tape-ball cricket. If you go visit the trails organised by Lahore Qalandars, you’ll find many players," Sohail said on The Nadir Ali podcast.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-is-technically-better-than-virat-kohli-pakistan-pacer-makes-big-claim-558751">Rohit Sharma is technically better than Virat Kohli: Pakistan pacer makes BIG claim</a>

"Iske (Umran Malik) jaise toh bohot hain. Domestic cricket bhari padi hai hamaari. (Our domestic setup is filled with bowlers like Umran Malik).&nbsp;When a bowler comes through in our domestic level, he becomes a bonafide bowler. Like Shaheen, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf… these are bowlers who know their stuff. I can give you plenty of names," Sohail added.

<section>Umran made a mark in IPL 2022, returning with 22 scalps -- fourth-most overall -- and has played eight ODIs and T20Is each so far. He missed out on being part of India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad but has been in Men in Blue's white-ball scheme of things since then.</section>

Pakistani cricketers never shy away from expressing their views on various aspects of the modern-day game. Often, many of them pass a glaring remark which hits the headlines.

Pakistani cricketers never shy away from expressing their views on various aspects of the modern-day game. Often, many of them pass a glaring remark which hits the headlines. In a recent interview, Pakistan veteran pacer Sohail Khan made heads turn with many of his claims, particularly on Virat Kohli and young Indian speedster Umran Malik. Sohail opened up on his heated exchange with Kohli during India-Pakistan 2015 ODI World Cup face-off and also commented on Umran. Speaking on the 23-year-old, Sohail praised him but said Pakistan's domestic setup is filled with bowlers like him. "I feel this Umran Malik guy is a good bowler. I’ve seen 1-2 matches. He runs fast and has kept other things in check as well. But if you think of fast bowlers with speed in excess of over 150-155 kph, I can count 12-15 players right now who play tape-ball cricket. If you go visit the trails organised by Lahore Qalandars, you’ll find many players," Sohail said on The Nadir Ali podcast. Also Read: Rohit Sharma is technically better than Virat Kohli: Pakistan pacer makes BIG claim "Iske (Umran Malik) jaise toh bohot hain. Domestic cricket bhari padi hai hamaari. (Our domestic setup is filled with bowlers like Umran Malik). When a bowler comes through in our domestic level, he becomes a bonafide bowler. Like Shaheen, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf… these are bowlers who know their stuff. I can give you plenty of names," Sohail added. Umran made a mark in IPL 2022, returning with 22 scalps -- fourth-most overall -- and has played eight ODIs and T20Is each so far. He missed out on being part of India's T20 World Cup 2022 squad but has been in Men in Blue's white-ball scheme of things since then.

Our domestic setup is filled with bowlers like Umran Malik, says Pakistan pacer Sohail Khan

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are in the twilight of their respective careers. Over the years, the two superstars of Indian cricket have entertained fans. Their camaraderie have been cherished by their fans but a lot was said and written about their alleged rift after the 2019 ODI World Cup.&nbsp;

While many brushed aside all these rumours, India's former fielding coach R Sridhar -- who was part of India's support staff during Kohli vs Rohit saga -- opened up regarding this and made a big revelation. Sridhar confirmed that things did go down between the two, due to a lot of bad press and things written on social media, but recalled how then head coach Ravi Shastri addressed the matter and put an end to Rohit-Kohli's strained relation before it reached a crescendo.&nbsp;

"After the 2019 World Cup, there was a lot of bad press about what allegedly happened in the dressing room during our campaign and following our loss to New Zealand in the semifinal. We were informed that there was a Rohit camp and a Virat camp, that someone had unfollowed another on social media – stuff that could be unsettling if you allowed it to fester," Sridhar wrote in 'Coaching Beyond'.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-is-technically-better-than-virat-kohli-pakistan-pacer-makes-big-claim-558751">Rohit Sharma is technically better than Virat Kohli: Pakistan pacer makes BIG claim</a>

"We landed in the United States (US) some 10 days after the World Cup for a T20 series against West Indies in Lauderhill. One of the first things Ravi did on arrival was to call Virat and Rohit to his room and impress upon them that for Indian cricket to be healthy, they needed to be on the same page. 'Whatever happened on social media, that's all fine, but you two are the most senior cricketers so this must stop,' Ravi said in his typical non-nonsense manner. 'I want you to put all this behind and get together for us to move forward'".

"You could see that things started to get better after that. Ravi's action was swift, simple and decisive. It was just getting both the guys together, sitting them down and making them talk. Ravi didn't waste any time in doing so. That he felt encouraged to call the white-ball captain and his deputy to clearly state his mind is indicative of the kind of atmosphere we had facilitated. That Virat and Rohit saw reason in Ravi's stance and immediately got down to business was the ultimate tribute to our culture 'one for all, all for one, but team above all'," added Sridhar.

Following the 2019 World Cup, India ended their tour of West Indies without losing a single game and were at their dominant best at home, versus South Africa and Bangladesh. Kohli-Rohit-starrer India whitewashed hosts New Zealand in a five-match T20I series in early 2020 before Covid-19 pandemic struck. After cricket resumed post a long break due to the virus, India reached the inaugural WTC final in 2021. Later that year, Kohli made way for Rohit as the T20I captain before the latter succeeded him to eventually become India's full-time captain in early 2022.

At present, both Kohli and Rohit are gearing up for India's home Test series opener versus Australia, in Nagpur, on February 09.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are in the twilight of their respective careers. Over the years, the two superstars of Indian cricket have entertained fans. Their camaraderie have been cherished by their fans but a lot was said and written about their alleged rift after the 2019 ODI World Cup.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are in the twilight of their respective careers. Over the years, the two superstars of Indian cricket have entertained fans. Their camaraderie have been cherished by their fans but a lot was said and written about their alleged rift after the 2019 ODI World Cup. While many brushed aside all these rumours, India's former fielding coach R Sridhar -- who was part of India's support staff during Kohli vs Rohit saga -- opened up regarding this and made a big revelation. Sridhar confirmed that things did go down between the two, due to a lot of bad press and things written on social media, but recalled how then head coach Ravi Shastri addressed the matter and put an end to Rohit-Kohli's strained relation before it reached a crescendo. "After the 2019 World Cup, there was a lot of bad press about what allegedly happened in the dressing room during our campaign and following our loss to New Zealand in the semifinal. We were informed that there was a Rohit camp and a Virat camp, that someone had unfollowed another on social media – stuff that could be unsettling if you allowed it to fester," Sridhar wrote in 'Coaching Beyond'. Also Read: Rohit Sharma is technically better than Virat Kohli: Pakistan pacer makes BIG claim "We landed in the United States (US) some 10 days after the World Cup for a T20 series against West Indies in Lauderhill. One of the first things Ravi did on arrival was to call Virat and Rohit to his room and impress upon them that for Indian cricket to be healthy, they needed to be on the same page. 'Whatever happened on social media, that's all fine, but you two are the most senior cricketers so this must stop,' Ravi said in his typical non-nonsense manner. 'I want you to put all this behind and get together for us to move forward'". "You could see that things started to get better after that. Ravi's action was swift, simple and decisive. It was just getting both the guys together, sitting them down and making them talk. Ravi didn't waste any time in doing so. That he felt encouraged to call the white-ball captain and his deputy to clearly state his mind is indicative of the kind of atmosphere we had facilitated. That Virat and Rohit saw reason in Ravi's stance and immediately got down to business was the ultimate tribute to our culture 'one for all, all for one, but team above all'," added Sridhar. Following the 2019 World Cup, India ended their tour of West Indies without losing a single game and were at their dominant best at home, versus South Africa and Bangladesh. Kohli-Rohit-starrer India whitewashed hosts New Zealand in a five-match T20I series in early 2020 before Covid-19 pandemic struck. After cricket resumed post a long break due to the virus, India reached the inaugural WTC final in 2021. Later that year, Kohli made way for Rohit as the T20I captain before the latter succeeded him to eventually become India's full-time captain in early 2022. At present, both Kohli and Rohit are gearing up for India's home Test series opener versus Australia, in Nagpur, on February 09.

'You two are most senior cricketers so...': R Sridhar recalls how Ravi Shastri handled Kohli vs Rohit saga

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain the batting superstars of India. Being in the twilight of their respective careers, Kohli and Rohit have entertained Indian cricket fans over the years and are aiming to bring glory to the country in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle and this year's ODI World Cup on home soil.

Over the years, comparisons have always taken place between Rohit and Kohli. While it is a never-ending debate, one that will not have a&nbsp;clear winner, Pakistan pacer Sohail Khan joined the bandwagon and picked his choice between the two superstars. Sohail feels 'Rohit is technically better than Kohli'.

Speaking on a show, Sohail said, "Virat Kohli is a great batter, but Rohit Sharma is even better than Kohli. Rohit is technically better, he plays late and has a lot of time. Rohit ruled world cricket for 10-12 years."

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"Virat Kohli is a great batter, but Rohit Sharma is even better than Kohli. Rohit is technically better, he plays late and has a lot of time. Rohit ruled world cricket for 10-12 years," Pakistan bowler Sohail Khan.
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rohit-sharma-but-virat-kohli-may-play-2024-t20-world-cup-predicts-former-indian-opener-558549">Not Rohit Sharma but Virat Kohli may play 2024 T20 World Cup, predicts former Indian opener</a>

Sohail also opened up on his heated exchange with Kohli when India and Pakistan squared off in the 2015 ODI World Cup (eventually won by India).&nbsp;Sohail recalled the whole episode on the Nadir Ali Podcast. He revealed what Kohli told him when he came out to bat.&nbsp;"Aap cricket mein abhi aaye hain. And itni baatein karte ho (You've just arrived and you speak so much)." To this, Sohail said, "I was a Test cricketer back then. I had played Test matches in 2006-07. Then in between, I endured a troubled knee which forced me out of action. I said 'Beta jab tu Under-19 khel raha tha na, tera baap Test cricketer tha' (Son, when you were playing Under-19 for India, your father [referring to himself] was a Test player). That's how I said it."

Sohail recalled that then captains MS Dhoni and Misbah-ul-Haq had to intervene as the situation went out of hand and both were separated from each other. Sohail last played for Pakistan in 2017 whereas Kohli is gearing up for Rohit-led India's Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener versus Australia, in Nagpur, on February 09.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain the batting superstars of India. Being in the twilight of their respective careers, Kohli and Rohit have entertained Indian cricket fans over the years and are aiming to bring glory to the country in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle and this year's ODI World Cup on home soil.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain the batting superstars of India. Being in the twilight of their respective careers, Kohli and Rohit have entertained Indian cricket fans over the years and are aiming to bring glory to the country in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle and this year's ODI World Cup on home soil. Over the years, comparisons have always taken place between Rohit and Kohli. While it is a never-ending debate, one that will not have a clear winner, Pakistan pacer Sohail Khan joined the bandwagon and picked his choice between the two superstars. Sohail feels 'Rohit is technically better than Kohli'. Speaking on a show, Sohail said, "Virat Kohli is a great batter, but Rohit Sharma is even better than Kohli. Rohit is technically better, he plays late and has a lot of time. Rohit ruled world cricket for 10-12 years." "Virat Kohli is a great batter, but Rohit Sharma is even better than Kohli. Rohit is technically better, he plays late and has a lot of time. Rohit ruled world cricket for 10-12 years," Pakistan bowler Sohail Khan. — Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) February 2, 2023 × Also Read: Not Rohit Sharma but Virat Kohli may play 2024 T20 World Cup, predicts former Indian opener Sohail also opened up on his heated exchange with Kohli when India and Pakistan squared off in the 2015 ODI World Cup (eventually won by India). Sohail recalled the whole episode on the Nadir Ali Podcast. He revealed what Kohli told him when he came out to bat. "Aap cricket mein abhi aaye hain. And itni baatein karte ho (You've just arrived and you speak so much)." To this, Sohail said, "I was a Test cricketer back then. I had played Test matches in 2006-07. Then in between, I endured a troubled knee which forced me out of action. I said 'Beta jab tu Under-19 khel raha tha na, tera baap Test cricketer tha' (Son, when you were playing Under-19 for India, your father [referring to himself] was a Test player). That's how I said it." Sohail recalled that then captains MS Dhoni and Misbah-ul-Haq had to intervene as the situation went out of hand and both were separated from each other. Sohail last played for Pakistan in 2017 whereas Kohli is gearing up for Rohit-led India's Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener versus Australia, in Nagpur, on February 09.

Rohit Sharma is technically better than Virat Kohli: Pakistan pacer makes BIG claim

India have been at their dominant best in the ongoing home leg, where they easily went past Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the white-ball formats. Now, they next opposition is Australia as the Pat Cummins-led tourists will lock horns with Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting on February 09 in Nagpur. The last few editions of the BGT have lived up to expectations, if not exceeded them, and a lot is at stake for both sides in the upcoming Test series, with WTC final spots up for grabs.&nbsp;

The last three editions saw India beat Australia -- defeating them twice in a row in their own backyard -- and the hosts will be favourites in familiar conditions but Cummins &amp; Co. have enough firepower to replicate their 2004 heroics in India. Ahead of the series opener, here's a list of Indian captains with most wins in history of Border-Gavaskar Trophy:

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>CAPTAINS</td>
			<td>MATCHES</td>
			<td>WON</td>
			<td>LOST</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>MS Dhoni</td>
			<td>13</td>
			<td>8</td>
			<td>4 (1 DRAWN)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Virat Kohli</td>
			<td>10</td>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>4 (3 DRAWN)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sourav Ganguly</td>
			<td>9</td>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>3 (3 DRAWN)</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ajinkya Rahane</td>
			<td>4</td>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>0 (! DRAWN)</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

In the overall list, Dhoni tops the charts once again with Steve Waugh and Michael Clarke following suit -- with five wins each. Under Waugh, Aussies lost thrice and two Tests ended in a draw whereas Clarke-led Australia lost thrice with no drawn encounters.

Thus, Dhoni tops another captaincy list. While he was known for his white-ball heroics, the former keeper-batter was a force to reckon with in whites as well; amassing 4,876 runs including a double ton versus Australia. Under him, India also topped the ICC Test rankings for the first time in late 2009. Kohli, India's most successful Test captain with 40 wins, follows his predecessor in the list of Indian captains with most wins in the history of BGT.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-can-play-till-40-and-will-be-motivated-to-go-for-100-hundreds-dutch-star-roelef-van-der-merwe-558446">Virat Kohli can play till 40 and will be motivated to go for 100 hundreds: Dutch star Roelef van der Merwe</a>

Full Schedule of 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India:

February 9-13:&nbsp;1st Test&nbsp;at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur

February 17-21:&nbsp;2nd Test&nbsp;at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

March 01-05:&nbsp;3rd Test at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala

March 09-13:&nbsp;4th Test&nbsp;at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

Squads

India (for first two Tests):&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav

Australia:&nbsp;Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

India have been at their dominant best in the ongoing home leg, where they easily went past Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the white-ball formats. Now, they next opposition is Australia as the Pat Cummins-led tourists will lock horns with Rohit Sharma & Co.

India have been at their dominant best in the ongoing home leg, where they easily went past Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the white-ball formats. Now, they next opposition is Australia as the Pat Cummins-led tourists will lock horns with Rohit Sharma & Co. in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting on February 09 in Nagpur. The last few editions of the BGT have lived up to expectations, if not exceeded them, and a lot is at stake for both sides in the upcoming Test series, with WTC final spots up for grabs. The last three editions saw India beat Australia -- defeating them twice in a row in their own backyard -- and the hosts will be favourites in familiar conditions but Cummins & Co. have enough firepower to replicate their 2004 heroics in India. Ahead of the series opener, here's a list of Indian captains with most wins in history of Border-Gavaskar Trophy: CAPTAINS MATCHES WON LOST MS Dhoni 13 8 4 (1 DRAWN) Virat Kohli 10 3 4 (3 DRAWN) Sourav Ganguly 9 3 3 (3 DRAWN) Ajinkya Rahane 4 3 0 (! DRAWN) In the overall list, Dhoni tops the charts once again with Steve Waugh and Michael Clarke following suit -- with five wins each. Under Waugh, Aussies lost thrice and two Tests ended in a draw whereas Clarke-led Australia lost thrice with no drawn encounters. Thus, Dhoni tops another captaincy list. While he was known for his white-ball heroics, the former keeper-batter was a force to reckon with in whites as well; amassing 4,876 runs including a double ton versus Australia. Under him, India also topped the ICC Test rankings for the first time in late 2009. Kohli, India's most successful Test captain with 40 wins, follows his predecessor in the list of Indian captains with most wins in the history of BGT. Also read: Virat Kohli can play till 40 and will be motivated to go for 100 hundreds: Dutch star Roelef van der Merwe Full Schedule of 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India: February 9-13: 1st Test at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Nagpur February 17-21: 2nd Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi March 01-05: 3rd Test at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala March 09-13: 4th Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad Squads India (for first two Tests): Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav Australia: Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

Not Virat Kohli! Here's which Indian captain has won most Tests in history of Border Gavaskar Trophy

Netherlands' star all-rounder Roelef van der Merwe, who has also represented South Africa in the past, has backed Virat Kohli to keep going at the international level till 40 and has backed him to go for 100 hundreds, breaking Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's record. Roelef, at 38, has shown his zeal for the game and time and again impressed with his all-round skills. None can forget his memorable catch, to get rid of David Miller, in the Netherlands' shocking win over South Africa in the 2022 T20 World Cup. He is currently the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing inaugural SA20; 14 wickets in 6 matches for SunRisers Eastern Cape and remains a vital batter down the order as well. Many have lauded him for his fitness standards at such an age. Hence, he certainly knows what it takes to remain relevant at the highest level at the latter half of 30s and has backed Kohli -- one of the fittest cricketers --&nbsp;to play for long.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the SA20 campaign, Roelef hailed Kohli and told India Today.in,&nbsp;"I think Virat is a great player. Yes, I think he can do that. 100 hundreds, those things will be in the back of his mind. In India, following somebody like Sachin, it's a big deal. I think it will be in the back of his mind. He will be motivated to keep going."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-hardik-pandya-presents-t20i-series-trophy-to-benched-prithvi-shaw-as-video-goes-viral-watch-558224">IND vs NZ: Hardik Pandya presents T20I series trophy to benched Prithvi Shaw as video goes viral - Watch</a>

Van der Merwe , has played 16 ODIs and 52 T20Is, also spoke about what keeps him going at 38. "Look, I love playing cricket, I love winning games. I am a very competitive person. It's the urge to win games that keep you going. As I said, I am a very competitive person in everyday life. As long I am winning games, I will keep going. That will keep me motivated."

Van der Merwe remains&nbsp;the few men to represent two national sides in T20 cricket. Given his passion and fitness standards, he will surely be seen in action for a few more years at the highest level. Speaking of Kohli, the 34-year-old is gearing up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on home soil, as India will host Australia in the four-match Test series opener in Nagpur on February 09.&nbsp;

Kohli moved past his dismal run during the 2022 Asia Cup. Since then, he has slammed four tons -- three in ODIs and a solitary one in T20Is. He will now be desperate to break his Test-century drought, since late 2019 during the Australia series.

Netherlands' star all-rounder Roelef van der Merwe, who has also represented South Africa in the past, has backed Virat Kohli to keep going at the international level till 40 and has backed him to go for 100 hundreds, breaking Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's record.

Netherlands' star all-rounder Roelef van der Merwe, who has also represented South Africa in the past, has backed Virat Kohli to keep going at the international level till 40 and has backed him to go for 100 hundreds, breaking Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar's record. Roelef, at 38, has shown his zeal for the game and time and again impressed with his all-round skills. None can forget his memorable catch, to get rid of David Miller, in the Netherlands' shocking win over South Africa in the 2022 T20 World Cup. He is currently the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing inaugural SA20; 14 wickets in 6 matches for SunRisers Eastern Cape and remains a vital batter down the order as well. Many have lauded him for his fitness standards at such an age. Hence, he certainly knows what it takes to remain relevant at the highest level at the latter half of 30s and has backed Kohli -- one of the fittest cricketers -- to play for long. Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the SA20 campaign, Roelef hailed Kohli and told India Today.in, "I think Virat is a great player. Yes, I think he can do that. 100 hundreds, those things will be in the back of his mind. In India, following somebody like Sachin, it's a big deal. I think it will be in the back of his mind. He will be motivated to keep going." Also read: IND vs NZ: Hardik Pandya presents T20I series trophy to benched Prithvi Shaw as video goes viral - Watch Van der Merwe , has played 16 ODIs and 52 T20Is, also spoke about what keeps him going at 38. "Look, I love playing cricket, I love winning games. I am a very competitive person. It's the urge to win games that keep you going. As I said, I am a very competitive person in everyday life. As long I am winning games, I will keep going. That will keep me motivated." Van der Merwe remains the few men to represent two national sides in T20 cricket. Given his passion and fitness standards, he will surely be seen in action for a few more years at the highest level. Speaking of Kohli, the 34-year-old is gearing up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on home soil, as India will host Australia in the four-match Test series opener in Nagpur on February 09. Kohli moved past his dismal run during the 2022 Asia Cup. Since then, he has slammed four tons -- three in ODIs and a solitary one in T20Is. He will now be desperate to break his Test-century drought, since late 2019 during the Australia series.

Virat Kohli can play till 40 and will be motivated to go for 100 hundreds: Dutch star Roelef van der Merwe

Hardik Pandya has taken over as the T20I captain amid the absence of Rohit Sharma following the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. Ever since India lost the semi-finals to eventual winners England, Rohit, Virat Kohli and some other seniors have been sidelined from the shortest format with Hardik leading a young side keeping the 2024 T20 WC in mind. Although Hardik hasn't officially replaced Rohit as the T20I captain, he is touted to be the next white-ball skipper with him recently replacing KL Rahul as the limited-overs vice-captain.&nbsp;

Despite the added responsibility of captaining the side, the 29-year-old Hardik hasn't bogged down as an all-rounder. In India's recent home T20I series win over New Zealand, Hardik ended as the Player-of-the-Series with five scalps and few important cameos with the bat. While he remains a vital cog for India in white-ball formats, Hardik hasn't played a Test since September 2018. His back injury kept him out of action for long and while he has returned in style, there have been no signs of him coming back to the Test setup anytime soon.&nbsp;

Thus, Hardik opened up on his Test future following India's T20I series triumph over the Black Caps in Ahmedabad on Wednesday (February 01).&nbsp;Speaking to reporters after the third T20I, he said,&nbsp;"I will come (back) when I feel (it's) the right time to play Test-match cricket." He added, "Right now, I'm going to focus on white-ball cricket, which is important, and if time is right and body is fine, I'll give (the long format) a try."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/just-because-he-has-scored-runs-in-t20is-irfan-on-rahul-vs-gill-debate-ahead-of-india-australia-tests-558559">'Just because he has scored runs in T20Is....': Irfan on Rahul vs Gill debate ahead of India-Australia Tests</a>

Hardik was last seen in action in whites during India's tour of England in 2018. He has&nbsp;532 runs along with 17 wickets in the red-ball format. He will next be seen in action for Team India during their three-match ODI series versus Australia right before IPL 2023. For now, Rohit-led India are gearing up for the four-match Test series opener versus the Aussies, in Nagpur, which will get underway on February 09.

Hardik Pandya has taken over as the T20I captain amid the absence of Rohit Sharma following the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. Ever since India lost the semi-finals to eventual winners England, Rohit, Virat Kohli and some other seniors have been sidelined from the shortest format with Hardik leading a young side keeping the 2024 T20 WC in mind.

Hardik Pandya has taken over as the T20I captain amid the absence of Rohit Sharma following the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. Ever since India lost the semi-finals to eventual winners England, Rohit, Virat Kohli and some other seniors have been sidelined from the shortest format with Hardik leading a young side keeping the 2024 T20 WC in mind. Although Hardik hasn't officially replaced Rohit as the T20I captain, he is touted to be the next white-ball skipper with him recently replacing KL Rahul as the limited-overs vice-captain. Despite the added responsibility of captaining the side, the 29-year-old Hardik hasn't bogged down as an all-rounder. In India's recent home T20I series win over New Zealand, Hardik ended as the Player-of-the-Series with five scalps and few important cameos with the bat. While he remains a vital cog for India in white-ball formats, Hardik hasn't played a Test since September 2018. His back injury kept him out of action for long and while he has returned in style, there have been no signs of him coming back to the Test setup anytime soon. Thus, Hardik opened up on his Test future following India's T20I series triumph over the Black Caps in Ahmedabad on Wednesday (February 01). Speaking to reporters after the third T20I, he said, "I will come (back) when I feel (it's) the right time to play Test-match cricket." He added, "Right now, I'm going to focus on white-ball cricket, which is important, and if time is right and body is fine, I'll give (the long format) a try." Also read: 'Just because he has scored runs in T20Is....': Irfan on Rahul vs Gill debate ahead of India-Australia Tests Hardik was last seen in action in whites during India's tour of England in 2018. He has 532 runs along with 17 wickets in the red-ball format. He will next be seen in action for Team India during their three-match ODI series versus Australia right before IPL 2023. For now, Rohit-led India are gearing up for the four-match Test series opener versus the Aussies, in Nagpur, which will get underway on February 09.

'Right now, I'm going to....' - Team India all-rounder Hardik Pandya breaks silence on his Test future

Shubman Gill has had a stellar run in international cricket in the recent past. During India's tour of Bangladesh in late 2022, he struck his maiden Test hundred and went onto slam a hundred in the Sri Lanka home ODIs before becoming the youngest to score a double ton in the 50-over format and recently became only the fifth India to log a ton in all formats with his maiden T20I ton. Having such a flawless run, one expects Gill to feature in India's playing XI for the four-match Test series opener versus Australia, in Nagpur on February 09.

Nonetheless, the competition is tough as India have preferred the opening pair of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul in Tests. The two were at their best during the England Tests in 2021 and were expected to open together during the Bangladesh series before captain Rohit got injured. With Rahul being his deputy, it will be tough for Gill to replace him. With no Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer, either of the two can bat in the middle order as well but the questions remains as to who will open with Rohit. In this regard, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan shared his take.

“Not in all three formats but in two formats. If you talk about Test matches, you have two openers who have scored runs in difficult conditions, scored runs in England and won matches for India there. KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma are there, so suddenly because Shubman Gill has scored runs in the T20 format, you cannot ask them to step aside and let him play. You need the stability,” Pathan told&nbsp;Star Sports.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-rohit-sharma-but-virat-kohli-may-play-2024-t20-world-cup-predicts-former-indian-opener-558549">Not Rohit Sharma but Virat Kohli may play 2024 T20 World Cup, predicts former Indian opener</a>

Rohit and Rahul are expected to open the innings with Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill to follow suit. KS Bharat might don the wicketkeeping gloves with Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin and Axar Patel being the spin-bowling all-rounders whereas the likes of Mohammed Shami and Siraj are likely to handle the pace unit.

Squads

India (for first two Tests):&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav

Australia:&nbsp;Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

Shubman Gill has had a stellar run in international cricket in the recent past. During India's tour of Bangladesh in late 2022, he struck his maiden Test hundred and went onto slam a hundred in the Sri Lanka home ODIs before becoming the youngest to score a double ton in the 50-over format and recently became only the fifth India to log a ton in all formats with his maiden T20I ton.

Shubman Gill has had a stellar run in international cricket in the recent past. During India's tour of Bangladesh in late 2022, he struck his maiden Test hundred and went onto slam a hundred in the Sri Lanka home ODIs before becoming the youngest to score a double ton in the 50-over format and recently became only the fifth India to log a ton in all formats with his maiden T20I ton. Having such a flawless run, one expects Gill to feature in India's playing XI for the four-match Test series opener versus Australia, in Nagpur on February 09. Nonetheless, the competition is tough as India have preferred the opening pair of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul in Tests. The two were at their best during the England Tests in 2021 and were expected to open together during the Bangladesh series before captain Rohit got injured. With Rahul being his deputy, it will be tough for Gill to replace him. With no Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer, either of the two can bat in the middle order as well but the questions remains as to who will open with Rohit. In this regard, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan shared his take. “Not in all three formats but in two formats. If you talk about Test matches, you have two openers who have scored runs in difficult conditions, scored runs in England and won matches for India there. KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma are there, so suddenly because Shubman Gill has scored runs in the T20 format, you cannot ask them to step aside and let him play. You need the stability,” Pathan told Star Sports. Also read: Not Rohit Sharma but Virat Kohli may play 2024 T20 World Cup, predicts former Indian opener Rohit and Rahul are expected to open the innings with Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill to follow suit. KS Bharat might don the wicketkeeping gloves with Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin and Axar Patel being the spin-bowling all-rounders whereas the likes of Mohammed Shami and Siraj are likely to handle the pace unit. Squads India (for first two Tests): Rohit Sharma (c), KL Rahul (vc), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Suryakumar Yadav Australia: Pat Cummins (c), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb (wk), Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner

'Just because he has scored runs in T20Is....': Irfan on Rahul vs Gill debate ahead of India-Australia Tests

Ever since India lost the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-finals, versus eventual winners England, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I squad. While nothing official has been announced regarding Rohit and Kohli's T20I future, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer recently shared a bold prediction with regard to the two stalwarts of Indian cricket.

Jaffer believes that the 34-year-old Kohli might still have a chance to play in the 2024 T20 World Cup, but insisted that doors for a comeback are more or less closed for Rohit.Speaking after India's recent T20I series win over New Zealand, in Ahmedabad, Jaffer said during an interaction on Pakistan cricket coach Basit Ali's official Youtube channel, “Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were rested seeing the bigger picture, with the Tests against Australia coming up. India can qualify for the WTC final. And rightly so." "(However) Looking at the future, this game is for youngsters. I actually don't see Rohit Sharma playing in the next T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli may play, but Rohit Sharma definitely won't play the next edition. He's already 35. So, looking at the bigger picture, it's important that they are mentally fresh for the Australia series," Jaffer further added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-dont-know-him-pak-pacer-recalls-dhonis-words-to-kohli-during-heated-exchange-in-2015-odi-wc-558499">'You don't know him': PAK pacer recalls Dhoni's words to Kohli during heated exchange in 2015 ODI WC</a>

With no Kohli and Rohit in India's T20I setup, India have been led by Hardik Pandya in the shortest format following the 2022 T20 WC in Australia. Under Hardik, India have defeated New Zealand (home and away) and Sri Lanka (home).While he has not been named as the official T20I captain, Hardik is being touted to take over from Rohit and an official announcement can be made later this year.

For now, Rohit, Kohli and other senior players have shifted their focus to the longer formats. The duo will be seen in action in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy where India will lock horns with Australia with the seris opener starting on February 09.

Ever since India lost the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-finals, versus eventual winners England, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I squad. While nothing official has been announced regarding Rohit and Kohli's T20I future, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer recently shared a bold prediction with regard to the two stalwarts of Indian cricket.

Ever since India lost the T20 World Cup 2022 semi-finals, versus eventual winners England, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have not featured in India's T20I squad. While nothing official has been announced regarding Rohit and Kohli's T20I future, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer recently shared a bold prediction with regard to the two stalwarts of Indian cricket. Jaffer believes that the 34-year-old Kohli might still have a chance to play in the 2024 T20 World Cup, but insisted that doors for a comeback are more or less closed for Rohit.Speaking after India's recent T20I series win over New Zealand, in Ahmedabad, Jaffer said during an interaction on Pakistan cricket coach Basit Ali's official Youtube channel, “Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were rested seeing the bigger picture, with the Tests against Australia coming up. India can qualify for the WTC final. And rightly so." "(However) Looking at the future, this game is for youngsters. I actually don't see Rohit Sharma playing in the next T20 World Cup. Virat Kohli may play, but Rohit Sharma definitely won't play the next edition. He's already 35. So, looking at the bigger picture, it's important that they are mentally fresh for the Australia series," Jaffer further added. Also read: 'You don't know him': PAK pacer recalls Dhoni's words to Kohli during heated exchange in 2015 ODI WC With no Kohli and Rohit in India's T20I setup, India have been led by Hardik Pandya in the shortest format following the 2022 T20 WC in Australia. Under Hardik, India have defeated New Zealand (home and away) and Sri Lanka (home).While he has not been named as the official T20I captain, Hardik is being touted to take over from Rohit and an official announcement can be made later this year. For now, Rohit, Kohli and other senior players have shifted their focus to the longer formats. The duo will be seen in action in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy where India will lock horns with Australia with the seris opener starting on February 09.

Not Rohit Sharma but Virat Kohli may play 2024 T20 World Cup, predicts former Indian opener

On Wednesday (February 01), Hardik Pandya-led India thumped New Zealand by a whopping 168&nbsp;runs in the third and final T20I at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to clinch the series 2-1. After losing the series opener in Ranchi, the Men in Blue won a low-scoring thriller in Lucknow before wrapping up the series without dropping any sweat following Shubman Gill's record-breaking ton. Gill continued his rich vein of form versus the Kiwis -- having already scored a double hundred in the three ODIs -- to score his maiden ton in the format and take India to 234/4. During the NZ run-chase, early wickets and Suryakumar Yadav's stunning catches dented Mitchell Santner &amp; Co.&nbsp;as the fate of the contest was out in no time.

Winning the toss, India opted to bat first with Umran Malik coming in place of Yuvzendra Chahal. Gill's first fifty came off 35 balls and the next off mere 19 deliveries as he created havoc in front of a jam-packed stadium in Ahmedabad. Rahul Tripathi's 22-ball 44 set the tone for the Indian innings and allowed Gill to take some time before he launched onto the poor deliveries. He remained unbeaten on 126, off 63 balls, striking at a whopping 200 along with 12 fours and 7 sixes. He was immaculate against the pacers, with his timely pulls, drives, flicks, etc., as India reached a mammoth total in 20 overs.&nbsp;

Indians with T20I hundreds

Suresh Raina 
Rohit Sharma 
KL Rahul 
Deepak Hooda 
Suryakumar Yadav 
Virat Kohli 
Shubman Gill

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tendulkar-bcci-present-india-u19-womens-team-a-fat-cheque-for-t20-wc-win-before-ind-nz-3rd-t20i-557993">Tendulkar, BCCI present India U19 Women’s team a fat cheque for T20 WC win before IND-NZ 3rd T20I</a>

Gill also ended with the highest individual score by an Indian batter in the format (126*) surpassing Kohli's 122* during the 2022 Asia Cup. In addition, he is only the fifth Indian to log a hundred in all three formats of men's cricket.

Indians to score a hundred in all formats:

Suresh Raina 
Rohit Sharma 
KL Rahul 
Virat Kohli 
Shubman Gill

In reply, NZ's run-chase never got going. Hardik removed dangerman Finn Allen with an edge as SKY completed a good catch. Arshdeep Singh joined in and claimed two quick wickets with Hardik and Umran Malik adding to Kiwis' miseries. Surya accounted for another brilliant catch (ending with three overall) in the slip cordon as the match was well and truly over in a flash. The first six overs were set to give a clear indication of how the match will proceed but the visitors were 21 for 5 in less than five overs. Eventually, India finished the formalities with the Black Caps managing only a paltry 66 in 12.1 overs to win by a big margin;&nbsp;their biggest-ever win in the format. Overall,&nbsp;this is the biggest margin of win&nbsp;in a contest held between&nbsp;two full member nations.

With the series win, the Men in Blue maintain their No. 1 position in T20Is. India will now return to the 22-yard cricket strip for the much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on home soil, starting on February 09.

On Wednesday (February 01), Hardik Pandya-led India thumped New Zealand by a whopping 168 runs in the third and final T20I at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to clinch the series 2-1.

On Wednesday (February 01), Hardik Pandya-led India thumped New Zealand by a whopping 168 runs in the third and final T20I at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad to clinch the series 2-1. After losing the series opener in Ranchi, the Men in Blue won a low-scoring thriller in Lucknow before wrapping up the series without dropping any sweat following Shubman Gill's record-breaking ton. Gill continued his rich vein of form versus the Kiwis -- having already scored a double hundred in the three ODIs -- to score his maiden ton in the format and take India to 234/4. During the NZ run-chase, early wickets and Suryakumar Yadav's stunning catches dented Mitchell Santner & Co. as the fate of the contest was out in no time. Winning the toss, India opted to bat first with Umran Malik coming in place of Yuvzendra Chahal. Gill's first fifty came off 35 balls and the next off mere 19 deliveries as he created havoc in front of a jam-packed stadium in Ahmedabad. Rahul Tripathi's 22-ball 44 set the tone for the Indian innings and allowed Gill to take some time before he launched onto the poor deliveries. He remained unbeaten on 126, off 63 balls, striking at a whopping 200 along with 12 fours and 7 sixes. He was immaculate against the pacers, with his timely pulls, drives, flicks, etc., as India reached a mammoth total in 20 overs. Indians with T20I hundreds Suresh Raina Rohit Sharma KL Rahul Deepak Hooda Suryakumar Yadav Virat Kohli Shubman Gill Also read: Tendulkar, BCCI present India U19 Women’s team a fat cheque for T20 WC win before IND-NZ 3rd T20I Gill also ended with the highest individual score by an Indian batter in the format (126*) surpassing Kohli's 122* during the 2022 Asia Cup. In addition, he is only the fifth Indian to log a hundred in all three formats of men's cricket. Indians to score a hundred in all formats: Suresh Raina Rohit Sharma KL Rahul Virat Kohli Shubman Gill In reply, NZ's run-chase never got going. Hardik removed dangerman Finn Allen with an edge as SKY completed a good catch. Arshdeep Singh joined in and claimed two quick wickets with Hardik and Umran Malik adding to Kiwis' miseries. Surya accounted for another brilliant catch (ending with three overall) in the slip cordon as the match was well and truly over in a flash. The first six overs were set to give a clear indication of how the match will proceed but the visitors were 21 for 5 in less than five overs. Eventually, India finished the formalities with the Black Caps managing only a paltry 66 in 12.1 overs to win by a big margin; their biggest-ever win in the format. Overall, this is the biggest margin of win in a contest held between two full member nations. With the series win, the Men in Blue maintain their No. 1 position in T20Is. India will now return to the 22-yard cricket strip for the much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy, on home soil, starting on February 09.

Shubman Gill's record-breaking hundred takes India to 168-run win over NZ, clinch T20I series 2-1

India and New Zealand locked horns in the three-match T20I series decider on Wednesday (February 01), in Ahmedabad, with the scoreline being 1-1. Opting to bat first, India rode on in-form opener Shubman Gill's 63-ball 126 not out, laced with 12 fours and 7 sixes, to post a mammoth 234 for 4 and dismissed the Kiwis for a paltry 66 in 12.1 overs to win by a humongous 168-run margin at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. Gill slammed his maiden ton in the format. In addition, he registered the highest individual score by an Indian batter in T20Is, surpassing Virat Kohli's 122*. He became the seventh Indian batter to score a T20I hundred and became the fifth among his countrymen to log a ton in all forms of the game.

After his Ahmedabad heroics, Kohli -- who will next be seen in action during the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia on home soil -- took to his official Instagram account to laud Gill. On his Instagram story, the 34-year-old shared Gill's picture and wrote, "Sitara (Star). The future is here."

<img alt="Virat Kohli lauds Shubman Gill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b22ded4c-7e7b-4177-abb3-78810d1e9bcd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kohli%20lauds%20Gill.JPG" />

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gills-record-breaking-hundred-takes-india-to-168-run-win-over-nz-clinch-t20i-series-2-1-558026">Shubman Gill's record-breaking hundred takes India to 168-run win over NZ, clinch T20I series 2-1</a>

Gill stitched an entertaining 80-run second-wicket stand with Rahul Tripathi, who set the platform for his side courtesy his 22-ball 44. He was well supported by Suryakumar Yadav (13-ball 24) and captain Hardik Pandya (17-ball 30) as India piled up a mammoth total and defended it with ease, with Hardik leading the charge (with 4 for 16) along with two-fers from Arshdeep Singh, Shivam Mavi and Umran Malik each.

At the post-match presentation, centurion Gill said, "It feels good when you practice and it pays off. I was backing myself to score big. Didn't happen in the Sri Lanka series, but happy to see it work out now. Everybody has a different technique to hit sixes. Hardik bhai told me to play my game, not do anything extra and he kept backing me. When you represent your country, there is no fatigue. It was my dream to play for India, and I am very fortunate to be part of the team in all three formats."

India and New Zealand locked horns in the three-match T20I series decider on Wednesday (February 01), in Ahmedabad, with the scoreline being 1-1. Opting to bat first, India rode on in-form opener Shubman Gill's 63-ball 126 not out, laced with 12 fours and 7 sixes, to post a mammoth 234 for 4 and dismissed the Kiwis for a paltry 66 in 12.

India and New Zealand locked horns in the three-match T20I series decider on Wednesday (February 01), in Ahmedabad, with the scoreline being 1-1. Opting to bat first, India rode on in-form opener Shubman Gill's 63-ball 126 not out, laced with 12 fours and 7 sixes, to post a mammoth 234 for 4 and dismissed the Kiwis for a paltry 66 in 12.1 overs to win by a humongous 168-run margin at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. Gill slammed his maiden ton in the format. In addition, he registered the highest individual score by an Indian batter in T20Is, surpassing Virat Kohli's 122*. He became the seventh Indian batter to score a T20I hundred and became the fifth among his countrymen to log a ton in all forms of the game. After his Ahmedabad heroics, Kohli -- who will next be seen in action during the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia on home soil -- took to his official Instagram account to laud Gill. On his Instagram story, the 34-year-old shared Gill's picture and wrote, "Sitara (Star). The future is here." Also read: Shubman Gill's record-breaking hundred takes India to 168-run win over NZ, clinch T20I series 2-1 Gill stitched an entertaining 80-run second-wicket stand with Rahul Tripathi, who set the platform for his side courtesy his 22-ball 44. He was well supported by Suryakumar Yadav (13-ball 24) and captain Hardik Pandya (17-ball 30) as India piled up a mammoth total and defended it with ease, with Hardik leading the charge (with 4 for 16) along with two-fers from Arshdeep Singh, Shivam Mavi and Umran Malik each. At the post-match presentation, centurion Gill said, "It feels good when you practice and it pays off. I was backing myself to score big. Didn't happen in the Sri Lanka series, but happy to see it work out now. Everybody has a different technique to hit sixes. Hardik bhai told me to play my game, not do anything extra and he kept backing me. When you represent your country, there is no fatigue. It was my dream to play for India, and I am very fortunate to be part of the team in all three formats."

'The future is here': Virat Kohli lauds Shubman Gill after his 3rd T20I heroics vs New Zealand

Aussie batter Usman Khawaja finally got his visa as he left for India for Pat Cummins &amp; Co.'s upcoming four Tests versus hosts India in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. There was a lot of delay in Khawaja getting his visa but he finally got hold of it and flew for India. The left-handed batter also shared a post on his official Instagram handle as he shared his excitement of travelling to the Asian country for the much-awaited India-Australia Tests.&nbsp;

On Wednesday (February 01), Khawaja took to his official Instagram handle to share a selfie on his flight en route to India. He captioned the post, "India, I'm coming".

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Cricket Australia had revealed that its players left in two batches on January 31 and February 1. However, Khawaja couldn't leave with his teammates due to the visa delay -- something which he encountered in 2011 as well for the Champions League and was resolved with government intervention. Talking about the&nbsp;Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which will be the last edition to comprise four Tests, will kickoff on February 9 in Nagpur. The second Test will be held in Delhi (February 17-21) before the action moves to Dharamshala (March 1-5) with Ahmedabad hosting the series finale&nbsp;(March 9-13).

India have won the last three editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, winning the last two in Australia. Hence, they will be confident of getting past the No. 1 ranked Australian Test line-up.&nbsp;

Australia Test squad for India tour:&nbsp;Pat Cummins (capt), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Peter Handscomb, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner.

Aussie batter Usman Khawaja finally got his visa as he left for India for Pat Cummins & Co.'s upcoming four Tests versus hosts India in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Aussie batter Usman Khawaja finally got his visa as he left for India for Pat Cummins & Co.'s upcoming four Tests versus hosts India in the upcoming edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. There was a lot of delay in Khawaja getting his visa but he finally got hold of it and flew for India. The left-handed batter also shared a post on his official Instagram handle as he shared his excitement of travelling to the Asian country for the much-awaited India-Australia Tests. On Wednesday (February 01), Khawaja took to his official Instagram handle to share a selfie on his flight en route to India. He captioned the post, "India, I'm coming". View this post on Instagram A post shared by Usman Khawaja (@usman_khawajy) × Also read: Tendulkar, BCCI present India U19 Women’s team a fat cheque for T20 WC win before IND-NZ 3rd T20I Cricket Australia had revealed that its players left in two batches on January 31 and February 1. However, Khawaja couldn't leave with his teammates due to the visa delay -- something which he encountered in 2011 as well for the Champions League and was resolved with government intervention. Talking about the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which will be the last edition to comprise four Tests, will kickoff on February 9 in Nagpur. The second Test will be held in Delhi (February 17-21) before the action moves to Dharamshala (March 1-5) with Ahmedabad hosting the series finale (March 9-13). India have won the last three editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, winning the last two in Australia. Hence, they will be confident of getting past the No. 1 ranked Australian Test line-up. Australia Test squad for India tour: Pat Cummins (capt), Ashton Agar, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Peter Handscomb, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Swepson, David Warner.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: After much delay, Usman Khawaja gets his visa as he leaves for India

On Wednesday (February 01), Hardik Pandya-led India locked horns with New Zealand in the third and final T20I with the scoreline being 1-1. Opting to bat first at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, India rode on Shubman Gill's 63-ball 126 not out and Rahul Tripathi's 22-ball 44 to post a daunting 234 for 4. In reply, the Mitchell Santner-led Black Caps were never in the hunt and only managed a paltry 66 all-out in 12.1 overs to lose by a whopping 168-run margin. With the series win, India maintained their stronghold on the No. 1 spot in the ICC T20I rankings.&nbsp;

Talking about the contest, India went into the game with only one change with Umran Malik coming in place of Yuzvendra Chahal. Thus, Prithvi Shaw -- who recently slammed 379 in Ranji Trophy -- remained benched which made heads turn in the cricketing fraternity. India backed Gill and Ishan Kishan, who once again fell flat in the series finale. After the easy win over the Kiwis in the Ahmedabad T20I, skipper Hardik Pandya was presented with the trophy by BCCI President Roger Binny and Secretary Jay Shah. Hardik quickly handed the trophy to benched Shaw, grabbing eyeballs for the out-of-favour player.&nbsp;

Here's the video:

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Captain <a href="https://twitter.com/hardikpandya93?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hardikpandya93</a> collects the <a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> trophy from BCCI president Mr. Roger Binny &amp; BCCI Honorary Secretary Mr. Jay Shah 👏👏 
 
Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> who clinch the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> T20I series 2️⃣-1️⃣ <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JayShah</a> <a href="https://t.co/WLbCE417QU">pic.twitter.com/WLbCE417QU</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1620840587044995072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Shaw would be disappointed to not get a game under his belt during the NZ series. He will aim for a memorable run in IPL 2023 and make a strong statement to get a longer rope in the T20I setup with the World Cup next year in West Indies and the USA.

At the post-match presentation, a jubilant Hardik reflected on the series win and said, "I don't mind winning (man of the series award), but there were so performances here that were exceptional. This Man of the Series and trophy goes out to the whole support staff, I'm happy for all of them. (On doing things out of the box) Not to be honest, I always play the game like this. I try to read what is required, not have preconceived ideas. In my captaincy, I look to keep it simple and back my gut. I have a simple rule -&nbsp;if I go down, I will go down on my terms.&nbsp;We've spoken about taking challenges. When we played the IPL final, we felt the second innings was more spicy but on this surface today I wanted to make it a normal game because it was a decider. Hence, we batted first. Hopefully, we can continue performing like this."

India will now shift their focus to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, at home, versus Australia which gets underway on February 09.

On Wednesday (February 01), Hardik Pandya-led India locked horns with New Zealand in the third and final T20I with the scoreline being 1-1. Opting to bat first at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, India rode on Shubman Gill's 63-ball 126 not out and Rahul Tripathi's 22-ball 44 to post a daunting 234 for 4.

On Wednesday (February 01), Hardik Pandya-led India locked horns with New Zealand in the third and final T20I with the scoreline being 1-1. Opting to bat first at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, India rode on Shubman Gill's 63-ball 126 not out and Rahul Tripathi's 22-ball 44 to post a daunting 234 for 4. In reply, the Mitchell Santner-led Black Caps were never in the hunt and only managed a paltry 66 all-out in 12.1 overs to lose by a whopping 168-run margin. With the series win, India maintained their stronghold on the No. 1 spot in the ICC T20I rankings. Talking about the contest, India went into the game with only one change with Umran Malik coming in place of Yuzvendra Chahal. Thus, Prithvi Shaw -- who recently slammed 379 in Ranji Trophy -- remained benched which made heads turn in the cricketing fraternity. India backed Gill and Ishan Kishan, who once again fell flat in the series finale. After the easy win over the Kiwis in the Ahmedabad T20I, skipper Hardik Pandya was presented with the trophy by BCCI President Roger Binny and Secretary Jay Shah. Hardik quickly handed the trophy to benched Shaw, grabbing eyeballs for the out-of-favour player. Here's the video: Captain @hardikpandya93 collects the @mastercardindia trophy from BCCI president Mr. Roger Binny & BCCI Honorary Secretary Mr. Jay Shah 👏👏 Congratulations to #TeamIndia who clinch the #INDvNZ T20I series 2️⃣-1️⃣ @JayShah pic.twitter.com/WLbCE417QU — BCCI (@BCCI) February 1, 2023 × Also read: WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav takes a stunner to get rid of Finn Allen in IND-NZ 3rd T20I Shaw would be disappointed to not get a game under his belt during the NZ series. He will aim for a memorable run in IPL 2023 and make a strong statement to get a longer rope in the T20I setup with the World Cup next year in West Indies and the USA. At the post-match presentation, a jubilant Hardik reflected on the series win and said, "I don't mind winning (man of the series award), but there were so performances here that were exceptional. This Man of the Series and trophy goes out to the whole support staff, I'm happy for all of them. (On doing things out of the box) Not to be honest, I always play the game like this. I try to read what is required, not have preconceived ideas. In my captaincy, I look to keep it simple and back my gut. I have a simple rule - if I go down, I will go down on my terms. We've spoken about taking challenges. When we played the IPL final, we felt the second innings was more spicy but on this surface today I wanted to make it a normal game because it was a decider. Hence, we batted first. Hopefully, we can continue performing like this." India will now shift their focus to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, at home, versus Australia which gets underway on February 09.

IND vs NZ: Hardik Pandya presents T20I series trophy to benched Prithvi Shaw as video goes viral - Watch

Hardik Pandya-led India didn't put a foot wrong in the third and final T20I versus New Zealand, in Ahmedabad, on Wednesday evening (February 01). With the three-match series levelled at 1-1, India put on a stunning show at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium courtesy of in-form opener Shubman Gill's scintillating 63-ball 126 not out. Riding on his maiden hundred in the format, India posted 234 for 4 and defended the score with NZ were dismissed for a paltry 66 in 12.1 overs, to lose by 168 runs.&nbsp;

While it was Gill who led the charge with the ball, captain Hardik broke the backbone of Kiwis' batting line-up with 4 for 16. However, Suryakumar Yadav also contributed with three stunning catches; including two sharp ones in the slip cordon. As Hardik dismssed dangerman Finn Allen for cheap in the first over, SKY made heads turn as he timed his jump to perfection and held onto a stunning catch. Here's the video of the catch:

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ICYMI - WHAT. A. CATCH 🔥🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> vice-captain <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> takes a stunner to get Finn Allen 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/WvKQK8V67b">pic.twitter.com/WvKQK8V67b</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1620809302264127488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-future-is-here-virat-kohli-lauds-shubman-gill-after-his-3rd-t20i-heroics-vs-new-zealand-558117">'The future is here': Virat Kohli lauds Shubman Gill after his 3rd T20I heroics vs New Zealand</a>

Eventually, Surya ended with three brilliant catches -- dismissing the likes of Allen,&nbsp;Glenn Phillips and stand-in skipper Mitchell Santner. During the Indian innings, he also made a mark with an entertaining 13-ball 24 studded with 1 four and 2 sixes.&nbsp;

At the post-match presentation, Hardik reflected on his team's big win and said, "&nbsp;I don't mind winning (man of the series award), but there were so performances here that were exceptional. This Man of the Series and trophy goes out to the whole support staff, I'm happy for all of them. (On doing things out of the box) Not to be honest, I always play the game like this. I try to read what is required, not have preconceived ideas. In my captaincy, I look to keep it simple and back my gut. I have a simple rule -&nbsp;if I go down, I will go down on my terms.&nbsp;We've spoken about taking challenges. When we played the IPL final, we felt the second innings was more spicy but on this surface today I wanted to make it a normal game because it was a decider. Hence, we batted first. Hopefully, we can continue performing like this."

Hardik Pandya-led India didn't put a foot wrong in the third and final T20I versus New Zealand, in Ahmedabad, on Wednesday evening (February 01). With the three-match series levelled at 1-1, India put on a stunning show at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium courtesy of in-form opener Shubman Gill's scintillating 63-ball 126 not out.

Hardik Pandya-led India didn't put a foot wrong in the third and final T20I versus New Zealand, in Ahmedabad, on Wednesday evening (February 01). With the three-match series levelled at 1-1, India put on a stunning show at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium courtesy of in-form opener Shubman Gill's scintillating 63-ball 126 not out. Riding on his maiden hundred in the format, India posted 234 for 4 and defended the score with NZ were dismissed for a paltry 66 in 12.1 overs, to lose by 168 runs. While it was Gill who led the charge with the ball, captain Hardik broke the backbone of Kiwis' batting line-up with 4 for 16. However, Suryakumar Yadav also contributed with three stunning catches; including two sharp ones in the slip cordon. As Hardik dismssed dangerman Finn Allen for cheap in the first over, SKY made heads turn as he timed his jump to perfection and held onto a stunning catch. Here's the video of the catch: ICYMI - WHAT. A. CATCH 🔥🔥#TeamIndia vice-captain @surya_14kumar takes a stunner to get Finn Allen 👏#INDvNZ | @mastercardindia pic.twitter.com/WvKQK8V67b — BCCI (@BCCI) February 1, 2023 × Also read: 'The future is here': Virat Kohli lauds Shubman Gill after his 3rd T20I heroics vs New Zealand Eventually, Surya ended with three brilliant catches -- dismissing the likes of Allen, Glenn Phillips and stand-in skipper Mitchell Santner. During the Indian innings, he also made a mark with an entertaining 13-ball 24 studded with 1 four and 2 sixes. At the post-match presentation, Hardik reflected on his team's big win and said, " I don't mind winning (man of the series award), but there were so performances here that were exceptional. This Man of the Series and trophy goes out to the whole support staff, I'm happy for all of them. (On doing things out of the box) Not to be honest, I always play the game like this. I try to read what is required, not have preconceived ideas. In my captaincy, I look to keep it simple and back my gut. I have a simple rule - if I go down, I will go down on my terms. We've spoken about taking challenges. When we played the IPL final, we felt the second innings was more spicy but on this surface today I wanted to make it a normal game because it was a decider. Hence, we batted first. Hopefully, we can continue performing like this."

WATCH: Suryakumar Yadav takes a stunner to get rid of Finn Allen in IND-NZ 3rd T20I

Ahead of the commencement of the third and final T20I between India and New Zealand, at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, and BCCI presented the Shafali Verma-led Indian U19 Women's team a fat cheque of INR 5 crores (INR 50 million) for winning the inaugural edition of the T20 World Cup in South Africa.

On Wednesday evening (February 01), the BCCI took to its official Twitter handle and captioned the post, "𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒! Bharat Ratna Shri&nbsp;@sachin_rt&nbsp; and Office Bearers of BCCI honour the achievements of the World Cup-winning India U19 team and present them with a cheque of INR 5 crore." Here's the viral video of Tendulkar and BCCI office-bearers honouring the achievements of Shafali &amp; Co.:

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𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒! 
 
Bharat Ratna Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> and Office Bearers of BCCI honour the achievements of the World Cup-winning India U19 team and present them with a cheque of INR 5 crore. 🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JayShah</a> <a href="https://t.co/u13tWMPhLQ">pic.twitter.com/u13tWMPhLQ</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1620786135147614208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-ripped-the-team-to-shreds-and-r-sridhar-narrates-unheard-tale-of-ms-dhoni-losing-his-cool-557941">'He ripped the team to shreds and....': R Sridhar narrates unheard tale of MS Dhoni losing his cool</a>

Tendulkar gave a motivational speech to the young girls following their achievements. He was quoted as saying during the felicitation ceremony, "By winning this World Cup, you have given a dream to young girls in India, to represent the country."

Tendulkar also opined that&nbsp;the inception of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), to kick off in March, is going to change the landscape of women’s cricket in the country. In this regard, he pointed out, "The beginning of the WPL is going to be the biggest thing. I believe in equality for men and women, and not just in sports. There should be equal opportunity. The entire nation will celebrate and cherish your victory."

Shafali-led India was unbeaten in the group stage before losing to Australia in their opening match of the Super 6. Post that, they enjoyed a three-match winning streak, defeating the likes of Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and England respectively, to win the title. For India,&nbsp;Batter Shweta Sehrawat (297&nbsp;runs: most in the tournament) and leg-spinner Parshavi Chopra (second-highest wicket-taker with 11 scalps) led the charge whereas skipper Shafali also contributed with 172 runs; third-most overall.

Ahead of the commencement of the third and final T20I between India and New Zealand, at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, and BCCI presented the Shafali Verma-led Indian U19 Women's team a fat cheque of INR 5 crores (INR 50 million) for winning the inaugural edition of the T20 World Cup in South Africa.

Ahead of the commencement of the third and final T20I between India and New Zealand, at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, and BCCI presented the Shafali Verma-led Indian U19 Women's team a fat cheque of INR 5 crores (INR 50 million) for winning the inaugural edition of the T20 World Cup in South Africa. On Wednesday evening (February 01), the BCCI took to its official Twitter handle and captioned the post, "𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒! Bharat Ratna Shri @sachin_rt and Office Bearers of BCCI honour the achievements of the World Cup-winning India U19 team and present them with a cheque of INR 5 crore." Here's the viral video of Tendulkar and BCCI office-bearers honouring the achievements of Shafali & Co.: 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒! Bharat Ratna Shri @sachin_rt and Office Bearers of BCCI honour the achievements of the World Cup-winning India U19 team and present them with a cheque of INR 5 crore. 🇮🇳 #TeamIndia @JayShah pic.twitter.com/u13tWMPhLQ — BCCI (@BCCI) February 1, 2023 × Also read: 'He ripped the team to shreds and....': R Sridhar narrates unheard tale of MS Dhoni losing his cool Tendulkar gave a motivational speech to the young girls following their achievements. He was quoted as saying during the felicitation ceremony, "By winning this World Cup, you have given a dream to young girls in India, to represent the country." Tendulkar also opined that the inception of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), to kick off in March, is going to change the landscape of women’s cricket in the country. In this regard, he pointed out, "The beginning of the WPL is going to be the biggest thing. I believe in equality for men and women, and not just in sports. There should be equal opportunity. The entire nation will celebrate and cherish your victory." Shafali-led India was unbeaten in the group stage before losing to Australia in their opening match of the Super 6. Post that, they enjoyed a three-match winning streak, defeating the likes of Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and England respectively, to win the title. For India, Batter Shweta Sehrawat (297 runs: most in the tournament) and leg-spinner Parshavi Chopra (second-highest wicket-taker with 11 scalps) led the charge whereas skipper Shafali also contributed with 172 runs; third-most overall.

Tendulkar, BCCI present India U19 Women’s team a fat cheque for T20 WC win before IND-NZ 3rd T20I

Rishabh Pant is currently recovering well post his horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. While he will certainly be out of action for quite some time, the 25-year-old has made a mark in international cricket especially in the post-Covid era. The going hasn't been easy for Pant, who has often been compared to MS Dhoni, pointed out for his keeping skills and ordinary T20I record but the young keeper-batter has weathered all storms to be India's first-choice stumper across formats.

R Sridhar, India's former fielding coach, recently revealed how he was often annoyed by Pant's stubborness. In his book 'Coaching Beyond', Sridhar narrated how he struggled working with Pant initially before the youngster slowly and steadily followed his inputs to hone his keeping skills and improve overall.&nbsp;

"There were some inputs he was little reluctant to take. Because he trusted the game that had brought him to this level. Sometimes, I must confess, it drove me nuts, his stubbornness. But getting angry or frustrated wasn't going to help anyone. I had to find a way to get Rishabh to try and do different things, if only for him to figure out if those changes might actually be beneficial to his keeping," Sridhar wrote in his book.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-ripped-the-team-to-shreds-and-r-sridhar-narrates-unheard-tale-of-ms-dhoni-losing-his-cool-557941">'He ripped the team to shreds and....': R Sridhar narrates unheard tale of MS Dhoni losing his cool</a>

"We spent a lot of time together at practice, often just him and me and I decided it was time for a little tough love. I stopped giving suggestions and inputs and would ignore his quizzical looks when the ball burst through his hands or he fumbled with his collection. Rishabh has the smarts so it didn't take him long to work out something wasn't quite right," Sridhar asserted.

"After a while he walked up to me and said 'Sir, you aren't saying anything. Please tell me what to do. Smiling inwardly, I said 'Maybe you should lead with your head and not with your hands'. Satisfied at having got me to shed my silence, he did precisely that. As the head led the way, so did the body and he was more assured in collecting the ball."

At present, the Indian cricket fans are desperately hoping for Pant to recover and return to the Indian team as soon as possible. Given the horrific accident he suffered, it will take time before he returns to the 22-yard cricket strip. He is set to miss IPL 2023 and might also be ruled out of this year's ODI World Cup on home soil.

Rishabh Pant is currently recovering well post his horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. While he will certainly be out of action for quite some time, the 25-year-old has made a mark in international cricket especially in the post-Covid era.

Rishabh Pant is currently recovering well post his horrific car accident on December 30, 2022. While he will certainly be out of action for quite some time, the 25-year-old has made a mark in international cricket especially in the post-Covid era. The going hasn't been easy for Pant, who has often been compared to MS Dhoni, pointed out for his keeping skills and ordinary T20I record but the young keeper-batter has weathered all storms to be India's first-choice stumper across formats. R Sridhar, India's former fielding coach, recently revealed how he was often annoyed by Pant's stubborness. In his book 'Coaching Beyond', Sridhar narrated how he struggled working with Pant initially before the youngster slowly and steadily followed his inputs to hone his keeping skills and improve overall. "There were some inputs he was little reluctant to take. Because he trusted the game that had brought him to this level. Sometimes, I must confess, it drove me nuts, his stubbornness. But getting angry or frustrated wasn't going to help anyone. I had to find a way to get Rishabh to try and do different things, if only for him to figure out if those changes might actually be beneficial to his keeping," Sridhar wrote in his book. Also read: 'He ripped the team to shreds and....': R Sridhar narrates unheard tale of MS Dhoni losing his cool "We spent a lot of time together at practice, often just him and me and I decided it was time for a little tough love. I stopped giving suggestions and inputs and would ignore his quizzical looks when the ball burst through his hands or he fumbled with his collection. Rishabh has the smarts so it didn't take him long to work out something wasn't quite right," Sridhar asserted. "After a while he walked up to me and said 'Sir, you aren't saying anything. Please tell me what to do. Smiling inwardly, I said 'Maybe you should lead with your head and not with your hands'. Satisfied at having got me to shed my silence, he did precisely that. As the head led the way, so did the body and he was more assured in collecting the ball." At present, the Indian cricket fans are desperately hoping for Pant to recover and return to the Indian team as soon as possible. Given the horrific accident he suffered, it will take time before he returns to the 22-yard cricket strip. He is set to miss IPL 2023 and might also be ruled out of this year's ODI World Cup on home soil.

'His stubbornness drove me nuts': R Sridhar reveals his initial struggles working with Rishabh Pant

MS Dhoni served Indian cricket with distinction. During his illustrious career, he amassed 17,266 international runs, slammed 16 tons, accounted for 634 catches and 195 stumpings, and smashed 359 sixes but became a darling of the nation during his captaincy tenure, leading India to all three major ICC titles. While Dhoni was known for his calm demeanour as a leader, there were several occasions when he lost his cool on his teammates.

During the West Indies tour of India in late 2014, Dhoni blasted the Indian players for their shoddy fielding efforts during an ODI at the previously named&nbsp;Ferozshah Kotla Stadium, New Delhi. While India won the game by 48 runs, in defence of 263 for 7, but then skipper Dhoni wasn't pleased with his troops. R Sridhar, India's former fielding coach, recalled the whole incident in his book 'Coaching Beyond'.

"Getting back to my early days with the Indian team... following MS' inputs, we began to get out fielding house in order with the World Cup in mind. We were playing West Indies at the Feroz Shah Kotla in October 2014 - a match we won comfortably but where we were absolutely shoddy on the field. MS was furious at what he perceived to be lack of effort and dipping fitness standards," Sridhar, who became the fielding coach in 2014, said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shaheen-is-very-good-jasprit-bumrah-nowhere-near-him-razzaq-once-again-takes-a-dig-at-india-pacer-557902">Shaheen is very good, Jasprit Bumrah nowhere near him: Razzaq once again takes a dig at India pacer</a>

After the match, Dhoni stated, "I feel quite a few things are missing. We have to pull our socks up. We have not played to our potential. This game is a crucial eye opener for us. We are on the winning side, but we could have lost this."

Sridhar revealed that Dhoni didn't mince his words when he joined his teammates in the dressing room and gave them an earful along with an ultimatum. "In the dressing room, he ripped the team to shreds and gave them an ultimatum, making it clear that if they didn't meet certain standards in fielding and fitness, they would not make the World Cup cut, no matter what name they answer to. That showed me the kind of fielding culture he was looking to establish in white-ball cricket," Sridhar added.

Under Dhoni, India focused on remaining calm under pressure, becoming a better fielding unit, and&nbsp;played with several bowling options along with a good batting depth. At present, Dhoni is preparing for IPL 2023 in India, which is likely to get underway in April.

MS Dhoni served Indian cricket with distinction. During his illustrious career, he amassed 17,266 international runs, slammed 16 tons, accounted for 634 catches and 195 stumpings, and smashed 359 sixes but became a darling of the nation during his captaincy tenure, leading India to all three major ICC titles.

MS Dhoni served Indian cricket with distinction. During his illustrious career, he amassed 17,266 international runs, slammed 16 tons, accounted for 634 catches and 195 stumpings, and smashed 359 sixes but became a darling of the nation during his captaincy tenure, leading India to all three major ICC titles. While Dhoni was known for his calm demeanour as a leader, there were several occasions when he lost his cool on his teammates. During the West Indies tour of India in late 2014, Dhoni blasted the Indian players for their shoddy fielding efforts during an ODI at the previously named Ferozshah Kotla Stadium, New Delhi. While India won the game by 48 runs, in defence of 263 for 7, but then skipper Dhoni wasn't pleased with his troops. R Sridhar, India's former fielding coach, recalled the whole incident in his book 'Coaching Beyond'. "Getting back to my early days with the Indian team... following MS' inputs, we began to get out fielding house in order with the World Cup in mind. We were playing West Indies at the Feroz Shah Kotla in October 2014 - a match we won comfortably but where we were absolutely shoddy on the field. MS was furious at what he perceived to be lack of effort and dipping fitness standards," Sridhar, who became the fielding coach in 2014, said. Also read: Shaheen is very good, Jasprit Bumrah nowhere near him: Razzaq once again takes a dig at India pacer After the match, Dhoni stated, "I feel quite a few things are missing. We have to pull our socks up. We have not played to our potential. This game is a crucial eye opener for us. We are on the winning side, but we could have lost this." Sridhar revealed that Dhoni didn't mince his words when he joined his teammates in the dressing room and gave them an earful along with an ultimatum. "In the dressing room, he ripped the team to shreds and gave them an ultimatum, making it clear that if they didn't meet certain standards in fielding and fitness, they would not make the World Cup cut, no matter what name they answer to. That showed me the kind of fielding culture he was looking to establish in white-ball cricket," Sridhar added. Under Dhoni, India focused on remaining calm under pressure, becoming a better fielding unit, and played with several bowling options along with a good batting depth. At present, Dhoni is preparing for IPL 2023 in India, which is likely to get underway in April.

'He ripped the team to shreds and....': R Sridhar narrates unheard tale of MS Dhoni losing his cool

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